Book Eight: Chapter 126

“Interesting.” The voice that filled the dining room made Mike’s stomach drop, but he couldn’t explain why. A cold sweat broke out across his brow and he looked in the direction where the herald’s soul thread disappeared through the wall. A secret panel slid open and a nondescript man stepped out, dressed in simple dark robes and a cape. The vassals rose as he neared the table, so Mike and the others mimicked them.

Nyx did not. The newcomer stood at the head of the table, his crimson pupils focused on Sofia. Mike noticed that the man walked with a cane, but it seemed more an accessory than a tool.

“I should love to hear about your library,” said the man as he moved to the last remaining seat, which had just been set at the end of the table by a servant. With a dismissive wave, he commanded the vassals to sit. “But first, I would like to properly welcome you to my home. My name is Vincentius. I am the Caretaker.”

Mike had trouble looking at the man’s face. Whenever