Book Eight: Chapter 198

Callisto opened and shut his mouth, uncertain how to respond. Finally, it clicked. “So this is a test?”

“Yes.”

“And you like me now?”

“No.” Mintaka picked up his knife and pointed it at Callisto. “But I do respect you for this. That’s worth far more in my eyes.” The centaur considered him for a moment, then nodded to himself. “And you should be aware that you will likely experience similar or worse from other parents in the tribe.”

“Why?”

“Your mother is the chieftain and your father is a magical human known for his sexual exploits. For now, you are too young to be a problem, but concerns have been secretly voiced amongst others. You are in a position of power, Callisto Radley. Some of us are afraid of how you will wield it when you are older.”

“But that’s absurd,” Callisto sputtered.

“For now, it is. But remember how most of us came to be here. Our previous tribe kicked us out for being impure, remember? For disagreeing with our betters. We