I raised my chin defiantly, like a peacock with its feathers spread.
“You.” After a long stare, my father was the first to give in. “Someone, get the family doctor.”
My uncle tried to stop him but was completely ignored, throwing a resentful glance at me as he left.
With the crowd gone, only the three of us remained in the yard.
“Emily, tell me, are you involved with that notorious Awakening Manor?” my father demanded.
I looked down and replied softly, “Yes, I’m one of them.”
“You’re being reckless!” My father waved his arm in frustration. “You’re dragging the entire family into this mess.”
My mother, equally shocked, looked at me in disbelief. “Emily, listen to me. Tell your father where Awakening Manor is! If he goes to the king and reveals it, maybe the king will spare you for your information.”
“Mom, are you asking me to betray everyone? To sacrifice the lives of dozens for my own safety?” I asked.
