Chapter 33: No One's Property

Indeed, the Stronghold grumbled while I grinned at Erica, the stone hall rumbling with his discontent. I am not pleased to see her or feel the taint of her power. But I waited for you, Syd. In case you had instructions.

How kind of you. I gestured at Erica. "So, your little warning about me not coming into your territory clearly was a one way threat." It was hard to decide if I was more amused or furious. "Classy."

"This Stronghold is the property of the North American Enforcers," Erica said, words crackling with power and anger.

Actually, the Stronghold boomed through all of our heads, though from the wincing and cries of pain from those inside the bubble, I could only assume they took the brunt of volume, I belong to myself. The giant circle of shielding began to compress, forcing the group closer and closer together. Erica's desperation made me sigh. She'd brought this on herself, but I wasn't feeling vengeful anymore. Just sad for her and for the rest of us.