The Cleverest Of Traps

'If you want out. The door's there, Senet.'

'I'll take my chances, driver. Though I must say, in the two races I've participated in, never have I seen any car attract this much attention—especially one that's not in the lead.'

I grinned despite the terror I was feeling. 'So, Nightmouth does know we're here.'

'Who?'

'A being of immense power; one who holds sway over many worlds, and minds.'

Senet's eyes widened. 'That explains what happened to my Sociaes,' the man shook his head. 'Sorry, I meant my life partners. They were always so full of life, then shortly after we arrived in this place, it was as though a switch flipped, and just like that, they barely knew me.'

Melia sighed, adjusting the mirror. 'Then that confirms it. Nightmouth's ability to corrupt even the most stubborn of minds is unsettling. Where are they now, Senet?'