Demon on a leash (2)

She was having a hard time imagining a demon capable of protecting her in a dangerous situation as some docile cat but she nodded. 

"Now, pinch the jewel with two fingers and twist it. Be careful not to use too much of your powers." 

Marlena was about to do as she was told when the rest of her grandmother's words hit her. "Powers?" 

"The gift you received from being brought back to life, some of which you tried to use to heal me." The mother queen laughed. "Did you think I would not know?" 

Marlena nodded slightly. She had indeed thought it was a secret from the royal family. Though now that she thought about it, she had been communicating with animals quite often. Some had even come to her aid when she was attacked. They couldn't remain in the dark for a long time. 

"Does King Cassius know?" She asked. "And the queen? Is that part of why she's been unrestrained in trying to hurt me lately?" 

"Don't ask so many questions. Do as I said."