Chapter 17: Prison Auction

One day after another passes by with the same monotonous routine. I rise from the mat and stretch as my body aches. Return to the back of the cell when ordered by guards. Exchange pots and wary glances. When meals are set, take them eagerly and sit on the straw. Yet, as I move my body more, the precious negativity disperses. Slowly but surely, I can see the fire in my reflection again.

"A king of knaves knows no defeat!" I declare while watching my expression change in the water cup.

Indeed, I am willing to act. My only question now is: how? 'Do I negotiate with the guards?'

The thought receives the same shake of disapproval each time it crosses my mind. There is no chance of collaborating with the konstebl crew. So, an escape is in order. I recall how the Sumerki performers used magic as their leverage.

"I can't do that!" My disappointment leaves in a deep sigh.