High above hidden in the dense canopy of an ancient Banyan tree in , Shadow's body was locked in its place.
She tried to say something but her throat muscles refused to obey. The only thing she could feel was the cold, sharp point of a golden hairpin pressing against her jugular.
Behind her, a figure stood balanced on the branch, her presence barely more than a fly.
Shadow couldn't see the face. Through the corner of her eyes, she could only see the silhouette of an elegant, flowing dress that looked completely out of place in a monster-infested forest.
"Let me go," Shadow hissed through her teeth, forcing the words, "If anything happens to me, my Mistress will hunt you down."
But all she got in response was a soft laugh. It sounded pleasant like wind chimes, beautiful, melodic, but chilled.
"Your Mistress?" the woman whispered, her voice right at Shadow's ear, "I know, the famous Red Merchant!"
