Chapter 34 · I said easy, not obedient. Try to keep up

"I said easy, not obedient. Try to keep up."

Julian's breath shook against Kael's wrist. "You enjoy this too much."

"I enjoy you not dying. There is a difference."

"You lie badly."

"You complain beautifully."

Silas's voice cut through them. "Remove the plate."

Kael didn't look up. "No."

"I wasn't asking."

"And I wasn't listening."

Silas crossed the room. One gloved hand closed around Kael's collar and hauled him backward. The instrument tore free before Kael could secure it.

Julian shouted.

The ivory ridge snapped against the metal brace. A burst of sound filled the room. Not a crack. Not a scream.

Words.

Kael froze.

The voice came from inside Julian's chest, thin and distant, like someone speaking through a locked door.

"—open—"

Julian's face drained of color.

Silas released Kael. "What did it say?"

"Nothing."

"You heard it."

"Heard what?"

Silas grabbed Julian's chin and forced his face toward the light. Julian tried to bite him, but Silas turned away in time.

"Still proud," Silas said. "That will make the next part more entertaining."

Kael shoved between them. "Touch him again and I'll break your fingers."

Two guards seized Kael's arms.