“When they finally let me go, Theodosius Winters stalked me, waited outside my apartment to see what I would do, if I would run back to the Duskoff or not. He was there when Bai showed up and for that I’m glad, but afterward, after I returned to the Coven to seek refuge, that’s when the pressure to join them began. They wouldn’t let me leave. I was a captive once again.”

“So you finally broke out and traveled here to see me.”

“With James’s help, yes.”

“And now you want back into the Duskoff.”

She tried her best to look conflicted for a moment, then rose and paced the room. “I’m not sure yet. I’m so confused. Both organizations have done me wrong.”

“I can understand why you might see it that way, but truly, we had no choice but to do as we did. Anything less would have sent you running for the hills.”

She whirled and stared at him. “You kidnapped me.”

He inclined his head. “We did, and I’m sorry for that.”

Frowning at him, she shook her head and continued pacing. “It took me a while to see it, but I think I get the difference between the Coven and the Duskoff now.”

“Tell me, my petal.”

She stopped in the middle of the room and looked at him. “The Coven is all about harm ye none and live and let live.

They believe in responsibility and restraint.” She allowed a hint of shine into her eyes. “But witches are special! We have power like no human has! The Coven ignores that superiority. They refuse to use it to their advantage. The Duskoff can and do. So it’s the Duskoff, not the Coven, that can help me make the most of myself.”

Stefan studied her for a long moment and then smiled. “I’m glad you’ve seen the light. The Coven is for the weak. The Duskoff is for the strong.” He paused, his smile fading. “But have you forgiven the way I indoctrinated you? Have you decided to join us?”

“The daaeman, Bai. You need to tell me more. Why is he so interested in me?”

“Bai saw you long before I ever did, my petal. He’s the one who brought you to my attention, in fact. I have been trying my best to keep him from you. I am the only one who can do that. If you were closer to me, it would be easier.”

“What does he want me for?”

“I fear I cannot answer that.”

“Why not?”

“Because I choose not to. At least not yet. Prove to me you have rinsed off the taint that is Thomas Monahan, prove to me you truly have rejected the Coven, and I will give you more information.”

“How do you propose I do that?”