“Yes,” I replied calmly. “I do. Still, we can’t keep them prisoner. If they choose to go back to beatings and cages, we can’t prevent it.”
Silence. I’d like to think it was because of my stunning logic. The horrified expressions on the people around me convinced me otherwise.
Oss growled and turned to face the group of people still milling around. “We took a large risk in saving you. If you don’t want better conditions in your life, feel free to return to your slavers. We offered you jobs and housing. If you feel it’s a better deal to be whipped and caged, we won’t hold you back.”
I tried not to laugh at Oss. He had no better idea of the types of employment in the City of Magic than I. “I’m sure one of your administrators would be the best choice for finding them jobs if you can find them,” I suggested.
Oss’s relieved expression had me hiding my smile. I didn’t want my friend to think I was laughing at him, even if I was a bit.
“Good idea.” Oss gave a regal nod.
Perhaps he was getting too much into this king position.
A loud banging drew our attention to the tower. Cruller roared out a challenge. Instinct had me ducking as a flash of metal flew above our heads and landed in front of the tower exit.
We had run out of time.
