#Chapter 66: Acknowledgment of Parentage

Caleb I understood two things immediately. First, the trials had already started. Second, I would have failed already had Ruby not kept me from taking that bite. This was going to be harder than I had anticipated. Maybe I should have known better. With Lucas’ mother whispering in the Council’s ear, there was even a chance the trials would be designed for us to fail them. Ruby gave me a look. Not one of alarm but one of composure. I slowly set my piece of steak down on my plate and let go of my utensils. “Something wrong with the food?” Elder Roman crooned with faux innocence. Since it had been Ruby who realized what was going on, I turned in her direction, deferring to her. “You tell us,” she said evenly. My chest swelled at the sound of “us” from her lips. Elder Roman smiled mischievously. “What tipped you off?” “We have different food than everyone else,” she said, “which could indicate the food in front of us is poisoned.” “Very good, Ruby of Prenia.” Elde