They kissed with an easy affection and Damen's gaze lingered on Dutch only a moment, curious of her confident nature, before following Matthias. He was led out into what seemed to be a hallway and then down a number of stairs.

'You continue to insist on this magic,' Damen said with a deepening frown. 'Have you tried to leave at all?'

It seemed a stupid question immediately after he asked it and Damen shook his head. 'No, of course you have. You must have. But there is no means at all. Not even by boat?'