With a long, very dramatic roll of her eyes, Althea conceded with a mumbled "Whatever." And left it at that. There was no use arguing because Declan wouldn't budge. They'd have to take him on another day when he was unaware and vulnerable. If they had to rely on the poltergeists for assistance, they'd end up dead before they accomplished their goal. "You're probably right. If anything, he's the most mysterious sentient thing at this castle. I wouldn't be surprised if he knew who was controlling the portals." Because he seemed like the sort to think that this would be an extremely hilarious prank to pull.

A morbid thought on her part, but Althea couldn't rule out the possibility of his involvement.

She sighed, because her brothers were trying her patience today (and she was full so she couldn't even eat chicken even if she wanted to!), and stared incredulously at both of them. "I don't see the big deal, but since you both want to cling on to whatever little freedom you can find at school then fine. We won't ask dad." They were being ridiculous! Being pulled out of school wasn't even a bad idea. She supposed it was because Levi and Declan both had things they'd wanted to do without their parents' knowledge. It was peculiar and suspect. Althea watched quietly as Declan pulled out his cards and smiled as she tapped on the Queen of Hearts. "Since I'm in a romantic mood as of late."