"You make me sound like a defenseless invalid," she said, glaring at him. "I resent that a great deal. I am not a liability. How quickly you forget I practically grew up surrounded by dark magic, not to mention my sister." She knew he was going to be hard pressed to budge, but she did not care. "Throw in the fact that I'm a mother hellbent on finding my child, and I dare say I might surprise you with what I am capable of." She eased up on her glare, shifting into a look of determination. "Would you feel safe leaving me here? If the situation turns into one of defiance from you, do you think they'll spare me? They'll come to the Manor and ambush me. At least if we're together, there is a chance we can get him and get out."