Wylder gives me a single nod. No smile, but his eyes have softened just a fraction. “Not terrible.”
“High praise,” I shoot back, brushing dirt off my knees.
Orion’s grinning outright now, silver-blue eyes bright with approval. Rowan’s clapping like I just pulled off a magic trick at a kid’s birthday party.
“So…” I wipe my hands on the skirt of my uniform. “Did I pass the test?”
Wylder tilts his head, considering. “You passed the part that doesn’t kill you. I’d say you’re ready to take on a sixteen-year-old coming into their active powers.”
“Fantastic.”
S’Nark caws from my shoulder. “That’s it, witchlette. Really shoot for the stars.”
I flip him off again and head toward the bench, where Rowan’s already pouring water from a canteen. She hands it to me with a wink.
“Before long, you’re going to be a total badass,” she says.
“It still feels like I’m winging it the entire time.”
She laughs. “Same same.”
“Break time is over.” Wylder gestures toward the center of the field again.
I take the cue and step into position.
“Spirit,” he says simply.
The word hangs between us like a challenge.
I swallow hard, wiping sweat from my forehead. “A week ago, you said I wasn’t to tap into my affinity. You said it was dangerous.”
“A week ago, you had no control.” His green eyes hold mine. “You’re a quick study and have natural instincts with the other four elements. Spirit magic isn’t just raw power. It’s your goddess-given connection to the living, the dead, the spaces in between. I’m not asking you to do anything stupefying. Just open up and connect with your power.”
“A simple meet and greet.”
“Nothing more.”
S’Nark shifts on my shoulder, talons pricking through my shirt. “This ought to be good.”
I shoot him a look. “Your support is truly inspiring.”
“I’m a demon. If you want a cheerleader, get a golden retriever.”
Rowan catches my eye from the bench, offering an encouraging thumbs-up. “You’ve got this, Sparkles.”
Orion gives me a couple of claps. “Go, Poppy!”
In the center of the training field, with my feet pressed into dirt still warm from the earth magic I channeled moments ago, I close my eyes and draw a cleansing breath.
My chest tightens.Just open up. Easy.
Except it’s not.
I’ve been afraid to tap into my affinity ever since Tharuzel spirit-napped me and bound me to a deal with the devil—or, at least, with a major demon.
Has the contract corrupted my magic? Will Wylder and the others know I’m more than bloodline marked now? How will that contract corrupt my power?
“Any time now, Poppy.” Wylder is staring at me, his brows arched. “Is there a problem?”
