Great, a freshman can conjure up everything needed to make a nuclear bomb. What the fuck is his ancestry?
What magical creature can do all that?
Fucking Feniks will probably know. I focus back in on the cunt that spawned me. “And this is the merest hint at the future of magic,” Father continues. “Of course, the innate power will only be given to themostdeserving hands. We must acknowledge that not all are created equal. Some are fated to serve—the lower witches and the humans. Others, the Elite, are destined to lead as true Magi."
Jordan squeezes my hand so hard her nails dig in. "Did you hear that, Cosmo? We're getting Innate Magic! We'll be unstoppable!"
My father’s gaze sweeps over the crowd, landing briefly on me.
Swallowing my instinct, I incline my head in a nod, trying to pass on a convincing message that I’m totally on board.
Seconds later, a voice interrupts my thoughts.
—Cosmo?—
—Yes, Theodora?—
—Do you think the shadow essence means they can shift…the same way you can?—
A shiver runs through me at the thought of my father having dragon powers. —I’ll see what I can uncover—
Singleton-Smith speaks again. “And now, I’d like to introduce the two scientists who have headed up this groundbreaking research. Dr. Joyce Hart and Dr. Jonquil Hart.”
I stare as the twins’ parents walk onto the stage.
Joyce strides ahead proudly, while Jonquil looks much more uncomfortable.
My father doesn’t even glance their way, obviously feeling superior to everyone, even those he’s sharing a stage with.
“The re-emmergence of innate magic is something we have been working on for many years now,” Singleton-Smith says. “It’s been laborious and grueling, but the effort pales compared to the results. A new era is dawning. Obviously, you will all be interested in igniting your own innate magic, but this is not for everyone. Invitations will be sent out to those deemed worthy of this honor. The financial cost will be high, but if you are in this room, I doubt that is a problem.”
The audience applauds, but there is some murmuring too. I look over to Donovan, Max, and Theodora. She’s pinned between the two guys like they are her bodyguards. I notice that Feniks has crossed the room and is hovering six feet behind them.
Theodora’s voice rings in my head.
—Gods, how many innocent children will they have to use to feed the essence to all the Elite?—
Even one is too many.
—We won’t let this happen—
I focus on the girl. She stares back, silver eyes fixed on mine as she sends me a message.
—You’re the one who is welcome in the Conclave. Go pretend like you’re excited—
Fuck my life.
I loop an arm around Jordan’s waist.
“Let’s go congratulate our fathers.”
36
Ifocus on the thoughts around me, and get a rich sampling of naked greed and perverted desires.
The witches in this room are like animals right now.
“That boy must have Basilisk DNA,” Alexis murmurs in my ear, nodding towards François.
