More figures slowly appeared behind them on the path now, additional elderly women making their way up the steps in pairs, chatting quietly, entirely unbothered by the fact that they were approaching a powerful magical institution as if it were the most natural thing in the world.
I hesitated only a moment before stepping aside. Whatever Lady Limora was doing, refusing entry wasn’t the answer.
“Well,” I said, forcing a welcoming smile, “please come in.”
The Academy’s lanterns brightened as the women crossed the threshold, the air warming as if pleased by their presence. Several of them paused just inside, hands brushing the stone walls, murmuring to one another.
“This place remembers,” one said.
“Yes,” another replied. “And it listens.”
Before I could ask what they meant, my ex hopped forward with impeccable timing and landed squarely in the center of the hall.
“Ribbit.”
The reaction was instantaneous.
“Oh my,” one woman breathed. “Isn’t he… expressive.”
“What a handsome toad,” another purred.
You’ve got to be kidding me. What is it with him?
Another leaned closer, squinting. “That’s not a natural enchantment.”
“No,” a third agreed. “That’s personal.”
I closed my eyes.
Celeste, hovering near the doorway, made a small choking sound.
“Please tell me they’re not impressed.”
The toad puffed up, clearly enjoying the attention, and hopped again for emphasis.
Stella appeared at my side, surveying the scene with open amusement. “Well. This explains the bell.”
Keegan leaned closer, voice low. “What was Lady Limora thinking?”
“I haven’t a clue,” I replied.
The tall woman who’d spoken first turned back to me. “You must be Maeve, the headmistress.”
I nodded. “I am.”
Her gaze flicked briefly to Keegan. “That explains a few things.”
I stiffened slightly. “Does it?”
She smiled. “Enough.”
That wasn’t unsettling at all.
More of the women filtered inside now, the Academy accommodating them easily, corridors widening subtly, light adjusting as if making room.
“Lady Limora said you might be surprised,” the woman continued. “But not unprepared.”
I let out a slow breath. “Probably depends on a person’s definition of prepared.”
