He ignored his thoughts and stood taller. “You came here to learn more of your natural ability.” He swallowed and attempted a smile. “I am glad you are wearing gloves. It’s slightly harder with them on, but you must learn to be discreet.” Not to mention he wouldn’t be tempted to hold her ungloved hand. He strode over until he stood next to her, so close their shoulders brushed. “Your most important skill will be deflecting magic, or perhaps even other elements eventually, before they start.”
“How do I do that?” asked Cassia, looking sideways at him.
“I suggest perfecting a small movement.” He rubbed his thumb against his forefinger.
“I’ve noticed you do that several times,” she said with a smirk. She wrung her hands as she continued. “What about this?” She flicked her right pinky out ever so slightly. “I realized last night when someone would really irk me, I often do that.”
“I’m sure you were deflecting at those times,” said Gaius. “Now, Ember, can you go about ten paces off, boy?” The dragon landed and tramped off into the woods the appropriate distance. “I promise I won’t let him hurt you,” said Gaius. “But close your eyes and try to deflect his fire.”
The sun shone bright enough now that Cassia’s incredulous, beautiful eyes widened toward him. The flecks of gold nearly melted him. “You can do it, trust me.”
He watched as Cassia swallowed and straightened her shoulders. She clamped her eyes shut.
The first blue flame came too close and Gaius had to push Cassia backward. “Forgive me.” He brushed his hand on his pant leg. “But you almost did it! Try again.”
She stared at him. “You’ll be singed before we finish.”
“Don’t worry about me,” he said. She raised a skeptical eyebrow but finally closed her eyes, and the second time sent the flame back so quickly it seemed to sizzle Ember’s nose.
“Well done!” cried Gaius. “Now with your eyes open.”
They continued for another few minutes, trying various parries and ripostes, until Cassia stopped.
“I think if I do not return now, my aunt and uncle will find me missing.”
Gaius took note of the strengthening light. “Yes, of course.”
“I wish there was some way I could thank you for all of this,” said Cassia.
“No need.” He stepped closer to her and took her hand. On an impulse, he kissed it.
“I must be going,” said Cassia, quickly withdrawing her hand. She curtsied and ran across the woods.
* * *
Cassia made it back to her room just in time to freshen up and turn around and come out for breakfast with her aunt and uncle.
“You look chipper this morning,” said Mr. Gareth as they walked down to the dining area of the inn, “I think you like Derbyshire.”
She hoped he wouldn’t venture any more teasing words. “It is quite beautiful,” was all she managed. She couldn’t stop thinking about High Mage Darkwood. He was so utterly altered from when she first met him. He had been so open about his own faults, he had been kind and attentive, so gentlemanly. And though she would never prescribe to others to meet a man in the woods with only a dragon as chaperone, she had really felt safe. She felt…like she was beginning to understand and trust him, like he really had changed.
As breakfast was served and her aunt and uncle discussed the day, she couldn’t stop her mind from reeling. What if he was that way because he was only infatuated by her power? He had admitted it was his weakness. Indeed, he had listed her lack of power as a grievance against her when he proposed. Was that the only reason he wished to meet with her now? Surely he felt nothing for her. He had been so open and honest about his own imperfections, but that was just reflection on his part. It had nothing to do with his feelings. She could not deny, however, that she could still feel the press of his kiss on her hand.
After a leisurely breakfast, which almost extended into lunch, her aunt and uncle expressed an interest in the local shops. Cassia declined the invitation to join them and opted instead for some quiet time to contemplate her emotions. She remained in the breakfast room for another few minutes, reviewing all she had learned in the woods the past two days.
“A letter for you, Miss,” said a maid, stepping into the room with a bob, extending the note. “Oh, from Gynelle again!” said Cassia as she turned it over and broke the seal.
Cassia began to read. Gynelle was well off and the children were also happy. A letter from Alyria had stated she thought she had a magical ability. Dancing with perfect form. Apparently, she thought it would win her a husband. As she turned over the page, Cassia refocused as the words changed and seemed to have been written with more haste.
Since writing the above, I have learned that Alyria has run off with Lieutenant Malum. He had asked her to dance for several evenings, so she formed an attachment. He flattered her so much about her new magic, she was captivated by anything he said.
Mistress Laine claims they were eloping to be married, but I cannot be sure. Father has already gone to London. Cassia—I must beg you to return at once and send Uncle to London to assist Father.
Cassia felt all color drain from her. Why had she not warned Alyria before now?
In receiving High Mage Darkwood’s note, Cassia had forgotten to write Gynelle or Alyria and warn them of Lieutenant Malum! How could she be so self-centered and generally thoughtless? She had been too consumed wanting to learn of her own powers and thinking of High Mage Darkwood. But even if she had written last night, it would have never reached them in time. She should have spoken to her sisters more openly when she had the chance. Cassia read the letter a second time. Tears streaked down her cheeks. This was the most awful news imaginable. She tried to collect herself and sent their servant to find her aunt and uncle immediately.
Cassia started to leave the room when the maid reappeared and said, “A gentleman is here to see you.” Without further delay High Mage Darkwood entered.
