They weren’t shadows, but if I didn’t know better, I’d say they were…people.
No, not people.
Shapes.
Tall figures drifted through the dust-filled light as their outlines flickered in and out like reflections trapped underwater.
Students, watching and waiting, but what kind?
The Academy lights brightened as we crossed the threshold, and I looked over my shoulder one last time and realized the Academy was already coming back to life.
Chapter Thirty-Five
“You must not tell the Priestess,” I said, feeling my heart pound. My voice sounded breathless, but it wasn’t from exertion. It was fear.
“I can’t keep secrets from the Priestess,” he said in a warning voice. “Or I’ll wind up in the dungeon.”
I studied Barlen and nodded.
Rude or not, I needed to know.
“What are you?”
He scowled, which only made him look cuter. “I’m completely offended.”
I nodded. “I would be too, but I’ve never met your kind.”
“Sure you have.” He folded his tiny arms over his chest, and the gesture seemed oddly familiar.
I tilted my head slightly in confusion. “I’m sorry. I wish I knew more.”
He huffed. “Very well. I’m a cursed goblin.”
My brows lifted in surprise. “Cursed?”
“We grow fur when we’ve been cursed.”
My hand slid over my mouth in astonishment. “I had no idea.”
“Well, I’m assuming in Stonewick, people aren’t regularly throwing curses at one another.”
“Your assumption is correct. None of my goblin friends have fur,” I said softly. “Who cursed you?”
“The Priestess.” His brows furrowed. “Goblin friends? Since when are witches and goblins friends?”
“Since the moment I met Twobble and his cousin.” I sighed and shook my head. “And I miss them both terribly.”
“Well, don’t go getting any ideas. That’s not how it works in Shadowick. And I’m afraid she’ll do worse than a curse once she finds out that Shadowick Academy is awakening and I didn’t tell her.”
I narrowed my eyes. “But is it though?”
He glanced around my legs at the imposing structure. “I would say so.”
I groaned just as the old man reappeared.
“You still have the key.” He barked the question more than spoke.
I nodded.
