“However.” Kieran unsheathes a blade, glares at Felix, and Felix steps back. “Given the exceptional circumstances and both combatants demonstrating significant magical ability, the match will count as a win for both.”
Vera scowls. “You can’t do that.”
“My circles,” Kieran says, low enough that everyone closest to him steps back. “My rules.”
“But—”
“We have time before lunch to settle this in the Mirror Vault.” He examines his dagger, then looks back up at Vera, his gaze sharp enough to cut.
Her jaw clenches, but she steps back.
His eyes sweep the group, and he points the tip of the blade at us. “Anyone else?”
Silence.
“Good.” He nods once. “Jade, you’re at 3-2. Evie, 2-3. Next week will determine final standings. Class dismissed.”
We begin dispersing, heading to the main building for lunch.
I’m about to approach Evie when Helen stops me cold.
“Jade. A moment.”
Static crawls up my wrists, and I curl my fingers into my palms to kill it.
She saw. She’s going to whisk me away to the Council’s torture chambers and I’m never going to see Logan again or have a chance to tell Evie the truth or get in contact with T or tell my family goodbye.
I turn slowly, forcing my expression into what I hope is innocent and confused rather than terrified and guilty.
Helen approaches, and up close, I can see the tension around her eyes and the tightness in her jaw. But when she speaks, her tone is so calm it’s almost gentle.
“That was quite a match.”
I blink. “I... thank you?”
“I now understand why Professor Morgrave offered you additional assistance.” She tilts her head slightly, waiting for my reaction.
I stare at her, bracing myself for an accusation about the lightning, a demand for answers, and the end of everything.
It doesn’t come.
Instead, Helen’s expression softens into what might be sympathy. “You’re struggling, Jade. Your magical foundation is weak, your control is inconsistent, and your combat instincts are...” She pauses. “Underdeveloped.”
Wow. Tell me how you really feel.
“Professor Morgrave saw a student in danger of failing,” she continues. “A student who needed extra support to succeed at aninstitution as demanding as Blaze Academy. His decision to give you that book makes perfect sense.”
I don’t know whether to be relieved or insulted.
“I’m working on it.” I nod, aiming for humble acceptance. “Training extra. Reading what I can.”
“See that you do,” she says, sharper now. “I’d hate to see a student with potential fail because she couldn’t keep up.”
Potential.
The word echoes strangely, but before I can ask what she means, she’s already turning away.
“Take care of yourself, Jade. These are difficult times for everyone.”
