Page 376 of Axis of Fire

“Are we locked in here or something?”

“I don't think that's the problem.”

The voice belonged to the only person who had remained silent until now.

Taylor finally pushed himself away from the wall.

He walked toward us at an unhurried pace.

Something about him immediately put me on edge.

“So far, your magic is nothing more than a rumor,” he said calmly. “Maybe this room is waiting for you.”

His gaze drifted away from me, slowly scanning the ceiling as though searching for something.

Mine, meanwhile, settled on the scorpion perched peacefully on his shoulder.

At least it wasn't a snake.

I was absolutely terrified of snakes.

“Or maybe you could impress us with your ability,” I shot back. “No one's bothered explaining what it actually is.”

At the same time, I reached inward, searching for that familiar connection to my magic.

Silently urging it to be ready.

I wasn't about to survive a second public humiliation.

“I'll tell you,” Taylor replied, “after I see yours.”

I scoffed.

Out of the corner of my eye, I noticed Loretta's lips had begun turning faintly blue.

“Fine,” I muttered under my breath, stepping a few paces away from the others.

Right now, I had no idea what I was capable of.

Especially after what had happened earlier.

Still, a little caution never hurt.

Drawing in a slow breath, I reached for the familiar current of power inside me.

Usually, I could find it without effort.

Usually, it answered.

Today, it felt distant.

Faint.

Almost silent.

I couldn't understand why.

Was I simply exhausted?