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Rowan looks at her wrist. "We already have bands."

"These cover the numbers until you reach the courtyard." The second-year answers.

"Why?"

The second-year's expression remains perfectly neutral. "No questions."

"Everyone keeps saying that." Rowan mutters.

"Yes."

She hands each of us a narrow strip of black fabric. Then notices Nyra.

"Residence?" She asks.

"Western Fae Tower." Nyra answers.

"You should already be there."

Nyra straightens. "I was leaving."

The second-year continues down the corridor. Nyra waits until she disappears.

"I dislike her."

I smile. "That sounded inconvenient."

"I'm practicing."

We walk Nyra as far as the central staircase. The residence corridors are quieter than I have ever heard them. Doors remain open. Students sit together on floors and beds, speaking in low voices. Some appear excited. Others frightened. Most are both. At the base of the stairs, Nyra stops.

"Eastern Courtyard before sunrise." She says.

"I remember." I nod.

"What if one of us arrives first?" She asks.

"Wait."

"What if they separate us?"

"Then we find each other afterward."

"What if—" I don't let her finish her sentence.

"Nyra." She looks toward me. "We do not know enough to prepare for every possibility."

Her blue eyes narrow slightly. "I thought you liked controlling variables."

"I'm attempting personal growth." I smile.

"Already?"

I nod. "Apparently the Trial began yesterday."

She smiles. Then her expression softens.

"Goodnight, Eirea."