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"And civilians."

"White eyes?"

"Yes."

Controlled. Taken people. Army. Gods.

"How many?"

"Too many." Of course.

"Council?"

"Inner Academy."

"Headmaster?"

"Alive."

"Second-year command?"

"Fragmented." Of course.

Professor Halven looks toward the first-years. "Stay here." No.

"What."

He looks at me. "They stay here."

"Until what?"

"Eirea—"

"Until the Hollowborn find the room?" His jaw tightens. "This area is currently secure."

"Currently."

Another explosion. Closer. The lights flicker.

Ward anchor flashes. Lena looks at me. No.

"How many exits?" I ask Halven.

"Two."

"If west collapses?"

"South."

"And if south—"

"Vaelith."

"What."

"Make a decision." There. Fine.

"We hold until evacuation route is confirmed." He nods. Good.