Page 85

"My father—" He starts.

"No." The answer comes too quickly from me. Everyone becomes silent. I force my voice lower. "He doesn't need to know yet."

Caelen studies me. Not judging. Understanding.

Professor Neris does not ask why. "This remains an Academy evaluation unless the manifestation creates an immediate safety concern."

Relief moves through me. Small. Temporary. Enough.

Caelen leaves with Professor Neris to review whatever records the Academy possesses.

Rhyven pushes away from the wall. He glances toward me once. Then begins walking.

"You can go," I say.

He looks over his shoulder. "I am."

"You were staring."

"You looked strange."

I frown. "Thank you?"

Amusement crosses his face for half a beat. "Not physically."

"Much better."

He continues down the corridor. After several steps, he says without turning— "Mind your own blood."

I stare after him. Cassian raises an eyebrow. "Was that concern?" He asks.

"No." I pick up my satchel. "It was an insult."

"An unusually specific one," Cassian says.

"He specializes."

We leave the academic wing together. Nyra walks on my left. Cassian on my right. For once, neither speaks until we reach the terrace overlooking the mountains.

The same place Nyra and I claimed on our first day. Cassian leans against the railing. Nyra sits on the stone bench. I remain standing.

The fear still clings somewhere beneath my skin. Not mine. That does not make it easier to carry. Cassian watches me carefully. Not using his magic. I know the difference now.

"What did the blood feel?" he asks.

"Afraid." I answer

"Was the fear yours?"

"No."

He nods once. No doubt. No question about whether I misunderstood. He simply believes me. Something in my chest loosens.

Nyra studies my face. "Did you see anything?" She asks.

"Not clearly."

"What did you know?"