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“Choose your opponent wisely but don’t fear. Demons can sense fear. They will assign you someone so you won’t get to choose. Be prepared. Fatal use of magic is prohibited in the exam, but as you all know, accidents can and do happen.” I risk a glance at Harper. She’s looking at her hands instead of me.
“Any questions?”
Sadie’s hand shoots into the air and I incline my chin toward her.
“Can I start at the combat station?” she asks.
“Sure,” I say.
“Great,” she says. “I challenge Harper.”
Harper’s eyes widen. “Oh, no, Sadie.”
Sadie’s already on her feet and grabs Harper’s hands, tugging her up from her chair. “Come on, Harper. I trust you. You have to try again eventually.”
Harper looks at me, her expression pleading.
“Channel the magic of your opponent,” I say. “Don’t use your own.”
She nods and lets out a long breath. I can feel the swirl of emotions running through her head.
Do not let me kill my best friend.She broadcasts loud and clear.You owe me at least that.
Her thoughts sting but I deserve it. “You’ll be fine,” I say.
The two of them walk to the station and the whole room seems to be holding their breath. I should send the rest of the class to their stations to start practicing, but I’m sure Sadie is doing this to help put the rest of them at ease. If they see Harper control her magic better, it’s going to go a long way with her feeling more comfortable again.
The two women take their positions on the mat, facing each other. I walk over to the edge of the mat, ready to step in if needed.
Don’t let me lose control. Harper says in her head over and over. I feel a tickle in the back of my mind and I know she’s reaching for my magic. I encourage it, sending it her way.
I’m here.I say, the thought breaking my heart. Because I am here. I’m here more than she can ever know.
She nods, then severs the connection.
I feel empty.
