POV: Luna
Two days after the Council hearing, Cole asks me to stay after combat class.
"We need to work on your defensive techniques," he says. "The Council is watching closely. You need to demonstrate perfect control at all times."
"I know."
"So extra training. Tonight. After dinner. The advanced training grounds."
I agree, even though I'm exhausted from everything.
But Cole's right. I need to be flawless. Give the Council no reason to invoke the Binding Protocol.
That evening, I meet him at the training grounds as the sun sets.
He's already there, setting up equipment.
"Thank you for doing this," I say.
"You don't need to thank me. This is my job."
"Your job is teaching class. Not private lessons for students the Council wants to bind."
He pauses, then looks at me directly. "
