"Can anyone tell me," Professor Laine continued, "why it's important to avoid killing humans in populated areas?"
A boy near the front raised his hand. "Because it draws attention. Missing persons investigations, media coverage. It makes it harder to hunt."
"Exactly." Professor Laine nodded approvingly. "We're not saying don't feed. We're saying be smart about it."
Elowen's hands were shaking again.
Be smart about it.
Like they were discussing how to avoid getting caught shoplifting.
Not how to avoid killing people.
Professor Laine continued, her tone light and conversational. "Glamour is your best tool. A simple illusion can make you appear entirely human—duller eyes, softer features, less presence. Practice it until it's second nature."
She demonstrated, and for a moment, her bea
