Two months in Shadowclaw, and Nova had learned three things: Elle snored, Ash cheated at sparring, and someone was still leaving parchment under their door.
Today, she sat in a class of fifty students and first year cadets.
At the front of the class stood Professor Malloran, waving his hand over a black chain.
To her horror, his eyes landed on her. "You. Moonveil. Approach the binding."
Nova cautiously rose, throat tightening. "I—Professor—"
"Now."
She felt light-headed for some reason, but walked forward anyways as instructed.
"Sir, maybe—" Elle started.
"Quiet."
The room fell completely silent, and everyone leaned forward in their seats.
The professor explicitly said do not touch the chain. She wasn't stupid. Yet, she found herself stretching out her hand.
Aware but not in con
