After that, we were escorted back to the Academy, where the staff was already aware of what had happened, and I was notified that a High Witch would come to read my damn mind in the next few days at some point.
I now sit in class, ignoring the whispers and the stares surrounding my new scar as I ponder over everything that happened. I wonder where Matherson found the book. Could it really have been a coincidence?
I have never felt anything to doubt Matherson, but when it comes to this book, I don’t think anything is just luck anymore, especially considering my own in-depth search for the symbol.
I have read so many books, sifted through so many and asked those around me with zero luck.
“…wood?”
I look up to see Matherson looking at me with concern. “Sorry, sir,” I say, sitting forward.
He nods grimly. “Are you alright?”
“Yeah.” I nod.
He sighs. “Good, I was asking you what you think Division Two did wrong when fighting against these rogues a week ago.”
I look at the digital map.
“They spread out too thinly, giving the rogues greater freedom to manoeuvre. In doing so, they left critical blind spots exposed, making them vulnerable to surprise attacks from behind.
Although they were outnumbered, if they had held their position and fought from a single, unified point, they could have overwhelmed the enemy more quickly. Additionally, staying closer together would have allowed them to support each other more efficiently when a teammate needed assistance,” I reply without missing a beat.
But sometimes the enemy comes so fast you can’t even think straight.
“So, since you’re enjoying mocking our division, tell us about your scar? What’s the story behind that?” I glance over at the senior who is part of the Second Division and cock a brow.
“Let’s just say, if he wanted me dead, I would have been.”
A tense silence floods the room. No one was expecting me to say that. Everyone knows how strong I am, but they can see I’m not lying.
“Someone that much stronger than you?” Allison whispers from somewhere close by.
I ignore her. I can sense Sienna watching me, but I don’t turn to her, not when all eyes are on me right now.
“Someone strong enough to knock a Westwood on his ass!” Valerian whistles.
“Someone strong enough to kill us all,” Carter cuts in, his voice cold. “And if Jayce didn’t have a chance, then… just let that sink in.”
“Alright, everyone, calm down, let’s get back to the lesson,” Matherson calls, trying to defuse the growing tension. No one argues, but a ripple of unease remains in a now much quieter hall.
The bell has just rang, and everyone grabs their stuff and heads out. I hold back, wanting a word with Matherson himself.
“All ok there, son?” he asks me, concerned.
I nod. “Yeah, I just want to know where you found the book that you had given me,” I ask.
He looks at me in surprise, as if not expecting that question. “Oh, it was in one of the piles of books that were not translatable.” That’s the truth…
“And what made you look in those books?” I ask.
He smiles slightly, folding up some larger maps. “Well, you really wanted some answers, and I know how many hours you spent searching in the library. I didn’t think there was any harm in checking that pile. It was sitting in my office for far too long anyway…” He looks confused for a moment, but he’s telling the truth.
Am I being paranoid? “I guess it was good you were given the pile to organise then,” I remark, trying to press for a little more without making it obvious.
He nods. “Yes, it’s been far too long because I don’t even remember who told me to sort those. Shows I don’t like the job!” He chuckles.
He’s telling the truth, but his confusion… Did someone plant the book in his office, knowing it would make its way to me? And if yes… who?
