Shadows of Change (Arcanum Academy #1)

40. Malrik

The moment Darian approaches them, I feel the shift in magical current. He's trying something. Something that makes my blood run cold.

"Finn," I snap.

"On it."

He moves through the crowd like quicksilver, and I follow in his wake. Aspen appears on my left, water rune gleaming.

We're not going to make it in time.

Darian raises his hand, silver light gathering at his fingertips, and I see the exact moment Kaia realizes what's happening. Her eyes go wide, violet darkening to storm-cloud gray.

But before anyone can move, before Darian can complete whatever spell he's attempting, something unexpected happens.

Mouse appears at Kaia’s feet and grows. Not just bigger, but massive. The size of a real panther, with eyes that burn like violet flames.

The magical display sputters. Darian stumbles back, his perfect composure cracking.

And then the lights go out.

Kaia

In the sudden darkness, I feel my shadows surge. Not with fear or anger, but with... purpose.

They curl around me like armor, responding to something in the air. To the way my necklace seems to sing against my skin.

When the emergency lights flicker on, I'm standing alone. Mouse has returned to normal size, looking smug. My shadows ripple with satisfaction.

Darian is nowhere to be seen.

"Well," Finn says, appearing beside me with a grin that's only slightly forced. "That was exciting. Also, remind me never to piss off your cat."

"Mouse isn't—" I start automatically, then pause. "What just happened?"

"Would you believe me if I said temporary magical blackout?" He offers his arm with an exaggerated bow. "Totally normal. Happens all the time at fancy parties."

I know he's deflecting. I know there's more going on than anyone's telling me.

But my shadows are calm now, almost pleased. Mouse purrs at my feet. And when I glance around, I catch glimpses of the others—Malrik melting into the shadows, the twins moving to cover the exits, Aspen speaking quietly with some of the faculty.

All of them watching out for me, in their own ways.

"Fine," I say, taking Finn's arm. "But this conversation isn't over."

His grin softens into something more genuine. "Wouldn't dream of it, trouble." He glances at Mouse. "Though maybe we should let Bob explain. He's been dying to tell you everything."

Despite everything, I laugh. And if I lean into him a little more than necessary as we head for the exit, well... my shadows aren't telling.

The night isn't over. Questions still buzz under my skin, and my necklace still pulses around my neck.

But for now, surrounded by people who apparently "give a damn" whether I want them to or not, I let myself breathe.

Tomorrow will bring answers. Or at least better questions.