Chapter 29: The Abomination, who can't conjure fire

Suddenly, the door creaked open, and Rose's body went rigid. She froze, heart hammering in her chest.

The unmistakable voices of Seraphina, Oberon, and other teachers filled the air—voices she couldn't ignore. Teachers who knew her, who would recognize her.

Her breath caught, panic rising. She snatched the small bag, her fingers trembling as she stuffed it into her Pocket.

She didn't dare make a sound. Every instinct screamed at her to stay calm, to act casual.

But her body betrayed her, the pounding of her heart loud in her ears. She backed toward the door, each step feeling like it took a century.

But then she glanced back.

Her stomach dropped.

The crystal—the one she had wanted—was gone.

A wave of frustration hit her, but she shoved it aside. She couldn't focus on that. She had to move. Now.

Her feet rushed toward the door, but the voices were getting closer. Every word sounded like it could be directed at her.