When The Sky Bleeds ✔️

Chapter 28

My footsteps echoed loudly in the dimly lit hallways as I made my way to the combat room. My nerves were wreaking havoc on my body, causing my legs to go shaky and weak. Today was the day I would receive news from Desmond about whether or not I had passed my second trial. I had jokingly asked the week before if the slaying of the drakonar would count instead, which Desmond did not find to be humorous at all.

And now, to make matters worse, I must face Bree in combat - a daunting prospect that sent chills down my spine. I had pleaded with Desmond, practically on my knees, to allow me to skip this one time. I was convinced that Bree was out for my blood and I couldn't bear the thought of facing her in class. Even after my near-death encounter, his stubbornness remained unshaken. I had no other choice but to take matters into my own hands, determined to protect myself from her wrath by any means necessary.

As I strode towards my destination, nerves swirled and churned in my belly like a stormy sea. My conscience tugged at me, reminding me that cheating was not in my nature, but as I checked to make sure the small fabric-covered plant strapped securely to my ankle was still in place, a sense of calm washed over me. The Ghost Thistle, with its otherworldly appearance, fit right in with the magical plants that filled the greenhouse. Its spiky leaves were a pale, almost translucent shade of green, giving it an eerie and intimidating presence. According to Meradyth, the thistle-like flowers would emit a faint glow in the moonlight, adding to its ghostly aura and earning its fitting name.

Despite its beauty, I was unable to ignore its reputation. Those thin thorns were practically invisible in certain light and easily puncture skin during a heated moment - something I had to be mindful of when using it on Bree. And according to Meradyth, any direct trauma has the potential to cause the plant to disintegrate, making it a fragile but deadly weapon in my hands.

Bree was a formidable opponent for even Desmond, so I knew I was in trouble. Even at the mere thought of encountering her, I could already feel the formation of bruises and aching joints, only just recovered from my previous injuries. Callumwalked by my side. The soft fur of his mane brushed against the side of my face now and then, providing a momentary sense of comfort and calm amidst my nerves. He had been silent since Meradyth and I met earlier, but his presence alone was enough to ease my mind. When I asked if he was disappointed in me, he responded with a dismissive snort.

"I am but a guardian, not a controller of your morals,"

I pleaded with Meradyth not to watch our plan unfold, and after some reluctance, she finally agreed. The last time she had witnessed one of my schemes, she had almost ended up getting murdered. I wasn't about to let history repeat itself. If our plan were to get caught, I would rather take the fall alone than put a target on her back. My heart raced as we approached the grand double doors. Bree was already standing at my usual spot on the mat, her hand digging into her hip in annoyance as she checked the clock. Her light brown hair was pulled back in a tight, braided ponytail. When Bree noticed me, she immediately looked over at Callum with a wicked smirk on her face.

"Brought your bodyguard along, huh?" I bit my tongue in an effort to keep from making a smart remark, her words reminding me of something Desmond would say. I could see how they were friends - both possessing confidence and a sharp tongue. "He insisted," I replied with a nonchalant shrug. "If you have a problem with it, take it up with him." I gestured towards my lion companion.

A guttural growl reverberated from Callum's core, his eyes blazing with predatory intent as he fixed them on Bree. His muscles flexed under his fur, ready to launch himself at her with feral aggression.

"As long as he understands not to impede like before," she sharply stated, locking eyes with me.

"Go to the edge of the mat," I mentally commanded Callum, my voice laced with authority.