EPISODE 12 — TWO YEARS IN TWO MONTHS

(POV: Dorcha) The sun is sinking low. Bealist is finally in sight. Nalar approaches us, her posture sharp, almost aggressive. Uh-oh. A lecture coming? Don't tell me— "So. You're finally back. Training's been underway for quite some time." She turns her gaze on Grogher, half curious, half openly disdainful. "And you? Who are you supposed to be?" And why should she care? She's not the one in charge here. "A friend of mine. Come on. Baelkers is waiting for us." She eyes me with one eyebrow lifted in warning. I find myself almost liking her. "His Majesty Baelkers is expecting you," she snaps. "This way." We step inside the room. Aileen is in the middle of casting a levitation spell on a flower vase. By all the thunder gods—not at me. I swing my arm, deflecting it. The vase smashes against the…