Yet William misunderstood the real intentions of the headmaster. He had thought the promotion was merely a shield, a bureaucratic manoeuvre to keep him out of the gallows.
He didn't realise that the Headmaster had seen something in his handling of the toxin—something that went beyond mere talent and touched upon a desperate, private need.
"Come, I have a business to discuss with you," out of the blue the headmaster said these words before turning to the rest of the lingering elders and masters.
"Everyone else leave now. This matter is closed. The Council is adjourned, and any further discussion regarding this boy's status will be viewed as an act of insubordination."
Although Guo and his gang of traitors didn't like such an ending, they had no other choice but to leave. The presence of the Headmaster's elite guard and the lingering scent of the purified toxin—a reminder of their failed assassination—stung their pride.
