"Mother,"
Margaret said, bowing slightly.
Jessica didn't look up immediately.
Her voice, when it came, was calm but sharp as glass.
"Margaret. You're early today. Is there a reason?"
Margaret hesitated for a second before nodding.
"There is, Mother. It's about the recent explosion in the Northern plaza."
Jessica's quill paused mid-stroke.
"The explosion,"
She repeated softly.
"Yes, I've heard vague reports, uncontrolled mana discharge, possible anomaly. No one's told me the full extent yet."
Margaret stepped closer.
"Professor Eugene Darcyroix brought Lyrium to the infirmary. He was severely injured but stable. They said the entire plaza was torn apart by the blast."
Jessica finally looked up, her cool blue eyes focusing on Margaret.
"Lyrium Blackwood…"
She murmured.
"That name always finds its way into trouble, doesn't it?"
Margaret's tone softened.
