Aurus's gaze was ice-cold, and the three other mages didn't dare say another word. William stood up slowly, wincing in pain, leaning on Lía, who held him tightly like a devoted wife tending to her wounded husband.
The noble who had fallen also struggled to his feet, swatting away the hands of Maren and Sylvia as they tried to help.
"I am Eldrin Vaylen, heir to House Vaylen. My grandfather is a Level 2 Formal Mage. I'll forget this ever happened—if you hand over that damn commoner to me."
But before he could finish, another voice cut through the air—Aurus had stepped forward.
"And if I refuse?"
The tension flared once more. Eldrin clenched his fists and barked back.
"Then you'd better not show your face at the academy again. My family holds a seat among the Elders of Black Rock Academy—and they're very close with the director."
Taking advantage of the moment, the second apprentice stepped forward with a sneer.
