Lyra's POV
Professor Thornevale's voice cut through the tension in his office like a blade. "Mr. Ironwood." He sounded utterly composed while my pulse hammered against my ribs. "Thank you for joining us during your break."
Ash stepped away from where he'd been leaning against the wall. "What's this about a princess?"
"Ah yes, I just finished speaking with the queen." Thornevale clasped his hands behind his back. "She's quite disturbed by your treatment of the wolfless students. A future King consort must show respect to all members of our community. She's requested that I address your inappropriate conduct."
The sneer that twisted Ash's lips was directed straight at me, as if my near-death experience had been some elaborate scheme of my own making. I folded my arms and lifted my chin, meeting his contemptuous stare head-on.
"Weakness spreads like disease, Professor," Ash said coldly.
