Chapter 6

Apprehension washed over Maxi. Was there a problem with her drafts? She hastily threw on her robe before rushing outside, where the sky was tinged a dark blue. She and Anette hurried across the shadowy forest path illuminated in the soft glow of twilight.

Turning up the brightness of the lamp she was carrying, Anette looked up to study Maxi's distressed face. "Do you know what Master Landon wants to talk to you about?"

"N-Not at all."

Nervously fidgeting with her sleeve, Maxi turned the rune she had devoted months to over in her head. She had forgone sleep and food in order to finish it in time for the competition. Despite her efforts, the senior mage might well have discovered a grave flaw that she had overlooked.

Anxiety quickened her steps, and her heart began to shrivel in her chest. When they finally reached Nome Hall, Anette pointed to the massive, birdcage-like iron crate attached to the outside of the tower.