The Dueling Grounds

Arran could not help but feel relieved when the Matriarch led the group of Elders out of the House of Seals. Among the others, he stood out like a sore thumb, a single initiate surrounded by dozens of Elders.

Or rather, a pretend initiate. In truth, Arran easily had all the skills to become a novice already, along with power that far surpassed that rank. He wasn't sure whether he could rival Masters yet, but if he couldn't, that level of power was already within his reach.

And yet, compared to the Elders surrounding him, he might as well be a fresh initiate. A disheartening thought — especially because some of them would rather see him dead than alive.

Yet he had new allies, too, one of whom gave him a studious look as they left the House of Seals behind.

"Your teacher is a brave woman," the crimson-robed Elder said.