Page 24 of Witchful Thinking

"That's what's strange," Alarick replied, his voice low."I reviewed Xena’s proposal.It was full of safety precautions that weren't implemented today.And the equipment she used?It had Adelweiss markings."

"Trustee Adelweiss?The one funding the summer training program?"

Alarick nodded grimly."The very same.His company has been pushing schools to adopt their 'enhanced' equipment despite multiple safety concerns raised by the Warding Council."

Diana frowned."Why would Grimm Mawr agree to that?"

"Money," Alarick said simply."Academies are competing for students, and cutting-edge training programs attract applicants.But I'm beginning to wonder if there's more to it than just profit."

"Mr.Blackthorn.Nurse Maelstrom, you can drop your protective shieldings."Headmistress Raven said, interrupting their conversation."The specialists have arrived."

***

BY THE TIME SHE’D HANDEDover Xena's care and tended to the remaining students, Diana was swaying with exhaustion.Her fingertips tingled unpleasantly, and black spots danced at the edges of her vision.

She was trying to focus on a final healing spell when Alarick appeared at her side, his hand steadying her elbow."That's enough," he said gently but firmly."You're running on empty."

"I'm fine," she lied automatically, though the tremor in her hands betrayed her.

"You're about three spells away from magical burnout," he countered."And I'd rather not have to explain to Raven why her head nurse collapsed face-first into a cauldron."

Before Diana could respond, Minerva bustled over with a tray of bubbling potions.

"Revitalization draught," she announced, handing them each a vial."And don't give me that look, Diana—these aren't from Malta’s experimental batch.The last time someone drank those, Professor Everflame couldn't stop speaking in limericks for a week."

Alarick chuckled."I remember.'There once was a teacher of runes, whose classes ended too soon...'"

"'Because magical marks kept transforming to sharks, and swimming around the classroom,'" Diana finished with a reluctant smile.

"Everflame still can't look at a shark without breaking into verse."Minerva grinned."Now drink up, both of you.Headmistress's orders—you're relieved of duty for the day."

The potion tasted of summer herbs and crackling energy, refreshing Diana from the inside out as it replenished some of her depleted magic.

"Better?"Alarick asked, his own color improving.

"Getting there," she admitted."Though I should check on the students in the infirmary—"

"Already handled," Minerva interrupted."Malachai and Ceries have it covered.You two look like you've been used as troll chew toys.Go rest."

***

THE FACULTY WING WASquiet, most professors still dealing with the aftermath.At her door, Diana hesitated.

"Would you like company?"Alarick asked softly."Just to rest," he added, reading her hesitation."Magical depletion is easier when you're not alone."

The genuine concern in his voice touched her."I'd like that."

Inside, Diana collapsed onto her sofa, too tired even to remove her boots.Alarick settled beside her, his arm coming naturally around her shoulders.She leaned into him, her head finding the perfect spot against his shoulder.Golden threads appeared where their bodies touched, gentle and soothing.

"You were brilliant today," he murmured against her hair."I've never seen healing magic extended so far."

"Your protective circle was impressive too," she replied, eyes drifting closed."Most warders would have lost control when the bubble burst."

They sat in silence, their breathing gradually synchronizing.Diana felt herself sinking toward sleep, lulled by Alarick's steady heartbeat.

When Diana woke, she was still on the sofa, but now lying down with her grandmother's quilt tucked around her.Alarick sat in a nearby armchair, snoring lightly. He must have sensed her looking at him because his eyes fluttered open.

"How long was I out?"she asked, voice husky with sleep.

---