Page 27 of Darkness and Deceit
Nine
AUGUSTUS
“We must cover the entire island,”Mara murmurs as we enter the tent.
Her voice is steady, emotionless, as always. Since arriving at Obsidian Academy, the Keepers have scoured every corner, searching for disruptions in the Balance… and for Magnus. We have found nothing. That, in itself, is concerning.
“We will separate into groups,” she continues. “Augustus, with me. I have a different task for you.”
Since word of Magnus’ presence spread, the protective shield surrounding the academy has caused unrest. Necessary unrest. The Elders would not have approved such measures lightly. Only they understand what Magnus is truly capable of. It is not a question ofifhe moves, butwhen.
I follow Mara, her robes brushing the tent floor in silent grace. Inside, the space is cloaked in deep royal blue fabric. Our tools—charms, scrolls, spells—are arrayed with clinical precision. We were not prepared the first time. This time, we will be. I hope.
“What task do you have for me?” I ask, keeping my tone level. I have trained my entire life to serve the Balance. I am not afraid—but Iamaware. This assignment could shape everything.
“You will see soon enough.”
I nod. Even if I am restless with the cryptic response and the unknown, I do not question. My eyes follow hers as they shift toward the tent entrance.
Lilith Knight arrives flanked by a Predator—Kieran, if I am not mistaken. I was sent here because of her. A Dual and a woman, no less. I expected someone raw, unruly. Instead, Lilith walks like someone trying not to show how uncertain she feels.
Black hair streaked with violet. High-waisted leathers, a plain black shirt, and of course her academy cloak. It is clear to me that she is trying to be unreadable, neutral, but the flicker in her eyes betrays her. She is absorbing everything.
The faint shimmer of the ward still clings to her skin. The blade would have tested her. That she is standing here means she passed.
Kieran inclines his head. “Lilith Knight. As requested.”
“Thank you, Kieran,” Mara replies coolly. Her pale, nearly translucent gaze sweeps over Lilith with the slow precision of someone taking exact measurements.
She says nothing more until the Predator exits the tent, then, “Lilith. Welcome.”
Lilith steps forward and extends a hand in greeting. A perfectly normal gesture. But Mara only stares at it.
The moment stretches.
Lilith blinks, then slowly lowers her hand, uncertainty flickering across her features. “Right. Sorry. I forgot.”
I step in, offering an explanation gently. “Keepers do not engage in physical contact. Our energy is attuned to the Balance. Even brief contact can shift alignment or ignite a backlash we cannot control.”
Lilith’s expression shifts subtly—apology giving way to a sort of wary curiosity. “Worse how?”
“We rely on precision,” I answer. “The Balance speaks to us only when we are aligned. Touch introduces interference. It is not simply a rule. It is for our protection.”
Her eyes flick between me and Mara, thoughtfully. She does not push further.
That, more than anything, tells me she is learning.
“I’ve been told I can assist,” she says after a beat. “Some of my… friends are also available to help, if you’ll allow it.”
It is said with quiet conviction, and despite myself, I almost smile. She is earnest. Brave. But still new to this world and its shadows. The belief that this can be solved through collaboration and goodwill—it is admirable. But naive.
She must see something in my face—some flicker of amusement, or doubt—because her posture shifts instantly. Her spine straightens, and her gray eyes sharpen as they narrow on mine.
“Something funny?” she asks, clipped and defensive.
“No,” I answer, keeping my expression even. “Just observing.”
Mara lifts her hand in a subtle gesture, drawing the moment to a close. “Come. Sit.”
