244 Chapter 5

A young man in a flowing gray robe marched down the narrow aisle, his usual air of fastidiousness about him. It was Ranulf, the high mage in charge of novice affairs. Paying no heed to the librarian's disapproving look, the man stomped toward Maxi.

"I'm glad I ran into you here. Saves me a trip to your lecture hall."

"I-Is there a problem?"

"Do you truly not know?"

With his hands on his waist, the high mage gave her an imperious look. Though Maxi could feel the curious glances of the other mages reading by the window, Ranulf seemed disinclined to show any discretion. He pulled out a thick bundle of parchments from his robes and shook it in Maxi's face. Her vacant, blinking eyes widened when she realized it was the letter she had spent many a sleepless night writing.