Chapter 7

Stroking his bushy beard, Landon heaved a resigned sigh.

"If that is your wish, then there is nothing I can do. You may return to your quarters with your drafts. I shall find another novice to take your place."

Maxi's eyes widened. "You are… removing me f-from the competition?

"What choice do I have? Since you have no intention of presenting that rune, I will have to find another candidate."

"I-I can work on a new—"

"Now you are being hoggish," Landon said, furrowing his shaggy brows. "I cannot let a rashly conceived submission ruin Nome Hall's reputation. Either you present your golem rune or withdraw."

Maxi bit her lip. When she thought of all the sleepless nights she had invested in the hopes of being selected, the dejection she felt was beyond words. Why had it not occurred to her to make sure her chosen rune was not against the church's doctrines? Her eyes burned with tears. Even so, she knew Master Landon was right. It would not do for her to be willful about this.