[Samael Ashwood's POV]
I nodded to Professor Lincoln, grateful for the training but feeling uneasy about Elara's presence. My teacher's words hung in the air, teasing me with his playful tone, but there was truth behind it. Elara had been watching me far too closely, and I wasn't sure what she wanted.
"Thanks, Professor. I'll make sure to practice more," I said, trying to shake off the tension as I walked toward the edge of the courtyard, where Elara stood waiting. Her sharp, almost predatory gaze followed my every movement.
"You're getting better," she said as I approached, her voice soft but carrying an undertone I couldn't quite place. "Combining elemental magic like that takes skill."
I crossed my arms, keeping a safe distance. "Thanks, but what are you doing here, Elara?"
