Elias sat in his dorm room, absently tapping his fingers against his desk. The events of the day replayed in his mind—the duel, the victory, and most importantly, Arven's words.
"You're now a player in the game."
Lira paced across the room, arms crossed. "I told you beating Darian would put a target on your back. But no, you just had to win."
Elias sighed. "Would you rather I lost?"
Lira stopped pacing and glared at him. "That's not the point! The noble houses already control the Academy, but it's not just about magic. It's about power. Influence. Politics." She threw her hands in the air. "And now? You just walked straight into the middle of it!"
Elias leaned back in his chair. "Okay, I get it. I'm officially a problem."
Lira pinched the bridge of her nose. "Elias, do you ever take things seriously?"
He smirked. "Only when it's fun."
Lira groaned. "You have no idea what you've started."
Before Elias could respond, a letter appeared out of thin air, landing neatly on his desk in a swirl of golden light.
Lira took a step back. "Oh, that can't be good."
Elias frowned and picked it up. The envelope was sealed with wax, bearing the crest of House Arden.
His stomach sank.
Lira's eyes widened. "Wait. Arven Arden?"
Elias exhaled. "Of course."
He broke the seal and unfolded the letter.
Elias Graham,
You have made yourself known. Now, it is time to see if you are worth noticing.
Tomorrow evening. The East Wing Dueling Hall. You will attend.
Do not be late.
— Arven Arden
Elias stared at the message.
Lira groaned. "Oh, you idiot."
Elias sighed, setting the letter down. "Yep. I'm officially in trouble."
Lira crossed her arms. "And yet, you're still gonna go, aren't you?"
Elias grinned. "Obviously."
Because now? He had to know exactly what game he was playing.