Page 55 of Evergreen Academy (Society of Magical Botanists #1)
Chapter Fifty-Three
“ T hank you for agreeing to work with us, Ms. Whelan. I know that you have had some questions about the reason for researching your lineage that I was unable to satisfactorily answer before. I didn’t want to concern you, but now that the shield is showing signs of more severe damage, I felt that it was time to share.
” Professor East sat behind his broad desk the next day, Callan and I seated across from him.
“As Mr. Rhodes explained, the original magic that created the protections here at Evergreen Academy has been diminishing over the years as the environment has changed. Between wildfires, drought, and reduced soil quality, that magical connection to the soil is slowly seeping away.”
“And it’s getting worse lately, possibly because of a chemical spill?” I asked. Professor East shot a look at Callan, as if he wasn’t supposed to share that bit of information.
He turned back to me. “That’s correct. I was going to fill Callan in more completely after our meeting, but since it seems that you’re already in the loop, I’ll tell you both.
The results from the soil testing are back.
Compared to the samples we took at the winter solstice and fall equinox, the soil has extremely high levels of salt and an uptick in cadmium.
This is likely what’s causing the soil’s grip on the shielding Floracantus to slip. ”
“Do you know where the contamination is coming from?” I asked, thinking that if we had the source, we could possibly slow and eventually stop the deterioration.
“Unfortunately, we do not. That will be our next line of inquiry. In the meantime, the vernal equinox is quickly approaching. Even with the founders’ descendants recharging the shield, it’s not going to be enough for much longer. If your power could contribute in some way…”
“Of course I want to help,” I said immediately.
I realized that the time for hesitation about sharing my family history was over.
Evergreen Academy needed help, and if I had any power to provide some, I would.
“But can I ask, why can’t we just test it out on the spring equinox?
I could join Callan, Nevah, and Quinn in charging the shield, and we can see if it works. ”
“Two reasons, unfortunately. One, if you do have the ability to help charge the shield, I won’t need to call out others to assist. So if we can determine that in advance, it’s to the benefit of all.
Second, the founders were somewhat… protective of what they created here.
If someone attempts to charge the verdant shield who is not one of their descendants, there are… repercussions.”
“Repercussions?”
“They worked in a component to the enchantment that the soil on campus would turn on someone who presumed to recharge the verdant shield that wasn’t a founder’s descendant.
If you don’t have the soil on your side, most of the plants here would be inaccessible as well.
Without their cooperation, studying here at Evergreen Academy would be very difficult. ”
I sucked in a breath. Those sneaky, petty botanists . How old had they been when they’d created the school? Twelve?
Professor East took my shocked silence as a sign to continue.
“You and I will review your family history together, starting tomorrow. Additionally, I’d like you and Mr. Rhodes to retrace your steps leading up to the winter solstice.
There might be something we missed that activated your powers.
That could be important in determining your heritage. ”
“We can try, but I don’t remember everything I did.” I attempted to rack my brain, barely able to remember the details of the previous week, let alone months ago.
“Do your best. Consult your notebook. Many of your activities should be dated. Do you keep any kind of calendar?”
When I nodded and mentioned my phone, he said, “Good. Comb through that. Mr. Rhodes will be your second pair of eyes. Try to retrace your steps physically as well as mentally. There is a bit of urgency now, before I contact the Board of Regents, so I’d like you to get started today.”
He didn’t have to add that if I didn’t figure this out prior to the spring equinox, life as we knew it at Evergreen Academy might never be the same.