Page 160 of Magical Melee

“You’ve already shown loyalty to your friends, courage in the face of danger, and the beginnings of wisdom that will only grow. The Academy sees this in you. I see this in you. But this choice—this vow—it must come from your heart.”

The room seemed to grow still, the magic in the air holding its breath as I looked into her eyes.

“What… what is the vow?” I asked, my voice barely above a whisper.

Elira’s gaze softened, but the intensity in her eyes remained. “The vow is to protect the light within you and the magic that binds our world, no matter the cost. To honor the knowledge you’ll gain and to wield it with purpose. To uphold the balance, even in the face of shadows. To teach all those who request the knowledge with a pure heart.”

I felt my heart pounding, the enormity of what she was asking wrapping around me like a storm. I opened my mouth to speak, but before the words could form, the sound of the grand doors creaking open echoed through the library.

Elira turned toward the sound. “The Academy awaits your answer, Maeve.”

My breath hitched as I stared at the opening.

The threshold shimmered faintly as if inviting me forward.

But was I ready to take that step?

Could I make a vow that would bind me forever?

I nodded at my grandmother as Celeste filled my mind.

And I knew what my answer had to be…