Page 162 of Magical Moonbeam

The students looked to me, waiting for answers I didn’t have.

Not yet.

But I could feel the Academy in my bones.

And tonight, it was scared.

I climbed a few steps so I could see everyone. My voice was steady, at least I hoped it was.

“I know many of you came here seeking safety. And tonight was supposed to be a celebration. A new beginning from breaking the curse.”

I swallowed hard.

“But something has changed inside these walls. Something is watching.”

A ripple of unease spread across the students.

Keegan took one step closer. Just enough that I could feel him near. I didn’t look back, but I leaned into the comfort of his presence.

“I don’t believe in blind panic,” I said. “But I do believe in protecting what matters.”

My voice grew firmer.

“For your safety, we’ll evacuate. This is not a retreat. It’s a safeguard. We’ll return when we understand what’s happening and how to stop it.”

Gasps. Whispers. A few looks of disbelief.

“But… where will we go?” one witch asked. A centaur stood behind her, with a questioning gaze.

“To the grove near the Flame Ward,” I replied. “It’s shielded and strong. No shadows reach it. Once you’re there, we’ll set up temporary protections.”

“Do you think it’s him?” Mara asked, voice barely audible. “Gideon?”

I looked toward the far wall, where one of the stained glass windows flickered with uncertain light.

“Yes,” I said softly. “He came through the Butterfly Ward. We have to assume he touched something here. It would be foolish to think he wasn’t still here.”

Grandma Elira’s eyes darkened. “The Butterfly Ward has always been open to change… but it has never liked being manipulated.”

I nodded. “Which is why we won’t risk anyone else until we can stabilize it.”

Stella moved to my side. “Witches and magical folk, please follow our lead. Let’s take it slow and easy. No need to trample or panic.”

The witches and magical creatures remained calmer than I felt as they followed the instructions that the book sprites were now repeating.

“Ardetia and I will strengthen the temporary shields when we arrive,” Bella added. “The grove will hold and then we will return.”

Celeste touched my arm. “And you? Are you staying here?”

“For now,” I said. “I want to make sure everyone gets out first.”

My gaze swept across the students, some nervous, some curious, all brave in their own way.

They trusted me.

And it nearly broke me in half.

Because I didn’t feel like a leader tonight. I felt like someone holding a very old, very full cup, trying not to spill what little hope we had left.