Dhalia:Please make him stop…
Cane stared blankly at the HOM professor, who was still droning on about the history of magic in warfare—specifically events from five centuries before any of them were born.
Clara sat next to him, propping her head up with one hand. Her charcoal pencil moved sluggishly over her notebook, though in truth, she'd been asleep for at least half an hour.
Cane gave his head a quick shake, trying to rattle himself out of the sleepy fog brought on by the room's warmth and Professor Wallen's soul-numbing monotone.
"Cane…" The professor's voice cut through the haze, drawing every sleepy eye to the Academy's most famous cadet—perhaps the most famous cadet anywhere.
Cane stood, hoping he didn't look or sound as drowsy as he felt. He hadn't caught the question. He wasn't even sure what topic they were on anymore.
"Yes, sir?" he said, blinking fast. "Could I get a clarification on the time frame for the person in question?"
He threw it out casually, hoping to catch a lucky break.
Professor Wallen nodded. "Of course. You're referring to his early years, when he was still known as Moli Stanz. At that time, he hadn't hidden his political ambitions—his ideas were less radical then. But for this question, we're examining the nature of his disguise during private meetings with key figures in the magical community, including our very own Archmage Telamon."
Cane didn't hesitate. "He wore a mask."
Professor Wallen gave a small, pleased nod. "Well done, Cane. I see you've read ahead."
Cane sat down, managing a small, smug smile.
Dhalia(via rune):How the hell did you know that?
Cane:Oh, well. Isn't that just… common knowledge?
Clara snorted suddenly in her sleep, jerking upright. Without missing a beat, her hand resumed "taking notes" while her eyes blinked blearily.
Good morning, everyone!
This is Sophie Sweetwater coming to you live from Sun Tower, bringing you today's morning announcements.
Big news on the war front: A political misstep by the elves has led to the closure of the bridge between our worlds. Ten of the twelve elves residing in the realm have been sent back to the Sunset Forest.
In Academy news, let's welcome the newest addition to our fine roster of professors. Elohan of the Sunset Court will now be teaching Shadow Studies, a course specializing in subterfuge, stealth, lock-picking, and the art of disguise.
Sophie continued with local news, birthdays, and a list of missing items before wrapping up.
"This is Sophie Sweetwater reminding you: If you see someone today without a smile, give them yours. We'll have a special guest later today—our very own Cane Ironheart will be joining us to answer the tough questions. I'll see everyone back here this afternoon. Until then—have a sunny day!"
Cane nearly stumbled when he heard the name Elohan.
Clara raised an eyebrow. "Isn't that the bastard from the auction?"
Cane nodded. "One of them, yeah."
"We should do a mission soon…" Clara stretched, arms overhead, clearly refreshed after her hour-long nap during HOM.
Dhalia nodded in agreement. "I don't know how I lived without a storage ring before." She held up the one Fergis had bought her. "I've got half my room in here."
"Fergis mentioned taking on a mid-tier mission since we passed the 300-point mark," Cane said, walking between them to keep the usual bickering at bay. He slowed when he spotted Ana Dahl approaching—Telamon's assistant.
"There you are." Ana smiled pleasantly. "Would you come with me, Cane?"
Cane nodded. "Sure. Catch you two later."
Clara (via rune):You in trouble, boss?
Dhalia:I doubt that's even possible.
Ana led him to Telamon's office, opening the door and ushering him inside.
"Perfect timing," Telamon said, gesturing him forward. "Here's the deed for Forson Hall. It's now officially Ironheart Estate. The property will remain tax-exempt as long as it's used by Academy members."
"Academy members?" Cane asked, caught slightly off guard.
"The guest wing will serve well for visiting cadets, faculty, and dignitaries conducting business in the capital," Telamon explained.
Cane nodded. "That works. I'd like to reserve the sewing room in the guest wing for Lorna Sweetwater. It's part of our business venture."
"I'll note it." Telamon handed him the deed, his expression warm. "Nina has assigned staff as you requested—four maids, one cook, two kitchen assistants, a gardener, a stableman, and a butler."
"Excellent." Cane exhaled. The estate still needed a few minor repairs, but nothing he couldn't handle on a later visit.
"One last thing," Telamon added. "I'll open a rift to the estate on your days off so you can keep up with things."
"There is one other matter," Cane said. "I'm developing prototype armor for naval use. I should have something ready in a few days. If Captain Rhiati could visit the smithy…"
Telamon nodded. "I'll have her meet you there in two days."
Instead of returning to his room, Cane headed toward the west gate. Tor had been training the shadow wolf pups in the woods just beyond the entrance.
Cane touched the falconer rune on the back of his hand, and his eyes glowed amber in response.
The forest below snapped into sharp focus—Tor stood on one side of a narrow ravine, arms folded, while the pups sat obediently on the other.
Tazi lifted his nose, sniffed the air, and turned—training forgotten as he bolted toward the Academy.
Cane's eyes returned to normal. "Oops."
A moment later, Tazi burst through the underbrush, barely disturbing a leaf before hurling himself at Cane's legs.
Cane laughed, scruffing the pup's thickening fur. "You trying to get me in trouble?"
With Tazi trotting happily at his side, Cane made his way toward the ravine where Tor waited with Moxie.
"Sorry, Tor," Cane offered. "I should've thought that through."
Tor shook his head. "Distractions are part of training. Better they learn now than during a real mission."
At a whistle, Tazi low-walked toward Tor, tail tucked in mild guilt. Moxie received a treat while Tazi flopped onto his back with a whine of protest.
"This morning I woke up to Pudding perched in my dorm. His eyes had turned amber. When I linked with him, I saw through Tazi's eyes."
Tor didn't seem surprised. "I figured. They've started linking. It happens when two beasts are bonded to the same person. I noticed a few days ago—Tazi was finishing the obstacle course way too fast. Turns out, Pudding's been helping from above."
"I see." Cane crossed his arms, watching as the pups recovered and were sent back across the ravine. "Is that a problem?"
"No. It's actually good—if it's trained properly."
"Great…" Cane looked up just as Pudding swooped in and landed on his shoulder with practiced ease.
Tor studied them for a moment. "You should wait before bonding a third beast. Three is ideal for someone who's not focused on beast mastery. Once your bonds with Pudding and Tazi mature, adding another will be much easier."
"Is there any harm in sticking with two?"
Tor shook his head. "Not at all."
After a few minutes watching the pups train, Cane turned back toward the Academy. As he neared Sun Tower, he noticed clusters of students lounging in the courtyard—some studying, others simply enjoying the afternoon.
Zio was sitting with a small group. She waved when she saw him, and Cane returned the gesture with a smile before continuing on to meet Sophie.
The door to Sophie's suite was open when Cane arrived a few minutes before the afternoon announcements.
Clearing his throat, he stepped inside. "Yes… I'm here for my appointment?"
Sophie laughed, waving him in. "Have a seat," she said, gesturing to the chair across from her desk.
Cane smiled, settling into the well-padded chair. "You can always tell if someone likes company by how comfortable their guest chairs are."
Sophie glanced up from her notes. "Really?"
Cane nodded. "If you didn't want visitors, you'd use metal chairs. Or stools."
Sophie considered that, then smiled. "When I picked that chair, I wanted to make sure anyone who came by felt comfortable."
"Just like I said." Cane leaned back, letting his eyes wander over the cozy office. "Where are the questions? Should I proofread them first?"
Sophie shook her head. "Nope. These all came from my dropbox. I want your honest answers, not something carefully polished."
Cane raised a brow. "You sure you didn't sneak some in? Trying to uncover the dark secrets of my sordid past?"
Sophie's laughter filled the room. "Sordid? Is there something you're not telling me?"
"Lots of things," Cane replied smoothly.
Sophie rubbed her hands together. "After today, all your secrets will be mine."
"You should finish that line with an evil laugh."
"I would," Sophie said with a sigh, "but mine sounds weird."
"Something to work on," Cane teased, relaxing into the chair.
Good Afternoon, Everyone!
This is Sophie Sweetwater coming to you live from Sun Tower with the afternoon announcements.
On the War Front, there are no new developments. Allied forces are being repositioned to cover the absence of the elven fighters.
Academy Update: Starting this week, third-year students will be allowed to rift-travel to the capital once a week. Lodging will be available in the guest wing of the Ironheart Estate, recently purchased by first-year cadet Cane Ironheart. While visiting, you're expected to conduct yourselves accordingly and remain within the guest wing and grounds—unless invited otherwise.
That was fast, Cane thought to himself.
Mission Rankings remain close, with teams led by Siya and Yuta still tied for first. Remember, the top-ranked team at the end of the year will receive their own mounts!
And now for something special: we have a guest in the studio today! First-year cadet Cane Ironheart has agreed to answer a few questions submitted by students. Thanks for joining us, Cane.
"You're welcome, Sophie."
First question comes from third-year cadet Yuta:
"Is it true you were just a blacksmith's apprentice a few months ago?"
"Yes. I was traveling from Loramo to the capital to take my journeyman's test when pirates attacked the ship I was on. I escaped, but ended up in the hands of Captain Orion and the crew of the Twisted Snake. While in the slave hold, I met Captain Rhiati and Neri of the Defiant. We escaped that same night. Captain Rhiati is the one who wrote my recommendation to the Academy."
Second question comes from second-year cadet Yan Tunni:
"What advice would you give cadets who want to grow stronger?"
"Find good people. Nearly every breakthrough I've had was because of the relationships I formed. Engage with your element fully. And listen to your instructors—they're your first and best path forward."
Third question from third-year cadet Zio:
"Do you think your rookie group will overtake the mission leaders?"
"Yes. Without a doubt. We're coming for you."
Fourth question from first-year Sadie Boe:
"Do you have a girlfriend?"
Sophie wrinkled her nose. "That one slipped in. You don't have to answer."
Cane shrugged. "It's fine. Yes, I have a girlfriend. She's none other than the amazing Sophie Sweetwater."
Sophie blushed but smiled brightly before continuing.
Fifth and final question from first-year Glori Waseru:
"What do you do for fun?"
"I go clamming with friends or spend time at the beach. I try to take part in community events—the townsfolk are really welcoming."
Sophie gave Cane a thumbs-up as she wrapped up the segment.
Thanks for joining us, Cane. That's it for today's announcements. I'll see you all tomorrow morning. Until then, be well and enjoy the rest of your day.