Erin leaned against the tree, her violet eyes fixed on the professors' rift pulse—a faint shimmer where their mana clashed with the barrier.
A sly smile curled her lips, sharp and knowing. "The queen's reached the bishop and king by now," she muttered, voice soft as a blade's edge. "The war's begun."
She looked at the dome, a spark of amusement visible in her eyes, as if she saw a chessboard no one else could.
____
Hour ago.
Velmira's eyes narrowed, suspicion carving lines into her dirt-streaked face as she stared at Rin.
Rin stood trembling, violet hair plastered to her cheeks, soaked with sweat and grime, her wide pink eyes darting as if expecting an attack.
Her words—I'm here for you, not Leonhardt—hung heavy, jarring Velmira's focus. She tightened her grip on her staff, and leaned closer, voice low and edged. "You're telling me you're not here for Leonhardt?"
