Zuri was practicing her magical control in the training hall when a sudden crash echoed through the castle.
"Uh… that's not supposed to happen," Rowan whispered, ducking behind her.
Zuri frowned. "Crash is part of my life. That's normal. What's not normal is…"
A shadow moved across the grand doorway. A cloaked figure slipped inside, moving silently.
Rowan squeaked. "Intruder! Villain! Ghost! Probably all three!"
Zuri blinked. "Relax. Maybe they just want… a chat?"
The figure lunged at the orb, and Zuri flailed her arms. Sparks flew, the baby dragon hissed, and the intruder tumbled into a pile of cushions.
Caden appeared, sword drawn. "Step away from her," he commanded.
Zuri froze. "Step away? From me? I'm clearly innocent!"
The intruder lifted the hood—it was a young magician, not very threatening.
"I'm… I'm here to test the new Lady Zelaria," he stammered.
Zuri groaned. "Of course. Everyone wants to test me. I'm accidentally the villain, remember?"
Caden sighed. "Zuri, maybe let's… talk to them?"
Zuri raised a hand. "Fine. But politely."