Page 24 of Axis of Fire

“And apparently, I’m the perfect choice,” Airis scoffed.

“Considering I have direct contact with Vuduarus.”

“And don’t forget your air magic,” Eugene added calmly.

“It can restrain her fire.”

“You’ve got to be kidding,” Mr. Shiford muttered, his brows rising in disbelief.

“No one from the Twelve Strongest has ever taken on a student.”

“I had no idea what they were talking about.

But I tried to catch every word.

“This year is an exception,” Eugene said.

“The Twelve Strongest decided to work more closely with new recruits.”

“And why is that?” Mr. Shiford asked slowly, glancing between Eugene and Airis.

“Harold is becoming stronger. More dangerous.”

“You said I was accepted into some academy...” I cut in.

“And that someone tied me... to him?” I nodded toward Airis without looking at him.

“We’re currently in the main academy of magic—Istmond,” Mr. Shiford explained.

“And Draxsan Ardevain is its headmaster.”

“Most decisions regarding students are made by him.”

“And the Twelve Strongest? All that stuff you just mentioned?” I raised a brow.

“Your mentor will explain that in detail,” Eugene replied.

“Great,” I exhaled, not bothering to hide the irony in my voice.

“And who do I talk to about going back to the human world for a while?”

“Your mentor,” Airis answered.

I looked at him.

“I’m against it.”

I wanted my fire to flare up right then and there—

straight into his face.

Right into that smug expression.

“I believe Illariana Arden should return to Vuduarus,” Mr. Shiford interjected.

I didn’t trust any of them.

But at least he was willing to support me.