Chapter 49

Dominic clenched his fists, jaw tight as he looked out at the training arena. He had wanted to stay with Zoe in the Healer’s Lodge, but she’d insisted that he continue in the tournament.

“She’s a fighter. She would have pushed herself to stay if she could,” he murmured, more to himself than to anyone else.

Nikola, standing beside him, nodded. His usual calm was replaced by a quiet, burning anger. “Zoe would’ve made it through every round if it weren’t for that poison. Ewan’s going to learn what it means to cross us.”

Dominic smirked, though there was no humor in his expression. “Let’s make sure we leave a reminder he won’t forget.”

Sara joined them, her face determined. “For Zoe, then.” She glanced between the boys, her eyes fierce. “We won’t let her down, and we won’t let Ironclaw think they can get away with this.”

Cassius, who had been standing slightly apart from them, watched the exchange in silence, his gaze fixed on the Ironclaw students across the field. As he approached, Domi