Secrets and Shadows: (Obsidian Academy Book One) by Demi Warrik

Author:Demi Warrik [Warrik, Demi]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2024-10-28T00:00:00+00:00

Fourteen

LILITH

The blood moon hangs ominously above the thick canopy of trees, its crimson glow spilling eerie light across the forest. My heart races in my chest as memories flood back to the last time I stood here before my Shadowing. I knew I wouldn’t be able to avoid returning eventually, but every fiber of my being is screaming against it.

Once our Shadows are awakened, we have to train to control and tame them, which means facing the forest again—something every student must do.

My attention shifts to Headmistress Bennett as she strides toward me, her expression one of cold indifference. It’s clear she doesn’t care about what happened during my Shadowing, nor does she seem concerned about what might happen now. It’s strange, considering Simon and Vaughn must have filled her in on what they know, even if I’ve been careful not to share the whole story. Something about her feels off—something I can sense deep in my bones.

“I understand there was an isolated incident the last time you awakened your Shadow,” she says coolly. “Since then, we’ve searched the forest and found no disturbances. But just in case, Simon will accompany you today. He won’t interfere with your training, but he’ll be there to protect you if necessary.”

Her words do little to ease my anxiety. The memory of that menacing darkness still lingers in my mind, that strange voice speaking like it knew me. I doubt anyone can protect me from it. But I know that facing my fear is an important part of learning how to control my Shadow, and it did seem to know what to do all on its own last time. Maybe this time won’t be so bad… maybe.

“Duly noted. Thank you,” I reply, forcing a steadiness into my voice that barely masks my fear.

I scan the small group around me, looking for Tony. Even though he can’t physically assist me with this task, I could really use a pep talk… or even a hug. It feels especially daunting with only the two of us, the Headmistress, and her lackeys—whatever she considers them to be—standing out here.

Normally, all the first-years would be here with us, but for some reason, the Headmistress has singled out Tony and me, making us feel a bit isolated. He catches my eye and gives me a reassuring smile, accompanied by a thumbs-up as he mouths, “You got this.” Not quite a pep talk, but it’ll do.

Taking a shaky breath to steady my nerves, I say, “I’ll go first.” Anxiety floods my body, making me feel like I could explode at any moment. But there’s no turning back now; I just want to get it over with.

My gaze shifts to Simon, who gives me a reassuring nod. I’m grateful it’s him accompanying me instead of Vaughn. If it were Vaughn… well, a part of me thinks I’d rather be swallowed by the darkness than be alone with him. I’m not acknowledging the other part of me that’s attracted to him. Nope, not going there.

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