accident during the practical magic exam as well.’
He recounted what he’d seen on that fateful day. In the case of that incident, the whole scene glowed vividly behind his eyelids. Purple and red flashed over and over, and the terrifying howl was deafening even in his memory. He could say more about what he’d learnt afterwards than about the event itself.
‘It hasn’t been that long since we last saw each other, and so much has happened to you.’ James whistled through his teeth. ‘Perhaps you really should get some rest.’
‘I tried.’ The dragon didn’t even try to hide his slight irritation. ‘I can’t sit still; I’m constantly thinking about the exam results, and now the master’s gone too.’
‘I know what Ari meant earlier,’ the elf muttered.
'Speaking of Darius,' Matheo interjected. He clearly wanted to change the subject. “Do you know how long he’ll be away?'
'When we said goodbye, he said he’d try to be back before the start of the academic year, but…’ The dragon looked a little flustered. ‘I don’t expect him to manage it.’
‘You're such a pessimist, aren’t you?’ The blacksmith shifted in his seat. ‘If he said he’d come back, he’ll come back. He’ll sort out what he’s got to do and be back in no time.’
‘If only it were that simple...’ Draco paused and looked at his companions. ‘I didn’t say he went alone.’
‘That must have slipped your mind.’ The giant tried to joke. ‘Have they assigned him an aide again?’
‘Not just that. The Master has been given a whole squad of the Guard.’
‘Uh, that really is a more serious matter.’ Matheo fell into thought. He seemed to be considering whether to say something, but in the end he merely shook his head. ‘It happens, anyway. One thing’s for sure, Darius would rather be here than wandering about who knows where.’
‘He said something similar before he left.’ The reptile nodded.
‘He’ll be back as soon as he can, don’t worry about that, Draco.’
The dragon didn’t reply. He knew that Master Vittoro was right,
