Dawn of Fog and Glass

Chapter Twenty-Seven (Part One): Dawn of Fog and Glass

~Author's Note~

Hey folks.

That's right, the author's note is coming before the actual chapter, which means that this chapter will definitely be a doozy. Actually, it was initially supposed to be two chapters, but so much happened in the second and so little in the first that I decided it would make more sense to combine them into two.

That being said, the chapters together now make a chapter that is almost eleven thousand words (i.e., over twenty-one pages). So, as you can imagine, I'm posting it in two parts. Anyway, I hope this first part isn't too boring. The second part will definitely be more exciting, I promise. Just you wait. ;)

Well, I won't delay you any longer. So, without further ado, here is chapter twenty-seven. I hope you enjoy it! :D

Love,

The Author. <3 <3

**

Suspicion blooms from the faces of Marksberg students like fire on gasoline.

Jordan's head movements are slight as he looks around the room for any takers. They clear his throat, but keep his thoughts to themself.

Ariadna, however, seems unaffected by the whispers. Confidence crackles like lightning around her body, surging from her high collarbones, steady jaw, and the perfected nonchalance in her posture. She whispers something to Jordan, expression neutral.

A wave of static cuts across the conversations slipping around the room, followed by a tinny voice.

Without looking, Jordan pulls a walkie-talkie from his belt and slips away to the empty corner by the door. They listen to the voice for a moment, and when it fades away, they respond in a low tone.

As he speaks, the room goes mostly silent as the students listen in to hear what he's saying. Still, their words are too soft for even the closest to distinguish more than a few words.

He only notices us watching him when they pocket the walkie-talkie again and move back to their spot beside Ariadna.

He raises an eyebrow. "I hate teenagers."

Ariadna pinches them. "What did they say?"

"They've got a little under fifty kids from the other rooms, and a couple teachers, too. Oh, and we have to move. They're starting to get flighty."

Ariadna sighs, turning to face us again. "I'd love to stay and chat, but one can only spend so much time breaking into corrupt establishments before it becomes unhealthy. We know it's a lot to process, but if you so choose, we can help you. If you'd like to join us, now's the time."

Nobody moves.

I want to. I can tell by Draco's and Orion's fidgety movements and unusually straight posture that they want to move, as well. Yet in this moment, the group is as statue-like as it's been all day.

From his side of the room, Barrett stands, keeping his head down. Still, the movement attracts the attention of most around him. He locks his jaw, uncomfortable with the sudden attention.

He rolls his eyes and mumbles something about how staring should require consent.

Dom tugs at his sleeve, and whispers, "What are you doing?"

"What? I'm going with them."

He doesn't mean to say it loudly, but in a room buzzing with low murmurs, his voice sticks out. This time, his response draws the eyes of all in the room. Including ours.