Zinnia's fists clenched so tightly that her knuckles turned white.
She raised her head, and Aksai could see a mix of anger and anguish burning in her red-rimmed eyes.
"There are already more than twenty deaths," she continued, her voice cracking. "And over fifty are injured. Those… those shameless bastards from the Grand Martial Hall have begun to show their true colors!"
Aksai stood very still for a moment, the news settling over him like cold water. He murmured under his breath, more to himself than to Zinnia.
"Did… did they see through my plan so soon? Who is leading the Grand Martial Hall now? I… I guess I underestimated them."
Zinnia frowned, not understanding his words. Her voice shook as she asked, "Can you help the injured, my lord? Please—any help will do."
Aksai nodded once and moved. They left the underground cave and crossed the short distance to the school infirmary. The room smelled of blood and medicine.
