THE books had scattered across the floor like spilled secrets. Pages fluttered, covers bent at odd angles, the air in the hall holding its breath. The sharp smirk on Phoenix's face deepened, her eyes gleaming with dark amusement as the young fresher knelt trembling before her.

“My books,” Phoenix repeated, this time louder, her voice slicing into the silence like a blade.

The girl stammered, “I… I didn’t mean to… please forgive me, Luna Phoenix…”

Phoenix took her time, ...