POV: Desi Whitmore

The dining hall feels like a tomb after Otto leaves.

I stand at the table where he accused me, where he destroyed us in front of everyone, my hands still shaking with adrenaline and grief. Around me, students whisper and stare. Phones are out, recording the aftermath of my public humiliation.

"Desi." Helena's hand on my arm. "Come on. Let's get you out of here."

"He issued a challenge." My voice sounds hollow. "He's going to ...