The Apocalyptic Queen's Werewolf Journey (Thora and Darius) novel Chapter 40

**Shadows Hearts by Joseph King**
**Chapter 40: Those Calluses**

**Thora’s POV:**

It was over.

The argument with Norman from the previous night echoed in my mind, a cacophony of hurtful words and unresolved tension. The thought of facing anyone downstairs was unbearable. Instead, I opted for solitude, instructing the servants to deliver my meals directly to my room, where I could remain hidden from prying eyes.

My days were now filled with training, yes, but also with a relentless pursuit of honing my abilities. I dedicated every spare moment to mastering the powers that had once surged through me with ease.

As I lifted my hand, I felt the familiar warmth of my energy coursing through me. With a delicate flick of my fingers, a glass of water that sat innocently on the table began to dance. It glided effortlessly half an inch along the edge, then defied gravity, rising two feet into the air. I watched in awe as it circled around a pen holder three times, the rim remaining perfectly horizontal, as if it were held by invisible strings. Not a single drop escaped, a testament to the control I was regaining.

Just then, a soft knock interrupted my concentration.

“Ms. Thora, Mr. Green sent me to ask if you’ve changed into your outfit yet. Mr. Marlon, Mrs. Green, and Ms. Hazel are all ready to leave,” the servant’s voice called, tinged with concern.

With a reluctant sigh, I lowered my hand, allowing the glass to descend gracefully back onto the table. It landed softly, making no sound, as if it understood the weight of my thoughts.

I exhaled slowly, beads of sweat forming on my forehead, a physical manifestation of my exertion.

As I had anticipated, my powers were slowly returning, mirroring the gradual improvement of my physical health. The weight of the objects I could manipulate had increased significantly; I felt more powerful than I had in ages. My soulstone, too, was a reflection of this resurgence, its once faint blue glow now transformed into a vibrant sky blue, a sign of my progress.

Yet, I knew I was still far from the indigo hue that marked my peak abilities in my past life. Still, I held onto hope; if I continued to practice diligently, I believed that Amie would soon awaken, too.

“Ms. Thora?” the servant’s voice broke through my reverie once more.

“Understood. I’ll be down shortly,” I replied, my voice steady despite the turmoil inside.

I approached the closet, my mind set on grabbing something to wear. As I opened the doors, I was met with a sea of elaborate dresses, each more impractical than the last. I felt a wave of frustration wash over me; these dresses were nothing but a hindrance.

In the apocalypse, revealing skin was a luxury no one could afford.

The thought of chaotic lunar radiation or the toxic blood of a mutant werewolf splattering against my skin sent shivers down my spine. It was a reality I had lived through, one where exposure could lead to rotting flesh and the disintegration of one’s very essence.

My eyes landed on the academy uniform tucked away in the corner. Without a second thought, I yanked it out.

Fine, this would do.

This banquet was merely a formality, a pretense I had little interest in.

When I finally descended the stairs, I found Felix waiting for me, the only one present.

“Where is everyone?” I asked, my curiosity piqued.

“They’ve already left,” he replied, his brow furrowing as he took in my outfit. “Thora, you’re wearing that to the banquet?”

I maintained a straight face, determined not to let his disapproval affect me. “This is the hottest trend right now. Academy chic. Got it? Let’s go.”

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