The Betrayed Princess Rising (Lylah and Ezra) novel Chapter 114

Chapter 114

3rd Person’s POV

‘You. Come here.”

Corvin Vale crooked a single finger at Lylah.

Conversations died. Several heads turned.

Lylah stepped forward from the back row and stopped before him, chin lifted, her pulse steady despite the weight of predatory gazes pressing down on her.

If I remember correctly,” Vale drawled, flashing a smile that held no warmth, “you’re Clark Grimwood’s tudent.”

Yes, Professor.”

A scoff came from one of the other professors. “Since when does Grimwood take on new apprentices? The old wolf hasn’t accepted a student in years. We were certain he intended to let that brilliant mind of his rot n solitude.”

A ripple of low chuckles followed.

Vale’s lips twitched. “I believed the same–until two weeks ago.” His sharp eyes slid back to Lylah. Apparently, he deemed this young lady worthy.” His tone softened, but only on the surface. “So tell me… re you truly capable?”

Silence stretched.

Lylah knew that if she hesitated–even for a heartbeat–they would devour her.

Yes, Professor Vale.”

A glint of something vile flickered in his gaze.

Good.” He turned toward the frail, ailing wolf on the cot. “You have your healer. This student will be the one to treat you.”

A murmur rose immediately. Doubt flickered across the room.

Gwyn stepped forward at once. “Professor, she’s only a student. This concerns a life. We cannot gamble on inexperience. We need someone seasoned.”

“Alexander,” Vale said coolly, “did I give you permission to speak?”

“No. Professor.” He bowed his head slightly, the picture of contrition. “But I would like to prove myself again. The incident at the laboratory…” His jaw tightened just enough to suggest regret. “I know I disappointed you. Allow me to redeem myself.”

They entered the examination room where the old wolf lay on a narrow cot.

His ribs pressed sharply against parchment–thin skin; the silver in his hair had dulled to ash.

“Lunar Grace found him collapsed in the southern district,” Gwyn explained briskly. “His condition was already dire when they brought him in. He has no mate, no pups, and no pack to claim him.”

Alexander clicked his tongue. “I’m not blind. It’s obvious no one has bothered with him in years.” His gaze sharpened. “And you expect the Academy to waste its resources on this? I doubt he owns a single coin to repay us once he’s back on his feet.”

“We already committed to treating him without payment, Alexander.” Gwyn’s expression hardened. “If that’s a problem for you, you don’t have to volunteer. I’m sure she can handle it just fine.”

“Her?” Alexander let out a low, derisive laugh, openly gesturing toward Lylah. “You might want to rethink that.”

Lylah ignored them both.

She slipped into her sterile coat, fastening it neatly at the waist before pulling on her gloves and mask.

Without sparing them another glance, she turned to the old wolf and began the examination.