“I am uncertain that you would call it potential in the traditional sense that either the mortals or the Barrani employ,” Sanabalis replied. “But if the events of today were entirely unpredictable—and believe that they were—there is a reason that I asked her to come here for the possible tests we could administer.

“The mage responsible for her first test is dead—of old age, I hasten to add. But he was not fully apprised of how unusual her circumstances are; there are tests that might have been performed that he would not have considered relevant.”

Kaylin rolled her eyes.

“They are old tests, and they have fallen much out of fashion. I admit it likely that it would not have occurred to him to provide those tests.”

“Because he wouldn’t have known of them?” Teela asked, voice level.

“Perhaps. The Arcanum spends more time delving into schools of magic that would not be considered entirely practical—but would be considered dangerous or forbidden in the Imperial school.”

Mrs. Erickson blanched. So did Kaylin.

“Ah, forgive me. I criticize the Arcanum, as is our wont; I am not in any way implying that Mrs. Erickson was engaged in illegal, forbidden arts. At one point in the history of what has become the Imperial Collegium, such tests could be conducted, but they were not considered as relevant because while potential could be indicated by elements of those tests, that potential could not be taught. It could not be schooled.”

“Is becoming a student here free?” Kaylin asked.

“I am certain there are times when you will not think about monetary aspects of most things,” was the severe reply—a reply which suggested now would be a good time to start.

Kaylin said, “I need to eat. I’m not a Dragon Lord. I might be considered a Lord of the Barrani High Court, but it’s not like they’re paying me—and without money, I starve. Or freeze.” She folded her arms as Teela sighed. Loudly.

“You will forgive her, I hope,” she said in High Barrani. “She is young, even for one of her kind.”

“I am well aware of both her youth and her predilections, and I have not yet reduced her to ash—although on some days it has been tempting. To answer your question, yes. In cases where becoming a student would cause financial hardship, we teach without fee. I would imagine that we will see fewer students in the immediate future, given the rise of the Academia.” His eyes had paled to orange with red flecks, which was about as good as could be hoped for.

“Mrs. Erickson, I believe you are what was once called, in various mortal cultures, a shaman. In the opinion of the learned, mortal shamans did not actually exist. The promise of communication with the beloved and departed was a way to part people from their money.”