“It’s not actually going that well,” I say.

“Why? What happened?” His brows scrunch with worry, but whether his concern is for me or for a possible wrinkle in his plan is anyone’s guess.

“The whole island is on high alert because of the Sire abductions. There are extra guards, and since I’m an outsider, people already distrust me.”

“Have you gotten into any trouble?”

“Well, not exactly, but—”

“Good. Why don’t you start by telling me what you’ve learned.”

We’re on borrowed time, so I try not to be too annoyed that he’s getting straight to business. I tell him about the Atlas and as much as I can about Arcadia. When I bring up the other school in Avant, he informs me that the Families know about Avant because it’s where Prometheus is from.

“We targeted Genesis for infiltration instead since Avant has a stronger military presence.”

“And do you know anything about the Misty Isles?” I ask. I’ve already heard these mysterious islands referenced more than once.

Kor’s never heard of them, and he tells me that finding out the extent of the Maker world should be a top priority.

I describe my apprentice classes. He’s very interested in my Ha’i class and has me show him how to make shiin. He reminds me how important it is that I master my Sire abilities and encourages me to do whatever it takes to improve more quickly.

I go on to tell him how I need to prepare to get admitted to a guild, and I use my notes from my meeting with Michael to give Kor a rundown of all the guilds.

“Apparently I’m going to have to write and perform a song,” I say. “I might need your help with that.”

Kor brushes this off. “Just don’t get distracted fiddling around. Which of the guilds do you think is most likely to know about the use of Sire abilities by non-Sires?” I have no idea where to start in looking for this supposed innovation that allows non-Sires to generate Ha’i.

“Maybe Bioscience?” I suggest. “Since they focus the most on healing compared to the others? I met a Bioscience master that I can try to ask about it.” I think of the kind redhead, Kaylie, who vaccinated me. She’d explained that they’ve eradicated a lot of illnesses here, including the common cold, the flu, and STDs. It had brought my attention to Bioscience as a guild that might be able to help Grandfather.

“Okay, then focus on impressing the Bioscience guild.” Kor’s eyes gleam as he types notes.

Yeah, it makes sense for me to aim for Bioscience. I’d been momentarily excited about the art and botany that Michael had discussed with me, but Kor’s right. That’s not why I’m here.