This is crazy, Walter said.

Absolutely ludicrous, Simon added.

You cant leave the school, Ralph implored.

Oliver grew increasingly exasperated. Why wouldnt his friends just believe him?

Esther hushed everyone. Ralphs right, she said diplomatically. Even if you wanted to leave, you wouldnt be able to. Your timetable wont let you.

Oliver grabbed his timetable and waved it. No schedule, he said. Professor Amethyst switched them off, remember? Its another sign from the universe.

No one looked convinced.

I need to go and nows the time to do it, Oliver added with determination.

But we need you here, Esther said, her voice sounding pained. To protect the school.

Oliver felt his heart clench at the thought of Esther feeling scared and vulnerable without him there.

Cant you see? Oliver said. The only way I can protect the school is by leaving.

But what if theres another attack from the inside? Esther asked.

Then youll fight them, he said. Ive seen how strong you are.

But Ralph was having none of it. He folded his arms, looking down at Oliver like a bossy teacher.

No way, he said. This is not happening. Timetabled or otherwise, Professor Amethyst wont let you leave the school.

Professor Amethyst doesnt need to know.

If he finds out youre planning on following your own path then hell expel you.

Oliver narrowed his eyes. He wasnt stupid. He knew leaving the school wasnt allowed. It wasnt something to do lightly or on a whim. He could be trapped outside forever, at a huge personal sacrifice. But it was a risk he felt compelled to make.

Then lets make sure he doesnt find out, Oliver said with a warning tone in his voice.

Ralph looked shocked by his tone.

How are you planning to stop Lucas? Esther asked. You have nothing to guide you but your instinct. No timetable to warn you if you go off course. Youd be blind.

I dont know yet. But the universe is guiding me. I cant not follow her lead.

Oliver looked from one skeptical face to the next. His frustration magnified. They didnt believe him. Didnt trust him. Whatever he had to do to stop Lucas and save the school, he was going to have to do it alone.

Just then, the sound of footsteps caught everyones attention. The group stepped back and through the clearing between their bodies Oliver saw a figure moving away. It was unmistakably Edmund.

Oh no! he cried, jumping up. Edmund overheard us. I bet hell tell Professor Amethyst. How will I get out now? Hell be watching me like a hawk!