He pushed hard into Olivers shoulders, pinning him to the ground. Oliver writhed against the force of him, wriggling his body side to side in an attempt to break free. It was futile. He was completely immobilized.

You were waiting for me? Oliver said. Why? Why are you so determined to stop me?

Somewhere deep inside, Oliver could feel his powers beginning to swell. He fought to control them. It was like a fight or flight response; instinctual.

Edmund ignored Olivers question. He pushed Olivers shoulders harder against the ground. Oliver winced from the pain.

Oliver gasped as a horrible thought struck him. Are you the traitor?

Edmund cackled loudly. Youre even stupider than I thought. Im no traitor. I love this school. Its just you I hate.

Why? Oliver asked, pained. Ive never done anything to you.

They kept tussling. Edmund had the upper hand. His physical strength was greater than Olivers. But Olivers powers were stronger. Too strong. Oliver fought against them as they grew within him. He didnt want to hurt Edmund again.

Isnt it obvious? Edmund sneered.

Suddenly, movement from above caught Olivers eye. Someone else was hopping along the sleep pods, using them as stepping stones to the ground. Their movements were ballet-like, almost effortless. Oliver realized it was Esther.

At the sight of her, something fell into place in his mind. Edmund liked Esther, too. This whole rivalry between them had just been because of Esther.

Oliver saw Esther reach the final pod and hop down to the ground. Then she darted across the floor toward them.

Get off him, Edmund, her voice echoed across the space.

Edmund flinched and looked over his shoulder.

It gave Oliver the second he needed. He pushed out with his arms, shoving Edmund back. At the same time, he brought his knees up to his chest and kicked out like a kangaroo. Without needing to use his powers, Oliver managed to push Edmund all the way off him. The bully rolled away and hit the floor with an oof. Oliver leapt up to his feet.

Im going to tell Professor Amethyst what youre doing! Edmund cried from his heap on the floor.

He stood quickly and went to charge at Oliver. But at the same time, Esther projected out one of her shields. Edmund slammed into the barrier, his voice completely cut off. On the other side, he was still yelling but Oliver couldnt hear his words. He banged on the invisible barrier, growing increasingly angry.

Oliver looked over at Esther. She was poised, her focus on the shield she was projecting.

How did you know Id try to leave? Oliver asked her.

I can read you pretty easily, Esther said. That and the fact you didnt put your overalls in the locker.

So much for getting away with it, Oliver thought.

But why are you helping me? he asked. I thought you were against me leaving.