“That’s because I…” Viola swallowed. “I was nervous. I thought being Cyril’s apprentice was exactly what I needed so I could become Grand Keeper one day. But once we started—and Shazi and Hasu were so strong—I just… I choked. I could barely control my Lore. Everything I did was a mistake. Until Cyril finally told me he didn’t know how to teach me anymore.”

Viola wiped her eyes before continuing. “And it seems like Cyril replaced me with Cecily the moment I told him I was Runa’s apprentice, like he’d been planning to all along. I’ve been so scared that if I start falling behind again, Runa will want me gone too.”

No wonder Viola was always trying to please Runa. Because like Barclay, Viola knew how much it hurt to be cast out.

Barclay knew he should comfort her, but it bothered him that Viola felt like she didn’t belong when she had often made him feel that way. And unlike Shazi or Hasu, she’d made him feel that way on purpose.

And there was something else that she’d said that had surprised him. “You couldn’t control your Lore?” he asked.

She nodded. “After I became Cyril’s apprentice, my Lore never seemed to listen to me. Not until I ran away.” She must’ve understood the thoughtful look on Barclay’s face, because she asked, “Do you think the same thing is happening to you?”

“Maybe. Or I’ll never be enough of a Lore Keeper to control my powers.”

“That doesn’t make any sense. Of course you’re a Lore Keeper.”

“Really? Because you’ve made fun of me for being an Elsie loads of times.”

Viola’s expression softened. “I’m sorry. I know I’ve been a really bad friend lately. I was jealous, and I should never have made you feel bad. You’re one of the most amazing Lore Keepers I’ve ever met.”

Now Barclay suspected that she was lying. They spent every day surrounded by powerful Guardian Keepers, and with apprentices who were already powerful themselves.

Even so, Barclay’s mood brightened. Maybe, like Viola’s, his Lore wasn’t a lost cause. And it was good to feel like best friends again.

“I’m glad you told me about what happened between you and Cyril,” Barclay said, “but you’re wrong about Runa. She’d never abandon you. And I’m sure that no matter how your dad feels right now, he’s still proud of you.”

Viola let out a dry laugh. “Thanks, but I’m not so sure. He’s still angry I picked Runa over Cyril. He’s so angry that I don’t think he’ll ever get over it.”