“Unbound develop one or more special, unique abilities. These powers came in so many varieties it was truly remarkable. One of my favorite subjects was simply reading and learning about the special powers they held. Prophetic visions. Minor time reversal. Levitation, flight, the ability to shapeshift. And, of course… there were even some quite special powers that drew more than their fair share of misunderstanding. I dare say a few unbound are responsible for many of our myths and legends."

After a moment, he stands suddenly, gesturing for me to do the same.

"In any case, I deeply appreciate your time, Nessa. I know your schedule here is unforgiving. If you haven't gathered as much already, I am extending a formal offer to mentor you," Voss says, his voice somehow closer though he hasn't moved. "To help you discover your unique gift safely, where others can't witness and misconstrue."

"Why would you help me?" I ask.

"Because talent should be nurtured, not feared." His eyes catch the candlelight, reflecting it back like twin flames. "Because I believe you could become something extraordinary."

I want to believe him, with a yearning that hollows me from the inside out. He's offering me power and understanding. Here at Confluence, both of those things mean survival.

"I’ll make one suggestion," Voss adds, leaning closer. "Tell no one what you are. Not your friends, and especially not the fire affinity who watches you so closely."

Raith's face flashes in my mind, eyes burning with that intensity that makes my pulse flutter, and something inside me rebels against the command. He already knows. And some part of me also knows out of everybody here at Confluence, Raith might be the one I trust most—the one I'm most likely to confide in. "I⁠—"

"For your safety," Voss interrupts smoothly. "There are those who would destroy you simply for existing, Nessa. Your secret must remain between us until you're strong enough to protect yourself."

I find myself nodding. What he says does make sense. There's no reason to risk trusting others now. Not when I still have so much to learn. Not when it would be safer to wait until I can protect myself from those who would betray me. And it’s what I’ve already been doing for months, even if I’ve been getting closer to wanting to tell Mireen and the others. "I understand."

"Excellent." Voss smiles. "We'll begin your private training tomorrow evening. For now, you should rest."

He rises, signaling the end of our meeting. As I stand, my legs feel unsteady beneath me like my bones have turned to water.

"Remember," he says as he guides me toward the door with a hand on my shoulder, "not a word to anyone about what you are. About what we discussed. It's for your protection."