136

Well… you suppose they don’t call this the Proving Grounds for nothing.

“Cover me!” Mae shouts and you, Tarquin, and Ashur move together, closing ranks to give her shelter. Mae darts toward Neve, using the three of you as a protective barrier against the spells (and the odd arrows, both magical and physical) that fly your way while she quickly severs Neve’s bonds with focused flames that spit from her hands. Not only is it in your best interests not to leave Neve helpless, but with enemies all around you, you’re going to need all the fire—or, in this case, ice—power you can get.

Neve jumps up, kicking the chair back out of her way. “Ready!” she says even as she’s steadying herself on her feet. You don’t know how long she’s been tied in that position, but she gives no sign that her limbs are sore or her hands numb; she’s already moving her fingers just enough to call together a blast of ice for the next foe to reach you.

“Who’s first?” she asks.

• If you target the bear first, turn to page 137.
• If you go for the Venatori, turn to page 139.
• If you take them both on at once, turn to page 141.