The accusation hit the chamber like a physical force, silencing the crowd instantly.
A Vitae thief. Someone who could steal the signature abilities of others. The concept was foreign, taboo, the stuff of horror stories whispered in training halls. Powers were supposed to be earned, inherited, developed through blood and sweat and years of discipline.
And a male with that ability? That made it exponentially worse in a female-dominated society.
"You stole her power?" Leia's voice dropped low, vibrating with contempt that made several nearby cadets take an unconscious step back. "That's how you're doing this? You're not a warrior. You're a parasite."
Zaeryn, still breathing hard, pushed himself fully upright despite the exhaustion weighing down his limbs. He glanced at Ingrid's shocked face, saw the confusion and maybe, maybe, a hint of betrayal there. Then he looked back at Leia.
