Nix stared at Navian like he'd grown a second head. "Were you just about to eat a damned Night Stalker?!"
Navian groaned. "Don't look at me like it's my fault."
"It is your fault. It's literally your ability," Nix shot back, throwing her hands up.
Before Navian could argue, a dark–haired guy dropped down from the tree behind them with the grace of a trained killer. A bow hung loosely in his grip, and a fresh claw mark carved a red line across the side of his face but he looked completely unfazed.
"Phoenix," he called out, drawing both their attention. His sharp gaze flicked between Nix and Navian. "You know this guy?"
"Yeah, yeah, we're from the same faction," Nix chirped, trying to sound casual.
Chess didn't buy it. He eyed Navian like he was a live grenade. "He's the Syraxis heir, huh."
Before anyone could elaborate, another screech tore through the air but it was not close enough.
Navian stiffened. "I have to go. I was with three other students. I need to find them."
