Chapter 59

On the last day of school, Medra and Florence head to the Dragon Court for Selection Day amid celebration tempered by loss. Visha joins with biting humor, and Regan stands isolated while her former friends whisper. Professors Rodriguez and Sankara banter flirtatiously, drawing amused reactions from the girls.

Theo Drakharrow approaches Medra awkwardly to congratulate her and hopes for better friendship next year. After Theo leaves, Vaughn arrives; Medra probes whether reconciliation with Theo is possible. Vaughn admits Theo wasn’t involved in his injury but decides highbloods aren’t good for him, hoping for placement in House Orphos under Lysander.

Headmaster Kim begins the ceremony, introducing the enchanted Selection Stone. Blake stands as House Drakharrow’s leader, covertly wrangling his pup Neville, who has followed him into the court. Names are called as the orb flashes house colors for each First Year.

When Medra’s turn comes, the stone glows red for Drakharrow, confirming the expected placement. Vaughn’s placement also turns red, disappointing him. Blake hints he had tried to orchestrate certain placements, but before Medra can press, Florence steps up.

Florence’s result shocks them: silver for House Avari. Florence struggles to keep composed as she joins Kage Tanaka’s group. Blake, surprised and frustrated, tells Medra Florence had been on Drakharrow’s list and promises to find out what happened. He reassures Medra that cross-house friendships are allowed, though uncommon.

As the ceremony winds down, Blake quietly asks Medra to meet him at midnight in the Dragon Court. Medra, remembering their almost-kiss and sensing their bond deepening, resolves to go, even as the unexpected separation from Florence weighs on her.