Chapter Twenty-Five. Careers

Walden hears from former partner Roz Chan, now a successful Californian magical researcher, and invites her to Chetwood for a Saturday careers talk. On arrival, Roz’s cosmopolitan polish makes the school feel small, but she gamely tours the grounds before heading to the lecture theatre packed with Years Eleven to Thirteen.

Roz opens informally and proves an engaging speaker, describing the practical benefits of a magical career—status, money, and fulfilling research—while addressing identity and access as an immigrant, from a poor family, and as an out lesbian. Students respond enthusiastically; even usually restless pupils listen, and Walden notices Nikki and Aneeta attentive in front.

Afterward at the pub, Roz and Saffy trade apologies and updates. Roz shares photos of her wife, Lucy, their San Francisco home, and plans for children. Pressed on ethics, Roz defends her compromises in military-adjacent higher-demon work as a means to power, care for family, and philanthropy, arguing that refusing compromise is itself a privilege.

Later, tipsy in Walden’s flat, they discuss Saffy’s entanglements with Laura and Mark. Roz is skeptical about Mark and jokes that people “come peer-reviewed,” suggesting hidden flaws, while favoring “motorbike girl” Laura. The visit ends amicably, with lingering differences acknowledged.

The next morning, after Roz departs, the Bursar announces a $20,000 donation from Roz for the chapel roof. Walden thanks Roz but feels outmaneuvered, sensing the gift as a pointed coda to their debate. Reflecting on Mark’s cynicism about principles, she compares Roz’s ambition with Mark’s and recognizes Laura’s sacrifice for principle as unusual, admitting that a future with Laura was unlikely.