Chapter Twelve. Reputational Damage

Two weeks after Old Faithful’s critical incursion, Dr Sapphire Walden faces the governors amid media-driven reputational panic and falling applications. Expecting a scapegoat, she and Headmaster David prepare arguments stressing Chetwood’s duty of care and mission to protect vulnerable young sorcerers.

Chief Marshal Laura Kenning delivers a blunt assessment, listing failures in threat analysis, staffing, and leadership, and admits many could have died. She then credits Dr Walden’s rare capability for turning catastrophe into rescue, and warns that removing Old Faithful only opens Chetwood to new higher demons unless security is substantially strengthened.

Laura’s testimony shifts the room’s view of Walden from administrator to essential frontline magician. The board allows the school to handle student consequences internally, signaling another chance for Nikki and Mathias, while prioritizing campus safety.

The governors, after consulting the Order, dismiss Laura as Chief Marshal to signal change. Walden feels the trade-off’s ruthlessness but recognizes it spares the students and preserves her role.

They then install consultant Mark Daubery—an alumnus and Will’s uncle—to lead active security and conduct a comprehensive review through year’s end. Walden notes the political maneuver: he sits outside school hierarchy, potentially limiting her authority. Mark greets her affably, underscoring a tense new partnership.