Bloodwing Academy, #2
The Bond That Burns
by Briar Boleyn
Contents
CHAPTER 28 - MEDRA
Overview
Medra awakens healed, but Theo lies near death after being drained. She blocks an immediate report, and Vaughn arrives—at Blake’s request—to help Theo feed. Kage announces Viktor’s approval for Medra to transfer to House Avari, gives her one day to choose, and reveals a dangerous ritual that might sever her bond.
Summary
Medra wakes in Bloodwing’s infirmary, healed quickly by Ailith’s spellcraft and told Theo is alive but gravely weakened from being fed upon. Sensing the danger of an official report, Medra pressures Healer Ailith to consult House Leader Blake before informing the Headmaster.
Vaughn arrives with a note from Blake, revealing Theo has been starving himself and asking Vaughn to help feed him if Theo wakes. Medra authorizes Vaughn to stay and watches over Theo, torn by guilt and fear for her friends.
Kage enters and, despite Ailith’s protests, meets with Medra. Medra checks herself out to speak privately. Kage informs her that Viktor has approved her transfer to House Avari and gives her one day to decide, promising Avari will not compel her.
Conflicted over trust, loyalty, and proximity to Florence, Medra weighs whether moving is freedom or a new prison. Kage then reveals a possible ancient ritual to break her bond with Blake, though risky and without guarantees, and begins to explain.
Who Appears
- Medra PendragonPOV; wakes healed, protects Aenia by stalling reports, authorizes Vaughn to stay, weighs Avari transfer and bond-breaking ritual.
- Kage TanakaAvari leader; informs Medra of Viktor’s approval to transfer, grants one day to decide, proposes a risky ancient ritual.
- Vaughn SabinoFriend from House Orphos; arrives via Blake’s note, stays to help Theo feed if he wakes, refuses to let Theo die.
- Healer AilithBloodwing healer; treats Medra and Theo, intends to report the feeding, relents after Medra pressures her.
- Theo DrakharrowUnconscious and nearly drained; revealed to have been starving himself; his recovery hinges on feeding.
- Blake DrakharrowOffstage; brought Medra and Theo in, hides Aenia’s role, asks Vaughn to help Theo, consort to Medra.