My students and I have proven capable of protecting ourselves. Wording it that way felt as though she were accusing the other witches of not being able to do the same, but there was no such tone to her thoughts. She knew what that protection cost them. Perhaps there is danger, but I believe our students can work together to overcome it. They would be stronger together. One hand falls to her false leg, lingers on the cool metal before tapping it once. I am certain. It would be no bother.
For a moment, she dipped her head, pondering. This was tough.Once again, the younger witch found herself acting like the supreme — her own mother — was supposed to. Maybe, the lives of her students depended on her, on this decision now, and there wasn’t enough time to think about all the consequences. “They would be stronger together, yes,” she repeated softly, finally lifting her head again, “—How can I ever repay you?”
