Chapter 19

Julian marched into Ms. Albright's Office a few days after the beginning of classes, his footsteps echoing on the polished floor. The smell of old parchment and expensive ink filled the air. Behind the desk, Stella Vance looked up from a stack of scrolls, her expression shifting from professional neutrality to a polite, apologetic smile. Julian didn't waste time. "I need a permit for the sewers." Stella sighed softly, adjusting her glasses. "I'm sorry, Julian, but I can't grant that. The...