“Ms. Primm is one of the few who is not put off by the girl’s...unusual gift.”  The headmistress lifted her head at the implication that her judgement was lacking.  “She was the only chaperone available that was willing to accept Miss Ris after learning of her power.  Furthermore, her credentials are in good order, and she has been well recommended.  I would hope you look at the entire picture, instead of drawing hasty conclusions.”  If that was how the man would conduct his review, then she worried what he might say.

When he touched her forehead she took a swift step back, posture stiffening and her hands curling into fists.  Had he not been so obviously ill-suited to polite society, she would have slapped him.  As it was, she found herself questioning his suitability for the task he was to perform.  “I will tell you plainly, because as you say, you are not very familiar with etiquette.  A man does not touch a lady without her permission.  If you intend to use magic upon someone else, you should ask first.”  Her brown eyes fixed him with a stern glare.  She would have to keep an eye on him, she decided.  It was unlike the Department to be so...short-sighted.  There must be other interests at work behind the scenes.  However she smiled and shook the offered hand.  “Miss Ris should be in the practice yard, between the stables and the barracks toward the gate.”

When the door closed behind Cain, she turned to have a serious discussion with Sofia, regarding the new arrival, the Department, and their interest in Amuné.

[@TheMinorFall]