Page 356 - Fourth Wing

Sawyer’s metallurgy powers grow every day.

Liam can see a single tree miles away.
I guess I can stop time, but I’m not willing to drain Andarna just for the

sake of trying again, not when it took her more than a week of straight

sleeping to recover. Without a signet, all I can wield are the lesser magics. I
finally use an ink pen, lock a door, and open it. I’m a party trick.

By the third week in January, I earn yet another dagger in a challenge

against a guy in Third Wing, my second without weakening my opponent
with poisons. It leaves me with a sore wrist, but my joints are intact.

And in the fourth week, during the coldest weather I’ve ever experienced

at Basgiath, I sneak out in the middle of the night to see the challenge
board.

Jack has finally been given the chance to end me on the mat tomorrow.
“He’s going to kill me.” That’s all I can think as I dress for the morning,

sheathing all of my daggers in the most advantageous places.

“He’s going to try.” Tairn is up early.
“Any advice?” I know Liam is waiting for us to make the library run

before breakfast.
“Don’t let him.”

I scoff. He makes it sound so damned simple.

We’re already on our way back from the library when I finally work up
the nerve to talk to Liam about it. “If I tell you something, will you report it

to Xaden?”

His head whips in my direction as he pushes the cart over the bridge
between the quadrants. “Why would you think—”

“Oh, come on.” I roll my eyes. “We both know you report just about

everything I do. I’m not ignorant.” Snow pelts the windows, making a dull,
chiming sound.

“He worries. I alleviate worries.” He glances at me again before looking
forward. “I know it’s not fair. I know it’s a breach of your privacy. But it’s