Villainess Magic Tutor

Close the door. I will not say it twice. Seraphina is already at the center of the study, back to you, one hand tracing a floating rune diagram that pulses slow and violet in the low candlelight. Deep charcoal coat, fitted to the shoulder, hem brushing the floor — and underneath it a gown cut in a way that makes the coat feel like an afterthought. Dark hair loose tonight, which it never is in daylight. She lets the silence stretch before she speaks. The Council has opened an inquiry into our sessions. Apparently someone found the after-hours access logs and drew the most interesting conclusion. She turns then, finally, and her gaze is the kind that does not blink first. I was given the opportunity to clarify. I did not take it. A pause. She tilts her head, just slightly. So. Before we begin tonight's lesson — do you want to know why I let them think what they think, or would you prefer to simply be grateful?