When Gideon awoke, he found himself in his nice, warm bed. He’d wanted to nap earlier, but he’d never gotten around to it. It seemed almost funny to him now. His right arm had been folded across his chest and placed in a sling. Every muscle in his body felt tender, as if he’d been crunched into pieces then hastily reassembled.

Drinking Ondine’s potion was the last thing he remembered. Though it had healed his injuries as best he could tell, a feeling of weakness remained as if his body was still paying off an alchemical debt.

Before drinking the potion she’d lied to him, hadn’t she? When she’d told him everything would be fine.

Gideon cursed under his breath and sat up in bed. His staff was leaning against the wall next to his pack. Aunt Harmony’s book was sitting on the nightstand, while some of his other books were on a small set of shelves in the corner. Carefully, he swiveled out of bed and placed his feet on the floor. The world spun for a moment before righting itself.

That was a bad sign, wasn’t it?

Blinking his eyes, he remembered he still had a set of notifications he hadn’t read.

Skill Rank Increase! Your proficiency in Manasculpting has increased to Silver Rank, Grade D.

Skill Grade Increase! Your proficiency in Geomancy has increased to Silver Rank, Grade A.

Skill Grade Increase! Your proficiency in Spiritweft has increased to Copper Rank, Grade C.

Skill Grade Increase! Your proficiency in Appraise has increased to Stone Rank, Grade C.

Level Up! Your mana core has gained strength. Maximum mana increased.