#Chapter 256: Professor Black's Advice

As panic threatened to overwhelm me, Lucas stepped forward, his expression determined. "What are you thinking?" "I didn't think they'd want me back at the palace so soon... I mean I just got back. How am I going to be able to keep up with everything?" "Shana, you'll be just fine. Traveling through the portal will save you a lot of time, and if you need anything I'm here," he assured me. His support grounded me, reminding me that I wasn't alone in this "But what about school?" I fretted, the weight of my responsibilities pressing down on me. Lucas squeezed my hand reassuringly. "You'll be fine, your training will probably only last an hour or two. And I doubt it'll be during school hours." Seeing the uncertainty on my face, Lucas continued, "School's almost over anyway, and then you won't have to worry about it anymore." I nodded, grateful for Lucas's level-headedness in the midst of my turmoil. With a deep breath, I tried to focus on the task at hand. "You're right. I