At the end of the month, all of the students had left the campus, and all graduating students had already gone through their ceremony. Summer was off to its official start. The Mage Force came to the campus to continue their investigation and talk with Principal Pine to gather as much information as they could, but Principal Pine left out the detail of Rollie approaching the Molten Marauder and then what the Molten Marauder had said to Rollie.

The meeting took place in a room inside the Clocktower. Dark, rich wood covered almost every surface, giving it a feeling of importance. This room was often used by Principal Pine and the other school leaders. At its center was a long table made from the same wood, surrounded by many comfortable chairs.

Bookshelves filled with a wide array of books covered the walls, a clear sign of the room's educational focus. Yet, it wasn't just a typical office or conference room. One side had a massive mural depicting mages in each elemental cloak, showcasing their respective strike.

"So what exactly did happen? Why did the Molten Marauder, or fake Molten Marauder, say to you when it left out of nowhere?" A Mage Force Officer asked Principal Pine.

"He said, 'You have the mythical mage orb,' and then disappeared. I think he knew he was no match for me after I struck him with the first attack from the orb," Principal Pine said.

"Oh, that makes sense," the officer said, and they didn't bother Principal Pine with too many specifics before or after.

Even at the end of the month, they still had yet to find the Molten Marauder or the impostor.

Principal Pine was in his office talking with Jonathan and a few professors.

"I think Rollie shouldn't return to campus for at least a year," Principal Pine said. "After the devastation Houston went through, I don't think it's fair to Houston to still have to see Rollie on campus. Not to mention that Rollie's behavior since he has come here has brought a lot of trouble."

"But, Wendell, even you know most of those things aren't his fault," Jonathan said. "Rollie is a good kid and student, and he's not from our world. I was expecting a little more patience with him from you."

"But I have been plenty patient towards Rollie, and it only seems his behavior is not improving. These situations he involves himself in are only getting more dangerous."

"So let's say he goes through the therapy you suggested," Professor Shia said. "Which I think is a great idea, but let's say he completes the 3-month session over the summer and has tremendous marks from his therapists. Is he coming back to campus?"

"I still think he shouldn't come back to school. 3 months feels like it's too soon, especially with Houston and how the last match ended with the Fyrons. I feel like he couldn't rejoin his team again after that whole debacle," Principal Pine said.

"But yet, depriving him of his experience on the Dragonstryke team could be detrimental to his future," Coach Florence said. "It's clearly obvious Rollie has immense talent at the game. I'm not kidding when I say this, but he's one of the best players I've ever coached, and I might even go on record to say that he's one of the best players I've ever seen. All the coaches would agree that if they had to vote on the best players, they would select Rollie and Houston in the top three. I legitimately think that Rollie could one day go pro, I mean, even his grandpa was a professional player, and they have similar builds and a similar style of play, although I would wager to say that Rollie is better than his grandpa was at Rollie's age."

"But Coach Florence, do you see the problems that will arise with bringing Rollie back to campus and having him back on the team?" Principal Pine said.

"Rollie was in another difficult situation last school year with the Unity Statue. But we cracked down on those rumors and managed that okay," Jonathan said.

"But that was much different. It was a rumor that people whispered about. This was something everyone witnessed on the playing field. They all witnessed it themselves, and I don't think Rollie will be able to escape that during his time here. Especially a year from now," Principal Pine said.

Jonathan thought about it for a moment. "What would your thoughts be on a change of scenery? Let's say that Rollie can transfer to another school. Rollie is going to be staying with his grandpa, right? So wouldn't that make him eligible to attend school in Eurozia? That way, no one knows who Rollie is at this new school, he can have a fresh start after finishing therapy and still play on their Dragonstryke team if he passes their tryouts. Which, of course, I assume he would."

Everyone in the room nodded, and their eyes widened at how good the idea sounded.

"Hm. I never heard of another student transferring to a different school like that. I guess a case could be made that Rollie would have the ability to go to Loxton. The principal there, Zita, I think she, would have to make that decision... I guess I'll have to talk with Zita about it," Principal Pine said.

Coach Florence exhaled. "That probably is the best route for him and his future as well as our campus."

"I would just feel bad to rip him away from any of his friends," Professor Shia said. "Although, he doesn't really talk to anyone in my class. And I haven't seen him too social outside of the classroom."

The story has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.

"Honestly, that would be the least of my worries. Unfortunately, I don't think Rollie ever made any friends here on campus. And if he did, those friendships didn't last long," Jonathan said.

"Well, I think it's settled. I will talk to Principal Zita at Loxton to see if she might be open to having Rollie transfer. When I have that conversation, I may want you, Jonathan, Florence, and Shia potentially. All of you interacted with Rollie a lot more than I have, so you could attest to his behavior and talents."

The three of them nodded, and Principal Pine smiled. "Wonderful. Well, thank you for coming here and having this discussion. I know it will help out Rollie's future tremendously. You'll have to excuse me, though, I need to meet with someone right now, so good day to you all."

Jonathan and the rest of them left the office and returned to their rooms in the Clocktower. Principal Pine waited a few minutes before exiting his office and opening the door immediately to the right. It was a small meeting room that only Principal Pine had key access to. Inside was Professor Henderson and a gargoyle sitting at a rectangular table. The windows were cracked open, and an early summer breeze came through, the tree branches full of leaves blew in the wind.

"Hello, Professor Henderson, and hello, Grismald. It's a pleasure to meet you." Principal Pine went to shake Grismald's hand, but Grismald eyed him momentarily.

"Nice to meet you." Grismald shook his hand and moved further into the chair. His posture was straight and perfect, and he wore a gray cloak with a silver chain around his neck.

"So you've been friends with Professor Henderson for some time?" Principal Pine said, smiling as he sat down.

"We exchange research," Grismald said. His voice was low and deep.

"I'm able to learn a lot from mythology on the gargoyle side. It's unfortunate that not many mages take the time to learn about their stories," Professor Henderson said.

"So, Grismald, what do you think about the Molten Marauder visiting our campus?" Principal Pine asked.

"Well, I did write to Grismald," Professor Henderson said, "And he said it would be best if we met in person. I tried to write out what I thought I heard in gargoyle, but I'm not sure if it made much sense. Again, I'll repeat myself. We heard the Molten Marauder say this before he departed: Rothmirvigbaopbin. Does that mean anything to you, Gary?"

Gary narrowed his eyes at Henderson. "Yes, are you sure that's what he said?"

"With absolute certainty."

"If that's true, then the Molten Marauder said: 'He hath blood of The Dragon Tamer.' But that doesn't make sense." Grismald tapped his chin with his long sharp fingernail. "I was told it was just you and Wendell combating the Molten Marauder. Principal Pine supposedly frightened him off with the mage orb. Unless I am incorrect?"

Principal Pine and Professor Henderson both had their jaws dropped, it took them a moment to regain their thoughts.

"Well, that's the thing, I uh, well," Henderson fumbled with his words.

"Sorry, Grismald. I told Henderson not to mention that a student on campus was nearby when the Molten Marauder struck. I told the student not to be there, but he persisted and came to my rescue at one point. This student was close to the Molten Marauder, and that's when he yelled stop and said that phrase in gargoyle," Principal Pine said.

"I understand. Although, I don't appreciate being lied to," Grismald said.

"That was entirely my fault." Principal Pine bowed his head apologetically. "Henderson wanted to tell you the full story, but I didn't want any chance to leak out that a student ran towards the rubble. It would cause mass hysteria, be examined the wrong way, and probably impact the student's education. But... Do you mean to tell me that Rollie has the blood of The Dragon Tamer within him?"

"Based on the assumption, yes. The Molten Marauder appeared to have sensed the blood of The Dragon Tamer in that student when he came closer."

Principal Pine reclined further in his chair and stared at the window.

"Wow. I can't believe my ears," Professor Henderson laughed confusedly. "And I still couldn't believe The Molten Marauder came to campus. I mean, I knew some stuff in mythology was based on reality, but this year has been too insane."

"This student, what's he like?" Grismald asked.

"Well, he's been in a lot of tough situations. Professor Henderson would certainly know more about him than I would since he's had him as a student for two semesters, but I have known Rollie a bit now. And although he seems like he gets into trouble a lot to an outsider, I believe he has goodness in his heart."

"I understand," Grismald said.

An awkward silence filled the room.

"Why do you ask?" Principal Pine said.

"Curiosity."

"Anything beyond that? I mean, what do you think this means? Let's say, in fact, that Rollie does have the blood of The Dragon Tamer in him. Do we rely on him to stop the Molten Marauder?"

"I am not a fortune teller, nor a visionary, nor do I have the gift to see the future. How should I know?" Grismald said.

"Well, with all you know about mythology and all that Henderson knows about mythology, I thought maybe you would know if The Dragon Tamer is needed to stop the Molten Marauder once and for all?" Principal Pine asked.

Grismald drew in a deep breath. "The Dragon Tamer stopped the Molten Marauder in mythology. I doubt his descendants would be expected to fight the Molten Marauder again. But I don't like to dwell on speculation. It's a waste of time. This student, Rollie, might have a gift, and I'm sure he does. I can't say whether it's the end-all gift that will stop the Molten Marauder or whatever uprising was part of the bank robbery."

Principal Pine blinked. "You mean to tell me that the robbery about 8 months ago is linked to the Molten Marauder?"

"I do believe it. I don't have any evidence, I just have my knowledge. Knowing what I know about the iox magic used in the robbery and the iox magic used to unlock the Molten Marauder from his prison, I think they were related. Absolutely."

"Well, what is the gargoyle community think? Are they invested in determining what's been going on with the bank robbery or the Molten Marauder visit on campus?" Principal Pine leaned forward.

Grismald shook his head. "Most gargoyles do not bother with issues of the mage. It's hard to say who all knows, but not enough gargoyles care about the situation."

Principal Pine nodded. "Please don't think I'm interrogating or judging you in any way, but I'm curious as to why you care? You must care a little to be here and meet with us."

Gary exhaled. "I care because I think our world might be heading towards disaster. And whether my gargoyle-kind like it or not, we will be roped into this situation. We need to prepare and fight if need be. But yes, I'm worried because the iox magic has been discovered by someone, and they seem to only be growing with power."

"I wish I knew of any clues or leads, but I don't know anyone who could be involved. I know absolutely nothing." Principal Pine rubbed his forehead. "Do you, by chance, know anything or have any leads?"

Grismald shook his head. "I haven't the faintest idea."