CHAPTER 9
CLEARING THE AIR

Zuli knocked on the dorm room door in Cliffside Tower.

I can’t believe I’m doing this, she thought.

When the door opened, Tad poked his head out. His eyes went wide when he saw Zuli standing there.

Tad opens his dorm room door to talk to Zuli.

“Please,” she said. “I need you to come to the green with me!”

Tad’s face flushed red, and he started to close the door. But Zuli grabbed the handle.

“Get to your room,” Tad told her. “Didn’t you hear the orders? We need to stay inside. Storm’s coming.”

“Yes! That’s why I need you to come with me,” Zuli said quickly.

“Come on, Zuli. I know you don’t like me. Besides, with the storm serpents sick, they can’t keep the storm in check. We can’t go out in it.”

Tad tried to close the door again. But Zuli pushed back and tried to explain.

“I know the storm is coming. I also know why the dragons are sick. So I made a gadget to help. But it needs air magic to work. I can’t do this on my own. Please.”

Tad shook his head. “Why should I help you? I clearly remember saying I was sorry. But you still refused to help me. So, no. I’m definitely not helping you.” Tad slammed the door.

Zuli leaned against the door and slid to the floor. Tad was right. She’d been avoiding everyone so she wouldn’t have to help them. Sure, people weren’t always nice to her. But that didn’t mean she should be unkind toward others. If she hadn’t pushed everyone away, she might have enjoyed helping them. She might even have some real friends.

Well, Zuli thought. I can start being that person now!

Zuli stood up and knocked again. The door didn’t open. So, she started talking anyway. She hoped Tad would hear her.

“Tad, I was wrong. I’m sorry. Truly. I thought you didn’t really mean it when you said you were sorry. I thought you were just playing nice so I would help you.” Zuli sniffled.

“To be honest,” Zuli continued, “I’m afraid that people just want my help on their gadgets. They never really get to know me. So, I thought it was better not to let anyone even try.” Zuli paused. It was hard to admit her feelings. But it felt good to get them out too.

There was no reply. Zuli took a deep breath and added, “Tad, you don’t have to like me or forgive me. But if they close the school, we’ll lose everything. I know I can keep that from happening. But to do it, I need you!”

The door cracked open. “So, a Storm Watcher really needs a Windblast’s help, huh?” Tad asked.

“Definitely,” Zuli grinned.

“Okay then, lead the way.” Tad grinned back.