Inquisition for Blood — Elisabeth Waters

Ah, trials of the scholastic life! The term hasn't even begun, and Lady Wizard Sarras is having major problems. She is (a) in charge of the department, albeit temporarily, which is a challenge, and (b) having to make up the Master Schedule, which is worse. Losing one of her best professors -- who is also a fellow Guardian -- is really more than anyone should have to cope with on top of (a) and (b).

This story originally appeared in Sword & Sorceress 25, November 2010.