I stepped into Magical Theory with the vague hope that today's disasters would remain confined to theory. Riven was already there, drumming his fingers on the desk like a caged imp, while Aria arranged her notebooks with the precision of a jeweler setting diamonds. Velka hovered near the back wall, arms crossed, as far from me as the room would allow without requiring an inter-school transit permit.
I swallowed. This "sudden weirdness" from Velka had me curious more curious than I cared to admit. Our project for the term was announced: Group collaboration in advanced magical resonance theory. We were to demonstrate a containment spell, an elemental adjustment, and a structural enchantment model. Professor Thalen would judge. Names were drawn. My heart sank when he said, "Thorne, Nightthorn, Aria, and Riven."
I forced a smile. Velka offered none in return.
