of activity was beginning to stir outside. Birds chirped in the distance, and the early sounds of students getting re

quiet rustles of movement filled the room. Almora stared at her reflection for a moment as she brushed her hair, her red st

ed back and opened the door with a soft creak, stepping into the hallway. She stood there waiting, holding

Almora hadn't followed. "It's going to be fine," she said sof

muffled footsteps. After a pause, she drew in a deep breath, nodded, and finally stepped forw

mora took was accompanied by lingering gazes and hushed whispers. Heads turned. Conversations dropped

res never stopped. Almora could feel e

a light, teasing tone once they were outside, her voice trying

l... if I were popular for a good reason, it would've been much better. B

looked sideways at Stacy and ask

ense class and some extracurricular activities," Stacy replied, adjusting the strap of her bag. "T

riefly easing. "So... which of the ex

d with a grin, twirling slightly

ing up for fashion designing and volleyball. But

with a wink. "That's w

unusually still, his gaze fixed intently on Almora. His dark eyes narrowed slightly, as though he we

Brian said, waving a hand in front

and leaned in slightly.

is breath. Finally, he reached o

ike waking from a deep tr

, huh?" Brian asked, watching

the back of his neck, trying to appear casual. "Emm... can we start

ian said, stretching his arms.

houted, "Oliver, get

Oliver-headed off toward Control Clas

st students sat in pairs. The room was larger than most classrooms-clearly expanded through magic, with enchantments enhancin

how controlling is done," Stacy said, her eyes practically s

to be here? Don't we have teachers to show u

ra a playful nudge on the shoulder.

e was tall, lean, and carried himself with the calm authority o

"Welcome to Control Class. I'm

s tone direct. "So let's cut off al

st on his clipboard

t her control lessons toda

sed in her seat. Me? Why would he call me first? Oh G

forward," Mr.

step she took toward the front of the class. She could feel the weight of every eye in th

ir that seemed to burn with s

breath, standing tall in front of Mr. Powell. Her fingers were

lt to control. This will be a valuable lesson for others," Mr. Powell said seriously, h

ngers. Upon her middle finger sat a ring, small

but powerful. A look that couldn't be defined curiosity? Recognition

Powell said, his hand ou

ed over the band, reluctant to remov

egan to slide the ring off. The instant the cool me

lace it in Mr. Powell's hand, a

e, and pulsing with intensity. The light poured from her skin like fi

d through t

glowing crimson, f