Great Oaks

Chapter Two

I felt like a little kid again. Getting myself ready for the first day of school. I even picked out my outfit the night before, but not without asking Valerie if it looked decent enough. I made sure to wake up early so I would have enough time to stop by the Toasted Mug on my way to class.

I gave myself a once over, contemplating on whether or not I should change. Was wearing a dress too much? Wait. Since when did I care about being too much? Besides, it was only a black mini-dress with a white collar stitched onto the neckline. Very academic chic, if you asked me.

Valerie had already left. Something about a morning run. I wish I had that level of drive. I made my way out of the apartment, locking the door behind me before walking out of the building. I welcomed the cool air of the morning as I stepped out, taking a deep breath to soothe my nerves.

Since it was still early, the Mug was busy. Frothing with people eager to get their morning caffeine fix before they started their day. The shop was packed with other students, though I didn't recognize any of the faces. I was glad I factored in the waiting time. I felt eyes on me as I got in line, crossing my arms over my chest as I tried to focus on the menu posted ahead.

Once I got my coffee, I wasted no time getting to school. The walk to my destination wasn't long. The university was only two blocks away from my apartment, and it was impressive to say the least.

"I'm not getting lost on my first day." I assured myself - as if speaking it into existence would reaffirm my reality, which I believed it would. It usually worked that way, at least, depending on what I was trying to manifest.

During my walk, I kept my eyes peeled for the sign that would indicate that I was getting closer to my first class, Witchcraft 101. Even then, I couldn't help myself from admiring the scenery along the way. Each step across the cobblestone walkway furthered my anticipation. Wide arches curved overhead, leading into hallways decorated with intricate stained-glass windows.

Gilded trees sat between buildings, casting shadows over the infinite stone panels. It wasn't long before I came across the department I was looking for. In front of me stood a massive wooden door, edged with golden hinges, and a plaque that gleamed against the filtered sunlight. 'Witchcraft 101'. Was it premature to be filled with hope?

I pulled open the door with ease, despite it looking much heavier than I thought. It creaked open loudly, alerting the rest of the class of my arrival. The last thing I needed was any more unwanted attention on me. A few pairs of eyes darted up at me, though I ignored them and shuffled into an empty seat.

Only moments later did the class really come to life. A woman with wild, golden hair strolled in through the doors, though the door did not creak so loudly this time. She grinned at those of us who sat before her. She wore a long, floor-length dress that was intricately patterned with bold colors.

"Good morning!" She announced loudly, observing over the faces settled into seats. "Welcome to Witchcraft 101."

Immediately, I was drawn into this class. To be more precise, the woman leading the class. She spoke positively, and with such vibrant energy. It was captivating to be engaged with. Florence, as she declared herself to be, was the kind of witch I always dreamt of meeting. After intros from the students, myself included, she went on about herself and other qualifications she had. Though most of the class was simply an introduction, I felt absolutely thrilled by the end of it.

Even as she droned on about class materials and expectations for the semester, I sat forward in my seat as I watched her speak with her hands. She would materialize objects into her palms, make them levitate, and with a snap of her fingers, she would make the floating objects disappear.