Beneath Dark Skies

Heartless

Attention, esteemed members of the Dark Science Guild!

I am thrilled to unveil our new weekly schedule, meticulously crafted to enhance your mastery of both magic and technology. Prepare yourselves for an exhilarating journey of discovery and power!

Monday: Advanced Arcane Studies

Wednesday: Combat Magic

Friday: Fusion of Magic and Technology

Prepare yourselves for a week of unparalleled learning and adventure. Together, we shall push the boundaries of what is possible and forge a new era of arcane excellence!

For the glory of the Guild!

- Guild Master Vespian Black,year 2895

As we walked through the corridors, Izzy was practically dancing beside me, her carefree demeanor evident as she hummed a tune, her black hair swaying like she had nowhere else to be but here. I glanced at her, my nerves already tightening, and managed a small smile.

"What?" she asked, her shoulders wiggling playfully, a few strands of her hair falling over her eyes.

"Gosh, you’re distracting," I said, shaking my head with a bemused chuckle. I couldn’t help but wonder if she knew how completely annoying her carefree attitude was. I would trade my entire breakfast for a sliver of her confidence.

"Ah, the ever-charming Winters, already in a mood. What’s wrong now?" she teased, but I could see the hint of concern in her eyes.

"I’m just...a little anxious," I said with a shrug, my voice lighter than I felt. “But its not big deal.”

Izzy’s eyebrows lifted in amusement, but she didn’t press. She was good at that—giving me space when I needed it, even if I didn’t ask for it.

The cafeteria loomed ahead, bathed in the gentle, pulsing lights of the vaulted ceiling, which kind of made it look like someone tried to turn the night sky into a ceiling fan. Tables of polished wood and shimmering metal were scattered in clusters, each surrounded by plush chairs that adjusted to our forms with a comforting whir, as if we were the exact weight and dimensions of some luxury sofa model. Floating lanterns hovered above the tables, casting a soothing glow, while interactive panels on the walls flashed magical symbols that I pretended to understand.

I spotted a cozy corner seat by a large window framed with enchanted vines that changed color with the sunlight. "Shall we sit there?" I asked, trying to sound casual as I gestured toward the seat. My eyes were bright with anticipation—because apparently, a window and some flowers could make any place less stressful.

Izzy glanced over at the seat and nodded, her gaze lingering on the view. “Let’s get some food first. Aren’t you hungry?”

"Not really," I replied, my voice almost too quiet. The truth was, I felt more like I might throw up than eat. The cafeteria was overwhelming—far too many people, too many unfamiliar faces. I longed for a quiet corner to escape the noise. Izzy was the only comfort I had right now.

"But I guess I should eat something so I don’t faint from hunger," I added with a sigh.

Izzy raised an eyebrow. "Fainting already? You haven’t even been here an hour."

"Well, give me time," I said, rolling my eyes as we approached the counter.

Izzy nudged me with her elbow, a teasing smile playing at her lips. "Come on, don't be so moody," she said as we stepped up to the self-service counter.