RAVENNA

part 12

Target 100 likes. 

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The witch's fare came alive with enchantment just as the first snow of the season began to fall, dusting the ground in a soft, glimmering white. Students from different magical schools arrived in groups, their cloaks trailing behind them and eyes wide with wonder as they stepped into the fairgrounds filled with the scent of warm cider and the crackle of fire spells. Stalls lined the paths, displaying enchanted dolls that danced on their own, ancient books that whispered their stories aloud, and magical gadgets crafted by young minds eager to impress. Laughter filled the air as some students juggled glowing orbs and mini potions, while others demonstrated sword-fighting techniques, their blades sparkling under the falling snow. With the snow season just beginning, the fair felt like the start of something magical—a celebration of creativity, youth, and the endless possibilities of the wizarding world.

Nieve wore her cozy pink sweater dress beneath the standard school robe, the black boots crunching softly against the thin layer of fresh snow as she walked beside Rob, who had on his brown pants and a grey shirt under his own robe—both dressed exactly as instructed by their headmistress, making them easily identifiable among the swirling crowd of students.  

The two trailed through the maze of glowing stalls and drifting snowflakes, weaving past displays of levitating dolls and whispering books until they finally spotted Gabriel, Alex, and Blinda gathered near a fire-juggling act. 

As they approached, exchanging greetings and laughter, the cheerful moment was suddenly interrupted—someone bumped hard into Alex, sending his cup of fruit punch splashing down the front of his robe. "Watch where you're going!" Alex snapped, his temper flaring. But the person didn't respond. He simply kept walking, head low. A jagged scar ran down the side of his face, and his presence felt off—too quiet, too deliberate. The group fell silent for a moment, watching the figure disappear into the crowd, a faint chill creeping in that had nothing to do with the snow.

As the group waited for the grand opening of the Museum Hall, the seniors suggested that the juniors take the time to explore the rest of the fare. Rob and Nieve gladly agreed, wandering off together through the bustling snow-dusted lanes lined with vibrant stalls. They paused to watch a student enchanting a broomstick to dance, then moved on past tables of glowing potions and enchanted trinkets. One small, neatly arranged stall caught Nieve's eye—it was filled with books, old and new, their spines glowing faintly under a warming charm. Behind the table stood a young girl about Nieve's age, her eyes sharp with curiosity and kindness. 

As Nieve browsed, the girl struck up a conversation, quickly catching on to Nieve's struggles with alchemy. With a knowing smile, she suggested a few titles specifically for beginners, but with deeper insight than the usual schoolbooks. One slim volume with a faded gold title—"Living Elements: A Beginner's Path to Alchemy"—seemed to call out to Nieve. She picked it up, flipped through its pages filled with diagrams and notes in the margins, and without hesitation, purchased it. Clutching the book close, she and Rob continued their stroll, the snow still falling softly around them.

They walked leisurely through the snow-covered paths, laughter and magic all around, until Rob suddenly stopped in his tracks, an amused smile slowly curling on his face. Nieve, a few steps ahead, paused and turned, puzzled. "What?" she asked, glancing around. Rob simply pointed toward a stall tucked between two potion stands. At first, Nieve saw nothing unusual—until her eyes landed on the sign: *"Lingerie & Inner Wears — Enchanted Comfort Like Never Before!"* Her eyebrows shot up in surprise, but what really made them both snicker was the person behind the counter. It was Marcus. They exchanged mischievous glances, unable to hide their laughter, then made their way to the stall with exaggerated innocence.