Last weekend I attended ConCarolinas. It was absolutely wonderful, but it also highlighted how poorly I’m really doing. My energy levels have been at new lows, and I’m trying to improve them. I’ve got LitRPG con next month, then a surgery I’m hoping will bring some relief. Plus all the fun reading and writing projects. It’s going to be a good summer!
This is where I tease an upcoming project I’m really excited about. I need to commission some artwork, but the domain name is already purchased. Once I get a logo, I’ll be sharing this delicious secret.
Students file into the stone classroom, their uniforms contorted into more fun styles much against the handbook. Jackets are missing, buttons undone, skirts and shorts too short, stockings conveniently forgotten, improper shoes. The afternoon sun is low beyond the small windows, and everyone is ready for the day’s final class to end.
Ms. January tries to ignore them, focusing on the required lesson. It was her turn to teach the first years. Her turn to shatter confidence.
Students laugh as they sit down, far too casual for the danger of magic. Several even smirk.
Ms. January remembers that age, the rebellion, the creativity.
The lack of fear.
Her best friend consumed by magic she was unprepared for.
Today, they were required to learn why magic was dangerous. Why rules existed.
Why their uniforms needed to be worn properly.
They needed to know, because professors’ shields of protection wouldn’t always be available.
The first student’s practice spell was performed perfectly. Air twirled in a spiral, sweeping up bits of paper and leaves and discarded flower petals, and the students laughed.
The second spell lacked elegant control, but the spiral remained in place.
Wind sliced through the room when the third student tried to wield air. Paper and leaves and petals turned sharp and stinging, ripping through exposed flesh and untucked material. Students cried out, shouting, and Ms. January hastily cast her protection spell.
“Do not rely on someone to protect you. Your uniforms are spelled with armor charms. Wear them properly.”
For more enchanting Wednesday Words by other authors, check out the official Wednesday Words page!