"Don't forget your assignments," the teacher said before packing up his huge textbooks and walking out of the class.

I looked around the classroom, wondering if he left in annoyance or if we were through with the class for today. I hadn't been paying attention to him since he got into the class, but it seemed like the class was over.

Ariel didn't return to the class because her seat beside mine was still empty. Neither did Tala or Asher. Perhaps they're still in the Mistress's office.

I also ...