After an awkward meal under the judgmental gazes of their peers, the trio made their way to their next class—one that, curiously, Melody seemed quite eager to attend.
Then again, after hearing her earlier monologue about the Bloodmend phial back in the dorms, Michael supposed he shouldn't be surprised.
The classroom they entered was dimly lit and muggy, with air that felt several degrees warmer than outside. The moment they stepped in, a pungent stench assaulted their senses—an acrid, sulfurous odor that clung to the back of the throat and made breathing feel like a chore.
So this is what a room full of magical herbs smells like, Michael thought grimly. It wasn't exactly inviting.
The room was arranged in long rows of tables, each one set with a matte-black cauldron and a station filled with labeled ingredients. A quick glance told Michael there were around fifty stations total—meaning they'd likely need to pair up.
