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Anguish was the background to perfection.

It thrummed inside the walls; broken voices and broken minds in a dizzying cacophony as nails scratched at stone and faces pressed against the plaster. All but one task was completed. Every stone counted, every nail shined, every crack smoothed away, and now the brief recess it afforded its labor would end. The task was made to be completed and it was made to complete tasks so this task would be completed and anguish would be the canvas.

It started with shackles of cotton, that no bodies would rise. It grew to planks of wood, that no sound would disturb. It ended with locks of paper, that no magic would find its way home.

The minds were left conscious to witness their failure.

---

Each student would wake on October 1st, 2040 to a puzzle box near their beds. Composed of strange metal bars (lacquered mahogany for Finley), they seemed welded together in a cage, but each bar sang a single note when tapped. Playing the correct song found the bars falling apart but every failure made the box smaller.

Successfully removing all the bars found a message scratched into the backs of them:

---

The setting sun found the Academy Courtyard alight with lanterns drifting freely about, swaying through the small crowd on a gentle autumn breeze. Music, played on enchanted instruments out of sight, followed in their wake and spectral hands carried trays of horderves and drinks to the students milling around the central fountain. It was the first night of the Academy, opening on All Hallow’s Eve, and anticipation was high. Students with newly awoken magic mingled with those who had honed their crafts over long centuries, a melting pot of traditions and techniques the world had yet to see among the magical world. This was the goal of the Academy: Strengthen the bonds between all magics and forge something new for a brighter tomorrow.

Given plenty of time to arrive, the striking of a bell found three doors thrown wide. Those who had attended Strange Academy before would know each room hosted a different set of students based on their placement for the year, offer them an opportunity to mingle with their classmates, and then learn how their year would progress and how they would be assessed for competency and skill. The Myrmian Hall hosted the novices, just growing into their power and young enough to need a strong, structured Academic experience. The Wandering Hall hosted those who had mastered the basics, but still needed still more academic experience.

And finally, The Hall of Ancients. This would host those whose magics (newly awoken or not) demanded an individually curtailed curriculum or those who needed to be challenged more directly to grow. The hall itself was usually barred from entry but those entering the coven system were invited into its grandeur just this once each year to feel the weight of the power they sought. Thirteen statues held the ceiling aloft here, six flanking each side and one commanding attention at the head of the room. Those sensitive to such things could hear the whispers of those who they represented, though their meanings long lost to time. Marbled floor stretched from the doorway to the last statue, where a short set of stairs ended in a raised platform with a single table and the three Coven Heads speaking softly amongst each other. Fish of dazzling colors swam in a crystal fish tank and changed into new ones every few seconds. A small note in front of the tank simply said:

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Invisible beneath the layers of his magic, Nicholas ignored the recommendation and timed his arrival perfectly with the opening of the doors. He didn’t care for the bread and circuses the faculty put on. He’d much rather be holed away in the greenhouse or sipping a drink with a decent book and pipe, but here he was and unseen he’d remain if he could help it. New blood was entering this year and it was always uncertain how civil they’d be. If there were going to be problems, Nicholas wanted nothing to do with it and he’d drag his ostentatious brother out of the way too.

As soon as the doors opened, Nicholas slipped in and wasted no time heading to the tank. Rooming assignments were always “creative” and this year was no exception. A fish tank was better than last year; catching embers spitting out of a raging bonfire was not an experience Nicholas was interested in repeating. He ignored the nagging curiosity at the room for now. There would be plenty of time to investigate once he’d confirmed none of the new blood were threats. He ascended the few steps to the tank, where the Professors were chatting softly to the side and Professor Mikkail and Professor Croan paused in their conversation. Nicholas carefully dipped his hand in the water and stilled.

“Truely, you could not muster up a single iota of care for our expectations? These events are typically attended visibly.” Professor Croan tsked.

“Oh! Nicholas is here? I hadn’t even noticed. Excellent spellwork!” Professor Mikkail laughed. “Let him do as he pleases, Varn. If he doesn’t wish to make a spectacle of himself, then he shouldn’t have to. Right, Sariel?”

“Hm, what?” Professor Sariel looked up from her book, which she snapped shut after her gaze trailed toward the open doors. “The purpose of this exercise is to introduce the other students to each other’s magic. He’s using his magic. What’s the problem?” She asked as she side-eyed the vampire.

“A mood has taken Croan. Tread carefully.” Nicholas thought to his brother, electing not to respond to any of them and wait for the fish to forget there was ever a disturbance. Soon enough, one brushed his hand and he snatched it from the water. As soon as Nicky pulled it out, the fish changed and instead left a slightly damp key in his hand. It vanished beneath his spell as he closed his hand and he stalked off to the side. He attempted to conjure an illusion of himself a handful of paces away but instead his invisibility spell turned to smoke and drifted away. His skin crawled. He fished out a flask from his coat pocket and took a long swig from it.

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Unlike his twin, Barty wasn't about to miss a chance to mingle amongst the rabble. He loved watching as students both new and old slowly made their way into the halls of the school. Eyeing each one up and putting them into a box for him to use later. He especially loved the ones that appeared to be an easy mark. Fast favours to collect and use or trade as he saw fit. Several of the students he'd already seen had caught his eye. He hadn't approached them yet, but he would make sure to do so before the ceremonies ended today. He began to make his way through the crowds, the tail of his tweed coat billowing as he rushed past previous students who had already bored him with their mediocrity as he snagged hors d’œuvres off a tray and swallowed the snack. Following with a swift pull of his flask he kept within the interior pocket as he allowed the smooth scotch to fill his throat.

Once the moment arrived and the bells had been rung, Barty turned to face the doorways that opened up and the thrill of a new year crept in. He'd solved their silly little puzzle and now the Hall of Ancients awaited him. His brother, Nicky, already had a head start on him. Not that anyone would truly notice. Barty followed quickly after, every step with purpose and with a posture to command attention and a room. He eyed the fish bowl, spying which one looked to be the best specimen for himself before finally deciding. ” You will be the lucky target.”

“And now Barty!” Professor Mikkal cheered, watching with interest. “The difference between you and your brother is absolutely fascinating. Has anyone spent time studying your genealogy? I'd be thrilled to if you're interested!”

“They're two sides of the same coin, Mikkail. Why are you going to dredge up ancient history? They like their privacy. Let them have it.” Sariel sighed and waved at Barty. “Quickly, if you'd please. I have an experiment on hold and the sooner we're done, the sooner I can get back to work.”

“Quick may not be possible. Fish minds are relatively simple but…” Professor Croan eyed Barty judgementally. “He certainly isn't his brother's equal.”

It was in that moment Barty recalled his twins warning that had chimed into his head earlier. He shot the old vampire a glance before speaking as he started to cast his spell. ”How can one equals another when we utilize such different aspects of magic. That is like saying you are no equal to Sariel because you couldn't possibly live up to the magicks she casts. Though I suppose that this proves that age doesn't beget wisdom.”

Barty remarked dryly as he pulled out a small bottle that appeared to look like a perfume sampler. Spritzing a concoction of All Spice Berries on his hands before rubbing it in. An aid to boost the spell's work. Next he took out more containers, each holding a powdered substance that he poured into his hand one by one. First the ground cinnamon, then the love seed, and finally the powdered pink roubellite. Mixing them together between the palms of his hands and he whispered a chant into the ingredients, the allspice perfume working its way into the others before Barty encircled the tank with the mixture. There was a brief glow as the magic took its effect and Barty's eyes locked onto his prey. ”Jump to me my pet.” He beckoned before the fish flew out of the tank and into his hand. Turning itself into a key. One that reminded him a bit of Finely. He made his way over to where his brother now stood, holding up his key. ”What'd you get?”

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Jake was absolutely overwhelmed. There were so many things to look at, so many sounds to listen to, so many things to touch, and so many people to meet. He didn't know where to begin! He stood at the entrance to the hall, feeling like his eyes had been opened for the very first time. Even the air in his lungs tasted new, fresh, different. He had nothing to compare it to. It was all so brand new, all so exciting, all so magical. Statues towered over them around the hall, looking like they could stir to life with the slightest breeze. He made eye contact with one of them and broke out into a grin. Maybe it would be his friend, if it did. He wanted nothing more in the world than to make a friend. He couldn't remember having any.

And then there were the beautiful creatures at the front - some of them colors he didn't even recognize, constantly shifting in some dance he could not follow. They were smaller than him, not even as big as his hand. Three others stood next to the creatures. Were those their caretakers? Their guardians? They must have been important, everything in this room felt so important, so impressive. But all Jake could do was stare, a dopey grin on his face as he was absolutely dumbfounded.

The people were the most fascinating of all. There were so many of them! And they were all so different! Different shapes and sizes, some with vibrant shocks of hair and others with no hair at all, some with claws and fangs and some with weird circles over their eyes - just when Jake had thought he'd seen the most interesting person in the room, another one would walk by and his brain would freeze in awe. The world - life - this place was so beautiful! He didn't know why he was here, but he knew that he was meant to be. It was one of only two things about himself of which he was certain, the other being his name: Jake. Just Jake. He liked being Jake, though.

The more he looked around, the harder he found it to stay still - the more he found himself beginning to bounce from one foot to the other. That was fun! He laughed a bit at himself. But it would be more fun with another person! And he also didn't know what he was supposed to be doing here. He could use help. Maybe it was time to make a friend. So Jake turned around, and jumped up and down slightly at the first person he saw. "Hii!!! I'm Jake!! I'm new, I think! What's your name?"

Finley had been surprised by the box. It had played pleasant tones. Her and Dys had been entranced by it, curious when it opened. Reading the letter they made sure they arrived at the designated location on time. Fin arrived only a moment or two before the doors opened and they were permitted into the room with the fish tank.

There was an assortment of people, some that Fin knew, others that they didn’t. Fin currently wore their masculine face, with cotton candy colored hair. Finley felt Dysphoria’s unease spike. They froze examining the room. What was dangerous here? The other students? The professors? The fish tank? There were enough unknowns that Finley couldn’t be sure. Something about this place was wrong, but what?

Fin watched as Barty drew from the tank, and then Connie nearly drowned, and then...suffocated(?) herself. If one of the professors hadn’t intervened Fin would have tried. Their own magic could change shapes, though usually it was only an illusion. The Daoine Sidhe were not usually adept at transformation magic, which may be why they could do it best with themself.

”This place is unnerving Dys. Be ready in case something happens,” Finley said. Who they were talking to was not clear to anyone who didn’t already know Finley. Finley was considering moving forward to the fish tank when someone excitedly introduced themself. Was this person who was setting off Dysphoria’s danger sense? They made no move to attack.

”Ah, hello. I am called Finley. I have not seen you around so I suspect you are correct in your assumption that you are new. Though I doubt I know everyone who roams these halls. Constance would be a better judge if you are new or not.” He points to a young woman with bright red hair.

”Excuse me for a moment, I believe I need to catch a fish.” Finley stepped away from Jake and up to the fish tank. He had seen two attempts at getting a fish. Nicholas’s magic they had smelled in the air just before he appeared at the edge of the room. With a slight shrug Fin reached into the tank and in her hand was a worm for one of the fish to be enticed by.

It took but seconds when a fish fell for the little trap and Finley snatched a fish out of the water. They realized instead of one fish they had two in their hand. Fin looked between the two keys. Fin was almost afraid it would be precious metals coating iron, but there was no pain. This implied to Fin that the key was probably solid gold. Interesting, that seemed strange for the humans to do. The other key caught their attention more. The wings were beautiful and made Fin smile. Almost a private joke. They tossed the golden key back into the water, it turned back into a fish immediately.

Finley stepped away from the tank, heading toward the twins.

“What fantastic technique. Elegant and efficient." Mikkail murmured quietly to Croan, who seemed to have nothing to say.

---

Connie had been early. Easily an extra thirty minutes over the recommended time. She had been pacing while waiting. This was something she had hoped for for a while now. Connie had been an excellent student. Now she could go into more independent study and she was excited. As she paced she shook her hands out and opened and closed her fists. It was movement you would associate with someone having pins and needles in their hands.

When the door opened and she could enter the room, she did not notice Nicholas. She focused on the fish tank. The flashing colors had caught her attention. Reading the note she considered sticking her hand in and just trying to catch one of the fish. It reminded her of crawdad fishing as a little girl. A pleasant memory, one of the rare ones from before her Father had taken her.

She might have been able to catch one of the fish with her hand, but decided instead to transform. Leaning over the tank Connie let the magics shift her. It happened quickly, but it was the wrong shape. Not her normal bird form she preferred. Instead she turned into a finch. Stupid little birds with dumb mouths. Connie didn’t have time to flap her wings, she was tumbling into the tank. There was a splash and her wings were soaked. Connie was the wrong type of bird to fly with wet wings.

Connie quickly went through the catalog of animals she was capable of transforming into. Her favorite form was the bird, but that was not going to help now. What creature would? Obviously, a fish would be ideal. Connie could only think of those hot summer nights catching crawdads and eating catfish. She imagined the form, the muscles, the bones, and felt her body shift again.

Now as a fish herself she darted around spotting a green colored fish that was near her. Connie snatched it into her mouth. Catfish were adept at leaping from water. She did just that and as she fell to the ground outside the tank her magic flared and she shifted. Though, she hadn’t had the image fully in mind and failed to shift fully. Connie still had gills, and had failed to make her lungs fully human. She gasped, the key falling from her mouth where it had been still. Air. She thought. Curses.

“Seven years produced this? Pathetic.” Professor Croan drawled, a sick amusement in his eyes. Sariel watched the display with a poorly concealed grimace.

“Goodness gracious!” Professor Mikkail exclaimed as Connnie dragged herself out, gills still fluttering. He wove magic in shifting patterns and they smoothed out into skin once more. “Right as rain, Connie! Take a few deep breaths before you get going, just to make sure everything works alright, deary.”

Connie gasped. Oh, blessed air. She nodded. ”Tried to do that much too quickly.” Connie explained. Jumping from water into air was not something she had practiced. She mentally added it to a list of things to practice.

In her human skin with human lungs Connie took a slow breath. She looked at the key that had fallen out of her mouth, Connie picked it up. She stepped away from the tank examining the key curiously.

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Strange Academy was always a warm place. Not exactly warm physically, though it was that too. The lights and lanterns around the place, the general hum of people unafraid to talk to one another, and the shared reason for being here all made the grounds feel alive. All the ambient chatter and the musical number being played was more noise than Rohan was accustomed to. It had been some time since he'd been here, in a place as social as this. After the last semester ended, he'd gone back to the place he was most at home in, the forest. No forest in particular, but just the forest. One copse of trees here, one rolling field of moss there, he went wherever they weren't so immediately noticeable. And when they showed up, he just moved on like an animal did. Those woods were always quiet, and not like this.

He walked onto the school grounds loaded down with all his things. His sword, his staff, his mask, and all the usual magical bits and bobs a wizard of his ilk often carried. Rohan looked as if he hadn't even stopped to do more than the bare minimum to make himself presentable before coming back to civilization. And that was because he didn't. He stopped by a creek somewhere far off to wash the soot from a campfire from his face and hair, cut away sheets of moss from his clothes that were keeping him mostly dry since he didn't need them here, and smoked some cuts of unnatural from a dead beast or two before he set foot in New Orleans.

Here, people were keeping to themselves and interacting like there was a preconceived level of noise deemed acceptable. Rohan was used to dead silence, it was almost a surprise coming back, and it always was. Showing up to the hall he'd never been in before was interesting. The sheer size of the statues was impressive. The cursed wizard pondered them with a bite of rabbit, as he walked along.

Professor Croan's nose wrinkled as Rohan approached, a handkerchief quickly coming up to protect his nose. "Ah. The reason why I submitted resolutions on student hygiene."

"Croan! Don't be so closed minded! 27 billion light years away is a planet whose mystics let their natural oils build for several revolutions before using it as a fundamental resource in their castings. Perhaps young Rohan is experimenting!" Mikkail reprimanded enthusiastically.

"Ah! You're Rohan! I hadn't put a name to a face yet but I cannot wait to get my hands on you." Sariel shoved her colleagues away and madness glinted behind her eyes. "I have wanted to get your sap in my lab for ages and now that you’re my advisee, we'll see how far we can push the limits of your curse."

Rohan gave the three a lackadaisical smirk. ”How about you say that a little louder, just in case someone didn’t catch that, miss?” He didn’t like flaunting that his soul was twisted and gnarled. Whoever knew it knew, whoever didn’t just didn’t. ”Don’t mind me…”

He walked up to the fish tank labelled “Catch one.”

Curiously, he withdrew an old hunting knife, made from bone and metal, sharpened to a wicked point. He flipped it around into a murder grip and leaned over the tank. Rohan watched the fish swirl around, waiting patiently for them to slow down. And eventually, one floated a little higher and then came to a near stop.

Thunk. He skewered one on the blade and promptly pulled it free. The fish distorted and blurred, until it wasn’t a fish any longer. It was a key, dangling off the blade by its ring. It looked like a candle, was that on purpose?

”Hmm.”

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The motel room was centered in a snug little alcove next to a 7-Eleven and some random Chinese food place. It was not, she realized, where she saw herself when she had abruptly run away from home after blowing a hole in her bedroom. She expected every siren she heard to be one looking for her, but so far she had remained safe.

After she woke up from a horrendous night's sleep, she threw the covers off and sidled out of bed. As she walked to the bathroom, her foot hit something and she nearly tripped. She collected herself and glanced down to see a strange box. She picked it up and moved it around. On the box were some bars. She touched one and a melodic sound echoed out. She pressed another one and, suddenly, the box got smaller. She nearly panic-threw it against the wall, but she held on.

A magic, puzzle box.

Holy cow, this was it!

She had intended to just show up at Strange Academy and beg acceptance. She had her story all lined up too. Full of tear-jearky moments and her, the true heroine, against all the odds! Plus, if Doctor Strange was there perhaps he could vouch for her? He knew her, to an extent.

Cassie sat on the bed and put the box down. She had to get this right. She pushed the bar she did the first time and heard the note. She tried another and the box shrunk again. She cursed inwardly (though not really since she said 'fiddlesticks'). The song had to be something, right?

She pushed another bar, then another and this time, it didn't shrink. She pushed another, each time a bar fell away. Each push grew her confidence. Each one made her more excited. Eventually, the bars fell away and something fell out. Cassie let out a loud 'whoop' and was scolded by her neighbor in a colorful mix of slurs and what she assumed was...Spanish?

She took the letter and read it. Then read it again. Finally, she put it down and jumped all around the room.

What a fantastic birthday present.

---

Strange Academy was breathtaking as Cassie entered the soiree that was happening. She tried not to look like some starry-eyed newbie, but she could hardly believe she was here. She looked around at some of the other students, trying to size them up. Some had to be new here, too; it stood to reason. She saw some ghostly hands serving nourishments and food which she didn't partake in. Her stomach was too busy doing flips for her to get anything down yet.

She noted a couple other students all heading into one room in particular. Cassie remembered the letter said the Hall of Ancients was where she would find her room and Coven, whatever the heck that meant. She didn't want to ask for help, but she followed some through the third door, where she noted there weren't many other people inside. Was she to be in an exclusive club?

The room was decorated beautifully. She noted the choice of fabrics and color to convey what she was sure the intention was: this is the top. Anyone who is anyone is here.

The fish tank in particular caught her attention. It was made of crystal and housed an assortment of fish that blended in a kaleidoscope of colors. They shifted shape and form. It should not have surprised Cassie as she was standing on the precipice of magic school, but it was grand either way.

After spending what could be argued as an incredible amount of time basking in it she noted the sign close by. Catch One. Wow, magic school was wild. Was she to catch her dinner? Or was this a test perhaps! Like whatever fish she caught would be a test, or possibly sorting her into some school-based group where she would make lifelong friends and possibly an enemy or two.

She debated how best to proceed. It was pretty evident this wasn’t something as simple as grabbing a fishing pole or just dunking your hand in. If this were a magic school, she would need to do some magic.

But that was the problem, wasn’t it? Her magic was….intense. Chaos incarnate if her parents were to be believed (and, she noted, they were correct in this aspect). So, how to catch one of the fish? Cassie walked up to the crystal encasement and lifted her hand as a faint, red glow reverberated out of her palm, her eyes glowing darker as she summoned a spell she had used before.

Her eyes landed on one of the fish that went from a light, green color to gold. She waved her palm and uttered an incantation under her breath as her spell was sent forth. To the trained eye, an image would appear over the fish’s head: an adornment of glass and thorns. A tiara sent spiking through its skull, implanting itself in its scales. The fish wriggled a bit, aghast at the damage done, but soon, it stopped and paused there, uncertain.

Still using her spell, she uttered a command to it: ”Come to me.” Simple, yet effective. The fish started swimming up to the top and, as it neared the cusp of the water, Cassie reached in quickly and grabbed the fish, taking it out of its home. It didn’t squirm or fight. Instead, it seemed to accept its fate.

“Wonderful. Another Gray student. Everything we needed.” Professor Croan tsked. “Perhaps our illustrious headmistress will graciously take her off our hands.”

“That was an excellent casting, dear! And the flair, the tiara, gorgeous. Magnificent!” Professor Mikkail cheered.

“There has seemed to be an uptick in this magic type recently and we should be concerned, Mikkail. However, her technique did show excellent potential and danger hasn't stopped me before.” Sariel extended her hand to shake. “Professor Sariel, artificer advisor. If you ever want to explore the true limits of your powers, do not hesitate to knock on my door.”

Cassie hadn't quite noticed the other people there, standing in obvious attention to those who went after a fish. Cassie looked and her fish had turned into a key. She noted it and put it aside for now as she shook the woman's hand in front of her. "Oh gosh, umm. Thank you! I would love to learn more. Thank you, all of you!" though one in particular wasn't happy with her, it seemed. What did they mean by 'Gray'? Was it a mark on her record already?

Satisfied somewhat that she had made a good starting foundation for her time here, she shuffled off to the side. Some people were around, but she didn't know if they were old friends or whatever. She hoped she would not be the only new person here. She desperately wanted to fit in. Well...as well as someone that can bend and shape chaos to her will can fit in.

"Mhhh!~"

He didn't know what he was eating, but it was definitely tasty!

As he ate, he also looked around the weird place he found himself in. Big was the first word that entered his mind. Funny-looking was the second. Beside him was Cholo, walking by his side, insistent on sniffing all the weird people surrounding them. Not to be mean or anything, but some of them were really strange-looking! It was definitely a good idea to come to this place after all, even if he had to receive an earful through the phone when his family discovered he had ran away heroically rushed towards the unknown!

Still, it was a different kind of weird, one he wasn't accustomed to. Like, the moment he received his box thingy, he just thought it was some kind of commemorative gift and let Ventura carry it for him alongside his other stuff.

He had been surprised when his friend just tapped his shoulder to catch his attention before delivering the letter to him.

He had been extra surprised when he found out the ceremony was only an hour away.

What followed was a mad dash through the streets, Ventura parkouring through rooftops, a destroyed vegetable cart, and what he was pretty sure was an angry husband chasing him after accidentally interrupting his alone time with who he presumed was his wife.

He barely made it, just in time for the ceremonies to start.

That was when the true fun began. He started pacing around the room, examining every inch and just appreciating it. His artistic senses enjoying the design philosophy even as they wondered about the method used to create it. Was it magic or labor? Was it a group or a person? Was it need or desire? The feeling of curiosity was addicting, and he could feel his head starting to dream. Maybe a fortress with cannons? Oh, what about a tortoise? Nay, a capybara with a pig snout and kangaroo legs. Mantis shrimp claws? Mhmhm… but it was too similar to that one… Oh! Bat fur and a seagull beak! So deep in thought was he that he almost missed the instructions for the next step.

---

He watched the fish tank with a critical eye.

...

Okay! It was decided.

He was going to jump in.

Before he managed to take his first step, he felt the familiar feeling of his legs leaving the floor. Some movement later, and he was face-to-face with Ventura, who grabbed him by the shirt like a chastised kitten. He pouted at the golem.

"C'mon! It would be fun"

The golem didn’t answer, instead looking at him with the same gentle yet stern expression he always sported. They engaged in a staring contest for what felt like an eternity before he admitted defeat by clicking his tongue and letting the strength leave his body.

"Fiiiiine, I ain't gonna jump"

The gorilla golem nodded at his words and let him get back to his feet before entering a seated position. With a flex of his magic, he shifted his focus from Ventura to his Bocolitos. Then he instructed them and Cholo on what he wanted. Finding a seating area, he watched with pursed lips as his Bocolitos boxed one of the pretty fish while his oldest golem slowly paddled toward their direction.

All the while, he looked on with envy, that sure looked like mad fun.

He could hear the professors saying something to another student, but he was more focused on the tank. The fish were too nimble for his Bocolitos to trap just one, so instead they were making a bigger area. Meanwhile, he was getting into it, encouraging them under his breath with, "You can do it" and "That was close!"

Until finally, Cholo emerged from the tank with a gleaming fish in his mouth. He let out a shout of excitement and rushed to his companion, who in turn ran into him with the same enthusiasm before jumping and toppling him over. He laughed as his oldest golem started to lick his face. Overhead, he could see his Bocolitos flying in formation above them. Scratching the spot Cholo really liked, he sat down before looking at the fish, it had been thrown during the celebration, but the moment he made contact, it transformed into some kind of weird key.

Looking at it he admired the shape and design, it was a pretty thing that sparked some inspiration inside him but he bottled it, for now, he was more interested in what came next, he was supposed to go with other people with the same key wasn't he? Plan set he started to wander and ask any person he found if they jad the same key. His Bocolitos and Cholo at his side.

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When Annika received the puzzle box she hadn’t been surprised but she was relieved. Her adoptive father and uncle had prepared her well; besides, she had been a former Sorcerer Supreme in a past life. Dr. Strange knew her in a way, still, cracking the code had made her deliriously happy, and she started packing her modest supplies right away. Nochella watching from the shadows all the while.

Now, as she stood outside the Hall of Ancients, the nerves started to settle in. She was here alone, Nochella never far away, but the cat did prefer the Everdark to modern Earth living. Annika hardly blamed her friend. A part of Annika would always prefer the Everdark. It was her home and where she felt most connected to her late father. Jack had died, moved on, and although it wasn’t surprising, moments like these always left Annika feeling alone and missing her guardian.

”Okay, Dad, let’s do this.” She took a deep breath in before passing through the doors into her future.

The room buzzed, Annika felt the excitement and nerves of the students around her heighten her emotions. She followed a tide of people to the fish tank that resided in the middle of the room, her attention torn between taking in the very real and solid walls of the building and the luminous tank that would decide where she would room for the rest of the year.

Annika hung back, watching students of all ages walk up to the tank with mixed expressions of confusion and confidence before using powers, or not, to pull fish from the tank. Each time a fish was exposed to the air, it shifted into a key. Annika’s eyes widened with pleasure as she revelled in the power the school had. This place would be a perfect fit for her to enhance her craft and make her father proud.

She walked around the tank, judging the best way to approach the challenge and reminisced about the tests her father put her through. Part of her wished her Uncle Max were present. The school probably wouldn’t seem so daunting if she at least knew one person, but surely she wasn’t the only one alone here.

Stealing her courage, Annika walked up to the tank. She glanced at the waiting professors and bowed her head to them in shy acknowledgement before Nochella appeared and wound around her legs.

”Do you want to go fishing? We need one for our dorm assignment.” Nochella flicked their tail, debating on if this was an activity Annika should complete herself before they disappeared and reappeared in the tank. Noch quickly secured a fish and jumped from the tank. The cat placed the key in Annika’s hand before meowing and disappearing once more.

The key reminded her of an hourglass or a lighthouse. It seemed happy and inviting. Annika smiled and glanced around the room, looking for any pairs; however, she quickly became distracted by the statues and wandered off, looking like a tourist in New York City.

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Callaghan waltzed into the Hall of Ancients, past curious and frightened-looking first years. It was the beginning of his third year at Strange Academy, and Cal was feeling pretty good about it. Until the light in the room seemed to brighten, the sounds of excited conversations filtered into his ears, and the scenery of the room sharpened.

Cal paused in the middle of the room and cocked his head to the side. Interesting. The feeling of his predatory instincts coming to the forefront without warning was always a cause for concern, especially when it came on this prominently. Cal rubbed the back of his neck, trying to shake off the suffocating feeling of something being dangerous.

As he made his way to the tank of colourful fish, Cal noted most had been taken. Well, that was what he got for waiting until nearly the last minute. Still, Cal wasn't worried. He walked up to the professors, smiling brightly at them all before he bowed before Professor Sariel and presented her with an apple he had gathered from the kitchen.

”Working hard I see, Professor S. Taking a break wouldn't kill you,” he teased her before turning to Professional Mikkal. He smiled brightly at his favourite teacher. ”My mother helped me pen some of our history over the break, Professor M. I think you'll be interested in reading it.”

"The old age getting to you, Callaghan? Breaks are for weaker minds; ingenuity isn't the result of laying around." Sariel shot back, taking the offered apple.

"Wait one second! I'm older and I certainly like to think I can keep up with you whipper snappers!" Mikkail protested with a laugh. "And that would be delightful, Cal! I stumbled across an old journal that might help you as well; we'll trade over tea after everyone is settled in.

"Looking forward to it," Cal said and turned to Croan, still smiling brightly.

Croan regarded Callaghan with a mix of irritation and disgust, the edge of his lip curled in distance. "Ah, you'd made it. I'd hoped Lady Luck had grown weary of you."

”Pleasure as always Professor C.” Even though it wasn't.

Cal moved past some people and stuck his now clawed hand into the tank and waited for an interesting fish to pass and speared it with a talon. Once the fish was exposed to the air, Cal took the key and shoved it into his pocket without looking at it.

”Time for another adventure,” he said to the Profs before moving off, hunting for more enticing company.

Cal slid in behind the twins, resting an arm on either shoulder. The black silk shirt he wore half buttoned pulled slightly to reveal more of his tanned chest and tattoo. ”Boys, what do we think?” He scanned the crowd, the suffocating feeling of something wrong still enhancing all of his senses. He shifted uncomfortably and whispered into Nicky's ear.

”Something's wrong.”

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Sometimes fate was funny, sometimes it was kind. When Willow had woken up that day she had already known that the little puzzle box would be there, waiting for her. She smiled happily as she let her fingers run over every little bit of it, taking in the bars. She turned it over and over in her hands until she figured it out and smiled. Music~ Something she could work with easily. As it fell apart, she ran her fingers over the message and grinned before sitting up happily in her bed. "Tia! I'll be leaving at the end of the month! Good thing I've already started!" She giggled happily as she tossed the blankets off to the side and then went to finish up her packing and getting read.

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October 31st could not have come swiftly enough, and making arrangements to get to the Strange Academy had been a breeze, thanks to knowing that it would be forthcoming. Autumn in the Northern Hemisphere was different than Autumn in the Southern, as she felt how much moister it was at that moment, and October back home was drier as they shifted towards the wetter months. She could hear the crunch of the leaves under her feet, and she giggled at all the new sounds and sensations.

She could tell the moment she passed through the door that there was nothing but magic in the air. She smiled as she 'looked' around, taking everything in. So many different types of magic, so many different people, so many different feelings in the air. She was so happy to be here, and she was so happy to know that she would finally be with others that could use magic, maybe others that might be closer to her age! She loved her Tia, more than anything else in the world but, they both agreed that she needed more experience with others.

She walked forward, looking around until she nearly ran into the tank. "Oh! Silly me!"

With a slight flourish of her hand, she gently summoned forth her familiar and nuzzled her gently. "Do you mind helping me out, Luna?" She giggled softly as she turned back towards the tank. The moth nodded softly and then looked over for her. After a moment Willow nodded and walked over to the tank.

She gently dipped a hand in, and waited. After a moment, a fish swam into it and she lifted it from the water. A key appeared in her hand, and she ran her fingers over it softly. "Wonderful~ I can't wait to meet my roommate!"

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“Darling, I do not know why danger is present.” Dysphoria murmured in Finley’s ear as their head manifested out of their shoulder. Even with their tongue freely tasting the air, they were unable to identify anything that would have them on edge but as quickly as the feeling came, it faded away. “I do not know why, but the danger fades. Whatever happened, we are safe for now.” Dysphoria disliked that something had passed beyond their notice but it would have to be. Now was the time for fun and friends!

“What did you catch?” Dysphoria got close to the key and tasted it. “No magic left. Disappointing. I cannot wait to see who we get to play with this year!”


The last of the twelve had finally arrived into the room. An old leather doctor's bag in his left hand and a rat riding atop his right shoulder. His dark curly hair fell over the round spectacles that sat midway down the bridge of his nose. He wore an off-white, almost cream colored, cotton button up with a dark mossy green sweater pulled over it. The sound of his dark brown leather tanker boots echoed in the room as he approached the crystalline structure. Sparks of blue lighting jolting from the corner of his smile toward the brim of his glasses. He pushed his glasses up with one finger before looking at all the others who had gathered in the room, noticing Connie was amongst them. He gave her a meek smile and wave before holding his hand out with his palm towards the ceiling.

The rat crawled down his arm and onto his hand, its own tiny paws grooming its face and whiskers as the miniature goggles jostled about its head. The rat looked up at Franklin, one whisker twitching before the other. “Igor, grab me a fish would you please?” Igor squeaked with glee before decidedly diving down into the aquarium, but not before it pulled its goggles over its eyes. He swam with about as much grace as any rat could, tiny paws paddling before diving deeper as its tail swished from left to right behind him. Finally, Igor got a bite…out of the fish. His teeth sank in deep and he held on strong as he swam back up towards the surface and paddled over to the edge where Franklin scooped them both up from. “Best little assistant.” He praised before the world's tiniest fist bump had occurred. The fish shifted into a key, and as much as he wanted to see if he and Connie were roommates, his attention was pulled elsewhere. Another student here had such vibrant and strange creations, and Franklin couldn't help but be drawn to him.

His key gripped tightly in a fist, Franklin made his way towards Pedrito before stopping short of a dog? It seemed a Xolo dog, but the ears were more like a rabbits, and it had hooves and antlers and…feathers? Franklin couldn't help but squat down to the creatures eye level as he placed his thumb and forefinger to his chin, inspecting the beast. “Fascinating. What manner of creation is this? What resources did you use? And was the splicing necessary or out of necessity instead?”


Almost everyone had ignored Jake, walking past him as they went to the beautiful tank at the front of the room. His mouth was slightly agape with wonder as he saw them perform incredible acts of magic, unable to see from this distance what their objective was. They all seemed to know what they were doing here, carrying themselves with confidence and certainty. He didn’t know what he would have done beyond just stare until a gorgeous person with a kind, sweet face approached. Finley. What a silly name! He liked the way it sounded.

”Hi Finley! You need to catch a fish? Why?” And there was someone named Constance that they said would know if he was new or not. But Jake did not know who Constance was. He didn’t know who anyone in this room was. So instead he stared after the person with the wild hair - did it grow like that? Jake’s own hair felt suddenly plain. Why didn’t he look like that? And then, after a minute of indecision, Jake bounded forward after the person. Maybe he was supposed to catch a fish, too.

But by the time he reached the front of the room and stood before the tank, his only friend (he hoped Finley was his friend! It occurred to him he should have asked) was already gone. As were most of the fish. There was just one fish left in the tank, and a deep sorrow filled Jake as he looked down at it, as well as a strange rumbling in his stomach. There were some cryptic squiggles on a piece of paper, but he could not decipher them.

There were people here, too. Were they also students? Maybe they would be his friends! Did they need to catch a fish? There was only one left. They must have already caught one. ”Hi, fish. Do you have a name? My name’s Jake. I think I’m supposed to catch you, if that’s okay,” he stated. He didn’t know how to care for a fish. He hoped he would learn quickly. And then he stuck his hand into the tank, gasping as an icy feeling gripped his hand. And then his eyes widened, as a gross, slimy texture brushed up against his fingers - and finally, a yelp as he pulled the fish from the tank, and it completely changed, becoming smooth and still. ”No no no no no!” Jake panicked. ”Fish! Fish wake up!”

He looked at the three there in fear. Had he killed the fish? Had he killed his second friend? He held out the strange fish to them all. ”Can you save him? Please, I didn't mean to hurt him!”

“My boy, you did exactly what you were expected to do.” Mikkail explained kindly. “It was never a fish! Only an illusion of one. It was always a key; you’ll need to find your dorm mates next.” Sariel eyed him strangely as she took a bite of apple and Croan ignored him outright.

”Oh!” Jake exclaimed, before breaking out into a big grin. He’d done something right! He didn’t know what a key did, but it must have been important. Although if he were to be honest, he’d liked it better as a fish. It was so pretty and alive, and now it was very still and cold.


The doors to the Hall of Ancients opened for the last time, admitting one more stumbling ever so slightly into their midst. To most, her appearance was stylish yet otherwise unremarkable - long dark hair, fitted purple trousers and a white collared shirt matched with her signature brooch and trench coat, and hints of purple around her eyes. Yet to those who knew, she was as unmistakable as she was infamous.

The acting headmistress of Strange Academy, (former) mistress of the Darkhold, and perhaps the most lethal witch-killer the world had ever known: Agatha Harkness smiled and cackled as she strode through the small gathering, stopping at the front of the room as she turned to face the assembled students.

Only twelve this year. Disappointing. She’d left behind her previous gig babysitting wannabe witches in California for this and she expected more. No one in the crowd stood out to her - no one had that spark that she looked for. But the smile remained on her face, as fake as it was. Once she finished giving a few inspiring words about covens, she could retire back to her personal quarters, and attend to some of her own projects she had in the works. Low quality students aside, this was going to be a fantastic year at Strange Academy… at least for her.

She threw a glance over her shoulder at some of the other professors gathered, temporarily letting the smile drop into a grimace. “Yikes, right?” she stage-whispered.

“Welcome back to Strange Academy for another great year. I’m Agatha Harkness, your headmistress as Stephen is unsurprisingly too busy with the Hoary Hosts or whatever it is he’s always prattling on about,” she returned her attention to the students, pacing ever so slightly back and forth as she spoke. “If you’re in this room, you’re supposedly one of the best students we have - whether it’s taken you centuries to make it here to the big leagues or you woke up yesterday with your own purple at your fingertips. New witches and old, coming together, yadda, yadda, yadda…” She clicked her tongue.

“In a few moments, you’re going to meet your covens - a pupil of mine once described covens as the truest form of sisterhood, drawn together by mysterious forces of fate. But if you ask me, covens are about power - even the sorriest of witches when in close proximity with each other can add some magical oomph to their spells. Covens are what allowed me to survive all these years, to live and thrive while so many of our witchkin fell to the cruelties this world attempted to visit upon them. We draw strength from our sisterhood. So now I invite you to go and find yours. Find your sisters. Seize your power.”

With a snap of her fingers, a purple spark shimmered on the lapel of each student, before solidifying into a pin. Students assigned to Prof. Marino’s coven bore a pin depicting an eye above a boiling round bottom flask, the mark of alchemy and artifice, her two specialties. Students assigned to Prof. Mikkal’s coven had the image of a multicolored dragon, rich and vibrant hues of purple, blue, and pink. And lastly, those under the direction of Prof. Croan had a dark ruby, encased in black thorns as their symbol.

“Oh yes, encourage children to follow in your footsteps. That won’t end poorly for all of us.” Croan grumbled, sinking into the shadows beneath the table and reamerging from behind a statue on the other side of the hall from Agatha.

Mikkail shook his head at Agatha’s performance, a deep sigh huffed out of the man, and he too took leave of the little stage as food and drink began to make an appearance. He plucked a glass off one of the circulating platters and sipped delicately at it.

“So lenient! Finley, Annika, Franklin, Rohan - feet are made for walking, not standing, so get over here. We have work to do!” Sariel shouted across the hall as she leapt down the meager stairs, boots clicking on the marble floor as she made her way to the center of the room.

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Jake had been absolutely enamored with Agatha’s speech. Sisterhood! He liked the sound of that. He wanted to be with people who he liked and who liked him. And if he could protect them and help them be strong, that was even better! His chest felt strangely full and swollen at the thought. He could protect people. He wanted to protect people. He wanted to protect his people. That must have been why he was here at Strange Academy. He was here to protect them all.

Unfortunately, he had no idea what Coven he was supposed to be in. Agatha had told them to go and find them, and then one of the people from the fish tank rattled off a list of names, none of which happened to be his. Something purple and glittery had appeared on him when Agatha was speaking, and he looked at it, seeing a dark red gem held in something black and twisted. Everyone else had things pinned to them, too! And they were different! This must have been how they were supposed to find their covens.

With a bounce in his step, Jake walked in no direction in particular. "Is anyone else part of the red coven?” he asked, hoping to spot someone else with a pin just like his own. He was so excited! He was about to have sisters! (What were sisters?) He hoped they were like friends!

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Nicholas eyed the key in his brother’s hand and felt some of the tension drain out of him. Even after four years at Strange Academy, Nicholas was always expecting and prepared for the worst - having his brother near him would make it easier when they needed to disappear. Nicholas pulled just part of his key from his pocket, enough to show off the winged end matching Barty’s.

“If fortune found her humor, our rooming companion is no mystery.” Nicholas said as he watched the next one take their place. Familiar magic and familiar form, Finley caught not one but two in hand. He was too far away to see which key the Fae had caught but if the look upon their face was any indicator, he was certain fortune’s humor had been found. He offered Finley a nod as they made their way over and watched Connie suffer next. Although Croan’s words were poorly phrased, Nicholas did raise his brow in surprise. To see Connie struggle like that, in a public setting no less, was certainly unusual.

And so it went. The wildling wielding a knife (barbaric), an enchantress of sort (he very politely stomped on his brother’s foot before he got any bright ideas), a pinata maker (Note: Avoid), a cat lady (Nicholas rolled his eyes - typical), a moth person (Note: Observe), and Callaghan, who seemed dreadfully social as always. Nicholas, despite seeing him saunter his way over to them, still jumped when Callaghan’s arm slung across his shoulders and gave the man a side eye. The view was appreciated but new magic was here and Nicholas wanted to ensure he was fully aware what threat they offered before he offered anyone an indulgence for the rest of the evening. Though inviting Callaghan and Finley away from the soiree they planned for this little group was enticing. He offered his ear as Callaghan leaned in, though all thoughts of later were gone with Callaghan’s warning.

“Magical or mundane?” Nicholas doubted anything mundane would concern a dragon enough to mention, but who knew what the human world now commanded. Nicholas scanned the room, nothing strange or out of place as yet another person took the stage. This one Nicholas had passed periodically, one of the strange little people who craved the mundane and normal so much they’d mimicked it here, but he disregarded him because Nicholas found the problem. He muttered a curse as he watched him struggle for his key.

Marcus.

He reached into the pouch on his belt and felt for a familiar wooden disk. Centuries had spanned between them, a violent separation condemning one of the few humans they had let into their lives to a workhouse in the late 1890s, but Nicholas would know his face anywhere. It took barely a thought to break his emergency spells and the twins vanished, Callaghan and Finley brushed off as Nicholas dragged his brother invisibly as far as he could in the room.

“We’re leaving. Nicholas sent across the link, keeping himself between the thing wearing Marcus’s face and Barty. They’d let the hag finish spewing whatever drivel she’d dredged out from her cups (embarrassing - you didn’t see the twins like that) and slip away into the night. Nicholas could admit Strange’s Academy wasn’t the worst place to have been, but they’d dallied long enough. This city was a bad place for them. They had history with it and history always had a habit of catching up. They’d lay this one to rest at least - Nicholas would hunt down every last one of his descendants and leave them rotting in a ditch. He regretted not doing it 120 years ago.

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Barty smirked at the flash of his brother's key. He wondered if that was intentional somehow, or if the fates had truly deigned to keep them together as always. It appeared Nicholas also found humor in their situation as their glanced passed from each other to a familiar fae they had the absolute pleasure of meeting all those years ago. Though to the trio it was merely a drop in the bucket of life. What was two years compared to six centuries? Slowly the room began to fill up, as students, one after another began to file in and complete their assignment. If this was how the year was to be, he could expect them all to be late and slacking as they tried to achieve their goals. Barty rolled his eyes at the thought.

His attention was about to wander back onto his twin when someone decided to make a spectacle of this whole ordeal. Garnering attention was his thing. But this wasn't the sort you wished to publicise. Connie seemed to have (for all her textbook knowledge) messed up the one thing she was attempting to do. Her entire schtick thrown to the wayside as the little witchling forgot to transmute her lungs. Of course Mikkail, the soft hearted old bat he was, had to step in and ruin the fun of a life lesson. Regardless, this would only fuel the ammunition Barty now had for conversation with her later. Next time she tried explaining the merits of an obviously impractically written Grimoire by some dull headed witch that never knew proper casting techniques, he'd be sure to remind her of her failings this evening.

The grunge-y mage of the forest decided to come back this year, and it seemed he was able to solve the puzzle as well. Hooray… Honestly he wouldn’t mind Rohan so much if they would learn to bathe and behave like a good little boy. What's more he found his magic…lacking. Yes his ability to enchant the mundane as he crafts it was fascinating at first, but in practice once Barty saw how limited the mage is without his items it was all so…and he just speared a fish with a knife. Ofcourse. The one day students get to show off their talents and this is what Barty gets to witness.

(Un)Fortunately the next contestant had much more to show. He could practically smell the magic off of her, it combated against her visual appearance. Plain, unassuming, yet striking eyes that almost forced you to focus on them. Barty hated that. But still he watched to see how this new student would grab their key. Seeing the tiara appear on a fish was admirable but…wait, did that bitch just copy me? His smirk quickly vanished as he pursed his lips. ”Can you believe that witch just copied me? Practically used the same phrase of command too! They say mimicry is a form of flattery but I say it's a good way to get knocked down a few levels.” He said, muttering mostly to himself as he made a mental note to keep personal tabs on that one. Between sucking up to the professors and stealing his spells, he was tempted to confront her right here and now.

A physical weight stopped him from moving forward. It was then he realized Cal had approached them and placed his arms atop their shoulders. ”I think she's a cheap imitation knock off with low grade magic and a poor sense of style.” Barty spat out as he brushed Cal's arm off his shoulder. ”But I agree, something is seriously wrong. I bet you Croan set it all up, a way to attempt to mock or humiliate me. But he wont get the last laugh from this no. I've got more magical prowess in my left nut than some of these new students have in their entire body.”

Without warning or cause, Nicky spirited the pair of them away. His twin's familiar magic washed over him as a shroud of invisibility encased him. He followed along of course, not fighting a single step as Nicky always knew when to get them out of danger's way. It had served them time and again but now they had gone far enough and missed meeting their own Covens. Though Barty already had his own Coven. For 600 years hes been in a Coven Two with Nicky, and nothing and no school would ever change that. He pulled Nicky behind a statue and stopped them both. ”What is it?”

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Cassie observed the others that followed her, noting the different ways they used their magic to grab a fish. Part of her wanted to ask an assortment of questions ranging from the more serious ("How do you make an animal friend appear out of nowhere?") to the....less serious ("Does your magical animal friend...umm....poop?"). She was especially interested in one of the students who walked around like he knew the place. "He must be a returning student here," she mused to herself.

He was quite handsome. Cassie pictured him in a romantic comedy as the type of guy the main girl would fall for but end up being a bad influence on her until she realized the boy she had such a strong friendship was the person she was meant to be with. Cassie paid special attention to him (what it's not weird!). As he reached for a fish she wondered what he would do. What sort of spell. Instead, she saw his hand shift and move and contort into a...what is that..is that a...claw?!? Cassie's midn race through the rolodex of romantic films she watched. Was this man a werewolf perhaps? No, the claw seemed not furry enough. Vampire? Did they have claws? She knew they sparkled and produced odd looking children, but nothing much about claws. As her mind spun the man pulled out a fish from one of his claw fingernail things. Was that magic? She couldn't judge. Lots of new things were happening to her.

It sort of thrilled her. She was in a new setting with new people. All sorts it seemed. Some more confident, some looking just as nervous as her. Another figure approached the tank and Cassie kept an eye on her too as she ran into it. Cassie couldn't quite tell, but perhaps the girl was blind? Or just a klutz? Either way, Cassie liked her immediately. Especially as she summoned a cute looking thing to help her with her fish.

Cassie was out of her depth, that much was certain. Did everyone here know how to control their magic? Her's terrified her and enticed her. She knew it was dangerous if left to its own devices (she blew a friggin' hole in her parent's wall!) but could she control it? Surely this was the place to do so.

Before she could approach anyone another figure entered the room. There was a sort of finality to it also, as if anyone else who wanted to enter would be forbidden because this was it ladies and gentlemen. She spoke with the confidence Cassie could only dream of and commanded the room. This was the headmistress. Cassie was disappointed, if she were being honest. She sort of hoped Doctor Strange would be here so she could speak to him, admit her thanks, possibly chew his ear off about how to go about managing her abilities and if she could be hidden away from her parents that would be just super thanks!

But, that was not to be. Not yet. Instead, she listened intently as this woman spoke about the magic of sisterhood, though she also spoke with a sort of flippancy? Was this normal?

Covens were something she knew about from fiction really, but of course if magic was real and magic schools were real then it stood to reason that covens were real too. And she was about to be placed in one! What a day she was having. She scanned the room, seeing if anyone else was as excited as her (note: they were not).

At the snap of a finger she felt a small tug on her top as she looked down. A purple sparkle eminated and soon made way for something attaching to her shirt. She noted the colors instantly and saw a pin that looked like a dragon. She lifted it a bit closer and fought the urge to squeal. It was so cute!

She glanced around the room again, quickly, to see who else had the same pin. Her eyes clocked the handsome man with the claw hand and tried to see what was on his shirt, but couldn't make it out. He had his arms around two other men. Cassie was nervous to approach but she built up the nerve and stood up, walking over to them, but soon instead of the trio, the handsome man was alone. Cassie quickly stopped and turned around and walked back to where she had been previously sat. She hoped no one caught that. It would have been so easy to talk to him with the others around, but alone? No, not yet. She looked around to see if she could catch anyone else. The girl from before...did she have...she did!

Cassie approached Willow, "Hello! Umm sorry, but I see you have the same pin I do, so I think that means we are sisters! Or whatever the term is with Covens. I'm Cassiopeia, but you can call me Cassie. It's nice to meet you!" She held out a hand and held it there before she remembered the girl bumping into the tank and how she may be blind and she put her hand down again.

Way to go Cassie.

”I caught fish that became keys. This seems to be made of wood. Delightful of them to be so considerate. This key amused me more than the other. The other looked like an hourglass. Time is not something that bothers me much.” Fin responded to Dysphoria. The strange student Jake seemed to have figured out the task, which was well enough. Fin might try to help him, if it got him a favor. She currently had more debt that she was owed. That itched in a way he couldn’t quite describe to non-fae.

”Hello Nicholas, Barty, Cal.” Fin said, taking space on the free side of Barty. He was about to show his key to the others to see if they were in a room together when a new distraction appeared, Agatha.

With her proclamation came another division of the group gathered. Now they had rooms and covens. Fin looked over to where Cal stood, now alone. They frowned. The twins had disappeared. Finley wondered why, but their attention was pulled by professor Sariel. Interesting. Finley had been put in a group that he didn’t consider himself part of. Yes, the Daoine Sidhe could brew potions, but Finley had never learned the art. Finley had grown up in a situation that had never allowed that sort of education. His skills lay in the illusions and blood magic. They had always been strong in those two areas and potion making was considered a tool for those who needed the crutch. Fin thought it over though, potions were versatile in a way that their own magic was not without drinking blood. Maybe this was okay.

Fin pushed off the wall and started walking toward Professor Sariel Marino. Finley knew Rohan and technically Franklin. Though neither in any meaningful way. Finley was not fond of Rohan as the man carried a sword, it made their teeth ache as just the presence of it. Franklin, Fin knew, was part of the AV club and was what Connie had called a ‘techie’, he had helped set up his phone when Fin had first got one over a year ago. The other name listed, Annika, was not one that Fin knew. But as they had told the exuberant Jake, Fin did not know everyone at the school.

The order was like nails on a chalkboard. The professor was not their Lady. They weren’t not going to go to her, but that did not mean Fin could not be sassy about it. He did a handstand and walked on their hands over to where the Professor stood in the center of the room, tumbling down and rolling into a summersault. It was not as clean as Fin would have liked, but he felt it made a point. They stood up.

”Professor,” Fin said as a way of greeting. ”I am surprised to find myself under your tutelage. I did not think of myself as an artificer. I cannot touch the iron so often used in the art of creation.”

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Connie had spotted Franklin and waved, but was walking toward Rohan. There were new people in the room. Students she hadn’t seen around the campus. That annoyed her a little. This was supposed to be the level of high skill. Yes, she had messed up, but she wasn’t perfect. Even though that rankled. As she was about to speak to Rohan, Agatha swept into the room. She resisted rolling her eyes, but listened.

They wouldn’t even have a chance to discover their roommates, that was annoying. Were their roommates not their Coven? That was an interesting approach. It would bleed the groups together in different configurations. She tilted her head and saw that Rohan had a different broach than her. She held up her key in hopes that he would share a room with her. At least then she would have someone she liked as a roommate. Connie was certain that if her and either of the twins ended up in a room together there might be a murder. Not that she disliked them, but living with either of them would be...unpleasant.

Rohan flashed his key, indicating that they were not rooming together. Accepting her fate that she would not either be sharing a room or be in the same coven as Rohan she shrugged and started off. He needed to go to his. Her focus darted around the room and she spotted two of her Coven-mates. Calling them sisters seemed weird, as for what she could tell she was the only female presenting one out of the trio. Odd. The other groups seemed to be four each.

Connie didn’t recognize either of the two Coven-mates. Both were new. She probably didn’t know everyone that attended Strange Academy, but she doubted she wouldn’t have seen them around at least. That meant they were new. Very well. She was used to helping new students get a grasp of the school. Orientation had become an old hat.

First, she approached the one Franklin was chatting to. ”Hello Franklin.” She showed him her key to see if he was in the same room if not the same Coven.

He showed his own key, as Igor came close to Connie and sniffed her, Connie sighed. ”Unfortunate.” She’d figure it out later than. She gave the small creature a little pat on the head.

”And hello to you as well. I am Connie. We are in the same Coven, with Professor Croan.” There was a hint of annoyance in her voice, but it was directed at the professor's name and not Pancho. Considering the disdain that Croan had thrown at Connie earlier it was likely a shared distaste. ”We should head quickly over to him. You do not want him annoyed at you, but that’s nearly impossible to avoid.” She shrugged slightly. ”Meet you there.” She left and headed toward the professor. ”You’re with me.” She waved to the man who was yelling for whoever was in the red group beckoning him to join her.

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He and Connie weren't sharing a room like last year, it seemed. Or a coven for this year, in fact. Unfortunate, but it was a big school, there'd be plenty of chances for them to run into each other. Agatha Harkness was old, and in Rohan's experience, old things were dangerous and powerful. She wouldn't have lived as long as she had if she didn't know what she was doing, so he was willing to believe the idea of covens being important. A group of magicians, wizards and witches that shared your skills and gave the strength of numbers. It made sense, even if it seemed a bit much to call it "the truest form of sisterhood." It was just power, as far as he understood it. Better access to secrets Rohan didn't know about, people to depend on when a spell went wrong. Anything that bled could be killed, and Rohan liked being alive. Most people did.

He stuffed his knife away, and kept the key for now. A candle, And he didn't notice anyone else holding a key with a candle on it. Oh well, he'd find out later when he walked into the room made of candles, probably. Rohan walked over to them, giving Finely ample space and sticking mostly behind the others who gathered. Finely was the only one he actually recognized, the rest didn't seem familiar at all to him. Sariel seemed eager to get going, do something, and apparently bleed him dry in the process. Like that was happening.

"I'm here, I'm here," He said, taking his sweet time. "What are we up to first?"

Rohan wasn't in any kind of hurry today. He just got here, he knew the place, and they had a whole year to do... Whatever abominable things he suspected this woman had in mind. Honestly, if it was just a little later into the year, he could take a damn nap on this floor right now.

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Annika was staring at one of the statues, wishing she had brought her notebook with her, when the door opening pulled her attention. She listened closely to the Head Mistress’s words, trying to remember if her father ever mentioned Agatha Harkness. She remained lost in thought until she felt the tug on her shirt where the pin materialized. Annika admired the artificer symbol, eager to craft and make something with her hands.

The sound of her name being yelled quickly drew her focus back. Annika quickly hurried across to the centre of the room where Professor Marino stood. She didn’t think they would be launching into lessons so quickly. Annika hadn’t even located her dorm room or unpacked her things.

She glanced at her fellow coven mates, smiling and nodding at them before she focused on the professor, eager to learn from her.

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”I can’t get a read on it,” Cal rumbled, the annoyance clear in his voice as he scanned the room. The hall doors suddenly opened to admit Agatha, and Cal rolled his eyes. Strangely, at the same time, his connection to whatever was making his predatory instincts flare went away. Cal frowned, leaning more on Nicky now that Barty shrugged his arm off.

Callaghan listened to Agatha’s speech simply because he couldn’t not listen. It was within his nature to soak up as much information as he could from anyone in any setting. It was an addiction really. Due to this focus, Cal didn’t notice Nicky tense up. He only knew something was amiss when suddenly the twins' presence was gone. Cal glanced at Finley before sliding closer to them in an effort not to draw more attention to the sudden disappearance of two students. It wasn’t the first time the twins had done this vanishing act with no notice or explanation.

Cal moved to talk to Finley, but they quickly wandered off due to Professor S calling for them. Cal sighed, glanced at the pin on his shirt, and stepped away from the empty space to join Professor Mikkhal.

”What are you planning on teaching us this year, Professor M?” Cal asked, scooping up some refreshments.

"Yeah! It is actually vital for the process! It reduces the- wait, sorry I am not supposed to talk about that"

He apologized with a forced smile while cold sweat accumulated on the back of his neck, he almost gave away some of the secrets of his family. Granted, not like he thought they were important secrets, it was stuff anyone could figure out if they looked at the way they build their Golems, heck he had even said as such to the old hags back at home and it jad earned him an earful for a full hour. So while he didn't really care about it he would rather dodge another scolding about it.

Ah wait, the guy was still there.

"Nevermind that!" He set his hand to the top of his Golem's head, right between the ears "This one is Cholo, he is a Golem made with love and he is the bestest boy you will ever met, isn't that right?"

Happy barking, wagging feathers and a lolling orange tongue were all the answers he needed.

Oh right!

"Hey I didn't get your name, mine is Pedro, though I prefer Pancho or Pedrito"

First friend at the new school.

"Anyway, you mentioned the materials, right? well you see…”

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Sadly his talking time was cut short by the appearance of a new and mystical figure, thankfully the person that interrupted the conversation was a new and mystical figure so he didn’t mind. The words that came from her mouth were conflicting however, not because he disagreed or anything, in fact he found it quite interesting. It was just, well, for some reason he just didn’t feel excited about it which was weird, like, this is the sort of thing he fled volunteered to come here for.

Hmm.

He would have to rummage on this later.

As a brooch materialized in his lapel (Ohh shiny!) his attention was directed back to Franklin, or as he was planning to call him, his Tocayo. Sure Franklin and Francisco weren’t one-to-one but it was close enough and that was what mattered.

Just as he was about to start a new conversation another new person appeared, this time he vaguely recognized her as the girl got into the tank, which in turn reminded him that he was not allowed to jump into the tank like her. The world was really unjust.

Oh shoot he tuned out.

He refocused back into reality just in time to hear her instructions, so, Professor Croan eh? Just his luck… well, he didn’t know who that was but she seemed annoyed and he felt like following her lead. Taking a look at the lost looking dude she was calling he waved and turned back to Franklin.

"Looks like my Coven is gathering, see ya later Tocayo”

With his goodbye done he jogged to reach the woman (Connie right? or should it be Sis? mhmhm). Oh! there was the excitement!

Catching up to her he decided to start a conversation.

"So! What is like shifting forms?"

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Willow was hoping that her roommate for the year would introduce themselves soon, but no one seemed to come over and do so before someone started to speak. The Headmistress of the school. Agatha Harkness. Her Tia had told her a little bit about the woman, and Willow had done some readings about her, but had not been able to glean much from the cards, which was either a good thing or a bad thing. What her Tia had told her was that she was old and powerful and to never cross her, which was honestly what her Tia said about most witches, wizards and magical beings. "Everything has its place and purpose. From the smallest bug to the biggest bird." She had told Willow many a time, when Willow had asked why her Tia had transformed her.

As the woman spoke she mentioned Covens and Willow perked up at that. Tia had mentioned covens before, and here Willow was, about to get one of her own! She knew she had siblings, but to have sisters in the craft? That was a very big deal, and she couldn't wait to meet them and their mentor.

She could feel something being put on her chest, appearing there, and went to run her fingers over it. It had a very distinct shape, with wings and horns. A dragon!

Her attention turned as someone started to speak to her and she smiled brightly. "Coven sisters! Oh, how wonderful! I am Willow, and it lovely to meet you! I do apologize if I seem a bit... odd, what I can and cannot see is up to fate." She chuckled as she turned to Cassie and held out her hand. "Is this your first year here, or are you returning? I got the impression that there were many returning students. Also what does our coven professor look like?"

She could feel a bit of an irritate tap on her shoulder and she turned to look at Luna. "Ah forgive me. Cassie this is Luna. She is my familiar and she helps me see what I am not graced with seeing so easily. Luna, this is Cassie, my coven sister. Luna, dear, can you see if you can find our other coven sister, or brothers? I do not wish to assume they are all female." She reached up and gently pet her familiar, and felt the irritation seem to melt away, before the weight lifted from her shoulder.

"Oh, do forgive me for all the questions, but what circle of magic do you specialize in? Or do you call it something other than circle? I know not all witches are the same." Willow never seemed to look away from Cassie, even though it was hard to tell if she was really looking at the other woman.

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“Hm, danger no more. How fun. Makes us want to want to hunt something, Darling.” Dysphoria murmured into Finley’s ear as they made their way over to Sariel, a tendril caressing Finley’s back. “Yes, we do not care much for metals. You also have drawn the one that smells like an angry beehive. Do you do things with wood like with metal? Oh, Darling, maybe we will make a metal box thing but with wood. We could give it to our Dewdrop! Another little trinket thingy they care for so much.”



“Marcus.” Nicholas watched the thing go on about it’s broach from around the corner of the statue, bumbling its way around like a bee without a hive. “Or at least the semblance of him. This doppelganger wandered in without nary a notice. A descendant with a reasonable grasp of magic, a hunter with the right connections, or something else altogether – our options are unpleasant at best and quitting this place before the bloodbath begins benefits our continued survival.” Old emotions stirred in his heart – deep, deep, deep in his heart – but Nicholas let himself be fooled once before by the blood of Raleigh once before and he had no intention of doing so again. It’d been fun – a dragon, a fey, and a symbiote a pleasurable diversion from the mundanity of existence – but Nicholas would trade every head in this room for Barty’s and his without a second thought.

Barty followed his brother's eyes, looking towards the man he watched with such ire. His lips twitched, unable to decide if it should smile or scowl, unable to discern the future on if this new haven should be nothing more than another sham they must vacate once more. His gaze locked onto his twin's eyes. ”If you have concerns then best we address them now. No need to throw everything we have away over a simpleton who appears to be…I won't even utter his name and give him the pleasure. Let me enchant him, beguile his tongue so that we may know the truth of it all. And if he seems to be a threat and who you believe him to be, we can either run or dispatch of him on the spot. But if he is truly as airheaded as his appearance should deem, we stay. Maybe even work out some frustrations of our past with him.” A cruel smile twisting onto Barty’s face.

Nicholas sent a long mental sigh back to his twin. Of course. Why did he expect anything else? “Fine. Have your fun. But if even a silver of that man in there, we leave.”

Barty looked back past the statue they hid behind, making sure to find his prey once more. The second Jake was in his sights, he turned on his heel and set off towards him with a determined march. Barty didn’t care who was around him, he didn't even care if anyone saw, all he wanted was answers and closure. For him, and for Nicky. As he made his way through, the same mixture he'd used before was broken out and applied with more fervor. Once he reached his subject, he allowed the spell to take place before speaking. ”You, there, you will answer my questions and answer them honestly. Is that understood?”

Jake had been about to go eagerly join the other members of the Red Coven, having been beckoned by the orange headed girl to follow, when someone new approached him - and spoke to him more directly than anyone else had in his short life.

There wasn’t much of a noticeable change in Jake’s expression, still the same dumbfounded awe as he took in a brand new world. At the newcomer’s arrival, he couldn’t help but smile. He didn’t know what made someone pretty or not, but he could immediately tell that this boy was beautiful. He liked him very much, ”Yes! Hi, I’m Jake!” he then added, staring mesmerized.

Well he was under the spell alright, but giving his name before asked was a red flag. So to ensure he wasn't lying, he asked ”What is your name?”

”Jake!” he responded cheerfully.

”Are you a hunter?”

Jake’s eyebrows furrowed, as he tried to remember. What was a hunter? It was painfully evident on his face as the cogs turned, as he struggled to call that information to mind. And then there was a sudden spark of connection, as the image of a shadowy figure, hot in pursuit with a weapon came to mind. Jake’s eyes widened and he felt very cold for the first time. Was that what he was here to protect people from?

”No!” he shook his head vehemently. ”I think I’m a protector.”

Barty’s eyebrow raised. Such a strong reaction to such a simple question. A part of him wondered if perhaps this Jake's family was also hunted by others. Persecuted as his kind so often has been. Perhaps that was why he was so small minded. He never got the chance to grow and develop. But the second portion of his answer left Barty wanting more. A protector? Of what? A simple answer would be of magic or witchkind so that no others had to face what he faced. An answer the twins had long since turned away from. ”What are you protecting from?”

What was he protecting them from?

He opened his mouth, trying to form the words, but they wouldn’t come. Thinking about it more just made his head begin to ache and throb. Was it from the hunters? From the cold? He wished that he knew. He wanted so badly to please this boy and tell him. It felt like the most important thing in the world to do, to tell him anything he wanted to know.

And the information was there, just out of reach. He could feel it, his skin was hot and the pain in his head was becoming more and more, the pressure increasing as pinpricks of water appeared at the corners of his eyes and then…

”The dark.”

Jake had no idea what that meant.

But it felt true.

”What do you think? There's clearly something wrong with him. But it feels more like unprocessed trauma than malicious intent. Anything else you wish me to ask or clarify?” Barty asked within Nicky's mind.

Nicholas did not wave the cover of his spell as Barty stepped beyond his protection in pursuit of his answers. This “Jake” left Nicholas more on edge than not. He certainly played the part of a village idiot well enough. Still, he left too many things to chance for Nicholas's taste and the urge to run was barely fuelled. “Ask it what it wants to learn.”

”What do you want to learn?” Barty asked as he took a step towards the side, examining him further.

What did he want to learn? Jake didn’t know very many things. Would it be helpful for everyone else if he learned things? He frowned slightly. Maybe he couldn’t protect them if he didn’t know things. ”Magic?” he said, as if asking permission. Should he have wanted to learn who he was, where he came from? ”I don’t remember. So maybe… maybe I want to learn everything?”

Nicholas started as the confusion played across his face. Thinking was clearly terribly difficult for him. “I am satisfied for now. Since it's in your coven, find a favor for it to owe us. We can hold it against it if its true colors show.” Nicholas stepped away from the pair. He was thoroughly confused and concern threatened a stomach cramp. It had barely been a century and a half. Why would his face show up now? It was not nearly random enough for this face to appear in this city, where they felt safe again. If Barty wanted to play with this thing, Nicholas would drown it in debt that its spawn would be paying for millennia.

His invisibility drifted off a second before he fell in line with Callaghan, the same pin on his chest. “The village idiot.” Nicholas offered Cal as a way of explanation, a brief touch on the arm an apology for vanishing earlier. He fished out his flask, unscrewed it, and took a swig.

Barty smiled, though he didn't mean it. He looked down at the pin that was on his coat's lapel and then pointed towards the one Jake had. A snap of his fingers breaking the enchantment so that he had a willing participant. ”Well why didn't you say that sooner. I know tons about magic, and the world too. I can show you the ropes, teach you how to cast, and in turn you'll just owe me a favor. Everytime you need my help, all you need to do is ask and if I agree a favor will be owed beyond the first. Deal?” Barty said as he held out his hand for Jake to shake.

Jake tilted his head slightly. That seemed incredibly fair! He just didn’t know what he was supposed to do with the hand. Was Barty asking him to examine it? Nothing looked wrong with it to him. It seemed like a hand. Jake glanced down at his own hands for comparison. And then a sudden idea hit him. He did know what he was supposed to do with a hand! He was so incredibly proud of himself, as he bent down and kissed Barty’s knuckles. ”That sounds great to me! What’s your name? Can I know it? If it costs a favor to know it, that’s okay! I don’t know what favors you want from me because I don’t know what I can do, but if that’s okay with you then let’s do it!”

As Jake lifted his lips off of Barty's knuckles, a token would appear in its place. Barty allowed it to roll off before he caught it and pocketed it into his coat for safe keeping. ”Such a clever boy already. It does cost a favor to know my name, and since you're glad to pay it –” Barty took Jake's hand in his, pulling him closer until they were chest to chest, leaning forward ever so slightly so that he could whisper into Jake's ear. ”The name's Bartholomew Hammish Macleod, but you can call me Barty.” With the last word spoken, Barty nibbled on Jake's earlobe before something solid appeared quickly. As he pulled back, another token of the same variety was now placed between his teeth. He pocketed that one quickly as well before motioning for the boy toy to press on. ”Come, Jake, we are to meet with the rest of our Coven.”

Even without the spell, Jake was mesmerized. Barty was even prettier up close. He almost whined slightly as the other boy pulled away, motioning for him to follow after. ”Barty for short, Bartholomew Hammish Macleod for long,” Jake whispered to himself, repeating it a few times so he wouldn’t forget, as he too made his way on over to the Red Coven.



“You just don’t have the perspective yet, Finley. And no, I will not be teaching you to make a wooden car, Dysphoria. We must set our sights on greater goals! The point of a coven here at Strange Academy is to explore a mystery. A puzzling tasking that drove more powerful, more patient, and wiser sorcerers than you to the brink of madness. It’s only at that point you will overcome the walls that hold you, break the chains that restrict you, overcome the flimsy trappings of morality, and revel in the renown your discoveries and deeds brought you.” Sariel replied passionately. She opened her book and plucked out three pieces of parchment stuck haphazardly in the back. She handed one to Finley, Rohan, and Annika with one still sticking out.

“Of course, grand discoveries don’t happen without the right equipment and the right equipment doesn’t just make itself so you’ll find the instructions to one of our restricted labs on these pages. Understand that myself or another researcher must be present for you to access this space so make good use of the time both inside and out of it. I will be waiting for you tomorrow. Please be sure to wear closed toed shoes and skip anything excessively loose. We don’t want a misplaced sleeve ruining your efforts.” Sariel paused for a moment. “Or amputating your arm, I suppose. At least that’s replaceable.”



Mikkail beamed at Callaghan as he made his way over, Mikkail’s pin on his chest. “Teaching? No, no, no my dear boy! Guiding!” Mikkail corrected, peering over his glasses as Nicholas stepped out of thin air. “Though there is some element of randomness to the covens, your Mystery will be truly that: a mystery! One that, when you solve, will reveal an entirely new branch of magic henceforth undiscovered on this planet. There is some evidence that it was wielded for a short century before vanishing into obscurity, rather violent in truth but most of this planet’s history was written in red well before my arrival, and our responsibilities as keepers of magic, knowledge, and wisdom is to document it before it has fully died.”

“I was thinking of hosting our introductory session in my sitting room here. I recently had the couches upholstered, you know. The pink I think was well enough, but this purple? Delightful. The texture? Dramatic. The ambiance? Perfection!” Mikkail toasted. “Yes, I think that works well. I’ll simply requisition a chalkboard - that squeaky one on wheels, yes - and we’ll feel right at home. Now where are our other two students?”



Croan watched the parade of his Coven approach with obvious distaste. “Wonderful. A collection of simpletons and jesters. Blessed am I who watches such a flock.” Professor Croan sighed. “The Coven level is meant for those mature, independent, and trusted enough with their magic to explore its means and nuances independently with limited structure and direction. Unlike your peers, you have the honor to be under my tutelage and you will be held to my standards. They are exacting, demanding, and exhausting, but should you find yourself meeting them - I do not dare dream of one of you exceeding them - then you will find aspects of your magic that you could have never dreamed of.”

“The principle behind this system is that any progress is success. Disavow yourself of such a notion. Your challenge, your Mystery, is your success, your competency, and your future here at Strange Academy. Fail to solve it and you will fail this year. Solve it and you pass. I think the expectation simple.” Croan leveled a blank look at his students. “We will meet behind door 12 in the archives on the morrow. I recommend you spend this evening learning what is behind it.”

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Frankie's eyes lit up as the new student had begun to answer his questions about his creation process. No sooner had he started to speak than he had already begun to stop. Not supposed to talk about that? It appeared this sort of magic was a closed practice then. Interesting. He wouldn't be the only person with magical prowess to practice under secret arts, so it was understandable if not still greatly disappointing to hear. He was quick to change subjects too, introducing him to the various Golems instead. That would have to suffice. Now materials, that seemed a subject he could – sigh.Thanks Agatha for interrupting what was a wonderful conversation into the creation of being with your less than enthusiastic speech. By now Franklin had stood up, his hand going into his pocket while the other held onto his bag.

As soon as her speech ended, it seemed everyone was eager to meet their Covens. Frankie was already being summoned by Sariel from his, as she was always one to be on a schedule. As Pedrito began to say his goodbyes, Frankie couldn't help but pause for a moment. “What does Tocayo mean? Did he mishear my name? Ugh did I mumble again? See Igor this is why I cant make friends. Heads in the clouds and mouths full of rocks. Its fine maybe he and I can chat later and I'll repeat my name clearly for him. For now…she calls.” Frankie made his way over towards where all the others had already gathered. Great, he was the last one. That wouldn't go over well. He noticed all the other students holding a piece of paper with one left in Sariel's book. “So what exactly is out mystery? Or is finding out part of the process tomorrow?”