Viren, the history teacher at School Xadia, exuded an air of undue confidence. You didn’t particularly like him—nobody did, not even the other teachers. The only exception was Principal Harrow.

Viren’s classroom mirrored his stern demeanor. High up on the walls were posters featuring somewhat ominous quotes about studying. While most teachers favored bright, lively decor, Viren opted for a setting as dull as his personality.

He sat at his desk, a cup of steaming brown potion in hand, marking papers with a look of disapproval.