Vivienne, standing behind Morgana with arms folded, stepped forward next. "These divisions are not requests. Your assignments have already been decided."
She tapped her clipboard, her usual strict expression carved in place. "Everhart. Vaelith. Varen."
Merlin lifted his gaze. Elara's brow furrowed faintly beside him. Nathan blinked once, straightening.
"You three," Vivienne continued, "will report to the Headmistress's chamber for your orientation. Immediately."
Murmurs rippled through the crowd again, recognition, envy, curiosity. The strongest of their year, all summoned together.
Merlin's jaw tightened. 'Of course.'
He glanced briefly toward the others, Adrian's grin, half encouragement, half curiosity; Liliana's wide-eyed smile that didn't quite hide her worry; Ethan's lazy wave, like this was all a game; Seraphina's knowing look that said be careful.
Morgana turned without another word and left through the upper corridor.
Merlin, Nathan, and Elara followed.
