Students entered the lecture hall, talking as they came in from the corridors. The desks were arranged in rows, already set up with paper and ink by the assistants earlier that morning. The room carried a faint smell of wax and chalk.
Vencian entered with Elias, their steps carrying them to the right-hand section where sunlight from the tall windows made the benches brighter than the rest. A few heads turned. Whispers followed, the same low hum he had grown used to since his arrival. He ignored them, lowering himself into a seat while Elias dropped into the one beside him.
The noise dulled when Professor Marothil strode in. His black robes swept behind him, and he carried a stack of bound packets in one arm. His tone needed no effort to command attention.
"This session will not follow the usual form. Today marks the beginning of the Interdisciplinary Practicum."
Chairs scraped as students straightened.
