Chapter 2

Very good class. Before we end our final session of the week I have a few bonus questions, for gold stars of course. But don’t worry they are easy.” The class cheered. “First, what are the three divisions within Function?” Several students raise their hand, “Jaxson.”

“They are the scholars, experimentalists, and theorists.”

“Correct. Who can name the roles in each. Scholars first. And in order by rank too.” With the last constraint a few hands went down, “Lets see, Nualial.”

“First its the scribes, then teachers, then librarians.”

“Great. Who wants experimentalist’s? Jam’lina.”

“Professors, alchemist, and modellers.”

Another one interjects, “Wrong, alchemist are above modelers. My dad is an alchemist.” She sticks her tongue out in a mocking gesture.

“Good correction Charen. Half a star for you both. But also minus half a star from Charen for being mean.” The class chuckles again.

“Last one, Mindya.”

“Well I think it’s… philosophers, mathematicians, and then laureate’s.”

“Perfect. Well that’s it from me anything you all want talk about before I end session?” Alliyson gets her answers when all the kids begin to pack up and leave.

As the students rush out a familiar face enters. “Hey, Alliyson looking as sexy as ever I see, how’s it hanging.”

“First off you are seeing someone. Second what do you want. Third, no.”

“Harsh, but I'll cut the chase. Both Sammi and Sam suddenly got sick so they can’t do guard duty tonight.”

“So?”

“So me and Hannah are next in line for duty.”

“Well you two have fun with that.”

“But I own Hannah a ton and she what’s to cash some in by having me do it by myself all night.”

“Well you, singular, have fun with that.”

“Wait, listen.” He waits for the last student to leave before walking in close to Alliyson. He whispers, “The thing is I was hoping to spend the night with Kail-Nuya before she starts her exploration.”

Having finished gathering her things Alliyson heads to the door, “Sounds perfect to me, you two can spend the night in the Garden together, how romantic.”

Getting **** the man falls to he knees, “I already suggested that but she claims the place freaks her out too much to…ya know… do anything.”

Alliyson couldn’t help but roll her eyes at the pathetic puppy dog eyes staring back it her. Yet the tactic wears her down.

“Why me? Aren’t there a bunch of other people that are on call?”

“Yeah but they would ask too many questions. You are the coolest, most trustworthy friend I have. I’m begging you.”

“Sounds like you need more friends.” Alliyson continues to leave but something in her gut makes her change her mind, “But fine I'll do it, you owe me big time though.” She says with a sigh.

The man pops up quickly, grinning from ear to ear. “Alliyson you are the absolute greatest. You will be an alchemist in no time and after that, the youngest laureate ever!” He embraces her with an long, strong hug.

“You are such a snake, you know that right.” She responds while trying to push him off.

“I know you mean that as an insult, but I take it as a compliment! Love you Alliyson see you in the morning.” And with that the man hurried away toward his lover.