Celina stood before the glowing crystal, its soft blue light pulsing gently like a heartbeat. The monument towered above her, its magical energy humming quietly in the air. Every student in the room watched her intently, their eyes filled with curiosity and scepticism. Her white hair and crimson eyes made her stand out, an enigma among her peers.
They wanted to know how much affinity someone like her would have.
Instructor Helios, known for his impatience, crossed his arms and tapped his foot, his irritation growing with each passing second.
"What's she doing?" someone whispered.
"Is she scared or just trying to act special?" another student muttered.
Celina reached out her hand but paused. Slowly, she pulled out a white handkerchief and began to clean her palm.
Helios's eyebrows knitted together.
"What now?"
Celina offered a small, awkward smile. "I like to keep things clean."
Some students laughed. Others groaned or rolled their eyes.