Adrian felt the vibration of his communication device as the Vice-Principal's voice faded from the arena. He pulled it from his wrist, a small light flashing on the surface, indicating a new message. Around him, others did the same, checking their notifications as the assignment groups began to form.
"Looks like we've been assigned," Kairen said, glancing down at his own message. Adrian nodded as he scanned the message:
Group 1: Ceil (2nd Year), Ella (4th Year, Leader), Claire (3rd Year), Adrian(1st year), Aria, Ardel, Aurelius, Aurelia.
He froze for a second, his eyes locking on Aria's name. She would be with him, but the others—Kairen, Lila—weren't. He glanced over at Aria, and she met his gaze, already understanding what this meant.
"We'll be in different groups," Ardel said softly, her expression betraying a flicker of disappointment. Adrian nodded, forcing a calm expression.
"It's for the best," he replied. "We'll cover more ground."
