After that, the first-year students returned to the Elemental Hall of Water for their Potions and Alchemy class. The atmosphere was filled with a mixture of excitement and apprehension after the previous day's events.
Professor Norlia Nightshade stood at the front of the room, her calm demeanor undisturbed by the previous day's commotion. "Today, we will be learning to make a basic healing elixir. This potion is essential for any aspiring witch or wizard, as it can mend minor wounds and restore energy."
She demonstrated the process step-by-step, her precise movements mesmerizing the students. "First, we begin with a base of moonwater, known for its rejuvenating properties. Next, we add crushed moonflower petals, grated mandrake root, and a drop of unicorn tears."
The students watched intently, taking careful notes and following along as best they could. Aurora Silverleaf, known for her enthusiasm and slightly reckless approach, was particularly eager to get started.
"Remember," Professor Norlia cautioned, "potion-making requires patience and precision. A single mistake can have... unintended consequences."
Aurora, however, was already halfway through the process, adding ingredients with a bit too much gusto. "I've got this," she muttered to herself, her eyes gleaming with determination.
Meanwhile, Kieran smirked, watching her with a mix of amusement and anticipation.
As Aurora added the final ingredient, a drop of unicorn tears, her cauldron began to bubble violently. "Uh-oh," she whispered, taking a step back.
Before anyone could react, the cauldron exploded with a loud bang, filling the lab with smoke and leaving Aurora covered in black soot, her hair standing on end.
The class burst into laughter, and Kieran couldn't resist the opportunity to tease her. "I guess heaven does exist, and it's affecting you with my luck," he said, grinning broadly.
Aurora, despite her soot-covered appearance, managed a sheepish smile. "I think I added a bit too much unicorn tears."
Professor Norlia, though clearly amused, maintained her composure. "Aurora, potion-making is about balance. Remember, less is often more."
She turned to the rest of the class. "Let this be a lesson to all of you. Precision and control are crucial in alchemy. Now, let's clean up and try again, shall we?"
As the students began to clean up the mess, Aric couldn't help but admire Aurora's resilience. "Nice try, Aurora. At least you made a memorable potion."
Aurora laughed, shaking the soot from her hair. "Thanks, Aric. I'll get it right next time."
Kieran, still smirking, added, "Just try not to blow us up again, okay?"
Professor Norlia clapped her hands, regaining the students' attention. "Alright, everyone, let's refocus. Potion-making is as much about learning from our mistakes as it is about getting things right. Let's see some proper healing elixirs by the end of this class."
The students, now more cautious but equally determined, set to work once more, guided by Professor Norlia's steady hand. This time, they measured their ingredients carefully, ensuring the correct proportions of mandrake root, moonflower petals, and unicorn tears.
Aric, with his usual calm and steady approach, finished his potion first. His elixir was a shimmering, pale blue liquid that gave off a soft, healing glow. Professor Norlia examined it and nodded approvingly. "Well done, Aric. A perfect healing elixir."
Aurora, taking her time this round, managed to create a potion that didn't explode. Though it wasn't as perfect as Aric's, it still had the desired effect. "Good job, Aurora. Much better," said Professor Norlia with an encouraging smile.
Kieran, trying his best to outdo Aric, produced a slightly less potent elixir but still managed to get it right. "Not bad, Kieran. Keep practicing," Norlia commented.
By the end of the class, most students had successfully brewed a healing elixir, with only a few minor mishaps. Professor Norlia addressed them all, "Remember, potion-making is an art and a science. It requires patience, practice, and precision. I am proud of the progress you all have made today."