Bound By Power

Chapter 18

We are at out hangout spot when Nico's face lights up with that mischievous grin I know too well. He crosses his arms and leans in. "Alright, here's the plan: we need to get the gemstone back from Professor Campbell's office. It's too dangerous for him to hold onto it, and something tells me he's not being entirely honest about its power."

I glance at him warily. "Are you suggesting we just... steal it?"

Nico shrugs, looking completely unbothered. "Borrow, steal—same difference when lives are on the line."

Camila, always quick to take action, nods thoughtfully. "Actually, it might be possible. He won't be in his office for a while; he's supervising the tryouts at the arena. I saw him near the Whispering Wands booth."

A spark of hope ignites in the group. "That's perfect," I say. "But we still need to be careful. If he catches us, we're toast."

Nico cracks his knuckles, clearly enjoying the idea of a heist. "So, here's what we'll do: you and I will sneak into the office and retrieve the gemstone. Camila will keep watch, and James..."

Everyone turns to James, who looks both amused and slightly horrified. "I'll... what? Be the distraction?"

Camila chuckles. "Yep, you're going to keep Professor Campbell busy. You're last year's valedictorian! Talk to him, ask him something about the try-outs, I don't know. Just make sure he doesn't head back to the office."

James rubs his neck nervously but eventually nods. "Okay, fine. I'll do it, but I'm not taking the blame if we get caught."

"You won't get caught," Nico assures him with a wink. "I'm a pro at sneaking into places I shouldn't be. We'll be in and out before anyone notices."

I take a deep breath, the excitement and nerves already bubbling up inside me. "Alright, let's do this. The gemstone might hold the key to everything. We can't let it sit there in his office any longer."

Camila looks at her watch. "Okay, let's move. We don't have much time."

With the plan set, we break into action, each of us knowing our role.

James

Professor Campbell walks beside me, muttering something about the importance of today's try-outs, but I can hardly focus. My mind is racing. I need to keep him away from the office for as long as possible, I remind myself.

"Professor, I've been meaning to ask," I say, interrupting his thoughts. "What's the deal with the Astral Explorers? I mean, I heard they're into some really advanced stuff. How do you, uh, get a foot in the door?"

He gives me a curious glance but slows his pace. Good, that's a start.

"The Astral Explorers? Hm, well, they focus on higher-level spatial magic and astral projection techniques," Professor Campbell begins, clearly passionate about the topic. "It's not just about mastering a craft; it's about the discipline and control of your powers in the abstract world."

I nod eagerly, hoping to keep him talking. "That sounds... fascinating. Have you ever led any astral expeditions?"

As he dives into a long-winded explanation about one of his favourite expeditions, I glance down at my watch, calculating how much time we've got left. Hopefully, Nico and Rory are doing okay.

Suddenly, Campbell pauses mid-sentence. "I forgot to bring some materials for today's try-outs. I should head back to my office."

Crap. No, no, no, no. Think!

I force a smile. "You know, Professor, I think what you've said really resonates with me. Could you give me more insight into... you know, how telekinesis fits into the astral world?"