In the library, the afternoon study crowd was unusually large for a Sunday.
Students preparing for the competition occupied several tables, reviewing strategy notes and magical theory materials. Others worked on regular academic assignments, trying to stay current despite the distraction of upcoming major events.
Jessica sat with her group in their usual corner, ostensibly studying but actually observing the competition team members scattered throughout the library.
"You're watching the team again," Melody said without looking up from her textbook.
"They're interesting to observe. High-stress preparation creates revealing behavioral patterns." Jessica made a discrete note. "Notice how Liam keeps checking the entrance? He's anxious about something. And Mira keeps reviewing the same page of notes without actually reading—she's distracted."
"Maybe they're just stressed about the competition like normal people would be."
