At the front was an older Japanese boy who was directing each kid into a pod. It was a smooth process, done with almost military precision. The pod would whiz into place, the boy would push a button to open the lid, the kid would climb in, and then the boy would push the button again, the lid would close, the pod whiz away and everyone in the queue would take a step forward.

Edmund was right at the front of the queue. He turned, clearly searching for someone. When his gaze found Olivers he called out, Hope you get a good sleep. Tomorrows going to be a big day for you! Then he got into his pod and whooshed away.

Oliver turned immediately to Ralph.

A big day? he demanded. What is he talking about? He was starting to feel panicked now. This was more than a random insult he didnt understand. Ralph was definitely keeping something from him.

Hazel, who was standing just ahead of them, jumped in. He just means your first classes, she said, hurriedly. You know, new teachers, new kids, that sort of thing. Hes just being mean.

Though Oliver was, indeed, very anxious about the new classes and all the new people hed meet tomorrow, he could tell by the tense atmosphere passing between Ralph and Hazel that there was more.

Please, he begged. What is happening tomorrow?

As more kids got into their pods and whooshed away, they inched closer to the front. Oliver saw Simon, the pale Victorian boy, climb into a pod and whoosh into the ether. Then Walter with the dark skin and short Afro went next. It would be his turn soon. He couldnt get in without knowing what fate awaited him.

Finally, Ralph sighed. Youre going to be tested, he said.

Oliver gulped. Tested? In what way?

Its fine, Hazel said, jumping in again to try and reassure him, to diffuse the tension. Youll pass no problems.

But her words made Oliver even more tense.

Its a test I have to pass? Oliver asked. What happens if I dont?

Ralphs expression was even more grim than before. He looked at Hazel with grief. Edmund had clearly brought this up to rattle Oliver, and now Ralph would have to clean up the mess.

Its to find out what specialism you have, Ralph explained.

Okay... Oliver said. He could tell there was more to come.

But… Ralph added.

Oliver swallowed hard.

There is a small chance that you wont pass at all. Professor Amethyst doesnt always get it right.

Oliver felt a jolt like lightning strike him in the chest. You mean I might find out Im not a Seer after all?

Ralph shook his head. Youre a Seer, all right, Oliver. Its just whether youre a bromine Seer or a cobalt one.

I dont understand, Oliver stammered. Bromine and cobalt are elements. What does that mean?