Youve probably heard the names of the nine specialisms by now, Professor Amethyst began. Biological, sonar, chemical, molecular, magnetic, electrical, elemental, nuclear. Then theres the most powerful specialism: atomic.

From what Ive seen of my classmates, all Seers have great powers, Oliver said. Everyones been able to manipulate the environment to their advantage in one way or another.

Professor Amethyst smiled. Wise beyond your years. A telltale sign of an atomic specialism.

Oliver felt his cheeks warm. He was excited by the prospect of having atomic powers, but at the same time he felt like it would be something of a burden, as though thered be some kind of expectation hed have to live up to. He didnt want there to be any bad blood between him and his new friends, and hed already witnessed Ralphs upset at not being able to do something a Seer with a biological specialism ought to, and Walter complaining that his magnetic specialism was weak. It didnt seem to matter that they were all amazing, they still had hang-ups. Oliver hated the idea of adding to that in any way.

And what if his type was cobalt? What would an atomic specialism mean in the hands of a cobalt Seer? Was the combination potentially more dangerous? Oliver felt his nerves increase.

Ive heard that theres more to being a Seer than just the specialism, he said, timidly. He swallowed. That there are also two types.

Professor Amethyst looked a little disappointed. Youve been told, he said, sighing. I prefer my first-years not to get terrified about types but these things cant be avoided. Whispers spread. He shook his head, then continued. Yes. Bromine and cobalt. Try not to get bogged down by the terms. At the end of the day its what you do with your powers that makes the difference. All Seers have the potential to be the greatest. And all Seers have the same mission; to protect the universe and the innocent humans that inhabit her.

His words took root in Olivers mind. There was a mission, a collective one to protect the universe. Ralph had told him as much when theyd looked through the library book but Oliver hadnt fully understood it. Now he realized he had a duty to protect mankind.

Who are we protecting the universe from exactly? he asked.

Professor Amethysts expression turned grave. In every moment in history, in every dimension, there are villains intent on causing destruction and imbalance. Some are aided by rogue Seers. We view them as our enemies.

But why? Oliver asked. Why would people want to cause destruction?