"Umbra Astral! That's the last straw!" the teacher barked, "Move to the back of the room, away from Mr. Stürme!"

Umbra shrugged, grinning at Matthew, who's face was red with pent up laughter. Umbra picked up his backpack, swaggering to the back of the room and plopping into an empty table, right beside a freshman with dark hair and fearful eyes. He flinched, scooting to the furthest end of the table.

"Aren't you the new kid?" Umbra asked, flipping through his book, "Victor, wasn't it?"

Victor nodded, chewing on his lip. He turned back to his book, and Umbra heard him whimper.

"What's wrong? Worried about the test tomorrow?" Umbra inquired, peeking at his poorly written notes.

Victor nodded, and Umbra noticed he was on the verge of tears.

Umbra touched him on the shoulder, expression turning soft. "Hey, there's nothing to worry about. Mr. Infinity's tests are pretty easy. He's all bark and no bite."

"Really?" Victor croaked.

"Of course. Trust me, I'm a senior," Umbra leaned back in his chair, "But if you're still concerned, come sit with me at lunch. I'm not the best at math, but my friend Matthew is."

"You mean the guy that looks like a football player? He seems kinda scary."

Umbra snorted. "He's just a big teddy bear. Biggest nerd I know. He'll make sure you understand everything for tomorrow. He loves the freshman."

Victor twisted his pencil between his fingers, avoiding Umbra's gaze. "Thank you... I was worried the older kids were gonna be mean. Someone already tripped me in the hall this morning."

Umbra furrowed his brow. "Well, if that's the case, I want you to stick with me. They'll have to be an idiot if they pick on me or Matthew. I'm your bodyguard now, Victor."