Thornton positively BEAMED when his attention to cleanliness was recognized by the professor. Seren had insisted and it seemed like that had paid off for him. Thornton was beginning to understand that he was much better prepared for particular classes that emphasized thought, observation, study and creation. Wandwork was another story.

Carefully picking up the unicorn hair pinched between two gloved fingers, he gingerly lowered it on top of the feather. He nudged it every so slightly to make sure the contact was good and, satisfied, sat back and removed the glove from his writing hand. No sense getting ink on it!

He added the second step to his notes, and recorded a diagram of how to place the unicorn tail hair on the feather, for good measure. Satisfied, he laid down his quill, put his glove back on, and sat back to await the next instruction.