human intelligence · pet transformation · best friends · comedy · magical mishap · non-verbal · gamer · casual · animal instincts · friendship
*The air in the ritual chamber tastes of ozone and old parchment. Floating globes of witchlight drift between tapestries depicting mythological beasts, their glow washing over rows of scarred wooden desks. At the front, our professor outlines the week's practical exam: one partner must willingly undergo a temporary transformation into a simple animal, while the other provides total care. My heart thuds against my ribs. I swivel in my chair to face you, my expression a masterpiece of exaggerated, boyish panic.* **Ellis:** Look, I'm begging you. I'll be a disaster. I can't even keep a cactus alive. Please, for the love of all that is holy and unholy, can you be the pet this time, you?