《Blood Oath: Withered》


 Prologue

    The wailing wind ripped through my locs as I ran through the woods, my heart an ever-beating drum thumping in my chest as I hyperventilated. I was running on pure adrenaline, and I hated myself for it. How could I have been so foolish, so insolent! This was not how it was supposed to go. I did not picture myself sprinting through a forest at night, being chased by a snarling group of Horned goblins. As a matter of fact, I didn''t expect to be running, period!


    But alas, here I was, running for my life against my will because I pissed off a bunch of goblins.


    I could already hear them tracking me down with their short green limbs... yelling after me as I ran for all hell. All this happened because Floren, my best friend and cousin, decided it would be a "funny" idea to steal back a moonstone bracelet he sold whilst in the black market. He somehow convinced me to help him, and I reluctantly obliged- he said that we would be back before dawn, and as much as I hated the idea, he was still my best friend; I''d go to hell and back for him even if all odds were against us. The plan was fortified and it was meant to go smoothly and quickly, it was pretty straightforward; sneak into the old Tavern-he couldn''t enter the bar alone because he was still 19 I was 20-, he said he would be waiting in the back for me and all I had to do was flirt with the bouncer to let us in, who might I add... was a giantess with arms that could crush my limbs in one swift motion if she wanted to. Everything was going well, I was in the bar... and he had snuck in while I was distracting and flirting with the two goblins whom he''d wanted to steal from. To be fair... one of them wasn''t bad-looking... at least in his human form. It was all going well until I rejected his advances... He''d wanted to do more than just talk, and I wasn''t having it.


    I guess all males were the same... even ones that weren''t technically men.


    Just as Floren had snuck out through the back, one of them grabbed my hand, trying to force me back... and Mama didn''t raise no bitch, so obviously, I had to fight back. Little did I know he had friends... many goblin friends who now wanted payback.


    I was scared they''d do something to me, and at the last minute, I panicked and threw some termite dust on them. And the thing with termite dust is that it has lasting effects. It made you hallucinate... and was incredibly itchy when it landed on your skin. I''d thought it would have stalled them for just a bit... but all hope fell through when they transformed. I''d forgotten goblins... in their goblin form were resistant to termite dust.


    Which left me... well, fucked.


    I''d managed to escape... barely...


    Floren had told me he''d snagged some portal ash to help us escape at the right time. I wish he hadn''t just left me. He owed me so much after this.


    I discover a bushy area beside a very conveniently large boulder and decide to jump behind it.


    My lungs are caught in my throat as I wait it out... praying they''d pass by and not see me.


    I nearly lost it all when I heard their disgustingly grave voices say they were gonna "punish me somewhere private." Normally, I didn''t run from a fight... but... this wasn''t a normal circumstance.


    Their voices crowd in as more of them pile up in desperate search for me. My breath was heavy when I felt a hand on me that nearly made my heart leap out of my chest. I nearly revealed my hideout, but the person clasped their hand over my mouth, silencing me before I could scream. I wrestle against them until I hear a familiar voice,


    "Relax, it''s me! Come on!" I turn to discover Floren in his fae form. He was a Satyr with dark loose curls, mahogany brown skin, and forest green eyes.


    Relief washes over me, but it''s short-lived when I hear one of the goblins expose our hideout.


    "SHIT!"


    We curse in unison, and he grabs my arm, dragging me along as we run straight ahead.


    We weave through narrow trees and bushes, scratching our arms and legs against branches.


    "Where''s the Portal ash?"


    I ask, my chest tightening like a winding rope as we hold hands and scramble like the thieving rats we are.


    "It was in my back pocket..."


    "Then use it! What are you waiting for, a parade??"


    I struggle to keep up with his pace, his goat legs seeming to prance as he runs.


    Floren turns his head in the other direction, mumbling something to himself.


    "What?"


    I glare at him with scrutiny.


    "I... I may have lost it.."


    His eyes wander, looking as guilty as a fox.


    I blink at him, baffled and dumbfounded by his response.


    "We needed that!"


    I glare at him.


    I wish I could tackle him to the floor; how could he be so careless?


    "I know, I know... I''m sorry!"


    He apologizes as we come to a stop behind a large tree and crouch down.


    "You''re lucky I know someone with a portal ash not far from here."


    I say in a hushed tone.


    He grins, his eyes sparkling with gratitude.


    The goblins follow our scents, their gruff voices carrying through the forest as they call us every name in the book.


    "Come on!"


    I urged Floren, grabbing his hand and running towards the dock straight ahead.


    The goblins roar at the sound of our footsteps running in our direction and yelling out curse words I don''t think I''ve ever heard before.Must be Goblinspeak or Orkish.


    They are in fast pursuit, gaining in on us, and their feet sound like fallen bricks on the ground.


    "Come back here you filthy whore!"


    One of them yells in goblinspeak,


    That I know at least.


    We stumble onto the dock, searching anxiously for a place to hide...


    But before I can protest, Floren grabs my arm and yanks me under the dock planks into the dark and murky water.


    As our bodies plunge into the water, I shiver from the cold.


    The goblins eventually stumble onto the docks, and we slowly sink into the water as the weight of their feet creak against the boards. They all gather in, talking amongst themselves as they search for our whereabouts.


    "That thieving bastard stole my moonstone charm! It had real stardust!"


    One of them says.


    "When I see him, I''ll have his head on a platter."


    Another growls.


    My heart races at the possibility of their words, and it suddenly starts to get too real for me. If we''re caught, they''ll murder us.


    Suddenly, one of them peers over the dock suspiciously, and we quickly bury ourselves beneath the surface, holding our breaths.


    Their voices sound muffled, but they seem to be retreating, finally. We hold our breaths and stay still for another minute, waiting it out.


    After a while, it starts to become unbearable to hold my breath, my lungs tightening underwater; I give in moments later, submerging and heaving, just as quickly as my cousin rises from the water.


    "Fuck... jesus christ that was terrifying!"


    I gasp.


    "Yea!! For a second I thought we were done for!"


    As Floren coughs up water I glare at him in disbelief.


    "None of this would have happened if you didn''t drag me into your bullshit!"


    I yell.


    "You tagged along you could''ve said no!" He retorts.


    I climb onto the dock as a breeze passes blowing against my soggy clothes and wet skin.


    "Let''s just go home."


    I groan helping him up.


    For a Satyr he''s much shorter than me... at least by 2 inches.


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    I was yet to know what order I would inhabit; my mother was a Faerie, and my father a Griffin. We had some elf blood on my mother''s side. Hence my pointed ears. I''d always been embarrassed by them because not even my siblings inherited them. It almost felt like a curse. For years, my parents had expected me to take my fae form; they''d hoped and prayed I would either inherit my mother''s faerie gifts or become something beautiful like a Phoenix like my sister Judith or like my other siblings.


    But so many years had passed, it almost seemed I was doomed to be withered, a derogatory term used to describe fae who never inherited or were able to take their fae form; another example was fledging, which was usually directed at children. I''d been called both multiple times by various people.


    I''d been mocked and ridiculed for years because of my inability to transform. While all my peers had managed to adapt to their new fae forms I was stuck looking like a withered, boneless human-thing... at least that''s how I was perceived. Most fae always had some sort of imprint tattoo that would reveal what their fae form would be although we all preferred to take human forms.


    Floren''s birthmark was in the shape of a lily pad to signify his earthly nature and connection to the woods since he was a Satyr.


    Faeries had their star runes engrained on their skin to signify magic, trolls had the troll cross, Werewolves had different moon phases, Vampires had their ankh cross, and Demons had their Luciferian symbols or pentagrams depending on the breed, nature, or class.


    But I... I had nothing but a pair of elf ears and the inability to transform into my face form.


    I''d lost hope in trying... It had been 15 years since my parents had enrolled me in power reformation schools to encourage my form to take shape, but it was just a waste. It was no use, I was 20 now and it was pointless.


    I hated the fact that I''d wasted so many years in power reformation school praying to the gods to give me an order... Any order.


    But nothing happened... my prayers were never answered and I grew more and more useless as the days passed... my parents had even given up on me.


    Floren and I entered a potion store. One of my close friends, Dakarai, worked here and has helped me out gods know how many times when I was low on portal ash, potion ointments, or just weed.


    "Hey, Rai!"


    I sang as Floren and I trampled into the potion store. Arrays of magical substances and assortments were displayed neatly on shelves around the store.


    "Oh look who it is..."


    The old man smiled warmly as we stepped up to the front desk.


    "Hey bro...I kinda need some... help."


    Dakarai looked up from the misty globe he was cleaning and grinned.


    "Anything for my favorite customer."


    Dakarai was an old man with long, white, heavy locs and kindred brown eyes; he also happened to be an elfen dwarf. He was the kindest man I''d ever known, and he''d always been there for me when I needed his help. He used to teach me protection spe,lls growing up in case I found myself in danger.


    ,


    "I need a favor..."


    I trail and he cocks his head, to the side in question.


    "Do... you have any portal ash? I promise I''ll pay you back once I get some mo-


    "Here."


    Before I can finish the sentence he grabs a small bag off the shelf and drops it onto the counter. It''s a small black bag, neatly tied with a white string.


    This is more than I could have asked for.


    "Thank you! So, so much I promise I''ll pay you back."


    Dakarai chuckles,


    "It''s alright, I know money''s tight right now. Just make sure to stay safe out there."


    He looks between me and Floren and I beam, moving around the counter to engulf him in a hug. I crouch down and he wraps his arms around me.


    "Alright, come on, Flore,"


    I turn to my cousin whose face has paled and is now facing towards the glass doors of the store.


    "Flore? Whats-


    Before any words can leave my mouth, I see them. Two very menacing, very angry-looking goblins step into the store, their black eyes falling upon us with a vengeance.


    "RUN!"


    I yell at Floren, grabbing his arm and sprinting towards the backdoor. The goblins, as expected, follow in heavy pursuit.


    We burst through the back doors, accidentally breaking a few items in our escape.


    "YOU MOTHERFUCKERS"


    One of them roars as we dodge a knife he throws in our direction.


    "SHIT!"


    Floren screams,


    I move quickly, retrieving a handful of the portal ash just as Floren grabs my hand.


    They''re gaining on us, their feet pattering against the ground just as I throw it over us praying we get the hell out of here before they catch us.


    Just as one of them reaches to grab my arm we are suddenly engulfed in a swarm of glittery dust and swallowed up by the portal.


    My body feels like it''s being stretched apart... like my soul is trying to separate from physical form. Traveling by Portal Ash was always nauseating... but you get used to it after a while. It doesn''t have a lasting effect. The world around us feels like it''s stretching and tearing apart as well but it soon fades away as we teleport to our destination.


    We land with a thump on the gravel ground just outside our home.


    Floren groans as I follow, stretching my arms as if I''d just run a marathon. Which, well... I guess I did.


    "Damn... that was close."


    Floren lifts his arms above his head to stretch his arms.


    "You owe me."


    That is all I say as we approach our home.


    We weave through the small garden and step up to the gates. Floren pushes it open and we walk in.


    "You gotta admit that was fun."


    "Nearly dying is not fun!"


    I snap.


    He whistles,


    "Someone''s upset."


    "Shut up noodle arms."


    But he only smiles having grown accustomed to the nickname,


    "Ok half and half."


    He retorts, and I can''t help the smile that lifts up the corners of my lips.


    It was an inside joke between us... since I looked mostly human apart from my pointy ears.


    We enter through the front door of the house and I am met with an unsettling silence as we walk into the hallway. It''s usually never this quiet.


    My parents weren''t usually home and spent most of their time away at work. My father worked as a mage guard, and my mother is a seamstress and herbology teacher for fledglings (in her spare time) .


    We weren''t rich... we barely got close to middle class but we were pretty stable for the most part.


    "I''m gonna go to my room, i''m exhausted."


    I tell my cousin, making my way up the stairs.


    "You wanna watch a movie later?"


    He asks as he walks towards the kitchen.


    "No i-


    My voice is silenced by the deep rumble of my father''s voice


    "Scarlett Adessa Thorne!"


    I hold onto the railing, my heart pounding in my chest at the sound of my father''s guttural roar.


    It''s deeper than usual which means either one of two things, he is angry or he is livid. Not to mention calling me by my full name...


    "Y-yes!"


    I replied hesitantly.


    "Come upstairs. NOW."


    My blood feels as cold as ice as I stare back at my cousin, his green eyes widening with genuine fear and remorse as he looks at me.


    "AND DON''T THINK YOU''RE EXCUSED FLOREN ADAJI GREENBURROW!"


    If I''d thought we were in trouble before, surely now we must be screwed.


    "Shit."


    We lament in unison both sharing the same look of fear.


    ***


    "And you thought it was a good idea to steal back from a goblin because..."


    My father taps his foot impatiently, awaiting our answers.


    He was a man with a large stature. He had deep ochre eyes, furry brows and golden skin.


    My mother and Aunt Mai stood beside each other both looking disappointed in our shortcomings.


    My mother''s long braids were pinned up in a bun, her forest green eyes matching those of her sister and my cousin. I shared my father''s brown eyes.


    I look down at my feet hoping Floren will take the floor for once and save us an earful of more yelling and discipline.


    "W-well... I... I made a mistake and wanted to stand up for myself. I was cheated... he paid me less for the moonstone bracelet. It had pure stardust uncle! I couldn''t just let him have it!"


    My dad pinches the bridge of his nose.


    "Do you realize how dangerous it was Floren? You could have been killed!"


    "Yea but we wer-


    I kick his leg passing him a death glare warning him not to say anything stupid. He winces glaring back.


    "Dad... we''re sorry we should''ve been more careful-


    I begin but he cuts me off,


    "You should have been careful alright!"


    He scoffs.


    "Uncle... please can''t you just... let us off this once?"


    Floren looks up at my father whose wings seem to have sprouted from his back.


    "NO!"


    We both shrink back in fear at his sudden outburst. We''ve never seen him this angry.... And my mother is usually more vocal... which means we are in very, very deep shit.


    "Dad... what''s wrong."


    I ask gently, my father''s eyes soften slightly as he turns in my direction, but he turns to look at my mother and sinks into his armchair.


    I fight back a smile from the way his wings prevent him from leaning back on the chair but I''m quickly met with a stern and warning glare from my mother.


    "We need to talk to you about something."


    She lets out a long sigh, her shoulders sloping slightly.


    "We''ve decided it''s best for you to transfer to another university."


    "W-what?"


    I sit up straight, ready to retaliate.


    "We''re having a difficult time with trusting you and your cousin being home most of the time. You need a job and you seem to be falling behind in your classes."


    She looks displeased, her eyes filled with what seems to be disappointment and regret.


    "M-mom... I can''t just transfer mid-semester! I love Mallow College! I have so many friends there!"


    I can''t believe my ears, are they sending me away? They can''t do that...they can''t be serious... this isn''t happening!


    "Yes but... you''ve proven time and time again that we cannot trust you to be alone at home. Last time you and Floren accidentally burnt that poor woman''s garden... your professors say that you''ve been skipping class and then there was the incident with that fox girl you brought over last week..."


    "Mom!!"


    I groan blushing profusely.


    "That was one time!"


    "I still would have preferred you told us you''d be bringing over a... a...friend...instead we found you both smoking and drinking spirits! You hadn''t even washed the dishes!"


    "I told you it wasn''t mine!"


    It was indeed my weed but she didn''t need to know that.


    I bow my head shamefully as she reminds me of that day. I''d liked Miriam... even though she was a little clingy for a fox shifter, I''d still enjoyed the nights we''d spent together. She was beautiful and had a bubbly personality... but her true colors showed the night I''d caught her cheating with the girl she''d told me not to worry about.


    But what that had to do with me transferring schools made no sense!


    "We just think it''d be better if... if you were in a different environment... somewhere where you can discover yourself...."


    "And won''t cause any trouble."


    My father chimes in,


    I can''t believe my ears, were they serious?


    "You can''t just pull the plug and force me in your direction anytime you want! I''m working on things-


    "Working on what exactly? Fooling around with boys and girls and ignoring your studies? Getting into trouble? Making a mockery of our family? You haven''t even gotten your order-


    She stops herself, but the blame and double meaning in her words give her away. The damage has already been done.


    She doesn''t need to continue and I already know what she''d intended to say.


    I''m a useless withered freak with weak powers and I''m a calloused delinquent.


    "I didn''t mean..."


    She starts, but it''s my turn to cut her off.


    "I know what you meant. I know why you all look at me like that. I''m not an idiot."


    My words fall like stones, angry as the tears I''m fighting back.


    Floren turns to look at me, looking sorrowful and worried by our parents'' sudden change in demeanor and the new and shocking revelation.


    "You can''t send her away!"


    He tries to defend me but my father stands.


    "It''s the final decision."


    He gruffly says.


    "So what... that''s it? You''re just gonna uproot my life and force me to attend some stupid academy?"


    "But-"


    "Floren don''t think you''re off the hook either. We''ve enrolled you in herbology classes."


    My cousin''s eyes widen at his mother''s words.


    "What!? Mom you can''t! I don''t wanna be a herbalist!"


    "Well you should''ve thought about that before wreaking havoc all around town!"


    My cousin curses under his breath and I give him a sympathetic look. I know how much he wanted to be a mage guard. Even though he''s a satyr he prefers combat more than anything... he''d always wanted to fight for the greater good.


    I guess we were both screwed now. He was gonna be forced to be a herbalist and they were sending me away.


    "We only want what''s best for you."


    My mother prods trying to lessen the blow of her earlier words. But my father seems to have his mind made up.


    "You need to grow up. You''re not a child anymore and this is the only way we can get you to understand."


    The anger is still present from the way he rises to his feet.


    "We just want you to wake up! We don''t want you to throw your life away."


    My aunt chimes in.


    "No... you just want to get rid of me. Just admit it! I see how you all look at me! You hate that I''m... I''m different... that I''m powerless... useless."


    "No one''s saying you''re useless, don''t be so dramatic Scarlett."


    My father sighs,


    I scowl


    "Right, but you''re all thinking it." I rise to my feet, seething with anger as I storm out of the room.


    "Where are you going!? We aren''t finished here!"


    My father''s voice carried, but I ignored him, walking towards my bedroom and slamming the door.

 Welcome to Azyrath University

    The day had finally arrived. I was transferring to Azyrath University, a school in the city of Thorns where wealthy families would send their children to study magic and arts and learn how to embrace their fae forms.


    It was also a school for rich pricks with no decency left in them except for their appearances. I had begged, rebelled... cried... groveled, but my parents were set in stone. They were sending me away.


    They wanted me to attend the university whether or not it was in my best interest. I''d have to leave behind Floren, and my friends Cash and Amri... so much was changing, and I was being forced to endure it against my will.


    All I wanted was my freedom... I knew I''d messed up a few times... I wasn''t perfect... I just never thought my parents would make such a drastic decision without informing me. Just 3 days ago, I had thought I would have at least 2 weeks to say goodbye to my friends... but they''d already forwarded my documents and information to the school ahead of time... which meant they''d been planning this for weeks and just waiting for the right moment to spring it on me.


    Assholes.


    Floren had been the hardest one to say goodbye to. We''d balled our eyes out and clung to each other helplessly. It was like leaving behind a piece of myself. We''d promised to see each other during the holidays, but I knew that would be unlikely. It hurt having to leave him behind, especially considering I wouldn''t see him for a very long time and he was going to be forced to become a herbalist. I hated that they never considered his feelings when it came to what he wanted to study. His dreams of becoming a powerful mage were broken by the laws of our families and the weight of their unrealistic expectations.


    We weren''t children anymore, but they''d always treated us as such. My 3 siblings... most of them had families of their own, but none of them had faced the same discriminatory treatment I and Floren had under our parents'' thumbs.


    I hated the fact they were making me move halfway across the country to some godforsaken university with pompous-elitists fae!


    I closed my eyes as the train steamed onward, wondering what would await me at this new school... this new life. Would I make more friends here? Would I get to see Floren again soon?


    I just wanted it to be over already.


    ***


    As I hopped off the train, I texted my mom asking who would be picking me up to take me to the university. Just as my fingers were about to hit the call button, a tall woman with dark blonde hair approached me, her long legs striding as she walked up to me.


    "You must be Scarlett!"


    Her arms are outstretched in a seemingly inviting hug... but I don''t do hugs. I don''t do physical touch unless I know you.


    "Hi."


    I say curtly, backing away and forcing a smile.


    "Ah.. not a hugger, I see. No worries!"


    Her green eyes are vibrant and perceptive enough to make me feel a little bit of discomfort.


    She has blood-red stiletto nails that look sharp enough to slice through glass and she has that "Welcoming" look in her eyes that makes me wonder if she''s trying to pry out information from me with just one look.


    "My name is Julia, I''m so pleased to meet you! I am the student advisor and consort. I came to take you to the school, and orientation starts in a few minutes. We should hurry."


    She has a slight country accent, and as she extends her palm to me, I notice the vampire symbol on her wrist. Of course...


    I force another smile and take her surprisingly cold hand as she leads me toward a big white van. I strain as I drag my heavy suitcases along with me, but she interjects.


    "Here, let me help you with that."


    "No, it''s ok -


    But before I can protest, she''s already slipped them from my grasp and is lifting the luggage in her arms with ease. Damn, vampire strength. I roll my eyes.


    She urges me to follow her, and I do, as we approach the white van.


    I wonder if this is where I get kidnapped and forced to live my days in the basement of a vampire fortress, being drained of my blood.


    To my relief, though, I found another student in the car. She has lively monolid yellow eyes, a perky nose, and wavy purple hair she''s styled in a half-up half-down hairstyle with space buns.


    "OMG, HI!!"


    She immediately lights up when she sees me, a smile spreading across her face as I take my seat next to her.


    "Hey."


    I can''t help but smile back at her, her kindness seeming to rub off on me.


    "I love your locs... how long have you had them?"


    Her eyes go wide with fascination.


    "O-oh... umm, a few years now."


    I shrug.


    She looks at me with admiration,


    "Woah... they look beautiful! You must take good care of them!"


    "Yeah... it can be a pain, though..."


    I laugh.


    "Beauty is pain... and you are gorgeous!"


    I blush slightly at her unexpected compliment.


    "I''m Lyra Gomez."


    She extends her hand to me, and I take it, offering her a genuine smile.


    "Scarlett Thorne."


    "Woah, pretty name!"


    "Yours has a better ring to it, though. It''s simple, sweet." I say


    "Yeah, but it''s also my grandmother''s name... kinda unoriginal."


    "Don''t say that..."


    I laugh, and she grins.


    "What? It''s true... I nearly changed it because people constantly compare me to her."


    "She must be an amazing person then..."


    I offer her a warm smile, and she nods in agreement,


    "She was! And thank you!"


    "Of course, I''m sorry for your loss.."


    I say sympathetically,


    "No, It''s alright. It happened years ago!"


    She brushes it off, but there''s a hint of sadness in her tone.


    I feel myself starting to warm up to her.


    "So what''s your order? I''m a chupacabra."


    I''m caught off guard by the question, finding myself looking away nervously.


    "I... um... I don''t have one yet..."


    "Really!"


    She gasps.


    "But your ears?"


    "Yeah... my mother''s a fairy, and I have some elven blood in my DNA..."


    "You know what, that''s cool! I''ve never met anyone without a fae form... but I can''t imagine it being easy either. I''m sorry."


    "No... no, it''s ok. I''m used to it."


    She puts a reassuring hand on mine.


    "Well, Azyrath is all about self-discovery, so I promise you, you won''t be alone. You''ll have me, and I''m sure your fae form will emerge eventually."


    I can''t help but smile back at this strange girl. Her kindness is slightly overwhelming, but she''s also a breath of fresh air... and I have a feeling I may have just made my first friend.


    We drive deeper into a forest, the path clear ahead as we approach a large annular building surrounded by skinny trees. There''s a large opening near a fountain, where many students are already gathered with their belongings.


    "We''re here, girls


    "I''m not a girl."


    Lyra interrupts, but there isn''t any hostility in her tone.


    "Yes.. of course! My apologies, what are your pronouns?"


    Julia inquires with a warm smile.


    "I go by any... genderfluid."


    Lyra shrugs, smiling.


    "That''s lovely, and I''ll keep that in mind."


    Julia nods her way with an understanding smile.


    She hops out of the driver''s seat, her movements fast and precise as she moves to retrieve our items from the car boot. Lyra and I hop out as well just as Julia comes around with our bags and drops them off at a large circular dome, where many other bags, suitcases, and trunks are located.


    "This way, guys..."


    She gestures for us to move towards the large group of students now moving inside the building.


    Students of various tribes, breeds, and order enter the large building, some in their fae forms like the faeries, goblins, elves, Satyrs, sylphs, and even a few ghouls.


    We follow the crowd into a large hall, lively chatter bouncing off the walls as we all walk toward a grand auditorium.


    Lyra takes my hand and guides me towards the stadium chairs, and we take our seats in the middle row.


    As more students pile in and get situated, a cyclops with a muscular build and wide shoulder approaches the stage accompanied by a few staff members. I''m surprised by his casual attire, his shorts and jersey shirt contrasting with his jovial but deep voice.


    "Welcome students to Azyrath University!"


    The crowd rumbles and cheers with eager excitement when the dean speaks.


    "I am pleased to see some new and old faces, I hope your summer break was as exciting as mine. I recently traveled to Solaria, and my, was it the event of a lifetime,"


    He pauses as if to reminisce on his adventures in the rural city.


    "But enough about me, let''s talk about YOU! You made the right decision to enroll here. So much is in store for all your young bright minds, I hope you are as excited as I am!"


    There''s another roar of enthusiastic cheers from the crowd as he continues his speech.


    "Now I''m sure many of our returning students are familiar with our university, but I wanted to give a very gracious and warm welcome to our new students. My name is Mikey Adler, and I am forever pleased and truly grateful to be your advisor and dean of this lovely institution!"


    "AU! AU! AU!"


    The crowd chants, and he chuckles, Lyra turns my way laughing, and I can''t help but join in with the applause.


    "Now, why don''t we get straight into business? Firstly, I would like to state that our mission is to ensure the utmost best for our students. This is, after all, a prestigious institution, and we take true pride in making sure our graduates leave with strength in their bones and magic in their hearts."


    The students chant his quote as if commemorating and solidifying it.


    "Now, as the first order of business, I would like my friend and the vice principal; Miss. Jabari Basie to take the stage."


    A tall woman with dark curly hair and a lion''s tail softly swaying behind her approaches the stage after thanking the dean.


    "Welcome back, new students, I hope you had an amazing summer. My name is Jabari, but I''d prefer it if you called me Miss Basie. As young fae, you all enrolled here for good reason, whether that is to explore new relationships and academic achievements, study magic, or strengthen your abilities. Or, just discover who you are and who you want to be. As part of our mission, we strive to help you become the best version of yourselves, we want you to explore your potential and hopefully make a name for yourself!"


    The crowd erupts cheering, and I can''t help but join them, with Lyra by my side whooping.


    "Alright, so first things first, for our returning students, your dormitories are already set, mentors, you will find your mentees as you prepare them for the Ascension ceremony... this will decide what tribe you will reside in for the rest of your journey."


    "What''s that?"


    I whisper to Lyra,


    "It''s like a ceremony to determine if you are part of the 5 factions, earth, fire, water, air, and Luna."


    "Now, I would like to introduce you to our captains for each faction!"


    A very attractive silver-haired boy, with a toned and athletic physique, runs towards the stage his arms raised and his body rippling with muscles as he starts to chant, accompanied by a few cheerleaders as they run through the crowd. The members of the tribe all wear matching shirts with fire symbols on them.


    "COMING IN HOTTER THAN THE STRATOSPHERE WE''LL BURN IT UP IN THE ATMOSPHERE!"


    They chant, riling up the crowd as they circle the auditorium. One of the members holds up a flag with a painted symbol of a pentagram circled by a blaze of fire.


    As they get up on the stage, a few of the girls do a cheerleading routine that makes the crowd go wild, the boys following with acrobatic somersaults and high kicks that make the crowd roar with excitement. One of the boys blows out actual fire, and the crowd screams and roars with revered enthusiasm.


    Lyra and I applaud equally mesmerized by the display of school spirit. Finally, the silver-haired boy reaches for the mic, his eyes blazing with a fiery spirit.


    "And that''s just a preview of what we have to offer at the House of Embers! If you are accepted, you will never regret it. You have a home with us, a brotherhood, a sisterhood, a family. We are the house of embers, and our mission is to make sure any fire elemental freshie discovers and embraces their true fire heart. It won''t be easy, and you just might have to go through hell... and back."


    A few fae scream out cheers after he pauses and flashes a charming smile winking at someone in the audience who lets out a screech so loud the entire room shakes. My ears ring as I cover them alongside the other students as I realize she must be a banshee.


    "We will be waiting for you after the ascension ceremony with open arms..."


    "And open legs..."


    Lyra nudges me, and I choke... sucking my lips to stop myself from bursting into a fit of laughter.


    The next tribe that introduces themselves is the house of Earth. A few faeries fly in through the doors carrying drums as they spin around in the air. My mouth drops when one of the faeries suddenly shifts back into her human form and levitates in the air, showering us with an array of beautiful flowers. Lyra and I giggle hysterically as flower petals dance around us, landing on every surface. Afterwards, a satyr blows a triumphant melody from a horn and 4 large gnomes assemble before they are tossed in the air levitating and spinning in a circular motion that creates a gust of wind that washes over us. The faerie, still soaring above the auditorium, comes down with a whoosh of air, landing on the stage completely... naked.


    "Holy shit!"


    I gasped as a few male students roared with excitement before she whisked her forefinger in the air, forming a long flowery gown around her body that flowed down the stage and hugged her slender figure. She is incredibly gorgeous, with long blonde hair and eyes that seem to melt the audience. She exudes so much confidence that it only seems to encourage more cheers and screams from the audience as a few fae chant her name and yell out words of encouragement. Someone from the audience even calls her a sexy bitch but she just laughs it off bashfully, her golden brown skin glowing as she speaks.


    "We are Terra Haven, House of Earth and my name is Aurora... and I am ecstatic to welcome you to our lovely school. We hope you find your stay here wonderful and that you may join us in celebrating the beauty of life. We hope to see you soon, best regards."


    She blows a kiss at the audience and I could''ve sworn I heard someone scream "Marry me".


    The next two houses are the House of Air; Elysian House and the House of Hydro.


    The House of Air''s performance had to be the most beautiful as the top of the auditorium opened up to reveal the members and the captain, who may I say, was incredibly attractive. With dark tousled long hair and a body that screamed "sex-god", he and his members transformed into various winged fae all of them presenting their magical abilities in the form of air. Then suddenly, the captain transformed into a majestic white dragon, with broad leathery wings and bold, captivating pale red eyes, he rose into the sky blowing a puff of steam that then turned to ice, which was then shattered into beautiful snow petals that rained down on us in soft pellets. He had to be the most magnificent dragon I''d ever seen and the largest as well. The crowd was standing up in their seats screaming, applauding, and cheering as he then used magic to write out their chant in the clouds,


    The narrative has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the infringement.


    "We will go where the wind takes us, we are the breath of the sky, faster than a beam of light, surrender your weakness and take flight!"


    With a powerful roar, he flapped his breathtaking wings before he was enveloped in white smoke and disappeared. I couldn''t help but scream with excitement as the rest of the audience, was awed and oooh''d wondering where he''d vanished to.


    The house of Hydro, the water tribe; had a harmonious performance with instruments joining the serene and hypnotic song of the sirens and howl of the nymphs. It was beautiful and mesmerizing the way they sang in unison, It felt like we''d been absorbed underwater as the beautifully haunting chorus of melody carried us.


    "Like the water flows, so do our hearts grow... glorious as the raging sea, we will set you free."


    My voice was so sore from screaming and cheering, Lyra and I watched the show with reverence. It was incredible and I was still awestruck by their performance until the final house; The Luna Chamber, the house of the moon, astrology and transformation took the stage.


    After the performance from the other groups I had expected the excitement would die down... but boy was I wrong. As the Captain of House of Luna gets on the stage, the auditorium is consumed by darkness, but only for a second, before an array of beautiful stars form various zodiac signs in the night sky.


    I was astonished at how they''d managed to turn the sky from light to evening as music began to play. A few werewolves howled at the rising moon and suddenly the ground below us rumbled and shook. And before I knew it we were lifted in the air floating 5 feet off the ground as the melodious music hummed around us.


    It was as terrifying as it was blissful and I was a little disappointed when it finally ended and we landed back in our seats, the sky clearing and the sun reappearing.


    "Now that you have seen what each tribe has to offer I wish you good luck on the ascension. All mentors please find your freshman mentee..."


    Lyra turns to me, looking slightly nervous about what''s to come.


    "What''s your number if we get separated?"


    She asks me with urgency.


    "RH 300-200-440"


    I say and she quickly taps it away on her phone.


    She leans in to hug me wishing me good luck as the mentors crowd on the stage.


    "Eveline Forest!"


    One mentor calls and the freshman runs towards him. One after the other, mentees are called to the stage to partner with their mentors. Eventually, Lyra is called and I wish her good luck as she flashes me a nervous smile and walks down to the stage.


    "Scarlett Thorne"


    I swallow a gulp as my name is called and make my way down the stairs towards my mentor. Too immersed in my thoughts, as I go down the steps, I accidentally collide with a very hard, very firm chest.


    "I''m so sorry!"


    I immediately apologize as I stumble back.


    But the voice that responds is velvety and rich, with a clipped and sharp Northwestern accent that sends a wave of desire down my spine.


    "Too much on your mind?"


    My eyes pan up his very lean, very tall physique. He''s wearing crisp formal attire that has me trembling at the knees, wondering what glorious sin he''s hiding beneath those clothes.


    His eyes are enigmatic and mismatched, but I find myself slightly disoriented as I wonder which one to stare at; the icy blue eye that makes me ponder how far I could dive into them and how quickly I''d drown in them, or the crimson red eye that seems to hold so much dominance and authority... sending shock waves throughout my body, and making me forget my name entirely. And just like the sexy and deep rumble of his musical voice, he is nothing short of captivating, with a sharp-edged jawline, light stubble that stops just above his Adam''s apple, and very luscious pink lips and what seems to be an array of freckled constellations dotted over his nose.


    "I... no... not really."


    I take a sharp breath as a very rich and delicious scent envelops me. He reminds me of morning coffee and smells of cedarwood and sage.


    "Well... if you''ll excuse me."


    He steps aside, passing me and leaving me utterly flustered and speechless, his scent drifting away with him.


    I stumble back watching him leave with wide eyes as I make my way to my mentor.


    As I walk up the platform to the stage, I am surprised to discover my mentor just so happens to be the same silver-haired captain of the House of Embers. He isn''t shirtless anymore but he''s dressed in athletic attire that shows off his deliciously sculpted biceps.


    "Well, hello beautiful?"


    He flashes me a sharp toothy grin, his fangs giving way to his order.


    Demon.. Or vampire? I wonder


    "Are you excited, love?"


    He eyes me perceptively, his eyes raking up and down my figure. I stiffen, uncomfortable with his unexpectedly sensual demeanor.


    "Umm.. y-yea?"


    I stammer, finding it hard to meet his gaze.


    His eyes widen slightly, his pupils shrinking in the sunlight.


    "A little nervous?"


    I laugh sheepishly.


    "A little..."


    I eye him suspiciously.


    He suddenly reaches for my arm pulling me over to his side and wrapping a strong arm around my waist. I find the sudden urge to kick him in the balls as his hand trails down to my ass.


    "So... what''s your order babe?"


    His voice is silky and sultry as he leans in walking us out of the auditorium to join the other students, his hands still looped around my waist. A few girls and boys shoot me spiteful glares and I start to wonder if having him as my mentor will make me enemy number one.


    "I uh..."


    My mouth goes dry at the question as heat rises in my face.


    I pull away from him quickly, but he just smirks deviously, a glint of mischief in his blue eyes.


    Despite his strange demeanor, I can''t ignore the fact that he is very attractive... almost a little too attractive.


    "I don''t have one."


    I say and his blue eyes widen momentarily before he starts to smirk.


    "A fledgling huh? Cute. Don''t worry I won''t tell."


    He licks his lips, a look of untamed hunger in his eyes. I shift uncomfortably as I notice the greedy and hateful looks from a few students as I talk to the captain.


    "Oh! Forgive me, babe, I meant to introduce myself..."


    He blinks with realization, his eyes never leaving mine.


    "I''m Adrien Roussard..."


    He extends his hand to me and for some strange reason, I find myself reaching out, like some kind of invisible string has latched onto me and is drawing me closer to him.


    Once our palms meet he pulls me back into his embrace and before I have a second to react he brings his lips to my ear.


    "You look good enough to eat babe... I haven''t tasted a fledgling in years..."


    His voice is low and seductive as he presses himself against me, his lips brushing the hairs of my skin as his fangs lightly graze my neck. I recoil.


    "What the fuck do you think you''re doing!"


    I form a defensive stance, shoving him back.


    "What?"


    There''s a glint of mischief in his eyes as they pan up and down my body invasively.


    I suddenly feel too exposed for my liking. I was wearing jean shorts and a turtleneck tank top with a cut-out that exposed more of my cleavage. The girls were sitting nicely, but that didn''t mean he could stare!


    And as if he''s read my thoughts his eyes trail down to my breasts indiscreetly, shamelessly! My cheeks burn with disgust and shame.


    What the actual fuck??


    I pull away from him immediately.


    I am relieved when all the freshmen are assembled, interrupting us, some girls swooning at the sight of him. I try to avoid the stares of the envious fangirls as I take my place around the globe. I''m not sure why they''re jealous of being drooled over by a creep but to each their own.


    One by one, the mentors step forward retrieving small pieces of paper from the large hole in the white globe sitting at the center of the circle on a round table.


    "What''s this?"


    I ask as Adrien hands me a piece of paper with a strange symbol on it.


    "That''s your way back here. When you go into the portal you''ll need a way to get back. As your mentor my job, is to make sure you don''t get lost. My voice will guide you as you navigate your way in the dark depths of your mind."


    He leans in.


    "And don''t worry babe I''ll be with you.. Every. Step. Of. The. way."


    My heart races as cold goosebumps rise from my skin making me fall back in surprise.


    As I fall on my ass a few rounds of laughter circulate and I scowl wishing I wasn''t so clumsy.


    "Now students... hold hands with your mentors... "


    Miss Basie instructs, and I hesitate as Adrien moves to stand in front of me. He extends his hand to me with a smug look on his face.


    I hope I don''t get into the house of embers...


    "Close your eyes love..."


    Adrien yanks me to my feet and closer to his embrace. I fight the urge to barf.


    "Chant with me, babe..."


    He says in a suggestive tone and I try to put some distance between us, but his iron grip is firm, His hands caressing my knuckles as he speaks.


    Is this part of the ritual... are we supposed to be this close?


    "I call upon the earth and sky, the call of the wind and the rising flame beyond. I call upon the elements, may they grant me the power to find my true nature... May they endow me with the energy of the moon."


    "Come on babe..."


    He leans in again, the heat of his breath brushing my earlobe. I shudder with disgust and try to repeat the chant.


    "I call upon the earth and sky, the call of the wind and the rising flame beyond. I call upon the elements, may they grant me the power to find my true nature... May they endow me with the energy of the moon."


    As we chant, I find my thoughts slipping away, the chant a calming rhythmic beat that floods my ears. I find myself drowning... as though I''m sinking into the core of the earth, my skin feels inflamed and the wind whispers around me as I find myself lost in the ritual.


    It''s ominous and dark but I''m not scared.


    "Follow my voice..."


    Adrien purrs, but he sounds far and I try my best to ignore the fact he''s pulled me closer. I focus my attention on the task at hand...


    "Follow the path, don''t stray..."


    I almost want to ask what path, as I''m surrounded by complete darkness... until a bright light bursts through the shadows revealing a long road.


    "You got this sexy."


    Adrien''s husky voice nearly steers me off the road completely but I push my feet forward...


    What a creep!


    The path is empty, with no evidence or signs of life... just the whispers of the wind and the heat now building in my veins.


    "You''ll know when you find it. Wait for it and let it come to you."


    I can practically feel his breath against my ears.


    As I follow the path I find the urge to run, my legs moving at a faster pace towards something. I''m not sure what, but I know I need to find it. It''s like a song, a siren melody whispering to me... beckoning me.


    "Yea... just like that babe.."


    WHAT.THE.FUCK!


    I shiver with discomfort but fight the urge to pull my hands away as I continue running down the winding road.


    Suddenly the road begins to dip downward and I scream as It gets steeper, causing me to slide down, down, down into a dark pit.


    I fall straight through, my heart thumping against my chest as I fall.


    My screams are swallowed by the silence of the hole, the adrenaline in my blood pumping faster as I dive.


    Just when I think everything is lost... just when I start to panic, my feet touch the ground. I can''t hear Adrien''s voice anymore and I know I should be relieved but I can''t help but fear what''s to come as I wander through the darkness.


    Suddenly something cold and wispy.... drags me forward and the closer I get the colder the air becomes, until it''s an icy breeze against my skin.


    I gasp as I push against it but then, I hear a voice.


    "Don''t fight it, babe."


    The howling gets louder and I try my best not to resist the surge of energy that slams into me. It grows and grows until all I feel is ice.


    "Reach for it. Reach for that power."


    I do as he says and extend my hand feeling for something... anything. Suddenly my hand latches onto something and it grabs onto me! I try to fight back but its hold is too unyielding. I scream but It doesn''t budge instead, It yanks me forward and drags me upwards.


    Suddenly, I''m pulled into a pool... an ocean, it''s unbearably cold, but that warmth from earlier seems to grow, cascading a blanket over me as I swim.


    Adrien''s voice has faded and I find myself utterly alone... in search of whatever has dragged me here.


    I''m relieved when I see a light up ahead. A burning passionate flame that burns brighter the closer I approach.


    For some reason something tells me to dive in, it''s an absurd command but my feet move on their own anyways. I squeeze my eyes shut ready to be engrossed in the flames but the second I step into its heat I''m met with the most powerful sensation ever, my back arches and I ascend with the blazing flame, rising above my feet and flying!


    I laugh, my fear dispersing and making way for excitement. It''s an amazing feeling words cannot describe. Suddenly I find myself staring at myself... a younger version of me reaches out, her tiny fingers stretching as she tries to grasp onto me. I do the same wielding myself to move closer until our hands brush against each other. I groan and cry out as I latch onto her finally, relief washing over me as the flames carry us up to the surface.


    I awaken with a start, my chest rising and falling rapidly as I find myself in the middle of the woods. I slowly rise to my feet, my body aching and disoriented as I look around.


    Where the hell am I? Is this part of the ascension?


    I feel something against my pocket and reach in to pull out a piece of paper, inspecting it.


    Realization hits me when I remember it''s my way out. It suddenly comes to me and I immediately read out the words on it before I am lifted off the ground instantaneously, a bright light consuming me as I''m enveloped inside. Twisting through a windy yellow portal.


    I land on my back and groan, discovering I''m back where I started, near the auditorium. I wince as I stand, my legs aching and my muscles slightly sore from the fall.


    To my eternal relief, Adrien is gone but I notice other students landing on the ground, some falling with a crash and others groaning as they come out of their disorientated states.


    "Any students who''ve finished their ascension please find your mentor."


    Says Ms. Baise, I grumble and scowl realizing that Adrien isn''t gone. Matter of fact he''s standing just two feet away from me and watching me with keen eyes as if he''s undressing me where I stand.


    Gross!


    I begrudgingly approach him and he flashes me that damned toothy grin. I notice the symbol on his wrist and suddenly it all makes sense. He''s a fucking incubus.


    "Glad to see you back in one piece babe-


    "Don''t call me that."


    I snap, finally having it with his sexual advances.


    His eyes go wide, feigning shock.


    "Ouch... I''m just looking out for you..."


    "Yeah well stop. It''s making me uncomfortable."


    His brow arches,


    "You know... most girls would die to be in your shoes."


    He pulls me forward into his arms and I try to resist again but his fingers dig into my arm, keeping me in place. I wince as he leans into me and whispers, his breath caressing my ear.


    "Of course, the rules are only fire elementals... but I can make a few exceptions for pretty girls... So tell me what did you get?"


    I shove him back with disgust.


    "I... I don''t know."


    He steps forward and I back up, he almost seems amused with my discomfort.


    "Did you find yourself swimming? Did you get blasted by the wind..... Or did you find a flame of fire, did the moon sing to you? Did the earth capture you?"


    "I..."


    I trail as I recall the events in the ascension.


    "I got four I think. Fire carried me, I was blasted with the wind, I swam... and I think the moon or sun shined on me."


    His eyes grow wide, an astonished look on his face as he stares at me as if I''ve just grown three heads.


    "What? What''s wrong?"


    I stammer.


    "That''s... that''s impossible... No one''s ever gotten more than 3 elements."


    "What?"


    I blink.


    "If you got 3 elements or more... Then that makes you unique, sweetpea..."


    A devilish grin spreads across his face.


    "You''re far more interesting than I anticipated..."


    He licks his lips hungrily and I rear back.


    To my relief, Miss Baise approaches me with a smile.


    "What did you get dear? Fire, earth, water, air, or moon?"


    She inquires, her gaze unflinching and sharp.


    "We have ourselves a novelty."


    Adrien muses.


    "T-that''s impossible ... how-"


    Miss. Baise trails, her eyes widen with a new revelation.


    "Well... this is a first. My, my deary do you know what this means?"


    She reaches for my arm and I flinch as her hands grip my shoulders, revered excitement in her grey eyes.


    I notice, in my peripheral vision students have started to crowd around us, their eyes watching me with curiosity... surprise... envy, and intimidation.


    I know this is probably something I should be proud of but I can''t shake this feeling of foreboding at the thought of having so much power... not to mention the way everyone''s eyes are glued on me, some look as if they want to tear my hair out for even coming close to achieving something so great.


    "Well... since this is a first, you get the opportunity to choose what house you''d like to inhabit for the next 2 years."


    My eyes widened, I wasn''t expecting that I''d get a choice... maybe things aren''t so bad.


    "So... what will it be?"


    She asks me and the other students stare at me expectantly.


    I notice Adrien''s blue eyes, eyeing me with intrigue and excitement.


    Yeah, like I''d choose your house.


    I swallow my breath, my eyes wandering around the crowd as more students gather.


    "I choose... Terra Haven."


    I finally say.


    Miss. Baise smiles with understanding.


    "Great choice! I''m sure Aurora would love to have you!"


    She clasps her hands together and I notice a few hushed voices and my name being whispered amongst the crowd.


    "She probably cheated her way in.."


    I can''t help the shrill anxiety that burns through me at their comments, their harsh words cut deeper than I thought was possible.


    "It''s a shame you chose Terra Haven... I was hoping to spend some alone time with you..."


    Adrien steps up to me, his chest pressing against my back.


    My breath hitches as he leans in,


    "But don''t worry I''ll come find you for some fun later if you''re interested babe..."


    I roll my fists as I tear my body away from him. Who is he? What gave him the impression I wanted anything to do with him??


    "No thanks."


    I bite back and his eyes sparkle with desire.


    I get out my phone relieved as I watch him walk away, finally. My body, shivering from the strange encounter.


    I text Lyra asking if she''d finished the ascension and what house she''d gotten in.


    It only takes a couple of seconds before my phone pings from a notification. I walk over to where my bags were placed and fish them out from the circular dome.


    I check my phone,


    Lyra: I got into House of Embers!


    Me: Wya? We should meet up after we settle in


    Lyra: Of course! I''m so excited!


    I laugh to myself, pleased she''s happy to be where she is... but I can''t shake the discomfort of the fact that Adrien is her house captain.


    I get a notification ping and discover I''ve received a map of the dormitories. Terra Haven is a 10-minute walk from here and I can''t help but groan as I dread the long road ahead.


    I grab my luggage and drag them along as I follow the Foogle GPS.


    The walk is long but I listen to my music as I pass through the trees. Up ahead I see a couple of cabins coming into view...


    I know I''m close when I hear the loud chatter of students. I end up passing through a lavish garden with an array of colorful flowers and glimmering fountains. Fae statues, fairy lights, and beautiful ornaments decorate the garden. It''s mesmerizing, to say the least, and the scent of flora and nature fills my nose, I sigh with contentment. Nature is in my blood and this feels like heaven being surrounded by so much beauty. I wonder what the other houses look like, and if they have cabins just as we do in Terra Haven.


    I notice a few girls crowded around a cabin as they laugh and chatter,


    As I roll in, their heads turn in my direction, some scowling and some giving me a once-over.


    I suck in a deep breath diverting my gaze as I look for my cabin.


    Suddenly a tall blonde girl with honey-brown skin walks up to me, her vibrant magenta-colored eyes glistening with intrigue as she looks down at me with a glossy-lipped smile.


    "Hi! You must be Scarlett Thorne!"


    She beams,


    "I''m Aurora, your Terra Haven captain, I''m so excited you chose us!"


    She grins widely, her features unmistakable as I remember her performance.


    "Oh! Hi... yes. I''m excited to be a part of your house!"


    I stand to attention, slightly intimidated by her presence.


    "Of course! You made the right choice... and also. A little birdy told me you harbored almost all the elements!"


    I smile nervously.


    "I harbor 3 elements... air, earth, water... But I''ve never heard of harboring four! You must be proud of yourself!"


    There''s a slight edge to her tone despite the enthusiasm on her face.


    "Um... yeah... maybe."


    I mumble. A few girls start to crowd around us, their eyes glowing with suspicion and curiosity... Some do smile at me, but I find it hard to smile back from the condescending way their gazes flicker with annoyance.


    "Well... I''ll show you to your cabin."


    "T-thankyou!"


    I can''t help but appreciate her kindness but I also can''t fight the funny feeling something is wrong.


    She leads me towards a cabin near the end of the trail, it''s humble, to say the least, but it''s also much smaller than the others.


    But at least it''s mine... can''t complain right?


    "I''ll see you at the dining hall later love!"


    She hands me a key and skips away happily, her sickly sweet attitude rubbing me the wrong way.


    I unlock my door and discover the room enveloped in darkness the moment I step in. I feel for a switch on the wall and the lights flicker on. I gasp in surprise as I take in the sight before me, the cabin is much larger on the inside than it is on the outside. Its walls are painted chartreuse, a desk sits at the end of the wall in front of a curtained window with a comfortable cushioned chair and a flower vase with a small bouquet of roses. The bed is queen-sized, with clean fluffy sheets and cloud-like pillows that look like heaven.


    Inside the cabin, there''s a door that I assume leads to the bathroom and when I step in my eyes grow with excitement at the large glossy bathtub. I can''t help but wonder what strings my parents pulled to get me here... it''s shocking, to say the least.


    The tiles are porcelain and there''s a full-length mirror opposite the sink. The room is also equipped with a small washer and dryer along the wall, towels, bath products, and toilet paper are packed neatly on the shelf.


    This has to be the most expensive room I''ve ever been in and it''s only more exciting that I get to spend the next 2 years here!


    I grin as I run towards the bed and flop onto the soft, clean blanket, enjoying the floral scent of freshly washed sheets.


    I could get used to this...

 Loud and Wrong

    It always starts like this:


    I''m lost in a forest, a shadow of a figure calling out to me from a distance, the howling wind blowing through the trees, the luminous moon shining down on me. His hands are outstretched as he waits for me, and watches me. My heart is drumming as I run to him, desperate... hopeful... but as soon as I get close... he''s out of reach. Far away...


    Distant.


    But I wake up, and it''s over... and I''m always left feeling empty...


    I weave my hand through my locs, wishing I''d had something to blow off the steam... maybe even some weed...


    I groan, realizing it would be a while before I got any.


    I rolled out the bed, wondering what would await me today as I went to take a shower.


    Thoughts of a particularly handsome man began to circulate in my mind, and I couldn''t help but laugh at the awkward encounter with the deliciously handsome man I''d bumped into in the auditorium, before the ascension ceremony. Sure, it was embarrassing, to say the least, but I was also blessed to see such a handsome face.


    I bite my lip, relishing in the feel of the hot water in the tub.


    I wondered if he was a student... if so, what class was he in? Just the thought of it made me nervous...excited.


    I got a text on my phone reminding me of my 8:30 am class, it was 7:00 am when I got out of the tub, and 7:20 when I finally got dressed and headed out the door.


    The first course of the day was Intro to Blood Magic. I had never really practiced any kind of demonic magic before, but I was still intrigued to try it out. I was familiar with levitation and healing magic, and I''d dabbled in some spellcasting as a child but not much other than the basics we''d learned in school.


    My older siblings, who had their own families, seemed to inherit some of my mother''s fae capabilities, but I unfortunately did not inherit her ability to fly... yet.


    Although I didn''t have my fae form yet, I was excited that I harbored 4 elements; fire, water, air, and luna.


    It was still a shock, realizing how much power that meant. My parents would lose their shit if they found out, and that just made it more exciting.


    To see everyone''s face after someone like me was able to harbor not one, not two but 4 elements! I had to say, I was fucking happy.


    But at the same time, I was a little scared. What did this mean for me? Now that I had this indispensable magic at the tip of my fingers, would I be expected to do more with my life and be more? That was a lot of pressure. I knew for a fact if anyone else discovered this, it would be a big deal. Was it really that rare to carry 4 elements? It was unsettling in a way, I''d always been bullied, so to expect anything more than that made absolutely zero sense. But maybe, just maybe, my powers could awaken my face form, then I wouldn''t be such a disappointment and my family would finally have faith in me.


    On my way out of the cabin, Aurora greeted me looking as if she''d just stepped out of a modeling shoot. Her perfect curly blonde hair was tied up into a ponytail while she wore a tight-fitting floral sundress, with a slit down her leg that accentuated her hourglass figure. Her makeup was flawless to say the least, making her purple eyes look even more alluring, and the red lipstick on her lips gave an air of mysterious seduction.


    I trailed down the path from the dormitories back to the Aerion hall, following my GPS and humming to the song playing in my headphones. Most of our classes occurred in Aerion Hall and it was also where the dining hall was located. My phone pinged as I turned down the path between the trees, and checked the notification to find I''d received a text from my new friend.


    Lyra: Oh my god I can''t do this anymore!!


    Me: What do you mean? Everything ok?


    Lyra: Noooooo! The people here are so sexy it''s almost unreal. I''m dying!!!


    I burst out laughing clutching my stomach as I typed back a response.


    Me: Lmao, you''re ridiculous


    Lyra: Is typing...


    Lyra: I bumped into your mentor today... ??


    I shivered as the memories of that unfaithful incident from the previous day with Adrien began to play in my mind.


    Me: Oh really? ?????


    Lyra: Yea... and he looked like a damn sex god...??


    I tried to bite back the smile that crawled onto my lips.


    Ok. he was a creep, but the image of his muscular body was something I found a little hard to forget. If only he hadn''t opened his big mouth, everything would''ve been fine.


    Me: He''s a little bit of a creep tbh


    Lyra: Waaat! Y????


    Me: You are typing...


    Me: He tried to grope me yesterday, he was all feeling and grabby and whispering disgusting nothings in my ear.


    Lyra: Disgusting nothing is crazy!??


    Lyra is typing...


    Lyra: did his breath stink or something? Also didn''t you tell me that this whole time I''ve been drooling over mouth breather???


    Me: ?? Mouth breather is even crazier. I just didn''t think-


    Right as I was about to send my next reply I got a call from her, I immediately answered wondering what was wrong.


    "Hey... look up!"


    She says on the other end of the phone. I lifted my head, looking around until my eyes finally landed on her. She was waving at me outside the hall, and she looked amazing! She was wearing a purple baggy hoodie with some rock band designed on the front of it ''knee highs and a mini-red pleated skirt.


    "Morningggg!"


    She said in a melodic voice.


    "Good morning!"


    I smiled back at her.


    She looped her arm in mine and we walked towards the building.


    "So...you were saying?"


    She looked at me expectantly,


    "Huh?"


    I blurted and she rolled her eyes playfully.


    "You were talking about silver... You know your mentor?"


    "Ohh!! Yeah, um... yesterday was just very uncomfortable for me. During the Ascension, he kept saying weird things... like that''s it baby and it was like he was turned on or something."


    "Ewwwwww!"


    She exclaimed, making hacking noises.


    "Ugh! Men are disgusting...."


    I rolled my eyes playfully.


    "And especially the attractive ones."


    I said in agreement.


    "Don''t even get me started! UGH!"


    I laughed at her response, feeling comfort in her presence.


    "But speaking of sexy men... did you see the dragon caption from the Elysian house?"


    "Yes! Goddamn that man could tie me up to a tree and I''d say thank you."


    Her eyes widened at my admission, and for a second I wondered if I''d said too much.


    "I feel... like we could be best friends!"


    Her admission takes me by surprise as she grins like a Cheshire cat, catching me completely off guard.


    We stepped through the doors of the hall, laughing hysterically like a bunch of kids, sharing memories of our past lives, hobbies, and crushes we''d had. A few people had looked our way when we were being too loud, but I didn''t care, I''d never felt this happy with someone before, not even Floren had made me laugh this hard and that''s saying something.


    The Dining hall wasn''t as packed as we''d anticipated, a couple of early risers had gathered, but it was mostly empty. But I knew our stomachs wouldn''t be. The room smelt like freshly baked goods and I couldn''t help but drool at the decadent scent.


    There was so much to choose from, so many stations piled with hot food, I got 2 blueberry scones and poured myself and Lyra a cup of coffee and some orange juice. I got some scrambled eggs, bacon a few strawberries, and buttered toast.


    By the time we sat down Lyra had already been stuffing her face full with croissants and donuts, I laughed at the way she looked at me as if I was the crazy one when I told her to slow down just a bit.


    "You''re gonna choke!"


    I laughed but she just stared at me in defiance and continued eating.


    "What? I gotta eat! Plus it''s too good to slow down!"


    She moaned loudly and a few students shot dirty looks our way, again.


    I blushed as I tried to chew the rest of my food quietly.


    A few minutes passed by, and the dining hall was soon filled with loud chatter from the students and faculty alike. I was already finished with my food when two students suddenly walked up to our table, one of them had fiery ginger hair and sable brown skin. She was doe-eyed and looked a little agitated. The boy beside her was dark skin, with cropped blue hair, warm grey eyes, and a gentle smile.


    "Can we sit with y''all?"


    He asked politely looking between the two of us,


    "Sure!"


    I shifted to the side to make space for them in the booth. The ginger-haired girl sat on the opposite side of us next to Lyra and the grey-eyed boy sat next to me.


    "What are your names? I''m Scarlett."


    I introduced myself first just as Lyra sat up straight, fixing her loose curly hair as she became acutely aware of the students who''d promptly joined us.


    "I''m Noah."


    Said the grey-eyed boy,


    "And I''m Robynn n-nice to meet you."


    The ginger-haired girl said in a feathery-light voice.


    "What are y''alls orders? I''m a werewolf."


    Noah flashed a wolfy grin with pride and I tried my best to focus on my surroundings.


    "I''m a Siren..."


    Robynn blurted.


    "And I''m a Chupacabra."


    Lyra said, and then they all turned to me.


    "Um... I don''t have an order yet."


    I said sheepishly.


    "Really!?"


    Noah''s eyes grew wide with astonishment.


    "Yeah... is that bad?"


    "N-not necessarily..."


    Robynn looked up from her plate.


    "Oh ok, well I''m glad you don''t think I''m a freak."


    I laughed nervously, I wasn''t used to this much attention.


    "Mi hermano doesn''t have his order yet either, he just turned 17..."


    Lyra offered me a supportive smile,


    "Yeah! See, it''s not so bad!"


    Noah chimed in.


    "I guess you''re right... it''s just hard being the only one in my family who can''t transform."


    "I understand... but you have us now, we''ll make sure you never feel less than."


    Lyra beamed and the others nodded in agreement.


    "Thanks guys."


    I found myself blushing slightly as I tried not to dwell on it too much.


    "By the way did y''all hear about that student that harbored all 4 elements?"


    Noah changed the subject, taking a sip of tea.


    I shifted uncomfortably,


    How the hell did the news spread so quickly!?


    "Oh my God yea! I heard she was a freshie too!"


    Lyra planted her hands on the table, causing a loud thump.


    "It''s the first time any of this has happened..."


    Robynn gushed.


    I rolled my lips together, praying the conversation would end and they wouldn''t suspect anything.


    "I only got 2 elements... Moon and fire..."


    Lyra pops a cookie in her mouth, before turning in my direction.


    "What?"


    I replied, suddenly feeling very uneasy.


    "You''re just quiet... everything ok?"


    Noah and Robynn both drew their attention back to me.


    "Huh? N-no I''m fine... just..."


    I look around the room avoiding their gaze.


    In the corner of my eye just two feet away, I noticed Aurora and her squad walking towards our table with determination.


    I swallow my breath wondering what she wanted this time.


    "Hey guys! Hey Scarlett, isn''t it such a beautiful day?"


    She grinned at us, her smile as sparkly as her lipstick.


    The group doesn''t respond, seeming a bit rattled by her presence.


    "Well... I just wanted to tell Scarlett that we will be having a meeting later today to get to know the new freshies and I would love to have you sit at our table at lunch after class!"


    Lyra''s eyes widened at me and she looked between us.


    "Y-you guys know each other?"


    Noah''s brows furrowed with confusion.


    "Well, I do try to get to know most of my followers and the members of Terra Haven of course..."


    I try to ignore the implication behind the word "follower."


    "And... Scarlett just so happens to be very special, she harbors four elements."


    I groaned internally, as Lyra slowly turned to face me with her mouth ajar as Robynn and Noah looked at me with equal astonishment.


    "T-that was you?!"


    Noah gasped.


    I shifted uncomfortably wishing I''d just gotten 2 elements instead. I hated it when people stared at me... I wasn''t used to being the subject of a conversation... at least not when it came to positive things and now so many people were staring at me as if I had all the answers to the universe and some looking like they wanted to make me bite the curb.


    "Well,"


    Aurora looked at the three of us,


    Her flattering smile put me a little on edge.


    "I just wanted to let you know about the meeting, it''s in room 304, at noon Don''t be late please and have a wonderful day loves!"


    She wisps around, her floral dress swaying behind her as she and her friends walk towards the other end of the room.


    The group turns to face me, gaping at me as if I were some kind of spectacle.


    "Why didn''t you tell us!"


    Lyra exclaimed as the rest of them looked at me expectantly.


    "I... uh... I... I just..."


    I cleared my throat staring down at my plate.


    "You just???"


    Noah prompted.


    "I... I just, I didn''t think it was a big deal-


    "What?!"


    They all exclaimed.


    "I... It''s not that deep guys..."


    "Not deep my ass!"


    Lyra scoffed.


    "Do you know what this means Scarlett?"


    I look up from my plate at Noah who''s looking at me with revered intensity,


    "I...I... no?"


    I stammer.


    "It''s very, very, VERY rare to harbor 3 elements... Only a few people at our school carry that kind of power... and you, a freshman on your first day, already harbor 4 elements! That''s almost impossible!"


    "Yeah, not to mention the fact that only the king and queen carry 5 elements... that kind of power... it''s almost impossible to come by."


    Robynn nods in agreement with Lyra.


    I blink,


    "Really?"


    I never thought that it had meant anything special...but now that they''re talking about it I can''t help but feel a little intimidated by the idea of being that powerful.


    "I know this is probably overwhelming but it is also one of the most amazing things that could have happened to you Scarlett."


    Noah puts a hand on my shoulder.


    "Yeah, you could do so many great things with your abilities."


    Lyra says as Robynn looks at me with a warm smile.


    "Thanks, guys... I appreciate you."


    I smile back at them.


    "No worries, we''re glad we could all be friends."


    Lyra says as they all nod in agreement.


    "Speaking of, what classes do you guys have this morning?"


    Robynn asks before taking a bite of her food.


    "I have Intro blood magic-


    Lyra and Noah gaped at me as Lyra slammed her hands down on the table with a loud thud.


    "With Professor Grey!?"


    She exclaims, all three of them gawking at me yet again.


    "I...umm... I don''t know, I think so?"


    "Well... you are a lucky one aren''t you."


    Noah chuckles.


    "Why? What does this mean? Why''s it such a big deal?"


    "Are you serious?"


    Lyra looked at me as if it was the stupidest question I''d ever asked.


    I raised my brow and she let out an exaggerated sigh.


    "Because no one''s gotten into Professor Grey''s class that easily!"


    "W-what why?"


    "Because he''s so strict! Only the most talented and gifted students get into his class... it''s very competitive, not to mention he is terrifying."


    Noah explained,


    I blinked at him, wondering if what they''d said was true. I''d only gotten to choose a few classes, and when I''d gotten the notification yesterday that I was enrolled in the Blood Magic class, I hadn''t really expected it... or thought much about it either.


    "It could have something to do with the ascension and the fact you carry four elements."


    Robynn mentions her brown eyes softening.


    "Well, that does make sense..."


    Noah sits back in the chair, looking thoughtful.


    "Also... off topic, Professor Grey is also insanely attractive."


    Lyra sighs with longing.


    I laugh,


    "No, she''s right, the gods took their time with that man..."


    Noah grins as he looks up dreamily.


    "You guys are boy crazy."


    I chuckle.


    As much as I tried to hide it, I was... a little intrigued by the prospect of a handsome professor.


    I couldn''t help the fantasies that spurred my thoughts, just the thought of him had my toes curling with excitement.


    Whoever this Professor was... I''m sure he was a handful, in more ways than one.


    ***


    It wasn''t long before we''d all had to head off to our classes and lectures, Lyra was off to Clairvoyance and psyche, while Robynn and Noah had Oneiromancy and divination.


    I was more than a little anxious as I walked into the lecture hall, wondering what was in store for me and who this mysterious and terrifying professor was.


    Upon entering I discovered it was just a regular classroom, with a couple of students already seated and ready to take their lessons. Some were on their phones, others conversing, and a few just standing and waiting for something to happen. But as soon as I stepped in through the door, all their eyes fell on me as if I was some kind of cockroach that had crawled onto their bed. The class fell silent as I took a seat near the front.


    I tried to keep quiet and make myself seem as small as possible, but unfortunately, I''d already drawn the attention of a boy with dark curly hair and gold streaks. He had sunkissed dark caramel skin and amber eyes that were vigilant and a little mesmerizing, to say the least.


    "You must be Scarlett, the girl who harbored 4 elements?"


    "Yes."


    I muttered looking down at my phone.


    "So Scarlett, is it true you''re just a withered fae?"


    His eyes twinkled with mischief as he smiled in amusement. I kept quiet, looking down. I had the feeling he was just tryna get a rise out of me.


    His ivory white teeth were almost blinding and I noticed he had a pair of grillz in the form of wolfish fangs.


    If not for his arrogant behavior I would''ve noticed how attractive he was with his sexy grills and athletic physique.


    "My name''s Lucas..."


    He extends his hand to me and I sneak a glance at the crescent moon symbol on his veiny wrist. I try not to pay attention to the way his muscles strain against the fabric of his shirt and shift my gaze, getting out my phone to distract myself from the girls and boys burning holes in the back of my head. And Lucas, who is now leaning against my desk.


    "Hey. I''m talking to you!"


    He swipes my phone from my hands before I can protest, looking through it without my consent.


    Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on the original website.


    "Oh damn! I like this..."


    He laughs, showing me a picture of myself wearing a bikini... It was at a pool party the night I''d caught Miriam cheating on me.


    My cheeks burned red as I reached for my phone, but he raised it above his head tauntingly.


    "Give that back!"


    I jumped up from my seat and he just chuckled while swiping through more intimate photos.


    Rounds of laughter circled the room and I blushed profusely as he continued looking through my phone.


    "I said... give it back!"


    I shove him but it only seems to entice him more when I grab onto his shirt with anger.


    "What will you give me in return?"


    He smirks.


    "Asshole!"


    I pull harder on his shirt but he only raises my phone higher above his head.


    "Gimme a kiss first..."


    He rasps, a sadistic smile growing on his face.


    What is wrong with the men at this school??


    "Give. It. Back!"


    I yell, feeling as helpless as a child as I jump up and down to reach for my phone. I hear the shutter and clicks of cameras as I try to retrieve my phone and retain my dignity. My anger rising to the surface..this, was beyond humiliating.


    "Mr Karter, are you asking for detention? What the fuck are you doing fooling around in my class?"


    Just when I reach for my phone, a deep resonant voice booms over the laughter and a lean, tall, and incredibly sexy man strides into the room towards us, snatching away my phone from Lucas'' grasp and shoving him back against the floor.


    Lucas curses and mumbles something under his breath before walking back to his seat in defeat, glaring daggers at the Professor who barely pays him any attention.


    I back away slightly as he focuses his attention on the rest of the class. And my eyes widen, as familiarity flickers in my brain... It''s him! The man from the other day!


    "And you lot better get in your bloody seats before I lose my temper."


    He orders with vengeance.


    The rest of the students immediately obey, hiding their phones and rushing to their seats. I quickly do the same not wanting to risk his wrath. Moments later, his gaze finally falls upon me, his frosty and red eyes sending a shiver down my spine.


    "T-that my phone..."


    I pipe and he merely glances down at the screen, barely giving way to any emotion.


    "So it is."


    He wrinkles his nose with distaste before sliding it onto my desk, an unreadable expression on his face as he strolls back to the front of the class.


    My heart thumps violently as I look down at the screen and discover the picture of myself in a very revealing one-piece lying down on the beach. My stomach coils around itself and I bow my head with shame.


    "My name is Professor Grey."


    He writes on the board.


    I swallow my breath, heat rising in my face as I watch the movements of his muscles against his collared shirt.


    Goddamn...


    "I do not appreciate bullshit from my students or any kind of insolence... if you use this class as an excuse to fuck around like an idiot I will not hesitate to use drastic measures-


    He pauses, barely turning around as he speaks to a boy in the back of the class.


    "Mr. Abrams, are you using a phone in my class?"


    His deep voice is calm and collected, his frigid disposition hardly revealing any negative emotions... but something in me fears what''s hidden below the surface.


    "Yea... what''s it to y-


    Before the fae can even finish his sentence, Professor Grey appears beside him in a flash, snatching his phone out of his grasp.


    "What''s it to me hm? Well, that is a very interesting question, Mr. Abrams..."


    He turns the phone around in his hands as if inspecting it.


    "Is this your girlfriend?"


    He muses, looking at the picture on his phone with mock interest.


    "N-no... just some girl I''m hooking up wi-


    Before the blonde-haired boy can respond, Professor Grey crushes the phone in his bare hands... grinding its remains on the desk in front of his face.


    The class goes completely silent.


    "What the fuck!? You can''t do that to me! Do you know who I am?!"


    Without even a glance in his direction, the professor strides back to the front of the class turning his back on him.


    "Now... where was I... ah! Yes, I do not tolerate misbehavior and disrespect. You can do that in your own time and stare at whatever disgusting pornography you want when you leave my class..."


    The blonde-haired boy... boiling with rage stands up from his seat, interrupting the Professor as he speaks.


    "You owe me a new phone! My family will hear of this you fucking assho-


    I hold my breath as the professor turns back around, casually strolling back to where the boy is standing without saying a word. A stoic expression on his face as he approaches with tentative steps.


    "And why... would I give a flying fuck, who you or your parents are Mr. Abrams?"


    He leans in menacingly close to his face. But the boy hardly backs down, unintimidated by his display of authority as he stares him dead in the eye.


    "You fucking asshole..."


    He sneers and Professor Grey laughs... he actually laughs! The silence in the room is loud and tense, the air is thick with trepidation,


    "The question shouldn''t be who I think you are, Mr. Abrams... It should be, who do you think I am?"


    My breath gets caught in my throat as I watch with perpetual fear, it rises in my body as I stare at the scene in front of me.


    Abrams''s gaze falters for just a second, his resolve melting just as quickly as it was established.


    And it''s all the professor needs to make his next blow.


    Without even a flicker of emotion, he buries his hand into Abrams''s curly hair. And with a raise of his hand, he lifts him off his feet by the strands of hair.


    Abrams squeaks in pain as he struggles against Professor. Grey, who is much larger and much taller by 5 inches. With one sweep he throws a blast of air in the direction of the door, bursting it open before he hurls the blondie out of the class.


    The blood drains from my face, and the silence is palpable as the rest of the class stares in shock.


    What in the actual fuck!!!


    The other students watch with slack jaws as Professor. Grey, dusts off his hands and quietly strolls to the front of the class barely looking towards the door as he slams it shut with his magic.


    He straightens his tie and picks up his marker, hardly flinching and returning to his routine as if nothing ever happened like this was just another day.


    "As I was saying, when you enter this classroom, I don''t give two flying fucks who you are, what power you have, and what status your family is. In here you are nothing. Powerless, and I''ll do as I see fit."


    He writes it out in all caps;


    "POWERLESS AND USELESS" in big bold letters.


    Well.. fuck... that''s harsh


    "Is that understood?"


    He meets us with a scrutinizing gaze.


    The class falls silent.


    "Y-yes..."


    I blurt out, my voice trembling as it carries over the dreaded quiet.


    His gaze shifts back to me and something like a crooked smile appears on his face and my heart ignites.


    "Good. But not good enough."


    He turns back to the rest of the class, his expression cold and unreadable.


    "I said, Is. That. Clear."


    The authority in his voice sends a wave of anxiety up my spine as I realize he''s not asking, he''s informing us.


    "Y-yes Sir!"


    The class choruses, I let out a sigh of relief as the weight of his silent rage seems to disperse.


    Jesus fucking Christ... that was intense.


    "What is blood magick?"


    Professor. Grey asks the class.


    And a girl with straight green hair raises her hand.


    "Yes..."


    He nods in her direction.


    "Blood magic harnesses the life force and spirit of whatever it is drawn from, making it the source of powerful spells."


    The fae says.


    "Good. Blood magick otherwise known as Hemokinesis, has been used for centuries by various fae such as; elves, daemons, goblins, gnomes, and vampires.


    However, not many fae have been able to master the art of blood magick... it is mostly commonly associated with demons and vampires because of our connection to it since many demons and vampires derive our powers and abilities from blood. Blood magic is the essence of life itself. Within it is the life force and the spirit of whatever you draw it from. Harnessing that in magic, making it the source of a spell''s power, has great results and It can be used to any result;"


    I immediately get out my notebook to take notes, as he writes down the different uses of blood magic on the board;


    "Creating familial bonds or forming and strengthening relationships"


    "Summoning entities and spellwork"


    "Healing"


    "Divination"


    "Curses"


    "Blood magic can greatly empower any spell... but that doesn''t necessarily mean it is necessary for every spell. Why do you think it''s not necessary all the time and what are the consequences of using blood magick?"


    I wrack my brain as I try to remember the lessons I''d learned in reformation school.


    I raise my hand quickly after a sudden realization as I remember an old teaching. When Professor Grey turns in my direction, my stomach churns with a burning desire.


    "Yes, Miss.Thorne?"


    He crisply says.


    My breath hitches at the mention of my name and the way it falls off his lips like honey...


    "One of the reasons why blood magick is dangerous is because of the entities it can attract; some lesser demons may be drawn to its powerful properties and follow the scent and try to harness the magic itself... especially if the blood is tethered to another soul or is connected to the one who created the magic. It is also unnecessary to use it in minor spells because of the permanent and lasting effects of it, some spells are irreversible especially when using your blood."


    Professor Grey''s eyes spark with amusement, almost as if he''s pleased with me, but,


    "Good."


    That is all I get from him before his almost-smile disappears faster than it had appeared.


    "Now, I want you to understand, that this course is only meant to inform you of the importance and magical properties of blood magick. I will not permit any students to use blood magick outside of this class unless precisely necessary. Furthermore, you must be aware of the various kinds of dark magick as it can aid you later on in life in case you find yourself in a pickle..."


    I stifle a laugh at his use of the word "Pickle".


    "Something funny MIss. Thorne?"


    I immediately straighten.


    "N-no.. sir!"


    His icy-hot gaze pierces straight through me as if he''s trying to dissect me from where he stands.


    I hold his gaze, willing myself to stay strong while my heart batters against my ribcage.


    "Well... as I was saying..."


    My shoulders slope when he releases me from his stern gaze.


    For a second there I thought he would eat me alive.


    ***


    "Alright. That''s it for the day, get out of my sight."


    Professor Grey lets out an exasperated sigh, not even bothering to glance our way as he plops down on his chair.


    I start to gather my things when my name is suddenly called... catching me completely off guard.


    "Not you Miss. Thorne."


    Mr. Grey says, his voice demanding and imposing.


    I bite my lip, cautiously moving towards his desk.


    "Take a seat..."


    He gestures to the seat in front of his desk and I sit down, reluctantly.


    He taps away on his phone, before setting it down on the table and facing me as he leans back on his chair.


    "Do you know why you''re in this class?"


    He asks,


    I''m completely caught off guard by the question as I shake my head.


    "Well... the Dean asked me to give you this opportunity to partake in this course because of your recent... dispositions..."


    He makes it sound like it''s a bad thing...


    "Now, while I am not so pleased to have someone so incompetent in my class... I also believe in fairness and making sure each of my students succeeds. So, I''ll ask you something..."


    His gaze is unwavering yet somewhat hostile.


    "Do you think you''re special?"


    Once again, I''m startled by his harsh words...


    "No.. sir, I''m not sure what you mean..."


    He pinches the bridge of his nose, frustration creasing his brows.


    "What I mean... is, I don''t have favorites. So whether or not you carry all 4 elements means little to nothing to me. In my class you are nothing more than a feeble-minded student and just like everyone else I want to remind you of that."


    I flinch from the bite of his words,


    "I will be expecting a lot more from you and you will be pushed harder than the rest of my students because I don''t believe in failure, I just wanted to make sure you understood what was at stake. And before you argue... I understand you aren''t fully familiar with everything yet, but if you cannot handle the workload save me the headache and leave. Otherwise... I hope I didn''t make the mistake of allowing you to enroll in my course."


    When he finishes speaking, I find myself completely stunned, and angry.... But also very confused. Who the hell did this guy think he was? Did he expect me to thank him for letting me in his class? I didn''t care for the class in the first place... and why does he have to be rude?


    "Is this all you wanted to say to me?"


    I grit my teeth as I try not to say anything that might get me thrown out of class, literally.


    "What more did you expect? A reward?"


    I swallow, a little intrigued by the idea of being rewarded by him. As much as I hate how arrogant he is, the way he looks sitting behind his desk, with that stern authoritative gaze... his arms folded over his chest, his alluring mismatched eyes, and the way he''s leaning back against his chair. It''s hard not to imagine him... rewarding me with something else...


    "Something you want to share?"


    He suddenly asks me, and my face pales.


    "H-huh? N-no! Nothing. Is that all?"


    He cocked his brow and I had to force myself to look anywhere but his eyes... my gaze shifting to my surroundings.


    Damnit Scarlett. Why are you always lusting after assholes!


    "Very well... now, if you''d excuse me... I have other matters to attend to."


    He shoos me away like I''m some kind of bothersome pest.


    gladly


    I stood up, slinging my bag over my shoulder and praying that he didn''t notice the look in my eyes from earlier...


    Oh, he definitely noticed...


    I mentally facepalm myself when I leave the class, relief washing over me once I''m outside.


    ***


    I let out a frustrated groan, my annoyance spiking to new heights as my friends and I walked down the corridor.


    "So how''d you like the professor?"


    Noah mused a subtle smile on his face.


    "You know, you guys could have warned me..."


    I groaned as we walked down the path leading out to the courtyard from the dining hall.


    It was just by chance that we''d all happened to be in combat training together and I''d told them about all the drama that happened in Professor. Greys class.


    "Well, where''s the fun in that?"


    Lyra grinned and I rolled my eyes.


    "I still can''t believe he threw a student out of his class... I''d hate to get on his bad side..."


    Noah grimaced.


    "Right? And not to mention the way he looked at me..."


    I shivered as I thought back to the way his menacing eyes fell on me when he spoke to me after the class.


    "He''s a miserable goat... that''s why he acts like he has to stick up his ass."


    I erupt with laughter at Lyra''s comment, Noah and Robynn joining in with their chuckles.


    "It must be stuck up there alright... probably why he has a constant bitch resting face."


    Lyra snickers, looping her arm with mine as our laughter dies down.


    "Never met someone so rude..."


    I grumbled. I still wasn''t over the fact he''d made me stay behind just to remind me of the authority he had and call me useless... What a prick.


    "I have..."


    Robynn quipped, irritation flashing in her doe eyes.


    "Who was it? Need me to beat someone up?"


    I was bluffing but it''s the thought that counts right?


    "No... no... she''d probably hurt you too..."


    Her eyes widened as she shook her head frantically.


    "Who is it?"


    She let out a sigh,


    "When I moved into H.S. Hydro Solace, I''d said hi to her and her brother. Our families know each other so I thought... I don''t know what I thought but I expected her to be nice at least..."


    We listen intently,


    "She pulled me aside with her brother and threatened me. She said, "If I ever tried to speak to her again she''d make my life a living hell."


    "What!?"


    Lyra exclaims, anger brewing in her eyes.


    "What a bitch! What''s her problem?"


    Noah chimed in.


    "I''m so sorry babes... seriously what is wrong with the fae at this school... so arrogant..."


    I put a reassuring hand on her shoulder as we made our way into a large fitness room with a cushioned mat, boxing rings, and other fitness equipment set up in various corners of the room.


    A short raven-haired woman with red horns, glasses, and watchful orange-red eyes walks to the center of the room. Her stride is confident and imposing as she sets her attention on the students. She has an Epad clamped under her arm and a savage look in her eyes that sets her apart from the rest of the students. There''s no doubt that she''s the instructor.


    Although she is much shorter than the rest of the class... likely 5''2 and has a youthful appearance, she still holds immense authority and governance, her aura glowing with refined wisdom.


    She clasps her hands together, her eyes unfeeling and menacing as she calls us to assemble.


    "All eyes on me!"


    She demands, the roar of her powerful voice catching me fully off guard.


    We quickly gather around her in a circle.


    "My name is Madame. Ruthless and I will be your instructor for this magical combat and martial arts course!"


    A student snickers in the crowd and I hear a whisper;


    "Madame. Ruthless? More like Madame. Worthless..."


    I roll my eyes...


    so ...original...


    A few students, overhearing the remark, laugh as well. But the instructor''s face is stone cold and her facial expression doesn''t reveal if she even overheard them or cared... Instead, she simply continues speaking, ignoring the taunting and disrespect from the other students.


    "Alright, today we will be testing out your limitations and strengthening your core. We will be starting with 5 laps around the room! Timer... starts, now."


    She looks at us expectantly, some students not seeming to take her instructions literally as the rest of us blink at her absentmindedly.


    "Did I stutter? I said NOW!!!"


    The rumble of her voice echoes around the room, and for a second I wonder if she''s a banshee. We all scramble to our feet, a few students already running ahead while the rest of us try to catch up. I groan internally.


    I really hated running... I was still sore from that damned goblin chase.


    Not to mention the fact my breasts insisted on bunging up whenever I ran... I had to wear two sports bras to keep them in place and the back pain was a bitch. I was practically carrying half my weight and then some.


    Minutes passed by and I was already dripping with sweat from exhaustion and falling behind. I seemed to be the only one of 3 students lagging as we ran. My friends were already on their third lap. For fucks sake, I was already breathless.


    "GO GO GO!"


    Miss. Ruthless screamed and I urged my body to pick up the pace... already feeling like I was gonna die from fatigue. My legs ached and my heart pounded against my ribcage as I willed myself to move faster.


    I was too focused on finishing my 3rd lap when the sound of derided laughter erupted around me. I looked up to discover I was the only student left on the track, the other two students ahead of me having already finished. And my friends were seated on the benches cheering me on. I smiled at the encouragement until the laughter resounded and I slowly realized it was directed at me.


    "Look at her! I thought she was supposed to be a prodigy or some bullshit!"


    "Why don''t you harness the power of fitness for a change!"


    "She looks like she''s gonna pass out!"


    "If you''re so special, why are you so weak?"


    "I heard she doesn''t even have an order yet!"


    My cheeks burn from the ridicule as I run around the track. My legs nearly gave way as the instructor finally blew the whistle.


    I stumble, nearly collapsing. My heart was racing and mellow and my face burning from the humiliation as sweat poured down my face. My friends gathered around me patting me on the back as the instructor called us to assembly.


    "Hey... you ok?"


    Noah puts a hand on my shoulder, his face etched with sympathy.


    "Don''t listen to their bullshit..."


    Lyra rubs my back comfortingly.


    As much as I appreciate their words and kindness... it''s hard to distract myself from the fact I was made a laughing stock... how did the news already spread so quickly that I was orderless?


    "We cheered for you... did you hear us?"


    Robynn squeaks, breaking me out of my thoughts. I forced a half-smile at her and nodded.


    To be honest, It was hard to hear the cheering over the insults and the mocking.


    "T-thanks guys... I''m ok..."


    I say, but Lyra looks at me with skepticism.


    "I promise, I''m good. They''re just trying to get a rise out of me."


    "Pendejos..."


    Noah sneers,


    "Mga tanga"


    Lyra scowls in agreement.


    "Alright come on, gather around..."


    We form a circle around Miss. Ruthless as she beckons us.


    "Before we start today''s lesson I''d like to demonstrate how I expect you to perform... any volunteers?"


    As she looks around the room, I hear a few students snickering and making snide comments... one of them sounds awfully familiar. And I''m not the only one to notice them as Miss Ruthless calls one of them out.


    "You! With the brown hair and stupid grin. Come here."


    She points at a boy in the middle of the circle, his brown hair is shaggy and unkempt, his grey eyes widening as the teacher picks him up. We all stare in his direction, excitement stirring in my stomach as I anticipate what''s to come. The boy grumbles something under his breath and rolls his eyes as he comes to the front.


    "It''s important to size up your opponent before any fight..."


    Miss. Ruthless explains.


    "Yeah... this is gonna be a piece of cake..."


    The boy looks over his shoulders at his chortling friends as he outwardly mocks the teacher.


    "I really hope she kicks his ass.."


    Lyra rolls her eyes and I nod in agreement.


    "Make sure you know your enemy''s weak points..."


    Miss. Ruthless begins to circle him, her gaze never leaving his as she gets into a stance.


    "What''s your name, boy?"


    She peers up at the lanky kid, her face, a steely mask.


    The arrogant boy chuckles to himself, clearly amused by the interaction with the teacher.


    "Aaron."


    He grins as she sizes him up, still circling him like a hawk.


    "Well, Aaron... I do wanna warn you in advance... just because you''re a student doesn''t mean I''ll go easy on you."


    Aaron puts his hands up in mock defense as his idiot friends egg him on.


    "Oh... please don''t hold back ma''am"


    "Very well..."


    She scrunches her nose in disapproval.


    The air is dry and thick with avid tension... Miss. Ruthless'' viper gaze is still settled on her opponent, unafraid, sharp. Which contrasts with the humorous and calloused expression on Aaron''s face.


    Aaron makes the first move, drawing out a kick towards Miss. Ruthless hoping to catch her where she stands, but she''s faster than we''d ever anticipated as she seamlessly dodges his attack. He laughs with derision as she appears behind him, seeming to have some sort of supernatural speed.


    As Aaron angles his body to throw another punch she pounces... Her leg rose with precision and ruthless force before colliding with his jaw. The impact of her kick is so impetuous as she sends him flying back against the wall. A loud resounding crack echoes in the room and my jaw falls open as I stare at the short woman. Who may I say, looks more intimidating than she had just 3 minutes ago.


    The crowd gasps, my eyes wide with dubiety as we watch the scene unfold before us.


    Aaron barely has a second to react when she charges towards him with immense speed, like a raging bull she leaps in the air and catches him right in his jugular and he lets out a strangled groan as his hands fly to his throat. He tries to counter the attack with a punch but she swerves right and takes advantage of the opening grabbing onto his arm and throwing him halfway across the room.


    I wince as a few students exclaim "us" and "ouchs", our eyes peeled to the scene before us.


    "I would hate to be on her bad side..."


    Robynn squeaks, seeming to shrink back as we watch the teacher''s next move.


    Miss. Ruthless, truly lives up to her namesake, as Aaron curses and cries out from the impact of her attacks.


    "Always make sure you''re guarding your openings." Miss Ruthless draws her attention to us, but In a fit of humiliated rage, Aaron charges towards her with his leg raised to attack. His movements are reckless and untrained and Miss. Ruthless moves with precision and grace, capturing his foot before he barely reaches her.


    She twists his ankle and he cries out, I grimace... but I can''t seem to look away. Every one of her practiced combat moves reveals her unrivaled prowess and by the time she''s done, Aaron is past the point of depletion, his body slumped against the ground as he cries out in pain.


    Pathetic.


    I smirk.


    His pride is wounded and battered as he tries to regain some sense of control of what happened.


    And I can''t lie, I''m impressed... She''s remarkable.


    "Santa Mierda, she managed to take him down in just 7 minutes... how the hell..."


    Noah''s eyes look as if they''re about to fall out of his skull and I can''t help the laugh that tickles my throat as I nod, still speechless.


    "Remind me never to get on her bad side..."


    Lyra folds her arms as we watch Miss. Ruthless saunter back to the center of the room, a hint of smirk on her face as she looks back at Aaron with satisfaction.


    "And Aaron... next time you try to attack an unrivaled opponent make sure they''re at a similar level as you... otherwise, you''d just be making a mockery of yourself."


    Oh, she''s a bad bitch!


    I grin as she claps her hands to gather us around again.


    "Alright, partner up."


    She orders, her face returning to that stone-cold expression it was earlier, but there''s a spark of fire in her eyes.


    ***


    "I''m so sore!"


    Lyra moans as she arches her back.


    I can''t lie, I''m just as tattered.


    "I could use a hot bath..."


    "Mierda... me too..."


    Noah curses as he stretches his arms.


    "She really is ruthless... is this how training is gonna be?"


    Robynn whines.


    "I''m so hungry... What classes do you guys have after lunch?"


    Noah asks us.


    "Wait... did you say lunch?"


    I ask him, my heart sinking as the realization sets in.


    "Yea... you hungry?"


    I let out a frustrated groan.


    "Ugh... yes... but I gotta meet up with Aurora for this meeting thing."


    "Oh yeah... I wonder what that''s about."


    Lyra pondered as she walked in step alongside me.


    "I hope it''s nothing bad... but I gotta get going... I''ll text y''all later!"


    I wave them goodbye and tirelessly run down the opposite direction near the dorms.


    I checked my phone groaning as I realized I only had 20 minutes before the meeting... It was almost 12 and it was a 10-minute walk to Terra Haven...so if I wanted to get there on time I''d have to sprint.


    I let out an exasperated sigh willing my feet to move as I ran down the pebbled road and between the trees.


    By the time I''d arrived at the dorms, I was spent... my head throbbing with a splitting headache and my muscles sore from exhaustion and I practically crawled to the bed, falling in a heap.


    I knew I had to get up and at least shower but I was already sinking into the mattress, my eyes heavy with sleep as I let out a depleted sigh. Why did we have to have a meeting after that dreadful class?


    I stayed there for just a moment... basking in the softness of the feathery pillows. I''m not sure how many minutes had passed when I''d finally forced myself off the bed. I rolled my shoulders and moved towards the bathroom, filling up the tub with hot water and foamy bubbles.


    I could worry about the meeting later... right now I need to soak.


    I stripped down and entered the tub, sighing in satisfaction as I closed my eyes and lay back against the wall.


    ***


    I awoke with a start to the sound of a heavy fist knocking on my door. I let out a disgruntled sigh and climbed out of the tub, water dripping off my skin as I unplugged and drained it, before making my way to the closet and slipping into a large t-shirt and a pair of booty shorts.


    I checked my phone and sighed as soon as I saw the time. I''d slept through part of lunch and the meeting but I didn''t care as much. Hopefully, I''d still be able to grab something to eat before my next class.


    I squealed at the sound of someone hammering against my door and I whipped my head around.


    Who the fuck is that?


    I groaned and made my way to the door, swinging it open with annoyance.


    I wish I hadn''t.


    "Hey, beautiful..."


    Adrien, the captain of House of Embers stood in front of my door; sporting a sly grin on his chiseled face, wearing a pair of gym shorts and a tight-fitting shirt that exposed his very ripped... very toned physique.


    But... even though he weirded me out, I couldn''t help it... the man was incredibly good-looking, and it wasn''t just that devilish grin on his face that spurred butterflies in my stomach, it was the way he wasn''t afraid to show off the rippling muscles on his body... and the way his blue eyes danced with mischief.


    "Adrien."


    I said gruffly as he leaned against the rim of the door.


    "I just wanted to come and see you... you didn''t come to lunch earlier and I got worried about my favorite mentee."


    His eyes roamed over my body, an uncaged look of thirst lingering in his starlit eyes.


    "Do you wanna come and sit with me and my friends?"


    He flashes me a devilish grin.


    A strange feeling suddenly falls over me as I look into his eyes. Something starved... ravenous had crawled its way up my body.


    And it was making me feel things I did


    It was like I was being drawn into his domain... his essence casting a shadow of desire over me.


    "I... I have plans with my friends."


    I force myself to stare anywhere but his eyes, but my body is haunted by the sexual aura he emits.


    What the hell... Is happening...


    Adrien steps closer...


    "Well... that''s a shame... I was hoping you''d say yes...."


    His eyes never leave mine and I can''t seem to will myself to look away.


    "Or... perhaps... you''re hungry for... something else?"


    He leans in impossibly close, his lips just millimeters from mine when he speaks.


    "I''m not interested in you Adrien."


    I say defiantly, trying to resist the invisible string drawing us closer together.


    "I have a hard time... believing that."


    Before I have a second to react, he uses his lightning speed to pin me against the door the second he closes it. His body flushed against my own as I swallowed the bubble in my throat.


    "Adrien what the he-


    My voice is caught in my throat as he leans in, the warmth of his breath brushing the hairs on my neck as he speaks.


    "You know what I think? I think you want me to have my way with you... to kiss you until your lips are sore and swollen..."


    My breath hitches as I feel his lips press against my neck.


    "What I want... is... is for you to leave my room."


    I say between gasps... my brain spurs with thoughts of him pressing his body against mine, his hands on my skin and his lips on mine... flooding my veins with want and temptation.


    I''m not sure If I can resist him... not sure if I can force myself to push him away, because in this moment as his cold hands slide under my shirt touching the bare skin beneath it... my mind whirs and I can''t seem to stop myself from giving into the temptation and desire.


    "So... what will it be, babe?"


    His voice is hoarse and low... the demon in him lying just beneath the surface... begging to be released.


    "Come on... don''t keep me waiting.."


    I bite my lip, hating myself for even considering his offer.


    What the hell was wrong with me... was I actually falling for this crap? How the hell did we even get here... how the fuck-


    I gasp as he leaves feathery-light kisses along my neck down to my jaw.


    "Did you wear this just for me?"


    His hands dance along my back as he pushes me towards my limit.


    "N-no..."


    But I can already feel the heat between my legs... my arousal rising to new heights as my hands brush against his skin.


    Oh god... I''m gonna regret this...


    "You''re not a very good liar, Scarlett..."


    He pulls away, a look of hunger burning in his blue eyes.


    "Adrien, I don''t-


    He silences me with a kiss, his lips swallowing my words as he presses himself against me. A moan escapes my lips as his tongue plunders into my mouth, and he deepens the kiss, exploring it with renewed fervor and greed. His hands slid down my hips, and my hands wove through his hair.


    Adrien growls low in his throat, the sound vibrating through his chest as he pushes himself against me.


    My mind is hazy as I desperately cling to him, wondering how we even ended up here.


    Our tongues dance together in a heated embrace as I feel the growing heat between his legs.


    Oh, gods... I need to stop.


    But I can''t seem to pull myself away, to break myself free from his trance even as his hand moves higher up my shirt.


    I whimper, kissing him back with more ferocity... a new surge of passion envelops me as he suddenly lowers his hand to my ass, his fingers digging into the skin against the thin fabric.


    I know I can''t let this get too far... that would be crazy...


    but the way his mouth moves against mine, the way he caresses my skin... oh gods...


    A strange feeling takes over my body as he slips his hand down my shorts to grope my bare ass. He devours me, a low growl erupting in his throat as his nails dig into my skin.


    I gasped, snagging his bottom lip as I shoved him back, somehow managing to break free from whatever the hell this was.


    As he draws back, I''m suddenly met with a shocking revelation. The reason why I couldn''t resist him... why I couldn''t stop kissing him... A memory flashes in my mind as I suddenly remember the order he inhabits and his true nature.


    He''s a fucking incubus... he was feeding from me!


    Adrien curses stumbling back as he touches his bottom lip, irritation flashing across his blue eyes.


    "What the hell babe! We were just getting good..."


    I narrow my eyes glaring back at him as whatever spell he''d cast over me shatters. My heart, still racing from the lingering pleasure.


    "Were you feeding from me?!"


    "What? No!"


    Denial and hurt flashes in his blue eyes as he looks back at me. I watch him closely and notice something in his iris, a tiny glow burning like a flame ignited... It''s enough to confirm my suspicions.


    "You fucking pig! Yes, you were!"


    That damned, devilish smirk slowly appears on his lips as he watches me fume.


    "And you loved every second of it... like a dirty little slut."


    He grins.


    My anger rises to new heights as I slap him across the face.


    He winces and his hand flies to his cheek.


    "Ow!"


    "Get the hell out of my room!"


    I yell pointing towards the door.


    He grins, his eyes darkening.


    "So feisty... I like it..."


    His eyes trail down my body, and I grimace.


    "Get. Out!"


    I demand, embarrassment and anger stirring in my blood as I glared at him. The more he stood in my presence, the more I wanted to kick him in the balls.


    "Alright... alright... don''t need to be a bitch about it."


    I moved away from him, disgusted with myself for even considering even letting him near my body, for touching me!


    What the actual fuck is wrong with me???


    He opens the door and saunters out, a smoldering look of satisfaction on his face... the glow in his blue eyes burning brighter.


    "Thanks for the meal babe... maybe next time we can-"


    I slam the door in his face, seething with rage as I storm over my bed.


    Oh, my fucking gods... What the hell have I done...


    I drag my hand down my face, growling in frustration, wishing I hadn''t opened the door when he''d first appeared...


    Fucking demons!!


    I groaned, falling against the mattress in a heap.


    I had horrible taste in men... and women.

 Potion motions

    I still couldn''t believe what had transpired between me and Adrien, and the fact I''d gotten so carried away that I''d completely forgotten about the meeting. I just prayed Aurora wouldn''t be too unhappy, It couldn''t have been that serious right? After all, she didn''t come looking for me and I didn''t get any emails or text messages informing me that my absence was "unappreciated".


    I had decided to go to the dining hall for dinner, Lyra was already waiting for me, sitting by one of the fountains in the pixie hollow garden.


    "Hey girly!"


    She greeted me with a warm smile and I returned it, walking alongside her down the path.


    "I have some news..."


    I said gravely, my face slowly rising with heat as I recalled the incident that took place in my cabin.


    "Oh, do tell... is it juicy?"


    She grinned, her eyes twinkling with intrigue.


    "Um... not exactly... I ... well¡ª


    As we were walking I caught sight of Adrien walking alongside another student with dark brooding eyes and long hair that fell just below his chin, his expression was impassive but he looked somewhat immersed in the conversation he was having. Similar to his friend, he was strikingly tall. Casting a shadow of gloom in deep contrast to Adrien''s chipper, carefree attitude.


    But unlike Adrien... he was immensely captivating. His muscular body exuded so much sex appeal that it made my stomach tighten in knots.


    "Goddamn... that''s him..."


    Lyra whispered, her eyes glued to the same dark-haired boy I had been looking at.


    "That''s the Ice Dragon from Elysian House."


    And so it was... as I peered closer, I couldn''t help but notice the familiarity in his brown eyes.


    We tried to be as discreet as possible, walking silently behind the boys and keeping quiet... but then I stumbled over a twig, and as if on cue, Adrien with his damned demon senses whipped his head around. His eyes fell on the two of us with interest as he captured my gaze.


    My throat bobbed as he grinned, his gaze set on me as he and his friend came to a stop.


    "Well... if it isn''t my favorite mentee and her lovely friend."


    He looked between the two of us, his stoic friend inspecting us with a mixture of curiosity and unsubtle annoyance.


    "Did you come to thank me?"


    Adrien smirked.


    "Thank you for what?"


    I glowered as he pouted.


    "For that taste of heaven, I gave you..."


    Lyra''s eyes widened in alarm to his words glancing back at me.


    "Please, you''re a demon, the only thing you''re good at is giving hell."


    "Aw, don''t be like that babe... you know you enjoyed every second of it."


    Lyra''s eyes were as wide as saucers as she gaped at me.


    My cheeks burned from humiliation as I glared at him.


    "You know that''s not how that went..."


    I said.


    "Oh? And how did it go? Enlighten me, babe."


    "Don''t call me that. You tricked me and fed on me..."


    I snapped.


    "Did I?"


    He put a hand to his heart, feigning innocence.


    "You knew exactly what you were doing Adrien... don''t bullshit me."


    "You weren''t complaining when I had you pinned against the wall."


    He grinned devilishly.


    I swallowed, my anger replaced with shame as Lyra exclaimed.


    "What?! You two? When... How??"


    "It''s not like that I swear... he''s an incubus... He just fed from me earlier..."


    "Without consent??"


    Her eyes widened as she shot Adrien a scrutinizing gaze


    "N-no... well¡ª


    I stammered,


    Adrien chuckled,


    "See, you can''t even deny it. Admit it, babe, you loved when I kissed you when I put my hands on your¡ª


    "Shut up, Shut up!"


    I ran up to him waving my hands around in an attempt to keep him from humiliating me further. The heat in my body rose as I heard a deep chuckle beside him.


    "What are you laughing at?"


    I seethed glaring at the dragon shifter who was silent until now.


    "You. Also,"


    He turned to his friend,


    "Is she the girl you said harbored all 4 elements?"


    "Yeah, cute isn''t she?"


    Adrien chuckled,


    "A little... but very annoying...."


    The dragon shifter rolled his eyes and I scowled.


    It was almost like I wasn''t there.


    "You know what Adrien?"


    He turned to me,


    "Hm?"


    "Just because you kissed me doesn''t mean I want you. Besides, your tiny dick could hardly satisfy my needs."


    A blush crept onto his face as his friend erupted in laughter.


    "And you talk a big game for someone who''s just trying to compensate."


    I smirked,


    "I am not compensating! You have no idea what you''re talking about."


    His eyes narrowed and his face reddened slightly.


    "She got you there mate..."


    His friend laughed.


    "Shut the fuck up, Levi!"


    Adrien''s face grew an even deeper shade of red and Lyra laughed out loud.


    "Watch your mouth, Scarlett... I''d be careful who you speak to."


    Adrien''s eyes darkened but I wasn''t about to back down now.


    "And who is that exactly?"


    I arched my brow at him.


    "Someone who could make your life hell if he wanted to."


    I scoffed,


    "You think I''m scared of you? What''s there to fear with someone with such a small.... Appendage?"


    Lyra guffawed, and I joined her in laughter as we started to walk past them but my laughter was cut short when Adrien suddenly grabbed my arm and yanked me closer to him.


    "You think you can just disrespect me and walk away?"


    He leaned in dangerously close.


    "You have no idea what I''m capable of, princess, do you really wanna cross me?"


    I ripped my arm away from him.


    "The fact you resort to manipulation to get sex just tells me everything I need to know about you."


    He growls and I step back, realizing I could have just kicked him in the balls when I had the chance.


    "Come on Lyra... it smells like toxic masculinity here..."


    I say as Lyra passes them a glare looping her arm in mine.


    As soon as we''re out of earshot Lyra squeals.


    "That was so badass!"


    I chuckle,


    "I may have gone overboard..."


    "Maybe... but he deserved it. Also, it''s a little wild the fact you hooked up with a notorious player your first day."


    I groaned.


    "Don''t remind me..."


    "It was like he had some sort of power over me... I admit he is attractive... but I swear it felt like my body was being drawn to him, somehow... Like he had some sort of magnet that triggered those weird feelings inside of me."


    "That sounds like seduction magic... what a creep!"


    Lyra shuddered, wrapping her arms around herself.


    "But anyways, how was that meeting?"


    "Um... I didn''t go."


    I said sheepishly.


    "Damn, why?"


    "I passed out as soon as I got into the bathtub."


    She laughed,


    "Valid honestly."


    We chatted and laughed all the way to the dining hall, many students were already gathered and seated at various tables and eating, talking with the occasional couple making out disgustingly close to the food.


    I grimaced.


    "I think Noah and Robynn are waiting for us."


    Lyra says and I nod as she leads the way.


    True to her word, Robynn and Noah were already seated near the far back of the hall talking to one another in a booth.


    We gathered our food and walked over to their table.


    "We have some piping hot tea..."


    Lyra alerted the group immediately as she sat down and I rolled my eyes with a sigh.


    "Alright alright... let them hear it from me first..:"


    I said, and she grinned.


    "Alright mamacita, take the floor."


    I let out a disgruntled sigh and took my seat next to Robynn.


    "I may have been seduced by an Incubus..."


    "Oooo ok... spicy!"


    Noah grinned but Lyra shook her head shutting him down.


    "It was Adrien."


    I said and Robynn nearly spat out her drink.


    "A-Adrien!? From House of Embers??!"


    She gasped in disbelief.


    "Shhh keep it down! There are vampires around... and nosey supernaturals..."


    I warned her,


    "Sorry..."


    She slumped into her seat anxiously, I supposed from the mention of "big eared-fae."


    "So... what was it like? How did he taste?"


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    Noah leaned in, his eyes sparkling with curiosity.


    "It wasn''t like that he¡ª


    Just as I was about to explain my side of things Aurora sauntered over to our table, hips swaying and her piercing purple gaze set on me as she made her way to us with her posse.


    "Oh boy..."


    I groaned, she was definitely coming over to scold me for missing the meeting.


    "Scarlett! We missed you at the meeting today, everything ok sweetheart?"


    She said with an all-to-friendly smile.


    "Um... yeah I just... lost track of time and I fell asleep after combat class.


    Aurora''s eyes tweaked for a split second as she looked at me with the most intense gaze I''d ever seen.


    "Oh! Well, why didn''t you say so!"


    She continued to smile at me, but this time it didn''t quite reach her eyes. I laughed nervously/


    "I... I''m sorry."


    "No worries... It''s all good. We have a special event taking place tomorrow evening."


    "Oh...ok."


    "We''d love it if you attended."


    She grinned but there was an edge to her voice that made me slightly uncomfortable.


    But I guess I was just overreacting.


    "Make sure you aren''t late... I''d hate for anything bad to happen!"


    Her smile faded slightly but only for a moment before she grinned and walked away with her little fangirls. My new friends turned to me with the same confused expression I had on.


    "Is it just me or did that sound like a threat?"


    Lyra said with wide eyes.


    "Yeah.. that definitely sounded threatening..."


    Noah nodded.


    "Yea..."


    Silence falls over us for a moment as we digest the subtle threat.


    "So what''s this about you making out with an Incubus?"


    Noah leans on his right arm and Lyra grins.


    "Oh boy..."


    I roll my eyes and exhale, preparing to tell them everything that happened between me and Adrien.


    ***


    I trek the path to my Potions and Enchantment class which happens to be located in a dome-shaped building further from the school.


    The room was larger than it looked on the inside, shelves were stocked with potion ingredients and other miscellaneous items, including a few severed animal body parts in liquid jars. The desks and chairs were all connected in rows, descending down a small staircase. The room was decorated with all kinds of beautiful flowers, plants, and pictures. The top of the dome was exposed by a glass roof which allowed just enough sunlight to creep through the surface. In the far front of the room, there was a large board and desk with a few more potion shelves and demonstrative posters embedded in the walls.


    The moment I walked into the class I spotted Robynn''s red hair in the front row, looking attentive and slightly agitated. I grinned and approached her hoping to surprise her just a little bit.


    "Hey girly."


    I tapped her on her shoulder and she let out a tiny shriek. I can''t lie I laughed just a little bit at the terrified expression on her face which settled to a look of surprise and excitement as soon as she saw me.


    "You didn''t tell me you had this class!"


    She gets up to give me a tight-squeeze hug as I take my seat beside her.


    "Some of these classes were chosen by my parents."


    I shrugged.


    "Oh, for real? Why''s that?"


    "Well they transferred me here because they thought I wouldn''t amount to anything in Rutherville since I''m withered and I used to get into some trouble..."


    "Scarlett, that''s terrible!"


    She gasped.


    "It''s ok, they aren''t bad parents... in a way, they were kinda right."


    I reassured her and she settled down.


    "I understand. I''m not that close with my family in a way..."


    "I''m sorry... you don''t have to tell me if you don''t feel comfortable Robynn."


    I gave her hand a reassuring squeeze and she smiled with gratitude.


    A beautiful, strikingly tall woman with large glasses and a large puffy afro stepped into the class moments later. She was wearing an alchemist suit and her eyes scanned the room with wonder as she approached the front of the room.


    "Welcome, welcome! I am so pleased to see every one of your bright, youthful faces!"


    She picked up a wand and magically scribbled her name in cursive on the whiteboard.


    Miss January Blossom.


    "But Miss. Jan or Miss. Blossom is fine."


    She curtsied turning back to us.


    "Now, I would love to address the elephant in the room..."


    Her brows furrowed in a straight line as she grew more serious. She looked around the classroom, and I couldn''t help but follow her gaze curiously, wondering what she was talking about.


    Suddenly a student gasped as a magnificent and massive holographic elephant seeped through the walls, floating a few feet above the ground. I gasped as the creature let out a triumphant hoot with its trunk, walking towards us. Students exclaimed and a few took pictures and some just stared with shock or fascination as Miss. Jan guided the large creature to her.


    "Ironic isn''t it?"


    She grinned at us, unaffected by the presence of the large animal standing beside her.


    "But this is just another illusion. A trick of the eye."


    She waved her arm and the elephant exploded, showering us in sparkly glitter. Miss.Jan let out a shrill laughter, clearly pleased with her beautiful display of magic.


    "Now, I''m sure you''re all wondering how I did that, and why in god''s name was there a floating elephant in our classroom."


    I listened keenly and we all waited for her to explain.


    "spellwork, potions, magic... call it what you will, it''s in our nature. Every fae has the ability to brew potions but not every being is capable of creating high-class magical elements through the art of brewing potions."


    She starts to write something on the board and I notice students getting out their notebooks or Epads and computers.


    I take out my notebook to take notes as she writes down the 5 laws of brewing potions.


    "Would you believe that an elephant was made in this very class with only a few ingredients?"


    She turned to face the class as she used her wand to continue writing down the laws.


    The 5 laws of Brewing potions:


    1. Time


    2. Adjust


    3. Verify


    4. Extract


    5. Recite


    6. Nitting.


    "TAVERN"


    "Time; it is important to time your potions as most potions can be time-based, and need special attention for example; Teleportation potions require moon dust, lava water, fae essence, and unicorn hair. Making Preparations beforehand is also important when brewing potions, knowing when to add the ingredients and precisely how much is needed."


    "Adjust, making sure the potion well, cauldron, or bowl is adjusted to fit the correct measurements. Each potion needs a unique brewing well. Make sure the quantity is accurate to the instrument you will use in brewing, stirring, measuring, and timing. But otherwise, for most potions, a cauldron is the easiest instrument to use when brewing potions. We will get into the equipment needed later on."


    "Verify, it''s important to make sure you are making the correct potion, after gathering your equipment make sure you are certain of the spell you will administer."


    "Extraction, extracting the correct ingredients is of the utmost importance in brewing potions, as it is with any type of spell."


    "Recite, reciting the correct spell, when you have combined all the ingredients and finished the first 3 steps. If you read the magic words wrong it could create havoc and you may find yourself in a dangerous predicament. Please always recite the spell correctly, I would hate for any of you to magically combust because you couldn''t recite an invisibility spell."


    Laughter fills the room at her comment and I find myself growing more and more intrigued as I scribble down notes. I hadn''t realized how many steps it took to brew a potion and the importance of timing it or reciting the correct spell.


    "Nitting is the final step, making sure that you have gathered your materials and ingredients and have recited the correct spell. Once finalized you may now knit the potion, making sure it is bottled or entrapped and protected from harm... or to protect yourself from destruction as some potions are powerful and very dangerous."


    "Now, that brings us to your first assignment of the year... I will teach you how to summon a fizzlewart!"


    A student raises their hands and she points at them.


    "Yes, go ahead deary."


    The dark-haired student clears their throat before speaking,


    "What is a fizzlewart?"


    Miss. Jan beams,


    "I''m so glad you asked! Well, a fizzlewart is a magical creature that can only be summoned through potion brewing."


    She waves her wand and produces a hologram of a small fluffy creature with feathery wings that closely resembles a guinea pig. It has big colorful eyes that seem very perceptive and are very adorable. A long fluffy white tail wisps behind its back as it hovers above the ground flapping its feathery wings.


    "Awww it''s adorable!"


    Robynn coos, her attention suddenly piqued by the cuddly peculiar creature.


    "It is isn''t it?"


    Miss. Jan simpered in agreement, and Robynn immediately shied away, shrinking back in her seat as the class glanced at her.


    We watch with fascination as the hologram of the small creature flies around the room, occasionally sniffing the air and licking its claws.


    "Fizzlewarts are great for many things... they can help you find magical items or anything of your choosing if you train them correctly, they''re also very empathetic, and can be great companions once you form a bond with them."


    The class cooed with admiration at the mention of the cuddly-looking creature.


    "However,"


    Miss. Jan contends,


    "They can be quite belligerent if angered or displeased. If overstimulated, they can become aggressive."


    As she explains she waves her wand and the tiny creature bares its pointy buck teeth and growls.


    "And when provoked... they can multiply..."


    As she says this, the once tiny and cuddly creature duplicates itself seeming to grow in size as its teeth elongate into fangs and its eyes flare with violent rage.


    "And then... before you know it..."


    The creature suddenly bursts into an array of colorful fireworks, that spark violently causing a couple of students to shriek or jump out of their seats.


    "They can return once they explode, but once they return they are even more aggressive and larger..."


    The fizzlewart increases in size, becoming more and more frightening as it snarls at the class. It''s about the same height as a bulldog now and despite its once cute and cuddly demeanor it slowly begins to resemble a large rat.


    "Aaahhh!! Kill it!!"


    A girl screams as the creature flies directly towards her.


    A few students laugh at her reaction, but despite it being a hologram I can''t help but flinch myself, the second fizzlewart whizzes towards me and Robynn.


    Robynn squeals shielding herself from the frightening creature, but as soon as flies directly at us, it suddenly evaporates into thin air, the hologram dissolving with the remnants of the creature as Miss. Jan laughs heartily.


    A few students chatter amongst themselves, while others scowl in annoyance or cower in fear.


    "Alright, alright... calm down. It''s not real. Yet."


    She waves her hands in reassurance, and it seems to reduce some of the tension and fear in the room.


    "The only way to get rid off a fizzlewart is by trapping it in a bubble. Once trapped it will disintegrate itself and evaporate. But finding a way to make a bubble big enough can be tricky at times..."


    A student raises their hand and Miss. Jan nods in their direction.


    "S-so... are...are we actually going t-to... summon them?"


    She stammers, looking as if she might pass out.


    "With my help and administration yes, It will be a class project to look after and monitor the fizzlewart individually. However, for class today, we will be learning the basics. We''ll start simple; we will be making a healing potion. Although most of you already have healing abilities due to your fae forms... sometimes you may need some regeneration to kickstart your abilities, just in case."


    "Now the potion is simple and very strong."


    She gathers the ingredients passing around small cauldrons to each of us and the ingredients and tools on a platter.


    "I''ve given you all a sage leaf, ginger, honey, rosemary, water, and fairy dust."


    "You need 3 sage leaves, 3 rhizomes of ginger, 4 tablespoons of honey, a pinch of rosemary and a cup of water, and a sprinkle of fairy dust."


    Miss. Jan instructs us, she begins to demonstrate how to brew the potion.


    "Now... this is only to orchestrate the healing properties of the potion."


    She takes out a small blade and we all gasp as she slices her wrist.


    Her blood drips down onto the table and I notice a few vampires leaning forward in their seats at the scent of her blood.


    She then proceeds to take a spoonful of the potion, and almost immediately the healing potion takes effect, mending her wound and returning her flesh back to how it was before.


    I stare in fascination as she gestures for us to begin.


    ***


    I didn''t know why I assumed that most of the students would succeed in brewing the potion... because as soon as we started, a couple of students failed to make the healing potion, and some of their potions resulted in explosives from too much fairy dust... some ended up attempting to injure themselves hoping to mimic Miss. Jan''s demonstration only results in blood loss and aggravates the already ravenous vampires. One girl had taunted a dark-skinned vampire trying to aggravate him and mocking him with her wound and of course... as expected, he''d immediately attacked her. His fangs sank into her neck as she let out a horrified scream.


    The classroom was in disarray, with cauldrons bubbling and spilling onto desks and students running away from the vampires that had finally snapped and set themselves free.


    "ENOUGH!"


    Miss. Jan''s voice carries over the room, she uses her wand to stop a vampire from drinking from a girl with sparkling pink hair.


    The class falls silent, seeming to be frozen in place as Miss. Jan pinches the bridge of her nose.


    "Jeremiah don''t you dare pour that entire vial of fairy dust!"


    She objected, her eyes narrowing at the rosy-cheeked gargoyl with purple hair.


    He rolled his eyes and grumbled, placing the bottle down. Miss Jan shook her head as her lips pulled into a thin line, her patience running low.


    "I will have none of this in my class! If you want to make fools of yourselves kindly do that outside! This is a very dangerous class with all kinds of alchemy equipment and ingredients and I won''t have you acting like enfants! Now, take your seats and follow instructions!"


    Robynn and I shared a look of relief as the class finally calmed down.


    "Now, I want to acknowledge the few of you who actually succeeded in making the healing potion. You two in the front, what are your names?"


    She suddenly points at Robynn and me and we both blush glancing at each other and then back at her.


    "I''m Scarlett, she''s Robynn."


    I say and she grins.


    "Ah, yes... Scarlett! I am so pleased to have you in my class... I would expect nothing less of a fae with 4 elemental powers!"


    The class directs their attention to me, making my stomach coil in knots.


    A few students whisper amongst themselves and thanks to my massive ears I hear one of them say,


    "She probably cheated... there''s no way she has all 4 elements."


    "Did you hear...I heard she''s a withered too..."


    "That''s crazy! How the hell did she even get into AU when she can''t even transform."


    I bite the inside of my cheek and force a smile as I look up at Miss. Jan.


    "Y-yes, thank you miss!"


    She offers me a warm smile as she approaches our desk.


    "You both did an amazing job. Well done."


    She congratulates Robynn and I.


    "Th-thankyou!"


    Robynn gives her a nervous smile and Miss. Jan turns back around, to the front of the class,


    "As for the rest of you... anyone who failed to complete the potion will have to do it later as homework."


    The students groaned in defeat and began packing up and gathering the materials they needed for the homework as she announced the end of class. I still couldn''t comprehend how the hell the students had managed to mess up a healing potion. It had to be the easiest one in the book.


    "That was wild."


    Robynn looked at me with wide eyes and I nodded in agreement.


    "Yea... Is this how it''s gonna be in every class?"


    "Probably.."


    She shrugged.


    "But at least we got an A!"


    I laughed amused by her enthusiastic attitude.


    "Yea you''re right..."


    Robynn and I gathered our things and headed off to our next classes saying our goodbyes to each other.


    ***


    Later that evening, I was going over the notes I''d taken in Professor Grey''s class and my other classes.


    I had my headphones on when I''d suddenly gotten the strangest feeling that I was being watched...


    I had brushed it away, hoping it would pass eventually... But it only grew stronger the more I studied... and it only made me more and more uncomfortable.


    I finally turned around after letting out a shaky breath and as I had presumed there was nothing there. I let out another deep sigh feeling like I was hallucinating as I went to sit back down.


    Suddenly, I saw the lights flicker, and I looked up, wondering why the hell it was starting to dim.


    I stood up from my desk and looked up at the light on the ceiling as it faded in and out... darkness gradually enveloping the room.


    I heard the creak of the door and whipped my head in the direction as the door stood ajar.


    I could have sworn I locked it.


    My heart pounded in my chest the second I heard a quiet, sinister chuckle. I shrieked as the lights suddenly went out and rushed over to the switch on the wall, flicking it repeatedly hoping that it was just faulty.


    I shut the front door, realizing I was covered in darkness... and there was this dreaded silence that loomed over the room that made me wish I hadn''t closed myself in... Someone was in here with me.


    I shot a quick text to Lyra asking her if her lights were messing up too. Her response came a few seconds later.


    Lyra: No. Everything ok?


    I had started to reply to her text, my fingers moving frantically when something suddenly whispered around my waist. I whipped my head around, my chest tightening with rising panic as I spoke.


    "Whoever the hell you are... I will call the campus director!"


    I tried to muster enough courage and make myself sound more threatening but it only came out as a feeble mumble.


    I quickly texted Lyra, informing her of my current situation... but a hand... shot out from the shadows and swiped my phone from my fingers.


    I paled... and opened my mouth to scream, but it was quickly muffled by rough hands as I kicked against the intruder. My body writhed in their firm grasp and I kicked and fought against them to no avail.


    It was only moments later that I realized they had placed a sheet of fabric over my nose, and I couldn''t stop myself as I breathed it in, my eyelids growing heavy with each passing second...


    Surrounded in darkness I heard a familiar voice ring in my ears... a woman. But it was different... malicious and dark, like something sinister had twisted itself in her chest and she had finally set it free.


    "Poor Scarlett... you really shouldn''t have transferred here..."

 Bloody Mary

    I was trapped in a void of darkness, disoriented, blinded, and sucked into an empty silence. I wondered how and why I ended up here. Why it felt like I had no escape... like I was trapped.


    A cold breeze swept against my skin and I was suddenly acutely aware of my exposed state... my bare ass touching the hard ground beneath me. I stood up shivering trying to peer through the darkness.


    What is this? Where the hell am I?!


    I asked myself as I tried to stand. I stumbled, cautiously realizing the ground was flat against my feet. I continued walking but a loud shuddering horn blared through the deadly silence, halting me in my steps.


    I froze as a bright light blasted me into oblivion, my head whirring as I adjusted to the sudden brightness.


    I discovered I was in an empty room, an auditorium of some sort and I was currently standing on the stage.


    I looked into the audience and froze as rows upon rows of ominous masked fae sat in their seats watching me. Each one with some sort of animal mask that covered most of their head and long dark cloaks that covered the rest of their body. It was an unsettling sight and made me wrap my arms around myself as I suddenly realized how naked I was. A few males jeered and my face flushed with embarrassment as I backed up from the front of the stage.


    Out of all the students, one mask stood out the most, it sent a shiver down my spine, the way it peered at me through the holes of the mask, gauging my every move as if it was ready to pounce. It swallowed me with its watchful gaze as it stood up approaching the stage in slow-graceful steps.


    My heart pounded as I backed up further.


    I wanted to run, to hide... my instincts screamed at me to flee but I was paralyzed with fear as they walked towards me, the fae in the crowd growing silent as they watched the interaction.


    For a moment they just stared at me, unflinching, unmoving. Their cold disposition stirred the fear in my stomach.


    "Sweet, sweet Scarlett... so pleased to see you awake... I bet you''re wondering where you are?"


    "W-who...who are you!"


    She laughed darkly, folding her arms.


    "I''m afraid I can''t reveal that... yet, but as for why you''re here... you have been selected to prove yourself. To demonstrate the full extent of your abilities... your fae form."


    I gulped as her words sunk in. I was cooked... they would fry me alive on this stage and humiliate me once they discovered I didn''t have a fae form, not to mention I had no way of summoning my elemental powers either.


    "I...I can''t..."


    I mumbled avoiding her gaze.


    "Can''t?"


    I could hear the bitter humor in her tone.


    There was something oddly familiar about her, but I couldn''t pinpoint what exactly. Her voice reminded me of someone. Like the rest of the students, she wore a long dark cloak that covered most of her body... all except her blonde wavy curls.


    "I... I don''t have a fae form yet."


    I said quietly and she leaned in.


    "Speak up."


    I closed my eyes, feeling a wave of embarrassment flood me. Not only was I stark naked, but I would have to orchestrate my nonexistent powers somehow... and prove to them I belonged to be here just as much as the rest of them. But that was nearly impossible considering I had no fucking clue how to summon my powers... and I didn''t want to perform for a bunch of wicked people. Something told me they had to be from Azyrath, I had a gut feeling that I was still somewhere in the university... I just didn''t know where.


    I looked up at the fox girl and tried to muster the tiny amount of courage I had left.


    "I don''t have a fae form."


    I finally said.


    There was a long dreadful silence before the crowd erupted in laughter. Their beady eyes stared right through me as they mocked me where I stood. I hung my head low and wrapped my arms around myself trying to hide whatever I had left to hide.


    "Please... just let me go."


    I begged, holding onto the last string of self-respect I had.


    "Let you go?"


    She scoffed, then suddenly grabbed my arm and yanked me towards the front of the stage towards a microphone.


    "Little Scarlett here says she wants to be set free... not only is she weak, worthless, and withered, but she also thinks she has the right to decide her future in Azyrath? Should we let her?"


    The crowd roared in protest, voices calling out for me to be trialed.


    Hot tears brimmed in my eyes as I stood there trembling from the humiliation. I wrapped my arms around my breasts noticing a pair of eyes ogling me like fresh meat.


    Why was this happening to me?


    "This is a first, not a single student at Azyrath has ever had the problem of summoning their powers... a matter of fact it should come naturally along with having a fae form... And you harbor 4 elements yet you can''t even use them? What a waste."


    The fox girl giggled, her hands moving to my shoulder as she stood behind me.


    "You sure you don''t have anything you could show us... anything at all Scarlett?"


    She whispered against my ear, her grip on my shoulders tightening.


    My head hung low as I shook it, tears running down my face as the laughter and ridicule surrounded me.


    "Well, then... you know what that means?"


    The crowd cheered and began to chant.


    "BLOOD BATH! BLOOD BATH! BLOOD BATH!"


    My heart lurched in my chest and my thoughts spiraled as I tried imagining what terrible things they would subject me through...


    The fox girl suddenly pushed me to the middle of the stage.


    Her eyes glowed with a ferocious glare of iniquity.


    "What''s... what''s a blood bath?"


    I choked out as I lifted my head.


    Instead of answering she walked off the stage and took a seat in the front row, looking up at me.


    I didn''t know what was happening but I could tell whatever was coming was bad...


    Suddenly I heard footsteps coming from the left side of the stage and I whipped my head around as a student with a wolf mask and one with a demon mask walked up the stage carrying a large bucket of a red substance. It sloshed around and dripped down the edges of the circular tub.


    I backed away preparing to flee but my back collided with a hard chest.


    "Careful princess."


    Hot breath fanned against my ear and I recoiled, turning around and stumbling back. I looked up at the tall cloaked figure in a demon mask with piercing blue eyes and felt an uncomfortable familiarity with him... his demeanor reminded me of someone and it only furthered the growing disgust I had for him.


    My heart hammered against my ribcage as his eyes slowly raked up my naked body. I felt shameful... revolted. I wasn''t an animal at a zoo... or a new shiny toy to play with. The fear in my body mixed with anger and discomfort, creating a dangerous potion of emotions. I suddenly found the urge to slap him across the face, hit him... to do anything to regain some of the pride they had stolen from me. But all I could do was stand there... naked and afraid. Utterly disgraced.


    He took a step forward, his gaze objectifying me as I backed away.


    "Don''t touch me."


    I warned but it came out weak... more of a plead.


    "Or what?"


    He challenged still moving closer.


    I was a mouse, trapped against a wall... What could I do? Where could I run?


    "Stay. Back!"


    I yelled backing up further.


    But it only enticed him to move closer.


    I had no idea what was happening until he suddenly appeared behind me again. I screamed as he hoisted me up and carried me over his shoulder like a sack of potatoes.


    I kicked and tried to wriggle free from his grasp but his hands held strong. Tightening on my upper thighs... dangerously close to my ass.


    "LET ME GO!"


    I screamed, but he didn''t respond. I still resisted, banging on his back with all my strength... it was useless.


    His hand slowly moved higher up and that was when I retaliated and bit down on his neck.


    Stolen content warning: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.


    "FUCK!"


    He exclaimed and immediately dropped me. I fell against the floor and quickly scrambled to my feet and ran...


    I barely managed to get two feet off the stage when someone grabbed my waist and hoisted me in the air.


    "NO! NO!"


    I screamed as I fought against them, but I felt something sharp pierce my sides and I howled in pain as claws dug into my flesh.


    The crowd began to chant again, this time louder and with more enthusiasm, their voices scornful and wicked as I cried out.


    "LET ME GO! LET ME GO!"


    But any attempt at freedom was stolen from me the second the masked demon spoke.


    "Ok."


    Was all he said.


    I barely had a moment to register what was happening as he threw me into the red basin.


    My scream was silenced as I fell deep into the pool of red,  the metallic taste of blood vacuumed into my lungs as I drowned. Out of all the things I''ve been through this had to have been the most sickening... had they known? Had they planned this out... if so why did they make me confess I had no fae form... that I was withered? Was it all just a ploy to humiliate me? To torment me?


    As I sunk deeper into the pool, I wondered how far it''d be before I touched the ground.... And why it was so deep for something so small? I could hardly swim up, it felt like I was being flushed... drowned. My lungs unwillingly opened up, forcing me to swallow more blood. I was choking on it, caved in by the sticky wet substance as I was driven deeper and deeper into the neverending pool.


    It suddenly hit me like a ton of bricks, that this was no regular pool... no. This wasn''t a coincidence. This was cursed... I could feel the magical bindings in the blood trapping me and pushing me deeper into it.


    They truly had planned this.


    They had planned to kill me.


    ***


    I could see the auditorium lights fading away, my vision blurred by crimson spots... suffocating inside a pool of plasma.


    I was going to die... they were truly trying to kill me.


    And for the life of me, I couldn''t swim through... couldn''t push myself up to the surface. My magic was useless... I was useless.


    The metallic taste had begun to force the bile out of my throat, causing me to suffocate, and I was only swallowing more. It had a slimy texture like spoiled milk, heavy and putrid and when I ingested it, my throat slowly began to clog. My windpipe closed up as the blood washed through my nose.


    I was no more until I was as it was... a sludgy matter of bodily fluids, a withered... useless fae.


    And a bloody mess.


    Out of all the ways I''d imagined my death, this had to have been the worst. I had no fight left in me and my body was beginning to succumb to troughs of the gorey fluid.


    My vision was absolute, my lungs strangled and heavy as my heart, fighting a losing battle.


    This was my death, my end... My mercy...


    I wish I''d done more... I wish I''d seen more...


    I should have said I love you to my parents before I left, I should have kissed them goodbye. I should have apologized... I should have begged the students to free me... to have mercy.


    But I was a withered fae, something to trample over and so easily forgotten.


    Here, now...Is where I die,


    where I lose myself.


    Where I lose everything I could have had...


    Everything I wish I''d fought for...


    Isn''t it fitting? A useless death for a useless fae, no one to weep for me... no one to search for me.


    No one to fight for me...


    ***


    The world was a black hole, a bottomless pit that had swallowed me whole.


    I never believed in the afterlife... but perhaps if there was one the gods would be merciful.


    I''d accepted my fate as soon as I''d closed my eyes... but something... lifted.


    Pulled me out of the darkness and into the light.


    Was it my imagination? It had to be...


    Why would anyone save me?


    Why would anyone¡ª


    "SCARLETT!"


    The voice came crashing like a roar of thunder, cutting through the silence, my thoughts... and that''s when my eyes flew open, my heart hammering as I coughed and vomited blood and the leftovers of my dinner.


    It felt like I''d swallowed death... and I suppose I had...


    I dry heaved, my eyes blinking back blood and tears as they adjusted to the light from the auditorium.


    I was slightly disoriented, still trying to grasp what was happening and why I wasn''t dead.


    A deep voice spoke from above and suddenly everything stopped spinning.


    I had never heard anyone speak so tenderly... and as my eyes looked up, I was met with crimson and cerulean eyes.


    "P-professor Grey?"


    I stammered as I looked up at the man kneeling beside me. For a split second, I could have sworn I saw relief flash before his eyes, but it vanished just as quickly as it appeared into a solid undisposed stare.


    "Good. You''re awake."


    He gruffly said, his gaze intensely focused on mine.


    I swallowed as I stared back, unable to look away from him as I slowly registered what he''d done.


    "You... you saved me."


    I choked out, my throat still sore from drowning.


    He didn''t flinch, and he didn''t say a word, but his gaze softened ever so slightly. As my heart thumped wildly, I drowned in his eyes, enveloped in the sincerity of his strong gaze. Something in me wanted to reach out, to touch him... but I held myself back.


    As awkward as it should have been, this was far from it. I wasn''t uncomfortable... I was just entranced by the solitude and kindness he exuded. Though his face stayed stoic.


    He was an enigmatic beauty.


    And I felt myself burning beneath his gaze.


    As he exhaled, my gaze wavered moving away from his and I faced forward, recognizing the red basin of blood I''d drowned in.


    "Let me get you a towel."


    He cleared his throat as he rose to his feet. I wanted to ask him why as I watched him walk away behind the stage curtains.


    I felt my nipples harden... and it was at that moment I realized why. I was fucking naked.


    As he approached me his gaze dropped slightly before quickly lifting them to my face, I covered my breasts but he composed himself and focused on my eyes instead as he placed a towel over me.


    "T-thank you, sir..."


    I looked at the ground and he nodded.


    "You need to be more careful."


    He said as I stood up,


    I looked over at the basin again, wondering where they''d even gotten the blood from. A chill ran down my spine as I pushed the thought to the back of my mind.


    I took a step forward and slipped but before I could land on my ass Professor Grey caught me in his steady arms.


    "Careful."


    He repeated, still holding onto me.


    I nodded as he steadied me.


    I looked down at where his arms were, a few centimeters away from my chest.


    I noticed his sleeves were rolled up, but his white shirt was a bloody mess. I suddenly felt a pang of guilt knowing I''d been the cause of it.


    "Why... did you save me?"


    I asked after a moment of silence.


    And he looked at me as if I''d just asked him why the sky was blue.


    "Because I had to."


    "But you didn''t..."


    I said, and his eyes narrowed.


    "I know that. I don''t need to explain my reasons to you."


    He said sharply.


    I flinched at his harsh tone and he let go of me. My body still shivered from the loss of his touch but I shoved the thought to the back of my mind.


    "Where''s your dorm? I''ll walk you there."


    He rolled up his sleeves further exposing the sinew of muscles on his arms.


    My heart thumped against my chest as I drank at the sight of him.


    I''d only just realized how much blood had gotten on him, and how his shirt was now molded against his body, revealing the outline of his abs.


    "Terra Haven..."


    I said as I forced myself to look away.


    He let out an exasperated sigh and rolled his eyes.


    "This was supposed to be my day off..."


    "What?"


    I blurted, turning to face him. But I was only met with a cold gaze.


    "Come on."


    He ordered and I quietly followed behind him.


    As we walked out of the auditorium my mind whirred with thoughts of the strange man in front of me. Why had he saved me? He didn''t seem like the empathetic type and it made no sense why he would even give me the time of day.


    The air was thick with silence, an ellipse enveloping us as we walked through the hallway.


    A few students gasped, their eyes widening as they saw me and the professor walking away.


    I looked down at the floor avoiding their gaze and trying to block out the whispers surrounding us as more students gathered.


    An elf with red hair clasped his hand over his mouth to stifle his laughter as he nudged his friend. I blushed, feeling even more exposed than I was before.


    I couldn''t stop thinking of the masked faces that jeered and mocked me on the stage, the men that ogled my naked body, laughing hysterically as if I was the most ridiculous thing they''d ever seen.


    I wasn''t always confident in my body... I was curvier than most, but I had never hated it... until I stood on that stage with every piece of me unveiled to the audience.


    Their laughter still echoes in my mind, even as I drowned I remember it so clearly.


    "Do you know who did this to you?"


    The professor suddenly asked as we began walking out of Aerion Hall.


    "No... I couldn''t see their faces."


    "What do you mean you couldn''t see them? Don''t you have eyes?"


    I held myself back from lashing out because why the hell would he say that?


    "No. I didn''t see their faces because they had masks on."


    He merely glanced at me with a questioning look and I glared at him.


    "Look, I don''t know ok? I don''t know who they were, one second I was in my room and the next I was on a stage."


    He turned back around without another word and we walked in silence towards the cabins.


    A part of me was relieved he wasn''t asking any more questions but I also didn''t like how silent he was. As we walked down the gravel path in the creek of the woods towards Terra Haven my heart began to thump against my chest. I suddenly realized I didn''t feel comfortable going back there knowing someone had easily slipped inside my cabin and kidnapped me. The very thought of this incident repeating itself made my skin crawl. Not to mention the people who had attempted to murder me... I still couldn''t wrap my head around it.


    We stopped in front of my cabin and I swallowed, still cautious of opening the door as I was reminded of the man who held me in his grasp as the lights went out. Professor Grey noticed my hesitation and he arched his brow.


    "Isn''t this your cabin?"


    I snapped out of my thoughts and nodded.


    "Th-they kidnapped me here..."


    I said quietly.


    "So... what do you want me to do?"


    I blinked up at him, startled by the question.


    "I... I don''t know."


    "Do you want me to go find the persecutors? To question them and beat them up?"


    He said in an almost mocking tone.


    "N-no I¡ª


    "So you have no idea who these people were and what their motives were... were you expecting me to round them up and get them expelled."


    He folded his arms turning around to face me.


    "No... I didn''t say that but¡ª


    "But what? You need to tighten up Scarlett. No one''s gonna babysit or save you... you have to do that yourself. As for the people who kidnapped you, the most I can do is say be careful and watch your back."


    I clenched my fists staring up at him in disbelief.


    "So... that''s it? I''m just supposed to move on as if today never happened. As if some strangers in a mask didn''t attempt to murder me!?"


    He rolled his eyes as if I was being overdramatic and I felt my blood boil.


    "What you do expect me to do? Stay watch and make sure you''re safe? I''m not your guardian."


    "I never said that! I don''t need a babysitter. I''m just...confused. How can we just let them get away with this?"


    He pinched the bridge of his nose.


    "Until you can identify them... there''s nothing I can do. You could speak to the dean but he would just say the same thing."


    I couldn''t believe what I was hearing... how can he be so nonchalant?! So calm about this?! I''m not overreacting, I''m not crazy... I have every right to be terrified of being alone... of someone hurting me. I almost died today and all he can say is there''s nothing he can do?!


    "If we''re done here, I''d like to go home. I wasn''t expecting to spend my weekend babysitting."


    I glared at him as he said those words and anger stirred in me once more.


    "Well, I''m sorry that I was such an inconvenience!"


    I enter my cabin slamming the door in his face.


    The faucet in my eyes began to pour the second I entered the room. I switched the lights on discovering it was just as I left it. No evidence of my kidnapping... no evidence. No prospects.


    I fell against the door and buried my face in my hands letting the tears fall as I slowly rehashed the situation.


    It felt like some sort of gruelish nightmare, and I hoped at any moment I''d wake up and realize it was all a dream...


    But as I tasted the blood on my tongue I knew then... I wouldn''t be waking up anytime soon.

 Whats left of me

    I couldn''t get up... couldn''t sleep... couldn''t erase the nightmare that terrorized me the night before.I kept waking up throughout the night to every creak of wood, or whisper of movement, the sheets shifting around me...thinking I''d be dragged away to that dreadful place and drowned. I still remember the foul scent of decay and suffering, the taste of the blood as it entered my nose and lungs... it was a harrowing experience...one I''d never forget.And now I was only lying in wait, waiting for the moment a shadow would creep into my cabin and steal me into the night.Fear was an understatement... I''d never felt so utterly hopeless at that moment...never felt so weak and pathetic. It was just enough to have me calling my cousin at 3 am. He was always a phone call away... but as I stared anxiously at the caller ID I wondered if he''d ever pick up at all...But as I lay down to rest my eyes, his warm voice spoke through the speakers."Scar?! Oh, my gods! I was wondering when you''d call!"He exclaims on the other end and it''s enough to warm my heart... but my happiness soon turns to sadness as I''m met with the cruel reality of my situation."Hey... woah... what happened... what''s wrong!?""Flore I hate it here... I wanna go back home..."I manage to choke out through sobs."Why? What happened... did someone hurt you."I open my mouth but my voice cracks into a sob.There''s a moment of silence before he speaks once more..."It''s ok... It''s ok I''m here."But that was the problem. He wasn''t. He wasn''t where I needed him. He wasn''t there to hold me... to look out for me. He wasn''t there, and it was killing me.A couple minutes pass by and my tears start to dry as I explain the horrific events of the previous night.The other end is silent... and it lasts longer than I''d expect from Florence. But when he finally speaks the anger in his voice is prominent... vengeful and unforgiving."I''ll fucking kill them... All of them! How dare they!?"He roared,I could hear the promise in his voice. One thing about Flore was he never broke a promise. And I could only imagine what would have happened if he was here."We have to tell your parents... they can''t possibly let you stay at that place after what happened.""No... please... They can''t know about this."I pleaded,The very thought of my parents finding out about my near-death experience was the last thing I needed. Especially when I knew how they''d react. Mom would cry and Dad would probably withdraw me... and make a scene. I was already an outcast because of my inability to transform into my fae form... I was 20.. And there was a slim chance that id ever discover what my fae form would be.I take a deep breath, despite the fact I wanted to tell my parents... I was also scared of them not knowing. It may be a foolish decision to stay at this school after what happened... but I came here with the purpose of discovering myself... I''d made friends and I wasn''t ready to just leave them behind.."Scar... uncle and aunty need to know about this... I can''t just keep quiet about..."His voice cracks and it breaks my heart knowing he''s holding back tears."I don''t want them to hurt you. I''m not there to have your back..."He explains.I nod solemnly though he can''t see me."I know... but this would kill them... I don''t want them worrying about me. I''ve caused enough stress for them.""Scarlett you almost died! And I wouldn''t even have gotten the chance to... I wouldn''t..."He pauses and I feel a pang of guilt for worrying him."I can''t lose you... I can''t."I can hear the desperation and fear in his voice as he cries and it wrecks me. The faucet in my eyes turning and overflowing with tears."You won''t... you wont lose me Flore..."I try to reassure him... I can''t remember the last time I heard or saw him cry.Not even at his dad''s funeral...Flore had always been so strong and resilient. He was everything I wasn''t and so much more. Even as a kids he held his head up high, and his heart in all the right places. He never let anyone break him down... he was the one person who''d never judged me for not having a fae form.. And he was the only person that made me brave enough to speak my mind.He was a force to be reckoned with... but now as I listen to his heavy breathing as he weeps for me... I feel broken.He usually gives the best advice. But the pain in his voice makes me realize something.For the first time in my life... I am truly alone. If Flore is breaking apart because of me... what chance do I have of surviving this school?Who am I if not a weak and worthless fae...I take a deep breath...Gathering my thoughts."I should''ve been there for you..."Flore says after a moment."I couldn''t protect you..."I shake my head."No... it''s not your job to protect me Flore... you shouldn''t have to carry my burdens.""Scar... I know you''re strong. I know that you want to work through this on your own. But you''d be crazy to stay after that... that wasn''t just an attack... that was a goddamn promise. If you stay what if they try other methods... what if they finally do something permanent? You were lucky... but I could have lost you. We all would have."His words sink deeper than anything I''d ever felt, and I know I can''t disagree. There was a chance this incident would repeat... a chance they might attack me again after discovering I survived... but it was the very thought that I survived that spurred me on. And I will hold onto that hope... as small as it is that I can make it out alone. This was my chance to prove not just to myself but to my family that I wasn''t helpless. I had harbored 4 elements... and even if I didn''t know how to use them... that must mean something.It has to. I may not be as brave as Flore. But I sure as hell am not a quitter... and if this was a warning then I''d have to be stronger... smarter if I want to survive this battleground."I have to tell you something.""What is it..."I take a deep breath."I carry 4 elements..""What do you mean...?"He asks."During the freshman ceremony... after the ascension I... I was gifted with the power of earth, fire, water, and moon."I can hear the wheels in his head turning, I imagine the look of astonishment on his face as he sits on his bed."And you''re telling me this now?!"I let out a tiny laugh."I''ve just been caught up. I wanted to tell you but I guess I forgot...""Scar... do you know what this means? This changes everything."There''s weight to his words and as they sink in I feel my doubt replaced with something powerful. Determination... justice? No... this feeling... this was hope. And it was rising in my heart... "You cannot let them win. Staying would only prove them right Scar... you are so much more than what they believe. You aren''t weak... withered... you are powerful... you just need to harness it."His words restore pieces of my shattered heart and I feel myself growing more determined than I''ve ever been."We''ve been through worse..."We say at the same time and both erupt with laughter as we recall the countless near-death adventures we''ve had over the years. "I may not be there physically but I''m always a phone call away...we''ll see each other soon. But until then... Promise me you''ll train as hard as you can... promise me that no matter what you will stand your ground.""I promise... and I hope the same for you.""That''s my girl... my half and half gladiator..."I chuckle at his portrayal of me."Speaking of how is everything on your end?"I ask him and he lets out an exasperated sigh."You have no idea how much I wanna tell you..."


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 The other side of paradise

    I wanna say I''m surprised...


    Maybe even a little bit amused...


    Obviously, this was going to happen. My mom had never been one for easing in. She always expected so much from me and always wanted me to live up to standards that she never met. Her expectations were like a weighted blanket on my head... holding me down and keeping me from exploring a career outside of the one she''d intended for me.


    Herbology had always been her thing... caring for the sick, attending to those in need...


    But it was never my dream. That was never my plan...


    I did care about people, I cared about the world outside of my walls, the families suffering in poverty, the young fae I grew up with who scavenged and fought to survive.


    The world was a cruel place... someone was always getting the short end of the stick and it was usually lesser fae... Withered fae and fae who didn''t abide by the status quo.


    I''d always wanted to be a mage guard, I wanted to help people... not just through medical needs, but be the voice the people needed. A warrior of some sort... someone people could turn to if need be.


    But I always found it hard to assemble the courage to tell her...


    To show her the life she wanted for me was too small... people needed medical assistance, but they also needed a voice... one that was unbiased and not calloused. Someone who understood their positions. Who had seen what it was like to live underground?


    I wish I could''ve been that person... but what I hated most of all was the fact instead of joining the Sovereign brigade in eradicating those who wanted to destroy the city, instead of raising the voices of those who needed to be heard...I was stuck in an office cleaning and wiping off surgical tables and refilling medical supplies.


    What I hated most about my mom was the fact she''d never once asked me what I wanted. She wouldn''t open her eyes to the fact that herbalism wasn''t a future I would thrive in... sure, in her eyes it was meant to secure a practical career but mage guards worked just as hard... and could be just as successful in their careers given the right opportunities. There were different guilds across the globe that I could join... across the galaxy. But she was afraid. I knew in my heart this was her way of protecting me from an accident.. Or keeping me from fatality.


    I wanted her to understand that I wasn''t a child... despite how much younger I was than Scarlett, I had always been determined.


    I had what it took to survive through the worst circumstances.


    Ever since my father died, my mother has never been the same. She became more sheltered... careful... worrisome. She wanted to keep me in her womb, away from harm, but despite her meaning well... she was also suffocating me. The world wasn''t safe... but I had a gift that she''d always underestimated.


    I was strong.


    Stronger than she believed. She was afraid I would end up like my father... afraid I would meet the same end he met...so since his death, when I was 8 years old, she''d forced me down a gentle career path. Pushed me towards the safer side... kept me from exploring the world outside.


    But with Scarlett. We''d always gotten up to trouble. I admit rebellion was my way of speaking up... or proving I wasn''t helpless. But what happened with the trolls was just a fluke... it was never meant to go wrong. So maybe there''d been a few holes in my plan... but we got out! I knew I could be reckless... but it was the very thought of throwing myself to the wind and running free... doing odd jobs that filled me with adrenaline and fed my everfree soul.


    I wanted to be more... to see more, and I would often end up in situations that I admit were scary... but it was the chase. The rush... the freedom, that gave me the strength I needed.


    I craved adventure.


    But I guess those days were over...


    I was cleaning up one of the appliances and sterilizing it when I heard a pained howl followed by a deep bellow.


    "PLEASE I NEED MEDICAL ASSISTANCE!"


    We were understaffed... and we were only a branch of the hospital so we rarely expected people... but when they did arrive...


    "PLEASE!"


    I was filled with panic and I immediately ran out without thinking, running down the halls to see a tall man carrying a younger injured fae with blood dripping down the side of his bruised face and what looked like a blade lodged into his stomach.


    I winced and approached hesitantly. A part of me felt compelled to call someone else for help... I had no idea what to do, I was only a damn trainee.


    But the sight of the boy bleeding out onto the pale white tiles made my stomach churn.


    "What''s the problem?"


    Stolen from its rightful author, this tale is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.


    I asked the man and his gaze captured mine. In an instant, my heart catapulted out of my chest as I looked into his onyx eyes. Dark loose curls fell over them, his skin was pale as the snow, his face fraught with worry, blue fairy blood staining his pale-toned uniform.


    Above all, he was incredibly tall, visibly toned, and wearing a Lieutenant uniform for the premier guild for young Mage guards.


    I was so distracted by his badge and noticeably handsome features that I''d forgotten the boy bleeding out.


    "He needs a healer... is there a healer here?"


    The man with onyx eyes pleaded and I nodded.


    "Follow me..."


    I swallowed the lump in my throat and guided him down the hall... I could feel his gaze on the back of my head and it made me feel more self-conscious than usual...


    I rang the emergency hall bell to signal any nurses in the area.


    "Don''t you have any staff around?"


    The man asked impatiently and my mouth went dry.


    "I... W-we usually don''t have many healers here... since it''s just a training infirmary..."


    I lead him into the elevator.


    "Is he... healing slowly?"


    I asked as a bead of sweat ran down my forehead.


    He didn''t answer, his face a mask of bravery and stoicness.


    "So... are you a lieutenant?"


    He glanced at me a hint of surprise in his eyes at my question.


    "I saw your badge..."


    I cleared my throat facing ahead and he nodded slowly.


    Not much of a talker are you?


    I took that as my sign to shut up. The elevator doors split open and we rushed out, I started to run hoping he''d be following.


    "Imani!"


    I called down the hall as I spotted my healer friend.


    She turned in surprise as she saw me but then her eyes widened in shock as she saw the injured fae.


    "Get him in here!"


    She gestured to follow us into the hospital room and we ran in behind her. I helped her prepare the bed as she laid the fae down.


    "Flore get me some clean clothes and rose water and honey!"


    She ordered and I ran out to gather the materials.


    I returned moments later and set the materials down on the table beside the patient''s bed before standing back and letting her get to work.


    She started by removing the blade and looking up at the man with onyx eyes.


    "Training accident?"


    He nodded.


    "Dagger practice... his opponent was too stealthy..."


    Imani nodded in understanding and I folded my arms, slightly annoyed with the fact he''d opened up to her so easily...


    "Mage guard training is no joke..."


    She sighed as she dislodged the blade from the boy''s stomach, erupting a scream from the young fae.


    "You were smart for leaving the blade in."


    The lieutenant winced at the sound, as she proceeded to calm the injured face down with a siren song whilst she dampened the clean cloth with rose water and cleaned the wound. She took a bit of honey and applied it onto the open wound, her gloves stained with blue blood as she said an incantation. The rose water and honey formed a magical seal on the wound, binding the open flesh together as if it had never happened.


    "His healing magic was stalled because the place of injury was near a critical organ... but he should be better in a few minutes."


    I let out a long sigh I didn''t know I was holding in as I helped her clear the equipment and materials.


    Imani peeled off her gloves with a sigh as she went over to wash her hands.


    "Floren, please take him to the washroom so he can get cleaned up."


    She instructed me and my eyes widened slightly as I looked up at the man then her.


    "Uhh... sure. Follow me...sir."


    I didn''t bother to turn around this time as we walked down the empty hallway.


    The only sounds coming from his heavy breathing and our footsteps.


    I guided him into the washroom.


    "You can take off your shirt..."


    I said as I reached for a clean towel.


    "So how long have you been a nurse?"


    He asked me and my eyes widened slightly as I handed him the towel.


    "Oh I''m not¡ª"


    My words were cut short as my gaze fell on his rippling muscles and pristinely toned abdomen that glistened with blue blood and sweat. A strange part of me was relieved it wasn''t his blood...


    Damn...


    I diverted my gaze as he started to clean himself off, clearing my throat.


    "So... what''s it like being a lieutenant... lots of hard work huh?"


    I fiddled with the knob on the door nervously.


    He kept his back to me and I drank in the sight of his muscles contracting and the dimples on his lower back... my mind started to wander but when he turned I averted my gaze once more awkwardly shifting from foot to foot.


    "It''s a lot of commitment. Been training since I was 5..."


    I nearly choked on my spit at his words...


    Training since he was 5?! How the hell... what the hell would a 5-year-old know about war??


    "That''s... so..."


    My voice trails off as I try to find the words to express what I''m feeling.


    Suddenly the sound of his laughter booms around the room, a beautiful symphony that makes my heart flutter slightly. I stare at him in confusion and his stoic demeanor seems to melt away with his smile...


    Ah... sarcasm...


    "I didn''t think you''d be so gullible, Floren..."


    His eyes twinkle with mischief.


    "Wait.. how do you know my name?"


    My eyes narrow defensively... I don''t remember telling him my name... but the sound of it rolling off his tongue made me feel feathery and light.


    "The nurse from earlier... plus its on your nametag..."


    I glanced down at the clipped nametag attached to my shirt and chuckled awkwardly.


    "Right..."


    I cleared my throat and his eyes danced with amusement.


    I wasn''t sure why but as soon as he smiled at me it uprooted a memory that had been buried so long ago... A memory of a boy with eyes that glowed like honey under the sunlight... a carefree child that I used to run free with... backyard adventures... treehouse magic...


    I studied him closely, trying to gauge his reaction, my heart thumping wildly...his eyes were just as he was... full of mischief and novelty.


    He moved towards the sunlight just for a moment and my eyes widened...


    "What... what did you say your name was again?"


    My mouth was dry... my heart ran a thousand miles as I watched him with bated breath.


    "Do you not remember me, Floren?"

 Blood in the water

    I kept my feet planted on the ground, my fists raised in a defensive stance as I faced my opponent.


    Her fiery red hair gave way to her order.


    She was tall... much taller than me and faced me with a deadly glare.


    "This won''t take long..."


    She grinned revealing rows of pointy sharp teeth.


    I visibly gulped feeling a sea of eyes of every student surrounding us on the sparring mat.


    Before I could react Mrs. Ruthless blew the whistle and like a firetruck shark lady she ran straight for me. I almost screamed, my heart jumping as I disgracefully dodged her attack.


    I put my hands up to block what I thought was a punch but she surprised me with a low kick swiping the rug under my feet. Literally. I grunted as my back collided with the floor but I stood up, barely dodging another hit.


    "Come on Scarlett control! Don''t run from it!"


    Miss. Ruthless called out and a few students laughed at my weak display of strength...


    "Yea, withered! Stop being a little bitch!"


    A student mockingly yelled out and a round of laughter erupted from the circle of students.


    I clenched my fists and threw a less-than-controlled punch at her stomach. I was surprised I actually landed a hit but it was short-lived as soon as her eyes narrowed and she lunged at me.


    "Kick her ass Jess!"


    I fell off my feet and she pounced on me like a damn lion.


    I rolled to the side with a gasp, dodging her once again.


    She scowled and stared at me with a vengeance as I jumped to my feet and kicked her in the ribs.


    Students cooed and chanted for Jess to hit me... one person even begged her to break a bone. I had no doubt she would if she could... Miss. Ruthless made no sign of stopping the match, Jess''s gaze calculating and sharp like a predator circling its prey.


    I was on full alert gearing up any strength I could muster, flinching at every step she made.


    "Don''t run from it..."


    Miss Ruthless''s words echoed in my head... and I watched for an opening... looking for any sensitive spots that I could hit.


    We both charged at each other after a bated breath, but this time I slid under her legs kicking her down... She grunted and a few students gasped... I was just as surprised I''d managed to catch her off guard.


    "You got this Scar!"


    "Yea come on you can do it!"


    My friends cheered me on. Jess was back up on her feet though, drilling daggers into me with her icy gaze. She cracked her knuckles, showcasing her brute strength... her muscular form tensing.


    I was scared shitless as her red her lit up in flames... her true nature sprouting from within her in a burst of raw fiery magic.


    She was a fire nymph.


    And I couldn''t have been more fucked.


    Before I could react she threw a blazing fireball at me, it singed my hair and I screamed as she suddenly charged at me like a damn bull. She tackled me to the floor in a chokehold and my eyes widened.


    Maybe she was gonna kill me... What if she did try to break my bones!?


    I tried to wriggle free from her gasp but she held me down, her arms like iron. I could feel the heat of her flaming hair on my skin and I started to feel the air leaving my lungs.


    Students cheered Jess on and Miss. Ruthless''s voice was just a blur along with everything else.


    With a defeated sigh I tapped the mat and Miss. Ruthless blew the whistle, indicating that Jess had won.


    I lay against the floor gasping for air, feeling so cowardly and useless that the very thought of standing up felt pointless.


    "Better luck next time withered."


    Jess chuckled as she smirked down at me. I fought the urge to flip her off despite my soreness...


    My friends crowded around me, Lyra and Noah helping me up as Robynn gathered our things.


    ***


    "This wasn''t a fair match... you can''t even heal yourself as quickly without your fae form... Miss. Ruthless could have suggested you do on-one training..."


    Lyra said with disappointment. Noah nodded in agreement,


    "I''d look even more weak if she just put me on the side... I need to learn combat..."


    "Yea but Scar... after the incident 3 weeks ago..."


    Robynn began.


    "Can we not... bring that up..."


    I groaned and she looked at me with remorse. I sighed and smiled weakly at them.


    "I''m fine..."


    I said, and I wanted to believe it too... I couldn''t let them know how painful it was getting my ass kicked like that... they''d already been so worried for me after the drowning incident. I didn''t want them to worry any more than they already had... after seeing Robynn sob. And the way Lyra and Noah had stormed into the dean''s office to demand justice.


    I couldn''t ask for better friends... but as Floren said... I need to be strong. I''d chosen to stay here... so I''d have to face the consequences.


    Mrs. Ruthless approached us with her stone-cold gaze and her clipboard.


    "Scarlett... you should consider remedial training... there are a few teachers who can support you. I''ll Cmail you a list. You''ll have to sit out practices from now on until you can use your magic fully."


    My eyes widened and I opened my mouth to retaliate but she gave me a stern-no-nonsense gaze.


    So much for blending in... now everyone would know just how withered I was...


    Mrs.Ruthless walked away and my friends rubbed my back.


    "It''s fine... it was bound to happen..."


    I sighed.


    "Hey it can''t be that bad right..?"


    Lyra smiled at me,


    "Yeah.. at least now you don''t have to worry about getting your ass kicked..."


    Noah laughed trying to lighten the mood and I chuckled.


    "I guess you''re right..."


    ***


    I was so wrong...


    I stared blankly at the list of teachers who Miss. Ruthless had suggested I get support from... and at the very top... highlighted in bright yellow... was Professor. Grey....


    I stared at my phone with dread... so far every single one of Professor Grey''s classes had taught me two things.


    He was a merciless brute, and I needed to stay the fuck away from him. Especially after how he''d treated me after the drowning incident.


    Just last week he''d given me detention for arriving 2 minutes late... and he''d thrown a damn pixie out of his class because she''d gotten a low grade in another course... his reasoning... "Because if she was failing in other courses there was no hope for her success in his course."


    I swear the man reveled in the misery of his students... every single moment spent in his class felt like Russian roulette. You never knew when he''d snap... I remember a boy had failed one of his tests and he''d used his magic to force him to write out "I need to study more often because I''m stupid..." All over the classroom... then forced him to clean it off without any magic. His reasoning "If you fail a test now what hope is there for your success in an exam?"


    I guess it had to be part of his hybrid demon nature to relish in other people''s sufferings.


    I hated him...


    But somehow I''d only been punished 3 times... once he''d poured cold water on me for getting distracted during a lesson... and the other two times I''d been forced to reorganize and clean his office.


    What a bum...


    Today though... I was dreading his class for another reason entirely... I''d asked two other professors for guidance and training but they''d all denied me for the same reason... I didn''t have a fae form and they would need to know what order I took to determine the kind of training required. I had begged 3 other professors 2 were already busy with other advanced training for top students... and 1 well. I was on my way to ask. Professor. Crowe. He was my last and only hope of getting training and guidance...


    The tale has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.


    I made my way through the halls to his classroom. I was hoping he wouldn''t disappoint.


    I knocked on his door and he called me in,


    "Ah... Scarlett. I was expecting you..."


    Sitting with his legs crossed, one over the other on his desk was a slender man with purple eyes and a long scruffy chin.


    "Hi... Mr. Crowe?"


    "Please just call me James..."


    He grinned gesturing for me to take a seat.


    "So I hear you... need some assistance harnessing your magic?"


    I nodded.


    "You''re... my last hope honestly... I''ve asked around and nearly everyone has said¡ª


    "That you need a fae form?"


    He finished my sentence for me and my eyes widened, his eyes sparked with amusement and something else.


    "It must have been so... stressful for you... going around and searching for someone to guide you. "


    He tsked looking sympathetic.


    I nodded.


    "Well... you are in good hands... I would love nothing more than to help you reach your full potential, my dear..."


    He took my hands in his giving me a suggestive grin. His hands rubbed against my palms and I squirmed with discomfort.


    "Please close your eyes... I wanna assess the pure energy of your abilities..."


    He continued to rub his cold fingers against my palms as I closed my eyes.


    "Listen to the sound of my voice..."


    He spoke in a hushed tone that made me tense up.


    His fingers continued to rub against my arm... moving higher and higher... I was starting to question his methods...


    "Umm.. sir... how is this... umm gonna help me?"


    "Hm?"


    He hummed and chuckled hands continuing their sensual trace further up my arm.. His other hand rubbed my thigh. My skin crawled as I hear him groan slightly... suddenly I felt a sucking sensation on the magical energy brewing in my core... like it was being whisked away by something... or someone...


    I had a strange sense of foreboding and I tried to pull away from his grasp but he held me firm... his claws digging into my skin like an iron grip.


    "Focus.."


    He growled out and I shivered...


    I was starting to get lightheaded...


    It almost felt like my energy was depleting... he then brought his lips to my wrist and ran his tongue up my wrist, his saliva wet and unwanted on my skin. My eyes snapped open as I felt a sharp pain and saw him sink his fangs into it. I cried out, but he kept a firm grip on me his other hand snaking under my shirt. I recoiled, reeling back and staring at him with disgust and disbelief.


    "What the hell are you doing?!"


    I couldn''t believe what had just transpired...... he touched me...


    "I''m just tasting the true extent of your magic my dear... this is all part of the process..."


    I felt my stomach knotting up as he licked his lips, his eyes gleaming with lust like a damn predator.


    "I think... I''m gonna go."


    I stood up abruptly my heart racing...my skin suddenly unbearably itchy. I felt disgusting. Violated... I could still feel the ghost of his touch inching towards my breast.


    I pushed open his door and his laughter echoed in the background like a devilish taunt. Riddling me with doubt, fear... the bile in my throat threatening to explode from my lips.


    The memory of his long bony hands scraping against my flesh and his lips against my wrist as he sucked my magic into himself followed me down the halls.


    How could someone do something like that...


    Why was everyone so evil in this damn school... I wish I''d run away... I wanted to scream at him for touching me... for drawing me into this false sense of security stealing my magic... and violating me.


    My energy felt depleted... I couldn''t believe that happened... and I''d let it happen... This was my fault...maybe I was gullible¡ª


    My face collided with a firm chest and I mumbled an apology as I stumbled back, but I didn''t even bother to look up, It felt like a snake had coiled itself around my throat... like something was suffocating me from inside and as I fell against the floor I began to spiral... my heart racing as wildly as my mind.


    "Scarlett?"


    The fae spoke.


    "Do you need help?"


    It surrounded me in whispers... and it sounded so taunting... was he making fun of me? Was he trying to hurt me? Why did everyone hate me...


    I barely glanced in his direction as I ran off like the wild wind, hyperventilating and gasping for air. The world around me was a blur of whispers and unnamed faces.


    I needed to get out of here... I needed to leave...


    I ran and ran until I tripped and stumbled over a rock falling face-first into a pool of mud.


    It was then that the tears started to pour... and something else within me screamed to be set free. It cried out along with me, like a banshee and I tried to hold it in... tried to keep it hidden but It erupted from my core, spreading through my body and onto my fingertips.


    Power...


    Pure unrivaled. Power coursed through my veins.


    I set it free, screaming my lungs out with perspiration.


    I blasted out a beam of light that swallowed the darkness within me, surrounding me... It was formidable and raw... illuminating in streams of pure light and enveloping me like a protective shield.


    Incandescence...


    "Scarlett!"


    A voice rang out through the white noise... my ears were ringing but as the voice got closer I could feel myself drifting into darkness... the light that burned bright was soon enveloped by a pool of deadly silence... pure, raw darkness.


    Death...


    I fell against the ground my voice finally giving out...


    ***


    I woke up in a hospital bed... my lungs were sore and my body was ridden with fatigue.


    I looked around my surroundings... I was in the infirmary.


    I groaned and my gaze flicked over to a blurry figure standing beside the window. I blinked and his tall frame slowly came into view.


    Professor. Grey...


    "What... where..."


    The professor flinched and turned to face me with a somber gaze... I''d never seen him so... stressed.


    "You don''t remember... seriously??"


    He looked at me as if I had grown to heads.


    I looked down at the bed sheets and concentrated trying to recall my previous memories...


    The memories came flying back... but there were still a few missing pieces...


    The image of Professor. Crowe touching me started to trigger my anxiety and I gripped the sheets.


    The heart monitor recited my rapid pulse and Professor Grey quickly appeared by my side grabbing hold of my hand.


    "Breathe Scarlett... Breathe..."


    His hands were warm on my skin... a stark contrast to his brass and cold demeanor. But I couldn''t focus... I couldn''t stop the memories from eating me alive...


    "Hey... look at me. Look at me."


    He demanded firmly, and I tightened my grip on his hand my eyes meeting his wearily...


    His gaze softened ever so slightly... just enough to consume the noise in my head... his touch was like a warm pillow in the messy bed of restless thoughts. I felt a stream of magic flutter around me and I started to breathe. In and out... in and out, squeezing his hand like it was my last lifeline...


    I didn''t want to let go.


    The silence fell over me like a soft blanket... my heart finally settling down to a steady beat.


    "Breathe angel. Breathe..."


    He repeated like a mantra,


    He''d never spoken to me this way and the look in his eyes felt like a warm sea of red and blue hues... his voice a melodic hum.


    "Good..."


    He keeps a firm grip on my hand and starts to lean in, my heart driving down the speed limit... but just as quickly as the warmth had arrived it disappears with a fleeting glance. Leaving behind a dull emptiness that sickens me to the core.


    He returned to his usual aloof self, his gaze flickering from warm to cold in seconds.


    "Do you remember what happened to you?"


    I swallowed and shook my head...


    "You were drained by a psychic vampire... Do you remember who it was?"


    I shook my head again. It was better to lie than let him know the truth. Because if I said it out loud it would be too real. I was still struggling to accept what happened. He didn''t just drain me...he''d violated me.


    "How did you know?"


    I piped up,


    Professor Grey sighed before looking back up at me.


    "You have puncture marks on your wrist and your powers... were triggered."


    I stare blankly at him.


    "Triggered...? But... how...?"


    He lets out another long sigh, "When a fae is fed on by a psychic vampire... as a final protest... when your body is weakened it ignites the magic inside you and creates... a whirlwind inside of you like a... defense mechanism. Now usually some fae might lose control of their order and shift... but in your case... it triggered your abilities and you lost control. I think... you burned down a couple of trees from your light alone."


    I look at him with concern.


    "Light...?"


    He groans visibly frustrated as he stands abruptly.


    "Yes... light. Don''t you know anything about elemental magic? What even happened during the ascension?"


    I look down at my hands still processing the fact I burnt down a few trees and lost control of my powers. At least no one was hurt...wait...


    "Did anyone get hurt?"


    He shook his head.


    "You''d nearly run off past the barrier by the time I got to you... you seriously don''t remember anything?"


    I swallow and shake my head again. I did remember... that man... but I couldn''t bring myself to tell him the truth.


    "Scarlett..."


    He looks at me with a sense of urgency but there''s something else behind his icy gaze...


    "I don''t really wanna talk about it..."


    I confess and he sighs in defeat.


    "Fine... well, here''s something we can discuss. Your powers, Scarlett... do you have any? Knowledge of your ancient heritage?"


    I blink up at him and shake my head.


    He lets out another sigh.


    "Great... well... it''d be a good thing for you to speak to your parents. You are capable of solarmancy... which is ancient elven-fae magic... no one has been able to use it for hundreds of years because of how powerful it is... but you... you were able to harness it in your moment of distress, do you realize what this means for you Scarlett?"


    I shake my head admittedly, his words dropping like an anvil on my head.


    "This means you''re special. It''s one thing for a withered fae to not have a fae form but still be able to use their elemental magic... and it''s another thing entirely for you to able to harness ancient elven magic as well as water and fire and wind. You''re an enigma, Scarlett. But in the wrong hands, it could jeopardize everything."


    He leans in closer speaking in a hushed and stern tone.


    "You cannot tell anyone that you can use solarmancy... not a single soul can know of this. Some people would exploit and use you or worse... not even your friends can know. If this gets out it could spread to the ears of the king and queen and you might find yourself in more trouble than you bargained for."


    My heart races at the implications of his words, my blindness and ignorant disposition seeming to disperse as I let it sink deep. I was special? Me...? A withered fae with no fae form...


    "But... how can I control it..? How can I master this... ancient magic and my other elements?"


    He takes a moment to close his eyes and take in a deep breath as if he''s battling his inner demons whilst simultaneously trying to assess the situation.


    "You will train with me from now on. I... I specialize in obscene or ancient magic since I''ve been around a couple hundred years..."


    My eyes widen slightly.


    "Couple hundred?"


    His eyes narrow,


    "Don''t look at me that way. I''m not a goddamn grandfather if that''s what you''re thinking. Demons age differently than other fae..."


    There isn''t much bite to his tone and for a second, there''s almost a ghost of a smirk on his lips.


    "Right. Sorry professor."


    I clear my throat and he rolls his eyes, seemingly playfully.


    He stands adjusts his tie and straightens out his clothes. I try not to stare at the way his muscles contract beneath the thin fabric.


    "For some reason, I always seem to be saving your ass from something Miss. Thorne..."


    He cracks his aching neck muscles and turns to leave and my eyes graze over the way his firm ass looks in his pants. I am not better than a male...


    Professor Grey suddenly pauses in the door and I fix my gaze on patterns on the wall instead. They suddenly seemed interesting...


    "I''ll send you the schedule tomorrow morning get some rest... and for satan''s sake please stay out of trouble..."


    He steps out of the room leaving me to soak in this new sea of knowledge he''s drowned me in.


    Things couldn''t possibly get worse than this...