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 Lucien 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 nothings 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 tanned 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, her hazel eyes avoiding our stares.
"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.
"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..."
Lucien, 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.
"Lucien."
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...
Lucien 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 Lucien."
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.
"Lucien 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.
"Lucien, 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.
Lucien 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!
Lucien 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.