After four weeks of studying at Knightwood, I had come to one solid conclusion; Knightwood was filled with a bunch of stuck up, weak little shits. I thought Leonardo was bad, yet the last couple of weeks proved my assumptions wrong.
By the end of my second week, I had been challenged ten times, my winning streak strong as ever.
Rose enjoyed every confrontation, surging to life to cripple her opponent without even lifting a finger. I honestly assumed that people simply challenged me to confirm whether my large amount of power was fake or the real deal.
My other spirits didn’t even bother making an appearance, coming to an agreement amongst themselves that Rose would be the prime let’s make them beg for mercy, spokesperson.
I couldn’t blame them; this lot of shifters made me wonder who actually graduated from this academy, and if they truly were living up to Knightwood’s infamous best of the best title.
My schedule was laid back, only having to attend the mandatory two classes and assigned to a fourth period class with Matthew, giving him the opportunity to teach me more about the realms and their dynamics.
I couldn’t help being intrigued, specifically with the realms connected to the boys. It made me feel like I had a glimpse of their upbringing, trying to match their characteristics and attitudes with their appointed homelands. I still couldn’t believe they were all Royal children, one day to be heirs of their corresponding kingdoms. I attempted to drill EliaseAnne about her last name, Kingsley being the same as the King of Realm Nine.
“What makes you think I’m related to Elias? Let me guess, it’s due to the first half of my name, isn’t it?” She questioned, her face scrunched together in a displeased expression.
I waved my hands in front of me as I shook my head in denial.
“No, no. It’s your last name; Kingsley! Isn’t that the surname of Elias? Ryder said he was the only son of the King of Realm Nine! So, wouldn’t that make you two related?” I questioned, pointing out the facts. She sighed, shaking her head.
“I simply use Kingsley to give off the impression that we’re related. Me and Elias look very similar, our matching green eyes and blonde hair don’t help with the accusations either. I simply approved of the alias because it would be easier to blend in. Plus, you know how Elias is, he never shows up for class. Someone has to take notes for him.” Eli explained calmly, shrugging her shoulders.
“How does Elias have perfect attendance, but he’s never here?” I pondered.
“Maybe he has a doppelganger! Or he simply tells Matthew to change the attendance records.” Eli suggested, raising both her hands up to shrug again.
“Figures. That’s something he would do.” I agreed, nodding. Eli leaned across our desk, smiling wickedly.
“I can do the best Elias impersonation you’ve ever heard.” She admitted. I laughed. Now THIS sounded interesting.
“Try me.” I encouraged, leaning closer in anticipation. She closed her eyes, clearing her throat before leaning further, only inches away from my face.
“For a girl as smart as you, you’re truly oblivious as to who I really am, aren’t you, blue-eyes.” Her voice was deep and stern, sounding exactly like the green-eyed boy, sending shivers down my spine as my eyes grew wide.
“How the fuck did you do that!!! You – that sounded JUST like him!!!” I yelled, pointing a finger in her face. She laughed, causing a few of the surrounding students to look in our direction.
“Oh Mako, I love you. It’s just a little bit of fairy magic, nothing more.” She cooed in delight.
“You ARE a fairy!” I accused, not caring about the growing number of stares, glancing at our little exchange.
“Aw shucks, I wanted you to figure it out. You’re too cute when you sit there trying to solve a mystery.” She pointed out, leaning back against her chair, looking satisfied.
“My new goal; become a fairy.” I vowed to myself.
She shook her head, her expression softened at my declaration.
“One-day, sweet Mako. No harm in believing.” She replied.
We we’re heading towards the second half of the Solace semester, which meant exams were around the corner.
I thought it was hard to get an empty training room before with the level of activity during the day, but now it was full all-day. Not that I was one to train during the day, but it sure was a pain when I learned a new spell and had no choice but to patiently wait till the wee hours of the morning to get an empty room to myself.
Marcus became my new training partner in crime. We would start training at three in the morning; Marcus usually having to look in every bedroom to see where my sleep walking self had ventured off too.
Apparently, I alternated between Ryder’ and Elias’ beds, though lately in the past week I’ve been found in Daniel’ and Marcus’.
We would do a quick run around Knightwood every morning, typically following different trails in the forest as a warm up.
I personally loved running, allowing my mind to zone out and enjoy the fascinating atmosphere nature had to offer.
Back at the facility, running was done at the small running course. Unless you liked staring at the white walls as you ran, there wasn’t any enjoyment. The only downside of our warm ups was the chances of running into the three gossip girls: Brittany, Amanda and Courtney.
Brittany was apparently born here in Minato, being the daughter of some royal cousin or something along those lines. Even though she wasn’t direct royalty, it didn’t stop her from constantly reminding the world of how utterly amazing she was, being only a point or two away from gold rank, or so she proclaimed. Regardless of her inferior personality, it was very evident that she had a major crush on my Ryder. Yes, I claimed him so he was indeed mine.
Her two mascots, Amanda and Courtney had their own crushes, Amanda lusting over Marcus and Courtney over Daniel. I bet if it wasn’t for the fact Elias skipped class ninety-nine percent of the time, they would have a fourth member dedicated to him.
Needless to say, the trio couldn’t help “stalking” us every morning, watching us run from afar. I thought it was amusing, watching them frantically hide when me and Marcus turned the corner, onto the sandy path leading back to the academy. I bet if they played a game of Hide and Seek back at the facility, they would be killed before they could even attempt to find cover.
I had noticed the numerous rumours circulating around the school – the most common one being I was sleeping with all of the boys. I had a hunch Leonardo, being the complainer and apparent gossiper, he was, devoted his time in telling the lower ranks of my nightly raids, my sleep walking a mere excuse to get into the boys’ beds. I was fine with girls being jealous of my current status, being allowed to sleep at the boys’ place.
Boy jealousy, however, was immature in my opinion. Who starts spreading rumours just because they don’t get to hang with their crew? Leo was well aware that this whole situation was temporary. I wish he could act like a man, suck it up and find some other friends to chill with in the meantime.
My days started off with Marcus and our morning training, followed by breakfast with all of them. As the day progressed, I would have reading time with Ryder in the library, healing lessons with Daniel, free time with EliaseAnne to gossip and do girly stuff, dinner with the boys, and night walks with Elias in the forest, and returning to drink a glass of milk before bed.
Hope was interested in enhancing her healing skills, not getting much opportunity to train such assets back in the facility.
Daniel and his angel were honoured to teach us, always taking his time to teach me the basics. He figured out I learned quicker by reading the material so he took the initiative to find multiple books in both Ryder’s sanctuary and the school library. He even went through the trouble of highlighting all the information that would be useful for our lessons in each book. I was improving with each day that passed. I liked being praised by him, always complimenting me of how focused and determined I was.
Reading time with Ryder consisted of us having a miniature book club. We each would decide on a book we would want to read, finishing it and exchanging it. I discovered that Ryder loved Sherlock Holmes, or anything that dealt with mystery and problem solving. Detectives were his groove, surprising for the demon in my opinion. I thought he would be into the typical fight or sports books like the other males in our classes, their usual morning routine consisted of gathering together and discussing the latest boxing magazines from Realm Six.
EliaseAnne was my class buddy, always sitting with me during my two main classes and consistently walking me to my last class with Matthew. In the past four weeks, we went down to the main town twice, grabbing some school essentials and Eli splurging on a whole new wardrobe of clothes for me.
Of course, Eli wouldn’t take no for an answer, lecturing me about how I need to dress to attract some nice sexy shifters to do lovely things with; particularly the boys. She thought it was amusing to see their flushed expressions everyday during Advanced Sorcery when we’d be training outdoors; my neon pink booty shorts and white tank attire always catching my classmates attention, especially the male shifters.
I didn’t think it was necessary. I was perfectly fine with two pairs of yoga pants and a few tops. I had to wear my uniform most of the time, only changing to regular clothing for Matthew’s classes. He didn’t think me sporting my pink and black uniform was necessary in his class. We were either focused on magic summoning or history lessons, requiring me to be in comfortable attire to sit or fight in.
I truly enjoyed Matthew’s classes. He always tried to focus on something new and different. Though it was pretty obvious that I wouldn’t know much about any of the realms, it didn’t hinder my learning progress. Every class taught me something new and I truly enjoyed learning about the galaxy we lived in.
After dinner, Daniel and Ryder were usually the first to retire to bed; Daniel because sleep was apparently his hobby and Ryder liked to meditate before bed, sparing an hour or two to centre himself. He said it helped him control his demon better, the peaceful state of mind was comforting. It was one of his coping mechanisms after Anya’s kidnapping, which he continued after his days of therapy were over. I joined one of his mediation sessions.
As much as meditation was good for the mind, body, and soul, my attention level was far to low. I couldn’t understand how anyone could simply cross their legs and clear their mind for such a long period of time. If I was forced to meditate than sure, put me in a room for five hours and I’ll do my best to not fall asleep. But willingly meditate for my personal benefit, no thanks.
Plus, with Ryder in the room, I think he liked making out more than finding equilibrium with my presences. I wasn’t complaining, kissing was a good coping mechanism.
I had stumbled upon Elias in the forest during the second week of classes, trying to find Nightmare who had decided she suddenly wanted to play hide and seek at eleven o’clock at night. Nighty was snuggled in his lap as he sat comfortably on a large rock, staring at the stars above.
I took a moment to appreciate his relaxed posture as he aimlessly stared at the sky, lost in his own thoughts which made me smile.
I could tell that Elias appreciated Mother Starlight’s beauty. It was hard to find someone, especially a male, who could see such delicacy. For someone like me who never got the opportunity to enjoy the world around me, it never ceased to pull at my heart strings every time I stepped outside. When surrounded by nature, you truly could feel freedom at its finest.
We still hadn’t gotten word from Heila, Matthew stressing how vital it was for the information of me being rescued to be as secretive as possible.
If even a hint of speculation arises, pinpointing me as the princess, it would put me at risk, something they wanted to avoid at all cost. I wasn’t in any rush, still trying to adapt to the revelation of having a family.
Midnight seemed intrigued by the boys, Elias in particular. I had asked him if he could get me a book to communicate with her. He happily agreed, offering to keep the book safe in his room so the others wouldn’t read it, till I was ready to reveal her existence.
I took time everyday, writing about my interactions with everyone. I could share my insecurities and fears, the anxiety of King Aspen suddenly showing up and taking all of this away, still lingered within me. She read it all, comforting me the best way she could; through poetry. I had no idea where she got such talent from, my ability to make a sentence rhyme was a lost cause. I enjoyed it though, her responses made me feel like she was talking to me in code.
My attraction for the boys continued to grow. I vented to Midnight about my internal dilemma. If I had to rank my love for the boys, Ryder was currently at the top.
When we’re alone together, my body would surge to life, feeling content with his presence. When he held me during our nights together or kissed me secretly on campus, I felt loved and complete. Our love for books and my new addiction to hazelnut coffee was some of the few from the list of similarities we shared. We took every opportunity to learn more about one another, all the way down to the feelings we felt during different events in our lives. It was the first time I’d revealed so much about myself to someone other than Midnight. It was a delightfully satisfying feeling to know I would always have someone to lean on.
Such a feeling wasn’t helping with my internal struggles with the others. My hyperactive hormones couldn’t listen to my commands to relax when Marcus would place his large hands on my hips, steadying me during our training sessions or when Elias’ smiled at me when I arrived at our meeting spot in front of the forest, reaching out to hold my hand, holding it tightly during our entire walk.
Even when Daniel assisted with my hair in the mornings before class, insisting my two-common hair up and hair down styles were boring and needed some life in them. Butterflies would swarm within my stomach as his hands played with my hair, his closeness only sending shivers throughout my body when his hot breath caressed my neck. I had a gut feeling that Daniel would be the most dangerous of them all. The shy ones were always the ones to be wary about.
My life at Knightwood overall, was eventful. But I did hold one concern.
There was a professor that troubled me…Professor Sepherant. I didn’t have any assigned classes with him, thankfully, but something about him felt…off? Whenever I caught a glimpse of him in the halls, his eyes always seemed to find me, regardless of how crowded the halls were. Each time, he simply glared at me, as if I was the worse student on campus. We hadn’t even met before, so what was with the murderous intent?
It was now Sunday, four in the morning, Marcus and I were in the middle of another training session. I would have to participate in a 1v1 battle, written exam and group practical exam to move forward to the next school cycle. My opponent would be chosen the day before, so Marcus encouraged me to practice on summoning Nighty and morphing her into a weapon at a faster rate; fast enough to defend myself if the opportunity surfaced. With the diversity of magic and weapon users, you’d truly think we would know what we’re getting ourselves into.
“Ease up on the power, Firefly. You don’t want to weaken yourself after morphing the weapon. Try and focus on how much energy is required to finish the assembly of the weapon so you can drill it into your mind. Once you do it enough times, you’ll know exactly how much energy is needed to form her completely and can use the remaining energy on attacking your opponent.” Marcus instructed.
My legs were shaking as I stood with my arms raised up, holding the scythe version of Nighty in my right hand, the chain wrapped around my left arm. I was drenched, my shirt dripping from the buckets of sweat pouring down my face and neck. I groaned in disapproval.
“I’m tired.” I complained through huffs. Marcus always encouraged me to inform him when I was reaching my limit, but that didn’t stop him from pushing me, wanting to test me.
“Try Mako. You have the right technique and once the weapon has taking form your set. Just the flow of power is too high. In the examination, you can’t be giving too much of yourself away. I don’t know which group you’re going to be placed in for the practical, but it doesn’t benefit you if people truly get a glimpse of how powerful you are. The stronger you are, the higher chance of your team slacking, thinking you’ll carry them to victory.” Marcus explained sternly. I let out another frustrated groan, attempting to do what he asked.
I tried two more times to perfect my power output, both being unsuccessful before reaching my limit.
I sighed, releasing Nighty to return to her hybrid form, her fluffy tails swing back and forth as she took a second to stretch out, dashing for the door to do whatever she wanted till I required her assistance.
Marcus’ arms wrapped around me, pulling me into his chest. Due to my previous fainting incidents, it became common protocol to embrace me, allowing the dizziness to fade as I tried to stabilize my brisk breathing.
“You’re evil. What kind of bear shifter are you?” I grunted, resting my forehead against his broad chest. At least his pine scent was pure ecstasy.
“Who said I was a bear shifter?” He questioned. I forced my head to look up at him in confusion.
“Your huge, with defined muscles and a six pack. Aren’t bear shifters usually super buff and workout at the gym for five hours a day?” I questioned.
Although, the bear shifters back in the facility were lazy drunken fools who would be lucky to have a two pack, at Knightwood, all the bear shifters I’d met so far, looked like they overdosed on steroids. At least Marcus’ body looked natural, created by hard work and not popping pills or using some glamour magic.
“Just because I’m a sexy buff shifter, doesn’t mean I’m a bear.” He argued, rolling his eyes.
I took a long look at him, pondering as to what spirit could he possibly be. Realm Seven was mixed with multiple breeds, not helping with my estimations.
“Can I ask for help?” I beamed, wiggling in his embrace causing him to laugh.
“Fine you can ask one of your spirits. Choose wisely.” He soothed, his embrace tightening around my waist, our bodies pressed together. I gulped, my body roaring to life, more than one area of my body enjoying the sudden intimacy.
“Your level of distraction has no bounds. I bet you would win an award.” Lexi pointed out dryly. I rolled my eyes.
“I wasn’t distracted. Hey, since you’re here, help me out.” I whined.
“Sigh, its obvious. You don’t need my help.” She bragged, sounding proud of herself for having apparently figured it out already.
“It’s not obvious, tell me.” I argued.
“What’s big, scaly and breathes fire.” She mused.
“You’re a DRAGON! Like Lexi!!!” I shouted, stunned.
“Why else would I have a Dragons Rule bookmark?” He challenged, his wicked grin on full display.
“It wasn’t obvious!” I pointed out, jabbing my finger into his hard chest. Ow, bad idea.
“It was pretty obvious.” Rose interjected. Shut up you. You didn’t help me.
Marcus chuckled, pulling back slightly. I frowned, not wanting to admit that I enjoyed his closeness.
“I wish all females were like you.” He admitted, his voice barely a whisper.
I stared back at him, curious as to what he meant. He took a deep breathe, closing his eyes for a moment.
“You’re the first girl I’ve had the opportunity to interact with in a long time. Sure, Eli stalks us during school hours but we don’t really talk much. Back in Realm Seven, I didn’t get the opportunity to play around with girls, attending an all boys school when I was older. When I came to Heila, meeting Ryder and them, I still kept my distance, not really understanding how to interact with girls. All the girls here are so, annoying. They only complain about how they want a rich boyfriend to take care of them and buy them pretty things. They can barely run a mile, insisting that their prince charming will come along and protect them from everything. You’re the first female I’ve met who can even use such strong magic, let alone a weapon. Scythes are one of the hardest weapons to wield and master. When I first saw you that day, transforming Nightmare into weapon form, I was stunned. Most girls like pretty wands to glue diamonds and rhinestones on, not carrying a huge ass scythe that could slice someone into two. I think…that’s what attracted me to you. Don’t get me wrong, I’ve been attracted to you from the moment we rescued you from Realm One, but it made me want to know more about you; what person was hidden behind that strong exterior of yours…that and the biggest reason why I’m so attracted to you being, your inability to walk on flat ground without tripping and falling to your demise.” He confessed, lowering his gaze to stare down at me as a smirk formed on his lips.
“Ha ha ha, very funny dragon boy.” I whispered, as I blushed, the heat soaring to my cheeks at his revelation.
It was rare for us to really take a moment and talk, usually caught up in training to strike up a long conversation. Yet, now my heart ached for him, my body wanting to comfort him in some way.
His voice sounded sad, cueing in that there was more to his story; more to a hidden childhood than simply going to an all-boys school. I could sense his pain. What happened during his childhood that could cause such agony to bleed out from his usually chirpy voice?
His eyes softened, relief seeping into his facial expression.
“I know this school thing is all temporary and once you go back to Heila you’ll be focused on meeting your family, etcetera, but I hope we can still meet like this. Doesn’t have to be vigorous training. Just, you and me.” He whispered.
I smiled up at him, pressing my body against his as I wrapped my arms around his trimmed waist, in a warm embrace.
“I’d like that.” I approved, my voice low.
We continued to stare into each others’ eyes, silence surrounding us. He leaned forward, his lips making a slow descent towards mine, his hooded sapphire eyes reflecting his intentions. I raised up on my tiptoes, my eyes closing as I readied myself, excited to press my lips against his, until something brushed against my leg, the feeling rough and prickly. I couldn’t help but pull back to look down, my gaze being met by a pair of red glowing eyes. Son of a-
“BLOODY RAT!” I shrieked, pushing myself into Marcus, trying to kick the gigantic creature away from me.
I could handle fighting multiple shifters or killing Madagascar cockroaches that roamed the dungeon floors, but rats were a hell to the bloody no in my books. The Starlight gods made a horrendous mistake creating such ugly creatures, their only purpose was to snoop the floors and attempt to chew at your flesh when you weren’t looking. Devil advocates I tell you.
“Marcus!! Kill it, burn it! I don’t care what you do, just get it away from me!” I squealed, moving behind him, before jumping on his back. I would not share the same floor with the devil worshipper. He quickly adjusts his posture to support my weight, lifting me up once to allow me to securely cling to his back.
“Mako, are you afraid of rats? It’s just someone’s familiar, relax.” He announced, staring at the red eyed familiar that had moved a few feet away.
“I don’t care! Get rid of it! Nightmare!” I summoned my companion, sending my distress to her. Within seconds, she appeared at my feet, her eyes locking onto the rat.
“MEW!” She snarled, before dashing towards it. The rat squeaked, sprinting off towards the small space in the entrance door, squeezing its fat body through the little space. Nightmare followed, pushing the door hard enough to move it back slightly, giving her enough space to pass, continuing her chase on destroying her target.
I sighed in relief laying my head on Marcus’ shoulder before dropping down and walking around to face him. That bloody creature…that was the same eyes from last time. Who’s familiar is that?
I was so caught up in my problem solving, not realizing Marcus’ head movement till his lips pressed against mine in one quick motion. My eyes widened, staring at his half closed jewelled eyes, his soft rich lips brushing against mine.
My eyes weakened, closing as I pressed my lips against his, wanting to get a better taste. He groaned between kisses, giving me one final feverish kiss, his tongue sliding across my lower lip, before pulling away. I stared back at him, speechless as I attempted to catch my breath. .
“Who knew the bad ass pink rank Princess of Heila was afraid of rats.” He hummed.
I groaned, my face probably red from the feeling of embarrassment that consumed me. I slapped his chest, pointing my finger in his face, giving him my best death glare.
“Marcus Hunt. I swear to the Starlight gods, if you tell a damn soul about this, you’ll be sorry.” I threatened, power flowing with each word.
“Yes, your highness. I pledge absolute secrecy.” He replied happily, placing his left hand across his chest, his blue knight mark on display as he bowed. I ignored his amused expression as I turned around.
“I’m going to go shower! I’ll meet you back at the house.” I announced, flustered.
“Alright, see you in a few Mako.” He promised.
I stormed off, my heart pumping against my chest from the sudden adrenaline and heat. I placed my finger against my lips, stroking them slowly as I remembered Marcus’ fine lips. I swallowed, opening the door the girl’s change room.
Once closed, I leaned against it, my head hitting the metal door as I took a deep breath. My body was humming with need, wanting to be wrapped in a particular dragon shifter’s arms and kissed feverishly.
Dammit, I need a cold shower.