Breakfast was phenomenal. I would have never had guessed, out of the four boys, Elias, would be the cook. I almost choked on my glass of milk as I watched him strap that yellow apron on, the top half of the cotton material displaying “Heavenly Baked,” while below was a picture of a cartoon loaf of bread with a glowing halo.

He ruffled his hair, moving the small gold strands that had fallen out of place out of his eyes. He pulled out the frying pan from one of the multiple black cabinets along the wall, moving towards the fridge to raid it of all the ingredients he required to forge the best pancakes ever.

I had only enjoyed the savory taste of pancakes back when Elaine would visit. She was the only one who could leave the facility without execution. One of my few happy moments was jumping out of bed, dragging a hesitant Lily into the Owner’s designated kitchen to see the tall, bright red head magician placing the plates on the table, the sweet and savory aroma of pancakes and bacon filled the room.

She would smile softly at my eagerness, making sure to make an extra plate, knowing I’d drag Lily to eat with me. I knew in the back of my mind that the Owner didn’t appreciate Lily’s presence, but Elaine wanted me to feel comfortable. As long as she approved of it, the Owner had no further arguments. Although she had moments of kindness, I slowly began to see her for who she truly was and kind wasn’t it. While she would parade around as a caring woman one moment, the next she was whispering in the Owner’s ear, and I found myself shackled in a cell every night.

As much as I loved Elaine’s fluffy pancakes, Elias’ pancakes were beyond perfection. The mouth-watering smell of butter and bacon made me shift on my pink stool with anticipation, my fork and knife in hand, ready to devour his creation.

Marcus couldn’t help but laugh at me, noting how excited I was for breakfast. I was so impatient, to the point where I used a pinch of Lily’s fire magic to heighten the heat of the stove, which Elias soon discovered and scolded me. If it wasn’t for the fact he threatened to serve me last, I would have continued my efforts to speed the process.

I was starving; it had been two days since my last meal and the energy exerted from losing consciousness a couple of times combined with the heavenly smell coming from the area of the stove, was only making it worse. When Elias finished making my plate first, I couldn’t help but dive right in but Daniel held me back, scolding me for not saying grace. If the Starlight gods were as hungry as I was, they would skip saying grace too.

The rich, fluffy texture that invaded my mouth as I took the first bite was pure bliss, the cool, sweet syrup only complementing the subtle blueberry flavor of the pancake itself. The bacon was crisp, the excess oil clinging to my dry lips. Topped off with another glass of milk, my breakfast was perfect. I was ready for seconds, but the boys worried about me stuffing myself, seeing as I hadn’t had a big meal for a while. They didn’t want me to get sick. Blasphemy.

After breakfast, I grabbed a pair of black tights and a simple black top from the small stack of clothes Karen had provided me the night before. The boys said I would have to change into a uniform once my paperwork was complete, so I didn’t need to worry with what I wore. I tied my hair in a ponytail, keeping the long strands out of my face as we walked to campus.

As we made our way towards the enrollment office, I couldn’t help but be curious about their living arrangements. The four boys lived in a large two-story house in the middle of the forest.

The sleek, modern house had a black exterior, the window frames were pure white, outlining the transparent windows. The second floor had a wide balcony where you could gaze upon the massive forest, and a small pool located just at the edge of the white marble wall bordering the house. The gate was infused with magic, allowing the boys the ability to determine who they wanted in and out. The housing complex was registered as private property, only professors and approved guests allowed to trespass. It was simply stunning, but why did four young adults get the privilege to live in such luxury?

Apparently, the other students resided in dorms measured by some ranking system, their housing complexes ten minutes away from school. Karen explained how the houses were similar to an apartment, five to seven students having their own bed corridors and all of them sharing the kitchen and lounge.

“Aren’t you guys like a few cycles older than me? How can you possibly afford to live in such a nice home?” I asked. We were about a four-minute walk from the enrollment office, which was in a separate building from the school campus.

“Daniel and I are twenty-five, Elias is twenty-six and Marcus is twenty-seven.” Ryder replied, walking ahead of us. Daniel and Marcus walked beside me, as Elias trailed behind, placing me in the middle of their man-made diamond.

Ryder’s remark surprised me. I knew Ryder’s age, but I had assumed he was the eldest, his mature attitude contributing to my assumption. Daniel and his flawless skin, made him look younger. Elias stern outlook made him appear older too, but I would have grouped him with Ryder. Marcus’ general appearance made him look older, but his bubbly personality made me think he would be the youngest.

“To answer your question, we don’t pay for anything. We’re entitled to this property.” Elias informed me.

I turned around to face him, walking backwards as we continued our uphill ascent.

“Entitled? Why? Do you guys get perfect grades or something?” I questioned. What are they, royalty?

I huffed to myself at the thought. I noticed the menacing smirk that formed on Elias’ lips as he stared at me. My eyes widened at the sudden possibility of my thoughts being true.

“Shut the front door! YOU’RE ROYAL – EEP!” I started my shout before my heel hit a rock, causing me to shriek as I fell backwards. An arm wrapped around my waist as my back crashed into someone's chest. The scent of roses assaulted my nose, realizing Ryder had caught me before I fell to my demise, the prickly grass being the cause of death. I looked up and smiled innocently.

“My hero.” I said dramatically, slurring the last word, followed by a round of nervous giggles. Fairy tales; unrealistic stories that lead you to have high expectations of life.

I heard the others sigh, Ryder helped me get back up with an amused smile.

“Still clumsy, huh?” He teased, shaking his head in disbelief.

“I’m not clumsy.” I argued, frowning.

“From the girl who tripped over a rock and almost fell backwards to her demise.” Rose teased, humour leaking off her usual monotone voice. I hate you.

“You hate Ryder or are you talking to one of your spirits?” Marcus questioned, walking towards a large rock a few feet ahead, sitting on it.

“I was talking to Rose.” I admitted, feeling my face flush. I noticed Elias eyeing me, his left eyebrow raised up as a devilish smile form on his lips.

“I’m working on it!” I exclaimed, pointing my finger at him accusingly.

“I didn’t say anything.” He replied, feigning innocence, raising his hands up in surrender.

I continued my murderous glare, annoyed by the amused expression on his face, his bright emerald eyes glittering in the sun’s rays.

“So, about that Royalty thing.” Hope asked, her song like voice filled with curiosity.

“Oh, right! They side tracked me!” I acknowledged.

I turned myself slightly so all four boys were in my line of vision. I put my hands-on my hips, attempting to look fierce.

“Spill! How are you guys living in such a luxurious house with access to medical treatment whenever you need it and privileged with such a beautiful forest as your backyard?” I interrogated. They all smiled at my demand.

“All four of us are children of Royal hierarchy.” Ryder admitted, shrugging his shoulders as if it wasn’t a big deal. I gawked at them, taking a moment to slowly look around them. THEY are Royalty. Like me?

“Yes, we are Royals. Princes’ of our home realms.” Elias proclaimed, waving his hand as if he was brushing off the vital importance of their status.

“I didn’t say that out loud.” I argued, unsure of whether I had spoken my thoughts.

“You don’t have to say anything with that expression on your face, Firefly. It’s pretty obvious.” Marcus concurred, his gaze appearing relaxed as he lifted his arms up to stretch.

I couldn’t help but lick my lips, my mind taking the moment to analyze his sculpted body, the bright yellow fitted top, hugging his perfectly ripped chest, accenting his defined bulging muscles. A bloody sin I tell you. They shouldn’t be allowed to be so attractive.

“Marcus, you’re clearly distracting her.” Daniel hinted. My eyes widened, as a rush of heat flooded my cheeks. Why did I always get caught checking these guys out? I shook my head in defiance.

“I’m not distracted! I was simply enjoying the scenery!” I blurted out. They all laughed. Marcus pushed off the rock, walking towards me.

“C’mon. As much as I would love to stand here distracting you, let’s walk and allow us to explain more about our Royal titles another time. We have to get you registered on time.” He encouraged, offering his hand to me. I smiled, placing my hand in his, allowing him to guide me forward.

“You better explain to me later. I want a whole essay.” I whispered to him. He looked over his shoulder and smiled softly.

“Yes, Professor Heart.” He whispered back, turning his head forward as we continued our walk. The others followed; the enrollment came into view as we broke free through the forest tree line.

“I have two more quick questions.” I announced as we approached the building, the soft musk grass below us shifting to grey ashy cement.

“Shoot.” Daniel encouraged, pulling off his black rectangular glasses, to clean them.

“Why aren’t you guys wearing uniforms?” I questioned.

“Because of our rank, we’re not compelled to wear our uniforms on campus. We do have to wear them for our actual classes since our uniforms reflect our status. You’ll get a better understanding soon, but short version, there are six different ranks. Each rank has its designated colour. We’re currently gold.” Ryder explained, reaching the entrance of the office, opening the door.

He held it open for all of us to enter before walking in, catching up and returned to his leadership position to continue to lead the way.

The office was a simple looking room, the walls pure white with simplistic paintings and design. I personally didn’t like the overall appearance, but it did give off the professional, I’m about to sell my soul away feel. Such environment reminded me of the Owner’s white office; the similarities made me notice how ironic this moment was and how I felt I was once more about to sell my soul.

“Of course, you guys are gold. Very Royal of you.” I remarked, rolling my eyes. Figures.

“What’s your other question?” Elias asked, dismissing my joke.

“Why doesn’t Leonardo live with you guys?” The brownish blonde boy’s image flashed through my mind. He didn’t give off a Royal vibe, plus his whining nature was pretty immature. I noticed the sudden silence that followed after my comment. Hmm, maybe I took it a bit too far with that one.

I was ready to apologize when Marcus pulled my ponytail, forcing me to stop as a yelp escaped my lips. I raised my head back to see him smirking, looking like an upside-down frown.

“What was that for?” I questioned.

“We can’t answer your question if you pass the passage way.” He replied, his face stern as he glanced in front of me. I had to admit, that was the first time in a while I noticed Marcus looking serious, clear indication that he and the others didn’t want anyone to hear the conversation that would follow.

I lifted my head back up, staring at the entrance corridor, a desk in the middle of the room. An older woman with short grey hair was sitting quietly at the desk. She was so engrossed in whatever was on her desk that she hadn’t noticed our presence yet. I turned back to face them, when Ryder spoke up.

“Leonardo isn’t one of us. He’s not destined to be your star knight like we are. If he was, we would be able to mentally communicate with him like I explained yesterday. He isn’t from a Royal family, reason as to why he can’t sleep at our place. Leonardo’s a close friend of mine and I want to support him in his quest to becoming a knight. That’s why the others tolerate his whining behaviour.” Ryder explained. I could see how tense the atmosphere had become. I didn’t see what the big deal was. Elias must have picked up on my confused expression as he continued. 

“Our original reason for being here in Knightwood Academy was in accordance of locating you. Realm Five still has portal access to Realm One, while all other realms, including your home, Heila, do not. Originally, before the war, all realms had portal access, not needing transportation ships to get from one realm to the next. But with the realm wide disappearance of shifters followed by the war, it was agreed upon by the Royals to shut down the other portals; leaving Minato’ portal open due to our higher level of security and knight population. The portal is used specifically for Knightwood training purposes. Therefore, the headmaster has more authority over the usage of the portal versus the king of Minato. In order for us to be able to investigate the facility matter, your father made an agreement with the headmaster to allow us unlimited access to Realm One to commence a more thorough search, in hopes of locating you. Our group dynamic is powerful, especially with our various spirits and strengths, so when we heard of the King’s plans, we volunteered to be a part. In return, we agreed to attend classes here.” Daniel slid his glasses back on before continuing.

“Think of it as the headmaster’s way of boosting the school popularity. A bonus was the King’s financial assistance in the school’s funds.”

“So, my father assigned you guys to come down here, act like some sophomore, knight students, so you could gain access to Realm One…just to find me?” I asked, my voice lowering to a whisper, my emotions raged within me.

A man I didn’t even remember, loved me so much – all of these actions and plans implemented with no knowledge as to whether I was still alive or not. I have never known a love like that, the kind that was completely unconditional. I had loved Lily, but no matter how hard I fought, I couldn’t save her. I gave up with no other choice – he, however, has never given up. He’s been fighting this whole time for me and I couldn’t begin to fathom the emotions he has felt this entire time I have been missing. That any of my family has felt – my mother, my brothers, and my father all struggling because I was gone. I swallowed, a knot forming in my throat. Ryder walked towards me, pulling me into a quick embrace.

“In time, you’ll meet your family. I promise. They truly love and cherish you, just as we all care about you.” He whispered, rubbing my back gently before pulling back. The others nodded in agreement. 

“Thank you.” I whispered.

“It’s our pleasure, Princess.” Elias said softly, his voice held a sense of admiration. I couldn’t read his current blank expression, but the tone of his voice gave him away.

“Now that we’ve found you, we don’t need to take these pointless classes, but seeing as we must wait for their agent to contact Kai, before we are approved to leave here…we might as well continue.” Marcus concluded.

I nodded in understanding, my questions all answered. They don’t have to attend anymore now that I’ve been found but seeing as we have to wait for approval to return to Heila, they might as well continue. As Karen mentioned earlier, she’d rather me play student and be with the boys than sit in that house, doing practically nothing all day long. Ryder grabbed hold of my hand and led me to the desk, the others in tow.

The enrollment process was simple. The old secretary stated, I should get my rank done in the main building, where I would change into my designated uniform and be ready in time for class. I couldn’t help but smile at her shocked expression, seeing little old me surrounded by four giant men. Priceless.

I got my papers and basic schedule, the timetable most likely changing depending on the rank assigned. All I knew was my two mandatory classes; Advance Sorcery and Starlight History, were with the boys.

Advance Sorcery focused on magic spells and incantations. I already had a deep understanding on the subject, the secretary asking me a series of questions to determine my current knowledge. She seemed shocked with my ability to answer every question she asked, her stunned facial expression made me smile with pride.

Starlight History would center on learning more about the Starlight gods and realms. The secretary explained that this class would be short in length, only being an hour class instead of the standard three, due to the approach of final exams. The next school semester would switch; Starlight history being three hours and Advance Sorcery being one hour in length.

We stepped out of the sterile interior of the building, the warm air surrounding us, reminding me how much of these worlds I had missed being locked away inside the facility for so long. It felt like I was enjoying fresh air for the first time, allowing myself to enjoy the gentle breeze that passed us. Elias turned around to face us, his hands in his pockets.

“I got to go. I’ll meet you guys at the entrance.” His remark aimed towards the boys.

I couldn’t stop myself from frowning at his announcement. I truly enjoyed his company. Sure, most of the time he was sarcastic and a bit of an ass, but he had his moments, when that wall he held firmly in place would crack and a different man would peek out. He sighed, walking up to me and placing his hand gently on my cheek, caressing it lightly.

“You're going to be fine. I’ll see you later.” He assured me.

I nodded. Guess I couldn’t be with them all the time. He nodded towards the other, before turning around and walking away.

“Bye Elias.” I waved goodbye, watching his back get smaller and smaller, disappearing into the forest.

“If she is going to have that puppy eyed expression each time we leave her, it's going to be really hard.” Marcus whispered to Daniel.

“We just have to make sure she always has one of us in her class then.” Daniel replied.

“I’m right here you know, and I don’t have a puppy eye expression.” I said firmly. They all gave me a look that was a mix of okay and keep telling yourself that. Ryder turned walking away, Daniel following close behind.

I rolled my eyes, though I couldn’t ignore the sense of relief I felt from their words. I didn’t want them to treat me like a lost child; I was simply afraid of the unknown. I had never taken classes with other shifters, so I was nervous of being by myself in this new environment. Marcus pressed lightly against my back, encouraging me to move forward.

“Welcome to Knightwood.” He announced.