The morning sun washed over the vast grounds of the Royal Mages Academy as I stood at its gates, my stomach doing anxious flips. The towering walls of the academy rose before me like some enchanted fortress, its white stone shimmering in the light as if alive with magic. Runes and vines—intricate and elegant—decorated the surface, pulsing faintly, as if they had secrets to whisper if I stared long enough. I adjusted my bag, feeling its weight pull on my shoulder, though it wasn’t nearly as heavy as the weight of the moment. I could barely believe we were here. This was it.

Two days ago, we left our small village, saying tearful goodbyes to Ma and Pa. After some shared hugs and farewells, we set off with the caravan. A day into the journey, the old wizard used his magic to teleport us to a transportation circle near the capital. It felt surreal, like something out of a story. And now, here we are, standing at the gates, waiting for the opening ceremony for new students to begin.

I glanced over at Tatiana, who was standing beside me. She looked calm as ever, her soft golden-brown hair catching the sunlight, making it seem like spun gold. I envied how composed she seemed while my own heart raced in my chest. Her green eyes sparkled with excitement, and a serene smile curled her lips. Everything about her was just so… effortless. Regal, even. I couldn’t help but wonder how she managed it.

“I can’t believe we’re really here,” she said, her voice soft but filled with quiet energy. There was confidence in her tone, a grace I’d come to recognize as being uniquely hers. It wasn’t forced; it was simply a part of who she was—beautiful, poised, and, frankly, irresistible.

“Yeah, me neither,” I muttered, trying to sound equally confident, but probably failing. My hand brushed against my auburn hair, tugging at a strand that had fallen loose from its braid. I felt a little plain next to Tatiana, like a flickering candle beside a bonfire. My dark brown eyes didn’t sparkle the way hers did, and my shorter stature didn’t exactly command attention. Still, I knew I wasn’t bad-looking, but next to her, I felt almost… ordinary. Maybe I was just in my head too much, overthinking it like I always did.

The other students began gathering around, and the crowd gradually quieted. All eyes turned toward the stage set up in the middle of the courtyard. A woman appeared, her presence Instantly commanding. Her silver hair flowed down to her waist like liquid moonlight, and she wore deep violet robes that shimmered with embroidered golden symbols I didn’t recognize but knew had to be significant. The air seemed to hum around her, vibrating with the power she exuded effortlessly.

“Welcome,” she began, her voice strong yet smooth, the kind of authority that demanded attention. It felt like every word she spoke wrapped around us, drawing us in like a spell. “I am your headmaster. You stand at the beginning of a journey that will test your strength, your will, and your very character. The Royal Mages Academy is not just a place of learning—it is a forge in which you will be shaped into something greater. Power is earned, not given. It is your responsibility to wield it wisely. Don’t forget, mages die here. This isn’t your home. This is real life.”

Her words sent a shiver down my spine, and I wasn’t the only one who felt it. The tension in the air grew, as if we were all suddenly aware that this place was more than just a school—it was a crucible. I glanced at Tatiana, who was watching the headmaster intently, her eyes gleaming with ambition. She was ready for this—probably had been her whole life. But I couldn’t help but feel doubt creeping in. Was I ready?

The headmaster continued, both inspiring and intimidating. But then the atmosphere shifted as she raised her hands. Magic crackled in the air, and a soft, ethereal light began swirling around her fingers. She spoke words I didn’t understand, ancient and melodic, and suddenly, keys began to materialize before each student. They weren’t ordinary keys—these were glowing, shimmering with magic, each one intricately designed as if crafted by hand, just for us.

A key floated in front of me, its surface warm and golden, glowing softly as I reached out to take it. The moment my fingers touched it, a rush of warmth spread through my hand, up my arm, and into my chest, as if the key recognized me as its rightful owner. It was beautiful—delicate yet strong, with tiny symbols etched into the metal that seemed to shift and move when I wasn’t looking directly at them.

But that wasn’t all. Beside the key, something else appeared—a small, glowing creature. At first, I wasn’t sure what I was seeing, but then it took shape—a tiny fox, no larger than a kitten, with sleek orange fur that shimmered like it was made of light. Its bright eyes blinked up at me, full of mischief and curiosity, and it darted playfully around my head before settling on my shoulder. A faint light trail lingering behind its movements like light lagging behind. 

I could hardly believe it. This was a spirit—a real, magical companion. I reached up to pet the fox, feeling its warmth under my fingers, even though it was made of light. It was soft, real, and I couldn’t help but smile. 

Beside me, Tatiana let out a soft gasp of delight. I turned to see a silver hawk hovering beside her, its wings spread wide, looking every bit as regal as she did. The hawk’s sharp eyes gazed at her with a mix of Intelligence and serenity, as if it were studying her, judging her worth. Of course, it had chosen her. It was the perfect match—elegant, powerful, and poised to soar to unimaginable heights.

“They’re beautiful,” she whispered, reaching out to touch the hawk’s shimmering feathers. The bird leaned into her hand, accepting her touch with a quiet dignity, much like Tatiana herself. She looked back at me, her smile widening. “This is amazing.”

“Yeah, it really is,” I agreed, still in awe of my little fox, who was now curled next to  my neck like a heating pad. 

The headmaster’s voice cut through my thoughts. “These glimmers will guide you,” she said. “They are your companions, your friends. They will lead you to your dorms, your classes, and assist you throughout your time here. But remember—they are not your servants. They are your equals in magic, bound to you until the day you leave this college of magic. They can not leave the premises so on free time don’t expect them to follow you on your adventures.”

I glanced at my fox, and for a brief moment, its playful eyes locked with mine. It was like a pet you had to always leave at home. Kind of sad but not unusual. 

As the ceremony ended and the crowd began to disperse, students followed their spirits toward the academy’s various halls. Tatiana turned to me, her hawk still perched gracefully on her arm. “I guess this is where we part for now,” she said, though there was no sadness in her voice—just excitement. “I’ll see you soon Lily.”

“Yeah, see you,” I replied, feeling a strange pang of nervousness at the idea of us separating, even for a little while. I grabbed her hand and gave it a squeeze before letting go and waving. 

With that, Tatiana followed her hawk into one of the grand archways, disappearing into the maze of halls that made up the academy. My fox nudged my cheek gently, urging me forward, and I followed its lead through the twisting corridors. Every step I took made me feel more like I was walking deeper into some enchanted world, where everything was alive with magic. The walls seemed to pulse faintly, the stone beneath my feet humming with energy.

After what felt like an endless series of turns and stairways, we finally reached a door—wooden, heavy, with the same symbols etched into it that were on my key. My fox gave a soft yip, nudging the door open with its nose but it wouldn’t budge , so I stepped forward and use the key that I received earlier. As the door clicked I knew it worked. So I open it and entered. 

The room was cozy, the walls painted a calming shade of blue that instantly put me at ease. Sunlight streamed through a large window, casting a warm glow over the two neatly made beds on opposite sides of the room. There were desks, wardrobes, and a few small shelves for personal items, but it was clear this was no grand palace—it was simple, functional, and comforting.

Sitting on the edge of one of the beds was a girl. She looked up as I entered, her eyes wide and a little nervous. She was petite, with curly brown hair that framed her heart-shaped face in soft, bouncy ringlets. Her skin was a warm tan, her cheeks flushed pink as if she was embarrassed about something. Her hazel eyes darted away from mine, like she wasn’t quite sure if she should be looking at me or not.

“Hi,” I said, offering a small smile as I stepped further into the room. “I’m Lily.”

She stood quickly, her hands twisting together nervously. “Hi! I-I’m Jessica. Jessica Emerald.” Her voice was soft, a little shaky, but there was something sweet about it—like she was trying her best to make a good impression despite her nerves.

I could tell immediately that she was kind, even if she was unsure of herself. She had this air about her, like she wanted to fade into the background but was also trying desperately not to. Her posture was stiff, her shoulders hunched slightly like she was bracing herself for something. I got the sense that she wasn’t used to being around people much—or at least, not people like me. 

“Nice to meet you,” I said, walking towards her extending a hand for a greeting. She took it and shook it fast but complete and let go. Yep definitely shy. 

My fox hopped down to the floor, padding over to inspect Jessica’s spirit—a small, shimmering badger with soft fur and bright, curious eyes. They sniffed each other cautiously before the badger seemed to relax, curling up by Jessica’s feet.

Jessica smiled a little more, watching the interaction between our spirits with a mix of relief and wonder. “I’m glad our familiars get along,” she said softly, her voice warming. “I was worried about that.”

You were?” I asked, curious.

“Yeah… wouldn’t it be bad if they didn’t get along?” she said, glancing up at me, then quickly back down at the floor.

“That’s a good point,” I replied, feeling a little awkward with the silence that followed. I didn’t want to push her too hard or make her feel uncomfortable, but I also didn’t want the conversation to die off.

“So is this my side?” I asked casually pointing at the bed opposite of where she was seated a moment ago. 

“Oh um, would you like this one. I’m sorry I shouldn’t have chosen first. I got here first but I should have waited by the door.” She replied, like she is usually disciplined for her decisions. 

“No, you’re all good. I’ll be fine with this side.” Calming her down. I walked over and through my bag on the bed. I unzipped it and pulled out the clothes the MA and PA gave me. I set them up in the closet and then through my bag on the desk. 

“Where is this worlds ‘that was easy’ Button?” I muttered to myself. 

Jessica's smile softened as she sat back down on her bed, her fingers fidgeting nervously with the hem of her simple linen shirt. Her clothes were practical—dark trousers and a loose blouse that hid her figure, though I could tell she was petite under the layers. She had a soft, natural beauty about her, the kind that wasn’t in-your-face but still made you look twice but then you looked again at her short stature. If I had to guess she was probably 4 and a half feet tall. 

“So, um,” she started, biting her lip and glancing at me with those wide hazel eyes, “you… you’re really pretty.” Her voice was quiet, like she wasn’t sure if she should even say it, but there was sincerity there. Her cheeks flushed as soon as the words left her mouth, and she quickly looked away, as if she was embarrassed to even think it.

“Thanks,” I said, feeling a bit of heat rise to my own cheeks. “You are too.” I meant it. There was something about her—her shyness, her softness—that made her endearing in a way that was different from Tatiana’s confident beauty. Plus she was basically a lolicon. For those who don’t watch anime. It’s a beautiful girl who is animated to look childish but she is still usually the same age or older. Japan was wild. 

Jessica gave a small, nervous laugh, her fingers now twisting a strand of her curly hair. “I don’t know about that,” she muttered, her gaze still flickering between me and the floor. “But you… I mean, your hair, it’s so—so vibrant. I’ve never seen anything like it.”

I reached up, touching the auburn strands that had fallen loose from my braid. “Oh, this? It’s just hair,” I said, trying to brush off the compliment, but she shook her head quickly.

“No, it’s really… striking,” she insisted, her voice growing a little more confident, though her eyes stayed downcast. “Like fire, but—softer. And your eyes—they’re so… deep.” Her fingers brushed her own cheek as if she was trying to explain something she couldn’t quite put into words. “I bet you get compliments all the time.”

I smiled, feeling a little awkward but flattered at the same time. “I guess, yeah,” I said, though that wasn’t entirely true. I got compliments from Tat all the time. The villagers didn’t really say much about my appearance. The soldiers probably did behind my back, though.

Meanwhile, Jessica’s badger had started playing with my fox, the two of them sniffing and jumping around each other like they were old friends already. The badger nudged the fox playfully, and my little fox yipped in response, darting around the room with a burst of energy.

“They’re so cute together,” Jessica said, watching the two spirits with a small smile. “I was worried I’d be rooming with someone who… I don’t know, wouldn’t like me or something.” She glanced at me again, biting her lip. “But you seem really nice. And… well…” She trailed off, not confident enough to finish.

“Yeah, me too. And well what?” I giggled curiously.

“I don’t know, never mind,” she said, waving it off.

“Come on. What’s up?”

“You haven’t mentioned my height… I thought I’d be picked on for it immediately, and I was scared.”

I blinked at her, surprised by her sudden honesty. “Oh,” I said, laughing softly. “Trust me, I’m just as nervous as you are. I’m not the type of person to pick on someone for their appearance. If anyone does that, come to me, and I’ll take care of them for you.”

Jessica’s eyes flicked up to meet mine, a small smile tugging at her lips. “Really? But you don’t seem violent. You seem… like you couldn’t hurt a fly.”

“I’m not so sure about that,” I said, remembering the wolves I had taken care of. Though her words made me feel a little lighter. “I didn’t say I’d kill them. Just make sure they treat you with respect.”

She nodded quickly, her curls bouncing as she did. “Thanks.” Her voice was quiet again, but there was a warmth to it that made me feel like maybe, just maybe, we really could be friends.

There was a pause, the room falling into a comfortable silence, broken only by the soft sounds of our spirits playing on the floor. I stretched, glancing around at the room, feeling more settled now that I had someone like Jessica here. It was strange how quickly I’d gone from feeling completely out of place to feeling… okay.

“So,” I said after a moment, standing up. “Should we go find breakfast? I’m starving.”

Jessica nodded, standing quickly as well, her hands fiddling with her bag strap as she slung it over her shoulder. “Y-yeah. Let’s go. I’ve heard the food here is amazing.”

“Let’s hope so,” I said, and together, we made our way out of the room, our glimmers leading the way as we followed the winding halls toward the dining hall.

The Academy felt even bigger now that we were inside, the corridors stretching on endlessly, each one lined with doors and windows that looked out onto courtyards and gardens I hadn’t even noticed before. Students passed us by, most of them in groups, laughing and talking like they’d known each other forever. I couldn’t help but feel a little envious of how easy it seemed for them.

When we reached the dining hall, the smell of fresh bread and roasted meats filled the air, making my stomach growl. The room was grand, with long tables stretching out across the floor, each one lined with students already digging into their meals. It was chaotic, but in a good way—the kind of chaos that felt alive, buzzing with excitement and energy.

I spotted Tatiana at one of the tables near the center, her hawk perched proudly on the back of her chair like it owned the place. She was laughing with a couple of other students, but when she saw us, she waved goodbye and walked over with a bright smile.

“Lily! Oh my god, I missed you!”

Jessica and I made our way through the crowded hall, weaving between groups of students until we reached Tatiana. As soon as we sat down at the table beside her, Tatiana’s eyes flicked between me and Jessica, her smile widening.

“Lily, this is amazing,” Tatiana said, her voice brimming with excitement. “The food is incredible. You have to try the pastries—they’re like nothing I’ve ever tasted.”

I laughed. “I’ll take your word for it.”

“What? No, here,” she took a Danish from her tray she had with her and stuffed it in my face. I took it gladly seeing how I was hungry. It tasted like a jelly filled doughnut. Kind of nostalgic really. 

“See good! Ha sorry!” She said licking her finger and rubbing some cream off my nose. But her hand lingered near my lips for awhile before it retracted. She knew what she was doing. That tease. 

Tatiana’s gaze shifted to Jessica, her eyes sparkling with curiosity. “And you must be Lily’s roommate, right?”

Jessica’s face turned bright red as she nodded, clearly flustered by Tatiana’s attention. “Y-yes. Jessica Emerald.”

Tatiana extended her hand, her smile warm and welcoming. “Nice to meet you, Jessica. I’m Tatiana.”

Jessica shook her hand, though she looked like she might faint from nerves. “It’s—it’s nice to meet you too. Are you two friends?”

I could see the admiration in Jessica’s eyes as she looked at Tatiana, and I couldn’t blame her. Tatiana had that effect on people—her beauty, her confidence, it was hard not to be drawn to her. Even I sometimes found myself staring a little too long, caught up in the way she moved, the way she smiled. She was magnetic.

“Yep, you could say I’m her one and only best friend,” She said with a dominating smile. 

“Oh, awesome,” Jessica withdrew. I felt bad for her. Tat’s outgoing personality definitely doesn’t mesh with her reserved one. 

“How’s your roommate?” I asked, changing the subject as I took a bite of the pastry Tatiana had shoved at me.

Tatiana rolled her eyes, her expression shifting to one of annoyance. “She hates me.”

I nearly choked on my food. “What? Why?”

Tatiana sighed, her fingers brushing through her hair. “Because she’s a princess—fifth in her lineage apparently. And she’s not exactly thrilled about sharing a room with someone who’s, you know, not royalty.”

Jessica gasped softly, her eyes wide with shock. “Your roommate is Princess Alara Valora!”

Tatiana shrugged, though I could tell it bothered her more than she was letting on. “Yeah but probably not for long. She’s trying to transfer rooms. I’m fine with that I’m going to let some stuck-up princess ruin my time here. Maybe she can switch with you Lily. And we could share a dorm.”

“That would be cool,” I said. After I said that though I looked over at Jessica who just stared down awkwardly. 

“Um, or maybe… I can handle her. I mean Tat, Jessica here is pretty cool. I don’t want to leave her with someone like that. Maybe me and you switch and I can see if I can work my magic on her.” With a special wink I was hoping Tat got my meaning. I was given a question eye brow so I think it flew over her head. 

“Oh, you don’t have to. It’s okay. I’ll be fine. I know her anyways.” She said quietly. 

“What?” Me and Tat responded in unison. 

“Our parents had us play together when we were little when they had meetings. She use to dress me up in baby doll dresses. “

“That’s crazy. So you’re willing to be her roommate! Are you sure?” I asked. Also wondering how young she had to be to fit in a doll dress. 

She nodded, eye contact remaining to the side or on the floor. 

Tatiana smiled at her, her eyes softening. “Thanks, Jessica. You’re a life saver.”

The conversation ended as we ate, and for the for a while I was beginning to think this would be my gang. All through college. 

After breakfast, we headed to our first class, the halls buzzing with excitement as glimmers flew through the air, students following on their way to their respective homerooms. When we arrived, I was surprised to find the room set up in a circle, with sixteen chairs positioned in pairs around the edges. The atmosphere was heavy with anticipation, and I could feel the tension in the air as we took our seats near the seats farthest from the door, Tatiana sitting beside me and Jessica on the other. 

One by one, the rest of the students filed in. I recognized a few from the entrance ceremony, including the princess—Tatiana’s roommate. She shot Tatiana a death glare as she walked by, her nose wrinkling in disdain. Her long, platinum blonde hair was tied back in an elaborate braid, and her icy blue eyes sparkled with haughty contempt as she took her seat on the opposite side of the room.

I nudged Tatiana with my elbow. “That her?”

Tatiana sighed. “Yup. That’s Princess Stuck up.”

“She seems… charming,” I muttered, rolling my eyes.

Before Tatiana could respond, the door to the classroom burst open, and a cold gust of wind swept through the room, sending a chill down my spine. A figure stepped inside, her long, dark robes billowing around her like a storm cloud. She had sharp features, her skin pale as snow, and her eyes glinting  like shards of ice.

The professor's entrance was impossible to ignore. She was tall and imposing, with a kind of presence that made the room feel colder just by her stepping in. Her long, dark hair was pulled back tightly, and a cigarette hung lazily between her lips, a thin trail of smoke curling up toward the ceiling. The smell of tobacco mixed with something earthy and bitter filled the room almost instantly. Her robes, dark and flowing, seemed to absorb the light around her, and the way she moved was almost predatory—like she was sizing each of us up.

"Good morning, class," she said, her voice deep and commanding, with a rasp that spoke of years of smoking. She took a long drag from her cigarette, blowing the smoke out in a way that made it seem like she was breathing out frost. "My name is Professor Morrigan, and I will be your instructor for—well, let's just say for the foreseeable future."

Her eyes scanned the room, and I could feel her gaze linger on each of us for a moment too long. When her icy blue eyes landed on me, I held my breath, trying not to let the chill in my spine show on my face. She gave me a quick once-over before moving on to Tatiana, then the princess, who sat up straighter as if trying to assert her importance. 

The room was so quiet you could hear a pin drop as Professor Morrigan continued, her boots clicking ominously as she paced the floor. "You're here because someone, somewhere, thinks you have potential," she said, her tone making it clear she wasn’t quite convinced. "But let me make one thing very clear: potential means nothing without discipline. And most of you?" Her lips curled into a smirk as she took another drag from her cigarette. "You have none."

There was a rustle of unease as students shifted in their seats, including me. I stole a glance at Tatiana, who looked as unbothered as ever, though I could see the tension in her jaw. Across the room, Princess Jerk face raised her chin slightly, looking as if she wasn’t the least bit intimidated. It was like the two of them were locked in some kind of silent competition.

Morrigan’s sharp gaze landed on Princess Alar next. "And you," she said, her voice cutting through the air like a blade. "I hear you're having a little issue with your living arrangements?"

Alara’s eyes flicked to Tatiana, then back to Morrigan. "Yes, Professor. I’ve requested a room transfer. I believe it's… beneath my status to share quarters with—" She waved her hand dismissively toward Tatiana, her voice dripping with contempt. "—a dirt worm."

The whole room seemed to hold its breath, waiting to see how Morrigan would respond. For a moment, there was nothing but the sound of the cigarette crackling as the professor took another long drag. Then, without warning, she flicked the half-burned cigarette toward the princess, and it disintegrated into ash before it even hit the floor.

"I don’t care about your status, Princess," Morrigan said, her voice icy and unyielding. "In this academy, everyone starts on equal footing. You’re no better or worse than the person sitting next to you. So if you want a transfer, you ask your fellows, not me. Got it?" Her eyes narrowed, and her voice dropped to a near whisper, somehow even more threatening. "You’ll learn this isn’t play time. You are adults act like it."

Alara’s face turned a deep shade of red, and I could see her fingers tightening around the edge of her desk, but she didn’t say anything else. She simply nodded, her lips pressed into a thin, angry line.

Morrigan’s gaze lingered on her for a moment longer before she turned back to the rest of us, her expression hard once again. "But I’ll indulge you miss princess. Would anyone like to switch rooms?” 

No one moved. No one even dared to breathe.

"Good," she said, and with a sharp clap of her hands, the room seemed to come alive. Symbols etched into the floor began to glow with a soft blue light, and I could feel a strange energy hum beneath my feet. "Now that we have that sorted, let’s get started."

But the professor froze as Jessica raised her hand slowly. “Um I’d be willing to switch prof— I mean if that’s okay.” She mumbled the last part as the professor walked towards her. 

“Your key,” She held out her hand. Jessica poor girl fumbled in her bag for her key and handed it to The Professor. She took it for Jessica’s hands and walked over to Tat. “You’re key.” She said sternly again. Tat provided the required object. The professor took it and crushed them in her fists. We watched as the dust from the keys fell to the ground. She then snapped her finger and two brand new glowing keys appeared before Tat and Jessica. They took them at the same time and the professor walked away. 

“Would that suit you your highness.” She said with a sneer. Alara looked at Jessica and held up her chin. 

“Yes Miss Morrigan. A daughter of the treasurer will do just fine.” 

Huh. So Jessica’s dad is a treasurer. That seems like a nice life. I wonder why she is so timid. 

“Jessica right?” Alara asked. 

“Um. Yeah,” She replied shyly. 

“Come sit by me. It will be easier if we sat together.  You glasses girl. Move.” Alara shoved the girl next to her out of her seat. 

“What? Professor she can’t do that,” the girl next to her responded trying to get the professor to combat her.

“Just fucking move. I don’t have all day for this.” I hadn’t noticed before, but everyone did when she said it—her face didn’t seem to appreciate the exchange. The girl stood up quietly, as did Jessica, and they walked past each other, exchanging seats. No noise was heard after they sat down. All was silent. Everyone had their eyes on the professor—and on the icicles forming on the ground, creeping toward each student’s desk.

The ice expanded, forming intricate patterns I didn’t recognize. I glanced over at Tatiana, who was watching with a mixture of curiosity and excitement. The professor walked back to the center of the room, her anger fading as the ice retreated into her shadow.

"Today, we’ll begin with a simple exercise," Morrigan continued, her voice returning to its usual rasp. "Who can tell me what a wizard’s Affinity is?"

The girl who now sat in Jessica’s old seat raised her hand, and I took a moment to really notice her. She had that “know-it-all” vibe about her—an air of quiet confidence, like she was already calculating the professor’s next question. Her auburn hair, long and wavy, fell perfectly down her back, with a few loose strands framing her delicate, pale face. She wore thick, rounded glasses with thin gold frames that gave her an unmistakably intellectual look, but it was more than just that—there was something about the way she pushed them up her nose, the way her sharp green eyes glinted behind the lenses, that made her feel like she was always three steps ahead of everyone else in the room.

She was dressed in a high-collared blouse tucked into a plaid skirt, like she was going for a classic, preppy style, but there was something sensual about how the fabric clung to her slender frame. Her cardigan hung loosely on her shoulders, giving her an effortless look, like she didn’t care much about fashion but somehow still managed to look put-together. The thigh-high socks and polished loafers completed the outfit, making her seem like she’d walked straight out of a textbook but added a twist that was undeniably sexy in a nerdy kind of way.

I could smell the faint scent of vanilla and old books lingering around her as she opened her mouth to speak, clearly eager to answer Morrigan’s question.

“Affinity refers to a wizard’s natural connection with a specific element or force,” she said smoothly, her voice dripping with confidence, as if this were all basic knowledge to her. "It’s central to a wizard’s identity, influencing their magic and how they interact with the magical world. Every wizard has an affinity, though some may never discover theirs if they lack the discipline."

Morrigan’s lips curled into a faint smirk, clearly pleased. “Correct,” she said, her tone slightly softer, almost approving.

With a subtle flick of her fingers, a bright circle of light formed in the air before her, radiating out and leaving a table in its place. As the light faded, five orbs appeared on the small table, each one glistening with a different energy.

“As Miss Skye said, a wizard’s affinity defines them,” Morrigan began, her voice sharp and commanding once more. “These orbs have been created specifically to determine a wizard’s elemental alignment. At this academy, we don’t waste time on distractions. We will focus on what makes each of you strong—what you’re meant to master. Then you will devote your time here and your life to that magic.”

She paced slowly around the table, her eyes narrowing on the class. “There are five core affinities: Earth, Water, Fire, Wind, and Light. Each one comes with its own range of variations and possibilities. For instance—” She placed her hand on the Earth orb, and it remained still. “I have no affinity for Earth.” Her hand moved to the Fire orb next, which began to glow faintly red. “I have a slight connection to Fire,” she continued, before resting her hand on the Water orb, which flared with an almost blinding light. “But here—here is where my strength lies. My affinity for Water manifests as ice, and over time, I have honed it into the core of who I am as a mage.”

She stepped back, her gaze sweeping across the room. “Now, I will call your names. You will step up, place your hand on each orb, and we will see where your power lies. Don’t waste my time.”

The room felt tense as Professor Morrigan stood before us, her fingers still glowing from the spell she'd cast to summon the table of orbs. The silence stretched as everyone waited, anxious but trying to hide it.

"Alara Valora," Professor Morrigan called out sharply.

The princess rose, all elegance and ice, her platinum blonde hair catching the light as she strode forward. Alara placed her hand on the Earth orb. It shimmered faintly, but no grand glow. She moved on to the Water orb, which flickered briefly, but the Fire orb was where her true strength lay. It pulsed with a deep, hot light. Lastly, the Wind orb glowed, not as strong as the Fire, but still brightly, meaning she had two personal affinities. Alara glanced back at us, her icy blue eyes scanning the room, clearly pleased with her results.

“Fire and Wind,” Professor Morrigan announced, her voice approving. “As expected from someone of your lineage.”

Alara stepped back, her chin held high as if daring anyone to question her.

“Idris Valora,” Morrigan called next, and Alara’s twin brother rose. He was just as stunning as his sister, though his mischievous grin made him more approachable in a dangerous kind of way.

He placed his hand on the Earth orb, which barely flickered. Water stayed still, but when his hand touched Fire, the orb lit up brilliantly. Then, to everyone’s surprise, the Light orb also shone brightly.

“Fire and Light,” Morrigan stated, her tone carrying a note of approval. Idris’s smile widened as he returned to his seat, casting a sideways glance at Alara, who seemed less pleased now that her brother had matched her strength.

Next came a string of students—some strong, others less so. Cassian Dunewood’s Earth and Wind were noted quietly, and Veron Raventhorne's Earth and Water drew a hint of respect from Morrigan. Ariadne Drakestone, her fiery red hair matching her affinity for Fire, sauntered back to her seat, uninterested in the other elements. 

“Seraphina Skye,” Morrigan called, and the girl next to me rose, rolling her shoulders as if she were already bored with the process.

“I already know my Affinity. It’s Earth,” Seraphina declared, placing her hand on the Earth orb, which glowed brightly. Without bothering with the other orbs, she shot a smug look at the professor and returned to her seat.

Professor Morrigan’s eyes narrowed briefly, but she didn’t comment. “Earth it is,” she said, her voice clipped.

“Jessica Emerald,” Morrigan announced.

Jessica stood quickly, her gaze downcast as she hurried to the orbs. She was small, even for a half-dwarf, her long brown hair pulled into a messy braid. Her hands trembled as she placed them on the orbs, but when she touched Fire, it flared brightly, followed by a steady glow from Earth.

“Fire and Earth,” Morrigan said, her tone softening for a moment. “Quite fitting.”

Jessica gave a small, relieved smile before shuffling back to her seat, clearly trying to avoid any further attention.

Several more students followed—brief flashes of power, dim glows, and occasional flickers. Thorne Greyfell's Water and Wind combination earned a small nod from the professor, while Nina Featherwind’s single affinity for Light drew a rare, almost fond expression from Morrigan.

Then, “Tatiana Meslini,” Morrigan called.

Tatiana stood with grace, her black hair flowing like a dark waterfall as she moved toward the table. Her hand hovered over each orb in turn, and to everyone's shock, four of them glowed in response. Earth, Water, Fire, and Wind all reacted to her touch, each one bright and unmistakable. Only the Light orb remained still.

Professor Morrigan’s eyes widened slightly. “Earth, Water, Fire, and Wind,” she announced, her voice carrying a note of admiration. “Young lady, you share affinities with the grandmaster herself. I will have to introduce you when the time is right.”

Tatiana returned to her seat with a confident smile, the room buzzing with murmurs. Alara’s cold stare burned with newfound jealousy, but Tatiana didn’t seem to care. She was radiant, basking in the glory of her moment.

Finally, Morrigan called my name. “Lily Meslini.”

A wave of whispers rippled through the room. My heart pounded as I stepped forward, feeling every eye on me. The shared last name with Tatiana hadn’t gone unnoticed, and even Tat herself looked stunned. I hadn’t known what to say when they asked for my name at registration, so I borrowed Tatiana’s family name, with her grandmother’s blessing.

Now, standing before the orbs, my hand trembled as I placed it on the Earth orb. Nothing. Fire, nothing. Water, Wind—still nothing. The room felt like it was closing in on me, the silence growing more unbearable with every failed attempt. I reached for the Light orb, a desperate hope flickering in my chest.

But it didn’t glow either.

Not a single orb responded to me.

Morrigan’s face remained unreadable as she finally spoke, “No Affinity... Disappointing. See me after class miss Meslini.”

The words echoed in my ears, each one hitting harder than the last. I could feel the stares, the judgment, hanging thick in the air. I turned slowly, trying to keep my head up as I walked back to my seat. Tatiana’s gaze met mine, and though her face was calm, there was something in her eyes—something that made me feel less alone.

But I wasn’t alone for long. From the far side of the room, I heard a snicker. Alara, her icy eyes gleaming with cruel amusement, had found her new target. Me.

I sat down beside Tatiana, my chest tight with disappointment. Maybe that mysterious crack in the orb before wasn’t some hidden power. Maybe... I had no magic at all.

The professor’s voice cut through my thoughts. “You will each follow your glimmers to different Affinity classrooms, each with its own respective teacher. Those of you with two or more affinities,” she glanced pointedly at Tatiana, “will need to decide which one to study first and inform your glimmer. They will guide you as they have done so far. Every morning, you will come here for announcements and assessments to determine your progress. I oversee your development, not the teachers you encounter. They are here to instruct, and nothing more. Sadly, I’m your babysitter.”

As the class began to disperse, Tatiana reached out and placed a reassuring hand on my shoulder. “Hey, it’s going to be okay. We’ll figure this out together,” she said softly. Her words were a small comfort, but they meant a lot in that moment.

We exchanged a brief, supportive smile before heading to our respective glimmers. As everyone exited the doors Tat followed in suit giving me one last supportive look then turning away. 

I hesitated for a moment before walking to the front of the room fearing that my lake of Affinity meant I was going to be expelled or just used as an example of failure all year. The professor’s eyes were sharp and serious, a contrast to her kinder demeanor towards Tat. “Lily,” she began, “I understand this may be disheartening. However, I’d like to discuss your situation further. Please, take a seat.” She said waving her hand as a chair appeared behind me from nowhere. 

I sat down, my heart racing as I tried to anticipate what might come next.

The professor’s gaze softened slightly as she continued, “Lily, I understand this situation seems poor, but there’s someone I want you to meet. It’s important for your progress. He will determine if you have any future here at this academy. 

She turned to my glimmer, which had been hovering nearby. “Please, take Lily to Frank.”

I raised an eyebrow, a mix of curiosity and confusion swirling in my mind. “Who’s Frank?”

The professor gave a small, reassuring smile. “Frank is someone who can help you understand your situation better. Trust me, you’ll want to meet him.” She shewed my off as swiftly as she asked for my presence. She’s not if not for efficient I guess. 

I followed my glimmer through winding corridors, my mind racing with questions. Who the hell was Frank? Why did my professor think he could help me? The hallways were dimly lit, and the air carried the faint scent of damp stone and something industrial—oil, maybe. I didn’t know they used oil. As we rounded another corner, we came to a stop in front of an ordinary white door. It looked completely out of place here, like something you’d see in a quiet suburban neighborhood, not in the depths of a magical academy.

I hesitated for a moment before pushing it open. It wasn’t locked, of course. The door swung inward with a faint creak, revealing what looked like… a boiler room?

I stepped inside, my boots scuffing against the gritty concrete floor. The space was cluttered with janitorial supplies—mops leaning haphazardly against the wall, a stack of old brooms in the corner, and what looked like a massive furnace looming in the background. The air was thick, warm, and carried a tang of rust and the sharp smell of oil, mixed with a faint, acrid burn, like metal had been scorched recently.

A part of me—maybe the part that still remembered life back on Earth—recognized this place. It was the kind of boiler room you’d find in a school or an old building. Pipes crisscrossed the ceiling, some dripping with condensation, others rattling softly. This couldn’t be right. Why would she send me to the janitor’s room?

As I wandered deeper into the room, something strange happened. My vision went completely white. 

No, not white—blank. Dark. It was as if the world itself had vanished, swallowed by an intense, suffocating darkness. I gasped, stumbling backward, but before I could react, something wrapped around me. Tendrils—solid, warm, and unnervingly alive—coiled around my arms and legs, pinning me to the floor. The impact knocked the air from my lungs as I hit the cold, grimy surface. I really hoped these weren’t tentacles.

I struggled, my heart pounding in my ears, but the more I fought, the tighter the tendrils held me. My vision swam, flickers of light trying to break through the blindness, but all I could sense was the oppressive weight of the magic holding me down. The warmth of the tendrils wasn’t comforting. It was suffocating, like a predator constricting its prey.

And then, just as suddenly as it had started, the darkness lifted. My vision cleared, and I blinked against the harsh light coming from a single flickering bulb above me. 

A man stood over me, his figure blocking most of the light. His hair was a wild, tangled mess, not unlike Bob Ross’s iconic afro—but with none of the charm. It was greasy, unkempt, and there were flecks of dirt and oil coating his skin and clothes. His straggly beard was matted, curling in odd directions, and his overalls were stained with what looked like black oil. He reeked of gasoline, metal, and something burnt, like he’d been living in this room for far too long.

“Who the hell do you think you are, waltzing in here like it ain’t nothing?” His voice was harsh, practically spitting out the words as he leaned closer. His eyes, wild and erratic, darted around the room as though he couldn’t focus on me for more than a second. “How did you even get in here? This place is supposed to be sealed off!”

I swallowed hard, still trying to shake off the disorienting effects of the magic that had blinded me. “There… there was no lock,” I stammered, feeling like my words were being pulled from somewhere deep and uncertain.

Frank scratched his head, his grimy fingers digging into the tangled mess of his hair as if he couldn’t quite process what I’d said. “No lock? No lock?” His voice rose, incredulous, almost paranoid. “That’s impossible. I put the damn wards up myself.” He muttered to himself, pacing in uneven steps, his eyes wild and unfocused as they darted around the room, searching for something invisible. “No lock… right, right, I probably forgot. Again.”

Without warning, the tendrils that had pinned me to the cold floor receded, melting away into the cracks and grime like they’d never been there. My limbs were stiff as I tried to stand, but Frank, without missing a beat, reached down with a hand coated in black oil and yanked me to my feet with surprising strength.

“Sorry ‘bout that,” he said, his voice now softer, almost apologetic. His tone shifted from accusatory to strangely casual, as if we were suddenly old friends. “Got a bit carried away there. Happens sometimes.” He gave me a crooked grin, though it didn’t quite reach his eyes, which still held a glint of madness. “Can’t be too careful, you know? Never know who’s sneaking around these parts. You alright?”

I nodded, still trying to steady myself, though my legs felt wobbly beneath me. “Yeah, I think so. Thanks, I guess. Uh… you’re Frank?”

“Frank! Yep, that’s me.” He straightened, puffing his chest out as if his name was something to be proud of. “Frank the janitor, Frank the fixer, Frank the—well, I do a lot around here.” He waved his dirty hand around the room, gesturing to the mess of pipes, tools, and the furnace that hissed faintly in the background. “But enough about me. What’s the deal? What brings you to ol’ Frank’s little corner of paradise?”

I hesitated, my eyes sweeping over the chaotic scene of the boiler room again. This was not what I had imagined when the professor said I needed to meet someone. “My professor sent me. She said you could… help me. With my Affinity.”

Frank’s eyes widened, lighting up in a way that made me uneasy. “Oh ho ho! Your professor, eh? Miss Morrigan, I bet. Ain’t she something, huh?” He leaned in, his grin turning into something more lewd. “Sexy, isn’t she? That woman’s got more magic in her pinky finger than most mages have in their whole damn body. But, uh, don’t tell her I said that.” His laugh was deep, guttural, almost like the growl of an animal, as he wiped his greasy face with the back of his hand.

I grimaced, trying to pull the conversation back on track. “Yeah, well… I’m not sure what’s going on with my Affinity. I… didn’t register anything. No fire, no water, nothing.”

Frank cocked his head to the side, his eyes narrowing as he studied me, suddenly serious. “No Affinity, huh? That’s strange. My orbs should’ve told you.”

“Your orbs?” I asked, my eyebrows shooting up in disbelief.

“Yeah, someone’s gotta make ‘em,” he replied, as though it was the most obvious thing in the world.

I frowned, rubbing my temples in frustration. “No, that’s not… never mind. Why am I here, Frank?”

He stopped pacing, his erratic energy suddenly focusing on me with an unsettling intensity. A grin spread across his face, this one far more sinister than before, and it sent a cold shiver down my spine. “Oh, you’ll find out soon enough. You’ve got a lot more going on under the surface than you think, kid. And I’m the guy who’s gonna tell ya. See, I see them lights of yours. All those mages up yonder—they glow. You all glow. And I see it. It’s my magic. So the headmaster, she helped me and the artificer make those orbs. They show you what I see.”

My stomach dropped. “The orbs…what you see? ”

“Ah, right!” Frank clapped his hands together, crossing his arms in satisfaction. “That’s right. The dark orb. Shoulda told you, your Affinity is darkness.”

“Darkness?” I muttered, the word hanging heavy in the air. 

Frank’s expression shifted again, his eyes narrowing suspiciously. He tugged at his scraggly beard, deep in thought. “Wait, now that I think about it, darkness bein’ an Affinity was supposed to be a secret.” His voice dropped to a whisper, and he squinted at me, his eyes flicking around the room nervously. “Don’t tell nobody I said that. We wasn’t allowed to make the dark orb.”

“Wait, what? Why not?” I asked, feeling a mix of confusion and anxiety settling in my chest.

“Dunno.” Frank shrugged nonchalantly. “Dangerous, I suppose. Oh well, now that you know, you gotta learn. Only way to do that is to find yourself a teacher. Now, I ain’t no teacher, but I learned meself a thing or two ‘bout dark magic. Got it from me momma.” He said it with such pride that I wasn’t sure if I should be impressed or terrified. “I’ll tell her you’re coming.”

He turned to the wall, grabbing what looked like a battered old wand and pointed it at a leaky pipe. A faint glow surrounded the pipe before the hole sealed itself, the leak vanishing in an instant.

“Was that dark magic?” I asked, my voice tinged with awe despite myself.

Frank blinked, looking genuinely surprised to see me standing there. “Whoa, who let you in here?” he asked, as if I hadn’t been standing right in front of him the whole time.

“What? You just used dark magic, Frank!” I replied hastily, not wanting to be blinded again by whatever he had done earlier.

He scratched his head again, his eyes darting around the room. “Oh, right. Nah, that was fire magic, ya twit. Dark magic’s a whole different thing. Now get outta here.”

“But I don’t know where your mom is,” I said, desperately grasping for any help I could get.

Frank gave me a confused look, as though he couldn’t believe I didn’t already know. “Why you need a whore?”

“A whore?” I asked, my brain lagging behind in the conversation. “Your mom’s a… whore?”

“Yeah, she works at Olie’s. Duh.”

I blinked, trying to make sense of the absurdity of the situation. “Okay, I’m gonna go now.”

“But you just got here. Want some soup?” he asked, his voice suddenly turning sad, as if he were genuinely disappointed that I was leaving.

“Uh, no,” I said quickly, backing toward the door. “I’ll just… go.” Without waiting for another second, I scooted out the door and let it shut behind me.

“What in the world…” I muttered, looking down at my glimmer for some kind of reassurance. To which I received an equally confused look from my cute little orange fox.