By: @8gtberry @Emmie_SkyHeart @-stxrryskies- @-CANOODLE @onemorechapter- @e-ellison- 

Word Count: 15271 

Daffy P.O.V.

Okay let's recap on some main points of what's been going on in the summer.

—Yuna's crush on Ignis grew even more and unfortunately for Yuna, Ignis has a new girlfriend named Dipity. She's really nice once you get to know her.

—Next Caden and Hydra are now really close. They are practically dating but they always deny it then blush.

—Cara went to the Forbidden Cities to visit her mom's other family. Her relationship with Ace has been turned into a roller coaster. It's very complicated.

—Me and Cara are back to being friends-ish. It's also a little bit complicated.

—There is a word going around that there is a new family in town,their kid is half human and half elf. I don't know if it's true or not though.

—Lastly, me and Fayla have been hanging out recently, I think she's starting to be more open and social.

–––––––––

I groaned as Yuna kept on saying my name to wake me up. I only got 9 hours of sleep, that means I'm missing a whole 60 minutes.

The first thing that I see is my sister that is already ready for the day. She was dressed and finished all of her morning things. Who knows what happens in the bathroom for 40 minutes while she's in there.

I got up and went to brush my teeth. After I washed my face and cleaned my teeth, I looked at the mirror on the door.

I got skinnier over the few months, my golden blonde hair turned into a very pale blonde with hints of brown. Scratch that, it looked blonde-brown. My height didn't really change that much. 5'1. My mom says that's average for a girl my age but for some reason everyone else was taller than me.

I didn't think that was fair but it is what it is.

"Sweetie, are you ready?" Mom asked

"Yeah, can you do my hair today?"

"Sure thing"

She went to grab some supplies and I sat down on the bed. Mom came back and started brushing out my wavy hair. She put it in a nice ponytail with the front strands hanging loosely around my face. Plain and simple. Just how I like it.

Yuna P.O.V.

Oralie smiled, her teeth gleaming in Yuna's eyes. "You, and Daffy of course, look beautiful."

"Moo-oom." Daffy whined as Oralie played with a strand of her ponytail.

"Amara is coming with me since it's her first day." "Ok." Said Daffy. Daffy swatted Oralie's hand away, and Yuna mustered a grin, playing with the ends of her braid. Daffy elbowed Yuna, nudging for her to open the door. "Hey!"
Ignis said, grinning so wide his dimples showed.

"Hey!" Yuna said, finding her cheeks starting to pink.

Daffy winced, her eyes locked on his hands, locked with some elses. Yuna felt her grin start to fade. For weeks now, seeing Ignis had been a little hard.

Yuna and Ignis were on good terms, and she was happy about that, really! Dipity stepped out from behind her, muttering a soft hi. She was 5'2, impossibly short and somehow adorable.

Five weeks ago, Ignis and Dipity started dating. "Soo- let's get going?" Daffy said, nudging past them.

"Um, yeah." Yuna replied, tearing her eyes away from Ignis's.

"I can't believe the Foxfire formal is soon, it's like we've all come full circle." Ignis said, squeezing Dipity's hand. Yuna's stomach lurched.

"Yeahletsgo." She jumbled out, reaching for her leaping crystal.

Ignis put his hand on hers, blocking her from taking the crystal. "I... have another idea."

–––––––––

"WHAT IS GOING ON!!!" Daffy screamed as salt water splashed against her cheeks.

"THIS IS AN- UMMM- HOW DO YOU SAY IT AGAIN?" Ignis screamed over the roaring waves.

"It's a boat." Dipity dead panned. Yuna snorted.

"Yeah, well it isn't just aNy boat." Ignis snapped, his voice flustered. Yuna felt herself starting to stare.

"What?" Ignis asked, "Do I have something on my face?"

Yuna's face heated up. "N-no."

Dipity bit her lip, her eyes glazing over Yuna in a calculative manner. Yuna whipped around. "I'm gonna restroom me go-" Yuna rushed, almost tripping over her own feet. "Restroom me?"

–––––––––

Yuna silently cursed at herself. I'm gonna restroom me go? Come on!

"Wow..." Yuna said, her voice breathy. The inside of the boat wasn't just pretty, it was stunning.

"I get that."

Yuna jumped. "Sorry, I forgot to introduce myself." The blond boy behind her said.

"Uhh- you forgot to tell me you were here..."

"Next time I'll announce my presence." He said. Yuna couldn't tell if that was a joke or not. "Trystan."

Yuna raised her brows.

"My name, my name is Trystan." He clarified, his ears turning pink.

"Hey..." Yuna said, smiling extra wide to make up for the lack of talking. Noise echoed through the room.

"-and this is the main room- oh, hey Yuna! I see you've met Trystan." Ignis said.

"Yep." Yuna replied. The boat lurched and Yuna stumbled back, her shoe catching on the tiled floor. Trystan's arm lurched out in a swift movement, catching her from falling.

"Damn. Are you a spy?" Daffy asked. Yuna elbowed Daffy.

"It's rude to ask people upfront and personal questions." Yuna hissed. Daffy shrugged. "Do it all the time and no one seems to mind."

The corner of Trystan's mouth quirked up, but the smile disappeared as soon as it came. "Remember the time you asked to be the first person to meet Mrs. Marbles' new cat after her old one just died!"

Daffy smiled lazily. "She gave me a toffee and let me watch tv as she cried into a knitted blanket."

"Yeesh." Dipity said.

"Hey." Damian said. Daffy gave a smile wave and Yuna smiled.

The door's opened, revealing a breath stopping view of foxfire, glass pyramid and all.

Yuna felt a happy expression return to her face. She dashed forwards, running until she saw people she remembered.

"Jolie!!!" Yuna squealed, running into a hug with her friend.

"It's been too long!" Jolie said, her eyes shining.

–––––––––

Yuna held up her bottle, a tornado thrashing inside of it. "Nice." Dipity said. Yuna smiled. The bell rang and Yuna ducked down to pick up her books. Ignis walked into the room, his eyes latching onto Yuna's. "Hey."

"Hi-" Yuna started. "Heeey!" Dipity said, walking towards him. Yuna felt her face turn beet red. He wasn't talking to her. In fact, he wasn't even noticing her at all.

Axel P.O.V.

"You ironed your shirt," Ace drawled.

"You combed your hair!" Retorted Axel. "Well you buttoned up your shirt!"

"And you picked your nose hairs!"

"Please boys, you're almost late." Said their father. He had been left alone ever since Annabelle and mom left. Axel dismissed the thought from his mind.

"You're nothing without me."

"Sorry dad." said Axel. Ace nodded. They were never late. Not like, "Oh haha I'm always on time!" But never late.

"Drendan doesn't spare a glance at you," muttered Axel. Ace rolled his eyes.

"Oh please, she's in deep." Ace snorted. He didn't like Drendan. It was more of a...a devotion, purely powered by her manipulation. But it was beautiful manipulation, and Axel didn't mind.

A few moments later, after pathetically patting down his hair, Axel's mind cleared. "Oh damn, she did it again." He said. Ace groaned.

"Oh please, she's in deep." Mimicked Axel. Ace shoved him playfully, turning peach. Strutting out the door, Axel and Ace leaped to foxfire. The school was crowded with people, rushing to and from classes. A girl, Hydra, was standing with her family. They all looked so much older, even from one summer. Ocean was chatting with her triplets, their skin equally tanned and freckled from the summer.

She leveled a glare at Axel, while Star gave a pathetic grin. "Looks like you have an admirer," said Ace.

"Doesn't that Sencen girl like you?" Asked Axel. "You went to the foxfire formal with her last year."

"Eh, I just chose random, and you went with Noctel or whatever her name was." Axel raised his eyebrow but didn't say anything else.

Cara was standing with Ari and Noctem. She averted her gaze from Ace, a sad smile on her face. Noctem's gaze was on Axel. She had asked him out last year, and he had kept her on hold. Dating was not on his list of priorities, and it would be too problematic with Drendan beguiling him from miles away.

"Ace, Axel!'' said Damian. They nodded at each other.

"Hey Damian." Said a quiet voice from behind him. A girl, Fayla I think, was swinging her hands back and forth. Her sister Freya was behind her.

"Oh, hey." He said. Damian smiled and walked past her, towards a boat that was docked, with a few emerging students. He greeted Daffy and Yuna, smiling.

"H-hey?" Said Elodie, smiling.

Ace and Axel didn't really know her, but they had hung out over the summer, when they were looking after Drendan and touring the school with her. She had developed quite the crush on Ace.

"Um, so how are you guys? Gee, it's rather hot for almost fall." She curled a strand of hair around her finger. Ace tucked his hands in his pockets, rocking on his heels.

"Hello, hello," said Drendan, an easy going smile on her face. Ace and Axel straightened and patted down their hair, eager to please. Elodie sighed, the attention taken away from her.

"How was everyone's summer?" Drendan drawled.

"B-brilliant. Because- you were-I was with-" Started Axel.

"What my idiot brother was trying to say is that my summer was great because of you." Said Ace, a charming smile on his face. Drendan gave a pleased smile.

"It was my pleasure." She said, dropping her clutch purse into Ace's hands and strolling into the school.

A few moments later Ace cursed. "Dag nabbit, not again!" He said in rage, dropping the clutch. Elodie scooped it from the ground.

"Don't worry it's not your fault." Said Elodie, with big hopeful eyes. Ace scowled.

"Obviously." He muttered.

"My summer was great because of you." Cooed Axel as Ace swatted him away.

Ignis was holding some random girl's hand. The girl had a delicate face, and was rather short. Axel detested her. His sister, Annebelle, had gone missing, ran to the evil side, and instead of mourning his girlfriend, Ignis had gone and moved on. This thought made Axel shudder. What would life be like without Annabelle and his mother? His mother. Axel had felt most united to his siblings through her. Not because of her love. Because of her hate. She was abusive to Ace, Axel, and Annabelle, and they all knew it. Even his father knew it. And Axel detested his father. For being weak. For being afraid. For letting his children shatter into bits and pieces.

But maybe without his mother, Axel would learn not to be weak. Not to be afraid. Not to shatter into bits and pieces.

Talli POV

If there was anything that Talli hated, it was the fact that summer was over, and now yet another year of school was starting.

Yeah. So maybe they were a little basic. But that was life. Unless life was confusing. Or complicated. Which it wasn't. Really.

Talli's nerves were practically sky-high. Nothing that some lipstick and chocolate couldn't fix, but still. They stood in their room, dressed in their school uniform- with some modifications, of course. The skirt was a definite 'no', and the plaid was another 'no'. But, after cutting up and reassembling the uniform, they had an outfit that was perfectly unique. A red pantsuit with paler red accents and even a stitched golden thread saber toothed tiger. It was perfect. Even if Talli thought the red clashed with their hair.

"Alliiiiii!" their mother called from the kitchen. "You ready, darling?"

Talli glanced at the mirror, examining their face. Lipstick in the exact shade of their suit? Check. Amazing outfit? Check. Hair styled with deliberate care? Check.
"Yeah, I'm ready Mom."

"That's your cue to head to school, Alli."

"It's Talli. No nicknames." Talli said with an eye roll, starting towards the stairs. Their mother stood at the bottom of the steps, pale pink apron on and matching pink lipstick. If there was any similarities between the two of them, it was the fact that they both loved lipstick.

"Aww." Illianei smiled at Talli. "That's my child."

Talli rolled their eyes. "Stop being sappy, Illi."

She shrugged. "Darling, it's my job to be sappy. Also, it's Illianei, no nicknames." Illianei echoed Talli's earlier words.

"Mommmm."

"What?"

"I have to go to school."
Illi smiled softly. "You're going to your dad's place after school, right?"

"Yeah." Talli said awkwardly. Their parents divorce had never felt quite real to them until their dad had moved.

"Love you, darling." Illianei said again, hugging Talli tightly. "Make some new friends, okay? Or go talk to that girl again from last year, Jolie? Promise?"

"Yeah, Mom, I promise.

Cara POV

Wow. A full year passed. I had grown different, looking back at the pictures my mom had taken over the summer at the forbidden cities. We visited my grandparents and cousins. Now I had light sandy blonde highlights with my blonde hair, with a few brown strands of hair here & there. I looked like half & half of my parents. then I had grown taller, 5'3 or 5'4 ish. I was almost catching up to my sister who was 5'5, and my mom who was 5'7 plus Ari who was 5'8 and Dad who was 5'9. No wonder he was a model with mom in the forbidden cities. My whole family was giant. I had become taller than daffy and Ari was so tall he could now peer over my mom's head!

I braided my hair into two twin tails and then tied them together. It looked perfect for the 1st day of second year.

Over the summer things were fun and relaxed. I spent days at the beach, surfing and spent some time shopping with my sister, But mostly I had been thinking about me and Ace's relationship. It seemed like he didn't like me anymore. It was fine though, maybe...

I put on a white tube tank and black leggings, and put on a white sports jacket, it was simple. not too fancy and not too plain. As my family leaped to foxfire, I could hear the people before I reached school, as I guessed there were tons and tons of students hustling around. Even the news people were there, and they hurried over to us as soon as they saw my parents.

"Sophie Foster! Keefe Sencen! over here!"

"Hello Mr and Mrs Sencen, could we interview your family and what's been going on for your family over the summer?" one troll asked and mom smiled and agreed.

"First, what are your kids' names and levels?" He asked.

Dad decided to answer that one. "The oldest is Noctem, and she is a level 3 as well as her twin Ari. and last is, Cara. she's a level 2 and-" dad rambled on as I slipped away from my family in search of finding my friends.

I waved to a few old friends. I saw Daffy and Yuna at the end of the hallway, Daffy and I were sort of friends. I was so happy we were mutuals, we weren't best friends but I hoped we would be. "Daffy !!!" I shouted as she looked over and smiled before walking over

"Hey!! oh my gosh, you've grown so much! and you're so pretty" daffy complimented her as Cara smiled at her kindness. "aw thanks but it's all you!" We both smiled. We had lots of sleepovers and talked about our problems over the summer before I had left for the Forbidden Cities, and we were almost back to normal.

I saw Ace and Axel but all I could do was just sadly smile and then look away. As I was talking with Avery, Star Ocean and a new girl, Laia; Astrid came up and said "guys! I'm officially over Ace!" That was good I guess ? I just tore my eyes away from Astrid's and stared at the ground. "Cara? Are you okay?" Star asked. "Huh? Yea- I'm fine!!" I said a little too quickly.

Besides, I found another guy that was cute, Darian. He was cold and a "bad boy" type opposite from his brother, Tavern. I had bumped into him before I met up with Star, Ocean, Laia and Astrid. I said "sorry!" he just said "nah it's fine, catch you later" nodded, then left. my heart fluttered. Then later I got partnered with him in Elvin History. He told me I forgot to write a comma and I guess I got annoyed by it and said "thanks, genius" and he seemed surprised I had talked back to him.

I had a locker next to Daffy and Fayla's locker was on the left of Daffy, which was pretty neat. Rozie's locker was 4 away and Rosalyn's was 6 away. Ace's locker was 3 away from mine and according to Noctem, Axel's was right next to hers. Even though having Ace a few lockers away made me think of the old days, something to distract me was that Darian's locker was right next to mine. Even on the first day we got into little arguments and Star, Laia and Daffy kept saying "enemies to lovers???" and "Cara you're living the enemies to lovers stories!" As well as "this trope is literally so cute!"

I met another girl, Dipity who was now dating Ignis. I felt bad for Yuna since I've known she's had a crush on him since forever. But another thought came to mind about Annabel. She was always so nice to me, but how could Ignis just move on so fast?

There were 2 other new girls. Rosalyn who was half human and half elf like my mom. I had talked to her and she seemed so fun to be around with, I made a note to myself that I would definitely get closer to her later. And Rozie, who seemed really nice. She was really pretty and I could understand her first day jitters. Becoming friends with Rozie and Rosalyn (who I called them the R duo) was one of the best decisions I made.

At lunch Fayla, Daffy and I were sitting at our old table. our table was now combined with 3 other tables because our group had gotten so big. I invited Rozie, and Rosalyn to come and eat with us. Then Yuna, Star and Noctem started calling over Darian, Elodie, Drendan, Axel and Ace. To spice the lunch time up a bit, which definitely did. Daffy and Fayla practically forced Darian to sit on my left side, and then Rosalyn and Rozie moved so Elodie and Ace could sit. Well, they invited Ace but Elodie tagged along. She probably had a huge crush on Ace, which bothered me just a tiny bit. I wanted to make Ace jealous.. but how ?

Rosalyn P.O.V.

I looked at myself in the bathroom mirror, I have changed a lot during the summer. My hair got some natural reddish-brown highlights. My face got a little skinnier and I was just about up 5'1. Curse you dad for being short. Anyways, I moved to the Lost Cities and I used to live in Arkansas but apparently I recently learned that I was part elf? After I put on my grey crop-top and black leggings, I decided to put on my lucky charms bracelet. No literally, it was a bracelet with charms attached to it, each charm looked like one of the lucky charm cereal marshmallows. My mom put a ugly bracelet on me anda bursting light appeared. All of a sudden I was at this fancy private school, leaping if something that I have to get used to. I pushed my hair behind my ear and walked in.

Last week I took a tour around the building but it was even more confusing when there were tons of students blocking the hallways.

It took me about who knows how long to get to my first class.

–––––––––

Ability Detecting.

I looked around and saw a few people. The teacher looked mad that I was late.

"Hello Ms. Spree, you're late."

"Sorry. I got lost" I replied

The teacher sighed and nodded, they continued to give out boring directions. First task was baking, which I thought wasn't hard. But then I thought wrong. We made this thing called Mallowmelt, which In my case shouldn't be called that. The name should have been something that sounds more yummy or edible. Anyways, it was very hard to cook and I almost burned it. Key word: almost.

Once I took a bite out of mallowmelt I could taste the sugar and calories almost instantly. I spit it out and wiped my mouth. Almost everyone looked at me weirdly. I sent them a glare and they all looked away. I have a little eating disorder, I don't like to eat a lot but my mom makes me eat so I stay alive. I always check the nutrition label before I eat something, but they don't have that here so it's a little hard.

–––––––––

Lunch wasn't any better.

Since I didn't know anybody here, I didn't have anyone to sit with. I sat at a random table in the corner and quietly ate my lunch. If it wasn't for a girl named Dipity I would have probably sat alone all year. Soon we started to talk, and we got along really well. Which is surprising because we have totally different personalities.

"Why are your eyes greenish-gray? I thought all elves have blue eyes."

"Well my dad is human and my mom is elf so...I guess I got my dad's green gray eyes." I tried to explain the situation to her, lucky she caught on fast, or else I would have lost all of my brain cells.

Ocean P.O.V.

Ocean looked at herself in the mirror. Clean cut long hair. Smoothed uniform. No more of the gossipy lip gloss girl from last year. No more of the girl everybody thought was "too much" No more of the girl that everybody liked but nobody liked. Taking a deep breath, Ocean swung the door open and leaped to school, Avery and Star next to her.

"Ocean, Avery, Star!" Squealed Astrid, running up to them. Astrid had a deep summer tan, and her hair had taken a burnt blonde edge to the light brown. She stood at an envious 5'6.

"I can't believe we're in level 3!" Said Star. Suddenly she turned. Axel and Ace were standing a few feet away. Ocean glared at Axel, her considered enemy. She had no idea why Star liked him. Bad taste on her part but whatever. Star gave him a grin and he turned away, Damian walking up to him. Then a different girl, named Elodie. Then a girl named Drendan, who could make you fall in love with her at a glance. Ocean didn't like her very much. Not because she was pretty or anything. But because everybody loved her. But nobody loved Ocean. I mean sure, her family did. But she wasn't exactly the kind of girl who had a spinning wheel full of guys to pick at random from, like Ace and Axel. And now Drendan.

A short girl with black hair and a nervous look entered the room with her older brother. The girl wore the level two uniform while the boy wore the level four uniform.

"He's dreamy." Said Star immediately. Ocean smacked her forehead.

"What about Axel?" Asked Ocean.

"A girl can dream." Said Star.

Avery pulled out a piece of notepaper. "Let's write our new matchmaking list!"

Ocean squirmed. "Isn't that a little..immature?" She asked.

"Come on, pleeeease?" Asked Star. Without waiting for an answer, Star grasped the sheet of paper and started writing.

Star and Axel

Astrid and Ace

Star and cute guy

"Star and cute guy? Seriously?" Said Ocean.

Star shrugged. "At least one of them has to like me, right?"

"Suuuure." Said Astrid. "So, is there anyone you like Ocean?"

Ocean stiffened. "No." She said. It was true.

She didn't plan on having a fanart-making,-post-it-note-hearts-collage,-obsessive-journal-entry crush anytime soon.

"Oook." Said Astrid, rolling her eyes.

"Hey guys!" Said Cara, nervously tucking a strand of her hair behind her ear.

"Hey!" Said Avery.

"Sup." Said Ari, from behind Cara.

"Sup?" Said Star.

"Excuse me?" Said a voice from behind them. They turned. A girl with tan skin and soft brown waves of hair was standing behind them. "I'm a little lost."

Ocean gave a blank stare. Of course one of the prettiest girls in the room needed their help. Alone, Ocean was a solid 5 to 5 and a half. But with this girl, she was just dead ugly.

"I'm Laia. I'm in level 3." She said.

"Me too!" Squealed Star. Laia grinned. Ocean rolled her eyes. Of course her triplet had just befriended the soon to be popular pretty girl with a list of guys to choose from. "So basically our friend group is me, my triplets Avery and Ocean, Astrid, sometimes Cara, and sometimes Paisley." Said Star. "We dabble in matchmaking." She grinned.

Laia's eyes lit up. "Really? Wow, that's awesome!"

"Wow, that's awesome! Jeez you don't need to be so chipper." Sneered Ocean. Oh no, she wasn't being very nice. But Ocean couldn't help it. Laia was just too much of a-a perfect girl. Laia's smile faltered.

Avery planted her hands on her hips. "Hey Ocean, that wasn't very nice you know."

Ocean put her hands on her hips. "Sorry I'm not perfect in every way." Astrid gasped.

"Um, is there a problem here?" Asked Paisley, stepping over to Oceans side. Laia shrugged, although she looked hurt. Avery, Astrid and Star stood by Laia, while Cara and Paisley stood by Ocean. Ari drifted away, giving Cara the "your friends are weird" look.

"It's ok, I've dealt with jealous girls before." Said Laia. Ocean gasped, annoyance blossoming up.

"Ok, ok, let's just go inside." Said Cara, looking confused.

"Yeah Laia, let's go inside." Said Ocean.

"Oook." Said Laia, annoyed. Looks like Ocean already managed to make someone dislike her. Whatever.

Rozie's POV

Rozie stood in front of her mirror, inspecting her outfit. It was her first day–as the new kid no less–and she had to be perfect. This would probably determine everyone's opinions on her, and one bad opinion could lead to a whole bunch of gossip about 'the new girl'.

The black pants, flowy blue top, and white ballet flats had looked fine just a moment ago. Accompanied by tiny braids in her strawberry blonde hair (which, really, was more of a light red), she had thought she looked perfect. Her hair (the part that wasn't braided) had a nice shine and bounce, thanks to some new shampoo. A touch of new red lipstick had been applied, but no other makeup.

Rozie had thought it would be the perfect outfit–especially to make an impression.

But now she wasn't so sure.

It sucked, majorly, arriving at a new school when everyone had already been there for year. Arriving for her first year would have been fine. Arriving the year after that would have been a bit more difficult, perhaps, but fine. But her parents had taken their new job this year, and thus uprooted Rozie.

"Rozie, honey?" Her mom peeked in with a worried look.

"Mom!" Rozie whirled. "Sorry. I'll be down in just a minute, okay?"

Her mom shook her head. "Sorry, sweetie. You need time to eat. I've made you Fluffcreams and Luschberry juice." Her mom gave Rozie a look. "Unless you forgot to brush your teeth or something?"

"No. I mean, I haven't brushed my teeth yet. But I will after breakfast. And, mom?"

"Yes, love?"

"Thanks. For breakfast I mean. It sounds amazing."

"Of course, Rozie. You're going to do amazing today. And you look gorgeous. Everything is going to be just fine." She gave Rozie a reassuring smile. "Being as pretty and smart as you are, you'll be making friends in no time."

Rozie smiled. "Thanks, mom."

"Anytime. Now, let's get down to breakfast, shall we?"

...

In the kitchen, her dad was cheerfully stuffing his face with the pastries, a half empty jug of juice nearby. He looked up when Rozie and her mom came in, and grinned at them cheerfully. "Morning, Ro!"

"Morning, dad." Rozie couldn't suppress a giggle.

Her mom rolled her eyes. "Don't mind him. I've saved you some breakfast."

Her dad winked when Rozie's mother's back was turned.

Rozie's mother brought her a plate with two fluffcreams, and a full glass of lushberry juice. "Here you are, dear. Enjoy."

Rozie dug right in. Even first day jitters couldn't keep her away from her mother's cooking–and certainly not from one of her special first day breakfasts.

"Now, listen," her dad said, leaning over his plate. "Don't be bringing any boys home. Tell them your daddy's got a bat, you hear? I don't want a pack following you home, pretty as you are!"

Rozie laughed. "There definitely won't be any boys following me home!"

"Darn right!" He slapped the table.

"Really!" her mother protested.

"Sorry," her father said, somewhat sheepishly. "But it's a good thing she got the brains from your side of the family, dear." He bent to Rozie in a conspiratorial whisper. "You can go ahead and fail your exams, though. You'd just be taking after my side of the family." He winked.

"Excuse me?" Her mother spun, eyebrow raised. "I did not just hear you telling our daughter to fail her exams, did I?"

"Of course not," her father scoffed. "I was just telling her she'd be top of the class."

Rozie laughed and swallowed the last bit of juice. "Thanks, mom. I'd better go. I don't want to be late."

"Wait!" he mother called. "Don't forget these. First days are rough. And, if you have the best day ever, you can share them with a friend." She handed Rozie a bag of Chasers, a long time First Day tradition.

"Thanks, mom. I love you guys."

"We love you too," her mom said, kissing her forehead.

"Now go make us proud!" her dad cried, pumping his fist.

Rozie laughed, and headed towards the leapmaster, ready to face wherever the day threw at her.

...

Rozie stood in the hallway, wishing she could take back her earlier statement. She was not ready. Not at all. In fact, she couldn't even find her locker, much less her first class (thank goodness she'd been early).

Remembering, she dug around for the chasers her mom had given her. Popping one in her mouth she sighed. Thank goodness for her mom, too. The little bit of sweetness was exactly what she needed–now to either ask someone or wander around the school until she found either her locker or her class.

This is not going to be the best day ever. In fact, it's turning out to be one of the worst.

With that, she plunged into the rush of kids, hoping for a miracle.

Laia P.O.V.

"Ok, and who's that?" Asked Star. It was definitely a very anticlimactic way to start the day, showing Star all the new people who had gone to her old school, even though she was new.

"Darian is the older one. He's really powerful, and lots of girls like him, but he's cold and quiet and not gonna lie rude." Said Laia.

"And dreamy." Said Star.

"His brother is Tavern, big softie, opposite of Darian. Oh, and that's Alexander and Dyrin. Alexander is Darians friend, they are really similar. Dyrin is super shy. She never speaks."

Star nodded. "Alexander, ok I gotta remember that name." She said.

"Hey, uh Star, um, see you..around?" Said Ari.

Star turned. "Ok?" She said.

Laia grinned. "He totally likes you!" She squealed.

"What? Really?!" Said Star. Ocean and Paisley were a few paces behind the group, chatting.

"We get it, a boy likes you." Said Ocean. Star shrank back.

"Come on, let's go." Said Laia, walking away from Ocean. Why was Ocean so rude? Laia shook that thought from her mind, calming her nerves. A boy, around her age walked by. His shoulder knocked into Laia's and she turned.

"Oh, sorry," he said.

"That's fine." Said Laia. "I'm Laia by the way," she said.

The guy's lip turned up into a smile. "I'm Will." He said. "I should probably get to class." He said.

"Yeah." Said Laia. Will walked away.

"Wow," said Laia.

Star sucked in a breath.

"He's cute. Do you think he could like me? Star?" Asked Laia.

"Will, Will, Will, he um.." Said Star.

"Just spit it out." Said Laia, starting to worry.

"He has a girlfriend," said Star.

"Oh. Who?" Asked Laia, sadly.

"Her," said Star.

A girl with long wavy black hair, tan skin, and red lips was walking down the hall with her books bundled beneath her arms. "Her name is Ivy, she's in level 2." Laia chewed a strand at the end of her hair, a nervous habit she had developed.

"You know I like a guy named Axel and I know plenty of people who do," said Star.

"Well yeah but Will's dating someone, I'm not the type to ruin relationships," said Laia.

Star nodded. "I agree. If he likes you, then it wouldn't be your fault. Just be friends and if he likes you, great! Then we're doing Ivy a favor, because she shouldn't have to be with someone who doesn't like her."

Laia bit her lip and nodded. Astrid ran up to them, tugging Avery, Cara, Paisley, and Ocean along with her.

"Guys, big news. I'm over Ace." Cara bit her lip, restraining a smile. Although did this really make her happy? Did Ace really like her? Or were the rumors that he spun a wheel at random of all the girls that had asked him, and randomly landed on her been true? Did Axel go with Noctem because Ace was going with Cara? Was that why Axel had kept Noctem on hold when she had asked him out?

"Cara, are you ok?" Asked Avery.

"Yeah, sorry," said Cara. The bell rang, and Paisley jolted.

"Come on, let's get to class," said Astrid. Cara and Laia walked over to alchemy, while Star, Ocean and Astrid went to elven history, and Paisley and Avery went to Elementalism. At Alchemy, Laia partnered with Cara. In front of them, Will was paired with Ivy.

"Hey, you're Laia right?" Asked Ivy.

"Y-yeah!" Said Laia. Will smiled at her.

"Could you help us with this? Your report card from your old school seems pretty good-no great, and Will is such a mess at Alchemy."

Will fake glared. "V!" He said, gently pushing her. They laughed.

Laia walked over and slid around the table, helping them "Actually, you measure five pounds of lizard's guts and two drops of lemon drizzle."

Will gasped. "Oooh! That makes so much more sense!"

"Geek." Muttered some red head with a very large nose and pale skin, glaring at Laia.

"Hey, just because you struggle with Alchemy doesn't mean you have to take it out on someone more talented than your pinky finger."

Laia turned almost as red as the girl's hair, and smiled. "Thanks." She said to Will. A grin spread on his face. Cara watched this whole thing while brewing. Of course. Laia immediately made Will like her. She was super nice, but she was just one of those girls who everybody liked. Maybe Ace would like her. But did he like Cara?

Ivy gave an uncomfortable smile, nudging Will's shoulder. "We should go back to work." She said.

Will nodded, giving a lingering smile to Laia. "We should..hang soon..or something. Nevermind." Laia had a hopeful look on her face as she stood by Cara. Cara sighed. Laia seemed to have everything.

Dipity P.O.V.

Dipity forced a smile. Everyone was talking and laughing but she had no one.

"Hey, Ignis! Wanna go look at the graduates lockers and see if we can steal any prattle pins?" Yuna asked. Ignis nodded in agreement and they both dashed inside.

"-then she said, huuuuuuh!" Loli announced, sending everyone into a fit of giggles. Ignoring the hollow feeling in her gut, Dipity weakly laughed. Everyone looked at her. Dipity smiled as widely as she could, taking tiny steps away from the group.

"Ouch!" She whipped around, seeing a girl with red-ish brown hair.

"Mind where you walk," she said, a kind smirk on her face.

Dipity blushed. "Sorry," she replied sheepishly.

"Rosalyn," she said, shooting her arm out for a handshake. "Dipity."

(TiMe skiP tO luNcH)

"Why are your eyes greenish-gray? I thought all elves have blue eyes." Dipity asked

"Well my dad is human and my mom is elf so...I guess I got my dad's green gray eyes." Rosalyn responded, moving some purple mush around on her plate.

"If Elwin chose the locker flavor, I swear I'm gonna throw some ruckle berries at him." Dipity said. "Maybe some yeti pee too."

"Or that gross green stuff he tried to make me drink. I bet he wouldn't seem so nonchalant if he was the one who had to eat it."

A blond boy sat down at the other edge of the table. "Who's that?" Rosalyn asked.

Dipity shrugged. "Some guy named Trystan. He's new here, from Atlantis or something."

Dipity turned to see Yuna and a bunch of other people sitting at a table together.

"The popular crew. Had one at my old human school too. They're all pretty nasty." Rosalyn informed.

"Yuna seemed nice..." Dipity said, her voice trailing off.

"Just wait."

"She did seem pretty interested in Ignis." Dipity remembered. Rosalyn's eyes widened. Dipity shrugged, trying to ignore the sinking feeling in her gut. Was Yuna trying to steal her boyfriend?

Hydra P.O.V.

Hydra spooned a glob of pink slimy stuff onto her plate, grimacing at the "plop" it made as it sank into her tray. "Yum." She muttered.

"Don't make fun of the cuisine." Said Caden.

Hydra laughed. "Cuisine? Seriously? This gross-delicious stuff! Hahaha!" Hydra said as the lunch lady gave her a death stare.

Caden and Hydra sat down next to a few students in their year. They had decided to sit with some new people to try and make new friends. Or more, Caden had convinced her to. And Hydra had regretted it for weeks. One guy with blonde hair and a pointed nose made a disgusted face at Caden.

"Sorry, you can't eat with us." He said. Caden startled.

"What? Why?" He asked.

"You look like him." Said the boy. Hydra winced. They were talking about Fintan. Caden turned red, upset. He stood and walked over to the popular table, Hydra following.

"Are you ok?" She asked.

"Nah, he was just jealous of my good looks." Said Caden, but he didn't look happy. Hydra mindlessly spooned the pink goop into her mouth before wincing at the sour curdled flavor. Like bad milk mixed with lemons, lime, and salt. And a little toothpaste.

After lunch, Hydra and Caden signed up for the big alchemy contest as partners. It was a race to make the most accurate concoction, and gave many extra credit points. It took a lot of moaning and groaning to get Caden to apply, but he seemed happy with the competitive portion of it. The assignment was to make a fire breathing potion, which lasted about ten seconds. The teacher stopped Caden as he was signing up.

"Sorry, you can't sign up." She said.

Caden raised his brow. "Ok, what the heck did I do? I didn't mean to spill lunch on Dyrin."

Hydra gasped. "You did what now!" She said.

The teacher shook her head. "It's not that." She said.

Hydra scoffed. "It should be." She murmured.

"We just don't want you to end up like...him."

Caden fake gasped. "My dad, who I don't remember at all! Wow, I'll be like him for sure!"

The teacher coughed. "We just don't want to associate you with fire."

"I'm a pyrokinetic, that's gonna be hard."

The teacher shook her head. "I'm sorry, rules are rules." Hydra scribbled her name out of the sign up list, shooting a glare at the teacher and tugging Caden away.

"Wow, did you just glare at the teacher?"

Hydra deadpanned. "That's not the point. That was almost as messed up as the fact that you spilled lunch on my mini-me!"

"Oh come on! Ever since you started touring her around you've been so obsessed with the fact that she reminds you of you last year! You know she's in your year? She might be older than you."

Hydra scoffed. "Oh please, she loves it."

Caden laughed. "Sorry about the alchemy contest." He said.

"That's fine. You're more important than impressing that stupid teacher." Caden reached out and held her hand. Together they walked down the empty hallway.

"Guys!" Said Jolie, running down the hall. Nerves sparked through her eyes. "Aiden got his first matchmaking list."

Darian P.O.V.

No. Darian was not some bad boy who didn't talk a lot. Neither was his friend Alexander. They were just real. Or Darian was. If someone sucked at something, it would hurt more to not tell them than to stop them. If someone was in over their head, it was nicer to make them stop. If someone's sister joined the neverseen for "the greater good" then it was the right thing to try to stop them. But was it if they ended up dead? Darian dismissed this thought as he walked through the halls of Foxfire on his first day. He sat down at his desk for alchemy, paired with some girl named Jolie. She started on the potion, mixing in frog eyes and beetle tongue's.

"Stop." He said, grabbing her wrist before she added one to many ingredients. He quickly dumped the ingredients from her hand and picked out the wrong one, before adding it back in. Jolie flushed, obviously annoyed.

"Excuse me?" She said.

"Oh, you're welcome." He said. Jolie scoffed, glowering for the rest of the class. After dropping his books into his locker, some girl with shiny blonde hair bumped into him.

"Sorry!" She said.

"Nah it's fine, catch you later." He said, distracted. She blushed and scurried off. A few girls watching sent mean glares at Cara. Not gonna lie, Darian knew he was pretty popular already.

"Sup." Said Alexander, fist bumping him.

"How's Dyrin?" Asked Darian in a bored tone.

"Not bad. Not great." Said Alexander. Dyrin was his sister, and she was the shy type. She had been bullied back at their old school, which was one reason Alexander had wanted to switch. "Hey, remember Laia? She's here now too." Said Alexander. Darian nodded. He remembered Laia. She was a little too happy and bright for his taste.

"Move please." Said Drendan, forcing a path through the hallway. Darian had heard rumors about Drendan, and he didn't like the idea of being swept up in her charm. A few hallways down, Darian made his way over to Elvin history. He was partnered with Cara, the girl who had bumped into him before. Her sister Noctem was right next to him.

"Alright everyone, please start the assignment." Cara started writing.

"Wrong. You forgot the comma." Said Darian.

"Thanks, genius." Muttered Cara, with a smile. Darian shrank back. Did she just talk back to him?

"Excuse me?"

"Sorry angel, don't expect everyone to let you push them around. Now, where were we?" Cara looked excited, like she didn't normally speak up like this, and it was the most exciting thing. Darian glared and turned back to the paper. Pain shot through his whole body. Desperation, anger, sadness, pain, pain, pain. He sank to the floor writhing.

"Stop! I can't stop!" Said Noctem, fear in her eyes. Pain faded into a deep throb as Darian passed out.

"Wha?" Muttered Darian. Elwin was straightening his glasses.

"I'm afraid Miss Sencen manifested as an inflictor and her powers..erm..inflicted on you?" Darian raked a hand through his hair, groaning. Memories of his sister, her eyes desperate before she fell flashed through his mind. He pinched himself, bringing himself back to reality.

"Can I please go?" Muttered Darian.

"Yes, yes. Expect an apology from Miss Sencen."

"Oh, that's fine." Said Darian, ready to just get out of there.

"As you wish." Said Elwin, as Darian practically flew out the door. What a way to start the day.

Fayla P.O.V.

Year two of Foxfire was going to be better than last year, at least I hope it will.

Throughout the summer I began to hangout with the few friends I have. I hung out with Daffy mostly, she's cool. We only had one sleepover but it was the best one I have ever had. Partly because that was my only sleepover.

I dragged myself out of bed and brushed my hair. Over the summer I started to use a little bit of makeup, mostly to cover the dark circles under my eye. I did all of my morning stuff and got dressed. I was wearing some shorts and a long t-shirt and I went to the kitchen.

"Morning mom"

"Good morning Fayla, are you ready for the first day?" My mom asked.

I nodded, "yep"

She handed me some food and I quickly ate it all down. I got my bag ready.

"Bye mom!" I shouted

"Good luck at school!" She replied.

I leaped to school

"Hey Fayla!" Daffy said, smiling brightly.

"Hey" I replied grinning

Another thing that happened over the summer is that me and Daffy are practically best friends now, we do a lot of stuff together.

Both of us started walking to our lockers, which conveniently were next to each other.

"We are going to have such a great time Fay!" Daffy exclaimed

"I sure hope so," I said, opening my locker.

Daffy tapped me on my shoulder and motioned to Damian, "So, when are you gonna talk to him?"

I shook my head, "I'm not planning to."

Daffy sarcastically gasped, "But I thought you liked him!" She said with a grin on her face

I smiled, "That was probably a silly last year crush"

"Ooh, cupcakes got a crush I see?"

I turned around and saw none other but Damian standing there. His blue eyes looked down on mine.

"I have no clue what you're hearing but no, I don't have a crush" I told him. I closed my locker after putting my lunch and afternoon class's materials in there.

"Are you sure about that?" Damian said with a cocky grin on his face.

I rolled my eyes, "I'm positive"

"Okay then, see you around" then he left.

Daffy looked at me with one eyebrow raised, "Mhm, no crush huh?"

I sighed, "Stop it!" I said playfully.

"See you at lunch?"

"Definitely"

Daffy said, "Wanna sit at our old table?"

"Sure. I'll you meet here"

"Okay! See ya later Fay!" Daffy remarked as she walked off and said hi to a few other people.

I wandered to my morning class trying not to be late.

When I got home I saw Freya and her so-called boyfriend sitting at the table doing homework. His name was James, he's kinda scary in my opinion. They started dating in the summertime, and they met at Atlantis.

Emmie P.O.V.

First day of Level 3! The day has finally come! I looked in the mirror one last time, checking to make sure that my jean shorts and cropped gray jacket were perfect. I tightened the laces on my new black Converse All-Stars and let my straightened hair down, pinning it with my favorite silver clip to the side. I added some rings and a necklace mom had given me for my start of the year present. I applied some mascara, eyeliner, light silver eyeshadow and light red lip tint.

I was ready for the new school year.

I leapt to Foxfire, inhaling the sweet scent of the air.

"Em!"

I whirled around to Liv's brightly smiling face. "Liv! Oh my gosh!"

"Em you've gotten even taller!

"Nah, I'm only 5"4. I love your outfit!"

It was good to be back. But to be quite honest, I'd been avoiding Jacob a bit the last few weeks. We barely hung out over the break, and we weren't on very good terms.

I waved goodbye to Livvy and headed to Elvin History. I was confident and determined to make new friends.

"Um, excuse me?" A quiet, soft voice asked from behind. A girl who seemed my year and an inch or two shorter than me stood there. She had wavy brown hair and soft blue-gray eyes. "Would you happen to know where the Elvin History room is?"

I smiled. "Yeah, I was just headed there! Come on, it's this way."

I found out that her name was Everett, and she was extremely soft-spoken.

At Elvin History, I sat with Jacob, naturally.

"So..." Jacob suddenly mused, "I heard about your little affair with Axel, Emmie."

I flushed. "Affair? You mean the project we did together last year? I don't have a crush on him, and the feeling is mutual. Noctem already asked him out, and he likes her back or likes Drendan or something. Not me."

I looked over to where Axel was sitting, and Noctem who was near him as well. He still had her on hold.

Noctem's eyes met mine and she mouthed the word "player" to me. She'd been calling me a player lately, just because I had a thing with Neil and did a project with Axel and was now dating Jacob.

"Look Emmie, I'm just not sure if you genuinely like me at all."

"Seriously?" I lashed out. "How come every guy I date questions my feelings for them?"

"It's just that Noctem's been telling me-"

"If you believe that witch over me, be her boyfriend instead!"

And with that, I picked up my things and headed to the back table to sit with Everett.

Laia P.O.V

Laia didn't really know Jolie, but she was a part of the crowd that swarmed her as she made her way towards Aiden, who was paper white and holding an envelope that read in clean text "Aiden Pyran Matchmaking List No. 1".

"Open it!" Everybody chanted, and Laia couldn't help but be swept away with the crowd. With shaky fingers, Aiden slid the parchment out of the envelope and swept his eyes over the page. Laia shoved past a few people, quickly apologizing, and stood right behind him, taking in the letter.

17. Rozie

19. Elyria

38. Nerra

41. Emmie

48. Elodie

54. Jolie

72. Noctem

91. Lobelia

Laia squinted. Rozie was a new girl, who she had never met before, but apparently she was very compatible with Aiden. Nerra was friends with Aiden and she had seen them together. Elyria and Lobelia had transferred in the middle of the year last year, and neither spoke much. Emmie was pretty popular, but she already had a boyfriend. Noctem was kinda popular and Elodie was new. Jolie was Aidens...well Laia didn't really know. She had thought they were together, but then someone had said that they weren't anymore. Well, she thought, at least she's on his list.

"Will you have a winnowing gala?" Someone asked. Jolie looked very uncomfortable.

"Hey, it could be worse. I mean, if you like him." Said Laia. "You're his fifty fourth pick, which is pretty high."

A bunch of people swarmed around Rozie and she looked even more uncomfortable. "W-what's going on?" She asked.

"You're 18th on Aidens matchmaking list!" Squealed someone.

"You're 19th!" Someone squealed to Elyria. She flushed pink. Elyria was a very pretty girl with a soft complexion and light fluffy blonde hair.

"I just transferred here late last year." Explained Elyria.

"I'm new this year." Said Laia.

Elyria smiled. "I still don't really have any friends." She said.

Laia grinned. "Now you do. So, you and Aiden?"

Elyria shook her head. "I barely know him. I can't believe I'm 19th. Wow." Laia nodded, pulling Elyria away from the crowd.

"Have you registered yet?" Asked Laia.

Elyria shook her head. "I guess I will soon, but nobody would really like me. Anyway, that Rozie girl was higher up than me."

Laia gave a wicked grin. "If he's in your top ten or twenty, then he has to consider you. His status will definitely be upgraded if he gets such a good match."

Elyria puzzled over this. "I would want him to like me though, not my status."

Laia nodded. "He would get the chance to know you. Maybe he'll invite you to his winnowing gala if he has one. That would be fun."

"Are you on his list?" Asked Elyria.

Laia shook her head. "I'm two years younger, and normally most of the top picks are the same age or a year younger. Anyways, I don't really like him. He's all yours."

Elyria flushed. "No thanks. Not yet at least." Elyria's expression got a little dreamy.

Laia and Elyria chatted, and Laia learned that Elyria was a hopeless romantic, her parents were a bad match and they were lucky that they didn't have twins or triplets; yet, and she had two rare abilities, ghoster and animilaties.

"My parents got lucky in only having me. They were so in love that they broke the rules and became a bad match. It's my dream that someone would love me that much. I'm also a bit afraid though."

Laia tilted her head. "Of what?"

Elyria sighed. "Of getting attached to someone. What if they aren't in my list, or I'm not in there's? Would they be willing to be a bad match? Would I?"

Laia shrugged. "You should register. Oh my god! You should register today! And I can come!" Elyria nodded excitedly. The rest of the day was a blur as Laia excitedly thought to herself, she would be going to the matchmaking office. Maybe not for her yet but for a friend.

After school, Elyria and Laia leaped to the matchmaking office.

"Hello." Said a nasally voice. Elyria introduced herself and gave the necessary information, such as her birth parents. The lady wrinkled her nose when she heard that they were a bad match. "Fill this out and your results will be processed. Some come faster than others. Fastest is a day, the longest is about a year. Expect somewhere in between. ."

Elyria nodded eagerly. "A year! I'm gonna die with anticipation! I hope it takes three weeks." Groaned Laia.

Elyria started filling out the packet and Laia glanced over, looking at the questions.

Full Name: Elyria Tankins

Age: 15

Gender: Female

Ability/Abilities: Ghoster and Animilaties

Parent or Guardian: Ava and Fred Tankins

Sexuality: Straight

Education: Foxfire

Physical Description: Light wavy blonde hair, pale skin, light blue shimmery eyes

Preferred appearance: Blonde Hair, Light Blue Eyes

Describe your personality: Happy, Romantic, Sweet, Kind

Describe your preferred matches personality: Funny, Dedicated, Caring

Who feels romantically inclined emotion towards you: Aiden (Maybe)

Who do you feel romantically inclined emotion towards: Aiden (Maybe)

Favorite Food: Mallowmelt

Favorite Color: Light Pink

Favorite Subject: Agriculture

Style: Pastels, Happy Colors

Preferred Career Path: Animal Caretaker

Laia nudged Elyria. "You "maybe" like Aiden?"

Elyria sighed, giggling slightly. "I don't know. I just have this perfect fantasy. That he's my number one, and it goes on from there. What can I say, I really am a hopeless romantic."

Laia grinned, then suddenly stopped. "Hey Elyria, do you think Jolie and Aiden like each other?"

Elyria paused. "I don't know, I just know their friends. Do you think they like each other?" Elyria bit her lip.

Laia shrugged. "I don't know, but let's see what happens from here."

The next day Laia woke up. She stumbled downstairs and her mom, Illiana, was holding a letter. "What does it say?" She asked.

"Apparently the council is running an experiment of letting younger children apply for matchmaking. They selected a few people. Ace, Axel, Yuna, Ignis, Hydra, Daffy, and Caden. Do you know them?"

Laia nodded. "Why didn't they choose me?" Groaned Laia. She really wanted her matchmaking lists. Like really.

Laia leaped to foxfire and started class. She introduced Elyria to Star, Avery, Ocean, Cara, and Paisley. Elyria fit right into the group, gossiping and grinning.

"You're the only one on his list! If he invites you to his winnowing gala, you could invite me as your plus one!" Squealed Star. Laia gave Elyria a knowing look. Elyria would probably invite Laia.

"Ahem...Miss..Tankins? Please report to the principal." Elyria stood up, looking confused.

She came back a few minutes later holding an envelope. "Oh. My. God. Some people get their list in a year! You are so lucky!" Laia jumped up. The teacher scrambled for control but everyone rushed over to Elyria as she opened the crisp letter with shaking fingers.

7. Aiden

10. Tavern

23. Ignis

25. Ace

31. Neil

55. Darian

65. Damian

85. Will

"Oh my god, Aiden is your seventh!" Said Laia.

"Oh, and Will is your eighty-fifth."

Elyria smiled. "He's all yours. So, do you think my parents will let me have a winnowing gala?" Asked Elyria.

Laia shrugged. "I don't know, but that would be awesome!" During lunch Laia sat with Elyria. Almost everyone was either talking to Aiden or Elyria, after all they had just gotten their matchmaking lists.

"Have you registered?" Hydra asked Jolie.

"Yeah, a few months ago. It hasn't come yet though."

Hydra nodded and turned to Caden. "So. Are you gonna register?" She asked.

"Are you gonna?" He asked jokingly.

Hydra shrugged. "I-I guess." She said looking nervous. If only Laia could steal Hydra's spot. Aiden entered the lunchroom holding a satchel of envelopes.

"Are those matchmaking lists?" Asked Laia. Aiden plopped them in front of Rozie, Nerra, Elodie, Emmie, Noctem, Jolie, Lobelia, and many others. Finally, last but not least, he placed one in front of Elyria, with a charming smile.

"He might not be your number one, but your fairy tale just started for sure." Whispered Laia. Elyria grinned and slowly opened the letter. Inside it read,

You Are Cordially Invited To Aiden Pyrans Winnowing Gala As a Member Of His Top 100 Picks

The Theme Is Formal. Please Attend September 12 This Friday

Please Bring One Plus One Of Your Choice

We Can't Wait To See You There

Too Elyria

From Aiden

Elyria practically fainted with joy.

"He invited you to his winnowing gala!" Squealed Laia. Elyria hugged her, filled with excitement.

"OMG, can I be your plus-" Started Star.

"You can be my plus one." Said Elyria to Laia. Star rolled her eyes.

"Eeek I can't wait! I might even be on Aidens second or third list or something. Wow you are so lucky! Will you hold a winnowing gala?" Laia asked.

Elyria shrugged. "Maybe, but I might just talk to some of my top few and see what they think of me. I wonder if Aiden knows he's my number seven?" Said Elyria.

"Look!" Said Laia.

Nerra was whispering in Aidens ear. "Yeah I registered almost a year ago so my list should be here soon. My parents told me the matchmaking office said to expect it this week. I can't wait! Also, that girl Elyria got her matchmaking list in a day. You're number seven."

Aiden gaped, and his gaze flickered over to Elyria.

"Wow, Cinderella, the prince is looking at you!" Squeaked Laia.

Elyria flushed, acquiring a dainty smile.

"So, what about Tavern? And Ignis? And Ace?"

Elyria shrugged, her face still flushed red. "I don't really know them that well."

"Let me inform you from what I've heard. Tavern went to my old school. Real softie, always is willing to laugh even if you make the worst joke. Like, what does a baby computer call its father?" Elyria shrugged. "Data." Said Laia, deadpanning. "He burst into obnoxious giggles, and milk came out of his nose. Milk."

Elyria giggled. "I like the sound of him." She said.

"Ignis has a girlfriend, Dipity. He used to chase after Yuna, but he got over her. He's pretty nice. You two would be kinda cute. Ace is super popular and rich. He had a whole spinning wheel of girls who asked him to the Foxfire Formal last year to choose from. He chose random and got Cara". Cara gave a tight smile. "But let's talk about Darian. He's kinda cold and rude but I know him pretty well. He doesn't open up easily but I'm friends with Tavern, so I've gotten to know him. But get this, I've known him for like five years and he still calls me his "acquaintance". But he keeps bickering with Cara and I feel like you two would be such cute enemies to lovers, if it worked out." Cara blushed.

"Hey guys, the attendance list just came. I'm gonna accept." Said Elyria, looking thrilled.

Click The Check To Confirm Attendance:

Rozie

Elyria

Elyria's plus one Laia

Nerra

Nerra's plus one Loli

Emmie

Emmie's plus one Hydra

Elodie

Elodie's plus one Cruise

Jolie

Jolie's plus one Talli

Noctem

Noctems plus one Cara

Lobelia

Lobelia's plus one ——

"Only Rozie, Emmie, and Lobelia haven't confirmed attendance." Said Laia.

"Cara, Laia, and Elyria get to go? No fair!" Squealed Star, who had been immensely looking forward to her first winnowing gala. "Just wait till you get into someone's top 100. Isn't Alexander fifteen? I bet he's registered for his matchmaking list."

Hydra nodded. "He has. Dyrin told me. It's been like four months."

Caden nervously clenched and unclenched his hands. "What if they don't let me apply? Because Fintans my dad."

Hydra shook her head. "They let Aiden apply and he got his first list. Speaking of which, are you going to the winnowing gala?" She asked.

Caden thought hard for a second, stroking a pretend beard. "Hmm, I wouldn't say that I fancy Aiden." He said Hydra gave him an exasperated look. "Ok, yeah I am coming. Are you coming as Emmie's plus one?" He asked.

Hydra shrugged. "Emmie hasn't decided if she's coming, but she might to spite Jacob. I think they are fighting." At these words Emmie entered the lunch room and sat by Hydra.

"I can't believe they chose you to register for your matchmaking lists and not me or Will." Emmie playfully punched Hydra in the shoulder.

"They said after the first few people start receiving their lists, more people might get chosen." Emmie brightened. She definitely wanted to know who would be on her list.

"Maybe we could have a joint winnowing gala with Will and Ivy." She said.

Hydra grinned. "That sounds like fun." She said.

Jolie POV

—

Jolie had hardly expected anything different. She was the Mesmer. The Pyrokinetic. Dangerous, powerful, deadly.

But still...

Fifty Fourth.

It especially hurt that so many other people had been labeled as Aiden's seventeenth or nineteenth or sixth or...first. The thought of someone else, someone who she didn't even know, being a perfect match for Aiden was quite nearly heartbreaking.

At least I was invited, she thought, trying to cheer herself up a bit. At least I'll be able to..talk to him.

Other than a few sparse interactions over the summer, Aiden and Jolie had barely even been able to talk about anything. Much less talk about her feelings.

She'd arrived to the first day back more than a little late. The night before she'd woken in the middle of the night, covered in flames, tears soaking her pillow. When she finally fell asleep, nightmares plagued her once more. Everyone she loved was dead. She was a murderer. Everything was burning.

When Bronte had shaken her awake, she had claimed that her head was aching. And it was, truly.

So now she was arriving at one of her classes far too late, wearing a messily put together uniform and a red silk ribbon tying her hair back. Jolie hesitantly stepped into the classroom, glancing at her Mentor.

"Late, Miss Jolie?"

"I'm sorry, Sir." she said lamely. "I wasn't feeling myself."

"School is important, young lady." Sir Riend grumbled.

"So is my mental and physical health." Jolie snapped back.

Sir Riend gave her a harsh glare. "I have a feeling," he slowly said. "We will not be getting along very well, Miss Jolie."

"Your annoyance at me is reciprocated." she glared back.

He stood still for a moment, before pulling a thick workbook off the shelf using telekinesis. "I expect this to be done before I return." Sir Riend left the room, leaving Jolie alone.

Opening the workbook, she muttered a few not-so-nice things about Riend. The first question was simple enough:

How has your control over your ability/s changed over the summer?

She bit her lip before writing with the silver quill: Several changes, firstly being a slight loss of control over my pyrokinesis.

As she wrote, the time flew by. She was almost finished writing when Sir Riend returned, glancing at her book. "You're dismissed."

She gave him one last glare before heading out into the hallway. Jolie walked towards her locker, and noticed it was swinging open. Rather suspicious.

Curious, she gently nudged it farther open and glanced it.

That was when she saw the packet. Stamped with the matchmakers ominous seal, it was silver and tied with a bow the colour of her eyes.

She nervously reached to touch it, and unrolled it.

Matchmaking Packet

She stifled a gasp. As far as she knew, she had a few more months before she would be sent the packet. But here it was.

Nervously, she grabbed a pen and propped it up against the wall so she could write on it.

Official Matchmaking Scroll

Full Name: Jolie Angelou Enziae

Age: 15

Gender: Female

Ability/Abilities: Mesmer & Pyrokinetic

Parent or Guardian: Councillor Bronte Enziae

Sexuality: Pansexual

Education: Level Four Foxfire

Physical Description: Pale blonde hair (slightly wavy), shoulder-blade length, pale grey-blue eyes, 5'3'', heart shaped lips, lightly tanned skin

Preferred appearance: N/A

Describe your personality: Sharp like a blade. Lonely. Dangerous when provoked. Sort of courageous. Hopeful in a way. U̶n̶f̶o̶r̶t̶u̶n̶a̶t̶e̶l̶y̶ ̶i̶n̶ ̶l̶o̶v̶e̶.̶ ̶

Describe your preferred matches personality: Comforting...trustworthy and kind hearted. Patient and someone I feel comfortable around.

Who feels romantically inclined emotion towards you: ...Unknown

Who do you feel romantically inclined emotion towards: A̶i̶d̶e̶n̶

Favorite Food: Blitzenberry Muffins

Favorite Color: Pale lavender

Favorite Subject: Universe

Style: Balefire, crystals, paths to nowhere, shy slips of a smile, hopeful eyes

Preferred Career Path: Poetry or Astronomy

With a flourish, she signed and rolled it up again, taking a deep breath. As she tied it, a sharp snap and a flash made it disappear almost as if it hadn't been there at all.

And now...she just had to wait, and hope, and wait some more.

Amara P.O.V

First day of school, technically it isn't the first day of school but it is. I was at boarding school for awhile now, ever since I was 7 years old. My sandy blonde hair was brushed out and my outfit was decent enough.

My mom teared up, "Right here was when I dropped Yuna off at her first day of Foxfire"

I rolled my eyes. Yuna. I didn't hate her but I strongly disliked her. She was my sister, the golden child, and of course, my mom's favorite. Normally you would think that the youngest would be the favorite but nope. Yuna is the oldest out of all three of us. I think that it is weird that I just met my other sister, Daffy, a few weeks ago. She's pretty cool, we bonded together really quickly and I think that she's my favorite in the family. Anyways, I hate how much I look alike to Yuna, blonde hair that frames the face, soft facial features, and our eye color is the same. I wish I had brownish hair like Daffy does, hair that doesn't hang around the face as much, and facial features that show that she's tough but soft at the same time.

After the welcoming ceremony I headed to my first class. Multispecial Studies was not my favorite, but the teacher was. When I was little I would always visit Yuna at school, occasionally I would watch the classes go on.

"Is that Little Amara?" The teacher looked down on me, "Oh my goodness! It is! I haven't seen you in ages and I almost didn't recognize you!"

I smiled, the other kids were looking at me weirdly but I just smiled at them.

"Class this is Amara Fathdon, I knew her ever since she was little." She led me to an empty chair, "Sit here, if you don't like your seat just let me know"

When the teacher turned her back and started to prepare for the class everyone stared at me.

"Are you really Amara Fathdon?"

"I heard all about her sisters, apparently they are well known."

"She's obviously the teacher's favorite already. Remember the first day of this class? It was no switching seats and no asking dumb questions and to not bother the teacher."

I looked over to the boy that said it. He has brown hair, freckles and blue eyes. I would think that he is kinda cute if I was any other girl, but no. I can already tell that he's straight up annoying.

"Connor! Stop talking! It is rude to be talking while I am giving out the instructions." The teacher said as she continued to talk to the class.

This was gonna be a long year.

Everett P.O.V

I was surprised I was getting along so well with Emmie. I'm usually a more reserved, shy person, and not exactly what you would call sociable. Emmie was the exact opposite. She was outgoing, fun to be around, and had lots of friends and was definitely what I would call a social butterfly.

I sat at lunch with Emmie and her friends, Livvy, Chiara, Jacob, Neil, Orson, Brennon, Josh, and Mina.

Being an empath, I could literally feel the tension between Emmie, Jacob, and Neil. But I didn't have to be one to notice the way Jacob and Neil were fully glaring at each other with no mercy, and how Emmie tried to focus on Jacob but stole glances at Neil many times.

I had to admit there were a lot of cute guys (I mean, we are elves) but I also had to admit that none of them really caught my eye.

That was until I met him.

The cute, brown haired, freckled boy with bright blue eyes as clear as day.

Jacob.

But I forced my heart to control itself, for I couldn't steal my new best friend- and only friend- 's boyfriend.

Besides, why would Jacob even like me?

Emmie was someone I could only dream to be. Popular, social, and lively, whereas I was more on the quiet side. How could Jacob ever notice a shy, meek girl like me?

I stood no chance.

Jacob P.O.V

"Everett, right?"

The small girl jumped with surprise, almost hitting her head on her locker, and turned around at me with her large, blue-gray eyes.

"Oh, um yes, I'm Everett Celina."

I grinned and held out my hand. "Nice to meet you, I'm Jacob."

"N-nice to m-meet you t-too. I-I'd better be off now." She gave my hand a small shake and went in the other direction without looking me in the eye. I could see the pink flush seeping over Everett's cheeks.

She's cute.

"Hey, wait!" I called after her. "Do you need help carrying your books?"

"Er-" before she could finish her response, I took all her books except one and carried them along with mine.

Everett gave me an odd look.

"Aren't you Emmie's boyfriend?"

"That doesn't mean I can't be a gentleman to pretty ladies," I winked.

Everett blushed even harder and looked at the ground.

But I could see the lingering smile on her lips.

Yuna P.O.V.

"I still can't believe it!" Daffy said, her voice excited and nervous.

"We get it, you guys have been selected to apply for matchmaking lists." Amara said, rolling her eyes.

Yuna squealed. "Amara!!!!" She said, running towards her sister and enveloping her in a hug. Amara wiggled away from her grip, walking towards Daffy instead.

"She likes me more." Daffy said with a playful wink. Yuna laughed, messing up Amara's hair and earning a fierce eye roll.

"I wish I was more like Daffy."

Yuna jumped. She'd just heard Amara's voice, but no one talked. "What?" Daffy asked, her eyes scrunched in confusion.

"Just Yuna being dramatic." Amara huffed.

Yuna frowned. "Sorry?"

Amara played with a strand of her hair, much like Yuna did when she was nervous. Dipity walked past them, and smiled questioningly at Amara. "Isn't that the girl who Ignis liked more." Amara snorted. Daffy nudged her.

"I wish Yuna would just go away."

A shiver ran up Yuna's spine. Amara's sharp voice still rang in her head. What was she hearing?

"Stop being weird Yuna Yuna is so dramatic

Why won't she go away I really don't like Yuna

Get out Yuna

Yuna just leave Anyone else?

Leave Yuna

I wish I was more like Daffy

Why is she still here I wish Yuna was the new sister so I knew Daffy better

Why is she moms favorite

Even the boy who liked her grew out of it

Bratty popular girl

I don't like her

Get out Yuna

Get out Yuna

Get out Yuna Get out Yuna Get out Yuna Get out Yuna

Get out Yuna Get out Yuna Get out Yuna Get out Yuna Get out Yuna Get out Yuna Get out Yuna Get out Yuna Get out Yuna Get out Yuna Get out Yuna Get out Yuna Get out Yuna Get out Yuna GetoutYunaGetoutYuna GetoutYuna GetoutYuna GetoutYuna GetoutYuna GetoutYuna GetoutYuna GetoutYuna GetoutYuna GetoutYuna GetoutYuna GetoutYuna GET OUT YUNA

Yuna stumbled back. Even her own sister wanted her gone.

"Come on Yuna!" Daffy said, nudging her shoulder.

"I-i'll be right there." Yuna said, stumbling over her words.

––––––––––

"You're too young!" Oralie groaned. Yuna stifled a sigh and held the crisp parchment

Official Matchmaking Scroll

Yuna gulped and turned to the questions.

Full Name: Yuna Moon Fathdon

Age: 13

Gender: Female

Ability/Abilities:

Yuna pondered. What she was hearing felt like telepathy, but it was sharp and uncalled for.

Ability/Abilities: Telepath, empath, polyglot, controller & sparknetic

Parent or Guardian: Oralie and Kenric Fathdon

Sexuality: Straight

Education: Foxfire

Physical Description: Round face, large blue eyes and medium length sunny blond hair

Preferred appearance: Freckles are cute, strong jawlines and masculine properties are also preferred.

Describe your personality: Loyal and kind but a little fierce

Describe your preferred matches personality: Sweet, joking and mischievous

Yuna gulped, realizing she had perfectly described Ignis.

Who feels romantically inclined emotion towards you: Ignis(Past)

Who do you feel romantically inclined emotion towards:

Yuna started to sweat. Should she write the truth? She wanted to get the best matches, but what if it meant telling a bunch of random people her crushes.

Who do you feel romantically inclined emotion towards: Ignis(Present), Damian(Past)

Favorite Food: Mallowmelt

Favorite Color: Pink

Favorite Subject: Multispeciesial studies

Style: Cute but sassy

Preferred Career Path: Doing something meaningful. Even if I'm the guy in the chair, I want to help!

Yuna reviewed her answers, wishing the part about Ignis being her crush would disappear. "Sweets, it's time to go." Oralie said. Yuna nodded, tucking the scroll into an envelope and hoping she might never see it again.

Ignis P.O.V.

"Special access, I'm talking about special access!" Loli said enviously.

Ignis rolled his eyes. "I don't want some stupid matchmaking list, I already have a girlfriend!"

Loli frowned. "Where's Jackson anyway?" Ignis asked.

"He's with Laminae." Loli pouted.

"Here's the form." Marella said, thrusting the paper at him.

"Fiiiine." He said, peering at the paper.

Official Matchmaking Scroll

Full Name: Ignis Bex Redek-Dizznee

Age: 14

Gender: Male

Ability/Abilities: Telepath & Polyglot

Parent or Guardian: Marella and Dex Redek-Dizznee

Sexuality: Straight

Education: Foxfire

Physical Description: Sky blue eyes, blond hair and a strong jawline

Loli snorted.

"What?" Ignis asked.

"You missed pasty skin." She dead panned. Ignis scowled.

Preferred appearance: Short and cute in a less stunning more adorable way

Describe your personality: Jokester, dare to say class clown 😉

"You can't put a winky face on your matchmaking scroll!" Loli gasped.

"Too late, wrote it in pen." Ignis chuckled back, his smile causing dimples in his cheeks.

Describe your preferred matches personality: Shy but smart and strong

Who feels romantically inclined emotion towards you: Dipity(Present)

Who do you feel romantically inclined emotion towards: Dipity(Present)

Ignis stared at the page, feeling Loli's gaze.

Who do you feel romantically inclined emotion towards: Dipity(Present), Yuna(Past)

Loli sighed.

Favorite Food: Mallowmelt

Favorite Color: Orange

Favorite Subject: Physical Education

Style: Relaxed but slick

Preferred Career Path: Out in the field solving problems, or maybe a taste tester for treats. Either one!

Daffy POV/ match making edition

Amara was such a cute little girl. A bit moody but likeable. She reminds me of Yuna actually, I didn't have to be their sister to see the emotions between them. Yuna always felt a little bad and you can see Amara's distaste around her. Poor yuna.

Me and Amara were filling out my form:

Official Matchmaking Scroll

Full Name: Daffy Lynn Fathdon

Age: 13

Gender: Female

Ability/Abilities: Froster, Descryer

Parent or Guardian: Oralie and Kenric Fathdon

Sexuality: Straight

Education: Foxfire

Physical Description: Medium length wavy Blonde-Brown hair, Slim face, blue-grey eyes, 5'1

Preferred appearance: Slightly tanned skin, soft facial features, taller than me

Daffy thought "wait, everyone is taller than me.." she shrugged it off and continued

Describe your personality: Social, curious, open minded, fun, crazy

Describe your preferred matches personality: Soft, Funny, protective, helpful

Who feels romantically inclined emotion towards you: Austin(past)

Who do you feel romantically inclined emotion towards: I don't really know

Favorite Food: Mallowmelt

Favorite Color: Grey

Favorite Subject: Gym

Style: Trendy, chic, basic

Preferred Career Path: I want to work with people and explore my dreams at the same time. I don't know what career I want.

I put down my pen and look at the form I filled out. When I felt satisfied I went to the matchmakers to turn it in.

"Name?"

"Daffy Lynn Fathdon"

The lady nodded and took my scroll

"Results will be out in a few days"

Rozie POV

Rozie stared down at the invitation.

She already knew she was high on his list, despite barely knowing him. Highest out of all the girls at their school, in fact. The mob had confirmed that (and been terrifying, due to her having no idea what was happening).

Number seventeen.

Half the school seemed to be after him, and Rozie didn't have much interest in joining that chase. She found Aiden good looking, yes, but she barely knew him, and, anyway, it would just lead to a bunch of people hating her, thinking she was trying to steal their perfect prince, and leave their fairytale incomplete and ruined.

Which she wasn't.

But that wasn't going to stop her from going. Her mom had already discussed the possibility of picking up a packet, and going to winnowing gallas. Rozie had said she would. Soon. Now was the perfect opportunity, with everyone so obsessed about it.

But first she had other matters to attend to.

First, she confirmed her attendance. It would be fun, hopefully, and at the very least allow her to see how these things worked. Maybe once they realized she wasn't there to steal their prince they would become more friendly.

Second: Jolie.

That sounded weird, Rozie knew. But she'd noticed the girl earlier, just before the mob. And she'd also noticed Jolie seemed a little...sad. At least disappointed . Rozie had two theories: one, they were dating. She had found out she wasn't very high on his list, and now he was hosting the gala. She thought he was replacing her, or would, or he'd already broken up with her. Two, it was a crush. A huge crush. She found out she wasn't very high on his list, and thought it would never work out.

Rozie didn't know too much about Jolie, but she did know she wasn't only pretty–she was fierce and courageous. Rozie had decided she'd be the type of girl she'd like to have for a friend. And someone who deserved that fairytale ending.

Which was why Rozie was determined to help her get it.

You could use your ability, a tiny voice whispered in the back of her head.

Rozie shut it down fast. She always introduced herself as a Vanisher first for a reason–she hated her second power. It made people immediately distrustful of her. Especially when it comes to crushes. Though it was illegal, most people still thought she used her power to make people like her–even though she didn't like anyone.

She was not using that ability.

Besides, she didn't even know if Jolie would like her, or want her help. And she wouldn't–until she found her.

Rozie stood up. She would never make friends here if she didn't try, and here was a golden opportunity. She would get her match packet in a bit–she had much more important things to do.

...

Jolie stood at the opposite end of the hallway, and Rozie made a beeline over to her.

Now or never.

But Rozie paused. Maybe Jolie would hate her, or laugh at her. Maybe she would think Rozie was only some back-stabbing girl, simply using her to get close to Aiden. She almost certainly wouldn't think Rozie was actually going to help, or wanted to. If Rozie was Jolie, she almost certainly wouldn't trust herself.

There was no reason to trust the new girl, with her ridiculous claims. In fact, there was more reason not to trust her.

But she was so close–Jolie was right there. And maybe she could help, instead of just seeming like a crazy girl. There was only one way to find out–and Rozie wasn't sure if she wanted to take that chance.

Making up her mind, she continued towards Jolie.

This was her chance to make friends, and maybe help someone. She had to take it–or be disappointed in herself for the rest of her life. Could she really watch Jolie everyday, knowing she could have helped her? Whether she ended up with Aiden or not, maybe she would gain a friend. And maybe, just maybe, she could help Jolie get her fairytale ending.

"Hi," she said, before Jolie could even give her a glance. "I'm Rozie. I'm in your year and...okay, this is going to sound weird. Really weird. But just hear me out, okay?" Without waiting for a response, Rozie plowed on. "I noticed you today. About Aiden's matchpacket. And I couldn't help but see you looked a little sad. Disappointed.

"And I was thinking...well, here comes the even weirder part—I was thinking I could help you. Crazy, right? But here's the thing: I'm going to the winnowing gala. Not because I like Aiden, mostly just because I want to see how it is. But because I have no interest in him...well, I was thinking I could help you?

"I know, it sounds crazy. But I've seen you, Jolie, and you're brave and fierce, and I think, you of all people, deserve a shot. A real shot. And I want to help you get it. For real. I'm not lying, and I don't have any interest in Aiden. I promise I'm not going to use you to get him. And, honestly? I just need a friend. That sounds pathetic and lame, but it's true. And I just really want to help you, Jolie."

Rozie had blown it. She knew it. Now there was certainly no chance of her making friends–that had gone up in flames. Any minute, Jolie was sure to start laughing, or something. And Rozie would never be able to show her face at Foxfire again, not after being so humiliated. Not a chance.

She might as well start hoping her tree would at least be pretty, and her parents, at least, would visit it.

...

((This is later, when she's out her matchmaking packet. Things probably happened in between , but I won't touch on them now))

Rozie took a deep breath and opened her scroll. It was embarrassing, but she was nervous. This whole thing made her nervous. What if her number one match was someone she knew? Talked to? Would it make it super awkward?

But there was no time for second thoughts now–she had the packet already, and now she just needed to fill it out.

Official Matchmaking Scroll

Full Name: Rozie Isobel Millers

Age: 15

Gender: Female

Rozie breathed a sigh of relief. So far, so good. She could do questions like these–no problem at all. In fact, she was being a little ridiculous–what had happened to the brave, fierce Rozie? If something as simple as a matchmaking packet could get her rattled, then she took coward to the next level.

She was being ridiculous.

Smirking slightly to herself at the silliness of it all, she moved on.

But the next question made the smirk slip off her face.

Ability/Abilities:

How she wished she could just write 'Vanisher' and be done. It was a nice, simple ability. Fairly average, but powerful enough. It would bring good matches, and everyone would be pleased. The match wouldn't be super powerful, but it'd be a good one–perhaps even great.

Her other ability (the one she did not like to speak of, at all) would make a more powerful match, most likely. If she decided to have children, it would make the elvin world more powerful for years to come, and everyone would be benefitted. Blah, blah, blah. Just like it said in her textbook, and why strong matches were so important.

But it didn't change the fact that she hated the ability.

Still, that didn't change the fact that you couldn't lie on a match packet, not when (or so they said) the future of the elvin world was at stake (ugh).

Sighing, she wrote it in.

Ability/Abilities: Vanisher and Beguiler

Parent or Guardian: Eyelene and Daryln Millers

Sexuality: Straight

Education: Foxfire

Physical Description: Red hair, slightly wavy, long. Gray-blue eyes. Heart-shaped face. Pale skin. 5'5 ½

Preferred appearance: Doesn't particularly matter.

Describe your personality: Loyal. Fierce. Sassy, on occasion. Clever.

Describe your preferred matches personality: Intelligent. Kind. Protective.

Who feels romantically inclined emotion towards you: Unknown.

Who do you feel romantically inclined emotion towards: No one.

Favorite Food: Fluffcreams.

Favorite Color: Purple.

Favorite Subject: Universe.

Style: Tunics and leggings, dresses. Some "human-like" clothing, on certain occasions (tops, mostly). Simple mostly, though occasionally dressy

Preferred Career Path: Currently unsure.

Caden POV

Yeah, basically Cadens perfect brother who everybody liked was going to have a winnowing gala. Whoop, whoop. I bet there's an official Aiden fandom somewhere out there, among the gaggle of teenage girls. Well, whatever. Caden didn't need that. He just needed some respect. An itty bitty amount. Enough so that people would let him participate in some stupid alchemy contest with the girl he likes, or sit at their damn lunch table. But no matter what, being a pyrokinetic meant he was haunted by Fintans shadow.

Caden sighed, angered by this thought. Fintan. He didn't even remember him, and yet he had ruined his whole life. Caden bit into his apple, barely hearing the chatter around him. The only person who understood was Jolie, and she was locked up in some conversation with Rolie or something. A thought sprang into Cadens head. He needed friends. I mean, duh he had friends, he was a pretty likable guy, but he needed friends who understood. He needed pyrokinetics. Caden started a mental list in his mind of all the pyrokinetics he could think of. Emmie. She was Hydra's sister and in his year. She probably didn't know him that much besides the fact that he was with Hydra.

Caden blushed at that thought. Friends with Hydra. Caden racked his brain, trying to think of any other pyrokinetics. Elodie, this girl in his level was a pyrokinetic. He had seen her playing with fire in the hallway once. She had been scolded immediately. Not like he hadn't seen other people using their abilities. But they weren't dangerous. Loli was a girl who was in the year below him. It appeared most of the pyrokinetics were girls. Caden sighed. He would probably just end up making a girl gang plus him. Makeup galore. Oooh maybe even some crush chitchat. After a while of thinking that's all he could come up with.

Pyrokinetic Gang

Caden

Jolie

Emmie

Elodie

Loli

Now to get them to join. First, since Jolie was busy, Emmie. She was chatting with Hydra so Caden decided to wait until class. Lady Edwerda swished Ocean, Astrid, who was actually a hydrokinetic, and Hydra over to her corner, reviewing basic moves like the water sphere. Caden went over to sir Edward with all the pyrokinetics. Elodie, Emmie, Jolie, and Loli were all there. Caden scooched over to Emmie and whispered in her ear.

"So, being a pyrokinetic can be tough right?" Emmie jumped.

"What?" She mumbled.

"Just saying, we should probably make a club that fights back against..unfair treatment?"

Emmie rolled her eyes. "Real smooth Pyran." She said. "Fine."

Caden grinned.

"AHEM...Mister Pyran, anything funny to share with the class?" Hydra glanced over at Caden. Oh boy, she thought.

Caden had seemed a little damp at the end of last year, less joke making. Looks like he was being a wannabe Keefe this year. "Just my everlasting love for your mustache sir." Said Caden, nodding in an approving way. Sir Edward pinked, looking pleased. Caden carefully checked Emmie's name off the list.

Pyrokinetic Gang

Caden

Jolie

Emmie

Elodie

Loli

Next, time for Jolie. Caden chose Jolie as a partner and they worked on rings of fire.

"Remember, the ring of fire should circle the person, trapping them inside. Keep the flames high enough to trap them but not sizzle them. Keep them at a reasonable temperature, NO BLUE FLAMES."

Caden rolled his eyes. They rarely got to practice blue flames, which were hotter than normal fire. It was too dangerous. But so was a room of prokinetics ready to barbecue you.

"Sooo." Started Caden.

"Spit it out Pyran." Said Jolie.

Caden sighed, a grin starting on his face. It appeared everyone was exasperated with him. "Wanna join my pyrokinetic gang?" Asked Caden.

Jolie's flames rose higher, engulfing him. "I can't hear you!" She said, laughing at Cadens terrible attempt to hush the flames.

"PYROKINETIC GANG!!!!" He yelled. The flames sputtered out. For a horrifying moment, Caden thought that Jolie would decline. His biggest fire buddy. A grin spread across her face.

"Count me in."

Caden pumped his fist in the air.

Pyrokinetic Gang

Caden

Jolie

Emmie

Elodie

Loli

Next was Elodie.

Elodie POV

*Earlier that day*

Why,why,WHY, on earth did I choose to wear a hoodie? It's not even that cold. Wasn't my fault I woke up a bit late. Cruise had rigged my alarm somehow at night, which was impressive since I woke up at just a tiny slip. So I had to pick an outfit quickly. I was lucky that I got to Foxfire at all at an appropriate time.

It was way too hot outside.

So I needed to get inside. On the way, Ace dropped his clutch. I picked it up, saying "It's not your fault." I didn't hear his reply. *flashback*

"Hey, it's not your fault Annabell! It's fine." She'd dropped one of my mom's vases that time. We were 3. I knew her because my so called "dad" was friend with her mom. He looked like my old best friend, Annabell? it'd been long. Ever since that fire at my house... I was only 4 years old. And an old friend, Trystan, his parents had died then, and I wasn't there for him. The three of us were like siblings. Both Ace and Axel resembled her a bit. So I felt like I could trust them, right?

I went inside.

*timeskip to end of lunch*

Winnowing gala, huh? Honestly I just wanted to make friends. Five years. Five years without any.

Hmm. I was walking to my next class, Pyrokinesis (did I spell that right?).

I was uncomfortably wrapping my arms around my stomach. I always felt uncomfortable around people. Which is why I wanted to get to know some. One reason, at least.

I was practicing myself, until we had to do hoops. I got paired up with Emmie, and we were just talking while she surrounded me with flames.

"Favorite color?" She asked,

I replied, "I'm obsessed with purple, but otherwise? I like all colors."

"Mk."

We talked a bit more till we stopped with hoops, and I went to the corner of the room basically following the instructions Sir Edward gave.

Someone walked up to me and sat. "Hi, I'm Caden, do you think you could join this 'Pyrokinetic Gang'."

"Sure." I replied, a bit confused.

When he notice my expression, he said "Basically just a group of pyrokinetics."

"Okay."

And he walked away.