Magic & Mischief

By Clara Winter, Mark Love, Elle Nina Castle and 7 more

Whether Gods or Demons, when romance and magic mix, anything is possible. Join Inkspell authors as they enchant you with these NINE stories filled with supernatural twists and turns!

 

Everwood Academy by Clara Winter

With the casting of a single spell, Grace's world falls apart. Enrolled in Everwood Academy, the teen discovers that darkness is everywhere, leading her into a dangerous trap where even her new friends won't be able to save her.

 

Don't Mess with the Gods by Mark Love and Elle Nina Castle

Solana doubts her sanity when four Greek gods visit. Enter psychiatrist Dr. Michael Granger. Two people existing. Leave it to the Greek gods to help them live a little.

 

Vital Impetus by VK Tritschler

Lost between worlds, Jess is hunted. Fighting back using newfound powers the teen has yet to understand, her only help is an old childhood friend with secrets of his own. Will their reunion be her salvation or the end of her life?

 

Breath of Life by Kristy Centeno

In a blink of an eye, Arie Garcia is thrust into a dangerous world--unsure if the man claiming to be her savior is in fact one…or…something much worse.

 

My Soul to Save by Nicole Sobon

Some birthdays are special. Mine proves to be life altering. I only hope I can survive it.

 

The Urn in the Attic by Liz Ashlee

Anna, Dani and Wilson only want to clean out their attic, but they find an urn. When weird things happen around the house, is it an unwanted entity...or just the cat?

 

The Curse of Cinder Ash by Mikaël Lemieux

Plagued by a curse and ruled by evil, a traveler must save the town of Cinder Ash to find a piece of his soul.

 

Through the Mirror by Majanka Verstraete

As a Gatekeeper, sixteen-year-old Aster protects innocent people from demons, and sends them back through mirrors—gates—to hell. When Collin Mortimer, a Dark Caster and one of the most popular guys in school, asks Aster for help and she accepts, it might be the deadliest mistake of her life.

 

Curses, Quests and Cuties by Celia Mulder

A love story no one asked for set in motion by a curse no one can break.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Inkspell Publishing
• Release date: Jul 13, 2020
• ISBN: 9781949931877

Book preview

Magic & Mischief

Clara Winter

Mark Love and Elle Nina Castle

VK Tritschler

Kristy Centeno

Nicole Sobon

Liz Ashlee

Mikaël Lemieux

Majanka Verstraete

Celia Mulder

THE CHARACTERS AND events in this book are fictitious. Any similarity to real persons, living or dead, places, or events is coincidental and not intended by the author.

IF YOU PURCHASE THIS book without a cover you should be aware that this book may have been stolen property and reported as unsold and destroyed to the publisher. In such case the author has not received any payment for this stripped book.

MAGIC & MISCHIEF: EVERWOOD Academy, Don’t Mess with the Gods, Vital Impetus, Breath of Life, My Soul to Save, The Urn in the Attic,  The Curse of Cinder Ash, Through the Mirror, and Curses, Quests and Cuties.

Copyright © 2020 Clara Winter, Mark Love and Elle Nina Castle, VK Tritschler, Kristy Centeno, Nicole Sobon, Liz Ashlee, Mikaël Lemieux, Majanka Verstraete, and Celia Mulder.

All rights reserved.

INKSPELL PUBLISHING

207 Moonglow Circle #101

Murrells Inlet, SC 29576

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Everwood Academy

An Immortal Kindred Series Short Story

Clara Winter

Dedication

For Brian and Quinn

Chapter One

THIS SPRING DAY WAS special. May Day was my dad’s favorite holiday. When I was born sixteen years ago, May Day became even more important. He always made the preparations himself for the celebration, not allowing Selene or I to lift so much as a finger to help. To Dad, May Day was just as significant as the Summer Solstice.

The evening cooled in the dimming light of the forest. With the sun sinking in the west, the last rays brilliantly shot through the boughs of the pine trees. The air was fragrant with the scents of the dense woods. As soon as the sun fully set, Dad and Selene would join me. My fingers tingled with excitement. Without a sound, they arrived.

In the center of the clearing stood the white pole, long strips of white silk dancing in the breeze. In front of the pole lay an altar with a small cauldron, the various items needed for the spell neatly piled around it. Off to the side sat a table with cake and punch, just for me.

Ready, Grace? Dad’s deep, clear voice rang out in the twilight.

I nodded, taking my place on the perimeter. Even though other young witches participated in rituals at my age, my dad wanted me to wait one more year. Spells were one thing, but rituals required more focus. He theorized the wait would strengthen my powers. Next year, on my seventeenth birthday, I’d be able to join hands with him over the altar.

Dad pinched an herb here and poured a potion there until he had everything he needed in the cauldron. Selene watched as he stirred his concoction. Although witches and warlocks were equally powerful, witches often took the lead when it came to rituals. When I was fully of age, I’d  finally take the lead instead. For now, he was the one who orchestrated things. When the brew was to his liking, he looked over at me and smiled.

Dad and Selene clasped hands, bowing their heads to recite the incantation that would welcome spring and all its beauty. They murmured in unison until a soft glow emanated from the cauldron. The spring ritual was a gentle one. The glow would build until it spilled out and carpeted the ground around our feet. Then, we would dance around the maypole and eat chocolate chip cake, my favorite. Well, I would devour the cake. Dad and Selene, both vampires, would only watch.

Dad’s transition from a witch into a vampire/witch hybrid had not been without its hiccups. But love and friendship saw him through and he had come out the other side all the better for it.

The luminescent fog drifted from the table. I watched it move, the air like a liquid aurora borealis. As soon as the light hit the forest floor, something seemed to go wrong. Dad winced as if in pain. He shook it off, but then winced again.

What the... He let go of Selene’s hands to take a step back. His feet appeared fixed to the ground. He toppled backward onto his rear end.

Tash, what’s happening? Selene’s voice came out panicky.

I tried to run toward them, but an unseen force held me. I reached down to pull at my ankles. My feet were stuck as if in cement, just like my dad’s.

Suddenly, an explosion rocked me backward, knocking my feet free. I flew into the trunk of a gnarled old tree, and then hit my head with a smack. The bark scraped my back as I slid toward the ground and crumpled into a heap. I didn’t lose consciousness, but it took me several minutes of head massaging to get my bearings.

When I felt like I could stand, I pressed my hand against the tree for support and wobbled to my feet. My vision blurry, I stumbled back to the clearing. Everything was blown to smithereens. I was utterly alone.

FOUR MONTHS LATER

Beyond the closed and rusted fence, the Everwood Academy appeared dilapidated. The porch which stretched across the front of the old Georgian home sagged in the middle like a slinky. Two of the three spires were bent, leaning precariously to the side as if they would snap off and impale you at any moment. Most of the windows were broken, the jagged glass open in a vicious snarl. The point of this illusion was to keep out those who didn’t belong. Those like me. Those without magic.

Haven’t I been tortured enough? I whined, kicking the ground with the tip of my steel-toe boot. Now I get to live in this ruin?

Aunt Millicent slammed the trunk of her car, a suitcase in one hand and a duffle bag in the other. She thought it would be best to arrive in an automobile, instead of me on piggyback with her holding all the luggage. I tried to tell her there were vamps at this school, so it wouldn’t appear odd, but she wouldn’t hear of it. Don’t be so dramatic, Grace. This is exactly where you should be.

I rolled my eyes and shoved my hands into the pockets of my plaid skirt. If she was going to insist on forcing me to attend a school I had no business attending, then she could carry my bags all by herself. 

Aunt Millicent, looking beautiful in her skinny jeans and silk blouse, ignored me. She dropped the suitcase at my feet as she walked by. Headmaster Flit is expecting us. Let’s get a move on. Aunt Millicent snapped her fingers. I thought she was snapping them at me and jumped.

Before I could form a saucy retort, the rusty chain threaded through the gates and fell away. Metal groaned as the centuries old hinges swung the gates open. Great...another reminder I have no business at a magical school.

How did you know to do that, you’re not a witch? I crossed my arms in defiance.

Aunt Millicent tossed her golden hair and looked back at me. It was in the letter they sent, Grace. If you’d bothered to read it, you would have known yourself. You don’t have to be a witch to open the gate, it’s already magical.

Millicent, Annie, and Bria were not really my aunts, not by blood, anyway, but all three women were as dear to me as any real family could be. Annie and Bria were off fighting demons with Alexandre and Thayer, which meant Millicent had the honor of dropping me at school. I would rather have been chasing demons through the jungles of Thailand with the others, instead of standing outside this rusty gate ready to face who knows what inside.

My aunt strode down the center of the overgrown walkway with my duffle swinging lightly from her fingertips. I gritted my teeth but remained silent. This was happening whether I liked it or not.

I snatched at the handle of the suitcase and dragged it behind me as I followed, gravel crunching as we went. The second my foot hit the path, the gate swung shut behind me with a clang. I tripped forward, a feeling of foreboding washing over me.

A dream greeted my eyes. A moment ago, the house appeared condemned. Now, it was beautiful, not something I would ever admit. The sagging porch was level and shined with a fresh coat of white paint. Every window was intact, the glass gleaming, the black of the shutters deep and true. The exterior brick was a deeper russet-red than Aunt Millicent’s lipstick.

She turned with one hand on her hip and a smug grin on her face. It took everything in my power not to roll my eyes a second time. Not quite what you thought, is it, Grace?

My aunt’s use of my given name was another blow. She knew how it riled me up. I hated my name and always had. Mom was a little old-fashioned and loved old lady names. I went by Rae, but my dad and stepmom refused to call me anything but Grace. Aunt Millicent wasn’t trying to be mean; she was just using the name my now dead parents preferred.

I refused to answer her teasing and instead focused on other things. The rocking chairs on the porch were inviting and the fragrant honeysuckle, in full bloom around the perimeter, begged to be picked and inhaled. Even in the faux dark, it was lovely. This was for Aunt Millicent’s benefit. The headmaster blanketed the area in darkness for her arrival. The fake night would lift once she was back in the motel room just down the street. She would hang out there until the sun set for real and then return to France while I remained here, all alone.

The sour look on my face was well practiced. I kept it in place as I trained my eyes on the gravel path. I didn’t want to like it here and I wouldn’t. Standing straighter I lifted my chin in defiance. Aunt Millicent should have kept me at home with her and Jack. I couldn’t understand why she wanted to get rid of me. My sparkling personality aside, I tried to make myself as useful as possible around the chateau. Yet, here I was.

Aunt Millicent marched up the front steps, her platform heels steadier than my flat-heeled boots and knocked three times on the red door.

A girl with white-blonde hair answered. Her smile was sweet and her eyes such a clear blue that I could almost hear the breeze while gazing into them. The hair and eyes didn’t match her deep olive skin tone, creating an arrestingly beautiful juxtaposition. May I help you, ma’am?

Melinoe Madigan? Dear me, I would know you anywhere, my dear. You’re the spitting image of your lovely mother. I met her at the school’s orientation and she just gushed over her girls. My aunt’s voice raised an octave. I wondered who she was trying to impress.

The beautiful girl’s eyes went narrow for a moment. I was sure Aunt Millicent hadn’t noticed, but I had. No, ma’am. I’m Macaria Madigan.

How silly of me not to ask. I forgot you and your sister are identical. This is my niece, Grace Allerton. Millicent gestured toward me. We have an appointment with the headmaster.

Macaria Madigan inclined her head, the smile never falling from her lips. He’s down the hall to the right. I’m sure you can find your way, can’t you, ma’am? I don’t want to be late for class.

Of course. We’ll see ourselves in. Aunt Millicent swept into the hall, banging my duffel against the doorframe.

Macaria Madigan stepped aside, then looked me over from head to toe before turning her back on us and disappearing behind a corner. If she was the example of what I was to expect here, I was doomed. She wore the same uniform I did, only it fit her curves like a glove and without a wrinkle in sight. Her hair was long and sleek, cascading around her perfectly contoured face like a picture frame.

On the other hand, my look was markedly different. I purposely misbuttoned my plaid skirt so that it sat on my hips at an angle. Half of my white shirt was untucked. Black leather wristbands wound around both wrists. Around my neck I wore a crucifix and my hair was tousled and short. Lip gloss and eyeliner were my only make-up. Aunt Millicent said my eyeliner reminded her of the Eye of Horus. I wasn’t sure if that was a compliment. 

Once inside the grand house, Aunt Millicent strutted down the hall; her head high. I shuffled along behind her. If all the girls were like Macaria Madigan, I saw a lot of lonely lunches in my future.

We passed through a hall lined with marble busts of men and women who all looked the same. I tried to read the plagues underneath them as we moved, but Aunt Millicent was fast, and I didn’t want to fall behind. At the end, she banked right and again knocked three times on a wooden door so imposing, I wondered if a king lived behind it.

Enter, boomed a voice from beyond.

A chill crept down my arms, raising goosebumps as it went. My aunt turned the brass, eagle-headed knob and pushed the door open.

I remained fixed in place. It pained me to admit how nervous I really was. Inside, the contents of my late lunch revolted. Bile rose to the back of my throat. I swallowed it down, determined to at least appear self-possessed.

Beresford Flit was the director of Everwood. Some claimed he was older than the building itself, but it couldn’t be true. Headmaster Flit was only one of a long line of stewards the academy had seen. He smiled warmly at my aunt from his seat behind an enormous carved desk.

He rose with the ease of a much younger man, angling his hip to the side as he wound around the desk to take my aunt’s hands in his. Reading glasses sat perched upon his bald dome, his brown eyes crinkling at the corners. Aunt Millicent met him once at the orientation and already they were best buds.

Millicent. It’s lovely to see you. How is everyone holding up? Tash was one of my favorite students.

When my father’s name fell from this man’s lips, the bile returned. I did my best not to think about him and Selene. It was better to pretend they never existed at all. The weight of what I lost was too crushing.

Millicent mumbled something about staying strong.

Beresford Flit’s gaze left hers and fell on me, still standing awkwardly in the hallway. You must be Grace. Please, come in and have a seat. He moved forward, not touching me, but swept his arm toward the chairs opposite his desk.

My feet moved of their own accord until I found myself sitting in the comfortable leather chair.

The headmaster closed the door, then seated himself on the corner of his desk, hovering above me in a way that made me squirm. He leaned a hand on his knee. Before we can finish the acceptance paperwork, I need to clarify a few things with you, Millicent.

My gaze slid to my aunt who nodded, her prim smile gave nothing away. Whatever you need.

It’s come to my attention that your niece has not had any formal magical training. Her parents home-schooled her. Is this correct?

I kept my head down. Maybe I’d be going home with Aunt Millicent, after all. Who needed school anyway?

That is correct. As you know, Tash and Selene were dedicated to hunting demons and moved around quite a lot. They felt they could provide all the schooling Grace needed, as Tash was very gifted.

I stared at my knee, hoping against hope he would deny my entry. All I had to do was admit I lost my powers, but Millicent would be angry if I said anything, so I held my tongue. It was bound to come up sooner or later.

I see. A pause hung in the air. Headmaster Flit knew. He cleared his throat. It’s also been suggested that Grace has lost her powers. I’m sorry to say it outright like that, Millicent and Grace, but there’s no other way to put it.

The leather underneath Millicent squeaked as she shifted in her seat. She was uncomfortable, but if I knew my aunt, she wouldn’t let this go.

Beresford, I understand your reluctance. Yes, Grace had setbacks. The trauma she experienced is no doubt what’s affecting her abilities. I’m convinced that once she settles in and gets back into a routine, all will be well. You can provide her with the instruction we cannot. Grace belongs here as much as her father did.

My heart sank. This was Aunt Millicent’s argument since my parents disappeared and I moved into the chateau. She wanted bigger and better things for me and didn’t think she could provide them. What I wanted mattered little. The adults spoke over me as if I wasn’t even in the room.

It’s possible her powers will return to her. Headmaster Flit said, then paused briefly. I waited. Would he kick me to the curb?

Letting out a deep breath, he continued. "I’m happy to have Grace here on a trial basis, Millicent. Let’s give her until the end of the school year and see where we are. After that, if she still can’t perform any spells, then she will have to go home."

Aunt Millicent sighed. I was sure she was relieved. Thank you, Beresford. I know her abilities will come back, and I know Grace will end up as successful as her father.

I wanted to snicker, but instead remained silent. The next several months of my life were decided. I would remain at Everwood Academy; a freak. My shortcomings would spread quickly, no matter how much I kept to myself. I was a witch without any powers. What did that make me? Absolutely nothing.

Chapter Two

AUNT MILLICENT WALKED me to my room. Because the school year was already underway, and the school was at capacity, all the regular dorms were taken. My sleeping quarters would be in the attic with the bats and other things that went bump in the night. It seemed fitting.

I left the suitcase by the door and went to peer out the tiny dormer window. At least I would be deliciously alone here.

Alright, darling. Everything is set. You start classes in the morning, and I’ll be back to pick you up for Thanksgiving break. We’ll cook a huge meal just for you in celebration of your first quarter at school. When I didn’t respond, Aunt Millicent continued. I know you don’t want to be here, love. I promise it will work out. This is where you should be, not moping around the chateau with a couple of old vampires. Her voice cracked.

For the first time since we arrived, I looked my aunt in the face. Maybe she was as broken as I was. I steeled myself against tears and forced myself to smile. If I hug you will you get out of here?

She laughed, crossing the room and pulling me into her strong arms. Be good. I’ll see you in a few weeks. With that she kissed my cheek and was gone.

Be good. My aunt’s words echoed in my mind. While they hadn’t given me the list of rules, I had a feeling there were a lot of them. The structure would make it hard to rebel, but I was sure I could find a way.

I glanced around the space where I would live for the next two years, unless a space opened up on the regular floor. It was comfortable enough. The twin bed was nicely made, topped with a thick cream quilt and two fluffy pillows with a second more colorful quilt folded at the foot. A braided rug, a bit worn, but comfortable underfoot covered most of the pine floor. A small bureau and matching nightstand, both painted white, rounded out the rest of the furniture. I would have liked a chair, but beggars can’t be choosers. The ceiling was a bit low, but not so low that I had to stoop. The walls were bare, which bothered me. I’d have to dig up something to hang. I hated a bare wall.

The bed dipped down underneath my weight. I sat on my hands, gnawing at the inside of my lip. What was I going to do with myself for the next several hours? My stomach growled. I was starving and had no idea when dinner would be or where it was served. I was too upset in Headmaster Flit’s office to ask for any particulars. Now, I needed to know how things ran around here.

A sharp knock on the door startled me out of my skin. I jumped, my heart pounding in my throat. My head snapped toward the door. Come in, I called.

The small attic door opened to reveal the same girl from earlier. She looked almost ghostly in the shadows beyond the door, her white hair floating around her like a veil. There was no trace of a smile on her lips. Instead, her eyes were narrowed, and she appeared annoyed. I’m supposed to give you your school schedule and take you for a tour.

I attempted a smile. Thanks... Macaria, right?

The girl rolled her eyes. I’m Melinoe. Everyone calls me Mel, and my sister Mac. Here’s your schedule. Mel flicked a hand in the air. A piece of paper materialized from a spark then glided toward me.

I plucked it out of space and looked it over. This was not what I was expecting. Practical Potions, Spells 101, Raising Spirits, and Supernatural Beings. These classes were as basic as it gets. I’d already taken these through my homeschooling and passed my exams with flying colors. Of course, that was before I lost my powers. Punishing me for losing my powers by making me take basic classes? Wonderful, insert eye roll.

I didn’t want to say anything to make myself look stupid, so I tucked it in my skirt pocket and smiled at the girl looking down at my boots with a sneer. Whenever you’re ready, she said as she turned without waiting for an answer.

The next two years of my life were going to suck. I closed my eyes, trying to will myself to feel better. I refused to look weak or scared in front of these girls who were clearly not going to be my friends. After losing my parents, this would be easy. I did my best to ignore the rising wave of nausea and the tightness at the back of my throat. You can do this, Rae.

Are you coming, or not? Mel’s voice echoed from the small hallway outside. Better to get this over with.

I placed one foot in front of the other until I was out the door. That’s all I had to do, take things one step at a time.

We trudged down the rickety stairs which groaned with the weight of each step. Mel didn’t speak again until we had descended the attic stairs and stood on the second-floor carpet. I hadn’t paid much attention to my surroundings earlier. This part of the house was as immaculate as the first-floor entry and Headmaster Flit’s office. The pale-yellow carpet lining the hall was plush. An antique cherry sideboard sat along one wall. A white vase overflowing with freshly picked hydrangeas sat atop the shining wood.

Mel threw out a hand, indicating the seemingly endless hallway. These are the girls’ dorm rooms. That room, there. She pointed to the room dead ahead. Belongs to Miss Price. She’s our dorm mother. The boys’ rooms are in the east wing. This is the west wing. You access the east wing from another set of stairs, but it's forbidden for girls to go up there and vice versa.

My tour guide moved on, again not bothering to see if I followed. She wound her way down the enormous, carved oak staircase, her long hair swinging from side to side. When we reached the bottom, she sighed loudly, pointing down the hall toward Headmaster Flit’s office. You’ve already been there. Beyond the headmaster’s office is the kitchen, but you won’t have any cause to go there. Ahead is the formal parlor- that’s where we generally see our parents, and across from the parlor on the other side of the front door is the lounge. That’s one of the spaces students tend to congregate in the evenings.

Mel took off, again, heading in the opposite direction of the headmaster’s office. Here’s the dining room. She stopped so abruptly, I nearly slammed into her back. Breakfast is from 7am-8am. Lunch is at noon, sharp, and dinner at 6:30pm. Try not to be late.

We toured the remainder of the house which consisted of a library, game room, and the stairs to the boy’s dorms. Mel swept out the back doors, stepping onto an expansive porch. Again, she stopped, pointing to a building at the back right of the property. That building there is the school. There are two stories, basic classes on the first floor, advanced on the second. She looked back at me for the first time, an ugly sneer on her lips. She knew my schedule. I swallowed, meeting her pointed gaze with my own.

Mel flipped her hair, turning her attention back to the yard. She bounced down the porch steps. Follow that path there and you’ll find the swimming pool and tennis courts. There’s also a garden, that way. She pointed to the far left of the property. But, no one ever goes there except the nerds. Any questions?

I didn’t want to ask her anything, but there was one thing I needed to know. What time do classes begin in the morning?

8:30.

Great. I’ll go unpack before dinner. I remained on the porch, hoping Mel would leave me alone and go back inside.

Tossing her shoulders in a shrug, she did exactly that, mumbling something like whatever, and was gone. I hadn’t seen anyone during the tour and wondered where everyone else was. They must still be in class. Mel must have been given a reprieve in exchange for taking me on her spectacular tour.

The nerdy garden sounded like my kind of place. I wanted to be outside and with everyone still in school, I would be alone. The path was well maintained, the gray flagstone, neatly laid, without a weed in sight. I walked for several minutes, the heat of the September sun a little too much. I was ready for the cooler temperatures of fall.

When I reached the entrance to the garden, I peered inside, noting the copious amount of shade. The trees, hedges, and bushes were all a bit overgrown. It had a Secret Garden feel to it that reminded me of late nights reading one of my favorite books.

Benches sat underneath the canopies of maple and fir trees. It would be lovely to read here. All manner of flowers were in bloom, many out of their season. This garden was magical. I suspect someone had enchanted this place so the blooms would never wilt.

Of course, there were other creatures at the academy besides witches. Mel and Mac were clearly of my kind, as was Headmaster Flit. But I wondered what other magical species I’d encounter. Aunt Millicent said to brace myself for anything—vampires, shifters, and fairies, all attended and taught school at Everwood.

My parents kept me isolated from other witches as my dad had become known as an abomination amongst our kind in the beginning and he always felt a little resentful. I was annoyed by the isolation. It seemed better to me that I be more socialized, but they never saw it as important. Aunt Millicent and Uncle Jack also led a more solitary existence, apart from the other vamps, the kindred who made it their mission to clear the earth of the demon scourge. I never quite understood her and Jack’s introversion but was happy with our little family. And when the others returned from their travels, the house was lively and full of laughter.

A bell sounded off into the distance, drawing me out of my thoughts. Classes must be over for the day. I thought with dread of all the students now streaming over the back lawn toward the house. Even though there were only around fifty, I was still chilled to my core with fear. I wasn’t a social butterfly. I was awkward, there was no other way to say it. Making friends would be difficult. The thought of having to socialize, smile, and pretend to be interested in the boring lives of my fellow classmates filled me with an unspeakable dread. They hadn’t seen the things I had.

The bell meant one good thing. Dinner would be soon. Thank Goddess. I don’t know why I was so hungry, I’d eaten a late lunch, after all. It must be the nerves working my adrenalin.

A rustling at the garden’s entrance startled me. I was hoping for solitude until dinnertime. I flipped through the choices in my mind. I could stay where I was and be forced to smile, possibly answering questions I’d rather not, or I could jump up and hide behind a hedge. Maybe I could even sneak out without being seen.

Hiding seemed like a great option. I sprang off the bench, moving faster than I had in months. I took refuge behind a thick, green hedge, pressing myself against the spiny, untrimmed branches. For several minutes, I heard nothing and began to wonder if I’d imagined the whole thing. Whoever was there must have changed their mind about entering the garden.

Relief eased the aching tension knotted in my belly. Sneaking around wouldn’t be necessary. I stepped out from behind the bush. There in front of me sat a figure on the same bench I previously occupied.

The girl was bent over. She appeared to be wiping her eyes on a tissue, although she made no sound. Maybe if I crept ever so carefully past her, she wouldn’t see me. I took a gentle step, wishing the path were made of grass rather than flagstone and gravel. The tiny pebbles underfoot shifted, crunching under the heel of my heavy boots.

Her dark head snapped up to regard me with sad, hazel eyes. She blinked back tears, sniffling as she did so. Who are you? The girl’s voice was quiet and sweet. There was none of the malice or annoyance I saw in the white-haired twins.

I looked from side to side to clarify it was me she was speaking to. This girl was looking at me, really looking at me. Rae.

The corners of her mouth twitched up into a smile. Hi, Rae. I like your boots. Her gaze roamed over me. And your crucifix. How did you get your skirt to angle like that?

It briefly crossed my mind that she was being sarcastic, but I sensed differently. Instead of my usual eye roll, I returned her smile. Thanks. I buttoned it wrong, that’s all. I lifted the tail of my shirt to show her my handiwork.

Cool. You must be new. The girl looked back down, her gaze falling from my face to the ground. Someone hurt this girl, and my thoughts went right to the twins.

Yeah, I start tomorrow. What’s your name and what has you so upset? I plopped next to her on the bench. Something about her drew me in. I wanted to put my arm around her and reassure her, but that would seem weird.

My name is Tala. I’m not upset, really. Just a stupid misunderstanding. I’ll let you go; you probably have plans with some of the other girls. Tala rose from the bench. I noticed there were scratches on the dark skin of her arm.

I don’t know anyone here, and from the icy reception I received from the witchy twins, I’m guessing I can expect more of the same. Speaking my mind was a risk. What if Tala was friends with Macaria and Melinoe? I suspected she wasn’t, but if she was, I had firmly ruined any social standing I could ever hope to attain.

Tala blurted out a laugh, covering her mouth with the back of her hand as she spun to face me. I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have laughed, only you described every encounter I’ve ever had with them.

It’s okay. I didn’t feel very amused at the time, but now I guess it does seem kind of funny. I chuckled.

Tala resumed her seat, her body more relaxed now that we had shared a laugh. I don’t have many friends, but you’re more than welcome to sit with me in the dining room. I usually like to sit as far in the back as I can.

I’m a back of the room kind of gal, myself. That sounds great.

What’s your schedule like? Maybe we have some classes together. Tala laid her hands in her lap, tears no longer welling in her eyes. I wanted to ask again what she was crying about but didn’t want to make her uncomfortable. Showing her my schedule was another big no. The basic classes were embarrassing.

One look at her face told me I couldn’t refuse. Her smile was as warm as her eyes. I reached into the pocket of my skirt, fingers grasping an edge of my new life. Here, my eyes dropped as I held out the folded piece of paper.

Tala took it out of my hands. I couldn’t look at her. She seemed to be silent for too long. Finally, she said, We don’t have any classes together, but my first period is next door to yours, so at least we can walk together. Her voice was cheery and bright.

I tried to smile as she handed the schedule back toward me. My parents homeschooled me, so they’re not sure where I belong yet.

Whichever classes you’re in doesn’t matter. I’m sure...

Tala was interrupted by laughter. The sharp shrill echo redirected our attention to the group of students walking underneath the arbor and interrupting our solitude. Mac and Mel moved in unison side by side, four others walking in formation behind them. They came closer like a macabre parade.

I scowled at the group. This couldn’t be good. I doubted these supes were here to introduce themselves and invite me to dinner. They were here to start trouble, the two head witches leading the way.

Telling the twins apart was impossible. There wasn’t a single feature that distinguished one from the other. The four in the back looked to me like a mixed bag of supernatural beings. Two of the girls had the angular faces and light features of the fay. One of the boys was huge. His body was powerful, overly so, his muscles nearly bursting through the thin fabric of his white button-down shirt. His tie could barely contain his thick neck. Bright gold eyes, enhanced by the golden hue of his skin, told me he was a shifter, likely a dragon. Shifters were not at the top of the supe pecking order, but dragons were another matter. They were at the top of everything.

My gaze fell on the last member of the gang heading our way. He stood a little farther back from the rest, his eyes trained on the ground in front of him, rather than menacingly fixed on me and Tala. He was smaller than the dragon shifter, but not by much. The boy had a more casual air than the others, one hand stuck in the pocket of his navy slacks, the other dangling to the side. His hair, a little long on top, hung down almost in his eyes. The pallor of his skin suggested that he may be a vampire.

I lived with vampires, but the rest were not creatures I encountered every day. It was all new territory for me.

On closer examination, I began to question my conclusion. If the boy was a vampire, he wouldn’t be running around in the sunlight, there were night classes specifically for the nocturnal among us. He was something else, but what?

Mac and Mel halted about ten paces from where we sat. Well, look who’s made friends. The two freaks. Maybe the worthless witch can scratch behind your ears, wolf-girl. One of the twins spoke, her voice condescending and mean. The girls laughed, eliciting chuckles from the two fay girls and the dragon.

I narrowed my eyes as I stood, my hard gaze focused on whichever girl had spoken, unsure which twin I was addressing. I squared my shoulders with bravado I didn’t feel. This may be a wholly new environment for me, but I knew one thing, if I showed weakness now, they’d always treat me as weak. They may never see me as anything other than beneath them, but at least I’d show them they couldn’t intimidate me. I’d been in the presence of much more frightening creatures than these two.

I get that you think you rule this school. I could really care less. Don’t speak to my friend, or me, that way ever again.

There was a mass intake of air. The twins were clearly not used to being called on their garbage. They stared at me with those eerie eyes, their mouths hanging open for a beat. Out of the corners of my eyes, I could see the shocked looks of the others, as well. All except one; the boy I thought may be a vampire, finally looked up from the ground, a smirk playing at the edges of his mouth.

The twin who spoke clapped her mouth shut and the other one took over. Who do you think you are? Without powers, you’re basically human. You shouldn’t even be here. Why don’t we show you what we mean? She threw out a tiny hand, flinging a silent spell in my direction. Before I could duck or leap out of the way, a force I couldn’t see, wrapped itself around me. The spell hit the warped air and fell to the ground as a vaporous mist.

The twins threw their hands on their hips in unison and spun to face the smirking boy. Draven, stay out of this.

Vampire or not, he’d just helped me. Draven rolled his eyes heavenward. His hands never once left his pocket or his side. It’s not very sporting of you to throw spells at defenseless people, Mel. This is boring, let’s go eat. He turned on his heel, sauntering away from the crowd.

I’m with Draven. This is lame. The dragon shifter broke off, trailing after the boy who walked like a runway model.

One of the fay girls tugged at the sleeve of the other, and they, too peeled off. It was now just the twins, Tala, who still sat on the bench, and me.

The twins whirled back around, indignation digging lines into their foreheads. With a scowl, Mel, the one who tried to throw her spell, crossed her arms across her chest. Whatever. You’ll never last here, anyway. Everyone knows it. She and her sister turned with the attitude of a thousand divas, leaving Tala and I alone.

What a couple of..., hey, where are you off to? Tala had snatched up her books. She held them clutched tightly to her chest as she moved swiftly past.

It’s okay, you don’t have to talk to me. She spoke to the ground, her eyes never reaching my face.

Wait. I reached out, grabbing at a sleeve.

Tala ground to a halt, her eyes trained on her feet. You’re going to have a hard-enough time without me hanging around. I’m fine, really. She tugged her sleeve out of my grasp.

I dropped my hand, so she could run off if she wanted. I don’t care if you’re a wolf shifter. I don’t even see what the big deal is. Do you care that I’m a powerless witch?

Tala moved her head back as if she might look at me. Instead, she shrugged. Of course, not.

There you go. You don’t care what I am, and I don’t care what you are. It only makes sense that we should be friends. Don’t you think?

Tala smirked, her gaze finally lifting to meet mine, but. her body was still twisted away from me. Come on. She jerked her head toward the entrance.

Chapter Three

TALA TOOK ME TO HER room to drop off her books. She occupied one of the farthest rooms down the seemingly endless hallway. Her window overlooked the expansive back lawn and the schoolhouse. Both sides of the room were identical. Two twin beds with the same yellow comforters, two small white nightstands, two matching dressers and two desks were separated by an imaginary line down the center of the room.

The difference was in the extras. One side was sterile. Blank walls. The only picture sat in a crystal frame on top of the dresser along with a jewelry box with a lock. The top of the desk was the tidiest I’d ever seen. Not even a speck of dust. Pencils sat in a cup pushed into the far back corner, while three notebooks lay stacked precisely one on top of the other in the center.

Tala tossed her books on the other desk, far different by comparison. Wadded up papers, pencil shavings, and bent staples littered the top. The walls on her side were covered with posters of some of my favorite bands. I smiled. I had found my person.

I have every single one of these albums, I said as my gaze roamed from poster to poster.

Tala leaned over the desk, grabbing up a lip-gloss and swiping it over her lips. I figured. Your outfit isn’t exactly subtle. I’m kind of surprised they let you get away with it.

After seeing all the other girls in their uniforms, I was too. Everyone was neatly pressed and tucked. Only simple jewelry and penny loafers, not lace-up steel-toe boots. I wondered if the headmaster felt sorry for me, so he let my appearance slide.

Anyway, Tala continued. Where’s your room? Which one of the beasts are you bunking with?

I pointed heavenward. I’m in the attic, alone.

Tala jerked upright. No way.

I blurted out a laugh. Way. Want to check it out? Her face lit up.

I dragged Tala up to show off my little attic. After seeing her room, I was happy for the solitude. Sharing a space wasn’t really a thought I relished. With my luck, I’d probably be paired with a girl who’d do nothing but torment me. I wondered what it was like for Tala. Too bad she couldn’t be my roommate.

This is cool, Rae. Tala moved around the space, her head craning in every direction to take in all the nooks and crannies of the small room. She plopped down next to the window. We need to get you a bean bag, or something.

I perched on the edge of the bed. There was a definite lack of lounging surfaces. I needed to fix that if we hung out in here again. I peered out the dormer window, a thought coming to life in my mind. Tala, I know a bit about supes and how we all fall in the hierarchy, but I probably don’t know as much as I should. My parents never really talked about it, because they were so against any sort of ordering of our kind. I know dragon shifters are up there, and witches fall somewhere in the middle, so why was the dragon seemingly following the twins? Shouldn’t it be the other way around?

Tala’s face fell as she leaned the back of her head against the windowsill. It should be, but the twins rule the roost around here. Dragon and phoenix shifters are usually at the top of the heap. There aren’t any phoenixes here, and just the one dragon. Then daemon’s, then witches and vampires, who are pretty much on the same tier, then. Here Tala paused. An uncomfortable flutter moved around my belly. I knew what she was going to say. Then, wolves and other shifters. We’re the least magical, I guess.

Not to me. I smiled. Not only was Tala much more magical than I was in my current state, I was always fascinated by wolves. Wolves are majestic. And anyway, we should all be considered the same. We’re all magical beings. Except for me.

AFTER HANGING OUT FOR a while in the attic, Tala left to clean up before dinner. I was starved and couldn’t wait to get to the dining room. Tala promised that although the social atmosphere wouldn’t be much better than the garden, the food would be fantastic.

I made it downstairs right at 6:20pm. There was no way I was going to be late for dinner. Heavenly odors wafted down the hall setting my stomach to growling. The din coming from up ahead told me the room was already packed with students ready to eat.

I turned the corner, the open room beyond a welcome sight. The room was filled with round tables covered with white cloths. Students occupied almost every table. Tala said she sat in the back corner and would save me a seat.

Before I could make it another step something stopped me. I pitched forward; my feet stuck in place on the rug. Quizzically, I looked down. There was no reason as to why I couldn’t move. I attempted to take another step, but it was no use, something had stuck my shoes to the carpet. I panicked as I thought about the forest on May Day. The same thing had happened there.

I bent down and grabbed my ankle but my foot wouldn’t budge. Magic! I knew it. The vibration of it buzzed the closer to the carpet I got.

I grunted in annoyance. Straightening up, I yelled toward the dining room. Was it my imagination or did the noise inside seem to grow louder? I shouted in a higher octave, raising my voice as panic descended over me. Those witches—it had to be the evil twins—had enchanted the dining room so no one inside could hear me. I was helpless.

I glanced at my watch. The second hand ticked to 6:30 and the doors swung shut. As soon as the room was closed, my feet came loose. I tumbled forward onto my knees and swore under my breath. What I really wanted to do was cry, but I refused to give them the satisfaction.

I sprang to the door to try the knob. It was no use. I pounded. No one came. I was stuck outside with nothing to eat, hunger almost forcing me to whimper.

What’s all the commotion?

The voice of Headmaster Flit boomed, causing me to jump back away from the door in fright. Uh, sorry, sir. I’m locked out of the dining room.

The headmaster stepped toward me, his hands clasped in front of him, small round eyes peering at me over his wiry spectacles. You were apprised of the rules, were you not, Miss. Allerton?

My cheeks flamed as I squirmed under his scrutiny. All I had to do was blurt out what happened, he would let me in to eat and the twins would get in trouble. The truth was my horrible tour guide hadn’t told me any of the rules of Everwood Academy. I almost tattled, but then I bit my tongue, saying something else instead. Yes, sir. I was unpacking and lost track of time.

Beresford Flit grunted something unintelligible. I never make exceptions, Miss. Allerton. However, I can’t very well let you starve your first night here. I also suspect there was another factor at work here, but I won’t ask you to snitch if you don’t want to. He reached out a long hand, crooked his finger and tapped twice on the door. It swung open.

Thank you, sir. It won’t happen again. I backed away with a smile on my face, eager to get inside.

Once I crossed the threshold, my gaze roamed the room, and instant relief washed over me. No one seemed to notice my late arrival, except the twins who sat at the very center of the room. Both of their heads were turned toward me, identical scowls on their scrunched-up faces. I raised an eyebrow.

Rae, over here. Tala sat in the very back, just as she said. I slid into the cushioned chair she kicked out with her foot. Where have you been?

Long story but it involves our friends. I’ve only been here a few hours and I’m already over it. I snatched a warm roll out of the breadbasket, tearing it in half and cramming the delicious softness into my mouth.

What does that mean? Tala whispered; our heads low to keep our conversation private.

That means I’m going to figure out a way to get my powers back so those two will stop messing with me, and you. I took a bite out of the diminishing roll. After, I eat.

As I crammed my mouth with bread, I let my gaze wander and caught Draven studying me. It was then I noticed something I hadn’t before, probably because when I made eye contact with him in the garden, I was focused on the twins. Draven’s eyes were red. Rather than being taken aback, I was drawn in. Red, demony eyes should have sent shivers down my spine. Instead, there was a warmth in them I wouldn’t have expected...a warmth and a sadness. Draven was a daemon. A being I knew almost nothing about.

My breath turned slightly erratic as we stared at each other from across the room. Who was this boy?

He blinked, looking back down at his plate, and the spell was broken.

Chapter Four

THE TWINS WOULDN’T stop their reign of terror unless someone took it upon themselves to make them. I really didn’t want to be that someone, but I was a quick study. I’d been here less than a day and they’d already messed with me twice. Who knows what else they would do? And what they’ve already done to everyone else?

Tala sat on the floor next to the dormer window while I lay on the bed staring up at the wood beams of the ceiling. If only my parents were here, they’d know what to do, I muttered.

Maybe you could call them? Are they powerful witches?

Tala didn’t know. How could she? We had only met this afternoon. My vampire-witch father and my vampire adoptive mother disappeared while performing an everyday ritual, was not really ‘get to know you’ conversation.

They’re gone, I whispered. Pain welled in my chest, but I suppressed it. I didn’t need or want to get bogged down in my grief. What I needed was my powers.

The floor creaked as Tala shifted her weight. She must be looking at me, but I didn’t remove my gaze from the ceiling.

I’m sorry, Rae. That sucks.

Yeah. And to answer your question, my dad was as powerful as it gets. Some say he was amongst the strongest to ever attend Everwood, and that was before he became a vampire. Together, he and Selene were unstoppable, which is why it’s so weird.

Wait, your dad was a hybrid? I heard that hybrids were hunted down almost immediately.

Yeah, that’s a long story. One we can get into another time. Telling my dad’s story would take all night. I needed to focus on the here and now.

Okay, well what’s weird then? If they were unstoppable, then where are they?

I shook my head. It doesn’t matter. My point is there’s no one I can ask for help. I sat up, turning my attention to Tala. Hey, is there a curfew?

Eleven, why? Tala cocked her head to the side as if preparing for whatever I may say.

I’m wondering what sort of wonders the library may hold, that’s all. Maybe I can find some answers in there. 

THE LIBRARY WAS A PLACE of magic. That was clear the second we stepped over the threshold. The air crackled with it. My fine hairs stood on end. The room was abandoned. There wasn’t a soul about, which suited me just fine.

The cavernous room was crammed with books. If the spines were any indication, these tomes were about as old as the Academy itself. Oak tables lined the center, the hard-backed chairs pushed in as if the room hadn’t been used in a while. Green-shaded lamps sat on the tables, every one turned on. 

The clock in the hall chimed nine times. We had two hours until curfew. I turned toward Tala. If we’re not in our rooms by curfew, what happens?

Her face twitched into a half-grin. We get to sleep in the halls.

Of course, I said. Alright, let’s get to work. Two hours is not a lot of time. I bounded up to a row of books dead ahead.

What am I looking for? Tala asked behind me.

I thought of Selene and all her important, ancient texts. She would have known what we needed. I ran my hand over the spines of the books in front of me. I’m not sure. Pull out anything relating to spells and pile them on the center table.

Tala huffed behind me. That’s going to be half the library.

She wasn’t wrong. I’d only been perusing for a few minutes and had already pulled out three books. I took them to the table and dumped them on the hard surface. The titles weren’t promising; The Danger of Love Spells, Spells for a Bountiful Harvest, and Spells to Perform with your Familiar. This isn’t what I need, I mumbled to myself, my chin propped in my hand.

There is another section with more dangerous books. Tala leaned her hip on the table, chewing on the tip of a fingernail.

I craned my neck to look around the room. Where?

Headmaster Flit keeps them in a room accessible only through his office. Maybe you could ask him. Tala said this as if it were perfectly reasonable. As if Beresford Flit would let a non-magical witch into his room of off-limit books. There was a reason they were kept under lock and key. The spells contained within those volumes were likely heavy-duty. Magic students shouldn’t be dabbling in. I didn’t see anything too dark in here, so they probably had to do with topics like necromancy and demon-summoning.

An idea formed in my mind, but I wasn’t sure if I should share my thoughts with Tala. We had become fast friends. I just wasn’t sure if we were yet close enough to commit breaking and entering together.

There was a chill in the library. Tala shivered. Her eyelids began to look heavy; she was tired. I pushed myself back from the table and stood to collect the books I’d gathered. Let’s put these back and head to bed. I’ll think about what to do, tomorrow.

I LEFT TALA AT THE base of the attic stairs and made like I was going up. Instead, I walked about halfway up the small, tight staircase and then double-backed. I peered over the railing, down the hallway. All was dark and quiet. I’d yet to meet the dorm mother, Miss. Price. I wasn’t sure if this was odd or not.

The house had a strange feeling I couldn’t quite put my finger on. It’s