Evie's morning started with a sense of anticipation, but also uncertainty. She had just woken up, the bed linens tangled around her legs as the soft rays of sunlight crept through the curtains. She stretched and exhaled, pushing herself up, her thoughts a whirl. Today will be better. I can do this.

The classroom smelled faintly of parchment, a mix of the ancient magic in the air and fresh ink. Elemental Theory was the first class of the day. The professor, Lysander, was an imposing figure—tall, with sharp features that seemed carved from stone. His dark eyes glimmered as he scanned the students, pacing before the chalkboard covered in symbols and runes.

Evie sat at the edge of her seat, trying to calm the flutter in her chest. Don't screw this up, don't screw this up. She glanced down at her palm, focusing on the heat she felt welling up inside her. The faintest spark flickered.

"Progress," Lysander noted dryly, his voice like gravel. "But you will need more than sparks if you're going to survive here." His eyes narrowed slightly as he turned away.

Her heart sank. What if I'm not good enough? But, she pushed the thought away. A small flicker of warmth remained in her palm—she wasn't failing, not yet.

Combat Tactics was next. A clash of steel and shouting commands filled the air as students sparred in the arena, trying to hone their magic and skills. Master Kaelen, with his white hair flowing like a cape, barked orders, his voice booming over the chaos.

Evie faced off against another student, her heart pounding in her ears. The wooden staff was awkward in her grip, but she managed to parry a blow. The impact sent a jolt through her, making her knees buckle slightly.

Focus! Focus! She barely managed to land a counterstrike before being knocked back, breathless but unharmed. As the final bell rang , class ended making her sigh in relief.

After that she walked down the hall with Duke as it was his duty of the day to keep her company and help her with her magic. Prince's had a long conversation about how atleast one of them will be accompanying her to her classes so that everything runs smoothly and she doesn't feel lonely

In Magical Control, the air was thick with tension. Students channeled their magic—some with grace, others with reckless abandon. Duke was watching her every movement like a hawk.

When Evie attempted to summon a fireball again, the room's atmosphere seemed to shift. The magic surged too quickly—too intensely. The heat was unbearable, and she panicked.

"Evie!" Duke's voice broke through the rising tide of fire. His magic was cool and calm as he wrapped water around her, dousing the flames. He caught her in his arms, his grip firm but gentle.

Her chest heaved with exertion. "I... I didn't mean to—"

"Shh," Duke murmured, soothing her with a tender smile. "You're fine, Little Wave. Just breathe."

Evie nodded, feeling both embarrassed and relieved. "Thanks..."

She was shaky, but Duke's presence grounded her. His kindness was a balm to her frayed nerves.

After the day's classes, Evie was summoned to Headmistress Calista's office. The room was warm, bathed in soft golden light from the windows that overlooked the courtyard. The four princes were already present, their expressions serious.

Calista greeted her with a soft smile. "Evie, you've made some progress today, but your magic remains volatile. You must learn control—your gifts are both powerful and dangerous."

Evie's pulse quickened. "Why me? Why do I have this magic?"

The headmistress's gaze softened. "That answer will come in time. For now, know this: You are not alone in this journey. These princes will guide you. Their magic will help you focus."

The princes looked at her, their eyes warm but intense.

Seth, always confident, grinned. "Looks like you're still stuck with us, Sunshine."

Sol smiled gently, his voice soothing. "You're not alone, Blossom. We'll help you."

Duke winked at her. "We've got your back, Little Wave."

Rowan stood apart from the group, his arms crossed. His silence was louder than words, and it didn't go unnoticed by Evie.

As they left the office, Evie could sense the tension between the princes. The air was thick with unspoken words, and she hesitated, unsure whether to say anything. She started walking, but Rowan spoke first, his voice low, filled with a hint of bitterness.

"We help her with magic. That's it."

Evie froze, her heart dropping into her stomach. Why did he say it like that? She could feel the words stinging.

Seth's smile faltered, his expression darkening. "What's your problem, Rowan? You think she doesn't deserve support?"

Rowan turned to face Seth, his jaw tight. "She didn't ask for this. It's our responsibility to help with magic. Nothing more."

Duke's face twisted in anger. "You think she's just a project?" He took a step forward, eyes flashing with fire. "She's a person, Rowan."

Sol remained silent for a moment, but the disappointment in his eyes was evident. "You're not seeing the bigger picture."

Evie could feel the argument starting to build, her chest tightening. She tried to speak, but the words caught in her throat.

"Enough," she whispered. "Please, stop."

Rowan, still glaring at the others, didn't seem to notice her distress.

The tension snapped when Seth's voice raised an octave. "You're being cold. You think this doesn't matter to her?"

"Shut up," Rowan bit back, his tone harsh. "You're not the one who has to deal with this."

Evie's heart twisted painfully. This is because of me. They're fighting because of me.

Before anyone could react, she turned and ran. She couldn't stay there—not like this, not when her presence was causing them to fall apart.

Evie's breath hitched as she pushed through the dense forest, her heartbeat drowning out every other sound. Her vision blurred with tears, her mind racing.

She couldn't take it—the tension, the arguments, Rowan's cold words. I don't belong here. I don't want to break them apart.

The cold air bit at her skin, but she barely noticed. The deeper she ran, the quieter everything became, as if the world itself were swallowing her whole. She stumbled over a root, falling to her knees, but she didn't bother getting up. She hugged herself, the weight of everything pressing down on her chest.

Maybe it would be better if I just disappeared... ______________________________

Cliffhanger....

Evie Baby, I feel so sad!!!🥺

Wonder what would be princes reaction to her fleeing away👀

Rowan why did u say that!!!🔪