Prologue, Chapter 3

October 4, 627 A.R.

9:05 A.M.

There's not much that surprises me. Young as I am, my education was hardly lacking and while I certainly won't delude myself into believing that I know everything, I at least know that I'll be able to keep my composure in most situations.

How I wish that was true in this situation, "Thank you both for waiting for me, I really appreciate it." She has a very beautiful smile. What the fuck do I say?

Marcus just grins behind me while pushing me forward, "It's no problem at all. Cassius was really excited to see you again!"

That fucking traitor! I'm gonna inci-

Medea faces me and I'm trying my best to hold back my magic from going out of control. My instinctual use of Combustion Magic has made it hard to control myself whenever my emotions run high, "Thanks again Cassius, I know how busy you usually are so I really appreciate you taking the time out of your usual schedule with Marcus to see me." Her smile makes me want to do��� something. Fuck, shit, I don't know what to do! Say something!

"You look gorgeous." NOT THAT! WHAT THE F-!

Medea just giggles and says, "Why thank you Cassius, you look very charming today as well." Her eyes suddenly narrow and she adds, "Although I do have to ask, why is it you still insist on wearing those hideous jackets of yours."

I gulp and try not to stutter as I answer, "It's really cold today."

Her expression turns blank and there's a twitch in her brow as she refutes, "That's what you've been saying ever since I've known you."

I feel myself only becoming even more flustered as I cry out, "It's not my fault this accursed kingdom is so damn cold!"

She is very exasperated as her dry tone conveys her thoughts, "You've lived here your entire life."

"I've been very cold my entire life then." At least most of my nervousness is gone. Talking to her is nice. Very nice.

Medea is very amused. She lets out a snort and starts to laugh. I end up chuckling as well despite my embarassment. I then realize something.

"He ditched us." Well, I can't really say I'm mad at Marcus anymore. Dare I say it, I'm quite grateful despite the surprise.

Medea smirks at me and starts batting her eyelashes, "You'll help me move into my dorm today, won't you?"

"…" Marcus, you're the best friend I could ever have.

October 5, 627 A.R.

2:47 P.M.

Sweat drips down my brow as I gulp down mouthfuls of water. I grab a towel from the bag near the workout bench and wipe off most of my sweat.

"School's in three days. You're probably gonna want a haircut soon." Marcus comments idly while typing on his phone.

I run a hand through my hair as I think. Staring at my reflection at the mirror, I take note of my appearance. My brown hair is definitely longer than I usually keep it. I let out a grunt as I say, "I'm gonna let my hair grow out."

Marcus is surprised. His astonishment quickly dissipates as I see a smirk start to form on his face. Not in the mood for any teasing, I idly use my magic and watch as a small explosion erupts in his face. I let out a sigh and look back at my reflection.

Yellow eyes stare back at me. Medea is back, school is starting soon. Most would be happy in my position yet at this moment I can't seem to muster any joy. I bore holes into my reflection as my thoughts seem slowly turn darker. I still can't find anything that I can truly care about. I don't have a goal or even a reason to keep getting out of bed. Everyday Marcus has to drag me around for me to actually get anything done. Is there even a point to all this? I do-

A feel a hand clamp around my shoulder as I look surprised to see Marcus standing beside me. I don't even need my Insight to know that he's worried.

His voice is gentle as he asks, "You okay?"

I turn back to my reflection as my thoughts start to lighten, "Maybe."

"You did take your meds today right?" A reasonable question. He might act like an idiot but his sense of responsibility is very admirable.

I release a sigh as I turn away from the mirror, staring at the ground, "Yeah, of course."

I hear him take a deep breath as he wraps an arm around me and start to guide me out of the gym, "Where are we going?"

He has a light smile on his face as he answers, "Yeti's."

I feel a slight smile of my own form as my mood brightens, "As long as you're buying."

He smirks, "I'll buy you as much ice cream as you want."

Marcus might be annoying most of the time, but I couldn't ask for a better friend.