Equinox Academy: Dark Prophecy

Chapter 10

Spiro POV

Shit, I’m in trouble…

As my uncle and I stand outside his office door, I can’t seem to tear my eyes off the beautiful woman walking down the corridor with her foster parents. The delicious sway of her hips is mesmerizing. The woman could be on the cover of any fashion magazine but something about her makes me not want to look away. It may be her power that I felt earlier as I tried to feel her out. When my brothers and I enter a room, we have a tendency to pulse magic as a defense mechanism. Most people think we do it on purpose and, sometimes I think Jericho does, but honestly in an amphitheater full of magical creatures one can’t help but pulse protective magic. It’s a bit of a warning and defense. However, as my power reached out, I felt a strange caress that cause my magic to all but purr in excitement. I tried to probe further but noticed there was a force blocking me. What’s weird is I didn’t recognize the block until I saw the magical bracers that I help create strapped to her forearms.

Those bracers were meant for people who were condemned to a strong sentence for the illegal use of magic on civilians. We developed those bracers with high concentrations of infused magic. Only the highest quality ingredients are used, this prevents even the strongest magic users from being able to wield their powers. It was actually an attempt to even stop a god if we happened to catch one abusing their power. Of course, we got permission from the gods to make such a device it seems even they don’t trust their own kind. I was alarmed to see her walking on stage with them on because I was certain that her power would be suppressed to the point her magic wouldn’t be detectable. My alarm must have been visible because my closet friend Damian intervened as I was about to stand up and make my worries known.

To my surprise, he grabbed my wrist and simply said “Just watch.” As she walked across the stage, I noticed I wasn’t the only one intrigued by her. Each of my brothers seemed to be paying attention to this mysterious woman. To my utter shock, I felt her power surge forward with a little probing from Glaukopis. It should have been impossible for that much of her powers to still be present. I tested those same bracers on many powerful Supes as well as myself and most could barely feel the presence of their powers let alone use them. This woman blew my mind without out even meeting her. I noticed that everyone was floored to see the impossible happen after that. What kind of creature is this woman? I almost couldn’t believe my eyes when I saw all five stones light up. In my studies, I have only heard of two accounts where the center stone lights up and I can’t recall anyone having more than one stone. So not only has she defied science and magically studies, but she has also become the first person in history to possess all five elements.

The question is why???

This woman is obviously special, but something tells me there is a reason she’s not been discovered until now. As if my uncle can hear my thoughts he whispers, “I’m not sure how she has made it so long without being detected but that young lady has a hell of a road ahead of her.” I nod my head in agreement. Some people struggle to learn just one element and she must try and conquer five in four years.

“Than had a premonition about her.” My head snaps to him and I give him my full attention. She met Than. My insides bristle a bit and I find it odd that I’m slightly upset about that. Than is a strange being. Many at this school know him to be a God that chooses to walk among supes and humans which doesn’t sit well with the other Gods but being the God of Death gives him a strange immunity. No one knows why he is less restricted than the other Gods, but my theory is that Zeus is wary of him which makes him formidable to anyone who dares to challenge him. Most people find him unapproachable especially because his power is not easy to get used to. He was only made a part of our circle because he helps Calix with his goddess-given gift not to mention he and my uncle seem to have a special bond although I have never inquired why they are so special to each other. Most people run or cower in his presence and this curious girl was able to not only stay grounded around him, but she could even stand his touch without his power overwhelming her.

Who is this woman???

“What was it about?” I finally managed to ask after fighting down a bit of irritation. I’m not sure what it was that caused it, but I think it’s all the unknown that surrounds this woman. “That’s the thing, after he spoke it, I slowly began to forget it. No matter how hard I try I can’t seem to recall any of the words he spoke. It’s like something is stopping me from remembering. All I know is we need to keep a close eye on Ms. Phoenix. I don’t know what is coming but something feels different about this situation.”

I shake the ominous feeling of his words and notice that Kassandra is finishing up with her parents. Again, I’m struck by how beautiful she is. Her long black hair sways as she walks and shimmers a slight blue when the light catches certain strands. She has this regal presence to her that makes her seem like royalty or that she belongs to a high-born family. The way holds her shoulders back, head held high makes it feel like she’s always ready for battle and gives her a fierce warrior princess vibe. The sway of her hips as she walks looks natural and not forced like some of the girls that go here. Even her clothes hint at the true badass personality with those skintight jeans that cup her ass perfectly, that crop-top that shows a decent stretch of skin but leaves the other stuff to the imagination, and her kickass combat boots that prove she’s practical rather than beauty conscious. Normally I like my woman preppier but what I usually don’t like seems to only make Kassandra more stunning. My eyes drift to the delicious expanse of exposed skin and I mentally kick myself as the blood rushes south and I feel my c**k twitch.

Fuck… Get it together Spir…

I cast my eyes away and discreetly widen my stance because apparently, I’ve reverted to a thirteen-year-old boy who just saw a beautiful woman for the first time. My uncle snickers next to me because he obviously noticed the move and I flash him a glare which only causes him to outright laugh at me. As she approaches my hands twitch slightly and I shove them in my pockets. It’s odd it was almost like I wanted to reach out and touch her and it is taking monumental effort to not do so.

“So where to boys?”

My body tingles listening to her speak. It’s strange her voice is smooth and sweet like melted caramel with a huskiness that makes her sound breathy without being overtly seductive. It travels down my spine, and I can’t help but glance at her lips. She subtly bites her lower lip, and I can’t seem to look anywhere else. Her lips are gorgeous. The top is slightly smaller than the bottom, but both are plump and full. They have a slight glisten to them from her tongue touching them and I find myself wondering shameful things like how they taste or what they would look like wrapped around my…

A throat clears and we both flinch.

What the hell was that…

My uncle starts talking to her, but my mind is somewhat startled by where it had journeyed to just now. I’m 21 years old and can’t seem to not think with anything other than my d**k when this woman is nearby. Just looking at her lips is making my c**k twitch and it’s frustrating. I have learned self-control years ago because of my etiquette training plus the control course I have taken here at the academy but it's like some baser instinct is making me react to her proximity.

What the f**k is wrong with me…

I give myself a mental shake and try to focus on the conversation. I must have missed something important because Kass’s body language has completely changed. Her muscles are tense, her eyes are shuttered, and her voice is serious but respectful. I can’t help my own tense reaction as I finally gather the situation at hand.

“What do you mean it may cause my magic to diminish?”

“Kass, I understand your concern, but it will only be temporary. The counsel ordered us to not allow you to remove the magical bracers until the new bracers are in place. It will feel extremely uncomfortable and very scary for a moment, but it will only be for a moment. It’s why I invited Spiro to help so that we can move as quickly as possible.”

“I guess I have no choice.”

She seems resigned but the clear distrust shines in her eyes. I feel a slight twinge in my chest, and I unconsciously rub the area above my heart. I’m not sure why I feel upset but for some reason, it bothers me that she doesn’t trust me. Her eyes flash to me and strangely she mimics my movements, but she rubs the area just above her left breast. I stare for a moment finding the subconscious move a bit unsettling. After a moment she seems to gather her resolve, puts on a look of determination, and squares her shoulder.

“Lead the way Headmaster B.”

With that my uncle turns and begins walking down the long corridor towards the counselor’s wing. We pass a couple of doors and dread fills my gut when I realize where we are headed.

Fuck anybody but her…

Well, this should be interesting…

Uncle Nico knocks on the door and the familiar high pitch voice singsongs “Come Innnnn.” I mentally roll my eyes and cringe at the voice. I notice Kassandra’s shoulders tighten slightly but otherwise she shows no outward reaction. We enter a small office that is like my uncle’s but is clinical in its style. Everything is organized in its place, there is no warmth, no photos, and everything seems to scream cold and calculated. Sitting behind the desk is none other than the bane of my and every highborn male existence.

“Kass I’d like to formally introduce you to Ms. Ren Naruhito. She is a counselor here at the academy.” I can barely hold in the scoff. My uncle means well but he is a bit blind to the things that Ren is capable of or maybe he just can’t control her due to her ties to the Naruhito family. Ren is naturally pretty hell most Nymphs are, but her personality outweighs her beauty. She stands at about 5’6 without heels which she always wears. She is thin as a runway model but still has curves in the right places. Basically, she is not a stick but not much more than one. She is currently sporting a perfect chignon that keeps her black hair pinned to the nape of her neck. She is wearing a full face of makeup that doesn’t look bad but makes her look plastic. Her lips are covered in bright red lipstick that matches the red dress she’s wearing. She obviously dressed to go to the mixer and not to help a student.

She stands and goes to reach for Kassandra’s hand while in the same moment pushing her magic out against Kassandra. The Naruhito family is known for their strong magic users and even I can feel the pulse of her magic as it brushes Kassandra’s skin. To my surprise, Kass doesn’t even flinch and grasp hands with her. I feel a small pulse that pushes a barrier around Kass’s body. I watch the exchange and to my utter delight, I see both pain and confusion flash in Ren’s eyes. When she withdraws her hand, I see the slight shake and flex of her fingers. It takes everything in me not to chuckle and a strange warmth fills my chest as I see a smirk flash on Kassandra’s face.

“Welcome Kass it's a pleasure to make your acquaintance.”

“Kassandra.”

“I beg you pardon?” Again, confusion clouds her eyes. “My name is Kassandra Ms. Naruhito.” I glance at my uncle who I can visibly see biting his fist to prevent himself from laughing and I can’t help the small snort that escapes me. Ren glances between us and I can tell she wants to bring up that my uncle just referred to her as Kass but doesn’t know how to address it without sounding bitchy. She looks pissed which in this case means Kassandra is on the fast track to making her s**t list. Seeming to gather herself Ren walks around the desk trying to seem powerful and in charge but it's hard to compare to the young woman in front of her. I catch Kassandra’s eye roll and suppress the chuckle that tries to escape.

“I’ll be right back with the new bracelets in a moment. Most of the other students are already in their dorms but I’m sure we still have some left. Spiro care to join me?” She all but purrs the last sentence. I visibly cringe as I watch her lean against the door frame and poke her hip out revealing a high slit that I’m sure she thinks is enticing but to me looks like she’s trying too hard. My eyes flash to Kassandra and she visibly arches her eyebrow at me as if to say “Wow… really”. This must look all types of wrong especially seeing as I’m still a student and she’s the facility. Don’t get me wrong there isn’t a rule that says that a student and teacher can’t date. I mean we're all adults but it’s in poor taste to openly flirt with a student like this especially with my uncle standing close by. Needing to clarify to Ren that I’m not interested I face her and place the most boring blank face I can muster and cross my arms over my chest. “I’m sure you are more than capable of handling two bracelet’s that weigh less than a pound. If you, can’t you made need to rethink your occupation. Besides I would like to stay and help prepare Kassandra for when bracers are removed.”

My tone is flat and mechanical which I hope made it very clear I’m not at all interested and if her face turning bright red just before she storms out of the room is any indication, she got the picture. It’s not the first time I’ve had to rebuff her and I’m sure it won’t be the last. Ren is known around campus as the matchmaker. She is basically the person who helps highborn nobles find suitable and favorable matches for their families. However, her biggest mission is to gain more influence for the Naruhito family and their allies. She’s been pushing hard to match some of the higher elite with royalty which makes me and my brothers her prime targets. She has made progress with Calix and Jericho simply because Jericho is a bit of a player and Calix is seeking the approval of his family. Damien and I are steadfast on finding our mates the natural way and our family approves of our choice for now. We of course must play nice because they are part of the upper class, but we are careful not to allow ourselves to fall prey to their advances. Some girls can be conniving. I’ve witnessed many good couples destroyed because they didn’t fall under their families' wishes and I no Ren has had a hand in their demise. Unfortunately, I didn’t miss her eyes flashing to Kassandra before she departed which means she suspects my reason for rejecting her was because of her.

Well f**k…

I didn’t mean to make it that blatant…

I must be more careful around her. I don’t want to paint an unnecessary target on Kassandra’s back. I moved toward Kassandra as soon as I can no longer hear the annoying clack of her heels. She seems to have relaxed a little although there is still tension in her shoulders. My uncle has her in one of Ren’s uncomfortable chairs and is speaking to her calmly about the process. As I kneel next to her, her eyes leave his and latch on to mine. I try to convey every ounce of comfort I can to help ease her worries. I can only imagine how uncomfortable she is with those bracers on and having to put on two will only make it that much worse. Her eyes search mine as she listens and somehow, I think she understands what I’m trying to say even without words. Just as she begins to relax, I hear Ren return and mumble something to my uncle. I see her eyes go to look at her and sense her magic shift slightly. I push down my surprise and grab her hand to keep her looking at me.

Small current pulses up my arm and I see her beautiful eyes widen in shock. I slowly drag my fingers down her palm and watch goosebumps form on her arm that matches my own. I keep my eyes locked so that she focuses on me as my uncle approaches with the metal bracelets. “Alright, Kass we are going to make this as quick and as painless as possible. Spiro and I will each put the bracers on at once then remove the larger ones shortly after. Do you have any questions?”

“How do I know you can remove them safely without causing me any harm?”

Her distrust is understandable, but it still causes my chest to hurt. This girl is causing a lot of weird emotion and the logical part of my brain is ready to get the hell out of here while another part is telling me to earn her trust. I realize I must explain why my uncle chose me because despite my uncle being the headmaster, she is looking at me and asking me if I’m capable of removing it. I sigh and prepare for the blowback. “I can remove these bracers faster than Headmaster B because I am the one who helped design and create them.”

Just as I expected her eyes slightly shutter and the guilt for it having been her that has to wear them hits me in the chest like a sledgehammer. I rush to explain “I designed them to stop bad people from doing bad things. There are a lot of people out there who don’t use their powers for good and these bracers were meant to be used as a way to stop innocent people from being harmed.” I give her a determined look that I hope she can interpret as not arrogance but pride. “I won’t apologize for creating them. These bracers have saved many lives in the face of evil.” I expect a scoff or an eye roll but instead, those beautiful, mismatched eyes soften slightly.

“That makes sense, you are protecting people from those who misuse and abuse their power just because they can. That’s very noble of you.”

Her words cause a swell of pride to bloom inside me while her expression makes a twinge in my soul. Somehow, I think she knows from experience how it feels to be powerless. The way she said it, her voice, and her expression gave away a slight vulnerability. I want to reach out and touch her again but think better of it with the company in the room. So instead, I again try to convey my thanks and sympathy through my eyes. Before my uncle can speak, she finally breaks the silence.

“Alright, pretty boy genius let's get these things off me.” She gives me a sexy as f**k wink that causes all the blood to rush to my c**k, but I ignore the throbbing in my groin as I grab her delicate wrist in one hand and the magical bracer in the other. My uncle Nico says “Okay Spir on the count of three.”

One…

Two…

Kass sucks in a breath and closes her eyes.

Three…

Click…

Gasp…