Equinox Academy: Dark Prophecy

Chapter 12

Chapter 12

Kassandra’s Pov

Andy Biersack once said “I know what it's like to be an outcast in society. I know what it's like to want to find strength, and more importantly, I know what it's like to find that internal strength and rise out of the pain of being just sort of a weirdo.” As I stood in front of my floor-to-ceiling mirror that quote's never felt truer. I have always been different. When I was old enough to acknowledge that I was different from most humans, many people started to openly call me weird, strange, or exotically abnormal. My eyes always placed a target for bullying, name-calling, and teasing. Although they were just whispers by teachers, students, and other parents. As my body developed, even though I never saw anything wrong with how I looked, I realized that people don’t like different or unconventional. We are told we should look and act a certain way and if we can’t conform to the way society says we should be then we are immediately labeled an outcast, different, a loser, or just plain weird.

So, when I finally joined the supernatural world, I was excited to finally be accepted for being unconventional. Things made more sense that I wasn’t like my peers, and I thought that I would finally find my place in the world. Unfortunately, that wasn’t the case. I found out the hard way that even in a space that claims to have open hearts and minds, you can still not fall under what is considered normal. It was like a slap in the face especially when I had already struggled with not fitting in. Luckily, I found the love of my foster parents, who were considered unconventional. They helped me understand that it didn’t matter how other people felt about me especially people who thought it was okay to hurt others without trying to understand them. What mattered most was how I felt about myself and that is when I truly began to love myself for who I was. Others can either accept you for your difference or they can just f**k off. It's better to be true to yourself than to try and conform to be like everyone else.

Which is why I had to break out the big guns for this little shindig. I needed to wear something that was going to make me feel empowered because I was likely going to receive some flack for how things went down at the revelation ceremony. I heard a mix of responses and I know I will likely receive a lot of the whispers and comments. There will be those who want to challenge me to prove their power levels, or those who will treat me like dirt because I’m different, but my hope is that the people I have made connections with will just accept me for me. My best defense is to show no fear while looking like the bad b***h that I know myself to be.

I went for a more gothic chic look for tonight's event. When I went shopping with Lee, we made sure to pick out formal wear just in case I found myself in need of it. My clothes aren’t super expensive like most of the kids here, but they look phenomenal on me and make me feel beautiful, sexy, and in all ways badass. The dress I am currently wearing is just that. It’s made of beautiful black silk that shimmers blue in the right light. It has a high collar that rests under my chin and wraps around my neck giving it a thick chocker feel. The fabric falls in two thick strips leaving a lovely keyhole opening that starts at my collar bones and ends just above my belly button. My cleavage is subtly displayed but not so much that it is overtly s****l. (The wonders of tape) The back is completely exposed and stops just above my ass. The skirt hugs my waist and hips snuggly but flows loosely around the thigh area. The moderate slit on the left leg allows fluid movement and exposes just enough thigh to be sensual but classy. I added my favorite strappy heels that lace from the ankle all the way up to about mid-thigh. Just beneath the slit, I strap on my throwing knife holster because I can’t bring my Katona blade with me but I never go anywhere unarmed. I opt for some silver rings to match the bracelets I was given. For my hair, I leave it down to hide some of my back. I keep my make-up minimum but decided to do a black smoky eye, light eyeliner to accentuate my eyes, and my trusty deep berry lipstick that looks almost black in dark lighting.

As I’m placing some studs in my ears, I hear a knock on the door. My nerves sizzle a bit but I figured it's probably Than or Spiro. I mean that makes sense since I know them, so I am shocked when I open the door and see a very unfamiliar face.

Holy ovary explosion…

I think my v****a just disintegrated…

Before me stands a man so beautiful it’s actually painful to look at him but I am good with dying if these are my last moments. He stands at a towering height. Even in my heels which put me at about six foot one I still must look up at him. As I scan his face my breath catches when I look into the most beautiful teal crystal eyes. For just a moment they flash sliver then return to the light teal color. Goddess, I think I’m drooling. We simply stare at each other for a moment before he seems to realize what he’s doing. He blinks and I notice his jaw tighten and he speaks softly, “I’m here to escort you to the mixer.”

Holy hell…

I feel a tingle course down my spine at his smooth baritone voice. It reminds me of dark chocolate sliding down your throat, slightly bittersweet but smooth and sensual. He seems to be waiting for a response, so I try to pick up my melted-off panties and get my s**t together. “Sorry. um… come in. I am almost finished.” He looks reluctant to enter so I leave it up to him and turn back towards my room needing to put some space between me and this sinfully sexy man.

As I reach the mirror, I hear a sigh and footsteps slowly approach the door as I get the other stud in my ear. Just as I hear him getting closer, I feel probing magic caresses my back. I can’t help the indignation at the stranger that hadn’t even properly introduced himself. “Is that really necessary, I mean the least you could do is make introductions before probing me with your magic.” I hear a sexy male grunt and the magic dissipates as his soft deep words reach me, “I already know your name.” And I can’t be surprised because of course Than told him the basic information but he hasn’t given me his, so his attitude is rubbing me the wrong way. I round the corner nearly running into him and glaring right at him. “Well, I don’t know your name Mr. Grumpy Ass so before you go probing around you should at least use proper manners and introduce yourself.”

A small amount of shock flashes through his eyes as if he’s surprised by my outburst. Why is he so shocked it’s my first day here, how the hell would I know who the f**k he is? He pauses for a moment just staring at me searching my eyes for what feels like a whole minute. I expect him to scoff but instead, he reaches his hand out and says, “My name is Calix.” I can’t help but repeat it. Of course, he has a sexy name to match. “Calix Huh? Well Calix it's nice to be formally introduced. I’m Kassandra as you know but most people just call me Kass.” I slip my hand in his very large one. Goddess my hands looks tiny compared to his. Just before my mind trails down a dirty path, I’m distracted by the sparks that shoot up my arm and I can’t help the goosebumps that rise on my flesh. I look in his eyes to see if he felt that weird pulse of energy and I see them shifting back from silver again. He squeezes my fingers slightly and my magic seems to want to pulse forward. Just before it reaches my hands he lets go and steps back placing his hands in his pocket. “It’s a pleasure Kassandra, are you just about ready to go?” I shake out of my shock and realize what we are supposed to be doing. “Yes, sorry let me get my bag together and we can head out.”

What the hell was that…

First Spiro and now Calix…

What is wrong with my magic…

Calix POV

Nothingness has been my constant companion for most of my life. I’ve felt zero emotions since I was a small child. My parents have always believed that emotions were nothing but a weakness for humans. For that reason, I have never had issues with emotion or control because you need to lack both to act rash, spontaneous, or any other triggering emotional outburst. However, ever since I watched this woman walk across that stage, I’ve been getting these small sparks in my body. Being around my brothers I’ve seen a variety of emotions, but I’ve not experienced them for myself. The closest thing I felt to emotion is the bond I share with my brothers. I know how to emote or make other people think I feel but I don’t really feel the emotions. Even s*x doesn’t elicit an emotional response. It feels good but I don’t feel anything for my partner. Hell, I normally have to pull out to finish myself off. The release helps relieve stress, but I don’t really understand the euphoria most people talk about during climax. Don’t get me wrong it feels fulfilling but it’s never made me feel anything close to what my brothers describe. So, what the hell was that feeling when I touched her hand?

I decided to wait outside to put some distance between me and her intoxicating presence. Spiro said something was different about her, but I had no idea that she would cause so much turmoil inside my body. “Are you ready?”

Shit… I’m in trouble…

I open my eyes not realizing I had them closed, and she is standing there looking at me directly in the eyes with the most stunning pair I’ve ever seen. Most people avoid eye contact with me because they find my eyes strange and it's no secret that my goddess-given gift makes people wary. She however shamelessly stares without any hesitation. I was surprised when she didn’t know who I was, but I was kind of relieved to not have the usual stigma that surrounds me. “Yes, this way.” I don’t know why but I offer her my elbow even though I had just said I was trying to keep my distance. She slides her hand in the crook of my elbow without a single ounce of hesitation.

What a strange woman…

As we make our way down the hallway I finally notice her height. She’s quite tall for a female, I’m used to most women being lower chest level to high stomach level against my 6’8 but her head comes to the middle chest just about shoulder level. She’s wearing heels but they aren’t very tall so she must be close to 5’11. As we reach the elevator, she pulls out her card. I opt not to let her know I live in the building just yet. I’m not sure how she will react when she finds out who her neighbors are. I hold out my hand when it arrives, and she smiles softly and steps in. “I see you are a gentleman after all.” She makes eye contact and I see the mischief dancing in her eyes, and I feel my lips twitch. She must catch it cause her smile spreads wider and she shows her teeth.

Fuck she’s gorgeous…

And did I almost smile…

“So, what should I expect at this thing? I already know I’m going to be a social outcast but what exactly happens at these mixers?” I turn my head back to see her staring in my eyes again and notice a slight bit of vulnerability there. I’m a bit surprised that she asked me. I’m not exactly a social butterfly. I’m still wondering why Than sent me instead of Spiro, or hell even Jericho to escort her. I normally sit in the corner near the bar and avoid contact with anyone that isn’t my brothers, Than or Nico. So, I answer her the best I know how, with sarcasm, “It’s a mixer, it’s pretty straightforward.” I notice her flinch slightly, but she doesn’t say anything, and I’m struck by a thought.

Has she never been to a mixer before???

I glance at her and for the first time, she’s avoiding eye contact.

No way…

I understand why I avoid these functions. People look at me like a sideshow exhibit because of who I am. Waiting to see the nymph who can speak to ghosts but why in the world would no one invite this beautiful creature to their parties and mixers. I continue to wait for her to speak up but instead, she just rides the rest of the way down while I internally kick myself for coming off as a jackass. When we make it to the lobby, I hear the familiar voice call out from behind the counter, “Calix and Kassandra have a good evening.” I glance towards Deven and give him a quick nod, but Kassandra stops to speak, “Thank you Deven, and Thank you for bringing my things up earlier. You are a lifesaver.” Deven smiles warmly at her and gives her a wave, Go and enjoy yourselves, kids, by the way, you look beautiful Kassandra.” I see a slight blush creep across her cheeks, and I feel a small twinge of irritation that he put it there.

Out of nowhere I gently grab her hand ignoring the sparks that shoot up my arm and turn her so we can leave. She follows but gives a small wave over her shoulder in goodbye. I tuck her hand back in my elbow as we make our way towards the main building. Every so often I find myself glancing in her direction. We don’t speak but it’s a comfortable silence. She seems to be taking in her surroundings, so I slow my pace to allow her to see everything. I expect her to ask questions, but she seems content just observing and every so often I feel her gaze on me as well.

She is very stunning. I knew that when I first saw her. Her presence just feels different. There’s almost this celestial grace about her that makes her mysterious and sexy. I find myself admiring her beauty that seems more enhanced in the moonlight. We finally reach the main building and I kind of want to find a reason to linger. I enjoyed being in her presence and I know once we enter the building it will be over. With a deep sigh, I open the door for her and retake her hand as we make our way down the hall. As the famous quote says “all good things must come to an end.” Even from here, I can hear the music and chatter of students.

As we approach the door, I see a small petite girl standing in front of them who seems familiar. Next thing I know she turns and squeals in delight when she sees Kassandra. Kassandra smiles in adoration as the small girl runs towards her at a full sprint and throws herself in her arms. Kassandra releases my arm to catch her, and I miss the contact immediately.

Fuck I need a drink…

Ready to avoid any unnecessary conversation I bow my head slightly and go to leave. “Calix wait…” I turn just as the petite girl gasps in shock. She is staring at me with wide eyes when Kassandra sidesteps her to get by. Taken aback, Kassandra walks right up to me and places her hands on my chest. She leans forward and I bend closer so she can speak into my ear, “Thank you for escorting me here. Hope to see you around.” I turn my head slightly as she goes to finish speaking and her bottom lip lightly grazes my cheek. I whisper back “You’re welcome Kass.” My voice is slightly huskier than usual. When I pull away her skin looks flushed, and her ears are slightly red. I bow my head forward because I can’t help the smirk that makes its way to my lips from her reaction. Despite my attempt to hide it, she must catch it because I hear a slight intake of breath. I look up meeting her eyes one last time then turn and nod to her friend. I enter the ballroom and immediately spot Jericho by the bar. I make a beeline towards him before anyone can intercept me.

Jericho is a bit of a flirt but he is loyal to his core and as much of an unlikely pair we seem to be, he on of my best friends. “Dude where the f**k have you been? Electa’s having one of her b***h fits because you didn’t escort her here. You know she loves to flaunt that power couple shit.” I roll my eyes and take a seat next to him. “Than asked me to do something for him.” Jericho turns to stare at me and says, “Oh yeah, and what did your sensei need that was so important that you’re willing to get screeched at for later.” Just as he finishes speaking my eyes catch Kassandra walking in the door. I nod towards her and point. Jericho follows my finger, and he sucks in a breath. I can’t blame him; she is definitely breathtaking.

“f**k…” I hear him whisper. I am a little shocked Jericho is normally suave and composed but it seems the little minx has him tongue-tied. I tear my eyes away when I sense a familiar magical presence approach. Before I can react, I feel her hand against my arm and I can’t help the flinch at the unwanted contact. “Calix.” She whispers in my ear, and I feel absolutely nothing. No warmth, no emotions or tingles as she licks the shell of my ear in an attempt to garner my attention. I turn and lay eyes on Electa. “Yes.” My tone is flat as usual, and she seems disappointed by my reaction. I’m not sure why, she knows there is no real relationship between us. To be honest I feel nothing for her but obligation. She tries again at being seductive and again I can’t help the cringe when she touches me. “Why didn’t you come to get me before the mixer? I felt so stupid walking in here alone.” I lock eyes with her and say annoyed, “Should be a familiar feeling.” I hear Jericho snicker slightly and she pouts at my cruel comment. I stand to move away from her because honestly, I am tired of being the center of her attention.

Ever since my parents showed interest in her becoming my wife, she hasn’t let up on her pursuit to make me fall for her. She is quite pretty but I’ve never really been interested. I am simply following orders from my parents to court her. My parents could care less that I would much rather not be around her. Electa is the strongest water user in the school plus she’s a nymph so that makes her a prime candidate for the position. I unconsciously glance towards Kassandra and wonder how strong her water magic is. When I look back, I notice Electa staring daggers at her. A spark of something tickles in my chest but I suppress the irritation and grab the glass of whiskey from the bar. Jericho notices me down the shot quickly and orders two more.

Electa seems to snap out of her angry stare down and moves back towards me in what she must think is a sexy strut. To be honest she looks like a duck waddling. I zone out as she starts rambling on about goddess knows what. I notice Kassandra and her friend move towards a table nearby and a male lamia is waiting there. She and he seemed friendly and when she openly laughs at whatever he says I find myself gritting my teeth.

What. The. hell…

I down my glass of whiskey, loving the burn of the liquor at the back of my throat. I signal for another just as Spiro makes his way towards us. When he arrives Electa turns her attention his way and Spiro blatantly ignores her greeting and moves to take the open seat to my left. Realizing she was being dismissed Electa huffs and finally walks away which is a huge f*****g relief. My eye zone back in on Kassandra and I hear Spiro say, “So you met her?” I turn toward him and nod. He must see something on my face because he smirks at me with an “I told you so" face. Spiro and I have an odd friendship because I’m not a huge talker but the fucker always seems to know what I’m thinking. “Where’s Damien?” Jericho interjects and Spiro shrugs, “He’s not coming.” Jericho snorts and says “Typical.” He turns grabs his glass and downs the rest of his drink. “Welp can’t let you boys have all the fun. Time to go meet the new girl.” He gives us a mischievous smile with a wink and all I can think is “Oh hell… This should be interesting.”