nothing ever lasts forever.

Chapter Nine

I awoke earlier this morning, being awake just before Kiriel. Which was rare, considering she usually woke up an hour before me. With a sigh, I rubbed the tiredness out of my eyes and got up from my bed. I stood idly in front of our shared closet, trying to pick out cute matching outfits.

I huffed, deciding that it'd be best for Kiriel to just pick out our clothes. I strode to our kitchen, and started to boil water for our morning tea. Just as the water was about done, I heard Kiriel just getting up. 

I sat down in my chair, preparing for today's class. We were supposed to have a test, and I didn't study for it. Why would I? I'm pretty smart and I was busy doing other things all weekend. Mr. Tomes casually strolled into the classroom, and sat down in his chair. "Right, as you all know we have a test today. A test specifically on different magic types." He stated, starting to hand out the paper tests. 

As I quickly looked over the test, the hair on the back of my neck stood up. I lifted my head up from looking down at the test, and peered out the window that looked over the forest. Something felt off. And it felt like someone was watching me. I shuddered inaudibly, trying to focus on the test. I knew that because of the presence that watched me from the forest I probably didn't do as well as I should've, and Mr. Tomes would probably talk to me about it later. 

As I handed in my complete test, I avoided my teacher's olive green eyes. And as class was dismissed, I knew he was watching me leave the classroom. 

For the rest of the week, Mr. Tomes watched as my performance in school dropped. And finally, on Friday, he decided to talk to me about it. 

"Class dismissed. Zephyrus, stay. We need to talk," He announced, ushering me over to sit near him. I did so, pulling up a stool. "I've noticed how your grades have dropped significantly this week. Is there anything you want to talk to me about?" Mr. Tomes asked, olive green eyes comforting. "..No, there's nothing that I need to talk about. I've just been struggling a little bit. I promise I'll do better," I replied quickly. I started to stand up, and he didn't object to me leaving. 

As soon as I was out of his view, I sprinted back to my dorm. I hyperventilated, practically collapsing on the ground. I was almost caught. I felt a comforting hand on my back and faintly heard a soft voice talking to me, but it was all so distant. When I had significantly calmed down, I just laid on the floor. 

I really did not want to do what I was thinking about. But I knew that if I didn't find out what lurks out there soon, then I could never learn to protect my friends from it. It's not even about protecting myself at this point, it's about protecting the people I love the most. 

Even if I perished and suffered. 

I'd still do it.