In a world torn asunder by darkness and despair, a prophecy foretells the coming of four children, each blessed with the power of an element.
"The girl with fire in her soul, the girl with water in her veins, the boy who commands the winds, and the boy who shapes the earth shall rise to challenge the forces of chaos. United by destiny, they will bring balance to their world, igniting flames of hope, calming turbulent waters, clearing skies of strife, and grounding the trembling earth. Together, they will be the saviors, the guardians of a new dawn, heralding an era of peace and harmony for all."
Ella is falling apart trying to live a "perfect" high school life. Then she meets Ren, who can see past her scars. Suddenly perfection isn't her only option.
*****
Ella Volkov is a gifted music student, but she's depressed and starting to crack under the pressure of high school. Her overbearing father won't even let her choose what instrument she plays. Then she finds herself alone at a party with Ren, her best friend's crush. She'd always thought he was rude, but after that night he's all Ella can think about. Now she's trapped. If Ella dates Ren, it will ruin her friendship with Jenny. But if she stays true to Jenny, she's losing the one person who can see past her scars. It's up to Ella to decide if she will forge her own path, or stay in the "perfect" box designed for her...
Content and/or Trigger Warning: depression, anxiety, self-harm, violence, sexual assault.
[[word count: 50,000-100,000 words]]