whine and dine

I love her so, Drake thought to himself.

 That hair which reminded him of the dark beautiful night and his own darkness.

 Those expressive eyes which remind him of the fear of not seeing her ever again... Because that is all he can do. Just to admire her beauty and her soul.

 Drake returned the photograph to his bedside and clutched his dagger.

But she will never know what I am, he told himself. What am I thinking?! We're not even friends.

 The young defender went out of his room to find himself staring at an ogre.

"I scared you didn't I?" the gentle ogre said.

"Rufus!!! How are you old pal?" Drake said affectionately.

"The Council wants me back," Rufus answered, grinning.

"So they know what an asset you were," Drake said as he gestured to follow him downstairs.

They headed to the dining room.

... 

Upon reaching the simple yet elegant dining room, Rufus gave a deep-throated laugh.

He missed this part of the house. He was first brought here when Drake found him... abandoned one cold evening. Yes, the Council threw him out when they found out that he was transferring data to the Ogis...Big mistake, they didn't know that they actually threw out the witness and kept the criminal. But all became good anyway.

"Good evening Mary!" Rufus greeted the woman preparing dishes.

"Oh! Rufus! It's been awhile," Mrs. Than said happily. She moved about the dining room and handed napkins to Drake.

"Stay and have dinner,"

"I'll be more than willing to," Rufus graciously accepted and took his usual seat in the dinner table.

...

 

 

 Drake went back to his room. He placed the dagger under his pillow and went back downstairs for dinner. Life is good to me right now...

 ...

The next morning...

 

On the other side.. (stupid random author: not really on the other other side)

 

Like a bad star, I'm falling faster down to her. She's the only one who knows what it is to burn...

The angry girl gathered her hopeless hair into a pony tail. Her left earphone fell from her.. well, ear. She cursed under her breath as she retrieved it.

School, she thought as she ran a hand to input the combination of her locker. She heard footsteps coming towards her.

"Good mornin' Phy--,"

"Shut up!"

Phyre stared at her friend coldly, then shook her head.

"I'm sorry Simon," she muttered.

"Geez pal, even your 'sorry' is cold," Simon said, adjusting his glasses.

"I am terribly sorry Simon, dear," Phyre faked an innocent voice.

"Sarcastic!" Simon said and started to laugh, "you looked funny saying that!"

Phyre sighed, got her books, and closed her locker.  

"Wanna eat?" Simon asked her.

She looked at him and thought. I haven't any breakfast... "Sure," she said.

"Come along then Ice Queen! You are in for a treat," Simon pulled her and headed to the cafeteria.

...

Drake got out of the car and waved to his mom.

"Bye Drakie! Oh wait! You forgot your notebook!" his mom called to him.

Drake went to the car window and bent over. He was about to grab his notebook when his mom leaned over and stole a peck on his cheek. 

"Mom," Drake said fondly. He shook his head and grabbed his notebook.  He stepped back and watched his mom drive away.

He turned around and walked towards Wakefield High.

"Oooh, Drakie!" Hutch teased. 

Drake glanced to his side and saw him. Hutch, school bully. Occasionally dumb, Drake thought and walked away from him.

"Aww.. Drakie! Please don't tell Mommy!" Hutch snickered. Beside him were two laughing boys. A lanky boy named Boston and the other chubby one named Jan.

Anyway, Drake knew better so he ignored the goof and went in.

...

 In the cafeteria...

 

Phyre punched on the buttons of her mp3 player.

In my every wishes, I wish them all on you. I wish you away from me.

 "So Pie, did you study for the chemistry quiz?" Simon asked her. He grabbed a bottle of ketchup and started smearing his pizza with the sauce.

"Pie?" he called to her again, catching her attention.

"What?"

"Chemistry quiz? Earth to Pi--"

"Stop calling me that."

"But it's much easier than saying Phyre," he exaggerated.

Phyre continued punching on her iPod.

 I'm not going home alone, 'cause I don't do too well...

"PHYRA OASIS!!!"

"Geez man! What?"

"Deeeed yooooo stuuudy fooor cheeeeh---"

"I did not okay? I did not."

There was a twinkle in Simon's eyes. He smiled to himself.

"Wipe that smile off of your face or I'll clobber you," Phyre said.

"Let us have a little deal, shall we?"

"What is this nonsen---"

"Okay Phyre," Simon interrupted. He's so full of himself right now, he's not letting Phyre interrupt.

"If you beat my score in the quiz," Simon started, eyes still sparkling, "then I won't call you Pie,"

"You lose, so don't call me that," Phyre retorted.

Simon laughed out loud. It annoyed Phyre and he knew it, which pleased him even more.

"Bring it on!" Phyre decided. She's not letting him win. Study, study...

... 

 

Chem class. 

 

Well, during.

 

Sir Langdon eyed his students admiringly. All have no problems with my subject, then his eyes moved to Hutch, Jan, and Boston. Well, Boston can manage, Sir Langdon thought to himself, but Jan and Hutch...

He sighed and talked, "Here are five extra questions, get them right and you get extra 5 points of course." 

 Simon snickered, Phyre gave him the look.

"Okay here goes," Sir Langdon said. He got a marker and wrote on the whiteboard.

    1. Cl-

    2. NaCl

    3. ZnO

    4. MgCO₃

    5.  SnF₂

Sir Langdon smiled to himself. "Okay, give me the uses of these chemicals, respectively,"

After 10 minutes, Simon smiled triumphantly and passed his paper.

Phyre glanced at his friend. It's only a name, she told herself. 

"Excellent! Mr. Simon Walters got a 45/40! I am not surprised," Sir Langdon said.

"Thank you kind sir," Simon bowed and went out of the room.

Phyre handed her paper. She turned around to follow Simon but accidentaly bumped a dark haired guy wearing glasses.

"I'm sorry," she muttered.

"Ms. Oasis! a 44/40 for you! Good job!" Sir Langdon called cheerfully to her.

Phyre glanced at him and nodded. She hurried out of the room, met by a smug Simon.

"Good job Mr. Than! 45/40!" Sir Langdon congratulated the dark-haired guy.

"Ooooh," Hutch squealed, "good job Drakie!"

Drake smiled at Sir Langdon and went out of the room. He looked around the hallway to see that dark hair again.

"Her..." he whispered to himself.

...

"So Pie, let's get some pizza pie!"

"Oh Simon, you're horrible,"

"But... but I gotta have some of that ketchup,"

She was thinking of the guy wearing glasses. His mild perfume...

Phyre shook the thought away and cursed at herself.

"Say, let's get the pizza,"

"How kind of you!" Simon said. He rolled his eyes and lead her to the cafeteria... again.

The two looked around. The place was full and only a spot in the corner was available. Annoyed, Phyre pushed her way through the hungry students in line. She hurried on to the last spot when at the same time, a guy went to the same table with plans of reserving it.

Phyre just looked at him.

"I.. Uh. Sorry, you can have it," Drake managed to say.

"Well, okay," Phyre said and placed her messenger bag on a chair, not lifting her eyes to the guy wearing glasses.

"Pepperoni and cheese for Pie, Pepperoni and cheese and pineapple and ham and extra extra extra cheese and ketchup for Chemistry Genius," Simon joined his friend and handed her her pizza.

Simon eyed the new guy. "Than? Heard you got a 45/40," Simon said.

"Drake. And yes, I did," Drake said shyly.

"Geez, don't be shy, come sit with us then," Simon said cheerfully.

Phyre's eyes shot up to Simon's. "What? But I don't even kno---,"

"Be kind now, Pie, time to make friends,"

Drake shifted his weight. "It's okay," he told them, "I can eat outside."

Phyre looked at him. Feeling guilty, she told him to sit and gave him a small smile.

Oh my, stop or my heart will jump out of my chest, Drake thought nervously, settling down his stuff.

"Have you anything to eat? Er.." Simon struggled for words.

"Drake," said Drake and Phyre at the same time.

 Something tightened in the tummy of Drake.

"Right, so you two might get along after all," Simon said, smiling to himself. "The name's Simon the Great, and this is Pie, the Ice Queen."

Phyre gave her friend a look.

"See how cold her stares are? Phyre, that's her name."

Phyre, Drake repeated her name in his head. Fire? No, he said she's cold.

"Get something to eat Drake, you can have my slice," Phyre offered. 

"See? You are that smart girl I thought of after all, you learned the art of making friends!" Simon said enthusiastically.

"No," Drake said, standing up, "Thank you, I'm not hungry. Excuse me, I'll get something to drink."

Is it hot in here or what?

"Wow, Drake might teach you manners too, Pie," Simon teased.

"Shut up," Phyre muttered, dismissing him. 

 

6 PM

 

Phyre turned the knob and ducked.

What the..

A fireball was hurled at her. Nemo, her golden retriever, started barking.

"What do you think you're doing?!" her redhead cousin asked her furiously.

"I should be asking you that! What are you talking about?" Phyre asked calmly, as if nothing was thrown to her seconds ago.

"Oh you know what I'm talking about!"

"I do not! Geez, just speak,"

"That guy wearing glasses you were with! You're not supposed to hang out with him!"

"Simon? What the hell is your problem with Simon?"

"No! Not him! The other one!"

Oh, Than, Phyre thought. "Drake?"

"Whatever his name is! I saw you with him! I was watchi--"

"You and your stupid crystal ball. Stop it, Calais," Phyre said angrily. She walked pass her cousin, ignoring her complaints.

"You! Come back here this instant!"

"Whatever," Phyre muttered and jogged upstairs.

"The Ogis will kill you!" Calais screamed.

"You tried to do that!" Phyre screamed back. 

"It's better than them torturing you to death!"

Phyre ignored her cousin. She slammed her bedroom door and let herself drop on the bed.

...

Drake walked into the living room.

"Mom?" he called out.

Hearing footsteps, he turned around and saw Rufus eating.

"Hey there young man, your mother went out to go shopping," Rufus chuckled.

"She did?"

"Yep. Want a sandwich?" Rufus held out the plate to him.

"Thanks, but I'm not hungry,"

"How was school today?"

"Fantastic?"

"Really? Tell me about it,"

"Well, I got a 45/40 in this tes--"

"Congratulations! That's nice, but we've known you to be a genius,"

Drake smiled at him and punched him lightly on the arm.

"And this girl I like..."

"Girls," Rufus snorted.

"She noticed me," Drake said, smiling. No one will ever know such happiness.

...

"Drake,"  Phyre said out loud.

There was a knock on the door.

"Come in!" Phyre called out.

"Phyre, I brought you dinner," the old maid said happily. At the same time, Nemo went in the room and jumped on the bed.

"Thanks Wilma," Phyre gave her a smile and sat up. Wilma set the food tray on Phyre's bed.

"You are welcome, dear. And Simon's downstairs,"

"WHAT?"

"Ms. Smarty Pants, dear Wilma said I am here," a new voice joined them. Simon sat on the corner of the bed, Nemo's tail wagging.

"She said you were downstairs, silly," Phyre said, rolling her eyes.

"I'll bring dinner for you too, Simon," Wilma said and went to the kitchen.

"Splendid! A picnic!"

"You always think about food, and you don't gain weight,"

"A secret of Simon the Great," he said, turning to Phyre's computer. He switched it on and began connecting to the internet.

"Okay Simon, you may use my computer," Phyre said sarcastically.

"Gee thanks!" Simon chuckled. 

Wilma arrived with Simon's dinner. The delicous smell of mushroom soup filled Phyre's room. The tray, obviously for Simon, was loaded with hot rice and fried chicken. She placed it on the table beside the bed and went out. 

Having smelled the food, Simon abandoned the computer and started eating.

"So, I heard that Calais threw a fireball at you," Simon said, his mouth full.

"Manners please,"

"Aha! Drake guy really taught you manners!"

"Shut up. Calais did throw it. She was aiming for my head,"

"What is she? PMS-ing?"

"She said something about Drake and the Ogis," she said slowly, "and that she would rather kill me than be tortured to death by the Ogis."

"How weird," Simon thought out loud, grabbing a chicken leg, "I'll go check if there's dessert." Bored, the golden retriever went down with him and decided to sleep in the kitchen.

Maybe Simon knows something about it, Phyre thought.

A few minutes later, Simon went back up, holding a plate of something.

"Want some pie, Pie?" Simon asked.

"Who is Drake?," Phyre asked.

Simon ignored the question. "A slice for you and the rest for me," he said, slicing the pie.

"Who is Drake?," Phyre asked again. Now there was a hint of hardness in her voice. Simon felt himself tense.

"Drake," Simon gulped.

Phyre impatiently tapped her finger, "Well?"

"Drake Than," he gulped once more, "is my cousin."

"How could you hide that from me!"

"I'm sorry, I--"

"How could you pretend you don't know him!"

"Well, I--"

"How did that happen! He pretends like he doesn't even know you,"

"Uhm.. Phyre, he doesn't know I'm his cousin," Simon sadly answered.

There are thousands of questions in her eyes, Simon said inwardly, I'll have to give her all the information I know.

"Drake Than is the head defender of the Council," Simon explained, "I can't tell him I'm his cousin, he might find out we work for the Ogis!"

"Why the hell didn't you tell me when we met him in the cafeteria! I also bumped into him in chem!"

"Calm down! I didn't tell you because I knew you would kill him right then and there if you found out he's from the Council,"

Phyre sighed and ran a hand on her hair.

"I know you too well Phyra Oasis! You would kill anyone from the Council!"

"I should have killed him you idiot! You know well I or we have to!"

"You don't understand," Simon said sadly.

Phyre looked away. Trying to distract herself with the beauty of her white room. 

Knowing that Phyre won't listen to him, Simon decided to use telepathy.

He's a good guy Phyre. You don't attack good guys.

 

Saturday.

 

The Ogis meeting.

 

"Good afternoon every all!" Simon greeted every creature in the hallway.

"I'm sick of your mood," Phyre grimaced.

"It is a good way to start a meeting though," Simon said as they entered a big beautiful room. A super big room with a super long table with 25 seats. 

A blonde entered the room. She was wearing a pink shirt and black skirt.

Illuska, Phyre snorted.

"Hey Phyre," Illuska said, eyeing her from head to toes.

Phyre just nodded to her and took a seat far from her. Anyway, Phyre feels good about the way she looks. She was wearing a white shirt and denim pants. Comfortable, clean.

Illuska rolled her eyes and sat four seats away from Phyre.

Simon sat next to Phyre and sighed.

"What's keeping the food?!"

"Pig. You always eat," Illuska butt in.

Simon turned to her and smiled.

"Hey babe," he smirked, "I noticed you gained weight,"

Phyre started laughing.

"Oh you monster!" Illuska shouted angrily. She stood up and glared at Simon.

Illuska's hair turned green and there was fire in her eyes. Her finger nails lengthened. Her tan skin became ivory. Her big, transparent wings sprang from her back.

This made Phyre laugh even more.

"Look who's the monster now," Simon teased.

Illuska turned her back on them and walked out.

So Phyre, promise me one thing. Simon turned to her.

Now what? Phyre asked him.

Don't ever hurt my cousin, he begged.

Phyre tuned out and ignored him.  She laid her head on the table and slept.

Simon shook his head and sighed.

...

At the other side... (once again, not the other other side.) 

 

 

"Name please?" the secretary asked the beautiful girl standing before her.

"Eilythia Hawthorne," the girl answered impatiently. Annoyed, she folded her arms.

"One moment please," the secretary said.

"Faster please, I need to get to an important meeting," Eilythia answered.

"Miss Hawthorne, if you jus--"

"Move it, will you?! You are wasting my time,"

Scared, the secretary snapped out of lethargy and began typing on the keyboard.

"So?" Eilythia asked.

"You-- Your flight leaves now," the secretary answered, lost for words.

Eilythia nodded and left.

...

Other side of the world again. But not really other other again.

 

 

"Name?" the security guard eyed the minor.

"Stefan Branch," the thin boy answered confidently.

The security guard nodded and pointed to a door, gold in color.

Stefan raised his eyebrows and shrugged. He entered the room and took a seat.

... 

 

still Saturday.

3:30 AM

 

Phyre glanced around the room, silently wishing it would be filled with people soon.

No wait, not all of us are people here.

She watched a newcomer take the seat beside Simon. 

Blond. Elegant looking. The poise. Could it be Stefan Branch?, Phyre thought and looked away. Yep, that vampire all right.

"Hello!" Simon greeted the blond.

The blond smiled and didn't move. He couldn't stop himself from smirking.

O-kay... Simon thought.

And then after that, five shifters and six witches arrived.

We're fourteen here, Phyre told herself, her mind wandering.

At that exact moment, a familiar scent reached her.

Victoria's Secret? Hmm.. Phyre thought, trying to grasp memories.

She looked at the entrance and saw a beautiful girl. 

"Eilythia!" Phyre stood up and ran to the girl. All smiles.

Wow, no coldness in her voice. Simon thought.

...

Stefan Branch watched the two hugging girls.

Pathetic?

He shrugged and looked away. Then he found himself watching the newcomer.

Ah yes, Phyra Oasis and...? Stefan asked himself.

He shrugged again to himself and looked away.

... 

"Eilythia! I missed you," Phyre told her friend and smiled.

"I missed you too, Phyre!" Eilythia answered and poked her friend's ribs.

Phyre laughed as she brushed her friend's hand away. They haven't seen each other for months. Eilythia went to Australia with her uncle. Uncle Yeil, thinking that his niece had trained too much under the Ogis, decided to have a nice long vacation in Sydney. And Phyre, who chose to stay, trained while her friend's away.

And from that moment, they started talking and talking and talking and talking and talking.

Stefan watched the two with hidden interest.

So, Eilythia huh? Stefan smiled, contented. 

"What'ya smiling for?" Simon asked him curiously.

Stefan acted nice. He shook his head and grinned.

"I don't even know your name,"

"Branch. Stefan Branch." he answered simply.

Simon's eyes widened. He smiled to himself. This guy next to him is the son of a well-known politician.

Simon nodded and decided not to talk about his own fortunes. The Ogis, anyway, are composed of well-known members.

The girls decided to keep quiet. They glanced around the room and found out that almost all seats were taken.  

"Sit there," Phyre said. Pointing to a lone vacant chair beside Stefan.

Eilythia nodded and took the seat.

Stefan watched her from the corner of his eye and looked away.

Simon is seated between Phyre and Stefan, and to Stefan's left is Eilythia.

(Author: perfect arrangement. mwahahaha) 

And then, the meeting started.

...

 

The other side.

 

Drake woke up and stretched on his bed. It was still dark. He checked his digital alarm clock.

5 AM? Drake asked himself. He looked around his room and stared ahead blankly. Does the Council need me?

He reached for Phyre's picture from the bedside.

He stared at her. Wishing her to smile.

The photograph didn't.

Not contented, he placed it back and went back to sleep. 

 ...

Madame Sylvestra stood before the young members. She adjusted her glasses and patted her long black hair. Aging? The old witch thought.

"Vampires?"

Madame Sylvestra looked around.

Eilythia Hawthorne, Stefan Branch, Simon Walters, famous three.

Madame Sylvestra swelled with pride.

"Crosses?"

Phyra Oasis, shifter and vampire. Leopard? Isn't Eilythia Hawthorne shifter-inclined? Illuska Veleur, witch and lamia. Perfect.

She looked at them all.

"Well," she began, "thank you for coming here."

The young members nodded.

"You see, we have set rules to vanquish anyone from the other side,"

Phyre eyed Simon, I told you so.

"There have been a few changes. One should not attack any member from the Council unless it is an emergency."

Simon looked back at Phyre, It isn't an emergency. 

Phyre rolled her eyes and raised her hand.

"Yes Ms. Oasis?"

Phyre stood up and felt all eyes move to her.

Simon waited.

"What if I catch the opponent off-guard? When there are no witnesses,"

Madame Sylvestra sighed.

"No Ms. Oasis, do not attack anyone. I repeat, do not attack anyone unless it is an emergency,"

Disappointed, Phyre nodded and sat.

Madame Sylvestra clapped her hands.

"That is all. You are dismissed."

... 

 

 

Most of the members got up to leave the room.

Phyre decided to sit and wait for the others to get out. Simon looked around and waited silently.

Stefan stood up, preparing to leave.

Eilythia glanced around and looked at Simon and Phyre.

Madame Sylvestra watched the remaining four from the stage.

She coughed.

All four turned towards her.

"Incase I didn't mention earlier, I enrolled Stefan Branch and Eilythia Hawthorne in Wakefield High," the old witch said, looking tired.

"You four will be staying in the same school, same class," she continued, "and this I did for a purpose."

"And that is?" Eilythia asked.

"Communication would be easier with members in the high rank." 

Stefan smirked. A low class school?

"No, Mr. Branch. It is not low class," Madame Sylvestra said, reading his mind, "it is one of the best schools here."

"You told my father about this?" Stefan asked, nose high.

"It was your father's idea, Mr. Branch,"

Stefan's jaw dropped.

"Mr. Branch? Ms. Hawthorne? You will be with Mr. Walters and Ms. Oasis."

"No problem," Eilythia said, smiling.

This might be interesting after all, Stefan thought.

Phyre and Simon looked at each other.

"And while the Ogis is looking for a place where Mr. Branch and Ms. Hawthorne can stay, they will temporarily live with Ms. Oasis,"

"Can't that be permanently?" Eilythia asked playfully. 

Did I hear that right? A place for me and Eilythia? Stefan thought. He frowned and smoothened his green shirt.

Phyre nodded to her three companions. It was time to go.

Stefan, new to being lead on, obediently made his way to the door.

This is a suprise, Phyre said to herself.

As the four were about to leave, Madame Sylvestra called out to Simon, the last one to exit.

"Mr. Walters, I almost forgot,"

Simon turned to her.

"Illuska Veleur will be joining you too," Madame Sylvestra said. And then, she disappeared.

If I heard her correctly, Phyre thought, damn it. 

"Damn it," Simon said out loud.

A sing-song voice came out of nowhere.

I heard thaaat...

"Sorry Madame," Simon and Phyre muttered.

...

 

It was 7:00 PM when they arrived in Phyre's abode.

The four entered the living room and found a familiar girl there.

"What took you guys?" Illuska said, annoyed.

"We ate in a nearby restaurant," Simon answered her.

"Nemo!!!" Phyre called out to her dog.

The heavy golden retriever ran down the stairs and into the arms of its master.

Phyre hugged the dog and patted its head.

Eilythia ran to Nemo and scratched its ears.

Illuska let out a deafening scream.

Everyone looked at her. Calais and Wilma ran out of the kitchen.

"Heavens, what was that?" Wilma asked. 

Illuska pointed to Nemo.

"Get that thing away from me!" Illuska screamed, making her way to the sofa.

Stefan and Simon began laughing.

Eilythia stood up and faced her.

"If you have a problem with this dog, then you may sleep outside. Nemo shall take the guest room,"

"Who are you to tell me that? This isn't your house!"

Phyre stood up. She folded her arms and stared at Illuska.

'This is my house," Phyre began, "you abide by its rules."

Calais and Wilma decided to leave the childish situation. They went to the kitchen to prepare hot chocolate.

"You are not allowed to make terrible noises like that here," Phyre said firmly, "you cannot shapeshift here too, people outside might see."

"Just get it out of my sight! Please!"

Phyre sighed and ordered Nemo to go to the kitchen.

Nemo reluctantly obeyed.

"Stefan?" Phyre called him.

Stefan raised his eyebrows and stood up.

"Illuska, Stefan," she addressed them, "follow me, I'll show you your rooms."

The three went up and to the hallway.

"Illuska, take the room beside the bathroom. Stefan, you will be staying there," Phyre pointed to the room infront of Illuska's.

Calais went up to the three.

"Your luggages are here," she told Stefan and Illuska, "I'll tell the guys who brought it to carry it to your rooms."

Calais was dressed in expensive robes, she was holding a Lacoste handbag.

"Where are you going?" Phyre asked her cousin.

"Off to Mama's, I'll be staying there for awhile."

"Oh,"

"And stay away from Drake, will you?"

Phyre shrugged and watched her cousin leave.

"Who is Drake?" Illuska asked, curious.

"No one, go to your room," Phyre said and left. Damn it, Calais should not have said that.

Illuska sighed and looked at Stefan.

"Stefan huh?" the blonde said.

Stefan nodded and went to his room.

He is kinda cute, Illuska thought. She watched him close his bedroom door.

Quite interesting, Illuska said to herself. She went to her room and watched the men in blue uniform place her bags on the floor.

"Put the pink bag on top of the dresser drawer," Illuska ordered. 

... 

 

 

 

"So Pie, I'm going home now," Simon said, yawning.

"Alright Simon," Phyre said, walking him to the door.

"Goodbye Simon! It was nice catching up with you!" Eilythia cheerfully called out to him, waving.

"Sweet dreams Eilyth," Simon bowed and went out. He jogged on his way home.

Thank goddess for the new rule, Simon thought, now Phyre can't hurt Drake.

The two girls finished their hot chocolate and went to Phyre's room.

"What is the first subject tomorrow?" Eilythia asked, she was brushing her hair.

Phyre gathered her hair into a messy bun.

"Chemistry,"

"Yuck!"

Phyre laughed and started fixing her school things.

"How's shapeshifting?" Eilythia asked.

"Painful?"

"Really?" Eilythia's eyes narrowed.

"I'm still not quite used to it. Leaves a weird sensation on my body. Painful."

"Maybe you would enjoy being a full vampire," Eilythia said, flashing her white, sharp teeth.

"Simon said that once," 

Phyre grinned and shrugged. There is no way I'm letting you bite me.

"Nice teeth,"

"Thanks," Eilythia said, putting on an accent.

Phyre laughed and hit her friend with a pillow. 

 ...

 

Monday.

 

Illuska, Simon, Stefan, Eilythia, and Phyre walked to Wakefield High.

Upon reaching the building, Stefan gave a low laugh.

"This is W.H?" Illuska grimaced.  Eilythia silenced her with a look.

Not bad, he thought.

The group went in the building and made their way to chemistry class.

When they got in the classroom, all eyes turned to them.

"The circus is in town?" Hutch said out loud.

The whole class laughed.

Stefan stared at Hutch.

Simon looked around for Drake. He isn't here yet.

Phyre breathed and took her seat. Illuska, Stefan, and Eilythia took the vacant seats at the back.

"Say hello to Mr. Stefan Branch," Sir Langdon said, pointing to the blond.

"Oooh, Stefie! You and Drakie might get along!" Hutch teased and laughed out loud.

Ugly part is, he's the only one laughing.

I'll get you, you ignoramus. Stefan swore silently.

Eilythia threw a worried glance at Stefan.

Stefan met her eyes.

Sir Langdon coughed. "Say hello to Ms. Eilythia Hawthorne!"

Eilythia looked at the students infront of her and waved.

Jan elbowed Hutch and pointed at Eilythia. Hutch grinned mischievously.

"And of course, say hi to Ms. Illuska Veleur," Sir Langdon said enthusiastically.

Illuska flashed a radiant smile at the boys.

"He likes you, dude!" Jan told Hutch.

"Idiot, she," Boston corrected him. Uninterested, he opened his chemistry book. Why am I even hanging out with these idiots?

The classroom door opened and a guy wearing glasses entered.

"Hey Drakie! Meet Stefie!" Hutch laughed and snorted.

Disgusting. Stefan thought.

Illuska quietly recited a short incantation.

Hutch kept laughing. He stopped dead when a farting sound came out of his mouth.

Everyone looked at him.

Illuska smiled to herself and closed her eyes.

Drake watched Hutch struggle and made his way to his seat.

Illuska eyed the late student. Drakie? Drake?

"Enough!" Sir Langdon said and handed a slip of paper to Hutch.

"Detention?" Hutch squeaked, the farting noises subsided. He got up and walked out of the classroom.

Stefan smirked and leaned back. He was sitting in between the blonde and the brunette.

Phyre cast a glance to her friends and turned to her seatmate.

Simon?

Yeah?

I think Illuska figured out who Drake is.

How did she know?

Calais mentioned it last night and Illuska heard her. She was curious.

... 

 

Because Sir Langdon's good mood was ruined, he gave a pop quiz. Fortunately, the five aced the test, along with Boston and Drake.

"I hate chemistry," Eilythia announced. They were making their way to the  cafeteria.

And then it happened again.

"You can have it," Drake offered, leaving the table.

Phyre took out her iPod and held on to it. She ignored him.

"Hey Drake! Sit with us!" Simon said. Half uneasy.

"Nice to meet you Drake," Eilythia greeted him, "call me Eilythia."

Drake bit his lip. The name sounded awfully familiar. It can't be the vamp--

"Sit down, Drake!" Simon said gleefully. 

Drake huh? Illuska said, holding her tray.

Illuska, keep quiet. Phyre looked at her.

Illuska let out a high-pitched laugh. She took the seat next to Drake and eyed him.

Phyre frowned and went to the bathroom.

Where is she going? Drake asked himself.

 

 

The girl went in the washroom and slammed the door.

I hate everything.

She kicked the cubicle's door.

The crashing sound permeated her. Her breathing slowed and she turned to face the mirror. Good thing nobody was there. The students must have gone home.

Why? Why can't I just kill him!

She sighed heavily and washed her face. She let the cool water drip and stared coldly at her reflection.

Phyre took out her mp3 player and put on her earphones.

In my every wishes. I wish them all on you. I wish you away from me...

She sighed again and touched her forehead.

She looked down at her foot and felt a slight pain.

She licked her lips and brushed her hair away from her face.

Phyre decided to go back to the cafeteria.

...

Simon observed them with hidden fear. 

Drake looked around nervously and clasped his hands.

He glanced at the people around him. Simon? Eilythia? Who are these people? They seem so familar.

Stefan stared at Drake and leaned back.

Where did I see this guy? Drake asked himself.

He looked down and saw a nametag attached to a pink bag.

Illu--... Illuska?.. Venur? No. Veleur? Drake read the pink letters slowly.

His mouth went dry. Veleur.

"What's up Drake?" Eilythia asked him, noticing his weird movements.

Illuska turned around to face him.

Stefan looked like he was enjoying this.

"I have to go," Drake stammered and got up to leave.

At the same time, Phyre arrived, avoiding his eyes.

Drake jogged away from the group and headed to the computer laboratory.

It was almost 5:00 PM, no other students were around anymore.

When Drake was out of sight, Phyre looked at her friends.

"We have to talk later, don't ask," Phyre said.

Must be about Drake, Eilythia thought.

"I am dying to know, why can't we talk now?" Illuska pleaded.

Stefan raised an eyebrow and waited. 

Phyre was about to refuse when Simon spoke up.

"Telepathy please."

And through that, Simon explained everything. 

...

 

He closed the laboratory door and switched on the computer.  He connected to the Council network and began researching.

Who are they? Who is she?

He typed in the searchbar:

Veleur

He regretted having done that. He waited for the results.

Their history starts even a little bit before the time of Maya and Hellewise. Maya and Hellewise's mother had a child before she had them.

Drake scrolled down.

They are very powerful. Being half lamia and half witch makes them an asset to the Ogis.

That was all Drake needed to know. He felt light-headed.

He clicked the mouse and typed again:

Oasis

The first few sentences made his heart stop.

The Oasis family goes back to when the shapeshifters ruled. All of them are dedicated to the Ogis. All of their direct descendants are either cougars or other wild cats. Originally, they were pure shifters but all changed a century later. A vampire prince, Cleone fell inlove with a beautiful shifter, Bilquis. Back then, the marriage tradition was strict. One should marry its kind. Prince Cleone took advantage of his power and abolished the marriage law. He married Bilquis, not knowing that he wedded the shifter princess.

Hot tears fell down on Drake's cheeks. He logged out and tried to stand.

I have to kill them. I have to kill the girl I like.

He wiped his tears but they continued flowing.

And then he heard voices in the corridor.

...

Drake peaked and saw Simon, Eilythia, Stefan, and Illuska pass by.

Where is the other one? He closed the curtain and leaned on the laboratory door.

...

Illuska gasped and held on to Simon.

What is it? he asked.

I felt something move. Illuska answered and pointed to the room. It came from there. 

You guys go ahead. Phyre went to get her notebook, I'll wait for her here.

Illuska nodded and dragged Stefan and Eilythia.

What's wrong? Eilythia asked.

I'll explain later, Illuska answered, walking faster,

Stefan yawned and waited.

Let the games begin.

...

 

Simon hid in the closet beside the laboratory and waited for Phyre's presence.

8 feet away, Phyre made her way to the school doors. She jogged, clutching her notebook.

By the time she passed by the computer laboratory door, strong arms pulled her inside the room. A hand was over her mouth to keep her from making any noise.

Drake slammed Phyre's back to the wall.

"Who are you?" he asked harshly.

Understanding what that meant, Phyre threw a punch to Drake's jaw. Drake recoiled and backed away.

At that moment, Phyre was shifting.

She screamed not because of fear, but of pain. 

Slowly her hands turned into claws. From her behind a black tail sprang. Her face turned into that of a leopard's. Whiskers jerked out of her nose and then... she snarled.

Drake stood up and hurriedly went to the corner of the room. His breath paced and his hand reaching for something to use as a weapon.

Simon burst in the laboratory and threw himself to the leopard. He tackled and pinned her down. Phyre snarled and tried to slip away from his grasp.

 ...

 

 

The leopard roared under Simon.

It desperately slipped and lounged at Drake. It pinned him to the ground.

Simon watched his friend and his cousin. Terrified, he fell on his knees. 

But something bad was happening.

The paws slowly turned into hands. The majestic tail painfully disappeared. The black body turned into that of a human's.

The face turned into the face of the girl Drake loves. Or loved.

And then, there were tears in Drake's eyes. 

She stood up and brushed away specks of dirt on her clothes. Weakling.

Drake got up quickly and stared.

"Phyre, let's go," Simon ordered.

And who are you to order me? Phyre raised an eyebrow and reached for a dagger hidden in her shoe.

Swiftly, she pointed the tip of the dagger to Drake's neck.

And swiftly, Drake grabbed her arm and turned her around. She ended up between his strong arm and his heaving chest.

Phyre grimaced and attempted to hit his stomach with her elbow.

Simon ran to them and pulled Phyre away from Drake.

"Don't you dare lay your hands on her!" Simon shouted angrily. He tackled Drake to the ground until Drake had given up struggling. 

"Kill him now," Phyre said harshly.

I loathe you, she thought angrily.

Her body hurt and she hates it so much.

Drake snapped back to reality. Only now did it occur to him that he had actually hurt her...

"What are you?" Drake asked the two.

Phyre turned her back to him and folded her arms.

"I have no business with you," Phyre answered him.

"The Ogis. I'll have to kill you both," Drake whispered harshly. He cursed and ran a hand through his hair.

Phyre turned to him. Her eyes like daggers.

"That is if you can,"

Drake turned weak and watched her silently.

...

 

"Is everything set?" Illuska asked Eilythia.

Eilythia has retrieved six crystals from Illuska's bag.

It was raining hard and they were in the open parking lot.

Stefan followed Eilythia with his blue eyes.

Eilythia formed half a circle using the crystals.

Illuska impatiently tucked her hair behind her ear.

"So?" Illuska asked, annoyed.

"Will you shut up!" Eilythia snapped.

Stefan folded his arms and took the crystals from Eilythia's hands.

Quickly, he completed the circle.

He clapped his hands and smiled at Eilythia, showing his white, sharp teeth.

She blushed and looked away.

Illuska frowned and stomped her foot.

"Stop this lovey crap!" Illuska demanded and began chanting a spell.

 

...

 

Simon's hand flew to his own heaving chest, the other hand searching for his inhaler. Phyre ran to him and wiped his forehead. She helped him search for his inhaler.

Drake watched the two silently. He leaned back and wiped blood off his lips.

Shouldn't I move? Drake asked himself.

And just like magic, [which really is] Phyre and Simon disappeared before his eyes. 

 ...

 

There was blue light in the middle of the circle.

An exhausted pair appeared in the middle. Phyre was holding on to Simon. Simon sat down on the ground and relaxed. It rained harder.

Illuska shrieked as it thundered.

"We better go home now," Eilythia said to them.

They all held hands and apparated to Phyre's home. 

 

...

 

They didn't know that it was 7:00 PM

Phyre was relieved Calais wasn't home. She doesn't have time to get hit by a fireball.

Illuska looked around. She fell on the sofa and started snoozing. The young witch was really tired, having done heavy spells in a day.

Eilythia sat on the couch and watched her friends.

Stefan looked around the group. They were all in wet clothes. He saw Eilythia shiver and felt a pinch of pain in his chest.

I must be developing a crush on her, Stefan thought. He pushed the thought away and went upstairs. He went in the bathroom and filled the bathtub with hot water. No jacuzzi? He grimaced. He shook his head and realized that he was being foolish.

Back downstairs, the poor blonde in wet clothes was sleeping. Phyre woke her up and reminded her to clean up.

Illuska got up and cursed inwardly. She casted one last spell. Her clothes and her body got instantly dry. She slept on the sofa.

Wilma was watching them from the stairway. The poor dears...

... 

 

 

amalthea raksha.

 

thank you for the time you spent..

your time which i took because of my petty shit..

i'm sorry.. 

 

 

 

nahihirapan na ang aking isip...

nauubusan na ng sasabihin sa iyo..