First & Last
#1 First Gaze of Something... Unexpected~?
Roses are red, violets are blue,
Welcome, I have been waiting for you~
Widely known as,
The City of Eternal Roses, stood as a beacon of knowledge and progress, where tradition intertwined with ambition deeply rooted in love, history and the legend of the Rose-bonded Princes'.
At its heart lay the institution renowned for shaping the brightest minds of the era.
"The Royal Institute of Amorelle"
Founded by a former prince of Amorelle centuries ago, initially established as a place of learning for noble heirs, ensuring they were educated in governance, art, philosophy, and war.
Over time, the Royal Institute of Amorelle opened its doors to scholars and gifted students, accepting them on scholarships and gaining a reputation as a school that nurtures both aristocrats and exceptional minds.
Additionally, it reserves a special quota for students whose parents serve as the high-level civil, police or military officers.
As a result, students from diverse social backgrounds are admitted and receive the same treatment as the elites.
However, due to its historic reputation the school enforces a strict rule prohibiting romantic relationships between students, known as,
This is framed as a disciplinary measure to maintain academic excellence and prevent distractions.
Some students follow it strictly, while others find loopholes or subtly defy it.
However, any student caught in a romantic situation is either suspended, subject to parental intervention, or worse EXPELLED.
Yet even in between the restrictions, the academy grounds are still rumored to have hidden rose gardens tied to the city's ancient love stories.
There are students who secretly think that there is still a romantic feel to the Hidden Rose Gardens.
All of these myths, however, have nothing to do with the girl in the seventh grade who will soon be a teenager and has long braids.
A talented but lazy scholarship student with no dreams other than winning the 'Sleep Competition' held in her hometown.
Inside one of the grand classrooms of Royal Institute, the morning air was filled with silence except for one particular desk in the middle.
Avian was hunched over her desk, her brow furrowed as she rushed to complete her mathematics assignment which she forgot because of her laziness.
So now as always at the last moment she is copying it from her bestie's worksheet.
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
🗨️ Just a few more calculations, and I will be done.
But she forgot peace is a rare luxury in her class.
No matter which school it is, they all have that one troublemaker who enjoys targeting others and derives immense pleasure and satisfaction from performing such a great holy work.
With a mischievous grin, he stepped behind Avian’s bench and yanked it back without warning.
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
Ahhhhh❗
*shockingly screams*
Avian who was nervously completing her assignment sitting lightly on her bench, gasps loudly as she lost her balance, her pen skidding across the page. The sudden movement sent her sprawling onto the cold marble floor.
The students who were present in class all instantly glance at Avian, leaving their own work.
Rhea Bennett. (Savage 1st Ranker)
*flinch hearing Avian's scream and looks at her*
Rhea Bennett, the 1st ranker from a Military background, usually doesn't pay attention to anything except her studies.
Behind Ms. Topper Bennett, the High Pony Duo who are the Elites, were busy applying the same light pink color nail polish.
Hearing Avian they both look forward at her and gasps loudly in unison, clutching their chests like they just witnessed a scandal.
Brittany Robert.(Obsessed Pony Swooner)
*leans toward her High Pony-mate, whispering loud enough for everyone to hear*
Did she just… FALL? In front of everyone?
Tiffany Monroe. (Mean Ponytail Princess)
What else can you expect from a foodie? We should pray for the floor instead.
*smugly*
Laughter erupted around them.
They both flip their ponytails at the same time smirking sassily as if Avian’s fall has nothing to do with them, but still gets up making their way towards Avian's desk.
Rhea Bennett. (Savage 1st Ranker)
*shakes head and again focus on revising her notes*
While on the farthest last desk a young lady was having a peaceful nap. When her desk mate started hopping on his seat like a monkey who saw banana for the first time in his life.
Tyler Ponting. (Gossip Monkey)
Hey Nova, look, look, your childhood buddy started his bullying drama again.
*hastily*
Nova Stark. (Sassy Snoozer)
*lazily peeks ahead*
Nova Stark. (Sassy Snoozer)
Nothing new.
*rolls her eyes going back to her dear sleep*
Tyler Ponting. (Gossip Monkey)
Tsk, you are no fun. I am going there to get clear view of our Best Student's humiliation. Haha!
*gets up joining the High Pony Duo*
Nova Stark and Tyler Ponting both come from the background of aristocrats.
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
*close eyes feeling the pain*
🗨️ Which fu¢ker wants to die so early in the morning.💢
Brittany Robert.(Obsessed Pony Swooner)
*dramatically tilts her head*
Oh no, babe, are you okay? That must’ve been so embarrassing.
Tiffany Monroe. (Mean Ponytail Princess)
But... What a great start of April Fools!
*smirks widely*
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
*opening her eyes glares at the High Pony Duo*
Brittany Robert.(Obsessed Pony Swooner)
*extends a hand but immediately retracts it with a smirk*
Oops! My nails are wet. Can’t risk it.
Tiffany and Brittany stand slightly angled toward each other, one hand on their hips. Both tilt their heads slightly with identical smug smirks and with their free hand they flip their ponytails in a synchronized flip.
Tyler Ponting. (Gossip Monkey)
*giggle behind his hands, pretending to feel bad but failing miserably*
Avian look around to find everyone laughing. As there's still time for the first lecture to start, so only few students were in the class.
But still she is well aware that this incident is definitely going to reach the ears of entire school because her classmates are all 'Gossip Professionals' who possess so much potential that they can compete with the neighborhood aunties head on.
And let's not talk about the pain she is feeling on her maturing peaches that are kissing the floor right now.
So with burning fury & building rage in her eyes Avian glares at the culprit who is laughing loudly looking at her fallen state.
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
💢 Yuri Knox!
*grits teeth angrily*
Yuri Knox. (Mr. Troublemaker)
Oh, My Amor~ How the hell were you sitting?
*teasing tone*
Yuri Knox. (Mr. Troublemaker)
*smirks, crossing his arms*
Maybe you should spend less time on numbers and more on balance.
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
*glaring fiercely at Yuri*
You-
Yuri Knox. (Mr. Troublemaker)
–What me? I just pulled your bench a little, and you slipped just like that~ Hahaha...
*continues chuckling*
Still on the floor, Avian clenched her jaw, sending Yuri, the son of Magistrate, a sharp glare that could have cut through steel.
The students surrounding them were giggling quietly but no one came forward to help Avian.
Though they say that they don't want to be targeted by the class bully by helping her, but more than that they wish to see the embarrassment of the 'Best Student'.
Well, Avian was awarded "The Best Student Award" in Middle School Section three months ago in School Festival.
Avian is smart enough to know her classmates' real intentions, so she turns a blind eye to their mocking and fake pity and tries to get up by herself.
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
Hiss!
🗨️ My ankle...
Hearing Avian hissing finally Yuri came back to earth and was about to stretch his hand forward to pull her up, but before that–
??? (Guess who I am?)
What's happening here?❄️
A crisp voice cut through the laughter, immediately silencing the room.
Elios Frost, the class monitor, stood at the doorway, his expression set in a disapproving frown. Behind him was Asher, his talkative yet ever-present companion.
Yuri Knox. (Mr. Troublemaker)
*rolls his eyes*
🗨️ This Frosty Ba$tard!
Elios walks towards them with his friends. The moment he sees Avian on the floor he coldly says to Yuri–
Elios Frost. (Coldy Class Monitor)
Didn't Ma'am Diallo change your seat yesterday and I also warn you to not trouble anyone again?
*❄️ cold voice with hands in his pockets*
Yuri Knox. (Mr. Troublemaker)
Mr. Class Monitor, I didn't trouble her, she fell by herself when I pulled her bench.
¯\_(ツ)_/¯
Asher Reeves. (Stupid Chatterbox)
And why did you pull her bench?
*raise eyebrow*
Asher, son of a Police official who was standing behind Elios all this time curiously asks in between the Class Monitor's investigation.
Elios Frost. (Coldy Class Monitor)
I am asking, ain't I?❄️
*frowns at Asher*
Asher Reeves. (Stupid Chatterbox)
*ignores Elios, still raising his eyebrow at Yuri*
ಠಿ_ಠ
Yuri Knox. (Mr. Troublemaker)
Well I was looking for my eraser.
*casually*
Elios Frost. (Coldy Class Monitor)
And why will your eraser be under her bench when your seat is miles away?❄️
Asher Reeves. (Stupid Chatterbox)
Most importantly did you find your eraser?
(ﾉﾟ0ﾟ)ﾉ~?
Yuri Knox. (Mr. Troublemaker)
Nope! It's not there.
<(￣︶￣)>
🗨️ Thanks Dumba$s~
Elios Frost. (Coldy Class Monitor)
You think this is funny? ❄️
*continues, stepping closer with authority*
Elios Frost. (Coldy Class Monitor)
Bullying a female classmate? Do you ever think before acting, or is that too much to expect from you?❄️
Yuri Knox. (Mr. Troublemaker)
*rolls his eyes*
Relax, Frosty. It was just a joke.
Avian, still on floor, glares at them controlling herself to not lash out because right now she has got way more important 'Math Assignment' to finish.
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
*takes a deep breath*
Avian struggles to get up. She feels like her ankle twisted because of the sudden fall.
Keeping her one hand on bench to take support she was about to hold the desk by her left hand when suddenly someone grabs her left hand.
For a moment, the classroom seems to freeze.
The laughter dies down. The students exchange glances, whispering among themselves–
"Since when did Phenix take notice of Avian?"
Avian looks at him and time stops.
He also looks back straight in her petal orbs. His gaze locking onto Avian's.
Unlike the others who still found amusement in the situation, there was something intense in his eyes, something unreadable.
He extends his other hand.
She hesitates, caught off guard by the unexpected gesture.
Her fingers brush against his as she holds back his hand. The warmth of his touch sent an unexpected jolt through her, but she quickly masked her reaction, steadying herself as she stood.
She wasn’t sure what was more surprising?
The way Phenix with whom she never spoke a single word in her seven years of school life in Royal Institute till now, was offering help or the way her pulse quickened under his almond orbs.
As the gaze deepened, she could not help but feel an unexpected connection with him, leaving the soon-to-be thirteen-year-old girl wondering,
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
🗨️ What is this feeling?
Eyes sing,
Gaze dance,
A Challenge Set!
Who will fall the hardest~?
Tiffany Monroe. (Mean Ponytail Princess)
*rolls eyes and whispers*
Seriously? A whole rescue mission for her?
Tiffany Monroe. (Mean Ponytail Princess)
*dramatically gasps and grabs Brittany’s arm*
Britt, we need to do something. Our school’s standards are plummeting.
As soon as Phenix helps Avian up, Brittany stares a little too long.
Brittany Robert.(Obsessed Pony Swooner)
*softly, almost in a daze*
…wow.
Tiffany notices and glares at her. Brittany quickly recovers, flipping her ponytail aggressively.
Brittany Robert.(Obsessed Pony Swooner)
I mean ...wow. That’s… so embarrassing for him.
*whispers back with a nervous laugh*
After pulling Avian up respectfully, Phenix makes her sit but says nothing, only giving a small nod before stepping back and takes a seat beside her without breaking the eye contact.
Avian dust herself off, pretending the moment never happened, but the weight of his gaze lingered long after he had turned away.
And she wasn’t the only one who noticed.
Everyone around them were flabbergasted, wide-eyed, lips cracked, jaw dropped , watching the live miracle.
Can’t blame them!
*sighs heavily*
An anti-romantic soccer player, ruthless on the field and careless everywhere else, reaching out with his own hands to lift up a patient yet strict, top-ranking best student while playing the gentleman he never was?
If that’s not an unexpected once-in-a-lifetime miracle, then what is?
And the "No-Romance Policy" only fuels the fire. Because even a simple act of help feels suspicious to this bunch of 13-year-olds, as they're constantly reminded that romance is off-limits.
Asher Reeves. (Stupid Chatterbox)
W(°ｏ°)W!!!
🗨️ Woah! My brother helped a girl, that too the fierce tigress - Avian, that too by touching the same hand with which she slapped me across my face months ago when I annoyed her!!!!!!!!!!!
Yuri Knox. (Mr. Troublemaker)
ಠ益ಠ
🗨️ How dare he touch MY prey ❗
Elios Frost. (Coldy Class Monitor)
ಠ_ʖಠ
🗨️ My buddy personally helped my competitor? What a disappointment, tsk.
Well Avian and Elios both are among the Top Five Rank Holders in their batch, so they always have quite a fierce competition in each exam.
And on top their teachers make Avian stand in Class Monitor's Election against Elios every year. So they usually end up taking turns in being the Class Monitor.
Avian don't mind it much.
But for Elios as the youngest son of the rich conglomerate, his rank & overall performance in school is very crucial for his reputation.
So, he prefers maintaining distance from his all competitors but right now being a Class Monitor he has to abide by his duty.
Elios Frost. (Coldy Class Monitor)
*glaring at Yuri, exhaled sharply*
We’re reporting this to the Class Teacher. ❄️
Yuri Knox. (Mr. Troublemaker)
*groans*
Tch, fine.
Elios Frost. (Coldy Class Monitor)
*looks around and loudly yells*
You all seem to be completely ready for the Grammar Test that you got time to meddle around.
Everyone quietly starts to go back to their seat for their so-called revision.
But Tiffany pretends to stumble slightly as if mocking Avian’s fall, but then dramatically recover and say-
Tiffany Monroe. (Mean Ponytail Princess)
Phew! That was close. Wouldn’t wanna end up like… well, you know.
Elios Frost. (Coldy Class Monitor)
Enough! ❄️
Tiffany Monroe. (Mean Ponytail Princess)
*mumbles lowly*
Humph, Coldy Frost!
As they walk away, Tiffany continues her rant.
Brittany Robert.(Obsessed Pony Swooner)
*distracted, mumbles*
He has nice hands…
Tiffany Monroe. (Mean Ponytail Princess)
*stops mid-step*
WHAT did you just say?
Brittany Robert.(Obsessed Pony Swooner)
*panicking*
I said...um~he has NICE-um… BAD TASTE. Yeah. Helping her? That’s bad taste!
Tiffany Monroe. (Mean Ponytail Princess)
*whispers glaring*
Babe, please. We mock the hero. We don’t date the hero.
Brittany Robert.(Obsessed Pony Swooner)
*fake laughing*
Haha, OBVIOUSLY. Ew. Who would like that? Not me. Nope.
Saying so Brittany side-eyes Phenix dreamily.
Tiffany Monroe. (Mean Ponytail Princess)
Then why are you staring at Phenix's arms?
Brittany Robert.(Obsessed Pony Swooner)
I think he’s… a robot.
Brittany Robert.(Obsessed Pony Swooner)
Yeah. Those veiny arms look too manly for a thirteen-year-old boy. Suspicious.
*nods to herself*
Tiffany Monroe. (Mean Ponytail Princess)
A robot?
*frowns*
Brittany Robert.(Obsessed Pony Swooner)
Yep! We should....um~ observe him more closely. For science.
Hearing this Tyler who was just behind them burst out laughing.
Tyler Ponting. (Gossip Monkey)
Hahaha! He is the son of a police officer, so it is most likely genetics rather than robotics.
*laughs aloud*
Brittany Robert.(Obsessed Pony Swooner)
Ohhh~ Is that so, no wonder...
*again stares at Phenix's arms in daze*
Tiffany Monroe. (Mean Ponytail Princess)
*glares at Tyler*
You little monkey, you have got too much energy these days.
୧( ಠ Д ಠ )୨
Tyler Ponting. (Gossip Monkey)
*gulps*
Nope, not at all. I was just helping your friend.
Tiffany Monroe. (Mean Ponytail Princess)
Help, huh?
*smirks*
Tiffany Monroe. (Mean Ponytail Princess)
Here go and fill my bottle.
*grabs and throw her water bottle at Tyler's face*
Tyler Ponting. (Gossip Monkey)
*catch Tiffany's bottle*
Tiffany Monroe. (Mean Ponytail Princess)
And make sure the water is cold, OR you are~
*smirks and flip her ponytail leaning towards Tyler*
Tyler Ponting. (Gossip Monkey)
I got it!
*hurriedly runs out with water bottle*
Author Sky. (Lazy bird)
Dear Doves, welcome to our story!
I hope we will enjoy this journey together.
Author Sky. (Lazy bird)
Do show your support!
Author Sky. (Lazy bird)
Thanks for reading!
(◍•ᴗ•◍)✿~
#2 First Impressions & First... Care~?
As the surrounding again calm down, Yuri throws a last fiery glance at Phenix before going out of classroom making things calmer.
Asher Reeves. (Stupid Chatterbox)
Avian, my bro was absent for a week. So please help him for today.
*smiles sweetly*
Asher Reeves. (Stupid Chatterbox)
Please, pretty please....
*shows puppy eyes*
Asher Reeves. (Stupid Chatterbox)
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
Yeah! I got it, you don't need to act like this.
Σ(ಠ_ಠ)
Asher Reeves. (Stupid Chatterbox)
Great!
*shouts satisfied*
Elios Frost. (Coldy Class Monitor)
*turns to Phenix*
Come with me, Nix. I have the notes you missed.
Phenix gave a lazy nod to Elios setting his school bag beside Avian's and gets up to follow behind his friends to their desk in the front corner who already left.
But Phenix's sharp eyes landed on Avian, who was rubbing her ankle.
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
*slightly rubs her aching ankle staring at it with worry*
🗨️ Hope it's not sprained.
Phenix Marshall. [Nix]
You are hurt?
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
*blinks*
Huh? It's nothing–
Phenix didn’t wait for an excuse. He pulled a pain relief spray from his bag and keep it in front of her on desk.
Phenix Marshall. [Nix]
Use this. And next time, don’t let idiots like Yuri get away with it.
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
Huh?
*looks up at Phenix*
Asher Reeves. (Stupid Chatterbox)
*shouts from his desk*
Bro, come fast I gotta show you my new sport shoes.
Phenix nods in Asher's direction and again look at Avian.
Phenix Marshall. [Nix]
Use it, I will be back.
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
Oh! O-ok...
Avian gives a confusing look at Phenix's leaving figure.
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
*stares at the spray in front of her, her brows furrowing*
🗨️ What’s with him? First, he helped me up. Now this?
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
*scoffs under her breath*
🗨️ Since when the infamous careless introvert become so helpful?
Avian was busy in her thoughts when her ankle started paining more. So, with no other option left she uses Phenix's spray getting some instant relief.
Sighing deeply she again starts solving the remaining questions of her math assignment.
Students start coming inside the class leisurely but between them a hasty figure enters and directly makes way towards Avian's desk.
Avian turns to see her best friend marching toward her, a look of pure exasperation on her face. She stands in front of Avian with both hands on her hips.
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
*looks up at her with innocence in her eyes*
Yasmin Grant. (Violent Butterfly)
*melts immediately*
Oh, my dear!
～(つˆДˆ)つ｡☆
Yasmin Grant, the daughter of a single father who is a Karate teacher, is actually a Young Maestro of Art and Avian's best friend from last five years. She hugs Avian sitting beside her with worry written all over her face.
Yasmin Grant. (Violent Butterfly)
Are you alright? Tyler told me everything that happened.
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
I am fine!
*smiles softly*
Yasmin Grant. (Violent Butterfly)
That annoying rat Yuri! 💢
Yasmin Grant. (Violent Butterfly)
If I had a silver coin for every time he pulled something like this, I’d be richer than the Coldy Frost!
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
*smirks*
You’re already rich in complaints, Min.
Yasmin Grant. (Violent Butterfly)
I mean it! I just went to library, and he did that to you. Tell me where is he?
*look around clenching her fists*
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
Listening you, I complained to Madame Diallo yesterday. And look what happened.
*calm voice*
Yasmin Grant. (Violent Butterfly)
But didn't she change his place?
Yasmin Grant. (Violent Butterfly)
And moreover this seat was previously assigned to Phenix. Only if he came to school then Yuri won't get a chance to sit beside you and trouble you entire day.
*look at second bag behind her*
Yasmin Grant. (Violent Butterfly)
That rat again sat here?
*point at the second bag fuming*
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
No, that's Phenix's.
*shakes her head*
Yasmin Grant. (Violent Butterfly)
Ohhh, so that careless dude finally remembered school. I thought he gonna write exams at his home itself.
*cross arms over her chest*
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
Yep, and he helped me.
*smiles slightly*
Yasmin Grant. (Violent Butterfly)
Did he?
*raise eyebrow*
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
*nods honestly*
Hmm!
Yasmin Grant. (Violent Butterfly)
Then good for him!
*humphs*
Yasmin Grant. (Violent Butterfly)
So what's next? We should do something to–
*seriously*
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
*cut in, lowering her voice*
I already have a plan.
Yasmin Grant. (Violent Butterfly)
*eyes lit up with interest immediately & takes a Karate stance with her arms*
Tell me what I have to do?
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
No violence, Min.
*push Yasmin's hand down*
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
He likes troubling & bullying others, right?
Yasmin Grant. (Violent Butterfly)
*nods furiously*
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
So, we will teach him a lesson in his own language.
(✿^‿^)
*smiles sweetly*
(✿^‿^)
[For future reference, Avy's sweet smile is a trap in disguise, DANGEROUS, like a tigress poised to strike.]
Yasmin Grant. (Violent Butterfly)
Oh no! The fierce tigress entered the jungle. Damn, I can already imagine his devastating state.
*winks at Avian*
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
*giggles*
But this time it's a sly one.
Yasmin Grant. (Violent Butterfly)
Means we are not going to beat him up.
*pouts*
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
Don't be disappointed Min, it will be more amusing. I promise.
<(￣︶￣)>
Yasmin Grant. (Violent Butterfly)
*eyes twinkles immediately*
Perfect!
Avian looks around and then whispers in low voice to Yasmin.
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
Do you talk with Nova?
Yasmin Grant. (Violent Butterfly)
Honey, I talk with everyone.
╮(. ❛ ᴗ ❛.)╭
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
Great! Then get out Yuri's personal phone number from her.
*whispers*
Yasmin Grant. (Violent Butterfly)
But we aren't allowed to use phone in school. And we don't even have our own to use. What will you do with his number?
*whispers back*
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
I am not gonna call him. Just get the number and I will take care of everything else.
Yasmin Grant. (Violent Butterfly)
But will Nova have it?
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
Of course! They are childhood friends.
Yasmin Grant. (Violent Butterfly)
Yeah, they are also neighbors, so they usually go home together.
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
Exactly, so they must have each other's number.
Yasmin Grant. (Violent Butterfly)
Alright! Let me get it for you.
*looks at the back bench where Nova is sleeping peacefully*
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
And don't you dare tell this to anyone.
*low warning tone*
Yasmin Grant. (Violent Butterfly)
Aa-alright... Seriously what are you up to? Now even I am getting worried.
*asks in low dramatic tone*
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
You will know soon. It's gonna be fun.
(◠‿◕)
Yasmin Grant. (Violent Butterfly)
*joins her palms as if praying*
Hope so.
Suddenly something struck Yasmin's dramatic brain, and she looks at Avian with sparkling eyes.
Yasmin Grant. (Violent Butterfly)
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
*get what Yasmin is gonna ask*
No, absolutely not. I am tight on money.
Yasmin Grant. (Violent Butterfly)
Ohh, come on. One ice-cream won't cost you much.
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
You already know my strict parents don't even give me pocket money.
Yasmin Grant. (Violent Butterfly)
Please, you also know how hard it is for me to keep secrets in my empty stomach naaa~
*whine continues*
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
*shakes head in disapproval*
Nope! I also promised your dad, not to let you have ice cream until the exams are over.
Yasmin Grant. (Violent Butterfly)
You are talking as if you are very obedient. Humph!
ಠ益ಠ
*puff her cheeks*
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
You catch cold easily. So it's best to wait for the summer vacation.
Yasmin Grant. (Violent Butterfly)
Just one treat.... please.
Avian only smiles sweetly in response.
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
(✿^‿^)
Yasmin Grant. (Violent Butterfly)
*groans*
Ugh, I hate you sometimes.
Before she could protest further, Phenix returned.
Phenix Marshall. [Nix]
Hey, Chatter-fly! That's my seat.
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
*immediately looks at Phenix*
Yasmin also glares at Phenix hearing him who is standing in front of them smugly with notebooks in his hand.
Yasmin Grant. (Violent Butterfly)
Well, well, the lost prince finally returns to school after a whole week. Just in time for annual exams on Monday.
*teasing smirk*
Phenix Marshall. [Nix]
*shrugs, completely unbothered*
I was on a personal mission.
Yasmin Grant. (Violent Butterfly)
*cross her arms*
Oh? And what mission was so important that you had to skip school?
Phenix Marshall. [Nix]
*bends down slightly*
Finding peace away from childish people like you.
Yasmin Grant. (Violent Butterfly)
At least a childish person like me is well-prepared for the written exams unlike someone careless.
*leans back smugly into Phenix's seat*
Phenix Marshall. [Nix]
No worries, at worst I will fail and will be placed in last section next semester.
*cross arms over his chest*
Phenix Marshall. [Nix]
But on the brighter side, without you around won't it be so peaceful?
(ʘᴗʘ✿)
Avian stifles a laugh while Yasmin gasps standing up from the seat.
Yasmin Grant. (Violent Butterfly)
The audacity!
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
*hands Yasmin her worksheet immediately*
I am done here's your assignment.
(. ❛ ᴗ ❛.)
Still grinning, Avian gestured for Yasmin to go find Nova before she got into a full-blown argument with Phenix.
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
Go. You have some work, right?
Yasmin Grant. (Violent Butterfly)
Uh- Yes!
*nods at Avian*
Yasmin Grant. (Violent Butterfly)
I will talk to you later. Humph! ಠ益ಠ
*glares at Phenix & leaves taking her worksheet towards Nova's desk*
Phenix Marshall. [Nix]
*scoffs*
Once Yasmin was gone, Phenix sits beside Avian.
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
*sighs*
Avian holds out the spray that Phenix had given her.
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
*clears throat & with little hesitation*
Here. Thanks for it.
Phenix took it, but to her surprise, he raises his eyebrows at her and replies,
Phenix Marshall. [Nix]
For exactly what?
*his tone as genuine as his gaze*
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
I… Um-I mean for everything. Thank You!
*nervous because of Phenix's gaze*
Phenix Marshall. [Nix]
*chuckles*
Well, though I am late but same to you.
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
Huh···?
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
What do you mean by 'same to you'?
*blinks*
Phenix Marshall. [Nix]
*scratches the back of his head*
Uh… so, during winter, we got these charity forms for donations. We were supposed to collect money from our neighborhood, but…
Phenix Marshall. [Nix]
… Ash and me kinda forgot.
Phenix Marshall. [Nix]
*sighs*
So when we realized on the day of submission, Ash started asking our classmates. You were the first to donate, your bus pass renewal fee.
Avian tries to recall that memory and she does.
°19th December 2016 - Monday°
It was lunch break when light snowflakes were swaying in the cold wind playing freely with the fog surrounding them.
Avian was gazing from the class window at the few rose bushes down in the school garden that were still blossoming in the harsh winter.
She wondered maybe those Legends about Eternal Roses of Amorelle were true···?
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
🗨️ Who knows.....?
Asher Reeves. (Stupid Chatterbox)
I know that only you can help me.
*pleading voice*
Yasmin Grant. (Violent Butterfly)
No, I am not giving you my hard saved pocket money.
*shakes her head in disapproval*
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
*sighs and go towards them*
What are you two bickering about now?
Yasmin Grant. (Violent Butterfly)
Avy, look this guy & his friend forgot to collect money for charity and now is asking me to lend my pocket money.
*complains*
Asher Reeves. (Stupid Chatterbox)
Hey, I was busy yesterday. And the great me will repay you.
Yasmin Grant. (Violent Butterfly)
Yeah, yeah. Busy playing video games.
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
It's okay! I have some money with me.
*go towards her bag and remove a note from her wallet*
Asher Reeves. (Stupid Chatterbox)
Damn! A hot note of hundred. You should learn something from your Avy, dear MinMin.
*tease Yasmin*
Yasmin Grant. (Violent Butterfly)
*holds Avian's hand*
Avy, isn't that fee for your bus pass's renewal?
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
Yes, but I also forgot to donate money myself this time. Only collected from neighbors.
Yasmin Grant. (Violent Butterfly)
Wait, you are actually donating it?
(☉｡☉)!
*dumbfounded*
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
It's for charity, so obviously I am donating it.
Asher Reeves. (Stupid Chatterbox)
That means I don't have to give it back?
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
Of course, you don't.
乁 ˘ o ˘ ㄏ
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
But you will have to write my name on charity form and I will sign it.
Asher Reeves. (Stupid Chatterbox)
No problem!
Yasmin Grant. (Violent Butterfly)
What a virtuous friend I have.
*sighs shaking her head*
Yasmin Grant. (Violent Butterfly)
*close her eyes tightly, forwarding her pocket money towards Asher*
Here take it!
Yasmin Grant. (Violent Butterfly)
Asher Reeves. (Stupid Chatterbox)
You are donating as well?
(´⊙ω⊙`)！
*surprisingly asks*
Yasmin Grant. (Violent Butterfly)
Don't say anything stupid, just take it quickly!
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
*smiles widely watching Yasmin*
( ꈍᴗꈍ)
Asher chuckles at his dramatic classmate and take her pocket money. He has two forms with him. So he writes Avian's name in one form and Yasmin's on another.
And they sign it.
Yasmin Grant. (Violent Butterfly)
Now what will you tell aunt?
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
No matter what excuse I give, she will scold me anyway.
*sighs thinking about her strict mother*
Yasmin Grant. (Violent Butterfly)
So?
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
I will just lie her that the Renewal Office was closed today.
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
Using my savings is way better option than getting questioned by her.
*puffing her cheeks nods to herself*
Yasmin Grant. (Violent Butterfly)
Yasmin Grant. (Violent Butterfly)
*stares at her with blank face*
A moment ago I praised you for being virtuous and now......
Yasmin Grant. (Violent Butterfly)
Ahh! What do I do with you~
*pinch Avian's cheeks dramatically*
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
*giggles pinching Yasmin's cheeks back*
Just be my Secret Keeper!
Yasmin Grant. (Violent Butterfly)
With pleasure, Señorita~
*bows 90°*
Asher Reeves. (Stupid Chatterbox)
Both are dramatic!
ಠ‿ಠ
*mumbles looking at their drama*
In the back corner of class two figures watched this entire interaction.
Nova Stark. (Sassy Snoozer)
*takes out few coins from her pocket*
I only have twenty with me, but I will also sign the form.
Phenix Marshall. [Nix]
Thank you!
*gratefully*
That's how the two careless bosom buddies collected donations for charity.
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
*eyes widens in realisation*
Wait! That was your charity form?
Phenix Marshall. [Nix]
*gives a sheepish nod*
You thought it was just Ash’s, didn’t you?
Phenix Marshall. [Nix]
*lowers head embarrassed*
We kinda were busy playing games as it was Sunday. So, it skipped our mind.
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
Well, at least the charity got the money.
*reassuring smile*
Phenix Marshall. [Nix]
Hmm, I wanted to thank you earlier, but I was too embarrassed.
*rubs nape looking down*
Avian nods, recalling how she had given the money without hesitation. It wasn’t a big deal at the time, but now, seeing the rare embarrassed look on Phenix's face, she chuckles.
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
Mention not! I also forget important stuff sometimes. My dad says its pretty common at our age.
Phenix glanced at her, his expression unreadable for a moment. He is surprised to find Avian genuinely empathetic to his negligence.
Phenix Marshall. [Nix]
You are too nice!
Phenix didn't realize when & how his inner thought slipped out. But before he could again get embarrass about it Avian replies,
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
*shrugs*
Someone has to balance out your carelessness.
Phenix Marshall. [Nix]
*with a soft laugh shakes his head*
Guess so.
For a moment, they just sat there, an unexpected ease settling between them.
And, Avian seems to sense the dawn of something new, like the slow delicate blossoming of a rose.
Author Sky. (Lazy bird)
Thanks for reading!
#3 First Exchange of... Challenges~?
The sharp ding of the school bell echoes through the grand halls of The Royal Institute of Amorelle. As it is exam time the morning assembly was cancelled. So, the school bell signals the start of the first lecture–
Inside the classroom, a collective groan ripples through the students. It isn’t just any lecture. Today is a grammar test.
Ruby Keane. (FrIeNdLy Princess)
*sighs as she flipped open her notebook*
Who even enjoys surprise tests first thing in the morning?
Nora Sinclair. (Rich Young Lady)
A nerd! A heartless, soulless nerd.
*mutters beside Ruby*
Ruby Keane. (FrIeNdLy Princess)
*dramatically dropping her head onto her desk*
And we got five top ones in our class.
From the desk before them, Edward Edison, the ever-diligent son of the Principal and one of the top-level nerds, turns around.
Edward Edison. (Hot-headed Nerd...?)
*adjusting his glasses*
It’s not a surprise. Sir Clarke announced it last week.
Edward Edison. (Hot-headed Nerd...?)
His tone was as crisp as his perfectly pressed uniform.
Ruby Keane. (FrIeNdLy Princess)
*lifts her head just enough to glare at him*
And do I look like someone who listens in class?
Edward Edison. (Hot-headed Nerd...?)
*deeply exhales*
Clearly not.
ಠಿ_ಠಿ
Beside Edward, Alina Shaw, the dance queen who is actually a daughter of a celebrity as well as Ruby and Nora's so-called best friend mutters carelessly-
Alina Shaw. (Love-struck Diva)
Honestly, who even cares? We should be studying something actually useful. Like oh, I don’t know, may-be the dance history or...
Alina Shaw. (Love-struck Diva)
Art of seduction.
*smirks looking at her best friends at the back*
Ruby and Nora, does a high-five winking at Alina's comment, while Edward rolls his eyes clearly annoyed by his desk mate.
If it wasn't because of their Class Teacher, Ma'am Diallo's arrangement he wouldn't ever sit beside the crazy romance-lover.
Edward Edison. (Hot-headed Nerd...?)
*snorts annoyed, his patience visibly thinning*
Oh, so you'd finally top a class?
Alina Shaw. (Love-struck Diva)
*flips her hair*
Obviously. Unlike this thing they call a test.
Before Edward could throw another sarcastic retort, the classroom door swings open with a loud thud grabbing the attention of everyone, and in strolls the third cadet from the Police family, Simon Reeves.
He enters with his hands in pockets, looking as unbothered as ever.
Elios Frost. (Coldy Class Monitor)
Nice of you to finally join us.
*says unimpressed*
Simon Reeves. (Senior Simp King)
*gives a nonchalant shrug*
I like making an entrance.
Simon Reeves. (Senior Simp King)
Asher Reeves. (Stupid Chatterbox)
*smirks*
Hey Sim, how was the morning warm up of Senior Cheer-girls?
Simon Reeves. (Senior Simp King)
Hot as always!
*winks at Asher*
Elios shook his head and Simon moves to take his seat beside Ms. Topper Bennett when his gaze falls on his dear bosom-friend Phenix, he smirks taking his seat and lean towards Phenix's desk with a grin.
Simon Reeves. (Senior Simp King)
Nix, wanna bet on who scores higher?
Phenix Marshall. [Nix]
*gives him a deadpan look*
That’s like betting if a fish or a rock swims better.
Rhea Bennett. (Savage 1st Ranker)
*without looking up, mutters*
At least the fish tries.
Class. (💥)
*burst into laughter*
While the High Pony Duo, at the back stares at Phenix, one judging and another well... swooning.
Tiffany Monroe. (Mean Ponytail Princess)
Ugh, I still cannot believe that Phenix actually stood up for Avian?
Brittany Robert.(Obsessed Pony Swooner)
I know, right? Such a… strong moral compass. So brave of him.
(☆▽☆)
Tiffany Monroe. (Mean Ponytail Princess)
*immediately targets her judging gaze at Brittany*
Brittany Robert.(Obsessed Pony Swooner)
*realizes*
I MEAN, disgusting. So pathetic. EW.
And Brittany again stares at Phenix as he drinks water from his bottle, Tiffany dramatically blocks her view like a protective mom.
Tiffany Monroe. (Mean Ponytail Princess)
Nope! No, you are not allowed to ever look at him again.
Brittany Robert.(Obsessed Pony Swooner)
I wasn’t looking at him, I was just...UM? Just analyzing his poor posture!
*stares in Phenix's direction*
Tiffany Monroe. (Mean Ponytail Princess)
Babe, you are literally gawking.
Brittany Robert.(Obsessed Pony Swooner)
*snaps out of it*
What? NO. I was JUST judging him, like you!
Tiffany Monroe. (Mean Ponytail Princess)
You sighed! Romantically.
Brittany Robert.(Obsessed Pony Swooner)
*scoffs*
That was a disgusted sigh. You wouldn’t get it.
Tyler who was sitting behind them laughs amused as he got new gossip.
But his attention flickered to Yuri Knox, who was slumped in his chair at the back, idly twirling a pen between his fingers.
He wasn’t even pretending to be concerned about the test. Instead, he was whispering something to his desk mate Percy, smirking as he did.
Tyler Ponting. (Gossip Monkey)
Bet he didn’t study at all.
*mumbles*
Brittany Robert.(Obsessed Pony Swooner)
*snorts quickly changing the subject*
Study? Yuri? His definition of ‘preparing for a test’ is charming the teacher into giving him hints.
Tiffany Monroe. (Mean Ponytail Princess)
Or copying someone else’s work.
Brittany Robert.(Obsessed Pony Swooner)
Exactly.
Hearing them Nova, their sharp-tongued classmate and Yuri’s childhood friend, rolls her eyes from beside Tyler, finally getting up from her not-so-peaceful sleep.
Nova Stark. (Sassy Snoozer)
I’d be more surprised if he actually passed on his own.
Meanwhile, Avian leans back in her seat, unfazed. English is her strong suit.
She glances at her seatmate, Phenix, who looks as if he has just born.
Given that he had been absent for a week, she doubts he had even glanced at the syllabus.
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
Did you even study?
*whispers*
Phenix Marshall. [Nix]
*stretches lazily*
For what?
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
*shakes head*
Hopeless.
*Their seating arrangement for reference*
The classroom is buzzing with chatter until the door creaks open. In walks the English teacher, Mr. Desmond Clarke, a thick stack of test papers in his hands along with his ever-watchful gaze sweeping over the room.
The sight alone was enough to send a wave of dread through the students.
As if on cue, most of the students lazily rose from their seats to greet him.
Class. (💥)
GoooOod mooOorniIiing, siiiiRrrr~!!!
The class drones in unison, their voices stretching like a slow, out-of-tune song.
Desmond Clarke.(Calm English Teacher)
*pauses, raising an eyebrow*
What is this? A choir of exhausted souls?
A few chuckles breaks out, but many simply flops back into their chairs with resigning sighs.
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
*rubbing her temple, whispers*
I swear, even ghosts sound livelier than us.
(눈‸눈)
Phenix Marshall. [Nix]
*smirks, tapping the desk*
Maybe we should request instrumental backing next time.
<(￣︶￣)>
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
*rolls eyes at his comment*
Desmond Clarke.(Calm English Teacher)
*sighs, shaking his head as he places the stack of papers on his desk*
Alright, everyone, settle down.
Professor Clarke says, dropping the papers onto his desk with an ominous thud.
Desmond Clarke.(Calm English Teacher)
Hope you all reviewed your grammar. If not, well, my condolences.
ಠ ͜ʖ ಠ
A mix of laughter and complaints filled the air.
Yasmin seated beside Adrian Voss, the top-notch literary genius & the son of reputed farmers, sighs dramatically.
Yasmin Grant. (Violent Butterfly)
Who in their right mind schedules a test first thing in the morning? That should be illegal.
Adrian Voss. (Proud Bookworm)
People who actually study!
Adrian said without looking up from his novel.
Yasmin Grant. (Violent Butterfly)
*scoffs*
Of course, the walking dictionary would say that.
Adrian Voss. (Proud Bookworm)
Correction, a top walking dictionary!
<(￣︶￣)>
*replies with a smug smile*
Adrian Voss. (Proud Bookworm)
In front of them, Asher, who despise English with every fiber of his being and has the lowest tolerance for it, groans.
Asher Reeves. (Stupid Chatterbox)
Can’t we just collectively ignore this test and pretend it never existed?
Elios, the ever-responsible class monitor, shot him a blank look.
Elios Frost. (Coldy Class Monitor)
Not unless you want to fail. Oh wait, you already do.
Asher Reeves. (Stupid Chatterbox)
*gasps*
Frosty, how dare you say that about the great me?
(╬⁽⁽ ⁰ ⁾⁾ Д ⁽⁽ ⁰ ⁾⁾)
Elios Frost. (Coldy Class Monitor)
*blinks*
Easily.
Asher Reeves. (Stupid Chatterbox)
While Adrian, their dear perfect buddy, chuckles hearing Asher's whines as he flipped a page of his novel.
Adrian Voss. (Proud Bookworm)
You know, Ash, English isn’t that bad. You just need to–
Asher Reeves. (Stupid Chatterbox)
Vossy, don’t you dare say read!
*warns, pointing a threatening finger*
Adrian Voss. (Proud Bookworm)
*grin*
I was definitely going to say read.
Desmond Clarke.(Calm English Teacher)
Calm down, Class!
The test is only of forty minutes. If you didn’t study, consider this a lesson in regret.
A collective groan ripples through the room. The moment of dread has arrived.
Desmond Clarke.(Calm English Teacher)
Elios, come help me distribute the Test Papers.
*to Elios*
Elios gets up immediately to help Teacher Clarke.
At the back, Nora and Ruby, Alina’s supposed "friends", are engaged in their usual whispered scheming.
Nora, ever the actress, steal a glance at Elios before sighing dramatically.
Nora Sinclair. (Rich Young Lady)
I just hate that we have to take tests. It’s so stressful. I don’t know how I’ll do…
As Elios walks to their desk to hand over the Test Papers, Nora looks at him with a pout.
Nora Sinclair. (Rich Young Lady)
*pouts & says to Elios*
Elios, will you help me study next time?
Elios Frost. (Coldy Class Monitor)
*didn’t even glance at her*
You mean actually 'study'? ❄️
Ruby Keane. (FrIeNdLy Princess)
*smirks, nudging Nora*
You’ll have better luck failing beautifully.
As the class chuckles, Ruby discreetly looks toward Phenix, batting her lashes.
Ruby Keane. (FrIeNdLy Princess)
I don’t know about you guys, but I think English is so much more fun when you have… the right motivation.
*giggles softly*
Ruby Keane. (FrIeNdLy Princess)
Desmond Clarke.(Calm English Teacher)
*ears perk up*
I’d be even happier if your grades were as impressive as your enthusiasm, Ruby.
And the laughter continues.
As soon as Elios went away, Nora's expressions turns sour.
Nora Sinclair. (Rich Young Lady)
*huffs*
Ugh. Stupid goody-two-shoes class monitor. He never falls for anything.
Ruby Keane. (FrIeNdLy Princess)
*cross her arms*
And Sir Clarke? Seriously? That was the reaction he gave ME! That TOO in front of Phenix?
Nova, their sharp-tongued classmate, rolls her eyes at the two, two-faced best friends, from the row beside.
Nova Stark. (Sassy Snoozer)
It will be more beneficial if you two princesses work on your poor grades instead of wasting time & energy on useless things.
Nora Sinclair. (Rich Young Lady)
*snaps*
Excuse you, don't compare us with your childhood friend, we study.
Nova Stark. (Sassy Snoozer)
*smirks*
Yeah? And yet, your grades beg to differ.
Meanwhile, Nova's childhood friend – Yuri Knox, their resident troublemaker, lazily propped his feet up on his desk.
Yuri Knox. (Mr. Troublemaker)
Yuri Knox. (Mr. Troublemaker)
Test? Oh, I didn’t study, but it’s fine. I’ve got a method.
Beside him, Percy, who is no different from Yuri perks up.
Percy Sterling. (The Rotten Apple)
Yeah? What is it?
Yuri Knox. (Mr. Troublemaker)
*smirks*
It’s called hope.
A loud thunk echoes as Elios drop a grammar test paper on Yuri’s desk.
Elios Frost. (Coldy Class Monitor)
Try something new,
Elios Frost. (Coldy Class Monitor)
Like effort. ❄️
Yuri Knox. (Mr. Troublemaker)
*groan*
Ugh, Frosty, you killjoy.
ಠಗಠ
While Tiffany and Brittany, the class’s self-proclaimed queens, were unimpressed by all the fuss.
Tiffany Monroe. (Mean Ponytail Princess)
*twirls her pen*
Honestly, why are we even having this test?
Brittany Robert.(Obsessed Pony Swooner)
*flips her pony*
Exactly. Does proper grammar really matter in life?
Tiffany Monroe. (Mean Ponytail Princess)
Not if you’re rich enough!
*smirks*
Rhea Bennett, the undisputed 1st-ranker sitting before the High Pony Queens, sighs dramatically and mutters,
Rhea Bennett. (Savage 1st Ranker)
This is why the literacy rate is dropping.
Meanwhile, Avian, seated beside Phenix, barely react. As the test papers were being passed out, she taps her fingers on the desk, watching Phenix out of the corner of her eye.
He is staring at the paper like it has personally offended him.
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
You look like you just saw your future.
*teases*
Phenix Marshall. [Nix]
*lets out a long sigh*
If my future is failure, then yeah.
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
Did you even try to study?
Phenix Marshall. [Nix]
Define try!
ʕಠ_ಠʔ
*says looking way too serious*
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
*sighs*
Don't tell me that English is your weakest subject.
Phenix Marshall. [Nix]
*holds up a hand*
Shhh! Don’t remind me of the pain.
Nova glance at Yuri, who was leaning back lazily, spinning his pen between his fingers, not a single trace of concern on his face.
Nova Stark. (Sassy Snoozer)
Nova Stark. (Sassy Snoozer)
*wonders*
🗨️ Has he even opened the textbook once this year?
But before she could dwell on it, Teacher Clarke drop a test paper onto her desk.
Avian smirks, stealing one last glance at Phenix, who is gripping his pen like it's a foreign object.
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
🗨️ This is going to be interesting.
Desmond Clarke.(Calm English Teacher)
*clears his throat*
Enough. Time to begin.
Class. (💥)
*a loud sigh echoes*
A collective sigh fills the air as students pick up their pens.
And just like that, the classroom falls into the rare tense silence.
The air in the classroom is thick with tension as students scribble away on their test papers.
Sir Clarke paces the aisles like a hawk, his sharp gaze making sure no one dares to cheat.
Avian, breeze through the questions. Grammar is her strength, and each answer flow effortlessly from her pen.
Beside her, however, Phenix, a cadet trained for pressure finds himself sweating under the merciless stare of question number two.
"Identify the incorrect sentence and correct it."
His eyes dart between the options. They all seem correct.
He peeks at Avian's sheet but immediately snaps his head forward when she subtly tilted her paper away.
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
*smirks*
Caught you.
Phenix Marshall. [Nix]
*sighs dramatically & whispers*
Help a struggling soul out, will you?
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
Nope. Struggle builds character.
Phenix Marshall. [Nix]
I have enough character, thanks.
Phenix leans slightly towards Avian's desk looking around, tapping his pen against the desk.
Phenix Marshall. [Nix]
Avian, aren't you a topper?
*whispers near her ear*
Avian freeze hearing his whisper so close but soon frowns, glancing at him from the corner of her eye.
Phenix never noticed her before. He was either busy with his friends or with soccer.
Then why is he suddenly interested now?
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
*eyeing him suspiciously*
Yeah… why?
Phenix Marshall. [Nix]
*shrugging, a lazy grin forms*
Then your English must be really good.
Avian rolls her eyes.
Of course, he needs help. Typical.
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
*casually*
It’s decent.
Phenix Marshall. [Nix]
*taps his pen against his chin, pretending to think*
What about the second question? You know the answer?
Avian turns her head fully to him now, her grip on pen tightening. She hates when people assume that she will just hand over answers.
But more than that, why is HE the one asking?
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
*flatly*
Of course.
Phenix Marshall. [Nix]
*smirks, watching her reaction*
Great. Tell me.
Phenix isn’t sure why, but annoying her is entertaining. Maybe it is the way she narrow her eyes like she is already plotting his demise.
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
*lifting an eyebrow*
Why should I?
Avian stares at him.
His expression is completely casual, but there's a mischievous glint in his eyes, like he knows he is getting on her nerves and is actually enjoying it.
Phenix Marshall. [Nix]
*feign innocence*
Maybe because you like helping people?
乁[ ◕ ᴥ ◕ ]ㄏ
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
*scoffs*
More like you like cheating.
Phenix Marshall. [Nix]
*gasps looking fake-offended*
Whoa, who said anything about cheating?
Phenix Marshall. [Nix]
I’m just checking your accuracy.
ಡ ͜ ʖ ಡ
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
*exhales sharply*
The way he said things so easily, like it is no big deal, makes her want to argue more.
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
*deadpans*
So you don’t believe me?
Phenix Marshall. [Nix]
*grinning wider*
Not unless I see it.
Avian bit the inside of her cheek. It is stupid, but for some reason, she suddenly feels determined to prove him wrong.
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
🗨️ Why does he sound so… smug?
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
*huffs as she slides her paper toward him just a little*
Fine. But only the second question.
Phenix's fingers brushes the edge of her paper as he glances at the answer, and for a second, he found himself wondering that her handwriting is so neat.
Phenix Marshall. [Nix]
*nods, pretending to be impressed*
Huh. Not bad.
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
Wow, thanks for the validation.
*sarcastically*
Phenix leans back, watching her reaction with amusement.
He always thought of her as the quiet, serious type.
But as he is getting to know her, he found her unintentional reactions amusing.
Every thought that crossed her mind played out on her face, completely unfiltered like an open book, and he couldn’t help but like that about her.
Phenix Marshall. [Nix]
No problem, topper.
( ꈍᴗꈍ)
Avian shakes her head, turning back to her paper. But even as she picked up her pen, she could still feel his gaze lingering for a second longer than necessary.
For a second, he pauses wondering about her few reactions he couldn't grasp at all like why did she fluster for a moment or even took the bait when she could easily ignore his challenge.
But then he decides to not dwell on it, when he has a high-stake case in his hand.
And he finally looks away.
In the front of classroom as Mr. Clarke walks away, Cadet Asher leans closer to Elios with a miserable look.
Asher Reeves. (Stupid Chatterbox)
Hey, monitor. Let me copy a tiny bit.
ಥ╭╮ಥ
Asher Reeves. (Stupid Chatterbox)
Elios Frost. (Coldy Class Monitor)
*didn't even blink*
No.
(⌐■-■)
Asher Reeves. (Stupid Chatterbox)
Come on. I’ll fail!
Elios Frost. (Coldy Class Monitor)
You always fail in grammar.
Asher Reeves. (Stupid Chatterbox)
*gasps, hand on chest*
Frosty, that was uncalled-for.
( ≧Д≦)
Elios Frost. (Coldy Class Monitor)
That is the truth.
Before Asher could reply, Teacher Clarke claps his hands standing beside their desk, glaring at Asher.
Desmond Clarke.(Calm English Teacher)
Desmond Clarke.(Calm English Teacher)
Twenty minutes left.❄️
Asher Reeves. (Stupid Chatterbox)
And Cadet Asher heroically start his mission impossible dealing with Sir Clarke's special attention at the same time.
Their interaction is seen by none other than the literary genius, who is sitting behind Asher.
Adrian Voss. (Proud Bookworm)
🗨️ Looks like Clarke has a serious grudge against Ash after our Legendary Nuclear Dance Disaster.
*chuckles*
Beside him Yasmin who was struggling with a question, hears Adrian chuckling to himself like a villain in a tragic novel.
Yasmin Grant. (Violent Butterfly)
*frowns giving a blank look to Adrian*
🗨️ Has he finally lost it from reading too much? ಠಿヮಠ
On the last bench in the farthest corner, Yuri was tapping his pen against his desk. He glances at Percy, who looks equally lost.
Yuri Knox. (Mr. Troublemaker)
*grins*
Rock-paper-scissors?
ಡ ͜ ʖ ಡ
Percy Sterling. (The Rotten Apple)
*whispers back*
What for?
Yuri Knox. (Mr. Troublemaker)
To decide which random answers we pick. Let's make failing more fun.
Yuri Knox. (Mr. Troublemaker)
Percy Sterling. (The Rotten Apple)
*nods seriously*
I like that.
ಠ_ಠ
Meanwhile, Nora and Ruby aren't even pretending to focus. As they are busy stealing glances of their crushes.
In front of them, Edward has already finished his test and is quietly rechecking, ignoring everything. Beside him, Alina is still struggling, looking more interested in doodling hearts than actual answers.
Alina Shaw. (Love-struck Diva)
*sighs, staring at Edward's finished paper*
Hey, nerd boy, switch papers with me.
Edward Edison. (Hot-headed Nerd...?)
Edward Edison. (Hot-headed Nerd...?)
*too done with her*
Not in a billion years.
ಠ ل͟ ಠ
Alina Shaw. (Love-struck Diva)
*huffs*
You’re no fun.
Beside them, Rhea Bennett was writing calmly, completely unbothered by the chaos.
Her seatmate, Cadet Simon, was in deep panic mode, tapping his pen against his temple.
Simon Reeves. (Senior Simp King)
Bro!
Simon Reeves. (Senior Simp King)
*whispers to Phenix*
Do you think Clarke would believe me if I told him I accidentally lost my test paper?
Phenix Marshall. [Nix]
*barely peeks back at Simon*
Do you think Clarke would accidentally let you pass?
Simon Reeves. (Senior Simp King)
*groans, muttering under his breath*
No faith in me. Unbelievable.
(☉｡☉)!
After him Tyler with Tiffany and Brittany, the High Pony Queens, were openly copying each other's answers the moment Mr. Clarke looks away.
Nova Stark. (Sassy Snoozer)
*whispers to the cheating trio*
Seriously, this isn't a group project!
ಠ,_｣ಠ
But the three of them just rolls their eyes. The High Pony Duo even flips their ponytails glaring Nova as if warning to keep her mouth shut and continues copying ignoring her.
Nova Stark. (Sassy Snoozer)
🗨️ And they were backbiting Yuri.
*sighs & focus on her own paper*
As the final minutes ticks down, the class buzzes with whispering frustrations, exchanged glances, and a few not-so-subtle attempts at cheating.
Desmond Clarke.(Calm English Teacher)
Pens down!
Teacher Clarke's voice rings across the room.
Class. (💥)
*sighs in relief*
A collective sigh of relief spread through the students, except for the three Cadet buddies Phenix, Asher & Simon, who looks as if they have just survived a near-death encounter.
Desmond Clarke.(Calm English Teacher)
Alright, pass your papers forward.
As the students shuffles their papers, Avian glances at Phenix, suppressing a smile.
Avian Kincade. [Avy]
That bad, huh?
*teases*
Phenix Marshall. [Nix]
*lets out an exhausted sigh*
Let’s just say… my future is looking uncertain.
Author Sky. (Lazy bird)
A long chapter on account of my Birthday.
(•‿•)
Author Sky. (Lazy bird)
Thanks for reading, lovely Doves!
Author Sky. (Lazy bird)
Stay tuned, I will be back with a lot of Summertime Crazy Updates once my exam is over.
Download MangaToon APP on App Store and Google Play
![Avian Kincade. [Avy]](https://up-pic.mangatoon.mobi/contribute/fiction/10356988/avatar/53111466/1742489411046.jpeg-s200webp?sign=573d0fef9f1970fa773e7df6951f2e4e&t=6812b980)
![Phenix Marshall. [Nix]](https://up-pic.mangatoon.mobi/contribute/fiction/10356988/avatar/53111466/1742490033184.jpeg-s200webp?sign=d9e5c2612cb420a4e783a6b367d492c8&t=6812b980)
