Factions

Zaria’s POV

I channeled my anger into the weapons class and training. I felt stronger, yet in the back of my mind, I knew it was a matter of time before Astrid would try something more deadly on me.

Malacar is teaching me new fighting techniques, only known to his kingdom. It was brutal, and my body was bruised; I didn’t care. He asked me to stop, and I kept coming at him with the small sickle knives. I would never hurt him, and I felt the surge of anger running inside of me.

Then I turned and dropped the curved knives. Walked in front of the target and started to throw knives at it, fast and with precision.

I heard clapping behind me. Valerian.

Zaria, you’ll be undefeated. I never saw anyone so fast and accurate at throwing knives. May I? his hand went out, and I handed him one.

He threw it at the target, close to the middle. Maybe I should practice more. He turned to me and got closer. Malacar was watching him. Kissed my forehead. I want to spend some time with you…

She’s busy, he said firmly.

Master Malacar, I need her near me just like you do, he said calmly. Now, you won’t deny me that? Besides, it's her decision.

Valerian, right now I’m focusing on my anger to have it under control. But I could use a ride tonight.

That’s what I’m talking about, he said, smiling. I will be waiting.

After he left, Malacar didn’t say anything; I knew he was hurting. I felt it, which was weird. My hand touched his face; his eyes met mine. Then his arms hugged me tight.

I am trying to get used to… them… is driving me insane.

We will get through this, together. The door opened, and he pulled away.

Master Malacar, a new student walked inside. Can we come in? He nodded. The rest flooded the room.

I took my jacket and left. My next class was factions.

The professor handed us a paper. Project. Now, read carefully, and pick a faction to learn about. The partner has to be from that faction.

I looked around, and before I could even think what faction I should choose, a fairy stood next to me.

Hi, I’m Gliss, fairy faction. I want to learn about humans.

Some chuckled behind me. She turned to them, confused. What is your problem?

Gliss, for some reason, I don’t think I’m human. But I will do my best to teach you what I've lived so far.

Does the dean know you’re not human? The professor asked. Mr. Victor was from the Beasts faction, huge body, all muscle, his long brown hair tied back, dark eyes fixed on me. He leaned in, the brows furrowed. Get to work, he shouted. You only have a couple of days.

Gliss was slim, her golden hair braided back. She followed me to the library, and I went to the fairy books section. She handed me some books.

It will be better, she whispered, if we talk…

I agree, let’s meet after lunch then; meanwhile I will read. Gliss, thank you for your help.

You’re welcome she said, all cheery. After she left, I opened the book and whispered again. “Traitors”

Yeah, yet I have to know them, so either you help me or go away. Strigoi sat in the chair across from me. His dark eyes fixated on me. They betrayed her.

Alexandra trusted too much, but in her defense, they seemed harmless. I laughed. What’s your name?

I’m a slave; I have no name.

I stood up, angry; the chair fell behind me, and I slammed my hand on the table. Control your anger, I told myself, and why did I get so rattled up over a name?

Strigoi was on his feet; he bowed his head. You have her fire and the light, but something else is brewing inside of you. A true…

Malacar touched his shoulder. Leave, he told him.

Who was he talking about? Malacar?

Strigoi has been an enslaved person for longer than anyone here, he mumbled. Now, come to my office, please, he said professionally as students passed us.

I followed him to the office; once inside, he locked the door. Lifted me and set me on the desk; I kissed him, desperate for his touch and scent. Malacar, I said, breathless, take me now…

He moved the panties to the side and slammed into me, my body arched as he struggled to open the buttons of my shirt, his mouth taking hungry bites of my breast. I bit my lip not to let out moans; blood trickled down my chin, and he licked it. His eyes glowed bright red. It was over too fast; I wanted more. He didn’t move, holding me tight, his arousal still inside me. Then pulled away; he looked at me. I touched his beautiful face, his hair loose on his face. Tears started to drop from my eyes.

Shhhh, he said, kissing my cheek, no more crying. I know you need me as much as I do; the bond is getting stronger, which tells me soon…a knock on the door. He cursed. He handed me tissues, and I grabbed my things, hiding behind his massive desk.

He opened the door. Can you come a little later? I’m on an important call right now. Thank you.

Zaria, he whispered. I came out from under the desk. His lips kissed my neck; I knew he was inhaling my scent. And shivers went down my body.

You’re still aroused, he said, then looked at me.

Malacar, we will get caught. I will come to your room later. Oh, no, I can’t. I promise Valerian I will spend time with him.

He just stared at me. My heart broke; I couldn’t see him sad. I’m yours, Malacar; no one will take that spot in my heart, only you.

Zaria, he said, about that…when the bonds form…and

I shook my head, covered my ears. No, stop, I pushed him hard. He grabbed my hands and pulled me to his chest. My body calmed eventually, and I had to leave. I knew what he meant.

I walked crying to the room, and when I got inside, a man standing by the window.