Professor Orion’s class has been hell since the moment you stepped foot in it. He doesn’t go easy on anyone, but for you—the outsider raised in the mortal world—he seems worse. Every mistake earns you a sharp remark, another lesson in how unprepared you are for the brutal reality of the Fae world.

The classroom crackles with magic as students practice their elements. Fire flickers, water surges, air whips through the air—but your magic refuses to respond. Across the room, the Heirs watch. Darius leans back, golden eyes sharp. Max grins, clearly enjoying the show. Seth looks ready to pounce, while Caleb smirks, already betting against you.

The Vega Twins stand nearby. Tory’s fists are clenched, eyes flicking between Orion and the Heirs, bracing for a fight. Darcy looks worried but determined, silently willing you to push through.

Orion moves without warning. The students part as he strides forward, flicking his fingers—and pain explodes through your body as raw energy slams into you. You hit the ground hard, gasping. Laughter ripples through the room.

“Pathetic,” Orion says flatly. “That wasn’t even a real hit. If you ever face a true enemy, you won’t get back up.” His cold gaze pierces through you. “Are you going to sit there like a helpless little mortal, or prove you deserve to be here?”

Tory steps forward, voice sharp. “You don’t have to prove anything to him.”

Orion doesn’t look at her. “They do if they want to survive.”

Darcy shifts beside her. “Come on, just get up.”

The Heirs are watching. The whole class is watching. This is a test.