Phoebe's POV
I awoke with a start. My head ached. I had been having an unusual dream. I involuntarily rubbed my palm on my forehead as I tried to recall the dream but I only got vague bits in return and more headache. I grunted and got off the bed.

After I used the bathroom, I returned to the room and checked what time it was. It was 5.15am. There was no need to go back to sleep. I took a seat before my laptop, turned on my PC and went on to check on my blog.

I write a blog, that's my big secret. The blog is rather famous among young adults and teenagers. I started the blog when I was only 12 and it became a big hit. I don't blog about a particular thing, I blog about basically anything and everything but I focus more on advising people online. I am quite the natural diplomat but no way am letting mom know that, at least not yet.

I opened a page and found the column I entered the last time, that was about a three weeks ago, I've been busy. Not surprisingly, there were quite the number of messages on my message board. I sighed and got to work, I should at least listen to those who need me.

"Hello Gail Kelly. I wanted to tell you about something that happened at school today. A new girl enrolled today and I couldn't get through to her. I have a sort of strong sense of intuition towards her. She is quite unusual and I definitely know she'll attract attention. Its just like you told me the last time, 'someone you least expect would come and make everything alright'. Do you remember? Well, I await your response." - Tammy

 I stopped. Tammy? As in Samantha? I felt something gnaw on my guts. I shook it off and went on to read my other messages.

"Oh My God! GK thank you so much. Those pages you suggested I focus on for my physics test were exactly it. Its like you saw the future."- Indy

I paused. What was going on? Perhaps its merely a coincidence. To the next message it is,

"Thanks GK. The advise you gave me to woo my girl was a killer. It couldn't have gone better."- Dave

Okay, anyone can give good advises, right? Next,

"Gee, How did you know that my dad would listen?  He never listens except that hour you asked me to. Its a miracle, my alcoholic dad gave up drinking. At least for the first time, he is making an effort. He managed to get a job and has been patient with us all at home. I don't know you but thank you Gail Kelly, you are an angel." - Patrick

I did not know what to feel or think. I scanned through the rest of the messages, they were mostly messages directed to Gail Kelly to thank her for her predictions that had set things straight. I smiled to myself, glad that I could be of assistance to so much people.

The last messages I saw were those seeking advise and I didn't hesitate to reply before returning to blog normally. I talked about a new society, new people and new experiences. As I was about to log off, a new message came in.

"GK, about your short story, do you know anyone with that life... because it's too real to be merely fantasy, in fact, it's my life story. I couldn't help but ask despite I've tried to ignore it."- Anonymous.

That message most definitely got my attention. I quickly texted back,

"Do you mean a rose among thorns?" I inquired

"Yes." came the reply.

I gasped. "Am sorry its much similar to your life. I didn't mean it if it bothers you. I don't anyone who has that life. Its a merely a figment of my imagination"

"It's not merely similar. It's exactly it save for the names and the future of Rosa, will it be that way. Is it truly your character's fate to bloom and be plucked without a scratch after everything" I sensed the desperation in her sentence and gulped.

Shakily, I entered a reply "Yes."

"Thank God then. GK, I will be hopeful. I know it sounds silly but I believe in your story. Good morning." And she logged off.

I gasped and wrapped my arms around myself. I had goosebumps. Actual goose bumps. God, what is going on?

*******

It was foreign languages class. I walked to class with Elaine. As we approached, I noticed how equipped the class was. It was bigger than most of the other halls we used for classes and so stainless. For a moment there, I wondered if we could actually use that room for class.

"Well? Come on. You don't want to be late, do you?" Elaine asked.

I had not noticed I had stopped walking. "Oh." I lamely said and walked to catch up with her.

"What foreign language do you study?" I asked Elaine

"Italian, French and Portuguese. You?"

"Just French and Spanish." I replied in a somewhat meek tone

"That's wonderful!" Elaine exclaimed, her eyes glowing. I did not expect that reaction.

"Thanks?" I said uncertainly.

"No problem. Lets get to class now."

"About that, why is this hall so different?" I asked tentatively

"it's mostly because it's a combination of two classes, the semi- finals and the finals, plus Foreign languages are held in high regard in Pris Tine academy." she replied thoughtfully.

"Ah, I get it now." I said nodding in understanding.

While settling in next to Elaine, I observed some students conversing in fluent Japanese. I knew how the language sounded like since I've seen Japanese movies and have always been intrigued by it. I focused on their words and gestures and like magic, it started to make sense. I had to rub my ears and shake my head to try to get a grip but nothing happened. I was too stunned to look away until one of the students met my gaze, Alvina. I choked immediately but her eyes softened and I breathed. I looked away at once and breathed.

"What's the matter, Phoebe?" Elaine asked with concern etched on her features.

"No... thing." I stuttered, "My head is simply out of it." I lied. She clearly didn't buy it but let me be anyway. I felt relief flood through me.

A pretty slender auburn haired lady who I assumed was one of the teachers taking the class, called for everyone's attention.

"I welcome you all to this school session. For those of you who are yet to make my acquaintance, am Miss Ruby Nash. This class comprises of both the final years and the semi-finals, for those of you in cognizant of this fact. And for those of you who are yet to choose their major of study in foreign languages, you have until the next class to make a decision." she paused and turned towards the huge screen behind her, efficiently moving away icons and tapping on others, she opened a big window on the screen showing all the foreign languages that were available to choose from.

She introduced Italian and Russian languages as that was her major before swinging into it in full. I couldn't understand a thing and so I let my mind wander. Why did they combine all majors on first classes? I wondered because I knew most of the students present already had their major. Perhaps it's just a school thing, I thought. In a cavalier manner, I looked at my laptop screen; another gift by Pris Tine and stared at the screen. I didn't know the language so it was normal not to know what the words said either. I sighed but still stared imagining I could actually understand this strange language.

And suddenly, I did. It happened like a flash of light, I could understand what Miss Nash was saying and could read the funny words on the screen before me.

"What the hell?" I muttered under my breath. I was in panic mode. Was sort of joke was my head playing on me? I lowered my head and tried taking deep breaths but all to no avail. I could understand, I could comprehend. I did not realize my eyes were still shut and head lowered until Elaine nudged me. My eyes flew open and I gazed at her. I was momentarily befuddled until Elaine whispered I should answer the question. I nodded still not comprehending.

I met miss Nash's gaze as well as the eyes of the rest of the class and scurried to my feet in an instant.

"What is your name?" Miss Nash asked.

I gulped, "Phoebe Patterson." I replied pushing up my glasses up my nose.

"Is there a problem, Phoebe?" she asked calmly.

"No. Nothing."

"Sei sicuro?" She asked in Italian

"Si." I replied in Italian without knowing it.

"Si capisce Italiano?'' she asked.

"No certo che no. Non ho mai parlato né capita la lingua." I explained in Italian.

She raised a perfectly carved eyebrow, "Ma si sta parlando in questo momento." she said.

"Sto parlando..." I paused. I was speaking in Italian. My mind couldn't conceive what was going on at the moment.

"Well Phoebe, I can say you'll be good in this class. Welcome aboard." Miss Nash said in English, giving me a warm smile.

I plopped onto my seat and exhaled. I had to keep it together. I certainly had to.

"Are you alright?" Elaine asked quietly after the class and I nodded.

"I'll be." I assured her.

"What happened just now?" She asked in a low tone.

"I don't know." I confessed.

Elaine put a hand on my shoulder and gave a gentle squeeze. "It's lunch time. Let's go eat something. And it's on me."

I made to protest but she raised her hand. "Save it. Just appreciate it and don't get too used to it." She smiled and I felt a smile tug at the sides of my mouth as well.

We joined Michaela again for lunch that day. I finally noticed that the part of the cafeteria we sat at was more posh and there were stairs leading up to it. I didn't know if I should stall or just remain at that moment. I didn't feel comfortable associating so much with the higher-ups despite that part also provided privacy from prying eyes.

"Hi" Elaine greeted taking a seat beside Michaela whose eyes brightened on seeing her.

"Hi." Michaela returned.

"Oh, you already know Phoebe." Elaine said. "I hope you don't mind her joining us?"

"Not at all. She was excellent company the other day." she replied. Michaela had this silky sweet voice that sounded like music despite what she said. It felt pleasant simply listening to her. "And Phoebe, you must be good with languages. I must say that I was impressed by how fluently you spoke at foreign languages class today." She complimented.

"Thanks." I said grinning.

"You are welcome." Michaela replied with warmth.

"What should I order for you, Phoebe?" Elaine asked tapping on her tablet.

"Mmhh," I rubbed my chin thoughtfully, "Get me anything nice, please?" I requested sheepishly.

"My pleasure." Elaine replied.

"Mitchy, you should take carbs too. I know you are constantly on a diet but isn't it excessive? You are a teenager after all." Elaine said, her voice laced with worry as she gazed at Michaela's meal and back to her.

Michaela sighed. "Elly, it's fine. Vegetables are healthy too." Michaela said.

"For today, Mitchy you are having carbs." As though on cue, our lunch was served. Elaine thanked the waiter and put her chocolate cake and sweet potatoes on Michaela's plate.

"No, Elly I have a photo shoot coming up next week and Mom says I need to lose 1.5kg." Michaela grumpled returning the food and snack to Elaine's plate.

"Mitchy, you are like 54kg already and you are gorgeous enough. I see no speck of fat on your skin. What are you trying to lose? Is your mom trying to murder you?" Elaine said half-yelling.

"You know my mom. I promise I'll eat anything after the photo shoot." Mitchy pleaded.

"You said that last time," Elaine said frowning, "Yet you didn't because of another photo shoot"

"Did I? I guess it just was out but this time..."

"I'll definitely make you." Elaine interjected. "Good thing we have Phoebe here as witness." Elaine mused.

They both said nothing for a while as they nibbled on their lunch. I glanced around the cafeteria and my eyes met Sam's. There was a message lurking behind those dark eyes of hers but I wasn't getting it. She just gave me a tight smile and turned away. I couldn't describe how that made me feel. I knew I had to talk to her and soon.

I noticed Michaela's eyes drift. Her expression suddenly was that of longing. I followed her eyes and saw the object of her admiration, Zachary and beside him, Xavier. Alvina was nowhere in sight today. The thought of her reminded me of the choking sensation I felt earlier in foreign languages today and that made me shudder. A mere cold stare from her had done that.

"Hello ladies." Xavier greeted cheerfully once he approached the table.

"Hello." we responded in unison.

He casually took a seat beside me and grinned at me. "So, wonder woman,"

I slowly tilted my head to get a good look at him. What was he saying? "Wonder woman?"

"Yeah. Wonder woman or have you forgotten?"

I blinked. "Keep going." I encouraged in a not-so-encouraging tone.

"Remember how all of your darts fell right on target and how you narrowly avoided collision with the burgundy big guy and how you sensed Janice, my cousin slip and caught her?"

I nodded slowly. "So? Anyone could have done that." I sputtered.

"I thought that initially but then remembered that you are supposed to be a nerd, also that wonder woman had an alter ego?" His tone was light despite what he was saying.

I shook my head in disbelief. "You are goofier than I thought."

"Perhaps I am." he admitted and I broke into a quirky giggle. I put a hand over my mouth as I met Zach's amused eyes.

"Hello Phoebe."  he politely acknowledged.

I tried to reply but, my words were stuck in my throat. How does he do that to me? I just gave a curt nod. He brought a seat and sat beside Michaela who was across me at the table. I noticed her
heart somersault as she stole a glance his way. His eyes caught hers and he smiled warmly at her. The poor girl had to look away and try to organize herself. Way to go, Zachary. You are quite the charmer.

Conversation at lunch was light and easy. Michaela was mostly speaking to Zach despite his monosyllable responses. I couldn't help but notice her adoration of Zachary as though he was a living fantasy of hers. How could Zachary not notice? Or did he and simply chose to pretend he didn't? The former would just be heartless and Zachary did not strike me as one who is not perceptive to others' feelings.

Xavier said something that made me nudge him slightly and shot him what I hoped was a glare and he chuckled.

"Awww! You are so cute. Look at those eyes," without warning he pulled my spectacles off and gazed warmly into my eyes. I felt violated but elated at the same time, I mean it's not everyday someone admires your eyes especially a fancy prince with beautiful, beautiful grey eyes. I observed his eye colour as he gazed into mine. He put back on my spectacles.

"Sorry about that. Just had to get a good look at those eyes." he whispered and my heart was giddy. Boy, he was good. I unconsciously found myself gently biting down on my lower lip and quickly stopped, sitting up. I noticed someone staring and when I turned, saw it was Zachary. He smiled and turned back to Michaela who was saying something to him.

*******

I slung my backpack over my shoulder after school and trudged towards the school's parking lot. I was exhausted, it's been a long day with all its absurdity. I shut my eyes and opened them again only to find Sam before me.

"Sam, I..."

"Save it." She interjected cheerily, at least. "Just walk with me." She said encircling her arm through mine and pulling me along. We sauntered for a while as she leisurely exchanged pleasantries with the students she was familiar with. I soon sighted an exit. Once outside, she brought me towards the water fountain with a statue and brought us to sit on the pedestrian bench.  

"Am scaring you, aren't I?" she inquired, her eyes gleaming mischievously.

"Not really." I let out in a low tone.

"Okay. As someone who cares, I just felt a need to have a word with you, person-person since I can't get in your head." she chuckled lightly and faced me squarely.

"It may not look at it at first glance but this school follows a certain hierarchy. There's the royals, who are at the top class, then the eupatrids; they are those with royal blood or of noble birth, there's the extra mundanes or extra ordinaries; people like myself and finally, the regulars or normal."

"My class." I whispered. Sam sighed.

"All am trying to say is that these classes are there for reason and to avoid shemozzles. Its still your first week and you've attracted more than healthy attention. Our school consists of extreme wannabes, am using 'extreme' for a reason. Its a struggle for power and favor from the royals. Particularly from Zachary Ellicott."

"Zachary?" I squinted

"The same one," she affirmed. "Zachary has this exterior that deceives and lures in. He only expresses what you want to see. Be wary of him. His position as heir to the Ellicott family makes him a formidable person in general." she warned.

"He must have quite the reputation. And the girl from the other day, the one who smooched Zachary in the cafeteria?" I inquired.

"You mean Denise Demaray? She is a royal and a bitch. Don't be fooled by her looks. Her abilities are quite something else as well. You don't want to mess with her. Zach has quite the history with women. Denise is his most recent dalliance. She's lasted in all honesty compared to the others." Sam supplied.

"And Xavier?" I tentatively asked.

"Wonderful boy. Xavier is a wonder. Goofy, handsome, good in and out and an over- achiever. You don't want to underestimate him, trust me. You learn more about them as time goes on."

"And Elaine, Alvina and Michaela?" I further inquired lastly.

"They are pretty cool. Alvina is in final year though. She is quite powerful and way too comfortable with her body. I can't say she is slutty but acts like it. Alvina is very powerful too. Most Royals are. And am guessing you know Elaine and Michaela." She said. I nodded.

"Thank you for all these information. I'll use it well." I said sincerely.

"No problem but you have to pay." She said playfully folding her arms across  her chest.

"Um..., do you love pizzas and turkey burgers and more moth watery meals?" I asked

"Of course. At first glance, I look like someone who eats little, right?" she asked.

"No." she pouted. "I have an older sister who eats like a pig but remains as slender as anything, that's why." I explained hoping to make her feel better.

"Most people say I do though." she still pouted. "Anyway, I'd like to." 

"My mom opened her restaurant here in Emperor city last week. She is an amazing chef. I'll get you a favorite of mine tomorrow." I said.

"I'd like that. I knew you were one of the good ones." she said smiling at me. I couldn't help but return it.