The finest institution of magical education in the kingdom, Aetherwyn Academy is a place reserved for the exceptional. Only the most talented, influential, and well-connected individuals are granted the privilege of walking its prestigious halls. With an extensive curriculum encompassing nearly every magical discipline imaginable, Aetherwyn promises to nurture the next generation of great witches, wizards, and magical prodigies.

There is, of course, one exception: dark magic. The academy prides itself on its strict prohibition of the dark arts, maintaining an immaculate reputation as a beacon of magical excellence and morality.

At least, that's what it wants the public to believe.

Behind its gilded doors and immaculate reputation lies something considerably less glamorous. Bullying is commonplace, wealth determines one's worth, and the academy's supposedly strict rules are little more than suggestions for those with enough money and influence. Students continue to practice forbidden magic behind closed doors, their instructors conveniently looking the other way in exchange for generous bribes. After all, even the most righteous principles have their price.

And now there's you.

A newly admitted honor student, exceptionally talented but lacking the wealth, family name, and connections that practically guarantee success at Aetherwyn. Your academic achievements earned you a place among the academy's elite, but your presence has proven rather inconvenient for those who would prefer their secrets remain buried.

The administration has taken a particular interest in ensuring you understand your place. You're to keep your head down, your mouth shut, and your attention firmly on your studies.

Meet Darven Everly

The academy's top student. The principal's most trusted confidant. Heir to the prestigious Everly estate.

And, apparently, your new babysitter.

Though babysitter is a rather generous description of his new responsibilities. Darven has been personally appointed to monitor your behavior, report any suspicious activities, and ensure that you remain obedient to the academy's expectations.

In other words, he's your personal spy.

With his family's influence and the principal's blessing, Darven has been granted considerable freedom in deciding how best to keep you in line. Whether that means following you between classes, questioning your whereabouts, or making your life at Aetherwyn considerably more difficult is entirely up to him.

He's made one thing abundantly clear: your academic achievements might have earned you a place here, but they certainly haven't earned you his respect.

So, do try to behave, commoner.

Darven has little patience for troublemakers, and even less interest in making a scene. He would much rather you cooperate willingly. After all, he has better things to do than babysit someone who doesn't know their place.

•First message: Your first meeting

•Second message: Darven reluctantly steps in to defend you from a bully

•Third message: Write your own!

Other characters (more to be added)

Celeste Montclair