NOVEL WEB Ch.13: Return of The Class!
It was dark all around me. As I floated in the quiet embrace of darkness, I could feel the echoes of my past thoughts first starting as a whisper in the far distance before booming into my body. “Was this something I could regret?” , “How could I look cute?”, “Did I really want this?”
Each thought made the darkness constrict around my body, building an unbelievable pressure as if two tectonic plates slammed into one another. I could feel my insides squeezing in on itself, bones creaking and cracking. My face was flattening as my nose was stabbing into my skull while my jaw shattered.
“I wa… I… have to….E!” my mind shouted into the crushing dark, echoing off in all directions, making the dark start to crease and crinkle. It started tearing and ripping like paper as my body reformed itself, becoming whole again. As the dark tore away, a white light picked me up in a warm embrace, taking me out of the dark and leading into something new.
My eyes slowly opened, seeing my new room from this angle was going to take some getting used to. My horns lifted my head slightly and even if it didn't my new height and bulk still lifted me somewhat. But at least I have my wing blanket and comforter combo to make it easier to settle in, it’s so warm! I feel like I’m in a heated sock! Even this bed contours to my body shape! I could probably sleep on my back. Though getting off my large bed took a little longer as I had to crawl off it, I’d roll off it but I would rather not fall off my bed.
“Oh… that’s right… I have class today.” I mumbled to myself. And considering how people reacted to me yesterday, it’ll be more of the same huh. Guess I’ll have to act again… I hate doing that, but what can you do, just pretend it doesn’t bug you.
Getting up I got changed into some light tan cargo pants that ended a little before reaching my second knee (?) my heel? I wasn’t too sure what it was called. Anyway the pants were somewhat baggy but it still conformed to the shape of my hips, I guess if I was an inch or two wider these would be similar to the tight pants I wore before. Wearing a slightly form fitting white tank top with a gray button jacket that looked a little big on me. As much as I wanted to wear something less revealing, a part of me wanted just something a little nice, thus the tang top instead of a black long sleeve. But I still buttoned up the jacket, if anyone asks, it’s because I like warmth.
Making my way to the dining room, I sat to a full plate of eggs, bacon and some veggies, as I ate my mother looked over at me.
“I called your school a couple days ago to tell them of your convergence so your class should have a few new things.” She said watching my face. I wasn’t sure what she was looking for but maybe I should ask her.
“speaking of… is it going to be weird there, like yesterday?” I asked hesitantly.
“I’m not going to lie.” She paused milling over the truth. “It’ll most likely be the same. It’s best to be stern with those that give you problems but be forgiving and show off your kind self to kind people. And just present yourself to those who won’t talk to you like they don’t matter, just focus on what’s important to you.” She said grabbing my hand and speaking from… experience?
“Ok… thanks for being honest with me, hopefully it goes smoothly though.” I said trying to be positive. Hearing this my mother smiled and hugging my head.
“Just remember you can talk to me if things get too… weird.” She said using the same word I did before planting a kiss on my forehead.
“I’ll try…” I said slightly looking away.
Walking onto school grounds was the most uncomfortable thing I’ve felt from outside to all the way to class. Humans and monsters would freeze or do a double take when they saw me. Some of them trembled, dropped things or even turned around slowly walking away. “Did a dragon transfer in? but why leave their school?”, “Is there an inspection happening?”, “Too much mana… I’d die if I tried any.” Came the whispers and many more comments. In many of the little doorways, slimes cramped together watching, fairies hugged each other or fainted and other smaller humanoids hid in the shadows.
Students in the hallways would either look at the floor while others bowed their heads. Even a huge red skinned student that was taller than me franticly tried to squeeze into the group of smaller students hugging the wall, making way for me in the middle of the hallway. A spot reserved for the bigger students.
All the while I tried to hold my back straight and my eyes forward. Even my wings opened into an arch shape around me, making me look bigger while my tail moved slowly like a snake watching its prey. I really didn’t like intimidating people but my former boss would say you had to act the part otherwise people will attack you. So I did and also pretended they didn’t matter, like my mother said. But a small part of me smiled and quietly whispered in my ear, “Only Natural.”
Walking into class, I could see Mr. Minnow reading another book with a dark haired bug girl with a white body with a title of, “I Got Transferred, Great.” After a few steps, Mr. Minnow noticed me, eyeing me from the top of his book. Putting down his book, he got up and walked over to me, his face didn’t have the usual seriousness. He looked more reserved or concerned? But his body moved like he hurt one of his legs.
“Oliver, good thing you came straight here, so we can get you into your new seat.” He said calmly. He led me to a chair with a cut out on the left side in it for my tail to slide in. it was the even at the perfect angle too! The chair was also made from a darker metal and looked more stiff. The desk was a similar metal with a shiny wood top that looked beautifully polished. I wouldn't mind if my house had floors like this!
“Why the fancy table?” I questioned not sure why I got something… sooo nice to look at.
“You could say certain monster races find prettier things more calming.” He said.
“So that means dragons like this stuff instinctually? I guess it does make me feel good to look at it…. um could I ask you something?” I asked, looking at Mr. Minnow with serious eyes.
“Well, it's speculation but it's important that you feel safe here." He explains before continuing. "Aright, what do you want to ask?” Mr. Minnow asked, in really calm patient voice.
“What should I do? Everyone’s so nervous around me because I’m a dragon.” I asked looking Mr. Minnow in the eyes looking for answer, even a stupid one would at least give me something to consider.
“Well, it’s the history dragons have left behind. Chosen or accidental. And their physical power.” He said sitting down on a nearby chair. “I’d say it’s best if you master your new abilities and mana first. Befriending new people can wait until you can control yourself, otherwise…..” Mr. Minnow stopped, looking at the floor with eyes so intense he could blast lasers into the core of the earth. The aura around him seemed to chill the air around us, which was something I didn’t like. Why, I don’t know but something in my mind laughed as I took a relaxed breath.
“Otherwise?” I asked, hoping he’d continue. My mind smirked like some rich blonde anime girl.
Closing his eyes, the aura around him slowly pulled itself within his body. The chill completely gone like nothing had ever happened. “It could blow up in your face…” he finished, looking me in the eyes. His own were sad, as if the world itself pulled him away from something truly important.
Looking into his eyes, I mouthed the words, “I’m sorry”, he didn’t have to say anything else. I could tell whatever blew up, really hurt him, like his hero was dead.
The air around us felt static as we both knowingly looked at each other. I really wanted to hug him and make the pain go away but…I couldn’t, I never expressed myself like that to others. So I got up and put my hand on his shoulder and nodded at him. He took a deep breath, letting the air fill his lungs before nodding beck.
After a moment longer, we began again. “You’ll be in a P.E. class to help you get a hold of your abilities and even fly.” He said sounding happy for me.
“Right…. Flying….” I mumbled in disappointment.
“You don’t need to take it but so you’re aware, as long as you pour mana into your body you’ll survive bad falls.” He said picking up on my annoyance. “Just give it a shot in the flight hall.” He added.
“I’ll think about it but I’m not promising anything.” I said truthfully. Mr. Minnow respected that and changed the topic.
“By the way, how are you adjusting so far?” he asked.
“It’s been up and down I guess. All this dragon stuff and I’m not even a guy one.” I tell him, I feel I can trust him with some of my thoughts.
“sounds about right. It’s never easy to fully adapt to a new body. All sorts of new rules to follow in the day to day too.” He paused for a moment, he looked like he was debating if saying his next words was a good idea or not. “Can I ask you how you want to present yourself? In terms of your gender.” He said, going for the slow peel of the band aid.
I thought about it for a little bit, considering how I felt about being female and how my male mind felt. I wasn’t really comfortable with being a girl but I guess there was some curiosity to it. I’m not exactly weak either, if anything I feel way stronger. But… “I guess… as male for now.” I said and that was all I was willing to admit.
So what if I sorta liked having my own pret-beaut-cute face to look at and I some times dress up to see my refection- I mean companion. What about, being a girl was so interesting anyway? I mentally say while ignoring my large chest.
“Alright, I’ll let the class know and if someone harasses you then tell me. I’d rather things not lead to a fight.” He said with a nod. "Also keep to the wider path between the desks. Your tail and wings could hit someone
As I sat at my new desk watching the reflection of the light on my desk, my classmates came in. some girls and guys gasped while others quickly sat down like a robot. The only one not to make a reaction was the large orc guy, who took one look, his face had the same grimace as he walked in and as he sat down in the back. Even Belle looked shocked to see me, his ears flattened against his head before walking up to Mr. Minnow. Steph slithered in before glancing in my direction only to do second take as she trembled. Then that guy who spoke about lamia’s being cuddly saw me, paled and then pumped his fist saying, “Whoo”, like he hit the jackpot and then collapsing after Mr. Minnow glared at him.
It seemed everyone was too nervous to sit near me as there was a circle of empty chairs all around me. I looked like I didn’t care, but it hurt to see their reactions, especially Belle’s and Steph’s. Was I really just a monster like I originally feared, forever hated and feared?
Belle now finished with talking with Mr. Minnow, clenched his fists and put on his serious face as he walked up to me like he was going to save the world. He seemed a lot bigger than his normal small size, his eyes were burning with fire as he sat next to me.
“Hey Oliver! How ya been.” He said with his cute voice, he looked super happy to see me. I was surprised at first, watching his bravery was really cool and even my mind nodded in respect.
Smiling my biggest smile. “I’m doing great! How about you? It feels like forever since I last saw you!” I said happily.
“Yeah! It’s been sooooooooooo long! I’m doing great too! By the way you look super awesome.” Belle said full of energy. Tilting his head and looking up at me with a big grin.
“That’s great news.” I said nodding. “You think? Well probably not as awesome as your long cat form.” I said, chuckling at the thought of super long Belle towering over every one.
Seeing our interaction made the class ease up a little and they slowly they got into their seats. There was still some tension but it wasn’t as thick as it was before. Even the guy who collapsed got up and jogged over to his seat. I guess they didn’t see me but rather the image of a dragon. I owe Belle a lot more than a few velvet cookies.
Once everyone was seated Mr. Minnow stood up in front of the class, his face back to being the same serious one he always wore. “Now before I address the Hydra in the room, I’d like to thank Belle for stepping up and making Oliver feel comfortable!” he said as he nodded at Belle. Who puffed out his chest like some super hero. “Now, Oliver has become a dragon! That means you should be careful like any other monster you may meet! Remember to respect Him and he’ll do the same! If you don’t then I don’t mind Having Jaque giving you an extra heated work out in the MAZE!” he said before flexing his core and arms.
“Now Oliver has the body of a girl but has chosen to be referred to as a male! So I expect you to respect that unless he says otherwise!” he said, before exposing his sharp teeth in a menacing smile. “Or I eat your pets!” he said laughing deeply.
“No not my Tartar lamb!” cried a classmate as he hugged himself.
Other students flinched or froze when Mr. Minnow said he’d eat their pets, even Belle’s eyes teared up.
“Now with that out of the way we can move on to a new topic!” he said before turning around to write on the board. The sound of the crying board seemed to wake everyone up from their stupor. “Now you remember in a previous class how we talked about the Peater Gene! Well for our first project-“ the whole class moaned much to the delight of Mr. Minnow. “-will be about your families and how they live! It’s about both your human and monster relatives whose genes you’ve inherited!” Mr. Minnow stepped away from the board showing a few cartoon drawings. It showed a tall woman with bull horns with a small man standing next to her. An arrow pointed from them to a drawing that looked like Mr. Minnow reading a small book.
“this project is a report on how your family lives! It can be on anything from how your parents met, what your family does for traditions to what it’s like living with them from your perspective!” he said as he handed out paper work that explained more. Looks like we have till Friday to finish it.
Immediately a girl raised her hand to which Mr. Minnow tried to ignore which only made her call him and wave her hand. After the tenth, “OH, Mr. Minnow”, he finally caved. “Yes Emily.” He said, his face souring up.
“First let me thank you for letting me speak.” She said happily. “I wanted to know if everything on succubi will be ok with you. Because my family has several traditions and each member even worships a different god or goddess in the Pantheon of Beneficent love. Plus there’s how differently they all feed and how they practice new techniques. Oh, oh, oh! There’s also their clothing too, like what mater-“ she seemed to keep going before Mr. Minnow cut her off.
“You write two pages.” He said returning to the front of the class.
“But I have so much to write about! Sir I require at least twelve pages to even begin to explain the intricacies of succubus-incubus relations, let alone how each and every positio-“ she argued until Mr. Minnow cut her down.
“one more word and you get one page.” He said giving her a daring stare. She opened her mouth again, her face was sad but he raised a brow. To which she shut her mouth and puffed out her cheeks, pouting as she sat down.
Wow just wow. That girl must really love her family to want to write that much or she just likes researching things. Regardless, I’m still gotta write about my own family too. That might be a little difficult….
