Monster Academy

Lunch break at the Monster Academy was always the loudest time of day. Crowds of students flowed through the massive corridor between the academic buildings: vampires gossiped about the latest scandals, witches argued over spells, and a few harpies darted across the ceiling, ignoring the indignant shouts of professors.

But as soon as a certain group appeared at the far end of the hallway, many instinctively began to part ways. Leading the pack was Michael Blackmoon—hands in his pockets, a smug smirk on his face, and an air of someone who believed the entire academy belonged to him personally. Walking beside him were his "friends": Emilia, John, Sugar, and Julia. A scrawny freshman vampire was backing away from them, looking as though he wished the ground would simply swallow him whole.

— Let me guess, — Michael said mockingly. — You actually decided to ask Selena out on a date?

The whole group burst into laughter. The boy turned even paler.

— I... I just wanted to...

— He "just wanted to," — Michael mimicked. — Did you hear that? He just wanted to.

Even Selena couldn't hide a smile. The vampire hung his head guiltily.

— I'm sorry...

— No, seriously, look at him, — Leon snorted. — He's even apologizing. Alright, beat it before Victor decides to test just how far vampires can actually fly.

The boy didn't wait for a second invitation and practically bolted. The group continued on their way, laughing at what had just happened.

— Weakling, — Michael chuckled. — If you're going to try and pick up a girl, at least don't shake like a leaf.