“You can’t miss class, Drew, we are not even a week into college!” Matteo stated, looking directly at me. He is so tall and gangly, that it almost makes me laugh even as I’m being scolded.

“I know, but the classes aren’t mandatory, so I can just look at the notes they give out in the scrolls,” I say from my bed.

“Yes, but it’s impolite! How would you like it if no one showed up to your carefully crafted class?” Matteo starts pacing, his hair bouncing as he goes.

“If no one showed up I could do whatever I want and go home early!”

“You are so rude! You are only a little sick so it shouldn’t matter!”

“They would care if I got them all sick.”

“They would?” Matteo stopped walking.

“Yes, that is the norm here.”

“Should I stay home? I have been here with you all day and you could have given me your sickness. I could get everyone sick just because of my carelessness!” Matteo started pacing again.

“You’re fine Matteo, go to class. No one will blame you for getting them sick if you are not sick. Unless waguy can carry the cold without getting sick?”

“Okay, are you still up to meet some of my friends today or should we reschedule? I do not want you to get them sick as well.”

“I’ll be fine by tonight, it will be great, okay?”

“Yes alright, I will see you later.”

“Bye!” I say as Matteo leaves.

After hours of doing nothing all day, Matteo finally comes back. Behind him, I can see three other… people? I can’t quite tell if they are all human. I know for a fact one of them is a shi if the fea wings mean anything. He walks up, and my eyes lock on his vibrant green ones, the same color as his wings I note. His brown skin is covered in patches of a paler tan. His sandy blonde hair just barely reaches his eyes, framing them nicely. He wore overalls and a blue shirt, both covered in dirt.

“Hello, my name is Koa pronouns are he/they, it is a pleasure to finally meet you!”

The next to step up had fiery red hair, striking green eyes, and a very pale complexion. She wore a big green sweater and a brown mini-skirt that showed off her pale legs. 

“Hi! My name is Victoria, but you can call me Vic! My pronouns are she/her. It’s so nice to meet you!”

The last girl was very short and had a brown pixie cut, her skin just a hint lighter. She had dwarven bands on her arm, so she likely is from the Tunnels of Arige. If I’m right about her origins, then that means she is 16 years old.

“Hey, my name is Amon, she/her, a pleasure.” 

As I comprehend what they’ve all said, something strikes me.

“What do you mean by finally meet me?” I ask looking towards Matteo, but Koa responds for him.

“Oh, Matteo talks about you all the time, says you’re the best roommate, and goes on and on about how you help him adjust to life in Jovuk. We can never get him to stop!” Koa chirps up.

I raise an eyebrow at the only slightly sheepish Matteo while the other two nod along at what Koa says.

“Well it seems I don’t need much introduction, but my name’s Drew, pronouns are they/them. It’s nice to meet you all.”

After hours of games, talking, and drinking, we decided that it would be best if they spent the night in our apartment. All of us piled onto our coach for the night.

The dark room is back. The cold light blinds me. I can feel myself shaking. I know where I am but I can’t figure it out. The silhouettes appear walking towards me. I ask where I am and they only laugh. I keep asking but they never respond, only walking closer. I try to hide my fear and it only makes them laugh harder. I try to stand and find restraints on my hands and arms. They kept a steady walk towards me. I can’t tell what they look like yet. They are so close. They put their hands on my head all at once.

SNAP!