So I updated the summary because I realize that the original idea I had for this story is not where it's heading. I'm alos thinking there'll be one more chapter, but it might change. Just kinda gonna see where it feels right to end it.

Enjoy~

"You weren't joking when you said early. How long have you been out here?" Clarissa questioned as she moved to stand beside the redhead.

Lesso stood in the sand at the edge of the water. Her cane rested against the warped tree stump to her right. From their position she took note of the seven students who waded through the muddy water.

"Before dawn."

"You didn't leave the office until nearly midnight."

"And?"

"That doesn't leave very much time for sleep. Did you get any at all?" Lesso's noncommittal shrug only fueled her growing exasperation.

Early into the start of their friendship, she learned that self-care wasn't high on the Dean of Evil's list of priorities. Actually, Clarissa had the sneaking suspicion that it didn't even make it on the list. She suspected it stemmed from Rafal's influence, but the few times she brought the topic up, Leonora switched subjects. Or ignored her all together. While she was curious about the true nature of their relationship, Clarissa didn't want to push. If she did, there was a chance that their friendship might end.

That was something she absolutely didn't want to risk.

It wasn't as if she didn't have any other friends. On the contrary, she had more than she could even begin to count. She was an Ever and a Fairy Godmother. Friendship came naturally. Her friendship with Leonora, though, was different than all the others. There wasn't the pressure to smile or be perfect. Around the other woman, she could just be herself – her real self.

She hoped that Leonora felt the same. She wanted to be the person the redhead might actually lean on. But, as Emma once explained, love and trust didn't come as easily for Nevers. And for Leonora, it seemed especially difficult. The emotional walls she'd built up over the years were nearly indestructible. But Clarissa didn't mind waiting, no matter how long it might take to tear them down.

"Did you at least eat breakfast?"

Finally, Lesso pulled her attention away from the water. Clarissa was certain if it were anyone else, they would have found themselves on the tail end of a hex for daring to interrupt her. Instead, Lesso raised a perfect eyebrow. "Been a little busy, Princess. Can't leave the brats out here unattended. They were lucky enough to get through the first time. Why are you here anyway? You're going to get sand on your dress."

"I wanted to discuss something with you. You weren't in the tower, so I assumed you'd be out here."

"What is there to- Hey!" Green eyes snapped back to the children in the water. Two of the boys stood across from each other. They were frozen, staring at Lesso with wide terrified eyes. Like rabbits caught in a trap. "You're not allowed to kill anyone until after graduation. Let him up, or I'll hold you under myself." The boys' hands rose into the air. Instantly, a third boy shot out of the water. He took a couple deep breaths. It was only after the nearly drowned boy coughed up the water in his lungs and continued to gather the roots that Lesso's focus returned to her. "Idiots. Anyway. What do you want to discuss?"

No matter how many times she witnessed it, the Nevers' complete disregard for death still unnerved her. How could someone be so nonchalant about dying? Or killing someone? If Lesso hadn't been so attentive they would have lost a student today.

And yet not a single one of them seemed to be bothered by it.

Shaking her head to clear her thoughts, she remembered the true reason for her visit this morning. "Prince Jerrick requested to sit in on a class today."

"He's your headache, Princess. Do what you want."

He was. However, it was the specific class the prince requested to be a part of that needed her approval. While showing him around yesterday, Jerrick took a particular interest in the training grounds and requested to oversee the class to demonstrate some of the techniques he used. Before there wasn't a need to seek out Lesso's approval for such a thing. Now, though, decisions like this needed to be discussed by both of them.

After the restructure, a new curriculum had been established. It stemmed around the three different types of classes. Evil, Good, and Unified. Those were the classification that each class fell under. As their names suggested, the Good and Evil classes were meant to lead their students down their respective paths.

Unified Classes were slightly different. Unlike the other two these courses consisted of two options. The required classes (like the defense training, survival, and history) were nonnegotiable. The others (like cooking, brewing, and dancing) were purely electives for those who might want to expand their knowledge. Both Evers and Nevers alike shared Unified Classes. To ensure all students comfort, two professors (one from each side) taught together.

"I know. But he specifically requested to be a part of the defense training."

"No."

"Rumi thinks it's a good idea."

"I said no."

"Can you let me explain?" The blonde sighed. She'd already known Lesso's answer before she sought her out. After all, their interaction yesterday had been far from pleasant. However, the young man had skills that the children would benefit from learning. "Cromsworth has an academy of its own. It caters specifically to swordsmanship. I really think that our boys might learn something useful from him. After all, his brothers are some of the most well-known swordsmen around. Many kingdoms seek out their assistance."

Leonora snorted as she rolled her eyes. "The last thing I want to deal with right now is one of my students getting skewered."

"Rumi isn't going to let that happen. And I'm sure Prince Jerrick will behave himself."

Lesso shook her head. "Let me stop you right there. I know you Good folks like see the best in everyone. But Jerrick is arrogant and prejudicious, Dove. Mixing him near the Nevers is going to cause nothing but trouble. Besides, you and I both know that you wouldn't let a villain with a weapon near your Evers."

She wanted to disagree. However, the witch did have a point. If the roles were reversed, she'd say no too. The idea of having some unknown villain around any of her students sent a shiver down her spine. Let alone with a weapon of any kind.

But still, she didn't want the boys to lose out on this chance. "How about a compromise, then? I'll speak to Rumi. We'll move Hort and the other Nevers under your instruction today. This way your mind can be at ease and Jerrick can still demonstrate some of Cromsworth's techniques."

Lesso furrowed her brow slightly, something Clarissa noticed she did whenever she processed information. The blonde prepared herself to further argue her position.

"Alright, fine." Lesso relented as she crossed her arms. "Has anyone ever told you that you're a pain in the ass?"

"Only you, but you love it." Clarissa shrugged as she offered the redhead a thankful smile. Clarissa's heart fluttered when she noticed that Lesso didn't deny her claim. Instead, she smirked at her. The two shared a moment, just staring at each other.

Lesso was the first to look away. Reaching into her waistcoat pocket, she removed her watch. With a soft click it opened. A single hum left her as she took note of the time. With a snap of her fingers a black woven basket appeared on the stump. Returning the watch to its spot she turned back to the water and her kids. "Listen up! That's enough for today. Get your asses in here. Drop the roots in the basket and go get washed up before the assembly."

The children slowly made their way back towards the shore. They placed their armfuls of hettle roots into the basket quietly as they passed.

"Lady Lesso, I'm stuck!" A young Never called out. Clarissa watched as she tried to move forwards, only to remain in the spot. She took a step forward to assist the poor girl, but Lesso held her hand up stopping her.

"Sounds like a you problem, Maril."

"But-"

"No. If I wasn't here, what would you do?"

"Figure it out myself?"

"Exactly. As future Evil you need to learn to handle things on your own. Relying on yourself is the only way to ensure your survival. So, how are you going to get out?"

Maril stared down at the water. Closing her eyes she lifted her glowing finger into the air. For a moment, nothing happened. Then the girl shot straight upwards with a rush of water. Clarissa didn't miss Leonora's devious chuckle as the girl panicked in the air before dropping back into the water near the shore. She jumped up looking around wildly. "Did you see that? I did it! I got out!"

If it were her, she would have showered the girl with praise. Instead, Lesso only gave a single nod. But it was enough for the girl. A toothy smile spread across her face at her dean's acknowledgement. Throwing her remaining roots into the basket, she disappeared through the stone archway and up the stairs.

The familiar warmth spread through her as she once again took in the woman before her. Even though she'd deny it, it was obvious that Leonora truly cared for her students. Her ways were very different than her own. Where the godmother used praise and positive reinforcement, the witch guided her students with tough love and consequences.

"What are you smiling at, Dove?"

"Nothing!"

"Students, might I have your attention please?" Clarissa called out in an attempt to get the students' attention. However, instead of listening to the Dean of Good, they continued to talk amongst themselves. The blonde tried again, a little louder this time. "Students!"

Lesso lazily glanced over to her counterpart. Dovey only sighed as she waved her right hand in the air. A wide smile spread across her face at the unspoken approval. This was her favorite part of their announcements. Lifting the black cane, she slammed it down once and bellowed over the talking. "SHUT UP."

Instantly, the hall fell silent. Both Evers and Nevers staring at the stage with wide terrified eyes, finally taking note of the Deans' appearance on the stage.

"Thank you, Lady Lesso." The Godmother said, offering a grateful smile. While she, personally, would never raise her voice in such a way, she couldn't deny that sometimes shouting was the only true way to reign in their children's attention. Especially when they all gathered together like this. "Good morning students! There are a few matters that we wanted to discuss with you all today. Firstly, with the first semester coming to an end we wanted to remind everyone to have their next semester electives turned into either myself or Lady Lesso."

Lesso stared out across the bleachers with a wicked smile. "If you don't turn them in, I'll personally be selecting them for you."

It was an unspoken threat.

The students were given an updated list of electives nearly three weeks ago. So, if any of them were truly foolish enough to not have already done so, she would make sure that the classes she put them in would make them positively miserable.

"Yes. So, make sure those of you who haven't turned them in do so by the end of the day!"

"Secondly, Professor Anemone wanted me to remind those of you who want to join in the planning of the Harvest Ball: you are to meet in her classroom this Friday after dinner."

"Right. Moving on. As some of you might have noticed, we're hosting a Prince."

"Lady Lesso is correct. Prince Jerrick of Cromworth will be staying within our school. Please make sure to make him feel welcomed!"

"Or don't. He'll be gone by the end of the week. All of you are expected to continue with your classes and studies. No exceptions will be given."

"Are there any questions?"

A majority of the Ever girls' hands shot into the air. Lesso didn't bother to hide her irritation. It was obvious they wanted to know more about Prince Jerrick. She, however, had a busy schedule and plans for the day. The last thing she wanted to be caught in the middle of was a group of Ever girls gushing about another typical prince. "Anyone who asks about the prince will be sent to the Doom Room." All the hands lowered. Lesso hummed to herself, pleased that her initial thought was correct. "Thought so."

Clarissa clapped her hands together. "You are all dismissed! Have a wonderful day!"

As they started to clear out of the hall, Clarissa spun on her heels and turned to the taller woman. Placing her hands on her hips she stared up into pale green eyes.

"Was it truly necessary to threaten them? They're just curious about Prince Jerrick."

"Princess. I'm not standing here listening to them drool over Jerrick for hours. I've got-"

"Um. Professor Dovey?" A timid voice called out. Both women shifted their attention to the Never boy at the front of the stage.

"What can we do for you?" Clarissa asked gently. The boy's snake-like eyes darted upwards, not fully meeting her own.

"Ouro. What is it?"

"S-sssome of us wanted to know..." The boy began. Clarissa noticed that he practically hissed the words out. He shifted uncomfortably, keeping his eyes glued to the stage. "A-are Neversss able to assssist with the Harvest Ball?"

Dovey barely contained her excitement. This was perfect! While she and Lesso had spoken about the Nevers attending the Harvest Ball, the redhead made it abundantly clear that none of her students would be forced to attend. Not that Clarissa wanted that. She wanted everyone to attend because they desired to, not out of obligation. This only solidified that their rocky attempt at unity was working. "Of course! The Ball is open for anyone who wishes to join!"

Ouro stepped back, startled by her sudden enthusiasm. He looked at the Dean of Evil, who only shrugged. Leonora was used to Dovey's excitement, just as Dovey was accustomed to her angry outbursts. "Is that all?"

The boy nodded before shuffling over to the small group of Nevers who stood by the door waiting for him.

Lesso grit her teeth as the princess' eyes shifted back over to the princes, again.

Keeping true to his word, Espada kept Jerrick on the other side of the training grounds. Since she had more children than usual, she opted for something a little different this time around. Splitting her group of ten into pairs, she equipped them with training rapiers and let them have at it. Yet every time the obnoxious man laughed; it drew the Evers' attention away from their partners.

She didn't understand the utter fascination these girls had with the prince.

Taking advantage of the girl's lack of attention, Lesso flipped her cane and hooked it around her leg. With a slight tug, the girl fell backwards onto the ground. With a huff she shot up, crossing her arms and staring up at Lesso. "Hey, what was that for?"

"For swooning. Maybe switching over to real weapons would help you focus."

The brunette opened her mouth to protest, but meeting the annoyed gaze of the Dean of Evil was enough for her to keep quiet. Taking a breath to calm herself, Lesso turned towards the other students scattered around them.

"All of you. What do you think is going to happen if you're distracted in a fight?"

"Death!" Hort shouted.

"Exactly. One wrong move and it could cost an arm. Or even your life."

"We're princesses. We aren't meant to fight. That's why we have our prince."

"And what exactly is your plan if he doesn't show up?"

"Well. I'll just wait for him."

"And if that takes weeks? Months? What if he never comes? Then what will you do?" Lesso pinched the bridge of her nose. No matter how many times she explained it, most of them just didn't seem to get that they were in this class for their own protection. She was aware that time was needed for everyone to adjust. But she wasn't known for her patience. And these Evers were dancing on her last nerve. "The purpose of this class is to teach you all basic defense skills. This way if – and when – you find yourself trapped without a prince around, you'll have at least some chance of survival."

"Beatrix. Hort. You're next." The pair nodded and took their place.

"Don't worry, I'll take it easy-" Hort didn't even get to finish his sentence before Beatrix moved. She closed the distance between the two, jabbing the balled tip of her training blade into Hort's chest.

"Hort. You're dead. Nice work, Beatrix." Lesso hummed in approval. Truly, out of all the Evers, Beatrix showed the most promise.

The blonde beamed up at the rare praise her teacher offered. "Thank you, Lady Lesso."

"Evers, that is how it's done." Lesso stated as Hort stood there, still surprised by how quickly the girl could have ended his life. Lesso slapped the back of his head to snap him out of his stupor. Rubbing the sore spot he returned to stand beside Hester. "Nevers, always remember to never underestimate your opponent. If you do, you're going to end up dead."

"I don't see why Professor Dovey allows her to teach them." Lesso's eyes snapped over to Jerrick and Espada, who were walking rather close to her side of the grounds.

"Lady Lesso is quite skilled with many different weapons." Espada explained. He didn't particularly enjoy being around Lesso. Her attitude was less than appealing. However, he'd witnessed her fighting abilities many times. And he couldn't deny that she'd earned his respect. "That is why she teaches the girls' self-defense."

"Why don't we see how skilled a Never can truly be. How about a duel, witch?" Jerrick challenged as blue eyes met green.

"Prince Jerrick, I really think we should return to the students." Espada stressed as he glanced nervously between the two.

"You're right Professor Espada. It was silly of me to request a duel." Jerrick offered a bow. "After all, I wouldn't want to embarrass the Evil Dean in front of her students."

Espada winced. He really should have heeded Clarissa's words earlier when she warned him of the loathing the two held for each other. Though he didn't expect him to outright challenge Lesso. And the redhead was far too proud to back down, especially since he called her out in front of her students.

"I would be more than happy to put you in your place."

The pair took their place across from each other. All the students wasted no time gathering around, leaving more than enough space for the battle that was about to ensue.

"She's going to kick his ass."

"No way! The Prince has been training his whole life! There's no way she can beat him!"

"You little Evers seem to have forgotten something."

"What's that?"

Hester stared at her dean, excitement sparkling in her eyes. "Lady Lesso doesn't lose."

With a wave of his hand a white scabbard appeared. A lion insignia (she assumed it was the Cromsworth crest) was engraved into the gold that stretched along the scabbard. Grasping the golden hilt, he unsheathed the polished silver blade. "It's a shame you don't have your own."

"Oh dear. Whatever will I do?" The redhead glanced down feigning sadness.

With a puff of smoke her cane disappeared, a sword from her personal collection taking its place. The blade was obsidian. The design that was etched into the blade glowed a faint violet. The woven hilt's black color matched the blade perfectly.

She glanced at the sword before staring into Jerrick's eyes. A wicked grin spreading across her lips. "Oh, would you look at that? How convenient."

"You damned witch." Jerrick sneered as he charged at Lesso. She'd anticipated this, however. Over her years she'd fought against plenty men like him. They were rash, quick to anger, and only fought with their emotions.

It made for an easy win.

A cheer from the Nevers erupted as Jerrick's sword clattered to the ground a mere five minutes later. The man falling onto his back roughly. He glared up at the woman who held her sword at his throat. Lesso tilted her head to the side as she stared down at him triumphantly.

It was only after Espada announced her victory that she removed her blade from his neck, allowing him to finally breathe. Just as before, the sword disappeared in a puff of smoke. With a twirl of her cane, she turned away from the pair, making her way back to her office.