《Day-to-Day Kindred》


 Chapter 1: Arrival

    ¡°Watch out!¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s bigger than we thought!¡±


    ¡°Vector, sweep the leg! Me and Prism¡¯ll draw its fire!¡±


    Julia stared in awe at the TV, glued to the screen, as the live news story unfolded before her eyes.


    ¡°If you¡¯re just tuning in, you¡¯re witnessing a live Wailing attack near the Southern Wayside farms. Team Spectrum are on the scene and...whoa!¡±


    ¡°Can we get a better idea of the situation, Dana?¡± Asked the news anchor.


    ¡°I-I don¡¯t know what to say! Team Spectrum are fighting it off like it¡¯s nothing!¡± Said the reporter covering the story. ¡°It¡¯s almost down already!¡±


    ¡°Wailing don¡¯t stand a chance!¡± Julia proclaimed, standing up dynamically.


    ¡°Julia, can you calm down?¡± Asked Florey beside her, cowering behind his pillow. ¡°You know I don¡¯t like loud noises. Or scary Wailing.¡±


    ¡°So-rry, Flo-rey.¡± Julia sang, in too good a mood to take him seriously. ¡°Team Spectrum are just so awesome!¡±


    ¡°If you say so¡­¡± Florey quivered, covering his eyes.


    ¡°What¡¯s it looking like for the public?¡± Asked the anchor.


    ¡°Townsfolk are waiting on the sidelines as the Venators take care of the Wailing. They seem to trust in Team Spectrum enough to watch the fight firsthand.¡± Dana explained.


    ¡°Go back to hell!¡± Yelled a crowd member to the Wailing, as the others cheered in tandem.


    ¡°Don¡¯t mess with the Southern Wayside!¡± Another one added, catching the attention of the Wailing and throwing it off its guard. It snarled directly into the camera.


    ¡°No¡­¡± Florey cowered, covering his eyes with his blanket, as the cameraman caught the Wailing throwing a member of Team Spectrum into a nearby boulder. ¡°Please go away¡­¡±


    ¡°Florey, you baby.¡± Julia joked. ¡°They¡¯re totally gonna win!¡±


    ¡°Why can¡¯t the Wailing just leave¡­¡± Florey asked.


    Julia wrapped an arm around him. ¡°Wailing don¡¯t do that, silly! But we¡¯ll be Venators too someday, then we can take out Wailing with Team Spectrum!¡±


    ¡°¡­oka-¡° Florey said, before the pair heard the front door slam shut with a deliberate thud. Julia realised it must be her parents coming home, as they started bickering to one another about this and that. Mum sounded particularly angry. Julia turned up the TV to drown them out, as it looked like Team Spectrum was about to lose out to the Wailing. It bit into one of the team members shoulders and thrashed them aside, launching them into each other.


    ¡°Ultra¡¯s down, along with X-Ray and Vector! The tide turned quickly, but it looks like the Wailing has the upper hand!¡± Dana frantically explained.


    The Wailing gave out a vicious roar, exposing its fangs to the crowd, as some of the townsfolk fled from the scene now that Team Spectrum was down for the count.


    ¡°Come on¡­¡± Julia begged, grasping her hands together. ¡°Get up¡­¡±


    ¡°Wait¡­¡± Said the reporter. ¡°Prism¡¯s come back around! He¡¯s grabbed the Wailing by its teeth!¡±


    ¡°Holy shit!¡± Julia exclaimed, jumping up and down.


    ¡°Julia, we shouldn¡¯t swear!¡± Florey complained, still covering his eyes from the screen.


    ¡°It looks like¡­yes! With a clear shot, Infra took the Wailing out with a single blow! Incredibly done!¡± The reporter cheered.


    ¡°Nobody messes with Team Spectrum!¡± Julia exclaimed, grabbing her mock Venator weapon and brandishing it proudly, her brown hair majestically flowing. ¡°Take that, you dumb Wailing!¡± She started swinging it around, getting Florey to come out of his shell a little, as the arguing in the other room only seemed to get louder.


    ¡°¡­so that¡¯s my job now? I can¡¯t always be on¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­no, I¡¯m not ASKING you to¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­this is just so typical!...¡±


    Julia ignored them and returned her attention to the screen, as the reporter headed over to Team Spectrum, picking themselves up after the fight.


    ¡°I-is it dead?¡± Dana asked.


    ¡°Yeah, we got it. You can relax now.¡± The leader said, grabbing his teammates hand and pulling him up. ¡°Just be glad we were here when it got snacky.¡±


    ¡°Oh, thank you!¡± Cried a villager, running up to him. ¡°You¡¯ve saved my families lives!¡±


    ¡°All part of the Venator gig.¡± He said, brandishing a heroic smile. ¡°I mean, the pay¡¯s pretty good too.¡±


    ¡°That was amazing what you pulled off!¡± Dana said, still a little out of breath from the excitement.


    ¡°What I pulled off? Infra got the last hit in. By the way, thanks, Infra!¡± He said, pointing to the figure perched up on a nearby cliff side with a large rifle, who gave a thumbs up back. ¡°And Prism made the shot possible. Plus, Vector and Ultra weakened it just as much, and I¡¯d like to think I did my fair share.¡± He laughed. ¡°I¡¯m the leader. My team¡¯s what makes me.¡±


    ¡°Truly remarkable words coming from Team Spectrum¡¯s leader, X-Ray. I think it¡¯s fair to sa-¡°


    Julia muted the TV as the reporter babbled on, watching fixated at Team Spectrum in the background, high-fiving and hugging each other after a job well done.


    ¡°Wow¡­¡± Julia remarked, as she heard the door behind her open up and her dad walk in.


    ¡°Alright, kiddo, time for bed.¡± He said, turning off the TV. ¡°You too, Florey. You better get back home so your folks don¡¯t worry.¡±


    ¡°Okay, Mr Alpine.¡± Florey said, grabbing his bag on the way out. ¡°See you at school, Julia!¡±


    ¡°Bye!¡± She said back, waving to him, before turning to her dad. ¡°Can I stay up?¡±


    ¡°No, you definitely can¡¯t.¡± He said, picking her up. ¡°You¡¯ve got a strict eight thirty bed time. And I¡¯m the adult, so what I say goes.¡±


    ¡°But Bell gets to stay up way later!¡±


    ¡°Bell¡¯s four years older and at Amanda¡¯s house. Nice try.¡± He reasoned, carrying Julia off to her room, with Julia trying to wriggle out as best she could. Eventually, she gave in and let him carry her, as he gently tucked her into her bed.


    ¡°Wait, where¡¯s Maxie?¡± Julia worried, frantically looking around for him.


    ¡°I got it, I got it.¡± Her dad said, pulling a stuffed fox out from under the bed and handing it to her.


    Julia hugged Maxie and slipped him under the covers with her, before seeing her dads slightly saddened face lost in thought.


    ¡°Is mum still angry at you?¡± Julia asked, as her dad looked off in slight discomfort, but tried his best to put on a convincing smile.


    ¡°You should get some rest¡­¡± He said, leaning over and kissing Julia¡¯s forehead, before turning off the light and heading out of her room. Julia waited until he was definitely down the hall to get up and check on him. She saw him walking past the main bedroom and heading to the lounge room, grabbing a couple sheets from the cupboard and setting up his bed on the couch. Julia headed back to bed, wondering how she could help her dad, as she stared up at her Venator posters plastering the ceiling. She grabbed Maxie and started nodding off to sleep.


    ¡°I¡¯ll be a Venator¡­I promise¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ADDRESSED TO Julia Alpine REGARDING ENROLMENT


    We hope this letter sees you well,


    We have written to say that your application to the Venator Academy has been accepted. Your semester will start early spring along with the rest of your classmates.


    As you know, the Venator Academy is an institution that prides itself on exceptional industry training, state of the art combat facilities, and teaching the values of teamwork and unity through the Venator Team program. As a soon-to-be student, we would ask that you keep this reputation in mind when representing the academy, and understand that attending this academy is a rare privilege that should not be wasted. Enclosed is the necessary paperwork for your enrolment, which is to be completed and handed in at the start of your new semester, along with subsequent payment. Any prior weaponry should also be registered with the Venator Standards and Practices before the start of semester.


    While the Venator Academy is known to produce teams of capable and revered Venators, be reminded that success is not, and will not, be handed to you and will entirely be dependent on you. You will have to work hard for your position at the academy, and the subsequent positions of your teammates. Their success and yours will be linked throughout the duration of your course.


    With all that said, best of luck to you. You¡¯ve made it this far, so let¡¯s see how much farther you¡¯ll go.


    SIGNED Principal Faller


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Julia read over her acceptance letter again and again, still in disbelief. Her application had taken a while, and her results on the physical weren¡¯t as great as others, but she still got in, despite not being an established name, and the first of her family to even register.


    She took a seat by the train station with her luggage, waiting for the Flash-Rail to arrive, as she idly scanned the station terminal, noticing the glow of a monitor on the platform displaying the most recent news of the last week.


    ¡°¡­and after years of service, the heroic Team Spectrum have officially retired as of today. As stated in a recent press release, ¡®both our ages and our love for sitting on our asses prevents us working any further. We wish luck to the future Venator teams in their ambitious endeavours.¡¯ Interesting words from a beloved team. We here at CPNN will be mourning their absence from the field...¡±


    Julia found herself laughing at Team Spectrum¡¯s statement, but would be lying if she said the news didn¡¯t upset her. Team Spectrum had been part of her Venator journey for so long. Seeing them out of commission felt¡­


    ¡°I hope this isn¡¯t a bad omen.¡± She remarked, as she heard the train pulling into the station. The Flash-Rail slowly rolled into view, as Julia took her seat aboard, right next to the window so she could watch the city pass her by on the way to the academy.


    ¡°Next stop: Venator Academy. Five minutes to departure.¡±


    Julia braced herself against the seat, as the nerves she tried to convince herself weren¡¯t there suddenly reappeared.


    This is it¡­ She thought to herself. I¡¯ll finally see it up close! Detu City.


    Julia tried to calm her breathing, as the train slowly pulled out from the station, crawling along the connected rail into the air. ¡°It¡¯s like a roller coaster¡­¡± Julia remarked, before the train shot off down the rail and out of the station, as the city unfolded from the windows for the passengers to see. Suburbs surrounded skyscrapers, all climbing into the sky, with people going about their days in the distance, as the Flash-Rail sent Julia over the lower end housing straight towards¡­


    ¡°Venator Academy¡­¡± Julia said, staring out the window, fixated on the shiny complex coming out from the city, surrounded by a moat and large forest off to side, as its buildings stood proudly in the centre, calling Julia forward. Julia¡¯s nervous flashes started coming back, as the realisation that this was happening finally hit her. She wasn¡¯t just jumping around her bedroom with a foam sword and stuffed Wailing. She was here. She was¡­already here, actually.


    ¡°Next stop: Detu Central. Five minutes to departure.¡±


    Julia snapped back to reality and grabbed her bags before jumping off the train. The Flash-Rail had stopped outside the large walkway leading to the main building of Venator Academy, the skyscraper encased in glass and historic furnishings, as several students were dotted around it, all carrying full bags and luggage, some chatting amongst themselves.


    ¡°Today¡¯s the da-¡° Julia started, before someone bumped into her, rushing off before they could say anything, as Julia took a second to readjust herself.


    ¡°Well, that was rude.¡± Julia said, brushing off her yellow flannel. ¡°And on the first day, too.¡±


    She continued down the exquisite walkway, leading beautifully to the main building entrance, as the moats that ran parallel to the walkway caught Julia¡¯s curious eye. ¡°I think I read about these¡­¡± She mumbled to herself. ¡°They acted as barriers to any Wailing who couldn¡¯t wade through them, and gave Venators time to strategise in case the academy was being attacked¡­¡±


    ¡°There was also a rumour that Wailing couldn¡¯t touch water, but that turned out to just be a myth.¡± Said a voice behind Julia, as she spun around to see who it belonged to.


    She saw a girl with long white hair, a tired expression, and several bags under her eyes and on the ground being dragged behind her. She was smiling right at Julia.


    ¡°Hi there.¡± She said. ¡°Glad I¡¯m not the only nerd here.¡±


    ¡°N-nerd?¡± Julia asked, now on guard.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. It¡¯s a compliment.¡± She grinned. ¡°My ex was a bit of a history buff, so I just picked up a couple things from her. You a first year?¡±


    ¡°Y-yes, and I¡¯m guessing you are too?¡± Julia said, indicating to the girl¡¯s bags.


    ¡°Got it in one. I¡¯m Chops.¡± She said, sticking out her hand, as Julia tried not to laugh.


    ¡°Is that your real name?¡± Julia giggled, shaking her hand back.


    Chops smirked. ¡°Maybe. But I¡¯m not gonna tell you if it is.¡±


    Julia smiled, happy that Chops looked to be a normal enough person. Chops jumped onto the wall adorning the side of the walkway, as her and Julia kept walking and talking down toward the main building.


    ¡°A drifter?¡± Julia asked.


    ¡°Well, I was. I¡¯m staying here for a three-year degree, after all, so I can¡¯t really call myself one anymore.¡± Chops explained. ¡°I mostly bummed around the countryside, sleeping on whatever couch I could find. And the occasional bed, too.¡± She winked, causing Julia to blush. ¡°Then I became old enough to get a degree, and decided to make something of myself. Wailing combat felt right, and you know wha-¡° She started, before her footing betrayed her and she fell off the wall, head first into the ground.


    A brief second passed before Chops realised she should¡¯ve hit the ground already, as she opened her eyes and noticed she was still falling, but with nearly no momentum. Off to the side, she saw Julia holding out her hands, eyes closed and thoroughly concentrating, and realised her fall had been slowed significantly by Julia herself. She was gently lain against the ground, as she got up and dusted herself off properly. Julia finally let go of her breath and bent over, exhausted.


    ¡°So¡­¡± Chops said. ¡°You didn¡¯t tell me you had a Whil.¡±


    ¡°You¡­didn¡¯t ask.¡± Julia panted.


    ¡°Touch¨¦.¡± Chops replied. ¡°Thanks though, for real. I probably would¡¯ve, like, died.¡±


    ¡°¡­no problem.¡± Julia replied, having recovered, as Chops leaned against Julia¡¯s bags and stared up at her curiously.


    ¡°Go on. Give me the details.¡± Chops asked.


    ¡°Of my Whil?¡± Julia wondered.


    ¡°Not everyone¡¯s got one, and most of them are different. So, I wanna know yours.¡± She asked.


    Julia realised they wouldn¡¯t make anymore progress with Chops holding them both up, and sighed in acceptance. ¡°Well, mine appeared around twelve, I think, and all of a sudden, I was slowing down and speeding up things I could see, if I concentrated hard enough. But, I¡¯m still not great with it.¡± Julia admitted, before laughing a little. ¡°Honestly, it was a fifty-fifty chance whether I¡¯d slow you down or send you into the pavement even harder.¡±


    Julia noticed Chops had a notebook out, scribbling down everything Julia was saying, with an impressively detailed sketch of her beside it.


    ¡°Excellent. Velocity Control.¡± Chops remarked, jotting a few more things down. ¡°Another first.¡±


    ¡°Another? Don¡¯t tell me¡­¡± Julia said, as she flipped the pages on the side of the book to see far more filled out with records of different Whils. ¡°Whoa! You¡¯ve recorded so many!¡±


    ¡°This is volume four.¡± Chops bragged, as Julia stared at her with pure amazement. ¡°I¡¯d lend it to you, buuut¡­orientation day means way more people I haven¡¯t met, so I¡¯m gonna do a lot more recording. Speaking of which¡­¡±


    Chops looked to the building, as Julia realised they¡¯d already cleared the walkway and arrived at the entrance from their walk and talk. ¡°You¡¯re welcome.¡± Chops said, grabbing her bags off the ground. ¡°I¡¯ve got some people I wanna meet. If you¡¯re lucky, I¡¯ll catch you around.¡±


    ¡°Y-yeah.¡± Julia said, waving Chops off as she headed into the building with a loveable confidence and grace. Julia¡¯s nerves were finally going down.


    ¡°What an interesting girl.¡± Julia said to herself.


    ¡°She could do with a haircut.¡± Said a voice beside her, as she turned to see a man standing next to her in a well pressed suit. He looked up at the academy. ¡°It¡¯s beautiful, isn¡¯t it?¡±


    Julia cocked her head in confusion. ¡°What is?¡±


    ¡°The building.¡± He said, staring at its commanding stature, climbing high into the sky, seemingly forever. ¡°There¡¯s plenty of history in this academy.¡±


    ¡°Are you a teacher here?¡± Julia asked.


    ¡°I¡¯m the Vice Principal.¡± He responded, his gaze still fixed, as he readjusted his suit.


    ¡°Are you¡­busy?¡± Julia wondered.


    He sighed openly. ¡°I wanted some air and alone time.¡±


    Julia took the ¡®subtle¡¯ hint and grabbed her bags to head inside, before he took notice and tried to get her attention.


    ¡°Might I give a recommendation? Since you¡¯re new.¡± He interjected, as Julia turned to him. ¡°Do you know of the welcome event set up tomorrow for the students?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, why?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t recommend going.¡±


    Julia looked confused. ¡°Why not?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ll find out afterwards, but I wouldn¡¯t suggest it.¡± He advised.


    Julia nodded slowly and headed inside the building, hoping their conversation was really over and that he wasn¡¯t staring at her now.


    What a weird guy¡­ She thought, checking over her shoulder to see if he was still there. It¡¯s just a fete¡­


    Julia headed to the front office and stood in line, paperwork in hand, as she waited for the students in front to hand everything in.


    ¡°New student?¡± The clerk asked.


    ¡°Yeah, first day.¡± Julia replied.


    ¡°Paperwork and payment.¡± The clerk said with a professional precision, as Julia handed both in. The clerk took a few minutes, shuffling and unshuffling papers, moving this and that around, momentarily forgetting their place, then continuing, before handing Julia her ID card. ¡°Temporary dorms are set up in the academy hall. Once you have your team members by tomorrow, you¡¯ll move into the official dorm rooms together.¡±


    ¡°Do I get t-¡°


    ¡°Any complaints or questions should be given to the Dorms Advisor or your Student Representative.¡± They answered, returning their attention to their papers. ¡°Thank you.¡±


    Julia realised she was holding up the line behind her and quickly shuffled along, checking the academy map on her tablet and heading straight for the academy hall.


    I¡¯ll check out the school grounds later. Let¡¯s drop these bags off first.


    Julia found the large doors leading to the hall, and opened them to reveal an enormous number of students all packed into the giant room. Beds were set up in rows, plenty occupied with luggage and people, as large groups seemed to have formed naturally as the day passed. Julia froze stiff at the sight of so many strangers invading her view. The large groups of already established friends were especially intimidating.


    She tried to steel her mind as best she could before entering the hall, blocking out the mental image of worst-case scenarios.


    Come on, Julia. New school, new you. Chops was nice, your dad¡¯s nice, and you¡¯re nice. They can be nice too.


    Julia breathed out before shuddering her way through the hall, bags in tow, trying to find a bed that wasn¡¯t surrounded by an absurd number of people. Eventually, a spare bed caught her eye, and she worriedly hurried over, nearly tripping over her own bags in the fray. For a second, it seemed like she was about to reach it without interacting with anyone else in the hall.


    Well, except for the giant woman who took up the bed with her bags.


    She was hunched over, staring down at something menacingly and blocking the walkway with her torso. Julia stared back at her back, trying not to collapse to her knees, as she was already intimidated just from her bulky physique and¡­long blonde hair?


    ¡°U-uh, excuse m-me¡­¡± Julia shuddered, tapping her shoulder gently, as the woman slowly turned around with noticeable presence. ¡°I-I uhh¡­umm¡­¡±


    She looked straight down at Julia, like a skyscraper of her own. Julia gulped loudly.


    ¡°Hey, do you know where the academy Spire is?¡± The woman asked, tapping away at her tablet casually, her bag slung over her shoulder. ¡°I can¡¯t find the updated map on my tablet. I asked some other first years, but they were about as clueless as me.¡±


    Julia stood still, trying not to make any sudden moves, as the woman waved a hand in front of Julia¡¯s face.


    ¡°Hello? You good, cutie?¡± She asked. ¡°I really just need the map. I can find my own way.¡±


    Julia returned to consciousness and assessed the impressive woman. She appeared to be about twenty, just a year older then Julia, though much fitter and muscular, with a lovely red tank top, flowing, majestic hair, and¡­


    Julia realised she was staring and forced herself to blink. ¡°Yes?¡±


    ¡°¡­map?¡± The woman replied, holding out her tablet.


    ¡°S-sure.¡± Julia said, grabbing the tablet and scrolling through the academy¡¯s main webpage. ¡°Just here.¡±


    The woman smiled. ¡°Thanks, I appreciate it.¡± The woman noticed Julia¡¯s bags and quickly deduced what she was looking for. ¡°Were you looking for a bed?¡±


    Julia slowly nodded, as the woman smiled and grabbed her bags off the bed.


    ¡°Go ahead and take it. I¡¯m heading around the school most of the day anyway, so it¡¯s the least I can do.¡± She nudged an elbow into Julia¡¯s side. ¡°Plus, if you have any nightly plans, you should have the proper setting, right?¡±


    Julia found her blush returning, as the woman grinned openly.


    ¡°Hate to leave you high and dry, but I best be off. See ya whenever.¡± She said, grabbing her bags and walking off with a deliberate swing in her step, as Julia subconsciously stared.


    She was like a real-life amazon. Julia thought. And she¡¯s in my year¡­


    Julia pumped her fist a little, thrilled about this recent development, as she watched the woman head around the corner and out of sight.


    I wonder what her day¡¯s been like¡­


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Harley didn¡¯t know how to feel.


    Though she was enjoying herself, Harley¡¯s first day had been pretty disorienting so far, but she was surprised with just how out of her element she felt. The academies layout was like a labyrinth, and the supposedly noticeable Spire was very unnoticeable.


    At least that girl was helpful¡­ Harley thought to herself. What kind of academy updates the map on orientation day?


    Harley sighed and frizzed her blonde hair to calm herself. She turned the corner, before being blocked off by two girls walking back into the hall.


    ¡°But no one saw it coming! They just retired right out of th-Liddy, Liddy! Look!¡± One of them exclaimed, excitedly pointing at Harley.


    ¡°Ah-ohmy-wow¡­¡± The other stammered, looking a little flush. ¡°She¡¯s so big.¡±


    ¡°Can we get a photo together?¡± The first girl asked, having trouble standing still.


    ¡°Uhh, sure.¡± Harley shrugged, getting in the middle of them and giving a giant grin, as they took a photo with their tablet.


    ¡°Liddy!¡± The girl yelled, pointing at the photo. ¡°We got a photo with a really pretty third year!¡±


    Pretty? Harley blushed, before double taking. Wait, third year?


    ¡°Is that what we¡¯ll look like after our degrees, Rose?¡± Liddy asked her friend eagerly, as Rose swung the tablet around joyously.


    ¡°I hope so! We¡¯ll probably shoot up in height at some point!¡± Rose suggested, as Harley couldn¡¯t help but smile at their childlike wonder.


    Let¡¯s not dash their dreams.


    ¡°We gotta show this off! See ya, Miss Big Lady!¡± Rose waved, running off with Liddy in tow, as Harley waved back.


    ¡°Try good food and exercise! And keep it consistent!¡± Harley yelled to them, before laughing to herself and continuing on her way down the academy halls.


    Harley marvelled at the beautiful architecture of the academy and the fascinating connection of old and new aesthetic. Clear updates had been made to the exterior of an older building, as the halls felt fresh and classic all at once. State-of-the-art reinforced walls lined her walk, with gothic detailing on each edge, and beautiful large archways that brought it all together.


    ¡°It¡¯s like a generational cocktail.¡± She commented, knocking against the pillars cornering the halls with her knuckles. ¡°These have to be a century old, at least. And a Northern Wayside build too¡­¡±


    Her next stop was the academy training grounds, which were noticeably less built up than the main buildings. Large flat plains marked with outlines captured the outside of the academy, stretching far enough to prove their necessity for the students and staff. A few students were already jumping around them, showing off their weapons and Whils.


    Harley thought about joining them, but wanted to preserve her strength for her new team, whoever they may be.


    Of course, the official dorms just across from the training grounds were the next best stop. Built taller and wider than most of what was on campus, with rooms just big enough for five, and halls large enough for way more. The notice board full of events and off-campus programs caught Harley¡¯s eye, as she snickered at a couple of the listings.


    ¡°Alternative music act needed for local bar.¡± Harley read aloud. ¡°That¡¯s pretty vague¡­¡±


    She stopped by a vending machine on the same floor and grabbed a drink, appreciating her self-made alone time. So far, Harley¡¯s tour had been exactly what she needed, and truly showed the best the academy had to offer.


    But nothing compared to the Spire.


    ¡°Holy shit.¡± Harley remarked, staring at the exterior of the large tower in the middle of the academy. Just in the middle of the main buildings stood a large pillar climbing into the sky, an architectural staple of the grounds that was here before most of the modern updates, encased in a near perfect sheet of marble. The inside was entirely hollow, save for a winding staircase that circled it, leading to the top.


    ¡°It¡¯s exactly how I pictured it.¡± Harley said, admiring its furnishing as she inspected the inside. ¡°We reach to the skies, from down on the ground...¡± Harley sung to herself, remembering the songs she was sung before bed when she was a kid. ¡°So Gods can all hear, our beautiful sounds.¡±


    She wandered about the inside, spinning around its spiralling interior.


    ¡°We play it for them, as thanks for our bread¡­¡±


    The vertigo started getting to her.


    ¡°They play it for us, to welcome the dead.¡±


    She pinched the brim of her nose, recovering and taking one last look at the Spire, before a yell rang out from the academy halls and Harley assumed a combative stance. She spotted a girl walking by in a black dress, bitterly stomping about with her bags in tow, as a sharply dressed man in distress followed behind her, trying to get her attention.


    Harley rushed to see what was going on, hurrying around the corner, before bumping into a girl in a suit also rushing around the corner.


    ¡°Relias.¡± The girl said, before hurrying off without another word, as Harley wondered if that even was a word.


    ¡°What the¡­¡± Harley said, before remembering she was chasing two people and continuing her effort. She caught them quickly enough, hiding around the corner to stay out of sight, as she found them heading up the stairs, with the man grabbing onto the girl¡¯s sleeve and trying to stop her.


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    ¡°Miss Nouvel, you mustn¡¯t go any further! Being a Venator is a dangerous business! You can¡¯t be anywhere near it!¡± The man cried, as the girl threw his hand off and turned to stare him down.


    ¡°I refused to be swayed by your false sentiments, Graham.¡± The girl argued back, continuing up the stairs.


    ¡°Your place is back home on the estate. Please don¡¯t fight about this.¡± Graham begged.


    ¡°I will not be talked down to, and don¡¯t you dare parrot my parents to me! I¡¯ve made my decision!¡± She yelled, taking back her bags, before glaring back at him once again. ¡°You will take yourself back to the family car and leave. I¡¯ve no place for you here.¡±


    Graham was about to continue, but repressed his emotions and decided to bow instead, heading back to the car, as the girl breathed out and rested against the stairs.


    Geez, what¡¯s her problem? Harley wondered, looking at the girl¡¯s tired mass. Best not get in the middle of that, whatever it is.


    She left the girl to her devices, as the girl ran her hands through her hair, trying to calm herself down.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Wess¡¯ day was only getting harder.


    First, her parents ¡®misplace¡¯ her ticket to the Central Point train, then they insist on Graham accompanying her on the train and family car, despite her only packing two bags worth of items and not even bringing them along with her. Then she finds out that they only sent Graham to convince her to leave the academy after having just gotten there.


    And now she was in the academy halls, nearly collapsing from the pressure of her first day.


    She let herself take a moment on the steps, processing everything that just happened, before breathing out deeply and shaking herself conscious.


    ¡°Come on, Wess. You can¡¯t be late for orientation.¡± She said to herself, forcing herself up and continuing on her way to the academy courtyard.


    Students were gathered in a large mass, all facing forward toward the stage and talking amongst each other, with academy security surrounding them in a large circle encompassing the courtyard. Wess took her place at the back of the group, as an older woman approached the stage with a microphone in hand and a podium being rolled in front of her.


    ¡°Hello? One two¡­¡± She dryly stated. ¡°I¡¯ll assume you can hear me. Lord knows I¡¯m not checking¡­¡±


    Wess rolled her eyes, appalled at the lack of manners on display. The woman looked visibly tired, and far too unhappy about it.


    ¡°You know why you¡¯re here. I¡¯m not about to explain the purpose of the academy to you, so don¡¯t ask me.¡± She muttered. ¡°My name is Miss Ferris, and my first name shouldn¡¯t concern you. Please listen, this is...apparently important. Now, the matter of curriculum and boarding¡­¡±


    Wess checked out of Ferris¡¯ announcements, as she studied the faces in the crowd. Far too many of them looked young and na?ve, almost childlike in their gleeful thrill at finally arriving at the academy; They were nothing Wess was looking for.


    As soon as orientation is over, I¡¯ll need to be quick. Can¡¯t assume they¡¯d all stay around to converse, after all. Wess thought to herself.


    ¡°¡­which should commence by tomorrow, if all goes to plan.¡± Ferris droned. ¡°We¡¯ve more to talk about, but now that we¡¯ve covered the basics, lets have a short speech from Principal Faller.¡±


    The audience waited in silence, as Ferris started loudly clapping into the microphone, encouraging the crowd to join along, which they promptly did so. A taller man in a classic suit and orange tie got up and walked to the podium, taking the microphone from Ferris.


    ¡°Thank you, Miss Ferris, for your words of¡­¡± Faller said, before deliberately trailing off. ¡°By now, I imagine I¡¯ve only talked to you indirectly through your acceptance letter, so I¡¯ve no need to carry over the same sentiments. However, thank you for trusting us with your time.¡±


    ¡°In recent years, our studies have shown that Wailing populations has been increasing drastically, and that the variety and biology of Wailing has become much harder to explain and predict.¡± He grabbed a remote from the podium and turned on a projector to his side, displaying a ferocious looking Wailing attacking the camera, distinct red markings running down its body, its teeth bared and claws at the ready, with slight speckles of blood staining the camera lens. Several first years backed off in fright, some even audibly gasping.


    ¡°Oh gods¡­¡± Ferris bemoaned, dragging her hands across her face.


    ¡°The traditional Wailing are quite animalistic in appearance, sharing resemblance with large wolves, bears, birds, what have you. When the public think of a Wailing, this is often what will come to mind. But recently¡­¡±


    Faller turned to the next slide, with another image of a Wailing, carrying the same markings across its body, but this one far more¡­gelatinous and alien in appearance, with no clear form or structure to it whatsoever. A Venator was captured in the image as well, trying to slice through the Wailing to no effect.


    ¡°¡­they¡¯ve taken a less composed and more unpredictable appearance. Not only that, but the traditional Wailing have become far more hostile in turn, and we are forced to change our tactics in dealing with the Wailing threat.¡±


    ¡°I see potential amongst this crowd. Students come here to learn, grow and evolve; to take on the threat to our lifestyle that is the Wailing. We can¡¯t keep fighting them forever, and we can¡¯t keep using the same tactics either. We must learn to adapt to our surroundings like the Wailing have, and continue to do so. I assure you, innovation will be their downfall, so I ask of you to innovate.¡±


    Wess and the rest of the crowd took a second to let Faller¡¯s words sink in, as Wess watched him lead with a dignity she¡¯d rarely ever seen in person.


    ¡°But, truly, I thank you for choosing our institution. The Venator Academy has a proud history as the first Venator training facility, and we hope to finally end this conflict with the Wailing within our lifetime. We do not promise you and your team perfect results, but we will do what we need to. True growth is only ever preceded by pain. But that is how we help others.¡±


    He displayed his palms to the crowd.


    ¡°We will help you so that you may help those who need it.¡±


    Faller cleared his throat. ¡°Now, we will have the other teachers and lecturers present themselves and their roles, followed by a welcome event tomorrow morning to get to know you in a less formal setting. I will personally be serving drinks, as compliments of the academy.¡± Faller remarked. ¡°Mr Cecil, if you will¡­¡±


    Each teacher took time to explain their place in the academy, most with double billing as head of two or more facilities, before Faller took to the podium again for his closing words.


    ¡°By tomorrow, you should know who your teammates for the remainder of your degree will be, and I ask of you to appreciate them. People in constant close proximity have a tendency to clash, and personalities may not always mix, but look to them not as an academy requirement, but an equal, and a person to share your time with. You¡¯re all Venators in training, so remember to balance your fist with an open palm. With all that said¡­¡± He bowed politely to the crowd. ¡°Thank you for your time.¡±


    A light applause broke out as he left, as the students started fanning out into little groups, some heading off to do their own thing and others sticking around to talk to teachers and classmates. Wess looked over the students remaining and planned a route out for optimal networking, as she pulled out her tablet and readied her appearance.


    I¡¯ll find the best candidates and insist that we become part of the same team. My family name should carry me far enough¡­


    She spotted her first target and prepared her questions.


    Time to network.


    ¡°What¡¯s your field of expertise?¡± Wess asked a student.


    ¡°Uhh, melee mostly. And guitar, but that¡¯s not really important.¡±


    ¡°Favourite combat style?¡± Wess asked another student.


    ¡°Long distance firearms, duh. Play it safe and pick ¡®em off far away.¡±


    ¡°Any history?¡± Wess asked more students.


    ¡°M-my dad does weapon manufacturing. H-he wanted me to promote some of his stuff during the yearly tournament.¡±


    ¡°What are your main aspirations?¡± Wess asked the last student left in the courtyard.


    ¡°Honestly, my main goal is to find a team and become someone for them to depend on. I don¡¯t know how helpful I could be in a fight, but I want to inspire them to be greater than they were the day before. We¡¯re a group of people, not soldiers, so we should strive to be better and always improving, even if that may be hard to accept.¡±


    Wess was left enraptured by the perky, well put together girl in front of her, smiling so genuinely and properly.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I hope I didn¡¯t talk your ear off.¡± She apologised.


    ¡°Nonsense. You spoke with such lovely passion, Miss¡­?¡± Wess said.


    ¡°Joleicia.¡± She replied, bowing a little, before regretting it. ¡°I¡¯m a sniper by trade, but I have experience in other firearms and hand to hand combat too. Faller brought me here himself on a scholarship program.¡±


    ¡°Scholarship?¡± Wess replied, very impressed. ¡°Quite the triple threat.¡±


    ¡°Oh, thank you¡­¡± Joleicia smiled sheepishly.


    ¡°I¡¯m sure your teammates will find you quite the asset.¡± Wess commented.


    Joleicia looked a little embarrassed. ¡°Really, I¡¯ll be happy with whoever I get. The academy has a pretty good track record for grouping teams together, so I¡¯ll trust in their decision.¡±


    Wess took a second to register what she said, before stepping back in shock. ¡°T-the academy¡­grouping?¡± Wess warbled. ¡°We don¡¯t get to choos-?!¡±


    Just as she was ranting, a girl in a suit rushed past her, bumping into Wess and suddenly throwing off her rhythm.


    ¡°E-Excuse me! I want an apology for that!¡± Wess yelled at her.


    ¡°Where is he¡­?¡± The girl mumbled to herself, moving on, as Joleicia tried to get her attention again.


    ¡°Just so you know, by tomorrow, they¡¯ll tell us who we¡¯re teaming up with.¡± Joleicia explained. ¡°Didn¡¯t you know about that?¡±


    Wess started shaking a little, before reminding herself who she was with, and putting on a polite demeanour. ¡°¡­no, I-I suppose I didn¡¯t know. I-If you¡¯ll excuse me.¡±


    ¡°Oh, sure. Hey, maybe if you¡¯re lucky, we¡¯ll get grouped together.¡± Joleicia said. ¡°We¡¯re already friends, so it totally works out!¡±


    ¡°I hope so.¡± Wess replied, before rushing off back to the temporary dorms. ¡°I truly hope so¡­¡±


    She made her way around the corner and grabbed her head in her hands, frustrated and annoyed.


    It must be a joke! She reasoned. A practical joke they play on all first years. Yes, a playful hazing!


    Wess really thought about it for another second.


    No, that¡¯s delusional of me. Joleicia¡¯s far too polite to try something like that. She realised, before slumping to the ground in a moment of weakness.


    She rested her head in her hands and breathed slowly.


    ¡°So, I suppose it¡¯s true¡­¡±


    She let herself sit and think, at least to re-strategise how she would go about her next three years of training at the academy. If she couldn¡¯t pick her members, she¡¯d have to tip the scale somehow.


    ¡°¡­a lacklustre member or two doesn¡¯t mean you won¡¯t become a great Venator. You¡¯ve gotten this far on much less.¡± Wess reasoned to herself. ¡°This will only make your claim to fame more triumphant in the end. A true celebration of your accomplishments.¡±


    Wess stood up dynamically and stretched herself.


    ¡°This is a minor setback, but not a crippling one. I can always convince the academy otherwise. I¡¯m sure the academy will allow a transfer if my team isn¡¯t worth my time.¡± Wess said, swinging her way back to the temporary dorms.


    She headed through the hallway back to the main hall, as her nerves had just returned to fairly normal; perfect for dealing with a girl in front of the large door, pacing back and forth through the hallway. Wess held back as the girl kept up the pacing, exercising caution.


    Is she quite alright? Wess wondered. I hope she isn¡¯t one of those ¡®problem students¡¯ I¡¯ve heard about. That¡¯s the last thing this day needs¡­


    Wess slowly approached her, still pacing back and forth nervously.


    ¡°Excuse me, are you quite alright?¡± Wess asked, grabbing the girl¡¯s attention.


    ¡°Me?¡± She asked.


    ¡°¡­you¡¯re the only other person in the hallway.¡± Wess acknowledged.


    ¡°Right, that makes sense.¡± She said. ¡°Do you know where the temporary dorms are?¡±


    ¡°¡­right behind you.¡± Wess bemoaned, realising what she¡¯d gotten herself into.


    ¡°That¡­also makes sense.¡± The girl said. ¡°You look annoyed.¡±


    Wess sighed. ¡°It¡¯s been quite the first day...¡±


    The girl stared at her. ¡°Oh, do you know where the bathrooms are too?¡±


    ¡°I believe I saw them around the corner.¡± Wess explained, trying to disengage from the conversation as soon as possible.


    ¡°Right. Right. Cool.¡± The girl said. ¡°I¡¯ll be off then.¡±


    The girl walked off, stumbling a little in her slightly oversized coat, as Wess tried to make sense of that interaction, before giving up all together.


    ¡°¡­please, Old Gods, don¡¯t make her part of my team.¡± Wess prayed, heading inside to finally unpack and unwind.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Sola was lost again.


    It had been all of three minutes since she found the bathroom, and already, she was hopelessly lost. The academy¡¯s numerous hallways and unfamiliar landscape had already beaten her, and now she was left wandering around without a direction in the world.


    ¡°Echo!¡± She yelled, as the hallway gave a decent reverberation. ¡°Echo echo echo!¡±


    She spotted a few doors to classrooms and lecture halls as she walked, but quickly noticed they needed a card reader to open.


    ¡°Did I get my ID?¡± She asked herself, feeling for a pocket and realising it wasn¡¯t there. ¡°Stupid good security¡­¡±


    She slumped to the ground, tired from all the walking, and started playing with her thumbs out of boredom.


    ¡°I¡¯m already lost here.¡± She remarked. ¡°I need a guide. Like a¡­councillor, or a scout leader.¡±


    Sola leaned her head against the wall, counting the ceiling tiles to herself, as a figure popped out from around the corner, rushing down the corridor with her tablet in hand. In a moment of hindsight, she tripped over Sola¡¯s outstretched legs and face planted into the ground with a painful thud, shaking Sola conscious.


    ¡°Fuck¡­¡± She muttered, getting up and brushing off her clothes.


    ¡°Hi.¡± Sola greeted. ¡°Do you know where the temporary dorms are?¡±


    The woman turned to glare at Sola. ¡°First, you address me as Miss Ferris.¡± She grumbled. ¡°Second, don¡¯t do that, and third, they¡¯re in the assembly hall. Weren¡¯t you at orientation?¡±


    Sola started counting on her fingers. ¡°Sorry Miss Ferris, that was an accident, I got lost going to the bathroom, and no.¡± Sola answered back.


    Ferris pursed her lips and looked Sola up and down, unimpressed, as she only confirmed her worries about the quality of this year¡¯s batch of students.


    ¡°How old are you?¡± Ferris asked, folding her arms.


    ¡°Eighteen.¡±


    ¡°¡­huh.¡± Ferris let out. ¡°Bit old to be getting lost.¡±


    ¡°I guess so.¡± Sola replied, looking around Ferris to try and spot any exits she could use.


    ¡°And you¡¯re a student?¡± Ferris rhetorically asked.


    ¡°Well, classes don¡¯t start until next week, so not yet.¡± Sola answered, still looking.


    Wiseass. Ferris thought to herself.


    Sola kept scanning, as Ferris looked at how helpless she seemed, almost pathetic in a way. In Ferris¡¯ eyes, she was nearly the ideal student.


    ¡°¡­I can show you if you¡¯re so desperate.¡± Ferris offered, grabbing Sola¡¯s attention.


    ¡°Hooray!¡± Sola exclaimed, as Ferris nodded for her to follow.


    ¡°So, why¡¯re you here?¡± Ferris questioned.


    ¡°You mean in the hallway or the academy?¡± Sola asked, genuinely unsure.


    ¡°The academy. You already told me the other one.¡± Ferris grumbled, massaging her temple.


    ¡°Well, I¡¯m at the academy because I¡¯d like to be a Venator.¡±


    ¡°¡­you¡¯d ¡®like¡¯ to be?¡± Ferris asked, getting a confused look from Sola.


    ¡°Yeah?¡± Sola replied.


    ¡°You have a weapon yet?¡±


    Sola looked to the ground, avoiding eye contact as she walked. ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°What about a Whil?¡±


    ¡°¡­yeah, but I can¡¯t really show it off here. It¡¯s pretty¡­unstable.¡±


    Guess that¡¯s to be expected¡­ Ferris thought.


    ¡°But I got some decent experience at my old school since I used to win most of the training matches. My Whil knocked out opponents before they could even fight. But that¡¯s because most kids were still figuring out their Whils, and most of the weapons they brought were conductive, so they were at a disadvantage. But after a whi-¡°


    ¡°Shut up!¡± Ferris yelled, stopping Sola in her tracks. ¡°Why¡¯re you still talking?!¡±


    ¡°You asked about my Whil.¡± Sola replied, poker face intact.


    Ferris looked to the ceiling and swore under her breath. ¡°¡­right.¡± She replied, fiddling with her tablet, a scowl painted on her face, ignoring Sola as they walked to the dorms.


    Sola then suddenly stopped and patted around her pockets, before pulling out her tablet triumphantly. ¡°I just remembered! I have the digital map!¡±


    Ferris death glared her. ¡°Then take it out and stop wasting my time!¡±


    Sola held it up and blinked. ¡°It¡¯s out of battery.¡±


    Ferris nearly slammed her head against the wall, before dragging Sola along in silence, and finally reaching the academy hall. ¡°There. You can leave now.¡± She barked.


    ¡°Oh, okay. Well than-¡° Sola started, before Ferris raised a finger and silenced her.


    ¡°If you want to thank me, you¡¯ll do well in your classes.¡± Ferris ended, heading back down the hall. ¡°Don¡¯t disappoint me anymore.¡±


    Sola was left standing in the hallway, right outside the assembly, before sighing to herself.


    ¡°I thought I¡¯d be better once I got here¡­¡± She remarked. ¡°I¡¯m still a big doofus¡­¡±


    Sola headed back in and met up with her luggage, still unpacked on her bed, as she grabbed her tablet charger, plugged it in, and lay against the bed in a big heap. ¡°This place is way different than Mykonori town.¡± Sola noticed. ¡°No coast for a start.¡±


    Before she got too comfortable, Sola quickly realised she needed to go to the bathroom again, and nearly hit herself for having such a weak bladder. She hopped up and grabbed her tablet, heading out before the day was over.


    ¡°Excuse me.¡±


    ¡°Ahh!!!¡± Sola jumped back in shock, nearly falling over. She noticed a girl in a suit standing behind her, close enough that she nearly bumped into Sola. She had a large scythe strapped to her back and an attractive mallen streak, which Sola couldn¡¯t help but stare at.


    ¡°Would you know how to use this?¡± The girl asked, holding out a tablet.


    ¡°¡­huh?¡± Sola asked, before registering her request. ¡°Oh, right, sure, is it broken?¡±


    ¡°I have not broken it.¡± The girl replied. ¡°I only received it as of a few days ago.¡±


    ¡°Have you tried the power button?¡± Sola asked.


    The girl blinked. ¡°No.¡±


    Sola looked back down at the tablet and turned it on, handing it back to the girl.


    ¡°Grela.¡± She replied. ¡°Might I ask of your name?¡±


    ¡°Sola Lusagi.¡± Sola said, with a stunning plainness.


    ¡°Calias.¡± The girl said, proceeding with a gentle bow. Her expression stayed neutral throughout, but her politeness was well conveyed.


    Sola was visibly confused. ¡°Is that your name?¡±


    ¡°It is a greeting.¡± The girl said. ¡°Was that not translated well?¡±


    ¡°I guess not. Are you from¡­here?¡± Sola said, pointing to the ground for no real reason. ¡°I mean, you obviously moved here, but you don¡¯t look local.¡±


    ¡°I am from the Segaru Clan. I transferred here earlier today.¡± She answered, leaning over Sola¡¯s shoulder. ¡°How would I access the map function?¡±


    Sola looked at the screen. ¡°You press the map button.¡±


    ¡°Understood.¡± She said, attempting to do so to the best of her ability.


    Sola looked puzzled. ¡°Did you say a Clan?¡±


    The girl nodded. "They found me as a child.¡± She explained, before pocketing the tablet. ¡°Relias, I have forgotten to introduce myself.¡± She bowed again, but further this time. ¡°Aerlo Decali. My title is Essex. It is an honour to make the acquaintance of another Venator in training.¡±


    ¡°Likewise.¡± Sola replied. ¡°You¡¯re the first person I''ve seen who already looks like an official Venator.¡±


    Essex adjusted her suit a little. ¡°I am a professional. Why would I dress any other way?¡±


    Sola awkwardly looked down at her big poufy jacket. ¡°Hmm.¡±


    After a second without distraction, Sola quickly remembered she had to leave for the bathroom and resumed her panic. ¡°Super sorry, but I gotta go¡­¡±


    ¡°Understood. I appreciate your assistance.¡± Essex thanked, as Sola rushed off, forgetting her tablet in the rush.


    It was all of three minutes before she got lost again.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Essex knew what she had to do.


    After a day of wandering around, trying to find any semblance of Principal Faller¡¯s office, she finally had a lead with the official school map. She¡¯d checked it a few days prior to prepare herself, but for some reason, the office was marked on the other side of the academy. Now it was five thirty in the afternoon, and truly starting to annoy her.


    ¡°Main building, floor thirty eight, third corridor¡­¡± She recited to herself, having accidentally closed her tablet and forgotten how it works again. She marched down the academy halls, up the stairwells, getting past his secretary, and eventually arrived at the office itself. She slammed the door open, causing a slumped Faller to jump back in his seat from shock.


    ¡°That¡­was¡­difficult.¡± Essex panted, thoroughly out of breath from traversing the academy¡¯s labyrinth like design.


    Faller climbed back up to his chair and tried to regain some level of dignity. ¡°Did you need something?¡± He asked, attempting to calm his heart.


    Essex took a second to centre herself and readjust her ponytail. ¡°Upon my scholarship, I received a care package requesting I meet with you once the semester had started. I also received this object which has shown me incorrect map layouts and annoyance.¡± Essex said, displaying her tablet.


    Faller took a second to look over his papers. ¡°You must be Ms Essex from the Segaru clan.¡± He deduced. ¡°Thank you for making the time to be here. How did you find the care package itself?¡± He asked, sitting up to address her as a near equal.


    ¡°The clan found some of the items to be offensive.¡± Essex explained. ¡°Specifically, the mechanical objects and the ¡®self care¡¯ products.¡±


    ¡°Oh, my apologies.¡± Faller said. ¡°The Clan¡¯s still yet to contact us about their customs, but I¡¯ll make a note of that for the future. Now, what¡¯s this about a faulty tablet?¡±


    ¡°The previous map was inconsistent with the current layout, despite being presented as accurate.¡± Essex explained.


    ¡°Yes, of course.¡± Faller said. ¡°We make a habit of changing the location of my office every year or so in case of a potential attack. We also deliberately mark the maps wrong at the start of semesters to throw off any threats. I¡¯m impressed you picked up on that.¡±


    ¡°Potential attack?¡± Essex asked.


    Faller took a beat, then laughed at his own mistake. ¡°I guess I should have been smarter about my wording.¡±


    Faller stood up and started wandering around the room. ¡°Now that you¡¯re here, I need to ask you something. Can I trust you with some sensitive information? As a future Venator?¡±


    Essex didn¡¯t speak, but nodded in understanding, still rigidly in place near Faller¡¯s desk.


    ¡°I believe there may be a third party to the Wailing conflict.¡±


    Essex remained unblinking, but nearly let out a faint gasp.


    ¡°One who is, say, fanning the flames of the war between us Venators and the Wailing. Worse yet, I fear they may be working within the academy itself.¡± Faller sat back down at his desk. ¡°I¡¯ve only told you and the other scholarship students about this since you¡¯re the closest we have to professional Venators, and I don¡¯t believe you to be untrustworthy. You¡¯re also our first representative from the Segaru Clan, after all, and they¡¯re know for their noble and honest nature.¡±


    ¡°Is the third party an assumption or something you have evidence of?¡± Essex asked.


    ¡°¡­what I¡¯m asking of you is to look out for anything suspicious. If they¡¯re operating on our grounds, I need eyes and ears wherever I can get them.¡± Faller clarified. ¡°But I must ask you, don¡¯t take these matters into your own hands. While you¡¯re close to them, you still aren¡¯t Venators as of yet. We have professional security for a reason. Just inform us of anything worth looking into and let us handle it.¡±


    Essex processed what he said, as Faller flipped through a couple more papers.


    ¡°Is that everything?¡± Essex asked


    ¡°One more thing.¡± Faller said. ¡°How was your trip here?¡±


    ¡°Needlessly extended.¡± Essex remarked, getting a laugh out of Faller.


    ¡°Will I see you at tomorrow¡¯s welcome event at least?¡±


    ¡°Is it a required event?¡± Essex asked.


    ¡°No, but it¡¯ll be fun.¡± Faller smiled. ¡°We have some mock fights planned, if you feel like participating. Get some practice in?¡±


    ¡°Understood. I shall attend.¡± Essex replied.


    ¡°Wonderful. Now be prepared for your classes, and your new teammates. I have faith you¡¯ll make the academy proud.¡± Faller proclaimed.


    ¡°Relias, sir, but it will not be faith that will aid me.¡± Essex said, as she nodded, turned and politely left his office, as Faller laughed to himself at her statement.


    Essex headed back down the hall, much less hurried this time, and weighed the responsibility she¡¯d just been given by Faller. Sociopolitical espionage was nowhere near her strong suit, but she was willing to act in place of a professional Venator if the situation required it.


    ¡°If I am already near a professional, then why am I needed here?¡± She asked herself, receiving no clear answer from anywhere. It¡¯s not like she wanted to be here¡­


    Essex found her way back to the temporary dorms, getting her exercise outfit from her luggage and heading to the bathrooms to change. She started her run near the real dorm building, planning out a potential route for when she moved in with her team. She headed off and kept up a steady pace.


    ¡°One, two, three, four¡­¡± She counted to herself, taking two steps every second of her run, her heavy scythe strapped to her back throughout. The heat started to build up across her body, nearly burning the palms of her hands through and through, as she took a breather beside the main building.


    As she let down her guard, a girl walked by and bumped into her mid breath, before hurrying off without another word.


    ¡°That¡­was rude.¡± Essex panted, catching the back of the girl¡¯s yellow flannel, as they ducked around another corner and out of sight. Essex straightened herself up and looked back at where she¡¯d been. ¡°I¡­wonder what her day¡­has been like?¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Julia finally made it.


    She knew she should be getting ready for the new semester and welcome event, but she had to see it, at least once, before her education truly started. It took a while to find the right elevator, but after a bit of searching outside, and accidentally bumping into someone, she found one that made it to the roof of the main building. Technically speaking, she shouldn¡¯t have been up there since it wasn¡¯t available to students, but she also wasn¡¯t quite a student yet, so it balanced out in a way.


    And, of course, the view was entirely worth it.


    The academy was lain out below her, sprawling the grounds with high tech architecture and students wandering about, the forest adjacent to the training grounds stretching well beyond the horizon line. The large, defining Eldos Mountains captured the landscape so well, marking a barrier around the academy that nature provided, all with the perfect sunset disappearing behind it, as Julia stared at the majestic view and took a deep breath.


    ¡°I¡¯m finally here¡­Venator Academy.¡± She proclaimed, proudly holding herself to the moment. ¡°Everything¡¯s about to start for me¡­¡±


    She stayed up there for a few more minutes, before the rational part of her brain reasoned sleep and an early wake up would be best for tomorrow. Not only for the welcome event, but also for meeting her new team members too.


    Five of us all living in one room. For three years¡­ She thought. With strangers¡­


    Her spine started to tingle, before she pushed her nerves down and tried to keep a positive attitude.


    The academy knows what they¡¯re doing. They¡¯re sure to be amazing.


    Julia kept walking back to the dorms, before getting excited all over again. ¡°I wanna meet them so bad! Why can¡¯t classes start already?¡± She exclaimed. ¡°My very own Venator team of colleagues and friends.¡±


    Julia excitedly hurried back down the halls, picturing what her great new teammates might be like, as she reached her bed along with the other students and eventually drifted off to sleep, waiting for the next day.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°You ready?¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°Jules, you ready?¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°Yes. The answers yes, moron.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°Yeah, charming gesture. You got the chip to work properly?¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not risking my ass. Why do you think we¡¯re back here and not watching the carnage in person?¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°You know, for a mute, you sure manage to say just enough to piss me off.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m getting payed. What does it matter¡­you good to go, Wicker?¡±


    ¡°Everything¡¯s in place on my end. All ready for tomorrow morning¡¯s big event.¡±


    ¡°And the press too?¡±


    ¡°No need to micromanage me. I know what I¡¯m doing.¡±


    ¡°Whatever, boss¡­someone tell me when the interesting stuff starts¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°Okay, then sign it or whatever! Gods¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    The next day was as thrilling for Julia as the last. Needless to say, it took a while for Julia to fall asleep the night before. She kept hyping herself up about who might be in her team, secretly hoping for Chops or that blonde woman she met, but she¡¯d be happy with whoever she got.


    Her alarm rang at a solid eight o¡¯ clock, as she jumped out of bed with a ready vigour and prepared attitude. Along with most of the first years, the welcome event was top priority for Julia. She wouldn¡¯t be meeting her teammates until the afternoon, so the event ran until twelve for the entire academy, as a sort of playful welcome to the grounds.


    Julia grabbed her bag and rushed out of the hall. The event started at seven thirty, but she deliberately left it a little late to give everyone time to set up and students time to settle down.


    After reaching the courtyard, just a little out of breath, Julia looked out at welcome event in full swing. The place was flooded with students, staff and interested citizens playing carnival games, checking out extra curricular activities, and a few Venator industry professionals giving their time to potential future Venators. Stalls were set up selling all manner of fun gift bags and novelty toys, a mini roller coaster was zipping around the grounds, and there was even a small Venator museum established, showing the great lineage of Wailing Wars and government regulation that shaped the Venator industry into what it was today. Up on stage, Faller made a little address to the students there, encouraging them to try and fail, and learn from their failures, and wishing them well with their future team. It was something bright for the future.


    Well, in actuality, that was what the academy planned.


    A joyous event for all the new students.


    But it didn¡¯t quite work out that way.


    Julia didn¡¯t know what she¡¯d see when she exited the hallway, but from the sounds ringing out, she figured people would be celebrating and cheering to a new year of studies. However, as she got closer, the screaming sounded panicked, far more frantic than what would be warranted. And what she assumed to be the roller coaster and speakers were more like crashing noises, cement being torn up and glass being shattered.


    It took a minute to process what she saw.


    Upon entering the courtyard, the sun shone down on her, glaring her eyes a little, as the sounds of people yelling and running finally registered, and she saw the cause of the calamity.


    A Wailing.


    An enormous Wailing, nearly a hundred metres in height alone, that had torn through the gap between adjacent skyscrapers, laying waste to the courtyard with noticeable ease and no remorse. Its hulking mass helped drive its enormous limbs, letting it claw its way through the campus grounds with a mere swing of its arm, its vicious, red eyes clearly blind in its bloodlust.


    Students ran. They cleared out without hesitation, their natural instinct being to self preserve, as the security team and third years remained, doing everything they could to hold it off. What looked to be hundreds of Venators all slashed, fired, lacerated and maimed the creature, but it showed no sign of slowing down, no sign of visible injury or fatigue. It swatted at the Venators climbing up its form, trying to grapple its fur and reach its face, but any effort to reach higher was met with severe punishment.


    And now Julia was right in the middle of it, staring up at the behemoth, blocking out the sun rays she¡¯d felt entering, as confused screams around her started to seep in.


    ¡°Watch out!!!


    ¡°It¡¯s bigger than we¡¯ve ever seen!¡±


    ¡°Fourth unit, aim for the leg! Second unit, draw its fire! Our priority is the safety of the civilians!¡±


    Julia noticed people still along walkways surrounding the buildings, some raised up above the ground, and some half destroyed by the Wailing¡¯s weight alone. A few civilians stayed in place from a pure and unkind shock, staring up at the beast as it rampaged the academy around it.


    And Julia was amongst them, no matter how hard she tried.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Harley headed down the corridor, ready the check out the rest of the school before meeting her team. She thought about going to the welcome event, but she¡¯d seen plenty of carnivals and fetes back at home, and they were nothing like the facilities on display at the academy.


    ¡°Hmmmmhmmhmm¡­¡± She hummed to herself, taking her time and appreciating the scenery, before a thunderous crash shook down the hall and up her spine. She took a second to re-cooperate, before heading out onto the nearby balcony and seeing where the noise came from.


    It was worse than she imagined.


    ¡°Oh no¡­¡± She muttered, as the gargantuan Wailing crashed into both the skyscrapers again, roaring out in a horrid screech. Fortunately, Harley was a few buildings away, but even with those obstructing her vision, the Wailing¡¯s destructive path was clear as day. She looked out at the courtyard, people still evacuating in mass numbers, before spotting a few people still cowering in fear below the violent aggressor.


    In a snap judgement, Harley jumped out the balcony and down the adorning building¡¯s roof, sliding as fast as she could manage, and running straight to the courtyard.


    I don¡¯t have my weapons. She reminded herself. This¡¯ll have to be quick.


    She found the entrance to the courtyard and assessed the situation. Several students and staff were helping civilians and each other escape, making their way to the exits, as a woman in combat gear yelled commands at the campus security, their attention on taking out the Wailing.


    That can¡¯t be all of them. Harley realised, counting the evacuees as they left.


    Then someone caught her eye.


    Harley noticed Liddy, unconscious, still trapped behind some rubble, too weak to free herself, as Rose tried to pull her out to no avail. The Wailing¡¯s thrashing only saw more debris crash around them.


    Harley dashed in, making sure to avoid the falling cement and glass, dodging and weaving, until she found Liddy trapped against a wall, a solid chunk of building forcing her against it. Harley braced herself against the wall and pushed the chunk back, straining her muscles from the shear weight of it, as Rose pulled Liddy out just in time for Harley to stumble backwards from overexertion.


    Rose held Liddy over her back, before the Wailing swung its arms against the building again, smashing into several classrooms, and causing a large shard of glass to plummet toward an exhausted Harley at top speed.


    ¡°Watch ou-!¡±


    Before anyone could catch what was going on, the woman in combat gear leaped right past Rose and above Harley, aiming her fist at the bottom of the shard, as she activated her Whil and launched the glass off to the side, smashing it against the ground and away from Harley.


    She pulled Harley to her feet, as Harley recognised her as the chief of security. ¡°You okay?¡±


    ¡°Rrrggh¡­yeah, I pulled something.¡±


    ¡°Get these two to a safe spot. Don¡¯t come back until we¡¯ve handled this.¡± The chief declared.


    ¡°You can¡¯t se-¡°


    ¡°Don¡¯t back chat me! Do your job as a future Venator!¡± She yelled, pushing Harley back and re-entering her squadron to continue their assault.


    Harley watched her take off, as she helped bare some of Liddy¡¯s weight, escorting her and Rose out as fast as they could.


    Please take that thing down¡­ Harley wished.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Please take that thing down¡­ Wess hoped, cowering in utter fear.


    She was still in the courtyard, huddled under a large chunk of debris, hands over her head and tears seeping down her eyes. She had gotten up early to speak to industry Venators and staff, hoping to get a few contacts in for the future, and maybe enjoy herself around the welcome event. But she wasn¡¯t prepared for this. Nobody was, and everyone was trying to adapt to the situation as quickly as possible. But Wess couldn¡¯t. She wasn¡¯t ready yet.


    This wasn¡¯t supposed to be her first fight.


    Metal and scaffolding rained down around her, connecting and ringing out horrid sounds of clanging steel, as Wess looked for an opportunity to escape.


    In a brief second, she heard the Wailing roar out in pain, and one of the security team yelled about stunning it for a second. Wess dashed out, sprinting to the courtyard exit with all her energy, as the Wailing regained its consciousness and stepped forward, separating the ground beneath its feet. Wess tripped up against the unsettled cement and scrapped her leg badly, holding back a pained scream and continuing to the exit to lessen any more harm to her.


    She made it to the courtyard exit, taking a breather by the archway, and trying to slow her rapidly beating heart.


    It¡¯s unheard of. She thought, desperately trying to rationalise. No Wailing should be able to reach that size.


    After checking she was in the clear and slumping to the ground, the familiar face of Joleicia ran by toward the courtyard, a large sniper rifle in her hands and a look of determination on her face.


    ¡°Joleicia! Where are you going?!¡± Wess cried.


    ¡°I¡¯m defending the academy. What does it look like?¡± She replied, setting up her rifle against the ground. ¡°I can do enough damage from back here to help out.¡±


    ¡°This isn¡¯t a time for heroics! We¡¯re first years! Leave this to the professionals!¡± Wess reasoned, grabbing Joleicia¡¯s shoulder.


    Joleicia batted her hand away. ¡°I¡¯m not letting them risk their lives for mine! I deserve a say in whether I help or not!¡± Joleicia yelled, readying her rifle. ¡°Let me do this, Wess.¡±


    Wess looked back at her, lying against the ground, as the Wailing continued stomping back and forth, slowly approaching the main building itself. It didn¡¯t look like it was slowly down at all, but the campus security kept holding it off with everything they had.


    Wess made her decision and continued her safe exit, trying not to push her bloodied leg too much, as Joleicia aimed her sights and fired toward the Wailing¡¯s face.


    Whilit''s speed, Joleicia.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Oh no no no no no no no¡­¡± Sola muttered to herself, as another part of the academy was obliterated near her.


    She was huddled behind the adorning balcony of the courtyard, metres away from a large hole in the building caused by the Wailing¡¯s wild swinging of its claws. Sola stayed frozen in place, hoping dearly that the Wailing would avoid her, just skip over her and let her be.


    ¡°Go away, Wailing¡­¡±


    In the least likely of events, Sola saw Ferris of all people heading out onto the balcony with her, a clearly visible sword by her side, her attention entirely on the Wailing. Ferris looked over at the campus security, with the melee focused members attempting to get closer to the Wailing, being batted left and right by its limbs, as several gunners lined up, firing at its chest and face, to no clear effect.


    ¡°Its hide is too tough.¡± Ferris assessed. ¡°They need the melee units to cut through and weake-¡°


    ¡°Ferris!¡± Sola exclaimed. ¡°Why the heck are you here?!¡±


    Ferris looked over and groaned once she realised who it was. ¡°Of all the students¡­¡±


    ¡°Ferris!!!¡± Sola yelled, as the Wailing took a giant lunge back, causing the balcony to start collapsing in on itself and the roof to crumble under the pressure.


    Sola reacted quickly, noticing the part above Ferris starting to shake, and instinctively pushing her out of the way with a leap, sending them both to the ground, as the roof caved in on itself and took most of the balcony with it.


    Ferris took a beat to recover, looking at Sola lying on her. ¡°You good?¡±


    ¡°Uhh¡­no.¡±


    Ferris looked behind her and saw Sola¡¯s leg trapped under some scaffolding, as she rolled her eyes, got up and lifted the metal beam off.


    ¡°Ow¡­¡± Sola groaned, grabbing her pained leg.


    ¡°Oh, come on, you¡¯re gonna be a Venator. You¡¯ll feel much worse.¡± Ferris said. ¡°It¡¯s not even broken.¡±


    Sola still held it against her, as Ferris checked back on the Wailing, now aiming for the other side of the balcony adjacent to the courtyard, then to the security focusing their shots, and offered a hand to Sola. Ferris grabbed Sola¡¯s torso and walked her out, taking the pressure off Sola¡¯s leg and assuring her the year would definitely be easier than this.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    With a solid swing, Essex dug into the Wailing¡¯s hide with her scythe, using her weight to drag it down and slice through its side, as it roared out it pain and tried to swat at her with its arms. Essex expertly swung out of the way, using her momentum to send her back to the adjacent balcony to regain some ground.


    She looked at the supporting fire coming from the campus security, their gunners all aiming at the wound she¡¯d open, along with a few more student snipers off to the side, and some third years emulating what she was doing. The Wailing used its arm to hide the slash as best it could, as Essex planned a further attack closer to the heart this time.


    ¡°Essex, wait!!!¡±


    Before she could head out, a panicked and panting Principal Faller ran onto the balcony, severely out of breath. ¡°What¡¯re you doing?!¡±


    ¡°What must be done.¡± She answered, as Faller grabbed her arm.


    ¡°You¡¯re a first year! Get to safety with the rest of the first years, please!¡± He pleaded.


    Essex growled and threw him off, hooking her scythe onto the roof and climbing up, as Faller looked over the balcony to find her.


    ¡°Wailing kill professional Venators everyday, and you¡¯re still in training!¡± He yelled, as her sole focus remained on the Wailing itself. ¡°Don¡¯t risk your future when you don¡¯t need to!¡±


    Essex waited until the Wailing was close enough to her position and leaped onto the arm still covering its wound, as Faller watched on in shock at what the Wailing had done to his academy.


    Essex managed to climb up the arm, digging into its skin with her scythe, as the pain shot up the Wailing¡¯s side, causing it to start swinging its arm back and forth to throw Essex off. Essex nearly gave in from the force of the swinging alone, but remained determined, picking her moments carefully for when to keep moving.


    The Wailing swung its arm into the skyscraper again, aiming Essex into as much dangerous material as it could, as Essex nimbly swung back around to the other side of its arm to dodge it, then back on top, before running down the arm itself toward the Wailing¡¯s head with a level of speed and grace rarely seen. The Wailing swung with its other arm, glaring at Essex with its horrifically bloodshot eyes, as Essex vaulted off, careening through the air, and aimed herself at the Wailing¡¯s top torso.


    The campus security and third years stared, mesmerised by her technique, as she finally reached its chest, digging in from the top with her scythe, and severing it down the middle.


    In a last ditched effort, the Wailing took a final swing at the now slowed down Essex, and slashed her off with a shockingly painful swing, sending her soaring through the air with her scythe still inside the Wailing¡¯s chest.


    As her backup watched on, the chief of security herself rushed up to where Essex was heading, right toward the balcony Principal Faller was still on, climbing up the building frame in front of him, before slowing Essex down with her Whil and catching her safely.


    In that brief moment of distraction, the Wailing took its awful chance and slammed its fist against the ground, cracking the pavement even more and sending the gunner squadron into disarray. The ground reverberated from the impact, throwing the third-year gunners and Joleicia off as well, launching her rifle off to the side, as the Wailing closed in and attempted to take them out once and for all.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Julia still stood there, unmoving despite everything. She was sure she heard people yelling and screaming at her about evacuating, but if the academy wasn¡¯t safe from this thing, then there truly was nowhere left to go.


    Finally, she felt the shock running through her body, as the ground shook and broke her from her trance-like state, and the Wailing¡¯s presence was felt just as hard.


    It couldn¡¯t be stopped.


    It just¡­


    Julia was just about to give up entirely, as she noticed something sticking out of the Wailing¡¯s chest, something shining slightly in the sunlight. A scythe, one that had cut its way through the Wailings hide. Better yet, another wound was on its side too, including visible bullet holes and other gashes against its legs and face. It looked to be affecting the Wailing pretty badly, as it tried to use the broken skyscraper as a support for its body.


    It even looked tired.


    It¡¯s vulnerable. She realised. We can still win this.


    The ground shook again, as the Wailing crashed its arm back into it, now keeling over in its pain, as Julia tried to formulate a plan for how to take it out for good.


    She looked around and saw plenty of the security staff still attacking it along side third years, the weapons slowing it down, but only doing that much, as others hung by the sidelines and looked for any kind of an opening. The chief of security was tending to Faller and that girl that was thrown off, so whether she could help in any meaningful way or not was hard to say.


    And then, it hit her.


    Literally, it hit her.


    Landing by her side, Julia noticed a sniper rifle, coming from behind her and seemingly belonging to another student who was knocked out from the last shock wave. Julia finally had something to act with.


    She propped up the rifle against the ground, trying to find a hold amongst the shattered cement, aiming at the Wailing¡¯s large chest wound, still bleeding profusely. The security kept yelling commands and orders at each other, with plenty of gunfire and roaring from the Wailing filling the courtyard, as Julia slowly breathed to herself, trying to drown out the sound and focus.


    Focus¡­just focus¡­a bullet on its own won¡¯t be enough¡­but¡­


    In a moment of quick thinking, she aimed directly at its heart, still breathing steadily, as the Wailing went in for another smash against the ground. She pressed her finger against the trigger, sending the bullet flying through the air toward the Wailing, before she focused her hand toward the bullet, and using her Whil, increased its velocity to unbelievable speeds, as it pierced through the air and into the Wailing¡¯s freshly opened wound.


    There was a moment of silence that followed, the security and third years left in an unexplained moment of calm, as the bullet travelled too quickly for anyone to process and could only be seen by the damage it did to the Wailing. The Wailing started to stumble, almost collapse in on itself, losing its firm grip on its skyscraper support, as its arm finally slipped, and it crashed against the pavement behind it with a final, defeated thud.


    A giant dust cloud was sent into the air with its fall, acting like a shroud for the Wailing¡¯s death, as the same silence hung over the crowd once again.


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°We did it!!!¡±


    Everyone started cheering, celebrating, high-fiving and hugging each other after a job well done, as the security cautiously checked the body to confirm it was killed.


    And Julia let herself feel relief after such a tumultuous morning.


    She did it.


    They all did it, together.


    And the sun shone through once again.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°And¡­there we go.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°Why do you look so relieved?¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°Yeah, okay, I don¡¯t like ¡®em either, but I¡¯m not about to cry like a pissy little baby. You¡¯re such a pussy.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°Uhuh. How¡¯re things on your end, boss?¡±


    ¡°The Wailing has just been confirmed as dead, and the press are transmitting right now.¡±


    ¡°You sound happy.¡±


    ¡°Of course I am. From what I saw in person, there were no casualties.¡±


    ¡°¡­what? Seriously none?¡±


    ¡°Well, except for the Wailing of course.¡±


    ¡°I thought you wanted the school destroyed?¡±


    ¡°Only partly. This was a perfect execution, overall.¡±


    ¡°Bu¡­sure, whatever. I¡¯m not gonna pretend to understand.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°You look relieved again. If you let your heart bleed this much, you might just die from it.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°Alright, just go. Our jobs done anyway.¡±


    ¡°Oh¡­not by a long shot.¡±

 Chapter 2: Packing Up

    Ferris wandered down the hall, slightly miffed about being woken up so early. Faller obviously knew about her schedule, so that only salted the wound for her. She subtlety knocked on Faller¡¯s office door and let herself in, as she caught him looking out his window with a bourbon in hand.


    ¡°Sir, you okay?¡±


    Faller shook himself conscious and acknowledged Ferris. ¡°Okay is a relative term¡­¡±


    Ferris sat herself in front of Faller¡¯s desk, as the door opened up to two more figures, the chief of security, a larger woman who went and stood by Faller¡¯s desk, and a slightly paler man who made himself at home.


    ¡°Ferris, I believe you¡¯ve met Seears.¡± Faller said, indicating to the man sitting next to her, his feet propped up against Faller¡¯s desk.


    ¡°Unfortunately¡­¡± Ferris remarked, as Seears turned to her with a slight surprise.


    ¡°Ferris is here for this? Really?¡± Seears sneered.


    ¡°Go eat a dick.¡± She snapped back.


    ¡°Sure. Name your price.¡±


    ¡°Would you two shut up?¡± Faller snapped, before settling himself. ¡°This is also our new Chief of Security, Patricia Dulce. Apologies about¡­everything you¡¯ve had to deal with.¡±


    ¡°It was a hell of a first day.¡± She sighed.


    She noticed Ferris slouched in her chair. ¡°I¡¯ve heard mixed things about you, Ferris.¡± Dulce said, grinning widely. ¡°I¡¯ll try to get on your good side.¡±


    ¡°Charming.¡± Ferris said, her gaze focused on Faller. ¡°Can we hurry this up?¡±


    Faller nodded and grabbed a few papers. ¡°¡­the ¡®Behemoth Wailing¡¯ attack is our first priority. We don¡¯t know why or how it happened, and the press is having a field day speculating while we decide on what to do.¡±


    Faller turned to Ferris. ¡°What¡¯re we looking at?¡±


    Ferris pulled up her tablet. ¡°Several students and bystanders have been severely wounded and injured, but, miraculously, no one was actually killed during the entire attack. The damages to the two main support buildings will take most of the year to fix, and several first-year students have already withdrawn their enrolment following the attack.¡±


    ¡°Shit¡­¡± Faller muttered, resting his hand on his temple. ¡°Of course they did¡­¡±


    ¡°The science department¡¯s conducting an autopsy of the ¡®Behemoth¡¯ Wailing, headed by Head Scientist Cecil, to determine possible motive and ways to prevent this in the future. We¡¯ve also started assigning the remaining students to teams in our system, but have yet to announce anything.¡± Ferris explained.


    He moved to Seears. ¡°What¡¯s our best move from here?¡±


    ¡°With structural damages, we can be frank and honest, but promoting our education and healthcare while steering away from the first-year haemorrhage should be the main focus.¡± Seears suggested. ¡°I¡¯ve already gotten news outlets to talk about how we¡¯re treating bystanders, and that no one was killed during the whole ordeal.¡±


    ¡°I conducted a few interviews.¡± Dulce added, as the room went silent.


    ¡°¡­my recommendation, have the remaining first-year¡¯s form teams as soon as possible.¡±


    Faller¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°Right now, during a panic? You can¡¯t be serious. It¡¯s only been two days, Seears¡­¡±


    ¡°And they¡¯re desperate. It¡¯s a show of force to the public. The academy¡¯s standing up against the Wailing and continuing on despite the attack. We let the students, parents, and investors know the academy stands strong and proud.¡± He said, indicating toward Faller¡¯s liquor cabinet. ¡°Would you mind if I¡­?¡±


    ¡°No, go ahead.¡± Faller waved, as Seears got up and grabbed himself a glass.


    ¡°At this point, I¡¯d send them home.¡± Ferris argued. ¡°Most of our resources are going to repairs and relief, and we¡¯ll already struggle with the facilities we have left. And most of the students remaining won¡¯t want to go anywhere near, heck, the practice dummies after something this traumatising.¡±


    ¡°¡­Dulce, what¡¯s your assessment of the student¡¯s safety?¡± Faller asked.


    Dulce turned to address him respectfully. ¡°The campus security have been putting measures in place to prevent a catastrophe like this happening again. Patrols around the grounds, increased fortifications, uhh¡­I¡¯m forgetting one, but it¡¯s very good.¡± Dulce explained. ¡°In my opinion, the academy¡¯s the safest place they could be right now.¡±


    Faller got up from his chair and walked around, reaching for his window again. ¡°¡­the students need a sense of unity, something to keep them going here despite such a nightmare. This whole situation only means we need trained Venators now more than ever.¡± Faller turned to Seears. ¡°The new Venator teams will be formed later today. No more delays.¡±


    ¡°Consider it done.¡± Seears said, pulling out his tablet. ¡°I¡¯ll get to work on the inductions.¡±


    ¡°Thank you. I also want security present when this happens, Dulce. This may not be the only attack, and if the Wailing were smart enough to strike on orientation day, they¡¯d most likely strike again during the inductions.¡±


    ¡°Yes, sir.¡± Dulce said, saluting and heading out, slowly followed by Seears.


    ¡°Seears, I don¡¯t want anything too big, okay?¡± Faller asked him. ¡°We don¡¯t ne-¡°


    ¡°Yeah, yeah. This isn¡¯t my first rodeo. Keeping it subtle.¡± Seears remarked, ducking out the door.


    ¡°Ferris, you¡¯ll be helping out with the inductions too.¡± Faller explained.


    ¡°I had a feeling¡­¡± Ferris sighed, before noticing Faller staring off into space again. He circled his finger around the brim of his glass.


    ¡°Why were you out on the courtyard balcony when the Wailing attacked?¡±


    Ferris¡¯s question rang in Faller¡¯s ears, as he looked a little angry while he answered.


    ¡°I couldn¡¯t just sit by and watch my academy get destroyed by the one thing it¡¯s built to fight against.¡±


    ¡°You shouldn¡¯t be out in the action.¡± Ferris reasoned. ¡°Especially when a ¡®Behemoth Wailing¡¯ that¡¯s twenty times the size of a regular Wailing is tearing the academy apart. Gods, I just said regular Wailing¡­¡±


    Faller tapped his glass. ¡°I¡¯m worried this might be involvement from the third party. I don¡¯t know for certain, but the timing of it seems far too convenient to be a coincidence. Wailing are cunning, but they aren''t that smart.¡±


    ¡°The third party?¡± Ferris questioned. ¡°Really?¡±


    Faller glared at her, as Ferris sighed and pulled out her tablet to tap away at.


    He slumped back in his chair and breathed deeply. ¡°How could we let this happen¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Julia rested against her makeshift bed, lying prone and silent in a deep contemplative state while the hall made noise around her. She¡¯d woken up earlier at nine thirty, having decided to sleep in after what happened two days ago. Shaking herself from her trance, the speakers rang out from around the hall, as curious first years listened out.


    ¡°Attention, first year students. Team placement and induction will commence today at 10:30am. All first years will proceed to their designated classroom from the assembly hall at the scheduled time. I repeat, all first year st¡­¡±


    Julia¡¯s ears perked up, having finally gotten some good news, as the hall around her started filling up with excited murmurs. The extra day and a half wait was killing Julia, especially with the Wailing attack weighing in on her mind, but she was finally going to meet her team. Julia tried not to excite herself too much, but found her positivity coming back in spades.


    She was thrilled.


    ¡°Hey, Julia.¡± Called a familiar voice, as Chops showed up and leaned against Julia¡¯s bed frame. ¡°That¡¯s pretty good to hear.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t know the half of it.¡± Julia exclaimed, rocking back and forth on her bed.


    Chops flashed a grin. ¡°You nervous?¡±


    ¡°Actually, no.¡± Julia said. ¡°I¡¯m a little terrified, but not nervous.¡±


    Chops snickered to herself. ¡°Didn¡¯t know there was a difference.¡±


    ¡°I gonna get a head start over the others. Wanna join me and get our placements sorted?¡±


    ¡°Sure. The gods know I have the time.¡± Chops said, following Julia across the hall. ¡°Hopefully, it¡¯ll take my mind off that Wailing thing.¡±


    Julia didn¡¯t weigh in, starting her stride with confidence, before very quickly bumping into someone adjusting their bags on their bed and knocking him over.


    ¡°Oh my-are you okay?¡± Julia asked, sticking out her hand to help him up.


    ¡°Well, that was rude.¡± He replied, rubbing his head. ¡°And on induction day, too.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I really didn¡­¡± She started, before finally getting a good look at his face and realising who it was. ¡°It can¡¯t be¡­¡±


    ¡°It can¡¯t be? What kinda¡­¡± He started, before realising who she was in return. ¡°Julia?¡±


    ¡°Florey?¡± She replied, before jumping into him for a hug. ¡°Florey! It¡¯s actually you!¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re here too? What¡¯re the odds of that?¡± He remarked, hugging her back just as hard. ¡°I missed you like crazy!¡±


    ¡°Hello there.¡± Chops interjected. ¡°Julia, mind introducing me?¡±


    ¡°Oh, sorry, Chops. This is Florey. We used to live down the same street as kids.¡± Julia explained. ¡°He¡¯d come over and watch Venator stuff with me.¡±


    ¡°Now, hold on, that makes it sound like it was my decision.¡± Florey pointed out. ¡°You forced me to watch most of that with you.¡±


    ¡°Oh yeah.¡± Julia realised, a slight playfulness to her voice. ¡°But I totally guessed right, since we¡¯re both here.¡±


    ¡°I¡­yeah, fair point.¡± Florey admitted. ¡°I guess something you said about them really spoke to me. After we moved, I started training myself to become one, then I applied to continue training here. Turns out, starting right now was the perfect time.¡±


    Julia grinned excitedly. ¡°Hey, me and Chops are gonn-¡°


    ¡°Chops?¡±


    Julia pointed to Chops, who waved to him casually. ¡°Hey.¡±


    ¡°Oh. Sorry, go on.¡±


    ¡°Me and Chops were gonna go get sorted early, so if you wanted¡­¡±


    ¡°Just give me a second.¡± Florey said, before putting on his backpack. ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±


    ¡°Great! Oh my gods, there¡¯s so many things you¡¯ve missed back home! First, dad got a new job down at the p¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Harley woke up and quickly realised the shirt she went to bed in was buttoned up wrong. She looked around to see if anyone was near and fixed it once she got up, giggling to herself while thinking back on the night before.


    He certainly was impressive¡­shame I couldn¡¯t stay at his place and had to come back here.


    The slight hangover was hitting her more than it usually did, as she stood up and realised it was as late as ten in the morning, well past her seven o¡¯ clock alarm.


    Guess the bars here have stronger beer than I¡¯m used to. Good to know for the future, at least.


    She stretched herself, scanning the other students around her in the assembly hall, as the speakers rang out across the hall and drew everyone¡¯s focus.


    ¡°Attention, first year students. Team placement and induction will commence today at 10:30am. A¡­¡±


    Harley eyes lit up, as she started fist pumping into the air. ¡°Finally!¡± The hall was filled with similar excitement.


    She¡¯d managed to occupy her time over the last couple days, what with the Wailing attack and the aftermath taking up most of it, but she was just as impatient as everyone else to get started. Harley quickly grabbed her things and scanned the assembly, finding the placement officers set up against the hall¡¯s walls.


    She got up in a hurry, before feeling a set of eyes on her as she stood up.


    ¡°Hi there.¡± Called an unknown, yet familiar voice, standing by her bed. Harley looked up to see a platinum blonde woman, gorgeously kept, with a wonderfully subtle smile. ¡°Sorry to interrupt, but I¡¯m wondering if you remember me.¡±


    ¡°¡­Hammerbrazen Cocktail Lounge, a few seats down to the left.¡± Harley recalled, sitting back down and getting a good stare at her. ¡°I noticed.¡±


    ¡°¡­good to know.¡± She said, presenting her hand to Harley. ¡°Saxin.¡±


    ¡°Harley.¡± Harley replied, respectfully shaking it. ¡°Sorry I didn¡¯t work up the nerve last night.¡±


    ¡°I understood once I saw who you left with. Quite the looker¡­¡± Saxin reminisced. ¡°Fortunately, we both ended up here.¡±


    ¡°I know, right? I¡¯m surprised to see someone like you here.¡± Harley remarked.


    Saxin wore a cheeky smile. ¡°Someone like me?¡± Saxin teased, leaning against the bed frame. ¡°What ever do you mean by that?¡±


    ¡°Well, you¡¯re hardly the warrior type. Most Venators don¡¯t wear dresses.¡± Harley remarked.


    ¡°Are you saying you¡¯d rather see me without the dress?¡± Saxin asked, resting her grinning face against her hand.


    Harley leaned in a little too close. ¡°Maybe¡­¡±


    Saxin smiled back to her, before standing back up and straightening her dress. ¡°I¡¯m a slashing weapons expert by trade, but that doesn¡¯t mean I can¡¯t be classy about it. A woman like myself should know how to look presentable.¡±


    Harley laughed a little. ¡°Can¡¯t argue with that. And by the way, I very much appreciate the effort.¡±


    Saxin giggled into her hand. ¡°Glad to see I¡¯m already reaping the benefits. I was about to take a little stroll before we¡¯re assigned to our teams. I wouldn¡¯t mind a bit more of your company.¡±


    Harley looked a little embarrassed. ¡°In all honesty, I want to see my team as soon as possible, so as tempting as that definitely is, I¡¯m gonna have to rain check you on that.¡±


    Saxin shrugged. ¡°These things happen. I¡¯ll be thinking of you, though. Don¡¯t let that distract you¡­¡±


    Saxin sashayed away, deliberately trying to draw Harley¡¯s eye. Harley nearly forced herself to follow, but shook herself free of Saxin¡¯s siren song and headed to the placement officers. She knew what an opportunity going to this academy was, and she wasn¡¯t about to delay her education any further.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°How can it be delayed again?! It should have been here two days ago, and yet, I¡¯m waiting by the entrance, nary a package to my name!...no, no, you¡¯ve have forty eight hours to correct your mistake! Don¡¯t act like these aren¡¯t top priority packages!...they aren¡¯t?! Well, why not?!¡±


    Wess stamped her foot angrily, standing outside the academy¡¯s main building, her tablet to her ear.


    ¡°I don¡¯t need excuses! I need my suitcases at the academy!...no, you¡¯re the problem!¡±


    Wess hung up and sat against the stairs, breathing out slowly to force herself to calm down, as she stood back up and tried to adjust her appearance to be more presentable.


    ¡°¡­I swear if this was father¡­¡± She mumbled, heading back inside the main building.


    It was nearly ten already, and she was nowhere near getting her other clothes, belongings or weapon to the academy. Fortunately, her spare bag had enough clothes and provisions for a few days, but not enough for the week. Admittedly, she couldn¡¯t exactly bring her weapon on the train with her, since she wasn¡¯t a registered Venator, but Graham had assured her that it would get to her in one piece before classes started, along with her other possessions.


    I wish I could trust you, Graham. Wess thought. Or mother and father for that matter¡­


    Wess found her bed again, taking a well-deserved seat and lifting a bit of pressure off her leg. After scraping her leg during the Wailing attack, her recovery was impressively quick, but considering the academy¡¯s reputation for emergency healthcare, Wess was just happy it wasn¡¯t anything too damaged to fix.


    She looked down at her leg, bandages still hiding the wound, as she felt a deep disappointment in herself returning.


    What will my teammates think of me after such a shameful display¡­?


    She sighed to herself, trying to steel her mind, as an announcement came over the speakers about teams being formed in half an hour. Wess nonchalantly stood up, expecting that the academy would have to form teams by this point, and prepared her bag. She wasn¡¯t about to be slowed down by her leg or by her classmates.


    I hope I¡¯m not asked for a demonstration. She pondered, heading over to the placement officers.


    She studied the assembly hall, trying to find a few friendly faces she could interact with, before noticing a couple students heading to the placement officers, mingling amongst themselves. They looked to be straight out of high school, a certain laziness to their appearance and overall manner. They looked young, childish really, and either wore hoodies, sweatpants, flip flops, or a combination of all three. A certain character in the middle of the group stood out to Wess, seeming like the centre of attention.


    Wess rolled her eyes.


    I should hope they¡¯d take the position they¡¯re in more seriously. We¡¯re supposed to be professionals, after all.


    During her staring, Wess suddenly felt the grabbing hands of someone against her shoulders, as she jumped back in shock to see Joleicia there, looking pleased with herself.


    ¡°Hey Wess! How¡¯s the¡­you okay?¡±


    Wess needed a second. ¡°Don¡¯t...do that!¡±


    ¡°Sorry. Thought it¡¯d be fun.¡± Joleicia apologised. ¡°I was gonna ask something...oh! How¡¯s the leg doing?¡±


    ¡°¡­fine.¡± Wess replied. ¡°My heart on the other hand¡­¡±


    ¡°Listen, don¡¯t be worried about your team, okay?¡± Joleicia said, smiling pleasantly. ¡°Just cause you can¡¯t pick your own members doesn¡¯t mean they won¡¯t be super awesome.¡±


    Wess laughed a little. ¡°¡­I appreciate your optimism, but this won¡¯t be a question of me leaving my future up to fate. I will assess my given team, and as is most likely, ask for a transfer afterwards when they aren¡¯t the right choice. I¡¯m nothing if not open minded.¡±


    Wess spun around and started walking to the officers.


    Clearly. Joleicia thought to herself, as her and Wess hurried over as fast as Wess¡¯ leg would allow.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Sola was lost again.


    Admittedly, this time was less her fault, according to her, as she found herself wandering through the forest adjacent to the academy. She swore she¡¯d walked past the same rock five times now.


    ¡°I¡¯m such a dummy¡­¡± She whined, gripped with crippling annoyance. ¡°I get a little free time, and I wander into a forest¡­¡±


    She sighed to herself. ¡°That rabbit was just way too cute¡­it¡¯s so the rabbit¡¯s fault.¡±


    Sola kept walking for a while, seeming to find the exit out, as she rushed over to find the same rock she¡¯d past ten times now.


    ¡°Agghhhh! What¡¯s with this place and labyrinths?!¡± Sola grumbled, kicking a tree stump, before realising it was a tree stump, one that had clearly been cut by a blade. ¡°If that was man made¡­¡± She reasoned. ¡°Then the academy can¡¯t be far!¡±


    She rushed back into the forest, a renewed sense of confidence to her, before a tree fell directly in front of her, nearly crushing her where she stood.


    She leaped back in shock, catching her breath, as she heard the voice of someone off to the side, grunting and groaning, almost like an exercise. Against her better judgment, she looked around the corner past where the tree had fallen and noticed a girl in a collared white shirt, wielding a scythe, and quickly realised it was Essex, the girl she had talked to the first day she arrived.


    She was sitting against another tree stump, her scythe embedded into it, as she dabbed at her forehead with a towel and rehydrated. Despite looking exhausted, Essex still went about dressing in a collared shirt tucked into slacks, almost begging to overheat.


    Sola approached with caution. ¡°Hi.¡±


    Essex looked up and realised who it was. ¡°Sola Lusagi. A pleasure.¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t expect you here.¡± Sola remarked. ¡°Why are you in the forest?¡±


    ¡°I am training. We¡¯re Venators.¡± She replied, getting up and grabbing her scythe again.


    ¡°Okay, but why the getup?¡± Sola asked, having forgotten she was lost.


    Essex started polishing her scythe¡¯s blade. ¡°I wear normal clothing while training to practice for any situation. Wailing are unpredictable, and I may not always get to change into protective gear before a fight.¡± Essex pointed at Sola¡¯s large jacket. ¡°Do you plan to fight in that?¡±


    ¡°Well¡­no, I guess not.¡± Sola admitted. ¡°I never really think about that stuff.¡±


    ¡°You will have to if you want to survive.¡± Essex warned her. ¡°This is an unforgiving profession.¡±


    Sola stared in a fixation. ¡°That stuff sounds so smart when you say it.¡±


    Just then, they heard a speaker ring out from the direction of the academy, with an announcement about team placements happening in ten minutes. Essex realised how soon that really was, and Sola remembered she was lost.


    ¡°Yes! I know where the academy is now!¡± Sola cheered, before stopping her celebration and realising the obvious. ¡°Oh no! It¡¯s way too far away now!¡±


    ¡°Follow behind.¡± Essex said, grabbing her suit jacket and scythe, as she ran past Sola and grabbed onto the trees, before swinging from each branch with the help of her scythe. Sola let herself be impressed, before trying to keep up with her on foot. Sola kept stumbling over branches and roots, admittedly trying her best to avoid them, as Essex swung through the air, letting her momentum get carried by the scythe, leaping from branch to branch with a skilful ease.


    Finally, Essex made it out of the clearing and onto the training grounds, continuing her run across the flat fields, as Sola slowly emerged behind her, out of breath and woozy, noticing Essex off in the distance and trying to catch up with her. As a result of spending the last few days mostly in the forest, the layout of the academy was still a complete mystery to Essex, as she stopped at another intersection and tried to read her surroundings.


    ¡°Essex!¡± Sola cried, finally catching up to her with her jacket in hand and leaning against the wall to catch her breath. ¡°I took the jacket off! It super helped!"


    ¡°Which direction is the assembly hall?¡± Essex asked, her scythe at the ready.


    ¡°Uhh¡­¡± Sola stalled, as she looked around and fortunately recognised the bathroom right near them. ¡°Wait! I know my way from here! Left right right right left, turn back around, then left!¡±


    ¡°Understood.¡± Essex replied, heading off in that direction, leaving Sola to play catch up again.


    Sola quickly pulled out her tablet and freaked out while they were running. ¡°Essex! We¡¯ve only got five minutes!¡±


    Essex swung around each corner, sprinting down the hallways, counting the remaining minutes in her head, as Sola caught up with her, desperately out of breath. Finally, they both reached the assembly hall, as Essex burst in, located the placement officers, and dashed toward them with Sola in tow.


    Royal Road is the home of this novel. Visit there to read the original and support the author.


    The officer was shocked for a second, as Essex slid against the ground and stopped in front of him. She was panting heavily with her scythe by her side, as Sola join up behind her too.


    ¡°¡­first years?¡± He asked in fear.


    ¡°We are here for the team placement.¡± Essex said, indicating to Sola beside her, bent over and struggling to breath.


    The officer looked at Sola. ¡°You know there¡¯s no cut off. It¡¯s not like we were gonna lock you out.¡±


    Essex stood firm. ¡°...that would make sense.¡±


    ¡°Where¡­oh gods¡­where are we¡­going?¡± Sola struggled to say, as the officer flipped through their tablet list.


    ¡°Names?¡±


    ¡°Sola¡­Lu¡­Lusagi.¡±


    ¡°Okay, and¡­?¡±


    ¡°Essex.¡±


    ¡°No last name?¡± The officer asked.


    ¡°Last name?¡± Essex asked.


    ¡°¡­whatever. Okay, Sola and¡­oh, that¡¯s fortunate.¡±


    Sola finally got up and looked to him with Essex, confused.


    ¡°Turns out you¡¯re in the same room.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    The team sorting was fairly straight forward. Each team was predetermined ahead of time and sent to a spare classroom as individuals. Groups of five chairs were set up in circles, and first years found the seat with their name on it. Security was present at each entrance and exit, and a small stage was set up with what looked to be Miss Ferris and another teacher chaperoning. Admittedly, Julia was expecting something far more grandiose, but considering the recent attack, she was just happy this was happening at all.


    She¡¯d gotten there first, and subtlety read everyone else¡¯s names ahead of time. She wanted to be as familiar with them as soon as possible.


    Names are the windows to the soul, after all. She reminisced. I can¡¯t believe he actually said that. Dad¡¯s such a dork.


    Julia mumbled to herself. ¡°It doesn¡¯t look like either Chops or Florey are on my team...¡± She sighed to herself, somewhat disappointed, before assuring herself again. ¡°I¡¯m sure my team will be great regardless.¡±


    She mumbled the names to herself as she read. ¡°Sola Lusagi. Okay¡­then there¡¯s Essex¡­oh, just Essex.¡±


    She turned to the next chair. ¡°Wess¡­Delacroix Nouvel? What a name¡­she¡¯s probably incredible.¡±


    She leaned into the next chair as well, her excitement overtaking her. ¡°And lastly, Harley Bar-¡°


    She noticed a presence nearby, as she looked up at the large blonde woman from a few days ago hovering over her. Julia froze in place, as the woman pointed to the chair Julia was in front of. ¡°Does that say Harley on it?¡±


    ¡°Y-yes.¡± Julia said, intimidated by her physique again.


    Harley peered around at the other chairs. ¡°I¡¯m guessing you¡¯re¡­Sola?¡±


    ¡°Julia, actually.¡± Julia said, tentatively sticking out her hand. ¡°And it turns out we¡¯re on the same team.¡±


    ¡°Looks like it.¡± Harley grinned, shaking the hand enthusiastically. ¡°Very good to meet ya again, Julia Alpine. I¡¯m glad I¡¯m on a team with someone as cute as you.¡±


    Julia found herself smiling ear to ear, surprised and delighted with the warm welcome. Harley took her seat, as Julia looked over at the other teams, all greeting each other and exchanging pleasantries, as she spotted Chops and Florey sitting together, and realised they were in the same team.


    ¡°Lucky¡­¡± She moaned.


    ¡°You friends with them?¡± Harley asked, leaning over her chair and pointing to the other''s backs on the other side of the room.


    ¡°Yeah. We walked in together, but apparently we¡¯re on different teams.¡± Julia acknowledged. ¡°I guess I was secretly hoping we¡¯d all be put together.¡±


    Harley looked over and saw a girl join up with them, gracing them with her presence, before realising it was Saxin, pleasant smile and all. She somehow looked even better.


    ¡°Get out of here¡­¡± Harley remarked, as Julia tapped her shoulder. ¡°Yeah?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m gonna go talk to them. Can you get my attention if the others arrive?¡± Julia asked.


    ¡°No problem.¡± Harley said, staring right at Saxin, as Julia wandered over to the other team.


    She looked around at the gathered groups, all fairly familiar with each other already. Some had even brought their weapons, and a few more daring students were showing off their Whils as well.


    I¡¯m glad the Wailing attack didn''t ruin everyone''s enthusiasm. She thought.


    ¡°¡­but I guess that was bound to happen at some¡­oh, hello.¡± Saxin greeted, peering up as Julia entered the scene. ¡°You¡¯re awfully cute.¡±


    ¡°T-thank you¡­¡± Julia stuttered, wondering why everyone kept saying that.


    Saxin looked over the seats. ¡°Are you¡­Lenin per chance?¡±


    ¡°Uh, no, that¡¯s me.¡± Said a voice behind Julia, stepping out and revealing himself to be a fairly handsome, well dressed guy. ¡°I¡¯m Lenin. Is this where......hi there.¡± He said, just now noticing Saxin, his gaze fixated.


    Saxin finally got good look at him too, and found her gaze just as curious. ¡°Well, hello.¡±


    ¡°Is¡­uh¡­is this my team?¡± Lenin asked, trying in vain to break his eye contact with Saxin.


    ¡°Does it matter?¡± Saxin invited, sitting down with him across from the very confused trio of Julia, Chops and Florey.


    ¡°Huh.¡± Chops said. ¡°Moth to a flame?¡±


    ¡°More like a moth to another moth.¡± Florey remarked, turning to Julia. ¡°Sorry we aren¡¯t in the same team.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not your fault. Actually¡­¡± Julia said, indicating over to Harley, standing out amongst most of the other students from her height alone.


    ¡°Oh damn.¡± Florey exclaimed. ¡°You won the jackpot.¡±


    Julia proudly grinned. ¡°No backsies.¡±


    ¡°Just don¡¯t forget us little people when she¡¯s carrying your deadweight on her shoulders.¡± Florey joked, as Julia playfully punched his arm.


    ¡°I¡¯m exhausted already¡­¡± Chops moped, slumping into her seat. ¡°Can we get to our rooms already?¡±


    ¡°Our fifth member isn¡¯t even here yet. I hope you aren¡¯t gonna sleep through our degree, Chops.¡± Florey asked.


    ¡°Who¡¯s to say, really?¡± Chops casually remarked, closing her eyes. ¡°Wake me when we¡¯re at the dorms¡­¡±


    Florey sighed a little, as Julia spotted Harley waving to her, and saw another person by their group. ¡°I gotta go. We¡¯ll totally catch up after.¡± Julia said, waving to Florey and Chops, who both waved back.


    ¡°Julia, this is the actual Sola.¡± Harley introduced, as Sola waved awkwardly. ¡°Apparently, Essex¡¯ll be here in a bit.¡±


    Julia smiled and stuck out her hand. ¡°Julia Alpine. A pleasure to meet you.¡±


    Sola reciprocated. ¡°Ditto.¡±


    Julia gave her a confused look, still with her hand out.


    ¡°¡­oh! I mean, Sola Lusagi. Venator in training.¡± Sola doubled back, actually shaking Julia¡¯s hand. ¡°Sorry, I¡¯m all frazzled right now. Just ran straight from the forest.¡±


    Harley giggled. ¡°What were doing in a forest?¡±


    ¡°I got lost following a rabbit.¡±


    Julia blinked. ¡°On purpose?¡±


    ¡°No¡­but I guess yes.¡± Sola accepted. ¡°It was really cute, though.¡±


    ¡°¡­yeah, I guess tha-¡° Julia said, before realising Sola had pulled a mug out of nowhere and was taking a sip. ¡°Where did¡­?¡±


    ¡°Hmm? Oh, Essex! Essex, over here!¡± Sola yelled, her attention stolen by a suited girl with a giant scythe just now entering the room.


    ¡°Whoa¡­¡± Julia remarked, surprised at the how much gravitas her presence alone gave her. She struck a very noticeable silhouette, and was clearly hiding muscle underneath her suit. She stood in front of Julia, as Julia cleared her throat, straightened her back and stuck her hand out again. ¡°Julia Alpine. I look forward to working along side you.¡±


    Essex looked her over and bowed. ¡°Aerlo Decali. My title is Essex. I look forward to us training together in hopes of becoming official Venators.¡±


    Julia moved her hand back and gave a well-meaning smile. ¡°Likewise.¡±


    ¡°Hello, everyone?¡± Said a woman by the stage, tapping her microphone gently. ¡°Welcome, first years! I¡¯m Miss Spence, and I¡¯m here to make sure your introductions go as smoothly as possible! We¡¯re still waiting on a few more students, but after that¡¯s out of the way, we¡¯ll help move you to the dorms! Now keep up the momentum, you guys!¡±


    Sola stared blankly, noticing Ferris off the side, arms folded and eyes rolled, clearly letting Spence take the reigns for the team inductions.


    ¡°I¡¯m from here in Detu City.¡± Julia told Harley and Essex, as Sola looked away distracted. ¡°I¡¯ve only been in the outer suburbs, though. Orientation day was my first time seeing the actual city.¡±


    ¡°Detu City¡¯s incredible! I went to five bars last night, and all of them were clothing optional!¡± Harley bragged. ¡°Not to knock my hometown, but Denilee¡¯s got nothing on this place.¡±


    ¡°Denilee town?¡± Julia asked, as Harley nodded. ¡°Isn¡¯t that where Team Spectrum fought off the Savage Wolf Wailing?¡±


    Harley¡¯s eyes lit up. ¡°You know about that? That was, like, this legendary day for the town! I wasn¡¯t old enough when it happened, but my dads saw the fight first hand! I think one of them even threw a bottle at it.¡±


    ¡°Your dads saw it in person?!¡± Julia exclaimed. ¡°When can I meet them?¡±


    Harley started laughing to herself, as Sola and Essex took a seat together and chatted, as finally, Wess and Joleicia found their way to the correct classroom after seven failed attempts.


    ¡°We made it! I thought the janitors would have to find our bodies unconscious in the hall.¡± Joleicia panted. ¡°Turns out it was Room 1-01-2, not Room 10-1-2, or Room 1-0-12, or¡­¡±


    ¡°This bloody academy...¡± Wess grumbled, as she finally saw the correctly listed number beside the classroom. Wess looked over the groups present, all of them pretty much full at this point, except for two noticeable seats each side of the room. She took her chances and headed to the group closest to her, with what looked to be an overly joyous and muscular woman, that bizarre scythe girl she¡¯d seen dotted around campus, and¡­


    ¡°Oh, dear gods.¡± Wess groaned, seeing the awkward girl from a few days prior. ¡°Why do you despise me so?¡±


    Wess approached with caution, as Sola peered up and spotted her, not sure whether she could wave or not.


    ¡°You¡¯re kidding? That¡¯s the¡­¡± Julia said to Harley, trailing off as she noticed the stunning woman walking their way, seemingly by herself. Her dress sense was near impeccable and her black hair was just-


    Julia realised she was staring and forced herself to stop, as the woman approached the group with a noticeable indifference.


    Julia smiled to her. ¡°Hi. Are you Wess Delacroix Nouvel?¡±


    Wess sighed to herself and accepted her fate. ¡°I suppose I am for now¡­¡±


    ¡°Oh, welcome!¡± Julia greeted, presenting Wess with her seat and noticing her leg injury. ¡°Are you okay?¡±


    ¡°Perfectly fine.¡± Wess stated, ending the conversation then and there.


    Julia refused to let it lie and stuck out her hand. ¡°My name¡¯s Julia.¡±


    Wess did the polite thing and shook her hand, as everyone took their seats.


    ¡°Have you been here long?¡±


    ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°¡­do you have a weapon? Or a Whil?¡±


    ¡°I hardly see how that¡¯s relevant.¡±


    Julia blinked. ¡°Well, we are Venators. I mean, I¡¯ve got a Whil, so I figur-¡°


    ¡°You¡¯ve got a Whil too?¡± Sola excitedly asked, getting out of her seat. Julia smiled and nodded back to her. ¡°Can you show me?¡±


    Julia laughed a little. ¡°It¡¯s not really something I can show off¡­but, I can try.¡±


    Julia looked around them, spotting the mug Sola had brought with her.


    ¡°Alright, Sola. Throw the mug to me.¡± Julia said.


    Sola looked around. ¡°Right now?¡±


    ¡°Why not? Come on, I wanna see too!¡± Harley cheered on, as Julia readied her hands.


    ¡°Okay then.¡± Sola said, picking up the mug, as Julia started to concentrate as best she could. Julia opened her eyes and nodded to Sola, as Sola threw the mug to her. Using her Whil, Julia attempted to slow the mugs momentum to the point where she could catch it midair, but accidentally breaking her concentration, she sped the mug up immensely, directing hitting herself in the face.


    ¡°Gaah!!!¡± She cried out, as Sola ran over concerned, and Harley tried desperately not to laugh. Wess had caught the whole affair and was severely unimpressed, as Essex checked the quality of her weapon in the background.


    ¡°Alright, that was stupid¡­¡± Julia admitted, noticing Wess¡¯ disinterest. ¡°I promise I¡¯m usually better with this stuff.¡±


    ¡°But clearly not when it counts¡­¡± Wess mumbled.


    ¡°I could do a demonstration. I could show you my Whil better on the training grounds.¡± Julia suggested. ¡°Since we¡¯re teammates, it only seems fair that we know the extent of our skills.¡±


    ¡°Yes, thank you, Julia.¡± Wess said, arms folded. ¡°But you needn¡¯t keep glad-handing me. I will be out of your proverbial hair soon enough.¡±


    ¡°Proverbi-what do you mean?¡± Julia asked, grabbing the rest of the group¡¯s attention.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I won¡¯t hold this place too long. I¡¯m asking for a transfer to another team once this¡­induction nonsense is over with.¡± Wess explained.


    ¡°But¡­you just got here?¡± Julia pointed out. ¡°How can you leave after one minute?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll have you know I¡¯m a very good judge of character. If I see someone I can¡¯t learn much from, I know.¡± Wess clarified.


    Julia looked a little lost. ¡°But we¡¯re a team, right?¡±


    ¡°This is something important to mention.¡± Essex said, addressing Julia. ¡°By the end of the degree, I will become a solo Venator.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Julia questioned.


    ¡°Venator training requires us to be part of Venator teams, but after I have completed that obligation, I will no longer need your assistance.¡±


    ¡°¡­huh?¡± Julia said, not really asking anything. She was pretty sure her ears were lying to her.


    ¡°I thought going solo was expected.¡± Sola asked, turning to Julia. ¡°Do we have to stay in our teams?¡±


    ¡°Yours, maybe, but not mine.¡± Wess interjected. ¡°I¡¯m sure you¡¯ll get a replacement team member with just as much appeal and style.¡±


    ¡°Guys, we¡¯ve barely gotten to know each other!¡± Harley complained. ¡°Can we stop deciding our entire careers before they¡¯ve even happened?¡±


    She wrapped an arm around Julia¡¯s neck, a little too tightly. ¡°I, for one, am super happy to finally be in a team with other Venators-to-be.¡±


    ¡°Solo¡­Sola¡­¡± Julia muttered to herself, almost in a daze.


    ¡°Alright everyone! Looks like we¡¯re all here!¡± Spence exclaimed. ¡°Now that you¡¯re on a first name basis, we¡¯ll head off to the assembly hall, then to the dorms, then to your Venator dreams! Let¡¯s go!¡±


    ¡°Who looks to be in charge here?¡± Wess asked, as Sola pointed her to Ferris. ¡°Ah, perfect.¡±


    Julia snapped out of her panic. ¡°Wess! You haven¡¯t even given us a chance!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not leaving anything to chance.¡± Wess declared. ¡°I¡¯ve already done that with the academy, and they appear to have let me down.¡±


    Julia pouted in Wess¡¯ direction, as the other teams started clearing out toward the assembly hall.


    Harley patted Julia¡¯s back. ¡°Let¡¯s go get our things. We¡¯ll get her to come around.¡±


    ¡°¡­we¡¯re supposed to be a team.¡± Julia bemoaned, as Harley¡¯s comforting clearly wasn¡¯t doing anything.


    Just then, Harley felt a familiar pair of eyes on her back, as she turned quickly to see Saxin heading out the door, her arm around Lenin and eyes on Harley.


    ¡°Hey~¡± Saxin teased. ¡°Sorry, darling, but his words were just a little quicker. I¡¯d still be open to a date, however.¡±


    Harley stared dumbstruck, both annoyed and horribly attracted to Saxin at the same time, as Wess made her way through the crowd to Ferris. Ferris groaned as she stood up, clearly done with induction day, as Wess stood in front of her patiently. Ferris looked to her dismissively. ¡°Yeah?¡±


    ¡°I want to ask you about transferring teams, preferably to one of my choosing this time.¡±


    ¡°Come again?¡± Ferris asked, eyebrow raised.


    Wess cleared her throat. ¡°I want to change my team.¡±


    Ferris sighed. ¡°You can move out of your team starting next year if there are available second yea-¡°


    ¡°Yes, yes, I¡¯m speaking about now, though.¡±


    ¡°Now?¡± Ferris asked, with an amused grin.


    ¡°Of course, now. I¡¯m not making myself wait a ye-¡°


    Ferris started cackling to herself. ¡°Listen, we don¡¯t allow that. The team system is difficult enough to structure by itself, so we aren¡¯t about to change you out because your first impression was bad.¡± She kept laughing into her hand. ¡°If you¡¯re desperate, you can bother the principal with this. I¡¯m sure he¡¯d just love more on his plate right now.¡±


    ¡°B-but surely there are options available?¡± Wess asked, resorting to underhanded methods. ¡°I happen to be part of an affluent family with plenty of influence.¡±


    ¡°Then have them talk to Faller. Listen, I need to be here for some reason, so go move your shit in already.¡±


    Wess was about to argue again, refusing to let herself lose, before accepting Ferris as a lost cause and leaving through the crowd to join back up with Julia.


    ¡°¡­did you transfer teams?¡± Julia asked, not wanting to hear the answer.


    ¡°Honestly, she was hopeless. She advised me to ¡®move my shit.¡¯¡± Wess vented. ¡°I suppose I am with you for just a while longer¡­where did the other three go?¡±


    ¡°They¡¯re getting their stuff ready in the hall. I think Harley was chasing after that other blonde woman too.¡±


    ¡°¡­yes. Of course, she would¡­¡± Wess sighed, as she felt a pair of hands on her shoulders again. She immediately ducked away from them and hid behind her chair.


    ¡°Oh, geez, you really don¡¯t like that.¡± Joleicia stated, hands on her hips. ¡°Is this your teammate, Wess?¡±


    ¡°¡­for the moment.¡± Wess said, standing back up.


    Joleicia looked Julia up and down, and smiled, sticking her hand out. ¡°Joleicia McCarthy. A pleasure to meet you.¡±


    Julia looked her up and down as well and shook the hand vehemently. ¡°Likewise! It¡¯s great to see another friendly face.¡±


    ¡°Well, we¡¯re colleagues. I think it¡¯s good that we¡¯re social outside of our teams.¡± Joleicia said, giving a pure laugh afterwards.


    Julia was shocked by how earnest and pretty she looked, even if her impressive physique did surprise her a little.


    Just behind her, Chops moved into frame from behind her back, waving to Julia. ¡°Hey, Julia. Guess who also won the jackpot?¡±


    ¡°Oh, I¡¯m sorry. I haven¡¯t introduced you.¡± Joleicia apologised. ¡°Julia, this is Cho-¡°


    ¡°Actually, me and Chops already know each other.¡± Julia explained. ¡°We¡¯ve been talking for a few days now.¡±


    ¡°I aim to please.¡± Chops remarked, shrugging her arms. ¡°Florey¡¯s off with Saxin and Lenin, but I wanted to show off our awesome new member to you first hand.¡±


    Joleicia blushed. ¡°I¡¯m not thaaat great¡­¡±


    ¡°I beg to differ.¡± Chops added, turning to Julia. ¡°Wanna walk with us?¡±


    Julia was about to nod in approval, but looked to Wess for her input. Wess rolled her eyes and sarcastically presented her hand. ¡°Lead the way¡­¡±


    The foursome walked down the hall with the rest of the groups, idly chatting about this and that, with Julia finding Joleicia more and more fascinating with each minute.


    ¡°You¡¯re a firearms expert too?¡± Julia asked excitedly.


    ¡°Well, mostly sniping, but I dabble with SMG¡¯s and assault rifles too. Also, swords¡­¡± She stated. ¡°I¡¯ve always really liked swords.¡±


    ¡°Wow¡­¡± Julia let out, as Wess rolled her eyes and Chops wrapped her arms around Joleicia.


    ¡°You can¡¯t have her. She belongs to us.¡± Chops joked. ¡°You can keep cranky pants over there.¡±


    Wess didn¡¯t dignify her with a response, apart from a noticeable eye twitch when she said it.


    Eventually, the large gathering of first years were all in the hall together, gathering their belongings, as Julia spotted Harley, Sola and Essex and waved to them.


    ¡°Is that your team?¡± Joleicia asked, giving a small wave to them. ¡°They look nice.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, they do, don¡¯t they?¡± Julia remarked, smirking at Wess, who avoided eye contact.


    ¡°Julia!¡± Harley called out, propping her hand on a suitcase. ¡°We packed your stuff for you. We also tried to find Wess¡¯ stuff, but¡­¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s been delayed.¡± Wess clarified. ¡°Additionally, there¡¯s no point in me moving my effects in if I don¡¯t plan to stay. In place of that, I might as well help you move your things in.¡± Wess said, directing Sola and Essex toward the dorms, to varying degrees of acceptance.


    ¡°I guess that can¡¯t be helped¡­just don¡¯t say old Harley did nothing for ya.¡± Harley called out, as Chops¡¯ ears perked at the sound of Harley¡¯s name.


    Joleicia decided to follow behind them with her and Chops'' stuff, as Chops stepped out from behind her and made herself known to Harley. ¡°Harley?¡±


    Harley looked a bit confused, before the memory clicked for her and she smiled. ¡°Chops?¡±


    Chops ran up to her and jumped into a shared hug, as Harley spun her around joyously, a giant smile plastered on her face, throwing Julia off completely.


    ¡°You¡¯re here! You made it!¡± Chops cheered. ¡°I¡¯m so happy for you!¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t believe it!¡± Harley replied, hugging her still. ¡°I thought you said Venators were lame.¡±


    ¡°When did I say that?¡± Chops chuckled, as she remembered Julia standing by, confused and disoriented.


    ¡°You already know each other?¡± Julia asked.


    ¡°Duh. Harley¡¯s my ex I told you about.¡± Chops reminded her. ¡°We went out a bit ago during my illustrious tour of the Southern Wayside.¡±


    ¡°She crashed on my couch for a couple weeks.¡± Harley said, punching her arm. ¡°And now she¡¯s here, totally stalking me.¡±


    ¡°How do I know you aren¡¯t stalking me?¡± Chops joked, as Harley brought her in for a playful hug.


    They certainly act like they¡¯re still together. Julia thought to herself.


    ¡°Alright, not that the reunion isn¡¯t nice, but I¡¯ve been looking forward to a bed I can call my own for a while now.¡± Chops explained, grabbing her bags.


    ¡°I¡¯m with ya there.¡± Harley said, patting Julia¡¯s back. ¡°Let¡¯s check out the digs.¡±


    Julia beamed, as they headed down the hallways to the official academy dorms.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Ferris stood out in the hallway, leaning against the classroom wall, as the last couple students exited out, followed by Miss Spence, glowing with anticipation.


    ¡°Oh, doesn¡¯t it all make your heart race?¡± She exclaimed, passing Ferris in the hall.


    ¡°Yeah, like a severe panic attack¡­¡± Ferris remarked, as she finally felt her tablet buzz in her pocket, seeing it was the call from Faller she was waiting for.


    ¡°So? Is everyone safe?¡±


    ¡°You said I needed to be here.¡±


    ¡°Is everyone safe, Ferris?¡±


    Ferris grabbed her temple. ¡°Yeah, they¡¯re safe. They talked about nothing, then left for the dorms.¡±


    ¡°Security¡¯s still with them, right?¡±


    ¡°Do you trust Dulce or what?¡±


    ¡°¡­no, no, you¡¯re right. I¡¯m acting paranoid.¡±


    ¡°I still don¡¯t get why I was here.¡±


    ¡°You know exactly why. Just keep an eye on them, and keep an eye out for suspicious figures or objects. We need to be on top of this.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯d get payed more as a babysitter¡­¡± Ferris commented.


    ¡°¡­that¡¯s all, Ferris.¡±


    Ferris hung up and leaned against the wall, before propping herself up and slouching back to the hall. ¡°Back and forth, back and forth¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Julia found Wess, Sola and Essex waiting outside their designated room, Wess checking her tablet idly, Sola sitting on some suitcases and resting on her hands, and Essex leaning against the wall, rhythmically tapping her foot. The team members names were all listed on the door outside, and funnily enough, Saxin, Lenin and Florey stood outside of their room too, right across the hall, as Saxin and Lenin casually groomed each other and Florey looked a bit disgusted.


    ¡°Hi guys!¡± Joleicia waved, hurrying over to them with Chops in tow.


    ¡°Hell yeah!¡± Harley cheered, meeting up with their group. ¡°We¡¯re across from each other!¡±


    Joleicia turned around to Wess in excitement. ¡°Hi neighbour!¡±


    ¡°Joleicia.¡± Wess replied, granting her a smile.


    ¡°We located the front desk and acquired our cards.¡± Essex explained, holding out five cards to unlock the room.


    ¡°You guys could¡¯ve gone in already.¡± Julia said, borrowing one of the cards.


    ¡°We didn¡¯t want you to miss the reveal.¡± Sola explained. ¡°How rude would it be if we just jumped the gun like that?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s¡­a very considerate point.¡± Julia realised, happily grabbing her things. ¡°Shall we?¡±


    In a moment of excitement and anxiety, Julia scanned her card and took the handle in her grasp, breathing a delicate breath. She looked to the others for approval, as she turned the knob, shaking as she did so, and exposed them to the room they would share for the next three years, where all their Venator dreams would come true.


    It was¡­


    It was okay.


    ¡°Is this it?¡± Wess remarked, scanning around the lacklustre room.


    ¡°This is it!¡± Julia exclaimed, rushing around the room ecstatically. ¡°Our own team hangout!¡±


    The dorms were far more spacious than Julia had realised. Well, the hallways were, at least. The rooms themselves contained one large room, fitted with two bunk beds, a small lounge area, and a balcony outside. A kitchen and bathroom were connected to the left, and a group study, storage room and functioning bedroom for the fifth member were all rolled into one off to the right. It really felt like the academy was using all the space it could.


    ¡°Whoa!¡± Sola exclaimed, jumping out onto the balcony. ¡°We get our own training grounds!¡±


    ¡°No, those are communal.¡± Harley explained, patting her head. ¡°But it¡¯s nice to have it right outside our window.¡±


    ¡°The kitchens fully stocked!¡± Julia yelled out, checking through the fridge. ¡°Bathroom too!¡±


    Wess let herself take a break and sat against one the bunk beds, nearly banging her head against the top bunk, as Essex slipped into the study/bedroom and checked it out.


    ¡°Everything¡¯s in working order.¡± Julia said, as the team gathered back into the main room. ¡°Now, who¡¯s taking the extra bed in the study?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯d prefer to be out here.¡± Harley said, as Sola nodded beside her.


    Essex raised her hand. ¡°If you will allow it, I shall take it. I would appreciate the solitude for contemplation.¡±


    Julia nodded to her. ¡°Okay. Just be careful if you¡¯re planning on lighting incense. We don¡¯t want the dorm to burn down with all our stuff in it.¡±


    ¡°Understood.¡± Essex said, moving her bags into the study, as the others started wheeling their stuff inside as well.


    ¡°How¡¯s the moving going?¡± Florey asked outside his teams¡¯ room, as Julia and Harley re-emerged from theirs.


    ¡°Pretty good. Not a lot of personal space, though.¡± Julia answered.


    ¡°You¡¯re telling me. Saxin and Lenin are already super familiar, and I¡¯m a little worried about what¡¯ll happen at night.¡± Florey remarked, getting a giggle out of Julia.


    Florey started moving things in and out, as Julia and Harley followed suit.


    ¡°It still feels a bit weird moving in with people I just met. I¡¯ve only ever lived with my dad until now.¡± Julia said to Harley.


    ¡°Me and Chops moved in pretty quick after dating. I guess this isn¡¯t much different.¡± Harley pointed out. ¡°Still, peopl-¡°


    ¡°You! Hall!¡±


    Julia turned around confused. ¡°You hall?¡±


    Quickly, she noticed Ferris trudging down the hallway, pointing her finger at Florey specifically as he re-emerged from his teams¡¯ room.


    ¡°Me?¡± He said, a little worried about what he might have done.


    ¡°Don¡¯t leave your bags unattended in the hall. We might get the wrong idea.¡± Ferris warned.


    ¡°I was just helpi-¡°


    ¡°Don¡¯t backchat me. Security¡¯s paranoid for a good reason.¡± Ferris demanded. ¡°Go get your things.¡± Florey grumbled a little, placing the boxes he was holding down and heading to the hall with Ferris as an escort.


    ¡°Classes haven¡¯t even started and Ferris is already bossing us around.¡± Harley commented, getting a sympathy nod from Julia.


    After about half an hour, the team had unpacked most of their bags, save for Wess, made themselves at home in the space, save for Wess, and claimed the beds they¡¯d all use, which by process of elimination meant Wess had no choice anyway.


    Julia flopped onto her bottom bunk. ¡°We¡¯re done! We¡¯re actually done. I could sleep forever¡­¡± In defiance of her last statement, she shot up from the bed. ¡°Who wants to do something together?¡±


    As she peered up, she noticed Harley about to head out the door. Julia cocked her head. ¡°Where are you going?¡±


    ¡°I am gonna chase up Saxin for that date, before Lenin sinks his claws into her.¡± Harley said, deliberately choosing a button up shirt so that she could eventually button it down.


    ¡°Oh¡­okay.¡± Julia said. ¡°I was hoping, you know, since we¡¯re all here now, we could do a team thing together?¡±


    ¡°I appreciate the offer, but I¡¯ve gotta strike while the irons hot.¡± Harley clarified, ready to head out the door.


    ¡°¡­that¡¯s fine. Wess, how abou-¡° Julia started, before turning to see Wess grabbing her handbag and heading out the door as well.


    ¡°I¡¯m off to see the principal.¡± Wess explained. ¡°Don¡¯t expect me to be back.¡±


    She slammed the door behind her, as Julia looked to the other bottom bunk off to the right of the room. ¡°Sola?¡± Julia asked, as Sola awkwardly avoided eye contact.


    ¡°I was sorta gonna go get my bearings. I got lost a bunch already, so I wanna do that less¡­¡± Sola said, getting up and shuffling to the door as well. ¡°Nice meeting you, Julia.¡±


    And in that moment, Julia was by herself.


    Julia sighed to herself, before going to unpack her bags as a way to distract herself from the team. She might as well take out a few items and personalise her space while she had the time. All the inevitable stuff was there; spare clothes, Team Spectrum posters, her trusty alarm clock and matching calendar, and who could forget her good luck char-


    ¡°May I ask what you are doing?¡±


    Julia flinched for a second, before shooting up and realising Essex was still here, just hanging out in what was now her bedroom.


    ¡°I was¡­unpacking¡­¡± Julia admitted, hiding her memento behind her back.


    ¡°What is that behind your back?¡± Essex asked, as Julia realised how obvious it must¡¯ve looked. She tried to keep it hidden, but realised how futile the effort would eventually be. Accepting her fate, she revealed a stuffed fox toy, shimmering orange with dot eyes, in her hands. It was noticeably worn with age, but still well taken care of and maintained, showing almost no signs of inevitable tears and repairs.


    ¡°This is¡­Maxie.¡± Julia whispered, holding out the toy while trying to hide herself behind it.


    Essex slowly approached her. ¡°You have brought a stuffed toy to your Venator training?¡±


    ¡°¡­it¡¯s a good luck charm from home.¡± Julia said. ¡°Dad insisted¡­¡±


    Essex stared into the toy¡¯s eyes, analysing the fur and craftsmanship intently, before staring at Julia just as intently.


    ¡°Y-yes?¡± Julia asked, feeling prompted.


    ¡°May I¡­touch it?¡± Essex asked, pointing out a finger.


    Julia hesitated, as to be expected, but gave in to Essex¡¯s curious stare, handing it off to her, as Essex took it in her arms. She inspected it thoroughly, running a finger or two over the fabric stitches, before pressing it against herself and hugging the toy lovingly.


    Julia was surprised with how Essex took to it, as Essex closed her eyes and lost herself in the moment, as Julia stood on the sidelines, wondering if she should intervene. Eventually, Essex finished the hug, but didn¡¯t hand back the toy.


    ¡°May¡­I sleep with it tonight?¡± Essex asked, holding it to herself.


    Julia blinked. ¡°Tonight?¡±


    Essex nodded.


    Looking around, Julia didn¡¯t see many other options. ¡°¡­I guess I wasn¡¯t gonna do much with it anyway. It shouldn¡¯t b-¡°


    Julia stopped when Essex went back to staring at the toy¡¯s eyes, realising she¡¯d stopped paying attention to her entirely, as Essex looked completely enamoured with it. Julia even noticed a faint smile.


    Julia sighed to herself and accepted her fate. ¡°It¡¯s fine. You can sleep with it.¡±


    Essex seemed really excited, even if her face didn¡¯t show it, as she skipped back into the bedroom with Maxie in her arms, already brushing its fur and pressing it to her neck warmly. She closed the door behind her, as Julia felt a little odd about the interaction.


    ¡­I did the right thing. Julia assured herself. And now I¡¯m by myself again.


    She stepped back to her bed and lay against it, staring at the top bunk that was supposed to belong to Wess, if she ever came back.


    ¡°So much for a team¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    *knock knock knock*


    Joleicia popped her head up from her book, as she heard a knock at the door. She¡¯d only just moved in with her team and already she was getting visitors. She got up from their little lounge area and opened the door, as Julia greeted her with a slightly incredulous face.


    ¡°Julia! How¡¯s moving going?¡± Joleicia asked, inviting her in.


    Julia shrugged as she entered. ¡°Alright? I guess¡­everyone is-¡°


    Julia stopped as she entered the room, a little disoriented. The dorm room resembled her one exactly, but perfectly mirrored, with the study/bedroom and kitchen/bathroom having swapped places.


    ¡°¡­everyone¡¯s off doing their own thing.¡± Julia finished. ¡°Where¡¯s everyone else?¡±


    ¡°Well, Chops is chilling in the study. She¡¯s been displaying sketches and stuff for the last hour or so.¡± Joleicia explained. ¡°Saxin and Lenin decided to check out the Spire, and Florey wanted to do some early practice.¡±


    ¡°I thought you¡¯d be doing a team exercise. Or¡­something¡­¡± Julia said, taking a seat on the teams couch.


    Joleicia looked to her and smiled. ¡°They¡¯re all still people. I wanted to hang back here with them, but I¡¯m not about to force them to stay. I mean, we did just meet each other.¡± Joleicia advised, sitting next to Julia. ¡°We¡¯ll do team stuff later.¡±


    ¡°They could have given it a chance...¡± Julia grumbled.


    ¡°Relationships take time.¡± Joleicia said. ¡°Don¡¯t force it. Let it happen naturally. Just keep being your pleasant self.¡±


    Julia looked back up at her and smiled warmly. ¡°Can I be you when I grow up?¡±


    Joleicia chuckled a little. ¡°Oh, please¡­¡±


    ¡°I heard Julia¡¯s voice.¡± Chops announced, exiting the study. ¡°What¡¯s all this then?¡±


    ¡°Julia was feeling a bit sad. I was just giving her some advice.¡± Joleicia explained, getting up. ¡°But she forgot we¡¯re still here to hang out.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m down. I¡¯ve been meaning to check out the academy¡¯s specialist training grounds.¡± Chops explained, grabbing her jacket and bag.


    ¡°Julia, wanna join us?¡± Joleicia asked, as Julia looked up to her and happily nodded.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Man, that Saxin¡¯s a dirty flirt¡­¡± Harley mumbled, heading back through the dorm hallway. She stopped and grabbed herself a drink from the vending machine, as she tried to drown her sorrows at Saxin¡¯s swift and effortless rejection. ¡°You cherish her, Lenin.¡±


    She sighed to herself, before reaching into her handbag and pulling out numerous pieces of paper, each with a different person¡¯s number on it.


    ¡°These were a good pick me up, though.¡± She giggled, thinking back to the other students who¡¯d asked her out afterwards. ¡°I still got it.¡±


    She turned the corner and found Wess by the door, stamping her foot with her arms crossed.


    ¡°Heya, Wess!¡± Harley called out, as Wess turned and facepalmed herself.


    ¡°Oh great¡­¡± She bemoaned, as Harley approached. ¡°Fine, bare witness to my shame.¡±


    ¡°I thought you were changing teams?¡± Harley asked.


    ¡°Apparently, I must make an appointment with ¡®his majesty.¡¯ Like that should matter¡­¡± Wess muttered. ¡°So, I suppose we are on the same team for the time being.¡±


    Wess continued stamping her foot, as Harley stared at her, confused.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you going in?¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t bring the room card. Funnily enough, I assumed I wouldn¡¯t need it after today.¡± Wess clarified, as Harley leaned over and scanned her card instead. They opened the door to the sound of sizzling, a pleasant aroma wafting through the room, as Harley and Wess noticed Julia in the kitchen, an apron around her and a frying pan in her hand.


    Julia noticed them and turned. ¡°Hi guys. Wess! You¡¯re back!¡±


    ¡°Oh, you noticed¡­¡± Wess remarked, heading to the lounge area.


    ¡°What¡¯re you doing?¡± Harley asked, pointing to the lit stove and chopping board.


    ¡°I¡¯m making us all dinner.¡± Julia explained. ¡°I thought it would be a nice housing warming gift for the whole team.¡±


    ¡°Seriously? Thanks!¡± Harley exclaimed. ¡°You need any help?¡±


    ¡°Actually¡­¡± Julia said, indicating to some uncut vegetables. ¡°If you could handle that, we should be done in about three minutes.¡±


    ¡°No problem.¡± Harley said, picking up the knife, as they heard the front door open again and Sola wander back into the room.


    ¡°I smelled food!¡± She yelled, turning excitedly to the kitchen and jumping around giddily. ¡°You guys can cook?!¡±


    Julia giggled. ¡°I guess that means you can¡¯t.¡±


    ¡°Nope!¡± Sola replied, sitting against the couch, a little too close to Wess.


    Almost like clockwork, Essex exited her room wearing her exercise gear, as she noticed Julia and Harley just finishing up and serving the food on a few plates, as she sat against the back of the couch, again, too close to Wess.


    ¡°Now, I just wanna say¡­¡± Julia started, passing a plate to Sola first. ¡°That I¡¯m really excited for our next few years here. I know we don¡¯t know each other very well¡­¡± She passed another off to Essex. ¡°But I hope that won¡¯t be the case forever.¡±


    Lastly, she handed one off to a reluctant Wess, as Wess looked down at the dish and was pleasantly surprised with the food she saw.


    ¡°You keep cooking like this and that won¡¯t be a problem.¡± Harley said, having already taken a bite and loving the flavour.


    ¡°It''s like a stir fry, but with more flavour!¡± Sola added, scarfing down the food a little too fast. ¡°You¡¯re a cooking wizard!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m glad you liked it.¡± Julia beamed, as Wess took a little sniff of the food, before delicately taking a bite and nearly marrying the plate on the spot.


    This is wonderful¡­ Wess admitted, though not openly to Julia, as she took another bite just out of view. ¡­it must have been an accident. Surely¡­


    Essex handed back the plate, clean of any scraps and bowed. ¡°Grelo. I am thankful for the food.¡±


    ¡°No worries.¡± Julia replied, as Essex grabbed her scythe and headed for the door.


    ¡°I should be no longer than a few hours. Dovono.¡± She said, bowing again and leaving, as Julia collected everyone¡¯s plates.


    The team stayed up a little and talked, before heading off to bed after such a full day. Julia let herself collapse onto the bed, as she turned and looked up, seeing Wess climb into the bunk above her. She didn¡¯t look thrilled about it, especially since she had to borrow Julia¡¯s spare pyjamas, but got in regardless, as Julia smiled to herself under the sheets.


    We¡¯re gonna get there.

 Chapter 3: Settling Down

    ¡°Let¡¯s keep it clean guys. No tripping or hurting.¡±


    ¡°And no spitting too! I saw a kid do that once!¡±


    ¡°No problem. We wouldn¡¯t find out who¡¯s faster if I cheated.¡± Harley said, readying herself.


    ¡°Agreed.¡± Essex added, lowering herself to a running stance.


    ¡°Okay then.¡± Julia said, standing right beside the running track. ¡°One¡­two¡­go!!!¡±


    And just like that, Harley and Essex were off, neck and neck with each step, as the duo started making laps of the training grounds running track. Julia and Sola sat on the sidelines, watching enamoured with the two powerhouses pushing themselves their hardest just to beat the other.


    ¡°My money¡¯s on Essex.¡± Julia said to Sola.


    Sola reached into her pocket and pulled out twenty caps. ¡°All on Harley, no doubt!¡±


    Julia wasn¡¯t actually betting, as she slowly pushed Sola¡¯s money away, returning her attention to the track.


    Harley started gaining ground with her height advantage, her legs carrying her further, but Essex¡¯s stamina was near impossible to match. Harley started feeling the burn, but wasn¡¯t about to admit to it or give up.


    ¡°Lap ten of twenty! Come on guys, you got this!¡± Julia cheered from the sidelines.


    ¡°By the gods, what do you think you¡¯re doing?¡± Asked Wess, as Julia and Sola turned to see her come out onto the training grounds, raising her hand to block out the harsh sun.


    ¡°We thought these two should compete to see who¡¯s faster!¡± Sola explained, turning right back around to the duo.


    Wess drooped her eyes. ¡°What a waste of time¡­¡±


    Harley and Essex reached lap fifteen right near each other, as Essex seemed to take the lead by just a hair. Harley was starting to feel the sun beat down on her, burning her already overheated joints.


    ¡°We¡¯ve been sitting around for days, Wess. I like that we¡¯re all outside doing something fun.¡± Julia clarified. ¡°You wanna join?¡±


    Wess rolled her eyes. ¡°We all know I would lose in a heartbeat. I¡¯m not nearly as physically capable as either of those two.¡± She said, dismissively indicating to an exhausted Harley and finally triumphant Essex.


    ¡°¡­nine¡­teen¡­I managed¡­nineteen¡­¡± Harley panted, out of breath and lying against the ground.


    Julia and Sola clapped from the sidelines, as Essex spotted Harley and strode over, panting a bit herself, and sticking out a hand to pull her up. ¡°Your¡­effort is appreciated¡­¡± Harley graciously took the hand, getting to her feet and patting Essex¡¯s shoulder, as Sola ran over excitedly to congratulate them.


    Having seen enough, Wess got up to leave.


    ¡°Where are you going?¡± Julia asked.


    ¡°I¡¯m off to visit the academy¡¯s art gallery. I plan to immerse myself in culture rather than play in the dirt.¡± Wess explained, walking off and brushing some gathered dust off of her dress.


    ¡°¡­okay, but can you be ready for our meeting with Ferris later?¡± Julia asked from a distance.


    ¡°If I must.¡± Wess muttered, dismissively waving her hand, as she headed out of sight.


    ¡°Geez¡­¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s her problem?¡± Harley asked, now standing behind Julia.


    ¡°Well, her luggage still hasn¡¯t arrived¡­¡± Julia explained.


    ¡°I meant in general.¡± Harley said, sitting next to Julia. ¡°She¡¯s been dismissive since day one.¡±


    ¡°Day one was three days ago.¡± Julia pointed out. ¡°It¡¯s fair to say we aren¡¯t the team she expected. I¡¯m sure she¡¯ll come around at some point.¡±


    ¡°She could be nicer about it.¡± Sola added, now behind Harley. ¡°I was a little surprised by you guys, but I think we get along alright.¡±


    ¡°Team quality should not truncate personal improvement. She confuses the two and refuses to co-operate.¡± Essex concurred, wiping her sweat away with her towel.


    ¡°Alright, alright, let¡¯s not gang up on her.¡± Julia defended, standing up. ¡°I don¡¯t think this year¡¯s been that kind to any of us. How do you think she feels?¡±


    The team thought back on the ¡®Behemoth¡¯ Wailing attack on orientation day, shuddering at the memory.


    ¡°She got hurt during that attack, both her leg and her pride. Then she got stuck with a bandaged leg, missing luggage, and a team she didn¡¯t get to have a say in.¡± Julia pointed out. ¡°Can we give her some time to adjust?¡±


    The others looked a little disappointed in themselves, as they nodded in agreement.


    ¡°Okay then.¡± Julia huffed, before grabbing her drink and wiping her brow. ¡°I think the sun¡¯s starting to get to us¡­¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re telling me. Let¡¯s head back inside.¡± Harley agreed, grabbing their bags along with Sola and Essex. ¡°By the way, has anyone thought of a good team name yet?¡±


    Julia blinked. ¡°Team name?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s gonna be part of the meeting.¡± Harley explained. ¡°I was talking to Chops and them, and apparently they¡¯re thinking of ¡®Team Vanguard.¡¯¡±


    ¡°Holy shit, that¡¯s so cool!¡± Sola exclaimed, turning to Julia. ¡°Let¡¯s apply first! Then we¡¯ll use it before them!¡±


    ¡°Sola, we¡¯re not gonna do that.¡± Julia said, resting a finger in her chin. ¡°But we do need a name before the meeting¡­any ideas, Essex?¡±


    ¡°Branding is wasteful and goes against my values. You may choose a name if you desire, but I will not.¡± Essex stated, heading off to the dorm room already.


    ¡°Well that¡¯s not super helpful.¡± Julia said, sighing a little. ¡°I kinda want Wess¡¯ input on this¡­she¡¯d probably think of something good.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Wess had been wandering the halls for a while. Admittedly, she still barely knew her way around the academy, save for a few familiar locations like the study area and training grounds, but apparently, the academy was putting on several events and activities to lift spirits after the attack. Most of them barely appealed to Wess, but she¡¯d seen there was a makeshift art gallery being displayed in the main building.


    Needless to say, Wess was delighted to hear of this little bastion of class and etiquette.


    And less delighted by how frustrating it was to get there.


    ¡°This academy couldn¡¯t be any harder to navigate¡­¡± Wess groaned, going back up another stairwell, before finally arriving at what looked like the gallery. ¡°Honestly¡­¡±


    The room looked to be a large conference hall taking up a majority of the seventh floor, flooded with students, parents and security alike, as well as plenty of paintings, photos, sculptures? Impressive.


    This is what I needed after these last few days. Something to replenish my soul. She thought, taking her time through the gorgeous landscapes on display.


    One piece in particular caught her eye, depicting a sword embedded on the edge of a cliff, overlooking a darkened sunset made up of several unnatural colours. She stood staring, trying to make sense of the imagery and come to a conclusion, even as a stranger appeared beside her and stared at the piece as well. Wess payed them no mind, merely appreciating the subtle brushwork of the piece, as the person turned to her to start a dialogue.


    ¡°What does it say to you?¡±


    Wess kept her gaze on the artwork. ¡°I see a conflict ended over chaos and integration. Like the end of a war where no side dominates the other, but learn to coexist.¡± Wess felt compelled. ¡°What about you?¡±


    The guy standing next to her shrugged his shoulders. ¡°Honestly, it feels too busy to me, like it¡¯s tryna say too much all at once. Plus, the brushwork¡¯s kinda shoddy.¡±


    Wess closed her eyes and breathed out. ¡°I suppose that¡¯s one interpretation¡­¡±


    The guy turned to her and stuck his hand out, tugging on his jacket as he did so. ¡°Cyrus.¡±


    Wess looked him up and down and cautiously shook his hand. ¡°Wess Delacroix Nouvel.¡±


    ¡°No kidding. That¡¯s one hell of a name.¡± He chuckled.


    Wess tried to ignore him, desperately worried he might try to start talking again if she let him, as Wess quickly remembered where she¡¯d seen him before.


    He was in the hall a few days ago, surrounded by others of his type. Wess remembered.


    He was just as unkept and scruffy looking then as he was now, and seemed to have thrown on his clothes for the sole purpose of comfort. His smile seemed genuine, but the way he presented himself was underwhelming, to say the least. Hardly Venator material.


    I¡¯m surrounded by teenagers and children who can¡¯t dress themselves¡­ Wess lamented, feeling a real headache coming on.


    ¡°I¡¯ve never been a huge fan of art galleries.¡± Cyrus explained, clearly not picking up Wess¡¯ disinterest. ¡°I keep trying to like them, but I never know what to do with my hands.¡±


    Wess¡¯ headache just wouldn¡¯t seem to go away. ¡°You could focus on admiring the works.¡± Wess advised, her attention still on the piece.


    ¡°Yeah, but then I wouldn¡¯t get to complain about it, and where¡¯s the fun in that?¡± He joked, getting no laugh out of Wess.


    ¡°¡­yes, quite.¡± Wess ¡®replied,¡¯ as she grabbed her purse and started to head off in search of a less crowded piece.


    ¡°Uh, hey¡­¡± Cyrus asked, stopping Wess. ¡°I know this is impromptu, but no one else I know would wanna spend their time at a gallery. You mind if I tag along with you, just for the company?¡±


    Wess looked him over again, appreciating his genuine smile again, and sympathising with him a little, before sighing to herself. ¡°If you still let me admire the work.¡±


    ¡°Done and done.¡± He said, hopping back over to her side. ¡°¡­so, how¡¯ve your first days been?¡±


    ¡°Nightmarish¡­¡± Wess answered.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Harley should¡¯ve known better than to get another drink from the vending machine. She¡¯d lost twelve caps to it just in the last few days, but admittedly, it was more convenient than the campus caf¨¦, and the heat was really getting to her now. She pressed the button for lemonade, as the drink rolled down, hitting the bottom. She reached down, and upon reaching back up, saw a guy now leaning against the vending machine, flashing a fairly forced smile. ¡°Hey.¡±


    ¡°Uhh¡­hi.¡± Harley said, waving to him awkwardly. ¡°Did you want a drink?¡±


    ¡°Ahem, not exactly.¡± He attempted. ¡°Since I¡¯m fine with just drinking you in.¡±


    Oh gods, did he really just try that? Harley thought, desperately trying not to laugh.


    ¡°I¡¯m¡­Avalon.¡± He announced with an unnecessary pause.


    ¡°¡­Harley.¡± Harley replied. Though I don¡¯t think my name¡¯ll matter much to you.


    ¡°How¡¯re you liking the academy?¡±


    ¡°¡­interesting people.¡± Harley commented. ¡°My team¡¯s be-¡°


    ¡°Great. Listen, I was gonna go to those academy events of whatever, but they all looked super boring. Whats say you and me head out somewhere interesting instead?¡± Avalon suggested, still leaning on the vending machine for whatever reason.


    Harley straightened her back, intimidating Avalon with her size alone. ¡°I was actually planning on going to some of those boring events, so while the offer is in no way flattering, no thanks anyway.¡±


    Avalon raised an eyebrow. ¡°Are you sure? Most women regret not getting with Avalon.¡±


    Harley had to cover her mouth to avoid laughing. Fuck me, this guy¡¯s a piece a work.


    ¡°Well, it¡¯s your loss. After all, I¡¯m not just a romantic.¡± He said, getting closer to Harley. ¡°I also know my way around¡­the bedroom. And just looking at you, it looks like you do too.¡±


    Harley¡¯s eyes widened, as she took offence to that last comment in particular. She decided to use her height to tower over him menacingly, as Avalon quickly realised his mistake.


    ¡°Listen, Avalon. The answer¡¯s no, and I highly doubt that¡¯s changing anytime soon. I¡¯ve had, and will always have, better than you.¡±


    With that, Harley took her drink and headed back to her dorm room, as Avalon was left standing there, pissed off, and wondering why his ¡®drinking you in¡¯ line hadn¡¯t worked.


    Harley made her way back to the team¡¯s dorm room, opening it to find Julia in the kitchen, taking care of the dishes. ¡°Heyo.¡±


    ¡°Hey.¡± Julia called out. ¡°Sola and Essex headed out with Joleicia and Florey to the mini fete the academy¡¯s putting on. They¡¯ll meet up with us for the application signing.¡±


    ¡°I was gonna go to that.¡± Harley said, slumping herself into the couch, before feeling something underneath her as she sat. ¡°Hey Julia?¡±


    ¡°Yeah?¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s this package on the couch?¡± Harley said, pulling it out from under her.


    Julia¡¯s eyes lit up, as she skipped over excitedly. ¡°Okay, don¡¯t let Wess know yet, but her weapon arrived a few hours ago. I was gonna surprise her with it when she got back.¡±


    ¡°Great idea, Julia.¡± Harley said, looking around the room. ¡°Where¡¯s her other stuff?¡±


    ¡°Oh¡­the weapon¡¯s the only thing that came. I think they got separated during transport.¡± Julia theorised. ¡°She¡¯s gonna hate that, huh?¡±


    ¡°Oh, definitely.¡± Harley smirked. ¡°Hey, while I¡¯ve got your ear, I heard a couple rumours around the academy.¡±


    ¡°Rumours?¡± Julia asked.


    ¡°Just stuff I picked up around the local bars. I¡¯ve heard it going around that the Wailing attack might have been deliberate.¡±


    Julia turned in confusion. ¡°Deliberate? How could it be anything but deliberate?¡±


    ¡°I meant someone planned it. Someone on the inside of the academy.¡± Harley suggested. ¡°I¡¯m sure there¡¯s plenty of criminal organisations who¡¯d want Venators out of the picture.¡±


    ¡°Harley, that¡¯s absurd.¡± Julia disagreed. ¡°Humans and Wailing don¡¯t work together. You can¡¯t honestly think these ideas have any validity.¡±


    ¡°I dunno. A brand-new Wailing suddenly appears, undetected, on orientation day of all days, with seemingly no rhyme or reason. It¡¯s certainly suspicious.¡±


    Julia ignored her and went back to the dishes, as Harley propped her legs up against the rest of the couch.


    ¡°Maybe some rogue scientist engineered the Behemoth Wailing to take revenge against humanity? Or the Wailing was mad, so it got big to destroy the academy? Then it¡¯d absorb everyone¡¯s Whils to become ultra powerful and kill us all!¡±


    ¡°Harley, don¡¯t waste time on baseless theories. You¡¯re gonna become one of those conspiracy nuts.¡± Julia argued.


    ¡°Oh, come on. I¡¯m just having fun. None of this holds any water.¡± Harley reasoned. ¡°Still, someone on the inside¡¯s what you¡¯d expect. The academy has top notch security, so there¡¯s no other way it could¡¯ve gotten in without being detected beforehand.¡±


    Julia returned her attention to the dishes, as a lingering thought started to resurface in her mind; someone from orientation day.


    ¡­that¡¯s ridiculous. Julia dismissed, continuing with her handiwork.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°You really like that?¡±


    ¡°I appreciate the handiwork.¡±


    ¡°Well, I¡¯m not gonna blame you for that. Even if it hurts me.¡±


    ¡°Cyrus¡­¡±


    ¡°Deep in my soul.¡±


    ¡°Cyr-¡°


    ¡°And I don¡¯t know that I¡¯ll ever recover!¡±


    ¡°Oh, honestly¡­¡± Wess complained, heading off and leaving Cyrus behind. ¡°You said you¡¯d behave.¡±


    ¡°Sorry, sorry! Just wanted to be charming. Clearly, I read the room wrong.¡± Cyrus clarified, as he felt a buzz in his pocket. He pulled out his tablet to respond to something, catching Wess¡¯ eye.


    ¡°Something you need to do?¡± Wess asked.


    ¡°No, Faller just wants to see me again.¡± Cyrus explained, pocketing his tablet.


    Wess was caught off guard. ¡°Principal Faller?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, something about my scholarship. He¡¯s been having regular meetings with all the scholarship students just to keep us informed¡­actually, I don¡¯t think I¡¯m allowed to tell you that.¡± Cyrus muttered, before noticing a stunned Wess, struggling with her words. ¡°Wess? You good?¡±


    S-s-scholarsh-ship?! She realised. And Cyrus?! Of all people?!


    ¡°I think I broke you.¡± Cyrus remarked, as Wess shook herself conscious.


    ¡°I-I¡¯m sorry, I think I misheard you.¡± Wess quiveringly asked. ¡°A scholarship?¡±


    Cyrus realised her point and chuckled. ¡°Yeah, it surprised me too. I wasn¡¯t about to come here, but then I got this care package from Faller talking about ¡®exceptional combat talent¡¯ and ¡®untapped potential,¡¯ whatever that means. I mean, I¡¯ll take the compliment.¡±


    Cyrus laughed to himself again, as Wess tried to reassess him with all this in mind.


    How could he be so sought after when he presents himself like that? She thought, staring at his appalling fashion sense and clear lack of respect for where he¡¯s been able to get to.


    ¡­still, it¡¯s hard to deny his confidence, and sheer amount of self respect. She acknowledged, as Cyrus tried to get her attention again with another genuine smile. Maybe he¡¯s that sought after for a reason¡­


    As a form of apology, Wess stuck out her hand, presenting a perfectly pleasant smile back to Cyrus. ¡°I must apologise for my earlier attitude. I¡¯m sorry to say that upon first impressions, I thought you weren¡¯t worthy of attending this academy.¡±


    Cyrus gave her a once over before shrugging his shoulders. ¡°I get it.¡±


    ¡°You aren¡¯t exactly what I pictured a professional Venator to be. But, clearly, you have some level of skill and talent that¡¯s brought you here. With that in mind¡­¡± She readjusted her hand. ¡°Wess Delacroix Nouvel. Future Venator.¡±


    Cyrus looked her in the eye and shook it enthusiastically. ¡°Cyrus Vesper. I¡¯m proud to meet you.¡±


    Wess found herself smiling for real, before catching herself and backing off from Cyrus. ¡°Shall we continue our tour?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll try not to run my mouth off.¡± Cyrus smirked, walking beside her. ¡°Hey, can I ask a question? It¡¯s been bugging me for a bit.¡±


    Wess turned to him and sighed. ¡°If you feel inclined.¡±


    ¡°Why aren¡¯t you with your team?¡±


    Wess looked displeased, as she turned around and continued through the displayed works.


    ¡°I only ask cause I know where mine is, but you haven¡¯t mentioned yours at all.¡± Cyrus pointed out. ¡°It just seems weird¡­¡±


    Wess turned on her heel to face him. ¡°They aren¡¯t my team.¡±


    Cyrus instinctively backed up. ¡°Okay, touched a nerve, sorry. But did none of them want to come with you?¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t ask.¡± Wess replied, trying to focus on the next landscape. ¡°But I know they wouldn¡¯t have come anyway.¡±


    ¡°Do you?¡± Cyrus asked, drawing Wess¡¯ ire. ¡°You wouldn¡¯t know unless you asked.¡±


    Wess stayed tight lipped and folded her arms, pretending her attention was on the painting.


    ¡°Do you hate them that much?¡±


    Wess looked down to the ground, slightly biting her lip. ¡°¡­no, they¡¯re¡­childish and immature¡­and insist on wasting time, but I personally have nothing against them. However, I need a real team to work with. Not some¡­low-rate inexperienced warriors more concerned with enjoyment than self betterment.¡±


    Cyrus folded his arms behind him and stared at the painting with Wess. ¡°I get that. I¡¯m not too happy with my team either. We get along fine, but I don¡¯t think we¡¯ll ever be more than colleagues. They¡¯re alright, but¡­I don¡¯t know. You can¡¯t expect a relationship to suddenly just happen with no effort put into it.¡±


    If you stumble upon this tale on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.


    ¡°Is the effort worth my time though?¡± Wess argued. ¡°I¡¯m here to learn with the best opportunities I can get. I refuse to start three years of education and my career with a bullet to the leg.¡±


    Cyrus looked down at Wess¡¯ bandage. ¡°You sure you don¡¯t have that already?¡±


    Wess looked displeased again, as Cyrus shut his mouth with a scared immediacy.


    ¡°It would be best for me to transfer.¡± Wess decided. ¡°That way, the academy can give me the resources I need for the industry.¡±


    Cyrus looked back at her and shrugged again. ¡°Okay. Best of luck to you.¡±


    Wess cocked her head. ¡°I thought you would reason the other side.¡±


    ¡°No point. You sound convinced.¡± Cyrus clarified. ¡°If you want, you could transfer to my team. I¡¯m sure we¡¯ve got a dud or two we could loose.¡±


    Wess giggled despite herself. ¡°I¡¯m not about to split up another team.¡±


    ¡°Eh, worth a shot. I guess it¡¯s my fault for starting to like you.¡± Cyrus admitted, going back to the painting.


    Wess found herself blushing. ¡°Y-yes, quite¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Julia didn¡¯t know what to make of it. She¡¯d noted that the team induction was fairly downplayed, far more than she expected, but she was hoping some kind of ceremony would accompany them officially confirming their team status. Instead, each team lined up outside Ferris¡¯ office, filing in one at a time, and simply filled in info on this and that. So far all of ¡®Team Vanguard¡¯ and Julia¡¯s team were there, save for Wess.


    ¡°So, no fireworks?¡± Sola asked.


    ¡°It¡¯s midday. And we¡¯re inside.¡± Julia said.


    ¡°I¡¯m with Sola. Where¡¯s the fireworks?¡± Florey joined in, his team ahead of Julia¡¯s.


    ¡°Ooo, but we¡¯re all still excited, right?¡± Joleicia exclaimed. ¡°We¡¯re finally gonna be a real team! Team Vanguard!¡±


    ¡°I guess we¡¯re still going with that?¡± Chops asked.


    ¡°I like it. It has a level of poise and dignity to it.¡± Saxin agreed, her arms wrapped around Lenin, casually brushing his hair. ¡°Right Leni?¡±


    ¡°The name works well. Especially for someone like Saxin¡­¡± Lenin said, resting his head on her shoulder lovingly.


    Sola turned to Julia frantically. ¡°Julia! We can still steal it if we get ahead o-¡°


    Julia grabbed Sola¡¯s shoulders. ¡°We aren¡¯t stealing their team name!¡±


    As the soon-to-be Team Vanguard made their way into Ferris¡¯ office, Wess checked around the corner and found the others waiting outside, both for Ferris and herself. Wess sighed out loud, as she made her way over, and instantly regretted her decision.


    ¡°We¡¯ll pretend there¡¯s a fire! Then they¡¯ll leave and we can rush in!¡±


    ¡°Sola! We¡¯ll just pick another name!¡±


    ¡°Oh goodness¡­¡± Wess groaned, dragging her palm against her face. ¡°What have I entered into?¡±


    ¡°Wess!¡± Julia cheered, noticing her arrival. ¡°Listen, we¡¯re about to go in, and we still don¡¯t have a great team nam-¡°


    ¡°Julia, I bothered to come.¡± Wess complained, folding her arms and silencing Julia then and there. ¡°Don¡¯t just start venting at me.¡±


    ¡°Oh, right. Sorry, Wess¡­¡± Julia whispered, folding back into the group, as Harley rested a reassuring hand against Julia¡¯s shoulder.


    Wess looked over the team, as Essex casually polished up her scythe, Sola twiddled her thumbs, and Julia and Harley started talking about the application.


    ¡­I¡¯ll have to tell them afterwards. Something tells me they¡¯ll take this more personally than I will.


    ¡°Team Crash?¡±


    ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°Team Thrash?¡±


    ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°Team Smash!¡±


    ¡°No¡­¡±


    ¡°How about Team Business?¡±


    ¡°Harley¡­¡±


    ¡°Team Deathkill!¡± Sola suggested, as everyone gave the expected reaction. ¡°No, you¡¯re right. It¡¯s a little¡­ugh.¡±


    ¡°It appears we are up.¡± Essex pointed out, as the newly initiated Team Vanguard headed out of Ferris¡¯ office, cheering and high-fiving excitedly.


    ¡°I¡¯m getting really nervous¡­¡± Julia admitted, as Harley slowly pushed her along with the others.


    ¡°It¡¯s just a few questions. No big deal.¡± Harley assured her, as they entered and were greeted by Ferris¡¯ anything-but-pleasant face. She was sitting at her desk, her head propped up on her hand, sorting through stacks of paper, as a man in a well tailored suit leaned next to her, confirming bureaucracy over her shoulder.


    Then Julia recognised who it was.


    That¡¯s¡­


    The rest of the team took their seats in front of her desk, as Julia grabbed Harley¡¯s arm and held her in place.


    ¡°Harley, wait.¡± Julia whispered. ¡°I¡¯ve met him before.¡±


    Harley glanced to the side to look him over. ¡°Yeah, that¡¯s Mr Coatsworth, the Vice-Principal.¡±


    ¡°No, I mean¡­I met him on orientation day, and he said a bunch of weird stuff to me.¡± Julia explained. ¡°He warned me not to go to welcome event, and that I¡¯d see why afterwards.¡±


    ¡°Oh shit¡­¡± Harley replied, before realising Julia¡¯s point. ¡°Oh shit!¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to add to your conspiracies,¡± Julia said, as Coatsworth shuffled a couple papers Ferris handed to him, ¡°But I¡¯m worried¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­he might be in on it?¡± Harley finished.


    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t put it like that¡­¡±


    ¡°Excuse me! Would you mind joining us?¡± Ferris called out, indicating to the two empty seats in front of her.


    ¡°O-of course.¡± Julia replied, her and Harley sitting down with the rest of the team, as Ferris pulled out some fresh papers with Coatsworth¡¯s careful eye.


    ¡°I¡¯m not gonna waste your time. Team name?¡±


    Julia was left on the spot, as she idly spun her fingers. ¡°W-well, ugh, we¡­sorta, umm¡­¡±


    ¡°Oh gods¡­¡± Ferris groaned, pulling out an extra sheet with possible names listed on it. ¡°Since you¡¯ve yet to decide, we have a preprepared list of unregistered team names. Choose wisely or something¡­¡±


    The team leaned over the desk and scanned through the options, as they found it even harder to choose now.


    ¡°I don¡¯t like any of these¡­¡± Sola admitted.


    ¡°They¡¯re a bit¡­stale.¡± Harley acknowledged.


    They kept looking over, as finally, out of frustration, Wess stood over the table, scanned the list, and pointed at a name.


    ¡°There.¡± She said, indicating it to Ferris, before leaning back into her chair, desperately not wanting to be there.


    ¡°So, it¡¯s¡­Team Valiant then?¡± Ferris asked to clarify.


    Julia was surprised by Wess¡¯ choice, but looked to the other members, who all nodded in agreement, and decided. ¡°Yes. Team Valiant.¡±


    ¡°Okay then.¡± Ferris said, filling a few more things out. ¡°Everyone moved into the dorm?¡±


    ¡°Yes, technically.¡± Julia said, as Ferris raised an eyebrow. ¡°Wess hasn¡¯t gotten her suitcases yet.¡±


    ¡°Close enough¡­¡± Ferris grumbled, as Coatsworth tapped her shoulder and whispered something in her ear. Ferris took a deep sigh and pulled out another form that she hastily filled in, before returning her attention to the team. ¡°Last question. Who¡¯s the team leader?¡±


    Julia¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°One of us gets to lead the team?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sure you¡¯ve seen other teams with leaders.¡± Ferris said.


    Julia nodded. ¡°But I always thought that was their choice, not a requirement.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re picking your leader. We aren¡¯t forcing one of you into the role, it¡¯s a team decision. We¡¯ll give you some time to talk amongst yours-¡°


    ¡°Julia.¡± Harley said, stopping Ferris in her tracks. ¡°Julia should be the leader.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± Julia said.


    ¡°No doubt.¡± Sola agreed. ¡°She¡¯s the best choice.¡±


    ¡°Wha-¡° Julia gasped.


    Essex nodded too, as the group turned to Wess for her take.


    ¡°I don¡¯t see why not.¡± She muttered. ¡°Why¡¯re we even debating this?¡±


    ¡°Guys! You can just decide this for me!¡± Julia complained, her mind frazzled with panic and happiness.


    Harley patted her back. ¡°Come on, Julia. You¡¯ve already been taking charge during this whole meeting. And you¡¯re the one setting up team activities and stuff.¡± Harley reasoned.


    ¡°Plus, you¡¯re the most responsible. And pretty.¡± Sola added, painting Julia¡¯s face red with blush.


    ¡°I do not wish to be the leader.¡± Essex said, going back to polishing her scythe.


    And the others looked to Wess, who didn¡¯t reply in any way.


    ¡°Sounds pretty unanimous.¡± Ferris said, looking to Julia. ¡°Well?¡±


    Julia let out a large sigh, weighing her decision and everything that would come of it, before looking back at Ferris. ¡°I accept.¡±


    ¡°¡­okay then.¡± Ferris said, ticking a single box. ¡°You don¡¯t have to be so dramatic¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Julia burst through the dorm room door with renewed vigour.


    ¡°Done and done!¡± She exclaimed. ¡°We¡¯re finally a team! Team Valiant!¡±


    Harley chuckled. ¡°I kinda like the name now. Look out world, we¡¯re Valiant and we¡¯re proud!¡±


    ¡°Tremble!¡± Sola yelled, striking a dynamic pose, as Harley caught herself laughing.


    Essex folded back into her room, as Wess wandered in and noticed a package against the couch with a recognisable shape. She started heading over, as Julia quickly noticed. ¡°Oh, right. That came in this morning for you.¡±


    ¡°What time?¡± Wess asked, attention focused as she picked it up gently.


    ¡°Uhh, nine, I think. You were already off by then¡­¡± Julia said.


    Wess slowly started to unwrap it, as the weapons sharpened edges made themselves known. The light reflecting from the balcony gleaned off of the gemstone imbedded in the end of the handle, as the wrapping fell away to reveal a broadsword, beautifully crafted and maintained and in near perfect condition.


    ¡°Belvedere!¡± She exclaimed, hugging it against her. She quickly inspected it, thoroughly checking for any possible damages.


    ¡°I promise I didn¡¯t touch it, and that the delivery company handled it with the utmost care.¡± Julia assured her. ¡°Also, I have another surprise, and this one¡¯s for the whole team.¡±


    Wess attention left the sword and went back onto Julia. ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°I thought of a good team activity we could do to celebrate you getting your sword back.¡± Julia grinned. ¡°Despite the fact that we¡¯ve known each other for a few days now, we¡¯ve yet to share things like weapons or Whils with each other. So, I was thinking, tomorrow morning, we have a little demonstration for each of us!¡±


    ¡°Julia, I do-¡°


    ¡°Yeah! That sounds great!¡± Harley said, turning to Sola. ¡°Sola keeps talking about her Whil, and I really wanna see it!¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Sola asked, as Harley nodded emphatically. ¡°Okay, just don¡¯t bring, like, a toaster, or a hairdryer or something.¡±


    ¡°Julia, can I ju-¡°


    ¡°Can someone get Essex and tell her what¡¯s up? I think she mentioned something about her Whil.¡± Julia beamed, as Harley gave her a thumbs up and ran into the study. ¡°Alright, and with that settle-¡°


    ¡°Julia, I¡¯ve booked an appointment with Faller.¡± Wess stated.


    ...


    The room went silent, as Julia¡¯s smile quickly faded. ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°Tomorrow. I¡¯m going to ask him for a transfer.¡± Wess said. ¡°I¡¯ve been here for far too long, and I want to sort out my permanent team before classes officially start. The meeting is set for tomorrow midday.¡±


    Harley and Essex entered back in, catching enough of what Wess was saying. Julia tried to process Wess¡¯ declaration, and desperately didn¡¯t want her despair to get the better of her. ¡°When did you set this up?¡±


    ¡°¡­earlier today¡­before the meeting.¡± Wess tried not to admit.


    ¡°Then why¡¯d you come to our meeting with Ferris?!¡± Harley yelled.


    Wess took a second, before clearing her throat. ¡°Because, despite my best wishes, I am technically still part of this team¡­¡± Wess explained. ¡°I am not about to worsen your chances at becoming Venators, and I wish you the utmost success with your new member once I¡¯m gone. But my place is not here. I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s been three days, Wess! You can¡¯t just leave! They put us in teams for a reason!¡± Harley tried. ¡°Stop being selfish already and think abou-¡°


    Julia rested her hand on Harley¡¯s shoulder, quickly quieting her, as she walked up to Wess respectfully.


    ¡°I¡¯m sad to see you go, but I¡¯m not about to force you to stay if you don¡¯t want to.¡± Julia admitted. ¡°You can go to the meeting, but can you at least come to the team activity tomorrow? Just to give it a chance?¡±


    Wess looked her over, as Julia was clearly putting on a brave face for her, or maybe for the rest of Team Valiant.


    ¡°Is that all you want from me?¡± Wess asked.


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°¡­that seems reasonable enough.¡± Wess declared, before grabbing her sword properly. ¡°If you¡¯ll excuse me, I¡¯d like to get some practice in.¡±


    Julia nodded an okay, as Wess headed for the door and left the dorm room, leaving Team Valiant to their own devices.


    ¡°The fucking nerve of her¡­¡± Harley complained. ¡°All she did was get our hopes up!¡±


    ¡°Harley, we can¡¯t blame her. She clearly wasn¡¯t happy with the academy¡¯s choice.¡± Julia reasoned, sitting against her bed.


    ¡°But did she have to string us along?¡± Sola asked. ¡°Couldn¡¯t she do this sooner?¡±


    ¡°Not likely.¡± Essex weighed in. ¡°I have seen Faller¡¯s schedule. She was fortunate to even get time with him.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t care about that¡­¡± Harley said, lying on Sola¡¯s bed and kicking the bed frame. ¡°Apparently to her majesty, we aren¡¯t good enough for her standards.¡±


    Julia stood up to address the team. ¡°But she¡¯ll see it differently after the demonstrations tomorrow. She¡¯ll get to see us as Venators rather than strangers she¡¯s been forced with.¡± Julia said. ¡°However, if she wants to leave, we shouldn¡¯t force her to stay if that¡¯s not what she wants.¡±


    Harley folded her arms and hung her head solemnly, as Essex went back to her study.


    ¡°I¡¯m glad we made you the leader.¡± Sola added.


    Julia smiled. ¡°Thanks, Sola.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Wess sat beside her tablet, quickly checking the time over and over, as the remaining few hours seemed to stand still when she least needed them to. It was awkward enough waking up in the Team Valiant dorm room after yesterday¡¯s argument, but after getting up, she found she didn¡¯t actually want to do anything until the meeting with Faller. At least, not anything substantial. Of course, she was expected to show up to the demonstration, but at this point, that was merely a formality.


    Wess rested her head against the window of the study area, staring out onto the training grounds, as Julia and the others set up a few chairs and drinks to help relax during the activity.


    Wess didn¡¯t want to admit it, but she appreciated their small gesture, even if it wouldn¡¯t change her mind.


    ¡­best get going. She decided. Taking a deep breath, she stood up and grabbed her sword, as she headed down to the training grounds.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Isn¡¯t this lovely, Liddy? The weather¡¯s just perfect!¡±


    ¡°I really needed this after that Wailing attack. A picnic was such a good idea, Rose.¡± Liddy replied, taking another sandwich. ¡°I could use less excitement in my life.¡±


    Julia took a few more chairs to the training grounds, looking out at the others getting ready, as she noticed Wess heading down toward the team, and waved to her welcomely.


    ¡°Wess!¡± She called out, as Wess tentatively waved back. ¡°I¡¯ve got a little rest area set up!¡±


    ¡°I noticed.¡± Wess said. ¡°Did you make that lemonade yourself?¡±


    Julia giggled a little. ¡°Guilty as charged. Feel free to have some, if you want.¡±


    ¡°¡­maybe later.¡± Wess answered, trying to avoid looking too thirsty.


    ¡°You two ready?¡± Harley asked, cracking her knuckles. ¡°I brought my weapons, by the by, so you may wanna stand back.¡±


    ¡°Can do. Alright, who wants to go first?¡± Julia asked, as Essex naturally stepped forward.


    ¡°You are familiar with my scythe.¡± She said, holding it by her side.


    ¡°Whoa¡­¡± Sola remarked, finally getting a good look at it up close. She held out a hand to touch it, as Essex tore the scythe away from her before she could do so.


    ¡°You may visually inspect it. No more.¡± Essex declared, keeping it against her, as Sola backed off a little. ¡°This is intended for my usage alone.¡±


    Essex straightened herself before continuing. ¡°I also possess a Whil that would be appropriate for demonstration.¡±


    Her and the rest of the team headed over the forest bordering the training grounds, as Essex rested a hand against a tree and closed her eyes.


    ¡°Is she gonna¡­talk to it?¡± Harley asked Julia, who just shrugged her shoulders.


    In a near instant, Essex¡¯s hand took on a metallic sheen, identical to her scythes blade, as she crashed through the tree¡¯s trunk with a thrust of her fist, sending it tumbling to the ground.


    In the distance, Rose and Liddy heard a violent thud amongst their forest picnic.


    ¡°What was that?!¡± Liddy called out, wrapping her arms around Rose.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know!¡± Rose replied, getting up, as Liddy still clung to her. ¡°Could it be a Wailing?¡±


    ¡°AAAHHH!¡± Liddy called out. ¡°No way no way! I don¡¯t want to be eaten!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not gonna let that happen, Liddy!¡± Rose declared, heading further into the forest. ¡°Stay here, I¡¯m gonna do what I can.¡±


    Sola gulped, as Essex took out the tree like it was completely hollow, with the rest of the team clapping at her sheer show of strength and control of her Whil.


    ¡°That¡¯s incredible, Essex!¡± Harley congratulated. ¡°I¡¯m a little scared of you now.¡±


    ¡°I can change my body to the metal I am currently touching.¡± Essex explained. ¡°I have mostly changed by touching the metal attached to my scythe¡¯s handle. Does anyone currently possess any capitals?¡±


    ¡°Just a sec.¡± Julia said, reaching back for her wallet and pulling out about ten caps worth in coins. Essex grabbed a hold, as her arm slowly turned to a shade of orange that Julia recognised as copper.


    ¡°Damn, that¡¯s impressive.¡± Harley grinned. ¡°You must be pretty popular with the ladies.¡±


    ¡°Ladies?¡± Essex asked, as Julia jabbed an elbow into Wess, getting her attention.


    ¡°Come on, you got to admit she¡¯s something great.¡± Julia whispered to her. ¡°And she¡¯s a scholarship student, so she has plenty of potential.¡±


    Wess took a deep breath. ¡°But her social skills are near nonexistent.¡± She said, looking over at Essex struggling to understand Harley¡¯s comment. ¡°A Venator is only as good as how well they can sell themselves, and I¡¯m afraid she can¡¯t do that.¡±


    Julia silently conceded her point, as everyone¡¯s attention was turned to Sola.


    Sola didn¡¯t know what to do, as she waved to everyone awkwardly.


    ¡°Sola, your Whil?¡± Julia reminded her.


    ¡°¡­oh! Right!¡± Sola remembered, as she jogged to one side of the training grounds, with the rest of the team standing behind her patiently.


    Sola stuck out her hands, before turning behind her to look at the group. ¡°Hey, uhh, could you guys step back a bit?¡±


    They did so.


    ¡°Maybe just a bit further?¡±


    They did so.


    ¡°No, just further than that too.¡±


    They did so.


    By this point, the others were worried they wouldn¡¯t catch Sola¡¯s Whil from their distance, as Sola stuck out her hands, and tried to concentrate.


    Small stones from around her feet started to lift up, as her hands produced currents of static that ran between each finger, as the electricity started to build and build, until a large torrent of lightning careened through the air, creating a gigantic chaos of electricity in front of her, as the light it produced nearly blinded the rest of Team Valiant.


    Liddy shuddered in place, waiting for Rose to come back with any good news, before a giant frantic light drowned out the natural lighting of the sky, as Rose started running back to her wildly.


    ¡°Rose, what is that?!¡± Liddy asked, as Rose grabbed her arm.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know!¡± She yelled, hauling all their picnic supplies along with Liddy. ¡°I couldn¡¯t see what it was! I think it wanted to eat me!¡±


    ¡°Hold me, Rose!¡± Liddy cried, running hand in hand with her, as they headed further into the forest.


    The team was left stunned, as Sola took a second to make sure everything around her wasn¡¯t destroyed. A few of the trees in the forest were burnt, and the ground was covered in scorch marks, but otherwise, the damage was minimal.


    In a burst of effort, Harley lifted her arms up in triumph. ¡°Fuck yeah!!!¡±


    She ran up to Sola and grabbed her into a hug, swinging her around. ¡°That was incredible!¡±


    ¡°It was?¡± Sola asked, starting to get woozy from Harley¡¯s swinging.


    ¡°Y-you¡­did so much¡­¡± Julia stuttered, as Essex readjusted herself after instinctively taking a defensive stance. Wess was left in a moment of awe, as she never expected something this¡­absurd to come from a flightful klutz like Sola. Blinking a few times to adjust her eyes, she felt a few hairs standing on end, as she pulled out a pocket mirror and fixed up her appearance.


    ¡°I don¡¯t have my weapon yet. I¡¯ve mostly gotten by with this.¡± Sola said, indicating to her slightly smoking hands after Harley had put her down. ¡°But lately, it¡¯s been a little¡­that. It was fine when I was kid, but it only got bigger over the years.¡±


    ¡°How about we drop Sola in front of a Wailing and just let ''em have it? We wouldn¡¯t have to do a thing.¡± Harley suggested, still grinning from Sola¡¯s impressive display.


    Julia dusted off her flannel. ¡°We can work on helping you minimise that, Sola. I¡¯m sure we can all help with keeping it under control. Speaking of which¡­¡± Julia turned to Harley. ¡°I¡¯d say it¡¯s your turn.¡±


    ¡°Oh, uhh, geez¡­¡± Harley stammered, reaching into her bag. ¡°That¡¯s kinda the thing. I don¡¯t have a Whil.¡±


    Julia, Sola and Essex stared at her, stunned. ¡°Really?¡± Julia asked. ¡°That¡¯s pretty rare these days, especially for Venators.¡±


    ¡°What can I say? I guess I never got one.¡± Harley admitted. ¡°It¡¯s not a big deal to me. I¡¯ve gotten by mostly on my own skill and talent. I¡¯m not about to manipulate gravity or shoot fire with my hands, but I¡¯m still just as competent a Venator.¡± Harley proclaimed, grabbing her weapons. ¡°My weapons help, but I want people to appreciate the work I put in on my own. With all that said¡­¡±


    Harley lifted her arms, revealing large glove-like metal frames around her hands, forming heavy gauntlets. ¡°I think I¡¯ll show off a little.¡±


    With that, she ran over to the forest again, grabbing the base of a tree and lifting out of the ground with a fair amount of effort, before throwing it into the air, waiting for it to fall back down, and pummelling her fist into it¡¯s base, sending it rocketing through the air and out of site, as she turned back to the group with a giant grin.


    ¡°You¡­think we¡¯re safe?¡± Liddy asked, panting erratically.


    ¡°I¡­hope¡­so¡­¡± Rose said, dropping the picnic supplies. ¡°Maybe it was stupid to go further into the forest¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sure¡­we outran it.¡± Liddy said. ¡°Let¡¯s just hope tha-¡°


    Mid sentence, a giant tree trunk crashed beside them, bouncing against the ground and tumbling past, as Liddy and Rose held each other, terrified.


    ¡°Was that a tree?!¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know!¡± Rose cried. ¡°But I think the forest¡¯s trying to kill us!¡±


    ¡°I guess the muscles aren¡¯t just for show.¡± Julia commented, as Sola casually hung from one of Harley¡¯s biceps. ¡°This forest¡¯s getting a real makeover today.¡±


    Essex stood by, appreciating the technique that Harley had clearly toiled over, as Wess stayed silent, looking down at her sword contemplatively.


    ¡°Alright, Julia. You¡¯re up. Give us som-¡° Harley asked, before two figures ran out of the forest, huddling picnic baskets in their arms and running from nothing in particular.


    ¡°Stay away, forest!¡± Liddy yelled, throwing a basket at one of the trees.


    ¡°Liddy, it¡¯s not worth it!¡± Rose cried, grabbing her arm and pulling her way, out of sight, as Team Valiant were left scratching their heads at to what could¡¯ve happened.


    ¡°¡­well anyway.¡± Julia continued. ¡°You guys already saw my Whil during the induction, and I don¡¯t have a personal weapon either, so¡­I don¡¯t know if she¡¯s up for it or not, but¡­¡±


    Julia turned around to face Wess, as she finally noticed she wasn¡¯t there. She was leaving, her sword by her side, exiting the training grounds before anyone could say otherwise.


    ¡°Wess!¡± Julia yelled, waving to get her attention, before chasing after her, as the others stayed behind to wait it out.


    Julia ran down the hallway adjacent to the training grounds, as she noticed Wess¡¯ silhouette in the distance, clearly heading in the direction of Faller¡¯s office. Wess refused to acknowledge Julia, as she trudged down the hall just as fast.


    ¡°You don¡¯t have a Whil, do you Wess?¡±


    Wess turned back, before continuing down the hallway without a word.


    ¡°What¡¯s so bad about our team? Why won¡¯t you give us a shot?¡± Julia demanded.


    Wess turned on her heel. ¡°I¡¯m here for a career. I¡¯ve sacrificed too much to get here, and I¡¯m not leaving anything to chance. My team will be Venators, not children who aren¡¯t ready for a serious and brutal industry.¡± Wess declared, continuing to walk.


    ¡°But we¡¯re just like you! None of us have experience!¡± Julia bargained. ¡°We can help each other.¡±


    Wess turned around with her politest look.


    ¡°Thank you for trying, Julia.¡± Wess replied. ¡°I promise this isn¡¯t personal. Goodbye.¡±


    And with that, Julia was left standing in the hall, watching Wess leave her sight.


    ¡°¡­so much for the leader of Team Valiant¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Faller heard a knock at his door, as he checked his watch a found it was already twelve.


    ¡°You wanted to see me, Wess?¡± Principal Faller called out, as Wess ducked her head into his office.


    ¡°Yes, sir.¡± She said, before noticing someone else with Faller, just about to leave.


    ¡°We¡¯ll continue in a bit, Seears. I have an appointment with a student.¡± Faller said, as the man shrugged his shoulders.


    ¡°I¡¯ll get onto week one preparations in the meantime.¡± Seears said, slinking out of the office, before actually noticing Wess in the office with them. ¡°Nice dress. You look approachable.¡±


    Seears ducked out, as Wess presented herself at the front of Faller¡¯s desk.


    ¡°I¡¯ve heard you¡¯ve had some troubles with your team. I don¡¯t have much free time these days, so this better be important.¡± Faller made clear, writing off some papers and putting them to the side. ¡°Now what¡¯s the issue?¡±


    Wess straightened her back and readjusted her dress, before taking a deep breath and speaking.


    ¡°I wish for you to transfer me to a different team.¡±


    ...


    There was a noticeable pause in the conversation, as Faller removed his glasses and sighed. He gave Wess an incredulous look.


    ¡°I think,¡± Wess continued, still trying to stay stern, ¡°that I deserve to be in a team with more experience and better members. I see no reason why I should be with the team I am now.¡±


    Faller breathed out, before slowly standing up and walking about his desk. ¡°Do you have any alternatives in mind?¡±


    Wess had thought this over in her own time. ¡°A-at the moment, my first choice would be the team of Cyrus Vesper. He¡¯s a scholarship student with surprisingly impressive people skills and is a sought after talen-¡°


    ¡°Why do you think you deserve to be on Cyrus¡¯ team?¡± Faller interrupted.


    Wess looked noticeably offended. ¡°B-because he¡¯s far better! You already consider him to be on the same level as professionals! I have much more I could learn from him than with my current team.¡±


    ¡°How much experience do you have, Wess?¡± Faller asked, grabbing a book from his shelf.


    Wess didn¡¯t respond, as she tried to avoid eye contact.


    ¡°Admittedly, Cyrus is somewhat of a prodigy.¡± Faller said, casually reading the book. ¡°And coming off your entrance exams, you have far less talent and skill, your technique is comparatively poorer, not to mention you have no Whi-¡°


    ¡°I understand he¡¯s better than me!¡± Wess yelled. ¡°That¡¯s why I need a mentor like him, so I can gain his experience. I get nothing from my inexperienced team.¡±


    Faller grabbed the bridge of his nose and closed the book with an audible thud.


    ¡°We joined you with your team because you¡¯re all inexperienced.¡± Faller argued, putting emphasis on ¡®because.¡¯ ¡°If you were to join up with Cyrus and treat him as a mentor, you would always be in his shadow. We want you to become the best possible you. It wouldn¡¯t help you to merely emulate someone you value above yourself, or in the worst case, merely coast along on their achievements¡­¡±


    ¡°Then why Julia and the others?! Surely, there are better opti-¡°


    ¡°Why do you think the academy teamed you up with them?¡± Faller asked, stunning Wess in place. ¡°Because we knew you¡¯d hate them? Because we thought they wouldn¡¯t help you grow and would only be a burden?¡±


    Wess looked away, realising the point he was making, but not wanting to admit it.


    Faller walked back over to her and leaned against his desk. ¡°Someone like Cyrus is mostly here as a formality. You were right in saying he¡¯s already at a professional level, and plenty of talent scouts have already been calling about him.¡± Faller said. ¡°But you have an opportunity to better yourself here. You gain nothing if your team excels and you¡¯re constantly playing catch up to meet some unimaginable standard.¡±


    Faller walked over to Wess and placed a hand on her shoulder. ¡°Give your team another chance. See what you can learn from them, and what they could learn from you in return. And¡­if you find there¡¯s no future with them, you can transfer to another team starting second year.¡± Faller advised. ¡°We¡¯re here to give you an education, not coddle you with the best partners and hand you unworthy results and praise. If you want to improve, you should be relying on your teammates.¡±


    Wess wanted to respond, at least to make her peace, but merely looked to him, swallowing her pride, and nodded her head with a knowing look.


    ¡°Is that everything?¡± Faller asked one last time.


    ¡°¡­yes, that¡¯s all.¡± Wess said, breathing out deeply. ¡°If you¡¯ll excuse me.¡±


    Faller waved his hand to the office door, as Wess headed out with a dignified silence, leaving Faller to his thoughts.


    ¡°¡­thank you.¡± She said, quickly ducking her head back into Faller¡¯s office, before ducking back out the door again.


    As Wess left, she fell back against the wall to catch her breath. The physical toll that took was only just hitting her, as she looked up to the ceiling to focus her vision.


    She didn¡¯t want that.


    She slammed her fist against the wall, feeling it sting, before calming herself down and reflecting, reaching what felt like an unfortunate and awful conclusion.


    Maybe mother and father wer¡­


    Just then, she spotted a slouched figure sitting outside Faller¡¯s office, hands in her lap, as she looked up and smiled at Wess.


    ¡°Julia.¡± Wess let out, wiping away a few tears she hadn¡¯t realised formed. ¡°Why are you here?¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t get to say a proper goodbye.¡± Julia said. ¡°Are you okay? How¡¯d the meeting go?¡±


    Wess waved her hand dismissively. ¡°As you¡¯d expect. I¡¯m not allowed to transfer until next year¡­as if all I needed was another delay¡­¡±


    ¡°So, you¡¯re still with us?¡± Julia realised.


    ¡°¡­Julia, just stop.¡± Wess asked. ¡°I don¡¯t need your comfort. I have had the hardest time here after years of anticipation, and no one wants me to succeed.¡± Wess cried, still trying to keep up appearances. ¡°This isn¡¯t right. I¡¯m not fighting the Wailing, I¡¯m fighting everyone around me.¡±


    Wess held back her tears as best she could, gritting her pain through her clenched fist, as Julia looked her over and slowly approached her, looking like she was going in for a compassionate hug.


    Instead, Julia pushed against Wess, tripping her over and sending her falling toward the ground.


    As Wess was mid panic, Julia immediately used her Whil to slow Wess¡¯ momentum to near nothing, leaving Wess suspended in the air with Julia holding her in place as she still slowly fell.


    ¡°You¡¯re my teammate Wess.¡± Julia declared, putting all her strength into holding Wess up. ¡°I¡¯m¡­always gonna be here¡­for you. Don¡¯t give up on yourself¡­because I haven¡¯t¡­and I promise I never will. We won''t let you fall.¡±


    With that, Julia reached an arm behind Wess¡¯ back, as she stopped using her Whil and let Wess lay back into her arm to catch her. Wess stayed there for a moment, before finding her footing and getting up again, slowing her heart down with each breath.


    ¡°¡­you deserve to get better, Wess. We¡¯re gonna help you get better.¡± Julia admitted, having regained her breath, as Wess found herself coming back down from her high.


    ¡°¡­I think I need to lie down.¡± Wess stated, as Julia wrapped her arm around her and led her back to the team¡¯s dorm room.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Wess heard a knock at the door, as she checked her watch, but realised she wasn¡¯t wearing one, as it was still with her luggage which had yet to arrive. Wess was alone in the dorm room, spending some personal time thinking her situation over, as she hopped out of her top bunk and headed to the door.


    ¡°Hey, I¡¯ve got some stuff for a¡­Wiss?¡± A delivery man said.


    ¡°It¡¯s¡­Wess.¡± Wess corrected, as it hit her that he was carrying her luggage. ¡°Oh, finally!¡±


    ¡°Yeah, there was a huge mixup at the delivery company. Tons of baggage got displaced after that Wailing attack, then a bunch of room occupancies moved around on the academy¡¯s end. Turns out it was for dorm room 374, not room 347, or room 734, or room¡­¡±


    ¡°Yes, thank you.¡± Wess interrupted, checking her baggage to make sure everything was still in there.


    ¡°Is this the right place to drop it off?¡± He asked, pointing to Team Valiant¡¯s room.


    Wess looked back at it again to be sure. ¡°¡­yes, this is right place.¡±


    With that, he grabbed the trolley holding the suitcases and wheeled them in, dropping them off by Wess and Julia¡¯s bunk bed, as he left with a polite wave, leaving Wess with her luggage once again.


    She looked it over, inspecting it as it stood side by side with Julia¡¯s lower bunk, as Wess let out another sigh and rolled up her sleeves, planning out her space.


    ¡°Best get to unpacking now.¡±

 Chapter 4: First Class

    *bzzt* *bzzt* *bzzt*


    Julia rustled out of her sleep, as her tablet¡¯s alarm rang beside her head, waking her up. She pulled it over to herself and smiled, as the screen displayed a prominent Monday underneath the time.


    It was finally the first day of classes.


    Julia mustered all her energy and jumped out of bed, stretching her limbs and checking out the weather from the balcony window.


    Clear skies. She grinned. During her stretch, she noticed Wess and Sola still in their beds, sleeping the morning away, but noticed Harley¡¯s bed was empty, her sheets slightly hanging over Sola.


    ¡°Maybe she went out clubbing.¡± Julia wondered, heading to the kitchen to whip up breakfast, before spotting Harley by the small communal table in the kitchen.


    ¡°Hey Julia.¡± She waved. ¡°You¡¯re an early riser too?¡±


    Julia smiled. ¡°I can¡¯t really help it. All the best things happen in the morning.¡± Julia hummed, idly looking through the fridge. ¡°But the first day of our course units is pretty special too.¡±


    ¡°You seem awfully happy about classes.¡± Harley pointed out, taking a sip of her coffee. ¡°You big nerd.¡±


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you excited too?¡± Julia asked.


    ¡°Duh.¡± Harley said. ¡°But I¡¯m not being a nerd about it.¡±


    ¡°Uh huh¡­¡± Julia droned, as Essex came through the front door, scythe on her back and exercise gear on. ¡°Oh, hey Essex.¡±


    ¡°Cali.¡± She replied, heading off to her room to change.


    Harley stood up to get herself a refill. ¡°Hey, do you know what that means?¡± Harley asked.


    Julia shrugged. ¡°I just assumed it meant ¡®hello¡¯ or ¡®good morning.¡¯¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t pin down the language.¡± Harley explained. ¡°I¡¯ve asked her, but she said it has no official name. It clearly shares roots with the Western Waysider language¡­¡±


    Julia started snickering to herself. ¡°You called me the nerd, and yet you¡¯re dissecting the origins of a language? You want some glasses and a pocket protector to go with that?¡±


    ¡°Shut up¡­¡± Harley pouted, going back to her notepad of word origins, as Essex re-emerged from her room with her trademark suit and ponytail.


    ¡°I am hoping my entrance did not startle you.¡± Essex said, joining Julia and Harley in the kitchen.


    ¡°The scythe surprised me. I would¡¯ve thought an early morning run was tough enough without a heavy weapon on your back.¡± Julia remarked.


    ¡°If I cannot travel with my weapon, then I cannot be a proper Venator.¡± Essex said. ¡°As the team leader, you should understand this.¡±


    Julia gave a good natured laugh. ¡°Yeah, good point. I guess I take not having a weapon for granted.¡±


    ¡°Are you three quite finished talking?¡± Wess grumbled, moving her head around the corner, rubbing her eyes, as Sola poked out behind her, just as exhausted ¡°Some of us want to use sleep to our advantage.¡±


    ¡°Oh, sorry guys.¡± Julia said. ¡°But hey, now that we¡¯re all up, we might as well get ready for class together.¡±


    Sola slinked into the kitchen, yawning loudly, as Wess took a heavy breath. ¡°I¡¯m not about to go back to sleep, now am I?¡±


    The team took turns getting breakfast, packing their things, and getting changed in the bathroom one by one, except for Harley, who openly stripped in the main room to no ones complaint, before the time for their classes was nearly upon them.


    ¡°Harley, please move.¡± Wess sighed, brushing her teeth and trying to inspect herself in the bathroom mirror.


    ¡°It¡¯s not my fault the bathroom¡¯s so small.¡± Harley argued, trying to brush her teeth as well.


    ¡°Well you aren¡¯t making it easier!¡± Wess complained, thrusting her toothbrush down and leaving in a huff, as Harley smugly took up as much space as she could.


    ¡°Alright, almost ready to go.¡± Julia said, as Sola and Essex lined up in front of her, with Wess joining in a huff.


    ¡°That Harley¡­¡± She complained, adjusting her dress and hair as best she could without a mirror. ¡°She''s fortunate I know how to present myself properly.¡±


    ¡°You look really nice today, Wess.¡± Julia said.


    ¡°I don¡¯t fish for compliments, Julia.¡± Wess stated, shutting down Julia immediately.


    ¡°Can I get breakfast?¡± Sola asked.


    Julia blinked. ¡°You already had breakfast.¡±


    ¡°I meant brunch.¡±


    Julia blinked again. ¡°Just grab something from the fridge.¡±


    Sola hopped back into the kitchen, as Wess pulled out her tablet to distract herself.


    ¡°Vonodo.¡± Essex said, heading off to her room, as Julia started to feel her enthusiasm wain.


    ¡°We¡¯re never gonna leave¡­¡± She realised.


    ¡°Like herding cattle.¡± Wess dryly remarked, to Julia¡¯s lack of amusement.


    After a few more minutes, the team was finally ready and out the door, idly chatting as they headed to their shared team class together.


    ¡°Ferris is teaching? Seriously?¡± Harley complained. ¡°Can we just throw her in the academy moat and be done with it?¡±


    ¡°Come on, Harley. Classes are only just starting. For all we know, she could be a great teacher.¡± Julia reasoned.


    ¡°She gives off a weird vibe.¡± Sola commented. ¡°Like she might be an evil ghost haunting the academy. Or a banshee.¡±


    Harley snickered to herself, as the group noticed Team Vanguard waiting outside the lecture hall, alongside groups of other teams all anxious to get in.


    ¡°Hey guys!¡± Joleicia called out, waving to Team Valiant. ¡°We didn¡¯t see you leave.¡±


    ¡°Getting out the door was a little tough.¡± Julia said, as the others all paired off with the rest of Team Vanguard. ¡°How¡¯re you guys?¡±


    ¡°Pretty good, all except for this guy.¡± Joleicia said, indicating to Florey beside her, clearly annoyed. ¡°Ferris really lay into him about something a few days ago. I tried talking to him, but¡­¡±


    ¡°He shut himself off?¡± Julia finished, realising that Florey would do something like this sooner or later.


    ¡°Can you talk to him? I know you guys were friends for a long time, so maybe you¡¯d have better luck helping him.¡± Joleicia asked.


    Julia peered over Joleicia¡¯s shoulder, looking at him and smiling. ¡°No problem. We¡¯ve been meaning to catch up anyway.¡±


    ¡°Julia, darling!¡± Saxin called out, butting in and hugging Julia against her chest. ¡°How are you?¡±


    ¡°G-g-good.¡± Julia replied, trying not to look too happy. ¡°Y-you seem well.¡±


    ¡°We spent all week hanging out together.¡± Lenin clarified, joining in. ¡°My little Saxin here is so insatiable.¡±


    ¡°Oh, stop it~¡± Saxin cooed, finally letting Julia go and laughing to herself.


    In an instant, the sound of the opening lecture hall door rung out through the hall, drawing everyone¡¯s attention forward. Teams started filing in one after the other.


    ¡°Ooo, my heart¡¯s racing!¡± Joleicia exclaimed. ¡°Onward, Team Vanguard!¡±


    The rest of the team gave a well meaning eye roll, following Joleicia inside, as Team Valiant made their way in one by one.


    The lecture hall was breath-taking. Not only the size of it, but the architecture and view that accompanied it. It was impressive enough that the main building supported up to one hundred floors, but being up on the thirtieth and getting to see the view of the forest and Eldos Mountains all at once was something else. A large window accompanied the front wall, as the seating faced toward it and the stage, where Ferris stood up, fiddling with the slide projector.


    Julia idly scanned the other teams present, recognising a few students from around the school sitting in groups of five. Some had brought weapons with them, others were just chatting, a few were flexing to each other in the background. One group looked particularly unenthused about being there, almost like¡­


    If Wess was every member of a team. Julia thought, before realising she was still standing in place, as Harley waved her over to an empty seat beside the others and Team Vanguard. After a few more minutes, Ferris finally got the projector to work and tapped her mic.


    ¡°This fucking thing¡­how the-oh, I¡¯m on.¡± She realised, before clearing her throat. ¡°Welcome to¡­dammit, what¡¯s it called¡­¡±


    She shuffled through a few papers in front of her, before finding her answer. ¡°Welcome to¡­Team Orientation and Fundamentals. I¡¯m Miss Ferris.¡±


    The room stayed silent.


    ¡°¡­moving on. This will be your primary course for semester one, and where you will get most of your team and on-the-field experience. This will run adjacent to your personal electives, which I may be teaching if I¡¯m unlucky. However, don¡¯t expect much of that this semester. We¡¯ll mostly be doing pretty boring intro stuff that you don¡¯t need to know.¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s terrible at this.¡± Julia whispered to Harley.


    ¡°You¡¯re telling me. Way to suck out the fun.¡± Harley added.


    ¡°She¡¯s like a bag of gravel in human form.¡± Sola interjected, now leaning over Wess.


    ¡°Stop talking over me!¡± Wess muttered, now with both Julia and Sola leaning over her.


    ¡°Why are you all whispering?¡± Essex asked, just a little too loudly, as Ferris took notice and looked up at the team, folding her arms.


    ¡°Am I boring you girls?¡± She loudly asked, tapping her pen against her podium.


    The team shut up, as Harley scratched her head. ¡°To be honest, yeah.¡±


    Ferris squinted at her and shrugged her shoulders. ¡°Fair enough¡­¡± Ferris changed to the next slide. ¡°We¡¯ll officially start the course with some basic team introductions. Everyone gets a chance to come up on stage and present their team, but please don¡¯t give us your life story. A few names¡¯ll do¡­¡±


    Julia eyes bulged. ¡°W-we¡¯re presenting? I-in front of¡­¡±


    Julia started to panic, as Sola reached a hand over and patted her back. ¡°There, there.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯ll be fine, Julia.¡± Harley added. ¡°It¡¯s just, like, a minute of talking. I don¡¯t think anyone¡¯s paying attention anyway. Don¡¯t get cold feet now.¡±


    Julia nodded to her, forcing her mind to think of anything other than the nerves creeping in the recesses of her mind. She had it under control for now.


    Ferris pulled out a clipboard and tapped it with her pen. ¡°Team¡­Beefcake? Oh for gods sake¡­¡±


    Out of the crowd, a group of horrifically muscular men climbed onto the stage, all in various stages of flexing and posing. Each one seemed to be a walking army of their own, as Ferris sat with the crowd and pulled out her pocket flask. One of the members stood in front, his shirt struggling to stay on. ¡°I¡¯m Brad!¡± He pointed behind him to another member.


    ¡°Chad!¡±


    ¡°Thad!¡±


    ¡°Lad!¡±


    ¡°And my name is Efrem!¡± Called the fifth member, revealing himself to be far smaller and daintier than his counterparts. ¡°I¡¯m a poet by trade, but the duties of a Venator called to me like a song from the heavens!¡±


    The other four members of Team Beefcake took turns presenting, showing off their absurd physique, leaving Julia in a state of bewilderment.


    ¡°You all good, Julia?¡± Joleicia asked.


    ¡°Well, I¡¯m a bit confused.¡± Julia truthfully replied. ¡°I mean, the academy has systems in place so that every team has diverse fighters with different skills. They look like a team of four physical melee attackers and one¡­other person. No ranged, no support, what¡¯s up with that?¡±


    ¡°The academy has reported several first year students pulling out of enrolments after the Behemoth Wailing attack.¡± Essex explained. ¡°I would estimate this is what is left, so they will have formed teams with whomever was still available.¡±


    ¡°I feel sorry for that Efrem guy.¡± Harley said, looking down at the other four flexing far too much.


    Julia looked down at him too, and noticed he actually seemed quite happy in spite of his teammates, as his team kept showing off beside him.


    ¡°Yes, thank you, Team Beefcake.¡± Ferris called out. ¡°You can stop now.¡±


    The team exited the stage, as Ferris grabbed her forehead again and looked over her list. ¡°Team Crater, you¡¯re up.¡±


    The class carried on through several more teams, all a little nervous about presenting to their peers and unsure how to display themselves, as a few stand out teams managed to break through that kind of awkwardness and find a new one.


    For example¡­


    ¡°We¡¯re what you¡¯d call the best!¡±


    ¡°I mean, what can we say?¡±


    ¡°A cut above the rest!¡±


    ¡°Excelling everyday!¡±


    ¡°Feel free be jealous!¡±


    ¡°Just try to look away!¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ll remember the name!¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re Team Exemplary!¡±


    After what felt like several minutes of prep, Team Exemplary presented themselves to the class with an impromptu motto and accompanying level of theatrics. Needless to say, no one was impressed.


    ¡°Ouch.¡± Harley commented, as the leader of the team stepped forward and made himself known.


    ¡°I go by many names, as a future legendary Venator¡­¡± He preceded, giving himself a lengthy pause. ¡°But for now, you can refer to me as Avalon McAlister.¡±


    Harley felt her jaw drop to the ground, as the rest of Team Valiant, minus Wess, took notice. ¡°What¡¯s up, Harley?¡± Julia asked.


    ¡°That¡¯s that douchey guy that hit on me a few days ago.¡± Harley remembered. ¡°He¡¯s the team leader?¡±


    Avalon left the stage holding the microphone, leaving the rest of the team still on stage, annoyed as they¡¯d yet to present themselves.


    ¡°Not a very good one¡­¡± Sola remarked, as Team Exemplary dragged Avalon back on stage and took their time to present, before leaving with far less confidence then they¡¯d brought in.


    ¡°¡­I was about to say thank you for that, but¡­¡± Ferris started, before she abandoned her sentence. ¡°Next up, Team Instinct.¡±


    Julia noticed the disinterested team from earlier standing up to present, as she looked over at Wess to see her reaction to the team. To Wess¡¯ credit, she¡¯d been diligently paying attention to each and every presentation, and had yet to pull out her tablet. Not everyone had been impressive, but a few had caught her eye as teams to look out for in the future. That being said, Wess wasn¡¯t about to contribute to the rest of the teams casual remarks. She was taking this seriously, after all.


    Team Instinct made their way up, somehow both quickly and slowly at the same time.


    ¡°A greeting to you all.¡± Presented the leader of Team Instinct, as they stood up straight to the rest of the class. ¡°My name is Donovan, and this is Team Instinct. If you¡¯ll excuse us.¡±


    And with that, the team left by the other side of the stage and exited out the lecture hall door, mumbling to themselves as they did so, leaving the rest of the class in utter confusion.


    ¡°Was that it?¡± Julia asked.


    ¡°I guess the team didn¡¯t want to be here.¡± Harley noted.


    Ferris found herself slightly impressed. ¡°Now that¡¯s my kind of team.¡± Ferris remarked, clicking her pen again. ¡°Team Valiant, get up here.¡±


    Julia heard the word ¡®Valiant¡¯ finally get called out, as her nerves started to attack her body again. She¡¯d managed to hide them for now, but she could only hold them off for so long. ¡°W-w-we¡¯re u-up?¡± Julia quivered. ¡°W-we¡¯re already at V?! The last letter was I!¡±


    ¡°Julia, calm down, it¡¯s okay.¡± Harley assured her, tugging her arm. ¡°Come on, lets go rip off the bandage.¡±


    ¡°Do we have to go up? Can¡¯t we just say it from here?¡± Julia argued, trying to pry herself from Harley¡¯s grip, as Wess, Sola and Essex made their way down without a hassle.


    Harley struggled to pull her along, before just picking her up and carrying her down toward the stage. She propped Julia in front of the microphone, and subsequently, the entire class, before standing behind her with the rest of the team.


    ¡°Must we do this so free form? They could have at lea-¡° Wess complained, before Sola shushed her and looked to Julia.


    ¡°U-uhh¡­¡± Julia stuttered, finding her mouth far too dry. ¡°H-hi¡­¡±


    The class laughed a little at Julia¡¯s awkwardness, as Harley took over the mic to fill the silence. ¡°She¡¯s Julia, our team leader.¡± Harley announced, taking the reigns. ¡°And I¡¯m Harley. Howdy y¡¯all.¡± She walked back and stretched an arm around Wess. ¡°This sourpuss is Wess. She doesn¡¯t want to be here.¡±


    ¡°Not on stage, at least.¡± Wess clarified into the mic, getting a few more laughs, as Harley moved to Sola.


    ¡°This is Sola. She can shoot lightning, an-¡°


    ¡°Real quick!¡± Sola yelled, grabbing the mic. ¡°I saw a bug near my seat! It looked cool, but it might be dangerous! It could have venom!¡±


    The few classmates idly looked, as Harley giggled to herself and slipped over to Essex, still proudly standing beside her team.


    ¡°Aerlo Decali. My title is Essex.¡± She said into the mic. ¡°A pleasure.¡±


    ¡°I think the folks at home want to here a little more.¡± Harley announced, waving the mic nearer to her. ¡°Tell us, why¡¯d you come to Venator Academy in the first place?¡±


    ¡°To eliminate all Wailing.¡± She replied bluntly.


    A small silence hung over the room.


    ¡°¡­thank you, Essex.¡± Harley finished, scooting away from her. ¡°And just to remind you we¡¯re¡­¡±


    She handed the mic back to Julia, still frozen in place, as she gulped and did her best to speak clearly. ¡°T-team¡­V-Valiant.¡±


    A polite applause broke out in the room, as Team Valiant made their way back up the stairs to their seats.


    ¡°See? Not so hard.¡± Harley told Julia, who nodded back to her.


    ¡°Can you do that from now on?¡± Julia asked, causing Harley to chuckle.


    ¡°You guys were adorable!¡± Joleicia praised, wrapping Julia in a hug. ¡°I want to put you all in my pocket!¡±


    ¡°Next up, Team Vanguard.¡± Ferris called out.


    ¡°Oh, here we go!¡± Joleicia cheered, getting up along with her team.


    ¡°I¡¯m gonna bring up what Wess said. Do we have to do this?¡± Florey complained.


    ¡°We¡¯re professionals, aren¡¯t we?¡± Chops suggested, as the team made their way to the stage.


    ¡°A warm welcome, my fellow Venators-to-be!¡± Joleicia announced over the microphone. ¡°My name¡¯s Joleicia McCarthy. I hope to make the academy proud in the coming years!¡±


    She handed off the mic to Chops. ¡°Hey, my name¡¯s Chops. Don¡¯t fall in love with me too fast.¡±


    The class laughed, as Saxin took the mic. ¡°I¡¯m Saxin, and I mirror Chops¡¯ sentiments.¡±


    Lenin grabbed it next. ¡°I¡¯m Lenin. I don¡¯t have much to say, but you keep your hands off Saxin.¡±


    Finally, the mic landed on Florey, who took a second before talking, as he let out a small breath. ¡°I¡¯m¡­Florey. Hi.¡±


    With that, he handed the mic back to Joleicia, who took a polite bow with her team. ¡°To a successful three years.¡±


    The class clapped for them again, as Ferris went up and grabbed the mic from them, before Team Vanguard headed back up to Team Valiant.


    ¡°Did you rehearse that?¡± Harley asked once they were back.


    Joleicia found herself both proud and embarrassed. ¡°No, it just sorta happened that way¡­¡±


    ¡°Oh, stop being modest. Joleicia¡¯s confidence carried me through that.¡± Lenin said.


    ¡°She¡¯s like the cheerleader and coach in one.¡± Chops added.


    ¡°You guys¡­¡± Joleicia cooed, blushing profusely, as Julia looked over at her in slightly ashamed jealousy.


    Ferris tapped the mic. ¡°I checked the list, and that looks like the last one. Unless we have some teams out there starting with Z?¡± Ferris asked, to no reply. ¡°¡­since this is the first class, we¡¯ll be cutting it off here, but team leaders should expect course material and assignment updates through their tablet, so it¡¯s your job to get that to your teammates.¡± Ferris explained, as the teams started filing out one by one. ¡°I¡¯ll unfortunately see a few of you later in the day¡­¡±


    ¡°Pretty easy class to start off with.¡± Harley said, as Julia took a well earned breath after exiting the lecture hall.


    ¡°I hope that bug doesn¡¯t hurt anyone¡­¡± Sola mentioned, as Wess pulled out her tablet.


    ¡°What¡¯s everyone¡¯s schedule like?¡± Julia asked, taking out her tablet as well. ¡°I know I¡¯ve got a class later today.¡±


    ¡°I have ¡®Representation and Team Marketing¡¯ in fifteen minutes. Fairly wordy title¡­¡± Wess assessed, checking over her timetable.


    ¡°Oh, hey, me too.¡± Harley said, waving her tablet. ¡°Guess we get to share.¡±


    Wess felt a certain headache coming on, as Julia flipped through her timetable. ¡°Okay then, I¡¯ve got¡­¡¯Whil Application and Practical¡­Principles.¡¯ Huh.¡± Julia said. ¡°That¡¯s a bad name.¡±


    ¡°Same here.¡± Sola replied.


    ¡°As do I.¡± Essex added.


    ¡°Really?¡± Julia beamed, wrapping her arms around Sola and Essex. ¡°Oh, this is gonna be great! Let¡¯s get ready for our class, while these two head off on their way.¡±


    ¡°Understood.¡± Essex replied, as Sola nodded in agreement.


    ¡°Sounds like a plan, team leader!¡± Harley exclaimed, giving a thumbs up to the trio as they headed off down the hallway. ¡°Alright, Wess, betting time! Who¡¯s getting high grades, me or you?¡±


    Wess stared Harley down, before turning on her heel and leaving down the hall, as Harley tried to follow behind.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Julia walked a little ahead of Sola and Essex, as Sola leaned over to Essex and whispered into her ear.


    ¡°What do you think of Julia?¡± She asked.


    Essex mulled for a second. ¡°So far, she has been a competent leader, with respectable combative technique and a positive disposition. However, she appears to struggle with large social functions and self presentation when not with people she is familiar with.¡±


    ¡°No arguments here.¡± Sola replied, looking over at Julia¡¯s joyous waltz through the halls. ¡°I¡¯m worried she might freeze up when we need her, though.¡±


    ¡°I have considered that.¡± Essex said back. ¡°We will have to assess whether that will be a problem.¡±


    The trio found the classroom, set up almost like a workshop with a large window looking out at the training grounds, as a few students were already dotted around, talking about this and that.


    Unauthorized usage: this narrative is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings.


    ¡°Looks like we¡¯re here.¡± Julia commented, taking her seat and encouraging Sola and Essex to join her.


    ¡°I like the stools.¡± Sola said, jumping onto the stool next to Julia and nearly falling over.


    Essex looked hers over and cautiously poked it, before taking her seat and finding her balance to be terribly off. ¡°This seating is proving to be difficult.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s okay, Essex. It¡¯s just a stool.¡± Julia assured her. ¡°It¡¯s not gonna hurt you.¡±


    ¡°How am I to be ready for an encounter like this?¡± Essex reasoned, trying to hold herself up with her scythe.


    ¡°You could throw the stool.¡± Sola suggested, getting a laugh out of Julia.


    Essex looked unamused, as she tried to distract herself by peering around the classroom at the other students, and noticed the very noticeable presence of Team Beefcake, taking up an entire ten person table to themselves. ¡°Those men were present at our previous class.¡± Essex said, getting Julia and Sola¡¯s attention.


    ¡°It¡¯s Team Beefcake. Wait, those guys have Whils?¡± Julia asked in bewilderment. ¡°They¡¯re already walking tanks.¡±


    ¡°Maybe their Whils made them super beefy?¡± Sola suggested, rocking back and forth on her stool.


    Julia peered around them and noticed Efrem sitting next to them, writing something down in his journal.


    ¡°Even Efrem has one?¡±


    ¡°Hey, Julia?¡± Sola asked, borrowing Julia¡¯s attention.


    ¡°Yeah?¡±


    ¡°Thanks for being our leader.¡± Sola thanked. ¡°I know it¡¯s probably hard having to navigate us all around, but¡­¡± Sola leaned in. ¡°¡­ between you and me, you¡¯re doing a really good job.¡±


    Julia smiled back at her and gave her a quick hug. ¡°Thanks, Sola. I¡¯m glad you appreciate it.¡±


    Julia let go and started getting her things out, along with Sola and Essex, as the time for class officially passed.


    ¡°Who do you guys think we¡¯ll get as our lecturer?¡± Julia asked.


    Sola rested a finger against her chin. ¡°Principal Faller.¡±


    Julia cocked her head. ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°I need to ask him something.¡± Sola answered.


    ¡°But that wasn-¡° Julia started, before the lecturer walked in, and revealed herself to be none other than¡­


    ¡°Good, uh, morning, I guess? Welcome to¡­shit, I looked this up.¡± Ferris complained, pulling out her notes again. She looked even more tired than the last class.


    ¡°We¡¯re getting her again?¡± Julia asked, as Sola looked to Julia with a shared pain.


    ¡°Alright¡­uhh, ¡®Whil Application and Practical¡­Principles. Man, that¡¯s a bad title¡­¡± Ferris muttered, getting out from behind her podium. ¡°Before we get to the administrative nonsense, I wanna see what everyone¡¯s got to show. I¡¯m assuming you all have a Whil. If not, this class will be just as pointless as I suspect, so feel free to leave now.¡±


    Ferris took a beat, as the students present looked around for anyone leaving.


    ¡°Huh. We usually get at least one.¡± Ferris remarked. ¡°Alright, grab your things, we¡¯re heading out to the training grounds to hit stuff.¡±


    Essex was perfectly ready to get off her stool, as the trio hopped along with the class.


    ¡°What do you think Harley and Wess are doing right now?¡± Sola asked Julia as they walked.


    ¡°Probably arguing.¡± Julia suggested. ¡°What do you think, Essex?¡±


    ¡°I would assume them to be focusing on classwork.¡± Essex said. ¡°...Harley less so.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s just hope those two don¡¯t tear each other¡¯s heads off.¡± Julia wished.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Wess trudged down the hallway, as Harley fairly easily caught up behind her.


    ¡°So¡­you excited for class?¡± Harley asked.


    ¡°I¡¯m hoping to sit and listen quietly. Take some notes. Maybe work off this headache¡­¡± Wess clarified, turning a sharp corner and throwing Harley off.


    ¡°You, uhh, know you way around.¡± Harley remarked.


    ¡°Unfortunately, I¡¯ve had to navigate this place the hard way, but now I¡¯ve got the layout down.¡± Wess stated, before nearly running into a wall. ¡°¡­mostly.¡±


    Wess continued, finding the right lecture hall, as she firmly took her seat amongst the other students, with Harley sitting right beside her.


    ¡°Lotta folks around.¡± Harley remarked, peering around them, as Wess started getting ready for class.


    ¡°It is a classroom, Harley.¡± Wess dryly remarked.


    ¡°Hey, aren¡¯t those guys from Team Exemplary?¡± Harley realised, pointing them out in the crowd. They looked to be standing on top of their seats, trying to impress the students around them, to little avail. ¡°I hope they aren¡¯t too loud during the lecture.¡±


    Wess didn¡¯t reply, but did notice Harley kicking her legs back and forth impatiently in her side eye, and started to groan. ¡°Harley?¡±


    ¡°Hmm?¡±


    ¡°While this class is going on, I would prefer if you wouldn¡¯t move around or give any inane remarks like you did the last class. I¡¯m here for an education, not your commentary track.¡±


    Harley looked Wess over seriously, studying her expression and nodded. ¡°Sure thing.¡±


    Wess didn¡¯t know whether Harley¡¯s word could be trusted, but assured herself that she could always leave and watch the lecture on her tablet. After waiting a few more minutes, the lecturer arrived through the main door, a small briefcase by his side.


    ¡°Apologies for being late, class.¡± He said, taking his place on the stage in front of the present students. ¡°It¡¯s ironic that the PR teacher is leaving a bad first impression. But if you¡¯ll allow me, I¡¯ll spend the next hour or so trying to fix that.¡±


    Wess subtlety glanced to Harley to make sure she was behaving. To her surprise, she noticed Harley¡¯s attention was entirely on the lecturer, following his words with a clear focus. She even had a spare book out, ready to take notes.


    She¡¯s better prepared than I thought¡­ Wess realised.


    ¡°My name¡¯s Mr Vent. You¡¯ll want to get on my good side if you want a job after your course.¡± He remarked. ¡°Of course, I can always be bribed into sweetening your chances.¡±


    Alright, she¡¯ll have to say something witty about this¡­


    Wess turned to Harley, and realised she was still staring forward, focus and manner intact.


    ¡­huh.


    ¡°Now a quick show of hands to gauge the audience, who here has an Activ account?¡± Vent asked.


    In an instant, all of the class stuck their hands up, including Wess and Harley, as Vent counted to himself.


    ¡°Okay. As I expected. You can put them down now.¡± Vent said, going to grab some papers, as everyone except Harley lowered their hand. ¡°Oh, do you have a question?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, just a quick one.¡± Harley said. ¡°I actually don¡¯t have an Activ account, but I was wondering what it is.¡±


    Vent felt a smile coming on, as he tried to hide it as best he could. ¡°You don¡¯t have one?¡±


    ¡°Yeah.¡±


    ¡°And you¡¯re taking a marketing unit?¡±


    ¡°Yeah.¡±


    Vent leaned against his desk. ¡°Can I ask your name?¡±


    ¡°Harley Baroke.¡± Harley replied proudly.


    ¡°Harley. I¡¯m gonna let you guess what it is. Take your time.¡±


    Harley thought for a second, as Wess tried to hide her embarrassment from the other students looking at them. Her worse suspicions were starting to come true, as an answer hit Harley. ¡°A dating app.¡±


    The class laughed at her answer, as Vent stood back up and tried to quiet them down. ¡°Now, come on class, that was a good effort.¡± He walked forward and looked over at Harley again. ¡°Would you like me to explain it?¡±


    Harley found herself a little embarrassed as well, as she blushed and nodded to him.


    ¡°Okay then. For the benefit of Harley, I will explain the purpose of Activ.¡± He continued, strutting around the stage. ¡°Activ is both by and for Venators and acts as an informational hub for all Venators. Features include personal contacts, recent Venator news, warnings about danger areas, potential job offers and a payment system, and exclusive pages and websites devoted to Venators and Venator teams. The public has access to some of these features, but this allows us to function within a well defined system with built in rules and regulations.¡± Vent explained, turning back to Harley. ¡°Does that clear things up?¡±


    Harley found her blush coming back. ¡°Y-yes, sir, thank you.¡±


    Vent chuckled to himself a little. ¡°Okay then. Moving on to more substantial matters¡­¡±


    Wess noticed Harley sink into her seat, still hurting from being told off in front of the whole class, as the students from Team Exemplary looked back at Harley, mocking her to themselves. Harley tried her best to pay attention, but from the people still making fun of her, she was starting to lack the motivation.


    Wess glared back at them angrily, scaring them and forcing them back around, before scooching over to Harley¡¯s side and letting out a quiet sigh.


    ¡°I can help you set up an Activ account.¡±


    Harley eyes lit up. ¡°Really?¡±


    Wess nodded. ¡°But promise you¡¯ll keep taking notes and focus. No slacking off.¡±


    Harley nodded back to her and sat up, as Wess closed the distance between them and let her copy some notes from her book.


    ¡°Thanks.¡± Harley said.


    ¡°I¡¯m just doing the right thing.¡± Wess replied.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Impressive display, Essex.¡± Ferris called out, shielding her eyes from the sun, as Essex removed her metal skin with her Whil. ¡°Team Valiant¡¯s a lot better composed then their introduction would¡¯ve suggested.¡±


    Julia tried not to take the comment personally, and decided to take it as a complement about Essex¡¯s impressive Whil.


    ¡°Great job, Essex. You really know what you¡¯re doing.¡± Julia praised.


    ¡°It is nothing exceptional.¡± She replied. ¡°I have trained well. This is the natural result.¡±


    Julia smiled to her, as Ferris recorded her information about Essex. As the class waited, Julia inspected the grounds, as she caught a brief glimpse of Team Instinct, training together underneath the scorching sun. Their leader Donovan was directing them here and there, joining in as much as possible, as the team caught up with them, hanging on their every command.


    ¡°So that¡¯s where they went¡­¡± Julia realised, as Ferris finished up her scribbling.


    ¡°Alright¡­Sola. Get up here.¡± Ferris projected, reading over her list, before noticing Sola wasn¡¯t beside Julia and Essex. ¡°Dammit, where is she?¡±


    The class peered around for her, as Julia spotted her off beside the classroom door, touching her fingers together nervously.


    ¡°Can you go get her?¡± Ferris asked Julia. ¡°Think of it as a¡­leader¡­mission. Something like that.¡±


    Julia was off anyway, as Sola saw her coming and shied away a bit more.


    ¡°You okay, Sola?¡± Julia asked.


    ¡°There¡¯s a lot of people in our class¡­¡± She murmured.


    ¡°Yeah¡­I noticed.¡± Julia said, trying to block the others from Sola¡¯s view.


    Sola bunched up a little tighter. ¡°I¡¯m worried I might accidentally hit someone with my lightning. And then I¡¯ll get expelled. And then my parents¡¯ll unadopt me and leave me to die. Then who knows what might happen¡­¡±


    Julia realised Sola¡¯s point. ¡°I guess you would be pretty scared.¡±


    Sola nodded, as Julia looked back at the class and Essex waiting, before crouching down so she was Sola¡¯s height.


    ¡°How do you feel right now?¡± Julia asked.


    ¡°Nervous.¡± Sola admitted. ¡°Shaky and nervous.¡±


    ¡°You saw me on stage earlier. I had it just as bad.¡± Julia said. ¡°I¡¯ve been dealing with that for a while, and truthfully, I haven¡¯t gotten much better about it. Though that isn¡¯t for lack of trying.¡±


    Sola looked up to Julia as she talked.


    ¡°But when I was frozen in place, Harley took over and worked the crowd like I couldn¡¯t. I was struggling to say even a few things, but after seeing how great she made our team look, I managed to speak on stage. And I¡¯ve never done that before.¡±


    Sola nodded along with what Julia was saying, feeling her confidence come back a little more.


    ¡°So, if you screw up really bad, then Essex and I will help you through, or take the blame if you need. I¡¯m gonna look after you.¡± Julia promised her. ¡°Or, if you want, I can just screw up really bad on my demonstration to make you look better.¡±


    Sola giggled a little, as she wiped her nose and looked back at the class.


    ¡°You want to let a couple others go before you?¡± Julia suggested.


    Sola looked happy about Julia¡¯s idea and nodded. ¡°Maybe just a few¡­¡±


    ¡°Come on, I think Essex is waiting.¡± Julia said, standing up and looking back at Sola, as she stretched out her hand. Sola tentatively grabbed it, as they walked back and joined up with the class.


    ¡°You two ready yet?¡± A classmate called out.


    ¡°Sorry, guys. Sola just didn¡¯t want to hurt anyone.¡± Julia explained. ¡°Miss Ferris, can Sola go a little later? I promise it¡¯s worth it.¡±


    Ferris looked down at them and shrugged. ¡°Sure. There¡¯s no schedule or anything. Who else wan¡­¡±


    Ferris scanned over the class and saw Team Beefcake, still flexing far too much, clearly trying to grab her attention. Unfortunately, it worked.


    ¡°¡­Team¡­ugh, Beefcake. Would you like to go now?¡± Ferris asked.


    ¡°I thought you¡¯d never ask!¡± Brad exclaimed, flexing a bit more, before rushing to the front of the class and striking another pose.


    ¡°Bare witness! I called this: Angel¡¯s Ascent!!!¡±


    And with a graceful leap, Brad soared into the air, as out from his back, two large angelic wings sprouted and sent him higher into the sky, gentle feathers fluttering down, as he looped through the air with the elegance of a dancer. The class gasped in awe at his display, expecting something closer to a giant explosion or the ability to create earthquakes, but this was just as impressive.


    ¡°I did not think he would be so light off of his feet.¡± Essex remarked, getting a little laugh out of Julia. ¡°Julia? Have I done something amusing?¡±


    ¡°Essex, that was a play on words.¡± Julia said.


    ¡°Was it?¡± Essex asked. ¡°I merely meant he looked to not be putting any wei-¡°


    ¡°Oh! I just got it!¡± Sola added, silencing Essex, as they looked back at Brad landing back down.


    ¡°¡­huh.¡± Ferris said. ¡°Well¡­okay then.¡±


    Brad rested his hands on his hips. ¡°Should I demonstrate aga-¡°


    ¡°No, once was enough.¡± Ferris interrupted. ¡°Thank you, Brad.¡±


    ¡°Alright team, you¡¯re up! Do the Beefcake name proud!!!¡± Brad cheered, hyping up the rest of Team Beefcake.


    ¡°WHOOOAAAAHHHH!!! YEEAAAAAHHHH!!!¡±


    ¡°Indeed.¡± Efrem chimed in, joining the group for a five-way high five.


    Ferris massaged the brim of her nose. ¡°Fun display¡­hurry up already.¡±


    One after the other, the members of Team Beefcake each took their turn presenting their Whils in as grandiose a fashion as possible. Chad created streams of energy around him, like a ribbon dance and light show in one, Thad produced clouds around him, carrying him gently through the air and shrouding him from view, Lad called out into the nearby forest, as several small animals and creatures gathered around him, waiting for his command, and Efrem¡­


    ¡°If you all wouldn¡¯t mind standing back.¡± Efrem advised, as the class took a few paces backwards. ¡°I also don¡¯t recommend staring into it directly.¡±


    With that, Efrem aimed his finger in a gun formation toward the edge of the forest, just where the training grounds ended, as a small collection of blackened light swirled around his finger, before firing in a blink, landing against the ground, and expanding, enveloping the area around it in a controlled consuming vortex that was felt throughout the training grounds and then some. Peering into it gave no sign of life or warmth, only a shroud of emptiness that¡¯s purpose was to destroy.


    After the darkness ceased to exist, Efrem turned to the class with a prim politeness.


    ¡°I call that Death Cannon.¡± He said.


    Ferris was having trouble comprehending¡­anything. ¡°D-d-death¡­?¡±


    ¡°I admit, it¡¯s not the most elegant name, but I believe it gets the point across.¡± Efrem stated. ¡°However, while this may be far more flashy and resplendent, I would regard my mightiest weapon to be the written word!¡± Efrem exclaimed.


    ¡°¡­Efrem, I¡¯ve never told a student this before.¡± Ferris prefaced. ¡°Never use your Whil. Not here, not in the city, not as a party trick. Keep it to yourself and work on anything else.¡±


    Efrem sighed. ¡°I suppose that¡¯s an appropriate response. I shall take you words to heart!¡±


    He rushed back over to Team Beefcake. ¡°What did you think? Did it hit the mark?¡±


    ¡°YYYEEEEEAAAAAHHHHHH!!!¡± Team Beefcake cheered, carrying Efrem on their shoulders joyously in celebration, as we cut back to Team Valiant, still reeling from Efrem¡¯s display.


    ¡°He is worrying to me.¡± Essex said. ¡°I may have to eliminate him at some point.¡±


    ¡°I think I¡¯m scared of Efrem.¡± Julia said, getting a sympathy nod from Sola.


    ¡°¡­okay...Team Valiant, you wanna finish up now?¡± Ferris asked, shaking her head a little.


    Julia broke her trance. ¡°Oh! Sure.¡± She looked down at Sola. ¡°You feel ready to demonstrate yet? I mean, if Efrem didn¡¯t hurt anyone, I¡¯m sure you¡¯ll be fine.¡±


    Sola looked back up as Julia, before staring down at her hands again. ¡°Could¡­you go first?¡±


    Julia smiled back at her. ¡°Sure thing.¡± Julia replied, before quickly realising just what that meant, as she looked back at the large crowd behind her nervously.


    Julia stepped forward, becoming the centre of attention for the class very fast.


    ¡°Don¡¯t choke like the intro, okay?¡± Someone called out, getting a laugh from some of the students.


    Julia felt her spine crawl, before looking back at Sola with a gulp and a reassuring nod.


    ¡°C-can I borrow something¡­throwable?¡± Julia asked the class, with a noticeable lessening of her stutter. ¡°Preferably¡­s-something that¡¯s not valuable.¡±


    Chad raised his hand and headed up to Julia, as he reached into his bag and held out a dumbbell.


    ¡°Go ahead. I¡¯ve got plenty.¡± Chad grinned.


    How in character. Julia thought.


    Julia grabbed the dumbbell, before testing its weight in her hand and reeling her arm back in a pitching position. She aimed the dumbbell upward, throwing it decently far into the air by her strength alone, before concentrating deeply and using her Whil to speed up its velocity until it reached near triple its speed, sending a small shock wave out as it did so, as it flew further than anyone could even see.


    The class gave an impressed clap, as Julia made sure to turn around slowly, mostly from exhaustion, but also to make sure the clapping wasn¡¯t sarcastic.


    ¡°V-Velocity Control.¡± Julia said, using the name Chops suggested. ¡°I can speed up and s-slow down anything I see. Th-thank you¡­¡±


    Julia felt she was going to collapse, as the physical toll of using her Whil and her anxiety were pincering her body in the worst ways. But looking at Sola, she saw her not cowering, but determined; encouraged to do just as good, if not better, all thanks to Julia¡¯s impressive display.


    ¡°Alright, Sola, it¡¯s about time.¡± Ferris asked. ¡°Show us your stuff so we can leave sooner.¡±


    Sola gave a confident nod to Julia, as Julia joined back up with her and Essex. Sola took a few steps forward, standing in front of the rest of the class, grounding herself in place, as she felt her fingers start to generate sparks between each digit. Electricity built up around her, lifting what it could into the air, and starting to connect in front of her. And just like before, strands of sparks, then currents, then lightning crashed against the ground one by one, before forming a large chaotic burst of electricity originating from Sola¡¯s body alone.


    She let the currents die down, as Ferris checked to see if the coast was clear to step forward.


    ¡°Well¡­¡± Ferris said. ¡°You¡¯re lacking some direction, so we¡¯ll have to work on that, but that was well worth the wait. Holy shit, Sola.¡±


    ¡°Hey, can I have your Whil instead of mine?¡± A classmate called out, as a few students agreed with them.


    Sola looked back at the crowd, specifically Essex and Julia, and turned to that student happily. ¡°No!¡±


    She skipped back to Julia¡¯s side, bobbing back and forth excitedly, as Julia appreciated what she¡¯d accomplished today.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Alright, that¡¯ll do it for today. I expect great things from you.¡± Vent declared, before playfully looking back at Harley. ¡°Most of you.¡±


    ¡°Would it be okay if I punched a teacher?¡± Harley asked Wess through gritted teeth, as Wess turned Harley¡¯s attention back to her tablet.


    ¡°He¡¯s trying to goad you on. Don¡¯t let it phase you.¡± Wess said, tapping a few more options, then handing the tablet back to Harley. ¡°Now all you need is a few personal contact details, and your Activ account will be finished.¡±


    Harley grinned to Wess. ¡°Thanks for helping me out. You¡¯re a real friend.¡±


    Wess wasn¡¯t used to being appreciated and shied away from Harley. ¡°It was nothing¡­¡±


    ¡°Hey, how¡¯s the account going?¡± A student asked, as Harley quickly recognised them from the intro as Leandra and Roman from Team Exemplary. Leandra looked a bit ahead of herself. ¡°It must''ve been hard to fill in details with those meaty bone fingers.¡±


    Harley thought about wrapping said fingers around her neck, as Wess rested a hand against her shoulder to calm her. ¡°Actually, she now has one. One of professional quality too.¡± Wess replied. ¡°And if you¡¯re going to insult someone, don''t debase yourself with an oxymoron.¡±


    ¡°M-moron?! You take that back, you hoity princess!¡± Leandra yelled, as Roman held her back from flailing.


    ¡°Geez, Leandra, keep it together.¡± Roman sighed. ¡°Besides, Harley¡¯ll be lost within the hour.¡±


    ¡°I have a map of the school, genius.¡± Harley shot back, as Wess facepalmed behind her.


    ¡°I meant using Activ.¡± Roman clarified. ¡°You haven¡¯t used the account yet. You probably don¡¯t even know what donquing is.¡±


    As Harley drew a mental blank from the unfamiliar term, Wess leaned into her ear subtlety. ¡°It¡¯s short for ¡®dividing and conquering.¡¯ It¡¯s when only a few members of a team are hired fo-¡°


    ¡°It¡¯s when only a few members of a team do a job!¡± Harley yelled mid explanation, as Roman looked unimpressed.


    ¡°Yeah, I saw her whispering to you. Nice try.¡± Roman drawled, dragging Leandra by the collar. ¡°Come on, this stopped being fun.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll get you back for that moron comment, princess!¡± Leandra yelled, as Wess and Harley turned to each other in a shared exasperation.


    ¡°Those two were exhausting¡­¡± Wess sighed.


    ¡°Leandra¡¯s a piece of work. She looked ready to tear your head off.¡± Harley commented. ¡°I probably would¡¯ve gone for the throat of you hadn¡¯t stopped me.¡±


    ¡°The last thing I need is an associate of mine attacking another. First rule of marketing; converse with all, even the detestable.¡± Wess advised, packing up her things, as her and Harley headed out.


    ¡°I could never talk to annoying kids. My dads had to pull me out of a lot of lunches for starting fights. Davidson especially.¡± Harley remarked. ¡°He was always nice about it, though.¡±


    Harley turned to Wess. ¡°What¡¯s your dad like?¡±


    Wess sighed. ¡°Nothing you¡¯d like to hear about.¡±


    ¡°Oh, sorry. Didn¡¯t realise that was a sore point.¡± Harley apologised. ¡°We can just walk in silence.¡±


    After a bit more walking, Wess stopped suddenly and looked at Harley, confused as to what Wess was doing.


    ¡°Harley¡­I want to apologise.¡± Wess said. ¡°You proved to be competent in that class, despite Mr Vent¡¯s condescending remarks.¡±


    Just competent? Harley wondered.


    ¡°¡­and you worked really hard throughout and committed yourself to learning. So, thank you, for exceeding my expectations.¡± Wess declared, a little out of place now that her point had been made.


    I don¡¯t think they were very high anyway¡­ Harley thought, before noticing the clear amount of personal pride Wess had to put aside. ¡­I guess that¡¯s big for now.


    ¡°So I guess you could say I¡¯m the brains and the brawn now?¡± Harley joked, before getting the expected disappointed response from Wess. ¡°Sorry, just lightening the mood.¡±


    ¡°And right back to it¡­¡± Wess acknowledged, as Harley wrapped an arm around her playfully, which Wess accepted.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Who would¡¯ve expected such powerful Whils from Team Downplay?¡± Sola remarked, as her, Julia and Essex headed back down the halls after their class.


    ¡°Yeah, they kept saying ¡®it¡¯s not that impressive,¡¯ then that one guy blew up that tree!¡± Julia recounted.


    Essex nodded along. ¡°Should we meet up with Harley and Wess?¡±


    ¡°You guys go ahead, actually.¡± Julia said. ¡°I¡¯ve been meaning to catch up with Florey, and if I don¡¯t do it now, I might forget. I¡¯ll meet back up with you once I¡¯ve found him.¡±


    ¡°Okay. See you later, leader!¡± Sola exclaimed, waving to Julia as they departed.


    Julia started searching, looking through every hall she could, before she turned the corner and spotted Florey off to the side, sitting against a window.


    What¡¯s he doing?


    Julia approached slowly, as to not startle Florey too bad, before finally getting into his field of view.


    ¡°Hey stranger.¡± Julia greeted. ¡°You okay? Joleicia said you had a rough few days.¡±


    Florey flashed a well meaning smile. ¡°Yeah, that¡¯s the half of it¡­I argued with Ferris in class.¡±


    ¡°Yeah?¡± Julia said, taking a seat next to him.


    ¡°She opened up our Wailing History class by suggesting most Wailing¡¯s legs had anatomy close to birds.¡± Florey explained. ¡°Everyone knows they¡¯re far closer to canines than anything!¡±


    ¡°Everyone?¡±


    Florey looked a little embarrassed. ¡°Okay, I did, but she wouldn¡¯t let the point go, even though I had the proof.¡±


    Julia chuckled to herself. ¡°I bet you did. But I don¡¯t think that¡¯s all that¡¯s bothering you.¡±


    Florey acknowledged her point and looked off to the side.


    ¡°You won¡¯t do any good keeping this to yourself.¡± Julia said.


    ¡°Yeah, I know¡­¡±


    ¡°Can I guess where you¡¯re at?¡± Julia asked.


    Florey sighed. ¡°Do you have to?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m gonna assume that you got called out on something, and because you¡¯re very prideful, it hurt like hell. You haven¡¯t talked to your team yet because you only just met, and you don¡¯t want to burden them with your problems, so you¡¯re suffering in silence.¡± Julia suggested. ¡°How close did I get?¡±


    Florey waved his hand. ¡°About eighty percent. You starting to lose your touch.¡±


    Julia laughed a little. ¡°I¡¯m just out of practice.¡±


    Florey smiled back to her. ¡°¡­you¡¯re right about Team Vanguard, and my¡­pride, but¡­it¡¯s not just them, or Ferris. It¡¯s the academy.¡±


    ¡°How so?¡±


    Florey blinked in confusion. ¡°How so? It¡¯s been two weeks since the biggest Wailing disaster Detu City¡¯s ever seen, and everyone¡¯s already forgotten about it! Why aren¡¯t we fighting back?¡±


    ¡°They¡¯ve increased security around the campus.¡±


    ¡°I mean taking the fight to the Wailing, rather than sitting around, waiting for the next one.¡±


    ¡°The academy¡¯s not ready to fight back. It¡¯s still recovering after the Behemoth Wailing.¡± Julia tried to reason.


    ¡°But it¡¯s not even trying. Our first day was spent doing, what, extended introductions? What if another one comes? What if we get caught in another massive Wailing attack we didn¡¯t predict because we weren¡¯t trying to? No, instead, we¡¯re learning how to say hi and I¡¯m getting yelled out because the teacher won¡¯t admit she¡¯s wrong. Some academy¡­¡±


    Julia conceded his point and tried to look at his face again. ¡°You said it yourself, Florey. It¡¯s only been two weeks. Isn¡¯t it a good thing that everyone¡¯s already moving on and not letting it scare them?¡±


    Florey didn¡¯t reply, but was clearly thinking about her argument.


    ¡°I¡¯m sure the academy¡¯s working on something. Remember, the Venator Academy isn¡¯t military, it can¡¯t just throw resources around, especially with two support buildings out of commotion. If a retaliation¡¯s going to happen, it¡¯s gonna take time.¡±


    Florey tried taking Julia¡¯s words to heart, as he kicked the wall to let out some frustration.


    ¡°Feel better?¡± Julia asked.


    Florey looked down at the floor. ¡°¡­I forgot how good you were at this.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m pretty great.¡± Julia smiled.


    ¡°¡­I¡¯ll give the academy more time to work on it. But I better see some results, or I¡¯m causing a fuss. Then I¡¯ll drown stupid Ferris in that damn moat as a symbol of my rebellion.¡± Florey said.


    Julia caught herself laughing. ¡°Pretty sure they¡¯d lock you up for that.¡± Julia pointed out.


    ¡°Well if I¡¯m arrested, you can get my bail.¡± Florey joked, laughing to himself afterwards.


    ¡°If you get arrested, then you probably deserved it. I might just let you rot.¡± Julia added, snickering into her hand.


    ¡°Wow, Julia. Why would you do that to a dear friend?¡±


    ¡°Cause you¡¯ll come out on top.¡± Julia said, flashing a smile. ¡°Like you always do.¡±


    Florey blushed a little at Julia¡¯s compliment, scratching his face awkwardly. ¡°You don¡¯t mean that¡­¡±


    Just out the corner of her eye, Julia noticed Sola and Essex, now joined up with Harley and Wess, waving to her.


    ¡°Oh, my team¡¯s here. I gotta go.¡± Julia said, getting up. ¡°Talk to your own team more, okay? I¡¯m not gonna be your free therapist whenever you feel angsty.¡±


    ¡°Not with that attitude.¡± Florey said, as Julia¡¯s playfully punched his arm and headed off, leaving him to look back out the window in reflection.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Is the day over yet?¡± Harley asked, stretching her arms behind her.


    Julia looked out at the training grounds, as groups of students started heading back inside as the sun hid behind the horizon. ¡°It¡¯s certainly winding down.¡±


    Julia turned around and walked backward in front of her team. ¡°How was your class, guys?¡±


    ¡°Piece of cake.¡± Harley cheered, as Wess turned to her, annoyed.


    ¡°Anything but. I had to coach Harley throughout the whole lecture. She didn¡¯t even have an Activ account before I helped her.¡± Wess complained.


    ¡°You weren¡¯t on Activ?¡± Julia asked Harley in astonishment.


    ¡°I got one the moment I got here.¡± Sola chimed in.


    Harley started to pout. ¡°I grew up in a small town! We didn¡¯t need social media.¡± Harley justified. ¡°You could just yell down the main street and get the attention of everyone you knew and then some.¡±


    ¡°Relias, but what is an ¡®Activ account''?¡± Essex asked.


    ¡°See? Even good ol¡¯ professional Essex doesn¡¯t know!¡± Harley exclaimed, leaving Essex without an answer.


    ¡°Sorry, I guess I¡¯m just surprised.¡± Julia apologised, looking back out the window idly, before spotting a few familiar figures still on the training grounds.


    She stood in place to look at them, as the rest of the team noticed she¡¯d stopped and looked out with her.


    ¡°What¡¯re you looking at?¡± Harley asked.


    ¡°I think that¡¯s Team Instinct.¡± Julia replied, spotting the figures in the middle of physical training. Four of them looked to be in a sparring match, three against one, as the leader Donovan stood on the side lines, yelling commands at the others and dictating their strategy.


    ¡°They¡¯re still out?¡± Sola added, now climbing over Julia¡¯s head to see.


    ¡°They¡¯re obviously quite dedicated to training.¡± Wess pointed out. ¡°It would explain why the team left during their introduction.¡±


    Julia looked back down at Team Instinct, as the rest of Team Valiant started heading back to their dorm room.


    ¡°You coming, Julia?¡± Harley asked.


    ¡°I¡¯m gonna hang back, actually.¡± Julia admitted. ¡°I want to have a talk with Donovan. You guys wanna join me?¡±


    ¡°No thanks. That marketing class took it out of me.¡± Harley reasoned, as Wess and Sola both shook their heads.


    ¡°I must begin my own routine, which includes nightly running that I will need to start soon. I will examine their routine at another time.¡± Essex excused, waving goodbye to Julia. ¡°Dovono.¡±


    ¡°See you guys back at the dorm.¡± Julia waved back, as she headed down to the training grounds.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Come on Judy! Keep up the pace!¡± Donovan yelled. ¡°You¡¯re sinking behind Jordan!¡±


    ¡°Yes¡­Donovan!¡± Judy replied, pushing herself harder and managing to catch up with the rest of the team, as Julia approached and watched from the side lines, sidling up to Donovan¡¯s side. Each of the members seemed to be carrying weapons on their back, all fairly generic and clearly from the academy¡¯s Weapon Reserves, but adding just enough weight to make the run look excruciating.


    That reminds me, I gotta get a rifle before my Tracking and Hunting class. Julia remembered.


    Donovan took a minute before noticing her staring at their team. ¡°Can I help you?¡±


    Julia realised she hadn¡¯t said anything yet and jumped back a little. ¡°Oh, n-no, sorry. I just wanted to check out your team.¡±


    Donovan turned back and folded their arms, as the rest of Team Instinct took another lap.


    ¡°¡­s-sorry, but can I ask something?¡± Julia said, as Donovan sighed openly.


    ¡°Sure. What it is?¡±


    ¡°Why¡¯d you guys¡­leave during your intro?¡± Julia asked.


    Donovan faced their team again. ¡°We¡¯re here to become stronger, not socialise. People are gonna admire us for our accomplishments and strength. Rayjon! Your left leg¡¯s dragging!¡± Donovan yelled, as Rayjon fixed it up as soon as they said it. ¡°Venators need strength and courage above all else.¡±


    Julia thought about that sentiment. ¡°I guess I see your point. You could b-¡°


    ¡°Rayjon!!! Stop dragging!!!¡±


    ¡°¡­you could be a bit more social though. And maybe not yell at your team¡­¡± Julia suggested, before immediately regretting it, as Donovan stared her down.


    But, to Julia¡¯s surprise, Donovan sighed. ¡°They¡¯re here to get stronger too. If I¡¯m not firm, they¡¯ll fall under the pressure. The best I can do is encourage them when the job¡¯s well done.¡± Donovan said, as the team came back around and finally finished running, panting heavily. ¡°Great work today, everyone. This should be a standard for further Monday training.¡±


    ¡°Yes¡­Donovan¡­¡± They all panted, grabbing water bottles and towels to cool off.


    ¡°See?¡± Donovan replied, as Julia understood their point.


    ¡°You guys are really impressive.¡± Julia said. ¡°You¡¯re already acting like a real team.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re certainly putting in the hours for it¡­¡± Rudy chimed in.


    Donovan turned to her, glare fixated, as Rudy shut up and kept packing her bag.


    ¡°You can join us for our training programs.¡± Donovan asked. ¡°You could use a bit more muscle.¡±


    ¡°Oh, n-no thanks, I¡¯m not a¡­physical brawler.¡± Julia excused. ¡°I¡¯m fine with my guns and my Whil¡­¡±


    ¡°You have a Whil?¡± Asked Jordan, with the rest of the team now staring at her, as Julia suddenly became the centre of attention for the team.


    ¡°Yeah?¡± Julia said, as the team approached her excitedly.


    ¡°What does it do? Tell me!¡± Rudy asked.


    ¡°I can¡­speed up and slow down¡­velocity¡­¡±


    ¡°Whoa!¡± Rudy cheered, frantically turning to Donovan. ¡°Can we keep her?¡±


    ¡°Alright, back off.¡± Donovan declared, as the team went back to packing, still giggling to themselves. ¡°Sorry about them. I¡¯m the only one with a Whil in the team, so they seem to get overly excited about it.¡± Donovan took a breath and sat against the log seat beside the training grounds running track.


    ¡°You look really tired.¡± Julia said, joining them on the log.


    ¡°You probably missed it, but I was running with these guys earlier. I¡¯m totally buggered¡­¡± Donovan moped, lying against the log now.


    Julia nodded a little, as she watched Team Instinct talking amongst themselves, joking around and pumping each other up, wrapping their arms around each others necks playfully.


    ¡°How¡¯ve you found being a leader?¡± Julia said, as Donovan sat up.


    ¡°It¡¯s¡­a little difficult at first. Your first impulse is to act like you know what¡¯s best for the whole team, but when that doesn¡¯t work, you double down in the other direction and give them too much freedom. It¡¯s a balance.¡± Donovan reasoned. ¡°Are you a team leader too?¡±


    Julia smiled a little. ¡°Yeah. I¡¯m not¡­like you though. No offense.¡± Julia apologised, as Donovan waved it okay. ¡°At least with the commanding part.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s your relationship with your team like?¡± Donovan asked.


    ¡°We¡¯re pretty good friends already.¡± Julia explained. ¡°Wess is a little¡­but, she¡¯s getting there.¡± Julia lay against the log as well and looked back at the foliage behind them. ¡°I keep remembering those interviews with Team Spectrum where X-Ray would pal around with his team like they were best friends, then it¡¯d cut to them out on the field, where he¡¯s yelling commands and directing everyone around. I never felt great about the second part, and living it¡¯s even harder¡­¡±


    Julia sat back up. ¡°But everyone keeps doing their own thing, and I¡¯m not gonna force them to stop, but I also want us to be a team together. I just wish they¡¯d let me¡­¡±


    Donovan heard Julia out before laughing to themselves a little. ¡°It sounds like they don¡¯t need a leader right now.¡±


    Julia blinked. ¡°Huh?¡±


    ¡°My team wants to keep going forward, get stronger and always improve on yesterday¡¯s work, so they need a strong guiding voice for that.¡± Donovan said. ¡°Your team sounds more individual and personal than that. You¡¯re worried about hurting their feelings, but you¡¯re also giving them space to be themselves and letting them learn on their own. They need a bit of simple routine, not rigid structures.¡±


    Julia reflected on what Donovan was saying. ¡°I guess that¡¯s a good thing.¡±


    ¡°But don¡¯t be afraid to push them a little. You¡¯re still the leader, even if you don¡¯t need to be one.¡±


    Julia laughed a little. ¡°I get what you mean. If you want, I know two of my teammates that might want to join your training. Maybe three, if I could convince Wess¡­¡±


    ¡°Of course. As long as they¡¯re fine with being ordered around.¡± Donovan said.


    Julia looked a little embarrassed. ¡°¡­maybe not then.¡±


    Both of them laughed to themselves, as Julia got up and brushed herself off. ¡°I know we just met, but thanks for a surprisingly good talk.¡±


    ¡°Good luck with your team.¡± Donovan wished. ¡°You¡¯ll grow into it, I¡¯m sure.¡±


    Julia grinned back to them, before saying goodbye to the rest of the team and leaving for her dorm room.


    I¡¯m sure I¡¯m doing fine. Just cause I¡¯m not a walking charisma fountain like Joleicia or as strong willed as Donovan doesn¡¯t mean I¡¯m doing something wrong. I¡¯ll get to know them better, even if I only have to push the gas occasionally. Julia thought over, as she opened up the dorm door to see Harley and Sola on the couch, with Wess and Essex clearly off doing their own thing.


    ¡°Hey, Julia.¡± Harley called, as Sola waved too.


    ¡°Hi. You guys had dinner yet?¡± Julia asked.


    ¡°I did!¡± Sola announced, as Julia went to open the fridge. ¡°Also, we¡¯re out of cheese.¡±


    Julia made herself a quick sandwich and joined Harley and Sola by the seating area, as they watched some show on the TV about extreme sports.


    ¡°Hey, Sola told me what you did for her today.¡± Harley said, grinning to Julia. ¡°That was really awesome of you.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Julia said, as Harley and Sola both nodded. ¡°T-thanks¡­¡±


    ¡°We got a littl-whoa!¡± Harley cheered, as the athletes on screen collided in a violent display. ¡°Sorry, we got a little worried that you might¡¯ve felt bad from the intro today. But from what Sola told me, you handled it really well.¡±


    ¡°I even showed off my Whil to Harley when we got back!¡± Sola cheered. ¡°Also, we need a new toaster.¡±


    Julia now spotted the totally burnt toaster beside their feet and pieced together what might¡¯ve happened ¡°Huh.¡±


    ¡°So don¡¯t feel ba-what the?! Ref, ref!!! Call that!!!¡± Sola yelled at the screen, with Harley joining in, as Julia happily looked on at their display.


    She sat back and watched the show with them, enjoying the carnage of the athletes from the side lines, and was happy with where she was.

 Chapter 5: Mall-wart Journey

    Wess still wasn¡¯t used to waking up above another person. The slight vertigo of stirring awake a few metres in the air was already difficult, but feeling a person rustling underneath her getting out of the bottom bunk was just enough to give her the abrupt awakening of seven o¡¯clock. She turned her head back into the pillow and pretended not to be awake, at least for another hour. This was a Saturday, for goodness sake. She had earned the right to sleep in.


    ¡°Huh.¡± She heard Julia remark from the kitchen, as Wess tried to block her out as best she could. Wess heard the steady steps of Julia approach her bed, before stopping suddenly.


    ¡°Wess?¡± Julia asked.


    ¡°¡­yes?¡± Wess begrudgingly replied, her face still in the pillow.


    ¡°Sorry to wake you. Did the fridge have any food in it when you got back last night?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t remember.¡± Wess answered, now finished with the conversation.


    ¡°Well, it¡¯s running a bit low.¡± Julia said. Wess avoided replying, her head buried as far as it could go into the pillow. Julia didn¡¯t seem to pick up on the hint.


    ¡°And I was thinking¡­¡± Julia suggested. ¡°We could go and get some groceries at that mall down in the city centre.¡±


    ¡°We?¡± Wess felt inclined to ask.


    ¡°Well, you and me, and the rest of team, if they wanted to.¡± Julia explained.


    ¡°What¡¯s this about a trip?¡± Harley asked, just coming through the front door with her shoes in her hands.


    Oh gods¡­ Wess thought, disengaging as quick as she could.


    ¡°Were you out¡­¡± Julia asked, pointing to the shoes. ¡°¡­you know?¡±


    ¡°Oh yeah.¡± Harley grinned, sitting against the couch. ¡°Two times, actually.¡±


    ¡°¡­so anyway, I noticed we¡¯re nearly out of food, and I thought we could head to the mall as a team.¡± Julia repeated.


    ¡°Hell yeah!¡± Harley exclaimed. ¡°We desperately need some decorations for the room, especially some stuff for the balcony. It¡¯s way too display home for my tastes.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s this about a trip?¡± Sola asked, still rubbing her eyes from having just woken up. Wess started thrashing her legs against the bed, as Essex also entered from her room, currently in her exercise gear, ready to start her morning run.


    ¡°We¡¯re going on a trip to that mall in the city.¡± Julia said. ¡°We need groceries and Harley wants some balcony furniture.¡±


    ¡°Can I come too?¡± Sola excitedly asked. ¡°I really want a plant.¡±


    ¡°I have need of a new tablet charger.¡± Essex explained, showing her charger to be torn in half. ¡°This one was broken easily.¡±


    ¡°Alright, that¡¯s everyone! Let¡¯s get ourselves ready.¡± Julia exclaimed.


    ¡°Leave me here to exist in peace¡­¡± Wess bemoaned, trying to lie perfectly still without starting anymore conversations.


    ¡°Alriiight, team, it¡¯s time for the mall. We¡¯re gooona get, a really good haul.¡± Julia sang, pumping up everyone except Wess, still in her bed.


    ¡°My goodness, stop that incessant noise¡­¡± Wess complained.


    ¡°Come ooon, Wess, team exercise! Come ooon, Wess, it¡¯s time for team time!¡± Julia continued, slowly and excitedly approaching Wess¡¯s bed.


    ¡°For the sake of my sanity, cease your singing!¡± Wess cried, covering her ears.


    ¡°Sincerely.¡± Julia smirked. ¡°If you come along and hang out with the team.¡±


    Wess sighed to herself, before leaving her bed and death staring Julia.


    ¡°This trip will last no more than two hours. I want to rest after my first week of classes, not dawdle around a mall with nothing to do.¡± Wess reasoned.


    ¡°Two hours is fine. This shouldn¡¯t take long anyway.¡± Julia agreed.


    ¡°¡­thank you.¡± Wess sighed, grabbing her handbag and clothing. ¡°If you¡¯ll excuse me.¡±


    Quickly, she headed into the bathroom to change, as the rest of the team started chatting amongst themselves, before Wess rejoined them to head off to the academy train station.


    The train station was set up fairly close to the academy entrance, with train seats divided into three forward facing against three back facing seats to better accommodate teams sitting together. A few teams were already seated, passing the time together, as a message rang out from the train.


    ¡°Next stop: Detu Central. Five minutes to departure.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve never been on a train before.¡± Sola commented, as she tentatively stepped onto the vehicle with the rest of her team. ¡°It better not hurl me through a wall.¡±


    ¡°No worries.¡± Harley said, parking herself down by the window seat. ¡°If you want, I can hold my arm over you like a seatbelt.¡±


    Sola frantically nodded and sat next to her, as Harley stretched her arm across, with the rest of the team joining them soon after.


    ¡°How¡¯d you get to the academy if you didn¡¯t go by train?¡± Julia asked, sitting next to a displeased Wess and silent Essex.


    ¡°My parents drove me here, all the way from the Eastern Wayside.¡± Sola answered. ¡°Didn¡¯t yours?¡±


    Julia went to answer, but stopped herself, shying away from the question.


    ¡°Don¡¯t ask something like that, Sola. It¡¯s awfully rude.¡± Wess defended.


    ¡°No, it¡¯s fine.¡± Julia said, indicating she didn¡¯t need defending. ¡°My parents split up when I was young. Dad could have driven me, but he would¡¯ve missed a shift at work, so I came by train.¡±


    ¡°Oh, sorry.¡± Sola apologised. ¡°I didn¡¯t-¡°


    ¡°It¡¯s fine, Sola.¡± Julia sighed, before breaking into a smile. ¡°Let¡¯s focus on the trip.¡±


    ¡°Oka-aahh!¡± Sola shrieked, as the train started lurching forward to depart, with Harley¡¯s arm instinctively holding her back. Sola started breathing heavily.


    ¡°You¡¯re okay.¡± Harley said. ¡°Trains do that.¡±


    ¡°Often?!¡± Sola panicked, holding the arm rests and Harley¡¯s rested arm for stability, as Harley giggled to herself at Sola¡¯s cuteness.


    The train rose off the ground, slowly climbing up the connected rail into the air, nearly thirty metres high, before shooting off down the railing at unbelievable speeds. The ride lasted a mere five minutes, despite the city being a noticeably long way from the academy. It passed through the city¡¯s skyline, skyscrapers flashing by for the briefest of moments, as passengers nearly caught a glimpse into the occupant¡¯s lives. Occasionally, the train would pass above an intersection, revealing gorgeously lain out street side stores and wandering people, all lavish and professional in its construction.


    ¡°Whoa.¡± Harley said, staring out the window and being graced with a view so meticulous.


    Sola quickly followed, her face pressed against the glass, as she admired the passers by, having seemingly forgotten her previous panic.


    Julia giggled at the two of them, as Wess kept to herself, still frustrated that she was being dragged off for something so monotonous. Essex inspected her scythe, idly passing the time, as she was already familiar with the city from her initial arrival.


    ¡°Detu Central.¡± Rang the speaker. ¡°Stopping at Detu Central.¡±


    ¡°That was so quick.¡± Julia commented. ¡°And I barely felt it.¡±


    Wess refused to engage, as Sola was still staring out the window. ¡°I''ve never been to the city either.¡±


    Harley slung an arm around her. ¡°We need to get you out more. You¡¯ve been too cooped up in the academy.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m good.¡± Sola replied, worming her way out and taking her seat back.


    ¡°Looks like you got over your nerves, Sola.¡± Julia mentioned.


    Sola quickly realised and smiled. ¡°Oh yeah! Good on me-aaahhh!!!¡±


    The train sped down the end railing and pulled into the station, slowly crawling to a halt by the side of the mall, as Sola jumped for the exit as soon as she could, with the rest of the team following behind her.


    ¡°I don¡¯t wanna do that again! That was so stressful!¡± Sola cried, turning to her team for sympathy.


    ¡°We will need the train to get back to the academy.¡± Essex reminded her.


    ¡°Dammit!¡± Sola yelled, kicking into the air, then into a trash can by accident. ¡°Ow!¡±


    ¡°Sola, stop kicking things.¡± Julia complained, before realising they were already in front of the imposing mall, hanging over the entire team.


    A large arch graced the entrance, as several people waded in and out, carrying bags and groceries and all in somewhat of a hurry. The mall was dimly lit and seemed to go farther than the eye could see, with stores lining each wall, ranging from clothing and food, technology and home accessories, hobbies and all sorts, and even an entire store devoted to Venators.


    ¡°Hyper¡­Mall?¡± Wess read, squinting at the garish sign above the entrance.


    ¡°Everyone brought their wallets?¡± Julia asked.


    ¡°Yeah, but I don¡¯t think it¡¯ll be enough.¡± Harley said. ¡°We¡¯re feeding and decorating a whole room of five.¡±


    ¡°Then no unnecessary expenditure. Food and furniture are the main priority.¡± Julia clarified.


    ¡°How are we gonna carry our stuff? Especially the furniture.¡± Sola asked, her hand unnecessarily raised.


    Julia spun around dynamically, revealing her backpack, filled with pockets of other bags. ¡°No way was I moving to a dorm without grocery bags to spare. Plus, Harley can totally lift everything we need.¡±


    ¡°Consider it done.¡± Harley bragged, cracking her knuckles.


    ¡°Alright, who wants to do what?¡± Julia asked.


    ¡°I shall finish my task quickly. I will meet with you soon.¡± Essex said, already walking into the mall, leaving the team standing where they were.


    ¡°¡­okay then. How about Harley and Sola go get us furniture¡­¡±


    ¡°Yeah!¡± They both exclaimed, high-fiving each other.


    ¡°¡­and me and Wess can go get food.¡± Julia suggested, looking to Wess for approval.


    Wess avoided eye contact, but was still visibly listening. ¡°¡­if I must.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Wess.¡± Julia said kindly, passing off some bags to Harley and Sola. ¡°If you need anymore, just come find us.¡±


    Sola looked back at the building and started wobbling, as Harley took her shoulder. ¡°Relax, I downloaded a map of the mall before we left the academy.¡±


    ¡°Thanks...¡± Sola sighed, now a walking bundle of flippant nerves, as her and Harley headed to the sizeable furniture section of the already sizeable mall.


    ¡°Where do you want to go first, Wess?¡± Julia asked.


    ¡°¡­since I¡¯ve been so graciously dragged along, I will want some luxury items before leaving. While I understand we have a budget, I won¡¯t be stomaching cheap bargain foods and packeted starch.¡± Wess explained, still rubbing some sleep from her eye.


    ¡°Absolutely. Nutrients are important, but flavour¡¯s the heart of good food.¡± Julia pleasantly agreed.


    Wess felt a slight kinship. ¡°I appreciate the understanding.¡± Wess said. ¡°Shall we find somewhere worthwhile?¡±


    ¡°Lead the way.¡± Julia said, letting Wess take the lead into the labyrinth that was the HyperMall.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    It looked innocuous enough.


    No one noticed anything about it that seemed out of place, minus a couple scratch marks on the side, or the heavy breathing coming from within. Of course, the whole point was to remain undetected, but anyone paying attention to the truck wouldn¡¯t have noticed anything wrong.


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°Jules?¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°What? You keep tapping your foot against the dashboard.¡±


    Jules started signing to Rosalind, before Rosalind put her hands up to stop her.


    ¡°You know I can¡¯t understand that.¡± She said, as Jules huffed out in frustration. ¡°You¡¯re antsy, huh? What, you scared of the Wailing? Think it¡¯s gonna rip your face off?¡±


    Jules rolled her eyes and flipped her off.


    ¡°Alright, that translated.¡± Rosalind snickered. ¡°We¡¯ll take care of it once we get the signal. Sit tight, we¡¯ll be here a while.¡±


    Jules lay back against her seat and stared out the window, watching security guards go back and forth, patrolling the malls loading bay. Her best guess was a few more hours, if Wicker knew what he was doing.


    ¡°I¡¯m with ya, though.¡± Rosalind said, leaning back. ¡°I¡¯m bored as shit right now. I wanna cut something so bad¡­¡±


    Rosalind got an idea and pulled out her sword. ¡°Hey, try balancing this on your nose. Better yet, do it with your tongue, since you don¡¯t use your mouth anyway.¡±


    Jules started frantically waving her arms back and forth, clearly telling Rosalind ¡®no way,¡¯ as Rosalind sheathed her sword and scoffed.


    ¡°Pussy.¡± She moped, resuming her watch of the entrance. ¡°Gods, just hurry up already¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°This looks to be the place.¡± Wess said, standing outside of a fairly busy bottle shop near the malls centre. Patrons were coming and going, wine racks and beer cases were displayed outside, and plenty of friendly faces were ready to greet patrons inside.


    ¡°Interesting first stop¡­¡± Julia commented, heading inside along with Wess, grabbing a cart for them both, as she was immediately dazed by the numerous brands and bottles on display.


    ¡°Wess, I¡¯ll be honest. I don¡¯t know much about wine, so I might just let you take the reigns here.¡±


    Wess turned to her. ¡°Julia, nobody knows about wine.¡± Wess admitted. ¡°All anyone really needs is a good red to pair with dinner, and the rest sorts itself.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Julia said, as Wess started scanning through the lengthy aisles of wine bottles on display.


    ¡°Which flavours do you prefer? Fruity or tannin?¡± Wess asked, her attention on the racks.


    ¡°Uhh, fruity, I guess. I¡¯m not even sure what tannin is...¡± Julia said, as Wess pulled a bottle off the shelf and handed it to her.


    ¡°A 5012 Welland Zinfandel. Truth be told, I am shocked with how high-quality Welland wine is, but I assure you, this is worth the higher price. Remind me to get some well-aged cheddar to go with it...¡± Wess explained, mumbling more information to herself.


    Julia grinned excitedly. ¡°Confident choice.¡± Julia remarked, looking over the bottle. ¡°But, while this is fun, is this really top priority for our trip?¡±


    Wess looked to Julia dismissively. ¡°I shan¡¯t be setting foot in that room again without a proper storage of wine. I¡¯ve been coping poorly without it for the last week, but now I want to indulge myself.¡± Wess explained, grabbing a bottle from the rack. ¡°And I promise that I will pay for this part with my own money. We¡¯ll have plenty left over for proper ingredients.¡±


    ¡°Alright, but we¡¯re getting some bottles for the whole team, not just you and me.¡± Julia reasoned.


    ¡°Of course, of course.¡± Wess assured, scanning the bottles label. ¡°A 4997 Mareau Cabernet. Oh, I¡¯ve missed these flavours. This is culture at its finest¡­¡±


    ¡°And it¡¯s marked down.¡± Julia noticed, looking over the prices. ¡°We can totally get some.¡±


    Wess squeed in delight, dropping two bottles in the cart with bravado, before dashing down the aisle to find any good white wines to add to their collection.


    Julia looked on, as Wess happily mumbled to herself, comparing bottles to each other, even calling a clerk over to ask their opinion. She truly looked to be in her element.


    ¡°I¡¯m glad she¡¯s enjoying herself¡­¡± Julia said to herself, before joining back up with Wess¡¯ Chardonnay crusade.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Whoa¡­¡±


    ¡°Yeah¡­¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s¡­¡±


    ¡°So big¡­¡±


    ¡°And spacious¡­¡±


    ¡°Like the boobs on a model¡­¡±


    Harley cracked up at Sola¡¯s joke. Sola smiled at Harley¡¯s joy and inspected the store¡¯s exterior.


    ¡°The¡­J Shop. Looks kinda cheap.¡± Sola said, noticing the stores prominent size and bargains. ¡°What¡¯s our budget on furniture?¡±


    ¡°Well¡­oh boy¡­not a lot.¡± Harley wheezed, just recovering from her laughing fit. ¡°I¡¯ve only got a hundred and fifty caps on me.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve got a hundred.¡± Sola said, pulling out her wallet to check. ¡°But I think I spent four on that drink earlier¡­¡±


    ¡°What dri¡­?¡± Harley asked, before now noticing the bottle in Sola¡¯s hand. ¡°¡­huh.¡±


    ¡°Ninety six caps.¡± Sola said, counting on her fingers. ¡°That¡¯s two forty six all together.¡±


    ¡°Alright then. Let¡¯s go shopping!¡± Harley cheered, charging into the store with a caught off guard Sola in tow.


    The store was as huge as it felt. Aisles and aisles of clothes, homewares, bathroom accessories, birthday cards? It had it all, and whether that was a good thing or not was up for debate. It felt like most of the mall was leading up to this place, and the amount of people shopping there was evidence enough to that.


    ¡°You ever been to a store like this?¡± Harley asked, nervously observing her surroundings.


    ¡°Nuh uh.¡± Sola admitted, somewhat disoriented by the wide-open space. ¡°Where do we start?


    Harley scanned around and noticed a section with ¡®Homewares¡¯ written above it, pointing Sola in its direction. They headed off, trying to follow any clear path toward where it might be. In just a few minutes, they both seemed to be getting lost amongst the copious amounts of clothes racks and cookware, as Harley somehow ended up near the bike racks holding a dog bed and pressure cooker.


    ¡°What the¡­?¡± She said, as she heard a distant yell to her right.


    ¡°Help!¡± Sola cried, stuck in the middle of one of the many toy aisles. ¡°I don¡¯t know how I got here!¡±


    Harley jumped in and pulled Sola out, as they finally made a speedy egress to the homewares section, both of them panting heavily.


    ¡°The stores¡­tryna kill us.¡± Harley panted, hands on her knees.


    ¡°Why¡­aren¡¯t there any¡­Venators to help us? We¡­could¡¯ve died.¡± Sola coughed, her body huddled on the ground in exhaustion.


    ¡°We¡¯re¡­here at least.¡± Harley said, looking around the decently packed homewares section of the store. Basic furniture and decorations were displayed, with plenty of chairs, tables, fisht-


    ¡°Fishtanks!¡± Sola yelled, running over to the tanks on display. ¡°We can get one for Wess!¡±


    Harley cocked her head. ¡°Wait, does Wess have a fish?¡±


    Sola scratched hers. ¡°I¡¯m pretty sure. I remember her saying fish at some point.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t remember seeing a fish though.¡± Harley recalled, as Sola waved her off.


    ¡°Nobody remembers fish cause they¡¯re always in the background. If it was there, then we probably didn¡¯t register it.¡± Sola explained.


    ¡°That¡¯s a good point¡­but she would¡¯ve told us, right?¡± Harley asked, leaving both of them puzzled. ¡°So, she must¡¯ve at some point?¡±


    ¡°We should get it.¡± Sola said. ¡°It¡¯d be rude if we didn¡¯t get her anything for it.¡±


    ¡°Right, yeah, and if not, now she¡¯s got a glass box for¡­¡± Harley started, before realising she didn¡¯t have an end to her sentence. ¡°How much is it?¡±


    Sola read the tag. ¡°Sixty fi¡­ooh. That¡¯s tons.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s hope her fish really likes it.¡± Harley wished.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Essex realised a very quick and effective truth once she¡¯d made her way into the mall.


    She didn¡¯t know where tablet chargers were sold, and even if she did, she didn¡¯t know which type would work for her tablet. She could have looked up the map to the mall, but as expected, her tablet didn¡¯t have any charge, and her teammates tablets were on them, and too far away as a result.


    ¡°This was a lapse in judgement.¡± She remarked, now in the middle of the HyperMall, her scythe on her back, surrounded by consumers wandering this way and that. She managed her way through the crowd, struggling to reach a nearby bench and take a breath, before assessing her situation.


    ¡°There would be an electronics store somewhere nearby to accommodate this many people¡­¡± She rationalised, before spotting a large gathering of people outside what looked to be a store, all huddled around a few notable bodies.


    Her curiosity peeked, Essex made her way over to see whether the fanfare could lead her to her destination. The crowd seemed restless, almost grateful in a way, as the figures in question came into view.


    ¡°May I please welcome¡­Team Vivisect, everyone!¡± Cheered a boisterous man with a microphone, pointing to a group of three, dressed in fairly stylish clothes. ¡°Defenders of the Western Wayside! Slayers of the Waygone Wailing! They slice, dice, and don¡¯t play nice! Come one and all!¡±


    ¡°Woooo!!! Dicer, I love you!!!¡± Cried a member of the crowd, followed by a cheer from the whole crowd, as they fawned over the heroic figures presented before them. Getting a better look, Essex noticed they were outside the Venator memorabilia store, with what looked to be the owner announcing their presence.


    A waste of time. Essex decided, leaving the crowd to continue her task, before the announcer pulled her over for an aside.


    ¡°Hey, you don¡¯t happen to be a Venator, do you?¡± The man asked.


    ¡°Yes. I am studying at the Venator Academy. How did you know this?¡±


    The man blinked. ¡°The giant scythe on your back.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± Essex said.


    ¡°Listen, my sparring guy pulled something the other day and I reeeeally need someone to fight with Team Vivisect for the closer. I¡¯m willing to pay you handsomely.¡±


    ¡°Handsomely?¡± Essex questioned.


    ¡°They won¡¯t go hard on you, just a couple swings here and there! Come on, you¡¯d be doing me a great favour!¡± He asked again, looking noticeably desperate.


    Were the others not concerned with finances earlier? Essex remembered, making her decision.


    ¡°I will aid you.¡± Essex said, as the man cheered to himself.


    ¡°Thank you, thank you! This is gonna be so good! Alright, in about ten minutes, Team Vivisect will head to the back room to change, then I¡¯ll call them out to the makeshift stage, yada yada yada, you get it! Actually, head to the back room too. I want you to be a grand reveal to the crowd!¡± He declared, standing dynamically.


    ¡°Understood. Dovono.¡± Essex answered, bowing politely and slipping through the crowd, behind Team Vivisect, and into the store.


    Essex didn¡¯t know for sure, but she had a feeling Julia would¡¯ve loved this place. Posters, biographies, mock weapons, figurines, all of prominent Venators throughout history, painting a tapestry of culture condensed into merchandise, all on display for some shockingly high prices. Essex inspected a few of the crude figurines, recognising members from Team Buster, Team Avalanche, even the rarely seen Team Whisper, all rendered in a simplistic, toy-like model to be displayed.


    Royal Road is the home of this novel. Visit there to read the original and support the author.


    ¡°This craftsmanship is lacking.¡± She noticed, running a finger against the toy, before putting it down, heading into the back room, and taking a seat. She listened to the crowd outside, cheering like their lives depended on it.


    ¡°Is this the duty of a professional Venator¡­?¡± Essex wondered, taking off her scythe and lying against her seat, as she rested her head to the side in contemplation. ¡°Would that be asked of me?¡±


    She closed her eyes and rested. ¡°I would think not.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Jules¡¯ estimate was right. One hour had turned to three, and now Rosalind was tapping her foot against the dashboard loudly, impatiently waiting. Jules noticed the irony, but decided not to point it out.


    Just then, Rosalind¡¯s tablet buzzed in her hand.


    ¡°Finally¡­¡± Rosalind groaned, kicking the side door of the truck open. ¡°Let¡¯s get this bitch out already.¡±


    Jules nodded back to her, before they both pulled down their masks, hiding their faces, and headed to the back of the truck.


    ¡°You make sure it¡¯s still in there. I¡¯ll take care of the guard.¡± Rosalind said, pointing to the guard patrolling the mall loading bay.


    Jules looked visibly panicked, as Rosalind sighed in anger.


    ¡°Well, I¡¯m not gonna do it! Just¡­tempt it out somehow. Give it something to eat.¡±


    Jules gave Rosalind a knowing look and displayed empty hands.


    ¡°I meant use yourself, moron. Hurry up.¡±


    With that, Rosalind ran straight to the guard, her actions too fast for him to react to, as he was pinned to the ground with Rosalind¡¯s sword pressed against his neck, a clean line of red running down its side.


    ¡°Don¡¯t scream or I¡¯ll finish the job.¡± Rosalind threatened, turning back to make sure Jules was holding up her end.


    Jules was just about to open the back, before noticing a few new claw marks by the bottom of the truck¡¯s backdoor, and rightfully hesitating. Eventually, she mustered up the courage and lifted the back, shedding fresh light onto the inside, but only finding an empty container with a few gnashed bones and bloodstains against the walls. Rosalind realised the problem, as Jules turned to her with a deep fear.


    ¡°Oh gods¡­¡± Rosalind let out.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Oh gods¡­¡± Wess sighed, looking over the supermarket brand cheddar. ¡°Is this really the best we can get?¡±


    ¡°Dairy production¡¯s been hit hard by the conflict. Wailing find cows and goats very appealing for some reason.¡± Julia explained. ¡°Sorry, but that¡¯s the best of it.¡±


    ¡°¡­I suppose it will have to do.¡± Wess agreed, putting it in her basket and continuing down the aisle with Julia. ¡°I wish we could¡¯ve tried some Southern Wayside cheese while I was here¡­¡±


    ¡°I know¡­it¡¯s bitter, but still palatable, and the bread they sell with it¡­¡± Julia gushed.


    ¡°Now, come on, Julia. Don¡¯t tempt me.¡± Wess playfully whined. ¡°You know we have a strict budget.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I know.¡± Julia said with cheeky smile.


    While looking through the preserved foods, Wess found herself smiling, very much despite herself. ¡°I¡¯ll be honest, Julia. I¡¯m enjoying myself far more than I thought I would.¡± Wess admitted. ¡°I didn¡¯t know I would like shopping this much.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s good to hear.¡± Julia beamed, as a little reminder beeped on her watch. ¡°Oh, and the two-hour mark¡¯s about to come up, so we can start heading back soon.¡±


    ¡°Yes, of course.¡± Wess said, before thinking about it and hiding behind her hair. ¡°¡­but we should make sure we get the best prices, though. These places do tend to upsell.¡±


    Julia playfully grinned. ¡°Whatever you say. I¡¯m glad you could join us for a team outing. It would¡¯ve felt wrong to leave you out.¡±


    ¡°Yes, I¡­suppose so.¡± Wess said, clearing her throat. ¡°Wrong indeed.¡±


    ¡°Did you shop much back home?¡± Julia wondered.


    Wess¡¯ joyous expression slowly turned, as she recalled her home life. ¡°I¡­tried to, but my parents rarely let me indulge in ¡®servant¡¯ activities. They mostly let Graham and the others handle the groceries when he wasn¡¯t minding me.¡±


    ¡°You couldn¡¯t even tag along?¡± Julia asked in disbelief.


    ¡°I had duties to attend to. Usually social functions set up by my parents.¡± Wess clarified, her mood slightly soured. ¡°I swear, it only ever felt like distractions¡­¡±


    Julia concernedly looked to her, as Wess noticed the mindset she¡¯d crept into and attempted to regain some composure. ¡°Apologies. There¡¯s no need to talk about family life.¡±


    ¡°Bottling up these issues isn¡¯t gonna help.¡± Julia said. ¡°If you ever need to talk about something, just let me know.¡±


    Wess looked displeased. ¡°Please, Julia. I¡¯m the last person who needs any pity from you.¡±


    ¡°Pity?¡± Julia asked, confused.


    ¡°I¡¯m a perfectly competent adult who can deal with her own issues. I don¡¯t need you looking down on me like I¡¯m the black sheep of the team in need of coddling.¡±


    Julia couldn¡¯t reply, as the olive branch she¡¯d extended had been batted away with such spite.


    ¡°The team can help you with your problems.¡± Julia reasoned. ¡°If you let them, that is.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re sounding a bit like Faller.¡± Wess pointed out. ¡°It¡¯s not like you¡¯re talking to the team about your parents. Just this morning, you stopped Sola the moment they were mentioned.¡±


    Julia didn¡¯t have a rebuttal, but tried to hold firm.


    ¡°And what help do I need from you? Why can¡¯t you just focus on class work, or yourself for that matter? I needn¡¯t always be your priority.¡± Wess criticised.


    Julia stood her ground. ¡°Our team is the most important part of my life right now. I wouldn¡¯t hesitate to help any of my teammates, and that¡¯s supposed to include you.¡±


    ¡°But I didn¡¯t want it to, now did I?!¡± Wess yelled, before realising the other customers were looking at them arguing, and returning to her dignified demeanour. Wess went back to looking through the aisle shelves, picking up a can or two, as Julia turned her attention back to the cart, trying not to start anything again.


    ¡°Would you risk your life for the team?¡± Wess asked, still scanning the aisle with her full attention.


    ¡°Of course I would.¡± Julia answered, facing her with unwavering conviction.


    Wess looked over to her with resignation, before placing the can in the cart and continuing down the aisle.


    ¡°It must be interesting to live like you.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Sola?¡±


    ¡°Uh huh?¡±


    ¡°Where are you?¡±


    Unbeknownst to Harley, Sola was standing nearby, right behind a giant ficus, completely obscuring her from vision.


    ¡°I got the biggest one they had!¡± Sola exclaimed, popping out from behind the plant.


    Harley inspected it, giving it a keen once over. ¡°An audrey ficus? Really?¡±


    Sola looked at the tag and did a double take. ¡°That¡¯s what the label says!¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t grow up on a farm an-¡° Harley said, before Sola shoved another plant in her face.


    ¡°Do this one!¡± Sola said, excitedly shaking.


    ¡°Well, this is a ficus too, but it¡¯s part of the cyathisti-¡° Harley explained, before Sola added more plants onto her pile. ¡°Sola! That¡¯s enough plants!¡±


    Sola held the next plant in place, before putting it back down. ¡°Sorry.¡±


    Harley smiled and patted her head affectionately. ¡°That¡¯s okay. I¡¯m pretty forgiving.¡±


    Sola stared at her in genuine amazement. ¡°Wow.¡± Sola let out. ¡°How do you do it?¡±


    ¡°Do what?¡± Harley asked.


    ¡°Everything so well.¡± Sola said, causing Harley to blush profusely. ¡°I wanna do that.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t need to be like me.¡± Harley smiled. ¡°Just own being you. If we¡¯re gonna be on a team together, I don¡¯t want you looking at me like I¡¯m some perfect superhero. I¡¯m Harley, your friend, teammate, and a person.¡±


    Sola beamed at Harley¡¯s sentiment. ¡°You¡¯re just so cool, and awesome, and we¡¯re on a team together, so it¡¯s almost too good to be true, and also you¡¯re smart and pretty, and beefy as all hell.¡±


    ¡°Okay, okay, I¡¯m not thaaat great.¡± Harley remarked.


    ¡°Can we be friends forever?¡±


    ¡°Of course!¡± Harley said, grabbing Sola into a friendly noogie. ¡°As long as you don¡¯t make me use my botany powers for evil.¡±


    ¡°You can do that?¡± Sola asked, cracking Harley up again.


    ¡°Alright, lets meet up with the others.¡± Harley said, gathering their supplies, mostly the fish tank, into their cart and lifting a couple chairs onto her back. ¡°I want to decorate our new balcony!¡±


    ¡°If we make it out of here alive¡­¡± Sola worried, recalling the nightmare that was travelling through the J Store. ¡°I don¡¯t want to get lost again.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ll help you out.¡± Harley said, grabbing Sola¡¯s hand reassuringly and guiding her on their journey together.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    The lights were too bright to take in. Its eyes had yet to adapt after being trapped in darkness for who knows how long. Its legs stung from misuse and its hunger felt unending. A creature of such large mass needed more than what those humans provided, and fortunately, a large collection of said humans were gathered in one place. No one could do anything, as it crawled through the warehouse, devouring everyone it saw left and right, knocking over anything that got in its way, out of frustration and pain. The humans knew what they¡¯d done to it, what they¡¯d stolen.


    It was vengeful now.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Essex had been counting to herself as she waited, and quickly realised that the ten-minute deadline had been ten minutes ago.


    ¡°Is this common for professionals?¡± She dryly commented, as the door to the back room opened up, revealing a few friendly faces.


    ¡°¡­ut you saw how excited he was. How could I say n¡­oh, I¡¯m sorry. I thought the room was empty.¡± Said the first man coming in.


    ¡°There is room.¡± Essex said, standing up. ¡°Are you Team Vivisect?¡±


    ¡°Ah, I see our reputation preceeds us.¡± He exclaimed, as the second member of the team made her way in too.


    ¡°Give it a rest, Mike. You¡¯ve been kissing ass all day.¡± She said, sitting across from Essex. ¡°You helping the owner out?¡±


    ¡°I am here to spar with you later.¡± Essex explained. ¡°I am staying here until I am required.¡±


    ¡°Great! You don¡¯t mind if we change, right?¡± The man said.


    ¡°Mike, she¡¯s clearly a Venator. She¡¯s used to changing with others.¡± Said the woman. ¡°I¡¯m Vanessa, by the way.¡±


    ¡°Calias.¡± Essex greeted, bowing in her seat.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you mean ¡®Decapitator?¡¯¡± Said the third member, now coming in.


    ¡°Don¡¯t start! Rusty¡¯s already on my nerves, and I don¡¯t want to add you to my hit list.¡± Vanessa remarked, playfully batting his arm.


    Essex was visibly confused, as the three members filed in, all with changes of clothes on hand. Vanessa took notice and stuck her hand out to Essex, who shook adamantly.


    ¡°I¡¯m guessing you¡¯re still a student, huh?¡± She said. ¡°This is probably pretty jarring.¡±


    ¡°Somewhat.¡± Essex admitted. ¡°So, your title is Vanessa?¡±


    ¡°Yep, though our manager Rusty keeps trying to push ¡®Decapitator¡¯ onto me.¡± Vanessa explained.


    ¡°Come on, it¡¯s good branding for the team. Helps people differentiate us.¡± The leader said. ¡°I¡¯m Mike, or ¡®Jumpcut¡¯ if you feel inclined.¡±


    ¡°Dicer.¡± Said the third member. ¡°Man, that sounds dumb. Call me Andy, please.¡±


    Essex looked them over. ¡°Why are there not two more members of your team?¡±


    ¡°There are, but they¡¯re dealing with a pest problem down south. We¡¯re on a PR tour of Central Point right now.¡± Mike explained. ¡°Thus, the new nicknames.¡±


    The team started changing out of their more stylish clothes into their professional Venator gear, as Essex took stock of everything they were saying.


    ¡°Why do you need to do PR?¡± Essex asked.


    ¡°So people know we exist.¡± Vanessa explained. ¡°We can¡¯t be Venators if the public don¡¯t know about us. Plus, we wouldn¡¯t get any grants, job offers, government work¡­and Activ helps, but it¡¯s not enough for a whole team.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s necessary stuff.¡± Andy said. ¡°There¡¯s lots of teams out in the industry. You saw the store¡¯s stock. I can¡¯t even name half the teams on display!¡±


    ¡°Wendy could though.¡± Vanessa joked, as the other two laughed to themselves. ¡°It¡¯s a tough market for Venators. We won¡¯t get handed work just for existing. What year are you, by the way?¡±


    ¡°First year at the Venator Academy.¡± Essex explained, getting a resounding reaction of expectance from the team.


    ¡°Yeah, that tracks.¡± Vanessa said. ¡°Credit though, the suit does make you look older. Trust me, final year will be way more of this stuff. Get use to brown nosing.¡±


    ¡°Vanessa, please.¡± Mike said, adjusting his gauntlets as he spoke. ¡°We¡¯re greeting the public. They wanna thank us for the hard work we put in.¡±


    ¡°Some more than others.¡± Andy remarked, getting a laugh out of Vanessa and shock from Mike.


    ¡°You two, I swear¡­¡± Mike said, chuckling, despite himself.


    They act casual, despite their professional status. Essex noticed. Just how effective would they be¡­


    ¡°Hey! You guys ready yet? The crowd¡¯s a little restless.¡± The store owner asked, popping his head in.


    ¡°Yeah, yeah, we¡¯re good. Tell ¡®em we¡¯ll be out right away.¡± Vanessa said, getting a thumbs up from the owner.


    She turned to Essex with a smile of pride. ¡°You ready to put on a show?¡±


    Essex took a moment to process. ¡°If that is required.¡±


    ¡°Good on ya.¡± She said, jabbing Essex¡¯s arm, leaving through the door with her teammates.


    Essex grabbed her scythe and stepped out after them, being greeted by the crowd from earlier, now cheering for her as well.


    ¡°Now, as a little demonstration for all you lovely people, Jumpcut and his wonderful sparring partner will take to the stage and duke it out! A clash of blades, and a crash of fates!¡± The owner cried, as the crowd parted for the team, revealing a makeshift stage in front of the store.


    Mike saluted to Essex, and using his Whil, teleported to his side of the stage, getting an uproarious cheer from the masses. Essex headed to her side, her hand against her scythe as she walked by the onlookers, making her way to the other end.


    ¡°This is it, folks! Newcomer verse trailblazer!¡± The owner announced. ¡°Who¡¯ll come out on top? Who here will seize the day?¡±


    ¡°Hey, no need to go easy on me.¡± Mike said to Essex.


    ¡°Understood.¡± Essex replied, readying herself into a fighting stance.


    ¡°Ready¡­¡±


    Mike smashed his gauntlets together, as blades swung out every which way.


    ¡°And¡­¡±


    The crowd watched on with baited breath, as Essex started counting to herself.


    ¡°G-¡°


    In a brief moment of lowered guard, a loud crash came from down the mall, reverberating throughout the walkway and through the crowd, as everyone stopped what they were doing in an instant. Mike broke his formation to inspect the crowd, as Essex took note and joined him.


    The crashing continued, the sound noticeably faint, but still heavy enough to leave onlookers unsettled, as anyone tried to make sense of what it could be. Customers started running down the halls away from the sound, panicked and rushing to the exits, dropping their bags and falling over themselves.


    ¡°Something¡¯s wrong.¡± Mike mumbled, jumping down from the stage. ¡°Stay here with Vanessa and Andy and keep the crowd safe. I¡¯ll inspect what¡¯s going on.¡± He said, as he teleported ahead of the runners, leaving Essex with the rest of Team Vivisect.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Wait.¡±


    Julia turned on her heel. ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°¡­sorry, I thought I¡¯d dropped something.¡± Wess corrected, going back to pushing their cart out of the store.


    ¡°I¡¯m glad it wasn¡¯t too expensive by the time we got to checkout.¡± Julia said, trying some small talk.


    ¡°Did you decide on a meeting place?¡± Wess asked, clearly not engaging.


    Julia stopped and groaned. ¡°I guess I didn¡¯t¡­¡±


    ¡°Oh great¡­¡± Wess sighed. ¡°Well, I¡¯m not pushing this thing around the entire mall looking for them.¡±


    Julia side glanced her, unimpressed, before noticing people running down the mall¡¯s corridors in a panic, all heading to the main exit.


    ¡°Wha-¡° She asked, before a crashing sound shook through the mall violently, sending a chill through both their spines.


    ¡°W-what was that?¡± Wess worried, looking around for any sign of danger.


    ¡°Clear out! Clear out right now! A Wailing¡¯s attacking the Southeast wing of the mall! Everyone evacuate!¡± Yelled Mike as Jumpcut, teleporting back and forth to lead citizens to the exit. ¡°The Venators will deal with it, just protect yourselves!¡±


    ¡°A Wailing?! In the city?!¡± Julia exclaimed, as she turned to see Wess booking it with the others, cart in tow.


    ¡°Come on! We¡¯re taking these to the entrance!¡± She yelled, as Julia bolted over to join her.


    ¡°This is crazy¡­this is crazy, right? Wailing can¡¯t get into the city. I mean, they¡¯ve never gotten in before¡­¡± Julia tried to rationalise. ¡°Why¡¯s it here¡­¡±


    ¡°Julia!¡± Wess yelled. ¡°We¡¯re meeting with the others by the entrance and letting the Venators handle this.¡± Wess reasoned, grabbing Julia¡¯s arm. ¡°Come on already!¡±


    A few passers by hurried past, clearly carrying less than Wess and Julia, as Jumpcut teleported back and forth with the same warning to the public.


    ¡°Come on, let¡¯s get out of here!¡± One of the crowd members yelled.


    ¡°Did you get a good look at it? I heard it was near the furniture stores!¡± Another added.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay, those two girls were holding it off! That¡¯ll buy us some time!¡± A third yelled, as Julia stopped dead in her tracks.


    ¡°Julia, what a-¡° Wess started, before realising Julia was booking it in the other direction, clearly toward the Wailing. ¡°Julia!¡±


    Wess ran up to her, abandoning the cart, and grabbed her shoulder. ¡°Don¡¯t run toward danger!¡±


    ¡°Those guys mentioned some girls were holding the Wailing off! Who do you think that could be?¡± Julia yelled, thrusting her hand off.


    ¡°Julia, we¡¯re leaving, in case you didn¡¯t hear the Venators warning.¡± Wess argued.


    ¡°We can¡¯t. The others might be in trouble.¡± Julia stated. ¡°We can¡¯t leave them here.¡±


    ¡°The Venator told us to leave, so it¡¯s safe to assume he was able to warn the others as well.¡± Wess reasoned. ¡°I¡¯m not going to take any chances.¡±


    ¡°But they might be with the Wailing! It could have them pinned down and hurt for all we know!¡± Julia yelled. ¡°We don¡¯t know where they are, and this kinda situation is too unpredictable.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a Wailing, Julia!¡±


    ¡°They¡¯re our teammates, Wess!¡±


    ¡°And that¡¯s my problem?!¡± Wess yelled back. ¡°I can barely fight, let alone defend! We go in there as unprepared as we are, without our weapons, without Whils, and we¡¯re dead! You know as well as I do that we¡¯re nowhere near qualified enough to be taking on a Wailing!¡±


    ¡°And you know that they¡¯d jump at that Wailing without hesitation to protect the public! Because that¡¯s what we should do!¡±


    Julia picked up the pace again and started heading to the source of the crashing.


    ¡°What are you hoping to accomplish?¡± Wess shouted. ¡°They aren¡¯t there, Julia!¡±


    ¡°But they might be!¡± Julia yelled. ¡°And that¡¯s worth the risk!¡±


    Julia took her leave, following the sound of the destructive Wailing, as Wess headed back to her groceries and gripped the cart with both her hands, needing something to support herself on, or maybe something to take out her frustration on.


    She looked to the people running riot through the mall, all scared for their lives, the security guards guiding people to safety with what they had, and the cart full of groceries she¡¯d spent all day buying, instead of sleeping in her bed and letting the day go by the wayside.


    She was ready to run away.


    Again.


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Alright, everyone, we just got word from Jumpcut. Apparently, a Wailing has been spotted by the Southeast wing of the mall.¡± Vanessa explained, as a collective panicked murmuring rang out from the crowd. Essex stood next to Team Vivisect as they addressed the group from the stage.


    ¡°How''d a Wailing get into the city?¡± Called out a crowd member in disbelief.


    ¡°I understand how strange this must be, but we need to act with caution and safety in mind. Dicer, Essex and I will escort you to the exit. Take whatever you need with you.¡±


    The crowd escaped amongst themselves, as Jumpcut teleported back to address Vanessa, Andy and Essex. ¡°Alright, I¡¯ve warned everyone I can, and I¡¯ll double check in a bit. I trust that you two can help herd the crowd out.¡±


    ¡°On it.¡± Replied Vanessa and Andy, jumping down to start moving the crowd to the mall entrance.


    ¡°Essex, you follow what they¡¯re doing. I¡¯d tell you it¡¯s Venator training, but remember your personal safety. You¡¯re not a Venator yet, so don¡¯t feel that you need to risk your own life.¡± Mike explained, resting a hand on her shoulder.


    ¡°Understood.¡± Essex said, jumping down to escort the crowd of onlookers.


    ¡°We didn¡¯t even get to see the sparring match¡­¡± Someone from the crowd said.


    ¡°And now a Wailing¡¯s tearing up the mall?¡± Someone groaned. ¡°Who could live like this?"


    ¡°Weren¡¯t we gonna go to the J Store later?¡± A crowd member mentioned to another, slightly disappointed. ¡°Man, this really sucks. I save up all this money to redecorate the balcony, and now a Wailing¡¯s tearing through the store.¡±


    Essex took notice of the crowds chatter and stopped.


    Balcony? Essex heard. Wasn¡¯t Harley getting¡­


    As she thought to herself, the realisation hit Essex in an instant, trapping her in place with shock.


    ¡°Harley and Sola¡­¡± She mumbled, before she broke formation and dashed for the J Store at top speed, ready to save her teammates.


    ¡°Hey! Hold it!¡± Yelled Jumpcut, teleporting in front of her, stopping her in her tracks. ¡°Stay in formation, Essex!¡±


    ¡°Move aside.¡± Essex declared, her hand on her scythe. ¡°My teammates will be killed, and I will not let that happen.¡±


    ¡°And we¡¯re the professionals.¡± Jumpcut argued. ¡°Our first priority is the safety of the public, especially those that can¡¯t fend for themselves. If you¡¯re friends are there, then I¡¯m sorry, but they have to wait.¡±


    Essex growled in protest, as Jumpcut held his ground. ¡°We can¡¯t waste time rescuing a few when hundreds need us to help. That¡¯s the job.¡±


    Essex gripped her scythe and dashed past him toward the Wailing, as he tried to reach out and get her.


    ¡°Shit.¡± He murmured, turning back to his team. ¡°Get them to the entrance, then meet up with me! I¡¯m going after her!¡±


    Jumpcut followed Essex in her sprint, trying to teleport closer, as she ran off toward her team, ready to defend.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Hyaaah!!!¡±


    With a well-placed punch, the Wailing was thrown into another aisle, sliding about a metre afterwards, as Harley stepped back and rested her fist.


    ¡°C-come on! Move it!¡± Sola nervously yelled, escorting the other J Store customers past the disoriented Wailing and out of the store, trying not to freeze in place from fear. As the last few people passed by, Sola joined back up with Harley.


    ¡°Keep it up! Kill it with more punches!¡±


    ¡°Sola, I love your faith in me, but there¡¯s no way I can kill it on my own.¡± Harley panted, readying herself for when the Wailing regained its footing.


    It picked itself back up, its large, curved back lurching upwards, as it charged toward her, bounding with its powerful legs, directing all its forward momentum into Harley.


    ¡°Aagggh!!!¡±


    Harley grunted, as it launched her into another set of aisles, smashing them to pieces around her, as the Wailing backed away from recoil.


    ¡°Harley!¡± Sola cried, running up to her. ¡°Don¡¯t be hurt!¡±


    ¡°Kinda¡­hard to¡­manage that¡­¡± Harley coughed, as the Wailing, still recovering, started creeping into view, dragging its front claws over the rubble on the store floor as it walked, its form wolf-like and sharp.


    ¡°They¡­got out¡­right?¡± Harley asked, trying to stand up.


    ¡°Yeah, they¡¯re okay.¡± Sola assured her, pointing to the last couple customers running down the corridor and out of the store.


    ¡°Then¡­we did a good job.¡± Harley smiled proudly. ¡°Lets¡­¡± In an instant, Harley¡¯s legs gave out again, sending her straight to the floor.


    Sola did her best to raise her up, but could hardly manage picking up someone as muscular as Harley. In a moment of sudden protective instinct and base fear as the Wailing inched closer, Sola began to raise her hand, as small cracks of electricity started sparking against her fingertips, pointed toward the encroaching beast, before Harley lunged forward and lowered her arms.


    ¡°You can¡¯t¡­¡± Harley said through struggled breath. ¡°There¡¯s¡­too much you could¡­accidentally hit¡­and the mall might lose its power¡­you have to hold off¡­¡±


    ¡°But we¡­¡± She managed, before she started to cry, the Wailing¡¯s scraping getting closer and closer with each second. As it stepped closer, the duo heard the products it had smashed through turning to dust under its weight.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay.¡± Harley said, wiping a tear from Sola¡¯s eye. ¡°I trust we¡¯ll be okay.¡±


    Hoping to finish the job, the Wailing lunged at them, fangs bared, as Harley closed her eyes and jumped in front of Sola to hold it off in anyway she could.


    ...


    Harley opened her eyes at just the right moment to see Essex careen through the air, catching the Wailing¡¯s neck with her scythe, and launching it into the back of the store, bursting through wall after wall as it flew backwards against the coarse ground, slowing as it crashed.


    Off to the side, Julia was nearly out of breath, having just sped up Essex¡¯s velocity with her Whil, then concentrated just as hard to slow her down, as she collapsed to her knees.


    ¡°Guys!¡± Sola yelled. ¡°That was perfect!¡±


    Essex was still in her combative pose, ready for the Wailing to rise up again, which after some visible struggling, it managed. ¡°That was not enough to kill it.¡± Essex explained. ¡°We need to fall ba-¡°


    As she was speaking, a flurry of daggers flew by Essex¡¯s head, slicing into the side of the Wailing¡¯s hide, as it screamed out in pain.


    ¡°Get back!¡± Yelled Vanessa, entering the scene with more daggers resting against her fingers.


    The Wailing cried out, renewing its bloodlust charge, now in Vanessa¡¯s direction.


    Before it could get any further, Jumpcut ran past her and teleported in front of it, puncturing its eye directly with his bladed gauntlet and pushing it even further back. It renewed its charge at Jumpcut, catching his arm with its claw, and thrusting him off to the side.


    Vanessa took the opportunity to throw a few more daggers against it legs, stunning it in place, as Dicer appeared from behind her, aiming his sword for its now exposed stomach and cleaving it in two.


    There was a brief moment of caution amongst the two teams, watching the Wailing¡¯s body settle and expecting it to re-emerge in some way, clawing at them from the grave, before the top half slid off and landed against the ground, allowing everyone to let go of their collective breath.


    The teams took a minute to recover, with a few double and triple checks to make sure the Wailing wouldn¡¯t come back around somehow.


    ¡°The Wailing¡¯s been dispatched.¡± Jumpcut said into his tablet, as Dicer came and bandaged up his wound. ¡°We¡¯ll sweep the area for survivors and potential further dangers. Otherwise, the mall is all clear.¡± Jumpcut hung up on the mall owner and sighed to himself, before turning to his team. ¡°Thank the gods that was a small one.¡±


    ¡°That was small?!¡± Sola yelled, her adrenaline still pumping.


    ¡°And that it didn¡¯t have magic. A Wailing¡¯s only made harder when it¡¯s breathing fire as well.¡± Andy remarked, finishing up with the bandages.


    ¡°Are you two okay? You seem pretty banged up.¡± Vanessa advised, her and Sola helping Harley to her feet, as Julia and Essex joined them.


    ¡°I¡¯m okay.¡± Sola said, still panting. ¡°Harley took most of it.¡±


    ¡°But I wear it well¡­¡± Harley joked, coughing a little after she spoke.


    ¡°We can take her back to the academy infirmary.¡± Julia suggested, as Jumpcut grabbed her and Essex¡¯s shoulder.


    ¡°You aren¡¯t getting off that easy.¡± Jumpcut said, holding their attention. ¡°I don¡¯t care if you¡¯re Venators in training, unless defending, you never engage if you aren¡¯t prepared! What if we weren¡¯t here to save you? What if you became bait that the Wailing used against us? What i-¡°


    ¡°They get it, Mike. They aren¡¯t stupid.¡± Vanessa interrupted, turning to Essex specifically. ¡°But that was reckless and childish of you. You should know that the first task of being a Venator is never endanger more people than you have to. Not only did you needlessly put yourselves at risk, but you made it harder for us to do our jobs properly. This could have been much worse.¡±


    Julia realised the danger she¡¯d created and hung her head in shame, kicking herself, as Essex reflected, resting herself and her scythe against the ground and bowing toward Vanessa.


    ¡°Muerbetra. Relusa tinue.¡± She recited, looking up at her. ¡°I have let my ego guide me today. I apologise, and refuse to do so again in the future.¡±


    ¡°Well, truth be told¡­¡± Andy spoke up. ¡°We didn¡¯t know where to find you at first, what with the Wailing crashing through just about everything recognisable, so one of your teammates pointed us in the direction you were heading.¡±


    In a show of humility, Wess revealed herself from around the corner of the J Store, red faced and pale, clearly unsure how to address her team after such an ordeal.


    ¡°Wess¡­¡± Julia mumbled, as Wess grabbed the hem of her dress in embarrassment.


    ¡°¡­you needed help, so I brought in professionals.¡± Wess admitted. ¡°What you did was still stupid and suicidal. Idiots¡­¡±


    Julia ran up to Wess, hugging her suddenly, as Wess hesitated for a second before breaking it.


    ¡°Don¡¯t do that again.¡± She said, still bitter at Julia.


    ¡°No promises.¡± Julia grinned, as Sola and Essex carried Harley over to meet up with Wess.


    ¡°Wess! We¡¯re okay, and we got things!¡± Sola exclaimed, pointing to a cart off to the side of the store, thrown asunder in the chaos. ¡°I think it¡¯s okay¡­¡±


    ¡°The ficus!¡± Harley yelled, the ficus¡¯ soil spilled across the floor, as Sola ran over to fix it up.


    ¡°It¡¯s not dead!¡± She cheered, holding it above her head, before nearly dropping it on herself, to the amusement of everyone except Wess.


    ¡°Julia, we bought a bunch of good stuff before the attack.¡± Harley said. ¡°We also spent a lot, but it¡¯s totally worth it.¡±


    ¡°And we got a fish tank for Wess¡¯ fish!¡± Sola said, rushing over with it in her hands, several large chunks of the glass missing from its exterior. ¡°Well, it¡¯s broken now¡­but I¡¯m sure your fish¡¯ll still really like it.¡±


    ¡°¡­I don¡¯t have a fish.¡± Wess said.


    Sola blinked. ¡°Really? I knew Harley was right!¡±


    ¡°It was still a safe bet.¡± Harley joked, coughing a bit more. ¡°We can return it if you want. I¡¯m sure they¡¯ll give us a few caps as a refund, considering we helped save the store¡­¡±


    ¡°I think that¡¯s only fai-¡° Wess said, before Julia elbowed her arm, indicating to Harley and Sola¡¯s generosity, and subsequent disappoint. ¡°¡­no, it¡¯s fine.¡± Wess sighed, taking the tank in her hands. ¡°I¡­appreciate the gesture.¡±


    ¡°Sorry to say, but you¡¯ll have to clear out of here.¡± Vanessa said, carefully stepping over the rubble to address Team Valiant. ¡°We¡¯ve got procedures in place for this sort of thing and can¡¯t really have bystanders hanging around for the more...sensitive parts.¡±


    ¡°Understood.¡± Essex announced. ¡°We promise not to impede on your work any further.¡± Essex started escorting the rest of her team out hastily, turning away from Team Vivisect, before Vanessa grabbed her shoulder to talk.


    ¡°What you did was reckless, but you did help us out, and you really did a number on that Wailing.¡± Vanessa admitted. ¡°If you want to make it up to us in some way, don¡¯t do that again. Let the professionals handle these matters, or the consequences¡¯ll get much worse. Most teams aren¡¯t as forgiving as we are, and most Wailing are far deadlier with more up their sleeve.¡±


    Essex listened and nodded in understanding, with the rest of Team Valiant behind her listening in too.


    ¡°Please become a Venator someday. I want to see you use your courage right.¡± Vanessa said, getting up and heading back to her team. ¡°Hey, Mike, what¡¯s the pay like for this one?¡±


    ¡°Just coming in now¡­five thousand caps.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s it? That¡¯s their thank you?¡±


    ¡°I think most of it''s going to covering damages. It¡¯d be different if they hired us straight up.¡± Andy acknowledged.


    ¡°I guess¡­¡± Vanessa said, before catching Team Valiant leaving the store from the corner of her eye, helping each other out of the wreckage ¡°I wish more Venators were like them.¡±


    ¡°Ready to take this thing back?¡± Mike said, pointing to the Wailing carcass still on the ground.


    ¡°Always.¡± Andy grinned, rushing over to him along with Vanessa, ready to help out as much as they could.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Heyo.¡± Harley cheered, coming through the dorm door with Essex and Sola.


    ¡°Harley!¡± Julia exclaimed from the kitchen, heading over to her. ¡°How was the recovery?¡±


    ¡°Easy. Three days flew by like nothing.¡± She said, collapsing onto the team couch.


    ¡°The infirmaries pretty boring, though.¡± Sola pointed out. ¡°Just a bunch of beds and medicine cabinets.¡±


    ¡°Sola, that¡¯s what an infirmary is.¡± Wess replied, stepping out of the kitchen to join the team.


    ¡°Vonodo.¡± Essex announced, showing off her bag full to the brim with items. ¡°I returned to the Venator memorabilia store to receive my payment, but since we had helped out Team Vivisect, the owner gave me merchandise for free.¡±


    ¡°Really?!¡± Julia exclaimed, running up to her. ¡°I was never able to afford anything from there! Whatcha get?¡±


    ¡°There is a Team Spectrum poster for Jul-¡° Essex said, as Julia yanked the poster out of her hands to fawn over it.


    ¡°I love it!¡± She cheered, displaying it proudly beside her bed. ¡°Essex, I could kiss you!¡±


    Essex blushed at the sentiment, before rummaging through the bag again to distract herself. ¡°¡­Harley, this is a Hammerbrazen figuri-¡° Essex said, as Harley just as quickly grabbed the figure and started scanning it frantically.


    ¡°He gave you this for free?!¡± She exclaimed, sweeping over its details. ¡°This is crazy valuable! Hammerbrazen¡¯s a gold level rarity!¡±


    ¡°¡­okay.¡± Essex replied, as Harley carefully placed it on her bedside table and gave Essex a thumbs up. ¡°Wess, there is a...novelty Team Vivisect t-shirt. The owner has assured me tha-¡° Essex started, before Wess gave her an unsatisfactory look.


    ¡°¡­I¡¯m not about to wear that. Adorning that might just be the death of me.¡± She replied, heading back to the kitchen.


    Essex looked over the shirt. ¡°I suppose I can use this¡­t-shirt¡­for myself.¡± Essex sighed with a slight distaste in her mouth.


    ¡°You could use it as pyjamas.¡± Julia suggested, as Essex placed it back into her bag, likely for a while.


    ¡°And Sola has this¡­¡± Essex said, bracing for Sola to rip it from her hands. ¡°¡­Team Superfluous mug.¡±


    Sola respectfully took the mug and looked it over. ¡°Thanks. I needed another mug.¡±


    ¡°Excuse me.¡± Wess called out, getting the teams attention. ¡°Can all of you please take a seat by the new balcony furnishings?¡± Wess headed back to the kitchen, the team smiling surprisedly to each other.


    ¡°Furnishings?¡± Sola asked, as the team headed out to the newly constructed table and seats, Sola¡¯s ficus proudly displayed against the sunlit sky.


    ¡°Redecorating was a really good idea, Harley. This is something special.¡± Julia complimented, staring out at the sunset.


    ¡°It better be.¡± Harley replied. ¡°I nearly croaked getting this stuff.¡±


    Essex chuckled to herself, lightly leaning against the wall, as Julia looked offended. ¡°Harley, can you please not joke about that? It''s really insensitive.¡±


    Harley and Essex stopped laughing, as they quickly remembered the new report detailing the people the Wailing had killed, and re-evaluating the joke in their heads. "...right. Sorry."


    "Wailing are way scarier up close." Sola added, bundled up in her chair, as Julia patted her back.


    "Let''s be thankful we''re all here. Not everyone''s as lucky as we are." Julia stated.


    Harley looked out at the sunset. "I''ll say. That ficus was really cheap." Harley cracked, causing Sola to laugh and Essex to smile.


    "Harley!" Julia complained, as the others kept up their amusement.


    "I''m just lightening the mood!" Harley excused. "You should be thankful. That fish tank nearly cost me an arm and a leg."


    The team kept laughing, as Wess made her way out of the kitchen with a tray of food, but not before stopping in place. She looked over to the broken fish tank resting on her cabinet, perfectly framed right beside her bunk bed. Why the others insisted on keeping it was beyond her.


    She sighed to herself and met up with the team outside, leaving the plate of finger foods on the table for the team to enjoy. Sola nearly jumped the whole plate immediately.


    ¡°Whoa, what¡¯s this for?¡± Harley said, pleasantly surprised.


    ¡°It¡¯s a¡­balcony welcoming gift, I suppose. For your effort.¡± Wess said, looking off to the side while addressing Harley. ¡°If you¡¯ll excuse me.¡±


    Wess bowed to the team a little, somewhat unsure of the action, before heading out the door like normal.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you going to join us?¡± Julia suggested.


    ¡°I¡¯d rather spend my evening reading in the library. Good night.¡± Wess said, exiting the dorm room to an unclear silence.


    ¡°Geez.¡± Harley remarked. ¡°Every time I think I have her figured out.¡±


    ¡°I really thought she¡¯d join us¡­¡± Sola said saddened, her face nearly full of Wess¡¯ platter.


    Julia looked back out at the sunset. ¡°She needs time.¡± Julia acknowledged. ¡°We¡¯ve all been through a lot lately, so we should let her process.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I guess¡­¡± Harley admitted. ¡°Hey. Let¡¯s enjoy the view while it''s here.¡±


    Sola nodded as she filled up on more food, as Essex slowly breathed in and appreciated the moments serenity. Julia smiled at the pleasantry, going for some of Wess¡¯ food before Sola vacuumed it all up.


    As she reached for the plate, her eyes spotted a bottle of wine next to the platter, one of the ones her and Wess had picked out at the mall, with a colourful bow strung around it as an added decoration put on by Wess herself.


    Julia picked up the bottle and grinned.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°I¡¯m blaming this on you.¡±


    Jules looked offended.


    ¡°I think losing a Wailing takes first place for royal fuckups.¡± Rosalind said, lowering her head in exhaustion. ¡°Wicker¡¯s gonna rake me over the coals for this¡­¡±


    She kicked the side of the truck, then kicked it a few more times to release some stress. Just then, Rosalind¡¯s tablet buzzed in her hand, coming up with a blocked number.


    ¡°Wicker? Yeah¡­okay, so you saw¡­what? It worked?¡± Rosalind asked, catching Jules¡¯ attention. ¡°¡­I¡¯m never gonna understand your methods, but I guess this is a job well done.¡±


    Rosalind hung up and turned to Jules. ¡°Apparently this worked out great. The Wailing thrashed the mall and did just enough damage to the stores.¡±


    Jules was just as confused with Wicker¡¯s intentions, but she knew better then to question him at this point. He wasn¡¯t about to listen.


    Rosalind gave her a cocky smile. ¡°Sometimes you do nothing right and everything works out anyway. Come on, the authorities are gonna show up soon.¡±


    The duo headed back to the truck, Rosalind kicking the unconscious guard as she passed him, as they drove off down the loading dock. They heard sirens gathering off in the direction of the mall, as Rosalind kicked the dashboard in excitement, and Jules kept her thoughts to herself.


    And no one was any the wiser about what that truck had held, because after all¡­


    It looked innocuous enough.

 Chapter 6: Reliance

    Julia hadn¡¯t been in school for long at this point.


    Admittedly, her first day was much rougher than she would¡¯ve liked. Everyone was expected to get up and present themselves in front of the class, but she¡¯d never done this before. She¡¯d always had trouble talking in front of others.


    Julia shook nervously behind the rest of the class, as the teacher called up every student by name to talk about themselves.


    ¡°My name¡¯s Tyler!¡± The kid on stage said. ¡°I¡¯m nearly six and I like soccer!¡±


    ¡°Hi Tyler!¡± The class called out, as the teacher looked over her list of names and brought the next kid up stage.


    Julia tried to back away from the group, as the students went up one by one. ¡°She¡¯s gonna call me soon¡­¡±


    Julia looked around nervously to see if there was anyway she could get out of this, before finding a small boy, even further back than she was, curled up in the corner of the room. Noticing there were still a few more students ahead of her, Julia snuck over to the boy quietly.


    ¡°Are you okay?¡± She asked.


    ¡°¡­I don¡¯t wanna go up there.¡± He quivered. ¡°They¡¯re all gonna look at me¡­¡±


    Julia saw the group growing smaller and smaller, as she looked back at the boy, still sniffling a little.


    Julia leaned in. ¡°I don¡¯t wanna go up either¡­let¡¯s run away, right now!¡±


    ¡°Run away?¡±


    ¡°Yeah! They won¡¯t catch us if we start early!¡±


    The boy shook his head. ¡°My dad¡¯s gonna get angry at me if I don¡¯t¡­¡± He admitted. ¡°I have to do it¡­¡±


    Julia thought about leaving without him to save herself, but she didn¡¯t want to be so mean on her first day of school. Although, she still didn¡¯t want to go up on the stage either.


    ¡°¡­everyone¡¯s gonna laugh at me¡­¡± He moped.


    Julia grabbed his hand and looked down at him. ¡°No way! I won¡¯t laugh at you.¡±


    The boy met her gaze. ¡°R-really?¡±


    Julia nodded emphatically. ¡°And when I go up, you can not laugh at me too!¡±


    ¡°You¡¯d do that?¡± He asked, standing up to face her.


    ¡°Yeah! And¡­and if you screw up, I¡¯ll screw up twice as bad!¡± Julia promised. ¡°Count on it!¡±


    ¡°But¡­I don¡¯t even know you.¡± He complained, as Julia grabbed his shoulders.


    ¡°That¡¯s why we¡¯re best friends now! Cause I¡¯m scared too!¡± Julia cheered.


    The boy sniffed a little and smiled, before sticking out his hand sheepishly. ¡°I¡¯m¡­Florey.¡±


    Julia shook it welcomingly. ¡°Julia!¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Julia? Are you listening?¡± Harley asked, waving her hand in front of Julia¡¯s face. ¡°You heard what I said, right?¡±


    ¡°Y-yeah, I¡¯ve just¡­¡± Julia quivered. ¡°¡­never been to a bar before¡­¡±


    ¡°You sound like I¡¯m kidnapping you.¡± Harley joked. ¡°Just don¡¯t think about. We¡¯re here to see Team Vanguard perform, so just cheer them on. Plus¡­I¡¯ve yet checked out the campus bar.¡±


    ¡°O-oh, yeah¡­¡± Julia remembered, as she stared up at the ¡®Academy Daiquiri Lounge¡¯ sign glowing above the door, it standing out proudly against the night sky. ¡°Are you sure you should be drinking after the mall incident?¡±


    Harley rolled her eyes. ¡°Come on, dad, it''s been two weeks. I¡¯m all good.¡±


    Julia conceded Harley¡¯s point, gulping to herself as Harley let them in.


    Julia couldn¡¯t believe what she saw.


    ¡°Huh.¡±


    The atmosphere was comfortable, as students went about their business, mingling and chatting, some dancing to the music, with some perfectly pleasant music playing over the scene. The bartender looked nice, and everyone seemed to be well dressed and polite. The floor was noticeably clean too.


    ¡°Well?¡± Harley asked, as Julia tried to close her jaw.


    ¡°¡­admittedly, this is way different than I pictured¡­¡± Julia confessed. ¡°I was expecting half-naked drunks rubbing up on other half-naked drunks over loud music.¡±


    ¡°Well, first, thaaat¡¯s a night club. And two, no way am I dragging you to a place like that.¡± Harley admitted. ¡°Man, you really haven¡¯t been to a bar then.¡±


    Julia shuffled her feet. ¡°I don¡¯t really drink, and I¡¯m a pretty solitary person. I¡¯ve always avoided bars for those reasons.¡±


    ¡°If you¡¯ve always avoided them, how did you know you wouldn¡¯t like them?¡± Harley questioned, walking further into the building.


    ¡°I guess¡­I didn¡¯t.¡± Julia realised. ¡°¡­fun time we¡¯re having here.¡±


    ¡°Oh, sorry.¡± Harley apologised, pulling up a stool by the bar. ¡°Come on, I¡¯ll get you something. Pick your poison.¡±


    Harley handed Julia the drinks menu, as Julia tried to decide what she wanted, despite having no actual idea what any of the drinks were.


    I guess a¡­scotch sounds nice. Julia thought. Probably quite smooth.


    ¡°Can I help you two?¡± The bartender said, sauntering up to the duo.


    ¡°She¡¯ll need more help than I will.¡± Harley joked, indicating to Julia, still stuck in the menu. ¡°Haven¡¯t I seen you around campus?¡±


    ¡°Have you?¡± He replied. ¡°I doubt that. I¡¯m not regular faculty.¡±


    ¡°Alright, then at least give me a name to go off of.¡± Harley asked. ¡°I won¡¯t take no for an answer.¡±


    He went to make a point, but found none, and instead bowed mockingly. ¡°Wesley Seears, PR manager for the academy, and as you can guess, part-time bartender. Are you going to order anything now?¡±


    ¡°Oh, no thanks.¡± Harley teased, as Julia popped her head up just in time. ¡°You want to get anything, Julia?¡±


    Julia¡¯s eyes met Seears, as he seemed ready for her answer. ¡°I¡¯ll have a¡­Crasher¡¯s Ridge cocktail.¡±


    Harley held back a little laugh, as Seears grabbed a couple full measures. ¡°You sure about that? You don¡¯t take me as a heavy drinker.¡±


    ¡°¡­half a cocktail then?¡± Julia replied, as Seears smiled and shrugged, and went about his mixing.


    Harley turned her attention to the stage, as she noticed Team Vanguard emerging from backstage, all very well dressed and classy, each setting up their instruments and checking their sound. Harley waved to the team, as Joleicia and Chops waved back casually.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t know they could play.¡± Julia remarked, turning around with Harley.


    ¡°Apparently, all of them could play instruments already, so Joleicia decided starting a band would be a good team building exercise.¡± Harley explained. ¡°Chops seemed excited when she told me, but I think Florey had some reservations.¡±


    Julia noticed Florey off to the side, tuning his bass guitar, and clearly having some trouble with it.


    ¡°He¡¯s always had problems performing.¡± Julia said. ¡°That¡¯s actually one of the reasons we became friends. He was fumbling before a class intro, and I was just as scared, so we hyped each other up beforehand and managed our way through it.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sure he¡¯ll be fine. Nobody notices when a bass player screws up.¡± Harley said, as Seears finished up with the cocktail and handed it to Julia.


    ¡°There you go.¡± He said, getting her attention. ¡°Now, don¡¯t go chugging it.¡±


    Julia took the glass in her hand and cautiously inspected the orange-yellow liquid, before putting it to her lips.


    ¡°So, you two together or something?¡±


    Julia spit-took her drink, not from the comment, but from the horribly bitter insult to her palette, as Harley was having trouble breathing from her laughter. Harley stifled her laughter and patted Julia¡¯s back reassuringly. ¡°It¡¯s still pretty new for us, but she¡¯s dynamite in the sack, so I¡¯m not complaining.¡±


    Harley flashed a playful grin to Julia, still recovering from her coughing.


    ¡°Oh. Didn¡¯t realise you¡¯d get so personal.¡± Seears snickered. ¡°I guess that¡¯s good to hear. She seems like a real catch, Julia.¡±


    Harley kept laughing to herself, as Julia grabbed a napkin. ¡°She¡¯s just messing with you. We aren¡¯t dating.¡± Julia said, glaring back at a far too pleased with herself Harley, and looking over the now soaked bar counter. ¡°Sorry.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine. Now I can look busy.¡± Seears replied, happily cleaning up the mess, as the lights started to dim over the bar, and a few customers cheered toward the stage.


    Team Vanguard all took their places, as Julia was surprised to see Saxin taking up the main microphone, with Joleicia by the piano, Lenin on drums, Chops with the guitar, and Florey on the afore mentioned bass. Saxin was lain out in a beautifully elegant, figure-hugging dress, as a few more cheers came from the crowd once she entered the spotlight and took the microphone into her hand.


    ¡°You¡¯re¡­what I need, even if we¡¯re not true.¡±


    ¡°When all I really see, are colours bleeding through.¡±


    ¡°I tried to let you in, but my heart¡¯s formed a crack.¡±


    ¡°Now I¡¯m off on my own, with the wind at my back¡­¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s incredible¡­¡± Harley remarked, lying against the back of the bar, soaking in the surprisingly sombre mood. ¡°Somehow, she¡¯s even hotter.¡±


    Julia looked over the team, all doing their part and taking it fairly seriously, especially Florey, who admittedly looked like he wanted to be anywhere else.


    Good on him for trying.


    After a couple more songs, with an impressive amount of applause after each number, Team Vanguard finished up their set, as Julia and Harley made their way over to congratulate a job well done.


    ¡°Oh, come on, it wasn¡¯t anything special¡­¡± Joleicia said. ¡°The others were great, but I missed so many notes¡­¡±


    ¡°Wait, we had notes?¡± Chops asked. ¡°I was just playing from memory. Shit, that could¡¯ve gone really bad.¡±


    ¡°Stop being so humble. You guys were fantastic!¡± Julia cheered. ¡°And who knew Saxin had such impressive pipes.¡±


    ¡°I did, for the record.¡± Lenin remarked, getting a slightly playful giggle from Saxin.


    ¡°Don''t get jealous, Lenin. Julia''s just being sweet.¡± Saxin purred, pulling Julia in for an all too familiar close hug, which Julia just couldn¡¯t bring herself to hate.


    ¡°That was exhausting, though. I say once we pack up, we all get a drink to celebrate.¡± Florey suggested, as the rest of the group all collectively agreed. Team Vanguard headed off to the back room, as Julia and Harley took up a small group of tables together, being joined by Florey quickly after.


    ¡°Florey, come here! I haven¡¯t complimented you yet!¡± Julia remembered, patting the seat next to her excitedly. ¡°You were so good up there! I thought you¡¯d totally given up bass.¡±


    Florey looked a little disconnected. ¡°Yeah, I had. I¡¯ve never liked performing, but I felt I had to at least try it for the team.¡± Florey admitted. ¡°Once they found out I could play though, it was decided. Forming the band was mostly their idea.¡±


    ¡°Props to Saxin, though. Sorry Florey, but she totally stole the spotlight.¡± Harley interjected, checking the backstage door again. ¡°Is she¡­uhh¡­coming back out soon?¡±


    ¡°Right here, darling.¡± Saxin said, appearing just behind Harley and waving to her, as Lenin walked out from behind her. ¡°We got locked out, so we had to come in the front.¡±


    ¡°¡­uhuh.¡± Harley said, trying to avoid staring at Saxin¡¯s still very figure-hugging dress.


    ¡°I¡¯ll tell you, those lights are not flattering.¡± Saxin moped, tugging at her dress a little. ¡°I was sweating throughout that whole performance. I hope it didn¡¯t show.¡±


    Something tells me Harley wouldn¡¯t have minded. Julia observed, noticing Harley¡¯s gaze still fixed, as Chops took her seat next to Florey.


    ¡°Sorry, Sax. I could¡¯ve sworn that door opened both ways.¡± Chops said.


    ¡°It¡¯s an honest mistake.¡± Saxin sighed. ¡°Do you mind if I borrow a bra once we leave? I¡¯d hate to stain this dress any further.¡±


    Julia noticed Harley¡¯s face flush with red, almost like she was holding back a blood-nose, as Joleicia finally entered and joined the others.


    ¡°Man, I¡¯m pooped. Let¡¯s get something for the whole team.¡± Joleicia suggested, before remembering Julia and Harley were there too. ¡°Oh, sorry, you guys too.¡±


    ¡°Just don¡¯t get Julia a Crasher Ridge cocktail.¡± Harley joked, turning Julia¡¯s face as red as Harley¡¯s was a second ago.


    Joleicia found herself giggling teasingly, along with the rest of the team around her. ¡°Really? You tried one, Julia?¡± Joleicia asked.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t know what it was!¡± Julia complained.


    ¡°That¡¯s a pretty hard drink. I thought you said you didn¡¯t drink alcohol.¡± Lenin chimed in.


    ¡°I¡­was feeling adventurous¡­¡± Julia said, reigniting the table¡¯s good-natured laughter, as Florey patted her back assuredly.


    After a pleasant night of drinking, with Chops recounting some personal anecdote by jumping on the table, Harley failing to stop flirting with Saxin, and Joleicia encouraging one more round of drinks, Team Vanguard headed off together, waving a pleasant goodbye to Julia and Harley, as Harley scoped around the bar for anyone to help with her unresolved arousal.


    ¡°Stupid Saxin and her gorgeousness¡­¡± Harley muttered, as Julia started to shuffle her feet awkwardly. Harley¡¯s curiosity drew her eye, as Julia clearly had something on her mind. ¡°You embarrassed cause of all my teasing?¡±


    Julia averted her eyes. ¡°Yes¡­but, that¡¯s kinda not the problem. You remember the intro we had to do on the first day of classes?¡±


    ¡°Uhh¡­yeah, I do. Why?¡±


    ¡°¡­well, I¡¯ve got a presentation for my Whil App class¡­¡±


    ¡°Whil app?¡± Harley asked.


    ¡°Whil Application and Practical Principles.¡± Julia explained.


    ¡°Oh. That¡¯s a dumb name.¡± Harley commented. ¡°Are you worried about presenting?¡±


    ¡°¡­I wasn¡¯t really thinking about it until I saw Team Vanguard performing, but¡­¡± Julia said, before shrinking back into her seat. ¡°I¡¯m gonna screw it up so bad¡­I just know it¡­¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s it about?¡±


    Julia looked up at Harley. ¡°I have to explain my Whil in detail¡­and what I could do with it later in my career.¡±


    ¡°That sounds pretty easy. I¡¯m sure Sola and Essex could help you with the terminology, if that¡¯ll help your nerves.¡± Harley said. ¡°Probably just Essex, though¡­¡±


    Julia shook her head. ¡°The script¡¯s the easy part. Reading it in front of everyone¡¯s where the terror is.¡± Julia quivered.


    ¡°Can¡¯t you just submit the script?¡±


    ¡°I thought of that. Ferris said we have to perform it in person, and that we¡¯ll be asked to do way more as Venators.¡± Julia explained. ¡°Why am I making this bigger than it needs to be?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re overthinking it. If there¡¯s anything you¡¯re on top of, it¡¯s technical stuff about your Whil. And firearms. And being helpful.¡± Harley said. ¡°You¡¯re not gonna screw it up.¡±


    Julia tried to feel the sentiment behind Harley¡¯s words, but found herself shrinking again, almost reflexively, even just thinking about getting on stage. Harley quickly noticed Julia retreating, before slinging an arm around Julia¡¯s neck. ¡°I can help you out.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡±


    ¡°Duh.¡± Harley smiled. ¡°You keep helping out the whole team, it¡¯s about time we give something back to you. We¡¯ll have you kicking that presentation¡¯s ass in no time.¡±


    Julia smiled happily. ¡°Thank you, Harley.¡±


    ¡°But you have to do me a favour first.¡± Harley asked.


    ¡°Okay?¡±


    ¡°You see that guy over there?¡± Harley said, pointing to an incredibly suave looking man at the bar. ¡°You¡¯re my wingwoman.¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°Come on.¡± Harley insisted, already heading over to him with her confidence on full display, as Julia hopped behind, hoping desperately not to screw up.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Julia? Are you listening? You heard what I said, right?¡±


    ¡°This must be hard to hear¡­¡±


    ¡°Mummy and Bell aren¡¯t gonna live here anymore, okay? We¡¯ll get to see them sometimes, but they¡¯ll be pretty far away¡­but Bell¡¯s gonna come over on weekends, and you can go and hang out with them too. I know it¡¯s not perfect, but remember, they still love you lots, okay?¡±


    ¡°Oh, stop coddling her. She knows what this means.¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s eight, Madelyn. Would you stop trying to avoid parenting her already?¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t help it if I don¡¯t act like a mother now and then. Julia, sweetie, mummy¡¯s not gonna see you everyday, but just know you¡¯ll always be my little star. Promise to do well in your classes and listen to your father. See?¡±


    ¡°¡­Julia, it¡¯s okay to feel bad about this. If you want to take a few days off school, I totally get it. And remember I¡¯m here for you.¡±


    ¡°As am I, dear.¡±


    ¡°Gods, Madelyn, no you won¡¯t be! Stop confusing her and let her figure this out without gi¡­


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Wess always felt great changing her clothes after a workout. She didn¡¯t exercise that regularly, and she really didn¡¯t like wearing her unflattering workout clothes, but getting to gussy herself up again afterwards was its own great reward.


    She said goodbye to the Julia, Sola and Essex inside the dorm room, before closing the door behind her, ready to leave, as Harley approached from the other end of the hall.


    ¡°Hey Wess.¡± She called out, as Wess turned to her and gave a small wave. ¡°Going somewhere?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m going to spend some time with Cyrus.¡± Wess explained. ¡°We¡¯ve been trying to pick a novel to read together, but he keeps complaining they¡¯re all too long. He can be so silly sometimes¡­¡±


    Wess made sure the door was closed, as Harley gave her the side eye. ¡°Is that it?¡±


    Wess looked confused. ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± Harley smiled. ¡°Hey, have you seen Julia? She needs some help with a presentation.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ll find her and the rest of the team inside.¡± Wess answered.


    ¡°Cool. If you have some pointers for Julia, you could join u-¡°


    ¡°Harley, do you really think I have the time?¡± Wess complained. ¡°I¡¯m sure she can figure out the basics of talking.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a bit more than¡­whatever. I¡¯m sure she¡¯d appreciate the help.¡±


    ¡°If I felt like giving it, I would.¡± Wess replied, straightening her handbag. ¡°If you¡¯ll excuse me.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, later¡­¡± Harley said, clearly dejected after Wess¡¯ answer, as Wess left for her rendezvous, still trying to figure out Harley¡¯s intention.


    That woman, I swear¡­ Wess thought. I could nearly get hit by a train, and she¡¯d still dance around warning me in a timely manner¡­


    Just around a few more corners, Cyrus was leaning outside the academy library, tapping his foot idly, and waiting for Wess to show up.


    Maybe I should just suck it up and read the longer ones¡­ He thought, sighing to himself. I don¡¯t want her to win, though.


    After a bit more waiting, Cyrus spotted Wess down the hall, approaching with her trademark elegance, her dress immaculately kept and her gorgeous black hair¡­


    Unauthorized tale usage: if you spot this story on Amazon, report the violation.


    Did she get prettier? I think she got prettier¡­ Cyrus realised, blushing a little, as Wess closed the distance.


    ¡°Were you waiting long?¡± She asked.


    ¡°¡­no, no, I was¡­fine with waiting.¡± He replied to the best of his ability. ¡°You look great today.¡±


    ¡°I should hope. I put a lot of pride in my appearance.¡± Wess said, before noticing something new about Cyrus. ¡°You¡¯re not wearing a hoodie.¡±


    ¡°Oh, yeah.¡± Cyrus said, tugging on his decently ironed and collared shirt. ¡°I dug this out of the back of my closet. I don¡¯t really like wearing black, but it¡¯s starting to grow on me.¡±


    Wess found herself staring briefly, appreciating Cyrus¡¯ appearance when he dressed himself well, before returning to their conversation. ¡°Well, you look¡­quite¡­dashing I¡¯d say¡­you could afford to shave a bit better, though.¡±


    ¡°But the beard¡¯s where I get my power.¡± Cyrus joked. ¡°I¡¯ll be totally defenceless.¡±


    Wess chortled to herself. ¡°We¡¯re going to a library. You needn¡¯t use any defence.¡±


    Cyrus giggled a little. ¡°Surprisingly good point. After you.¡±


    Cyrus held the door for her, Wess graciously bowing in reply, as they headed to the fiction section together to complain about story length.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Harley watched Wess take her leave, unfortunately getting the response she expected from Wess regarding Julia¡¯s presentation, before sighing in acceptance and heading into the dorm room, being greeted by Julia and Essex on the couch, and Sola resting on her bed.


    ¡°Alright, Julia, the rest of my day¡¯s free, so we¡¯re gonna help you out! Get up!¡± Harley exclaimed.


    ¡°A-already?¡± Julia asked, hoping she could put it off just a bit longer.


    ¡°If I warned you it was happening, you¡¯d probably weasel out of it.¡± Harley explained, as Julia mentally conceded her point. ¡°Sola, Essex, you two ready?¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± Sola said, lifting her head up.


    ¡°Sola, we¡¯re helping Julia with her stage fright.¡±


    ¡°Oh!¡± Sola realised, jumping off her bed and almost sticking the landing. ¡°Is this for Whil App?¡±


    ¡°It would appear so.¡± Essex answered, resting her scythe off to one side. ¡°Why is she having difficulty? Can she not talk normally and remove the doubt from her mind?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not that simple.¡± Harley said, resting her hand on Julia¡¯s head. ¡°It¡¯s not rational, it¡¯s fear based. We can¡¯t stop her getting scared, we can just help her cope with her fears.¡± Harley leaned down to face Julia. ¡°Right?¡±


    Julia nodded, happy that Harley was taking such a mature approach to this, even if she wanted to desperately do anything else.


    ¡°Alright.¡± Harley said, as Sola and Essex helped her move the couch to face the middle of the dorm room. ¡°We¡¯ll just see how well you do presenting to us and work from there. Wait, hold on¡­¡±


    Harley slouched her shoulders and gave her face a terribly unpleasant scowl.


    ¡°Now¡­I¡¯m Miss Ferris.¡±


    Sola was having trouble holding it together with the impersonation being terribly accurate, as Julia couldn¡¯t help but laugh as well.


    ¡°Gods, I need a drink¡­¡± Harley muttered, as Sola stuck up her hand.


    ¡°Oh! Oh! Who can I play?¡± Sola asked, still sticking up her hand.


    ¡°You¡¯re already in the class, Sola.¡± Julia pointed out.


    ¡°Can I be Essex?¡± Sola asked, turning to Essex, waiting patiently for Julia to start performing, before noticing everyone staring at her.


    ¡°Vonodo, what are you doing?¡± Essex asked.


    ¡°What are you doing?¡± Sola mimicked, putting on a deliberately wrong voice that only amused Harley. ¡°Understood. Understood.¡±


    Essex was left confused, as Harley kept snickering to herself at Sola¡¯s impression.


    ¡°Guys?¡± Julia interrupted. ¡°When do I get to perform?¡±


    ¡°Oh, yeah¡­¡± Harley said, patting Sola¡¯s head to calm her down. ¡°Whenever you¡¯re ready.¡±


    Julia closed her eyes and breathed out, focusing on her palm cards and the ground, as she felt her legs step back and forth in nervousness.


    It¡¯s okay¡­it¡¯s okay¡­it¡¯s just your team¡­they¡¯re here for you¡­they¡¯re¡­


    Julia opened her eyes and looked back at her team, before closing them again and shaking her head furiously.


    ¡°I can¡¯t do it! I just can¡¯t do it!¡± She bemoaned, hiding her face in her hands. ¡°It¡¯s too much¡­¡±


    ¡°Come on, Julia! You got this!¡± Sola cheered, as Essex clapped for her as well.


    ¡°You are the best leader.¡± Essex added.


    ¡°If you don¡¯t do a good job, we¡¯ll be really disappointed!¡± Harley tried.


    Julia¡¯s pupils shrunk, as the room went eerily silent.


    ¡°W-why would you s-say that¡­?


    ¡°Uhh¡­¡± Harley quivered. ¡°Shit¡­¡±


    Sola and Essex instinctively sunk into the couch, as Julia started to spiral, now worried about way more than just the presentation. Harley looked to Sola and Essex. ¡°Guys, back me up here.¡±


    Sola nodded determinedly, then looked to Julia. ¡°We¡¯ll be super crazy disappointed! No one will love you!¡± Sola tried, as Julia panicked even more.


    ¡°We will have to remove you from the team.¡± Essex added, as Julia felt the colour leave her face.


    ¡°The other way!¡± Harley complained, getting up and grabbing Julia¡¯s shoulders. ¡°I couldn¡¯t be disappointed in you. You¡¯re too awesome and cute.¡±


    Julia felt herself come back to reality, looking back at Harley wiping a tear from her eye. ¡°¡­stop calling me cute.¡±


    ¡°Okay. Feel a bit better?¡±


    Julia sniffed. ¡°I¡¯d feel better if you didn¡¯t make me worry about other things.¡±


    ¡°¡­yeah, that was a bad plan. I¡¯m really sorry.¡± Harley admitted. ¡°Truth be told, it worked for me when I was young, so I just thought¡­¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t think scare tactics are gonna work on me.¡± Julia realised. ¡°I don¡¯t think anything¡­¡±


    Julia wiped her face again. ¡°¡­can I take a walk? I promise I¡¯m not just trying to ditch.¡±


    ¡°Sure, that¡¯s fine. Be back in a bit, okay? We¡¯re getting through this.¡± Harley said, as Julia nodded back and walked out with a shaky step.


    ¡°You got this Julia! We¡¯ll have your back no matter what!¡± Sola yelled, right as Julia was through the door.


    Just as she left the door, she leaned against the wall and tried to focus her staggered breathing. She was holding back in there, she had to for her team. Julia wasn¡¯t about to freak out again.


    ¡­fresh air. She said, heading down the hall at her own pace.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Julia hadn¡¯t been in school for a few days at this point.


    She¡¯d just taken a leave after some of the other students pushed her around again. Unfortunately, she¡¯d let her anger get the better of her and tried to punch one of them just before the end of school.


    Julia sat outside the Principal¡¯s office, with a red bruise on her cheek, and her tired dad to her left, deciding whether or not to be disappointed.


    ¡°¡­is this because Florey changed schools?¡± He asked.


    Julia slowly shook her head, as they went back to silence.


    After a few more seconds, he spoke up. ¡°Did you have to grab him by the collar?¡±


    ¡°¡­they took my tablet¡­¡± Julia confessed. She stared against the ground unblinkingly.


    ¡°¡­you¡¯re lucky I came to get you and not your mother.¡± He said. ¡°But I shouldn¡¯t have to pull you out of school again this soon.¡±


    Julia clenched her fists.


    ¡°I talked to the Principal, and he¡¯s gonna have a talk with those kids and their parents. They also expect you to apologise to the kid you tried to hit.¡±


    Julia looked away again and refused to acknowledge her dad.


    ¡°It¡¯s the least you can d-¡°


    ¡°They made fun of me again.¡± Julia said. ¡°They told me that mum and Florey left because they hate me. They couldn¡¯t stand me¡­¡±


    Her dad sat in silence.


    ¡°It¡¯s not true¡­¡± She muttered.


    He tried to process what Julia must have being going through, before wrapping his arm around her and hugging her. Julia didn¡¯t hug him back, but she definitely wanted to, even if she refused to show it.


    ¡°It¡¯ll get better.¡± He said, now facing her. ¡°I promise. Those bullies won¡¯t be around forever.¡±


    ¡°¡­can I stay home again?¡± Julia asked. ¡°Just for a bit?¡±


    ¡°Julia, you¡¯ve already missed three days this week. I can¡¯t just stop you going to school. Your grades have already been dipping further than I¡¯d like.¡± He reasoned. ¡°Can you hang in for the rest of the week? Please?¡±


    Julia looked back up at her dad and nodded as best she could, as they went back to sitting in silence and tried to guess what the other was thinking.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°How about this one?¡±


    Cyrus took the book and inspected it in his hand. ¡°¡®Yours, Mine, and Everything?¡¯ It¡¯s not a cheap romance, is it?¡±


    Wess rolled her eyes. ¡°Of course not. I can barely stomach that stuff.¡±


    ¡°Finally, exactly!¡± Cyrus agreed. ¡°If I watch another show or read another book with a love triangle, or some needy dweeb getting the popular girl, or Gods forbid, a romcom¡­¡±


    Wess gagged at the suggestion. ¡°Ugh. I might just die of shame if I was forced to watch that.¡±


    ¡°Same.¡±


    Wess tapped her chin. ¡°Unless, of course, I were invited to make fun of it. That would be worth the price of admission, and definitely make it more palatable.¡±


    Wess went back to scanning the shelves for more ¡®short¡¯ novels, as Cyrus glanced back at her subtlety, admiring her hair again.


    Come on, just ask her out. Cyrus thought to himself. She literally just invited you to see a movie. Make a move.


    Wess struggled to reach a high shelf, before managing to grab a novel on display and breathing out in exhaustion, as Cyrus put the novel she¡¯d handed him back on the shelf.


    ¡­I can ask later. When the time¡¯s right.


    ¡°Alright, how about this?¡± She said, passing the book off to Cyrus, who gave it a side glance and put it back on the shelf. ¡°Hey!¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t read anything where the cover¡¯s just the main characters face.¡± He remarked. ¡°It¡¯s a matter of principle. If you can¡¯t come up with a clever cover, ju¡­¡±


    Wess ducked off to another set of shelves while Cyrus was talking, as Cyrus realised she¡¯d disappeared and panicked to find her quickly.


    ¡°Hey! Don¡¯t just leave mid-sentence.¡± He complained.


    ¡°You were carrying on.¡± Wess remarked, smiling back to him. ¡°You talk a deceptive amount. How do you ever get anything done?¡±


    Cyrus calmed down and leaned against the shelves, before smirking to himself. ¡°Well, truth be told, I keep acing every class I¡¯m in, so I never need to study.¡± Cyrus admitted. ¡°I don¡¯t think I¡¯m actually learning anything here.¡±


    Wess pulled another book off the shelf. ¡°Even I have to study now and then. I find it hard to believe that you never need to.¡±


    ¡°Why, are you jealous?¡±


    Wess scoffed. ¡°Hardly. You sound awfully lazy to me.¡±


    ¡°And yet I¡¯m just too¡­dashing.¡± Cyrus teased, getting the expected result from Wess.


    ¡°You dog! I complement you once and you hold it over my head!¡± Wess complained, even though she wasn¡¯t that upset about it.


    ¡°I¡¯m fighting you with your own words. Glass houses, Wess¡­¡±


    ¡°Pot calling the kettle black, Cyrus.¡± Wess shot back. ¡°You look great today.¡±


    ¡°Nothing wrong with a compliment.¡± Cyrus reasoned, distracting himself with a book.


    ¡°And yet you never give them. So, what about me today was so appealing?¡± Wess wondered, smiling smugly to Cyrus, as he turned to avoid showing his embarrassment.


    Cyrus closed the book he was pretending to read and put it back, as his mouth betrayed him and made the next words far more difficult to say.


    ¡°¡­you go out of your way to look nice, so I thought you should know that¡­it¡¯s appreciated¡­¡± Cyrus admitted, as Wess¡¯ smile turned. ¡°I¡¯ve never been good at that stuff¡­so it really impresses me how you do it so well everyday.¡±


    Wess tried to hide her blushing behind another novel, worried he might get the wrong idea, before whispering something to Cyrus.


    ¡°¡­I can¡­help you, if you want. Just with some good wardrobe advice¡­¡± She said, looking back at him. ¡°¡­maybe some concealer.¡±


    Cyrus was just as nervous, as he played with his thumbs. ¡°¡­thanks¡­maybe I can give you pointers on manners¡­¡±


    Wess¡¯ blush sharply disappeared, as she stormed off again, this time not waiting up for Cyrus.


    ¡°It was a joke! Just a joke!¡± Cyrus yelled, running after her throughout the library.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Julia took a seat by one of the academies windows outlooking the training grounds. There was the familiar sight of Team Instinct in the midst of training, despite the midday sun pressing down on them harshly, and a few first-year classes practicing melee techniques and Whil usage.


    Julia noticed a couple first years in particular stepping in front of their class and starting a sparring match. The one who appeared to have a burning sword won the fight easily, almost sadistically quick, before spinning around and bragging to their team proudly. Julia took a breath, as a figure behind her walked by, stopped, and stared back at her, before she felt the presence of nosy eyes behind her and turned around.


    ¡°Oh, pardon.¡± He said, readjusting his suit. ¡°You looked busy.¡±


    Julia recognised his face, as her first day at the academy and her team meeting with Ferris flashed before her briefly.


    It¡¯s the Vice Principal. She realised, as an instinctive chill ran down her back.


    ¡°¡­you¡¯re Julia, right?¡± He asked. ¡°I remember your face from the team meeting.¡±


    ¡°D-do you¡­?¡± She replied, feeling a lump in her throat.


    He approached and looked out the window right beside her. ¡°Everyone¡¯s very energetic today. It¡¯s good to see the next generation improving upon themselves.¡± He kept looking out, as Julia stayed silent, almost like she was afraid he might jump if she made too sudden a noise. Quickly, he remembered what he wanted to say and turned to Julia.


    ¡°I forgot. You¡¯re doing the Whil Application and Pra-¡°


    ¡°Yes¡­y-yes, I am.¡±


    ¡°I thought so.¡± He said. ¡°I¡¯ll be watching in on your presentations.¡±


    Julia felt herself flush, as he straightened his suit sleeve and continued. ¡°I wanted to see personally how the first years were adjusting after the attack on orientation day. It was very harrowing.¡±


    Julia nodded with him. ¡°I kn-know¡­¡±


    ¡°Well, sorry to take up your time.¡± He said, walking off again slowly. ¡°I will be seeing more of you.¡±


    And with that, he headed back down the hall, tugging on his suit a little, as Julia let go of the breath she didn¡¯t realise she was holding.


    I¡¯ve gotta avoid him in the future¡­ She thought, before standing up with shaken legs. But he¡¯s gonna be watching me¡­


    Julia took her leave in a hurry, before the nerves of her presentation made their return and slowed her down, worrying about it all over again.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Julia hadn¡¯t wanted to go to school for weeks.


    She hated having to give presentations, even when she had the backing up of Florey. He made it easier, but it was never easy. And now¡­


    Julia sat by herself during lunch, propping herself on a segment of brick wall looking over the school oval, watching the other students playing sport and talking. Of course, she wasn¡¯t about to join them or anything. They seemed happy without her.


    ¡°¡­they wouldn¡¯t want me¡­¡± She mumbled to herself, getting out her lunch and taking a solitary bite.


    She noticed her semester report card sticking out of her bag after she got her lunch, before sliding it back in and making a mental note to hide it before dad found out she¡¯d gotten it already. He¡¯d ask where it was eventually, but she could at least put it off for now.


    Before Julia could enjoy her lunch too much, as to be expected, Casey made his way over, along with a few friends, as Julia tried to pretend she couldn¡¯t see them, until they were too close to ignore. He blocked out the sunlight above her, as his friends took seats nearby to Julia.


    Casey grinned. ¡°Where¡¯s your friend?¡± He said, leaning against Julia¡¯s wall.


    ¡°¡­he moved.¡± Julia replied, still staring down at her lunch.


    ¡°Cause he hates you?¡±


    Julia gripped her lunch harder, as Casey and his friends laughed to each other.


    ¡°I heard you¡¯re part of the group giving a presentation after class.¡± He said, sneering to himself. ¡°Don¡¯t choke to hard. You might just breakdown in front of everyone.¡±


    Julia stood up and walked away, as Casey and his friends followed behind her, purposefully stepping louder to draw her attention.


    ¡°Where are you going?¡± One of them called out.


    ¡°We just wanna talk!¡± Another called.


    As Julia got sick of walking, she turned back around and faced him.


    ¡°J-just¡­back off!¡± She yelled.


    ¡°You aren¡¯t gonna cry, are you?¡± Casey goaded. ¡°Or punch me?¡±


    Julia felt the urge, but forced herself not to. She wasn¡¯t giving into that again.


    ¡°Whatever¡­¡± He mumbled, walking off, with the others in tow. ¡°You should save crying for when you piss yourself at the presentation. Good luck¡­¡±


    Once they left, Julia found a nearby wall and kicked her leg into it over and over, eventually leaving a regretful bruise, as a teacher nearly came around, causing her to worry that she¡¯d get in trouble for damaging the school. As Julia heard the bell ring, her anxiety gripped her again, before letting go. She still had one more class until presentations.


    Just one more.


    ¡°Alright, can everyone give a hand to Mason.¡± The teacher said, the class clapping for him as he left the stage. ¡°Next up is Julia talking about agriculture in light of the Wailing Wars.¡±


    The class sat in silence, as all eyes went to Julia, taking a second longer than she should to get up, her palm cards shaking in her hands. She meant to work on her presentation more than she had. Throughout her life, she¡¯d put plenty of effort into her assignments, especially her writing, but it never helped her nerves in situations like this. So, why even try?


    Julia finally got to the front of the class and turned on the projector, as her mouth immediately dried up, and she felt all eyes bearing on her. Including, of course, Casey and his friends in the back. She looked over her palm cards, and quickly realised they were the cards that went with her earlier draft of the presentation, and were now terribly out of date.


    ¡°Whenever you¡¯re ready, Julia.¡± The teacher said.


    Julia noticed a few cards get stained with her sweat, but knew there was no backing out at this point.


    ¡°Th-th-thank you f-for¡­c-c-coming¡­¡± She managed, nearly dropping her cards. ¡°T-today, I¡¯ll be t-t-talking about¡­a-agriculture¡­¡±


    She changed to the next slide, which was totally different to what her cards were up to, as she shuffled through them to find the right dot points.


    ¡°Are you okay? Do you need a break?¡± The teacher asked, as Julia eventually found the right card.


    ¡°D-dairy! D-d-dairy production has¡­gone down¡­b-b-because¡­¡±


    Julia remembered she¡¯d forgotten to research this part, as she dropped one her cards and couldn¡¯t bear to pick it up.


    She looked back at the class, all strangers to her, as they watched her poorly made presentation go down in flames, and watched Julia slowly crouch into a ball in the ground, chained with anxiety. Her breathing was ragged and erratic.


    ¡°Julia?¡± The teacher asked, getting up to check on her, as a few other students got up as well. ¡°Someone get the school nurse! You¡¯re gonna be alright, Julia¡­you¡¯re gonna¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Wess gazed up from her novel, holding the page with her fingers, and looked to Cyrus in the opposite reading booth, playing with his bookmark in his hands.


    ¡°So? What do you think?¡± Wess asked.


    Cyrus raised his eyebrows, but kept reading. ¡°Surprisingly good. It was hard to tell what the early chapters were going for, but I think it picked up after that.¡±


    Wess smirked to herself, as Cyrus glanced back at her and grimaced. ¡°Okay, good job on picking the book. I shouldn¡¯t have doubted you.¡± He admitted.


    ¡°Thank you.¡±


    ¡°Now I can finally learn how to read properly.¡± He joked.


    Wess giggled to herself. ¡°It¡¯s too late for that. You¡¯re a lost cause at this point.¡±


    ¡°A dashing lost cause.¡± He remarked, still reading.


    Wess nearly jumped at him for that, but let the point go and continued with the book, taking a few subtle looks at Cyrus as he read.


    Admittedly, the collared shirt was really working for him.


    ¡­I¡¯m sure he¡¯d be open to the idea. A movie isn¡¯t such an absurd invitation. Wess thought. ¡­with some convincing, of course¡­


    Wess noticed herself staring and shifted her focus to the book, her mind still wavering over Cyrus¡¯ new look, as Cyrus put down his copy and looked back at Wess, playing idly with her hair.


    Just do it already.


    ¡°Hey, Wess?¡±


    ¡°Hmm?¡± Wess asked, propping her head up.


    ¡°Do you wanna go on a date?¡± Cyrus asked, blurting it out without another thought.


    Wess stayed silent, quickly processing what he¡¯d just said, as Cyrus continued. ¡°Cause there was this movie on at the momen-¡°


    ¡°Yes.¡± Wess replied, not wanting to keep him waiting, and now looking up from her book. Cyrus tried to hold back his excitement as best he could, but felt a smile starting to creep in anyway.


    ¡°It¡¯s about time you asked me.¡± Wess played off.


    Cyrus was still handling the emotions welling through him, before committing to the smile innocently. ¡°You could¡¯ve just asked me instead.¡±


    ¡°Now where¡¯s the fun in that?¡± Wess teased, returning to her book. ¡°I¡¯m much too good for you anyway.¡±


    ¡°Never mind, I¡¯m revoking the invite.¡±


    Wess¡¯ eyes panicked a little, as she tried to keep a good poker face. ¡°W-well, let''s not be hasty here.¡±


    ¡°Relax, I¡¯m kidding.¡± Cyrus said. ¡°How about Friday at nine?¡±


    Wess nodded. ¡°Yes¡­that sounds lovely.¡±


    The duo went back to reading, both a little red faced and thoroughly surprised with how well that went for both of them.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    As the week passed, the rest of the team, minus Wess, kept helping Julia with her anxiety. Essex showed her mindfulness techniques, Harley made snacks for their break, and Sola encouraged her all throughout. Julia was always grateful, but despite their support, almost none of it got through. She was just as scared as she was before.


    And just like that, Friday came around, and Julia¡¯s presentation was right around the corner.


    ¡°I keep playing over it in my head, trying to think of any scenario where it works out for me, but I¡¯ve never been able to get through a presentation without feeling dreadful, or¡­worse¡­what do you think, Maxie?¡±


    Maxie stared back at her, his button eyes unblinking, as she brushed his artificial fur idly to calm herself. She mumbled something under her breath, as the door to the dorm room opened up and Harley stuck her head in.


    ¡°You ready to head to class?¡±


    Julia jumped a little. ¡°Y-yeah, j-just a second¡­¡±


    Julia slowly got up from her bed and grabbed her palm cards, checked she had her room card, reshuffled her palm cards in her hands, cleared her bedside table a litt-


    ¡°Julia.¡± Harley spoke up. ¡°You can¡¯t keep distracting yourself.¡±


    ¡°¡­yeah, I know.¡± Julia admitted, finally getting her things together and heading out of the room, sighing deeply to try and quell her fears.


    Julia sighed, as Harley looked her over subtly and smiled. ¡°You look great today.¡±


    Julia nodded, not really taking the compliment, as they walked off to Whil App. The late day sun was passing through the hallway, as Julia and Harley stayed silent through their trek. Harley occasionally looked back over at Julia to make sure she was still there, expecting her to bail once she got the chance.


    I want to believe she wouldn¡¯t do that¡­ Harley thought.


    Rounding the corner, Harley spotted Julia¡¯s class heading into the lecture hall, ready to present, as Sola and Essex spotted the duo and waved.


    ¡°Alright, Julia, lets¡­¡± Harley said, before looking back and spotting Julia, huddled on the ground in a ball with her head in her hands. ¡°Julia?¡±


    Harley approached slowly, as Julia kept shaking her head back and forth. ¡°No no no no no no no¡­I can¡¯t do it¡­I can¡¯t do it again¡­¡± She muttered, Harley, then Sola, running up to her concerned, as Essex stayed behind to watch from the door.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay, Julia. It¡¯s just a presentation.¡± Harley consoled. ¡°I know we didn¡¯t make a ton of progress this week, but you¡¯ve made it this far already. We¡¯re really proud of you.¡±


    Julia sniffed loudly and shook her head. ¡°I¡¯m a failure¡­¡± Julia cried. ¡°I¡¯m never gonna get this¡­I won¡¯t suddenly be some presentation expert who can do everything! It¡¯s not worth it¡­¡±


    Harley glanced back down at Julia, sighed, and then stood up. ¡°If that¡¯s what you want, then you don¡¯t have to do it. I¡¯m sure you can reschedule with Ferris, or maybe send in a vide-¡°


    ¡°No!¡± Sola yelled, grabbing everyone¡¯s attention in an instant. ¡°Stop giving up!¡±


    Harley rested a hand on her hip. ¡°Sola, she doesn¡¯t want to do it.¡± Harley argued, helping Julia to her feet. ¡°She said it herself, it¡¯s not worth it.¡±


    ¡°It is worth it! Julia needs this!¡± Sola complained. ¡°She has to do it!¡±


    Julia held back some tears and looked to Sola.


    ¡°She helped me show off my Whil in class when I thought I couldn¡¯t! She¡¯s capable of this, she¡¯s just telling herself she isn¡¯t!¡± Sola turned to address Julia now. ¡°If you don¡¯t go up there Julia, I¡¯m gonna be disappointed in you! Not because you¡¯re worthless, not because you¡¯re a failure, but because we¡¯ve all had your back throughout this and you refuse to even try!¡±


    Julia wiped her nose and watched Sola¡¯s impassioned speech.


    ¡°You aren¡¯t gonna screw up! You¡¯re way too awesome for that!¡±


    Julia noticed Sola¡¯s conviction coming through even more.


    ¡°And if you screw up, I¡¯ll screw up twice as bad and make you look better! Count on it!¡±


    Julia felt a bit of bravery return.


    ¡°Do this for you! You don¡¯t need to be perfect, you just need to try!¡±


    Julia jumped into a hug with Sola, who was ready to keep going, but stopped soon after.


    ¡°¡­you¡¯re right.¡± Julia admitted. ¡°You¡¯re so right¡­¡±


    Julia broke the hug and faced her. ¡°I¡¯ve made so much progress already. I¡¯m not gonna let myself back out and ruin all that hard work.¡±


    Harley grinned in surprise. ¡°Don¡¯t tell me you got over your fear?¡±


    ¡°Oh, no, I¡¯m still terrified to go up there.¡± Julia admitted. ¡°But I¡¯m gonna do it regardless. I don¡¯t need some anxiety placebo. I¡¯m just gonna perform for me.¡±


    Essex waved to them, indicating the presentations were about to start, as they all caught up with her and headed inside.


    ¡°Peno Decu. It is a wish of luck.¡± Essex said, getting a quick nod from Julia. ¡°Are you ready?¡±


    ¡°As ready as I could be.¡± She said, before spotting the Vice Principal beside Ferris, talking about this and that as the students set themselves up.


    He doesn¡¯t matter. Just focus on yourself, Julia. You¡¯re doing this for you.


    After another minute or so, Ferris got up, turned off the lights and walked up on stage.


    ¡°This is something I¡¯ve been dreading for weeks now.¡± Ferris said. ¡°I already don¡¯t like hearing people talk, and hearing people younger than me talk with ill-prepared speeches irks me just as bad.¡± She tapped her microphone. ¡°They better not be bad.¡±


    Julia gulped, as Ferris looked down her list of names. ¡°Now, there¡¯s no set order, so I¡¯m gonna¡­wait. Are you in this class?¡±


    Ferris pointed to Harley sitting with the others, who pointed to herself out of confusion. ¡°No. I¡¯m here to support Julia.¡±


    ¡°¡­uhuh. I¡¯m gonna call out whatever name I like. But if anyone wants to g-¡°


    ¡°I-I would!¡± Julia yelled, frantically raising her hand while trying to ignore her fears. ¡°I-If that¡¯s o-okay¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­wants to go first.¡± Ferris finished, before lazily pointing to Julia. ¡°You might just blow a fuse if I don¡¯t let you¡­get up here.¡±


    Julia nodded, still shaking no matter how hard she tried to stay still, as she walked up to the stage, nearly tripping over the first step, and finding her way to the podium.


    The palm cards were difficult to hold in her sweat drenched hands, as she looked out at the darkened classroom; a sea of faces she vaguely recognised and couldn¡¯t figure out. They all stared back at her, trying to discern why she was taking so long.


    Julia felt herself getting faint, ready to bolt out the door if need be, before spotting Team Valiant at the back, still cheering her on silently through it all. Harley smiled back to Julia proudly, nodding in confidence, as Julia nodded back, took a deep breath, and pushed her way through.


    She turned on the projector.


    ¡°T-t-thank you for coming!!!¡± She yelled, clipping the microphone. ¡°T-today, I¡¯ll be discussing my W-Whil!...which I have d-d-dubbed¡­Velocity¡­Control!¡±


    A few good-natured laughs came from the crowd, as Julia¡¯s yelling was admittedly pretty funny to the class. Even Harley found herself snickering a little.


    Julia looked out at the class again, and realised they were all still paying attention, smiling pleasantly as she talked. They weren¡¯t laughing out of malice, they were encouraging her.


    They were encouraging her.


    ¡°M-moving on, I¡¯d like to talk a-about¡­potential Whil applications.¡± Julia said, turning to the next slide, as she felt a smile come across her face and a lingering proudness she couldn¡¯t get rid of.


    ¡°She¡¯s doing really well.¡± Sola whispered to Harley, who couldn¡¯t help but crack a smile at Julia¡¯s admittedly fascinating performance.


    Harley leaned back in her seat and watched on happily. ¡°Good job, Julia.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Julia hadn¡¯t been enjoying school for a while.


    Her grades had gotten worse, and she felt herself phasing out of most classes from lack of interest. Year 11 was nearly over, and the vice-principal was ready to talk to her about career prospects, but needless to say, Julia didn¡¯t want to be there.


    ¡°Could you please take a seat?¡±


    Julia begrudgingly took her seat, but avoided looking the vice-principal in the eyes. The vice-principal sighed openly, as she pressed a pen to paper. ¡°How¡¯ve you been feeling lately?¡±


    ¡°¡­you know how I¡¯m feeling.¡± Julia replied, playing with her hands.


    The vice-principal sighed again. ¡°I¡¯m gonna stop wasting your time. Your grades have been on a steady decline for a while¡­but I know for a fact that isn¡¯t your fault.¡±


    Julia bit her lip.


    ¡°You¡¯re a smart kid, Julia. And you haven¡¯t been applying yourself.¡± She said. ¡°I can see this kind of education isn¡¯t right for you.¡±


    ¡°Like that¡¯s the only problem¡­¡± Julia muttered.


    The vice-principal tapped her pen a few times. ¡°¡­I read over some of your old school work. Do you remember that activity a few years ago where you got asked to write a letter to your future self?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I guess.¡±


    ¡°Can I read some of it to you?¡±


    Julia thought about it and shrugged her shoulders.


    The vice-principal opened the letter and looked to Julia again. ¡°You can stop me if this gets too personal¡­¡±


    ¡¯I don¡¯t know what to write here.¡¯


    ¡®I wish my mind were blank. There¡¯s so much in my head right now. I can¡¯t seem to focus on anything. I hope things work out for me, but I¡¯m worried they never will. I thought I wanted to be a Venator, but now I just want to be happy.¡¯


    ¡®I have no idea what to do. Or write. Or think. But I hope things will work out. They have to.¡¯


    Julia felt herself choke up, tears almost trailing down her face by the end, as the vice-principal got up and hugged her comfortingly until she was able to compose herself.


    ¡°Are you okay?¡± She asked, before Julia slowly nodded.


    ¡°¡­I¡­just remembered writing that¡­¡± Julia managed. ¡°¡­I¡¯m a failure¡­¡±


    ¡°No, you aren¡¯t.¡± The vice-principal said, sitting back down. ¡°And you¡¯re too good to throw your life away as a teenager. But you clearly aren¡¯t getting anything from our school, and you need some help going forward. So, I have a suggestion¡­¡±


    The vice-principal pulled out a new slip of paper, with the large title of ¡®Venator Academy¡¯ brandished over giant buildings and happy looking students. ¡°You said you wanted to become a Venator, and the Venator Academy is the most respected institute out there. It would also fit your practical style of learning better, and let you start out with a team of amateurs to work with throughout your degree.¡±


    ¡°¡­I won¡¯t have the marks required.¡± Julia pointed out, trying not to look at the flyer too much.


    ¡°At this rate, yes¡­¡± The vice-principal replied. ¡°¡­but, as vice-principal, I can give them my recommendation.¡±


    Julia¡¯s eyes lit up. ¡°Really?¡±


    The vice-principal nodded. ¡°However, my recommendation won¡¯t be enough. You¡¯ll have to pass a physical and lift your grades if you want to get in fully. You don¡¯t need to ace every class, but if you apply yourself, you¡¯re guaranteed to get high enough results to pass.¡±


    Julia was left without words, still thinking over the opportunity she¡¯d just been given out of the blue.


    ¡°This is your decision.¡± The vice-principal said. ¡°Only you can get yourself in.¡±


    Julia thought about her options, eyeing the flyer throughout, before grabbing it wholeheartedly.


    ¡°I¡¯m¡­I¡¯m gonna try!¡± Julia exclaimed. ¡°I¡¯m gonna try my best!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s all I¡¯m asking.¡± The vice-principal replied, as Julia grabbed her bag. ¡°I have faith you¡¯ll do well.¡±


    ¡°Thanks.¡± Julia said, heading out the door. ¡°But it won¡¯t be faith that¡¯ll get me through.¡±


    Julia closed the door behind her, as the vice-principal smiled to herself and started drafting up the recommendation letter.


    ¡°Good luck.¡±

 Chapter 7: Ferocious

    CRAAASH!!!


    Harley flew backwards, landing on her back against the dusty ground, as she tried to regain her footing as best she could. She managed to maintain some level of balance, before getting back up and straightening herself.


    Dammit¡­that¡¯s not gonna work¡­


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong, Harley? Finding it hard to get through? You might as well say yes and get it over with!¡±


    Harley inspected her Buster Knuckles, seeing that the metal casing was still intact, but some of the wiring inside was frayed and scratched. Another hit like that would do some pretty bad damage long term.


    ¡°It¡¯s only a matter of time before you give up. It¡¯s hopeless to try and win against a prodigy like me!¡± Her adversary taunted. ¡°This will only be another victory for the great Team Exemplar-¡°


    ¡°Oh my gods, shut up!¡± Harley yelled. ¡°You didn¡¯t even hit me! You just sat there and let your Whil do all the work!¡±


    Avalon stopped talking and looked a little pouty. ¡°N-no! My Whil requires a lot of skill! I had to think really hard about that move!¡±


    ¡°That must¡¯ve been difficult for you!¡± Sola called out from the stands.


    ¡°Shut up! Stop intervening!¡± He yelled back, stamping his foot. ¡°You¡¯re all distracting me!¡±


    ¡°Oh geez¡­he¡¯s not gonna cry again, is he?¡± Roman groaned beside Team Valiant, looking back at his team leader.


    ¡°Avalon¡¯s so soft¡­¡± Leandra remarked, sitting beside him and shaking her head.


    It was mid-afternoon by the academy training grounds, as Team Valiant and a few of the members of Team Exemplary watched the match from the spectator stands, neither really that engaged in the fight.


    ¡°I hope Harley can win this¡­¡± Julia wished. ¡°I don¡¯t want that slimeball Avalon to get his way.¡±


    ¡°Harley has more developed technique and better instincts. She will win, even without the advantage of a Whil.¡± Essex assessed.


    ¡°Couldn¡¯t this have waited until tomorrow?¡± Wess complained. ¡°I¡¯ve finally finished classes for the day, and then Avalon decides to start an argument. What¡¯s this even about again?¡±


    ¡°Avalon asked Harley out again, but since he wouldn¡¯t take no for an answer, he challenged Harley to a fight.¡± Julia explained. ¡°If she falls over, she has to go on a date with him.¡±


    ¡°Oh gods¡­¡± Wess groaned. ¡°I should hope we¡¯d grown out of that behaviour by now¡­¡±


    ¡°Come on Harley!!! Knock his teeth in!!!¡± Sola yelled, as Roman and Leandra looked on in utter annoyance.


    Roman rubbed his forehead tiredly. ¡°I guess she¡¯s the loud one¡­¡± Roman droned, slumping into his uncomfortable spot in the stands.


    ¡°Hey Wess! Bet it¡¯s hard to watch your teammate get her ass kicked so bad!¡± Leandra stood and yelled, as Wess only just noticed her and popped her head up.


    ¡°Sorry, what was that?¡± Wess asked, having missed what she said.


    Leandra stamped against the stands angrily. ¡°Listen to me when I¡¯m insulting you!¡± Leandra grunted, taking her seat and folding her arms. ¡°I¡¯m gonna get you one of these days, princess¡­¡±


    ¡°Never mind, you¡¯re just as bad¡­¡± Roman groaned.


    Leandra gave her attention back to the fight, as Harley looked to have recovered.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Can¡¯t even manage to hurt me?¡± Avalon taunted.


    ¡°At least I actually hit you.¡± Harley pointed out. ¡°Your Whil¡¯s just a glorified electric fence.¡±


    Avalon was about to argue her point, but looking around him at the suspended electricity he¡¯d created to protect himself, he realised that was kinda true, which only upset him all over again.


    ¡°Y-you¡¯re just jealous that I have a Whil and you don¡¯t!¡± He defended. ¡°You¡¯ve gloves are just glorified¡­fists!¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a wonder why I don¡¯t wanna go out with you.¡± Harley remarked, turning Avalon red.


    ¡°Whatever! Prepare yourself!¡± Avalon yelled, before planting his feet on the ground, as his ¡®electric fence¡¯ moved downward, now covering the ground around him in a large circle. ¡°Can¡¯t get close now!¡±


    Shit¡­he¡¯s actually got some tricks¡­ Harley acknowledged, shaking her hand and readying her running stance. Guess I¡¯m just busting through.


    Harley ran toward him, hitting the electric ring surrounding Avalon and doing her best to wade through, before the pain became too much and jumping back, trying to regain her stamina.


    ¡°Remember, Harley, no falling down.¡± Avalon reminded her. ¡°Unless you¡¯ve suddenly had a change of heart?¡±


    Harley¡¯s eye twitched, as she started charging, running head first at Avalon again, reaching the electric field around him and leaping over it. She wound her fist up, letting her momentum carry her, as Avalon tried desperately to raise the electricity back around him to block her attack.


    TTHHHHRRRRAASSSHHHH!!!


    Avalon was sent sailing, flying backwards through the air, then against the dirt ground, before toppling a few times and finally landing on his back, staring up at the sky in pain.


    ¡°¡­ow¡­¡± He let out, as Harley straightened herself up and rested her fist, the metal of her Buster Knuckles holding intact and taking the force of the blow.


    Team Valiant headed over to Harley, as Leandra and Roman got up and checked on Avalon.


    ¡°Well, thanks. That was totally pointless.¡± Roman complained, leaning over Avalon and blocking out the sun.


    ¡°Next time you wanna win an argument, maybe don¡¯t pick a fight with the walking artillery.¡± Leandra suggested, as they both took one of Avalon¡¯s arms and pulled him to his feet.


    Team Valiant celebrated their victory amongst themselves, as Avalon, Leandra and Roman made their way over, with Avalon clearing his throat to get their attention.


    ¡°What? You wanna fight again?¡± Harley frustratedly asked, as Avalon stuck out his hand.


    ¡°That was a good fight. I wanted to pay my respects.¡± He said, as Harley looked back at his hand cautiously.


    He held it out, waiting.


    ¡°You aren¡¯t gonna electrocute me, are you?¡± Harley asked, as Julia elbowed her side, insisting she be polite and shake it back. Harley sighed and grabbed his hand. ¡°Fine. You surprised me with some of those moves. You did a good job.¡±


    ¡°Enough to win you ove-?¡±


    ¡°Nope, you ruined it.¡± Harley said, pulling her hand back, Avalon taking a second to readjust from the surprise.


    ¡°Okay, so since Harley won, that means no more asking her out, right?¡± Julia asked.


    ¡°That¡¯s right. No more for the whole week.¡± Avalon confirmed, as Harley looked back at him in shock.


    ¡°Week?! Since when was it only a week?!¡±


    ¡°¡­well I may have mumbled that part¡­¡± Avalon admitted, smiling to himself.


    Harley raised her fist again, ready to start swinging, as Julia and Sola held her back before she could accidentally kill Avalon.


    Avalon and his teammates headed off again, gleefully laughing to themselves. ¡°Just you wait, Harley! I¡¯ll win your heart for sure!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t think I won¡¯t get you back too, Wess! This isn¡¯t over between us!¡± Leandra yelled, as the team finally left the training grounds.


    Team Valiant was left in a stunned silence, as Julia looked to Wess. ¡°What¡¯d you do to Leandra to make her so mad?¡±


    ¡°So that¡¯s her name?¡± Wess realised. ¡°Honestly, I haven¡¯t any idea. I almost forgot about her entirely.¡±


    ¡°I want him dead so bad¡­¡± Harley mumbled, Julia resting a hand on her shoulder.


    ¡°Come on, you already won the fight. No need to desecrate his memory.¡± Julia said, as Harley conceded her point.


    ¡°I¡¯m going back to the dorm room. This has already taken much more time than it should have.¡± Wess groaned, the rest of the team joining her.


    ¡°Why¡¯s Team Exemplary so mean to us? What did we do wrong¡­¡± Sola said, hopping along with the rest of the group.


    ¡°We¡¯re in an academy built for combat. Conflicts are bound to pop up while we¡¯re here.¡± Julia pointed out. ¡°The best thing we can do is befriend who we can and avoid any more needless fights.¡±


    ¡°Totally with you there.¡± Harley agreed, checking the quality of her weapons. ¡°My Buster Knuckles have seen better days¡­¡±


    Essex peered over her shoulder to inspect them. ¡°I am trained in weapon maintenance. I can assist in any needed repairs.¡±


    ¡°Really?!¡± Harley exclaimed, grabbing Essex into a hug. ¡°You¡¯re so cool, Essex!¡±


    ¡°P-please put m-me down.¡± Essex asked, as Harley graciously let her go. ¡°Elia, do not throw off my centre of balance.¡±


    ¡°Sorry, boo.¡± Harley winked. ¡°You just got me so flustered with your weapon talk.¡±


    ¡°Flustered?¡± Essex asked, as they caught back up with the rest of the team.


    ¡°Well, I¡¯m taking the Weapon Maintenance course with Miss Spence, but I love getting to do it with someone experienced!¡± Harley grinned.


    Essex somewhat understood what she was saying. ¡°I am glad that I can help.¡±


    The day was mostly over, save for some assignment work the team planned to do over a shared dinner, but other than that, the week was starting off fairly quiet. Almost too quiet. Like someone was just ab-


    ¡°No slacking, gentlemen! You¡¯re working on academy time, not yours!¡± Came a voice down the hall, its booming presence grabbing everyone present without much effort.


    ¡°You guys heard that?¡± Julia asked.


    ¡°My goodness. This day is far too eventful¡­¡± Wess complained, as the others peered around the corner to see who it was.


    ¡°You¡¯re representing the academy when you wear those uniforms. Wanna explain yourselves?¡± Asked Chief of Security Dulce, as the two security guards she was chewing out looking visibly embarrassed.


    ¡°W-we were just taking a breather for a minute. Sorry Dulce¡­¡±


    Dulce sighed openly. ¡°Okay, but you¡¯ve got breaks for a reason. Keep up your patrol, for the sake of the students.¡±


    ¡°Yes, ma¡¯am.¡± They replied, before continuing their patrol down the hall.


    Dulce watched them head off, making sure they weren¡¯t slacking off behind her back, before spotting Team Valiant by the corner of her eye and freezing. She looked around a bit awkwardly. ¡°You guys didn¡¯t see that, did you?¡±


    ¡°No, we did.¡± Sola said, as the team stepped into sight.


    ¡°Sorry. I don¡¯t like students seeing our guards sitting on their asses.¡± Dulce admitted, with a good natured laugh. ¡°Just pretend you didn¡¯t see that.¡±


    ¡°All good.¡± Harley replied, before Dulce quickly recognised her and stopped.


    ¡°Hang on, you were at the attack, weren¡¯t you?¡± Dulce noticed. ¡°With the Behemoth Wailing?¡±


    ¡°Yeah?¡±


    Dulce strode up to her and vehemently shook her hand. ¡°I¡¯m so glad you stayed at the academy! You were a great help to us! I¡¯m sure those two girls you saved were very thankful!¡±


    Harley shook it back welcomingly. ¡°The name¡¯s Harley, and I¡¯m glad I could help!¡±


    Dulce then noticed Essex behind her, the scythe on her back making her hard to miss. ¡°And you!¡±


    ¡°Me?¡± Essex asked, as Dulce shook her hand just as frantically.


    ¡°You¡¯re a legend in the security team! Keep taking down the big fellas, and we might just have a spot on the team for you!¡±


    ¡°B-but I w-wish to be a V-Venator.¡± Essex managed, as Dulce refused to stop shaking her hand.


    ¡°Nonsense! Security sees way more action than the Venators do!¡± Dulce grinned, wrapping a friendly arm around Harley. ¡°If not, we¡¯ll just take blondie over here.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m up for more action.¡± Harley replied, grinning alongside her.


    Wess was a little disappointed in the chief¡¯s attitude, as Julia was just thrown off with how friendly she was, especially after seeing her on the day of the attack.


    ¡°She was so serious that day.¡± Julia said to Wess.


    ¡°I should hope so. We can¡¯t have our Chief of Security coming off as weak willed.¡± Wess said, watching Dulce pick up Sola on her shoulders. ¡°Or too social¡­¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t it good that she¡¯s a people person? Didn¡¯t you say a Venator is only as good as how they sell themselves?¡± Julia replied.


    Wess stood in silence, utterly surprised with what Julia had remembered her saying.


    ¡°¡­yes, well¡­¡± Wess stumbled, before giving up. ¡°I¡¯ll concede your point.¡±


    ¡°Technically, it¡¯s your point.¡± Julia joked, as Dulce pulled out her wallet.


    ¡°Whoa! He¡¯s so small and cute!¡± Sola exclaimed, staring at the photo she was displaying.


    ¡°That¡¯s your husband? Really?¡± Harley asked, as Dulce smiled proudly.


    ¡°I know. Scrawny guy, and can¡¯t fight for shit, but he sure knows how to show a lady a good time.¡± She beamed. ¡°Sometimes at parties, he lets me bench press him.¡±


    ¡°Sounds pretty ideal.¡± Harley smiled, as Julia and Wess joined back up with them.


    ¡°Hi there, Chief Dulce. Sorry we¡¯ve taken up so much of your time.¡± Julia apologised.


    Dulce kept laughing, before finally spotting Julia and going silent for a moment. ¡°Wait.¡±


    ¡°W-what?¡± Julia asked, her anxiety starting up again.


    Dulce slowly walked up to her and grabbed her into a hug. ¡°Finally! You¡¯re that kid we heard so much about!¡±


    ¡°K-kid?¡± Julia wondered, getting swung back and forth.


    ¡°We didn¡¯t know if you were still going here or not! You took that Behemoth thing down for good!¡± Dulce cheered. ¡°What¡¯s your name?¡±


    ¡°J-J-Julia A-Alpine.¡± Julia replied to the best of her ability.


    ¡°Damn good name!¡± Dulce said, finally putting her down. ¡°We¡¯d heard about someone with a sniper rifle getting the last shot in, but no one could make out the shot in the moment. A few guards caught a glimpse of you, but couldn¡¯t get to you before you left.¡±


    Julia was still focusing on her breathing, as Dulce continued. ¡°They shoulda let you graduate on the spot for that!¡±


    ¡°¡­t-thank you.¡± Julia said, having caught her breath. ¡°Can you not pick me up again?¡±


    ¡°Oh, sorry!¡± Dulce apologised. ¡°Got excited there. Just know you¡¯re a real lifesaver to the security team. Without your Whil, most of the security team might have perished back there.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t you guys have Whils too?¡± Harley asked.


    ¡°Well, me and few other members, but usually if you got a Whil, being a Venators more glamorous than security.¡± Dulce admitted. ¡°But we get by on our own.¡±


    ¡°I hear that.¡± Harley grinned, as Dulce spotted the same guards from before on their route, now glaring at her for socialising when she should¡¯ve been working.


    ¡°Oh, sorry guys, I gotta get back to my job. Practice what you preach, you know?¡± Dulce excused, heading out. ¡°Make me proud!¡±


    ¡°Will do!¡± Harley yelled back, as the team waved to Dulce as she left. ¡°She¡¯s awesome.¡±


    ¡°A bit chatty.¡± Wess interjected. ¡°But I can see the appeal.¡±


    ¡°Oh, come on¡­¡± Harley said, slinging her arm around Wess¡¯ neck. ¡°She¡¯s fun. You could learn a thing or two from her.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯ll be the day.¡± Wess remarked. ¡°I¡¯m plenty fun.¡±


    ¡°Ahuh¡­¡± Harley said, letting go, as the team walked back to their dorm room to sleep the rest of the day off.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°I can¡¯t believe it!!!¡±


    Harley stormed down the hall, paper in hand, as Sola, in a similar state of shock followed behind her. Considering how uneventful most of the week had been up until this point, something this bad happening on a Wednesday really worsened the already sour news.


    Just around the corner, having left her Venator Media and Literature class, Wess had met up with Julia and Essex, just finishing their Tracking and Hunting class with Ferris, as all three spotted Harley and Sola down the hall, running up to them frantically, despite the fact that other teams were in the hall too and could clearly see them.


    ¡°Harley looks really mad.¡± Julia said.


    ¡°Well, there goes my afternoon nap¡­¡± Wess sighed.


    ¡°Guys!¡± She called out, hurrying over with her sheet in hand. ¡°It¡¯s terrible!¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s just the worst!¡± Sola added, the duo joining up with the group, as Harley handed Julia the sheet.


    Julia quickly skimmed over it, realising it was an assignment sheet for Harley and Sola. The rubric explained it was a group project for them and¡­


    ¡°No way¡­¡± Julia exclaimed, handing the sheet to Wess and Essex, as Harley nodded in agreement.


    ¡°Exactly! Me and Sola were at our Venator History class!¡±


    ¡°Learning about Venator History!¡±


    ¡°Yeah, and then our lecturer, Cecil, joins us up-¡°


    ¡°With Team Exemplary!¡±


    ¡°Avalon and Roman!¡±


    ¡°Roman and Avalon!¡±


    ¡°Now we have to work with them for three tortuous weeks!¡± Harley cried.


    ¡°We didn¡¯t even get a say!¡± Sola exclaimed, throwing her hands up.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t know they were studying history.¡± Julia remarked, as Wess rolled her eyes at the sheet.


    ¡°Oh, come on, you two. Surely you can suck it up and bare through it.¡± Wess said. ¡°If you¡¯re to be professional Venators, you¡¯ll have to get used to working with people you hate.¡±


    ¡°But why those two?¡± Harley complained. ¡°Even Leandra would¡¯ve been more bearable¡­¡±


    ¡°Work through it to the best of your abilities.¡± Essex suggested. ¡°Accomplishments should act as a driving force.¡±


    Julia smiled. ¡°Essex has it right on the money. And, maybe if you do well enough, you can win Cecil¡¯s favour and he¡¯ll fudge the names next time.¡±


    Harley turned to Sola excitedly. ¡°Sola! We¡¯ve gotta beat them now!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m with you, one hundred percent!¡± Sola agreed.


    Essex didn¡¯t want to cause a fuss, but raised her hand regardless. ¡°That is not wh-¡°


    Essex was about to make her point and hopefully steer the others away from their plan, but was halted in her tracks by another student, noticeably taller and broader, pushing past her forcefully and knocking her to the ground with little effort. In a rare moment of unpreparedness, Essex fell to the floor, and froze for a brief second as she tried to process what had happened to her and how best to recover.


    The student kept walking, before looking back at Essex on the ground, staring blankly up at him like a deer looking down the barrel of a hunter''s gun.


    ¡°What?¡±


    Essex kept staring, caught off guard in every way, as Team Valiant stood back and assessed what they might have to do.


    ¡°¡­Duke, come over here.¡±


    Another guy from behind the team showed up and joined his side, as they both looked down at Essex dismissively.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with her?¡±


    ¡°I think you hit her too hard.¡±


    He smirked. ¡°Probably.¡±


    He leaned down to Essex, too out of her element to respond, before pushing a finger against her forehead forcefully. ¡°She might just break if I¡¯m not careful.¡±


    ¡°Back off.¡± Harley declared, now standing over him angrily, as Julia helped Essex to her feet.


    ¡°Alright, calm down, blondie.¡± He said. ¡°Someone¡¯s got a temper.¡±


    He looked back to Duke so that they could leave together, before noticing the black hair and dress of a figure he recognised behind Harley.


    ¡°Wess Delacroix Nouvel.¡± He said, as her expression remained frustrated. ¡°I heard you were looking for a new team. I¡¯m starting to see why.¡±


    Harley¡¯s nostrils flared, as Julia looked back to Wess. ¡°Do you know him?¡±


    ¡°Not personally, but our fathers have conversed.¡± Wess answered. ¡°Baron Devatta. He¡¯s apparently the leader of Team Ferocity.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ve done your homework.¡± Baron said.


    ¡°I¡¯m a good student.¡± Wess argued.


    ¡°Oh yeah?¡± Baron replied, walking a little closer. ¡°Since you¡¯re hunting for better teammates, why not join up with us? I¡¯m sure Faller can move some people around.¡±


    Julia worriedly looked to Wess, her paranoia overpowering her trust, before Wess merely scoffed at the offer. ¡°Pathetic. Your team has been underperforming the entire semester. I¡¯m not about to sink down with you.¡±


    ¡°Worth a shot. Though, you¡¯re only really good for your family name anyway.¡± He dismissed, drawing Wess¡¯ immediate ire, as Harley stopped his approach and blocked him from the team. He looked vaguely back at her, before standing straight up and slouching his shoulders. ¡°You some kinda bodyguard?¡±


    ¡°They don¡¯t need one.¡± Harley said. ¡°Are you gonna apologise to Essex already?¡±


    He straightened his back a little more. ¡°Now, why should I?¡±


    ¡°Cause I¡¯ll break you if you don¡¯t.¡± Harley threatened, causing Baron to smirk to himself.


    ¡°Whoa, whoa, come on guys. Let¡¯s not start throwing punches.¡± Julia mediated, leaving Essex with Wess and Sola and stepping in between the feud. ¡°Violence won¡¯t solve anything.¡±


    ¡°You hear that, blondie? Don¡¯t go throwing punches.¡± He repeated, before ignoring the increasingly angry Harley and looking to Julia. ¡°I¡¯m guessing you¡¯re the leader?¡±


    ¡°Yes, I am.¡± Julia answered. ¡°My name¡¯s Julia.¡±


    Baron refused to reply.


    ¡°Okay, Baron. While I don¡¯t want a fight, I think Essex deserves an apology. You did bump into her without a second thought.¡± Julia asked.


    Baron scratched his neck. ¡°It¡¯s not my fault she was in my way. You saw it, Duke. She got in my way.¡±


    Duke nodded his head, as Baron slouched down to meet Julia¡¯s height. ¡°Maybe she should apologise to me. Go on, leader. Tell her what to do.¡±


    Julia felt her instincts pulling her back, as Harley stepped in front of her team again.


    ¡°I told you to back off.¡± She stated, matching his eye line.


    ¡°But I didn¡¯t listen, did I?¡± He retorted.


    As Harley and Baron glared each other down, seemingly both ready to tear each other limb from limb, Julia fortunately noticed Chief of Security Dulce patrolling down the hall. Dulce saw the commotion, as Julia subtlety indicated for her to come over and help them out.


    ¡°Is there something wrong with her?¡±


    ¡°Stop talking about Essex like that.¡±


    ¡°Excuse me.¡± Dulce interjected, Harley and Baron refusing to break eye contact. ¡°What¡¯s the problem here?¡±


    ¡°Baron shoved Essex and won¡¯t apologise.¡± Harley said.


    Stolen content alert: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.


    ¡°Blondie here can¡¯t take a joke.¡± Baron said.


    ¡°Blondie?¡± Harley asked.


    ¡°Would you rather I call you bloated?¡±


    Harley felt her tempers flare up, as Julia held her back, while whispering into Dulce¡¯s ear. ¡°Can you get them to talk it out? I don¡¯t want to start another fight.¡±


    Dulce looked down to Julia with an inappropriate smile. ¡°Julia, these two aren¡¯t about to talk their issues out.¡± Dulce advised.


    She walked in between the two and rested her hands on their shoulders. ¡°I know the best way to work out your differences.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t need to hear it.¡± Baron sneered.


    Dulce continued anyway. ¡°I suggest a sparring match. Get out your frustration and lay this thing to rest. I¡¯ll function as the referee and make sure you two don¡¯t kill each other in the process. If Harley wins, you apologise to Essex and leave this feud alone, and if Baron wins¡­¡±


    ¡°I get to shove her again.¡± Baron joked, as Essex reflexively flinched and Harley nearly jumped him right there. Dulce stared him down before continuing.


    ¡°If Baron wins, you can clean his team''s weapons for a week. Is that fair enough?¡± Dulce asked, Harley and Baron tacitly agreeing. ¡°Okay the-¡°


    ¡°Hold on.¡± Baron said, raising a finger. ¡°I¡¯ve got one request.¡±


    ¡°Yeah?¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re studying in teams, right? Why not make it two-on-two?¡± Baron suggested. ¡°Me and Duke can spar against Harley, and¡­¡±


    He lowered and pointed his finger back at¡­


    ¡°Wess.¡±


    ¡°Now, come on, Baron, that¡¯s not fair. The fight¡¯s between you two, no-¡°


    ¡°Fine.¡± Wess answered, drawing everyone¡¯s attention. ¡°I accept your challenge. I need to reclaim some honour after you besmirched my name anyway.¡±


    ¡°Good to hear.¡± Baron said, forcing Harley¡¯s hand into a shake. ¡°See you on Friday by the training grounds. I¡¯ll go easy.¡±


    ¡°Good for you.¡± Harley replied, shoving him off, as Baron took the hint and walked off with his hands in his pockets, and Duke hopping along behind, eyeing Wess up for their fight.


    As soon as they left the scene, Harley and Julia rushed back over to the others and formed a makeshift embrace around Essex, with Essex still shaken by the whole event.


    ¡°Are you okay? He didn¡¯t hurt you, did he?¡± Julia asked, carefully checking Essex¡¯s arm.


    ¡°N-no, I am¡­fine.¡± Essex said, even if she may not have meant it.


    ¡°If you wanna talk about it, just let us know. We¡¯re here for you.¡± Harley said, checking back to see if Baron was bothering to show his face again. ¡°We¡¯ll make sure he doesn¡¯t get close.¡±


    ¡°Do you wanna go back to the dorm room?¡± Sola asked, as Essex slowly nodded.


    ¡°What a vile man¡­¡± Wess groaned, comfortingly rubbing Essex¡¯s shoulder. ¡°I¡¯ll make sure to do plenty of damage on Friday.¡±


    ¡°Julia?¡± Essex asked.


    ¡°Oh, I¡¯m sorry, did I hurt you?¡±


    ¡°No, I was¡­wondering¡­¡± Essex said. ¡°¡­may I borrow Maxie for tonight?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, of course.¡± Julia smiled. ¡°Whatever you need.¡±


    ¡°Grela.¡± Essex thanked, as Dulce approached from the side.


    ¡°Harley, I know I said I¡¯d mediate this thing¡­¡± Dulce leaned in. ¡°¡­but if you wanna take a few swings at his privates, I may just look the other way.¡±


    ¡°Thank you.¡± Harley said. ¡°I¡¯ll make him hurt for this.¡±


    Dulce smirked. ¡°The little shit definitely deserves it. Best of luck on Friday.¡±


    The team waved her off, as they escorted Essex back to their room to help her recover from the incident.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    The night after was somewhat restless for the team. Essex went to bed early and only came out the next day to get food and train. She even asked Harley to join her training routine in case she crossed paths with Baron or Duke again. The rest of the team helped however they could, but until the match on Friday was finished, it was hard to stay settled for long.


    ¡°Mind passing the flathead?¡±


    Essex reached over into Harley¡¯s toolbox and handed it to her. ¡°Dal.¡±


    ¡°Thank¡­you! How¡¯s the left glove holding up?¡±


    Essex latched the metal frame back and showed the now untangled wiring, as Harley whistled at the job well done.


    ¡°You do some damn clean work. I could never get the wiring to stay in place.¡± Harley remarked.


    ¡°It is difficult to manage.¡± Essex added, going back to fixing the frame.


    The duo sat in silence, as Harley looked back over at Essex, still diligently helping Harley out. Harley almost never went into the team¡¯s study, so fixing her Buster Knuckles with Essex while the others were out was a weird tone, to say the least.


    Harley finished tightening the bolts, before putting the glove down against the table. ¡°Hey, how¡¯re you doing?¡±


    ¡°This gauntlet should be finished soon enough.¡±


    ¡°No, no¡­¡± Harley said, laughing a little. ¡°I mean¡­after yesterday.¡±


    Essex momentarily lost her concentration, before returning her attention to the glove. ¡°I am currently fine.¡±


    ¡°¡­do you wanna talk about anything?¡±


    ¡°No, but I thank you.¡± Essex assured her. ¡°Yesterday was a momentary reaction. Emotions like that are temporary, and are of no concern.¡±


    Harley glanced back at Essex and her incredibly difficult-to-read face, before leaning over and hugging her.


    ¡°What are you doing?¡± Essex asked.


    ¡°Letting you know I¡¯m here for you.¡± Harley promised. ¡°I¡¯m gonna hit Baron extra hard.¡±


    Essex waited for the hug to finish, before finishing up with the gauntlet. ¡°Do what you think is necessary. I have finished.¡±


    Harley stared back at the gauntlet proudly, before putting it back on and getting up to do some practice punches in the air. ¡°Whoa! You got rid of the drag! I¡¯ve been tryna work that out for years!¡±


    ¡°It was no trouble.¡± Essex said, smiling a little at Harley¡¯s joyous display. ¡°I have done what I could.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Why do we have to have a team that hates us?¡± Sola worried. ¡°We¡¯re here to fight Wailing, not other students.¡±


    Julia prepared a couple things in the kitchen, mostly to take her mind off of yesterday¡¯s events, before joining Sola out on the balcony with a food platter. ¡°¡­it may not be the whole team. Just those two¡­¡±


    ¡°I doubt that.¡± Sola said. ¡°If Baron¡¯s their leader, then I don¡¯t want to meet the people that chose him.¡±


    ¡°Can we stop talking about them, please?¡± Julia said, looking back at Essex¡¯s door to make sure it was still closed. ¡°I don¡¯t want to freak her out anymore.¡±


    Sola looked back too and sighed. ¡°I hope she¡¯s okay¡­you know, actually okay.¡±


    ¡°I never thought she¡¯d get so shaken like that. Everyone keeps saying how calm and collected she was during the Behemoth Wailing attack.¡± Julia mentioned.


    ¡°Maybe she¡¯s had a hard time with bullies before?¡± Sola posited.


    Julia checked again, more out of paranoia than anything, before returning her attention to Sola. ¡°Maybe¡­¡±


    Just as the moment went silent, Julia and Sola spotted Harley and Wess walk out onto the training grounds with their weapons in hand, Harley setting up the training post they borrowed from the academy weapon storage. Julia and Sola waved to them, as Wess waved back and Harley got her weapons ready.


    ¡°I hope they¡¯re all right too.¡± Julia said. ¡°I don¡¯t know what those Team Ferocity guys are like out on the field.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll totally win, no doubt!¡± Sola exclaimed. ¡°Ferocity won¡¯t know what hit ¡®em!¡±


    Julia giggled a little. ¡°I¡¯m with you there. Harley¡¯s weapons look better than ever, and she did win against Avalon without breaking a sweat.¡± She said, returning her attention to the grounds. ¡°Though he¡¯s kinda pathetic¡­¡±


    Harley readied her gauntlets, as she ran to the training post and took her first blow, the post staying rigidly in place while she kept up her attacks. Wess sat on the log seat by the sidelines, dressed in her function-over-form combat outfit, her sword, Belvedere, resting against her seat, as she watched Harley take some frustration out on the post.


    ¡°Don¡¯t break it before I get my turn.¡± Wess reminded her, knowing full well that it was near unbreakable.


    ¡°No¡­promises¡­¡± Harley said between punches.


    Wess looked out at the other teams dotted around the training grounds, a few she recognised from her spare time networking and a few still new to her, before getting up and standing by Harley¡¯s side.


    ¡°How much experience do you have?¡±


    Harley took a breather and faced her. ¡°With fighting?¡±


    ¡°With fighting people.¡± Wess clarified. ¡°You¡¯ve told me you grew up on a farm, so I assume you¡¯ve fought off pests and wildlife once in a while.¡±


    Harley smiled. ¡°Glad you were listening.¡± She dabbed at her forehead with her towel. ¡°I got into fights a lot at school. I wasn¡¯t always starting them, but I usually ended them. Why? You nervous?¡±


    ¡°¡­a little.¡± Wess admitted. ¡°I¡¯ve never fought against another person before.¡±


    Harley stared at her in disbelief. ¡°Never?¡±


    ¡°Well, not seriously. I sparred with Graham once in a while. My parents didn¡¯t want me becoming a Venator, so all my ¡®training¡¯ was purely theoretical.¡± Wess groaned. ¡°So I wanted some pointers. Just enough to help me against that Duke fellow.¡±


    Harley sat against the log and took another deep breath. ¡°I mean, sure, but I don¡¯t know much about swords or¡­slashing things.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sure they¡¯ll translate well enough.¡± Wess acknowledged. ¡°We don¡¯t exactly have Whil¡¯s to fall back on, and I¡¯m sorry to say that I don¡¯t know whether Baron or Duke have Whil¡¯s either.¡±


    ¡°They probably do.¡± Harley grumbled. ¡°Douchebags like that would¡­¡±


    ¡°Yo, Harley!¡± Called out a voice from the sidelines. ¡°What¡¯re you up to?¡±


    ¡°Oh, it¡¯s Chops.¡± Harley said, her mood turning around immediately. ¡°Hey!¡±


    Chops trotted over to them, waving up to Julia and Sola on the balcony once she spotted them.


    ¡°What¡¯s Little Miss Attitude doing here?¡± Chops asked, pointing to a miffed Wess and just noticing her outfit. ¡°Whoa! Finally got rid of the dress, huh?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s Wess.¡± She corrected.


    ¡°Oh, yeah¡­¡± Chops said, not really committing to it. ¡°You getting ready for something?¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re fighting another team tomorrow.¡± Harley explained. ¡°Team Ferocity.¡±


    ¡°Those guys?¡± Chops said, instinctively losing energy. ¡°Ugh, gross. They nearly picked a fight with Lenin over Saxin.¡±


    ¡°Please, we already despise them enough.¡± Wess added, taking a seat.


    ¡°That being said, I¡¯m not about to go fighting them.¡± Chops corrected. ¡°You guys are braver than most.¡±


    ¡°Their leader pushed Essex for no reason and nearly made her cry.¡± Harley explained, re-strapping her Buster Knuckles a little tighter to get out her anger. ¡°I¡¯m making him pay.¡±


    Chops was slack jawed.


    ¡°Fuck that guy.¡±


    ¡°Exactly.¡± Harley agreed.


    ¡°If it¡¯s cool, I might just sit in for your fight.¡± Chops asked. ¡°I wanna see you make him cry.¡±


    ¡°You little sadist.¡± Harley joked, grabbing Chops into a playful headlock, before she broke out with an impressive strength.


    Chops leaned back on the log with Wess. ¡°So how¡¯s training going? Broken the training post yet?¡±


    ¡°No, but we¡¯ve got a problem. Wess doesn¡¯t have much experience with her sword.¡± Harley said, pissing Wess off.


    ¡°I have plenty of experience with my sword, just not with fighting others!¡± Wess corrected. ¡°Don¡¯t make me sound so inept.¡±


    ¡°You know, Chops is a sword user too.¡± Harley explained, with Chops proudly looking to Wess. ¡°She could help you spar. You up for it?¡±


    ¡°You know I am.¡± Chops said, grabbing Wess¡¯ cautious attention.


    Wess looked back at Chops hesitantly.


    ¡°Come on. I won¡¯t bite.¡± Chops teased.


    ¡°Are you sure about that?¡± Wess asked, before sighing to herself. ¡°I suppose I¡¯d be remiss not asking you. This is for my honour, after all.¡±


    ¡°¡­is that a yes?¡±


    ¡°Yes, Chops. I would greatly appreciate the help.¡± Wess moaned, rubbing her forehead. ¡°Can we please hurry up? There¡¯s only so much daylight left.¡±


    ¡°If you lose the attitude.¡± Chops snickered. ¡°I¡¯ll run back to the dorms in a bit and get my sword. I¡¯d bring Joleicia too, but she¡¯s busy with that Venator History assignment. Get this, she got paired up with Team Beefcake of all people.¡±


    Wess looked back to Harley. ¡°Weren¡¯t you grouped up with Team Exemplary? You may want to get on top of that sooner rather than later.¡±


    Harley took a few more well earned swings at the post, refusing to break eye contact with it. ¡°This is more important.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Dulce had contacted both of the teams before to negotiate a time and place, leading to a meeting at 2:00pm on the west-most sparring court. Team Valiant had arrived on time, plus Chops and minus Essex, who was back at the team room, ready for the others to come back when they were done. About twenty minutes had passed, and Team Ferocity still hadn¡¯t shown up.


    ¡°Lazy assholes¡­¡± Harley grumbled, kicking some dust off the ground, as Wess impatiently checked her watch.


    Chops blocked her eyes from the sun. ¡°I had a feeling they¡¯d do this¡­¡± Chops groaned, leaning back in her seat next to Julia.


    Julia sighed. ¡°They didn¡¯t look like the punctual type.¡±


    ¡°No, they¡¯re doing this deliberately.¡± Chops confessed. ¡°They¡¯re psyching us out.¡±


    Chops indicated to Harley and Wess, still impatiently waiting. ¡°Ferocity¡¯s putting them on edge before the fight even starts. The less we can predict, the better for them.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s dirty.¡± Sola moped. ¡°I didn¡¯t think I could hate them more.¡±


    ¡°You reckon they¡¯ll be okay?¡± Julia whispered to Chops. ¡°I¡¯d ask them how they¡¯re doing, but I don¡¯t wanna distract them if I don¡¯t need to.¡±


    Chops scratched her chin. ¡°Wess might be alright, but Harley¡¯s never been good with this stuff, especially when we were dating. She really lets her emotions flare up during fights.¡± Chops clarified. ¡°But if anything, that¡¯s why the sex was so good.¡±


    Julia¡¯s face went red, as she distracted herself by looking to Dulce on the sidelines, about as annoyed as Harley and Wess. ¡°D-did you make sure they got the right time?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve sent over a dozen messages. The nerve of them¡­¡± Dulce said back. ¡°If they aren¡¯t here in the next five minutes, I¡¯m calling you guys the default winners. I can¡¯t bel¡­¡±


    Just as she was about to go on a tirade, a trio of figures appeared from the distance talking to themselves casually, before taking their sweet time to show up to the sparring court.


    ¡°You¡¯re late!¡± Dulce yelled, as Baron shrugged his shoulders. ¡°Get your act together! You¡¯re here to be Venators, not sleep in!¡±


    ¡°Yeah yeah¡­¡± Baron ignored, showing off his broadsword strapped to his back. ¡°I hope you don¡¯t mind that I brought my teammate Edward along.¡±


    Edward waved a hand behind Baron, as Duke punched his side once he found the chance, leading to a little laughing fit between them.


    ¡°No excuses, Baron.¡± Dulce warned. ¡°We¡¯ll start with Duke against Wess first, then we¡¯ll finish off with Harley and Baron. Any complaints?¡±


    ¡°None from me.¡± Duke boasted, staring Wess down aggressively.


    Wess glared back at him with far more intention, as he quickly turned back around to avoid her gorgon-like stare.


    Harley sat with the others, as Baron and Edward slinked to the spectator stands, Baron sitting far enough away from Team Valiant, and Edward deciding to sit between him and Chops, giving her ¡®subtlety¡¯ ¡®affectionate¡¯ glances.


    ¡°Hey.¡± He greeted.


    Chops looked at him, before pulling her sketchbook from her bag and ignoring him completely.


    ¡°Tch, whatever¡­¡± He grumbled, as Duke and Wess met in the middle of the field to fight.


    ¡°The first one to knock the other over wins. No lasting damage, got it?¡± Dulce said.


    ¡°Understood.¡± Wess replied.


    Duke nodded as well, as both parties turned and took paces to each side of the court, before facing the other on each side.


    ¡°Don¡¯t forget my advice!¡± Chops yelled, as Wess rolled her eyes. ¡°Got it?¡±


    ¡°Yes, thank you, Chops.¡± Wess droned, focusing back on the fight.


    ¡°10¡­9¡­8¡­¡± Dulce counted, Wess gripping her sword, and Duke moving his hands to his pockets, almost looking a bit distracted.


    What could he be up to? Wess wondered, moving to a running position. Best be cautious. He¡¯s clearly planning something.


    ¡°¡­3¡­2¡­¡± Dulce paused for a second. ¡°¡­1.¡±


    Wess sprinted forward, refusing to give Duke a moment to think, as Duke side-glanced Wess with a slight disinterest. Wess gripped her sword, aiming the flat end toward his legs to knock him over as she went past, before feeling her footing betray her, and careening off to the side, nearly stumbling over as she did so.


    What the¡­?!


    Wess held her ground, as Duke turned back to her, still as disinterested as before, and with seemingly no action on his part. Wess stood firm as she analysed his movements.


    ¡­I missed something¡­he¡¯s trying to confuse me¡­


    Wess held her sword by her side and slowly circled Duke, with him following suit, both maintaining the same distance from each other, as the others watched from the sidelines nervously.


    ¡°Come on, Wess¡­¡± Julia hoped, Chops grabbing her hand instinctively. ¡°You okay?¡±


    ¡°Just a bit of reassurance.¡± Chops said, clearly hiding a few nerves. ¡°She¡¯ll be fine.¡±


    Wess tried to look for an opening, or any clear tell, as Duke stared her down, lumbering each step as he did so. As Wess got a little too comfortable in their routine, Duke slowed his step for a second, shifting his foot a little, before Wess felt the ground under her shift and deform. Her instincts kicked in, as she spotted his moving foot and stepped back, narrowly avoiding the ground crumbling under her while regaining a little stability and clarity.


    Of course he has a Whil¡­ Wess realised, watching his movements intensely.


    Duke realised she might have caught onto his Whil, as he dropped the act and made his presence a bit more clear to her. His hands were still in his pockets, but Wess had a feeling that he didn¡¯t need them.


    So he creates small controlled tremors in the ground from his body. Wess assessed. But the range and intensity are still unknown. However¡­


    Wess backed up a little, making sure to check his footing so that she wasn¡¯t tripping over once he got the chance, before running up to him like last time. However, once she felt the ground start shifting, she leaped into the air, aiming the flat of her sword now at his chest and using his pocketed hands and inability to block her attack to her advantage.


    Just as she reached him, Wess noticed his hands stay where they were, not even trying to block her instinctively, and that despite it not being possible, he seemed to dash off to the side right past her attack, almost sliding into the ground as he did so. Wess did her best to stick the landing, before looking back to try and figure him out again.


    How did he dodge that so quickly? Does he have two Whils somehow? She thought, before dismissing the idea. No, that¡¯s not possible. I¡¯ve missed something again¡­


    Just as she tried to piece it together, she noticed Duke lifting and sinking the ground under his feet playfully, dragging himself side to side through the ground with ease, a vicious grin on his face as he did so, as Wess realised what he¡¯d done to avoid her.


    ¡°Are you kidding?!¡± Harley complained. ¡°He can move the ground?! How¡¯s she supposed to knock him over?! He can¡¯t even hit the ground!¡±


    ¡°You¡¯d have had a better chance tryna kill him.¡± Baron mocked, riling Harley up again.


    ¡°Oh, shut up already! Don¡¯t you dare show up late and then sit there le-!¡± Harley yelled, as Sola grabbed her arm, stopping her, and indicating for her to calm down and sit.


    Harley realised the issue, with Chops and Julia looking back at her concernedly, as she sat back down with the others and quietly watched Wess try to plan something out.


    Duke swayed side to side, the ground following along with him, clearly trying to tease Wess and drop her guard. Wess maintained her footing well, despite her growing tiredness.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you planning on taking any swings?¡± Wess asked, readying her sword again.


    ¡°I haven¡¯t needed to so far.¡± Duke replied. ¡°But I¡¯d say I¡¯m still winning.¡±


    Of course. Wess realised. He¡¯s toying with me while tiring me out.


    ¡°Take some more pointless swings. They¡¯ve work for you so far.¡± Duke joked, kicking a bit of dust in the air.


    I could always shove the sword down his throat. Wess thought. I should attempt that manoeuvre Chops suggested. It may just be the way out of this rut.


    Wess tapped her sword on the ground a few times, catching Chops¡¯ eye, before running back to Duke, now arching around to his side rather than running at him head on.


    ¡°She¡¯s forcing him to dodge right!¡± Julia exclaimed, as Chops bit her nails nervously.


    Wess aimed her sword again, ready for the ground to shake, before making it over to him and realising the ground was perfectly still as she ran. Regardless, she leaped through the air again, aiming lower and swinging her sword further to compensate for his dodging, as Duke tried to dodge out of the way, before being caught by the side of the sword and getting pushed to the right instead of dodging.


    He managed to catch himself before falling over, as in Wess¡¯ brief moment of triumph, she noticed the reason the ground was solid while she was running.


    Because just below her landing was the unsettled ground, ready to catch her as she fell.


    Wess¡¯ feet sunk into the earth, with the rest of her body being pulled forward by her momentum, and forced against the hardened ground with a painful thud. The ground reformed around her legs, spitting them out and leaving her lying against the dirt in a near unconscious state. It was a little hard to make out her surroundings, but she could clearly see the silhouette of Duke standing over her, either smiling or grinning.


    ¡°¡­nice¡­careful next¡­¡±


    Wess gave herself a second, trying to find her footing, as the others rushed over to her to check on her wellbeing.


    ¡°Are you okay, Wess?¡± Julia asked, helping her to her feet along with Sola. ¡°How many fingers am I holding up?¡±


    Wess focused her vision and moved Julia¡¯s hand out of the way. ¡°Th-three¡­fortunately, I can still count.¡±


    ¡°Hold up! Duke, what did I say?¡± Dulce yelled, coming over to the group. ¡°No lasting damage! You nearly knocked her unconscious!¡±


    ¡°She jumped at me! I was tryna be delicate.¡± He justified. ¡°I wasn¡¯t about to cradle her with my Whil.¡±


    Dulce sneered a little. ¡°¡­you better watch it. Wess, unfortunately, the victory goes to Duke.¡±


    ¡°¡­yes, I felt that was the case.¡± Wess said, finding she could now stand on her own.


    ¡°Do you need to go to the infirmary?¡± Julia asked.


    ¡°No, no, I should be fine to stay and watch.¡± Wess said, straightening her back. ¡°What a disgraceful display¡­I couldn¡¯t even hit him without falling over.¡±


    ¡°Wess, you were great! Don¡¯t be so hard on yourself.¡± Sola cheered.


    ¡°You even used my curve technique well. Not perfectly, but you really threw him for a loop considering you only learned it yesterday.¡± Chops said. ¡°His Whil¡¯s totally cheating, though.¡±


    Just as Chops finished, Duke walked over and stood in front of Wess, his slouched height still present.


    ¡°Good match.¡± He said, sticking out his hand.


    Wess approached him and shook it, predicting his tight grip and responding in kind with one of her own.


    ¡°Would you have offered the handshake if I won?¡± Wess asked.


    ¡°Probably not.¡± Duke grinned.


    Wess let go and wiped her hand on her already messy workout clothes, as Julia patted her back assuringly.


    ¡°Come on, I brought drinks for us.¡± Julia beamed, motioning the others over to their spot on the seats.


    ¡°They aren¡¯t cheap soft drinks, are they?¡± Wess complained, as Julia pulled out a gorgeous Chardonnay and showed it off to Wess. ¡°¡­that might just do.¡± Wess graciously sighed, heading over as Julia poured her a glass.


    ¡°Alright. Harley. Baron. Get over here.¡±


    Dulce stood firmly in place, as Harley and Baron each took their time getting down to the court, eyeing each other up as they did so. The others looked to Harley as she walked down, as Julia¡¯s nerves started to get to her.


    ¡°Do your best, Harley!¡± Julia wished. ¡°You¡¯ve got this!¡±


    Harley and Baron met in the middle, Harley ready with her weapons and Baron stretching his neck, as Dulce stood above them.


    ¡°You know the rules, but I feel I still have to repeat them. Knock the other over. No lasting damage. Got it?¡±


    ¡°I heard you the first time.¡± Baron grumbled.


    Harley stared him down.


    ¡°Harley, have you got it?¡±


    Harley breathed out slowly. ¡°Yeah, I got it.¡±


    Dulce looked to her again, just to be sure. ¡°¡­head to each end of the court.¡±


    Duke turned to Team Valiant and snickered. ¡°I feel sorry for you guys. You¡¯re gonna watch two team members lose in one day.¡±


    ¡°More like lose horribly.¡± Edward corrected, laughing to himself, as Wess focused on the fight.


    Before Harley made it to the court¡¯s end, she and Wess shared an understanding glance, as Harley readied her gauntlets, and Baron pulled his imposing broadsword from its sheath.


    ¡°10¡­9¡­8¡­¡± Dulce counted.


    As Baron waited, he held his sword in front of him, running his fingers across its edge, the sword slowly catching fire with his touch, eventually becoming enveloped as he reached its end.


    ¡°Guess he lights things he touches¡­¡± Chops remarked, reluctantly filling in the details of his Whil in her sketchbook. ¡°I don¡¯t want to admit that that¡¯s kinda cool¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­3¡­2¡­¡± Dulce paused a little longer before saying¡­


    ¡°1.¡±


    Both Harley and Baron stayed perfectly still, clearly sizing each other up, as neither wanted to be the first to step forward.


    The others watched on with baited breath, tempted to yell something out to get the fight going, as Harley finally stepped forward, tentatively. Baron retaliated, stepping forward as well, as they both continued their walk carefully, before getting close to each other and stopping just a few metres apart. Neither broke their gaze, Baron¡¯s face just as stoic and serious as Harley¡¯s, as both looked for a window.


    In either a moment of hindsight or frustration, Baron glanced back at his sword for the briefest of moments, as Harley took her chance and jumped him, propelling herself forward and aiming her fist at his chest. Baron saw this coming and managed to dodge out of the way, leaving Harley soaring past him, as she was slightly burnt by what felt like the residual heat of his sword.


    ¡°Aaggh!¡± She gritted, holding herself together to land, as her and Baron repositioned. She inspected the top of her hand, clearly burnt, but not too badly.


    ¡°Tricky bastard¡­¡± She mumbled, before going in for another swing with her other fist, with the same predictable result. Despite Baron not swinging it yet, and Harley being further away from the sword, her hand still managed to get burned, as Baron¡¯s neutral expression was starting to piss her off.


    ¡°Fight back! Why aren¡¯t you swinging?!¡± Harley yelled, rubbing her hand aggressively.


    ¡°Don¡¯t lose your head.¡± He grumbled, aiming his sword in order to swing.


    Harley stood back up, as she started her run again, aiming with her right fist to catch his interest, before faking out with her left fist and managing to get a clean hit in. Just as the fist connected, Harley noticed Baron now pointing his fingers at her fist, as a small fire burst onto her hand with no contact from Baron.


    Harley flew back, the burn getting her far worse this time, as the onlookers finally caught what had happened.


    ¡°Wait! He didn¡¯t touch her!¡± Sola yelled, turning to Julia. ¡°How¡¯d she get burned?¡±


    ¡°¡­because he doesn¡¯t need to touch to use his Whil.¡± Julia realised. ¡°He did that manoeuvre with his sword at the start just to trick us.¡±


    ¡°Scum¡­¡± Chops mumbled, erasing the details she¡¯d just written about his Whil.


    Harley flailed her hand to disperse some of the pain, as Baron rested his now tempered sword against his shoulder. ¡°Guess you picked up on my trick. Had you going, though.¡±


    Harley gritted her teeth and tightened her fist, Baron shrugging his shoulders. ¡°Took you longer than most, though. Guess all the working out went to your body and not our brain.¡±


    ¡°Shut up.¡±


    ¡°Dumb blonde kinda fits, huh?¡±


    ¡°Shut up!¡±


    ¡°Worthless moron.¡±


    ¡°Shut up!!!¡± Harley screamed. ¡°Shut up already!!!¡±


    Harley trudged toward him, no regard for her own safety, as Dulce felt she had to intervene.


    ¡°Harley!¡±


    Harley slowed down, as Baron started to crack a little smile.


    ¡°Do I need to pull you out of this match?¡±


    Harley breathed out, before waving her hand dismissively.


    ¡°Alright then.¡± Dulce said. ¡°You get a minute to recover. If you can¡¯t control yourself, then I¡¯m calling off the match.¡±


    Team Valiant and Chops ran up to Harley. ¡°Are you okay?¡± Sola asked.


    ¡°The little shit keeps talking about me¡­¡± Harley said, staring at Baron and the others in Team Ferocity off to the side. ¡°I can¡¯t let him win.¡±


    ¡°Then stop making this fight about you.¡± Julia declared. ¡°You¡¯re doing this for Essex. Don¡¯t just win to justify your own personal pride.¡±


    ¡°But you heard hi-¡°


    ¡°Harley!¡± Julia yelled, before breathing out in a huff. ¡°Win the fight. He¡¯s just trying to get you mad so you¡¯ll have to forfeit.¡±


    Harley¡¯s eyes widened, as she looked back at Baron, still smugly grinning to himself.


    ¡°You can win this if you stop letting him get to you.¡± Julia said. ¡°Don¡¯t think about how he hurt Essex, think about how you defended her.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re smarter than this, Harley.¡± Chops added. ¡°Start fighting for real already. We all know you''re capable of it.¡±


    Harley stared back at her team, before taking a large breath and nodding her head. ¡°Okay.¡±


    ¡°Are you ready, Harley?¡± Dulce called out.


    ¡°Yeah, yeah, I¡¯m good¡­¡± She said, walking back to her side of the field, before mouthing ¡®thank you¡¯ to her team again.


    ¡°Alright, on my mark.¡± Dulce said, as both parties got back in position. ¡°3¡­2¡­1.¡±


    Harley started running, aiming her Buster Knuckles by her side, as Baron started to tap his sword on the ground, looking almost distracted b-


    Harley ignored him, refusing to slow down, as Baron¡¯s ego caught him off guard, and Harley connected her fist with his chest, launching him back in an explosive show of force. Baron slid against the ground, having braced enough to stop himself from falling over, but not enough to stop the pain from permeating through his chest.


    He took a second to collect himself, as Harley shook her hand after such a strong blow.


    ¡°About time you hit me.¡± Baron sneered. ¡°I guess all that bloated weight slo-¡°


    Harley stopped listening, instead rushing in for another punch, as Baron quickly caught on and managed to dodge this time. Harley kept up the barrage, as Baron kept trying to throw insults at her over and over.


    After Harley felt herself getting tired, Baron finally ceased with the goading and raised his sword to Harley.


    ¡°I guess we¡¯re actually fighting now.¡±


    Harley raised her weapons to, as she mustered her strength into a painful downward swing, blocked nimbly by Baron¡¯s sword, before swinging the other to his chest, which Baron managed to avoid, jumping back to recuperate.


    ¡°She¡¯s got him now!¡± Sola cheered, clinking her glass with Wess¡¯ unexpectedly, as Chops shook her head.


    ¡°But she¡¯s just as tired.¡± Chops realised, pointing to Harley¡¯s heaving breathing and slouched back.


    Harley ran up and grabbed his sword, holding it in place while trying to sweep his leg, as Baron pointed his fingers and used his Whil to start a small fire near Harley¡¯s feet. Harley endured the pain, as she pulled Baron¡¯s sword from his grasp, throwing it to the ground, and locking him into a headlock.


    Harley kept knocking at his legs, as Baron broke free with a shocking amount of strength he was clearly hiding and quickly grabbed his sword again.


    The duo inflicted blow after blow, drawing each other to their limits, as by the end, both parties were exhausted, ready to collapse.


    ¡°Come on, Harley! Just one more push!¡± Julia yelled.


    Harley raised her fists again, panting wildly, as Baron raised his sword with a shaky arm, before both parties felt their legs give out and collapsed to the ground. Dust flew up from both of their masses, as everyone present allowed the moment to breathe before intervening. As Dulce waited to see if either got up, she went over to them both and helped them to their feet.


    ¡°That was real impressive, you guys.¡± She grinned.


    ¡°¡­but¡­who won?¡± Harley asked, struggling to stand.


    ¡°Well, from what I saw¡­¡± Dulce deduced. ¡°Sorry to say, but that was a tie.¡±


    ¡°¡­one more round¡­¡± Baron managed. ¡°¡­just one.¡±


    ¡°No permanent damage, you guys. Letting you both go on would be irresponsible.¡± Dulce reasoned.


    Team Valiant and Chops ran up to Harley, helping her recover some strength, as Duke and Edward met up with Baron and grabbed his arms.


    ¡°I can¡¯t believe you lost¡­¡± Duke said.


    ¡°You really made us look bad, leader.¡± Edward complained.


    Baron turned to them both, before shoving their arms away. ¡°Shut up.¡±


    As Baron managed to stand on his own, he saw a hand outstretched in front of him belonging to Harley. He looked her right in the eyes.


    ¡°Good match.¡± She said, waiting for him to shake it.


    Baron looked to the hand, before putting his hands in his pockets and walking past her. ¡°I don¡¯t shake hands with people who accept a tie. You really are a dipshit¡­¡±


    Baron walked off, Duke and Edward following behind, as Julia looked up at Harley to study her expression, worried she might chase after him an-


    ¡°He¡¯s just the absolute worst.¡± She groaned, before turning to the others. ¡°Sorry to worry you guys.¡±


    Julia sighed happily, as Sola ran up to Harley excitedly. ¡°You were so cool! You could¡¯ve totally broken his face in, but you didn¡¯t!¡±


    ¡°I really wanted to.¡± Harley joked. ¡°But that wouldn¡¯t have been right. I don¡¯t just fight to hurt people.¡±


    Dulce slapped Harley on the back. ¡°Great effort. I tried to be impartial, but he was really making that difficult.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a shame.¡± Harley said, looking at his figure slowly disappearing into the distance. ¡°The Wailing are bad enough, but I don¡¯t want to start fighting with other Venators.¡±


    ¡°Not everyone has our best interest at heart. You should prepare for this to happen more in the future.¡± Wess stated, grabbing her sword. ¡°With that said, I desperately want to rest off this loss.¡±


    ¡°I should get back to duty, too.¡± Dulce said, offering Harley a hearty handshake. ¡°Do good out there.¡±


    Harley shook it proudly. ¡°Thank you. And if I can, I¡¯ll try and avoid fighting next time. Who knows, maybe he¡¯ll be open to talking it out if I don¡¯t threaten to bash his face in?¡±


    Julia just caught that, before frantically looking to Dulce in shock. Dulce was smiling right back at her, as Julia realised that while it wasn¡¯t obvious, convincing Harley of this had been her plan all along.


    ¡°Later!¡± Dulce waved, as the team waved her off and headed to the dorms themselves.


    ¡°I¡¯m gonna split. If you beat up anyone else, let me know in advance.¡± Chops said, waving to Team Valiant, as she headed into her team¡¯s room just adjacent to theirs.


    As Harley opened the door, she found Essex standing in the middle of the room, clearly waiting for them to come back.


    ¡°How did the match go?¡± She asked, a slight hint of desperation in her voice.


    ¡°Were you just waiting right there?¡± Julia asked.


    ¡°¡­as of nine minutes ago, yes.¡± Essex admitted. ¡°I attempted to watch from the balcony, but the court was too far to observe.¡±


    Harley rubbed her neck awkwardly. ¡°Sorry, Essex, but it was a tie. I hit him hard, but the bastard got me just as bad.¡±


    ¡°¡­I see.¡± Essex replied.


    ¡°Just know that he won-¡°


    In a very sudden moment, Essex bowed in front of a now very shocked Harley.


    ¡°Grela. I did not know what to do, and you intervened on my behalf. I am indebted to you for your service.¡±


    ¡°Oh, no, don¡¯t do that¡­¡± Harley dismissed, lifting Essex up. ¡°You don¡¯t owe me. You needed help, so I helped.¡±


    ¡°But how will I pay you back?¡±


    Harley smiled and pulled Essex into a warm, embracing hug. ¡°This¡¯ll do.¡±


    Essex decided to reciprocate, as the rest of the team watched on in pride, and was happy knowing they were just a little bit safer.

 Chapter 8: The Cutting Edge

    ¡°Alright, pick something.¡±


    ¡°Julia, you¡¯re just wasting time.¡±


    ¡°Come on, it¡¯s fun!¡±


    ¡°¡­okay¡­I¡¯ve thought of one.¡±


    ¡°Is it¡­a solid?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Is it a primary colour?¡±


    ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°Traffic cone.¡±


    ¡°¡­!¡±


    ¡°Wess?¡±


    ¡°By the gods, how did you guess it so quickly?¡±


    ¡°Just a good guess.¡±


    ¡°Hey guys!¡± Joleicia called out, waving to Julia and Wess, as the rest of Team Valiant and Team Vanguard trailed behind her. ¡°You ready?¡±


    ¡°We were ready twenty minutes ago¡­¡± Wess grumbled, as Julia rushed over to help with her equipment.


    ¡°Really sorry about that. My rifle started acting up, and the rest of the team insisted on waiting for me.¡± Joleicia apologised, as Chops playfully patted her back.


    ¡°She knows how to shoot it, but she can¡¯t fix it for her life.¡± Chops remarked, as Joleicia blushed from pure embarrassment.


    ¡°Guilty as charged.¡± She smiled, putting her bag down. ¡°Let¡¯s get to some combat practice.¡±


    Julia and Joleicia stood in front of the others, as Joleicia naturally took charge. ¡°Alright, we¡¯ve got the whole day to ourselves, so let''s use it well. Who wants to pair with who?¡±


    Harley shot her hand up first. ¡°I¡¯ll take Saxin!¡±


    Saxin was a bit caught off guard and found herself blushing crimson. ¡°If you insist¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll take on ice queen.¡± Chops added, as Wess bit into her cheek.


    ¡°You¡¯re really getting on my nerves with that.¡± She expressed.


    ¡°Just firing you up.¡± Chops smirked. ¡°Might just melt that ice.¡±


    ¡°Alright then.¡± Joleicia said, pointing to Sola and Lenin. ¡°You two good to pair up?¡±


    Sola and Lenin both looked at each other and shrugged.


    ¡°Great! Essex and Florey can spar together, and¡­¡± Joleicia spun on her heel to Julia. ¡°We can both practice our aim.¡±


    Julia nodded happily. ¡°Yeah, let¡¯s do it.¡±


    The teams split off into their groups, each taking a small part of the training grounds for themselves, with weapons being brandished and Whils being flexed, as Joleicia pulled out her custom sniper rifle, catching the sunlight against its black finish.


    ¡°Whoa!!!¡± Julia exclaimed, rushing over excitedly. ¡°That looks incredible! I¡¯ve never seen a model like it!¡±


    Joleicia pulled it back teasingly. ¡°But Julia, you have already seen this.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    ¡°On the day of the attack.¡± Joleicia clarified. ¡°It flew out of my hands and you went to pick it up, before using it against the Behemoth Wailing. The security team were nice enough to give it back.¡±


    ¡°Oh. Right.¡± Julia realised. ¡°I guess I just forgot about it in the chaos¡­¡±


    ¡°Well, feel free to inspect it now.¡± Joleicia beamed, holding it out for Julia to take.


    Julia held out her hands expectantly, preparing herself for its weight, as she bore it in her arms and took her time analysing every detail. ¡°This is beautiful¡­it¡¯s so much lighter than the Q-38 model¡­¡± She let out. ¡°I hope I get a custom weapon soon. Did you have this before coming here?¡±


    ¡°Funny story, actually.¡± Joleicia prefaced. ¡°Back at the group-house I grew up in, my foster parents and the others got me this as a going away gift. They even etched my initials into the side.¡± Joleicia pointed to the side, where the initials ¡®J.M.¡¯ were carved into the barrel, as Julia was quickly reminded of why she brought Maxie to the academy as well.


    ¡°Thank goodness Dad worked as an engineer¡­¡± Joleicia reminisced, before snapping back to the present. ¡°Oh, I guess that wasn¡¯t actually funny. Well, if you wanna try it out, go ahead.¡±


    ¡°Maybe later.¡± Julia said, handing it back and holding up the spare sniper rifle borrowed from the academy¡¯s Weapon Reserve. ¡°I¡¯ve always preferred getting better with the basics first.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s the spirit!¡± Joleicia cheered, excitedly jumping up and down. ¡°Let¡¯s get to training!¡±


    Julia and Joleicia went about setting up some empty bottles for target practice, as Harley and Saxin started getting into the heat of things.


    Saxin pulled another dagger off her belt, throwing it at Harley, before Harley caught it mid-air, tossing it to the side and continuing her sprint toward Saxin. Harley went in for the punch, as Saxin glided her off to the side with the blade of her dagger, sending Harley tumbling over and into the ground.


    ¡°That¡¯s one point for me.¡± Saxin remarked, twirling delightfully, as her belt of daggers spun along with her.


    ¡°Lucky shot.¡± Harley replied, getting back on her feet with Saxin¡¯s help. ¡°Guess you can dodge all of my advances.¡±


    Saxin chortled into her hand. ¡°True enough. I suppose it¡¯s a little cruel on my part.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, a little.¡± Harley agreed. ¡°I could¡¯ve sworn you were interested when we first met.¡±


    ¡°Oh, believe me, I am.¡± Saxin admitted, surprising Harley. ¡°Very much so. But¡­¡±


    ¡°Is it Lenin?¡± Harley asked, turning to Lenin and Sola, who had decided to take a seat rather than spar. ¡°I get that you guys are dating¡­¡±


    ¡°Oh, no, he¡¯s up for the idea too. Even more than I am.¡± Saxin clarified, catching Harley¡¯s interest. ¡°No, I¡¯m afraid it¡¯s all me.¡±


    ¡°Sadist¡­¡± Harley grumbled, before sitting against a nearby seat. ¡°You just like watching me squirm.¡±


    ¡°Of course I do.¡± Saxin giggled. ¡°But Harley, I think we both know that the appeal isn¡¯t the satisfaction¡­¡± Saxin said, before delicately leaning into Harley¡¯s ear. ¡°¡­it¡¯s the foreplay.¡±


    Harley gulped to herself, as Saxin backed off and brandished her daggers again. ¡°You¡¯ll get your time, when I feel like it. Now come on, no slacking off.¡±


    I wanna pin her so bad¡­ Harley thought, as she got back up and resumed their sparring, just as Wess threw down her sword after finally having enough.


    ¡°Stop talking about me so dismissively!¡± Wess complained. ¡°What have I done to upset you?¡±


    Chops scratched her head, before shrugging her shoulders. ¡°I dunno, but you¡¯re about as dismissive.¡±


    ¡°I¡­¡± Wess started, before realising she didn¡¯t have a leg to stand on, and falling as Chops tripped her over. ¡°Hey!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t let your guard down.¡± Chops snickered.


    ¡°But you keep using your Whil. That¡¯s hardly fair.¡± Wess argued, brushing the dirt off her clothes.


    ¡°Well, I didn¡¯t bring my sword.¡± Chops pointed out, as she formed a large sheet of ice from the ground with her Whil to prove her point. ¡°How else am I gonna fight you?¡±


    ¡°Quite ironic that you called me the ice queen.¡± Wess pointed out, before getting back up.


    ¡°Sorry, what was that?¡± Chops asked.


    Wess sighed to herself. ¡°I sai-¡°


    Just as she spoke, Chops formed another ice shard under Wess¡¯ foot, tripping her over again, as Wess attempted to stay standing by falling against her sword.


    ¡°Fight me seriously!¡± Wess yelled.


    ¡°You seriously need to lighten up.¡± Chops replied. ¡°What would dear Julia think?¡±


    ¡°She¡¯d think you¡¯re wasting my time.¡± Wess said, before turning to Julia and Joleicia. ¡°Julia! Chops isn¡¯t fighting fair!¡±


    ¡°Julia, she¡¯s taking it too seriously!¡± Chops added.


    ¡°Chops, stop messing with Wess.¡± Julia said, putting down her rifle.


    ¡°Come on, I¡¯m just teasing her.¡±


    Julia tapped her foot and folded her arms. ¡°Am I gonna have to come over there, you two?¡±


    ¡°¡­no, I¡¯ll stop.¡± Chops conceded, as Wess snickered to herself.


    ¡°Now you behave yourselves, or we¡¯re going right back to the dorms.¡± Julia warned, resuming her practice.


    Chops looked licked, as Wess couldn¡¯t help but grin to herself.


    ¡°Don¡¯t look so smug.¡± Chops pouted.


    ¡°Well, you¡¯re the one getting chewed out.¡± Wess reminded her. ¡°Poor Chops, whatever will sh-¡°


    Chops tripped her again, causing another bought of arguing between the two, as Sola and Lenin watched on in lack of anything else they¡¯d rather do.


    ¡°Those two are gonna rip each other apart.¡± Sola said.


    ¡°Chops, mostly.¡± Lenin clarified.


    The two sat by the spectator seats, resting their heads in their hands, as Lenin looked down at the ground.


    ¡°We should probably get to sparring.¡± He said.


    ¡°Yeah.¡± Sola agreed.


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°But not right now.¡± Sola added.


    ¡°No, we can wait.¡± Lenin agreed. ¡°We never did this much training back home. I entered a couple combat tournaments, but that¡¯s it.¡±


    ¡°Same.¡± Sola said. ¡°I kinda just train whenever.¡±


    Lenin leaned back in his seat and cleaned up his hair. ¡°I don¡¯t know why they teamed us up. My Whil lets me burrow in the ground, and yours shoots lightning.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s really obvious who¡¯d win.¡± Sola said.


    ¡°You.¡± They said in unison.


    They both looked back at each other.


    ¡°No, you¡¯d win.¡± Sola argued. ¡°I¡¯m super sure electricity¡¯s real bad with the ground. It wouldn¡¯t even touch you.¡±


    ¡°But I¡¯m wearing my cloak¡­¡± Lenin explained, showing off his metallic cape. ¡°¡­to protect me while I burrow, so all that electricity would just go into me anyway.¡±


    Sola looked back at the field, then to Lenin. ¡°You wanna test it now?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    They both hopped off their seats to try out their theories, as they passed a very on edge Florey going head to head with Essex.


    ¡°Do we have to fight?¡± Florey called out to Essex.


    ¡°This is for physical training. I will not hurt you.¡± Essex called back.


    Florey gripped his spare sword with an unsteady hand, as Essex took up her defensive pose and looked over to him.


    ¡°I will begin when you are ready.¡±


    Florey felt a few drops of sweat on his head, before he nodded to Essex and tried to take a stance as well. Essex studied Florey¡¯s form and rhythmically tapped her foot against the ground four times, rushing right over to him before he could catch anything, and pulling his feet out from under him with her scythe.


    The whole sequence lasted about five seconds, but Florey felt it all lingering through him, as he stared into the sky, only registering Essex¡¯s hand above him. He grabbed it and pulled himself up.


    ¡°I will adjust my combative skill.¡± Essex realised. ¡°Would you prefer that I go slower?¡±


    ¡°J-just a little.¡± Florey said. ¡°I¡¯ve never been great with hand-to-hand combat.¡±


    ¡°What weapons are you specialised in?¡± Essex asked.


    ¡°¡­none?¡± Florey admitted. ¡°And I don¡¯t have a Whil either. I¡¯m more of the¡­scientific¡­kinda Venator. But, you know, I can run pretty good.¡±


    ¡°Running is an important skill.¡± Essex said. ¡°The difference in a good runner and a bad runner could mean life and death.¡±


    A moment passed.


    Florey looked from side to side awkwardly. ¡°Can we just keep practicing?¡±


    ¡°Understood.¡± Essex declared, entering her stance again. ¡°I will let you start.¡±


    ¡°Thanks.¡± Florey said, as he took up the sword and nearly dropped it on his foot, as Julia watched on in hopeful anticipation.


    Joleicia took notice and lowered her rifle. ¡°He¡¯ll be fine. Even though he¡¯s not great with fighting, he still comes to a lot of our training sessions.¡±


    ¡°He never liked the fighting part of Venators anyway.¡± Julia explained. ¡°It was really surprising seeing him here on our first week.¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s even more of a nerd then Chops is.¡± Joleicia joked, before aiming upward again. ¡°Come on, let¡¯s get back to shooting.¡±


    ¡°Right.¡± Julia said, before aiming her sights at the next bottle and firing, just missing it by a hair. ¡°Dammit.¡±


    Julia heard the ringing of shattering glass coming from Joleicia¡¯s end, as she noticed her taking out the last bottle on her side, finishing her shots, and leaving Julia still with three to go.


    ¡°And done!¡± Joleicia called out happily. ¡°The smashing sound is always so satisfying.¡±


    Julia decided to take aim again, as she pulled the trigger and clipped the top of the bottle, shattering half of it and leaving the rest still standing.


    ¡°Nice one, Julia!¡± Joleicia rang out.


    ¡°Nice would¡¯ve been getting the whole thing.¡± Julia replied.


    ¡°Oh, don¡¯t be so hard on yourself.¡± Joleicia said. ¡°Wailing are huge anyway. I doubt they¡¯d notice the difference.¡±


    Julia giggled a little, as she took aim at the last two bottles, and with two quick fires, cleared both of them out with noticeable precision.


    ¡°Whoa! Look at Miss Quick-shot over here!¡± Joleicia cheered, as Harley took notice of Julia¡¯s skill.


    ¡°Damn, Julia. Those poor bottles never saw it coming.¡± Harley joked, giving her a thumbs up. ¡°Look at you, showing up the rest of us.¡±


    ¡°I wasn¡¯t trying to.¡± Julia remarked, as Joleicia grabbed some more bottles.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go for a few more. I wanna work on my quick firing now.¡± Joleicia beamed, rushing over to set up more bottles.


    Julia smiled and shook her head, before feeling a tap on her shoulder, as Florey made himself known.


    He shuffled his feet a little. ¡°Is it cool if I practice shooting? I don¡¯t think I¡¯m a fan of swords.¡±


    Julia blushed a little. ¡°Wouldn¡¯t you be better off with Joleicia?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, but I train with her all the time.¡± Florey said. ¡°I¡¯ll be stuck learning the basics today anyway.¡±


    ¡°If you¡¯re free on Thursday, we can do some exercises together.¡± Julia suggested.


    ¡°Really?¡±


    ¡°Yeah! If you don¡¯t screw up too bad today.¡± Julia joked, as she handed Florey another spare rifle.


    ¡°I¡¯ll try not to shoot you.¡± Florey teased, as Joleicia came back from setting up the bottles.


    ¡°All done!¡± She exclaimed.


    Julia happily looked to her, before looking back at the others training and appreciating the camaraderie on display. It was rare that both Team Valiant and Team Vanguard had time off together, so making good use of it was crucial whenever it came up.


    ¡°Have you guys thought of a team logo for the assignment yet?¡± Joleicia asked, as she took another shot at the bottles. ¡°We haven¡¯t been going great.¡±


    ¡°Not yet. Sola thought of a diamond with five points, but only Wess really took to that.¡± Julia replied, firing as well.


    ¡°We should totally compare notes! I¡¯m sure it¡¯ll help us both out.¡± Joleicia suggested, setting her rifle down to talk.


    ¡°Yeah, sure. Maybe after this.¡± Julia agreed.


    ¡°If you want, you can borrow Chops and have her draw something.¡± Florey suggested, as Julia laughed a little.


    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t want to steal her away from you.¡± Julia said, before noticing a few more details to Joleicia¡¯s gun in her side-eye. ¡°Hey, what¡¯s that part for?¡±


    Joleicia looked at where Julia was pointing and got excited. ¡°Didn¡¯t I¡­? No! I totally forgot! Hold on, wait right here!¡±


    Joleicia ran back up to Team Vanguard¡¯s dorm room, as Harley and Saxin took notice and paused their sparring.


    ¡°Where¡¯s Joleicia off to?¡± Harley asked.


    ¡°I dunno. I think she¡¯s getting something for her rifle.¡± Julia said.


    ¡°She¡¯s so excitable. Like a puppy made of sugar.¡± Saxin added.


    ¡°Or a dolphin hopped up on caffeine.¡± Lenin added, as him and Sola joined up with them, just as Joleicia jumped back down the stairs and onto the training grounds again.


    She rushed back over with an object wrapped in fabric, before remembering what she was holding and slowing down, as she stood in front of Julia and unwrapped it.


    ¡°Whoa¡­¡±


    The sun gleamed off the blade¡¯s edge, as Joleicia revealed a katana to the rest of the group, beautifully crafted and straight, with the same ¡®J.M¡¯ initials carved into the handle.


    ¡°So you have tw-¡° Julia asked, as Joleicia quickly put her finger up.


    Enjoying this book? Seek out the original to ensure the author gets credit.


    ¡°Just a second.¡± She said, before turning back to her rifle, adjusting a couple things, and presenting her rifle again, but with the katana¡¯s blade hanging under the barrel like a bayonet.


    ¡°Get out¡­¡± Julia gasped, as Joleicia nodded excitedly.


    ¡°Now if I¡¯m in the back sniping and a Wailing gets close, I can still defend myself.¡± Joleicia explained, loosening the handle of the katana and disconnecting it from the gun. ¡°Plus, I have a sword!¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s so many sword users here at the academy¡­¡± Julia remarked, as Wess and Chops joined up with them as well. ¡°Does that mean you¡¯re trained in melee combat?¡±


    Joleicia nodded. ¡°Want me to demonstrate?¡±


    ¡°Go ahead, Jojo. We could use a little break.¡± Chops called out.


    Joleicia went to set up another bottle, as the others filled out the spectator stands in anticipation.


    ¡°How does she make time for it?¡± Harley asked. ¡°I only know the basics of firearms, but she¡¯s managed to conquer ranged and melee. That¡¯s some feat.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s our leader. Jack of no trades, and master of most.¡± Chops commented.


    Julia took notice of that last comment, as she watched Joleicia carefully set up the last bottle, ready to see if her boasting held true.


    Joleicia took a focused breath, holding the blade to her side, before swiping her arm in front of her and cutting directly through each bottle, one by one, until all five were in clean, severed halves on the ground, the slice near perfect.


    Joleicia turned back to the crowd. ¡°Sorry, my technique was a little sloppy there.¡±


    The others stayed silent, before all getting up and joining Joleicia, cheering on her evident talents.


    ¡°That was incredible! How¡¯d you do it so well?¡± Harley asked, as Julia followed behind.


    ¡°I mean, it¡¯s just like shooting. Aim and fire.¡± Joleicia played off. ¡°Nothing that special.¡±


    ¡°Nothing that special? Please stop being so modest.¡± Saxin asked.


    ¡°That was an impressive execution. You are very skilled.¡± Essex said.


    ¡°Come on, guys. You¡¯re just as good.¡± Joleicia said, as she noticed Julia behind the others and got an idea. ¡°Julia! You wanna take a swing too?¡±


    ¡°Me?¡±


    ¡°Sure! I insist!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯d rather¡­not. But, thanks.¡± Julia excused, as the others returned their attention to Joleicia.


    ¡°Can you teach me?¡± Sola asked.


    ¡°I¡¯m hardly qualified, Sola.¡± Joleicia laughed. ¡°But I can try.¡±


    The group kept joking together, as Julia decided to split off from them and pack up her rifle for something to do.


    Wess caught her from a glance. ¡°Going somewhere?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m just packing up before it gets too late. I¡¯ve also gotta return my rifle to the Weapon Reserve. I¡¯ll meet you at the dorms.¡± Julia explained, carrying her bags off the training grounds.


    ¡°Oh, bye Julia!¡± Joleicia called out, noticing Julia leaving, before returning to the praise and adoration of her peers.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Really? You of all people?¡±


    ¡°I just want to try it, Harley. Please indulge me.¡±


    ¡°Alright. I¡¯m thinking of one.¡±


    ¡°Is it a solid?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Is it a primary colour?¡±


    ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°Traffic cone.¡±


    ¡°Wha-¡°


    ¡°Was I right?¡±


    ¡°How¡¯d you guess it so quick?¡±


    ¡°So that actually worked? By Whilit itself¡­¡±


    ¡°But how did you¡­?¡±


    ¡°I brought my bag!¡± Sola called out, joining them, followed by Essex and Julia. ¡°But I also forgot why I brought it.¡±


    ¡°Al-right! Trai-ning!¡± Time to-hit things!¡± Harley cheered, as the others followed and took their time setting up.


    ¡°Now, before we start, I want to hear some personal goals from everyone.¡± Julia asked. ¡°What do you want to accomplish from this session?¡±


    Wess rolled her eyes and raised her hand. ¡°If you insist on doing this, then I will be working off my loss to Team Ferocity. The last thing I need is another bruise to my ego down the line.¡±


    ¡°Very noble.¡± Julia said, as Sola jumped up and down with her hand raised. ¡°Sola?¡±


    ¡°I wanna shoot my lightning better!¡± Sola said. ¡°Like, straighter, and less¡­everywhere.¡±


    ¡°Good idea. You wanna help with that, Essex?¡±


    ¡°I will aid where I can.¡± Essex said.


    Harley lifted her hand too. ¡°I¡¯m just gonna keep up my punching. Pretty standard stuff.¡±


    ¡°No complaints here.¡± Julia grinned.


    Team Valiant grabbed their equipment, each strapping on and swinging their weapons, as Julia went to grab hers, before drawing the attention of the others for something seemingly innocuous.


    ¡°Hey, Julia. Where¡¯s your rifle?¡± Harley asked.


    Julia had pulled out a basic broadsword from the Weapon Reserve, as she swung it a little in her grip.


    ¡°Oh yeah. I wanted to work on my melee technique.¡± Julia explained. ¡°I figure I¡¯m lacking compared to my skills with firearms.¡±


    The others looked at each other, not sure what to say in response, before Harley smiled back at her. ¡°Why not? It couldn¡¯t hurt to try.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, exactly.¡± Julia said, setting up a borrowed training post. ¡°I¡¯ll do some more shooting another time.¡±


    ¡°You want some help with that? Me and Wess could do a little sparring, show you some melee moves?¡± Harley suggested.


    Julia balanced the weight of the post, before she finished setting it up. ¡°Maybe later. I¡¯d like to get used to the basics first before attempting anything too intense.¡±


    Harley smiled. ¡°Yeah, I get that.¡± Harley turned to the others and clapped loudly. ¡°Let¡¯s do it!¡±


    And with that, the afternoon was spent working on everyone¡¯s individual projects. Harley successfully managed to punch things, Wess worked on focusing her backhand swing, with an impressive amount of commitment, Sola only burnt three trees with her lightning instead of four with help from Essex, and Julia did a good amount of damage to the training post. All in all, it was a worthy afternoon.


    Wess packed away her training post, happy with the amount of progress she¡¯d made in just one afternoon, as Julia finally stopped swinging and checked back in on her handiwork.


    ¡°Whoa, nicely done, Julia.¡± Harley remarked, noticing the large marks in the post¡¯s sides.


    ¡°Yeah, I think I¡¯m getting the hang of it.¡± Julia breathed, testing the weight of the sword in her hand. ¡°I see why you really took to this, Wess.¡±


    ¡°Well, I¡¯m not about to dance around with a tiny rapier. A real weapon needs some weight to it.¡± Wess clarified, coming over to inspect her handiwork. ¡°Huh¡­¡±


    ¡°We should return to the dorm room soon in order to complete our assignment.¡± Essex stated, as the rest of the team grabbed their equipment and made their way off the grounds.


    All expect for Julia.


    ¡°If you don¡¯t mind, I¡¯ll hang back a bit.¡± Julia said, picking up the sword again. ¡°I think I¡¯m really getting the hang of it. I¡¯ll meet you back at the dorm later.¡±


    ¡°Okay!¡± Sola called, as the others waved to her and called it a night, as Julia continued her practice into the evening, determined to get it right.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°No¡­no¡­maybe?...no, never mind¡­why don¡¯t they ever make enough orange ones?¡± Sola mumbled to herself, as the teams desk draw was proving to be difficult to navigate. ¡°Found it! Spectrum Orange!¡±


    Sola grabbed a few more art supplies from the study, before bringing them out for Harley and Wess in the main room, ready to work further on their logo assignment, as Essex stood out on the balcony in distant observation.


    Wess exhaustedly rested her head against the coffee table. ¡°¡­I¡¯m drawing a complete blank. Do either of you have anything worthwhile?¡±


    ¡°At least you¡¯re drawing a blank.¡± Harley remarked, showing off her completely empty page. ¡°I haven¡¯t had any ideas for hours¡­¡±


    For some kind of inspiration, Harley scanned over Wess¡¯ page, as a shape caught her eye.


    ¡°Wess, what is that?¡±


    Harley pointed directly at Wess¡¯ sheet, at what was clearly a bright orange traffic cone, as Wess looked a little ashamed. ¡°I-It was on my mind! A-At least it¡¯s better than drawing nothing!¡±


    ¡°Ouch.¡± Harley replied, as Sola added the finishing touches.


    ¡°Alright, I¡¯ve got one!¡± Sola announced.


    She held up a large sheet of paper with several incomplete ideas, before pointing to one off to the right. ¡°It¡¯s a gun!¡±


    Harley and Wess both looked at each other. ¡°How does that represent the team?¡± Harley asked.


    Sola opened her mouth to answer, but unfortunately realised she¡¯d forgotten her answer. ¡°¡­cause we fight!¡±


    The room refused to respond.


    ¡°And sometimes we shoot things¡­¡±


    Wess grabbed the bridge of her nose. ¡°Sola, please stop. I just can¡¯t take it.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not the best. And only Julia uses a gun, anyway.¡± Harley pointed out, before glancing back over the balcony cautiously. ¡°Usually¡­¡±


    She got up and joined Essex out by the railing and saw Julia out on the training grounds, taking measured swings at the training post over and over. ¡°Is she still going?¡±


    ¡°She has not stopped for the last few hours.¡± Essex explained. ¡°I have advised her that she will need a break, but she has insisted otherwise.¡±


    ¡°Talk about dedication.¡± Sola chimed in, joining them.


    ¡°Or delusion.¡± Wess commented, still struggling over her page. ¡°She¡¯ll burn out soon enough.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t think she will. If that post isn¡¯t giving out, then neither is she.¡± Harley assessed. ¡°I wish she¡¯d let me show her some techniques.¡±


    ¡°Maybe we should bring her some stuff? Like a drink or a fresh towel.¡± Sola suggested, as Harley patted her head.


    ¡°Good idea, Sola! While we drop those off, you two can keep working on the assignment.¡± Harley suggested, indicating to an unsatisfied Wess and unsatisfied Essex.


    Wess darted her eyes. ¡°Well¡­¡±


    ¡°Great!¡± Harley said, before Sola came back with their stuff, and the duo headed for the door, as Wess grabbed Harley¡¯s ear before she left.


    ¡°You can¡¯t expect me to work with Essex on this, right?¡± Wess said, as Harley rolled her eyes.


    ¡°Come on, Wess. Just try to get her input. It could help you out of your rut.¡± Harley said, as she headed down to the grounds with Sola, leaving Wess and Essex behind.


    ¡°¡­so.¡± Wess started. ¡°What do you think of potential logos?¡±


    ¡°That they do not have value in our conflict with the Wailing.¡± Essex said.


    Wess¡¯ eye began twitching profusely, as Harley and Sola met up with Julia, just as she landed a good blow against the post.


    ¡°Hey, Julia!¡± Harley called out, grabbing her attention. ¡°We got you some stuff.¡±


    ¡°You guys!¡± She replied, joining them, while breathing heavily. ¡°You didn¡¯t¡­have to do that.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re working really hard, and you shouldn¡¯t go collapsing on the job.¡± Sola explained. ¡°You¡¯ve still gotta be our leader.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, exactly¡­¡± Julia said, wiping away at her sweat.


    ¡°You wanna finish up soon? We could really use some input on logos.¡± Harley posed.


    ¡°Yeah¡­sure. I¡¯ll¡­see how I¡¯m feeling in¡­about an hour.¡± Julia said, before quickly picking the sword up again.


    Harley looked to Sola incredulously, before back to Julia. ¡°Are you sure you don¡¯t want to stop now? We¡¯ve always got more team training later in the week.¡±


    ¡°Guys, I¡¯m fine.¡± Julia advised. ¡°I¡¯ll probably¡­be spending that time with Florey¡­so I want to get my weapon training done now. I¡¯ll¡­help out once I¡¯m done, promise.¡±


    Harley bit her tongue, before shrugging it off. ¡°Okay. See you later.¡±


    ¡°Bye!¡± Sola waved, as Julia grunted and slashed the side of the post again. ¡°I hope the post can take all that pressure. I know they¡¯re supposed to be indestructible¡­¡±


    Harley held her arms behind her head, as they made their way back to the dorm, catching Wess and Essex in the middle o-


    ¡°Branding defines us! Our image is an essential part of being a Venator!¡±


    ¡°Providing aid should be your only concern, not how you are presented.¡±


    ¡°But actions never stand on their own! Without the proper context¡­!¡± Wess continued, before realising Harley and Sola were back in the room and clearing her throat. ¡°¡­oh, apologies. We were in somewhat of a heated debate.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I noticed that.¡± Harley commented, before slumping into the couch. ¡°Any progress?¡±


    ¡°No. I spent most of that time arguing with Essex.¡±


    ¡°Wess has yet to prove the importance of a ¡®brand.¡¯¡± Essex said.


    ¡°Don¡¯t besmirch my debating skills.¡± Wess defended. ¡°I¡¯m clearly falling on deaf ears.¡±


    ¡°But hearing you was not the problem.¡± Essex earnestly explained. ¡°You failed to convince me of your argument.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t start with me again. You¡¯re lucky that scythe of yours terrifies me.¡± Wess admitted. ¡°I don¡¯t want to have to make my point with Belvedere.¡±


    Harley rested her head, as the others collectively gave up on the logo and went about their business as usual.


    ¡°I¡¯m assuming Julia wanted to stay?¡± Wess asked, joining Harley in the lounge area.


    ¡°She¡¯s a stubborn one, though she doesn¡¯t come off as it.¡± Harley clarified.


    Wess sighed. ¡°Well, if she¡¯s comfortable down there, then I see no point dragging her back up.¡±


    ¡°Fair enough.¡± Harley acknowledged. ¡°I wonder if she felt like this during the start of the semester, when she¡¯d encourage us all to hang out rather than do our own thing.¡±


    ¡°I tend not to think about that.¡± Wess added, before getting up and deciding to take a good nap in her top bunk, taking subtle glances at Julia through the balcony window, as it didn¡¯t look like she was leaving anytime soon.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°¡­but needless to say, signing with a Venator Agency isn¡¯t the ¡®end all be all¡¯ of your career, as funnily enough, you still need to put in the work. Plenty of them will screw you over if given the chance, and bleed you dry of any dignity you may possess, so my best advice is¡­don¡¯t let them. Of course, choosing freelance is just as risky¡­¡± Ferris drawled, as she checked her watch for the fifth time and finally saw that it turned to 2:00pm. ¡°¡­but who cares, we¡¯re done.¡±


    The class started packing up, as Ferris tapped her mic. ¡°And remember, the logo assignment is due by Friday. I don¡¯t expect a masterpiece, so if it ends up shit, I assure you that you can change it later down the line.¡±


    ¡°Phew¡­that¡¯s a bit of pressure off.¡± Harley sighed, as Team Valiant left the classroom. ¡°But we should still aim to get it right the first go.¡±


    ¡°Absolutely!¡± Julia cheered. ¡°Let¡¯s avoid do-overs if we can.¡±


    ¡°I would prefer if she taught more about combat.¡± Essex suggested. ¡°I see no need for discussions pertaining to agencies.¡±


    ¡°Essex, please don¡¯t. I can only handle so much within one week.¡± Wess bemoaned. ¡°Just be thankful that we get the rest of the afternoon to train.¡±


    ¡°Yeah! I might stop burning trees this time!¡± Sola hoped, as Harley snickered to herself.


    ¡°I¡¯m surprised the academy still let¡¯s you do that. You¡¯d think it would be a fire hazard.¡± Julia posited. ¡°Still, I¡¯m ready for more working out! My arms have been aching for more sword training!¡±


    Harley stopped in the middle of the hall. ¡°You¡¯re still doing that?¡±


    Julia stopped as well and looked back at her. ¡°Well, yeah. I¡¯m still only a novice. It¡¯ll be a while until I¡¯m anywhere near an expert.¡± Julia said.


    ¡°Sure, but haven¡¯t you done enough? You only need the basics for now.¡± Harley reasoned.


    ¡°It¡¯s better to be prepared than sorry.¡± Julia justified. ¡°I can¡¯t just focus on firearms.¡±


    ¡°But when¡¯s the last time you did any target practice with your gun?¡±


    Julia waved her hand. ¡°I know guns back to front. If I want to be a competent leader, I need to get better at more than just firearms.¡±


    ¡°But if you don¡¯t train, you¡¯ll forget how to do it altogether.¡± Sola added.


    ¡°Neglecting a certain muscle will lead to said muscle weakening.¡± Essex continued. ¡°If you wish to continue melee training, it would be best to variate.¡±


    ¡°Guys, you¡¯re making a bigger deal out of this than you need to. I¡¯m allowed to spend some time dabbling into swords.¡± Julia said, turning to Wess for support. ¡°You get it, right Wess?¡±


    ¡°¡­I would prefer if you stayed the team gunner.¡± Wess admitted. ¡°We already have three melee attackers, so having a fourth would be unnecessary, and leave Sola with the entirety of ranged targets.¡±


    Sola shuddered at the mere thought, as Julia felt left on the spot by her team¡¯s brash opinions.


    She wasn¡¯t about to get angry at them, but¡­


    ¡°¡­I trust you guys a ton, and I¡¯d like to think you trust me.¡± Julia said. ¡°I¡¯m working really hard on this so I can be what the team needs for the future. So, I¡¯m sorry, but I¡¯m getting better at this.¡±


    Julia walked ahead of the team before turning back to address them. ¡°I¡¯m gonna become the leader you should have.¡±


    Julia headed back to the dorm room, as the others looked to each other in recognition that they may not know how to convince her otherwise.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°¡­Hyah!...Haah!...Come on!...Harr!...¡±


    The sun had set about an hour ago, as Julia¡¯s sword training went further into the evening than she initially planned. She didn¡¯t have a set schedule, but considering the others were already having dinner, it should have been evidence enough that she was done for the day. Even Team Instinct had finished up their daily training, Donovan waving goodnight to Julia as they passed, as she swung away at the training post in the same rhythmic motions, back and forth.


    ¡°¡­one¡­two¡­come on¡­¡±


    ¡°Hey, Julia.¡±


    Julia glanced over her shoulder and saw Florey, standing right behind her, as she continued attacking the post over and over. ¡°Hey¡­Florey¡­¡± She replied between swings.


    ¡°You getting some good practice in?¡±


    ¡°¡­that¡¯s¡­the idea¡­¡±


    ¡°Yeah¡­¡± Florey said, playing with his hands. ¡°You know how you said we could train together?¡±


    ¡°¡­huh?¡±


    ¡°Well, you promised to show me how firearms work, and since we both have spare time right now¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­sorry¡­but can we¡­reschedule? I¡­need to¡­get today¡¯s training done.¡± Julia answered, slowing down for a second, before stretching her shoulder and getting back into it.


    ¡°Right, but you¡¯ve rescheduled twice already for¡­your training.¡± Florey confessed, shuffling his feet. ¡°I get that it¡¯s important, but can¡¯t you spare, like, ten minutes to help my aiming?¡±


    ¡°¡­I would¡­if I could, Florey.¡± Julia replied, putting down the sword. ¡°¡­but this is important to me. My team needs me to be stronger.¡±


    ¡°But you¡¯re already really strong. I¡¯ve always thought so, at least.¡± Florey admitted.


    Julia started to get frustrated as Florey clearly wasn¡¯t getting her point. ¡°Florey, come on. I need to do this, no matter how useless you think it is.¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t say it was useless.¡± Florey reasoned, as Julia picked up her sword again and continued her swinging.


    Florey waited a second. ¡°So, are we gonna train?¡±


    ¡°Maybe another time.¡± Julia said.


    Florey sighed bitterly. ¡°You¡¯re rescheduling again?¡±


    ¡°Florey, stop pinning this on me. I¡¯m not your babysitter.¡± Julia complained. ¡°Why don¡¯t you just go ask Joleicia for help?¡±


    Florey was stunned at her bluntness, as Julia¡¯s focus completely dropped from him and went immediately to her sword again.


    ¡°¡­yeah¡­yeah, I guess you¡¯re right. I¡¯ll just ask Joleicia.¡± Florey replied, a hint of spite in his voice. ¡°Sorry for wasting your time.¡±


    Florey trudged off, leaving Julia to her devices, as her practice looked to be going through most of the night.


    I shouldn¡¯t need to look over him all the time. Julia thought. I¡¯m not about to drop everything just to show him something so incidental. I need to keep up, too.


    As quickly as she picked it up again, Julia¡¯s practice was halted by the four recognisable silhouettes of Team Valiant making their way over, as Julia continued with her practice.


    ¡°Hey there.¡± Harley greeted. ¡°It¡¯s getting pretty late. You wanna come back to the dorm with us?¡±


    ¡°¡­yeah, no problem¡­I should be finished¡­soon enough¡­¡± Julia replied.


    ¡°When would that be?¡± Essex asked.


    ¡°¡­maybe an hour? I¡¯ll¡­see how I¡¯m feeling¡­¡± Julia said, as her hand cramped up briefly.


    The team looked to each other, as Sola stepped forward with a few sheets of paper. ¡°We came up with an idea for the team logo.¡±


    ¡°¡­yeah?...¡±


    ¡°Yeah! We thought about a sun with, like, little triangle things coming out.¡± Sola explained, pointing to her sheets. ¡°And there¡¯d be five, so one for each of us, and they¡¯d look like V¡¯s, cause when you put them together, they become Team Valiant!¡±


    ¡°¡­sounds great¡­¡± Julia said, having not looked at the pages. ¡°I¡¯ll check them out¡­tomorrow.¡±


    Sola held the sheets up again, before realising it would be a wasted effort and slinking back to the others, as Harley patted her back.


    ¡°Alright. Don¡¯t overwork yourself, Julia. We still need to present this to Ferris.¡± Harley explained. ¡°So¡­just come in when you want to join us for dinner.¡±


    ¡°Yeah¡­will do¡­¡±


    Harley, Sola and Essex all looked to each other for any other ideas, before acknowledging they had no real way to deal with a problem like this. They slowly headed back to the dorm, before all that was left outside was Julia, her training post and sword, and finally...


    ...Wess.


    Wess watched on, as Julia kept striking the post, each swing adding another notch into the side, but not furthering into the post¡¯s impenetrable exterior.


    Julia turned slightly to acknowledge her. ¡°¡­I¡¯ll go back soon¡­I promise¡­¡±


    ¡°You shouldn¡¯t keep making promises you won¡¯t commit to.¡± Wess argued.


    ¡°¡­I¡¯ll make time¡­¡±


    ¡°And yet you haven¡¯t.¡± Wess said. ¡°You¡¯re not doing anyone any favours wasting time.¡±


    ¡°¡­it¡¯s not a waste¡­I know what¡­I¡¯m doing¡­¡±


    Wess sighed openly, before stepping over to where Julia was training, just a touch out of sight, and reaching to her side, drawing her own sword, Belvedere, from its scabbard.


    Julia noticed the glint off the sword¡¯s blade and stopped swinging hers. ¡°Wess, what are you doing?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m testing you.¡± She answered. ¡°I want to see your practice in action.¡±


    Julia took a second to breathe, before nodding. ¡°Okay. Just for a bit.¡±


    Wess entered a combative pose, as Julia entered a similar one, before Wess started counting down.


    ¡°3¡­2¡­1¡­¡±


    In an instant, Wess darted forward with her sword outstretched, as Julia felt her legs come out from under her, falling over. Julia froze for a second, before getting back up and trying her pose again.


    Wess took the opportunity, before doing a near identical manoeuvre, which Julia failed to anticipate, as she fell over again, hitting the ground a bit rougher.


    ¡°Your grounding is sloppy.¡± Wess pointed out. ¡°I shouldn¡¯t be tripping you this easily.¡±


    Julia stood back up, before determinedly entering the pose again and taking the first swing, as Wess blocked her sword deftly and knocked it out of Julia¡¯s hands onto the ground.


    ¡°Your grip is lacking too. Not to mention your posture is slouched and you¡¯re clearly malnourished.¡±


    ¡°Again.¡± Julia demanded, getting back into her pose.


    ¡°Juli-¡°


    ¡°Again.¡±


    Wess breathed out, as Julia attempted another technique that Wess effortlessly blocked, before knocking Julia to the ground once again.


    ¡°Julia, this is pointle-¡°


    ¡°Stop saying that!¡± Julia yelled. ¡°It¡¯s not pointless, or a waste of time!¡±


    ¡°Then what have you been learning? You¡¯re not getting better with that sword, you just want to think you are. If you¡¯d let me or Harley teach you techniques, you would¡¯ve improved much faster.¡±


    Wess sheathed Belvedere. ¡°This is clearly about you and Joleicia. You¡¯re merely hiding behind training as an excuse.¡±


    Julia went to argue, but realised Wess¡¯ point and lowered her sword.


    ¡°You¡¯re jealous of her sword expertise, and you were worried about falling behind.¡± Wess pointed out. ¡°So, you¡¯re trying to play catch up and meet some impossible standard that doesn¡¯t exist.¡±


    Julia looked back at the post, as despite the immense amount of effort she put in, all the sword slashes she¡¯d taken weren¡¯t even visible on the post anymore.


    ¡°You won¡¯t do your team any good overworked and undertrained.¡±


    Julia didn¡¯t want to admit her own fault, but dropped the sword to the ground regardless, as Wess let out one last sigh and nodded to Julia.


    ¡°Come on.¡± Wess said, indicating for her to follow, as Julia looked back at her and left the training grounds and sword behind.


    The duo headed back to the dorm, as they opened it to find the room empty, noticing a text from Harley saying they¡¯d headed out to the campus bar for the night.


    Wess put down her tablet, as she looked back at Julia, who was visibly uncomfortable.


    ¡°They¡¯ll be fine.¡± Wess assured her, as she motioned Julia over to the balcony, where she¡¯d set up a few glasses and a bottle of champagne.


    Wess sat down and opened the bottle, as Julia was left somewhat confused. ¡°What are we doing?¡±


    ¡°You need a break. It¡¯s been a long day.¡± Wess said, as Julia tentatively joined her and picked up a glass.


    Julia looked down at her glass, then back at Wess. ¡°I don¡¯t deserve this after being so selfish.¡±


    ¡°Oh, nonsense.¡± Wess dismissed. ¡°It¡¯s hard to blame you for being too dedicated.¡±


    ¡°It wasn''t dedication. I was just letting the team down¡­¡±


    Wess circled her glass with her finger. ¡°To an extent, yes. But, I¡¯m sure the others will forgive you with time.¡±


    Julia kicked her chair a little. ¡°I¡¯ve been letting them down so much, all to meet some¡­impossible standard I set for myself. Just cause I convinced myself otherwise¡­¡±


    Wess took another sip from her glass, before topping herself off. ¡°Do you mind if I tell you a brief story?¡±


    Julia shook her head. ¡°No, go ahead.¡±


    Wess got comfortable. ¡°I¡¯m sure you¡¯ve heard that my parents disapproved of me coming here. I mean, they still do¡­¡± Wess admitted. ¡°¡­regardless, before I came here, I got it into my head that the only way I could convince them I was worthy was to become a master swordwielder. Eventually, I trained for days on end by myself, over and over, obsessively going through training dummy after training dummy, and by the end of it, after all my labouring work, they still weren¡¯t convinced and I was no better at handling my sword.¡±


    ¡°Did you ask Graham for help?¡± Julia interjected.


    Wess took a beat, as Julia surprised her again with how much she¡¯d listened. ¡°No, unfortunately. He offered, but I believed I had to do this on my own. Eventually, I ended up convincing them with my words, not my technique, and, even then¡­I wouldn¡¯t have gotten anywhere if Graham hadn¡¯t stood up for me.¡±


    Julia finished her glass, before resting it in her lap and looking solemnly back at the training grounds.


    Wess reached over, somewhat boldly, and grabbed her hand. ¡°Julia, you don¡¯t need to be everything to everyone. And you don¡¯t need to be excellent at everything either. You have a team for a reason, so focus on what you¡¯re good at and let them carry you.¡±


    Julia nodded, as she rested the glass on their table and let the moment breathe.


    ¡°¡­such as?¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    ¡°What am I good at?¡±


    Wess felt a bit thrown off. ¡°I¡¯m sure you know¡­¡±


    ¡°I wanna hear you say it.¡± Julia admitted, looking back at Wess.


    Wess scratched the side of her face. ¡°Well¡­you¡¯re a very talented marksman, and a surprisingly skilled negotiator. You can also reign Chops in, which is very much appreciated.¡±


    ¡°And?¡±


    ¡°¡­and your cooking is excellent too.¡±


    ¡°What about my hair?¡±


    ¡°Julia, you¡¯re just goading me at this point.¡±


    ¡°So? Tell me how pretty I am.¡±


    ¡°W-what¡¯s gotten into you?¡±


    Julia revealed her face, having cracked a smile, before laughing to herself in a fit. ¡°Sorry¡­you put me in a good mood. I guess you can add sense of humour to the list.¡±


    ¡°Absolutely not. Quite the opposite, I¡¯d say.¡± Wess replied, smirking a little too.


    Julia leaned back in her chair. ¡°I guess I felt I was¡­losing to Joleicia, in a way.¡± Julia admitted. ¡°But I¡¯m sure I¡¯ll get to her level at some point. And even if I don¡¯t, I¡¯m still improving at my own pace.¡±


    ¡°As are all of us.¡± Wess said, as Julia caught her smiling, then subsequently hiding her blush.


    Julia stared out over the balcony. ¡°It¡¯s a shame, though. If they ever make a story of my life, I¡¯m not gonna come off as very cool.¡±


    Wess took a sip and raised her finger. ¡°Mmm, but, if they ever wanted to make a story out of Joleicia¡¯s life, what would they have to work with?¡± Wess suggested. ¡°She would start the story great, then end it just as great. That hardly sounds like a narrative to me.¡±


    Julia giggled at Wess¡¯ sentiment, happy she was putting so much effort into making her feel better.


    Julia leaned over and rested her hand on Wess¡¯ now. ¡°Thank you.¡± Julia whispered, a little embarrassed. ¡°I¡¯m impressed you made me feel better about myself by pointing out how shit I can be.¡±


    Wess chuckled to herself. ¡°Please, you did the being shit part all on your own.¡±


    ¡°Well, I can¡¯t take all the credit.¡± Julia joked. ¡°I have my team to thank for making me so shit, after all.¡±


    Wess nearly spilled her champagne from laughing, just catching herself and chortling into her hand, as Julia felt herself grin at the whole exchange.


    Wess calmed down, as the post and sword caught her eye in the darkened training grounds. ¡°We should return those before it¡¯s too dark. Unless you want me to show you some sword techniques of my own?¡±


    Julia rubbed her neck. ¡°Maybe another time, after I¡¯ve eaten, or when my body wants me to move again. But I really want to see the team logo you guys worked on.¡±


    Wess rolled her eyes. ¡°I had a feeling you might. I¡¯ll show it once we return the equipment.¡±


    ¡°Fair enough.¡± Julia grinned, as the duo headed back to the grounds, signing the equipment back into the Weapon Reserve before it was too late.


    The night was noticeably fine, Julia looking around them as they walked back, before spotting something prominent in the dark. She tapped Wess¡¯ shoulder.


    ¡°What?¡±


    Julia pointed up to a traffic cone stuck in a tree, as Wess stopped in place.


    ¡°Julia, why did you stop me for this?¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t we pass this about a week ago?¡±


    ¡°Yes, I saw it when we got our weapons with Team Vanguard. What does tha¡­wait¡­¡±


    Julia turned around and showed a proud grin. ¡°You wondered how I guessed it, right?¡±


    Wess blushed profusely, hiding herself from Julia¡¯s view, as they took their time walking back to the dorm, Wess taking subtle glances back at a now brighter Julia, clearly very happy with herself.

 Chapter 9: Getting Even

    ¡°¡­ut the root cause is still unknown. While most Wailing retain an animalistic appearance, closely resembling ursine and canines, recent breeds of Wailing have been understood as fully gelatinous, like if a bag of water were somehow given autonomy and consciousness.¡± Cecil explained, as his class took steady notes while he spoke. ¡°Despite our best efforts, it¡¯s near impossible to capture one for study, let alone attempt an autopsy. We don¡¯t even know something as basic as their eating habits.¡±


    Cecil put down the whiteboard marker, as he walked about the lecture hall studiously, assessing everyone he passed. ¡°Now, I know a few students here have encountered a Wailing before, but has anyone here seen a ¡®gelatinous¡¯ Wailing in person?¡±


    Immediately, Essex raised her hand, drawing the attention of the class, and a surprised Florey sitting right next to her.


    ¡°Okay, Ms¡­Essex?¡±


    She nodded. ¡°I have seen one in person.¡±


    ¡°Can you describe the experience?¡±


    Despite not needing to, Essex stood up to address her peers. ¡°During an expedition through the Aishanara forest, the Segaru Clan was attacked by a gelatinous Wailing during the night. I fought while the other members recovered, and was able to kill it within eleven minutes.¡±


    ¡°Fascinating.¡± Cecil muttered, stroking his chin and leaning against his desk. ¡°How was the experience different?¡±


    ¡°Physical attacks proved to not be effective, but my Whil was, as it reacted poorly when coming into contact.¡± Essex explained, as Cecil took a few hurried notes.


    ¡°¡­react¡­Whils¡­that¡¯s really interesting, Essex. Thank you for sharing.¡±


    ¡°Grelo.¡± Essex thanked, sitting back down, as Florey leaned over to her.


    ¡°You¡¯ve actually seen one in person?¡± He asked.


    ¡°Several, of varied breed and physique.¡± Essex elaborated.


    Florey was left wide-eyed. ¡°No kidding¡­¡±


    Cecil headed back to the board and picked up the marker again. ¡°We¡¯re nearly done today, so I¡¯ll write this week¡¯s problem on the board.¡± Cecil said, as he finished writing. ¡°¡®If a Wailing is presently living within a few kilometres of you, how can you tell just from looking at your surroundings?¡¯ You¡¯ll have until the end of the week, but I¡¯ll give you some time t-¡°


    In an instant, Florey raised his hand to answer.


    Cecil noticed and laughed to himself a little. ¡°I guess I should¡¯ve expected this from you, Florey. Don¡¯t tell you¡¯ve already got the solution?¡±


    Florey slowly lowered his hand in embarrassment. ¡°Am I not supposed to?¡±


    The class collectively laughed, as Cecil approached his seat. ¡°Quite the opposite. Care to give the answer?¡±


    Florey started counting on his fingers. ¡°First, impurities in the water. If a Wailing is losing its composure, the water will contain parts of its now gelatinous flesh.¡±


    Cecil raised a finger and urged him to continue.


    ¡°In order to test their habitat, Wailing scratch the sides of nearby trees to assess their strength and durability.¡± Florey continued, as Cecil raised another finger. ¡°And lastly, coming from their namesake, Wailing can occasionally be heard wailing late into the night.¡±


    Cecil proudly raised the last digit and joined his hands together. ¡°I think that deserves an applause, everyone.¡±


    The class started politely clapping for Florey, who was taking the praise incredibly well, as Cecil returned to his desk and wiped the problem off the board.


    ¡°Now Florey had to go and ruin all the fun.¡± Cecil joked, getting a giggle from the rest of the class. ¡°I¡¯m only kidding. You¡¯re exceeding my expectations already, Florey.¡±


    Florey grinned to himself awkwardly, not used to receiving this much admiration for his work, as Essex looked to him with an interested curiosity.


    He appears to be far more gifted than I thought.


    ¡°With that out of the way, we can finish up class, but if anyone¡¯s got questions, feel free to ask while I¡¯m here.¡± Cecil said, as he leaned on his desk and noticed a hand raise in the crowd. ¡°Yes?¡±


    ¡°Uhh¡­I was wondering¡­¡± The student asked, a little hesitant. ¡°Do you¡­know how the Wailing conflict started?¡±


    Cecil paused briefly, before getting up and pacing. ¡°Do I know? Well, no one really knows. It was too long ago for any of us to remember, but there has been some speculation¡­¡±


    ¡°I meant¡­what do you think happened?¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± Cecil said. ¡°That¡¯s a very different question.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s just you¡¯re the head of the science department, so if anyone had an idea¡­¡±


    Cecil raised his hand. ¡°It¡¯s understandable. Alright, everyone. What I¡¯m talking about isn¡¯t strictly class related, so if you want to head out now, by all means.¡±


    Cecil waited, as everyone seated remained, and a playful smile grew against his face.


    ¡°Glad to see I¡¯ve grabbed your attention.¡± He remarked, before starting his pacing again. ¡°¡­from what we¡¯ve gathered, the Wailing conflict started around to time of our colonisation of Central Point. Records were scarce, but from analysis of writings and religions formed around the time, we believe the Wailing were envious of humanities abilities to construct and communicate, and that the early settlers of Daysend were set upon by the Wailing at night, as they attacked violently and destroyed anything the settlers managed to create.¡±


    ¡°Humanity fought back, but was woefully unequipped, until the First Wailing War was declared and shortly after, the Venator system was established, leading to humanity finally getting the upper hand.¡± Cecil explained, as the audience listened enraptured, a few taking notes, but most just memorising. ¡°Of course, Wailing evolved to compensate, and as a result, the conflict continued for two more wars, and has yet to end. We get stronger, but Wailing keep showing up¡­¡±


    Cecil turned to the class again. ¡°Why do you think humanity fought back?¡±


    The class was left silent, as no one wanted to be the first to answer, not even Florey, before Essex raised her hand.


    ¡°Yes?¡±


    ¡°¡­to defend their lifestyle.¡±


    ¡°¡­yes, to an extent.¡± Cecil clarified. ¡°While that¡¯s a valid assessment, I would argue humanity wanted something back. They wanted to show the Wailing what they¡¯d done to us.¡±


    Cecil waved his hand. ¡°I know, that¡¯s just revenge, revenge is wrong, plain and simple. But when negotiation can¡¯t be reached, what else is left but revenge? I wouldn¡¯t be suggesting this if the Wailing weren¡¯t forcing our hands, but considering our history with them, you don¡¯t need to second-guess their intentions.¡± Cecil explained. ¡°Destruction. All they¡¯ve ever done is taken and hurt. They¡¯re creatures of unfeeling hatred built on their jealousy of humanities prowess. To me, at least, we¡¯re taking revenge to level the playing field and finally make them pay for what they¡¯ve done to us. And in that case, I say revenge is the only appropriate response.¡±


    The audience gave him silence, as Florey rested his head in his hands. ¡°Wow¡­¡±


    Cecil returned to his desk, as the end of class ticked over on his watch. ¡°Now please, take that with a grain of salt. These are theories built on outdated, and inconsistent, evidence, as well as personal hearsay. Feel free to draw your own conclusions. That¡¯s all for today.¡±


    Essex and Florey grabbed their equipment and left with the rest of the class, as on their way back to the dorms, Florey was visibly buzzing.


    ¡°Wasn¡¯t that fantastic?¡±


    Essex turned to him. ¡°Are you referring to his speech?¡±


    ¡°Yes! He¡¯s just so right! Everyone¡¯s thinking it, but he¡¯s the only one who¡¯s said it!¡± Florey beamed, as Essex continued on her way.


    ¡°He managed to express some valid points.¡±


    ¡°Valid points. Come on, Essex. Mr Cecil¡¯s the only lecturer who¡¯s made sense so far. All the others keep babbling on about industry practices and guidelines.¡± Florey complained, still running back and forth. ¡°He¡¯s talking about real history, real victories, real results.¡±


    Essex stayed silent, watching Florey dance around as they walked, reflecting on Cecil¡¯s lecture in her head and trying to come to her own conclusion.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    It was rare to find the training grounds both sunny and pleasant. Usually, whenever the weather was lovely, the grounds would compensate by being blisteringly hot, but as Team Valiant spent their afternoon working on their combat, the only thing they felt was a crisp wind passing over them.


    Essex took another swing at Wess, as she blocked the scythe with her sword, deflecting Essex off to the side, as both took a second to recover.


    ¡°You are improving with hand-eye coordination.¡± Essex stated.


    ¡°As are you. You¡¯ve made this match worth my time.¡± Wess said back, redrawing her sword. ¡°Let¡¯s keep up the momentum.¡±


    ¡°Understood.¡± Essex said, as she repositioned to swing at Wess once again. Julia watched on from a distance, as her and Harley were sparring in their own way too. Harley threw punches toward Julia, which instead of blocking, she would slow down with her Whil, reducing their velocity enough to dodge out of the way. Of course, the point of this was to get Julia used to choosing whether she slowed something down or sped it up on command, which meant that a lot of punches¡­


    ¡°Ow!¡±


    ¡°Oh, shit!¡± Harley said, as she crouched to check on Julia. ¡°You good?¡±


    ¡°Yeah. Luckily, my nose took most of the damage.¡± Julia remarked. ¡°Maybe speeding up punches heading towards me isn¡¯t the best way to learn.¡±


    ¡°But it¡¯s good incentive to slow them on purpose.¡± Harley grinned, as she raised her fists again. ¡°I¡¯ll go a little slower.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ll probably speed them up anyway.¡± Julia joked, as just before they started, she spotted Sola to the side, a little hesitant in her own practice. Harley noticed too, as they both took notice and headed over.


    ¡°How¡¯s training going, Sola?¡± Julia asked.


    ¡°Okay. Kinda.¡± Sola said. ¡°No, I¡¯m lying. I can¡¯t use my Whil right now.¡±


    ¡°Why can¡¯t you use it now? You¡¯ve done it before.¡±


    ¡°Only cause everyone was watching!¡± Sola pointed out. ¡°Now I¡¯ve got no reason to. I don¡¯t wanna hurt you guys.¡±


    Harley waved her hand. ¡°It¡¯ll be fine! So far, you haven¡¯t hurt anyone with your lightning that you¡¯re not supposed to.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s so not true!¡± Sola complained. ¡°Back in Year 9, I bumped into Miss Higgins and zapped her by accident, and she got a lazy eye! She kept giving me funny looks all year cause of that!¡±


    Harley cocked her head. ¡°Are you sure that wasn¡¯t cause of the eye?¡±


    Sola blinked, before reflecting back on it more thoroughly. ¡°Oh yeah¡­¡±


    ¡°Come on, Sola, you¡¯re eighteen now. Just because your Whil¡¯s more powerful doesn¡¯t mean it controls you.¡± Julia reasoned. ¡°You¡¯ve got way more experience, and you know what to avoid. It¡¯s just about getting used to it more and more.¡±


    Sola hesitated a little, but opened up from Julia¡¯s smile and assurance, as she pumped her fist in the air determinedly. ¡°I¡¯m gonna get this over with really really quick!¡±


    ¡°Woo! Go Sola!¡± Harley cheered, as Sola stepped out properly onto the field, stretching her limbs, then specifically her hands, as she pointed them out in front of her, ready to use her Whil, ready to shoot some lightning, ready to¡­ready¡­any time now¡­


    ¡°Sola, what¡¯s the hold up?¡±


    Sola turned back around slowly, with a clear look of distraught. ¡°I¡¯m scared again¡­¡±


    ¡°Oh geez¡­¡± Harley bemoaned, jogging over to her, as Julia let out a sigh of expectance.


    ¡°It¡¯s not like we¡¯re in danger.¡± Julia mumbled, as she headed back over to Sola, who finally worked up the nerve again, and pointed her fingers out in front of her.


    Harley and Julia stepped back, watching Sola take her pose, as they turned to each other with excited grins.


    Sola focused on the clear distance in front of her, and the slight breeze blowing through the grounds, as she felt sparks appear and disappear around her fingers, before connecting together and finally building up into not just one, but two, soon three, soon several strands of lightning soaring every which way.


    ¡°That¡¯s it Sola! You¡¯re doing it!¡± Harley cheered, jumping up and down excitedly, as Julia joined in beside her.


    Wess and Essex took a brief break to watch Sola¡¯s efforts, as the lighting became havocking in appearance. Wess stared with typical shock and awe at Sola¡¯s immense power, Essex watching with intense focus, as a strand or two started flying off here and there.


    Even Sola started to impress herself, feeling a well of confidence inside her she wasn¡¯t used to, before breaking concentration for a second, what should¡¯ve been a harmless second, and losing composure of the giant mass in front of her.


    She did her best to control it, trying to direct it into the sky or anywhere less harmful, before one of the many lightning strands separated and flew off to the side, just missing the forest, just missing Harley, Julia and Wess, and flying directly into¡­


    ¡°Essex!!!¡±


    Essex was hit.


    The lightning went straight toward her, hitting her directly and nearly electrocuting her body, until her scythe took the brunt of the force and the lightning veered off to the side, leaving Essex virtually unharmed, saved for some scorch marks.


    ¡°Essex!¡± Sola called out, as she finally forced the electricity to die down and ran up to her, both still in shock. ¡°I¡¯m so sorry! I didn¡¯t know what I was doing! Are you hurt?¡±


    Essex took a second to look down at her burnt shirt, then slowly back up at a concerned Sola, before her eyes widened and she grabbed her scythe and bag, running directly toward the forest without another hesitation.


    ¡°Hey, wher-¡° Harley asked, Essex dashing past her and further into the forest, before the rest of the team couldn¡¯t see her anymore.


    ¡°Essex! Come back! I¡¯m really sorry!¡± Sola cried out, before hearing nothing and accepting the lack of response.


    ¡°Where¡¯d she run off to?¡± Harley asked, trying to get a glimpse of her, Julia coming over to comfort Sola. ¡°I can¡¯t see her in there.¡±


    ¡°She might be in shock. Figuratively, of course.¡± Wess suggested.


    Julia patted Sola¡¯s back. ¡°She might get hurt if she¡¯s in there too long.¡±


    Sola shook her head. ¡°She hangs out in the forest a lot. That¡¯s where we first met for the second time.¡± Sola explained, stepping into the foliage. ¡°I¡¯m gonna find her.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m coming to.¡± Harley added, as the duo headed further in.


    ¡°We¡¯ll grab supplies from the infirmary in case she needs them.¡± Julia explained, as her and Wess headed off to the infirmary together, and Sola and Harley delved into the depths of the forest in search of their teammate.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    At this point, Essex was running on pure instinct. She could still feel a residual pain throughout her chest, clutching the fabric to her, as she used her scythe to swing against the side of a nearby tree and climb to a high-up hanging branch.


    She lay against the trunk, letting herself focus on breathing and calming herself down, as the panic from earlier started to dissipate. She stared down at the buttons on her dress-shirt, now melted to the cotton, which in turn was charred black and torn. She took a minute to lament it, running her fingers over the once white fabric, before opening up her bag and pulling out the only spare shirt she had on hand, which she now regretted packing as a just-in-case wardrobe change.


    She groaned slightly, as she pulled off her ruined dress-shirt and replaced it with her novelty Team Vivisect shirt from the mall, which as she guessed, felt as cheaply made as it looked.


    ¡°Essex!¡±


    Essex froze, hugging tighter against the trunk, slowing her breath to near nothing, as she noticed Sola and Harley down by the forest floor.


    ¡°Essex! I wanna talk!¡± Sola yelled, Essex consciously staying out of sight. ¡°Please come out! I¡¯m sorry about hitting you!¡±


    ¡°We got some stuff from the infirmary! If you¡¯re hurt, we can help!¡± Harley added, to further silence. ¡°You can hit Sola back if you want!¡±


    Sola turned around to complain to Harley, as Essex patiently waited for them to pass, before hearing them off in the distance and letting go of her breath.


    Essex lay her head back and decided to sit there for a few minutes, letting the natural sounds of the forest around her drown out her invasive and frustrating thoughts. She knew better then to act on her impulses like this, and considering what she wanted to do to Sola, this was clearly a bigger issue than she understood.


    She opened her eyes and cautiously inspected under her shirt for any permanent damage. Against her skin were the various marks and scars from her personal training back with the Segaru Clan, as well as the row of bite marks that still ran across both sides of her left hand, but other than that, her body was unscathed by the lightning.


    But the pain was still there.


    And it wasn¡¯t going away.


    ¡°¡­muer tinusa¡­selamorta no¡­¡± She muttered to herself. ¡°¡­the body is a vessel¡­pain is temporary¡­¡±


    She lay back again and stared through the leafage, spotting a strand or two of sunlight cracking through, before blocking them out and nodding off to sleep.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Julia paced back and forth, still waiting outside the forest for Harley and Sola to come back, hopefully with Essex. Wess sat by the medical supplies, as Julia began muttering options to herself.


    Stolen novel; please report.


    ¡°¡­maybe¡­she might want to¡­but she¡­¡±


    Wess breathed out her nose. ¡°Stop panicking.¡±


    ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°Because I might join you if I¡¯m not careful.¡± Wess admitted. ¡°I have a date with Cyrus later and I¡¯d rather not get all¡­agitated beforehand.¡±


    Julia looked a bit surprised. ¡°You didn¡¯t tell me yo-¡°


    Mid-sentence, Harley and Sola finally appeared, clearly without Essex, and a fair bit dejected.


    ¡°Was she in there?¡± Julia asked.


    ¡°Couldn¡¯t tell ya. She¡¯s slipperier than a greased pig.¡± Harley sighed.


    ¡°I think she was still there. But¡­she was hiding from us.¡± Sola said, with a clear look of shame.


    ¡°Perhaps her pride means she wants to hide rather than show pain.¡± Wess wondered.


    ¡°Wess, don¡¯t be so clinical.¡± Julia criticised. ¡°She doesn¡¯t want us to see her as weak. Nobody wants to look bad around their friends.¡±


    Harley sat with Wess and stretched her legs. ¡°Should we call Dulce over to get her out?¡±


    Julia shook her head. ¡°If she¡¯s hiding, then she probably doesn¡¯t want to be found.¡±


    ¡°Well, we shouldn¡¯t leave her there.¡± Wess complained. ¡°She can¡¯t live in the forest.¡±


    ¡°Actually, since she¡¯s from the Segaru Clan, she¡¯s probably lived in the forest her whole life.¡± Harley reminded her. ¡°From what I¡¯ve read, they¡¯re all nomadic and tend to avoid large cities.¡±


    Wess blinked in befuddlement at Harley¡¯s cultural knowledge, as Sola headed back into the forest.


    ¡°I¡¯m gonna try to get her again.¡± Sola said, stepping back into the forest¡¯s shade.


    ¡°Okay, but be back soon!¡± Julia called out, as Sola left her sight. ¡°At least Essex has experience in the forest. While she¡¯s processing this, we don¡¯t have to worry about her surviving on her own.¡±


    Once Sola was a proper distance away, Wess cleared her throat and got the attention of Harley and Julia. ¡°¡­may I suggest something?¡±


    The other two looked to each other and shrugged in response.


    Wess straightened her back. ¡°¡­as I¡¯m spending more time with this team, I realise there may be benefits to staying that I hadn¡¯t noticed, and might have dismissed early on¡­¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s an understatement.¡± Harley remarked, as Julia elbowed her and insisted Wess continue.


    ¡°¡­however, despite my ¡®change of heart,¡¯ as it were, I¡¯m worried that certain members of the team may not be cut out for what the industry expects.¡±


    ¡°Certain members? You mean Essex?¡± Julia asked.


    Wess shook her head.


    Harley squinted. ¡°What¡¯s wrong with Sola?¡±


    ¡°¡­I think Sola should leave.¡± Wess stated. ¡°Not just the team, but the academy.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Harley asked, now standing firmly. ¡°Sorry, what?!¡±


    ¡°Wess, what¡¯re you suggesting?¡± Julia asked, clearly just as stunned.


    Wess stood her ground. ¡°She¡¯s not cut out for being a professional Venator. We¡¯ve seen what Wailing are capable of, and so far, her only ability has been dangerous and uncontrollable, not to mention impractical. Without any other skills, what good would she be?¡±


    ¡°Other skills?! Sola has every right to be here, just like us! And she¡¯s working on getting her Whil under control!¡± Harley argued.


    ¡°And yet, she¡¯s barely made any progress. In case you forgot, she just injured a teammate.¡± Wess shot back.


    ¡°I can¡¯t believe this! You threaten to leave the team, and now that you like it, you wanna kick out the other members cause it¡¯s better for you?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not forcing her out, and this is about our careers, not personal feelings or growin-¡°


    ¡°No, I¡¯m not listening to you and your bullshit. This isn¡¯t even your decision, right Julia?¡± Harley said, as Julia gave no response, clearly deep in thought. ¡°Julia, please don¡¯t agree with her.¡±


    ¡°¡­you¡¯re right that this isn¡¯t our decision¡­but it does concern the team.¡± Julia unfortunately admitted. ¡°Harley, she might not be right for the industry. It¡¯s a business built by warriors, and as much as I like Sola, she¡­isn¡¯t one. Not in a combative way, at least.¡±


    Harley kept quiet, but really wanted to speak up.


    ¡°But, Sola¡¯s out teammate no matter what, and that¡¯s no reason to speak for her.¡± Julia declared. ¡°I refuse to discuss this further behind her back. If you want, Wess, you can raise your concerns, but the outcome is hers to choose. And we aren¡¯t kicking her out.¡± Julia stated, staring at Wess.


    Wess looked offended. ¡°I wasn¡¯t suggesting¡­¡± She grabbed her nose. ¡°¡­I agree that this is her decision. If she got into the academy, she must be worth it on some level.¡±


    ¡°Worth it.¡± Harley scoffed. ¡°According to your standards?¡±


    ¡°Guys, come on. Can we not argue? We¡¯re helping Essex right now, first and foremost.¡± Julia mediated, before looking to Wess. ¡°But you really picked the worst time to bring this up.¡±


    ¡°If I delayed any further, I might¡¯ve been the one hiding in the forest next.¡± Wess pointed out, Harley folding her arms.


    ¡°This is just cause you don¡¯t like Sola¡­¡±


    ¡°Harley¡­¡± Julia bemoaned. ¡°We all trust her, but if she¡¯s really not ready, this might turn into a Gamma situation.¡±


    Wess and Harley both cocked their heads at the unfamiliar term. ¡°Gamma?¡±


    ¡°Gamma was one of the first members of Team Spectrum.¡± Julia explained, to no reaction.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know much about Team Spectrum.¡± Harley admitted, as Wess nodded beside her.


    ¡°Well, because of his negligence, he got expelled for getting a teammate killed.¡± Julia explained.


    ¡°Really?¡± Harley asked, sitting down with Julia.


    ¡°Yeah. They went out on an expedition¡­actually, I¡¯ll start earlier so you get some context. Alright, so the team started out as complete strangers, but each one had a fascination with light¡­¡±


    Wess rolled her eyes and grabbed her bags to head off to her date, as Julia explained to Harley about Team Spectrum and Gamma, waiting patiently for Sola to get back.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Essex? Are you here somewhere?¡± Sola called out, her throat starting to dry up. ¡°My throat¡¯s scratchy, so I don¡¯t wanna yell anymore!¡±


    Sola stopped in place and desperately looked around, still seeing no sign of Essex, though at this point that was clearly intentional.


    ¡°You¡¯re making it hard to apologise!¡± Sola complained. ¡°Just let me say sorry already!¡±


    A bird chirped in the distance, as Sola leaned against an errant branch to catch her breath, fairly overheated.


    ¡°¡­stupid¡­jacket¡­¡± Sola said, slowly unbuttoning it, before stopping suddenly and sighing. ¡°¡­stupid me.¡±


    She took it off and walked to the middle of the nearby clearing.


    ¡°I know I¡¯m the last person you want to see right now, but you were the first really nice person I talked to here.¡± Sola admitted, looking to the ground solemnly. ¡°And I get why you wouldn¡¯t forgive me, cause I did a totally reckless thing and you got hurt as a result.¡±


    ¡°But it was an accident! And I want to get better so this doesn¡¯t happen again!¡± Sola confessed.


    The forest hung with an earned silence, as Sola kicked the dirt as a result.


    ¡°¡­just please don¡¯t hate me after all this.¡± Sola let out.


    Sola cleared her throat. ¡°If you need some time in the forest, then you can go ahead.¡± Sola allowed. ¡°I get needing to duck off and work some things out.¡±


    With that, Sola took her leave, hoping dearly that Essex caught what she had said, not realising that Essex had been hiding right above her, taking in every word and trying to come to the right conclusion.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°I love you.¡±


    ¡°I love you too.¡±


    ¡°I love you.¡±


    ¡°Well, I love you.¡±


    ¡°I¡­love¡­you!¡±


    ¡°I love that you love me.¡±


    ¡°I love that I can spend this beautiful day with you.¡±


    Rose took another sip of her drink. ¡°What¡¯s your favourite thing about me, Liddy?¡±


    ¡°Everything.¡± Liddy replied, as she lay in Rose¡¯s lap. ¡°What¡¯s your favourite thing about me?¡±


    ¡°Your hair.¡± Rose replied, as Liddy felt a bit underwhelmed by the answer.


    Rose twirled a finger through Liddy¡¯s hair. ¡°I¡¯m glad we have this time together.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m glad the forest isn¡¯t trying to kill us anymore.¡± Liddy pointed out, calmly appreciating the forest backdrop. ¡°And I can¡¯t believe the campus security didn¡¯t take us seriously. Some help they were¡­¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Liddy.¡± Rose said, as she brushed a strand of hair from her eyes. ¡°I promise I¡¯ll protect you with all m-¡°


    CRRAAASSSSHHHHH!!!!!!


    Liddy jumped up in fright, as a giant tree trunk came crashing down beside them.


    ¡°What the heck was that?! Rose, we got-¡°


    Liddy looked around and spotted Rose booking it out of the forest, and not looking back.


    ¡°Rose! You utter scoundrel!¡± Liddy yelled, running up after her, as another tree collided with the ground, sending out a small tremor as it did so.


    It had been a few days since Essex left for the forest, a few days that had gone by smoothly for her. All her experience surviving in the forest was reflected not only in her being well fed and hydrated, but fairly clean, and with a makeshift shelter atop the forest. No change of shirt was frustrating on a personal level, but she¡¯d gone through much worse with far less.


    However, she wasn¡¯t about to neglect her training routine, not if she still had her scythe and energy running through her body.


    With another measured swing, she cleaved right through a third tree¡¯s base, leaving it to topple over on its own, before inspecting the side of her scythe and noticing a slight dullness developing on the blade. Fortunately, sharpening a blade was nothing, as she headed back eastward to what she was calling home.


    The side of the tree had clear grooves in it where she¡¯d used her scythe to climb, as she added some more grooves and made it to the widest branch at the top of the massive tree, where she¡¯d set up her supplies, bedding and shelter. Grabbing an errant stone, she climbed a bit higher up the tree, until she was passed the bed of leaves and could see across the entire forest, specifically at the dormitory, spotting the rest of Team Valiant through the large window adjacent to the balcony. They looked to be having a good time.


    ¡­I should be with them.


    However, Sola came into view, and immediately drew out unpleasantness for Essex. The feeling wasn¡¯t easily described; some kind of mix between anger, concern, fear and¡­another one she couldn¡¯t describe. Either way, Essex wasn¡¯t ready to confront it.


    She slipped back down to the branch and began to sharpen her scythe, taking methodical strokes with the stone as not to damage the metal, before slipping into a rhythmic set of motions that ensured an efficient work routi-


    ¡°Essex, darling! Yoo hoo!¡±


    Essex was snapped from her trance, cautiously looking down and spotting Saxin by the forest floor, holding a book and waving up at her.


    ¡°Essex! What¡¯re you doing up there?¡± She called out.


    Essex grabbed her scythe and bag and scaled down the tree, meeting Saxin¡¯s gaze down the bottom.


    ¡°There you are.¡± Saxin greeted. ¡°This is quite the surprise. Here I am enjoying some solitude from Team Vanguard, and all of a sudden, you appear.¡± She spotted the Team Vivisect shirt. ¡°And with a change in wardrobe to boot.¡±


    ¡°Why are you in the forest?¡± Essex asked, as Saxin wagged her finger.


    ¡°Oh no, I asked you first. And you clearly have the more interesting answer.¡±


    Essex blinked. ¡°I¡­was in an accident during team training.¡±


    Saxin¡¯s expression changed immediately. ¡°My goodness, are you alright?¡± Saxin worried, ready to inspect her for injuries.


    ¡°I am fine. The injuries were minor, but I am now unable to talk to Sola about the event. Why are you here?¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± Saxin said. ¡°I had the afternoon free, and now I¡¯m looking for a good spot to read.¡± She waved the novel in her hand, as she sat against a nearby rock. ¡°But I have a feeling you need someone to talk to. There¡¯s clearly something troubling you.¡±


    Essex grabbed her bag and scythe again. ¡°I will work on this by myself.¡± Essex assured her.


    ¡°If that were true, you wouldn¡¯t be hiding in a forest.¡± Saxin pointed out, patting beside her. ¡°If you aren¡¯t talking to your team, at least talk to me.¡±


    Essex turned around, planning out a route of escape if she needed to relocate, before looking back at Saxin and knowing she posed no threat, as she took the seat beside her.


    ¡°Now, catch me up please.¡±


    ¡°You took it head on?!¡±


    Essex shook her head. ¡°The electricity was deflected and only partially harmed my body.¡± Essex explained, pulling her burnt dress-shirt from her bag. ¡°It would appear worse than it was. Then I left for the forest and have hidden away from the team.¡±


    ¡°I can see why.¡± Saxin replied, inspecting the shirt¡¯s hole with her finger. ¡°I can mend this for you, if you want. It¡¯ll take some work, of course.¡±


    ¡°I possess more. It is of little concern.¡± Essex said, bagging the shirt again, but with a clear delicacy that suggested the opposite of her words. ¡°¡­but I wish to confess something to you, and I do not wish for you to think ill of me.¡±


    ¡°Honey, you¡®ve been struck by lightning. I imagine you¡¯d be justified in whatever you suggest.¡± Saxin excused, as Essex took a deep breath out.


    ¡°After I was¡­struck, and had realised what had happened, when I looked to Sola¡­¡± Essex found the next few words difficult to admit to. ¡°¡­I wished to hurt her back.¡± Essex muttered.


    Saxin was left silent, mulling over Essex¡¯ admission, with Essex worried she might have scared her off.


    ¡°Let¡¯s be thankful you didn¡¯t act on that.¡±


    Essex nodded. ¡°That is why I ran. To avoid hurting her.¡±


    Saxin rested her head against her hand. ¡°Revenge is a horrid thing. Poor Sola would have been crushed¡­¡±


    ¡°I would not hurt her severely. Only enough to make us even.¡± Essex explained.


    ¡°I meant she would have felt crushed. Imagine a close friend taking revenge on another¡­¡± Saxin clarified, a little woeful by the end. ¡°Violence isn¡¯t solved with more violence, especially when the first act was an accident.¡±


    ¡°But how do I make us even?¡± Essex asked, slightly impassioned. ¡°I do not want to hurt her, but I cannot bare this burden.¡±


    ¡°Then how do you think she feels?¡± Saxin retaliated. ¡°She hurt her friend, and now you¡¯re refusing to talk to her about it.¡±


    ¡°But how will talking make us even?¡±


    ¡°It won¡¯t. You have to accept that she made a mistake and that repeating it won¡¯t fix the problem.¡± Saxin professed. ¡°You don¡¯t need to hurt her too.¡±


    Essex stayed silent, clearly going over ideas in her head, as she grabbed her scythe and swung it into the side of the tree.


    ¡°This poor forest¡­¡± Saxin remarked, before getting up from the rock. ¡°I want you to promise that you won¡¯t do anything to Sola, alright?¡±


    Essex looked up to her determined gaze and nodded, as Saxin leaned down and grabbed her book again. ¡°I¡¯ve given all the advice I can.¡±


    She leaned down and booped Essex¡¯s nose. ¡°You are quite the odd character, but I do enjoy your company.¡±


    Essex backed away a little, as Saxin giggled into her hand. ¡°I insist we have more of these chats in the future, possibly over drinks, or back at my place if you feel inclined.¡± Saxin winked, waving her book. ¡°Only once I¡¯m done with this, of course.¡±


    She sauntered off, continuing her search for a good reading spot, as Essex removed her scythe from the tree, scanning down the blades edge, and deciding in her head what must be done.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Alright, everyone. Dinner¡¯s just about¡­ready!¡± Julia announced, heading to the main room with the other¡¯s dishes. Harley and Wess graciously accepted theirs, having their meal in the lounge area, as Sola took hers with half interest, gazing out across the balcony at the forest.


    Julia patted her shoulder. ¡°Staring at it won¡¯t help her. Come on, let¡¯s have dinner together.¡±


    Julia indicated to the other two in front of the TV, as Sola took a seat on the floor in front of them and watched along with the news programming.


    ¡°¡­ut in more recent news, the previously Wailing populated north of Aishinara Forest has seen a noticeable loss in Wailing numbers over the last few weeks. Local Venator team, Team Avalanche, have reported less attacks overall, including no clear indicators of Wailing present near local towns.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s incredible. You never see a recession of their numbers like this. Maybe it¡¯s some kinda migration, or like they¡¯re assembling somewhere else?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t trust it. If Wailing are anything, they¡¯re crafty. If those ¡®gelatinous¡¯ Wailing are anything to go off of, then they know how to adapt to us.¡±


    ¡°My worst fear is they¡¯re planning an attack, or some kind of invasion. It¡¯s not unheard of.¡±


    ¡°Either way, the time off is appreciated. Just don¡¯t tell our leader I said that.¡±


    ¡°Could this be a sign of changes to come, or merely another ploy by the Wailing to lower our guard? And if so, could this be the sign of a large-scale Wailing attack?¡±


    ¡°Maybe the Wailing are invisible.¡± Sola suggested, before turning to Harley. ¡°I wouldn¡¯t put it past them.¡±


    Harley patted her head comfortingly, as Sola returned her attention to the news, and Harley looked to Wess beside her on the couch. ¡°Ready to kick her out yet?¡±


    Wess rolled her eyes. ¡°I¡¯m not heartless, Harley. Stop treating me like a divorce lawyer tearing a family apart.¡±


    Harley took another bite of her food. ¡°Werr, if ruh arsk me¡­I¡¯d say the fact you haven¡¯t talked to her yet means you¡¯re having doubts.¡±


    ¡°Oh, honestly!¡± Wess projected, still keeping her voice down behind a very distracted Sola. ¡°I¡¯m concerned for her safety, and because I still respect her, I¡¯m choosing the right moment!¡±


    ¡°Liar. You¡¯re just another Gamma, and you won¡¯t stop causing trouble.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know what that means!¡±


    ¡°Guys!¡± Julia interjected. ¡°Shoosh!¡±


    She pointed back at Sola, idly bobbing along with the TV, before Julia folded her arms in disapproval, as Harley and Wess went back to their dinners quietly, licking their wounds.


    ¡°¡­jerk¡­¡± Harley mumbled, before shutting up by Julia glaring her into silence.


    ¡°¡­this just in, a robbery is currently in progress at the Gold Lelvow Bank in Detu City. Reports suggest two suspects, possibly armed, are currently holding employee¡¯s hostage with intent to attack if their demands aren¡¯t met.¡±


    ¡°Whoa.¡± Julia let out, the group¡¯s attention glued to the screen.


    ¡°Police are preparing to make their way in to apprehend the suspects, but it¡¯s unclear whether¡­wait, I¡¯m just hearing the police raid has been compromised and that the assailants have burst through the barricade t-¡°


    Just then, the door opened shudderingly, the team collectively jumping, before realising it was just Essex and being overcome with a sense of relief.


    ¡°Essex! You¡¯re back! How¡¯re you doing?¡± Julia greeted, as Essex raised a hand to silence her, and the others watched on in anticipation.


    Essex turned on her heel to face Sola. ¡°I need for you to come to the forest by 9:00pm tonight. We will be sparring.¡±


    Sola blinked, then blinked again. ¡°Wha?¡±


    ¡°If you do not come, I will be forced to spend the remainder of my education living within the forest. Dovono.¡±


    Essex left just as quickly as she arrived, as the others looked to Sola worryingly, who was staring at the floor in contemplation.


    Wess checked her watch. ¡°Well, it¡¯s already 8:50pm. You don¡¯t have much time to decide.¡±


    Sola had realised that, as Julia leaned down to her eye level. ¡°Do you want us to come with you?¡±


    Sola nodded slowly, before getting up and grabbing her jacket.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    The comforting sunlight from a few days prior had all but disappeared, as the sun had set a while ago and a deep cold had taken its place. The forest¡¯s interior only dropped the temperature further, as Team Valiant waited for Essex, and Sola held her breath.


    Wess checked her watch impatiently, acknowledging they still had a minute until nine. ¡°That Essex¡­only she would have us freeze to death just to make a point.¡±


    Harley wrapped another layer around herself. ¡°You gonna kick her out too?¡±


    Wess¡¯ eyebrows furrowed. ¡°You¡¯re really getting on my nerves¡­if I could feel them, that is.¡±


    Julia would¡¯ve plugged her ears if she wasn¡¯t bundling herself up, looking to Sola, seemingly fine in the cold on account of her oversized jacket.


    As the time ticked over to nine, Essex hopped down from one of the trees nearby, scythe by her side, and her hand outstretched, beckoning Sola over.


    Sola felt like a deer eating from a hunter¡¯s palm, but followed along anyway, as the two were now only a few metres apart, and the rest of Team Valiant far off to the side.


    Essex closed her eyes.


    ¡°Essex? Can you please come back?¡± Sola begged. ¡°I really didn¡¯t mean what I did, and I ca-¡°


    Essex raised her hand again.


    ¡°We are not yet even.¡±


    ¡°Even?¡± Sola questioned.


    Essex nodded, as she entered a combative stance, sending Sola¡¯s nerves up in an instant.


    ¡°This will make us even.¡±


    ¡°Essex, this is too far! Just come back to the dorm already!¡± Harley called out.


    Sola felt her legs giving out, ready to sprint off if prompted, but as she looked back at Essex, it was clear that Essex would only attack if warranted, and that she needed this as much as Sola did.


    ¡°I-if this will make us even, then so be it!¡± Sola yelled, posing like Essex, despite not having a scythe, and still shivering like crazy. ¡°This is gonna be a fair fight!¡±


    Essex nodded, starting to tap her foot rhythmically, waiting for the right moment, before hooking her scythe to a nearby tree and escaping upward into the foliage.


    Sola held her ground, as the others looked on, wondering if they should intervene.


    Harley started walking. ¡°I can¡¯t take this. Someone¡¯s gonna get hurt aga-¡°


    Wess held out an arm, stopping her suddenly. ¡°Let them work this out.¡±


    Harley stared back in disbelief and silence.


    ¡°I thought you trusted them.¡± Wess asked.


    Harley bit her tongue and stood back with her and Julia, as Sola finally noticed some movement in the trees, before narrowly avoiding Essex slashing down toward her, then dodging as Essex jumped against another trunk and back at Sola, just catching the end of her jacket with her scythe.


    Essex ducked back into the leaves again, leaving Sola¡¯s eyes darting back and forth, scanning for any sign of her.


    Just gotta knock her down¡­gotta wait for the right time¡­


    Sola noticed a leaf fall to the ground, before stepping to the side and dodging Essex again, and stretching her leg out in an attempt to trip Essex during her fall.


    However, Essex predicted this and knocked the leg back with hers, bruising Sola¡¯s thigh in the process, and hiding amongst the leaves again.


    ¡°What¡¯s she doing?¡± Harley asked frantically, struggling to stay in place. ¡°Sola just wants to talk.¡±


    ¡°I think Essex is trying to talk.¡± Julia explained, equally as engaged. ¡°Just in her own way.¡±


    Sola managed to stand back up, shaking off the pain in her leg, as she noticed small branches flying toward her, breaking against the ground as she avoided them, each making her movements less elegant, until Sola was left diving to the ground in a heap on the last one.


    Sola brushed the dust off her face, as her loss was only becoming more of an inevitability.


    As she spotted the leaves rustle once again, she knew that there was only one option left if she was going to win, as she raised her hand toward the branch, forming sparks between her fingers.


    She turned away and closed her eyes, hoping to not see a repeat of her earlier accident, before Essex burst from the leaves right before the lightning formed, swinging in front of Sola, and holding her scythe just below her chin.


    Sola froze, too scared to try anything self-preserving, before Essex swung her scythe behind her, re-strapping it to her back, and reached out a finger to tap Sola on the nose.


    Sola fell backwards in confusion, the threat of her legs giving out finally taking hold.


    Essex looked back down at her.


    ¡°Pain is temporary. It is all healed with time.¡± Essex declared, holding out a hand to pull Sola back up. ¡°You do not need to apologise, but I should.¡±


    Sola took the hand, standing up properly, just for Essex to enter an apologetic bow.


    ¡°While I am proficient in combat, I am not proficient in people. I did not accept your apology, as I wished to hurt you back for your actions, and as I have been taught, ¡®Revenge is a horrid thing.¡¯¡±


    Sola was still coming down from her adrenaline high. ¡°Uhuh.¡±


    ¡°Your wounds will heal in time.¡± Essex declared, before bowing again. ¡°And your skills will improve as well. I will not make us even with violence, but I will by helping you with your Whil.¡±


    Sola¡¯s eyes snapped to Essex in recognition. ¡°Really?¡±


    ¡°I did not always use my scythe well, but I have ¡®sharpened¡¯ over time with aid from others.¡± Essex stated. ¡°My scythe is for aiding others, and I will lend its aid to you.¡±


    She held out the handle for Sola, as Sola wrapped her hand around it with Essex gladly. ¡°Thank you.¡±


    ¡°Can we please go back to the dorm now?¡± Julia asked, huddled up in her coat.


    ¡°Oh, right.¡± Sola said, forgetting how cold it was, as she looked back to Essex to make sure she was coming with.


    ¡°I will need to collect my belongings before returning.¡± Essex explained.


    Sola nodded, before finally getting a good look at Essex and her new shirt. ¡°I like the shirt.¡±


    Essex looked down, groaning slightly, before heading back into the trees one last time, as Team Valiant huddled back to their dorm to escape the cold.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°¡­nd with one of the assailants going into custody, and the hostages being set free as we speak, it¡¯s fair to say the conflict has been resolved for now. The criminals intentions, while made clear, are still no excuse when it comes to the quick hand of justi-¡°


    Wess grabbed the remote and turned the TV off. ¡°We really shouldn¡¯t leave this on while we¡¯re out.¡±


    ¡°Can we not fight in places that might freeze us to death?¡± Harley suggested, collapsing onto the couch, the others coming into the room one by one, Essex arriving last with her bag in tow.


    ¡°I¡¯m glad you¡¯re back, Essex, but can you just talk things out next time?¡± Julia asked.


    ¡°I will do so. However, I was part of a conversation with Saxin while in the forest, which allowed me to come to my conclusion.¡± Essex said, pulling out her ruined dress shirt from her bag. ¡°Relias, but I must see her about getting this fixed.¡±


    The team waved as she headed from Team Vanguard¡¯s room across the hall, and Sola took a seat on her bed.


    ¡°Oh boy, what a day. I don¡¯t wanna do that again.¡± She remarked, kicking her feet, as Wess felt the need to speak up hit her.


    ¡°Sola.¡± She stated, Sola popping her head up. ¡°¡­I think you should know something.¡±


    Harley groaned to herself, as Wess shuffled her feet.


    ¡°For the last few days, I was worried you weren¡¯t prepared for the industry, and suggested¡­asking you to leave the team¡­with your permission.¡± Wess explained, Sola just staring in fixation. ¡°But, after seeing your match with Essex, I think my earlier assessment was wrong. You not only held your own, but employed quick thinking, and innovative¡­¡±


    Wess trailed off, before bowing like Essex had done earlier. ¡°Regardless, I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    Sola took a minute to process what had happened behind her back for the last few days, before approaching Wess, taking her hand, and flicking her knuckle.


    Wess held her tongue. ¡°¡­I deserved that.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. Pain is temporary.¡± Sola said, hopping back to her bed after making her point, Harley giggling to herself on the couch.


    Wess rubbed her hand sadly, as she joined Harley on the couch, who slung an arm around her neck.


    ¡°Guess you picked the right time.¡± Harley joked.


    Wess wanted to flip her off, but¡­you know¡­as Harley hugged Wess to herself. ¡°But thanks for changing your mind.¡±


    ¡°You can thank Sola. She¡¯s the one who changed it.¡± Wess explained, looking back at Sola on her bed, still kicking her feet.


    An hour or two passed, as the need to sleep hit the team. They spent their time going through their routine, before all of them headed to bed with the exception of Essex, who quietly came through the door to see the rest of the team asleep.


    She attempted to head to the study quietly as not to disturb the others, until she noticed Sola stir from her sleep and spot her coming in.


    Essex waved, as Sola rubbed her eyes happily. ¡°It¡¯s good to have you back, Essex.¡±


    ¡°The feeling is mutual.¡± Essex smiled, heading back to her room, and appreciating the returned warmth.

 Chapter 10: Riesling

    ¡°Everyone packed?¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re only going to a movie, Julia.¡±


    ¡°I know, but I wanna be prepared.¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t believe it¡¯s actually out!¡± Harley cheered, bursting out the dorm room door. ¡°They finally adapted the story of Team Vivisect and the Waygone Wailing!¡±


    ¡°A decade too late¡­¡± Wess groaned, following behind with the rest of the team. ¡°Before we arrive, can we all lower our expectations? Everyone knows Venator movies are infamously terrible, without exception.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s just cause they haven¡¯t made ours yet.¡± Harley teased, elbowing Wess¡¯ side.


    ¡°Why do you reckon they¡¯re all bad?¡± Sola asked. ¡°Is it a conspiracy?¡±


    Julia raised a finger to her chin. ¡°Probably cause Venators are busy fighting Wailing instead of writing scripts.¡±


    ¡°And most are just cheap cash-ins on established names.¡± Wess clarified. ¡°What¡¯s the movie called again?¡±


    Essex grabbed the tickets from her bag. ¡°¡­The Waygone Wailing Strikes: Vivisect in Arms.¡±


    Wess rested her hand on her temple. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, the action of vivisecting is taking up arms?¡± Wess pointed out, followed by a giggle from Julia.


    ¡°The colon¡¯s unnecessary too.¡± Julia said, as Essex handed her the tickets. ¡°Wow, we haven¡¯t even seen it, and it¡¯s already full of problems.¡±


    ¡°Nuh uh, no way. You guys aren¡¯t ruining this for me.¡± Harley interrupted. ¡°This movie¡¯s gonna be great, and I¡¯m enjoying it regardless.¡±


    ¡°What if it¡¯s bad?¡±


    ¡°Then I¡¯ll enjoy it ironically.¡± Harley grinned, grabbing the rest of the team into a group hug. ¡°Either way, I¡¯m having a fun night with you guys, so this¡¯ll be worth it no matter what! As Dorothy always says, fr-¡°


    ¡°Attention all present on campus, Wailing lockdown drill will now commence. All students must return to their dorms immediately and assume lockdown procedure until the drill has been completed. To repeat, this is a Wailing lockdown drill¡­¡±


    Harley blinked in shock.


    ¡°Shit, was that today?¡± Julia realised, hitting herself for not scheduling this in. ¡°Alright, everyone, back to the dorm room.¡±


    ¡°Oh, come on! Can¡¯t we go to the movie anyway?¡± Harley asked. ¡°It¡¯s only a drill.¡±


    ¡°Sorry, Harley, but we treat this like the real thing. I wanna go too, but this is for our safety.¡± Julia explained, as the rest of the team filed back into the dorm.


    ¡°Man¡­I wanted to see the Waygone Wailing¡­¡± Sola moped.


    ¡°It would not have been the real Wailing. They would have used a person in a costume or a roboti-¡°


    ¡°She¡¯s aware of that, Essex.¡± Wess intervened.


    ¡°Oh. Apologies.¡± Essex said. ¡°Her statement sounded sincere.¡±


    Julia opened the door for the rest of the team, as she caught Florey and Chops coming back to their dorm too. ¡°You guys had plans too?¡±


    ¡°Unfortunately. Talk about bad timing.¡± Chops groaned. ¡°We were gonna go see that new movie with the Waygone Wailing in it.¡±


    ¡°Not seriously, though.¡± Florey clarified. ¡°Apparently, it¡¯s been reviewed to hell and back, so we wanted to hate-watch it.¡±


    Julia pulled out the wad of ticket stubs for the team and gave an incredulous look.


    ¡°Ah shit, you too?¡± Chops realised. ¡°Guess we¡¯re in the same boat.¡±


    ¡°And the same dorms too.¡± Julia said. ¡°See you after the drill.¡±


    ¡°If we make it out alive.¡± Chops dryly remarked. ¡°Ooo¡­¡±


    Florey chuckled a little, as Julia waved them off, and headed inside to a collectively dejected Team Valiant.


    ¡°So we¡¯ve gotta stay inside all night instead of watching the movie?¡± Harley realised, flopping onto the couch. ¡°I¡¯d take my chances with the theoretical Wailing.¡±


    ¡°I think Dulce would beat you to it.¡± Wess pointed out, sitting on Julia¡¯s bed. ¡°All that build up, and now it¡¯s been pulled out from under us.¡±


    ¡°These drills better come in handy¡­¡± Sola groaned.


    ¡°This is a necessity. But the timing is unfortunate.¡± Essex stated.


    ¡°Hey guys,¡± Julia said, grabbing the team¡¯s attention, as she had gathered some snack food and drinks from the kitchen. ¡°There¡¯s no reason to throw the night away. We can still have fun here!¡±


    Wess squinted. ¡°What¡¯re you suggesting?¡±


    ¡°Well, we still get to hang out. We can just talk, and do fun stuff together, and¡­oh wait!¡±


    Julia dropped the food onto the couch, before ducking into the study/Essex¡¯s bedroom and re-emerging with a mountain of colourful boxes.


    ¡°I brought a ton of board games from home!¡± She exclaimed, dropping them in the middle of the floor. ¡°I¡¯ve wanted to play them so bad, and now I have an excuse!¡±


    ¡°Look at Julia, saving our night from boredom!¡± Harley cheered, as Sola was already rummaging through the boxes.


    Essex sat on the ground with the others. ¡°Which of these would you recommend?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, give us the lowdown.¡± Harley added. ¡°And I wanna know if there¡¯s some more ¡®adult oriented¡¯ ones in the bunch.¡±


    Julia¡¯s face turned an awkward red. ¡°H-Harley, most of these are from when I was kid. None of them are secretly naughty or anything.¡± Julia rubbed the blush off and scanned through a couple of the boxes. ¡°First off, we¡¯ve got Kitten Punch, Muffin Divers, Flick that Bean, Carpet Crunchers¡­¡±


    ¡°Are you making those up?¡± Wess asked in disbelief.


    ¡°No.¡± Julia replied, holding up Muffin Divers. ¡°You dive for muffins while a bagel shark hunts you down.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s Switch Hitter?¡± Harley asked, holding up the box.


    ¡°You work in a factory and have to keep it from blowing up. You get to pick your occupation, your skill set, tools, and run around the factory floor keeping the power on.¡± Julia explained.


    ¡°Sounds like my kinda game.¡± Harley beamed.


    ¡°Oh, oh, oh!¡± Sola said, frantically holding up a box. ¡°Can we do this?¡±


    Julia took the box into her hands. ¡°Gold Star LP? I haven¡¯t played this for ages. Me and my sister Bell loved this as kids.¡±


    ¡°Do you feel like enlightening us?¡± Wess asked, pouring herself a drink.


    ¡°Everyone plays a music mage going on a quest to kill Outune, an evil creature with horrid taste in music, who plays it all across the land¡­¡± Julia explained, with theatrical hand movements and everything. ¡°It can¡¯t be stopped unless everyone¡­bands¡­together to defeat it.¡±


    The room fell silent.


    ¡­


    ¡­


    ¡°Oh, I get it!¡± Sola said.


    ¡°This looks to be fun.¡± Essex assessed, nodding. ¡°I would like to participate in this merriment.¡±


    ¡°Can we choose different music mages?¡± Harley asked.


    ¡°Yes, and your music genre of choice defines your class.¡± Julia elaborated.


    ¡°Alright, that¡¯s awesome.¡± Harley said, unboxing the game, as Sola leaned over her to grab the equipment.


    ¡°How long is this supposed to go for?¡± Wess asked, scanning over the player manual.


    ¡°¡­it kinda depends.¡± Julia said, her eyes looking off to the side. ¡°Sometimes twenty minutes, sometimes hours. Me and Bell had a game going for five months at one point¡­¡±


    Wess¡¯ eyes widened, before thinking it over and shrugging her shoulders. ¡°I suppose we have the time¡­¡± Wess dismissed, sighing out loud. ¡°I might as well. It seems fun enough.¡±


    Julia started wriggling with excitement, as the night was turning out even better than she¡¯d hoped.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Ferris hated coming in this late. Faller insisted on working until the day was actually over, but that shouldn¡¯t mean they were a package deal. Granted, Ferris didn¡¯t get much sleep anyway. She checked her tablet and found it was only eight, before groaning to herself, banging her head on the wall and entering Faller¡¯s office.


    ¡°You¡¯ve got some nerve.¡± Ferris barked, as Faller spun around in his chair, just finishing up on some e-mails.


    ¡°Don¡¯t get snippy.¡± Faller remarked, before turning his computer off for the night.


    ¡°I can¡¯t help it. You won¡¯t let me sleep.¡±


    ¡°You can sleep during your classes if you¡¯re desperate.¡± Faller suggested.


    ¡°Can¡¯t. That¡¯s when I drink.¡± She admitted, pulling out a pocket flask, as Faller just ignored her in favour of his point.


    ¡°¡­we got the results back for the Behemoth Wailing autopsy.¡± Faller said.


    ¡°No shit.¡± Ferris said, wiping her mouth. ¡°Anything interesting?¡±


    ¡°No.¡±


    Ferris blinked. ¡°No?¡±


    ¡°Exactly. There¡¯s nothing to report.¡± Faller reiterated. ¡°We find a new breed of Wailing, and the science department discovered nothing out of the ordinary over months of analysis. The report¡¯s conclusion amounted to ¡®it¡¯s a Wailing, but bigger.¡¯¡±


    Ferris took a second, before finishing off the flask. ¡°¡­that¡¯s not possible. Did some intern fuck with the data?¡±


    ¡°Everything¡¯s reported in detail. Head Scientist Cecil kept notes of the whole thing, and his aides did too. All of them check out.¡±


    Ferris scowled. ¡°You think Cecil was tampering with it?¡±


    Faller shook his head. ¡°No, this is something else.¡±


    Ferris got up and started raiding Faller¡¯s liquor cabinet. ¡°What do you need me to do?¡±


    ¡°The academy¡¯s in a lockdown¡­¡± Faller started, before getting up and lowering the bottle in Ferris¡¯ hand. ¡°¡­in a lockdown drill right now, and I want you to use it to look through the science department uninterrupted. See if there¡¯s anything out of the ordinary relating to the autopsy¡­or just in general, for that matter.¡±


    ¡°And if someone spots me?¡±


    ¡°Lie.¡±


    Ferris put the cork back on the bottle and placed it in the cabinet. ¡°You¡¯re a real taskmaster, sir.¡±


    Faller¡¯s eyes drooped, as Ferris headed back out the office door with the same lack of enthusiasm she¡¯d entered with.


    Faller took a second to look out the window at the rest of the academy, shrouded by the slowly approaching night that loomed past the Eldos Mountains.


    ¡°You¡¯re hiding something from me¡­what¡¯re you not telling¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Is everyone done?¡±


    ¡°Wait¡­I¡¯m still working on it¡­¡± Sola prefaced, writing a few more details down.


    Julia looked over the team, as they all filled out their character sheets, before noticing Wess tapping her chin with her pen. ¡°How¡¯s the character going, Wess?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m having trouble deciding her genre. I¡¯m debating between the best strategic class or the best narrative class.¡± Wess posited.


    Julia smiled openly. ¡°Just pick whatever¡¯s your favourite.¡±


    Wess stopped for a second. ¡°We don¡¯t¡­need to get into that.¡±


    ¡°Oh, I gotta hear this.¡± Harley interjected. ¡°I¡¯m gonna guess classical music?¡±


    Wess smirked a little. ¡°Fair assessment, but not quite. In all honesty, my favourite genre for a while has been rap¡­and hip-hop, by extension.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Sola asked, popping her head up from her page. ¡°I thought it would be ska.¡±


    ¡°Why¡­?¡± Wess wondered, before ignoring it. ¡°No, believe it or not, my tastes are not so easily defined.¡±


    ¡°I was under the impression that the Northern Wayside was classically inclined.¡± Essex pointed out. ¡°Would this not apply to you too?¡±


    ¡°I do like classical music, especially when accompanying a good opera or two¡­¡± Wess reminisced. ¡°But that¡¯s somewhat of an old Northern tradition. We¡¯re far more diverse in our cultural practices nowadays, especially musically. I¡¯ve also found myself indulging in reggae and funk, as well as some pop.¡±


    ¡°Oh! That¡¯s what it was!¡± Sola cried out. ¡°I thought I heard you listening to Team Harmony the other day!¡±


    ¡°Pfft¡­Team Harmony?¡± Harley snickered, as Wess went red-faced. ¡°So you¡¯re a pop idol fan?¡±


    ¡°¡­I¡¯ve no shame in admitting I listen to them.¡± Wess clarified. ¡°They are professional Venators too, so it only means I¡¯m more infor-¡°


    Harley had keeled over in laughter, weeping to herself, as Sola leaned over to Wess. ¡°You didn¡¯t tell me you were a fan too.¡±


    ¡°I think you can see why.¡± Wess said, indicating to Harley. ¡°I¡¯m glad that we share this in common, at least.¡±


    ¡°Totally! They¡¯re, like, the best band ever!¡± Sola exclaimed. ¡°I own all the albums, bought a bunch of their shirts, and I even got a giant poster signed by Quaver for my bedroom! I had a huge crush on her all through high school!¡±


    ¡°I¡­wouldn¡¯t go that far¡­¡± Wess admitted, in a little too deep. ¡°But she was very cute¡­¡±


    ¡°I wish my music tastes were that informed.¡± Julia remarked. ¡°I grew up listening to my dad''s favourite bands, so his tastes kinda became mine. I still get teary-eyed listening to The King¡¯s Landing.¡±


    ¡°Hey, William had that album too!¡± Harley realised, having recovered. ¡°Maybe that stuff¡¯s just made for dads to enjoy.¡±


    ¡°And their daughters, apparently.¡± Julia joked, as Sola finally pulled up her sheet.


    ¡°Done!¡± Sola announced, pointing to Julia. ¡°Do it!¡±


    ¡°Okay!¡± Julia grinned, before closing her eyes, hunching her back, and displaying her hands. ¡°Greetings, travellers¡­¡±


    ¡°No, stop it.¡± Wess interrupted. ¡°Take this seriously or I¡¯m not playing.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡± Julia sighed, still doing the same hand movements, just without the voice. ¡°Greetings, travellers¡­what brings you to the land of Rhythmia?¡±


    The team stayed silent again, as Julia indicated to Harley.


    ¡°¡­oh!¡± She realised, getting into character. ¡°The name¡¯s Flint Blastcap! Me love for sea shanties is only as stron¡¯ as me love for the sea!¡±


    ¡°Well, Flint, you sound ready for¡­adventure.¡± Julia teased. ¡°But who is this beside you?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m¡­Arnaldo.¡± Sola prefaced, tossing her hair. ¡°My tastes are hard to define. You wouldn¡¯t get it.¡±


    ¡°Arnaldo and Flint. What unlikely companions. And who might you be?¡±


    Wess cleared her throat. ¡°Charmed. I¡¯m Alexa Romantide, and I¡¯ve yet to find a song I can¡¯t perform. Just point me to the nearest piano and I¡¯ll show you a concert worth dying for!¡±


    ¡°My, my, Alexa¡­¡± Julia said, before leaning over to Wess and whispering. ¡°Good character acting, Wess.¡±


    ¡°Thank you.¡± Wess whispered back, before straightening her back. ¡°Now why have you brought us here, old Sear?¡±


    ¡°Patience, child. We¡¯ve one more to introduce.¡± Julia decreed. ¡°And who are you?¡±


    Essex realised the attention of the room was on her. ¡°Aerlo Decali. My title i-¡°


    ¡°No, Essex, you have to play as your character.¡± Julia explained.


    Essex cocked her head, before the idea connected. ¡°Impersonation?¡±


    Julia waved her hand. ¡°Pretty much, yeah.¡±


    Essex nodded, before lowering, then lifting her head. ¡°¡­g-greetings. I am¡­Vessex. I practice in Death Metal¡­and¡­Screamo¡­music.¡± She attempted, constantly checking her sheet for reference.


    Harley cracked a bashful smile, as Julia stayed in character. ¡°Vessex, is it? Is that a family name?¡±


    Essex frantically checked her sheet over again. ¡°¡­no. They are dead.¡±


    ¡°Well, warriors, I say you seem just about ready to enter the land of Rhythmia, but I must ask you, do you really expect to defeat Outune?¡±


    ¡°He took me family with his songs, and now I¡¯m takin¡¯ him down!¡± ¡®Flint¡¯ declared. ¡°He won¡¯ get away that easy!¡±


    ¡°¡­whatever.¡± ¡®Arnaldo¡¯ replied, flipping their hair again. ¡°As long as my music¡¯s appreciated.¡±


    ¡°I have a duty to the art of music, and he won¡¯t ruin it any further.¡± ¡®Alexa¡¯ stated.


    ¡°¡­yes.¡± Essex said.


    ¡°Then be prepared. You may find he¡¯s more conniving, and far deadlier, than he looks¡­¡± ¡®The Sear¡¯ teased, as they opened up the board to the group. ¡°Welcome¡­to Rhythmia.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Despite her relationship with the other staff, Ferris was on surprisingly good terms with the security team. She occasionally caught them at the campus bar, laughing and drinking, and usually willing to make fun of the other staff behind their backs. It was all in good fun, except for Ferris, who really meant what she said. Needless to say, this meant the security were willing to let her wander through the academy halls without much disturbance. The science department was a ways away from Faller¡¯s office, so the less interruptions, the better.


    ¡°Faller loves to drag me around¡­¡± Ferris sang to herself, entering the science department building, swiping her ID card to enter. ¡°Kicking and screaming against the ground¡­¡±


    She found the light switch and rode the elevator to the main laboratory, still pristine after being thoroughly sterilised for the Behemoth Wailing body, and subtlety checked inside to see if anyone was still there.


    None that I can see. She thought, as she stepped in, taking out her flashlight, and scanning around the room for stray documents or file cabinets. One cabinet in the corner caught her eye as the only noteworthy object, as the room seemed meticulously kept, even before the sterilisation.


    She made her way over, running her hand against the side of it, before feeling comfortable in the knowledge that it was safe and opening the draws.


    ¡°¡­shame none of these are labelled ¡®sinister plot.¡¯¡± She mumbled under her breath, placing the flashlight in her mouth and flipping through each file, coming across the ones documenting the autopsy.


    She skipped over Cecil¡¯s notes and went for one of the intern¡¯s copies for study.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    25/5/5019, 3:25pm


    RICHARD SANDERS


    The ¡®Behemoth Wailing¡¯ has been under study for a few weeks now. Considering its enormous size, separating the body into manageable pieces was necessary, meaning each limb and organ has to be inspected on its own, with its own team and everything. I still feel nauseous whenever we have to look at its disembodied head in the storage container. Cecil advised us to leave that until last to better understand its base biology before moving to something more complicated like its brain, which I understand, but that only means we have to keep looking at it even longer.


    So far, the physicality of the ¡®Behemoth Wailing¡¯ is near identical to that of a regular Wailing, with obvious differences in muscle mass and muscle concentration in order to accommodate for its size. This Wailing doesn¡¯t appear to possess any form of offensive capabilities other than physical, separating it from most other Wailing that have at least some form of ¡®magic.¡¯ I¡¯m a bit disappointed my first Wailing autopsy hasn¡¯t yielded greater results, but if I¡¯m lucky, one of the other interns will come across something noteworthy.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Nothing here¡­great¡­¡± Ferris groaned, as the lights flicked on, freezing her in place.


    She turned around and saw Vice Principal Coatsworth, standing in the doorway with an inquisitive look on his face.


    ¡°What are you doing here?¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Julia, what does this do?¡±


    ¡°Uhh¡­¡±


    ¡°Is it my turn yet?¡±


    ¡°What about my spell from last turn?¡±


    ¡°I think it¡¯s¡­wait¡­¡±


    ¡°May I ask a-¡°


    ¡°Just wait!¡± Julia cried, looking over the player manual again. ¡°It says the monster can only move two metres a turn, unless it possesses the Breeze Boots, making it three metres, unless it¡¯s classified as a large monster, bringing it back to two¡­¡±


    ¡°So, does my spell hit?¡± Wess asked.


    ¡°¡­maybe.¡± Julia tried to answer. ¡°I don¡¯t know.¡±


    ¡°When do we get to fight Outune?¡± Sola asked, raising her hand.


    You could be reading stolen content. Head to Royal Road for the genuine story.


    ¡°Umm¡­¡± Julia stalled, flipping through the other player manual. ¡°¡­well, you fight him here, on page 260¡­¡±


    ¡°And what page are we on?¡±


    ¡°¡­I don¡¯t think we¡¯re even on one.¡±


    The team collectively groaned, as Julia threw her hands up. ¡°It¡¯s a long game! The whole point is you invest time into it and watch the narrative grow.¡±


    ¡°This time investment does not seem worth it.¡± Essex pointed out. ¡°And I do not like acting, Julia.¡±


    ¡°Pass.¡± Wess said, grabbing the manual for personal inspection. ¡°¡­that¡¯s the twist, really?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t read ahead!¡± Julia complained, grabbing the book back. ¡°And don¡¯t spoil it!¡±


    ¡°What was the twist?¡± Harley asked, Sola nodding along.


    ¡°It was revea-¡° Wess started, before Julia frantically tried to cover her mouth. ¡°Re-revealed that the Sear was¡­Outune. Julia, calm down.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Harley said, scratching her head. ¡°It seems obvious now.¡±


    ¡°What a dick.¡± Sola commented. ¡°And now we¡¯ve got nothing to do.¡±


    Julia stopped flailing for a second. ¡°¡­we could play another boa-¡°


    Wess stopped her. ¡°No, thank you. One was enough.¡±


    Julia went about packing up the board games, as Harley dug into the snack pile. ¡°We can just hang.¡± She suggested, as Sola¡¯s eyes lit up at an idea. ¡°We¡¯ll just stay up and tell stories, you know, shoot the shit.¡±


    ¡°Oh, oh, oh, oh!¡± Sola repeated. ¡°Can we prank call someone?¡±


    ¡°Yes!¡± Harley agreed, high-fiving her on the spot. ¡°Can it be that douche Baron?¡±


    ¡°Yes!¡± Sola cheered, high-fiving her back, and turning to Wess and Essex. ¡°You wanna help?¡±


    ¡°Would this not be cowardly?¡± Essex asked.


    Wess rested a hand on her shoulder. ¡°Well, we aren¡¯t hurting him, but it is somewhat underhanded. Then again, Baron can rot in hell.¡± Wess cleared up, Essex nodding along. ¡°Of course, this will only work if the call is personal.¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t you say you knew him back home, Wess?¡± Harley asked, as Wess blushed a little.


    ¡°Y-yes¡­I suppose¡­¡±


    ¡°Then do you know his mum¡¯s name?¡± Harley wondered, as Wess¡¯ crimson only grew.


    ¡°What¡¯re you planning?¡±


    Harley went to speak, before noticing Sola and Essex, and instead leaning over to whisper to Wess.


    ¡°¡­why would¡­oh¡­oh my! I¡¯m not doing that!¡± Wess complained, as Harley shrugged to herself.


    ¡°It¡¯d really piss him off. Pride verse payback, which to choose.¡± Harley teased, as Wess bitterly scowled at her, then pulled out her tablet and looked up his number on Activ.


    ¡­ring¡­


    ¡­ring¡­


    ¡­ring¡­


    ¡°Yeah?¡±


    ¡°Excuse me, is this¡­Baron Devatta?¡±


    ¡°Speaking.¡±


    ¡°Is, uh¡­your mother Doris, perchance?¡±


    ¡°Uh, yeah? What¡¯s this got to do with me?¡±


    ¡°W-well¡­¡± Wess looked back to Harley and Sola, giving her a thumbs up, slowly followed by Essex. ¡°I¡¯m c-currently¡­banging her.¡±


    There was silence over the phone, before Baron spoke. ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°Oh yes, w-we¡¯re getting very hot and frisky. She¡¯s quite the animal.¡± Wess continued, Harley and Sola desperately trying not to laugh too loud. ¡°Oh, w-what¡¯s that? You want some more, you¡­dirty¡­Doris¡­darling?¡±


    ¡°Who the hell is this?¡±


    ¡°I-I told you, I¡¯m your m-mother¡¯s lover.¡±


    ¡°Is this Team Instinct again? I swear if it¡¯s you Rudy¡­¡±


    ¡°Hang up! Hang up!¡± Harley exclaimed, Wess quickly putting down the tablet, and let go of the breath she didn¡¯t realise she was holding.


    Harley and Sola were in a pile, caught in their own laughing fit, as Essex went over and comforted a very embarrassed Wess.


    ¡°That was an impressive display.¡± Essex assured her.


    ¡°That was anything but.¡± Wess clarified. ¡°Harley, are you sure you weren¡¯t pranking me?¡±


    ¡°No! You did great!¡± Harley snickered, wiping a tear away. ¡°Geez, that was perfect.¡±


    Wess rolled her eyes and headed to the kitchen, as Julia finished packing her board games away.


    ¡°Alright, no more board games¡­¡± Julia moped, coming out of the closet study.


    Harley patted the ground between her and Essex, as Julia sat down with the team. ¡°Come on, grab a drink with us.¡±


    Julia let out a sigh and smiled, as Wess handed her a glass she¡¯d grabbed from the kitchen and poured her some higher quality red wine. ¡°What¡¯s the occasion?¡±


    ¡°Surprisingly enough, I¡¯m in a good mood.¡± Wess admitted, going around to the rest of the team with the bottle in hand. ¡°Sola, I¡¯ve yet to ask, but do you drink?¡±


    ¡°Not a ton.¡± She replied, holding out her glass. ¡°But I¡¯m in a good mood too.¡±


    Wess finished filling everyone¡¯s glasses, Essex inspecting hers carefully, before placing the bottle back in the pantry.


    ¡°How much longer¡¯s the drill going for?¡± Julia asked, laying back against the side of the couch, the rest of the team in a makeshift circle together.


    ¡°Shouldn¡¯t be too long. As Dorothy always says, ¡®time spent waiting is time spent appreciating life.¡¯¡± Harley said.


    ¡°You know Dorothy?¡± Wess asked. ¡°She¡¯s a part of my Venator Media class.¡±


    ¡°We share Venator History with her.¡± Harley said, indicating to Sola.


    ¡°No way. Me and Essex have Tracking and Hunting with her too.¡± Julia explained. ¡°I can¡¯t believe we¡¯re all friends with someone as cool as Dorothy.¡±


    ¡°How could you not be? She¡¯s as pleasant as they come.¡± Harley remarked. ¡°Not too bad in bed either.¡±


    Julia felt the blood rushing to her face, as the others laughed to themselves at Harley¡¯s brazenness.


    ¡°Harley, did you just say you and Sola are learning Venator history?¡± Wess asked, leaning back with her drink.


    Harley nodded. ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°Well, if you¡¯re all up for it, might I suggest a little game of trivia?¡± Wess posed, swirling her glass.


    ¡°You really are in a good mood.¡± Harley remarked, taking a sip of hers.


    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t mind it.¡± Julia agreed, as Sola and Essex both nodded along.


    ¡°Alright then. Let¡¯s¡­hang on¡­¡± Wess said, as she got up and strolled over to the broken fish tank by her and Julia¡¯s bunk bed, placing it upside down on the floor, forming a makeshift podium.


    ¡°There we go. I think Venator trivia would be most appropriate.¡± Wess prompted.


    Harley shot her hand up. ¡°Current or historical?¡±


    Wess tapped her chin. ¡°I¡¯ll mix it up. Now, if y-¡°


    ¡°Do we have to make a buzzer noise?¡± Sola said, raising her hand after she said it. ¡°No wait, can we make a buzzer noise?¡±


    Wess sighed. ¡°If you feel inclined. Now, can¡­¡± Wess said, before noticing Essex¡¯s hand up too.


    ¡°May I ask a questio-¡°


    ¡°Essex, put your hand down or you¡¯re losing it.¡± Wess declared, Essex quickly complying to her tempered command, as Julia giggled to herself beside them.


    ¡°Alright, first question¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°What are you doing here?¡±


    Ferris made no effort to hide her actions, as she placed the file against the nearby table. ¡°I¡¯m retrieving something for Cecil. He went home cause of the lockdown, but he forgot a file about the Behemoth Wailing autopsy.¡±


    Coatsworth inspected the scene, keeping to himself just as much as Ferris was. ¡°I see. Why were you reading in the dark?¡±


    ¡°You know we¡¯ve gotta save on power after the attack.¡± Ferris excused, going back to scanning through the files. ¡°I hope you¡¯re not accusing me of anything.¡±


    ¡°Of course not. We¡¯re coworkers, after all.¡± Coatsworth reasoned, heading over to join Ferris. ¡°I can help search, if you¡¯d like. Unless¡­¡±


    ¡°Unless?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯d be an imposition.¡±


    Ferris scanned his face, careful to pick up on any tells from him.


    If I say no, he¡¯ll just find that even more suspicious. Ferris thought. Coatsworth, you snake.


    ¡°If you want. This isn¡¯t top priority or anything.¡± Ferris excused, as Coatsworth grabbed a file and flipped through.


    ¡°Are we looking for anything in particular?¡± Coatsworth asked.


    ¡°He wasn¡¯t specific, but tell me if you find anything¡­noteworthy.¡± Ferris said, chucking away another file. ¡°He just has to keep everything on paper¡­¡±


    ¡°Cecil advised me it was better for organisation.¡± Coatsworth said. ¡°Best to keep hard copies to avoid accidental tampering.¡±


    Accidental, Coatsworth? Ferris wondered.


    ¡°He¡¯s a very thoughtful man.¡± Coatsworth added, moving his file to the pile Ferris was building.


    ¡°Bit of a kiss ass, I¡¯d say.¡± Ferris remarked, as Coatsworth kept his attention fully on the files, leaving Ferris annoyed by his lack of response.


    It¡¯s a wonder I have to drink with the security team when our conversations are just so lively¡­


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Who was the first official Venator team?¡±


    ¡°Team Alpha in 4920. Easy question.¡±


    ¡°When did weapons first become personalised?¡±


    ¡°4876, obviously.¡±


    ¡°The Founding of Venator Academy?¡±


    ¡°4830. Come on, Wess, give us something harder.¡±


    Julia, Sola and Essex sat back as Harley handily answered every question before they even got the chance, as Julia rubbed her neck awkwardly.


    ¡°I hate to admit it, but I think she knows more Venator stuff than I do.¡± Julia conceded. ¡°If I¡¯m lucky, Wess might throw in a Team Spectrum question, and I can swoop in and answer.¡±


    ¡°Harley¡¯s kind of a nerd.¡± Sola realised. ¡°And she isn¡¯t doing the buzzer sound¡­¡±


    ¡°I am surprised too. I did not realise the history of Venators was...this established.¡± Essex mentioned, Julia nodding to her point.


    ¡°Venators have been around for centuries. But, they weren¡¯t always called that.¡± Julia clarified.


    ¡°Were they not?¡±


    ¡°Well, if Harley doesn¡¯t interrupt me, they¡¯ve existed since the founding of the academy.¡± Julia explained. ¡°First they were military, then they became a private industry with some government regulation and several other schools around Daysend. The graduates only started being called Venators because that was the founder''s name, Alsius Venator.¡±


    ¡°¡­I am surprised even further.¡± Essex reiterated, turning her attention back to Harley and Wess.


    ¡°Team Avalanche mascot?¡±


    ¡°Polar bear.¡±


    ¡°Hammerbrazen¡¯s iconic catchphrase?¡±


    ¡°Bring ¡®em on!¡±


    ¡°How many times have Team Saturnalia been arrested¡­¡±


    ¡°Five times.¡±


    ¡°¡­this year?¡±


    ¡°Three times.¡±


    ¡°What form of magic did the infamous Waygone Wailing possess?¡±


    Harley looked stumped, before snapping her fingers. ¡°Trick question. The Waygone Wailing¡¯s the only Wailing in recorded history to have TWO types of magic. Metal Manipulation and Deep Burrow.¡±


    Wess was left speechless, before giving a somewhat heartfelt clap to Harley. ¡°Well done. Who knew you were so well read?¡±


    ¡°Watch it.¡± Harley complained, as Wess playfully smirked in response.


    ¡°Man, now I¡¯m thinking of the movie again¡­¡± Sola remembered, circling her finger on the floor. ¡°This drill¡¯s way too long.¡±


    Harley patted her lap, as Sola rested against it, the rest of the team settling back together.


    ¡°This wine is of good quality. I appreciate you sharing, Wess.¡± Essex thanked.


    ¡°Yeah, thanks for the good wine, Wess.¡± Julia said.


    ¡°You¡¯re the one who suggested getting enough for the team.¡± Wess reminded her.


    ¡°But you¡¯re the one who said drinking alone isn¡¯t any fun.¡± Julia shot back.


    ¡°Did you now?¡± Harley asked, playfully patting Sola¡¯s head. ¡°Ice queen¡¯s softening up?¡±


    Wess rolled her eyes. ¡°Not if you¡¯re calling me ice queen.¡±


    ¡°Sorry, sorry. But you did start the semester pretty standoffish.¡± Harley said. ¡°I think you¡¯re getting better.¡±


    ¡°Better?¡± Wess questioned, causing Julia and Sola to giggle.


    The team let the room settle, allowing an earned moment of quiet amongst them, as Essex finished off her glass.


    ¡°Julia, I wish to ask something.¡±


    ¡°Yeah?¡±


    ¡°Why did you come here?¡±


    Julia blinked. ¡°To the academy?¡±


    Essex nodded. ¡°I am aware of why I have come, but I would like to know your reasoning.¡±


    ¡°Hey, yeah. I don¡¯t know why either.¡± Sola chimed in.


    Harley shrugged and Wess stared at her drink, as Julia felt left on the spot by the request. ¡°I mean¡­it¡¯s not a great story or anything¡­¡±


    ¡°You might as well. We¡¯ve got nothing else to do.¡± Harley pointed out.


    Julia shuffled her feet a little, looking to the floor. ¡°Okay, but¡­don¡¯t go telling everyone, alright? I¡¯m¡­not too proud of it.¡±


    The team tacitly agreed, as Julia looked down at her glass.


    ¡°¡­I was¡­kind of a burnout in high school.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Harley asked, before realising she interrupted. ¡°Sorry, keep going.¡±


    ¡°¡­I used to be a real straight-A student back in primary school, and I loved Venators. I still do, but it really shone back then, especially Team Spectrum¡­but once I got to high school, I realised that my grades weren¡¯t making me happy.¡± Julia confessed. ¡°I had no friends, I could barely see my sister anymore, and dad never seemed to stop working. Eventually, my grades started dipping from lack of effort and my¡­mental health was suffering too. Florey leaving for another school didn¡¯t help¡­¡±


    Sola comfortingly patted her back as she continued. ¡°But then my vice-principal at the time encouraged me to come here, if I lifted my grades and started putting the work in. And I did, on top of passing the physical and interview with Mr Vent. So, to answer your question,¡± Julia said, turning to Essex. ¡°I came here to turn my life around.¡±


    Essex was left a bit speechless, before clearing her throat. ¡°I was not expecting to hear that.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s just crazy to me.¡± Harley added. ¡°I can¡¯t believe it. You set an alarm for everything and have the best grades of all of us, and yet, you were out of practice for years.¡±


    ¡°Well, not everything. I forgot to schedule the drill.¡± Julia reminded her. ¡°And I¡¯d say Wess has better scores in other classes.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not a competition.¡± Wess cleared up, pouring herself another glass.


    Harley rubbed her neck somewhat awkwardly. ¡°Now I feel like my reasons weren¡¯t good enough¡­¡±


    ¡°Your reasons for coming here?¡± Sola asked, as Harley nodded.


    ¡°I only came to the academy to meet a personal desire.¡± Harley admitted, grabbing the team''s attention. ¡°I¡¯ve wanted to be a Venator since I was a kid, and my dads were totally cool with it and wanted to help, so I spent my life working real hard at it until I grew my skill set and got this rockin¡¯ bod.¡±


    The team chuckled at Harley¡¯s comment, Essex choosing just to smile, as she continued. ¡°Honestly, I¡¯m not here for any grand reasons, and I had it pretty good back in Denilee Town. Angie helped¡­¡± Harley reminisced, before chuckling to herself. ¡°Actually, I used to sleep around so much that I got caught sneaking out of houses. But since they only ever see my red tank-top, I was nicknamed ¡®The Girl in Red.¡¯¡±


    Sola giggled happily to herself, as Harley patted her head again.


    ¡°I¡¯m still having sex, partying and exercising a bunch, so it¡¯s not too different from home, but since my life¡¯s been pretty great, I wanna use what I have to help people who¡¯re worse off then me. I dunno, maybe it¡¯s just a destiny thing?¡±


    ¡°Oh, don¡¯t fall for that.¡± Wess interjected. ¡°There is no destiny.¡±


    ¡°Come on, Wess. We¡¯re all destined for something.¡± Harley said, nudging her side. ¡°I guess you¡¯re just destined for sleeping in all weekend, pillow princess.¡±


    ¡°I do appreciate a good rest.¡± Wess realised, before dismissing the thought. ¡°But the concept of destiny is still nonsense. We make our choices, not some cosmic force out of our control.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t know.¡± Sola argued. ¡°Maybe the cosmic force made you say that?¡±


    ¡°Then that¡¯s a very counterintuitive cosmic force.¡± Wess reasoned, taking another sip.


    ¡°Did you have a reason for coming here, Wess?¡± Julia asked, as the room directed their attention to Wess.


    She peered down at her glass and swirled it in her hand, before swallowing her pride and opening her mouth. ¡°¡­I¡¯ve wanted to come here my entire life, and I grew up in a household where my parents refused me the right at every corner. I clawed tooth and nail to get out, and now that I¡¯m here, I¡¯m keeping it that way.¡± Wess finished. ¡°And that¡¯s all there is to it.¡±


    The room remained silent, processing what she¡¯d declared, as Julia decided to break the silence. ¡°So no one helped you come here?¡±


    ¡°¡­Graham did.¡± Wess admitted, avoiding eye contact. ¡°¡­more than I deserve, I think.¡±


    ¡°Was he the one you were arguing with on orientation day?¡± Harley asked, as Wess¡¯ eyes widened.


    ¡°You saw that?¡±


    ¡°Only¡­partly.¡± Harley excused.


    ¡°¡­yes, he was. He¡¯s been my caretaker my whole life, and was the first to speak up to my parents about me becoming a Venator. He also helped me with some more¡­difficult times¡­¡± Wess muttered, playing with her strand of hair idly.


    Harley went to comfort Wess, but she raised her hand in refusal. ¡°¡­you can imagine why I wanted to leave the team for so long. I wasn¡¯t about to spend years of my life wanting this, to then have it all undercut by¡­well¡­inexperienced teammates.¡±


    ¡°You were thinking efficiently. There is nothing at fault with that.¡± Essex assured her.


    ¡°¡­but I hurt Graham¡¯s feelings as a result, and on top of¡­everything, I¡¯m wondering if I made the right decision.¡± Wess admitted, leaving her thought where it was.


    Harley continued patting Sola¡¯s head, as Julia and Essex tried to figure out how to respond.


    ¡°Are you happy here?¡±


    Wess lifted her head. ¡°Excuse me?¡±


    ¡°Are you happy? Being here?¡± Julia asked.


    Wess ran her finger around the brim of her glass. ¡°It has been¡­interesting¡­and somewhat fun. But that prank call to Baron might¡¯ve skewed my opinion.¡±


    Harley snickered affectionately, as Julia continued. ¡°Are you making the most of this?¡±


    ¡°Of course I am. You know how important this degree is to me.¡±


    ¡°Then why overthink it? Keep working at it and become great in your own right. And, if Graham¡¯s stuck by your side throughout your whole life, a disagreement isn''t gonna change that.¡± Julia reasoned. ¡°You deserve to be here.¡±


    Wess found herself blushing, which the team also happened to notice, sharing a laugh amongst themselves as she tried to hide her face.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay, Wess. I wasn¡¯t too sure about coming here either.¡± Sola added.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think you¡¯re sure of most things.¡± Harley remarked, as Sola pouted and removed herself from Harley¡¯s lap.


    ¡°Then why¡¯d you come here?¡± Julia asked.


    Sola blinked. ¡°I shoot lightning out of my hands. Where else would I go?¡±


    The team conceded her point.


    ¡°Come on, there¡¯s gotta be a better reason than that.¡± Harley said. ¡°You could¡¯ve gone to the military, or worked in a power plant.¡±


    Sola shrugged her shoulders. ¡°I don¡¯t know what to tell you. I¡¯m just not that interesting.¡± Sola admitted. ¡°They had a bunch of Venator competitions back in school. I used to win pretty much all of them with my Whil. Maybe that¡¯s it.¡±


    ¡°¡­I¡¯m not convinced.¡± Harley said. ¡°There¡¯s gotta be some reason you went to Venators specifically.¡±


    ¡°Ooo, maybe it¡¯s your destiny theory?¡± Wess teased, causing Julia to giggle. ¡°Then again, a theory implies it has evidence.¡±


    Harley raised an eyebrow, refusing to engage, as Julia turned to Essex. ¡°I guess that just leaves you.¡± Julia said. ¡°Since you asked me first, it only seems appropriate.¡±


    ¡°¡­I do not wish to worsen the atmosphere.¡±


    ¡°Go ahead. We¡¯ve all been pretty open tonight.¡± Harley said, taking another sip of her drink.


    ¡°Absolutely. No judging from us.¡± Julia agreed, as the team backed her up.


    Essex went to reply, but stopped and went to her room to grab her scythe, before coming back and answering. ¡°Muerbetra. Relusa senae¡­¡±


    She placed the scythe in front of her before speaking, being careful with each word she spoke.


    ¡°I have come here to end the Wailing conflict, once and for all.¡±


    Not a word was said, as Julia swallowed before speaking. ¡°Y-you mean the whole thing?¡±


    She ran a finger against the scythes edge. ¡°Before the Segaru Clan had found me, a Wailing separated me from my family. Afterwards, they attacked the clan relentlessly and have made it harder to achieve our goals. They have tormented humanity without second thought.¡± Essex explained. ¡°I wish to rid the world of them.¡±


    ¡°¡­that¡¯s really heavy, Essex.¡± Harley said. ¡°I didn¡¯t know you wanted to be a Venator that bad.¡±


    ¡°I do not.¡± Essex admitted.


    Wess gave a look of confusion. ¡°Then why are you spending three years to get a degree?¡±


    ¡°That is the only way that I may continue to fight Wailing. You must be either a Venator or military in order to legally dispatch of them, and being a Venator meant working independently and keeping my scythe.¡±


    ¡°Does the whole clan want to do this?¡± Sola wondered aloud, stunning Essex in place.


    ¡°¡­the Segaru Clan does not believe in acting on personal desires.¡± Essex explained, gripping the scythe¡¯s handle. ¡°But I need to do this. I need to end this.¡±


    Julia leaned over and hugged Essex¡¯s side. ¡°That sounds really troubling. You must¡¯ve gone through a lot.¡±


    ¡°Grela.¡± Essex excused, holding Julia¡¯s shoulders. ¡°I am fine. While I wish to go solo by the end of this degree, I will continue to aid you how I can while I am here, and I do wish you all safe journeys once we part.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to go solo.¡± Sola explained, leaning back on Harley. ¡°I was going to as well, but I kinda like it with all of us together.¡±


    Harley dragged her into a noogie, which Sola couldn¡¯t help but enjoy, as Essex¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°But I do not wish to burden you with my desires. They are selfish.¡±


    ¡°So? You¡¯re allowed to be a little selfish here and there.¡± Wess said.


    ¡°You can stay in the team, if you want.¡± Julia said, smiling proudly. ¡°But don¡¯t feel like you have to decide now. It¡¯s a big decision. Just ask Wess.¡±


    ¡°What happened to not judging?¡± Wess replied, causing laughter from the other members, as Essex stirred in place.


    ¡°¡­while your aid is appreciated¡­it may only go so far.¡± She let out, grabbing the team¡¯s attention again. ¡°I have been given a request. A task that Faller has assigned to me.¡±


    She leaned into the makeshift circle. ¡°I am not supposed to be admitting this, so I need to know I may trust you all.¡±


    Everyone looked to each other, all confident the others wouldn¡¯t do something so reckless, then looked back to Essex.


    ¡°¡­when I arrived on the first day, I was to meet with Faller, as one of the scholarship students.¡± Essex explained. ¡°He has been worried¡­of an outside influence to the Wailing conflict.¡±


    Harley squinted. ¡°Like, other Wailing or something?¡±


    Essex shook her head. ¡°He is worried a group of people may be perpetuating the conflict, and that they may be working out of the academy within secret.¡±


    ¡°Like an evil organisation?¡± Sola replied. ¡°Whoa¡­¡±


    ¡°And Faller told you this?¡± Wess asked.


    ¡°¡­he does not know who to trust, so he has asked the newest scholarship students to look out for suspicious activity, as he knew we could be trusted.¡±


    ¡°So Cyrus knew this too¡­¡± Wess muttered to herself.


    ¡°And Joleicia.¡± Julia realised.


    Essex gripped her scythe again. ¡°But I have not found anything as of yet, and I am starting to realise¡­that I should be asking for aid in this matter as well. I wish to ask of you help.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s a lot to ask a bunch of first years.¡± Harley said, leaning back. ¡°It sounds like he¡¯s not even sure this ¡®organisation¡¯ exists.¡±


    ¡°But it would explain some things¡­¡± Julia said. ¡°¡­like the Behemoth Wailing attack.¡±


    Harley realised what she was getting at, as Julia leaned in to Essex. ¡°I¡­think I may have a lead.¡±


    Essex looked on eagerly.


    ¡°On orientation day, I was talking to Vice-Principal Coatsworth, and¡­he warned me against going to the welcome event.¡± Julia admitted, Essex expectedly shocked. ¡°¡­I think he knew the Behemoth Wailing was going to attack.¡±


    ¡°Holy shit¡­¡± Sola let out, before standing up. ¡°Holy shit!¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to assume anything too bad¡­it could be a poor coincidence¡­¡± Julia said, now facing Essex. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, that¡¯s probably not really anything.¡±


    Essex shook her head. ¡°I thank you. I did not know about his strange comments. That is something to look into.¡±


    ¡°So, what? Our Vice-Principal¡¯s some evil manipulator from the shadows?¡± Wess dismissively asked. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but we aren¡¯t living in a drama. Did you ever think he warned you just because he thought the event wasn¡¯t very good? Or that he wanted you to study instead?¡±


    ¡°It was too specific, Wess.¡± Julia said. ¡°I¡¯m not condemning him, but if Essex needs to look out for this stuff, he might be someone to be cautious of.¡±


    ¡°¡­I suppose skepticism is healthy.¡± Wess said, getting up to refill her wine glass. ¡°That is, assuming Faller¡¯s hunch is correct, and he¡¯s not grasping at straws.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I¡¯m still on the fence about this whole thing.¡± Harley admitted. ¡°But I¡¯ll help however I can, Essex.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, me too!¡± Sola joined in. ¡°If he is some big bad dude, we¡¯ll show him what¡¯s what!¡±


    ¡°Grela¡­¡± Essex thanked, adorning a hidden smile. ¡°I am grateful for companions as caring as you.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    4/6/5019, 9:47pm


    RICHARD SANDERS


    We¡¯ve spent most of the night finishing our study of the Wailing¡¯s brain tissue and general mental facilities. While the study didn¡¯t show anything wholly unique, the Wailing appeared to be under severe stress for several days before the attack. Whatever environment it was in was clearly highly dangerous or traumatic for it, which may have caused the attack in the first place. Cecil says speculation is healthy, but until we get definitive proof, I¡¯m not drawing any conclusions.


    Additionally, if this becomes relevant at some point, there was a small incision near the Wailing¡¯s head that almost looked¡­surgical. Obviously, with how the attack went, the entire body is full of puncture wounds, bullet holes and deep lacerations, so this is almost entirely a coincidence. However, the wound looked to be somewhat fresh, at least relative to the others, and less directed inwards, and more outward, meaning¡­I don¡¯t know, something was removed? Again, no speculation, but in case this is something, I¡¯ve made some notes along with this entry about it. Otherwise, everything¡¯s as typical as it usually is.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Bingo¡­¡± Ferris mumbled, quickly scanning the files attached, before shutting the file cabinet. ¡°That should do it.¡±


    Coatsworth raised his head from his file. ¡°Did you find what you were looking for?¡±


    ¡°What Cecil was looking for, yes.¡± Ferris corrected. ¡°You can go if you want.¡±


    ¡°¡­yes, I think I will.¡± Coatsworth replied, standing up and readjusting his suit. ¡°But, if you want, I can take the file to his house.¡±


    ¡°No, it¡¯s fine. I¡¯m riding with Faller anyway, and Cecil¡¯s house is on our route.¡± Ferris explained, grabbing her jacket and leaving the lab with Coatsworth.


    ¡°Can I at least get a look at the file?¡± Coatsworth asked.


    ¡°It¡¯s some eighteen year old¡¯s chicken scratch. Nothing worth your time.¡± Ferris said, subtlety inspecting around the hallway for onlookers.


    Coatsworth went to argue, but silenced himself. ¡°I see that it¡¯s in capable hands. Just don¡¯t damage it, okay?¡±


    ¡°Relax. I¡¯m a veteran at this.¡± Ferris dismissed, heading out of sight, as Coatsworth decided to head back the other way he¡¯d come.


    ¡°¡­but the King doesn¡¯t let you know¡­just why the crown¡¯s there¡­¡± Came a voice down the hall, singing to themselves, as Coatsworth spotted Cecil coming his way.


    Cecil looked up from his tablet. ¡°Oh, Coatsworth. A pleasure.¡±


    ¡°Cecil. I was under the impression you were at home.¡± Coatsworth explained.


    ¡°Who told you that?¡±


    ¡°Ferris. She was¡­searching for a file you asked for.¡±


    Cecil scratched his head. ¡°I didn¡¯t ask for anything. I just came to finish up my notes on the autopsy.¡±


    Coatsworth blinked, before readjusting his suit again. ¡°¡­I see. Well, best of luck to your research, Cecil.¡±


    ¡°See you around.¡± Cecil said, slipping into his lab, as Coatsworth continued down the hall, thinking aloud to himself.


    ¡°Now, why would you lie, Ferris?¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Count Reginald, what of your marriage?¡±


    ¡°¡­I couldn¡¯t bare to be without you, even with this demonic curse plaguing my very soul.¡±


    ¡°Come now, you may be half-Wailing, half-vampire, half-goblin and half-human, but you¡¯re still all beautiful to me.¡±


    ¡°But how could you love a monster like me?¡±


    ¡°Because I¡¯m a monster too.¡±


    ¡°Boo!¡± Called Wess, sinking into the couch. ¡°What a cop out ending¡­¡±


    ¡°Gods, I know¡­¡± Harley agreed, sitting with her on the couch. ¡°She literally had a narration at the start spoiling the whole thing.¡±


    ¡°Christa should¡¯ve ended up with Rachel. At least she was working on a cure.¡± Julia added.


    ¡°Christa has made poor decisions numerous times throughout the film. This is nothing new for her.¡± Essex pointed out.


    ¡°I thought Rachel died?¡± Sola asked. ¡°Or was that a sequel hook?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not sticking around to find out.¡± Wess concluded, turning off the TV. ¡°I know random movies on television aren¡¯t exactly circumstances for brilliant work, but my goodness, that was bad.¡±


    ¡°You reckon the Waygone Wailing movie would¡¯ve been like that?¡± Sola asked, getting up to get some food from the kitchen.


    ¡°Unfortunately¡­but I still wish we saw it¡­¡± Wess acknowledged, getting up herself. ¡°If this drill goes on any longer, I¡¯m going to bust that door down out of sheer boredom.¡±


    ¡°You know what Dorothy always says¡­¡±


    ¡°What, Harley, what does she always say?¡± Wess demanded.


    ¡°Don¡¯t get angry.¡± Harley replied.


    ¡°¡­¡± Wess conceded.


    Julia got up with the others and danced a little on her feet. ¡°It¡¯s not all bad guys. There¡¯s still stuff to do to pass the time.¡±


    ¡°But we have exhausted all possibilities.¡± Essex said.


    Julia smiled sheepishly. ¡°If we¡®ve reeeally got nothing to do, we could always play another boar-¡°


    ¡°Attention all present on campus, Wailing lockdown drill has now been completed. All students may leave their dorms and resume normal activities. To repeat, Wailing lockdown drill¡­¡±


    ¡°Aw man¡­¡± Julia sighed.


    ¡°Woo! Freedom!¡± Harley called out, rushing out the room with the others in tow, as Julia sagged behind. ¡°We still missed the movie, but now I can breathe again!¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s funny what you miss after only a few hours.¡± Wess mentioned, rubbing her eyes. ¡°If it weren¡¯t nearly ten, I¡¯d suggest we go out and do something.¡±


    The team looked around the hallway, realising it was just as empty as they remembered, and also realising there was nothing to do anyway.


    ¡°I kinda wanna go back in.¡± Julia said.


    ¡°Yeah, there¡¯s not really much to do out here.¡± Harley acknowledged.


    ¡°I¡¯m kinda wondering how that movie ended.¡± Sola brought up, as Essex was already turning the TV back on.


    ¡°¡­oh, why not? It was kind of fun.¡± Wess admitted, as she joined the rest of the team back at the couch, enjoying the time they got to spend together.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Faller heard the building door open, before a pair of keys got thrown at his head.


    ¡°You worried I was gonna drive off without you?¡± Faller asked.


    ¡°I¡¯m naturally cautious.¡± Ferris justified, as Faller opened the car for them both. ¡°Plus, I coulda stabbed someone with them if needed.¡±


    Faller raised an eyebrow, before opening the door for Ferris and heading to the driver''s seat.


    ¡°Anything interesting?¡±


    Ferris reached into her bag and handed him the file, as he quickly looked it over.


    ¡°Is this it?¡±


    ¡°Pretty much.¡± Ferris said. ¡°It¡¯s not a ton to work off of.¡±


    ¡°¡­it¡¯ll have to do for now.¡± Faller said, tucking the file away. ¡°Thanks for the effort.¡±


    ¡°Whatever¡­¡± Ferris dismissed.


    Faller started up the car, checking around for any pedestrians, as Ferris turned to him again.


    ¡°There may be a complication, though.¡±


    Faller sighed out. ¡°A big one?¡±


    Ferris grabbed his arm and stopped his hands from turning the wheel, before looking him dead in the eye.


    ¡°I¡¯m concerned about Coatsworth.¡±

 Chapter 11: Thunder, Lightning, Strike

    The wind was noticeably fine outside, almost undetectable to the students as they braced against it gently, watching their classmates work.


    ¡°Now focus.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°Are you focusing?¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°Sola?¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    ¡°I asked if you were focusing.¡±


    ¡°I was, but then you started talking.¡±


    Ferris pinched the brim of her nose. ¡°Alright, let''s do it again.¡±


    Julia and Essex stood behind Sola with the rest of the class, outside on one of the training grounds, watching as Ferris guided Sola through the use of her Whil to very fluctuating results.


    ¡°Now focus on where you want to fire.¡± Ferris said, pointing to the target on display. ¡°That¡¯s your focus.¡±


    ¡°Won¡¯t my lightning just fly everywhere?¡± Sola asked.


    ¡°Only cause you¡¯re letting it.¡± Ferris clarified, checking if her pocket flask had anything left in it. ¡°Your Whil generates electricity, but electricity isn¡¯t random. It¡¯s electrons travelling through the air, usually through the path of least resistance.¡±


    ¡°Path¡­?¡± Sola asked, Ferris dragging her hands against her face.


    ¡°She¡¯s trying really hard.¡± Julia commented to Essex.


    ¡°Who?¡±


    ¡°Both of them.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s in the name!¡± Ferris shouted, before pacing around the calm herself. ¡°Team Valiant, can you explain it to her in her own words?¡±


    ¡°Sola! Mugs! Mugs mugs mu-¡° Essex yelled, as Julia rested a hand on her.


    ¡°She means make it simpler, Essex.¡± Julia said, stepping forward to address Sola. ¡°It¡¯s kinda like¡­you know that circle bit in a juice box that lets you poke the straw through it?¡±


    ¡°Oh!¡± Sola said, as it visibly connected for her. ¡°Okay! So the electrons travel like that to get to the juice¡­right¡­¡±


    ¡°Good enough.¡± Julia chuckled, stepping back into the crowd.


    ¡°Alright, now aim at the target.¡± Ferris advised, pocketing her flask. ¡°You can control the electrons, so find out where they want to go, and where they can go. Feel around for where they give the least resistance. That¡¯s the lightning path.¡±


    Sola closed her eyes and took a deep breath, as her fingers started crackling with sparks. Ferris stepped back with the rest of the class, as small rocks from the ground started to lift up, along with Sola¡¯s hair and jacket.


    ¡°Now feel around for the weakest path!¡± Ferris yelled. ¡°Don¡¯t lose it!¡±


    Sola moved her hand through the air, letting it glide around in front of her, as she started to feel something coming.


    ¡°Come on¡­¡± Julia hoped, nervously holding her hands together.


    ¡°Peno decu.¡± Essex muttered under her breath, watching intently as Sola pointed her fingers.


    And with one clean shot, Sola aimed her hand, as lightning flew directing into a nearby tree, then miles off to the side, before becoming the large chaotic mess it normally formed.


    ¡°Shit...¡± Ferris mumbled, Sola''s eyes opening to the burning tree and scorched ground.


    ¡°Aggghhhh!¡± She yelled, frazzling her hair. ¡°Why can¡¯t I do it?!¡±


    ¡°¡­well, I¡¯m calling it. You can all go if you want.¡± Ferris stated to the class, who promptly took the chance. Ferris went over to Sola, still kicking herself from her lack of progress.


    ¡°Why do you think it didn¡¯t work?¡±


    ¡°¡­because I¡¯m a doofus.¡± Sola reflected, her fist clenched.


    ¡°There¡¯s no point beating yourself up. Wailing will do that plenty.¡± Ferris advised. ¡°This is a learning curve. These things aren¡¯t found immediately, they¡¯re earned through your dedication.¡±


    ¡°I thought I did enough of that already...¡± Sola complained, kicking the ground.


    ¡°You¡¯re here to be a Venator, not learn some cool new lightning power. Reassess your priorities.¡±


    Ferris headed off with rest of the class, as Julia and Essex ran up to Sola.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay. You¡¯ll get it, I¡¯m sure.¡± Julia assured her. ¡°I¡¯m still pretty inexperienced with my Whil too.¡±


    ¡°But you can use yours.¡± Sola moped. ¡°I¡¯m a walking timebomb¡­¡±


    ¡°We will resume this later, when you are more prepared.¡± Essex advised.


    Sola nodded in acceptance, as the other two walked her back to their room, buying her a drink on the way.


    ¡°It¡¯s not the end of the world.¡± Julia said. ¡°There¡¯s a reason Venator training lasts three years. If you were perfect off the bat, you¡¯d have nothing to learn from.¡±


    ¡°But why can¡¯t I just be good at this? That¡¯s all!¡± Sola yelled, storming back into their room and landing on her bed face first, Julia heading to the kitchen to get her some food.


    ¡°Why do you wish to be skilled now?¡± Essex asked, sitting across from her on Julia¡¯s bed. ¡°As Julia has stated, we are still in training.¡±


    ¡°¡­because I don¡¯t want to hurt you again¡­¡± Sola murmured to Essex. ¡°And me being inexperienced puts the team in danger¡­¡± She sunk her head into her pillow, before shrinking back into herself.


    Essex sighed. ¡°Pain is temporary. We have discussed this before. I will understand if you accidentally injure me again.¡± Essex said, before noticing Sola only turn away from her more.


    Essex readjusted her seating to better address Sola.


    ¡°¡­I have been inexperienced too. I...almost lost my hand while training my Whil.¡±


    ¡°¡­really?¡± Sola asked, now sitting up and thoroughly intrigued.


    Essex nodded. ¡°I had learned to turn my hand to basic iron, and I wished to find a Wailing I could encounter to test this ability. Halfway through our fight, it bit into my hand and attempted to tear it off.¡±


    Essex raised up her left hand and showed a few rough bite marks against it, running in a row against the palm and back.


    ¡°Wow¡­¡± Sola remarked, staring at the wounds.


    ¡°The Segaru Clan found me after it had abandoned me, and I acknowledged how thoughtless I was being. I trained to utilise it better and to not make the same mistake again.¡±


    Sola was in awe, fascinated by Essex¡¯s almost fable-like story, before bowing her head in sorrow again. ¡°And you got a head start¡­¡±


    ¡°Oh, come on, Sola. Everyone gets there at some point, it just takes a little longer for others.¡± Julia assured her, coming back in and resting a hand on her shoulder, before handing her some leftover cake.


    Sola twiddled her thumbs idly. ¡°Are you bribing me with food?¡±


    ¡°Will it work?¡±


    ¡°¡­yes.¡± Sola admitted, grabbing the plate and eating the cake, almost forgetting her worries entirely.


    Just as Sola went to take another bite, an idea struck Julia in the moment. ¡°Hold on! I just had a great idea!¡±


    ¡°Cool.¡± Sola replied, still enjoying the cake.


    ¡°How about you join me for the Tracking and Hunting survival exercise? Essex, would you mind if Sola took your place?¡±


    ¡°I do not require it, so that is fine.¡± Essex nodded.


    ¡°What¡¯s the survival thing?¡± Sola asked, distracted with the piece of cake.


    ¡°It¡¯ll just be us two spending the night in the woods, making shelter and foraging things, and the team watches back here. We¡¯ll be out of the way of people, so you can practice your Whil all you want without worry of hurting anyone.¡± Julia explained.


    Sola blinked surprisedly. ¡°But I don¡¯t do the class.¡±


    ¡°Well, admittedly, this is just for me. Essex was only coming along as a spot filler.¡± Julia clarified. ¡°So? Wanna come along? I can pack makings for s¡¯mores.¡± Julia bargained.


    ¡°Let¡¯s do it!¡± Sola exclaimed, now done with the cake and fist pumping the air. ¡°I¡¯m gonna kick electricity¡¯s ass!¡±


    ¡°Okay!¡± Julia cheered, joining her, as Essex waited for a second, before joining in too.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Ferris looked Julia and Sola over, dressed in their wilderness gear with their backpacks full of provisions, standing out with her by the academy helicopter pad.


    ¡°I guess I should be surprised.¡± She remarked, pulling out a clipboard. ¡°So, Essex is hanging back?¡±


    ¡°Yep, just me and Sola.¡± Julia said, wrapping an arm around Sola¡¯s neck.


    ¡°Fine.¡± Ferris said, pointing to the cargo helicopter beside them. ¡°The trip to your location should last about ten minutes. Keep in mind, that¡¯s how long it¡¯ll take for us to get to you if you¡¯re in danger, so no breaking things falling off of other things. Also, you¡¯ll have body cameras strapped to you so the rest of your team and I can watch your progress, so no getting frisky while you¡¯re out there.¡±


    Julia and Sola both blushed, avoiding eye contact from the awkwardness, as Ferris cleared her throat.


    ¡°You¡¯re treating this as a real situation. You won¡¯t always be surrounded by suburbia when hunting Wailing, so we won¡¯t come and get you unless your lives are literally in danger.¡±


    Sola started shaking at the prospect, as Julia gave her a thumbs up and nodded to her confidently.


    Ferris gagged at their display. ¡°You¡¯ve got your reserve weapons?¡±


    Julia presented her assault rifle strapped to her back, as Sola held up a machete, clearly too oversized for her to use.


    ¡°You won¡¯t need that.¡± Ferris interjected, taking the machete from her. ¡°Worst case scenario, you might electrocute something with it.¡±


    Sola pouted at Ferris¡¯ assumption, as she signalled for the helicopter to start taking off. Julia and Sola jumped on with their equipment, leaving Ferris on the ground, watching their ascent.


    ¡°You feeling okay?¡± Julia asked, checking in on Sola, both sitting in the passenger bay together.


    ¡°I wish Ferris would stop babying me.¡± She vented. ¡°I don¡¯t like feeling useless¡­¡±


    Julia grabbed her hand. ¡°Then let¡¯s show her something worth praising.¡±


    Sola felt a rush of warmth and energy coming from Julia, slowly nodding back to her and squeezing her hand to prove her newfound confidence.


    ¡°Alright, girls, just ten minutes till we land!¡± The pilot yelled back to them. ¡°Best get yourselves ready!¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Ferris opened up the monitor room door, being greeted by the faces of the rest of Team Valiant, all calm and collected, with the exception of Harley.


    ¡°Are they on? Did they get there yet?¡± She worriedly asked.


    ¡°Ten minutes, and yes, they¡¯re on the helicopter.¡± Ferris replied, taking off her jacket and slumping into the office chair. She pulled up Julia and Sola¡¯s feed onto the large monitor adorning the wall.


    ¡°Did Sola pack her butterscotch? Her bloodsugar gets low later in the day.¡± Harley asked, frantically pacing.


    ¡°Funnily enough, I didn¡¯t ask about that.¡± Ferris responded, rolling her chair back to watch the screen.


    ¡°You know they¡¯ll be fine, Harley.¡± Wess assured her. ¡°Julia¡¯s the most capable out of us, anyway.¡±


    ¡°Not in a forest. That¡¯s definitely Essex.¡± Harley said, as Essex raised her head from hearing her name.


    ¡°If you¡¯re so worried about them, just watch the screen.¡± Ferris interrupted, waving at the giant monitor showing their camera feeds. ¡°If you stop talking, you¡¯ll actually hear them.¡±


    Harley dashed up to the monitor, quickly checking to see that they were both okay, shortly followed by Wess and Essex. The display showed the interior of the helicopter from the view of Julia and Sola¡¯s torsos, sitting side by side.


    ¡°¡­t¡¯s a lack of respect. She¡¯s just there to point out that I¡¯m wrong.¡± Sola said, Ferris turning up their mics a little more.


    ¡°She is pretty harsh with her critiques. Like an overly aggressive librarian, or a cranky witch trying to teach you a moral.¡± Julia replied.


    Harley started snickering to herself, with Wess trying not to laugh as well, all beside an unamused Ferris.


    ¡°I think you mean bitch.¡± Sola joked, giving an embarrassed giggle.


    Ferris¡¯ eye twitched.


    ¡°Sola! Don¡¯t say that!¡± Julia complained, smiling despite herself. ¡°I mean, you¡¯re right, but don¡¯t say it out loud.¡±


    Harley was in a fit, banging her hand against the table, as Wess was having trouble breathing. Even Essex had to cover her mouth to stop from laughing, as Ferris leaned over and turned the mics off. ¡°They come back on when they get there.¡± Ferris grumbled. ¡°You happy now, Harley?¡±


    ¡°Absolutely.¡± She breathed, wiping a tear from her eye.


    Ferris sat back and folded her arms, before her pocket buzzed and she pulled out her tablet, groaning to herself.


    ¡°Shit.¡± She said, messaging the pilot.


    ¡°What is it?¡± Harley asked.


    Ferris bit her pen. ¡°Apparently, a storm might hit their camping spot later in the day. Great timing¡­¡±


    ¡°Will they be coming back?¡± Wess asked.


    ¡°It¡¯s up to Julia if she wants to attempt it.¡± Ferris explained. ¡°If not, we¡¯ll put it off to a later date.¡±


    ¡°Julia¡¯s gonna do it.¡± Harley said. ¡°She¡¯s cool like that.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Just got a message from Ferris!¡± The pilot yelled back to Julia. ¡°A storm¡¯s gonna roll in while you¡¯re camping out! We can head back and do this later if you want!¡±


    ¡°No way! Bring it on, storm!¡± Julia exclaimed, standing up dynamically, before remembering Sola was still with her. ¡°Sorry. I should ask your opinion too.¡±


    Sola looked out the window, seeing a slowly darkening sky rolling in from just behind the Eldos Mountains, before looking to confident, proud Julia and her open smile, ready for anything.


    ¡°I¡¯m okay! Let¡¯s do this!¡± Sola yelled, a little too loudly.


    ¡°Yeah!¡± Julia added, high fiving her.


    ¡°Droppin¡¯ down now!¡± The pilot said, the helicopter landing with a practiced ease, as Julia and Sola jumped out with their gear. ¡°I¡¯ll be here tomorrow morning, or if you need an early pick up! Best of luck to you!¡±


    ¡°Thank you!¡± Julia yelled back, the helicopter rising off the ground and out of site, leaving Julia and Sola in the middle of a small clearing in the woods.


    ¡°Ferris here. Just getting confirmation of your arrival.¡± Came Ferris¡¯ voice over their mics.


    ¡°This is Julia. We¡¯ve just landed and are ready to set up.¡± Julia replied, observing her surroundings.


    ¡°Julia! This is Harley! Did Sola brin-¡°


    ¡°I¡¯ve got them!¡± Sola answered, grabbing her butterscotch from her bag.


    ¡°Do not forget the temperature. The forest will be deceptively col-¡° Came Essex over the mic, as Julia and Sola heard shuffling coming from the other end.


    ¡°Get off! This is supposed to be an assignment!¡± Ferris yelled. ¡°You¡¯re clear to continue. Going into radio silence now.¡± Ferris said, before cutting off.


    ¡°Alright, first things first, tents and tarps.¡± Julia said, immediately getting to work, throwing Sola off with her efficiency.


    ¡°Right now?¡± Sola asked, going for a butterscotch.


    ¡°This is required learning, Sola. No slacking off.¡± Julia said, unpacking her bags full of provisions. ¡°We¡¯ll work on your Whil once everything¡¯s set up. Could you grab that branch for me, please?¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± Sola replied, hopping over to the large oak adorning the side of the clearing, and struggling to pull the branch off. As she grabbed it again, it swung back and thwacked her in the face, sending her to the ground.


    Julia climbed over her and broke it off, before pulling up an embarrassed Sola.


    ¡°Maybe just start the fire.¡± Julia suggested, giggling a little and handing her the branch. ¡°You can try sparking it with your Whil if you want.¡±


    Sola nodded, her pride a bit damaged, and started working on kindling for the fire.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Are we staying here for the whole night?¡± Wess asked, a little antsy from having sat for so long.


    ¡°If Julia knows she¡¯s being watched by her team, she¡¯ll work even harder to survive.¡± Ferris explained. ¡°But legally, you can leave once they¡¯re asleep.¡±


    Wess double took. ¡°Legally?¡±


    ¡°Hey! She¡¯s already done!¡± Harley cheered, pointing at Julia¡¯s finished tent and tarp covering. ¡°Woo!!! Julia, you¡¯re amazing!¡±


    ¡°The mics are off, so shut up!¡± Ferris yelled, slamming onto the table. ¡°By the gods¡­¡±


    Having set everything up, Julia took Sola to the side of the clearing and started setting up a few objects from Julia¡¯s backpack. The team took notice of the feed and quickly realised what they were doing.


    ¡°Are they¡­?¡± Ferris asked, as Sola¡¯s hands started sparking in her feed. ¡°¡­huh. Won¡¯t she just burn more trees out there?¡±


    As expected, the lightning flew off into the sky, nowhere near her targets, Sola shooting it again and again, missing and missing, before stopping all together and kicking the ground. Ferris leaned over and turned their mics up out of curiosity.


    ¡°¡­kay. This is still gonna be hard for you. Of course you didn¡¯t get it right in the first go.¡± Julia consoled.


    ¡°Of course?¡± Sola argued. ¡°Why of course?¡±


    ¡°Oh, bad wording, Julia.¡± Harley noticed.


    ¡°Were you expecting me to be bad?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not w-¡°


    ¡°I haven¡¯t done it well before, why would I now?¡±


    ¡°Sol-¡°


    Did you know this text is from a different site? Read the official version to support the creator.


    ¡°I don¡¯t wanna hear it!¡± She yelled, storming into the tent, as Julia quickly followed her inside.


    ¡°Sola¡­¡± Julia said. ¡°You know I didn¡¯t mean that. I¡¯m really sorry it came out that way.¡±


    ¡°But you thought it¡­¡± Sola mumbled, crouching into a ball on the ground, turning her back to Julia. ¡°¡­I was thinking it too.¡±


    Julia leaned down to hug her caringly, as Harley turned away from the screen, sniffling a little.


    ¡°Sola¡­¡± Wess bemoaned, her hand to her chest, as Essex went to comfort Harley.


    ¡°She¡¯s blocking.¡± Ferris interjected. ¡°Her brain thinks she isn¡¯t capable, so she won¡¯t let herself do it. I knew she¡¯d hit this wall again, but did she listen?¡±


    ¡°Oh, shut up!¡± Harley yelled. ¡°It¡¯s hard enough without you breathing down her neck!¡±


    Wess and Essex froze in place, unsure how Ferris was going to respond to being yelled at by a student, as Ferris breathed out slowly.


    ¡°¡­well, I¡¯m her teacher. It¡¯s my job to show her how to improve. This is just my humble assessment of the situation.¡± Ferris explained. ¡°Please refrain from backchatting me again, Miss Baroke.¡±


    Ferris took her seat, as Harley wiped her nose and returned her attention back to the monitor.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    A few hours had passed, as Sola tried focusing her Whil a few more times, to expectedly minimal results. She did manage to get the fire started, enough to cheer herself up a little, as Julia did her best to keep Sola¡¯s spirits high.


    ¡°You feeling better?¡± Julia asked, taking a seat next to Sola.


    ¡°¡­a bit.¡± Sola said.


    ¡°You want a little distraction?¡±


    Sola nodded a little too quickly, as Julia giggled to herself and pulled out some cards she¡¯d packed in her bag.


    ¡°You mentioned you were a fan of Team Harmony, so I looked up some trivia just in case we needed to pass the time.¡± Julia said, shuffling the cards together. ¡°Wanna go for a speed round?¡±


    ¡°Yes, yes, yes yes yes!¡± Sola cheered, nodding happily.


    ¡°What was the teams original na-¡°


    ¡°Team Rhythm, but they kept misspelling it.¡±


    ¡°What genre do they pla-¡°


    ¡°Light pop, but they insist they¡¯re rock and alternative.¡±


    ¡°How many mem-¡°


    ¡°Five initially, six after their third album, then they mixed things up with a bunch of albums together and solo records.¡±


    ¡°What was the cut line from their hit song ¡°Love i-¡°


    ¡°¡®Your heart leaves me wailing,¡¯ cause their producer thought Wailing was too problematic, so they changed it to ¡®ailing.¡¯¡± Sola finished, even impressing herself.


    Julia needed a second before she could respond. ¡°That was incredible!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m a super fan! Don¡¯t expect any less!¡± Sola exclaimed, before sitting back down giddily. ¡°Do you have any questions about Quaver?¡±


    Julia reached into her bag and pulled out a whole new stack, as Sola got excited all over again.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°I¡¯m back.¡± Wess said, re-entering the room with a large stack of pizzas. ¡°Are they still doing the trivia game?¡±


    ¡°Question 38.¡± Harley answered, grabbing a box and sharing it with Essex. ¡°Ferris keeps threatening to turn the mics off.¡±


    ¡°Why won¡¯t they just sleep already¡­¡± Ferris complained, lying her head against her desk, as Wess lay a box next to her.


    ¡°Are you sure there was supposed to be a storm?¡± Wess asked, sitting with Harley and Essex and digging into another box.


    ¡°That what the NDWN says...¡± Ferris mumbled. ¡°Stupid weather¡­¡±


    ¡°I have checked the humidity. The storm will begin soon enough.¡± Essex explained, surprising Wess with her efficiency. The room stayed silent as they ate, watching Julia and Sola enjoy their dinner as well, as the promised storm clouds rolled in across the sky.


    ¡°I¡¯m impressed they can stand this boredom.¡± Ferris remarked. ¡°I¡¯m only watching them and I¡¯m about ready to die¡­¡±


    ¡°If only.¡± Harley muttered, getting a guilty chuckle from Wess.


    ¡°¡­I am concerned if Sola is still in doubts.¡± Essex said.


    Harley rested a hand on her shoulder. ¡°If you want, we can do something for her when she gets back. Like a little party to remind her we¡¯ve got her back.¡±


    ¡°I think she would appreciate that.¡± Essex said.


    Harley turned to Wess. ¡°You wanna start work on a guest list?¡±


    ¡°Fine, but only because Sola deserves it.¡± Wess replied, scrolling through her Activ contacts.


    Ferris looked over at them, going out of their way to help each other, before frustratedly turning back to the monitor, as the storm was starting to make itself known.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    The wind came in on all directions, rushing against the sides of the tent, as they began to flap back and forth with visible force.


    ¡°Aah!¡± Sola yelped, the first crash of thunder coming in from the horizon, rattling through the tent.


    ¡°Looks like the storm¡¯s here.¡± Julia remarked. ¡°I¡¯ll get our bedding ready. Can you get my bags before it starts pouring?¡±


    ¡°Okay!¡± Sola said, rushing out the tent and into the clearing, before spotting Julia¡¯s bags leaning against a couple trees.


    She headed over to grab them, a few drops hitting her as she ran, as she arri-


    ¡°REEELLLLLLLLLLLLMMMMMM¡­¡±


    Sola jumped back, the bizarre sound lingering out from behind the tree, almost metallic in its reverberation. Sola very quickly grabbed the bags and started backing up, as a small figure she couldn¡¯t make out strode by in silhouette, just out of view, before the rain really started to pour down.


    ¡°Julia!¡± She yelled, jumping back into the tent. ¡°Julia, there¡¯s something out there, and I don¡¯t know what, an-¡°


    Julia grabbed her shoulders and sat her still. ¡°Do you know what it might be?¡±


    ¡°A-animals? But it sounded weirder than that.¡± Sola explained. ¡°What should we do?¡±


    ¡°¡­we¡¯re treating this like a real situation.¡± She said, grabbing her rifle off of her back. ¡°Sola, I need you to back me up.¡±


    ¡°Bu-¡° Sola argued, as Julia stared her down.


    ¡°This isn¡¯t a time to debate. Our lives may be in danger.¡± Julia demanded, exiting the tent with a trembling Sola.


    All seemed quiet for a second, almost deliberately so, as another figure dashed by in the foliage, unrecognisable in its form.


    ¡°That was definitely something. Sola, stick to me.¡± Julia said, pointing to her back. ¡°You¡¯re the last line of defence. Use your Whil if we have nothing left.¡±


    Sola nodded, as they started circling, back-to-back, the figures slowly making themselves known in the open space. Surrounding the clearing were strange grey and red blobs, almost animalistic in their base form, but clearly gelatinous, as some tried and failed to create limbs to walk on. Small currents of electricity ran through them, occasionally sparking here and there, as Julia readied her rifle in case of a threat.


    ¡°Th-they look like Wailing.¡± Sola quivered. ¡°Are they Wailing kids or something?¡±


    ¡°Yeah...¡± Julia said. ¡°But there weren¡¯t any reports of Wailing anywhere near the area. Security made sure of that.¡±


    ¡°Could the storm ha-¡° Sola asked, as another flash of lightning struck the sky, sending her crouching down again. In the heat of the moment, a Wailing offspring took its opportunity and jumped at Sola, before Julia aimed at it and quickly fired.


    The bullets passed through, before the blob dissipated onto the ground, the small bit of current running through it sparking out, as the others started leaping as well. Julia did her best to hit them, having to slow a couple down with her Whil to hold them off, as Sola watched Julia struggling to keep up, and realising what she needed to do.


    She stood back up, still awestruck with fear, as her hands started crackling with electricity.


    Julia was still busy shooting, as Sola started pointing to a few that had gathered close together, ready to electrocute them, before Julia took notice.


    ¡°Sola! Not yet! The rain¡¯s gonna throw you off!¡± Julia yelled.


    Sola was still concentrating, trying her hardest to focus over the thunder, rain and gunshots, as her Whil started fizzling out in her hands, her frustration already getting the better of her.


    ¡°Just wait! I¡¯ve got this!¡± Julia cried, still doing her best to shoot the offspring launching themselves at them.


    Sola kept trying, even breathing out loud to help, as Julia grabbed her arm to try and stop her.


    ¡°Sola! You¡¯ll get us bot-¡°


    With a final thrust, Sola let out her electricity as best she could, firing a concentrated burst at a few of the Wailing approaching with a degree of success. They melted into the piles the others had, blending in with the scorched ground that now surrounded them, as Sola turned around to see if Julia needed any help.


    ¡°J-Julia?¡±


    Julia was on the ground, limp and unmoving, as Sola realised where most of her lightning had gone.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Julia!¡± Harley shouted, watching Julia¡¯s body collapse to the ground over the feed, with Wess and Essex just as glued to the screen.


    Harley frantically turned to Ferris. ¡°Is she okay?!¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s breathing¡­¡± Ferris assured her, chewing on her pen. ¡°What an interesting development...¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re pulling them out, right now!¡± Harley said, moving her hand to Ferris¡¯ communicator, before being stopped by Ferris.


    ¡°Hold on.¡± She said, grabbing Harley¡¯s arm. ¡°Let¡¯s see where this goes¡­¡±


    Harley felt her hand shake. ¡°Are you serious?!¡± Harley yelled. ¡°Their lives are in danger and you want to wait this out?!¡±


    ¡°Be reasonable, Ferris.¡± Wess asked, her attention fully on the screen. ¡°This is too much for any of us right now. At least let us talk to Sola.¡±


    ¡°¡­no.¡± Ferris replied, still monitoring the screen. ¡°This is exactly the incentive Sola needs. A true feeling of danger and isolation to give her that push. She can finally learn to use her Whil.¡±


    Harley and Wess stared at her aghast, unsure how to act, as Essex grabbed Ferris¡¯ shoulder, staring Ferris down with her other hand on her scythe, visibly threatening her.


    ¡°¡­I¡¯ll pull them out if they truly get into danger. Right now, I¡¯m sure they can weather this storm and get out alive.¡± Ferris reasoned. ¡°There¡¯s no point stunting their growth as Venators just because one member is incapacitated. If you ever want to make it in the industry, then Sola should know how to handle this alone.¡± She leaned into the console. ¡°She¡¯ll have to.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°No¡­¡± Sola let out, grabbing Julia¡¯s shoulders in the panic, before noticing she was breathing, letting go and slowing herself down. ¡°She¡¯s just in shock¡­she¡¯s in shock¡­I shouldn¡¯t mo-aahh!¡±


    Another offspring clung onto her, Sola trying to bat it away with her arm. It melded to her side, as Sola picked up Julia¡¯s rifle and violently thrashed it off. More of them approached, only increasing the numbers, as the violent rain enveloped the scene, and the horrid sound reverberated throughout the clearing.


    ¡°REEELLLLLLLLLLLLMMMMMM¡­¡±


    Sola assessed the situation, desperately trying not to freak out, despite everything that was around her, and made a snap judgment.


    ¡°Sorry Julia¡­¡± Sola said, before dropping the gun and putting all her energy into picking Julia up, nearly giving out just from that, and finding a path through the offspring. Noticing the smallest concentration of offspring east, she sprinted past them, doing her best to swerve around each one as they leaped, and holding Julia up throughout. Her breathing became laboured and ragged, as she kept running from the clearing, now thoroughly in the thick of the forest.


    Before her legs eventually gave out, she found a spot to lay Julia down in; a small shelter under a fallen trunk pitched over the ground, covered from the rain and fairly secluded.


    Sola tried her best to lay Julia against the ground without moving her neck anymore than she had, as well as raising her feet up, checking her breathing and marking her pulse.


    ¡°Thanks, mum¡­¡± Sola muttered, calling back to the shock treatment classes her mother insisted she attend. She listened to Julia¡¯s chest and counted how long each breath took.¡°¡­she¡¯s breathing normally.¡±


    Sola finally let herself hit the ground, a shooting pain ripping through her legs, as she lay against the ground in a moment of earned weakness.


    ¡°Please be okay, Julia¡­¡± She wished. ¡°I¡¯m gonna get you to help. I¡¯m sure the helicopter¡¯s¡­¡±


    Mid-sentence, she shot up with a realisation.


    ¡°But if they¡¯re watching us¡­wouldn¡¯t they get us the moment Julia¡­¡±


    Sola really started panicking.


    ¡°What if they can¡¯t see us? What if they can¡¯t find us?! Ferris said radio silence, can¡¯t they help us?! No no no no¡­¡±


    Sola started pacing around, frantically muttering to herself and popping a butterscotch in her mouth, before remembering Julia lying beside her, motionless, her chest rising and falling with each breath.


    She forced herself to calm down, walking over and sit next to Julia, watching the rain fall from past the covering.


    ¡°We¡¯re getting out of this. I¡¯m gonna make it up to you for being a total dunce.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m super sorry¡­this must suck for you. I¡¯ve never actually fought a Wailing before, so I¡¯m really lost right now.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°But if it helps, I was in a pretty similar spot back as a kid, so¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°Back at the orphanage, I had a friend called Taylor, who was, like, super cool, and had this awesome blonde hair, and they kept asking me to come outside in the woods to throw things.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°Anyway, I did, and while we were out walking, we fell into a pit in the ground. It was way too high to climb, and they didn¡¯t have a Whil, so we were totally trapped there.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°Eventually, they took our food, threw it to a branch, and a bird totally saw it and landed on it, snapping the branch so it fell in the hole. I got on their shoulders and waved the branch around, nearly knocking us both over, and someone from the orphanage saw the branch shaking and rescued us.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°After a few years, they got adopted, and we didn¡¯t really talk anymore. But we still got to throw more things before they left¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I¡¯m all rambly, and you¡¯re still¡­still. This is¡­so scary, and I¡¯m actually¡­terrified. Geez, now I¡¯ve got the breathing problems.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°But we¡¯re getting out of this, and I¡¯ll keep saying it until I don¡¯t have to anymore. You¡¯re my responsibility for now, so j-¡°


    ¡°REEELLLLLLLLLLLLMMMMMM¡­¡±


    Sola instinctively crouched down, dropping her bag of butterscotch, as the unknown sound started ringing through her ears, way closer then it was before. She was silent, huddled into a ball with her hands on her head, desperately wishing the noise would stop and her and Julia could just go home.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°I can¡¯t¡­¡± Harley worried, burying her head into Essex¡¯s shoulder to avoid watching Sola and Julia get hurt anymore.


    ¡°Ferris, pull them out already!¡± Wess argued. ¡°You¡¯ve made your needless point, so stop torturing them!¡±


    Ferris looked to Team Valiant, all giving her looks of severe judgment, before sighing to herself, grabbing the brim of her nose and picking up her tablet.


    ¡°We need an evac on Julia and Sola, ASAP¡­no, they left the¡­yes, I can see the storm¡­well you¡¯re the professional!...I don¡¯t care, just¡­hurry up.¡±


    Ferris put the tablet down with a careful breath. ¡°The pilot¡¯s gonna take longer to find them. Not just cause of the storm, but since they aren¡¯t in the clearing anymore, they¡¯ll be harder to track down.¡±


    ¡°You should have gotten them sooner¡­¡± Harley argued, her head still on Essex¡¯s shoulder.


    ¡°I want to speak to Sola. She should know about our rescue plan.¡± Wess stated.


    ¡°I had a feeling¡­¡± Ferris remarked, as she sat back down to turn the mics on.


    ¡°SSSSSKSKKKKKRKRKRRKRRKRKR-¡°


    Everyone blocked their ears as a piercing sound rang out from the mics.


    ¡°Aahgahh!¡± Ferris cried, turning the mics back off, to everyone¡¯s betterment. ¡°What the hell was that?!¡±


    ¡°Radio¡­static.¡± Essex replied, still reeling. ¡°Something is interfering with Sola¡¯s microphone. But nothing would appear to be on the monitor¡­¡±


    ¡°Maybe the storm is preventing it?¡± Wess reasoned.


    ¡°That is unlikely. She possibly shorted it out when using her Whil against the Wailing.¡± Essex explained. ¡°But it is still working from her end¡­¡±


    ¡°This is getting out of hand.¡± Ferris said, getting up and grabbing her jacket.


    ¡°Oh, now it¡¯s out of hand?¡± Harley complained. ¡°Julia fainting wasn¡¯t the red flag?!¡±


    ¡°Come on.¡± Ferris advised, getting the door. ¡°We¡¯ll get your weapons and meet up with the pilot. We¡¯ll find them easier if it¡¯s all five of us.¡±


    The team ran out the door, charging to their room, as Ferris started to realise what she¡¯d let happen.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°REEELLLLLLLLLLLLMMMMMM¡­¡±


    Sola stayed huddled, trying to drown out everything, before hearing the slight pattered footsteps of the Wailing offspring behind the tree trunk, though much wetter and heavier.


    ¡°You can take them¡­you can take them¡­Julia needs you to take them¡­¡± Sola reassured herself. ¡°I¡¯ll just zap them as best I can, hide Julia, get the supplies from camp, head back in the storm, oh gods, it¡¯s too much¡­¡±


    Sola shook her head and focused herself, breathing in and out and steeling her mind. ¡°Relax, just work the problem. First thing, little Wailing.¡±


    Sola peered through the crack in the tree trunk to assess her opponents but couldn¡¯t make anything clear out.


    ¡°Stupid Sola. Why¡¯d you drop Julia¡¯s gun¡­¡± Sola lamented. Having no other options, she left Julia and jumped out into the small path in the forest where the sounds originated.


    It took a second, but the scene started to make sense once Sola let herself think. While she¡¯d heard the footsteps of the offspring earlier on, it wasn¡¯t them she was hearing now. No, this was much bigger.


    ¡°REEELLLLLLLLLLLLMMMMMM¡­¡± Called out the Wailing facing Sola, fully grown and dwarfing Sola entirely. It looked indistinguishable from the offspring, made of the same grey and red ooze, static running through its body rapidly, but with a more intimidating form and size. It looked to have legs and some sort of head, but almost no form to it whatsoever, as its face was a mass of hard to describe symbols that Sola finally got a glimpse of, stepping back frantically.


    Sola wanted to move, to grab Julia and keep running from the threat that only seemed to increase, but something willed her to stay.


    And try, at the very least.


    ¡°H-h-hey, Jelly Wailing! No hurting us anymore, got it?!¡± Sola cried.


    The Wailing just stared at her, pulsing within its form, before slowly stepping to her with noticeable force and energy. It struggled to enter a run, as each time a limb was formed, it collapsed just as quickly.


    Sola started hyper ventilating, almost ready to pass out, before instinct took over and she raised her hands up to it.


    ¡°Come on, Sola¡­straw in the juice box¡­get the juice¡­¡± She muttered, trying to focus on her Whil, as the noises of the Wailing closed in, squelching against the softened ground with increased vigour.


    Sola opened her eyes for a brief second, before firing several strands of lightning out her fingertips, a few flying off and hitting nearby trees, but one managing to strike the Wailing head on, as its head caved in and left it reeling.


    But¡­


    It kept walking, seeming to have reformed and taken the lightning like it was nothing, leaving Sola completely defenceless as it rushed in, aiming its limb toward her head. Sola narrowly jumped out of the way, behind the trunk Julia still lay behind, as the Wailing destroyed the tree right behind her, splinters flying off in every direction, including Sola¡¯s leg.


    ¡°Agghhh!¡± She cried, trying to ignore the pain ringing out from the bottom of her leg.


    Sola quickly grabbed Julia again, having barely recovered since the last run, and now with sharpened wood sticking out of her calf, and headed away from the Wailing, its cry still ever present from the distance as it searched for her through the storm.


    Sola noticed tears running down her face, as she finally acknowledged that there was nowhere to go and nothing she could do.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Clearing¡¯s five minutes away!¡± The pilot yelled back to Team Valiant and Ferris, now over the forest and bracing against the storm. ¡°We¡¯ll spread out in each direction! You three stay together!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t engage with any Wailing you see. We don¡¯t know what¡¯s out there or what it can do, so only attack in self defence.¡± Ferris clarified, the team nodding back to her. ¡°I don¡¯t need you getting killed.¡±


    Harley stared out the window, still trying to find Sola and Julia amongst all the visual noise.


    ¡°How do you think Sola¡¯s fairing?¡± Wess asked Ferris.


    ¡°¡­I don¡¯t think I can say.¡± Ferris admitted. ¡°Depending on what we¡¯re dealing with, and how dangerous it is, she¡¯ll easily be out of her depth no matter what.¡±


    ¡°Stop belittling her.¡± Harley proclaimed. ¡°She can get out of this.¡±


    Ferris didn¡¯t feel like replying, as the pilot gave her the thumbs up and started dropping down into the clearing.


    ¡°You find them and come straight back! If you get lost, that¡¯s on you!¡± Ferris explained over the storm. ¡°You three check down east, we¡¯ll check west! Watch out for anything suspicious, and avoid anything dangerous!¡±


    The team nodded in confirmation and headed down east, weapons at the ready in case of danger, as Ferris grabbed her sword by the hilt and sighed to herself.


    ¡°You two better be out there¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    After what felt like a never-ending sprint, Sola stumbled upon the best luck she¡¯d had all night.


    A small cave shot out from the ground, just secluded enough from the rain, but big enough to keep Julia far away from anymore danger.


    Sola¡¯s breath was struggling, as she put the last of her energy into laying Julia down again, before hitting the cave floor hard and letting her legs stop for a second.


    She managed herself back up and checked her leg again, noticing the dagger-like wood jutting out of it and deciding that leaving it in was her smartest option, despite the terrible pain it caused. She checked Julia¡¯s vitals again, noticing Julia to be relatively fine, all except for her much colder body after being exposed to the storm. Sola took off her jacket and shirt and wrapped up Julia, now noticing the sharp cold hitting her from the cave entrance, but handling it with backbone.


    She sat next to Julia on the ground, huddling to keep them both warm, and almost letting her emotions get the better of her, but still holding strong.


    Still holding¡­


    ¡°¡­it¡¯s not fair¡­¡± Sola muttered, arms around her legs as she curled into a ball.


    As a sudden push of effort, she stood up with renewed anger.


    ¡°It¡¯s not fair!!!¡±


    She stood against the caves entrance, right against the edge of the storm.


    ¡°Why can¡¯t I do it?! Julia was right there, fighting for her life, and I couldn¡¯t help her! She¡¯s so much better! She deserves better! So why?! Why am I¡­¡±


    She broke down, hitting the ground again.


    ¡°Why am I so useless¡­¡±


    She let the sound of the rain and thunder drown out her crying, trying to maintain some level of dignity in this moment. She was grateful that Julia didn¡¯t have to see her like this.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know what I¡¯m doing¡­Julia shouldn¡¯t be here with stupid, useless me¡­¡±


    She stared into the brutal, unforgiving storm, as lightning danced across the sky in a standout yellow.


    ¡°I¡¯m no Venator¡­I¡¯m a stupid fraud who¡¯s gotten by on a lucky Whil¡­¡±


    Sola didn¡¯t want to acknowledge it, but the ground beneath her was shaking ever so slightly, and she started to hear the noise again. This night was too difficult for her, she wasn¡¯t about to push herself anymore.


    Out of the foliage came the slowly forming mass of the Wailing, trudging along the trail Sola had most likely left. Its offspring had regrouped and gathered around its body, calling out along side it and guiding its slow and deliberate walk.


    Sola looked up as they called out together, the horrid sound ringing throughout the cave. But she wasn¡¯t going to act. She refused to.


    ¡°REEELLLLLLLLLLLLMMMMMM¡­¡±


    No matter what.


    ¡°REEELLLLLLLLLLLLMMMMMM¡­¡±


    Even if Julia...


    ¡°REEELLLLLLLLLLLLMMMMMM¡­¡±


    Even if¡­


    ¡°RREEEEEELLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLMMMMMMMMMMMM¡­¡±


    ¡°No¡­¡± Sola let out, forcing herself to take a bold stance, shielding Julia behind herself. ¡°You¡¯re not touching her. I¡¯ve still got blood in my veins, and as a future Venator¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­you¡¯re not laying a finger on poor sweet Julia!!!¡±


    The Gelatinous Wailing stood in place, thrown off by Sola¡¯s loud shrieking, as the offspring did so to, before Sola entered the rain, her foot limping behind her, unsure of what she could do, but knowing what she should do.


    ¡°Just one clean shot¡­¡± She assured herself, as the thunder rolled on in the background. ¡°But it still wasn¡¯t enough...¡±


    The Wailing resumed their walk, calling out as they did so with their piercing cry.


    Sola refused to be fazed.


    ¡°Come on, Sola. It¡¯s your Whil. It¡¯s all electrons¡­path¡­of least¡­¡± She looked up to the sky, as the lightning from the storm started closing in. ¡°¡­resistance¡­it¡¯s all just¡­¡±


    An idea hit, one that only Sola would''ve come up with.


    The Wailing¡¯s approach drew closer, the ground quaking back and forth with each laboured step it took, as Sola pointed her hands, not toward the Wailing, but toward the sky, crackling with electricity.


    ¡°Resistance¡­¡± Sola recited, breathing in and out and steeling her mind one last time. ¡°No¡­resistance.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°How are we supposed to find them?¡± Wess called out, bracing her arm against her face, blocking out most of the rain. ¡°This forest is massive!¡±


    ¡°She is around here!¡± Essex assured her, scanning the area. ¡°She has left a tra-¡°


    Through the gaps in the trees, a brilliant yellow rang out, blinding in its intensity, grabbing the trio¡¯s attention immediately.


    ¡°Was-¡°


    ¡°Come on!¡± Harley yelled, running to where it impacted, followed quickly by Wess and Essex.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Despite the scene that was unfolding, the wind was silent, for the briefest of moments, almost showing respect to the two beings locked in combat, as everything that night was decided in one final move.


    As a bolt of lightning struck down toward them, it graced its way through the air, aiming for the ground, and landing against Sola, travelling all throughout her body, as she aimed her arms at the now violently fast Wailing approaching at top speed, and striking.


    It took a second.


    The Wailing¡¯s body was already a mass of ooze, with hardly a shape to it at all, but with the strike of lightning that ruptured through and out of its body, the smallest part of it holding itself together finally gave in and left, as it disintegrated against the ground, leaving nothing behind to continue the hunt.


    The offspring witnessed what happened and called to each other, consoling on what to do, as Sola took a step forward, some electricity still coursing through her.


    They took the hint and scattered, folding back into the forest, leaving Sola and Julia in some form of peace.


    Until the bushes started shaking again.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Julia, I¡¯ll prote-¡°


    ¡°Sola!¡± Harley cried, running out from the forest and jumping into Sola¡¯s arms. ¡°You¡¯re here!¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re here!¡± Sola replied, hugging her back. ¡°You guys actually¡­¡±


    ¡°Sola, are you okay? How¡¯s Julia?¡± Wess asked, emerging as well, followed by Essex.


    ¡°I¡¯m all good, but she¡¯s in there.¡± Sola said, pointing to the cave.


    Wess nodded to her and headed in, as Harley refused to let go of Sola for even a second.


    ¡°I will take care of the offspring. I am glad to see you unharmed.¡± Essex declared, hugging Sola quickly before brandishing her scythe and heading back into the forest.


    ¡°Harley?¡±


    ¡°Yeah?¡±


    ¡°Ow.¡±


    Harley backed off. ¡°Sorry, sorry. We just saw you on the feed and¡­your leg!¡± Harley ducked down to inspect it. ¡°Does it hurt?! Can you walk?!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m okay. You should see the tree.¡± Sola said, before shaking her head. ¡°Wait, you saw me?¡±


    Harley nodded. ¡°And¡­well¡­it¡¯s just¡­¡± Harley tried, before just hugging her again. ¡°I never knew you felt so bad about yourself.¡±


    ¡°Harley¡­¡± Sola replied, hugging her back.


    ¡°But you¡¯re amazing¡­and you should know that, even if you don''t think it. I know¡­cause¡­I¡¯ve been there too.¡± Harley admitted, letting the rain drown out her gentle crying.


    ¡°Finally, Sola!¡± Ferris yelled out, now meeting up with the team, with the pilot in tow. ¡°I saw the lightning strike. Where¡¯s the Wailing?¡±


    ¡°I killed the Wailing!¡± Sola proclaimed, proudly posing. ¡°One shot!¡±


    ¡°One¡­¡± Ferris said, before becoming speechless in shock.


    ¡°Holy shit, Sola! You¡¯re incredible!¡± Harley cheered, wiping her eyes and lifting Sola up on her shoulders, being careful not to touch her leg. ¡°Keep doing that and we¡¯ll be the best team for sure!¡±


    ¡°It was kind of a one-time thing, but sure!¡± Sola agreed, as they headed to the cave to check up on Julia, the pilot swinging around the helicopter to pick everyone up and take them home.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    The wind coming into the infirmary was brisk and sharp, as someone had left the window open right above Julia¡¯s bed, dragging her from her sleep.


    ¡°Why am I¡­¡± She mumbled, Sola¡¯s ears perking up beside her, as she swung her arms around Julia.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry! I¡¯m so super duper sorry!¡±


    ¡°Sola, calm down.¡± Julia said, moving her off. ¡°Why am I in the infirmary?¡±


    ¡°Cause we went out on that survival thing, and we found some Wailing, and then you were fighting them, and then I shocked you with my Whil and you passed out, and then I had to protect you while they chased me all through the storm with splinters in my leg, and then the lightni-¡°


    Julia leaned over and hugged Sola, getting her to stop talking.


    ¡°Did you get hurt?¡± Julia asked.


    ¡°I mean, I got those splinters, but that took, like, a day to heal.¡±


    ¡°So, you had to drag me away from a Wailing for a whole night, and I¡¯m the only one who got seriously hurt?¡± Julia rhetorically asked.


    ¡°Well, my legs are still pretty sore¡­¡± Sola admitted, getting a giggle out of Julia.


    ¡°Sola, you¡¯re incredible.¡± Julia complimented, laughing to herself. ¡°Now, please tell me everything.¡±


    A solid hour or two had passed, with Sola recapping the night¡¯s events to Julia and the four days in the infirmary, where Sola clarified she visited everyday to check up on Julia. The nurse came over during the story and told Julia it was okay to leave, but both insisted on staying as Sola finished her story, as Julia reacted in about the way you¡¯d expect.


    ¡°In one hit?!¡± She exclaimed.


    ¡°Bam! Done! Like it was nothing!¡± Sola exclaimed.


    ¡°Julia!¡± Harley cheered, running into the infirmary with Wess and Essex.


    ¡°Sola¡¯s recounting it again, huh?¡± Wess asked.


    ¡°Yes, she was.¡± Julia said. ¡°Hey, I really want to apologise for making you all worry about me. I¡¯m the leader of the team, I should really know bett-¡°


    ¡°Stop, don¡¯t do that.¡± Harley interrupted. ¡°You did nothing wrong, and neither did Sola. You both did everything you could. This is just something that¡¯s gonna happen to us in the future.¡±


    ¡°And something to be prepared for next time.¡± Essex stated.


    ¡°But we appreciate you worrying.¡± Wess added, grabbing Julia¡¯s hand comfortingly.


    ¡°There you are!¡± Called out Ferris from the hallway, making her way into the infirmary. ¡°I¡¯ve been trying to find you for the past few days, Sola.¡±


    The team stayed silent and didn¡¯t acknowledge her, as Ferris continued on. ¡°You¡¯ve made a real breakthrough in your Whil training. I don¡¯t shout praise a lot, but after an event like that, even I have to admit you¡¯re on your way to directing your own Whil.¡±


    Sola refused to say anything, as she stood up and left in silence, followed by the rest of the team, carrying Julia along with them, before they headed back to their dorm room, leaving Ferris without a response.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    By the time they got back it was already evening, as the dorm hallway lights had been dimmed and the sky outside was beautifully lit. Team Valiant dutifully walked Julia back into their room, as she kept insisting that she was fine and didn¡¯t need the help. The last one to enter was Sola, making especially sure that Julia was doing okay, as she spotted Ferris appear from around the corner, out of breath from having run to catch up with them.


    The team noticed Ferris and looked to Sola, who nodded in appreciation and closed the door, as Ferris finally caught up with her.


    ¡°Sola¡­I need to say something.¡±


    Sola folded her arms.


    ¡°¡­fair response.¡± Ferris said. ¡°Sola¡­I¡¯m not the bad guy here. I was doing what was best to prepare you for being a Venator. It was dangerous, but that¡¯s what the real thing¡¯s like.¡±


    ¡°You could¡¯ve gotten me and Julia killed.¡±


    Ferris swallowed. ¡°¡­you needed that push. Nothing I could do was working, so it was the only way I could get you to improve.¡±


    Sola didn¡¯t reply.


    ¡°It¡¯s not been easy teaching you. You haven¡¯t seen the worst of it. Some of us weren¡¯t lucky enough to have this lesson drilled in so early¡­but that¡¯s not what I¡¯m here for.¡± Ferris said. ¡°You did something remarkable, and you deserve something in return. So¡­¡±


    Ferris bowed to Sola, in full humility and shame.


    ¡°Thank you.¡±


    Sola took a second to process, as Ferris stood back up and walked away, unsure if she made the right impression, as Sola silently reflected on what she said. Struggling to make heads or tails, Sola called it a night and headed inside with her team for a night of well earned rest and relaxation, as the wind outside finally calmed down.

 Chapter 12: Home Sweet Home

    ¡°You did what?!¡±


    Ferris sat silently at the foot of Faller¡¯s desk, as Faller tried to control his breathing after the news he¡¯d just heard.


    ¡°None of the students involved wer-¡°


    ¡°I don¡¯t wanna hear it, Ferris!¡± Faller yelled. ¡°By Whilit itself, what were you thinking?!¡±


    ¡°¡­one of the students was struggling with her Whil training, so I-¡°


    ¡°So, you put her AND her team leader¡¯s life in danger?!¡± Faller exclaimed, holding his head in his hands. ¡°Why can¡¯t you teach like a normal teacher?!¡±


    ¡°Alright, you can get off my back! You told me to do this job, so I¡¯m doing it!¡± Ferris complained, getting out of her chair. ¡°If you wanna micromanage everything I do, get someone else who¡¯ll be your bitch!¡±


    Faller stood up to pace around the room, before slowing down and leaning back against his desk. ¡°¡­you know I can¡¯t do that.¡± He reminded her, holding his hand to his mouth. ¡°I thought of all people, you¡¯d understand why endangering others only creates more problems.¡±


    Ferris swallowed her pride and sat back down, as she looked to be properly licked by his comment. ¡°¡­so it won¡¯t happen again.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re damn right it won¡¯t happen again.¡± Faller repeated. ¡°In case you forgot, I¡¯m the principal, and as a teacher, you¡¯re on really thin ice. No more taking students off of campus, period.¡±


    ¡°¡­as you wish, sir.¡± Ferris bit back, as Faller tapped his fingers against the desk.


    He made his way back to his chair, before slumping back tiredly and familiarising himself with Team Valiant¡¯s academy folder. ¡°Poor Team Valiant¡­¡±


    ¡°Like I said, none of them retained permanent injuries.¡± Ferris reiterated.


    ¡°Ferris, just¡­¡± Faller started, before stopping himself. ¡°They¡¯re a first-year team who¡¯s already come face to face with three Wailing.¡± Faller lamented. ¡°The fact that they¡¯ve gotten out unscathed each time is a miracle.¡±


    ¡°Or luck.¡±


    ¡°Or luck.¡± Faller admitted. ¡°We may need to keep an eye on them for their own safety. Maybe Dulce can visit them every now and then¡­¡±


    Faller rested his palm against his forehead. ¡°Thank goodness they can recover during their semester break.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°¡­but you can¡¯t help helping¡­ when I¡¯m just fine¡­got a list of reasons¡­but you crossed the line¡­¡±


    Julia sang to herself, sorting out her suitcase from atop her bed. She finished packing her clothes while leaving just enough room for her alarm clock and Maxie. She looked back at the Team Spectrum posters plastering the wall above her bottom bunk. ¡°I guess I don¡¯t really need to bring those¡­¡±


    Just then, she noticed the door open to the dorm, as Harley came in and noticed Julia moving about.


    ¡°Julia, you said you¡¯d take it easy.¡± Harley said, resting her hands on her hips.


    ¡°I¡¯m only packing a suitcase.¡± Julia excused. ¡°And the nurse said I was okay to leave.¡±


    ¡°You went into shock for four days, and the nurse said no overexerting yourself.¡± Harley argued, as the others followed in behind her.


    ¡°Oh, come on, Harley. If Julia says she¡¯s fine, I believe her.¡± Wess disagreed, moving to her and Julia¡¯s bunk and checking her own suitcase.


    ¡°Are you sure you¡¯re feeling okay?¡± Sola asked, hopping over to check Julia¡¯s temperature. ¡°Cause it¡¯s okay if you aren¡¯t.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m fine. Really.¡± Julia assured her, as Essex came over to check her temperature as well.


    ¡°You would appear to be fine.¡± Essex agreed. ¡°I commend you on your recovery.¡±


    ¡°Sola did the brunt of the work.¡± Julia admitted, giving a good-natured smile.


    Harley didn¡¯t seem convinced but shrugged it off with the rest of the team. ¡°Well anyway, you don¡¯t need to keep packing. You¡¯re more ready than any of us.¡±


    ¡°Not true.¡± Wess added, showing her fully packed suitcase with a matching blue bow. ¡°My beautiful home of Mareau has been calling to me, and I refuse to leave it any longer.¡±


    Julia leaned over to her bed and grabbed Maxie. ¡°I needed to make room for him so he wouldn¡¯t get hurt. His fabric¡¯s very delicate.¡±


    ¡°I would agree. It is.¡± Essex added, as Harley snickered.


    ¡°Okay. Guess you¡¯re only packing essentials then.¡± Harley said. ¡°Still, two weeks off back in Denilee Town¡¯s exactly what I needed after this first semester.¡±


    Sola rushed out of the team¡¯s study to grab her things. ¡°I wish you guys could come to Mykonori. It¡¯s so pretty this time of year. And there¡¯s a big statue!¡±


    ¡°Maybe we could visit each other¡¯s houses next year?¡± Julia suggested. ¡°We could all go see Denilee, or Mareau, if Wess is still part of the team.¡±


    Wess looked a bit befuddled before answering. ¡°Y-yes, of course.¡±


    ¡°You guys are lucky, though. I just get to stay in Detu City for the fortnight.¡± Julia added. ¡°But it¡¯s gonna be good seeing dad again.¡±


    Harley smiled to herself, before turning back to Essex. ¡°Got any plans for your trip?¡±


    ¡°I will not be leaving for anywhere.¡± Essex answered. ¡°The Segaru Clan does not have a fixed location, and communication with them is¡­inefficient.¡±


    Harley cocked her head. ¡°Slow wi-fi?¡±


    ¡°Handwritten letters.¡±


    ¡°Ooo, old school.¡± Harley exclaimed. ¡°So, you¡¯re staying on campus?¡±


    ¡°Dal. I will be training for the fortnight.¡± Essex replied, displaying her scythe by her side. ¡°I will appreciate the quiet.¡±


    ¡°If I felt like it, I might tempt you away with Mareau¡¯s siren-like beauty.¡± Wess pointed out, closing her suitcase. ¡°But the temptation of time to myself is all too alluring.¡±


    ¡°You can always come over to my place. I¡¯m sure dad can set up an extra bed.¡± Julia suggested. ¡°But he¡¯s pretty busy, so you¡¯d need to do some chores now and then.¡±


    ¡°Grela. I appreciate the offer.¡± Essex said, before going back to polishing her scythe, as the others continued their idle packing for the next day¡¯s trip. After about an hour of checking and double checking the essentials, the exhaustion was starting to hit.


    ¡°We¡¯re¡­only packing suitcases. Why is this so exhausting?¡± Wess said, having helped pack down all of Sola¡¯s mugs into her bag. ¡°I¡¯m somewhat glad we can¡¯t travel with our weapons yet. Carrying all my clothing along with Belvedere might have just killed me.¡±


    ¡°Alright, good job everyone.¡± Julia congratulated, getting up off the floor. ¡°Who wants lemonade?¡±


    ¡°Me!¡± Sola immediately replied, before straining her hand. ¡°Ow.¡±


    Harley turned to Julia. ¡°Julia, you should be resti-¡°


    ¡°I¡¯m fine, stop worrying.¡± Julia insisted. ¡°I doubt the lemons are gonna try to hurt me.¡±


    Harley watched Julia slip into the kitchen, humming to herself as she juiced, before she turned to Essex on the floor, resting with the rest of them.


    ¡°Guys.¡± Harley said, insisting they huddle together. ¡°I¡¯m worried Julia might be putting on a brave face.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s merely paranoia.¡± Wess whispered. ¡°We know she¡¯s perfectly healthy.¡±


    Sola''s eyes lit up. ¡°But what if she isn¡¯t, and then she needs help when we¡¯re all away?¡± Sola posed. ¡°Her dad¡¯s real busy, right?¡±


    ¡°If this would be a good idea, I might stay with her during the fortnight.¡± Essex suggested.


    ¡°Are you sure? I don¡¯t wanna ruin your plans.¡± Harley said.


    ¡°It would be no trouble. I will watch over her as she recovers.¡±


    ¡°If you insist on this, don¡¯t let her know about your intentions. She¡¯s awfully prideful when she wants to be.¡± Wess added.


    ¡°Understood.¡± Essex replied, getting up to leave for the kitchen, as Julia finished cutting up the lemons.


    Julia noticed her over her shoulder and smiled. ¡°Hey, Essex.¡±


    ¡°I wish to accept your earlier offer.¡±


    Julia turned around shocked. ¡°Really?¡±


    ¡°I¡­would like to see your family¡­unit.¡±


    Julia jumped over to her in a hug. ¡°Of course you can come over! I¡¯m so excited to show you everything! And you get to meet my dad!¡±


    ¡°I will do what is required.¡± Essex said, before Julia pulled her into another hug, as the others cautiously watched from around the corner.


    ¡°Why does she have to be so nice?¡± Harley asked.


    ¡°Cause she¡¯s Julia?¡± Sola suggested.


    ¡°Cause she¡¯s Julia.¡± Harley reiterated.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Everyone packed?¡±


    The rest of the team showed their fully packed luggage on display, all clearly ready considering they had all just arrived at the train station.


    ¡°Oh, I guess we are.¡± Julia laughed. ¡°Sorry, stupid question.¡±


    ¡°It is best to be sure regardless.¡± Essex reminded her.


    ¡°I¡¯m really gonna miss you guys.¡± Harley admitted, clearly a little down. ¡°I¡¯m happy to go home and all, but it¡¯s gonna be weird waking up by myself.¡±


    *ding dong*


    The bell chimed out over the intercom, as a train marked for Mareau rolled into the station.


    ¡°Anything but.¡± Wess cheerfully muttered, heading over to the train, before looking to her dejected team and remembering her manners. ¡°Apologies. That was quite rude of me, but I¡¯ve been ever so homesick.¡±


    Wess dragged her bags onto the train. ¡°Lo reme. I shall see you in a fortnight.¡±


    ¡°Bye!¡± The others waved, as the train pulled out of the station.


    ¡°Text us when you get there!¡± Julia added, watching the Flash-Rail pull out into the middle distance and sighing to herself.


    ¡°D-do we have to go on t-trains? Can¡¯t I get a t-taxi or something?¡± Sola asked, fidgeting a little.


    Harley rested against her bag. ¡°Still haven¡¯t gotten over your fear?¡±


    Sola shook her head madly.


    ¡°Sorry, boo, but you¡¯ll just have to manage.¡± Harley said, as the speakers called out and her train rolled. ¡°I can¡¯t come with ya on this one.¡±


    Sola moped to herself, as Harley leaned down and patted her head assuringly. ¡°You¡¯ll be okay. You took out a Wailing all on your own. A train¡¯s nothing compared to that.¡±


    Sola¡¯s sadness lifted once she heard Harley¡¯s comments, as she pumped her fists in front of herself. ¡°Yeah! I did do that!¡±


    ¡°Keep kicking ass while I¡¯m gone.¡± Harley insisted, as she jumped onto her train. ¡°Text me if you guys get laid back home!¡±


    ¡°Y-you know I won¡¯t do that!¡± Julia called out, as her train left the station too. ¡°I know these Flash-Rail¡¯s are quicker than older trains, but I really wish we didn¡¯t have to leave each other s-¡°


    As she was saying that, Julia noticed Sola already on her train, looking side to side awkwardly, before waving goodbye and bracing as the train pulled out from the station.


    ¡°Bye.¡±


    ¡°Bye, Sola!¡± Julia cried, desperate for her to hear the goodbye.


    ¡°Dovono! We shall see each other soon!¡± Essex added, watching Sola wave back, as she turned to Julia with expectance. ¡°Will we be riding the train as well?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, sorry about that. Dad would¡¯ve picked us up, but he¡¯s got another work shift.¡± Julia excused.


    ¡°Understood.¡± Essex replied, as the two watched the Flash-Rail for the northern suburbs of Detu City arrive.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, we can still hang out together. I don¡¯t think I¡¯ve ever had a friend over to my house. Other than Florey, but that was when we were kids, and Kitty, but it may be a little different from that. I wonder if dad changed my room or not. He probably did, into, like, a pool room or something. He¡¯s pretty efficient with space and all¡­¡± Julia mumbled, before staring at a confused Essex sitting across from her. ¡°Sorry.¡±


    ¡°Do not apologise. I am glad that you are passionate about your home.¡± Essex said, showing her temporary weapons permit to the steward and resting her scythe by her side. ¡°I wish to show the same enthusiasm when you see the Segaru Clan.¡±


    ¡°Oh yeah! Harley keeps dropping fun facts about what it¡¯s supposed to be like.¡± Julia said, as the duo felt the train pull out of the station. ¡°Not a ton, though. Apparently, your clan isn¡¯t very well documented.¡±


    ¡°We are not partial to modern technology, and we do not spend time writing or telling stories. I am less strict about technology.¡± Essex clarified. ¡°But I refuse to use my tablet anymore than I have.¡±


    Julia giggled cutely, as the city coasted by beside her through the window, flashing the same skyscrapers and streets she¡¯d gazed at time to time from the Venator Academy. It still amazed her how much the city had grown in just the last few decades, at least from what she¡¯d read of its history.


    Essex noticed Julia¡¯s captured interest and decided to join her, before they passed right over the HyperMall, still rebuilding the Southeast wing after the Wailing attack from a few months ago. From what they could see, the J-Store was still in utter disrepair, as Julia and Essex pulled back to avoid any painful reminders.


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­we are working in a dangerous industry.¡±


    ¡°¡­yeah.¡± Julia agreed, before showing Essex a warm smile. ¡°I¡¯m glad I¡¯m with great people like you.¡±


    Essex smiled as well. ¡°I would agree. I have been fortunate enough to be part of an excellent team.¡±


    The duo let the moment breathe, as the train slowly careened into the stop, just a five-minute walk away from Julia¡¯s house.


    Julia and Essex hopped off with their suitcases, as they passed through Julia¡¯s neighbourhood, which she admittedly wasn¡¯t very familiar with, and ended up at a cozy house by the middle of the street with a slightly rusty ¡®22¡¯ on the front.


    ¡°This is it.¡± Julia prefaced, as she fished around in her pocket for the key. ¡°I hope it¡¯s not too small for you.¡±


    Essex gave the house a once over. ¡°I have lived in a room at the best of times and nothing at the worst. Your generosity is appreciated.¡±


    ¡°I think we¡¯ll be sharing my room, but I¡¯m glad my humble abode suits you.¡± Julia grinned, as she used her key and opened the front door, befo-


    ¡°Julia!¡±


    Julia blinked. ¡°Dad?¡±


    Her dad pulled her into a gracious hug, spinning her around happily. ¡°How¡¯s my girl?¡±


    ¡°Di-zzy.¡± Julia replied, as he put her down gently. ¡°Y-you said you were working. What happened to your shift?¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t have one.¡± He grinned. ¡°I wanted to surprise you once you got home.¡±


    ¡°Dad, don¡¯t lie about that! You could¡¯ve driven us!¡± Julia complained, as he snickered to himself politely.


    ¡°Sorry, but I couldn¡¯t resist.¡± He said, before spotting Essex on the sidelines, trying to find a moment to join in. ¡°And this is your teammate, right? Uhh¡­¡±


    Essex bowed. ¡°Aerlo decali. My title is Essex. I thank yo-¡°


    ¡°Essex! That¡¯s it!¡± He exclaimed, snapping his fingers, before realising he interrupted her. ¡°Sorry. You were saying?¡±


    ¡°I thank you for letting me stay in your residence, Mr Alpine.¡± She finished.


    ¡°It¡¯s no problem at all, and call me Milo.¡± He smiled. ¡°You¡¯re the teammate from¡­Mykonori, right?¡±


    ¡°Dad, that¡¯s Sola.¡± Julia corrected. ¡°Essex is from the Segaru Clan.¡±


    ¡°No shit.¡± Milo said, before stopping himself. ¡°Oh, uhh, is your clan, like, cool with swearing?¡±


    ¡°It is no problem.¡± Essex replied, before clearing her throat and speaking. ¡°Ass.¡±


    The moment passed, before Milo burst out laughing and pulled Julia over for a brief aside.


    ¡°I really like her.¡± He said.


    Julia grinned happily. ¡°Me too.¡±


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you run her to your room, and I¡¯ll whip something up for you guys?¡± Milo suggested.


    Julia hugged him, before going for her bags. ¡°Alright, lets make some tra-¡°


    Julia stopped by the doorway, as she noticed Essex down on the ground, bowing toward the house with her head to the ground.


    Milo stepped over casually. ¡°Does she normally do this?¡±


    ¡°No?¡± Julia answered, before looking back down at her and realising what she wanted. ¡°Oh! I think she wants permission to come in.¡±


    ¡°¡­huh.¡± Milo said, before leaning down to her. ¡°You, uhh, you can come in. You¡¯re allowed.¡±


    ¡°Grelo. Thank you for the accomodation.¡± Essex replied, as she got back up and grabbed her suitcases and scythe, following Julia inside.


    ¡°Just drop your stuff off in Julia¡¯s room. You¡¯ll have to share some space with the pool table.¡± Milo admitted, as he got to work in the kitchen.


    Julia and Essex navigated through the hallway, before Julia found her room, somewhat stripped bare after she¡¯d moved her effects to the academy, and after Milo had inevitably turned it into a pool room. A makeshift bed was set up beside Julia¡¯s, with some overly cutesy bedsheets covering it.


    ¡°Oh, sorry about those.¡± Julia apologised, finally letting her bags down. ¡°We¡¯ve only got so many sheets.¡±


    ¡°It is no problem.¡± Essex excused, dropping her bags too, before looking out Julia¡¯s window over the backyard.


    Julia sidled up next to Essex and stared out alongside her. ¡°This is gonna be so good!¡± She jumped over and wrapped her arms around Essex. ¡°You¡¯re gonna love it, I promise!¡±


    Essex turned to her and nodded. ¡°I am sure that I will.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°¡­it¡¯s the same old story¡­but let me see¡­what I can do for you¡­eventually¡­¡± Harley sang to herself, before sighing openly. ¡°Dammit, Julia. Why¡¯d you get it stuck in my head¡­¡±


    Harley leaned against the window, as her train finally crossed over into the Southern Wayside, revealing its characteristic orange and yellow foliage and bountiful rolling hills of forests and plains. Every kilometre was a new plot of farmland, with herds of animals gallivanting across its landscape and crops stretching off into the distance, with the occasional prominent house to break up the pattern.


    ¡°The country at its finest.¡± Harley remarked to herself, admiring the view for what was an admittedly short trip, which ended far sooner than she expected.


    ¡°Next stop: Hayfith. Five minutes to departure.¡±


    Harley climbed off with her bags, taking in the fresh sight of Denilee after so long without it.


    ¡°Home, sweet home.¡± She grinned.


    Harley made her way down the main street, feeling the same comfortable claustrophobia from the ring of orange and yellow trees surrounding the town. She passed by each store, greeting the owners as she went by, seeing which stores had changed over since a few months ago. She found a familiar path shooting off from a side road, leading through parts of the forest and up the nearby hillside, before she spotted her familiar family cottage, standing proudly off the grain running past the back of the house.


    And of course, her dad Davidson doing maintenance work on the tractor.


    He took a brief break to cool himself down, noticing Harley¡¯s figure down the hill, before beaming joyously and waving at her. ¡°Harley! Hey Will, Harley¡¯s here!¡±


    William popped his head out from the kitchen window. ¡°Already? I thought we were picking her up at the station?¡±


    ¡°I guess she beat us to it.¡± Davidson said, as Harley hurried up the hill with her bags. ¡°How was the trip?¡±


    ¡°Gorgeous as ever!¡± Harley called out, dropping her bags and greeting her dad with a hug. ¡°Is the tractor still acting up?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I keep banging away at it, but this piece of shit¡¯s never gonna work the way I want it.¡± Davidson explained, as William opened the front door and joined them.


    ¡°David, don¡¯t swear in front of Harley.¡± William said, leaning over to give Harley a welcome hug too. ¡°We could¡¯ve come and gotten you.¡±


    ¡°You know I like strolling through main street.¡± Harley remarked. ¡°Plus, you two are busy.¡±


    ¡°Oh, come on. Your dads can spare five minutes to drive to the station and back.¡± William explained, ruffling her hair. ¡°Go move your stuff inside. I wanna hear all about the Venator Academy.¡±


    ¡°Spare no details.¡± Davidson added, getting an ashamed smirk from William.


    ¡°Well, funnily enough, you¡¯ll never guess who¡¯s in my year.¡± Harley said, dragging her bags up to her room and rushing back down.


    ¡°Who?¡±


    ¡°Chops.¡±


    Both of her dads blinked. ¡°Really?¡± Davidson asked.


    ¡°Our Chops a Venator? I thought she was going to join that activist group in the Eastern Wayside.¡± William wondered aloud, as Harley rolled her eyes.


    ¡°Guys, you don¡¯t need to constantly monitor her life. We broke up ages ago.¡±


    Davidson and William looked to each other.


    ¡°Do you think she didn¡¯t want to go?¡± Davidson asked.


    ¡°She was so sure of it when she left. Should we call her?¡± William posed.


    Harley sat in the kitchen and cleared her throat. ¡°Hi, this is your daughter. She¡¯d like to talk about herself already.¡±


    William blushed a little, before joining her in the kitchen. ¡°Oh, sorry. Guess I got carried away.¡±


    ¡°You know how fond we are of Chops.¡± Davidson clarified, wrapping his hand around William¡¯s waist. ¡°Now, how¡¯s the team? You keep gushing about them over text.¡±


    Harley¡¯s eyes lit up. ¡°Well, they¡¯re probably the best team ever. I¡¯ve told you about Julia and Sola, and Essex too, and¡­I¡¯m still not sure if she¡¯s gonna stay with the team¡­but there¡¯s also Wess.¡±


    ¡°Wess? Isn¡¯t that a Northern Waysider name?¡± Davidson asked.


    Harley nodded. ¡°Apparently, she¡¯s part of some rich family, real aristocratic types.¡±


    ¡°Did you hear that? Harley¡¯s making friends with millionaires.¡± Davidson bragged, as William rolled his eyes.


    ¡°So, what¡¯s she like? I hope she hasn¡¯t been treating you rough.¡± William asked, stroking his beard.


    Harley avoided eye contact. ¡°Well¡­at first, but she¡¯s kinda warmed up to us. I think Julia really helped with that. But, if anything, it¡¯s just made me really curious about her home-life. What kinda living situation could make someone like her?¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    In all of Wess¡¯ life, she¡¯d only ever travelled outside of the Northern Wayside a handful of times, usually by her parents¡¯ request accompanying them to some social function. Considering their pension for high-end business, these gatherings rarely required her, but she came along when requested and did her part dutifully, even if this only lead to protests later on in Wess¡¯ life.


    The only exception to this so far had been her move to Central Point and the Venator Academy, accompanied by Graham, her caretaker, which had been her decision, and one her parents despised whenever they were reminded of it.


    Needless to say, Wess was in a deep malaise about coming home.


    That wasn¡¯t to say the trip there was a waste. The comfortable winter landscape gave her a beautiful feeling of nostalgia, she got to pass over the famous Fection Bridge, and was able to take in Mt Cavalier once the train had stopped in Coureta. Of course, she didn¡¯t get out at Coureta, and took great pride in that fact, but once the train ride continued, she felt the ever-present pit in her stomach return, all the way to Mareau.


    ¡­what could I possibly say¡­


    Wess played with her hair as she stared out the window, trying to make out shapes in the snow.


    The view of Mareau closed in, the imposing mountainside encasing the city in its vicelike grip becoming clearer through the deepening frosted fog. The city stood proudly inside the carved-out indent of the mountains, shielded from the elements and allowed to flourish, as the glow of its lights became all the more noticeable the closer the train came.


    Wess let out a sigh of fortuitous relief as the train stopped. She grabbed her suitcases and cleared through the busy train terminal, before finding her family¡¯s car parked outside amidst the crowd and hopping in.


    ¡°Straight to the house, madam?¡± The driver asked.


    ¡°If you could.¡± Wess replied, as the car headed past the neighbourhood and through the city.


    ¡°It¡¯s good to have you back here, madam.¡± The driver said. "I hope your trip wasn''t too extraneous."


    Wess smiled. ¡°Jill, you can call me Wess.¡±


    ¡°Oh, right. Sorry.¡± Jill apologised. ¡°I¡¯m just not used to it after so long.¡±


    Wess let out an earned breath. ¡°I can imagine.¡±


    ¡°How long will you be staying?¡±


    ¡°Two weeks. Enough to rejuvenate my cultured spirit.¡± Wess admitted, getting a guilty laugh out of Jill, as they continued in silence to Wess¡¯ family home, just up the sloped streets of Mareau and raised high above the others.


    Oh, right. I should text the team that I arrived.


    Wess pulled out her tablet and typed out a message, as Jill pulled into the driveway and up to the front doors. Wess grabbed her bags and stepped out, assessing the giant manor before stepping forward.


    She hesitated before knocking on the door.


    There was silence once she did, before she noticed it open slowly, revealing Graham, as well dressed as ever, with a surprised expression she wasn¡¯t expecting.


    ¡°We-¡°


    ¡°Wess, dear? Is that you?¡± Came a voice from behind the door, as Wess¡¯ mother stepped into frame. ¡°My dear, you¡¯ve returned in one piece. Oh, and you don¡¯t have that sword anymore. That¡¯s a shame.¡±


    This novel''s true home is a different platform. Support the author by finding it there.


    Wess sighed out before coming inside. ¡°I merely left it in my dorm. We aren¡¯t allowed to travel with our weapons yet.¡±


    ¡°Still, it was weighing you down.¡± She critiqued, before approaching Wess and cupping her cheeks. ¡°How are you, dear?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡± Wess said, moving her mother¡¯s hands off her face. ¡°The academy and my team have taken very good care of me.¡±


    ¡°Your team?¡± She asked, before scoffing a little. ¡°So, you¡¯re the leader then?¡±


    ¡°¡­no, no, not quite.¡± Wess corrected. ¡°That would be Julia.¡±


    ¡°¡­well, it makes no difference to me.¡± Her mother replied, before grasping her hand. ¡°Come, one of the help will drop off your bags. We must get you out of those clothes.¡±


    Wess stopped. ¡°What¡¯s wrong with my clothes?¡±


    Her mother smiled, before squinting. ¡°Dear, please.¡±


    Wess felt herself instinctively holding back, as her mother headed up the main staircase to Wess¡¯ room. Wess looked back to find Graham, but realised he had left when her mother had entered the picture, most likely to take care of one of her requests.


    Home feels as welcoming as I remember¡­


    ¡°Come now. No dawdling.¡± Her mother called, as Wess followed her up the stairs, desperately wanting to avoid an argument this fortnight, if she could manage it, that is.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    While the trip was made slightly less enjoyable by the inclusion of train travel, Sola was able to manage her way through it with an impressive amount of conviction. Aishinara Forest was large and featureless enough to let her zone out and pretty much sleep for the whole ride. Fortunately, Julia¡¯s influence must have been rubbing off on her, as she set herself an alarm right before the train stopped in Mykonori, just as it skirted the coastline.


    ¡°Whoa¡­¡±


    The waves crashed against the cliff side, spraying the windows of the train as it passed over the water, as Sola finally saw the Colossus of Mykos and the pristine white architecture of Mykonori shining from around the bend.


    The train pulled into the station, just above the beaches and water, as Sola¡¯s mother was waiting outside with their car.


    Sola jumped down the stairs with her bags, momentarily panicking her mother, before she hurried to the car.


    ¡°Hi mum!¡±


    ¡°¡­hey dear.¡± She replied, relieved she was okay and grabbing her in for a hug. ¡°You can¡¯t do that to me at my age. Old Maxine here¡¯s not as young as she used to be¡­¡±


    ¡°Okay!¡± Sola said, stuffing her bags in the back.


    ¡°Make any friends in Central Point?¡± Maxine asked, getting into the driver¡¯s seat.


    Sola nodded excitedly. ¡°Yeah! I¡¯ve got my team, which you know about, and Team Vanguard, which you also know about, and Donovan from Team Instinct, which I also told you about, and Dorothy, obviousl-¡°


    Maxine raised her hand briefly. ¡°I meant any new friends.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± Sola said. ¡°No.¡±


    Maxine raised an eyebrow and sighed, before driving them both home. ¡°Well, that sounds like enough anyway. Are your classes any good?¡±


    ¡°Sorta. I¡¯ve got real fun ones like Venator History, but then there¡¯s Whil App with Ferris which is so hard, also just so you know, I got hunted by a Wailing while out on an excursion with Julia, but anywa-¡°


    Maxine stopped the car dead. ¡°What?!¡±


    Sola looked side to side. ¡°Was it the excursion thing?¡±


    ¡°Obviously!¡± Maxine cried, before sinking into her seat. ¡°Why didn¡¯t you tell me sooner?!¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t want to text you about it.¡± Sola explained. ¡°I wanted to tell you in person so you wouldn¡¯t worry. If I texted you, you¡¯d assume the worst¡­¡±


    Maxine forced herself to calm down and sighed out loud, before patting Sola¡¯s head. ¡°I¡¯m your mother. I can¡¯t help but assume the worst.¡±


    ¡°But I don¡¯t have to make the worst even worse!¡± Sola protested. ¡°So, just to make it clear, I¡¯m okay, and Julia¡¯s okay.¡±


    Maxine took another second to breathe. ¡°You can¡¯t just drop that on me. I thought you were gonna tell me you got stabbed or something!¡±


    ¡°¡­sorry.¡± Sola muttered, realising her mistake, as Maxine gazed at her through her hand.


    Maxine sat back up and continued driving. ¡°I guess I¡¯ll have to get used to this. You¡¯re gonna be a Venator, after all. I can¡¯t expect the Wailing to go easy on you.¡±


    ¡°But I can hold my own!¡± Sola vehemently added. ¡°I took that Wailing out all by myself once I got the chance!¡±


    ¡°Did you?¡± Maxine asked, clear pride in her voice. ¡°Maybe I¡¯ve got nothing to worry about...¡±


    Sola happily sat back down, kicking her legs back and forth, as they pulled up to their house, sitting on the edge of one of Mykonori¡¯s numerous cliffs.


    Maxine unlocked the door, as Sola came in to see her dad Wayne reading the paper by the kitchen, lifting his head once she came in.


    ¡°Hi dad!¡±


    ¡°Hey, kid.¡± He said, putting the paper down and bringing her into a hug. ¡°How¡¯s your Venator school?¡±


    ¡°Super great!¡± Sola beamed. ¡°I met a bunch of great people and I¡¯m getting better with my Whil an-¡°


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ve been telling him.¡± Maxine cleared up, as she leaned over and kissed Wayne¡¯s cheek. ¡°Apparently, Sola took out a Wailing all on her own.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Wayne asked, as Sola nodded happily. ¡°Guess we must have down something right.¡±


    ¡°Yeah! And I¡¯m way better with my Whil too!¡± Sola reiterated. ¡°Can I show you guys? It¡¯s way less crazy now, and I¡¯m burning less trees!¡±


    Wayne rubbed his neck awkwardly. ¡°Oh, I would kid, but I really shouldn¡¯t be moving around all that much.¡± Wayne explained, as Maxine came over and rested a hand on his shoulder.


    ¡°Doctor Peters is giving him the works. Frankly, he should be in bed right now.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll go to bed when I need to.¡± Wayne excused. ¡°Sorry. I¡¯ll see how I¡¯m feeling later this week.¡±


    Sola looked a little disappointed, but seemed to bounce back quite quickly. ¡°Okay! I¡¯m gonna go set up my room again.¡±


    Sola rushed down the hall, as Maxine watched her go longingly. ¡°It¡¯ll be good to get some energy back in the house.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m just worried that we can¡¯t keep up.¡± Wayne professed.


    Maxine rubbed his shoulder. ¡°I don¡¯t think we ever have.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Julia slowly woke up to her alarm, deliberately set later to let her sleep in, and an empty bed next to hers, as Essex came through the door abruptly.


    ¡°My apologies. I did not me-¡°


    ¡°No, it¡¯s alright Essex.¡± Julia said, stretching her arms. ¡°I was just waking up. Did you go on a run?¡±


    ¡°No. I was aiding your fathe¡­Milo with the chores.¡± Essex explained. ¡°¡®Doing the dishes,¡¯ as he had called it.¡±


    ¡°I did warn you.¡± Julia giggled. ¡°I guess it has been a few days. Man, I could so have breakfast right now.¡±


    ¡°Vonodo, let me get it for you.¡± Essex asked, as Julia hopped herself out of bed.


    ¡°Nonsense. This is your break as well.¡± Julia said. ¡°I¡¯ll just get changed and meet you out there.¡±


    ¡°Understood.¡± Essex replied, exiting back out the door and heading to the lounge room, only to be joined by Julia a few minutes later, distracted by the TV.


    ¡°Whatcha watching?¡± Julia asked, dropping onto the couch next to her.


    ¡°It is called ¡®The Beggar¡¯s Heart.¡¯ I believe I have heard Harley call it a ¡®Soap Opera.¡¯ This woman appears to be the rightful owner of this estate, but has lost her hand in a fire with the birthmark that would prove her rightful claim.¡±


    ¡°Bridgette lost her hand?¡± Julia questioned, glued to the screen. ¡°But the fire already left her disfigured. Did she get into another one?¡±


    ¡°I¡­do not know.¡± Essex said, as Milo wandered into the lounge room.


    ¡°There¡¯s leftover pizza in the fridge.¡± He explained. ¡°You can have some for breakfast, if you want.¡±


    ¡°Dad, shouldn¡¯t you be at work?¡± Julia asked.


    ¡°Oh, it¡¯s fine! I called in absent so I could spend time with you. I don¡¯t need to be working when you¡¯ve got free-time.¡± Milo explained. ¡°This might surprise you, but I¡¯m actually pretty cool.¡±


    Julia pointed to the TV. ¡°Did you know Bridgette lost her hand in a fire?¡±


    ¡°Seriously? Wasn¡¯t she already in that other fire?¡± Milo wondered, now leaning on the couch, as the doorbell rang behind them and broke their trance.


    Milo went up to answer it, as Julia peered over her shoulder to see who i-


    ¡°Bell. Right on time.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve brought your items.¡±


    ¡°Great! Just drop it off in the kitchen.¡±


    ¡°Where do want th¡­¡± Bell asked, stepping into the house, before spotting Julia resting on the couch, as they were now staring at each other.


    Bell blinked, before continuing her train of thought. ¡°¡­the leeks to go?¡±


    ¡°Just leave it out for now. I had a lunch planned out for it.¡± Milo clarified, as Bell followed him back into the kitchen.


    Julia kept staring, as Essex noticed her fixation and waved a hand in front of her face. Julia shook herself free, but was clearly still a little surprised.


    ¡°Is that your sister?¡±


    Julia nodded.


    ¡°Are you going to greet her?¡±


    ¡°¡­yeah, I, uhh, I should.¡± Julia replied, getting up and finding her way to the kitchen.


    ¡°¡­but you know how she can be, especially after a meeting with Michael.¡±


    ¡°She never was very forgiving.¡± Milo remarked, as he noticed Julia walking in mid-sentence. ¡°Julia. Sorry, I forgot to tell you that Bell was coming over today.¡± He explained, putting a few things away. ¡°She¡¯s just dropping off some groceries for me.¡±


    Julia locked eyes with Bell again, before darting away and nodding.


    ¡°You didn¡¯t tell me Julia would be here either.¡± Bell added.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t I? Man, I¡¯m bad at this.¡± Milo acknowledged, before noticing the clear tension between Julia and Bell. ¡°¡­do you two wanna talk something out?¡±


    ¡°What? No, no, it¡¯s fi-¡°


    ¡°I think we probably should.¡± Bell cleared up. ¡°Can we talk in your room for a bit?¡±


    Julia looked a bit wide eyed but agreed regardless.


    Bell gave Milo a smile, before ducking into the hallway, as Julia followed behind with a cautious distance. Julia found her sister looking around the room, as she closed the door and got her attention.


    ¡°I¡¯m guessing you took your Venator posters with you.¡±


    ¡°¡­you mean to the academy?¡±


    Bell nodded. ¡°You wouldn¡¯t have thrown them out. Not if you still have Maxie, at least.¡± Bell pointed out, indicating to Maxie by Julia¡¯s pillow, before sitting against Julia¡¯s bed.


    Julia didn¡¯t know if Bell was signalling her too as well, but she figured it was best to sit with her anyway.


    Both of them sat in silence, as they tried to find the right words to say to one another.


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­so¡­how¡¯s your Venator school?¡±


    Julia stared at the floor. ¡°It¡¯s good. I¡¯m doing well.¡±


    ¡°Made any friends?¡±


    ¡°¡­yeah¡­a bunch, actually.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s good.¡± Bell said, readjusting herself before speaking again. ¡°I was a bit worried.¡±


    ¡°Worried?¡±


    Bell scratched her neck. ¡°Yeah. You never had a¡­ton of friends growing up. And then Dad told me you were training to be a Venator, and I guess¡­¡±


    Julia looked to her. ¡°Yes?¡±


    ¡°¡­well, you know how ruthless they can be. I didn¡¯t know if you¡¯d like it, or be suited for it, you know?¡±


    Julia stretched out behind her. ¡°¡­I guess I was worried about that too.¡±


    More silence filled the room, as neither were sure if they were doing something right.


    ¡°Do you¡­still have the box for Gold Star LP?¡± Bell asked.


    Julia shook her head. ¡°It¡¯s back at the academy. I actually tried to get the team into it, but¡­¡±


    ¡°They were confused?¡±


    ¡°Yeah¡­¡±


    Bell smiled a little. ¡°It was pretty complicated. I was kinda hoping we could pick up that old game we had going.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t think I¡¯d be able to read my handwriting from back then.¡± Julia joked.


    Bell smiled politely, before lying back on the bed and breathing.


    ¡°So, who¡¯s the girl on the couch?¡± Bell wondered.


    ¡°Oh, that¡¯s my teammate from the academy. Her name¡¯s Essex.¡±


    ¡°¡­teammate.¡±


    Julia squinted. ¡°You sound unconvinced.¡±


    ¡°¡­well, I just thought¡­¡± Bell mumbled. ¡°¡­that you and her¡­¡±


    Julia realised Bell¡¯s mistake and blushed. ¡°Oh, n-no, no, that¡¯s not it. She¡¯s just a good friend.¡±


    ¡°Right, yeah.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m actually¡­the leader of my team.¡± Julia said.


    Bell sat up, surprised. ¡°Really?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, it surprised me too.¡± Julia smiled. ¡°But the others chose me, and we¡¯ve been doing really well¡­I like them a lot.¡±


    Bell looked back down at her, noticing Julia had made herself more comfortable, and patted her shoulder comfortingly.


    ¡°You seem happier.¡± Bell said.


    ¡°Do I?¡±


    ¡°¡­yeah. Yeah, you do.¡± Bell reiterated, smiling a little. ¡°I¡¯m glad.¡±


    Bell got up and wandered to the door. ¡°I, uhh, I hope your¡­Venator stuff goes well.¡±


    Julia got up with her and smiled. ¡°¡­I¡¯m doing my best.¡±


    Bell nodded happily. ¡°Right.¡±


    They both left the room, noticing Milo and Essex on the couch, as they heard the familiar stinger of the episode just ending.


    ¡°But she¡¯s dead!¡± Milo complained, before acknowledging his daughters. ¡°Oh, how was your talk?¡±


    ¡°¡­it was good.¡± Bell explained, grabbing her car keys from the kitchen counter. ¡°I¡¯m going to head off now. I planned to meet Amanda for drinks later.¡±


    ¡°Have fun!¡± Milo called out, watching her as she headed out the door, before turning to Julia. ¡°You wanna join us? Apparently, Bridgette¡¯s coming back next episode with a prosthetic and a vengeance.¡±


    Julia grinned to him. ¡°Sure thing.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°¡­dammit¡­dammit¡­god frickin¡­argh!¡± Davidson yelled, banging something underneath the tractor, before re-emerging from it. ¡°This thing won¡¯t budge!¡±


    ¡°Have you checked the fuel line?¡± Harley asked. ¡°You tend to forget that part.¡±


    Davidson let the remark slide. ¡°Yeah¡­I think the gear case is shot. Of all the¡­¡±


    He kicked the tire, before turning to Harley. ¡°You mind heading into town and picking a new one up? The hardware store¡¯s still where it always is.¡±


    Harley leaned against the tractor with a playful smile. ¡°Wow. I finally get time off at home, and you insist I do work for you.¡±


    ¡°Would you rather harvest the crops by hand?¡±


    ¡°I guess not.¡± Harley teased, happily grabbing her jacket. ¡°I¡¯ll be back in about twenty.¡±


    ¡°Okay. Don¡¯t go getting distracted.¡± Davidson asked.


    ¡°Will do!¡± Harley called out, heading down the hill and out onto the main street.


    The main street was as bustling as a small town would allow, as Harley made her way through, getting the occasional wave of recognition from someone she knew and waving back. She found the hardware store in the usual place, taking up a massive amount of space just off the main street, as she made a point to mark the time and see how quick she could be.


    She dashed in, scanning the numerous aisles of tools, paint supplies, plants, yard furniture and quickly found the auto parts aisle off to the side.


    ¡°Piece of cake.¡± She said to herself, strolling over and looking through the brands on display, finding what looked to be the right part. ¡°Davidson doesn¡¯t give me enough credit.¡± She remarked, before hearing the sound of dropping hammers behind her and leaping forward instinctively.


    ¡°Harley?¡±


    Harley turned around, as she felt someone jump against her, bringing her into a hug.


    ¡°You¡¯re back! I missed you so much, girl!¡±


    Harley looked down and smiled. ¡°Angie? You¡¯re still in Denilee?¡±


    Angie let go and rolled her eyes. ¡°Not from lack of trying.¡± Angie joked. ¡°Turns out I need WAY more money than I already had to move out. I got a job here to help, but it suuuuucks.¡±


    Harley grinned happily. ¡°You¡¯re so lazy. But I¡¯m happy to see you.¡±


    ¡°Same here, Girl in Red. Hope you¡¯ve kept up that reputation in Central Point.¡± Angie mentioned, nudging Harley¡¯s side.


    ¡°Absolutely. I¡¯m a local legend for a reason.¡± Harley joked. ¡°But, even someone as brilliant as me gets a bit homesick.¡± Harley commented, getting a laugh out of Angie.


    ¡°We¡¯ve so gotta go do something since you¡¯re back! They just reopened that club with the¡­oh, what¡¯s it¡­¡±


    ¡°Bunny dancers?¡±


    ¡°No, but we¡¯re so going there as well!¡± Angie beamed. ¡°How long are you in town for?¡±


    ¡°Two weeks.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s it? Girl, you need to come back way more! Plus, Denilee¡¯s super boring without you.¡± Angie said.


    ¡°I¡¯ll see what I can do next year.¡± Harley added, as Angie noticed her manager looking back at her inquisitively.


    ¡°Oh, shit. Uhh, pretend I was showing you something.¡± Angie asked, as she pulled something off the shelf randomly. ¡°You¡¯re probably looking for something sturdier, right?¡±


    ¡°Yes, exactly! Finally, someone who knows what they¡¯re talking about around here!¡± Harley played up, before Angie noticed her manager leaving eyeshot.


    Angie let out a breath. ¡°Phew, you¡¯re a lifesaver. I¡¯m so texting you after work¡¯s done.¡± Angie said, as Harley grabbed the part she needed.


    ¡°You wanna head to that club you were talking about?¡± Harley asked, trying to spot the register.


    ¡°Yeah, but¡­¡± Angie said, leaning in a little. ¡°¡­we don¡¯t just have to do that.¡±


    Harley bit her lip, before heading off down the aisle. ¡°Can¡¯t wait. See you soon!¡±


    ¡°Bye, Girl in Red!¡± Angie called out, as Harley payed for her part and left the store.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    It had been a few days.


    Wess needed a few days to work up the nerve. She''d mostly stayed secluded in her room, rarely leaving or interacting with anyone, but despite her personal pride and overall confidence, she felt helpless outside the kitchen door, struggling to even knock against it.


    ¡­he¡¯ll forgive you¡­he¡¯s been with you for this long¡­


    Wess brought her hand to the door, knocking against it a few times, before a few tense seconds passed and she heard a voice from inside.


    ¡°Come in.¡±


    Wess opened the door slowly, as she saw Graham by the kitchen sink, cleaning up last nights dinnerware. His back was to the door, but Wess could tell he knew it was her coming in.


    Wess stood in silence for a bit, as Graham continued his work, hardly even acknowledging her presence.


    ¡°Graham?¡±


    Graham took a second, before lifting up his head. ¡°Is there anything you¡¯d like, Miss Nouvel?¡±


    Wess took the impersonal comment, before re-centring herself.


    ¡°¡­I¡¯m sorry for how I acted on the day I left.¡±


    ¡°Whatever do you mean, Miss Nouvel?¡± Graham replied, still avoiding eye contact.


    ¡°Graham, you know what I mean. My parents told you to stop me from going to the academy, and I¡­yelled at you and forced you away.¡± Wess admitted, struggling to get some of the words out. ¡°I wasn¡¯t angry at you, I was angry at mother and father. But I still took it out on you when you didn¡¯t deserve it.¡±


    Graham kept cleaning dishes, having moved on to drying them, as Wess continued.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry for not showing you enough appreciation. I¡­understand that it was your job, and that you¡¯re the only reason I could go to the academy in the first place. So¡­thank you.¡±


    Wess picked up her posture and turned to leave with dignity, as Graham put down his plate and turned to her.


    ¡°You really mustn¡¯t sell yourself short. Without your tenacity and determination, neither of us would have convinced them.¡± Graham admitted, as Wess turned back around, shed a gentle tear, and ran up to hug him. Graham did his best to hug back.


    ¡°Graham¡­I missed you¡­¡±


    ¡°My dear, please.¡± Graham said. ¡°My apron¡¯s covered in dishwater. You¡¯ll ruin your lovely dress.¡±


    ¡°Oh¡­right.¡± Wess realised, wiping her eyes of tears. ¡°I¡¯m truly sorry for my behaviour. You must think I¡¯m some spoiled child who co-¡°


    Graham leaned down and rested a finger in front of her lips. ¡°You are anything but. I hope you aren¡¯t thinking that way at your academy.¡±


    ¡°Oh, heavens no.¡± Wess smiled, as the side door to the kitchen opened up to a servant, carrying in another stack of plates, before she noticed Wess and nearly dropped the stack.


    ¡°Wes-I mean, whoa!¡± She stumbled, just making it to the counter. ¡°M-Miss Nouvel, welcome back. We all missed you dearly.¡±


    ¡°Valerie, you know you can call me Wess.¡±


    Valerie cracked a nervous smile. ¡°Of course...Wess. Wow, that feels weird to say.¡±


    ¡°I hope mother and father haven¡¯t been working you ragged.¡± Wess said, as Valerie shook her head.


    ¡°No more than usual. Do the other staff know you¡¯re back yet? Should I tell them?¡±


    ¡°Valerie, please. Don¡¯t make scen-¡°


    ¡°Hey, everyone! Wess is back in the manor!¡± Valerie called out into the servant¡¯s quarters, as several other servants came out into the kitchen, all excited and happy to see Wess, Graham grinning beside her at the whole display.


    ¡°Wess, it¡¯s been too long!¡±


    ¡°How¡¯re your studies?¡±


    ¡°They¡¯re going very well, thank you.¡± Wess replied, somewhat crowded by the others.


    ¡°Are you making any friends?¡±


    ¡°A surprising amount, actually. I also have a boyfriend named Cyrus, who I might get to bring over soon.¡± Wess remarked, happily shaking hands and greeting everyone, Graham comfortingly patting her head, as the door opened t-


    ¡°Does anyone care to explain this?¡±


    The room shot silent, everyone remaining still, as Wess¡¯ father was now standing in the doorway, staring down at the staff fawning over Wess.


    ¡°M-my apologies, Master Delacroix.¡± Valerie let out. ¡°We were taking some time to greet Miss Nouvel back into th-¡°


    ¡°You can greet her when she should be with you.¡± He announced.


    ¡°R-right, of course sir.¡± Valerie apologised, her and the rest of the help going back to their duties, as Master Delacroix stepped down into the kitchen in front of Wess and Graham.


    ¡°I have no problem with you spending time with my daughter. You are supposed to be her caretaker, after all.¡± He said. ¡°But under no circumstances should she be allowed within the servant areas.¡±


    ¡°Of course, sir. This was in impromptu meeting, as I had grabbed her attention.¡± Graham said, covering Wess¡¯ back, as she knew better than to speak up at this moment. ¡°My apologies.¡±


    Master Delacroix looked back down at Wess with a clear presence. ¡°¡­I expect you to spend some time while you¡¯re here on your studies. No point wasting a trip.¡±


    Wess nodded back, as he decided to leave it there, bringing all the tension away with his exit.


    ¡°You don¡¯t need to keep lying for me, Graham.¡± Wess argued. ¡°If he found out about it¡­¡±


    ¡°We both know he¡¯d punish you for coming in here by yourself, and I don¡¯t want to impede on your Venator training any further.¡± Graham said, leaning down to be on eye level with her. ¡°Before you go, I truly want to apologise for my actions too. I know I was acting on your parents wishes, but what I did at the academy was¡­cruel. You have earned your right to be a Venator.¡±


    Wess brought him in for one more hug, before leaving the kitchen to avoid anymore mishaps, and deciding it was best to continue her studies.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Since arriving, Sola had done what she normally did at home and spent as much time inside as possible. Her room was comfortable, her games and music were right where she wanted them, and as long as she kept up with chores, her parents never harassed her outside. She¡¯d go out wandering on occasion, but never for too long, and never anywhere in particular.


    But for some reason, she¡¯d gotten a weird inkling recently.


    As Sola headed for the door, she turned back to her parents in the lounge room.


    ¡°I¡¯m gonna head off to the orphanage for a bit.¡±


    Maxine lifted her head, as Wayne kept reading his newspaper.


    ¡°O-okay.¡± Maxine replied, surprised at how unsure she was at such a normal statement.


    Sola left out the door, leaving her parents a little¡­well, not shaken. Not anything, really.


    Maxine took a second to compose herself, before turning to Wayne on the couch. ¡°Sola? Actually wanting to go somewhere?¡±


    Wayne looked back down at his paper. ¡°Stranger things have happened¡­¡±


    In actuality, the orphanage wasn¡¯t that far from the house, but Sola never really wanted to go there. It¡¯s not like she hated the place or had a terrible experience. Quite the opposite. She only had fond memories of the place.


    Sola headed down the hill, just past the tree lined path on the coast, before spotting it in the distance, its proud Old Gods insignia shining from the midday sun.


    Sola banged the knocker on the door, as she was soon greeted by¡­


    ¡°Sola?¡±


    ¡°Hi, Sister Magen.¡± Sola greeted.


    ¡°By Enprov, what a fortuitous meeting. I wasn¡¯t expecting company.¡± She replied, opening the door. ¡°I haven¡¯t seen you for years. How have you been?¡±


    ¡°Good! I¡¯m going to the Venator Academy and my Whil¡¯s gotten a bit unstable, but otherwise I¡¯m alright.¡±


    ¡°O-oh. That¡¯s¡­please be careful with it around here.¡± Magen advised. ¡°What brings you back?¡±


    Sola looked for an answer, but just shrugged her shoulders. ¡°Nostalgia?¡±


    Magen laughed a little. ¡°I suppose that¡¯s a good enough reason¡­wait, you said you were studying to be a Venator?¡±


    ¡°You bet!¡±


    ¡°Oh¡­how¡­wonderful!¡± Magen praised, smiling widely. ¡°The Wailing have been putting a real weight on my soul, but knowing that one of my children¡­¡±


    Magen wiped a tear, before dismissing her previous thought. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, this is all quite sudden for me.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s okay. Mum was pretty shocked when I said I wanted to be a Venator too.¡± Sola added.


    ¡°Yes, she¡­¡± Magen started, before dismissing that too. ¡°You must meet the other kids. They would love to hear from someone like you.¡±


    Sola nodded happily, following Sister Magen outside to the playground, as a few kids were throwing balls back and forth, before stopping when they saw Sister Magen and Sola.


    ¡°Evelads, this is Sola. She was once an orphan here too, and now she¡¯s studying to be a Venator.¡±


    ¡°Whoa!¡± Called out a kid, running up to her. ¡°You¡¯re so big!¡±


    Sola looked around, before pointing confusedly at herself.


    ¡°Are you a Venador?¡± Another kid asked, pulling on her jacket.


    ¡°How many Wailing have you fighted?¡± Said another, kicking his legs as he walked.


    ¡°Uhh, three. And I took one out all on my own!¡± Sola bragged, as the kids looked on it awe.


    ¡°I wanna be a Venator and get a Whil! Then I can hurt the Wailing too and blow them up!¡± A kid bragged, making the motions and sounds of Wailing and explosions.


    ¡°Sister Magen, I¡¯m gonna be a Venador too!¡±


    ¡°Are you?¡± Magen asked, putting on a voice. ¡°I hope you¡¯re gonna be ready for it.¡±


    Another kid butted in and stood in front of Sister Magen. ¡°I¡¯m growing up to be a mountain!¡±


    ¡°A mountain?¡± Sola overheard.


    Magen leaned down and patted his head. ¡°Of¡­course you are, Bradley! You¡¯ll be the biggest mountain of them all!¡±


    ¡°Bigger than Mount Cavalier?¡±


    ¡°Even bigger!¡±


    Bradley giggled cutely, before running off to show Sola his toys, as Sola leaned over to Magen.


    ¡°Shouldn¡¯t you tell him that¡¯s silly?¡± Sola asked, as the kids kept prodding at her to get her attention.


    ¡°I can¡¯t bare to do that. They¡¯re still so young.¡± Magen clarified. ¡°Sometimes a little lie is needed to help someone grow.¡±


    ¡°I thought you taught us lying was wrong.¡±


    ¡°For selfish reasons, yes.¡± Sister Magen said. ¡°But a lie can hold back information that otherwise might hurt someone if they aren¡¯t ready for it. Even Whilit itself has needed to lie on occasion.¡±


    Magen looked at Bradley playing and smiled. ¡°If we¡¯re lucky, he¡¯ll change his dream to mountain climber when he¡¯s older. Humans are very much built like that. I remember you waving sticks about and setting them on fire with your Whil. I hoped you¡¯d channel that into something positive, but¡­it sounds like you have.¡±


    ¡°Yeah! Now I¡¯m burning trees!¡± Sola announced, as Magen looked a bit worried.


    ¡°Not¡­on purpose though, right?¡±


    ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°Oh, thank goodness.¡± Magen let out, sighing with relief.


    Sola looked back at the kids running around, all proudly looking up at her, as she spotted the forest behind the orphanage, and remembered the time she spent with Taylor there whenever she could.


    Even back then, I barely left the orphanage. Sola remembered, thinking back on her childhood. I wonder what¡¯s changed?


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Julia crawled into bed as quickly as possible. Despite it being the end of the fortnight, she couldn¡¯t wait for the break to be over. She loved coming home and catching up with her dad, but she was itching to get back to the academy and her team.


    ¡°I am finished with packing.¡± Essex explained, showing off her fairly light suitcase. ¡°I will be ready to leave in the morning.¡±


    ¡°Same here.¡± Julia grinned, displaying her bag too. ¡°Sometimes you just need two weeks on the couch. I mean, that was a decent chunk of my gap year.¡±


    Essex nodded. ¡°I have enjoyed this leisure time. While this is not something commonly permitted in the Segaru Clan, I believe it was needed.¡±


    The duo set up their bedding, double checking that they had everything for their early wake up, as Julia looked back at Maxie lying by her bed reminiscently.


    She turned to Essex on the floor. ¡°Can I¡­confide in you?¡±


    Essex nodded firmly, as Julia looked down at her lap awkwardly.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t want to tell the others, and it¡¯s not a big deal, but¡­my¡­breathing¡¯s been a little difficult.¡± Julia admitted, noticing Essex looking concerned. ¡°I¡¯m fine, really. The nurse said this might happen. But¡­I was worried about making everyone paranoid before we all left. I made them worry so much during¡­everything in the forest. And this time back home¡¯s supposed to be time off, not time the others should spend worrying about me.¡±


    Essex looked a touch confused, as Julia dismissively waved her hand. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I shouldn¡¯t be pushing this onto you.¡±


    Essex shook her head. ¡°The team will worry about your wellbeing no matter what happens. You are the team leader, so your safety is the highest priority. I will make sure of that.¡±


    Julia looked a bit awestruck. ¡°You¡¯d do that?¡±


    ¡°But you can be more honest to the team in return. If you are hurt, we will take care of you. Do not see yourself as a burden.¡±


    ¡°Essex¡­¡±


    Julia leaned down and hugged her, before setting her alarm and reaching for her lamp. ¡°I guess I was¡­being a little selfish. I¡¯ll try to be more open about these things in the future, but I¡¯d rather avoid getting hurt altogether.¡±


    ¡°It can be hard to admit that you are not indomitable.¡± Essex added. ¡°I will learn this lesson alongside you on our journey together.¡±


    Julia felt a blush creep in, before leaning down again and placing a gentle kiss on Essex¡¯s cheek.


    Essex touched a finger to her face. ¡°Why did you do that?¡±


    ¡°Cause you¡¯re really sweet.¡± Julia said, turning off the lamp, as they both soon headed off to sleep.


    ¡°I¡¯m really gonna miss you.¡± Milo confessed, as Julia and Essex stood outside the train station with their bags and a wine bottle in Julia¡¯s hands.


    ¡°I am deeply grateful for the accomodation, food and entertainment. Grelo Sevali.¡± Essex thanked, bowing to him and Julia in turn.


    Milo turned to Julia slightly checked out. ¡°Oh, I guess you too.¡±


    ¡°Dad!¡± Julia complained, playfully hitting his arm, as Milo snickered to himself.


    ¡°Alright, alright, I¡¯m gonna miss you like crazy!¡± Milo exclaimed, pulling Julia into another wild hug, before putting her down in a dizzy state. ¡°I hope Wess likes the wine. I¡¯d like to think I have a refined palette for these sorts of things.¡±


    ¡°I-I¡¯m sure sh-she will.¡± Julia said, adjusting herself. ¡°Now, don¡¯t go getting lazy after I¡¯ve left. You should be going to all your shifts, remember?¡±


    Milo leaned over to Essex and put his hand to his mouth. ¡°Geez. I think she¡¯s my daughter, then she turns into my mother.¡±


    ¡°Hey!¡± Julia protested, as Essex smiled to herself from the joke.


    ¡°See you on your next break!¡± Milo called out, before getting back into his car and driving off, Julia and Essex waving him goodbye.


    ¡°Your father is a kind person.¡± Essex said, as Julia watched for their train number.


    ¡°He is when he cleans up after himself.¡± Julia mentioned. ¡°I¡¯ll be honest, I think he was trying to impress you.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± Essex said, as they train pulled into the station. ¡°I will take that as complimentary.¡±


    ¡°As you should.¡± Julia smiled, sitting down across from her, as they rode back to the academy together.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Harley woke to the slight creep of sunlight through the window, and the familiar warmth of Angie lying beside her in Angie¡¯s bed, still sleeping quietly.


    She did her best to be quiet, as she got out of bed and started changing back into her clothes, just as Angie started stirring from her sleep.


    Angie slowing started opening her eyes and smiled up at Harley. ¡°Good morning¡­¡±


    ¡°Hey.¡± Harley replied, leaning down and kissing her, before continuing to get dressed.


    ¡°Leaving so early?¡± Angie asked.


    ¡°My train back to Central Point¡¯s coming this afternoon.¡± Harley said, looping her belt. ¡°But last night was incredible.¡±


    Angie remembered their club run, before giggling to herself. ¡°We nearly took that bunny dancer home. Shame he said no.¡±


    ¡°He probably had other stuff to do.¡± Harley added, fastening her bra.


    Angie rolled around on the bed and patted Harley¡¯s spot. ¡°Come on, let¡¯s keep up the fun! I know you¡¯ve got more in you.¡±


    ¡°Sorry, but I¡¯ll need that for packing.¡± Harley admitted. ¡°Even though I really want to.¡±


    ¡°I guess you have to keep up your reputation, Girl in Red.¡± Angie said, just as Harley pulled back on her tank top. ¡°Though¡­I¡¯m sure you could stay a little longer¡­the bed¡¯s getting colder without you¡­¡±


    Harley gave Angie another kiss, before grabbing her bag and heading for the door again. ¡°Sorry, girl. It''s a shame you won''t get any better than me.¡±


    ¡°That should be my line.¡± Angie remarked, getting a laugh out of Harley. ¡°¡­I¡¯ll miss you.¡±


    Harley gave a nod of sympathy, before leaving out the bedroom door, as Angie rolled back over to sleep, appreciating the warmth that Harley had left behind¡­


    ¡­just as Harley came back into the room and jumped onto the bed, playing with Angie teasingly.


    ¡°Harley!¡±


    ¡°I guess a bit more fun couldn¡¯t hurt.¡± Harley exclaimed, nuzzling her neck, Angie happily trying to pry her off.


    ¡°Harley! Agh!¡± Angie cheerfully cried, Harley finally pulling off her tank top again, leaving Angie stunned into near silence.


    ¡°Harley¡­¡±


    ¡°Harley? Are you finally packed?¡±


    ¡°Just a¡­dammit!¡± Harley yelled, dropping her suitcase down the stairs, then onto her foot. ¡°Ow ow ow ow ow¡­it¡¯s always that one wheel¡­¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s our daughter all right.¡± Davidson joked, William patting his back.


    Harley managed her way down the hill, packing the bag into the back of the family car, as William borrowed the keys from Davidson.


    ¡°I¡¯ll be home soon enough.¡± William clarified.


    ¡°You better. We¡¯re celebrating once Harley¡¯s out of the house.¡± Davidson teased, as William found his blush creeping in.


    William frantically pointed to Harley in the back, losing it, as Davidson waved his hand. ¡°Oh yeah. I forgot Harley doesn¡¯t know what sex is.¡±


    ¡°She''s still our daughter!" William complained.


    ¡°Hey, just getting you riled up.¡± Davidson winked, as he headed back into the house. ¡°Bye!¡±


    William sequestered himself in the driver¡¯s seat and started the car. ¡°I want to apologise for him.¡±


    ¡°What for?¡± Harley excused, as William sighed to himself and left for the station.


    ¡°I hope your time back wasn¡¯t boring. I bet compared to Detu City, Denilee¡¯s pretty limited.¡± William asked.


    ¡°Not at all. Denilee has its own charm.¡± Harley said, leaning against the window and staring at the orange and yellow leaves.


    They arrived just out the front, as William helped take out Harley¡¯s bag.


    ¡°I can get you some food before you leave. Did you eat this morning? Do you want anything for the train ride back?¡±


    ¡°Less questions?¡± Harley joked, getting an unamused look from William. ¡°Sorry.¡±


    William brought her into a hug and rested his hand on her shoulders. ¡°I¡¯m allowed to be worried about you. Not everyone has a daughter willing to fight off Wailing for a living.¡±


    Harley smiled and hugged him back. ¡°And not everyone has parents who are so cool about it.¡±


    William waved to her, as the train pulled out of the station.


    ¡°Take care of your team! And keep helping those you can!¡± He called out.


    Harley smiled. ¡°You show Davidson a good time!¡±


    The train left, as William shook his head at how brash she could be.


    ¡°Little scamp¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Wess has been nervously walking through the hallway for a while.


    Her train wouldn¡¯t be ready for another half an hour, but it was just enough time to put her on edge as to what she should do while she waited.


    Mostly regarding her father.


    Wess kept pacing outside of his study, never crossing past the entrance, as she quickly remembered something she should do.


    I should text the team about when I¡¯ll be back.


    She pulled out her tablet and typed something out.


    Wess [I¡¯m half an hour away from getting on my train. Should be back by late this afternoon.]


    She pocketed the tablet, before taking a deep breath in and out, and committing to going into the study.


    She noticed her father had his back to the entrance, a novel in his hand in front of the fireplace, before taking another step.


    ¡°Don¡¯t. These carpets were just cleaned.¡±


    Wess stopped herself, before stepping back into the doorframe and staying there.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want you tracking any mud.¡± He said, taking a sip from his wine glass. ¡°Do you have some business?¡±


    Wess readjusted her dress. ¡°I¡¯ve hardly seen you this fortnight and wanted to let you know that I will be leaving by this afternoon.¡±


    He turned another page. ¡°For the academy?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    He waited a second before taking another sip, as he flipped another page in the book, more vehemently this time. At this point, it was clear he wasn¡¯t actually reading it, but Wess got the gist of his tone.


    ¡°I¡¯m not driving you.¡±


    Wess rolled her eyes. ¡°I¡¯m not asking you t-¡°


    ¡°Then why are you here?¡±


    Wess clenched her fist, before breathing out to respond. ¡°I¡¯m merely letting you know about my whereabouts. I figured as your daughter, that this would be a common courtesy.¡±


    He turned another page, as Wess waited for a response, before realising he wasn¡¯t about to give one and deciding it was best to leave and get ready.


    Just as she was about to leave, he spoke up.


    ¡°Did you receive your sword fine?¡±


    Wess turned back to the room, somewhat holding her tongue. ¡°Yes, I did. Belvedere is well taken care of and perched in my dorm room at the academy.¡±


    He left the conversation silent again, as Wess knew to leave this time, making her way down the hall, before finding she had to lean against the wall to regain some composure.


    She rubbed her forehead achingly, working out the stress that had built up over the conversation. Part of her knew it was going to go like that, unfortunately.


    She managed to pick herself up again, before distracting herself with the glow of her tablet in her pocket, drawing her eye.


    Julia [Can¡¯t wait to see you! My dad got us some wine that we can try out. I think it¡¯s tannin?]


    ¡°¡­pfft.¡±


    Wess smirked to herself, feeling some of the pressure lift from her forehead, as she replied in a similar caliber and went about getting her bags.


    Wess headed down the manor stairs to find Graham, waiting outside with the family car, alongside her mother, folding her arms in boredom.


    ¡°Oh, dear! It¡¯s about time you got ready. I¡¯ve had to wait out here for ages.¡± She complained.


    ¡°Goodbye to you too, mother.¡± Wess replied, Graham opening the door for her, as her mother stepped in the way.


    ¡°Come here.¡± She said, opening her arms, as Wess bore a hug with her. ¡°I will, oh so, miss you.¡±


    ¡°Yes, yes.¡± Wess said, heading into the back of the car and thanking Graham.


    ¡°You know, we wouldn¡¯t need to have these goodbyes if you weren¡¯t leaving.¡± Her mother pointed out, joining Graham upfront.


    ¡°Mother, we¡¯ve discussed this.¡±


    ¡°I know, I know. But you can¡¯t blame me for trying.¡± She reasoned, as Graham pulled out of the driveway and down the hill.


    ¡°Straight to the station, madam?¡± Graham asked, turning his head to Wess in the back.


    ¡°That woul-¡°


    ¡°For now, yes, but I¡¯m meeting with a client on main street. You can drop me off right after we¡¯re finished.¡± Her mother interrupted, as Wess decided to keep to herself until they arrived.


    Graham stopped outside the station, still just as packed as usual, and helped Wess with her bags.


    ¡°I tell you, those Venators have no sense of decency. Only two weeks time off, then it¡¯s back to violence and thuggery for the rest of the year.¡± Wess¡¯ mother argued.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be ridiculous, mother. Everyone knows our thuggery classes are reserved for third year.¡± Wess remarked, Graham doing a remarkable job holding back his laughter, as her mother rolled her eyes.


    ¡°You say that now, but you¡¯ll wish you¡¯d listened to me later.¡± She added, before sitting back in the car to avoid the crowd.


    Graham walked Wess to the train, crouching down so that he matched her height. ¡°It was a pleasure seeing you home again.¡±


    ¡°The pleasure was all mine.¡± Wess replied, holding his hands. ¡°You¡¯ve been a dear friend throughout my life, and I don¡¯t think I¡¯ve properly thanked you for it.¡±


    ¡°Keep excelling and become a remarkable person. That will be thanks enough.¡± He said, checking over his shoulder to see if Wess¡¯ mother was looking, before hugging her quickly and getting up.


    ¡°Give my love to Valerie.¡± Wess said, as the train pulled out of the station, and she slowly watched Mareau disappear into the middle distance, shrouded by the frozen mist again.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Packed?¡±


    Sola re-emerged from the house with her suitcase, nearly dropping down the stairs again, as her mother reached out instinctively to grab her.


    ¡°Packed!¡±


    ¡°¡­Sola, stop jumping off things.¡± Maxine complained, addressing Wayne on the porch. ¡°I¡¯ll be back by tomorrow. I left dinner in the fridge.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re too good to me.¡± Wayne replied from the doorway, waving them off.


    Sola looked puzzled. ¡°I thought you were dropping me at the station?¡±


    ¡°I decided I¡¯d drive you to Central Point myself. I booked a hotel room for the night.¡± Maxine explained, looking over at a relieved Sola. ¡°You look pleased.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m really happy to avoid the train.¡± Sola clarified. ¡°Thank you.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t mention it.¡± Maxine said, pulling out of the driveway, and down the coastline of Mykonori.


    While most of the Aishanara Forest was built up with foliage, enough of it had been cleared out over time to necessitate a large highway stretching through it, connecting the more remote parts of the Eastern Wayside to the rest of Daysend. This meant Sola and Maxine¡¯s trip was a clean six hours, with breaks, where the duo could just travel along and talk, as Sola went into more detail about her time at the academy.


    ¡°¡­then we were going to the movie, but a drill got called, so we had to stay in our room all night playing games and talking about stuff!¡±


    Maxine rested her hands down the steering wheel. ¡°I¡¯ll be honest, that doesn¡¯t sound as thrilling as your Wailing fight in the mall.¡±


    ¡°Well, I liked it.¡± Sola reasoned, kicking her legs out of boredom, before slowing them down to talk. ¡°Hey mum?¡±


    ¡°Yeah?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve been thinking about some stuff recently.¡±


    ¡°Good for you.¡±


    ¡°I usually stay home all the time, but this last two weeks, I wanted to go to the orphanage and see Sister Magen.¡± Sola asked, before turning to her. ¡°Why¡¯s that?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s cause you¡¯re becoming an adult.¡± Maxine cleared up. ¡°Most kids don¡¯t really know what they want to do, but becoming an adult means figuring out how you want to spend your time.¡±


    ¡°But I don¡¯t feel that different, and I don¡¯t feel like an adult. I¡¯m still just me.¡± Sola reasoned.


    ¡°Well, duh. You¡¯re never gonna stop being Sola.¡± Maxine argued. ¡°But it¡¯s like¡­you know how cells in our body replenish over time, so we¡¯re technically made of new cells, but the body¡¯s still the same? Getting older¡¯s kinda like that. Your wants and desires change, but by the end of the day, you¡¯re still you.¡±


    ¡°Is that because I joined the academy?¡±


    ¡°¡­sorta, but it¡¯s more that you¡¯re comfortable making decisions now. Joining the academy was just one of those decisions.¡±


    ¡°¡­I¡¯d like to think it¡¯s cause of my team.¡± Sola pointed out. ¡°The academy¡¯s good and all, but Julia and Harley and Essex and Wess have been really helpful. Oh! I forgot to show you guys my Whil!¡±


    Maxine tussled Sola¡¯s hair. ¡°How ¡®bout you show me when it improves again?¡±


    They continued their drive, crossing the divide in the Eldos Mountains through to Central Point, as Maxine navigated her way into Detu City, and eventually the Venator Academy, just outside the train station.


    Maxine grabbed Sola into a hug, as Sola happily hugged her back. ¡°I¡¯ll miss you, kid.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ll be back soon.¡± Sola assured her, as she spotted the rest of Team Valiant tucked into the crowd, trying to get her attention. ¡°Hi guys! I¡¯m back!¡± Sola called out, before swivelling to her mum. ¡°Bye!¡±


    ¡°Later.¡± Maxine said, watching her daughter run off to her team, heading back to their dorm room, as she looked out at the academy, still standing proudly against the sky.


    ¡°You¡¯ve already grown up so much.¡± Maxine said, before hopping back into the car and leaving Sola to keep living her own life.

 Chapter 13: Outing

    ¡°So?¡±


    ¡°¡­so?¡±


    ¡°How did, uhh¡­how was it last night?¡±


    Wess rubbed a bit of sleep from her eyes, still adjusting to the extra weight of sharing a single bed with another person. ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    Cyrus¡¯ eyes drooped. ¡°You know what I mean.¡±


    ¡°You aren¡¯t worried, are you?¡±


    Cyrus rolled his eyes, as Wess got out from under the sheets. ¡°No, I¡¯m pretty confident in my abilities. I¡­wanted to know if you enjoyed yourself.¡±


    Wess smiled and kissed him again, as she started getting dressed. ¡°I very much did. The dinner and the lovemaking.¡±


    Cyrus smirked. ¡°You can just call it sex.¡±


    ¡°Sex is for pleasure; lovemaking is an art-form like anything else.¡± Wess reasoned, adjusting her hair in her pocket mirror.


    Cyrus rolled onto his back, before looking to Wess. ¡°Was I¡­better, at least? Then other¡­¡±


    Wess hid a subtle blush, as she sat at the foot of the bed. ¡°¡­actually, you were my first time.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Me?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Not even¡­?¡±


    ¡°Nope.¡±


    ¡°Wow¡­¡± Cyrus let out. ¡°I guess I am your best.¡±


    Wess raised an eyebrow. ¡°By default.¡±


    ¡°Still counts.¡± He teased, sitting up to bring her in for another kiss, as she finally pulled her shoes on. ¡°You wanna stay and improve our ¡®lovemaking?¡¯¡±


    Wess smiled. ¡°Like I need any improvement.¡± She leaned down to kiss him again. ¡°I best ge-¡°


    *knock knock knock*


    ¡°Hey, are you gonna be any longer? I, uhh, I need some textbooks from the study.¡± Called a voice from outside the door, as Cyrus and Wess froze in place.


    ¡°Just a minute, Cam!¡± Cyrus called out, as Wess started rubbing her temple. ¡°Sorry. I forgot there¡¯s no soundproofing in the dorm¡¯s side room.¡±


    ¡°¡­I guessed that much.¡± Wess said.


    ¡°We¡¯ll just go and get breakfast! You can meet us at the stadium later!¡± Called Cam, as they heard the rest of Cyrus¡¯ team clear out of the dorm room.


    Cyrus looked back at Wess. ¡°We wanted to watch the staff set up for the tournament.¡±


    Wess took her chance and headed out the door. ¡°I expect a bit more privacy next time.¡±


    The door closed to Cyrus¡¯ room, as he started celebrating and pumping his fist at the promise of a next time.


    Wess did her best to head to Team Valiant¡¯s dorm room quietly, less out of courtesy to the neighbours and more to avoid the rest of the team getting involved.


    ¡°The last thing I need is for them to lord this over me¡­¡± Wess groaned, as she scouted the hallway adjacent to their room. She checked her watch and found it was about seven in the morning.


    ¡°Essex should still be on her run¡­and if I¡¯m lucky, Harley was out clubbing, meaning I only have to avoid Julia and Sola¡­¡± Wess opened the door slowly, as the coast looked cle-


    ¡°There she is!¡± Harley cheered. ¡°Wess, you dog!¡±


    ¡°Way to go, Wess!¡± Sola celebrated.


    Oh dear gods¡­


    The team were all gathered just behind the door, clearing hoping to catch Wess before she tried pretending to have slept in the dorm the whole night. Harley was particularly happy.


    Every time I start to enjoy their company...


    ¡°Vonodo, why am I here for this?¡± Essex asked, a little lost.


    ¡°Because we wanna hear about Wess¡¯ great night, obviously.¡± Harley clarified.


    ¡°How was it? Did you have fun on the date?¡± Julia asked earnestly.


    Wess sighed out loud, before continuing into the room. ¡°Yes. Cyrus was the perfect gentlemen, and we had a lovely time at dinner.¡±


    ¡°Did you get up to anything else?¡± Harley asked proudly.


    Wess stood her ground. ¡°We also happened to sleep together. Was that your attempt at some juicy gossip?¡±


    ¡°No, that was my attempt at congratulating my teammate.¡± Harley exclaimed, smiling gladly. ¡°Was it your first?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Was he good?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Did you do anything weird?¡±


    ¡°Nope.¡±


    ¡°Okay. That¡¯s all I wanted to know.¡± Harley said. ¡°Congrats, girl.¡±


    Harley headed to the kitchen, as Julia intercepted. ¡°S-sorry about her. That must have been embarrassing.¡±


    ¡°Where¡¯s the embarrassment? I wasn¡¯t lying about enjoying it. I just wish she were less nosy about it.¡± Wess pointed out, as Sola grabbed her hands and started cheering with Wess.


    ¡°You¡¯re in love! You¡¯re in love with Cyrus!¡± Sola beamed. ¡°You went and did it! You¡¯re totally getting married!¡±


    ¡°Sola, calm down!¡± Julia professed, moving her hands off Wess. ¡°Geez, she just got home.¡±


    ¡°If I am no longer required.¡± Essex prefaced, before opening the door. ¡°I will now start my training routine.¡±


    ¡°Did you pack some foo-¡° Julia asked, before Essex closed the door, leaving her without an answer. ¡°I hope she has enough on her.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re gonna have his babies! You¡¯re getting a house together!¡± Sola continued once Julia was distracted, as Wess smirked to herself.


    ¡°You¡¯ve quite the imagination.¡± Wess professed, moving Sola¡¯s hands down. ¡°But I think we¡¯re a fair while off anything like that.¡±


    ¡°So you will?!¡± Sola questioned, as Julia grabbed her shoulders.


    ¡°Sola!¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°Go¡­help Harley.¡±


    ¡°¡­okay!¡± Sola agreed, rushing to the kitchen, as Julia sat down on her bed, facing Wess on the back of the couch.


    ¡°Sorry, she¡¯s been hyper ever since last night.¡± Julia said.


    ¡°It¡¯s hard to blame her. Our first official Venator mission in Shanlin is only a few hours away. I¡¯m somewhat antsy too.¡± Wess clarified.


    ¡°Well, technically, we¡¯re just shadowing a professional team.¡± Julia clarified.


    Wess got up to head to the kitchen. ¡°Yes, well they¡¯re not about to have first years throw themselves at an actual Wailing without backup.¡±


    ¡°I think I could take it.¡± Harley interjected, emerging out of the kitchen with Sola, both with sandwiches in their hands. ¡°If I had my Buster Knuckles on me. But I guess we¡¯re going weaponless on this trip.¡±


    ¡°We shouldn¡¯t need them, though. We¡¯ve got actual Venators with us, so they¡¯ll do the real heavy lifting.¡± Julia said, getting up and helping herself to some sandwiches.


    ¡°Bud wen havv¡­¡± Sola said, before swallowing properly. ¡°But when has it even been just us watching?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s¡­a really good point.¡± Julia admitted, before leaning down and nodding confidently to Sola. ¡°Let¡¯s stay out of trouble this time.¡±


    ¡°Roger that!¡± Sola saluted.


    ¡°You could finally get some progress on your Whil too, Julia.¡± Harley said. ¡°Considering last ni-¡°


    ¡°Shh! Shhshshh!¡± Julia interrupted, covering Harley¡¯s mouth, Wess squinting curiously.


    ¡°Julia.¡±


    ¡°¡­yes?¡±


    ¡°Is there something I¡¯m not supposed to know about?¡±


    Julia looked side to side. ¡°Sorta.¡±


    Wess kept her gaze fixed.


    ¡°¡­so.¡± Julia pouted. ¡°I kinda¡­broke your very nice and very expensive wine glass last night.¡±


    Wess breathed in and out slowly, clearing holding back some emotion. ¡°¡­okay. Accidents happen.¡±


    ¡°It was on purpose.¡±


    ¡°What?!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry!¡± Julia tried. ¡°I only did it cause I had to!¡±


    Wess did her best to calm down again. She knew Julia well enough to know this wasn¡¯t an act of malice. ¡°Why¡­did you break the glass in the first place?¡±


    ¡°She was practicing her Whil.¡± Harley admitted, going for another sandwich before Sola took the last one.


    Wess pursed her lips. ¡°With my artisan glassware?¡±


    ¡°¡­well, you know I¡¯m not making much progress with my Velocity Control. I still can¡¯t decide whether to speed something up or slow it down on command.¡± Julia confessed. ¡°So, since slowing down rocks and practice punches weren¡¯t working, I thought if I used something really precious¡­I¡¯d force myself to protect it.¡±


    Wess grabbed her forehead. ¡°¡­you¡¯re very lucky.¡± Wess said. ¡°I want to be madder at you, but I should be able to get another glass on our trip to Shanlin.¡±


    ¡°They make them there?¡±


    ¡°No, they import them from the Northern Wayside.¡± Wess explained. ¡°It was precious for a reason.¡±


    ¡°Sorry¡­¡± Julia apologised. ¡°I can pay for it. And make sure nothing happens to it on its way back.¡±


    ¡°I should expect as much.¡± Wess said. ¡°You could have at least asked before attempting to use it.¡±


    Julia pointed to her tablet. ¡°I texted you asking if it was okay, but I think it was when you and Cyrus¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­oh.¡± Wess realised, now checking her tablet.


    ¡°He was that good, huh?¡± Harley remarked.


    ¡°Please shut up already.¡± Wess demanded.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    After a morning of preparation and more apologising from Julia, the team collectively made their way to the academy helicopter yard, talking amongst themselves about the upcoming trip.


    ¡°We¡¯re going to Shanlin! To take down a Wailin¡¯!¡± Julia sang proudly.


    ¡°We¡¯re sending it sailing! It¡¯s totally bailing!¡± Sola joined in, the duo excitedly cheering to each other.


    ¡°I hope they don¡¯t act like this around the professional Venators.¡± Wess expressed. ¡°I¡¯d like to make a good impression.¡±


    ¡°My understanding is that professional teams act like this too. When speaking to Team Vivisect, they were similarly playful.¡± Essex said.


    ¡°While that may be the case amongst team members, coming from us, we will only look more childish.¡± Wess clarified.


    ¡°You worry too much.¡± Harley replied, stretching her arms as she walked. ¡°Just let Julia and Sola have some fun.¡±


    ¡°Zap, POW!¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s slowing down!¡±


    ¡°Whil it, or won¡¯t it?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s hitting the ground!¡±


    ¡°Fun or over-confidence¡­¡± Wess added, as their ride came into view, with an overly enthusiastic figure in front of it, waving to the team.


    ¡°Hi! Hi hi hi!¡± She exclaimed, catching the team¡¯s attention. ¡°Great to see you! I¡¯m Miss Spence! Are you guys Team Valiant?¡±


    ¡°Yes, we are.¡± Julia answered, looking around the cargo helicopter. ¡°I thought Miss Ferris was gonna escort us.¡±


    ¡°Oh, yeah¡­¡± Spence said. ¡°Considering your last outing with her in charge, Faller thought it was better to have me look over you guys. You know, with the Wailing and everything¡­¡±


    Though no one was openly admitting it, Team Valiant was thoroughly relieved to hear Ferris was sitting this one out, at least with the knowledge that their first mission would be that much easier as a result.


    Spence stood dynamically in front of them. ¡°But don¡¯t you worry! With me in charge, we¡¯re gonna learn AND have fun along the way! I¡¯m gonna turn this excursion into an excur-shindig!¡±


    Harley was already losing it at the terrible pun, as Wess and Essex¡¯s worst suspicions were coming true.


    ¡°I am worried she may not be the right person to teach us. She appears to be inexperienced and na?ve.¡± Essex whispered to Wess.


    ¡°At this point, anything¡¯s better than Ferris.¡± Wess pointed out. ¡°I suggest we go along with it. She might be some combative genius underneath this gentle demeanour.¡±


    ¡°You know, I¡¯ve never actually seen a Wailing in person.¡± Spence admitted. ¡°They always look so scary on TV. I don¡¯t think I could even get near one.¡±


    Wess felt a pain in her chest, as Essex gave her an understanding look and encouraged her onto the helicopter with the rest of the team.


    ¡°Seriously?¡± Sola asked. ¡°But you teach Venators. How does that work?¡±


    ¡°No Wailing¡¯s ever made it to campus while I''ve been here. Except¡­¡± Spence said, remembering the Behemoth Wailing and shuddering. ¡°That thing was awful.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ve already seen three.¡± Julia mentioned. ¡°Maybe you should be shadowing us.¡±


    Spence giggled adorably, covering her mouth. ¡°Oh, come on. I¡¯m still the adult in charge here, and I¡¯m gonna make sure you get the most out of your first mission!¡±


    Julia smiled back to her, watching as the cargo helicopter took off with them in the back, flying north over the forest, making its way to Shanlin.


    By all accounts, Shanlin felt somewhat out of place compared to Detu City. Every town in Central Point was fairly built up, but Shanlin was¡­well, quaint, really, closer to a village than anything. Though it was built up, as the buildings climbed up the nearby hills leading to the Eldos Mountains, showcasing giant stair-like roads running perpendicular to it, as stores and houses were dotted around, selling various goods and showcasing interesting characters. It was a trade town, mostly, but even with most of its value in imports, it had plenty of personality of its own.


    The pilot landed just outside the end of main street, dropping off the team and Spence before heading back to the academy, as Team Swift waited outside the Shanlin hotel for the group to arrive.


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re tapping your foot.¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°I said you¡¯re tapping your foot.¡±


    ¡°Oh, sorry.¡± Apologised the black-haired woman.


    ¡°You nervous about the students?¡± Asked the brunette.


    ¡°¡­yeah. They¡¯re the first team we have to lead. I¡¯m just hoping we don¡¯t screw it up.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not like they¡¯d notice if we do screw up. They¡¯re only first years.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not the point.¡±


    ¡°¡­whatever you say, boss.¡±


    The brunette leaned back against the wall, fiddling with her rifle, before the team emerged into the town, drawing their attention.


    Spence stepped out front to address them. ¡°Everyone, these are the two members of Team Swift that we¡¯ll be shadowing today. This is Renee,¡± Spence announced, pointing to the one with black hair. ¡°And this is Gates.¡±


    The brunette flashed a smile, as Renee stepped forward to address Team Valiant. ¡°I¡¯m the leader of Team Swift and will be conducting all of you throughout this job. I understand you¡¯re still students, but while I¡¯m in charge, I expect you not to make my job any harder. Be responsible for yourselves and others, and don¡¯t fall into danger. Now¡­¡± Renee asked, pulling out her tablet and looking up Team Valiant¡¯s profile on Activ. ¡°Which of you is¡­Julia?¡±


    Julia realised that was her and apprehensively stepped forward, as Renee looked her over.


    ¡°You¡¯re the leader, right?¡±


    ¡°Y-yes, m-ma¡¯am, I am.¡± Julia stuttered.


    Renee smiled and shook her hand. ¡°You look strong-willed. I¡¯ve heard your team¡¯s come into contact with Wailing before.¡±


    ¡°A f-few times¡­we weren¡¯t exactly on t-top of things¡­¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t sell yourself short.¡± Renee advised. ¡°If you do that around other teams, they won¡¯t want to hire you down the line.¡±


    ¡°Oh¡­right¡­¡± Julia admitted. ¡°Sorry.¡±


    ¡°That should be obvious¡­¡± Wess grumbled to herself, Harley leaning over to her.


    ¡°She seems really cool.¡± Harley whispered to Wess.


    ¡°They¡¯re certainly an interesting team. More locally known rather than nationally, and with over a decade of experience at this point. You don¡¯t spend that long in one place and not gain a solid reputation.¡± Wess admitted.


    ¡°Someone did their research.¡± Harley commented dryly. ¡°So, you¡¯d feel comfortable staying in Central Point your whole career?¡±


    ¡°Oh, heavens no. I¡¯d get bored within the first year.¡± Wess replied.


    ¡°I heard you¡¯re a sniper too.¡± Gates said, showing off her rifle to Julia. ¡°Maybe if you¡¯re lucky, you can fire this baby.¡±


    Julia¡¯s eyes lit up, as she rushed over to the rifle and started inspecting it openly. ¡°This is the Q-34+ model! How''d you get your hands on it?¡±


    ¡°I won it in a contest.¡± Gates admitted. ¡°A sniping one, naturally.¡±


    ¡°But you¡¯ve added the V-24¡¯s scope and supports¡­¡± Julia muttered, before realising all eyes were on her, as everyone waited for her to finish up. ¡°¡­I¡¯ll inspect it later.¡± She excused, folding back into the team, as Renee got everyone¡¯s attention.


    ¡°Now, I don¡¯t know if you guys still do this, but does anyone know the order of procedures when hunting a Wailing?¡± Renee asked.


    Essex raised her hand. ¡°The procedure is to kill it.¡±


    Renee smirked. ¡°It¡¯s got a few more steps than that.¡±


    She looked them over slowly, before realising Sola was raising her hand frantically.


    ¡°Yes?¡±


    Sola started counting on her fingers. ¡°Research the Wailing, scout the area, protect nearby citizens, confront the Wailing, and resolution and clean-up!¡±


    ¡°Nicely done. I can tell who¡¯s the bookworm here.¡± Renee joked, Harley snickering at the incorrect assessment. ¡°Does anyone have questions for us?¡±


    Essex raised her hand. ¡°Should there not be three other members of your team?¡±


    ¡°They¡¯re taking care of some jobs in Pining.¡± Gates explained. ¡°And we figured we¡¯d only need two of us to take care of this job. Why, you disappointed?¡±


    ¡°I am not.¡± Essex replied, bowing. ¡°It is an honour to meet professionals of any field.¡±


    ¡°You hear that, Renee? Professionals.¡± Gates replied, playfully punching Essex¡¯s arm.


    ¡°I heard. Have you met any other teams?¡± Renee asked.


    ¡°Yes. We have met with Team Vivisect.¡± Essex explained.


    Renee¡¯s eyes lit up. ¡°No shit. How¡¯s Vanessa doing? Is Rusty still trying that nickname stuf-¡°


    ¡°Alright, intro¡¯s all done!¡± Spence cheered happily, hopping in front, alongside Team Swift. ¡°Now, we won¡¯t be heading off for another thirty minutes, so you can hang around Shanlin until then, but remember to be back here in time to leave.¡±


    This content has been misappropriated from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.


    The team nodded, as another thought popped into Spence¡¯s head. ¡°Oh! We also won¡¯t be coming back to Shanlin once the job¡¯s all done, so don¡¯t leave anything behind that you wanna keep. Aaaaaaaand¡­that¡¯s it! Thirty minutes, go!¡±


    Spence took an aside with Team Swift to discuss the finer details of the trip, as Julia noticed Wess slowly getting annoyed.


    ¡°Are you alright?¡±


    ¡°No, I¡¯m not.¡± She replied, walking with the team into town. ¡°I was going to wait until after our mission to buy the replacement wine glass, but since we¡¯re not coming back, I¡¯ll have to buy it now and mind it the whole time.¡±


    ¡°So? What¡¯s the problem?¡± Harley asked.


    Wess turned to her on the spot. ¡°Glass breaks. Julia proved that theory last night.¡±


    ¡°Hey, I¡¯m paying for the replacement¡­¡± Julia pointed out.


    ¡°Regardless, now it¡¯s far more likely to get broken during the mission.¡± Wess worried, adjusting her hair. ¡°Of all the hang ups¡­¡±


    ¡°I will hold it for you.¡± Essex said. ¡°My reflexes are greater than average, and I am familiar with traversing forest terrain.¡±


    ¡°And I brought tea towels.¡± Julia announced, to not much fanfare. ¡°You know, for padding it. I figured this might happen, so now you can hold it in my backpack without worry.¡±


    ¡°Plus, we¡¯ll be looking out for it too.¡± Harley said, slinging an arm around Sola. ¡°We won¡¯t let the Wailing get near it.¡±


    Sola blinked. ¡°Wait, what?¡±


    Wess rolled her eyes. ¡°Okay¡­I suppose I shouldn¡¯t have dismissed you all. My apologies.¡±


    Wess continued further up town, before leaning over to Julia. ¡°And, the tea towel''s were a smart idea.¡±


    Julia had trouble holding back her blush and bashful smile, as the team split off into town, Julia and Wess buying the artisan wine glass from one of Shanlin¡¯s many prominent storefronts, and Harley, Sola and Essex seeing the sights and admiring the view.


    Eventually, the thirty-minute mark caught up with them, as they met back up with Team Swift and Spence, just outside the entrance to the town hiking trail.


    ¡°Is everyone ready to head off?¡± Renee asked, getting a nod from the team. ¡°Just a reminder. Once we find the Wailing, don¡¯t go provoking it. You kids seem smart, but it can be a real rookie mistake.¡±


    ¡°We weren¡¯t really planning on it.¡± Julia remarked, bumping shoulders with Sola.


    ¡°And don¡¯t look too tasty. The Wailing might jump you if it¡¯s real hungry.¡± Gates warned.


    ¡°Oh, stop scaring them.¡± Renee asked, leaning down to address the team. ¡°Wailing don¡¯t actually do that. We¡¯re too scrawny for them anyway.¡±


    Julia raised her hand. ¡°Umm, don¡¯t they normally eat cows and goats?¡±


    Renee looked visibly impressed. ¡°Yes, they do. Quick note about the industry, you should expect to get plenty of jobs on farmland later down the lin-¡°


    ¡°Guys! Come on!¡± Spence exclaimed, just on the edge of the forest. ¡°Let¡¯s get a move on already! I wanna see that Wailing!¡±


    Spence ran ahead, as the group followed behind somewhat cautiously.


    ¡°Ten caps say she runs away once we find it.¡± Harley said.


    Sola reached into her wallet and pulled out a note. ¡°Twenty caps if she hides instead!¡±


    ¡°Done.¡± Harley agreed, as the group officially started their first job.


    ¡ª-¡ª<u>TEAM VALIANT/TEAM SWIFT MISSION</u>¡ª-¡ª


    ¡ª-¡ª<u>TRACK DOWN/KILL THE WAILING STALKING THE SHANLIN HIKING TRAIL</u>¡ª-¡ª


    The forest adjacent to Shanlin ran all the way back to Detu City and took up the majority of Central Point encased in the Eldos mountains. As it was so close to the mountain range, the terrain was ridged and hilly, while being naturally shaded by the foliage, making it perfect for hikers and nature enthusiasts to explore. A clear path had been carved out, leading up and down the hills and valleys, as the group worked their way through, searching for any sign of the Wailing.


    Julia handed off her backpack and the glass to Essex. ¡°You sure you got it?¡± She asked.


    ¡°Dal.¡± Essex replied, tightening the straps. ¡°It is secure.¡±


    ¡°Does that put your mind at ease?¡± Julia asked Wess.


    ¡°¡­possibly.¡± She said. ¡°We¡¯ll see.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Wess. You can always borrow one of my mugs!¡± Sola suggested, as Wess perished the thought.


    ¡°It will be cared for. Dovono.¡± Essex said, jumping ahead to meet up with Harley and Spence, scouting further up the trail.


    ¡°Ooo, I feel like a real Venator!¡± Spence exclaimed. ¡°Is this what it feels like for you?¡±


    ¡°Kinda.¡± Harley said. ¡°Exploring''s all nice and good, but I¡¯m a puncher, through and through.¡±


    Essex climbed down the foliage, carefully stepping onto each branch as not to disrupt Wess¡¯ glass and met back with them. ¡°There is no visible activity in this area. The Wailing will be further down.¡±


    Spence started squeeing on the spot. ¡°I can¡¯t wait! Maybe it¡¯ll be like the Waygone Wailing and shoot fire out!¡±


    ¡°The Waygone Wailing didn¡¯t shoot out fire¡­¡± Harley acknowledged, watching Spence wander about.


    A confused Essex leaned over to Harley. ¡°Why is she excited to see a Wailing? They are horrible creatures.¡±


    Harley thought for a second. ¡°Maybe it¡¯s like wrestling enthusiasts cheering for the heel?¡±


    Essex blinked. ¡°Heel?¡±


    Harley chuckled a little. ¡°Oh, right. Basically, the bad guy everyone roots for cause they totally own. She¡¯s excited cause all the hype of wanting to see a Wailing is finally about to burst.¡±


    Essex folded her arms, as she watched Spence dance around, while still managing to scout. ¡°There is no excitement. Who is excited about a plague?¡±


    ¡°All good up here!¡± Spence cheered, waving to the rest of the group further down the hill.


    Julia noticed and waved back, as Essex slid down the hill to rejoin them again.


    ¡°So, what¡¯re we dealing with?¡± Julia asked Renee, trying to get her attention. ¡°I mean, in terms of the Wailing. O-obviously¡­¡±


    ¡°We don¡¯t actually know its physiology or combat capabilities.¡± Gates explained, the group passing over a stream in the middle of the path. ¡°Just that it¡¯s been slowly claiming the Shanlin hiking trail as its own territory and driving off visitors.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, though. From what we¡¯ve heard, it¡¯s fairly small as far as Wailing go.¡± Renee added. ¡°Still dangerous, but manageable.¡±


    ¡°Oh, that¡¯s good.¡± Julia said, with a sigh of relief.


    ¡°The last Wailing we saw was real big! And all gooey too!¡± Sola clarified, moving her hands about to illustrate her point.


    Gates grinned dryly. ¡°Gelatinous Wailing. We¡¯ve come across a couple of those.¡± Gates said. ¡°They¡¯re pretty fun to fight since they don¡¯t have any magic.¡±


    ¡°You would say that.¡± Renee replied. ¡°You¡¯re not the one with the bladed weapon.¡±


    ¡°Semantics.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not sem-¡° Renee started, before realising how futile the point was. ¡°You try stabbing at those things with a knife.¡±


    ¡°Why would I? I have my big gun.¡± Gates bragged.


    ¡°¡­fortunately, the one we¡¯re dealing with isn¡¯t gelatinous.¡± Renee informed. ¡°If so, we would¡¯ve seen parts of its flesh floating by in the stream we passed.¡±


    ¡°Ew.¡± Sola added. ¡°How does it take a bath?¡±


    ¡°I¡­guess we never stopped to ask.¡± Renee replied, as Wess walked beside Renee.


    ¡°Excuse me.¡± She asked, pointing to the knife by her belt. ¡°Would you mind if I have a look?¡±


    Renee weighed up her responsibilities in this situation, before shrugging it off. ¡°Knock yourself out.¡±


    Wess inspected the knife in her hand, drawing Essex¡¯s eye as well ¡°Finely crafted¡­and impressively lightweight. This looks custom made.¡±


    ¡°It works better with my Whil. Watch.¡± Renee explained, as she seemed to dash to Harley and Spence in an instant, trailing white light behind her, before coming back just as fast. ¡°If I dashed with a heavier or bulkier weapon, it¡¯d throw me off. I might just trip up and face-plant into the ground.¡±


    Julia took notice and got her attention. ¡°S-so how¡¯d you get better at that?¡±


    Renee looked down at her somewhat nostalgically and smiled. ¡°Practice. Learning my limitations.¡± Renee said. ¡°Doing a lot of said face-planting. A lot of good training is like diving off a cliff, you know?¡±


    Julia looked a bit confused, as Essex sidled up. ¡°I believe I understand.¡± Essex said, carefully stepping with the group. ¡°I did not truly learn how to use my Whil until I was presented with real danger. The learning became instinctual and near immediate in the moment.¡±


    ¡°Necessity is the mother of invention.¡± Renee said, before leaning down to meet Julia¡¯s height. ¡°Though, you don¡¯t have to force it. I¡¯m a decade into my career and I still hit a few things while running.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s¡­a bit more comforting.¡± Julia admitted, Renee patting her shoulder affectionately.


    ¡°I¡¯ve got something!¡±


    The group down the hill looked back up at Harley and Spence, as Harley was indicating for Team Swift to come check something out.


    Renee and Gates ran ahead, followed by the rest of Team Valiant, and sidled up to the tree in question, Renee running her hand against the side.


    ¡°¡­claw marks.¡± Renee assessed, getting Gates to double check. ¡°We¡¯re in its territory now.¡±


    ¡°Where?!¡± Sola asked, jumping behind Wess.


    Renee looked from side-to-side. ¡°Right¡­here. This is its territory.¡±


    Sola kept cowering, as Julia had joined them by the tree, analysing the scratches for herself.


    ¡°Wailing do this to test the trees strength and durability, right?¡± Julia asked.


    ¡°Yeah. Once they find the right spot, they need to know it¡¯ll last, and that it¡¯ll protect them if need be.¡± Renee answered. ¡°Now we just need to find the Wailing specifically.¡±


    ¡°Should we split up to cover more ground?¡± Harley suggested.


    ¡°You¡¯ll be more vulnerable that way, and we¡¯re the only two with weapons.¡± Gates brought up, indicating to herself and Renee. ¡°We¡¯d best hang together.¡±


    ¡°Right.¡± Julia said, turning to her team. ¡°Let¡¯s do our best to stay out of danger and make this as clean as possible.¡±


    ¡°Yeah!¡± Sola cheered, nearly hitting Essex¡¯s backpack with her fist-pump, momentarily panicking Wess. ¡°Oh. Sorry.¡±


    ¡°Honestly¡­¡± Wess groaned. ¡°What did she just say?¡±


    ¡°To stay out of danger!¡± Sola replied, as the rest of the group moved on further through the forest.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    The valley made way to more of the forest, but curiously, dropped off toward another valley, then another further down, like a large staircase running perpendicular to the mountains, each cliff was as shear as the next, with just the thought of falling enough to make someone go limp.


    ¡°Hold me¡­¡± Spence whimpered, clinging to Gates¡¯ arm as they moved closer to the cliffside.


    ¡°You afraid of heights?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m afraid of being scared¡­¡± Spence replied, as Gates rolled her eyes and let her stay on.


    Essex made sure to step cautiously, as Wess kept side-eying her, constantly inspecting the bag with her glass in it.


    Essex took notice and stopped. ¡°Is something wrong?¡±


    ¡°Well¡­¡± Wess said, before hurrying over to the backpack. ¡°I need to be sure it¡¯s okay.¡±


    Wess dug around the mountain of tea towels and found the glass in the middle, still perfectly intact, and let out a deep sigh.


    ¡°Thank goodness¡­¡±


    Essex secured the bag and faced Wess. ¡°Did you not trust me to take care of it?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s no-¡° Wess started, before realising Essex could take her honesty. ¡°¡­yes. I¡¯m sorry, but I rarely let anyone touch my personal belongings. Considering last night, you can see why.¡±


    Essex blinked, before nodding. ¡°That is understandable. I am also protective of my scythe and other personal belongings.¡±


    Essex checked to see the rest of the group had walked further, before leaning in. ¡°I do not wish for the others to know, but I am uncomfortable with having left my scythe in the dorm room. I am worried that I will not be prepared for the Wailing once we have found it.¡±


    ¡°At least you have the comfort of a Whil.¡± Wess expressed. ¡°You can just turn yourself into metal whenever you feel. Meanwhile, my only defence is Belvedere, stuck in the dorm room without me to wield it.¡±


    ¡°I can not do it anytime I want.¡± Essex explained. ¡°I need to be touching a specific metal, which I do not have. I am as defenceless as you.¡±


    Wess went to speak but opted for rubbing her forehead. ¡°¡­that gives me real comfort about the safety of my fine glassware.¡±


    ¡°Do not worry. I will protect it to the best of my ability.¡± Essex promised. ¡°We are teammates, and I take that relationship seriously. This is important to you, so it is important to me.¡±


    Wess looked her in the eyes, as she and Essex started walking again. ¡°I suppose there¡¯s a first for everything.¡±


    Essex watched the group ahead, as Julia and Renee were in the back, talking amongst themselves.


    ¡°What do you think they are discussing?¡±


    Wess noticed too. ¡°If I know Julia, she¡¯s asking about the industry and what to expect once we¡¯re in it. And she probably won¡¯t like what she hears¡­¡±


    ¡°No¡­¡± Julia let out.


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°And that¡¯s common? Even for the leader?¡±


    ¡°Especially for the leader. Sometimes we¡¯ll deliberately waste a bit of time so we can charge more for our services.¡± Renee explained. ¡°You¡¯d be surprised how many teams raise their prices like that.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Julia asked in disbelief. ¡°That¡¯s¡­sorta scummy.¡±


    ¡°It sounds a bit underhanded, sure, but it¡¯s for a lot of good reasons too.¡± Renee explained. ¡°Sometimes, when you come back after only an hour, the client isn¡¯t convinced you actually did a good enough job and won¡¯t pay anyway. And often, you¡¯ll spend days of personal time preparing, but only get payed for the time you spend hunting it, so it makes sense to stretch that out to make up for it.¡±


    Julia conceded her point. ¡°¡­I wonder if we¡¯ll have to do that.¡±


    ¡°Probably.¡± Renee said. ¡°Or you could take the moral high road.¡±


    Julia nodded, before snickering to herself.


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± Julia said. ¡°Well, I was just thinking¡­that makes the name Team Swift kinda ironic.¡±


    Renee stopped, before laughing too. ¡°I guess so. I never considered that.¡±


    ¡°Wailing doesn¡¯t know, that we¡¯re tracking it down!¡±


    ¡°Quiet as a mouse, barely making a sound!¡±


    Harley and Sola sang to themselves idly, as Renee looked to Julia. ¡°Are they alright?¡±


    Julia grinned. ¡°They¡¯re fine. Just lifting the mood, I think.¡±


    ¡°Taking out a knife!¡± Harley sang.


    ¡°Or taking out a gun!¡± Sola added.


    Renee slung her arms around them. ¡°Whatever we¡¯ll use, it¡¯s sure to be fun!¡±


    ¡°Could you guys keep it down?¡± Gates asked, aiming her scope over the cliffside. ¡°The song¡¯s fun and all, but I can¡¯t concentrate.¡±


    ¡°Oh, sorry.¡± Renee apologised, joining back up with her. ¡°Find anything?¡±


    ¡°Not¡­yet¡­wait.¡± Gates said, before lining up her sights again. ¡°Over there, by the other cliff.¡±


    Across the valley¡¯s width, Gates had found what looked to be the Wailing, resting beside a nearby pond, staring at its own reflection. It looks somewhat lanky, but still with a noticeable presence and a sharply defined body. It could easily dwarf anyone there, despite apparently being small.


    ¡°Does it have any magic? Can you tell?¡± Renee asked, as Gates offered her the sight.


    ¡°It looks like it¡¯s moving the water without touching it, so it''s got some kind of magic...¡± Gates explained.


    Team Swift found the furthest edge of the cliff and lay down, encouraging the others to do so, staying out of sight as they preyed on the Wailing.


    Renee slowly sat up and addressed the team. ¡°It¡¯s currently distracted, so now¡¯s our best chance at taking it out without direct confrontation.¡± She indicated to the rifle, before turning back to the team. ¡°But you¡¯re here to experience the real thing, so, who wants to take the shot?¡±


    Spence raised her hand frantically, as Harley lowered it again for her.


    ¡°None of you have firearms experience?¡±


    Julia kept quiet, her anxiety getting the better of her, as Sola raised her hand.


    ¡°You wanna take a shot, Sola?¡±


    ¡°No, but Julia¡¯s a firearms expert.¡± Sola exclaimed, throwing Julia off.


    Renee smirked to herself. ¡°You should¡¯ve told me you were an expert.¡±


    ¡°I-I-I didn¡¯t want to i-impose, or¡­screw up¡­¡± Julia admitted, as Gates leaned against the gun.


    ¡°Come on, kid. It¡¯s not the end of the world if you miss.¡± Gates clarified, as Julia looked to her team for input, before realising they would all encourage her anyway.


    Julia crawled up to the gun, making herself comfortable and getting used to it in her hands, before nearly fumbling with the trigger.


    ¡°S-sorry¡­I¡¯m usually better with this¡­¡± Julia excused, as Renee helped her aim the shot.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay to feel stressed. This is a tough situation, and not letting yourself process your emotions will be worse off in the long run.¡± Renee advised. ¡°Tell yourself you¡¯re scared, and work through it.¡±


    Julia nodded back, taking a few calming breathes, as an idea hit her in the moment. ¡°Can I¡­try something?¡±


    ¡°You got a cool technique?¡± Gates asked.


    ¡°W-well¡­my Whil lets me speed things up and slow them down¡­so if I sped up the bullet¡­¡±


    ¡°By all means.¡± Renee allowed. ¡°This is a learning experience above all else.¡±


    Julia returned to the rifles scope, lining it up with the Wailing again, and focusing her breathing.


    Speed it up¡­speed it up¡­faster¡­quicker¡­just like the Behemoth Wailing¡­


    Julia pulled the trigger, firing the shot across the valley, focusing her attention on the bullet just as it left the barrel, trying to send it even faster, before it started slowing instead, enough for the Wailing to start to notice.


    The Wailing popped its head up and dodged to the side, slinking back as the bullet soared past where it was just standing and into the pond. The Wailing looked back at Julia through the scope and strafed into the forest, disappearing from sight again.


    ¡°Dammit¡­¡± Julia muttered.


    Renee patted Julia¡¯s shoulder. ¡°It¡¯s alright. We didn¡¯t expect you to take it out this early anyway.¡± Renee said, now addressing the group. ¡°But it¡¯s a good reminder that we don¡¯t normally get it the first time around. Failure¡¯s always an option, as long as you can learn from it.¡±


    Gates pointed her scope in the Wailing¡¯s direction, indicating to Renee that they should head right down the hill to follow it, as Renee stood back up. ¡°We¡¯re going to try to intercept it directly now. Don¡¯t engage unless we indicate so.¡±


    Team Swift gathered their equipment, heading down the sloping pathway running down the cliffside, as Essex approached Julia by the cliff.


    ¡°We should continue to follow.¡± She said, getting Julia¡¯s attention.


    ¡°Thanks, Essex. I¡¯ll be a minute.¡± Julia said, as the rest of the team and Spence followed Team Swift down, Julia still looking out over the cliff.


    She picked up a small rock in her hand, throwing it once or twice, before throwing it high into the air and attempting to slow it down as it fell. Instead, the rock landed faster into her palm, stinging it a little, and leaving a small red mark in the middle of her hand.


    ¡°¡­come on, Julia¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    The wind was starting to pick up, as the group entered more unfamiliar territory through the hiking trail, the road opening out to a large circular clearing.


    ¡°Stay with us. If it attacks, you should be as close to us as possible.¡± Renee warned, brandishing her knife. ¡°If it gets close, keep your guard up and evade. We¡¯ll protect you.¡±


    ¡°R-Renee, is th-there really anything to be worried a-about?¡± Spence asked worriedly. ¡°Maybe i-it ran away?¡±


    ¡°So much for excitement.¡± Harley remarked ¡°I thought you desperately wanted to see it?¡±


    ¡°N-not this close.¡± Spence admitted. ¡°Not if it¡¯s going to s-slice and dice me.¡±


    ¡°Wailing are more defensive fighters, but they aren¡¯t runners.¡± Renee explained. ¡°And this happens to be our job.¡±


    ¡°Right, job¡­job¡­¡± Spence repeated to herself, slowly calming down, before something rustled in the bushes nearby. ¡°Aaggghhhh!!!¡±


    Harley clamped her hand over Spence¡¯s mouth. ¡°Spence! Shut up!¡± Harley warned her, as Spence freed her mouth.


    ¡°Don¡¯t tell your teacher to shut up!¡± She complained.


    Renee turned on the spot. ¡°Spence, shut up!¡±


    ¡°Yes, ma¡¯am.¡± Spence replied, sinking downward, Renee going back to her cautious demeanour.


    Team Valiant hang back, as Renee indicated for Gates to check the bush out.


    Gates slowly approached, rifle at the ready in case of trouble, as she used the barrel to push the bush apart, finding nothing there other than the strong breeze from earlier.


    ¡°False alarm.¡± Gates called, as the wind grew even stronger. ¡°It¡¯s probably furthe-¡°


    TTHHHHRRRRAASSSHHHH!!!


    Gates was thrown back, crashing into the ring of trees around the clearing from a sudden gust of wind, as Team Valiant stayed beside Renee.


    ¡°Is that the Wailing?¡± Julia asked.


    Renee nodded. ¡°Gates, you good?¡± Renee asked.


    ¡°Peachy!¡± She cried, lying against the trunk¡¯s base. ¡°Finally worked that knot out!¡±


    Before Renee could respond, she felt the breeze against her from the left, as she yelled for Team Valiant to move out of the way and took the brunt of the Wailing landing against her knife, deflecting off it gracefully.


    ¡°Found ya¡­¡± She muttered.


    Julia led Team Valiant and Spence to the side of the clearing, needing to pull Essex along with them, as Gates got back up to assess the Wailing in its entirety.


    ¡°Go Renee! Take it out!¡± Sola cheered.


    ¡°She can¡¯t do it on her own.¡± Gates reminded her. ¡°I think that thing has wind magic. That wasn¡¯t just a breeze earlier, it was the Wailing throwing me back.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ve gotta go save her then!¡± Harley declared, as Gates grabbed her arm.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be stupid. You¡¯ll get in her way. She can hold it off for now.¡± Gates explained, taking out her rifle, before pain shot through her left arm. ¡°Shit! Ow ow ow¡­¡±


    ¡°Are you hurt?¡± Julia asked, assessing the wound.


    ¡°Well, my arm was the part that hit the tree¡­¡± Gates clarified. ¡°Sorry, this probably isn¡¯t very impressive¡­¡±


    ¡°At least you aren¡¯t running away.¡± Wess pointed out. ¡°Or cowering in fear¡­¡±


    She looked down at Spence, shaking fearfully with her arms over her head, as Harley reached for her wallet and slipped Sola her twenty caps.


    ¡°Julia¡­¡± Gates said, nearly backing out once she said it. ¡°¡­you¡¯re gonna need to use my rifle.¡±


    Julia stopped in place. ¡°No, no no, I can¡¯t¡­¡±


    ¡°Kid, I can¡¯t shoot right now, and unless anyone else knows how to fire a gun as well as you, it¡¯s up to you.¡± Gates said.


    Julia looked back at Renee, deftly holding off the Wailing while dashing around it in circles, as it swung itself toward her violently.


    ¡°¡­okay.¡± Julia said. ¡°I¡¯ll take care of it.¡±


    ¡°Great.¡± Gates replied, reaching for the rifle. ¡°Just hit it in¡­where¡¯s the rifle?¡±


    They both looked down to find it wasn¡¯t there, before the rest of the team realised that Essex was now charging at the Wailing, having left the backpack behind, with the rifle in hand.


    ¡°Essex! What¡¯re you doing?!¡±


    Essex ran even faster, catching up to Renee and the Wailing¡¯s conflict, as she leaped into the air, changing her skin to metal with her Whil, and bashed the Wailing¡¯s face with the back of the gun. It flew back a fair way, as Essex landed on the ground, still breathing heavily.


    Renee needed a second to react, before breaking her trance and hurrying to Essex. ¡°Essex! What the hell was that?!¡±


    Essex took a second, making sure the Wailing was really down, before turning to Renee. ¡°I was protec-¡°


    ¡°Never engage when you aren¡¯t prepared!¡± Renee yelled. ¡°I could¡¯ve stabbed you!¡±


    Essex slowed down her breathing and put down the gun. ¡°Gates is indisposed. You were in need of assistance.¡±


    In the corner of Renee¡¯s eye, the Wailing¡¯s mass started to get up and reconfigure. ¡°And a fat lot of good it did. The Wailing¡¯s still moving.¡±


    As the Wailing got back up on its feet, it quickly ducked into the forest¡¯s foliage again, disappearing into it and leaving the clearing silent again. Renee remained on guard, as Essex decided it was best to stay behind her.


    ¡°Protecting citizens comes before confronting the Wailing for a reason.¡± Renee argued.


    ¡°You would not have survived fighting it alone.¡± Essex argued back.


    ¡°I can handle myself. Where¡¯s your team?¡±


    ¡°Th-¡°


    The duo heard a yelp from the distance in the direction of Team Valiant, as they rushed over and found the team scattered, and the Wailing in the middle of them, and with the backpack on its claws.


    ¡°You brute!¡± Wess yelled, having been knocked to the ground, as Julia and Sola rushed to pick her back up.


    Renee used her Whil and dashed forward to hold the Wailing off again, as Essex met up with Gates and received a furious glare.


    ¡°Why¡¯d you take it?!¡± Gates yelled.


    ¡°I was protec-¡°


    ¡°Don¡¯t use it to hit the thing!¡± Gates complained, handing it to Julia with her good arm.


    Renee fought the Wailing back out of the clearing, the Wailing ducking behind the sturdier trees to avoid getting cut, as Julia lined up her sights again.


    I can do it¡­just one shot¡­but¡­


    Julia dismissed the thought, aiming her sights and firing the shot without her Whil, making sure it travelled through the dense forest and connected with the Wailing.


    The bullet flew right into the Wailing¡¯s back leg, momentarily stunning it, but not doing nearly enough damage on its own to kill it.


    Shit¡­of course that wasn¡¯t enough¡­


    Julia chased after Renee and the Wailing, moving further and further through the forest¡¯s interior, as the rest of Team Valiant looked after Gates and Spence, save for a furious Wess.


    ¡°Wess! Where are you going?!¡± Harley called out while helping Gates back up.


    ¡°I¡¯m getting my glass back!¡± She cried, disappearing with the others.


    As the trees opened up to the fresh air, the shear cliff-face became more apparent to an emerging Renee and Wailing, as the Wailing hooked its claws onto a nearby tree to avoid falling, and Renee did her best to follow.


    She took one good stab at the Wailing, before it blocked with a torn off piece of wood it was holding.


    ¡°You¡¯re smarter than I thought you¡¯d be.¡± Renee remarked.


    Catching the Wailing off guard, it felt a bullet graze past its hand, making it drop the wood and giving Renee another chance to attack, as Julia eventually joined up with them, reloading as she ran.


    Wess slowly caught up, as the backpack that had been hooked on the Wailing¡¯s claws had split open, spilling the tea towels and wine glass onto the ground.


    Renee took a second to recover her stamina, as the Wailing reached down and grabbed the glass between its claws, carefully inspecting it, staring directly at its own reflection, fixated.


    Julia aimed her shot, taking it once she had the chance, as the bullet hit the Wailing¡¯s eye, sending it reeling in pain.


    The glass dropped from its claws, fortunately landing against the soft grass, as the Wailing¡¯s attention moved from Renee to the person who¡¯d shot it three times now.


    As it leaned forward, Julia and Wess bolted, Wess grabbing the backpack and scooping the glass in time, and heading out of the way, to unfortunately come face-to-face with the cliff they had been edging during the fight.


    The Wailing emerged with them, somewhat dragging itself, as the rage it had been fighting with was now turned to spite and annoyance, making it want to rid itself of the plague that had been following it all day.


    Wess tripped, now just by the cliff¡¯s edge, as Julia leaned down to help her up.


    The Wailing used its magic to create a gale behind it, hoping to push the two off, and letting it move even faster toward them, leaping at them to finish the job.


    As the Wailing careened toward Julia, claws outstretched and the gale behind it, Julia outstretched her hands, focusing her intent, and sent it even faster toward her.


    Too fast.


    As it looked to nearly scrape by, it flew right past her, just missing the target, and flying far off the cliff just behind Julia, only going faster as gravity started to take over as well.


    It did its best to hook into the cliffside with its claws, frantically flailing more and more as it fell, but with the added and continued pressure from Julia, the Wailing could only watch as the cliff became more distant, and eventually hit the ground with the forces combined.


    In all the commotion, the backpack flew right down with it, nearly meeting the same fate the Wailing did, as Wess leaned over to try and grab it as soon as possible.


    Of course, the gust of wind only meant she went further than she intended, as the ground beneath her betrayed her, and she started to fall along with everything else.


    Julia did her best to switch from speeding up the Wailing to slowing down the backpack, but as Wess began to fall beside her, she immediately turned her attention to Wess and stopped her fall dead in its tracks.


    Wess could feel herself still moving, but barely making any distance from Julia¡¯s influence, as Renee re-emerged from the forest and reached out a hand to grab her, pulling her off the crumbling ground and back onto the cliff.


    Julia finally let go, falling backward onto the grass, severely out of breath.


    ¡­I¡­did it¡­I did it¡­


    Julia sat back up, assessing the situation around her, and noticed Wess in a state of shock.


    She ran up to her in a frenzy. ¡°It didn¡¯t hurt you, did it? We can get you help i-¡°


    Wess jumped over to Julia and hugged her. Wess kept up the hug longer than she normally did, as Julia wrapped her arms around too. Both of their breathing slowed down, as the gust of wind subsided and finally let them be.


    ¡°You two want a room?¡± Harley remarked, as Wess¡¯ eyes shot open, forcing her to slowly break up the hug.


    ¡°It¡¯s just like you to undercut an earnest moment.¡± Wess said.


    The rest of the group joined up with them, Team Valiant celebrating amongst themselves, apart from Essex, who was inspecting the Wailing¡¯s remains over the cliff¡¯s edge with Team Swift.


    ¡°Is it possible that it survived?¡± Essex asked, almost ready to inspect it in person.


    Gates looked through her scope and whistled. ¡°Nope. It¡¯s definitely dead. Of course, us industry veterans always double check for posterity.¡±


    ¡°And for the previously mentioned professionalism.¡± Renee corrected, as Gates shrugged it off.


    Renee watched over the cliff, as Essex got her attention, before bowing.


    ¡°Relias votelagra. I apologise for my previous actions. I should not have endangered myself.¡±


    Essex waited for a response, hoping for some kind of forgiveness, as Renee sighed out loud and dismissed it. ¡°I¡¯ll be honest, you did way better then most first year teams. Hell, our first mission ended with a broken arm and way more crying.¡±


    ¡°And mine¡¯s only sprained.¡± Gates pointed out.


    ¡°While your judgment wasn¡¯t the soundest, you handled that mission impressively well.¡± Renee said, now addressing the team. ¡°This was a great success overall. Everyone should be really proud of themselves.¡±


    Amongst the cheering and celebration, Spence re-surfaced from her cowering state, still very much on edge, even with the Wailing having been disposed.


    ¡°C-c-can we go b-back now?¡± Spence asked, still shaking a fair bit.


    ¡°Oh, right.¡± Renee said, pulling out her tablet again and marking the mission on Activ as¡­


    ¡ª-¡ª<u>TEAM VALIANT/TEAM SWIFT MISSION</u>¡ª-¡ª


    ¡ª-¡ªTRACK DOWN/KILL THE WAILING STALKING THE SHANLIN HIKING TRAIL¡ª-¡ª


    ¡ª-¡ª<u>COMPLETED</u>¡ª-¡ª


    ¡°That should do it. Spence can¡­¡± Renee started, before looking at Spence, still thoroughly freaked out. ¡°¡­we¡¯ll call the academy and get you guys back.¡±


    After finishing that up, Renee approached Gates, casually watching Team Valiant together.


    ¡°What happened to not running into danger?!¡± Harley complained.


    ¡°It made it personal!¡± Wess argued. ¡°And it might have hurt Julia!¡±


    ¡°But you lost the glass.¡± Sola pointed out, by the cliff with Essex. ¡°Should we get another one?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll get another one.¡± Julia said, as Wess hid her face.


    ¡°¡­that¡¯s¡­I can get a new one. You more than made up for breaking the last one.¡± Wess admitted.


    ¡°As long as you stay away from any more cliffs.¡± Harley remarked, getting a laugh from the others.


    ¡°Considering it¡¯s our first shadowing gig, you reckon we did a good job?¡± Renee asked.


    Gates shrugged, as she rested her arm on Renee. ¡°They¡¯re still laughing, right?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I guess.¡± Renee sighed. ¡°I just hope they keep that kind of optimism up.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Finished the job!¡±


    ¡°With a total success!¡±


    ¡°I think it¡¯s fair to say!¡±


    ¡°That we¡¯re part of the best!¡±


    Harley, Sola and Julia grinned to each other, still in high spirits, as they headed back to the academy on the cargo helicopter, as Wess and Essex sat beside them, deliberately not joining in.


    ¡°They can¡¯t let a moment stay quiet, can they?¡± Wess asked.


    ¡°I do not see the point in celebration.¡± Essex said. ¡°But I am sure this is not going to be common.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t count on it¡­¡± Wess sighed, as Julia noticed from the sidelines.


    ¡°Sorry about the glass again, Wess.¡± Julia apologised.


    ¡°I think weighing it against my life, you made the right call.¡± Wess commented. ¡°I may just have to use Sola¡¯s mug¡­¡±


    Julia grinned. ¡°But I¡¯d say that made up for our last Wailing encounter, right Sola?¡±


    Sola jumped up. ¡°Yeah! And this time you learned a new Whil thing!¡± Sola cheered, picking up her jacket. ¡°Slow it down! Slow it down!¡±


    ¡°Can we slow you down?¡± Harley wondered, as Julia caught the jacket with the ease of her Whil, exciting Sola all over again.


    ¡°I¡¯m glad you guys had fun¡­¡± Spence moped. ¡°That¡­thing was¡­so freaky¡­¡±


    ¡°So? How well did we do?¡± Harley asked, as Spence just sat there.


    ¡°Yeah¡­uhh, soaring grades, good job¡­¡± She mumbled, staring out the helicopter¡¯s window.


    Essex leaned over to Harley. ¡°I believe we have ¡®broken¡¯ Miss Spence.¡±


    ¡°It was bound to happen.¡± Harley pointed out, looking to Julia for confirmation. ¡°Right?¡±


    Julia looked out the helicopter window. ¡°There¡¯s a first for everything.¡±

 Chapter 14: Weapon Redux

    Julia awoke to her tablet buzzing beside her head, stirring her from the comforts of her bed. She stumbled out of the sheets, checking that the alarm woke her at the appropriate time.


    ¡°¡­seven.¡± She mumbled to herself, standing up and stretching. Checking the room, she found Harley and Wess¡¯ beds were empty, and guessed that Essex was out on her morning run. She grabbed the tablet again and skimmed over her schedule, checking off a few things from the day prior, and was reminded of an upcoming assignment as she stepped into the kitchen.


    Harley lifted her head from her book and breakfast, resting her arm on the kitchen table. ¡°Mornin¡¯.¡±


    ¡°Hey. What¡¯re you reading?¡± Julia asked.


    ¡°It¡¯s this Eastern Wayside romance novel.¡± Harley explained, yawning a bit. ¡°Super wordy and dense. I keep checking out every paragraph or so.¡±


    ¡°Is it any good?¡±


    ¡°No, but everyone from the Eastern Wayside calls it brilliant and enlightening.¡± Harley said, pulling out her tablet. ¡°I¡¯m gonna see if there¡¯s an audiobook version¡­¡±


    ¡°Good call.¡± Julia giggled, waving her own tablet. ¡°Remember what we¡¯ve got today?¡±


    ¡°¡­no?¡±


    Julia rolled her eyes, before showing Harley her screen, as she took a second to read.


    ¡°¡­oh yeah! The weapon thing for whatever the hel-¡°


    ¡°The weapon design and redesign assignment for Team Orientation and Fundamentals!¡± Julia interrupted, beaming with energy. ¡°Me and Sola can finally get weapons!¡±


    ¡°Nice!¡± Harley cheered. ¡°It was only a matter of time.¡±


    ¡°And still not soon enough.¡± Julia said, getting some breakfast from the fridge. ¡°Plus, you guys get to update your weapons with new stuff too.¡±


    Harley kicked her leg excitedly. ¡°I can finally get those jet boosters on my Buster Knuckles.¡±


    Julia grabbed what she could and shoved it in her mouth, before swallowing. ¡°¡­get yourself ready. I want to get to work on this as soon as possible.¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t it due in two weeks?¡± Harley asked.


    ¡°The second draft is. The first draft is due by the end of this week.¡± Julia clarified, grabbing her jacket.


    ¡°Two drafts? Ugghhh¡­¡± Harley groaned. ¡°Why¡­?¡±


    ¡°To be thorough. Do you know where Wess is?¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s in there.¡± Harley said, indicating to the bathroom and finishing her breakfast too. ¡°I¡¯ll go and wake up Sola. If I¡¯m getting dragged into this, she is too.¡±


    Julia nodded, knocking against the bathroom door. ¡°Wess? Can I come in?¡±


    ¡°If you must.¡± She replied, as Julia opened the door, and immediately froze as she looked to the bath.


    Wess was resting in the water, comfortably letting herself float, with a thin layer of bubbles just covering her¡­everything.


    ¡°Wess, you¡¯re very naked right now.¡± Julia said, frantically averting her eyes out of respect.


    ¡°I¡¯ve nothing to be ashamed of. What do you want?¡± She asked, her eyes closed and mind focused on relaxing. ¡°Rather, what do you need?¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s an¡­an assignment we need to work on for¡­actually, I¡¯m gonna tell you once we leave.¡± Julia excused, still facing the other way as she stepped out the door. ¡°Be ready to head out in a few minutes.¡±


    ¡°Assignment?¡± Wess asked. ¡°Alright¡­fine.¡± Wess begrudgingly agreed, stepping up from the bath, as Julia swiftly closed the door before she could see anything.


    ¡°Put away the pride for once, Wess¡­¡± Julia muttered, as Essex came through the front door, still in her exercise gear and with a layer of sweat.


    She dabbed at her forehead with a towel. ¡°Cali.¡±


    ¡°Hey, Essex. Can you get changed? We¡¯re going to the study hall to work on an assignment.¡±


    Julia showed Essex the tablet, as Essex peered over the requirements of the assignment.


    ¡°I have already finished most of this.¡± Essex revealed, pleasantly surprising Julia.


    ¡°Awesome! Bring what you have with us.¡± Julia said, grabbing something leftovers from the fridge.


    ¡°Understood. I am excited to see you and Sola with your own weapons.¡± Essex admitted, Harley stamping her foot off to the side.


    ¡°Sola, get up!¡± Harley yelled, toppling Sola out of her sheets, as Sola finally woke up after several attempts.


    ¡°Stop yelling¡­¡± She whined, as Harley dragged Sola off of the bed and onto the floor. ¡°Ow.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s team assignment time, Sola.¡± Harley reminded her.


    ¡°Where¡¯s fun Harley?¡± Sola remarked.


    ¡°She¡¯s taking a back seat.¡± Harley said, pulling Sola to her feet. ¡°Sorry, but we¡¯re starting this one early. Plus, you finally get your own weapon.¡±


    ¡°Really?!¡± Sola exclaimed, grabbing her stuff. ¡°Let¡¯s go! Let¡¯s go! Let¡¯s go!¡±


    ¡°Uhh, Sola?¡± Harley said, pointing to her pyjamas.


    ¡°¡­oh!¡± Sola realised, ducking into the study to get a change of clothes, as Essex came out with a few rough sketches of her scythe.


    Julia finished packing a couple supplies, as Wess emerged from the bathroom, impressively put together considering how much time she had to work with.


    ¡°Damn, you clean up well, Wess.¡± Harley commented.


    ¡°Yes, I do.¡± Wess replied, Sola running out the study, half-dressed and half-packed, and digging into the fridge for food.


    ¡°Are you good, Sola?¡± Julia wondered, as Sola finished putting on her clothes, a piece of leftover pizza in her mouth.


    ¡°Reah!¡± She said, before swallowing. ¡°I¡¯m just excited. Oh, I¡¯ve gotta brush my teeth!¡±


    ¡°That can wait.¡± Harley said, pulling her back with the others. ¡°Let¡¯s go already.¡±


    ¡°Is everyone ready?¡± Julia asked.


    ¡°Yes, taskmaster. Please lead us to no man''s land.¡± Wess dryly commented, getting a laugh from Harley and Sola.


    Julia rolled her eyes. ¡°You can thank me later. Let¡¯s go!¡± Julia cheered, getting a noticeable lack of a response from the still tired team, except for Sola, as they made their way to the study hall.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Compared to other campus hotspots like the Spire or the Academy Daiquiri Lounge, the study hall wasn¡¯t nearly as impressive, but it found far more use due to its vast Venator resources and communal vibe. ¡®The Brawlers Brew¡¯ caf¨¦ just outside the entrance was far more packed, with early rising students getting their coffee fix, or just a convenient breakfast. Julia recognised a few other teams from their class that were clearly here for the same reason they were, and about as frazzled from the early hour.


    ¡°Look at that. Not such a bad idea now.¡± Julia remarked, as she pointed to a large table that was unoccupied. ¡°Let¡¯s plant ourselves down and get to work.¡±


    ¡°You go on ahead.¡± Harley said, holding Sola¡¯s shoulder, as she was visibly less animated. ¡°Sola¡¯s already worn herself down. I¡¯m gonna shove some food into her so she doesn¡¯t pass out.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s nice of you¡­¡± Sola mumbled, already back to being half asleep.


    ¡°I have not had breakfast, so I will join you as well.¡± Essex said, as the trio waited in line at the caf¨¦.


    Julia and Wess took their place at the table, with Wess trying to power through the sleep her body desperately craved.


    ¡°You know how much I appreciate my sleep.¡± Wess advised Julia. ¡°So, waking up early to have a bath means I really didn¡¯t want to be interrupted.¡±


    ¡°Sorry, but if we put off big assignments, it¡¯ll only make scheduling harder in the future.¡± Julia explained.


    ¡°Yes, yes, I¡¯m aware.¡± Wess said, rubbing her forehead. ¡°What''s the assignment?¡±


    ¡°We have to design our weapons. New ones for me and Sola, and improvements for you, Harley and Essex.¡± Julia said. ¡°And first drafts are due by Friday.¡±


    ¡°What does it mean improvements?¡± Wess questioned.


    ¡°Just things you¡¯d like to add, like a new blade or type of handle. Stuff the academy can improve on.¡± Julia described.


    Wess rested against the table. ¡°Right, well I¡¯ll help with yours then.¡± Wess said, leaning over to Julia a little.


    Julia blinked. ¡°What about your re-design?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t need one.¡± Wess said.


    Julia paused for a second. ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t need to improve it.¡± Wess reiterated.


    ¡°Can you¡­not think of anything to add?¡± Julia respectfully asked.


    ¡°No, I can, I just see no reason to.¡± Wess said, firm in her conviction.


    Julia scratched her head. ¡°Isn¡¯t your weapon just a broadsword?¡±


    ¡°Just a broadsword?¡± Wess repeated. ¡°Since when is Belvedere ¡®just¡¯ a broadsword?¡±


    Julia doubled back. ¡°I meant, isn¡¯t that sort of low-tech for a modern day Venator weapon?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t see anything low-tech about it.¡± Wess debated. ¡°It¡¯s a perfectly practical weapon. Why should I need to change it?¡±


    Julia wanted to look to the others for guidance, but realised none of them were actually back yet, leaving her to handle the debate alone.


    ¡°Well, think about the team here. The sword¡¯s fine on its own, but it doesn¡¯t really compliment any of our abilities.¡± Julia reasoned.


    ¡°Shouldn¡¯t its first job be to compliment mine?¡± Wess fired back, folding her arms. ¡°And why should I change it for the team? I¡¯m still deciding whether or not I should transfer by the end of the year.¡±


    Julia¡¯s eye twitched. ¡°Bu¡­you can¡¯t just refuse to change it!¡± Julia yelled in an out-of-character volume, standing up to make her point.


    ¡°It¡¯s fine the way it is!¡± Wess yelled back, standing up as well, before getting a couple looks from the students around them, as they both sat down, calming themselves.


    ¡°You should be focusing on your weapon, not mine. I¡¯m not changing it, and that¡¯s that.¡± Wess declared, sitting back in her chair.


    ¡°But it¡¯s a team assig-¡° Julia argued, before realising Wess was completely checked out, not listening to a single word she was saying. Julia was just as huffy, turning away from Wess in frustration, as the other three walked back, now with Sola stuffing her face.


    ¡°Where¡¯s the fire, people?¡± Harley asked, as neither Wess nor Julia responded. ¡°Care to let us know what¡¯s wrong?¡±


    ¡°Wess won¡¯t improve her weapon.¡± Julia explained, the others sitting around the table.


    ¡°It doesn¡¯t need to be changed.¡± Wess argued back, as Harley quickly realised the problem.


    ¡°Alright. You can help us out with our designs.¡± Harley said to Wess, shocking Julia.


    ¡°Don¡¯t side with her! She¡¯s being unreasonable.¡± Julia said, getting the stink eye from Wess.


    ¡°Julia, if she doesn¡¯t want anything new, we shouldn¡¯t force her. It¡¯s her weapon, after all.¡± Harley reasoned. ¡°You wouldn¡¯t get it, but for us Venators without a Whil, our weapons are way more personal to us. A total design overhaul could really mess with our only means of attack.¡± Harley explained.


    Wess appreciated Harley¡¯s shared viewpoint and smugly smirked to Julia. Julia wanted to debate the point further, but found she had no real footing in which to argue, leaving her to silently sit and stew. Essex spread out her sketches amongst the table, hoping to recapture the attention of the group, as Julia¡¯s mood turned around, grabbing a few pages and becoming mesmerised.


    ¡°These are really detailed.¡± Julia exclaimed, flipping through each intricately drawn page, details measured down to the millimetre. ¡°How long have you had these?¡±


    ¡°I had started them a few months before arriving.¡± Essex clarified. ¡°The Segaru Clan are comparatively low-tech, so these upgrades were not possible. And most would have been discouraged by the other members.¡±


    Julia caught her use of the word low-tech and gave Wess a knowing look, as Wess averted her eyes and poured over Essex¡¯s sketches as well.


    Sola dug into Julia¡¯s bag and grabbed their work supplies, spreading out papers and pencils across the table, as Harley immediately jumped some and got to work.


    ¡°What kind weapon do you want, Sola?¡± Julia asked, Sola sitting next to her with a rejuvenated energy.


    ¡°Well, my first idea was something really cutty or hitty like the rest of the team¡­¡± Sola said, getting a giggle out of Julia.


    ¡°Are those the technical terms?¡±


    Sola blinked. ¡°I don¡¯t think so. Anyway, then Harley said I should do something with my Whil since it¡¯s the strongest thing I¡¯ve got. So I¡¯m gonna get a¡­what¡¯s the word?¡±


    ¡°Arm-cannon.¡± Harley said, tapping her pencil to her chin.


    ¡°Yeah, that. I can direct my lightning better and hit things real far away!¡± Sola added.


    Julia beamed with excitement. ¡°That sounds great!¡± Julia exclaimed, hugging Sola excitedly. ¡°Yes, yes, yes! We¡¯re getting weapons!¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re getting weapons!¡± Sola cheered, joining in. ¡°We¡¯ll be the Gun Gals!¡±


    ¡°Yea-¡° Julia started, before really hearing the name. ¡°¡­or, you know, Team Valiant still works.¡±


    ¡°Oh. Good point.¡± Sola agreed, drawing up the basis for her arm-cannons, before realising another essential part. ¡°¡­I think I¡¯ll add some armour.¡±


    ¡°Armour?¡± Julia asked.


    Sola nodded. ¡°And maybe it¡¯s electric, so when you touch it, it¡¯s like an electric fence!¡±


    ¡°I like that.¡± Harley interjected, before Julia could raise any arguments.


    ¡°Maybe focus on the arm-cann-¡°


    ¡°And they¡¯ve got blades on them too! Shock blades or something!¡± Sola exclaimed, frantically scribbling every idea she had down.


    Julia accepted defeat and left Sola to her devices, as she took some paper of her own and started working on her design.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    The design sessions lasted the rest of the week, as the team took time out of each day working in the study hall, each member providing notes on the others¡¯ ideas and jumping in with suggestions.


    ¡°I would advise adding more weight to the barrel. Your bullets will be steadier when fired.¡± Essex advised, Julia jotting the idea down.


    ¡°Does it have a strap?¡± Sola asked.


    ¡°Uhh, no.¡± Julia said.


    Sola leaned over the table. ¡°But what if you drop it during a fight?¡±


    ¡°Good point, but a strap¡¯ll get in the way.¡± Julia said. ¡°I can take the gun apart, so a flimsy bit of leather whipping around when it¡¯s not in use is only gonna annoy me.¡±


    ¡°The strap could retract.¡± Wess suggested. ¡°So it clips in place when used, then you pull on it and the strap coils back.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s a really good idea.¡± Julia praised, adding in the strap and retracting feature. ¡°Anything else, guys?¡±


    ¡°Make it yellow.¡± Harley added, Julia snapping her fingers in acknowledgement.


    ¡°And now it¡¯s yellow.¡± Julia said, dramatically dropping her pencil, as her team playfully cheered for her.


    ¡°Nicely done, Julia.¡± Wess congratulated. ¡°And with one day to spare before the showcase.¡±


    ¡°Nope, I refuse to take all the credit.¡± Julia admitted, politely bowing. ¡°Thanks guys, really.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ll have to stop thanking us at some point. It¡¯s only gonna fuel my ego.¡± Harley joked, getting a laugh from the team.


    With the last few improvements made, Julia took her seat again, as the rest of the team went back to working on their designs and touching things up. All that was left was Sola, Harley, and¡­


    ¡°Hey, Wess?¡± Julia asked. ¡°Have you¡­drawn up anything? Just in case?¡±


    ¡°Julia, we¡¯ve been over this.¡± Wess replied. ¡°I don¡¯t need to do it. I¡¯m sure Mr Vent will understand my position. Plus, I¡¯ve helped all of you out, so that should count as participation.¡±


    Julia was still doubtful but didn¡¯t want to press Wess any further.


    ¡°Dang it...¡± Sola mumbled under her breath.


    ¡°What¡¯s up, Sola?¡± Julia asked, looking over her shoulder.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think this is working.¡± Sola said, scrunching up another piece of paper and tossing it. ¡°I think I came up with too many ideas.¡±


    ¡°Well, let me se-¡° Julia said, as Sola reached under the table and handed her a mountain of finished pages, all crudely drawn, but each one a different variation on the idea of the arm-cannon.


    ¡°¡­Julia?¡±


    ¡°My gods, Sola.¡± Julia exclaimed. ¡°This is way too much.¡±


    ¡°Yeah¡­¡± Sola sighed.


    ¡°Okay, lets just pick one and go with that.¡± Julia suggested, attempting to scale the mountain of papers.


    ¡°But they¡¯re all great! I wanna use all of them!¡± Sola complained. ¡°Maybe I¡¯ll have them all made, then mix and match!¡±


    ¡°You should bring ¡®em all in tomorrow and let Vent judge what he likes best.¡± Harley suggested over Sola¡¯s shoulder. ¡°Play the odds, you know?¡±


    Sola opened her mouth to talk but stopped and just gave a thumbs up to Harley, as she started compiling her papers together into something slightly more manageable.


    ¡°I¡¯ve been done for days, so I¡¯m ready to go!¡± Harley celebrated, kissing her page of sketches. ¡°Wait ¡®til Vent gets a load of this!¡±


    Julia gave a side glance to Wess, minding her own business on her tablet, before turning back to Harley and smiling for her.


    ¡°Let¡¯s give him hell.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    The lecture hall was packed with teams, all carrying their design documents and weapons on them, each occupying the rows leading down to the stage. A makeshift board had been set up to display the designs, with the only thing missing being Mr Vent.


    After everyone had gotten settled, the doors opened up, revealing Vent in a hurry, as he made his way down to the stage and met up with a woman at the bottom, dressed in well-detailed goggles.


    ¡°Apologies, everyone. I misplaced my keys this morning. Fridays, huh?¡± He remarked. ¡°I¡¯ll be looking over your designs today along with our Head Engineer at the academy, Miss Jovie.¡±


    The woman next to him waved, as she signed a greeting to everyone.


    ¡°She will be assessing the practicality of your designs and whether they¡¯re even something we can make. I''ll be making my own observations and generally giving a second opinion.¡±


    Jovie looked to Vent inquisitively and signed a few things to him, as he signed back in response.


    ¡°What is that hand movement for?¡± Essex asked Julia.


    Julia blushed a little. ¡°It''s sign language. She asked how long this would be, and he said short enough.¡±


    Essex looked back at her. ¡°Do you know sign language?¡±


    ¡°Most people do.¡± Julia said.


    ¡°You¡¯ll come up in teams and each take a few minutes to explain your designs to us. Also, if you already have weapons, please bring them up. It¡¯ll help the visualising process.¡± Vent explained, as he sat down with Jovie. ¡°First up, Team¡­Beefcake? Pfft¡­¡±


    Vent chuckled to himself, as Team Beefcake made their way up to the stage, followed by team after team, until nearly the entire class had been called.


    ¡°Team Vanguard, thank you.¡± Vent said, as they left the stage, giving a thumbs up to Team Valiant once they were back in their seats. ¡°Next up is Team Valiant, and first presenting is Essex¡­oh, just Essex.¡±


    Team Valiant made their way to the front, sketches in hand, save for Wess, as Essex pinned up her sketches on the board, and bowed to the class.


    ¡°Calias Delo.¡± She greeted to the class. ¡°Mr Vent. Miss Jovie.¡±


    ¡°Miss Essex.¡± Vent replied, sitting back in his chair.


    Essex pulled her scythe from her back. ¡°I wish to make modifications to my scythe to better fit my role as a Venator. While it is effective, there are areas that can be improved upon.¡± Essex explained.


    She touched her hand to the blade¡¯s metal. ¡°My Whil allows the changing of my skin to the metal I am touching. I plan to have a shaft of metal inside of the handle where my hand grips it, allowing me to change wherever I may be. It would also be able to change what type of metal I am touching. For instance, if I was in need of platinum, I would press the button on the handle, and the shaft would change out for platinum, letting me use my Whil more effectively.¡±


    Vent nodded on enthusiastically, as Jovie jotted down notes and calculations about Essex¡¯s redesign.


    ¡°If it is possible, I would also have the blade change to the metal selected to be prepared for any situation. Minor alterations have also been made to balance and weight distribution.¡±


    Vent sat back impressed, nearly forgetting to give feedback, before shaking himself. ¡°No problems from me. Is it doable, Jovie?¡±


    Jovie finished up a few more calculations, before signing ¡®yes¡¯ back happily.


    ¡°Looks like the engineering department can manage it. Personally, I think it¡¯s an inspired and natural addition to your scythe. Well done.¡±


    ¡°Delos.¡± Essex said, bowing politely and leaving the stage with her illustrations, getting well earned applause from the crowd and a high-five from Harley and Sola.


    ¡°Julia Alpine. Let¡¯s see what you¡¯ve got for us.¡± Vent announced, spinning his pen.


    Julia gulped visibly, her anxiety flaring up a bit, despite her best efforts. Her hands were starting to perspire, accidentally staining the sketches a little.


    ¡°Hey.¡± Whispered Harley, as she grabbed Julia¡¯s shoulder and smiled to her. ¡°Give him hell, right?¡±


    Julia put on a brave face and nodded in confirmation, as she headed up with as much confidence as she could muster.


    Vent scribbled something on his clipboard. ¡°Alright, Julia, whatcha got?¡±


    Julia sighed to herself, breathing out heavily. ¡°I-I-I don¡¯t have a w-weapon yet, but since I¡¯m a¡­I¡¯m trained in f-firearms, I decided on an a-augmented semi-automatic rifle for the team.¡±


    Vent put his hand to his chin. ¡°Go on.¡±


    Julia pinned up her design and tried to display it with her hands as best she could, but ended up looking more like a pinup than her actual sketches.


    ¡°It¡¯s a b-basic 45-V model, but¡­modified with increased barrel weight a-and a retractable s-strap so I can control my aim during combat and my b-bullets will be more effective.¡± Julia explained, trying to keep her sweating under control.


    She looked behind her at the team, hoping for a bit of encouragement, and saw the others giving her looks of encouragement, urging her to continue.


    Julia cleared her throat.¡° A-and¡­I was hoping, if¡­it¡¯s possible, for the gun to ch-change depending on the situation. Like, it has a retractable barrel that makes it a sniper rifle, then you rearrange the parts and it becomes a shotgun. That sort of thing¡­¡±


    Vent nodded his head along with Julia. ¡°I like it. Imaginative design and good use of space and parts. Jovie?¡±


    Jovie lifted her head and signed to Julia.


    [I¡¯ll give you some advice directly.] Jovie prefaced. [The design is very clever, but I¡¯ve heard that you have a Whil, right?]


    ¡°Yes. Velocity Control.¡± Julia said, as it was easier.


    [I want to see more incorporation of your Whil for your redraft. Think about bullet velocity and aiming, and how that could be improved or manipulated in terms of velocity. As for gun variants, I would keep it to assault rifle, sniper rifle and shotgun. Anymore would be diminishing returns.]


    [Thank you.] Julia replied, bowing politely, before leaving the stage, impressed with how sweaty, and conscious, she still was.


    ¡°Nicely done.¡± Harley said, as Julia noticed Joleicia giving her a thumbs up from Team Vanguard¡¯s row.


    ¡°Next up¡­¡± Vent started, before a smile started to break out on his face. ¡°¡­Harley Baroke.¡±


    ¡°This is what I was dreading¡­¡± Harley moped, remembering her previous experiences with Vent.


    ¡°Don¡¯t let him get to you.¡± Wess advised, as Harley made her way up onto the stage, pinning up her crudely drawn, if well-intentioned, weapon designs.


    ¡°I¡¯m interested to see what you¡¯ve cobbled together.¡± Vent remarked, Harley ignoring the comment and holding her ground.


    Harley pulled out her Buster Knuckles to display. ¡°Since my Buster Knuckles are already pretty high-tech, I¡¯ll just be adding improvements. First off, some jet boosters on the back to add propul-¡°


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, jet boosters?¡± Vent interrupted, having scanned over her sketches. ¡°Is that going to work?¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    ¡°Where are the boosters pointed, Harley?¡± Vent questioned, pointing with his pen.


    ¡°¡­at me?¡± Harley admitted.


    ¡°Are you fire resistant?¡±


    ¡°¡­no.¡±


    Vent raised an eyebrow. ¡°And have you addressed this in your design?¡±


    Harley bit her tongue. ¡°I guess not.¡±


    This tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report.


    ¡°Okay then. Now you know my first note.¡±


    Harley felt her anger building, as she looked to Team Valiant for some assurance. She noticed Julia mouthing ¡®in, out, in, out,¡¯ reminding Harley to breathe.


    ¡°¡­alright, then how about metal armour for my fingers to avoi-¡°


    Vent raised his hand, as Harley frustratedly stopped where she was and indicated to him.


    ¡°Wouldn¡¯t the casing restrict your movement?¡±


    Harley looked confused. ¡°How so?¡±


    ¡°Well, you still need to pick things up with your ¡®Buster Knuckles¡¯ on. The armour, as you¡¯ve indicated, means you can¡¯t bend your fingers.¡±


    ¡°No, cause on¡­¡± Harley started, before looking to her illustrations and realising there was nothing there to address that. ¡°¡­oh.¡±


    ¡°Do I need to ask, Jovie?¡± Vent said, as he got a definitive ¡®no¡¯ from Jovie. ¡°Exactly. You need to think these things out before deciding them.¡± Vent clarified, writing onto his clipboard, as Harley breathed out in a huff.


    ¡°Well, we only got a week to work on it.¡± Harley argued.


    ¡°Frankly, you should have had these designs finished before you came to the academy. A professional Venator would¡¯ve, at least¡­¡±


    Harley balled up her fist. ¡°Why are you just poking holes in my design?¡± Harley complained, crossing her arms.


    ¡°I¡¯m asking questions about how it works. Your job is to explain it so I understand how it works. You have your notes.¡±


    Despite her emotional state, Harley left the stage without causing any damage to Vent, and folded back into the team, getting a reassuring pat on the shoulder from Sola.


    ¡°¡­Sola Lusagi.¡±


    Sola took a second, before realising her name had been called and taking her pile of drawings onto the stage. She displayed page after page, all with varying ideas and concepts, eventually covering the entire board with them, with plenty overlapping just to make space.


    The class was silent.


    ¡°I kinda did a bunch.¡± She said, standing in front of the monolith of ideas. ¡°Want me to go through them?¡±


    Vent and Jovie had to take stock before responding. ¡°Y-yes, just¡­go through your three best.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± Sola said, pulling off a fairly rough sketch. ¡°Well, the first one¡­¡±


    ¡°Sola?¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    ¡°Your weapon?¡±


    Sola blinked. ¡°Oh, right, uhh¡­Harley, what¡¯s the word?¡±


    ¡°Arm-cannon.¡± She flatly replied, still pissed at Vent.


    ¡°Yeah, that. It¡¯d be powered by my Whil, cause I shoot electricity, and it¡¯ll let me direct it and control it. There¡¯d be two, one for each arm, but¡­¡±


    She held up her sketch for clarification. ¡°I thought about adding a Watts gauge on the side, so I know how much I¡¯m firing.¡±


    ¡°Good idea. I understand you¡¯ve had some trouble measuring it, so that seems like a smart edition.¡± Vent added.


    ¡°Yeah! And also, I was thinking I could make it¡­fly?...I think that¡¯s what it is¡­¡± She mumbled, looking over her sketches and trying to make out her chicken scratch.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, did you say fly?¡± Vent asked, as Jovie popped her head up inquisitively.


    ¡°Uhh¡­¡± Sola said, looking over her sketch again. ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°And how would it do this?¡±


    ¡°W-well, the electricity would shoot out and, like, launch me? Like, I shoot it at the ground.¡± She said. ¡°And I would¡­fly.¡±


    ¡°Okay¡­¡± Vent said, hand to chin. ¡°Continue.¡±


    ¡°Then there¡¯s this one, where it¡­I think I drew a mech¡­powered by¡­huh.¡± Sola said, now remembering the more outlandish ideas she¡¯d drawn.


    ¡°Sola?¡±


    ¡°Yeah?¡±


    ¡°Where¡¯d the weapon go?¡±


    Sola looked over her sketch again and pointed to her illustrated wrist. ¡°There.¡±


    ¡°No,¡± Vent said, giggling to himself. ¡°I mean you¡¯ve lost focus on what your weapon should be. Keep working on your arm-cannons, not the unnecessary surrounding elements.¡±


    Jovie grabbed Sola''s attention. [Add more stuff along the lines of the Watts gauge. Keep it smart and contained.]


    ¡°Okay. Thank you.¡± Sola said, nodding and quickly ducking off the stage.


    Vent tapped his pen to his clipboard.


    ¡°Wess Delacroix Nouvel. Damn, impressive name¡­¡± Vent mumbled.


    Julia inhaled deeply, as Wess strode up to the stage, standing firmly in place without any sketches.


    Vent furrowed his brow, prepping himself for what might be a disappointing answer. ¡°Where¡¯s your design?¡±


    Julia was shuddering from the sidelines, as Wess held strong.


    ¡°I¡¯ve decided I don¡¯t need a redesign.¡± Wess announced, displaying Belvedere in front of her. ¡°My broadsword will be enough.¡±


    Vent breathed out deeply, before sitting back further in his seat. ¡°Is that so?¡±


    ¡°Yes. I don¡¯t need to change it.¡± Wess said, sticking to her convictions.


    ¡°Don¡¯t need to or don¡¯t want to?¡± Vent rhetorically asked, before standing up, the silent class behind him starting to worry Wess, with Jovie looking on in interest. ¡°There¡¯s no good reason leaving your weapon underdeveloped, especially when it¡¯s only a broadsword, right?¡± Vent asked.


    ¡°Yes, it¡¯s my broadsword.¡± Wess clarified.


    Vent turned to the whole class, before looking back at Wess. ¡°Do you know about Gamma, the former member of Team Spectrum?¡± Vent asked, sliding his hands into his pockets.


    ¡°Oh no¡­¡± Julia mumbled to herself, catching Sola and Essex¡¯s eye.


    ¡°Is something wrong?¡± Essex asked.


    ¡°Wess might¡¯ve just fallen into a trap.¡± Harley explained, turning their attention back to Wess and Vent.


    Wess looked side to side. ¡°I¡¯m familiar with Team Spectrum, but not Gamma¡­¡±


    Vent turned to address the class to properly make his point. ¡°Gamma was one of the original members of the Team Spectrum, back when they were attending the Venator Academy as well. The team were given an assignment, similar to this one, and Gamma declared he didn¡¯t feel like changing his weapon for his team. He¡¯d always been the troublemaker of the group, but this was really pushing it.¡±


    Julia was now waving her arms to catch Wess¡¯ attention, but it was still stuck on Vent and his story.


    ¡°Eventually, the team was sent to a training mission where they were attacked by a Wailing. Gamma went to use his weapon, while his teammate, who¡¯s weapon created blinding light, did as well. Because Gamma¡¯s weapon wasn¡¯t designed to withstand that, it not only blinded him, but reflected off his weapon and blinded his teammate as well.¡±


    Sola looked away in shameful recollection, as Harley rested a reassuring hand on her shoulder.


    ¡°The Wailing attacked, fortunately missing Gamma, but very unfortunately hitting and killing his teammate, Radio, the original fifth member of Team Spectrum.¡±


    Vent gave the class, and Wess, a moment to let that sink in.


    ¡°Gamma was later expelled for endangering his team and getting his teammate killed, and Team Spectrum, to be frank, did much better without him going forward.¡±


    Having finished his speech, Vent turned back to a visibly stunned Wess.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be a Gamma, Wess.¡± He advised.


    Vent took his seat again and made some more notes on his clipboard. ¡°A broadsword is not enough. Put your pride aside and think about what your team needs from you, for their sake and yours.¡± He turned to the rest of Team Valiant. ¡°And a word of advice, don¡¯t allow a teammate to make a fool of themselves. It looks bad on them, and on you.¡±


    The team took their seats, all deflated from having been chewed out by Vent, as Wess sat in bitter silence, an aura of bile building around her. Julia decided against trying to talk to her in the moment.


    ¡°I think that¡¯s a fair place to call it.¡± Vent said, now addressing the class. ¡°Class dismissed.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°That pig!¡± Wess yelled, storming about the team¡¯s room. ¡°That utter pig! How dare he blindside me like that!¡±


    She swivelled to Julia, sitting on her bed. ¡°Why wasn¡¯t I told about Gamma?¡±


    ¡°You were! I assumed you were listening when I told you.¡± Julia said, nearly as mad at Wess.


    ¡°I-¡° Wess started, before realising her mistake. ¡°...I suppose I wasn¡¯t listening.¡±


    ¡°Vent sucks so much.¡± Harley interjected, sitting on the couch and casually watching TV. ¡°But he did make a good point about your sword.¡±


    ¡°What happened to keeping Belvedere the same?¡± Wess complained.


    ¡°Sorry, Wess, I¡¯m on Julia¡¯s side now.¡± Harley said. ¡°That speech about Gamma really convinced me otherwise.¡±


    ¡°¡­I refuse to change it.¡± Wess stared, taking a seat on Sola¡¯s empty bed. ¡°Vent can tear my head off about it for all I care.¡±


    ¡°Wess¡­¡± Julia groaned, calming herself before trying to reason. ¡°You don¡¯t have to change Belvedere completely. Just a couple updates to make fighting Wailing easier. Maybe you could add a shield? Or just something to stop Sola¡¯s electricity hitting your sword.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t treat me like Gamma!¡± Wess yelled, standing up angrily. ¡°Why is everyone trying to take Belvedere from me?!¡±


    She stormed out of the room, cleaning herself up as she left, as Julia was about to chase after her, before realising it was best to give her some space to cool off.


    There¡¯s no point trying to reason when she¡¯s like this¡­


    Julia looked over at Harley, her feet propped up on the coffee table, as she scrolled through the numerous channels on the TV.


    ¡°Harley?¡±


    ¡°Yeah?¡±


    ¡°How¡¯re you handling Vent¡¯s criticism?¡±


    ¡°Pretty good, I¡¯d say.¡± Harley said, her attention firmly on the TV. ¡°I mean, they¡¯re easy changes and all.¡±


    ¡°It didn¡¯t hurt your feelings?¡±


    ¡°No, it did.¡± Harley admitted. ¡°But I can take stupid Vent and his nonsense.¡±


    ¡°Oh, okay.¡± Julia said. ¡°You wanna join Sola and Essex in the study hall? I¡¯m sure Sola could use some help with her arm-cannons.¡±


    ¡°Actually, I¡¯m just gonna chill out for the rest of the day. But I¡¯ll join them later.¡± Harley said, still flipping through channels.


    Julia gave her a reassuring smile. ¡°Alright. I¡¯m gonna go visit Chops for a bit. If you¡¯re feeling peckish, I left some lunch in the fridge.¡± She said. ¡°But don¡¯t put off working on y-¡°


    ¡°Geez, Julia, you sound like my dads.¡± Harley said, laughing a little. ¡°Just go! I¡¯ll take care of it.¡±


    Julia sighed to herself. ¡°Yeah, okay. See you in a bit.¡±


    ¡°Later.¡± Harley said, as Julia ducked out into the hallway, casually checking if Wess was anywhere to be seen, though it was clear she¡¯d already left.


    Best case scenario, she¡¯s with Sola and Essex. Julia hoped, before realising that was too unrealistic, sighing to herself and heading to Team Vanguard¡¯s room across the hall.


    She knocked on the door politely.


    ¡°One second!¡± Came Joleicia¡¯s voice, as she excitedly opened it, revealing herself in an apron. ¡°Julia! What a pleasure!¡±


    ¡°Hi there.¡± Julia said. ¡°Is Chops around?¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s just in the bathroom, actually. Come in, come in!¡± Joleicia insisted, dragging Julia into the dorm room, as she noticed Saxin and Lenin laying on the couch together, waving to Julia as she came in.


    ¡°Oh, afternoon Julia.¡± Saxin greeted. ¡°Sorry about the presentation. Vent really tore you guys a new one...¡±


    ¡°Well, truth be told, I think we needed it.¡± Julia acknowledged. ¡°You guys did well, though.¡±


    ¡°Everyone except poor Lenin here.¡± Saxin said, caressing his bitter face.


    ¡°Is it too much to ask for a cloak that¡¯s metal AND flows in the breeze?¡± He complained, as Saxin caressed him comfortingly.


    ¡°He¡¯s been really salty about that all afternoon.¡± Joleicia cleared up. ¡°But since the rest of us did well, I¡¯m making victory muffins.¡±


    Lenin gave her an unappreciative look.


    ¡°Overall victory muffins.¡± She clarified, followed by a good-hearted laugh. ¡°Let¡¯s just be glad Chops didn¡¯t go on for too long. We had to cut her talking points down like crazy.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s actually why I came over.¡± Julia said, taking a seat on the top of their couch. ¡°Since she¡¯s a Whil fanatic, I wanted to ask about how to better incorporate my Whil with my rifle.¡±


    ¡°Did I hear the wonderful sound of my own name?¡± Chops announced, as she exited the bathroom with far more gusto than was needed. ¡°Hey, Julia.¡±


    ¡°Muffins are a few minutes away, Chops. Also, Julia came over to ask some weapon questions.¡± Joleicia said, getting a thumbs up from Chops.


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing too big. I just thought I should ask for some advice outside of my team.¡± Julia reasoned.


    ¡°Totally great. It¡¯s about time someone asked.¡± Chops said, grabbing Julia¡¯s shoulders. ¡°I came up with, like, eight great ideas for you while you were presenting.¡±


    ¡°Why?¡± Julia asked, as Chops directed her to the room¡¯s study, and evidently, Chops¡¯ bedroom.


    ¡°We¡¯ll just be a few.¡± Chops stated to the others, as Julia was pulled into the study. A wide array of illustrations and sketchbooks were lain about the room, the table unusable from the amount of clutter present, as the walls were draped in Venator posters, most of them depicting Team Spectrum, and their memb-


    ¡°Vector!¡± Julia exclaimed, dashing around the room. ¡°There¡¯s so many of him!¡±


    ¡°Well, he was second in command.¡± Chops reasoned. ¡°And he¡¯s so damn hot¡­¡±


    Julia¡¯s eyes bulged at one particular display. ¡°You even got the rare discoloured version of his 4998 VenCon posters!¡±


    ¡°Evil red eyes and all.¡± Chops remarked, digging around her room. ¡°Hold on, I¡¯ve gotta find my sketchbook.¡±


    Julia sat against Chops¡¯ bed. ¡°Guess you took your teams study, then.¡±


    Chops shrugged. ¡°Saxin and Lenin wanted to share a bed, even if it was a bunk bed, and Florey felt more comfortable in a room with other people. But I can appreciate the privacy.¡± Chops explained, finally finding the newer sketchbooks and pulling out this month¡¯s copy. ¡°Got it.¡±


    She handed Julia the book, flipping to the specific page with what looked to be rough sketches of Julia¡¯s rifle, but with noticeable improvements. ¡°I was jotting stuff down throughout the presentations. You can take ¡®em, if you want.¡±


    ¡°Wow¡­¡± Julia said, flipping through the numerous pages of redrafts, every page with another new weapon. ¡°This is pretty obsessive.¡±


    Chops chuckled to herself. ¡°Yeah, fair call.¡±


    ¡°Hey, do you mind if I¡­¡± Julia asked, feeling a bit presumptive. ¡°¡­could I see your sword up-close?


    ¡°Say no more.¡± Chops said, as she rushed to the side of her bed, grabbing the greatsword laying on its side, still holstered in its scabbard. Chops handed it to Julia, as she bore the weight against her lap, and slowly revealed it from inside the casing.


    ¡°Whoa¡­¡± Julia said, staring unblinkingly. ¡°It¡¯s beautiful.¡±


    ¡°So that¡¯s why you came over, just to eye up my sword.¡± Chops teased.


    Upon further inspection, Julia noticed the sword had no blade, but instead grooves built into the sides, running across its entire length.


    ¡°Is this the part you mentioned in your presentation?¡± Julia asked.


    ¡°Yes, it is.¡± Chops said, a smile spread across her face. ¡°It works with my Whil.¡±


    Just as she said that, Chops took the handle in her hand, as sharpened ice filled the grooves and formed the blades of the greatsword.


    ¡°Wow¡­¡± Julia exclaimed.


    Chops grinned playfully. ¡°I know. Don¡¯t need metal when my ice is as strong as diamond.¡± She said, swinging the blade around playfully. ¡°Plus, the sword has built in temperature regulators to keep it from melting.¡±


    ¡°But¡­you came up with that?¡± Julia asked. ¡°Just like that?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, on my twentieth draft.¡± Chops said. ¡°I burned through about three sketch books before I had anything close to this. Hell, I think I was working on this before I even transitioned...man, it really was that long ago...¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve only gotten up to my third¡­¡± Julia realised.


    ¡°It¡¯s not a numbers game, Julia.¡± Chops said. ¡°Twenty isn¡¯t the minimum, or the maximum for that matter.¡±


    ¡°Geez¡­¡± Julia sighed, as Chops patted her back reassuringly.


    ¡°You¡¯ll get there. Heck, you¡¯ve finished three drafts, so that¡¯s something.¡± Chops pointed out. ¡°And like I said, feel free to take my ideas. They¡¯re no good gathering dust in here. Think of it like an investment for being a cool friend.¡±


    Julia¡¯s smile widened. ¡°Chops¡­you¡¯ll make me blush.¡±


    ¡°Of course, since you¡¯re borrowing my designs, and you also took the name I gave your Whil, that means I¡¯d own about...75 percent of your weapon.¡± Chops joked, as Julia¡¯s looked a bit panicked.


    ¡°R-really?¡±


    ¡°No, Julia. I¡¯m just kidding.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Pick one.¡±


    Sola¡¯s hands hovered over the upturned pages.


    ¡°Just one.¡±


    Sola¡¯s hands stayed in place.


    ¡°Since you can not see them, picking only one should be easy.¡±


    ¡°¡­aaaaAAAAHHHH!¡± Sola cried, retracting her hands. ¡°Fuck it! This is way too hard!¡±


    She threw her papers across the table, but since they were paper, they floated back down to her lap, taunting her further. A few other students in the study hall turned to check the commotion.


    ¡°If this is too difficult, would you like for me to choose?¡± Essex acknowledged, looking over Sola¡¯s drawings.


    ¡°No. I¡¯d just be mad at all the ones you didn¡¯t pick¡­¡± Sola said, her face sinking into the table. ¡°Uggghhhhhh¡­this sucks so hard. Why can¡¯t the academy make them all?¡±


    ¡°They would not expend that many resources on one student.¡± Essex rationalised.


    ¡°But I¡¯d use them! I use them all the time!¡± Sola exclaimed, before slumping to the table again. ¡°¡­you¡¯re right. They wouldn¡¯t do that¡­¡±


    Essex leaned down to face Sola. ¡°Why are you having trouble deciding?¡±


    ¡°Cause the team needs me to be good!¡± Sola complained. ¡°And I¡¯m still really scattershot, and I can¡¯t direct my lightning on my own.¡±


    Sola looked down at the table. ¡°If the team needs me to be useful, then this¡¯ll make me useful. No more losing, no more getting hurt¡­¡± Sola declared, lowering her eyes to her sketches, catching Essex¡¯s attention.


    ¡°Was this brought on by your Wailing encounter with Julia?¡±


    ¡°¡­I can direct lightning bolts now, but that¡¯s it! I still can¡¯t direct my own lightning! I¡¯m still just a girl with a squishy body and no control over her Whil. That¡¯s why I need the flight and the armour and th-¡°


    ¡°Methods of escape.¡± Essex noticed, stopping Sola in her tracks. ¡°In case you become a burden.¡±


    Sola didn¡¯t reply but nodded her head as some acknowledgement to what Essex was saying.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to abandon you guys, though.¡± Sola mumbled. ¡°That¡¯s even worse¡­¡±


    They both let the air settle for a second, as Essex started packing Sola¡¯s pages into a neat pile.


    ¡°The members of the Segaru Clan have a philosophy.¡± Essex said. ¡°A scythe is an extension of your life, with how you control it, and how it will end. To be without it would be to lose that part of your life. A weapon is similar, and just as powerful, but using it is where the power comes from. A weapon that is not drawn is a weapon that is not utilised.¡±


    Essex finished packing and left the pile on the table.


    ¡°Do not think about a weapon that can never be and start to think about what your team needs. You need a weapon, and the team will need a team member who is dependable.¡± Essex said. ¡°Can you be dependable?¡±


    After a few more moments of Sola thinking over Essex¡¯s advice, she lifted her head off the table and jumped to her feet. ¡°You¡¯re damn right I can!¡±


    She grabbed the pile and started flipping through the pages, scanning each sketch intently, throwing the unnecessary ones to the side, before grabbing a few that worked well together.


    ¡°I think these are good.¡± She said, handing them to Essex, before getting some new paper and drawing up a solid, new outline. The design looked about as crude as her other ones, and was far from finished, but with a noticeable added focus and clarity that Sola needed.


    As Sola kept up the work, Essex spotted Julia coming into the study hall, carrying notebooks under her arms, before waving to them.


    ¡°Hey, guys.¡± Julia greeted, joining them at the table. ¡°How¡¯s the grind going?¡±


    ¡°Look!¡± Sola exclaimed, presenting her illustration. ¡°It¡¯s actually good now!¡±


    ¡°It was good before.¡± Julia said, grabbing the sketch and looking it over. ¡°But this is definitely better. Well done, Sola.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m gonna make Vent faint with this!¡± Sola yelled, getting the attention of the room again. ¡°Take that, him!¡±


    ¡°Have you guys seen Wess around?¡± Julia said, checking over the room.


    ¡°No. It has only been us.¡± Essex answered. ¡°Why do you need her?¡±


    ¡°We got into an argument earlier. I wanted to see if she¡¯d cooled down or not, but she¡¯s nowhere to be found.¡± Julia explained.


    ¡°This is not uncommon behaviour for her.¡± Essex said. ¡°If Wess believes she is right, then she will not wish to be convinced.¡±


    ¡°¡­that¡¯s what I¡¯m worried about.¡± Julia agreed. ¡°Anyway, I talked to Chops for some help, and she gave me her notebook with a bunch of ideas for my weapon.¡±


    ¡°Really? Is mine in there too?¡± Sola said, jumping across the table to grab Chops¡¯ notebook, and flipping to her own page. ¡°Holy shit, are those rocket launchers?¡±


    ¡°Do not get any ideas.¡± Essex advised, pulling the book away.


    ¡°She mentioned some for your scythe too.¡± Julia said, displaying the book.


    ¡°Grela. I am comfortable with my designs.¡± Essex said. ¡°However, we will still aid in your work.¡±


    ¡°Absolutely!¡± Julia cheered, excitedly drumming the table. ¡°Oh, my blood¡¯s pumping! Vent won''t know what hit him!¡±


    ¡°Heck yeah!¡± Sola joined in, standing her leg on the table. ¡°Vent¡¯s gonna cry when he sees how good our designs are!¡±


    ¡°I will break his legs!¡± Essex added, standing as well, as Julia and Sola gave her a worried look, and she sat back down. ¡°My apologies. I misunderstood the moment.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Revisions kept up until Tuesday, with Julia, Sola and Essex nearly finished by the late afternoon. Julia felt confident in the knowledge she was nearly done with a few days to spare, but considering how little she¡¯d seen of Harley working on hers, or of Wess at all through the week, her confidence only went so far. All she¡¯d seen of Wess was her coming back to eat and sleep, then leaving first thing in the morning to who knows where before Julia could say anything. And Harley, well¡­


    ¡°Harley?¡±


    ¡°Yeah?¡±


    ¡°Have you worked on your weapon yet?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m getting to it.¡±


    Julia stared at Harley, still sitting on the couch with no indication she¡¯d worked on it whatsoever.


    ¡°Have you done any work over the week?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, enough.¡±


    ¡°Can I see your sketches?¡± Julia asked.


    Harley groaned. ¡°Julia, relax. I¡¯ll get on it, just give me, like, a few hours.¡±


    ¡°Your Buster Knuckles won¡¯t get made if you refuse to put in the appropriate work.¡± Julia argued. ¡°That¡¯s what Vent was telling you.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll make it soon, just after this show¡¯s done. Can you stop parenting me?¡±


    Julia stamped her foot. ¡°How much thought have you put into this?¡±


    ¡°A ton!¡± Harley argued, getting up from the couch. ¡°You saw me last week! I was flying off the walls with ideas!¡±


    ¡°How long did you actually work on your design?¡±


    Harley was about to yell something back, but realised how little she¡¯d actually worked on it, and that she¡¯d only help Julia¡¯s case. ¡°¡­just the group sessions with the team¡­¡±


    ¡°Which added up to about five hours for the week.¡± Julia clarified.


    ¡°¡­now you really sound like my dads¡­¡± Harley said, sitting back against the couch, spreading out exhaustedly. ¡°But it¡¯s so boring now! It was really fun at the start when we were just shooting the shit about our ideas. Then all the nitty gritty got in the way, and now every time I try to do it, it just bogs me down¡­¡±


    ¡°You should¡¯ve joined up with Sola and Essex. We would¡¯ve helped you.¡± Julia suggested.


    Harley shook her head. ¡°Nope, I¡¯m just sick of it. I don¡¯t wanna sit down for hours on end and draw draft after draft after draft anymore¡­I¡¯ll just finish it Thursday or whatever¡­¡±


    Julia huffed out of her nose, grabbing Harley¡¯s Buster Knuckles and throwing them onto her lap. ¡°Come on.¡±


    ¡°Julia?¡± Harley asked.


    ¡°You¡¯re doing some sparing. I¡¯ll get Essex so you two can fight.¡± Julia explained, heading out the door.


    ¡°What? Why are we sparing?¡± Harley implored, and not getting an answer in response. ¡°¡­alright then.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Julia?¡± Harley projected, standing at the end of one of the sparring courts.


    ¡°Yeah?¡± She replied, standing by the side of it.


    ¡°Why am I fighting Essex?¡± She asked, pointing to Essex on the other side of the court.


    ¡°No back chatting!¡±


    ¡°Does Sola know?¡± Harley asked, pointing to Sola standing next to Julia.


    ¡°Not really!¡± Sola yelled back, as Julia clapped her hands.


    ¡°Get into position!¡±


    Essex moved into a running position, holding her scythe by her side, as Harley retaliated with a more defensive pose.


    ¡°Go!¡± Julia yelled, as Essex dashed forward, straight toward Harley, as Harley braced for impact. Essex slashed her scythe toward Harley¡¯s left side, while aiming her fist to her right, as Harley blocked both with her Buster Knuckles, just managing to hold them in place.


    Essex held her in position, unwilling to give up any foreground, as they both stalled in place and waited for the other to crack.


    ¡°Harley!¡± Julia yelled for the sidelines. ¡°Think about your jet boosters!¡±


    ¡°Julia¡­I¡¯m¡­real busy!¡± She managed through her teeth.


    ¡°What would you do if you had them?¡± Julia projected. ¡°How would activate them? Could you control the trajectory? Could they help in this situation?¡±


    Harley quickly realised Julia¡¯s plan, as she assumed Essex was stalling on purpose and wouldn¡¯t attack needlessly, giving her time to think this over.


    Okay, so I¡¯m pinned. Harley clarified. But if I had boosters¡­


    She scanned her situation, looking to her Buster Knuckles and how they were positioned.


    ¡­I¡¯d use my left one to push her scythe away, and my right to¡­burn her hand! Yeah!


    She looked over her situation again and started to notice a few things wrong.


    But my right one¡¯s pointing at me, not her, and my left one¡¯d burn my arm, like¡­Vent said. Shit. So, the right one¡­should rotate, right, with¡­


    She scanned her arm again and noticed a perfect spot for her idea.


    ¡­a button¡­in my palm. I hold it and it rotates.


    She looked to her left and noticed a small advantage she could utilise.


    And the left doesn¡¯t need to be pointed at my arm. It can be aimed off to the side and I¡¯ll get the same effect.


    She thought over her situation again, seeing everything come together, and a few more pieces starting to connect. Harley quickly dismounted, giving away her ground, as Essex stood in place to let them both recover before continuing.


    ¡°Hey¡­Julia?¡± Harley panted.


    ¡°Yeah?¡± She replied.


    ¡°Can you¡­get some paper? I don¡¯t¡­wanna forget¡­my ideas...¡± Harley explained, visibly out of breath.


    ¡°Already got some!¡± Sola said, rushing over to her, as Julia patted herself on the back for a job well done.


    Harley¡¯s always been a practical learner. She thought to herself, smirking to herself. And a real dingus.


    ¡°There¡­¡± Harley let out, sitting on the ground, Julia walking over.


    ¡°You getting some good notes down?¡±


    Harley looked back at her, before standing back up. ¡°Actually, yeah. This was really helpful.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s good to have a change of scenery.¡± Julia reasoned.


    ¡°I¡¯m really sorry about earlier.¡± Harley said, embarrassment in her tone. ¡°I was just being stupid and stubborn. I guess I didn¡¯t want to prove Vent right, so I just kept putting it off.¡±


    You¡¯re not the only one, Harley. Julia thought, looking back at the team¡¯s dorm room window.


    ¡°As long as you get it done. If you want, I¡¯ll go whip up some dinner while you guys keep up the momentum down here.¡± Julia suggested, getting a manic head nod from Sola.


    ¡°You spoil us.¡± Harley praised. ¡°Come on, Essex. Let¡¯s keep it going.¡±


    ¡°Dal.¡± Essex replied, readying her stance, as Julia made her way back into the dorms, heading down the hall to the team¡¯s room.


    Just before she went inside, she stopped just outside the door.


    I hope Wess is okay. All that arguing probably hurt her ego. Julia ruminated. But she can¡¯t keep shutting up like this¡­


    Just as she opened the door, she noticed a glint of light from her bed, reflecting off of Belvedere, as Wess was lying on Julia¡¯s bed, resting Belvedere against her chest.


    ¡°Wess!¡± Julia exclaimed, rushing up to her and grabbing her hand. ¡°Where were you?¡±


    ¡°My goodness, Julia. Don¡¯t do that.¡± She said, pulling her hand away.


    ¡°I¡¯ve barely seen you all week, and you wouldn¡¯t let me talk to you.¡± Julia said, relieved just to see her.


    ¡°¡­yes, well, that¡¯s sort of been the point.¡± Wess said. ¡°You hurt my feelings the other day, and frankly¡­I didn¡¯t know how to react.¡±


    ¡°I know.¡± Julia confessed. ¡°But listen. I¡¯ve been thinking it over, and¡­you know your weapon better than anyone. If it means that much to you, and you don¡¯t wanna change it, then I¡¯ll stand beside you on that, all the way, even if Vent chews us out again.¡± Julia declared. ¡°I¡¯d prefer if you did change it, but you mean more to me than some assignment.¡±


    ¡°¡­I noticed you fighting outside.¡± Wess admitted. ¡°When I was out there. I saw you helping Harley with her problem, even if¡­¡± Wess trailed off, as Julia tried to catch her gaze.


    ¡°Do you need to talk about anything?¡± Julia asked, holding her hand reassuringly. ¡°If you have something troubling you, keeping it locked up is only gonna hurt.¡±


    Wess breathed out slowly. ¡°I¡¯ve told you about...my parents, right?


    ¡°Yeah. They didn¡¯t want you becoming a Venator.¡± Julia said.


    ¡°¡­well, I didn¡¯t tell you this, but at the bare minimum, they did let me choose my weapon. They refused to send me here, but I suppose they let me have it as a¡­consolation prize? Anyway¡­¡±


    Julia sat on the bed with her.


    ¡°They took me to an artisan blacksmith and lined up a series of weapons in front of me, each fairly noble and dignified in some regard. Rapiers, halberds, and numerous shields with the family crest on them, of course. I refused all of them.¡±


    ¡°You didn¡¯t want them?¡± Julia said.


    ¡°If I was to be a Venator, then my parents were going to make me their Venator, a family Venator. I¡¯d be their¡­¡¯warrior princess,¡¯ carrying around a pathetic, dainty sword, probably wearing a frilly dress during fights in case it wasn¡¯t patronising enough¡­¡±


    Julia kept her hands on Wess¡¯. ¡°So, how¡¯d you get Belvedere?¡±


    ¡°The blacksmith had numerous wares on display around the store. None were being offered for free, unlike my parents¡¯ selection, but one of them caught my eye amongst all the other white noise. This lovely, beautiful, heavy, deadly broadsword, right against the wall.¡± Wess explained, a slight nostalgic look in her eye. ¡°It was the only real weapon there.¡±


    ¡°I asked if it was for sale, and of course, my father threw a fit and said I couldn¡¯t get it. He fought back, I fought back harder, and eventually my parents declared that I¡¯d be allowed to use it if I payed for it myself. The blacksmith¡¯s prices were absurdly high, and my parents had never given me any allowance, so the sword cost roughly my entire life savings at the time.¡± Wess explained. ¡°I bought it right then and there, without hesitation.¡±


    Wess faced Julia again, now looking much more content. ¡°Fortunately, the blacksmith sold it at a slight discount, whether out of kindness or pity, but it still made my parents furious. I kept it for all the years they put me through their ¡®Venator Classes,¡¯ all the arguments¡­Belvedere always reminded me that no matter how hard I had to fight for my dream, it would all be worth it, because I¡¯d be a Venator someday.¡±


    Wess looked sorrowful, gripping the sword tenderly. ¡°And then everyone wanted me to change it, and it felt like my parents were forcing their way back into my life again, forcing me to do things I didn¡¯t want to do. I don¡¯t know what I¡¯d do without Belvedere with me. If I can¡¯t become a Venator with it by my side, then what were those years at home really for?¡±


    Wess held Belvedere in her hands, still kept within its well decorated scabbard, as Julia rested her hand against it too.


    ¡°Maybe you don¡¯t need a reminder that you¡¯ll become a Venator someday. You¡¯re here right now, with us. That¡¯s a pretty good reminder.¡± Julia said. ¡°Let it represent the Venator you want to be now, not the one you hope to be someday. You don¡¯t need to get rid of it, just change it to help out your team. It¡¯ll always be Belvedere. And, if you don¡¯t like the changes, or you transfer teams, you can always change it back.¡±


    Wess let the words sink in, happy for the reassurance Julia was giving.


    ¡°Plus, it¡¯ll really piss off your parents.¡± Julia professed, getting a light laugh out of Wess.


    ¡°¡­I want to apologise for acting childish.¡± Wess admitted. ¡°I should know better.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s understandable.¡± Julia said. ¡°But soon, you won¡¯t have to deal with your parents anymore. You¡¯ll be in the industry, and what they think won¡¯t matter.¡±


    Wess nodded solemnly, before giggling to herself. ¡°Personally, what they think already doesn¡¯t matter to me.¡±


    Julia cracked a smile, before jumping up from the bed. ¡°You wanna help me make dinner for the others? After that, we can work on some updates for Belvedere.¡±


    ¡°Oh, no, I couldn¡¯t burden you with that.¡± Wess professed. ¡°You¡¯ve done enough work, really.¡±


    ¡°Wess¡­¡± Julia said. ¡°Just take the help.¡±


    Wess breathed out, before rolling her eyes and joining Julia in the kitchen.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    It was finally Friday, and the team was really feeling the late nights and hours long design sessions. Sola was barely keeping her eyes open, and Wess seemed justifiably cranky about how many revisions she ended up making. She was happy with the end result, but the blood, sweat and tears spoke for themselves.


    ¡°I''m so tired...¡± Julia groaned.


    Sola was slowly nodding off, before jumping up in her seat. ¡°Ahh! There''s bugs everywhere!¡±


    ¡°Sola, what''re you...¡± Wess went to ask, before realising there were actually bugs in the classroom. ¡°Oh. Nevermind...¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s never easy putting yourself out there to be criticised.¡± Vent explained, standing at the lecture hall¡¯s stage. ¡°But I assure you, you¡¯ll come out as better Venators in the long run. These are necessary skills, after all, and you¡¯ll be doing this a lot more with critics far harsher than I.¡±


    ¡°Your face is a necessary skill¡­¡± Harley grumbled, getting a look from Julia.


    ¡°What¡¯s that supposed to mean?¡±


    ¡°It means I¡¯m too tired to think of something smarter¡­¡± Harley admitted, as Vent took his seat with Jovie, proceeding to go through each team, one by one, giving mixed results here and there.


    ¡°For the last time, Lenin, it just isn¡¯t possible. If you can find wind strong enough to bend metal, then by all means, but until then, your cloak¡¯s gonna have to be stationery.¡± Vent explained, as Lenin kicked his foot in frustration, getting a sympathetic handhold from Saxin. ¡°That¡¯ll be all, Team Vanguard.¡±


    Team Vanguard headed up the seats again, passing Team Valiant, as Chops and Florey gave Julia a reassuring thumbs up.


    ¡°Last on the list, Team Valiant.¡± Vent said, as the team headed down with the last of their energy, their revised and further revised plans in their hands.


    ¡°Let¡¯s start with Essex. Any changes?¡± Vent asked, clicking his pen.


    ¡°One.¡± Essex said, stepping up to the stage. ¡°Taking advice from your story the previous week, insulation will be added to the handle of my scythe in order to prevent Sola¡¯s lightning from damaging me. This has also been added to the teams designs overall.¡±


    Essex turned to Sola, as Sola nodded back in confidence.


    In slight surprise, Vent cracked a smile. ¡°Very nice. I appreciate your initiative on that. It shows some real foresight.¡±


    Jovie made a note of the change, as Julia stumbled up to the stage, hoping her tiredness would quell her nerves, at least somewhat. She stuck up her sketches, now with far more pencil smudges and ink stains, but with an impressively detailed render of her rifle in the middle. Vent looked on with baited interest.


    ¡°T-the base of the model has stayed the same¡­for the most part, b-but I¡¯ve added a readout for my bullet velocity, both the one I¡¯m about to fire and the one I''ve j-just fired. That way, I-I¡¯ll know how much I need to change my bullets speed once it¡¯s fired, and can adjust my rifle¡­to accommodate for any slack on my end.¡± Julia explained, thanking Chops in her head for the clever addition.


    Vent turned to Jovie and whispered something, before returning his attention to Julia. ¡°What about your rifles ability to change gun types?¡±


    ¡°I-I¡¯ve shortened it to three different guns, as Jovie suggested.¡± Julia said, smiling to Jovie. ¡°Assault rifle, sniper rifle, and shotgun. I¡¯ve a-adjusted the design to compensate¡­¡±


    Vent looked over the illustrations again and laughed a little. ¡°Clean and clever, just like the professionals. Well done.¡±


    ¡°Th-thank you!¡± Julia replied, a little too loud, getting a laugh out of the class, as she quickly exited the stage.


    Vent looked over his list and grinned happily. ¡°Harley. Come on up.¡±


    Harley strode up with visible slowness, as her muscles ached from the extensive training her and Essex went through, and the following nights of staying up and refining her ideas. She visibly yawned before presenting her design.


    ¡°So, my thing¡­¡± She started, yawning again. ¡°Is better now.¡±


    ¡°Is that so?¡± Vent skeptically asked.


    ¡°Actually, yes¡­sir.¡± Harley shot back, pointing to her design. ¡°I¡¯ll be quick. The jet boosters now have a rotating function, allowing me to aim where I want my punches to go, and will let me move them so they won¡¯t burn my arm. The button¡¯s in the palm of the Buster Knuckles, and I just hold it to rotate them. Also, the metal casing now has a layer of protective fabric underneath it to prevent my hands getting damaged.¡±


    Vent went to criticise, but found nothing wrong, as he encouraged Harley further.


    ¡°Also, the metal armour¡¯s now just on the outside of my hand, and has that same metal layering as old knight armour, you know that¡­?¡± Harley said, before abandoning it. ¡°And, uhh, the insulation thing¡­¡±


    Vent looked to Jovie, just giving him a nod of approval, as Vent was thoroughly impressed. ¡°Brilliant! A much better improvement.¡± Vent praised. ¡°That really puts into perspective how lacklustre your first draf-¡°


    ¡°Yes, thank you, Mr Vent.¡± Harley interrupted, leaving the stage before her emotions got the better of her.


    ¡°Alright then.¡± Vent said. ¡°Sola. I hope you¡¯re only showing me one idea this week.¡±


    Sola made her way up the stage, nearly tripping over the last step, before managing her way across the stage with all the ease of a drunk ballerina.


    She pinned up her designs, a little wobbly on her feet, before facing Vent. ¡°¡­hi.¡±


    Vent waved sarcastically. ¡°Hello.¡±


    ¡°¡­alright, I stripped everything way back. No flying, no mechs, just arm-cannons. I¡¯ve added, uhh, Harley, what¡¯s it called?¡±


    ¡°An aperture.¡± She replied, yawning to herself.


    ¡°Yeah, an aperture¡­so I can change the shape and intensity of my lightning.¡± Sola explained, yawning loudly.


    ¡°Would you like a break to take a nap?¡± Vent joked.


    ¡°Could I?¡± Sola asked.


    ¡°¡­no, just finish up.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± Sola said, mustering up the last of her energy. ¡°I¡¯ve also added a readout on the side, kinda like Julia¡¯s one, that shows how powerful my lightning is, so that way, I can get better with my Whil while still being safe about my training.¡±


    Vent nodded. ¡°Not bad at all, Sola. Go take a well-deserved rest.¡±


    ¡°Thank you¡­¡± Sola let out, flopping back into the team.


    Vent leaned back with his clipboard in hand, exchanging a couple notes with Jovie, as he scanned over it and clicked his pen idly.


    ¡°Wess.¡±


    There was a noticeable quiet over the class, as Wess walked up to the stage, showing the same dignity she always had.


    ¡°So, do you have revisions this time?¡± Vent asked, a noticeable lack of energy in his voice too.


    ¡°¡­yes, I do.¡± Wess replied, trying to ignore Vent¡¯s tone. ¡°And before I start¡­¡±


    She looked off to her team for moral support, getting the response she absolutely expected.


    ¡°I would like to apologise.¡± Wess said. ¡°For wasting you and the classes time last week over a silly matter of personal pride. As a fut¡­as a Venator in training, it was unprofessional and inappropriate behaviour.¡±


    Vent clicked his pen a few more times. ¡°Well, it wasn¡¯t a huge waste of time. We got a good history lesson out of it.¡±


    ¡°Indeed¡­¡± Wess responded, clearly her throat. ¡°With that said, I¡¯ve added some features to my broadsword in order to better accommodate my team.¡±


    She pinned up her sketches. ¡°First of all, the blade is now tipped with an alloy blend that Essex has recommended, one that improves the weight and handling of the sword. This also works with her Whil, in case she were to lose her scythe for any reason.¡±


    Wess pinned up another sketch.


    ¡°The scabbard has also been made lighter, with the same metal alloy now encasing it, and finally¡­¡±


    Wess nervously swallowed before pinning up the next part of her design, almost regretting it all together, before looking over to Julia and getting a smile of approval that helped her carry on.


    ¡°¡­I¡¯ve added a shield to my arsenal.¡± Wess said, presenting a companion shield to the sword with the Team Valiant logo. ¡°The sword is designed to be one handed, so the shield is as well, effectively making me the team¡¯s frontline defence. It shares the same metal as the sword, while also folding up to make it easier to travel with, and¡­it means I¡¯ll be a better Venator.¡±


    Vent breathed through his nose, before standing up to properly address Wess.


    ¡°¡­I appreciate you coming here with something worth displaying.¡± Vent said. ¡°While I don¡¯t feel your design has as much innovation or forethought as your teammates, it¡¯s clear you¡¯ve made some real personal changes in order to show this today, and I truly appreciate that. Making a brilliant design is hard, but admitting when you¡¯re wrong¡¯s always harder. Thank you.¡±


    The class clapped for Team Valiant, which the team would¡¯ve appreciated if they didn¡¯t feel so thoroughly buggered. The team handed off their designs to Jovie, before heading back up their seats and collapsing into them.


    ¡°As some reassurance, you¡¯ll all get the chance to update your designs later down the the line, once you¡¯ve gotten used to them.¡± Vent explained. ¡°But don¡¯t rely on that as a crutch. Perfect what you have now, don¡¯t rely on later. With that said¡­you¡¯re all free to go.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°It¡¯s done! We¡¯re finished!¡± Harley exclaimed, landing on the team¡¯s dorm room couch.


    ¡°I¡¯m done! I¡¯m finished!¡± Sola said, landing on top of her.


    ¡°But at least we¡¯re still alive.¡± Julia pointed out.


    ¡°Yeah, and so¡¯s Vent.¡± Harley said. ¡°Unfortunately¡­¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll get him next time.¡± Wess added, subtlety smiling back to Julia.


    Essex entered the dorm last, stepping uncomfortably. ¡°How long will it be until our weapons are returned?¡±


    ¡°Three weeks, Essex.¡± Julia replied.


    ¡°Three weeks.¡± Essex repeated, sighing nervously. ¡°Three weeks...¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sleeping early. Goodnight.¡± Harley said, jumping into her bed, Sola already in hers, as Julia giggled to herself.


    ¡°I¡¯m tired, but I don''t think I''m ready for bed just yet.¡± Julia said, turning to Essex. ¡°You wanna stay up and watch something?¡±


    ¡°¡­that would be suitable.¡± Essex replied. ¡°As I am without my scythe, my training routine would be incomplete, so I will need something to occupy my time.¡±


    ¡°Oh, we can continue ''The Beggar¡¯s Heart!''¡± Julia exclaimed, jumping excitedly onto the couch. ¡°One of the main actors left, so they replaced him with a lookalike, but now the original actor''s back on too! They''re playing the same character! It''s so good!¡±


    ¡°But I have missed several episodes.¡± Essex pointed out.


    ¡°It¡¯s fine. Nothing happens until the season¡¯s finale anyway.¡± Julia explained, as she noticed Wess coming back from the bathroom, and joining them on the couch. Julia looked a bit surprised.


    ¡°Would you mind if I joined?¡± She asked.


    ¡°Uhh, no, not at all. I thought you of all people would¡¯ve jumped at the chance to get more sleep.¡± Julia said.


    ¡°Oh, please, Julia. I can change up my habits every now and then.¡± Wess replied, as Julia turned the TV on. ¡°Shall we?¡±


    ¡°Absolutely.¡±

 Chapter 15: Romance Dawn

    ...just¡­one more¡­


    ¡­but if¡­foli¡­


    ¡­we¡¯ll¡­togeth¡­


    ¡­loss¡­soun¡­


    ¡­Essex!


    Essex¡¯s eyes shot open, as she sat up in her bed, half dazed from her abrupt awakening. The study was still dark, but looking over at her alarm clock, it was still just morning.


    ¡­what were those? She thought, rubbing the sleep from her eyes. This has been the third night this week¡­


    She glanced to her side and noticed Maxie still upright, his button eyes staring back at her, as she affectionately stroked his fox-orange fabric, comforting her after what could only be described as a nightmare.


    Standing up, she went to grab her scythe, before remembering it was still being upgraded and wouldn¡¯t be returned for another two weeks. Gripping her hand tightly, she decided to grab Maxie instead and head out into the main room to prepare breakfast for herself, where she saw Julia in the kitchen, humming to herself.


    ¡°Hmmhmmhmhmmm¡­oh, good morning, Essex.¡± Julia greeted.


    ¡°Cali.¡± Essex greeted back, leaving Maxie on Julia¡¯s bed. ¡°I thank you for lending me Maxie once again.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s no problem.¡± Julia said. ¡°After those nightmares you mentioned, I figured he¡¯d help you sleep anyway.¡±


    ¡°A nightmare is a dream¡¯s attempt at emotion.¡± Essex explained. ¡°I will not let it phase me.¡±


    ¡°Alright, toughie.¡± Julia remarked. ¡°Want me to make you some breakfast?¡±


    ¡°I would not want to put you out.¡± Essex said.


    Julia rolled her eyes. ¡°Then that¡¯s a yes. What do you want?¡±


    Essex sighed to herself, before walking to the fridge and assessing what they had. ¡°¡­we appear to have several cases of eggs.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, we need to use those up soon. I could have sworn Sola liked eggs¡­¡± Julia mumbled.


    ¡°Then I will have them as breakfast.¡± Essex said, as Julia smiled to herself, grabbing a couple and getting to work.


    Essex sat down at the kitchen table, looking over the team¡¯s calendar to confirm the prolonged absence of her scythe, and cringed at the ever-present fortnight still ahead of her.


    Julia looked over and noticed Essex staring absentmindedly. ¡°Trying to fill the time?¡±


    ¡°I am not used to free time.¡± Essex explained. ¡°I often dedicate myself to training or helping others when I am free of duties.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a shame we¡¯ve caught up on class work.¡± Julia added. ¡°Not a shame for the others, but you know¡­¡±


    Essex kept staring, before turning to Julia. ¡°What do you do with your free time?¡±


    ¡°Ah, good question.¡± Julia said, finishing off her and Essex¡¯s breakfast and sitting with her. ¡°I like cooking, and listening to music, and reading up on Venator news on my tablet. There¡¯s been this awesome new team on the rise called Team Daybreak¡­¡± Julia started, before she could see Essex checking out at the mention of the industry and using a tablet. ¡°¡­but there¡¯s other stuff too.¡±


    ¡°I wish to do something that will¡­I do not know the term for it¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­waste time?¡± Julia asked.


    ¡°¡­I believe so.¡± Essex said. ¡°Something that will make waiting for the return of my scythe a quicker process.¡±


    ¡°We could always keep talking.¡± Julia said, laughing a bit. ¡°Why not train without your scythe?¡±


    Essex shook her head. ¡°It would not be proper. I train to aid others, and the scythe is my tool. Training without my tool would be against the values of the Segaru Clan. Additionally, half of my routine requires my scythe in order to be completed.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I get it. I don¡¯t get to train my shooting skills all that much without a personal firearm.¡± Julia empathised. ¡°Talk about a kettle without water¡­¡±


    ¡°Vonodo, what does that mean?¡± Essex asked.


    ¡°Oh, that was just an old saying my dad threw around. Kettles boil water, so without any water, it would just sit around gathering heat for no good reason.¡± Julia described, as Essex made her way through her poached eggs.


    ¡°Am I similar to the kettle?¡± Essex posited, getting a giggle out of Julia.


    ¡°Not in a bad way.¡± Julia said. ¡°If you want help with what to do, you should ask the rest of the team. I¡¯m sure they¡¯d be happy to throw some ideas your way.¡±


    Essex thought it over, before nodding. ¡°Understood. I will ask them.¡±


    ¡°Harley and Sola are out in the training grounds. Harley¡¯s pretty good at filling time.¡± Julia said, as Essex got up from the table, having finished breakfast.


    ¡°Grela. The food you have provided was excellent.¡± Essex thanked.


    ¡°No problem.¡± Julia smiled, as Essex headed for the door. ¡°Hey, quick question I¡¯ve been meaning to ask. What does ¡®Grela¡¯ mean?¡±


    Essex turned to her, folding her arms and thinking to herself. ¡°¡­it is a form of thank you. It is to show respect for your providence of hospitality.¡±


    ¡°How polite.¡± Julia admitted, hiding an embarrassed smile, before returning her attention to her tablet, as Essex exited the dorm room.


    I believe Harley has been interested in the Segaru language before. Essex thought. Perhaps teaching her will fill the time.


    ¡°Oh, Essex.¡± Came a voice behind her, as Saxin came out of Team Vanguard¡¯s room. ¡°My, my. Even without the scythe, you strike a brilliant pose.¡±


    ¡°Cali.¡± Essex greeted. ¡°Where are you going?¡±


    ¡°Oh, Chops and I have a study date in the Detu City library. She¡¯s quite the book nerd, actually.¡± Saxin explained. ¡°Any plans yourself?¡±


    ¡°I am attempting to find ways to fill my time.¡± Essex said.


    Saxin cocked her head. ¡°Don¡¯t you have any hobbies?¡±


    ¡°Hobbies?¡± Essex asked.


    ¡°Oh, darling. You need to find something to do other than scythe swinging.¡± Saxin advised. ¡°Focus is important but having a variety of interests can only benefit you. Tell me, what do you like other than combat?¡±


    Essex thought over the question, before struggling to answer it. ¡°The members of the clan do not allow personal indulgences unless it aids others.¡±


    ¡°Well, what¡¯s wrong with aiding yourself?¡± Saxin reasoned. ¡°You matter just as much as anyone else.¡±


    Saxin felt her tablet buzz, before remembering her prior engagement. ¡°Apologies that we always have to cut our conversations short.¡± Saxin said, readjusting her dress. ¡°Lo reme, dear Essex.¡±


    Saxin sashayed down the hall, as Essex looked back to her and waved.


    ¡°Lo reme.¡±


    Essex continued to the training grounds, as she reminisced on her conversation with Saxin.


    I am unsure if I used that term incorrectly. She thought. ¡­aiding myself¡­


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Alright, again.¡±


    Sola pulled her fist back, before swinging forward, nearly toppling over, and smacking into Harley¡¯s outstretched hand. ¡°Ow.¡±


    Harley chuckled into her other hand. ¡°You¡¯ve gotta keep both your feet on the ground, or else your punches won¡¯t have any impact. You need to ground yourself better.¡±


    ¡°Is this stuff even gonna matter?¡± Sola asked. ¡°I¡¯m gonna be wearing arm-cannons. I couldn¡¯t punch stuff anyway.¡±


    Harley shook her head. ¡°What if they got broken, or stolen? You still don¡¯t have great control of your Whil. You¡¯d have no way to defend yourself.¡± Harley explained. ¡°It¡¯d be irresponsible of me not to teach you. Come on, one more time.¡±


    Sola accepted her point and nodded, before taking another swing, now lifting up the other foot, and still smacking into the outstretched hand.


    ¡°Uh, better?¡± Harley assessed, as they noticed Essex emerging from the dorms and heading their way.


    ¡°Hi Essex!¡± Sola called out, as Essex waved back.


    ¡°What are you two doing?¡± Essex asked, joining them.


    ¡°I¡¯m helping Sola bulk up.¡± Harley said, as Sola flexed to emphasise her point. ¡°You wanna join us?¡±


    ¡°No, thank you. I am refraining from physical training.¡± Essex said. ¡°I am trying to find methods to ¡®waste time,¡¯ and have thought I might offer to teach you the Segaru language.¡±


    Harley broke into a grin. ¡°Seriously?! Yes, yes yes yes! Sorry, Sola, but I¡¯m cutting this short.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    ¡°Okay, I¡¯ve already done some digging, but I haven¡¯t gotten any solid translations across¡­¡± Harley muttered, rushing to her bag and pulling out a notebook. ¡°I¡¯ve noticed roots shared with the Western Wayside language, but¡­wait, we should probably go somewhere else.¡±


    Harley looked around the training grounds, acknowledging the glaring sun and dust-covered ground.


    ¡°And the study area¡¯s a little too stuffy for something this fun¡­oh! What about the specialist training grounds?¡±


    ¡°The wha?¡± Sola asked, as Harley grabbed her and Essex¡¯s arm.


    ¡°Dissecting language, and root words galore, we¡¯ve three words for two, and three words for four!¡± Harley sang joyously, dragging them along, as Essex worried that she might¡¯ve made the wrong decision.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    The specialist training grounds were notable for several reasons. Firstly, they were far nicer than the regular training grounds, specifically as they were a part of the main academy building structure. Secondly, you had to book in training time, rather than arriving and leaving at your leisure. And lastly, there was air conditioning.


    ¡°I¡¯ve never even seen this place.¡± Sola commented, spinning around the building¡¯s floor.


    ¡°Makes sense. Only second and third years can use them, and most are just training for the yearly tournament.¡± Harley said, indicating to the number of teams dotted around the grounds, all flexing their various skills. ¡°But we can still sit on the sidelines.¡±


    Essex scanned the building in its entirety, assessing each of the teams¡¯ abilities, and Harley and Sola took their seats by the sidelines.


    Harley looked back at Essex. ¡°Essex?¡±


    ¡°This is an unfit training area. We will not be fighting Wailing in pristine environments such as this.¡± Essex explained.


    ¡°Some Venator trainees need these clinical environments.¡± Harley added. ¡°Especially those with, like, psychic powers and weird gravity stuff.¡±


    ¡°If other Venators are not prepared for rough terrain, then I am worried they will not do well against our foe.¡± Essex continued, sitting back with them.


    ¡°They can always get better with time.¡± Sola said. ¡°I¡¯ll need my arm-cannons to use my Whil for a while, but at some point, I¡¯ll be good enough to use it without them.¡±


    Essex sighed out. ¡°I will concede your point.¡±


    ¡°Can you hurry up, Essex? I wanna learn some lingo!¡± Harley complained, rocking back and forth, as Essex joined her and started to explain her language as best as she could.


    ¡°¡­so Calias is a proper formal greeting.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Cali is shortened and less formal, kinda like saying ¡®hey.¡¯¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Calias Delo is an extension for greeting or addressing groups.¡±


    Essex nodded. ¡°It is also a thank you for eventually giving your time and listening to what you would have to say. It is concluded with Delos, as a further thank you.¡±


    ¡°Okay¡­¡± Harley said, writing that down. ¡°And Aerlo Decali is reserved for your first greeting with someone, followed by uttering your name.¡±


    ¡°Yes. But it is a title, not a name.¡± Essex explained. ¡°That is the basics of our greetings.¡±


    ¡°Wow¡­¡± Harley remarked, smiling to herself. ¡°I¡¯ve got so much to learn¡­¡±


    Sola kicked her legs back and forth, bored out of her mind from listening to Harley and Essex, as Essex watched Harley write a couple more things down, lost in her own world.


    ¡°¡­Harley?¡±


    ¡°Hmm?¡±


    ¡°May I ask you something?¡±


    ¡°Uhh, sure.¡± Harley said, putting away her notebook.


    Essex breathed out. ¡°I have been having nightmares as of recent. I do not know why, but they appear to be recollections of events that I can not remember.¡±


    Harley blinked. ¡°Damn. Are you sleeping alright? Is your room too hot?¡±


    ¡°No, I am fine.¡± Essex said, having gotten Sola¡¯s attention. ¡°But I do not wish to have them anymore and am unaware of how to prevent them.¡±


    ¡°Are you stressed about anything?¡± Sola asked. ¡°Like your scythe?¡±


    ¡°¡­that has been a concern.¡± Essex admitted.


    ¡°I totally get it. I used to wake up from nightmares punching my pillow, then William would burst in and wrap me in blankets till I calmed down.¡± Harley remarked, sitting back. ¡°It only happened, like, twice, but it was still pretty scary when it did.¡±


    ¡°Do you still use this method?¡± Essex asked, getting a laugh out of Harley.


    ¡°No, I outgrew that when I was seven.¡± Harley said. ¡°But I could show you some meditation techniques I learned. It¡¯s nothing too strenuous, so you should gel with it.¡±


    ¡°Strenuous?¡± Essex asked, as Harley got up and took a seat on the floor, patting beside her for Essex to join.


    ¡°Oh, oh, can I join?¡± Sola asked, as Harley patted on her other side invitingly.


    ¡°Okay, first, we¡¯re breathing in.¡± Harley said, taking a deep breath, as Essex sat beside her and joined in, followed by Sola. ¡°Then out, then we¡¯ll repeat that a few times over.¡±


    They all did so, instinctively closing their eyes, as Harley reached out and slowly lay down.


    ¡°Now look at the ceiling and focus your vision on one point.¡± Harley said, as they both did so. ¡°What¡¯re you focusing on?¡±


    ¡°Uh, there¡¯s a basketball stuck in the rafters.¡± Sola pointed out, Harley drooping her eyes.


    ¡°I guess that works. What about you, Essex?¡±


    ¡°The window.¡± She said. ¡°I am focusing on the window.¡±


    ¡°Okay. Window works.¡± Harley said. ¡°Now listen to me as I talk¡­listen¡­to my voice¡­and breathe¡­¡±


    Essex and Harley slowly inhaled in and out, letting their chests rise and fall, up and down, as Sola started following them, getting a few breaths in, before needing to get up, distracting herself with other stuff.


    ¡°Just focus¡­on yourself¡­¡±


    Essex followed along, lying back and slowly closing her eyes.


    ¡°Just you¡­and who you are¡­¡±


    Who you¡­


    ¡°Just¡­somewhere around here. I tried to approach, but she fled before I could.


    I can¡¯t believe this. A girl? Living in the forest?


    We live in the forest too, Ross.


    We live together in the forest. She¡¯s probably just some wild animal you mistook!


    Shh! You might scare her again!


    What she? It just feels like we¡¯re hunting for game¡­


    She was here, I¡­wait.


    What?


    ¡­hello? Are you out there?


    What¡¯re yo¡­ahh!!! She¡¯s here! She¡¯s right in front of us!


    Ross, don¡¯t scare her. She might be frightened¡­hello, I¡¯m Kent.


    Don¡¯t socialise with her! We can¡¯t let her hurt us!


    Muer is about showing compassion. We don¡¯t go attacking someone who¡¯s helpless¡­don¡¯t worry, we¡¯re here to help¡­how long have you been out here?


    Why¡¯re you¡­


    Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯m just gonna¡­ow!


    What? What¡¯s wrong?


    ¡­it¡¯s nothing. She just bit me.


    What?! How dare she!


    Muer tinusa. Selamorta no, Ross. The body is merely a vessel. She¡¯s acting defensive from living alone.


    This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road. If you spot it on Amazon, please report it.


    ¡­you know what? I¡¯m leaving. You can bring her back to camp if you want, but she¡¯s more menace than helpless.


    ¡­don¡¯t listen to him. I know there¡¯s good in everyone, and I can let the bite slide. How long have you been out here? I¡¯m guessing too long by your¡­one¡­month? A year? You poor thing¡­if you want, you can come back to camp with me. We have food, and clothes. You can borrow my bed, too. We can find you a place to stay once we arrive near the city. Does that sound good?...Really? That¡­is there something you¡­oh, hello there¡­you wanted to know if¡­yes, he can come along too. Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll make sure to take care of you both¡­


    ¡­Essex.


    Essex? You dozed off.¡± Harley said, shaking Essex¡¯s shoulder. ¡°You didn¡¯t look very comfortable.¡±


    ¡°I¡­had another dream.¡± Essex admitted. ¡°But it was not¡­scary¡­it was a recollection.¡±


    ¡°Oh geez. Have you actually been getting a good night¡¯s sleep?¡± Harley asked.


    Essex looked away. ¡°¡­it is no worse than others.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s no excuse, Essex. Come on, get up.¡± Harley said, helping her to her feet.


    ¡°Why do you think you had another dream?¡± Sola asked, looking up to Essex.


    Essex thought on this, before shaking her head in reply.


    ¡°I guess the meditation wasn¡¯t it.¡± Harley assessed, before snapping her fingers. ¡°You know who¡¯d be perfect to ask about sleeping?¡±


    Sola blinked, before it connected for her too. ¡°Wess.¡±


    Harley shrugged to Essex. ¡°It couldn¡¯t hurt. You know she loves a good nap.¡±


    ¡°That is true.¡± Essex agreed. ¡°But I do not know where she is.¡±


    Harley looked to Sola. ¡°Come to think of it, same.¡±


    ¡°I think I saw her with Joleicia earlier.¡± Sola said. ¡°Back when we were out on the training grounds.¡±


    ¡°Understood.¡± Essex replied, turning to Harley and bowing. ¡°Grela. I appreciate your efforts in aiding me.¡±


    ¡°Oh, wait¡­¡± Harley said, frantically pulling out her notes. ¡°¡­Relias¡­shit, sorry, that¡¯s an apology.¡±


    Essex smiled at her efforts, before leaving the specialist training grounds, as Harley flipped to, hopefully, the right page.


    ¡°Wait! Uhh¡­there we go! Peno Decu!¡± Harley said, as Essex looked back to her and nodded firmly, before exiting.


    Sola turned to her. ¡°What¡¯d you say?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s kinda like saying ''break a leg.''¡± Harley explained. ¡°But apparently it¡¯s more like ¡®you can solve this problem¡¯ or ¡®I know you are capable of this.¡¯ It seemed appropriate.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Essex began searching the academy for Wess, checking the places she¡¯d normally spend time in. The dorm was obviously empty, as well as the library, study area, and even the Academy Daiquiri Lounge. Lenin confirmed she was with Joleicia, however, and that they were probably still on campus, but was just as lost as she was when it came to their whereabouts.


    Essex bordered the training grounds, skirting around the edge of the forest, hoping to find Wess getting some extra training in, but found the grounds fairly light on students.


    I would imagine they are waiting for upgraded weapons as well. Essex assessed, finding her search to be slightly in vain. I am no closer to finding her.


    She continued down to the Weapon Reserve, noticing a prominent traffic cone still stuck on a nearby tree, as she contemplated giving up looking for today, before spotting a few moving shapes about the forest.


    They appeared somewhat large and hard to define, as Essex assumed the worst.


    Could this be a Wailing? Essex realised, arming herself with the nearest branch. I will need to warn the security bef-


    As Essex stepped through the foliage toward the shapes, they slowly became clearer, before opening out into a quiet clearing, with a lone oak tree sitting atop a small hill.


    Additionally, the shapes turned out to be Wess and Joleicia, having made themselves comfortable, before noticing Essex on the sidelines, wielding a large stick.


    Wess slowly opened her eyes and looked over at Essex, before closing them again and leaning forward in annoyance. ¡°Why can¡¯t I have anything to myself?¡±


    ¡°Hi Essex!¡± Joleicia greeted. ¡°I guess you found our hiding spot. Whoops.¡±


    Essex blinked confusedly, before putting down the branch. ¡°I have been searching for you.¡±


    ¡°Oh, yeah. Sorry, we came here pretty early in the day. I hope you weren¡¯t searching for too long.¡± Joleicia apologised.


    ¡°Don¡¯t invite her over.¡± Wess asked. ¡°It¡¯s bad enough she¡¯s interrupting my relaxation.¡±


    ¡°Wess, she¡¯s a teammate.¡± Joleicia complained, helping Essex up the hill. ¡°Sorry about her. She¡¯s acting like a bit of a grumpy-puss today.¡±


    ¡°Nicknames aren¡¯t aiding my mood.¡± Wess added, as Essex stared on.


    ¡°Why are you two in the forest together?¡±


    Joleicia sat back down with Wess. ¡°Well, last semester, Saxin told us about this private spot in the forest that was great for reading and resting. Ol¡¯ Wess and I were only allowed to us it if we didn¡¯t tell anyone about it.¡± Joleicia clarified, laughing awkwardly. ¡°But I guess we just broke that, huh?¡±


    ¡°It was bound to happen.¡± Wess accepted, turning to Essex. ¡°Did you need us for anything?¡±


    ¡°Dal. I am having difficulties with my sleep, and I wished to ask you for advice.¡± Essex said, still standing.


    ¡°Advice on sleeping?¡± Wess questioned.


    ¡°Advice for avoidance of bad dreams.¡± Essex explained. ¡°They have become a concern.¡±


    Wess put down her novel and stood up with her. ¡°I¡¯ll assume you¡¯re regulating your temperature, and you seem perfectly healthy, physically speaking.¡±


    ¡°When did they start happening?¡± Joleicia asked.


    ¡°This week. They have become a nightly occurrence.¡±


    ¡°Maybe it¡¯s a psychosomatic thing?¡± Joleicia suggested, looking to Wess. ¡°That sometimes does it for me.¡±


    Wess cocked her head. ¡°Have you tried analysing your dreams?¡±


    ¡°I¡­would not know how.¡± Essex professed. ¡°That is beside my skillset.¡±


    ¡°¡­well, that¡¯s unfortunate.¡± Wess said. ¡°I¡¯m afraid that¡¯s the limit to my help.¡±


    ¡°Sorry, Essex. I¡¯ve got nothing too.¡± Joleicia said. ¡°It has been getting hotter lately. Best case scenario, it¡¯s just the heat.¡±


    ¡°¡­perhaps.¡± Essex dismissed, before deciding to change the subject. ¡°Pertaining to another issue, I am having difficulty utilising my time without training.¡±


    Joleicia smiled and nodded. ¡°Totally! I¡¯ve already read through five of my longest books just waiting for my upgrades! I miss my rifle so bad.¡±


    ¡°She insisted on borrowing some of mine.¡± Wess added, getting a playful arm punch from Joleicia. ¡°¡­actually, do you have anything planned for this afternoon?¡±


    ¡°No. Do you have a suggestion?¡±


    ¡°Well¡­¡± Wess started, looking back at Essex and sighing. ¡°¡­you may not even want to go, but there¡¯s a small pop-up art gallery on campus that I¡¯ve wanted to check out.¡±


    Essex cocked her head. ¡°Art gallery?¡±


    Wess blinked confusedly. ¡°Have you not been to one before?¡±


    ¡°¡­I do not believe so.¡±


    ¡°Oh my¡­¡± Wess groaned, sinking her head into her lap again, as Joleicia leaned down to her ear.


    ¡°¡­you should¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­why¡­doesn¡¯t want¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­good for¡­out of¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­fine.¡±


    Wess faced Essex again. ¡°¡­would you still like to come along? I could¡­show you around, perhaps?¡±


    Essex thought it over, before nodding firmly. ¡°I will accept your offer.¡±


    ¡°Well, no point dilly dallying.¡± Wess said, grabbing her stuff. ¡°We¡¯d best get a move on. Who knows, developing your analysis skills might help you decipher your dreams.¡±


    Essex followed along beside her. ¡°That would be beneficial.¡±


    ¡°Bye guys!¡± Joleicia called out, going back to her book as soon as they left.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    The academy had been putting on events fairly regularly sincerely the start of the semester. The yearly tournament meant that more visitors were around the campus grounds, and students participating needed something to take their mind off their combat heavy tournament events. And of course, the extra funds helped in repairing the support towers to their former glory.


    Everyone was welcome, of course, even those who knew nothing about art.


    ¡°No paintings?¡±


    ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°No music?¡±


    ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°Did you tell stories, at least?¡±


    ¡°No.¡± Essex explained. ¡°We do not show pride for our actions. If our actions were truly helpful, then they do not need to be shared in narrative.¡±


    ¡°The Segaru Clan sounds like a nightmare¡­¡± Wess expressed, drawing a frustrated glance from Essex.


    ¡°There is nothing saying you must avoid ¡®art¡¯ as well.¡± Essex defended. ¡°It is a custom of our clan, not a rule that we enforce on other people.¡±


    ¡°But how can you live without creative expression?¡± Wess asked, as they arrived at the entrance to the gallery.


    ¡°It is not a necessity.¡± Essex explained. ¡°We do not possess what is unnecessary.¡±


    ¡°Art is not¡­¡± Wess went to say, before reminding herself they were at the gallery, and that she should enjoy herself. ¡°¡­I suppose you have your reasons. But I don¡¯t like them.¡±


    ¡°I am not asking you to like them.¡± Essex added, as Wess approached the first few paintings on display, reading over their artist bios.


    ¡°It¡¯s so bizarre reading about artists outside the Northern Wayside¡­¡± Wess muttered, as Essex watched her from the sidelines, analysing the gallery around her.


    Is this a hobby that Saxin was referring to? Essex wondered. How is staring at recreated images a possible pass-time?


    Essex stared at the other visitors, all discussing the works on display amongst themselves, before looking back down at Wess, shifting her view between the works and the bios.


    Essex felt prompted. ¡°What is the purpose of art?¡±


    Wess broke her trance and resettled herself, her attention still on the painting. ¡°What a lofty question. Do you mean to me?¡±


    ¡°¡­yes.¡±


    ¡°Well¡­to inspire thought and discussion. The best art manages technical proficiency and intellectual gravitas while also being appealing in some way.¡±


    ¡°Gravitas?¡± Essex asked.


    ¡°Uhh, weight, or importance.¡± Wess clarified. ¡°True artwork means more than just paint on a canvas, notes from an instrument, actors on a set. It has a lesson to teach, or a point to bring up.¡±


    ¡°I¡­do not understand. How is a painted canvas different from another canvas?¡± Essex pointed out.


    ¡°It comes down to personal connection. It¡¯s all about what you see in the work.¡± Wess said, looking around tentatively, before spotting a noteworthy painting. ¡°Come.¡±


    Essex followed, as they stood in front of a portrait painting of a man, cleanly put together, and posing in what looked to be the academy principal¡¯s office.


    ¡°This is ¡®Thoughtful Regalia,¡¯ a portrait made of Alsius Venator, shortly after he founded the academy. It¡¯s quite well known.¡± Wess explained. ¡°What do you think about it?¡±


    Essex stared at the work inquisitively. ¡°It is an impressive imitation of a person.¡±


    ¡°But what does it say to you?¡± Wess asked. ¡°What about the scene could mean something, or his pose? Could that imply anything?¡±


    Essex looked again. ¡°He is leaning on the desk.¡± She looked back to Wess. ¡°That is not noteworthy.¡±


    ¡°Okay¡­¡± Wess said, grabbing the brim of her nose, before standing beside Essex. ¡°To me, he looks casual, almost like he¡¯s leaning on the table to appear more down to earth. But it could also show he¡¯s tired and needs support.¡±


    Essex stared at Wess, before slowly nodding in response.


    ¡°But then contrast that with the large bookcase behind him, and the degrees beside that. He¡¯s clearly a very intelligent person, and is proud of it, but wants to appear more personal, not like some stuffy suit looking down from his ivory tower. But if he¡¯s tired, it could show that his position¡¯s taken a toll on him, and that despite his intelligence, even he can¡¯t help succumbing to it.¡± Wess finished, somewhat swept up in her own explanation by the end. ¡°Does that clear it up?¡±


    Essex broke eye contact and looked back at the painting, approaching it again, before squinting horribly and nearly lashing out at it.


    ¡°¡­but that is not on the painting.¡± Essex pointed out, as Wess nearly broke.


    ¡°What do you mean ¡®not on it?!¡¯ It¡¯s an interpretation! Of course it¡¯s not o-¡° Wess exclaimed, before catching herself and quieting down, remembering there were other people around them trying to have a nice time. ¡°¡­I think it¡¯s clear we aren¡¯t going to make any headway here.¡±


    Wess grabbed her bag and started heading out, still in a huff, as Essex followed behind, somewhat tentatively.


    ¡°I am sorry that I do not understand art how you would want me to.¡± Essex apologised.


    Wess kept walking, before stopping suddenly and sighing. ¡°¡­you¡¯re making an effort¡­it¡¯s appreciated.¡±


    She continued through the gallery, less bitter than before, as Essex hung back to avoid getting in the way of her enjoyment, until Wess reached the end, content in their overall experience.


    ¡°It¡¯s always great to see fresh talent among the established.¡± Wess confessed, cleaning herself up. ¡°I appreciate you coming along, Essex, even if this wasn¡¯t your cup of te-¡°


    Wess looked back curiously and found Essex all the way back at ¡®Thoughtful Regalia,¡¯ staring directly up at the portrait with a fixed glance. Most of the other visitors had left at this point, leaving the solitary image of Essex trying to understand this painting.


    Wess approached and rested her hand on her hip. ¡°You don¡¯t have to understand it in one day.¡±


    ¡°But I have to.¡± Essex said. ¡°These dreams will plague me until I can understand them, and I do not know how.¡±


    Wess stood beside her, looking up at the painting too. ¡°You know, most people spend their whole lives trying to understand art, especially artists themselves. Often the greats don¡¯t even truly understand their own work.¡±


    Essex focused her gaze, as Wess grabbed her shoulder and indicated to the exit, grabbing her attention. ¡°You¡¯ll understand with time. We all do.¡±


    Essex acknowledged her point and followed her out of the gallery, as Wess checked her watch casually.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but Cyrus is expecting me to join him for clothes shopping.¡± Wess said, waving to Essex. ¡°I¡¯ll see you back at the dorm for dinner.¡±


    ¡°Dovono.¡± Essex called, continuing down the hallway on her own, left to her thoughts as she planned on heading back to the dorm.


    A hobby is a passion¡­something to feel strongly about. Essex wondered, wandering through the empty halls, the afternoon sun glaring through the windows. What would I feel strongly about?...could Maxie be considered a hobby?


    Her thoughts were interrupted briefly, as she heard a few voices she recognised from one of the staff offices she passed.


    ¡°¡­ut I expect more from you down the line. These marks are not detrimental, but unless you show some initiative, they are sure to get worse.¡± Said Vice-Principal Coatsworth, as Essex caught Florey leaving his office, just catching the tail end of a longer conversation.


    ¡°Yeah, thanks, Mr Coatsworth.¡± Florey replied, fairly dejected, as he exited his office and quickly spotted Essex. ¡°Oh, hey Essex.¡±


    ¡°Florey. What were you discussing with Coatsworth?¡± Essex asked, surveying the door subtly.


    Florey looked downward and kicked the air. ¡°Just¡­I¡¯m dropping behind in some subjects, and he was chewing me out, pretty much.¡±


    Essex blinked. ¡°Chewing you out?¡±


    Florey rolled his eyes. ¡°He was lecturing me on how to improve. I¡¯ll be honest, he¡¯s pretty weird to talk to.¡±


    Essex looked to the door again. ¡°I have heard.¡±


    ¡°Oh, what fortuitous timing!¡± Called a voice, as the duo saw Saxin down the hall, waving joyously to them. ¡°Essex!¡±


    ¡°Saxin! Cal-¡° Essex replied, before changing her greeting. ¡°Lo reme!¡±


    As Saxin approached, she giggled to herself pleasantly. ¡°Unfortunately, Essex, that¡¯s an old Northern Wayside goodbye, not a greeting, but it was a very cute attempt.¡±


    She sidled up to Florey. ¡°How was Coatsworth? Was it anything worth discussing?¡±


    ¡°No, no, just some routine stuff.¡± Florey played off, getting a side-eye from Essex. ¡°Thanks for getting my room key.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re just lucky Chops and I were already back at the academy.¡± Saxin said, giggling. ¡°But careful, if you keep forgetting it, you may lose room privileges all together.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll keep that in mind.¡± Florey said, heading down the hall. ¡°Later, Essex.¡±


    ¡°¡­oh! Lo reme!¡± Essex replied, watching Florey duck around the corner, before turning to Saxin. ¡°Was that a more appropriate usage?¡±


    Saxin smiled. ¡°You¡¯re very quick on the uptake¡­would you care to join me for a little trip?¡±


    Essex nodded. ¡°Where?¡±


    ¡°To the academy Spire. I¡¯ve been putting off visiting it again, but since I had some free time, I figured why not.¡± Saxin explained, skipping around Essex. ¡°And we can finally spend some time together.¡±


    ¡°I would agree.¡± Essex said, Saxin locking arms with her, as they followed the stairwell down and out the building together.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    The Spire always looked incredible, due to its seamless marble sheen and impressive presence, and for standing out amongst the boxier skyscrapers surrounding it, but nothing compared to how it shone when the sun started to set. This wasn¡¯t clear from the stairwell inside, but the entrance onto the top showed it off in the best light.


    ¡°Breathtaking¡­¡± Saxin let out, finding a nice spot on the flatter edge of the tip, Essex joining her too, their legs dangling over the edge. ¡°It¡¯s so beautiful up here, don¡¯t you think?¡±


    ¡°The view is expansive and daunting.¡± Essex said, looking downward, Saxin coughing to herself.


    ¡°Yes, well¡­¡± Saxin started. ¡°This is the kind of view you share with the special people in your life.¡±


    Essex looked around, casually catching the repairs being made to the support towers due to the Behemoth Wailing attack, before finding Saxin again and nodding.


    ¡°I¡¯m surprised you wanted to come up here with me.¡± Saxin said, twiddling her thumbs. ¡°I¡¯ll be honest, I¡¯m somewhat nervous about being up here¡­¡±


    ¡°Is the height a concern?¡± Essex asked, Saxin rolling her eyes playfully.


    ¡°No¡­that¡¯s not it.¡± She said. ¡°Plus, I couldn¡¯t fall off even if I wanted to.¡±


    Essex looked confused, before letting the comment slide and peering out again, as Saxin inched closer.


    ¡°I¡¯ve heard it¡¯s been getting warmer.¡± Saxin commented.


    ¡°I have heard that too.¡± Essex replied, as Saxin rested her head on Essex¡¯s shoulder. ¡°Vonodo, what are you doing?¡±


    Saxin realised and pulled her head back, slightly annoyed. ¡°Isn¡¯t it obvious?¡±


    ¡°What is obvious?¡± Essex said, as Saxin groaned to herself.


    ¡°¡­come on, I never struggle with this part¡­¡± Saxin muttered, before looking back at Essex. ¡°Hold on, I''ll show you what I mean.¡±


    As Essex waited for her answer, Saxin leaned over and locked lips with Essex, long enough to leave an impression, but short enough to leave some room, as Saxin pulled back to assess how Essex would react.


    ¡°So?¡±


    Essex blinked, then blinked again. ¡°Why did you do that?¡± She asked matter of factly.


    Saxin blushed a little. ¡°I thought the reason would be self explanatory. Are you not interested?¡±


    Essex touched her lip. ¡°¡­I do not believe so.¡±


    ¡°Oh¡­¡± Saxin let out. ¡°¡­my apologies. I suppose I misread things between us. Or maybe I was testing the waters. Relationships can be hard to judge when you¡¯re in the middle of them.¡±


    ¡°Are you not in a relationship with Lenin?¡± Essex questioned, as Saxin shrugged her shoulders.


    ¡°We¡¯re free to explore. Neither of us really love the idea of exclusivity, anyway.¡± Saxin said, as Essex still looked a bit dazed.


    ¡°¡­was that a sign of passion?¡± Essex asked.


    ¡°Sign of affection, I would say. I wanted to see how you feel about me.¡± Saxin smiled. ¡°Oh well, you win some, you lose some. I hope this won¡¯t make things awkward between us.¡±


    Essex shook her head. ¡°I am more confused than offended.¡±


    Saxin chuckled to herself. ¡°You always want to hear that from an unrequited lover¡­I guess we¡¯re just stuck here now, appreciating a brilliant sunset.¡±


    Saxin looked back to Essex. ¡°How dreadful.¡±


    Essex nodded politely, staring off at the horizon with Saxin, playing with the word passion in her mind.


    ¡°¡­Saxin?¡±


    ¡°Yes?¡±


    ¡°¡­I am worried that I am a kettle without water.¡±


    Saxin blinked. ¡°A what?¡±


    ¡°I have been trying to find hobbies, as you have suggested, but I do not know what I am passionate about.¡± Essex explained. ¡°It is aggravating.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± Saxin nodded. ¡°What have you tried so far?¡±


    ¡°¡­discussion, language, meditation, understanding art, and¡­what we have just done.¡± Essex clarified, as Saxin rested her head on her hand.


    ¡°Those are very high concept for one day. You must be exhausted.¡± Saxin assessed, pulling out her tablet. ¡°If you¡¯ll indulge me, I think we should listen to some music together while we enjoy this sunset.¡±


    ¡°Will this be passionate?¡± Essex asked, as Saxin laughed to herself.


    ¡°If you want it to be.¡± Saxin remarked, handing Essex an earbud, as she scrolled through her playlist. ¡°Tell me which is your favourite.¡±


    ¡°Understood.¡± Essex said, as Saxin went through each song one by one, all varying in genre and style.


    Does Saxin have a passion for music? Essex thought. She is the singer of Team Vanguard¡¯s band, so it would make sense.


    As Saxin continued, getting unamused looks from Essex for each choice, she stopped on one song in particular, freezing Essex in place, before clearly focusing intently on the music. Saxin offered her the other bud, as Essex took it without looking, focusing her attention on tapping her foot to the rhythm.


    She sat listening for a few seconds, before pulling an earbud out and turning to Saxin hurriedly. ¡°What is this music?¡±


    Saxin looked down to her tablet. ¡°This is my favourite ska band, The Wine-box Initiative.¡±


    ¡°This is ska?¡± Essex asked, Saxin nodding in response, as Essex replaced the earbud, bobbing her head along with the music.


    Saxin gave her a minute, letting her listen to as much as she wanted, before tapping her shoulder. ¡°Enjoying it?¡±


    ¡°It is very good music!¡± Essex projected, Saxin pulling out her earbud. ¡°I am enjoying this style and genre.¡±


    ¡°Oh?¡±


    Essex nodded frantically. ¡°It is high energy, but I can maintain the rhythm, and it does not feel repetitious.¡± She explained, noticeably energetic compared to her regular demeanour. ¡°What is the word for great enjoyment?¡±


    ¡°Passion.¡± Saxin replied.


    Essex blinked blankly, before looking over at Saxin¡¯s tablet again. ¡°Do you have anymore ska music?¡±


    ¡°Plenty.¡± Saxin said, handing Essex the tablet, as Essex took a minute to figure it out, before scrolling through to her heart¡¯s content, sampling each new song she could get her hands on.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    The day was winding down, with coldness following the sunset, and Saxin and Essex leaving the Spire to warm up in their dorm rooms. Essex had yet to return the tablet, still going through Saxin¡¯s extensive ska library, as they started to approach their dorms.


    Saxin turned to Essex, still bobbing her head along with the music, before tapping her shoulder again.


    Essex looked up at her.


    Saxin pointed to her ears.


    Essex took a beat to react, before realising Saxin¡¯s request and handing her back the tablet.


    ¡°Thank you.¡± Saxin said, pocketing it.


    ¡°No. I am thankful to you.¡± Essex said. ¡°I did not know of this until you showed me. I do not like handling a tablet, and do not listen to music as recreation, so there was no way for me to know of it.¡±


    Saxin patted her head. ¡°But by the sounds of it, you¡¯ve already been broadening your horizons recently. I¡¯m sure you would¡¯ve found it at some point.¡±


    They eventually made it back to their dorms, as Saxin leaned against her team''s door, watching Essex grab her room card.


    ¡°A hint of advice.¡± Saxin said, getting Essex¡¯s attention. ¡°You don¡¯t need to limit your passions to hobbies. There¡¯s plenty of things in your life that you can be passionate towards.¡±


    Saxin left with a smile and closed the door behind her, as Essex stood in place, staring at her room card idly.


    ¡­could she mean Maxie? Essex wondered, dismissing the thought. ¡­could she mean him?


    She took a careful breath, before entering the dorm, finding the rest of her team scattered around the room, and Julia preparing dinner.


    ¡°Hey!¡± Sola greeted.


    ¡°Hey, Essex.¡± Harley said, waving from her bed and pointing to Wess. ¡°We found Wess, by the way.¡±


    ¡°I have already talked with her.¡± Essex said, nodding to Wess as she came in.


    ¡°Please, don¡¯t involve me in a conversation. I¡¯m exhausted from my shopping trip.¡± Wess groaned, face against the couches arm rest. ¡°I want to sleep¡­¡±


    ¡°Not yet, Wess. Since you¡¯ve gotta try¡­¡± Julia prefaced, plating up the last of the food. ¡°¡­some beef tartare!¡±


    Wess stayed still, before rising from the couch and heading to the kitchen. ¡°How dare you tempt me with meat¡­¡±


    ¡°I will happily be tempted by meat!¡± Harley exclaimed, joining them in the kitchen, as Essex grabbed a plate herself, thanking Julia as they all sat down to enjoy dinner together.


    ¡°Oh boy¡­¡± Sola said, moaning in her seat. ¡°Those eggs aren¡¯t sitting great with me¡­¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I¡¯m feeling it too.¡± Harley empathised. ¡°Good job, Julia, but I think it was just too much.¡±


    ¡°Well, I had to use up the eggs somehow.¡± Julia said.


    ¡°¡­let¡¯s do more punching! That might work off the meat sweats!¡± Sola suggested, getting out of her seat, grabbing the team¡¯s attention.


    ¡°Uhh, alright.¡± Harley said, joining her out the door. ¡°I guess if you want to do it now. Bye guys.¡±


    Harley and Sola ducked out the door, as Wess stood up herself. ¡°I swear, that girl¡¯s going to pull something. I¡¯m taking this opportunity to sleep. You may only wake me if there¡¯s a murderer above my bed, or if the room is on fire.¡±


    ¡°Last I checked, you¡¯re on the top bunk.¡± Julia joked, as Wess was already getting changed in the study, as Julia turned to Essex. ¡°How¡¯d you like it?¡±


    ¡°It was excellent.¡± Essex replied, Julia getting up from the table, as Essex realised she should attempt something more nuanced. ¡°¡­the flavours¡­were¡­good..and heavy.¡±


    Julia seemed a bit surprised at Essex¡¯s compliment, but took it well regardless. ¡°Yeah, I liked the flavours too. I think the egg was a bit off, though.¡±


    ¡°It did appear that way.¡± Essex added, Julia pulling out cooking utensils and bowls. ¡°Have you not finished with dinner?¡±


    ¡°Oh, I was just gonna make some dessert for the next few days.¡± Julia said, stopping briefly. ¡°Did you¡­have dessert back in the Segaru Clan?¡±


    Essex nodded. ¡°It was reserved only for Boncala Day, but we did¡­have it.¡±


    Julia smiled back to her, before patting the space next to her. ¡°Since you said earlier that you were having trouble filling the time, I thought you could help me with some baking, since it¡¯s both practical¡­¡± She grabbed another bowl. ¡°¡­and fun!¡±


    ¡°¡­yes.¡± Essex agreed. ¡°Fun.¡±


    ¡°You sound like I¡¯m forcing you.¡± Julia giggled. ¡°We¡¯re gonna finally finish off those eggs by making two cakes for the next few days. And you can just follow along with me.¡±


    Essex nodded, mimicing Julia as she grabbed a couple eggs.


    ¡°You just crack, crack, crack the egg into the bowl.¡± Julia instructed, indicating to Essex.


    Essex lifted the egg. ¡°Crack¡­crack¡­crack¡­¡± She broke it, dropping it in. ¡°¡­the egg into the bowl.¡±


    ¡°Crack, crack, crack the egg into the bowl.¡±


    Essex looked back at her, before repeating the motion. ¡°¡­crack, crack, crack the egg into the bowl.¡±


    ¡°And now¡­M-I-X the flour into the bowl.¡±


    ¡°M-I-X the flour into the bowl.¡± Essex repeated.


    ¡°Butter, butter, butter joins the bowl.¡± Julia sang, bobbing along.


    ¡°Butter¡­butter¡­butter joins the bowl.¡± Essex sang, struggling to get the butter off her knife.


    ¡°We¡¯re making us a cake that you¡¯ve never seen before!¡± Julia sang.


    Essex cocked her head. ¡°That is not an instruction for how to continue.¡±


    Julia looked caught in the act, before filling the silence with an awkward laugh. ¡°¡­we can just stop singing now.¡±


    Julia and Essex carried on with their mixing, leaving the cakes in the oven, as the time finally ticked over to 9:00pm.


    ¡°Man, I¡¯m sleepy. Wess might¡¯ve had the right idea.¡± Julia said, shivering a little. ¡°I thought it was supposed to be getting warmer too. I¡¯ll have to sneak into her bed to warm up.¡±


    ¡°Julia.¡± Essex said, as the timer on the microwave went off. ¡°They are finished.¡±


    ¡°Great!¡± Julia cheered, grabbing the cakes out of the oven and leaving them to cool. ¡°Damn, how does yours look so good?¡±


    Essex looked confused herself. ¡°It is not something I normally do.¡±


    ¡°Maybe it was laying dormant, ready to come out.¡± Julia grinned. ¡°A secret guerrilla chef gene.¡±


    Essex barely understood what that meant, as Julia left her oven mits against the side of the cake tins.


    ¡°Thanks for the help, Essex.¡± She said, before catching herself. ¡°Or rather¡­¡±


    She bowed to Essex. ¡°¡­grela.¡±


    Essex caught herself blushing, trying to hide it, as Julia found her attempt very cute.


    ¡°Maxie¡¯s free tonight, if you still need him. Harley told me about your meditation stuff¡­¡± Julia said, as she turned around and noticed Essex had a gentle tear running down her face. ¡°Essex?¡±


    Essex quickly noticed, having not even acknowledged it was there, and wiped it away. ¡°It is nothing. I will not need him.¡±


    Julia closed the gap between them and rested a hand against her shoulder. ¡°Are the dreams bothering you that much?¡±


    Essex shook her head, clearly upset. ¡°I refuse to let these dreams control me.¡±


    ¡°But they¡¯re doing it anyway.¡± Julia pointed out. ¡°What¡¯s bothering you?¡±


    Essex locked eyes with her, took a beat and breathed in, before letting it out.


    ¡°¡­when the Segaru Clan first found me¡­I¡­was accompanied by a fox cub. He had helped me to survive in the wild, and had trained beside me when I became a member¡­being far from home for this long¡­I have needed something to be close towards¡­¡±


    Julia was left surprised, but shook herself free. ¡°Is this why you wanted Maxie?¡±


    ¡°¡­it is one reason, yes.¡± Essex said.


    ¡°Essex, I didn¡¯t know you were homesick.¡± Julia said, looking a bit forlorn. ¡°I guess being without the clan and your scythe must¡¯ve left yo-¡°


    ¡°Like a kettle without water.¡± Essex repeated.


    Julia brought Essex for an impromptu hug, sniffling a little too. ¡°I should¡¯ve noticed. I¡¯m the team leader after all¡­¡±


    ¡°No.¡± Essex refused, breaking the hug. ¡°I should have told you. It is not your job to predict my emotions. If I am having trouble again, I will tell you why.¡±


    Julia smiled back to her. ¡°Yeah, sure.¡±


    ¡°I will attempt to sleep properly tonight.¡± Essex said, leaving for the study, before looking to Julia¡¯s bed and quickly grabbing Maxie. ¡°May I borrow him?¡±


    ¡°Of course.¡± Julia replied, leaning on the kitchen counter. ¡°If you have those nightmares again, just come out here and we can talk, alright?¡±


    ¡°Understood.¡± Essex said, opening up the study. ¡°Grela.¡±


    Julia looked back at the study happily. ¡°Thank you for being so open.¡±


    Once the door closed, Essex changed out her suit into her novelty Team Vivisect shirt, entering her bed with Maxie in tow, trying to drift off to sleep once again. Fortunately, the night was much cooler than the rest of the week, and a slight scent lingered from Maxie, comforting Essex as she cuddled with him, before drifting off into another familiar dream.


    ...just¡­one more¡­


    ¡­but if¡­foli¡­


    ¡­we¡¯ll¡­togeth¡­


    ¡­ex¡­


    Essex?


    Are you alright? How long have you been out here?


    We have food, and clothes. You can borrow my bed, too.


    Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll make sure to take care of you¡­


    ¡­Essex


    ¡°¡­thank you¡­¡±

 Chapter 16: Progression

    Harley was usually this impatient.


    It¡¯d been an unfortunate consequence of most of her active life. If she didn¡¯t get something she wanted in a timely manner, she¡¯d bust down whatever door needed to get it quicker. Often, this led to her getting into fights with others, usually if they stole something of hers or hurt her friends, where fists wouldn¡¯t stop flying until she¡¯d gotten her just revenge.


    Fortunately, she¡¯d grown out of that as she¡¯d gotten older, but that didn¡¯t mean she stopped getting excited about waiting for things she wanted.


    Especially when her team was taking so long.


    ¡°¡­come on, guys¡­pick up the pace¡­¡±


    She took out her tablet idly, messing around and noticing a new message for her before a couple voices down the hall meant she couldn¡¯t read it in time.


    ¡°Harley!¡± Julia called, as Harley noticed the rest of Team Valiant down the hallway, approaching at an appropriate speed.


    ¡°About time, you guys!¡± Harley replied.


    ¡°Hi!¡± Sola called. ¡°Sorry, I slept in!¡±


    ¡°Dammit Sola¡­¡± Harley groaned, as they joined up with her. ¡°Am I the only one excited for this?¡±


    ¡°Clearly, you aren¡¯t.¡± Wess clarified. ¡°But not all of us wake up absurdly early.¡±


    ¡°Essex does.¡± Harley pointed out, shaking her head. ¡°However, I took Julia¡¯s advice and set an alarm for 6:30.¡± Harley said. ¡°I usually wake up then anyway, but it still helped.¡±


    ¡°Glad I could rub off on you.¡± Julia remarked, before realising how that sounded. ¡°I¡¯m s-that sounded reall-¡°


    ¡°Oh? Julia, I never knew you felt that way.¡± Harley teased, crouching to meet her height. ¡°I always¡­had a feeling¡­but I never thought¡­¡±


    ¡°H-Harley, stop it!¡± Julia complained, blushed despite herself, getting a laugh from the rest of the team. ¡°You know my heart can¡¯t take that stuff.¡±


    ¡°Is this the correct room?¡± Essex asked Harley.


    ¡°Yep. Just waiting for Jovie to arrive.¡± Harley said. ¡°The anticipation¡¯s been killing me.¡±


    ¡°Anticipation for what?¡± Sola asked.


    The team all looked at her, confused.


    ¡°Sola, we¡¯re getting our new weapons today.¡± Julia said.


    Sola blinked.


    ¡°You¡¯re getting your arm-cannons.¡±


    ¡°Oh!¡± Sola realised. ¡°Ooohhh!!!¡±


    Sola looked visibly animated, after what felt like a ground shattering revelation. ¡°Well if you¡¯d told me that, I wouldn¡¯t have slept in!¡±


    ¡°You wouldn¡¯t have slept at all.¡± Wess remarked, getting a giggle out of Julia, as Essex looked longingly at the door.


    Julia took notice and approached her. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. You¡¯ll get your scythe back soon.¡±


    Essex faced Julia. ¡°I am mirroring Harley¡¯s sentiment about anticipation¡­it is unnerving.¡±


    ¡°I just want Belvedere¡­¡± Wess empathised, caressing her empty scabbard, as they all noticed a figure down the hall, approaching with her shambled together breakfast and a pencil in her mouth.


    She looked up from her papers, before realising she had students waiting and hurrying down the hall to meet up with them.


    She placed her stuff on a nearby table and started signing. [Sorry, I¡¯m not set up yet.]


    ¡°It¡¯s no problem, Miss Jovie.¡± Julia replied. ¡°We¡¯re pretty early, anyway.¡±


    ¡°But not too early, right?¡± Harley asked, as Jovie squinted her eyes.


    [Isn¡¯t weapon collection still an hour away?]


    ¡°We were planning on avoiding the crowd.¡± Wess said, scanning around the hall. ¡°But I suppose there isn¡¯t one.¡±


    Jovie casually stroked her chin, before checking her watch. [I suppose I can let you in early. You¡¯re certainly lucky.]


    Julia smiled, as Jovie reached for the door, opening up the entrance to the engineering department of the academy.


    [Sorry about the mess.] Jovie apologised, clearing off a couple of the main tables. [What team are you?]


    ¡°Team Valiant.¡± Julia replied.


    Jovie gave a thumbs up. [Give me a second to grab your equipment.]


    Jovie ducked off into the backroom, before re-emerging with a large box dragging on the ground, labelled ¡®Valiant¡¯ on the side. She attempted to lift it up, placing it on the now cleared table, before catching her hand underneath the box and pulling back in pain.


    ¡°Are you okay, Miss Jovie?¡± Julia asked, checking to see if she was hurt.


    Jovie shook her hand to calm her nerves. [Ow.]


    ¡°Whoa!¡± Sola called out, digging around the box. ¡°They¡¯re actually here!¡±


    [The weight isn¡¯t for show.] Jovie signed, as the team started digging around the box happily.


    ¡°Belvedere!¡± Wess exclaimed, grabbing the sword ecstatically. ¡°I was so worried about what they¡¯d do to you.¡±


    Jovie raised an eyebrow, as Wess noticed and cleared her throat. ¡°¡­but you¡¯ve done an excellent job.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t forget your shield.¡± Harley remarked, pulling it out from the box and handing it to Wess.


    ¡°Oh¡­yes.¡± Wess muttered. ¡°I¡¯d honestly forgotten about this.¡±


    Julia rested a hand on her shoulder. ¡°It looks great on you.¡±


    Essex held her scythe to her chest, both inspecting and hugging it, as she started to turn it in her hands, analysing every angle.


    [Does it meet your standards?] Jovie asked.


    Essex blinked at the unknown hand movements, as Wess stepped in. ¡°She asked if you like it.¡±


    ¡°Oh. Yes.¡± Essex replied, bowing. ¡°I am grateful for the improvements made. Grela.¡±


    ¡°Oh my god!¡± Sola exclaimed, grabbing out one of her arm-cannons. ¡°It¡¯s real! You made it!¡±


    [You¡¯re welcome.] Jovie replied, as Sola started fitting it on, then moving it around.


    ¡°Watch out, Wailing!¡± She cried, Jovie and Harley desperately grabbing her arms.


    ¡°Sola, don¡¯t just wave that thing around!¡± Harley yelled. ¡°What if you zapped us?¡±


    Sola¡¯s eyes widened, gasping and putting the arm-cannon back down. ¡°Sorry. I got excited¡­¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s understandable.¡± Julia excused, reaching in for her rifle. ¡°But we should test these out somewhere else.¡±


    ¡°Training grounds!¡± Harley exclaimed, now with her Buster Knuckles equipped.


    Jovie grabbed their attention by snapping her fingers, before pointing back to the box. [There¡¯s instructions and blueprints in the box. Please read them ahead of time before blowing yourselves up unnecessarily.]


    ¡°O-oh, of course, Miss.¡± Julia answered back. ¡°We¡¯ll make sure to be responsible.¡±


    [Thank you.] Jovie let out, relieved to hear the word ¡®responsible,¡¯ as Julia grabbed everyone¡¯s weapons and placed them back in the box, nearly getting an earful from Wess and Essex.


    ¡°Come on, guys. The quicker we get to the training grounds, the faster we can test them out.¡± Julia reasoned, as Harley and Essex lifted the box out of the room, Jovie waving tiredly to them as they left.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Harley and Essex skirted around each corner, following behind the others in front, Harley taking the time to check her tablet, smiling at the message she¡¯d gotten.


    ¡°You tease¡­¡±


    Julia¡¯s ears perked. ¡°Did you say something?¡±


    Harley put the tablet away. ¡°It¡¯s nothing. Just texting back Brad, who might be joining us for training.¡±


    ¡°Brad?¡± Sola asked, hurrying down the hall. ¡°Team Beefcake¡¯s leader?¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t know you were talking with him.¡± Julia said.


    Harley nodded. ¡°Turns out he¡¯s a total party animal, and me and him have been spending some quality time together.¡± Harley explained, skirting around the halls corner with Essex.


    Wess smirked and Julia blushed, as Essex blinked out of confusion. ¡°Quality time?¡±


    ¡°She means sex, Essex.¡± Wess informed.


    ¡°Oh. Understood.¡± Essex replied.


    ¡°Y-you don¡¯t have to be so casual about it.¡± Julia said. ¡°What if someone heard u-¡°


    Julia was stopped mid-sentence, exiting out onto the training grounds with the rest of the team, before bumping into a much taller man, as Julia looked up and saw Vice-Principal Coatsworth, now dusting off his suit.


    ¡°My apologies.¡± He said, before realising who it was. ¡°¡­Julia Alpine.¡±


    ¡°Y-y-yes, that¡¯s¡­me.¡± Julia replied, the team around her watching him carefully. ¡°S-sorry about that.¡±


    Coatsworth didn¡¯t respond, instead choosing to clean up his suit and readjust his tie. ¡°Are those your new weapons?¡±


    Julia nodded, as Coatsworth peered by the side of the box, forcing Essex to step back. ¡°I am anticipating your practice out on the grounds.¡±


    Julia gulped. ¡°A-are you gonna watch us?¡±


    Coatsworth nodded. ¡°I want to see the first-year students firsthand. It gives me hope to see the latest generation embracing their passions.¡±


    He bowed a little, before ducking down the hall and out of sight, as everyone let go of their breath.


    ¡°He¡¯s so weird!¡± Harley let out. ¡°I felt like he was holding me at gun point.¡±


    ¡°I do not believe his demeanour.¡± Essex said, continuing with Harley out onto the training grounds.


    ¡°He certainly feels hostile.¡± Wess decided. ¡°Almost scheming, in a way.¡±


    ¡°Scheming?¡± Sola asked. ¡°He just wanted to watch us practice.¡±


    ¡°B-but he was so creepy about it¡­¡± Julia lamented, before trying to shake it off. ¡°¡­let¡®s focus on our new weapons, rather than Mr Creepsworth¡­¡±


    The team found an empty bit of land, where Harley and Essex lay down the box, with a rejuvenated and excited Sola on the sidelines.


    ¡°Open it up! Open it open it open i-¡°


    ¡°Sola?¡±


    ¡°Yeah?¡±


    ¡°You wanna help?¡±


    ¡°¡­yeah!¡± Sola replied, opening up the box with Julia, the team re-equipping their weaponry, and Julia finally getting a good look at her new rifle.


    She let out a gentle breath, before properly taking the time to inspect it, checking that everything was where it needed to be.


    ¡°It looks just like my sketches.¡± Julia said, checking the reload speed. ¡°And I get to keep it¡­¡±


    Harley started punching the air, testing out the new fabric cover to her Buster Knuckles. ¡°It feels kinda weird wearing gloves under my gauntlets. How do I do the jet booster thing?¡±


    Julia broke her trance from her rifle to rifle through the box, pulling out Harley¡¯s blueprints and instructions. ¡°It says here¡­the button underneath the pointer finger will set them off, but to keep them far away from your body. Fuel will also need to be reloaded after five minutes of overall use.¡±


    ¡°Five minutes? That¡¯s it?¡± Harley moped, looking for the button.


    ¡°You¡¯d probably only use it for a second at a time anyway.¡± Sola reasoned, as Harley carefully pointed her arm out, leaning back in case something went wrong.


    She rested her finger against the button, as the flames shot out from behind the gauntlet, jerking her arm forward.


    ¡°Whoa¡­¡± She let out, before swinging back with her fist, punching forward and activating the jets, her body nearly toppling over from the added momentum of the jets.


    ¡°Holy shit. That¡¯s got some kick to it.¡± Harley said.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you mean punch?¡± Sola replied, getting a snicker out of Harley.


    Harley noticed Wess by the side of her, struggling to balance with both a sword and shield, and almost toppling over. ¡°You doing okay?¡±


    Wess caught herself before falling. ¡°Perfectly fine.¡±


    ¡°Two weapons aren¡¯t that easy to manage, huh?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sure the learning curve i-¡° Wess said, before swinging her sword and shield out, falling backwards on the ground in an embarrassing puff of dust. ¡°¡­no, don¡¯t everyone help at once.¡±


    Essex stuck out her hand to help her up, Wess accepting it graciously, as Essex went back to playing with the buttons at the base of the handle, changing the rod inside the handle and the blade to steel, platinum, silver, magnesium¡­


    ¡°This is acceptable.¡± Essex reasoned, smiling a little at the improvements made.


    ¡°Let¡¯s do a showcase! I wanna see how our weapons all fair!¡± Julia exclaimed, grabbing out the last of the instructions.


    ¡°You wanna start, Sola?¡± Harley asked, as Sola went to grab her arm-cannons excitedly, before stopping briefly. ¡°You good?¡±


    ¡°¡­what if they explode?¡± Sola said, getting a groan from Wess.


    ¡°Why would they explode, Sola? That¡¯s absurd.¡± Wess asked.


    ¡°Nu-uh! Jovie said they might, so they might!¡± Sola argued, as Julia stood up to hand her the weapons.


    ¡°So what if they explode?¡± Julia said. ¡°A little weapon malfunction shouldn¡¯t hold you back.¡±


    ¡°¡­I¡¯m gonna hurt someone again.¡±


    Julia handed her an arm-cannon. ¡°They¡¯re meant to stop that from happening. If you¡¯ve taken the proper precautions, and anyone gets hurt, it won¡¯t be your fault.¡±


    Sola nodded, slowly building up speed, before accepting Julia¡¯s explanation and grabbing the arm-cannons, equipping them one at a time. ¡°Let¡¯s go!¡±


    ¡°Hold on.¡± Julia said, looking through Sola¡¯s instructions. ¡°We¡¯re doing this properly.¡±


    ¡°Yeah.¡± Sola agreed, before looking up at Julia. ¡°¡­Julia?¡±


    ¡°Yeah?¡± Julia said, crouching to meet her eye level.


    ¡°¡­can you¡­¡± Sola said, pointing behind her.


    ¡°You want me to move back?¡± Julia asked, as Sola subtlety nodded.


    ¡°It¡¯s just¡­when we were in the forest¡­¡± Sola whispered.


    Julia smiled. ¡°I totally get it. No problem at all.¡± Julia reassured her, moving back with the others.


    ¡°How many trees do you think she¡¯ll burn?¡± Harley wondered.


    ¡°Three.¡± Essex suggested.


    ¡°I don¡¯t like silly wagers.¡± Wess argued, as Sola turned her head.


    ¡°My money¡¯s on no trees!¡± Sola exclaimed, getting ready to aim, as Julia flipped a couple pages.


    ¡°It says here they¡¯re powered by your Whil, so if you aren¡¯t touching them, they won¡¯t work. There¡¯s also a button in each cannon, left for opening up the barrels and right for controlling the aperture.¡± Julia read aloud. ¡°There¡¯s also a readout on the side to show how much power is stored and whether you might short-circuit it.¡±


    ¡°H-how do I fire it?¡± Sola asked, her nerves coming back to her.


    ¡°Uhh¡­just like with your Whil, I guess.¡± Julia replied, as Sola focused her outstretched arm, opening up the barrel, and charging the cannon with her Whil.


    Everyone, including Sola, reeled back in caution, watching the light build inside the barrel¡¯s interior, as a giant beam shot out in front, knocking Sola back a bit, and soaring directly toward the forest, cutting a hole in several trees.


    As everyone collected themselves, Harley and Essex looked to each other, as no trees were actually burning, and shrugged.


    ¡°Whoa¡­¡± Sola let out, before cheering openly. ¡°I did it!!! I¡¯m the best!!!¡±


    ¡°Way to go, Sola!¡± Julia added, Wess giving Sola a polite clap. ¡°You¡¯ll get used to it in no time.¡±


    The rest of the team approached her more confidently now, as Sola casually played with the aperture, opening it as wide as it¡¯d go, and firing curiously, before falling backwards from the shotgun-like blast.


    ¡°Ow.¡± Sola groaned, getting up from the ground with the help of Harley. ¡°I feel like Jovie¡¯s crushed hand.¡±


    ¡°Probably stick to long-ranged.¡± Harley suggested, grabbing the now empty box. ¡°I¡¯m gonna get us some training posts from the Weapon Reserve.¡±


    Julia gave a thumbs up, as the rest of the team split off to work on their weapons, with Wess attempting to keep her balance with her sword and shield. ¡°How¡¯s the added weight?¡±


    ¡°Somewhat bearable.¡± Wess described. ¡°I¡¯m more worried about dropping my shield on my foot.¡±


    ¡°Maybe you could kick it like a projectile?¡± Julia joked, as Essex overheard their conversation and joined the duo.


    She looked over Wess¡¯ form, scanning over the newly improved and integrated sword and shield, before grabbing Wess¡¯ forearm. ¡°You are focusing weight on the right leg as a result of your sword usage. The left is untrained.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, detective, I figured that part out.¡± Wess remarked, Essex grabbing her shoulder and starting to lower her.


    ¡°You are lifting up your back to compensate for the additional weight. This has raised your centre of gravity and made you unbalanced.¡±


    ¡°¡­okay.¡± Wess said, Essex moving her shield closer to her chest.


    ¡°The shield should be close. It is to protect.¡± Essex said, standing back. ¡°My scythe handle is the same.¡±


    Wess noticed the improvement to her posture, being able to move properly now, while better bearing the new weight of the shield, as Essex looked anything but proud.


    Wess let out a sigh. ¡°¡­thank you¡­Essex¡­I apologise for being somewhat on guard.¡±


    ¡°But you did not have your shield rai-¡° Essex started, before Julia stopped her mid-sentence.


    ¡°This is all fairly new to me.¡± Wess reflected, turning the shield around to face her. ¡°But if it makes me a better Venator, then so be it.¡±


    She re-equipped the shield, looking back at her team, before growing a playful smirk. ¡°Tell me, how good does the shield look on me?¡±


    Julia giggled to herself. ¡°Is it even up for debate?¡±


    ¡°Is this a question of fashion?¡± Essex wondered, as Harley swiftly came back carrying several training posts, handing one off to Sola.


    ¡°I saw a couple teams practicing with their new weapons. I guess we opened the floodgates to Jovie.¡± Harley said, setting up a couple posts. ¡°Now, before anything else, I really wanna see Julia try out her new gun.¡±


    ¡°O-oh, great, I¡­get to show off¡­¡± Julia lamented, Harley encouraging her forward, the others sitting back to watch her display.


    ¡°Hey, it¡¯s just firing a gun. You¡¯ve done that plenty.¡± Harley eased. ¡°We¡¯re not gonna judge.¡±


    Julia smiled at her sentiment, as she noticed the team¡¯s Harley had mentioned entering the grounds, followed by the distinct figure of Coatsworth following behind, watching over the newly upgraded teams and their practice.


    Oh geez¡­


    ¡°No pressure. Just do your best.¡± Harley said, as Julia grabbed her rifle, pouring through the instructions on how it functions.


    ¡°¡­detach¡­extend barrel¡­reload with each¡­okay.¡± Julia said, checking the handles on each side of the rifle, before detaching the back and equipping the gun¡¯s scope, turning it into a sniper rifle, and loading in the appropriate bullets.


    She propped up the gun against the ground, taking aim at one of the posts, while trying to ignore the staring coming from her teammates, and most likely Coatsworth.


    ¡­focus¡­and aim¡­focus¡­


    She fired quickly, hitting the first post, before reattaching the back, changing out the ammo to assault rifle ammo, and making quick work of the second post, then detaching the bottom handle, extending the second barrel, and loading in the shotgun shells, to easily clear out the third post, all in what felt like the blink of an eye.


    Julia let out a tired breath, as she heard the rushing feet of her team behind her, before getting grabbed up by Harley in a large hug.


    ¡°You badass! That was awesome!¡± Harley cheered, Sola joining in on the sidelines.


    ¡°Pl-ease put me d-own.¡± Julia begged, Harley setting her back on the ground. ¡°Oh boy¡­¡±


    ¡°Where have you been hiding that?¡± Wess asked in shock.


    ¡°¡­well, like I¡¯ve said before, I couldn¡¯t really practice without a personal weapon.¡± Julia said. ¡°But I guess I haven¡¯t gotten too rusty.¡±


    ¡°It is very impressive. I do not know how to describe how you were acting¡­¡± Essex said.


    ¡°She was in the zone!¡± Sola cheered.


    ¡°¡­yes. I will agree to that.¡± Essex said.


    ¡°Guys¡­¡± Julia bemoaned, blushing profusely at the compliments. ¡°I¡¯m no better than any other marksman here.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s for sure.¡±


    A voice broke the atmosphere, catching the team off guard, as the training grounds had started to fill with more students then the others had realised, all brandishing their new weapons and showing them off to their teammates, with Baron now beside the team, resting his sword against his shoulder and staring down at Julia.


    ¡°I saw that display. Nice.¡±


    Harley stepped forward. ¡°Are you planning on starting anything?¡±


    Baron looked back at her. ¡°Calm down, blondie. Just using the grounds like everyone else.¡±


    Harley took a breath, making sure to step back and not start any unnecessary fights.


    ¡°Your sword doesn¡¯t look much different.¡± Wess commented, resting a hand on Essex¡¯s shoulder.


    ¡°Can¡¯t improve on perfection.¡± Baron cleared up, as the rest of Team Ferocity were emerging from the engineering department too, brandishing their new weapons. ¡°Duke and Edward finally got something, though.¡±


    He casually peered over the grounds, before spotting a very recognisable Mallen streak amongst Team Valiant. ¡°Funny seeing you again, Essex.¡±


    Essex went blank, trying not to acknowledge him, as Baron took his leave and joined up with his team further down the grounds.


    ¡°I know I shouldn¡¯t start something, but I hate that guy so much.¡± Harley grunted.


    ¡°Forseca¡­¡± Essex muttered, gripping her scythe.


    Julia turned her back to his team. ¡°We¡¯re fine, nothing happened. Let¡¯s not let it ruin our day. We haven¡¯t even seen Harley¡¯s new Buster Knuckles yet.¡±


    ¡°I could always try them out on him.¡± Harley said, Julia giving her an unamused look. ¡°Kidding. I should try out the new jet propulsion.¡±


    Harley went about attacking the training posts, delivering blow after blow, adjusting to the added speed of her jets, as the team continued their training and really got into the swing of things.


    If you discover this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Ferris looked out of place on the training grounds. She didn¡¯t want to be there, she didn¡¯t like the constant, blistering sunlight, and the number of weapons on display was nauseating, to say the least.


    She noticed a couple teams trying out firearms, cringing whenever they were fired, before shaking it off and trying to spot her target again.


    ¡°Come on, Coatsworth¡­¡±


    Finally, she spotted him among the viewing stands, watching the new teams as they practiced, with a notebook and pen resting in his lap.


    *bzzt* *bzzt*


    Ferris¡¯s concentration was broken, as she grabbed out her tablet and groaned.


    ¡°Have you found him yet?¡±


    ¡°Is this punishment for last semester?¡±


    ¡°Yes. Have you found him?¡±


    Ferris grabbed the bridge of her nose. ¡°Yeah. He¡¯s sitting, Faller.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s he doing?¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s watching the first-years try their new weapons, very un-suspiciously.¡± Ferris admitted.


    ¡°Don¡¯t get crabby. You¡¯re the one who said he was suspicious.¡±


    ¡°And now I¡¯ve wasted even more months of my life.¡± Ferris complained. ¡°I¡¯m starting to think my hunch was wrong.¡±


    ¡°¡­just keep an eye on him for the time being. We don¡¯t want to regret not following up on this.¡±


    ¡°Whatever you say¡­¡± Ferris sighed, hanging up, before nearly throwing her tablet to the ground.


    She hid against the entrance to the grounds, pulling out her flask, and watching Coatsworth from behind the stands, before slinking to the ground in exhaustion.


    I mean, he¡¯s weird as shit¡­and pretty elusive¡­ Ferris thought. ¡­but a criminal mastermind?


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Baron tossed his sword in his hands, staring back at Team Valiant, all trying out their new equipment with visible excitement.


    Duke looked up to him. ¡°What¡¯re you thinking?¡±


    ¡°¡­I dunno. Just whatever.¡± Baron muttered, swinging his sword casually. ¡°How¡¯s the ball and chain?¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s fine.¡± Duke remarked.


    Baron looked disappointed. ¡°I meant your weapon, dipshit.¡±


    ¡°Working just as intended.¡± Duke said, swinging a large, spiked ball on the end of a chain. ¡°I want something to use it on, though.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I¡¯m pretty itchy too.¡± Edward said, laying back. ¡°I¡¯m already bored with the training posts.¡±


    ¡°Hey, me and George are gonna grab some food.¡± Henry said, grabbing their bags.


    ¡°Be back soon.¡± Baron said, watching the two other members of his team leave, before idly looking back at Team Valiant.


    Duke followed his gaze to Harley. ¡°You want some of that?¡±


    Baron winced. ¡°No¡­I was just¡­¡±


    An idea struck Baron, as he flashed a smile to Duke and Edward. ¡°We needed opponents, right?¡±


    ¡°Couldn¡¯t we go spar with Team Instinct or something? I don¡¯t wanna see you mope about tying with Harley again.¡± Edward expressed.


    Baron pulled him by the shoulder. ¡°That won¡¯t be a problem if I win this time.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m down.¡± Duke agreed. ¡°If we don¡¯t have anything better to do.¡±


    ¡°This turning¡¯s turning out to be really hard.¡± Harley said, playing with her Buster Knuckles. ¡°Julia, can you read it out again?¡±


    ¡°The button below the index finger lets you rotate¡­hold it down for each hand¡­closing your hand triggers the sensor that activates the jets, but this can be turned off manually with the labelled switch¡­¡± Julia read aloud. ¡°Did you switch it off by accident?¡±


    ¡°I think so¡­¡± Harley said, as Julia looked over her Knuckles with her. ¡°Or maybe it¡¯s already out of fuel.¡±


    ¡°Hey.¡±


    They both looked up at Baron again, now with Duke and Edward tagging along behind him, as he attempted to be somewhat charismatic.


    ¡°The instructions¡¯ll only get you so far.¡±


    Julia put them down, attempting to meet his height advantage. ¡°Did you need anything from us?¡±


    ¡°Actually, we had a suggestion.¡± Baron prefaced. ¡°To make up for last time¡¯s indecision.¡±


    ¡°We decided on a tie, right?¡± Harley reminded him, as Baron readjusted his hands in his pockets.


    ¡°But that¡¯s no real outcome.¡± Duke said. ¡°Baron keeps bringing up ho-¡°


    Baron turned back to him, shutting him up immediately, as Baron cleared his throat. ¡°Come on, Harley. Don¡¯t you want to prove who¡¯s strongest?¡±


    ¡°Strongest?¡±


    ¡°Yeah. Let¡¯s get it off our chest.¡± Baron suggested. ¡°Or you could look at it as sparring, if you want.¡±


    Julia and Harley gave each other a knowing look, before stepping back.


    ¡°What do you think?¡± Harley whispered.


    Julia subtlety looked back at him. ¡°I dunno. He seems genuine.¡±


    ¡°But we know him. He can¡¯t be.¡± Harley stated.


    ¡°I¡¯m not saying do it for his reasons. But maybe, if you win, he¡¯ll finally back off.¡± Julia suggested. ¡°That¡¯ll be a huge weight off of our backs. And we can get some practice against other opponents.¡±


    Harley thought over Julia¡¯s reasoning.


    ¡°¡­I wanna ask the others first.¡± Harley said.


    Julia nodded. ¡°Good idea.¡±


    Julia turned back to Baron. ¡°We¡¯re gonna talk with the rest of our team.¡±


    ¡°Take your time.¡± Baron droned, casually chatting with Duke and Edward, as Julia and Harley caught Wess and Essex in the middle of sparring, with Sola on the sidelines.


    Sola lifted her head up. ¡°Is Baron back?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, and he wants to spar with us again.¡± Harley said, breaking Wess and Essex¡¯s concentration.


    ¡°Oh, great. He¡¯s not starting this up again, is he?¡± Wess bemoaned. ¡°He never could let anything go for too long¡­¡±


    ¡°How did you respond?¡± Essex asked.


    ¡°We said we¡¯d talk it over.¡± Harley admitted. ¡°I¡¯m kinda considering it. At least to get them off our backs.¡±


    Essex peered back at them, briefly locking eyes with Baron, before shrinking back again, as Wess swung Belvedere idly.


    ¡°That¡¯s becoming a tempting offer.¡± She said. ¡°I¡¯m assuming he wants Duke and Edward to join in as well?¡±


    Harley nodded, as Wess strapped on her shield a bit tighter. ¡°If the answer is yes, then I want to reclaim my dignity from Duke. And I refuse to lose a second time to him.¡±


    ¡°Where is the dignity in entering a fight you do not need to have?¡± Essex asked, visibly more irritated than normal.


    ¡°Are you okay, Essex?¡± Harley asked.


    ¡°¡­I do not wish to accompany this fight.¡± Essex said. ¡°They are unwelcome people.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine. You can sit this one out.¡± Julia said. ¡°We¡¯ll make sure they don¡¯t bother you.¡±


    ¡°If Wess and me are gonna take on Duke and Baron, someone¡¯s gotta fight Edward.¡± Harley said. ¡°I don¡¯t think either of us could take on one after the other.¡±


    Sola and Julia looked to each other, bother worried about the other, as Julia smiled back to Sola. ¡°I can take hi-¡°


    ¡°Nope.¡± Sola interrupted, shaking her head. ¡°I¡¯m doing it.¡±


    ¡°Sola?¡±


    ¡°I wanna help out in fights too! I¡¯ve got the arm-cannons now, so I wanna do it! Plus, you¡¯ve gotta stay back and take care of Essex!¡± Sola professed.


    ¡°But you¡®ve barely used the cannons yet.¡± Harley reasoned. ¡°I don¡¯t wanna see you get hurt.¡±


    ¡°I can take it!¡± Sola exclaimed, thoroughly pumped up. ¡°Put me in, coach!¡±


    Harley let out a concentrated breath, before grabbing Sola playfully and pulling her into a noogie. ¡°You¡¯re too good for this world.¡±


    ¡°I couldn¡¯t agree more.¡± Came a voice behind them, as Harley noticed Brad¡¯s distinctive smile from a mile away.


    ¡°Brad!¡± Harley let out, hugging him. ¡°It¡¯s been a hot minute.¡±


    ¡°It has.¡± Brad said, waving to the others. ¡°How¡¯re you all doing today?!¡±


    Julia jumped a bit, forgetting how booming Brad¡¯s voice could be, before rubbing her neck. ¡°C-could be better. Team Ferocity wants another sparring match with us.¡±


    ¡°I noticed them coming over.¡± Brad said. ¡°But you know what they say, a challenge is just an opportunity in disguise.¡±


    ¡°So true.¡± Harley said, playfully punching his arm. ¡°Hey, stick around. I wanna hang out after this, so cheer us on during the fights.¡±


    ¡°Will do! Cheering¡¯s my middle name!¡± Brad bragged, as Harley ran back over to Team Ferocity to confirm their match.


    Julia smiled. ¡°Apparently, you two have been getting to know each other.¡±


    Brad sighing out happily. ¡°I wasn¡¯t expecting to click with her so well, but here we are. She¡¯s buff, I¡¯m buff, she¡¯s positive, I¡¯m positive, she¡¯s got a great sense of humour, I¡¯m¡­still working on that, but I admire it in her.¡±


    Brad turned to them, subtly flexing and posing. ¡°But enough about me! What¡¯s been up with you guys?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve got arm-cannons now!¡± Sola exclaimed, showing them off to Brad, as Harley joined back up with them.


    ¡°Alright, we¡¯ve agreed to the match. Wess and Duke are going first, followed by Sola and Edward, then me and Baron. First one to knock over the other wins.¡± Harley explained. ¡°But we can¡¯t start until we have someone watching over us to judge.¡±


    ¡°I could lend a hand.¡± Brad offered.


    ¡°Thanks, babe, but we need someone impartial and qualified.¡± Harley said, looking around. ¡°Who¡¯ve we got out here?¡±


    ¡°¡­I think there¡¯s only one answer.¡± Julia said, everyone drawn to where she was looking at, as Coatsworth continued to observe the teams from the audience stands, writing notes on what he saw.


    ¡°Oh great¡­¡± Wess bemoaned. ¡°¡­I suppose he is qualified.¡±


    ¡°And impartial.¡± Harley added, turning to Julia. ¡°Do you¡­mind? Since you already know each other.¡±


    ¡°O-oh.¡± Julia let out. ¡°R-right¡­¡±


    Julia did her best to walk over without him noticing before he lifted his head up as she approached.


    Ugh¡­Gods¡­why does he have to stare at me?


    She closed the distance, as he put his notebook down to address her.


    ¡°Hello again, Julia.¡±


    ¡°H-hi, sir.¡± Julia warbled. ¡°Enjoying the¡­training?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s been interesting. I like to observe.¡± He replied. ¡°Can I help you with something?¡±


    Julia nodded. ¡°M-my team was going to s-spar with another team, and we needed someone¡­to watch over us¡­¡±


    ¡°An impartial referee?¡±


    ¡°Y-yeah.¡±


    Coatsworth thought it over, before pocketing his notebook and standing up. ¡°I see no reason why I couldn¡¯t.¡±


    ¡°Great.¡± Julia said, before rushing back to her team as soon as possible, as Ferris noticed Coatsworth on the move, subtly entering the training grounds herself to follow behind him while texting on her tablet.


    Ferris [He¡¯s on the move, but he¡¯s yet to leave the training grounds. Still following.]


    ¡°H-he agreed¡­¡± Julia told the others, as Coatsworth talked amongst Team Ferocity. ¡°Someone else can talk to him once we¡¯re done.¡±


    ¡°The hardest actions are often the most worthwhile.¡± Brad advised, crouching down to meet her height. ¡°We appreciate it.¡±


    ¡°Thanks for that.¡± Harley said, facing Wess. ¡°You ready to go first?¡±


    ¡°I should hope I am.¡± Wess replied, resting Belvedere between her palm and the ground. ¡°¡­in all honesty, I¡¯m fairly nervous about my chances of winning.¡±


    ¡°Just do your best! That¡¯s all anyone can ask of you.¡± Sola assured her. ¡°And since they¡¯re gonna do it anyway, do some real dirty moves back!¡±


    Wess chuckled to herself. ¡°I¡¯m not about to kick dust in his eyes.¡±


    ¡°It would be an appropriate strategy.¡± Essex advised. ¡°If you should become desperate.¡±


    ¡°And a somewhat dishonourable one.¡± Wess pointed out, as Coatsworth gave them the go ahead, setting himself by the side of the sparring court, Duke dragging himself and his ball and chain to his side of the field.


    ¡°Wish me luck.¡± Wess said, the team and Brad heading to the spectator stands.


    ¡°You don¡¯t need luck. You¡¯ll be great.¡± Julia reminded her, hugging her quickly, before joining the others on the stands.


    ¡°I would encourage the participants to meet in the middle and exchange their respects.¡± Coatsworth said, Wess and Duke walking up and shaking hands.


    ¡°I see you¡¯ve upgraded your equipment.¡± Duke said, indicating to Wess¡¯ new shield.


    ¡°As have you.¡± Wess replied, nervously eyeing the ball and chain. ¡°Let¡¯s have a clean fight, shall we?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll try.¡± Duke grinned, heading back to his side.


    ¡°Your objective is to knock your opponent to the ground. You will be permitted a maximum of five minutes to attempt this. Elapsing the time will lead to a draw.¡± Coatsworth explained, readjusting his suit. ¡°I will now count to ten.¡±


    Wess and Duke sized each other up, getting into their combative stances, as Coatsworth counted down on his fingers.


    ¡°I hope she does okay¡­¡± Harley said.


    Essex sat back with Julia, nervously half-watching the field, as Julia stared intently at Wess¡¯ side.


    ¡°3¡­2¡­1.¡±


    Wess stood still, anticipating Duke using his Whil to unsettle the ground under her. However, she remained still, as Duke swung his chain and threw the ball ahead of him, sinking it into the ground with his Whil.


    What¡¯s he doing? Wess wondered, raising her shield. If he¡¯s not using that to hit me¡­


    Wess¡¯ thoughts were interrupted, as Duke tightened the chain around his arm, unsettling the ground under his feet, and used it to surf across the field in a radius, circling around the submerged ball toward Wess. Wess had a split second to react, jumping out of the way, while nearly getting knocked over by Duke¡¯s chain, as he continued to circle around the field.


    ¡°He¡¯s using the ball as an anchor.¡± Julia let out. ¡°That¡¯s¡­actually kinda awesome.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, but Wess is in trouble now.¡± Harley said, as Wess deftly jumped over the incoming chain. ¡°It was already hard enough knocking him over when he can move the ground around. Now he¡¯s got a chain holding him up too.¡±


    As Duke circled around, Wess swung Belvedere at an exposed part of the chain, failing to cut through, as Duke came around for another go, Wess jumping the chain again. Seeing her opportunity, she dashed away from the centre to escape Duke¡¯s radius, before noticing the chain getting shorter, and Duke¡¯s circumference getting smaller, lining himself up with her again, as Wess raised her shield to block him.


    She was knocked back, scraping across the ground, getting a foothold with one of her legs and managing to stand, as Duke slowed himself down to a halt, re-emerging the ball and swinging the chain again.


    Brad was visibly confused. ¡°How did Duke make his chain shrink so he could close in on Wess?¡±


    ¡°He didn¡¯t make it shrink. He just sunk the ball further into the ground to line up with Wess.¡± Baron interjected, grabbing Team Valiant¡¯s attention. ¡°Idiot¡­¡±


    Brad didn¡¯t rise to it, as Harley wrapped a comforting arm around him and whispered in his ear. ¡°Don¡¯t listen to him. He still won¡¯t admit that we tied.¡±


    ¡°He could afford to learn some humility.¡± Brad replied, kissing Harley¡¯s cheek, as Wess resettled herself, dusting off her clothes.


    ¡°Of all the¡­¡± She grumbled, as Duke continued swinging.


    ¡°Is the shield weighing you down?¡± He remarked.


    ¡°No, but my sense of decency is.¡± Wess replied, finally getting the last of the dust off. ¡°You should know better than to ruin my clothes.¡±


    ¡°Should I?¡± Duke said, dropping the ball again, sinking it down and starting his surf toward Wess again.


    Wess watched as he circled toward her, staying perfectly still as he approached, right until the moment of impact, as she jumped into the circle, dodging Duke, and driving Belvedere through the middle-most chain link. She continued running, watching as Duke lost control of his radius and started surfing toward the middle of the circle, as she backed up, shield at the ready, and attempted to shield-bash him as he approached.


    However, she hadn¡¯t anticipated his maintained momentum, as she braced for impact, watching Duke crash into her shield and failing to properly account for his weight, sending her soaring backward and onto the ground, her face to the sky.


    Duke started to slow himself down, taking a second to process what¡¯d happened, and struggling to pull his chain from Belvedere.


    Team Valiant hurried down to Wess, as she managed to stand on her own.


    ¡°Are you okay, Wess?¡± Sola asked. ¡°Does anything hurt?¡±


    ¡°Obviously¡­¡± Wess replied. ¡°I continue to let myself down¡­¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s okay. You only just got your shield, after all.¡± Julia reasoned. ¡°It¡¯s hard to blame you for being too ambitious.¡±


    Wess shook her head. ¡°Unless said ambition costs me the match¡­¡±


    ¡°Hey.¡± Wess heard, as she turned and caught Belvedere mid-air, being tossed by Duke.


    He put down his ball and chain, as Coatsworth approached from the side. ¡°From my judgment, the victory goes to Duke.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, well¡­¡± Duke said, smiling sheepishly. ¡°¡­that¡¯s cause Wess was trying too hard.¡±


    Wess gave him the stink eye, as Coatsworth indicated for them to shake hands again.


    ¡°I¡¯ll admit, you pulled some tricky moves.¡± Duke said.


    ¡°As did you.¡± Wess replied, pulling her hand back. ¡°Your control over your weapon is something to be envied.¡±


    Duke shrugged. ¡°If you say so.¡±


    ¡°Next up, Sola and Edward.¡± Coatsworth announced, accidentally locking eyes with Julia, as Julia felt a crawl up her spine.


    ¡°Ugh¡­¡± Julia let out, Sola hopping down the stands, nearly tumbling over from the added weight of her arm-cannons.


    Edward tapped his heel, before standing across from Sola on the field, then joining in the middle to shake hands.


    ¡°I hope we have a good match.¡± Sola wished.


    ¡°Uh huh.¡± Edward dismissed, breaking the handshake himself and heading back to his side, leaving Sola a bit confused.


    ¡°I will now count to ten.¡± Coatsworth repeated, counting down on his fingers, as Sola leaned toward Team Valiant.


    ¡°Guys, I don¡¯t wanna hurt him too bad.¡± Sola asked. ¡°What do I do?¡±


    ¡°Just¡­be creative about it.¡± Harley advised. ¡°You¡¯ll figure it out.¡±


    ¡°Okay!¡± Sola replied, hopping back, as Edward also stepped toward his team in the stands.


    ¡°Why am I stuck fighting the kid?¡± Edward asked.


    Baron leaned in. ¡°Don¡¯t underestimate her. She knows her shit.¡± Baron advised. ¡°She killed a Wailing all on her own just a couple months ago.¡±


    ¡°Wait, that was¡­¡± Edward realised, as Coatsworth finished counting, leaving the two combatants on the field, unsure how to start.


    Sola looked unprepared, not taking up an offensive or defensive stance, as the indecision started to get to Edward, forcing him to step forward.


    Using his Whil, he pulled out what first looked like a sword, but was actually a large sheet of metal that he seamlessly moulded in the air. He stretched a finger outward, sending the sheet to Sola¡¯s legs, as Sola quickly noticed, panicking briefly, and firing her cannon at the ground. Fortunately, her cannon¡¯s aperture was still widened, meaning the blast was still close-ranged and scattershot, easily dissipating the metal, and sending it back to Edward.


    Sola stopped cowering, leaving her huddled position, and letting out a sigh of relief, as Edward played with the leftover metal patiently, trying to suss Sola out.


    She knew to separate the sheet with a less focused blast. Baron was right, she¡¯s a crafty one.


    Sola looked back at her cannon, before quickly realising the aperture was far wider than she intended.


    Oops. She thought, holding down the button in her right cannon. I¡¯m glad that worked out. I nearly goofed up real bad.


    Edward waited her out, playing with the sheet, expecting Sola to come up with something brilliant.


    Sola stood around, looking side to side, waiting for Edward to act, as a solid minute passed without either one doing anything.


    ¡°What¡¯re you doing?! Knock her over already!¡± Baron yelled, Edward jumping up in shock.


    ¡°Guys, what am I supposed to do now?¡± Sola asked.


    ¡°Sola, you¡¯ve gotta fight back.¡± Julia told her. ¡°You¡¯ll run out of time if you leave it too long.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± Sola replied, looking back at Edward, then her team. ¡°How?¡±


    ¡°Just shoot at his legs or something!¡± Harley exclaimed. ¡°Knock him over!¡±


    ¡°O-okay.¡± Sola said, aiming at Edward¡¯s legs, closing her eyes, and firing a shot.


    Obviously, Edward effortlessly blocked it with his sheet of metal, but considering Sola had seemingly no follow-up to this, it gave Edward the confidence that she was entirely lost.


    ¡°Finally¡­¡± He grumbled, formulating an idea in his head, before running up to Sola, and creating a wall with his metal.


    Sola frantically aimed at the wall, taking shots here and there, missing Edward each time, as behind the cover of the wall, Edward used the metal to form a set of stairs, running up them, jumping over the wall, and knocking Sola over with his own weight.


    He stood up slowly, looking back at Sola on the ground, and reformed his metal by his side, as Sola grabbed her chest in pain.


    ¡°Ow ow ow ow¡­¡± Sola let out, rubbing it better, Harley and Brad rushing down to check up on her. ¡°That hurt like crazy¡­¡±


    ¡°Edward, what the hell was that?!¡± Harley complained. ¡°You didn¡¯t need to hurt her that bad!¡±


    ¡°Well, apparently, she took down a Wailing all on her own, so why is this any worse?¡± Edward reasoned.


    ¡°That¡¯s no excuse to cause more damage than necessary.¡± Brad reasoned, towering over him with his size and bulk, folding his arms. ¡°I think an apology is in order.¡±


    Edward shrank back, before letting out a brief ¡®sorry,¡¯ as Coatsworth assessed the damage.


    ¡°¡­Edward was the winner of that round. Sola, I would encourage you to become more familiar with your equipment.¡± Coatsworth advised.


    ¡°How about telling Edward to cool it with the body blows?¡± Harley rhetorically asked, helping Sola to her feet.


    ¡°His method was unorthodox, but it¡¯s a legitimate victory.¡± Coatsworth said. ¡°Slight chest pain is immeasurable to a Wailing¡¯s fury.¡±


    ¡°Slight chest pain¡­hardly slight¡­¡± Harley groaned, carrying Sola back with Brad and leaning down to her. ¡°Are you feeling alright?¡±


    ¡°Yeah¡­sorry about losing.¡± Sola apologised.


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing some practice won¡¯t fix.¡± Harley said, playfully bumping Sola¡¯s side. ¡°You¡¯ll get the hang of it.¡±


    ¡°Baron.¡± Coatsworth called, Baron pulling himself up from the stands, as Harley helped Sola back and turned around to the field.


    ¡°Hey, Harley!¡± Brad called, giving a proud thumbs up. ¡°Show him what victory really means!¡±


    Baron rolled his eyes at his remark, as Harley prepared herself, strapping on her Buster Knuckles and rechecking their fuel levels.


    ¡°The same rules will apply.¡± Coatsworth said. ¡°I will now count from ten. 10¡­9¡­¡±


    Though it wasn¡¯t the most obvious, Essex had shrunk back into seat, careful not to make eye contact with Baron, as Julia quickly noticed and reached over.


    ¡°Is this too much? We can go back to the dorm room if you want.¡±


    Essex took a second, before shaking her head. ¡°¡­no. I wish to see this out¡­even if I do not wish to be so near to Team Ferocity.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry about them. Harley can win this, for sure.¡± Julia assured her, while mostly reassuring herself.


    ¡°Don¡¯t count your chickens before they hatch¡­¡± Wess mumbled, as Sola cheered Harley on.


    ¡°They¡¯re pretty noisy, huh?¡± Duke commented.


    ¡°And overconfident.¡± Edward added. ¡°Baron¡¯s got this in the bag.¡±


    Coatsworth looked over both combatants once again. ¡°¡­3¡­2¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­1.¡±


    The second after he said one, Baron pointed his fingers at Harley, using his Whil to create a small flame in front of her face, attempting to stun her into falling backwards.


    Instead, she stood firm, clapping her Buster Knuckles together to snuff out the flame and smirking back at Baron.


    ¡°Another cheap tactic?¡± Harley bragged.


    ¡°No, a smart one.¡± Baron retorted, tapping his sword to the ground. ¡°Now I know your gloves are fireproof.¡±


    ¡°Considering our last fight, you should¡¯ve realised that already.¡± Harley replied, checking her booster turning buttons again. ¡°I¡¯m still pretty sore after that.¡±


    ¡°You sure it isn¡¯t for another reason?¡± Baron suggested, confusing Harley briefly, as he went in to sweep out her legs with his sword.


    Harley narrowly avoided in time, attempting to punch out his legs in turn, as neither connected, sliding to each side of the field.


    ¡°Dammit, she missed him.¡± Sola let out, watching intently, as Brad leaned over the railing to get a better view.


    Harley sussed out an opening, noticing Baron¡¯s sword still by his side, as Harley took a running jump, leaping into the air, and punching toward him, aiming square at his chest. She avoided using the jets, mostly so she didn¡¯t hurt him too bad, before he pulled up his sword, holding it with both hands and blocking her attack, throwing her off again.


    Baron noticed her weak footing, moving his sword back down again, before the blade separated into segments, forming a chain, which he attempted to wrap around Harley¡¯s leg.


    Before Harley could even process what he¡¯d done, she frantically tried to recapture her footing, grounding herself with her free leg, and using the leg wrapped in the chain to kick Baron back, freeing herself again. Baron stood back, returning his sword¡¯s blade to a regular blade.


    ¡°That liar!¡± Wess exclaimed. ¡°He said he made no alterations to his weapon.¡±


    ¡°Has he ever been trustworthy?¡± Julia asked rhetorically, patting Essex¡¯s back, as Harley adjusted to this new information.


    Okay¡­so he¡¯s got a whip sword¡­and I¡¯ve got jet boosters. Harley acknowledged. Guess we¡¯re all subverting expectations here.


    ¡°Keep up the pace! Earned sweat is good sweat!¡± Brad encouraged.


    Harley smiled dumbly back at Brad, as Baron tapped his sword against the ground, breaking her trance.


    ¡°Don¡¯t let your sidepiece distract you!¡± Baron warned. ¡°I don¡¯t want a half-assed fight!¡±


    Sidepiece? Harley thought, her anger getting the better of her, before she took a focused breath. No, he¡¯s just pushing my buttons again. Same old scummy Baron.


    She scanned over his hand again, noticing the release button for his blade¡¯s chain right in the hilt, and knew her next plan of attack.


    ¡°Watch out, dipshit! You¡¯re either losing this, or we¡¯re tying again!¡± Harley taunted, charging him again, her fist winding up to punch, as Baron quickly responded, releasing the blade, and wrapping the bladed chain around Harley¡¯s outstretched arm to stop her.


    He swung her to the side with her momentum, Harley bracing as the chain started digging into her skin, as he held the chain tight, not even trying to knock her to the ground.


    Harley noticed his distraction, spying the opening she was looking for, aiming her left Buster Knuckles outward, turning the jets around and on to hook her punch, and launching her fist toward the sword¡¯s hilt.


    Out of instinct and fear, Baron dropped his sword, just narrowly moving his hand from Harley¡¯s assault, as Harley threw the sword away with her freed arm, recaptured her footing, and swept Baron¡¯s leg, finally knocking him to the ground.


    It all happened so quick.


    ¡°She did it! She won!¡± Julia cheered, hugging Essex excitedly, who was holding back a great smile.


    ¡°That¡¯s how you do it! YEAH!!!¡± Brad exclaimed, holding Sola up and cheering excitedly.


    Baron lay on the ground, breathing heavily and looking around panicked, spotting his team trying to avoid eye contact.


    Coatsworth wandered over. ¡°The match is over. The victory goes to H-¡°


    Baron stood up and slapped his hand out of the way. ¡°Again!¡±


    Harley left her brief afterglow, looking back at Baron trying to calm himself. ¡°We just fought.¡±


    ¡°That was hardly a fight.¡± He groaned. ¡°You¡¯ve lost your edge.¡±


    Harley rested her hands on her hips. ¡°So what? It¡¯s not my fault you can¡¯t accept losing.¡±


    ¡°This is no way to go about defeat.¡± Brad added, joining Harley¡¯s side. ¡°Accept your loss and move on.¡±


    ¡°You call that a victory? I barely feel winded.¡± Baron spat back. ¡°Where¡¯s your fight gone?¡±


    ¡°¡­I¡¯m not about to hurt you pointlessly.¡± Harley said, clenching her fist. ¡°Even if I really want to.¡±


    Baron stepped in her face. ¡°Then do it. Hit me.¡±


    ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°You wouldn¡¯t treat a Wailing this way. You leave it alone, and it¡¯ll kill you in an instant.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re not a Wailing.¡±


    ¡°But I¡¯m an opponent.¡± Baron said. ¡°And you¡¯re just pathetic. Finish the fight.¡±


    ¡°We did finish it.¡±


    ¡°Finish it properly.¡± Baron taunted, displaying his arms, as the rest of Team Valiant joined them.


    ¡°Baron, you lost.¡± Julia declared. ¡°You agreed to the rules, and everyone¡¯s followed them. Just accept the outcome and move on.¡±


    Coatsworth intervened again. ¡°Baron, this i-¡°


    ¡°What do I need to do? Do I need to take potshots at your playmate Brad?¡± Baron asked, his team now behind him. ¡°Should I shove Essex again?¡±


    Essex flinched backwards, shrinking into her team, as Harley stepped in front of her protectively.


    ¡°Can¡¯t even let your friends fight their own battles. I thought your whole team was about that free love and dreams bullshit.¡± Baron dismissed, turning away. ¡°But I guess it makes sense for the campus slut to lend herself out to othe-¡°


    Harley leaped him, tackling him to the ground, as their fight resumed in a far less mannered fashion, Harley getting in a few good swings and Baron returning in spades. The teams tried to break them up, Brad trying to hold Harley back, as Ferris watched on from the sidelines, noticing Coatsworth stepping back from the conflict, hesitating for a brief second, and running off to who knows where.


    ¡°He just left.¡± Ferris said, her tablet to her ear. ¡°And the blonde one¡¯s gonna get in some trouble.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Julia was usually this patient.


    But this time, it was tearing her up inside.


    Being the leader of your own team had its benefits, sure, but when you represented the team, that meant all punishments tacitly involved you. Julia was happy to hear Wess, Sola and Essex weren¡¯t being roped into any punishment, but it only made her and Harley¡¯s quiet sit together outside of Faller¡¯s office sting so much worse.


    The waiting was killing them.


    ¡°¡­I¡¯m sorry.¡± Harley let out. ¡°¡­that prick got the better of me¡­again¡­¡±


    Julia shook her head. ¡°¡­I should¡¯ve stopped you or stopped the whole thing all together. We should¡¯ve just sparred against Team Vanguard or something¡­¡±


    Harley rubbed her neck. ¡°Yeah, in hindsight, that was a pretty poor judgment on our part.¡±


    ¡°¡­I feel like I¡¯m back in high school.¡± Julia confessed. ¡°Sitting outside the principal¡¯s office after getting into a fight.¡±


    ¡°I hear that.¡± Harley empathised, leaning backward as her leg shook. ¡°My dads dragged me there more times than I want to admit.¡±


    ¡°¡­my dad only did it once.¡± Julia admitted, hands in her lap. ¡°But he also told me bullies wouldn¡¯t hang around forever, so I guess he was wrong about that¡­¡±


    Harley looked shocked. ¡°You got into fights?¡±


    ¡°¡­well, just a few.¡± Julia said. ¡°This kid made fun of my mum and Florey leaving, so I punched his stupid face in. Dad made me apologise, but¡­¡± She hid an embarrassed smile. ¡°¡­I still don¡¯t feel that bad about it.¡±


    ¡°So, you were a badass back then and a badass now?¡± Harley said. ¡°I think I hit the jackpot for my team leader.¡±


    Julia blushed ashamedly. ¡°¡­it¡¯s not badass to go around beating people up.¡±


    ¡°Well, it sounds like that kid deserved it.¡± Harley said, bumping Julia¡¯s shoulder. ¡°How dare he insult my really cool leader.¡±


    Julia hid her crimson face, forgetting just how attractive Harley really was, as Faller¡¯s receptionist looked up from their desk.


    ¡°Julia Alpine.¡±


    Julia was alerted to attention, standing up shakily, and crossing the threshold into Faller¡¯s office, as he lay back in his chair, looking over some work.


    Julia felt awkward standing, but would¡¯ve felt even more awkward sitting, before Faller made the decision for her and indicated to the chair in front of his desk.


    ¡°So.¡± Faller said in a surprisingly jovial tone. ¡°How¡¯re you liking the new weapons?¡±


    ¡°Th-th-they¡¯re great, sir.¡± Julia replied, sweat already staining her brow.


    ¡°That¡¯s good to hear.¡± He said, getting up from his desk and heading to his liquor cabinet. ¡°Would you¡­?¡± Faller asked, indicating to his bottles and pouring himself some bourbon.


    ¡°I-I¡¯d¡­rather not.¡± Julia said, politely turning it down. ¡°I-I¡¯m sorry, but am I being punished?¡±


    Faller shook his head. ¡°Punish you? You hardly did anything wrong.¡±


    Julia was thrown off guard. ¡°Then, w-why am I here?¡±


    ¡°Because I wanted to meet the team leader that¡¯s been interesting me for a while now.¡± Faller reasoned, sitting back with his drink.


    Julia didn¡¯t know how to respond but tried to anyway. ¡°Well, r-regardless, I believe my actions were poor and overall deserve some kind of repercussion.¡±


    Faller laughed to himself. ¡°Far from it! Baron needlessly insults and prods your team over and over, just to get a reaction. You attempt to resolve the issue in a language he understands. You were sticking up for your team against an unwanted adversary who¡¯s far more ruthless, and if that doesn¡¯t reflect our policies, then we aren¡¯t the great academy we promise to be.¡±


    Julia cleared her throat. ¡°You¡¯re being awfully¡­casual about this.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m happy.¡± Faller explained. ¡°This year has been awful, in a lot of ways, and to know my students are excelling is¡­elating, to say the least.¡±


    ¡°¡­right.¡± Julia said, watching her worry slowly drop away.


    There was a quiet over the office, as Faller enjoyed his bourbon, and Julia sat up in her chair.


    ¡°¡­can I ask something inappropriate?¡± Julia said.


    ¡°Go ahead.¡± Faller allowed, waving his hand.


    ¡°Why are Baron and his team allowed here?¡± Julia asked. ¡°They hardly seem like Venator material to me. I mean, they¡¯re good at combat, but¡­¡±


    Faller stood up, rested his drink against his desk and sat against it. ¡°That¡¯s a good question. One I¡¯ve actually¡­asked myself on occasion.¡± Faller admitted. ¡°It¡¯s true that not every team here is ready, or even should be, a Venator team. Some are so far beyond what it means to be one that they end up failing, repeating or leaving all together. But, to me, everyone deserves an opportunity to be better than they were, or better then they¡¯re believed to be.¡±


    Faller turned back to Julia. ¡°Baron¡¯s a special case, though. We¡¯re an expensive organisation, and his parents are great benefactors of the academy. In exchange for their financial aid, we offer him an education and a team. Of course, he doesn¡¯t get special treatment or higher grades as a result, but the reason we allow him here is so we can allow you and your team here. His inclusion pays for your education.¡±


    Faller took another sip before continuing. ¡°It¡¯s true that I wish he were better, more compassionate, less quick to judge, and any other year¡­I would¡¯ve kicked him out ages ago. But, with two of our support towers still under repairs after the attack, we¡¯ve needed all the help we can get. So, he stays¡­¡±


    ¡°But won¡¯t he just impede on our learning? Make things harder for my team?¡± Julia rightfully asked.


    Faller went to answer, before stopping himself and taking a seat to properly address Julia. ¡°¡­I don¡¯t feel like sugar coating this, Julia, but the world is a terrifying place of Wailing tearing innocent people to shreds, angry citizens demanding more action, and a decent number of professional Venators dealing with it, but not with the purest of intentions.¡± Faller clarified. ¡°This is one of the harsh realities of being a Venator. Not everyone is fighting this conflict for the right reasons, but we need them to fight it so it doesn¡¯t hurt others in the crossfire. Unfortunately, compassion isn¡¯t an essential trait to being a Venator.¡±


    He sat back again, before straightening his back. ¡°The best advice I can offer is to keep showing compassion, and act with reason wherever you can. You¡¯re already doing a great job of that. Be an example and let others follow. Whilit knows we need more kind souls out there¡­¡±


    Julia let his words sink in before taking a deep breath and sighing. ¡°¡­I think I might take that drink now.¡±


    ¡°Naturally.¡± Faller laughed, getting up and pouring her one. ¡°If it helps your nerves, yours is one of the more promising teams I¡¯ve seen in this year.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Julia asked surprisedly. ¡°I thought we were just fumbling over each other.¡±


    ¡°Well, yeah, but it was good fumbling.¡± Faller joked. ¡°I was pretty worried when¡­Wess,¡± He said, checking over his papers. ¡°¡­asked for a transfer, but she seems to have settled in.¡±


    Julia nodded. ¡°It¡¯s been a pretty big adjustment period for her. I don¡¯t think she¡¯s fully decided to stay yet, but¡­I¡¯m really hoping she does. You know, whatever works for her.¡± Julia wished, holding her hands together.


    ¡°You want the best for her, no matter what that means. That¡¯s the sign of a good leader.¡± Faller assured, sitting back again. ¡°Now, that should be all, but I¡¯ve got one more question I¡¯d like to ask.¡±


    ¡°Yes?¡±


    ¡°I believe Vice-Principal Coatsworth was with you during the altercation, correct?¡± Faller asked, as Julia nodded along. ¡°Was there anything strange about him?¡±


    Other than normal? Julia thought. ¡°N-no, not in particular.¡±


    ¡°What about before today?¡±


    ¡°¡­w-well¡­¡± Julia started, questioning whether she should even say it. ¡°¡­there was¡­a moment¡­¡±


    Faller listened on with bated breath.


    ¡°¡­it was the day b-before the attack¡­¡± Julia recalled. ¡°He¡­warned me¡­about going to the welcome event¡­and then¡­well, you know¡­¡±


    ¡°I see.¡± Faller said, stopping her. ¡°And he seemed sure of this?¡±


    Julia nodded her head, as Faller pulled up a couple documents on his computer.


    ¡°Are you worried about him?¡± Julia asked. ¡°¡­Essex¡­told me about your concerns¡­that you think there¡¯s a third party to the Wailing conflict¡­¡±


    Faller let out a sigh. ¡°I figured one of the scholarship students would¡¯ve blabbed by now.¡± He topped off his drink again. ¡°¡­yes. I don¡¯t know if he¡¯s behind anything yet, but considering his recent behaviour¡­¡±


    Julia nodded along, somewhat worried that her suspicions were being confirmed as well.


    ¡°Now, I¡¯m telling you this, Julia, because I know you¡¯re smart, and you wouldn¡¯t go running your mouth off needlessly.¡± Faller said. ¡°So, I¡¯m hoping this suspicion doesn¡¯t leave this room.¡±


    Julia felt she was nodding her head too much but kept it up anyway out of worry. ¡°D-don¡¯t worry, sir. I wouldn¡¯t be so reckless.¡±


    ¡°Good.¡± Faller said, sending his attention back to his computer, as Julia waited in silence for a near minute, prompting him. ¡°You can go now.¡±


    ¡°O-oh, right.¡± She said, getting out of her chair, before Faller stopped her.


    ¡°Actually, one more thing.¡± He said. ¡°Harley¡¯s suspended from the training grounds for two weeks.¡±


    Julia blinked.


    ¡°She did start a fight.¡± Faller reasoned. ¡°No exceptions, Julia. Gotta keep up appearances.¡±


    ¡°Of course.¡± Julia sighed, stepping out of his office, Harley¡¯s head popping up in curiosity.


    ¡°Was it bad?¡± She asked.


    ¡°¡­you can¡¯t use the training grounds for two weeks.¡± Julia admitted. ¡°But others than that, he just wanted to talk with me.¡±


    ¡°Oh, thank the gods¡­¡± Harley exclaimed, letting out a relieved breath. ¡°That could¡¯ve been way worse. So, what¡¯d you talk about instead?¡±


    ¡°O-oh¡­just about how well the team¡¯s going.¡± Julia said, technically not lying. ¡°In his words, he was ¡®elated.¡¯¡±


    Harley whistled. ¡°Wow. I thought he¡¯d be mad or try and interrogate us.¡±


    Julia was stunned briefly, before picking up her bag. ¡°L-let¡¯s just go back to the dorm room already.¡± She turned to Harley. ¡°Unless you¡¯ve got plans with Brad later.¡±


    Harley clicked her tongue. ¡°Actually¡­¡±


    She held up her tablet, displaying Brad¡¯s most recent message, as Julia quickly read it and drew in her breath.


    ¡°Oh geez.¡±


    ¡°¡­he said he didn¡¯t like seeing me get so violent.¡± Harley admitted, putting the tablet away. ¡°I don¡¯t blame him, I was pretty¡­I kinda suspected it wouldn¡¯t last. I¡¯ve never been too good with long term stuff¡­¡±


    Julia looked back up at Harley, clearly holding back some sadness, as they kept walking down the hall back to the dorm.


    ¡°¡­well, it¡¯s his loss.¡± Julia remarked. ¡°Who would dump a badass like you?¡±


    ¡°¡­I¡¯m not a badass.¡± Harley replied, not really meaning it.


    ¡°You are.¡± Julia complimented, jumping ahead of her. ¡°How dare he dump my really cool teammate.¡±


    Harley cracked a smile, before following down the hall. ¡°He¡¯s gonna miss out on all this, for sure.¡±


    ¡°He¡¯ll be crawling back in a few days, tops.¡±


    ¡°A few days? You really think?¡±


    ¡°Who wouldn¡¯t?¡±


    ¡°¡­Julia?¡±


    ¡°¡­f-forget I said anything¡­¡±


    ¡°Oh, I knew it! You¡¯ve got a crush on me!¡±


    ¡°N-no, that¡¯s¡­I can say you¡¯re attractive without it needing to be a¡­s-sex thing.¡±


    ¡°I never said sex, I just said crush. How hot and bothered are you?¡±


    ¡°Harley!¡±


    ¡°What? I¡¯m just teasing! You know I¡¯d nev¡­

 Chapter 17: Braiding Streams

    Wess¡¯ head crashed to her pillow, ready to sleep until she was dead, despite still being kept awake by the adrenaline flowing through her veins after such a busy day.


    Julia emerged from the balcony, leaning on their shared bed frame. ¡°How was your day?¡±


    ¡°Exhausting¡­¡± Wess replied. ¡°Two presentations, a social event at the tournament stadium, a clothes shopping appointment with Saxin and Lenin I¡¯d forgotten about, and a notice from my bank that I¡¯d missed a bill payment, which evolved into an hour-long argument over my tablet with the bank about what constitutes ¡®a payment.¡¯¡±


    ¡°Yikes.¡± Julia let out, patting her back. ¡°At least it¡¯s over.¡±


    ¡°On the contrary.¡± Wess moped. ¡°I had to push some events from today, so I¡¯m just as busy tomorrow¡­¡±


    ¡°Double yikes.¡± Julia added. ¡°Can you still make it to trivia?¡±


    ¡°¡­yes. I can handle it all just fine.¡± Wess declared, yawning to herself. ¡°I¡¯m¡­great at¡­¡±


    She nodded off to sleep, Julia smiling and pulling up her sheets for her, as Wess found comfort how she normally did in a well-earned sleep, letting herself be enveloped by the warmth that brought her to a much-needed rest.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    *bzzt* *bzzt* *bzzt* *bzzt* *bz-


    ¡°Ow! Dammit!¡±


    Wess woke up with the sun blinding her face, grabbing her tablet and shutting off the alarm, with Julia jumping around holding her foot in the air.


    ¡°Mother flipping¡­!¡±


    ¡°¡­dear gods¡­¡± Wess groaned, pulling her pillow over her head.


    Julia slowly stopped hopping, picking up the dropped pan from the floor, and grabbing some ice for her foot.


    ¡°It¡¯s always on a Sunday¡­¡± She lamented, noticing Wess forcing herself out of bed. ¡°Sorry, did I wake you?¡±


    ¡°When you make that much of a racket, you don¡¯t get to apologise.¡± Wess pointed out, ducking into the study to change, before re-emerging in a tomboyish outfit. ¡°And yes, you partly did.¡±


    ¡°My bad. I was gonna make you some breakfast, but then I dropped the stupid pan on my foot.¡± Julia admitted. ¡°Knocked out by lightning, perfectly fine, metal to the foot, worst pain ever.¡±


    Wess cleaned up and brushed her hair in the bathroom mirror. ¡°Please. That day has nothing on today for me.¡±


    Julia looked at her incredulously.


    ¡°¡­no, you¡¯re right. I¡¯m sorry.¡± Wess apologised, stepping out of the bathroom. ¡°But today is still a real doozy.¡±


    ¡°Wess saying doozy? How sleep deprived are you?¡± Julia giggled, knowing it would get a rise out of her.


    ¡°Oh, haha. A woman can¡¯t colour her vocabulary now and again?¡± Wess retorted, stuffing her face with some leftovers, as Julia noticed and stopped preparing her breakfast. ¡°You could afford to do the same. The Daiquiri Lounge trivia game¡¯s bound to have a language section.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯m¡­vehement about our chances.¡± Julia teased, Wess rolling her eyes, as Julia grabbed some food for herself and headed out the door. ¡°I¡®ll see you at midday!¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re welcome!¡± Wess answered back, finishing her food and stuffing her bag.


    It was a full day ahead. Her and Cyrus had been meaning to go on a date for weeks, but numerous assignments from both parties, and certain team obligations meant no such luck, until Sunday, where they happened to both be free. On top of that, Wess was having a little book club with Joleicia, catching up on a few classic novels they¡¯d yet to read, some slashing weapon practice with Essex and Chops, and the afore mentioned bar trivia game with Julia and Sola, all taking place over a single Sunday.


    ¡°You can do this, Wess.¡± She told herself, applying a touch of makeup in the mirror. ¡°It¡¯s one day of many, and you¡¯re incredible. Social obligations are nothing compared to your tenacity.¡±


    She finished up her eyelashes, fluffing her hair, and grabbing her bag, before heading out the dorm toward the forest clearing she frequented.


    She strode down the hall, checking her watch for the time while re-assessing her schedule on her tablet.


    ¡°Trivia starts at 11:00¡­and Joleicia¡¯s only expecting me at 10:00.¡± She muttered, still rubbing some sleep from her eye. ¡°But first up, dear Cyrus.¡±


    She ducked out the dorm, heading down to the Weapon Reserve, before digging through the foliage and noticing a figure setting up a picnic blanket under the large oak in the middle of the clearing.


    He turned around and smiled. ¡°Hey W-¡°


    Cyrus went to set down the blanket, before a strong gust of wind blew it back into his face, drawing an ashamed laugh from Wess on the sidelines.


    He struggled to get it back down, weighing it with their basket and a couple rocks, while trying not to look too embarrassed. ¡°Great, this was meant to be totally romantic.¡±


    ¡°I guess now it¡¯s a romantic comedy instead.¡± Wess replied, sitting down with him. ¡°But you hate those, don¡¯t you?¡±


    ¡°So do you.¡± He said. ¡°But you know¡­doesn¡¯t mean I can¡¯t make the effort.¡±


    Wess smiled back to him. ¡°You¡¯re awfully cute.¡± She reached over to the basket, grabbing a plate of finger foods. ¡°Want some?¡±


    ¡°Since I made them, yeah.¡± Cyrus replied, leaning in to kiss Wess before grabbing a couple. ¡°Had anything in mind for today?¡±


    ¡°I figured you could tell me about your semester so far.¡± Wess suggested, reaching for her bag. ¡°But I¡¯ll have to be careful. I¡¯ve only an hour free, so I-¡°


    ¡°An hour?¡± Cyrus complained. ¡°But we haven¡¯t seen each other for weeks.¡±


    ¡°Yes, well, I have obligations.¡± Wess reasoned. ¡°I¡¯m sure you¡¯re just as busy.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, but I know what stuff to blow off.¡± Cyrus argued. ¡°You really can¡¯t hang back for a few hours?¡±


    A few hours? That would set off everything else I have planned. Wess realised, before looking back at a forlorn Cyrus. He¡¯s so patient.


    ¡°¡­maybe a half hour.¡± She said. ¡°I¡¯ll see if I can¡¯t find time later in the day as well.¡±


    Cyrus smirked playfully, before laying his head in her lap. ¡°I think you take the phrase ¡®absence makes the heart grow fonder¡¯ too s-¡°


    Wess shoved some food in his mouth, giggling to herself as he struggled to talk and swallow, before he sat back up and cleared his throat.


    ¡°I guess you don¡¯t want to hear about my semester.¡± Cyrus said, Wess rolling her eyes.


    ¡°Come on, you know I do.¡± She reasoned, resting on his arm. ¡°Don¡¯t be a baby.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not bei-!¡± He yelled, before calming himself gently. ¡°¡­well, semester started, I remember, with you being just terrible in bed¡­¡±


    ¡°No embellishing.¡± Wess critiqued, now dropping her head in his lap. ¡°From the top.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°¡­but, you know, that¡¯s Cam for ya. If he doesn¡¯t get front row seats, he¡¯ll throw things until it¡¯s not a problem anymore.¡± Cyrus said, casually stroking Wess¡¯ hair, as they leaned back against the large oak together. ¡°You still with me?¡±


    ¡°Just appreciating the atmosphere¡­¡± Wess let out, eyes closed and arms on her chest, hiding that she¡¯d gotten some light sleep in to make up for the sleep she¡¯d lost.


    ¡°The wind¡¯s a little choppy though.¡± Cyrus said.


    ¡°Well, it clearly didn¡¯t bother me.¡± Wess pointed out.


    ¡°How could you know? I might¡¯ve bored you into unconsciousness.¡± Cyrus lamented. ¡°I know my voice is angelic, but it¡¯d hurt my ego if you slept through my heartfelt life story.¡±


    ¡°Oh, please. You couldn¡¯t be heartfe-¡°


    Wess was stopped mid-sentence, sunlight cracking over the forest, ripping Wess from her rest, as she frantically checked for her watch and found it was already 10:40am.


    ¡°Dammit.¡± Wess complained. ¡°You were supposed to wake me fifteen minutes ago!¡±


    ¡°So you were sleeping!¡± Cyrus cried back. ¡°I¡¯m actually offended right now!¡±


    Wess grabbed her bag in a hurry. ¡°I don¡¯t have time to apologise properly, so, I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    ¡°Nope, that¡¯s not cutting it.¡± Cyrus refuted. ¡°You can apologise for real when you come back later today. And¡­maybe after an hour of hanging out.¡±


    ¡°¡­you¡¯re a cunning negotiator, Mr Vesper.¡± Wess said, closing in on him. ¡°But don¡¯t start something you can¡¯t hope to finish.¡±


    They eyed each other up menacingly, before Cyrus leaned in and kissed her. ¡°Love you too.¡±


    Wess grunted, leaving the scene in a hurry, hoping Cyrus really meant that kiss, before hurrying up the building stairs to the academy library.


    The sun cracked through the stairway, reminding Wess of the rest of the day ahead, as she cleared through the hallway toward the library, before noticing Joleicia outside heading away from the library, novel in hand.


    ¡°Wait!¡± Wess called out, catching Joleicia¡¯s attention. ¡°My apologies for being late!¡±


    ¡°Wess!¡± Joleicia called back, Wess running up to her, a little out of breath. ¡°I was worried you¡¯d forgotten about our book club.¡±


    ¡°Admittedly, I nearly had.¡± Wess confessed. ¡°But I¡¯ve got some time, so if you want to stil-¡°


    ¡°Oh, you!¡± Joleicia cheered, hugging Wess. ¡°Of course! Come on, I think our table¡¯s still gonna be free. I¡¯ve got a lot to say about this week¡¯s chapter!¡±


    ¡°¡­how much, would you say?¡± Wess asked, subtly grabbing her tablet. ¡°Say, half an hour¡¯s worth?¡±


    ¡°Make that an hour!¡± Joleicia clarified. ¡°I couldn¡¯t stop reading the moment I picked it up!¡±


    That does sound like you. Wess thought, texting Julia and Sola about being late, before following Joleicia to a small table by one of the windows.


    ¡°So, as always, I want to start our discussion of ¡®Riches and Starlight¡­¡¯¡± Joleicia said, holding up the book for emphasis. ¡°¡­with a moment of silence and respect for the departed author.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°Okay! This was the best chapter yet!¡± Joleicia exclaimed, Wess having nearly fallen asleep again during their silence. ¡°I mean, looking back it was super obvious they were doing this, but who would¡¯ve guessed Chapter 25 would totally change up the status quo?¡±


    25? Wess realised, starting to sweat. B-but weren¡¯t we only up to 24?


    ¡°Looking back, Demitri and Anderson were clearly in love from the start. I mean, the fishing scene says it all.¡± Joleicia explained. ¡°Talk about ¡®subtle.¡¯¡±


    There was a love confession?! Wess thought, poker face intact.


    ¡°Anyway, I thought it was brilliant, but what¡¯d you think of the whole thing?¡± Joleicia asked, waiting for Wess¡¯ reply, as she nervously held her copy of the novel in her hand.


    ¡°¡­w-w-well, I¡¯d have to agree that it was good.¡± Wess managed. ¡°B-but¡­uhh¡­¡±


    Joleicia hung onto the sentence, waiting for Wess¡¯ point to be made.


    ¡°The, uhh, the confession¡­scene¡­felt¡­rushed?¡± Wess asked, before clearing her throat and restating her remark. ¡°Yes. It was rushed. I felt.¡±


    Joleicia nodded along. ¡°I guess when it happened, it was a little fast and loose with details.¡±


    ¡°Y-yeah, right. Exactly.¡± Wess covered expertly.


    ¡°How did you think it related to the narrative overall?¡± Joleicia asked, freezing Wess in place again.


    Dammit. Wess thought. What¡¯re the chances I can sneak into the bathroom the skim the chapter there?


    She looked back at an expectant Joleicia, staring at her impatiently.


    ¡­bite the bullet, Wess.


    ¡°I¡­think it played with the themes of difference¡­interestingly.¡±


    Joleicia blinked.


    ¡°¡­yeah! It makes a ton of sense, since the whole stories been about different perspectives colliding, before realising they¡¯re not that different, so all that dialogue ab¡­¡±


    I finally gave her an excuse to gush about the chapter.


    Wess sighed and sat back, watching Joleicia passionately recount the story and ideas so far, casually checking her watch to make sure the time wasn¡¯t elapsing.


    Joleicia kept up the explanation, talking about character arcs, narrative structure, the unseen betrayal behind it all, a couple of her theories, and what it all really meant in the grand sche¡­


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Wess?¡±


    Joleicia shook her shoulder. ¡°Wess¡­wake up!¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Wess said, stumbling from her sleep. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, did I nod off?¡±


    ¡°Yeah. I was right in the middle of my colour analysis of the characters, and then I look over, and you¡¯re slumped into the seat.¡± Joleicia said. ¡°I guess I did talk a while, but you could¡¯ve stopped me if I was boring you.¡±


    Wess rubbed her eyes. ¡°No, you weren¡¯t boring me. I lost some sleep last night and must¡¯ve dozed off to make up for it.¡±


    ¡°Oh, that¡¯s good. I thought I was stretching it with the analysis of elephant symbolism, but I guess it got in just under the radar.¡± Joleicia remarked.


    Wess smiled, before a realisation hit her suddenly. ¡°How long was I out?¡±


    ¡°Uhh, not sure.¡± Joleicia said, pulling out her tablet. ¡°It¡¯s only 11:32, s-¡°


    Dammit, I did it again! Wess complained, quickly scooping up her bag.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but we¡¯re going to have to cut this short.¡± Wess said. ¡°I have some prior engagements, but I promise to come back later. I¡¯ll be back around one.¡±


    Joleicia nodded cheerily. ¡°No problem! You go take care of things. Then you can tell me your theories so far.¡±


    ¡°¡­great.¡± Wess said, rushing out of the library, while still being conscious of the other students who might notice her in the halls.


    She managed to fix up her hair while walking, the sunlight catching her off guard as she hurried back down the stairs, all while checking her calendar.


    I¡¯m expected by Chops and Essex at 12:00, so I¡¯ll need to duck out as soon as trivia¡¯s over. She thought. We can still make this.


    Once out the building, she bee-lined for the Academy Daiquiri Lounge, a large sandwich board out front advertising the trivia game had already started.


    ¡°Of course¡­¡± She groaned, heading inside.


    The Daiquiri Lounge was much brighter during the middle of the day, less bar and more social venue, with tables set up around the stage, all housing various groups with hands to buzzers.


    The bartender, Seears, was up on stage, reading out each trivia question, as the groups waited desperately for his next.


    I forgot the academy¡¯s PR manager worked here. Wess thought, looking around for her team. I wonder if he ever has to run through hallways to keep his appointments.


    ¡°Next question! What is Team Saturnalia¡¯s favourite drink?¡± Seears announced. ¡°And yes, I mean the whole team. Those folks know how to party. You¡¯ve got five minutes.¡±


    ¡°Wess! Wess!¡± Julia exclaimed, waving frantically to their table, Sola joining in too.


    Wess hurried along, as Julia pulled out a chair.


    ¡°Thank goodness you¡¯re here! You¡¯ve gotta help us!¡± Julia cried. ¡°Team Beefcake¡¯s totally been killing it! They¡¯ve gotten ten of the questions right so far, and it wasn¡¯t just Efrem answering them!¡±


    Wess noticed Team Beefcake in the corner, cheering each other on ecstatically, the least buff member Efrem joining in as well.


    ¡°I thought all their power was in their muscles!¡± Sola panicked as well. ¡°But it¡¯s in their brains too!¡±


    ¡°You know Venator stuff, right?¡± Julia asked. ¡°I know enough to get by, but they¡¯ve been really specific.¡±


    ¡°Of course I do.¡± Wess replied, sitting in between her and Sola, before ringing the buzzer on the table.


    Seears moved away from the mic. ¡°You got the answer?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s brandy. Any type, really.¡± Wess answered, Seears checking his answers.


    ¡°That¡¯s¡­correct. Huh. First point to ¡®Spectrum Harmony.¡¯¡± Seears answered, Wess turning to Julia and Sola.


    ¡°First point?¡±


    ¡°¡­we¡¯re really bad at this.¡± Sola replied, getting onto the table. ¡°You know me! I¡¯m not good at remembering this kinda stuff!¡±


    ¡°Hey. Off the table.¡± Seears asked. ¡°I have to clean those later. I¡¯ll deduct your point if I want to.¡±


    Sola jumped back into her seat, before leaning over to Wess again. ¡°You reckon we can rig it?¡±


    Wess looked around, before leaning in and humouring Sola. ¡°If we¡¯re desperate.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re not rigging it, Sola.¡± Julia complained, huddling them together. ¡°We¡¯re gonna do our best, and if we lose, then we lose.¡±


    She looked back over at Team Beefcake, Brad casually flexing to the rest of his team. ¡°But I still really wanna win.¡±


    ¡°Next question!¡± Seears announced. ¡°What recent movie was about the exploits of Team Vivisect and the Wayg-¡°


    Wess hit the buzzer mid-question. ¡°The Waygone Wailing Strikes: Vivisect in Arms.¡± She answered dryly.


    ¡°Correct. And for bonus points, what was its average reception online?¡±


    ¡°Bad, and deservedly so.¡± Wess replied, as Seears clapped to their table, Julia and Sola high fiving behind her.


    ¡°And with that, we¡¯ll be taking a short break. Currently in the lead is ¡®Muscle Posse¡¯ with 10 points.¡± Seears announced, before leaving the stage to take a call on his tablet.


    ¡°We¡¯re so winning this!¡± Julia cheered, as Wess sat back down, rubbing her forehead. ¡°Are you good, Wess?¡±


    ¡°My lack of sleep is catching up to me.¡± Wess confessed. ¡°I¡¯m in that state of needing sleep, but not being able to rest properly.¡±


    ¡°Have you tried meditation?¡± Sola suggested. ¡°I hate it, but Harley¡¯s really keen on it. It sorta helped when Essex was having those bad dreams.¡±


    ¡°¡­perhaps. I¡¯ll see what she thinks after this.¡± Wess said. ¡°Is she back at the dorm?¡±


    Sola shook her head. ¡°She¡¯s at that job fair going on. I was gonna go too, but then I realised a job fair¡¯s different to a normal fair, and it didn¡¯t sound very fun.¡± Sola replied, as Wess turned pale white. ¡°You look kinda dead.¡±


    ¡°Julia, what¡¯s today¡¯s date?¡± Wess asked, clearly trying to maintain her composure.


    ¡°Uhh, the¡­thirteenth, I think.¡± Julia said.


    ¡°¡­right.¡± Wess let out, standing up in somewhat of a struggle. ¡°¡­my apologies, but I must attend that job fair as soon as possible. I completely forgot it was happening today, and I now feel like a complete idiot.¡±


    ¡°But you just got here! We¡¯re gonna get crushed without you!¡± Julia professed. ¡°Can¡¯t you stay for a little longer?¡±


    ¡°Julia, if this didn¡¯t concern my career, I would.¡± Wess admitted. ¡°I can¡¯t waste this opportunity to make industry connections. This is a prime opportunity to get my name out there.¡±


    Sola stood dynamically. ¡°Just leave it up to Harley! I¡¯m sure she¡¯ll make a good impression for all of us.¡±


    Wess looked to the side awkwardly.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you trust her?¡± Julia asked.


    ¡°¡­it¡¯s not about trust. I just think¡­¡± Wess said, wording her sentence very carefully. ¡°¡­while she is very personable, she is not the most¡­professional.¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s plenty professional!¡± Sola exclaimed, climbing back on the table.


    ¡°Hey! Last warning, kid!¡± Seears yelled, coming back onto stage.


    Sola pouted and leaned back, as Wess recollected her things once again.


    ¡°If I can make it back in time, I will. Just¡­¡± Wess started, before realising she had no advice to give. ¡°¡­wait¡­for me to get back.¡±


    ¡°No problem. We¡¯ll stall if we can.¡± Julia said, as Wess hurried back out the door. ¡°H-hey, Seears?¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± Seears said, lifting up his head from his tablet.


    ¡°N-nice shoes. Where¡¯d, uhh, you get them?¡± Julia asked, Sola encouraging her.


    Seears looked down at his feet. ¡°The HyperMall sneaker outlet, and no, your stalling tactic isn¡¯t gonna work.¡±


    ¡°Dammit¡­¡± Julia let out, as Wess hurried back up the main building¡¯s stairs, losing her breath, before hurrying again, reconfirming her appointments.


    Cyrus¡­Joleicia¡­trivia¡­job fair¡­oh, I still have to meet Essex and Chops for training. She remembered, stamping her foot. Oh, Whilit. Why did you make me so charismatic?


    She took a breather around the twentieth floor, mentally thanking Essex for helping her train her physical endurance, and looked out the window, spotting the sun now solidly in the middle of the sky.


    It was already midday.


    As the sunlight hit her eyes again, she snapped out of her trance and remembered how non-negotiable her time was, standing back up and continuing her hurried rush up the stairs to the job fair.


    If the courtyard wasn¡¯t still being repaired after the attack, Wess would¡¯ve had a much easier time getting to the fair. Instead, the fair was now being hosted inside the main building, mostly for everyone¡¯s protection in case of a repeat incident. As the yearly combat tournament was nearing its final events, the job fair acted as a gateway for any students competing who wanted to make connections in the industry early.


    Of course, the tournament was only open to second and third years, so Wess was understandably surprised that Harley, of all people, wanted to come along.


    ¡°I suppose¡­we all have our hobbies¡­¡± Wess mumbled to herself, out of breath, and crossing the threshold between hallway and job fair.


    Plenty of vendors from different industries and businesses were set up, some government, some private, a couple clearly just looking for grunt work. Wess was already planning a route out in her mind, before noticing Harley standing gormlessly in the middle of the room floor, looking around at each vendor idly with a couple bags slung around each arm.


    Wess wandered over to her, before tapping her on the shoulder.


    Harley turned. ¡°Oh, hey Wess.¡±


    ¡°You didn¡¯t¡­tell me this¡­was on today.¡± Wess panted.


    Harley shrugged. ¡°I thought you knew. You look really pale.¡± She handed Wess a spare bag. ¡°In case you need to throw up.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m¡­not sick.¡± Wess said, regaining some composure. ¡°I had to run up the stairs¡­from the ground floor.¡±


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you take the elevator?¡± Harley asked.


    Wess blinked. ¡°¡­I forgot there was one.¡±


    ¡°Ouch.¡± Harley snickered.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t get much sleep! Honestly!¡± Wess complained. ¡°You¡¯re lucky I¡¯m here to help you.¡±


    ¡°One, didn¡¯t ask for your help, two, don¡¯t need it.¡± Harley said, flexing her arms out. ¡°I know how to sell myself.¡±


    ¡°Oh yes?¡±


    ¡°Oh yes indeed.¡± Harley teased. ¡°I¡¯ve already talked with a couple of the vendors.¡±


    ¡°Talked?¡±


    ¡°You know, shot the shit. Made some connections.¡± Harley said.


    Wess folded her arms. ¡°Did you get any contact details from them?¡±


    Harley¡¯s confidence slowly dropped away. ¡°I don¡¯t think so.¡±


    ¡°Business cards?¡±


    ¡°¡­I guess not.¡±


    ¡°Did you at least tell them your name? Or the team¡¯s name?¡±


    This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road. If you spot it on Amazon, please report it.


    ¡°¡­well¡­no.¡± Harley admitted. ¡°This one vendor gave me some chocolate though¡­¡±


    ¡°Chocolate does not a career make, Harley.¡± Wess advised, rubbing her temple. ¡°I was worried this sort of thing might happen.¡±


    Harley gave her the stink-eye. ¡°Alright, Queen Marketing, if you¡¯re so good at this, show me how it¡¯s done.¡±


    ¡°I was planning to.¡± Wess clarified, readjusting her outfit. ¡°Watch and learn.¡±


    ¡°¡­watch and learn¡­¡± Harley mumbled to herself, following behind Wess, as she scoped out a potential vendor.


    I have to be quick about this. Wess thought to herself. I¡¯ll just show Harley the ropes, then let her handle the networking once she knows what to do. Then I can make my other appointments¡­well, not on time¡­


    Wess felt a headache coming on, before spotting a potential vendor that looked appropriate.


    Harley stopped next to her and looked over the display. ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°What do you mean ¡®what?¡¯ Look.¡± Wess said, pointing to the stall, standing out due to its sharpness, with a few students dotted around. ¡°This is perfect. Look how professional it is.¡±


    ¡°Professional or dull?¡± Harley remarked, Wess glaring her. ¡°Fine, professional. Can we go over now?¡±


    ¡°Hold on, we need an entry and exit strategy.¡± Wess said.


    ¡°What, are we planning a heist now?¡±


    ¡°No. Just¡­something to break the ice always helps¡­¡± Wess explained, looking over the stall.


    Harley propped herself against the wall, as a figure sidled up to her, looking in Wess¡¯ direction.


    ¡°Having fun?¡± He asked.


    Harley turned her head and recognised Mr Cecil from Venator History, a lanyard around his neck and a couple pamphlets sticking out of his pocket. ¡°Oh, hey sir. Wasn¡¯t expecting to see you here.¡±


    ¡°I come every year. So many willing recruits hungry for a job.¡± Cecil said. ¡°You two wouldn¡¯t happen to be looking, would you?¡±


    ¡°Well, Wess is.¡± Harley said, looking back at her. ¡°Very intensely.¡±


    An idea finally hit Wess, as she snapped her fingers and spun around back to Harley. ¡°I¡¯ve got it. They¡¯re a manufacturing company and they¡¯ve got newly developed swords on display.¡± She explained, guiding Harley through it. ¡°They¡¯re expecting second and third-years to try them out, so if we show off that we¡¯re just as good as them as first-years, if not better, we¡¯ll suddenly be the team to look out for.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s¡­¡± Harley started, before thinking it over and exciting herself. ¡°Damn, Wess, way to go! Using your big ol¡¯ brain for good!¡±


    ¡°When have I used it for evil?¡± Wess questioned, as she noticed Mr Cecil by Harley, raising his eyebrows.


    ¡°You may wanna be careful.¡± He advised. ¡°I know that company well, and they don¡¯t like amateurs damaging the goods, so to speak. If you¡¯re going over there, you better know how to use a sword.¡±


    Wess seemed offended by the comment. ¡°¡­I know my way around one, sir. I¡¯m incredibly well versed i-¡°


    ¡°Whoa, calm down. I didn¡¯t mean it in a rude way.¡± He said. ¡°Just, don¡¯t count your chickens before they hatch, you know?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve had enough sayings from you.¡± Wess said, grabbing Harley¡¯s arm. ¡°Let¡¯s go sell ourselves, Harley.¡±


    ¡°Could you not phrase it like that?¡± Harley asked, freeing herself, as Wess confidently strode over to the swords on display.


    One of the attendants noticed and strode over to her in return. ¡°I see you¡¯re interested in our latest development.¡±


    ¡°Who wouldn¡¯t be? These are the newest B-48¡¯s, right?¡± Wess rhetorically asked, leaning into them. ¡°With the platinum base?¡±


    ¡°Someone did their research.¡± He said, tapping his clipboard. ¡°We¡¯re very proud of this development. Several students participating in the tournament have even borrowed them for their matches, so it¡¯s fair to say we know what we¡¯re doing.¡±


    Wess looked him over. ¡°That¡¯s a clever up sell¡­¡± Wess acknowledged, checking the attendants name badge. ¡°¡­Dennis.¡±


    Dennis replied with his own incredulous look. ¡°What if it is? Are you saying they¡¯re not worth your time?¡± Dennis asked, as Wess broke a small sweat.


    ¡°Of course not. In fact¡­¡± She prefaced. ¡°¡­I would like to try one¡­if it¡¯s alright.¡±


    ¡°¡­we don¡¯t really let first-years handle our stock.¡± Dennis clarified. ¡°Don¡¯t want one poking their eye out, you know?¡±


    ¡°Poking their eye out? I can assure you I know what I¡¯m doing.¡± Wess baited, as Dennis looked back at a couple of his assistants, all busy with other students.


    He sighed out loud. ¡°I guess¡­you could try it briefly. But don¡¯t scuff it, okay?¡±


    ¡°Oh, please. You don¡¯t need to worry about me.¡± Wess cleared up, waving to Harley to come join her, as she picked up the B-48 and was reminded of what a two-handed sword really weighed. ¡°I-If there¡¯s anything I know, it¡¯s sword handling and¡­style.¡±


    She attempted to hold it up and swing it casually, the weight nearly knocking her over, as Harley joined her and picked up one effortlessly.


    ¡°Are you¡­¡± Dennis asked, as Wess nearly dropped it on her foot. ¡°You know¡­we do have lighter models.¡±


    Wess resisted glaring at him, as she slowly found her balance. ¡°An expert sword-fighter such as I can handle any¡­model!¡±


    She rested her hands on the tip, holding it in front of her like a statue, finally getting a grip, as Harley swung her model around impressively.


    ¡°Damn. If I knew swords could be this ligh-¡° She said, before Wess stared back at her hurriedly. ¡°¡­durable, I would¡¯ve been using one for ages now.¡±


    ¡°Are you sure you wouldn¡¯t just punch the Wailing to death?¡± Dennis asked, eyeing up her physique. ¡°Sword wielding is a pretty advanced field.¡±


    ¡°Indeed, it is!¡± Wess replied, as Dennis and Harley turned to see her standing on the nearby booth, holding her sword out both shakily and confidently. ¡°So why not show off our talents, Harley?¡±


    ¡°Me?!¡± Harley exclaimed.


    ¡°U-uhh, miss, you aren¡¯t allowed on that.¡± Dennis advised, encouraging her off. ¡°I¡¯d be really responsible if you injured yourself.¡±


    ¡°Oh, please. This is hardly any effort for me!¡± Wess cried, subtly winking to Harley, as a crowd started to gather. ¡°Now watch, as I best the Great Harley Baroke in a true comba-¡°


    SMMAAASSSSHHHHH!!!!


    In her impassioned speech, Wess¡¯ manic flailing of the sword was meant to dictate her point, all until it flew out of her hands, sailed behind her, crashed through the skyscraper¡¯s window, and plummeted to the ground, all in the blink of an eye.


    Wess took a second to register why the sword¡¯s weight was no longer a problem, before quickly piecing together what¡¯d happened and looking out the window.


    Dennis stood over her as she peered, stamping his foot.


    She looked back up at him.


    ¡°You¡¯re getting that.¡± He said.


    ¡°¡­I had a feeling.¡± She responded, growing redder and redder with embarrassment, as Harley decided to join her.


    ¡°So¡­¡± Harley said, looking down to the ground. ¡°The Great Harley Baroke?¡±


    ¡°Shut up!¡± Wess complained, grabbing her bag and rushing out of the job fair. ¡°I¡¯ll retrieve the sword, you handle the aftercare!¡±


    ¡°Aftercare?¡± Harley asked, as Dennis was staring at her now.


    ¡°So, if the B-48 comes back damaged, which of you is paying to repair it?¡± Dennis asked, avoiding eye contact with his snickering assistants.


    Harley looked around awkwardly, then back at the broken window.


    ¡°Wess is.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Wess dashed out of the fair, heading for the stairway, before stopping herself immediately and taking the elevator instead.


    Her foot tapped impatiently as the elevator made its way down, before finally stopping at the ground floor and letting Wess off, as she dashed out the building in a desperate search.


    Please don¡¯t let it be in someone. She begged. There¡¯s enough cleanup for me to handle today.


    After some more searching, admittedly getting her outfit far dirtier than she liked, she finally found the sword standing upright, jutting out of the ground, as a large pool of water spilled out of the hole it had pierced into the ground.


    Wess made a careful attempt to manoeuvre the sword out of the quickly forming pool, managing to get a good handle on it, before pulling it out and worriedly inspecting it for damage.


    ¡°Wow, Harley was right. These are very durable.¡± Wess remarked, acknowledging the still perfect sheen the blade possessed, as a small pebble knocked her in the back of the head.


    ¡°Yo!¡± Called a voice, as another pebble came her way. ¡°Why¡¯re you playing in the mud?¡±


    ¡°Mud?¡± Wess asked, looking down at her feet, and realising the very simple equation of water plus dirt. ¡°¡­curse you Whilit¡­¡±


    She looked to the outside of the puddle, and noticed Chops getting ready to throw another pebble, with Essex beside her, laying her scythe across the puddle to form a makeshift bridge for Wess to cross.


    ¡°We¡¯ve been waiting for ages! It¡¯s already one! What took you so long?¡± Chops added, once Wess made her way across.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but my day has been absolutely hectic.¡± Wess admitting, Essex picking up her scythe again. ¡°Thank you, Essex.¡±


    ¡°It is no problem.¡± Essex said. ¡°But I ask that if you planned to arrive to practice late, you would let us know.¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t know I¡¯d be late. I wasn¡¯t planning on throwing a sword out of a window today.¡± Wess remarked, as Chops chuckled to herself.


    ¡°Seriously? Was it at that job fair¡­whatever?¡± She asked, Wess nodding. ¡°Man, that¡¯s good. Did you piss off the guy presenting them?¡±


    ¡°¡­you¡¯re a very sadistic person.¡± Wess commented, grabbing her forehead.


    ¡°Are you okay? Are you not in the right health to train?¡± Essex asked.


    ¡°No, I just haven¡¯t eaten anything since breakfast. I mean, Cyrus planned a picnic, but I never go-¡° Wess started, before panicking all over again. ¡°Oh crap! I completely forgot about Cyrus!¡±


    Wess ran off again, sword in tow, to the clearing in the forest, having entirely thrown out her schedule by this point.


    ¡°Hey! Where¡¯re you going?!¡± Chops yelled. ¡°We still have practice!¡±


    Oh Cyrus, please still be there. Wess hoped, managing her way into the clearing, and desperately regretting bringing the sword that was only weighing her down, arriving far more exhausted than she planned.


    Fortunately, Cyrus was still on the picnic blanket, waiting patiently, as Wess made her way up the hill, desperately out of breath.


    ¡°Whoa, you look half-dead.¡± Cyrus said, Wess joining him slowly after. ¡°What¡¯ve you been up to? And what¡¯s with the new sword?¡±


    Wess panted loudly, before barely lifting up the sword. ¡°¡­job fair¡­souvenir¡­¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t know they handed that kinda stuff out for free. I might actually go next time.¡± Cyrus suggested, as Wess lay back tiredly. ¡°Do you want anything?¡±


    ¡°I want¡­to hear about¡­your semester¡­¡± Wess managed, sitting up slightly. ¡°I¡­made a promise to you¡­¡±


    Cyrus laughed a little. ¡°I mean, you did, but if you¡¯re too out of it, we don¡¯t hav-¡°


    ¡°Oh, thank the gods!¡± Wess exclaimed, lying back down.


    Cyrus rolled his eyes, and offered Wess a scone, as Wess graciously accepted, finally letting herself take a breather and a bite¡­


    ¡­before catching a glimpse of her watch.


    One thirty! I promised Joleicia I¡¯d be back by now! Wess freaked out, still trying to maintain her composure on the surface. But I can¡¯t abandon Cyrus again. He went to all this effort.


    She looked back at Cyrus, confused as to why she wasn¡¯t eating.


    But I¡¯ve already rescheduled with Joleicia twice, and I made a promise to her too. What good is my word if I can¡¯t maintain it?


    Cyrus leaned into her. ¡°Is the food bad?¡±


    Wess had found an out.


    ¡°Y-yes!¡± She cried, finally swallowing and standing up. ¡°I-I mean, it tastes great, but something about it doesn¡¯t agree with me. I¡¯m having some terrible indigestion.¡±


    Cyrus blinked. ¡°But it¡¯s a scone.¡±


    ¡°I know, so many processed sugars.¡± Wess sympathised, grabbing her bag and the sword. ¡°I must excuse myself. I need to find the bathroom.¡±


    Cyrus¡¯ mouth hung open. ¡°Uhh, okay, but be back soon, alright? I can¡¯t wait around all day.¡±


    ¡°Of course!¡± Wess cried, hobbling back out the clearing. ¡°I love you!¡±


    ¡°Yeah¡­¡± Cyrus sighed, lying back on the blanket, as the clouds passed over him. ¡°It was her recipe¡­¡±


    Got to find her¡­got to find her¡­got to find her¡­


    Wess hurried up to the library, swiftly trudging through the hallways, while carrying and speed-reading her copy of Riches and Starlight, half paying attention to where she was going.


    She passed several students, all side-glancing her as she sped by, with Wess ignoring them all for the sake of keeping up social obligations.


    Don¡¯t panic, Wess. You¡¯re a natural at this. Any slight time delays can be smoothed over with much¡­


    She stopped midway through the hall.


    ¡°He confessed already?¡± She remarked, staring blankly at the book.


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­oh, right!¡± She exclaimed, continuing her dash down the hall, before turning a sharp corner and bumping into Sola of all people.


    ¡°Oh, great. I¡¯m sorry, but I don¡¯t have t¡­Sola?¡± Wess said.


    ¡°Wess! We found you!¡± Sola cheered, turning back to Julia. ¡°Julia, I found Wess!¡±


    ¡°Hey!¡± Julia called, rushing up to her. ¡°We tried texting you, bu-why do you have a sword?¡±


    ¡°¡­long story.¡± Wess replied, pulling out her tablet and realising just how many texts she¡¯d missed.


    ¡°Well, good news! They had to postpone trivia for a bit. Apparently, the water main burst outside, so we¡¯re waiting until it¡¯s repaired.¡± Julia explained.


    Wess blinked awkwardly, as she now wished she¡¯d changed out of her guilty, muddy shoes during her hectic routine.


    That certainly clears things up.


    ¡°I heard a repair guy say it was weirdly burst too, like a cut or something.¡± Sola chimed in. ¡°What if a Wailing got in and slashed the pipeline?¡±


    ¡°Will their ruthlessness never end?¡± Wess dryly remarked, continuing down the hall. ¡°Thank you for informing me, but I must get going.¡±


    ¡°Okay, but be ready! We¡¯ll text when it¡¯s back on!¡± Julia said, watching Wess disappear down the hall again.


    She swung up the stairwell, quickly making her way to the library, as she caught Joleicia right outside the entrance and just about to leave again.


    ¡°Wait!¡±


    Joleicia turned her head and waved.


    ¡°I have opinions!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sure you do¡­¡± Joleicia quietly remarked, as Wess caught up with her.


    ¡°I-it was rushed! Chapter 25! I thought it was rushed!¡± Wess exclaimed, somewhat out of breath again.


    Joleicia cocked her head. ¡°You already told me that.¡±


    ¡°Yes! But now I¡­really mean it.¡± Wess said, straightening her back. ¡°The confession scene itself was very well handled, but the events leading up were too audacious.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, what was with the tap dance contest?¡± Joleicia asked, as Wess displayed her hands.


    ¡°However, I do think it played with the themes of perspective very well, even if the confession happening in a hall of mirrors was horribly on the nose.¡± Wess continued.


    Joleicia displayed her hands. ¡°But the hall is there to reflect their previous mistakes. How else was Demitri going to confront his grandfathers¡¯ scandalous affair?¡± Joleicia argued, grabbing some papers from her bag. ¡°Hold up, I¡¯ve got my real good reasoning written down here¡­¡±


    Wess felt a buzz in her pocket, acknowledging a new text from Julia as Joleicia searched for her material.


    Julia [Trivia¡¯s already back on! They fixed the pipes way quicker than we thought they would! Don¡¯t panic too much!]


    What sort of advice is that Julia? Wess thought, watching Joleicia pull out her papers again.


    ¡°There we go! Alright, where to start¡­¡±


    ¡°Wait, hold that thought again.¡± Wess interrupted. ¡°I know I just joined back up with you, but I¡¯m required somewhere else.¡±


    Joleicia rested her hands on her hips. ¡°Again? How busy is your day?¡±


    ¡°Very.¡± Wess said, grabbing her shoulders. ¡°Very busy.¡±


    ¡°¡­okay, but I can¡¯t wait around forever. I¡¯ve got a schedule too, you know.¡± Joleicia said, watching Wess grab her stuff again.


    ¡°Yes, thank you! I¡¯ll be back as soon as this is over!¡± Wess cried, disappearing around the corner, Joleicia letting out a good-natured sigh in her honour.


    Fortunately, Wess had been mapping out the best possible routes through the academy in her head, and was able to arrive at trivia impressively fast, even if she had to make awkward eye-contact with Chops and Essex on the training grounds while she did so.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°In the season twelve finale of ¡®The Beggar¡¯s Heart,¡¯ who was revealed to be a reincarnated Wailing after spending the rest of the season as a ghost haunting the manor?¡±


    ¡°Oh! Oh oh!¡± Julia yelled, waving her hand, before remembering she had to push the buzzer. ¡°Ricky Rick Ricardo, the bachelor philanthropist!¡±


    ¡°Surprisingly, yes.¡± Seears replied, turning back to the microphone. ¡°That¡¯s one more point for Spectrum Harmony.¡±


    ¡°Woo!¡± Sola cheered, high-fiving Julia, before Wess burst through the door, quickly joining them again.


    ¡°Hey, leave weapons at the door!¡± Seears called to Wess. ¡°Your scythe friend gets a pass, but you don¡¯t.¡±


    Wess looked down at her anchor-like sword, quickly cursing it, and ducked back to drop it off, before sliding into the free seat near Julia and Sola.


    ¡°Wess!¡± Julia cried, hugging Wess immediately. ¡°Seears finally dropped some questions we can answer, and we¡¯ve been doing really good!¡±


    Wess glared at Julia. ¡°Then you didn¡¯t need me?¡±


    ¡°Oh no, we¡¯re still losing like crazy to Team Beefcake.¡± Julia admitted, pointing back at them still celebrating. ¡°We¡¯ve only been winning for a few rounds now¡­¡±


    ¡°What was the name of the first ever Venator team, and for a bonus point, what year were they formed?¡±


    ¡°I know this one! Harley told me!¡± Sola cried, getting on the table and hitting the buzzer. ¡°It was Team Alpha in 4920!¡±


    ¡°Correct, now get off my table.¡± Seears complained, Sola promptly doing so.


    ¡°By the way, since you¡¯ve been running around all day, I figured you were really hungry, and¡­¡±


    Julia pulled out a bowl of seasoned chips and tartare sauce. ¡°I got a little something from th-¡°


    Wess¡¯ dove for the bowl, stuffing her face efficiently and carelessly, leaving Julia with some dead-air.


    ¡°Or just¡­have at it.¡± Julia professed, as Sola snuck a couple chips when no one was looking, waiting patiently for the next question.


    ¡°So¡­¡± Julia said, trying to ignore Wess¡¯ carnivorous eating. ¡°You¡¯re not planning on replacing Belvedere, are you?¡±


    ¡°No. Why wou-¡° Wess asked, still stuffing her face with more chips, before looking back at the sword by the doorway mid-chew and slapping her forehead. ¡°The job fair!¡±


    ¡°Do you need to go somewhere?¡± Sola asked, her attention now fully on Wess.


    Wess put her foot down. ¡°No. I¡¯ve been moving around too much. I need to finish at least one thing today, and that¡¯s that.¡±


    Julia grabbed a chip. ¡°Do you need to go back?¡±


    Wess swallowed, before turning to the side. ¡°¡­yes.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­alright, fine.¡± Wess let out. ¡°You¡¯ve successfully guilted me. I¡¯ll return the sword, come back here, finish up this trivia, finally join Chops and Essex, discuss more with Joleicia¡­oh gods, I¡¯m a mess¡­¡±


    She fell back onto the table, as Julia patted her back.


    ¡°At least your hair¡¯s still really pretty.¡±


    ¡°¡­I know¡­¡± Wess confessed, finally lifting herself up. ¡°Alright, no more moping! I¡¯m finishing this day properly!¡±


    And out the door she went.


    Sola turned back to Julia. ¡°Those chips were really good.¡±


    ¡°I can get some more, if you want.¡± Julia suggested, Sola nodding to her.


    ¡°Also, didn¡¯t Wess forget the sword?¡± Sola said.


    Julia blinked, before noticing the sword still laying by the entrance.


    She hit her head on the table. ¡°Dammit, Wess¡­¡±


    Wess burst back into the main building, relocating the stairs in a hurry, before stopping and climbing back down to take the elevator instead. She constantly tapped her foot as she rode up, feverishly watching the floor number tick up, before jumping onto the job fair floor and relocating Harley and Dennis, still waiting for her return.


    ¡°Oh, there you are!¡± Dennis called. ¡°It¡¯s not damaged, is it?¡±


    ¡°No, I must commend your compan¡­¡± Wess started, reaching for the sword again, before re-registering why the sword¡¯s weight was no longer a problem.


    ¡°Wess, where¡¯s the sword?¡± Harley whispered. ¡°It didn¡¯t actually break, did it?¡±


    Wess realised her guilt, looking around to avoid addressing Dennis directly, while also feeling what she assumed to be a text from Julia in her pocket about the sword, before throwing up her hands in a desperate bid.


    ¡°What sword?¡±


    This clearly didn¡¯t work.


    ¡°I hope you can afford damages.¡± Dennis threatened, pointing to the window. ¡°Not just for the sword.¡±


    Wess pupils shrank, as she immediately ran out of the job fair again, in search of the misplaced sword, trying to ignore all the people that were now staring at the farce she¡¯d unwittingly created.


    She headed for the stairs, making a fair way down a few more flights, before noticing the elevator she¡¯d elected to miss and stamping her foot.


    ¡°Come on!¡± Wess cried, stopping in the stairwell. ¡°Why can¡¯t I manage this?!¡±


    She slumped against the wall, head in her hands, as she tried to slow her ragged breathing, over and over, acknowledging just how stressed out this day had made her.


    I used to be great at time management. She thought, running her hands through her hair. Then again, I used to be more focused on myself. Schedules are easy to plan when they¡¯re just your own. I don¡¯t remember having this many¡­


    The word hung in the air.


    ¡­relationships.


    She sat against the stairs and rested her head against the wall.


    I guess that¡¯s what you¡¯d call them¡­was I so lonely back in Mareau?


    She finally let herself breath after such a long day and took as much time as she wanted on the stairs, watching the afternoon sunlight run its course down the wall.


    I feel like the archetypical princess locked in her tower, and now she wants to experience the world all at once. She thought. Am I not built for this?


    She acknowledged the lessened number of floors she had to descend, and progressively made her way down, leaving the building opening out toward the bar.


    She slipped back over, pulling the sword out from behind the bar¡¯s main door, and caught two familiar figures off in the distance, clashing steel to ice.


    ¡°Ha! Blocked ya.¡± Chops teased, standing behind her impressive ice wall, before hearing cracking sounds from behind it, and watching Essex climb up with her scythe, leap over the top and pin her to the ground, seizing the victory.


    ¡°Do not become complacent. There are elements to consider that you may forget.¡± Essex advised, pulling her up and looking back at the wall. ¡°But your Whil is impressive.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, it¡¯s pretty self-sufficient.¡± Chops remarked, noticing Wess arriving in the distance. ¡°Hey! Finally joining us?¡±


    Wess walked over, before finding a nearby log seat and collapsing onto it, letting out a pathetic sigh.


    ¡°This day has conquered me¡­¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I can tell.¡± Chops said, sitting by her feet.


    ¡°Did your events not go as planned?¡± Essex asked.


    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t know! I¡¯ve too many to keep track of!¡± Wess yelled. ¡°I¡¯m never around long enough for anyone, and I can¡¯t keep up! I ruined my impression at the job fair, Julia and Sola will never trust my know-how again, Joleicia¡¯s probably sick of me, and Cyrus!¡± Wess cried, grabbing Essex¡¯s collar. ¡°I don¡¯t know what to do.¡±


    Chops picked up her sword and tapped it to the ground. ¡°If you ask me, I say let this day die out. Deal with the consequences later when you¡¯re less frazzled.¡±


    ¡°Avoiding a problem will not solve it.¡± Essex argued. ¡°There are solutions to this.¡±


    ¡°Well, yeah, if you want to waste more time.¡± Chops continued. ¡°At the end of the day, you¡¯re only capable of what you¡¯re capable of. Some people can¡¯t climb mountains, some people can¡¯t keep track of twenty different people¡¯s lives on top of their own. It¡¯s not in our nature.¡±


    Essex sat by Wess¡¯ head, as they both heard Chops out, expounding on what a solution might entail.


    ¡°I¡¯m sure it¡¯ll work itself out, if you finally let go a little.¡± Chops added.


    Wess slowly sat up, taking in everything Chops had advised her, before leaning over and smacking Chops¡¯ sword out of her hands and onto the ground.


    ¡°Absolutely not!¡±


    Chops blinked. ¡°Huh?¡±


    ¡°How dare you assume I can¡¯t handle this!¡± Wess cried. ¡°I¡¯m incredible! Nothing stands in my way if I don¡¯t allow it to! I¡¯m a Renaissance woman, through and through!¡±


    Chops rolled her eyes. ¡°Ego, much?¡±


    ¡°Deride me all you want, either I¡¯m conquering this day with brilliance and style, or it won¡¯t end!¡± Wess declared. ¡°This diamond refuses to crack!¡±


    ¡°Wess, is this a sm-¡° Essex started, before Wess pressed a finger to her lips.


    ¡°I¡¯m a trained socialite. I¡¯m not going to end this day perfectly, I can¡¯t, but I¡¯ll be holding my head high throughout!¡± Wess said, grabbing her bag again.


    ¡°Will you not be training with us?¡± Essex asked, watching Wess hype herself up.


    ¡°There will always be more training sessions, Essex, but there won¡¯t be more todays.¡± Wess declared. ¡°I¡¯ll do what I can to fix what I¡¯ve already done.¡±


    She grabbed Essex by the arms.


    ¡°Because I¡¯m Wess and I¡¯m incredible!¡±


    Wess ran off excitedly, as Chops pulled up her sketch book and directly avoided looking at her. ¡°Good luck with that, weirdo.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Returning the sword is top priority, followed by catching the tail-end of trivia, and seeing if I can offer any helpful incites¡­¡± Wess mumbled to herself, as the elevator carried her back to the job fair. ¡°I doubt Joleicia¡¯s still at the library, so it might be smart to check the dorms again, but not before swinging by Cyrus again, and¡­apologising¡­¡±


    The elevator ride felt short, considering how laborious it¡¯d been the last few rides, as upon entering the fair, she was greeted by the pleasant faces of a nervous Harley and fuming Dennis.


    As soon as Wess was close enough, Dennis grabbed the sword back from her. ¡°It¡¯s about time! Oh, look, it¡¯s got scratches all over it!¡±


    ¡°It fell out of a skyscraper. What can you expect?¡± Wess reasoned. ¡°They can be buffed out.¡±


    ¡°¡­I guess.¡± Dennis replied, putting the sword back. ¡°But I still expect some compensation! You damaged company property, deliberately held up operations for our stall, disrespected company stock, a-¡°


    ¡°Of course, I¡¯d hate for certain higher-ups to know you lost, and nearly damaged, important company property because you let clumsy first-years handle it.¡± Wess suggested.


    Dennis stopped his ranting, as Harley gave Wess a look of recognition.


    ¡°But fortunately, no one here, expect me of course, has the right connections to get in contact with them.¡± Wess said. ¡°And needless to say, my silence won¡¯t be free.¡±


    Dennis began to sweat, as Harley joined Wess¡¯ side confidently. ¡°Y-you¡¯re bluffing. I¡¯m not falling for that. And besides, my bosses trust me enough to not throw me under the bus.¡±


    Wess stared back at him.


    He looked back at her.


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­what do you want?¡±


    ¡°Nothing much.¡± Wess said. ¡°Just a potential sponsorship for the next yearly tournament.¡±


    ¡°S-sponsorship?¡± Dennis asked, looking around him nervously, before leaning in. ¡°I can¡¯t just hand those out.¡±


    ¡°Then find someone who can. And make sure they look up Team Valiant.¡± Wess reasoned, walking off proudly, as Harley hung back.


    ¡°Actually¡­¡± Harley said, picking up the sword. ¡°We might just take this too. I mean, it¡¯s clearly so scratched up and busted. It¡¯d be smarter to say you sold it.¡± Harley bargained. ¡°And we¡¯ll also take a business card.¡±


    Dennis took a great amount of effort swallowing his pride, before getting out a pen and writing down a couple notes on a company card, as Harley turned to Wess and gave a proud thumbs up.


    Wess laughed to herself. You wily devil.


    ¡°That¡¯s¡­the name of one my superiors.¡± Dennis admitted. ¡°Talk to him if you want a sponsorship. But please, don¡¯t tell him I was the one who referred you.¡±


    ¡°Thanks.¡± Harley said, before dropping off a few hundred capitals. ¡°For the sword.¡±


    Dennis looked a bit surprised, as Harley joined up with Wess, leaving the job fair entrance with a noticeable stride.


    ¡°That was awfully nice of you.¡± Wess said. ¡°But you did just pay for a sword no one will use.¡±


    ¡°You can use it.¡± Harley suggested, Wess immediately turning her nose to it.


    ¡°Are you kidding? I¡¯m not giving up Belvedere for my life.¡± Wess declared, taking the sword. ¡°But it would look good hanging over my bed.¡±


    ¡°Well, I payed for it. Why not my bed?¡± Harley argued, taking it back.


    ¡°You wouldn¡¯t have gotten to haggled him out of it if I hadn¡¯t dropped it out the window.¡± Wess reasoned, trying to take it back. ¡°Why¡¯re you so damn tall?¡±


    ¡°It makes it easier to hang things on walls.¡± Harley teased, before deciding to hand the sword back. ¡°You can have it. You were awesome with that whole sponsorship deal.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± Wess said, taking it graciously. ¡°¡­thank you.¡±


    They continued walking, taking the elevator back down, standing together in an understanding silence.


    Wess looked back down at the sword. ¡°¡­I don¡¯t receive gifts that often¡­¡±


    ¡°Then this can be your first.¡± Harley grinned.


    Wess looked back up at her with an endearing gaze, before the elevator¡¯s ¡®ding¡¯ brought her back to reality and brought her attention to the Academy Daiquiri Lounge.


    ¡°You coming back to the dorm?¡± Harley asked, Wess heading over to the bar.


    ¡°Maybe later. I¡¯ve a few more appointments to take care of.¡± Wess reasoned, leaving the sword with Harley, before re-entering the bar and locating Julia and Sola, heads in their hands.


    ¡°Wess!¡± Sola cried, grabbing onto her. ¡°We¡¯re desperate! We¡¯ve only got 40.5 points and Team Beefcake are nine and a half points ahead of us!¡±


    ¡°How did you get half a point?¡± Wess asked.


    ¡°I corrected the grammar on one of the questions.¡± Julia replied, biting her nails. ¡°But it¡¯s nowhere near enough.¡±


    Julia grabbed Wess too. ¡°We¡¯ve only got one chance to win this! There¡¯s a lightning round with ten questions! If we answer all ten of them correctly before Team Beefcake, we can actually win this!¡±


    Wess looked back at Seears, approaching the mic again, and grabbed the teams buzzer.


    ¡°I¡¯ll handle this.¡±


    ¡°Alright, everyone. Last round. I¡¯m gonna fire off ten more questions, and whoever¡¯s first, and right, gets a point. Got it? Good. Let¡¯s see who¡¯s coming out on top.¡±


    ¡°Me. I am.¡± Wess muttered to herself, before Julia and Sola both looked at her. ¡°I mean us, sorry.¡±


    ¡°First question: who¡¯s the leader of the famous Team Spectr-¡°


    Wess slammed the buzzer. ¡°X-Ray, full name Ray Modell.¡±


    Seears checked his notes. ¡°Correct, good job.¡±


    Julia looked at Wess affectionately. ¡°You were listening¡­¡±


    ¡°Second: who played Lord Monturne in Keepers o-¡°


    ¡°Sir George V. Hendrix.¡± Wess answered.


    ¡°Third: approximate height of Mt Cavalier.¡±


    ¡°8850 metres.¡±


    ¡°The movie awarded best screenplay in 4986?¡±


    ¡°¡®Marry Me, I¡¯m Choking.¡¯¡±


    ¡°The main ingredient used in Hayfith ice cream?¡±


    ¡°Seaweed extract.¡±


    ¡°Deepest ocean?¡±


    ¡°The Great Myvolos Sea.¡±


    ¡°Widest ocean?¡±


    ¡°Same answer.¡±


    ¡°Mareau¡¯s sister city?¡±


    ¡°Coureta, unfortunately.¡±


    ¡°What year was the Reun Cathedral finished construction¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­after it was set ablaze during a Wailing attack?¡±


    ¡°4993.¡±


    Seears looked back at Wess, before loosening his tie and grabbing the mic more fervently. ¡°Alright, last question. What magic did the infamous Waygone Wailing possess?¡±


    Wess hit the table. ¡°Trick question. The Waygone Wailing¡¯s the only Wailing in recorded history to have TWO types of magic. Metal Manipulation and Heat Transfer.¡±


    Seears looked back down at his cards, before breathing in through his teeth. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but you needed both types of magic to be right.¡± He said. ¡°It was Metal Manipulation and Deep Burrow.¡±


    Wess stared blankly, hitting herself for not getting that sooner, and sitting back down after her impassioned battle of wits.


    ¡°Can we give a round of applause for that brilliant display?¡± Seears insisted, as the bar rang out with a polite clap for Wess¡¯ show of talent, Wess appreciating it to herself.


    ¡°However, while that was impressive, today¡¯s overall victory goes to¡­Muscle Posse!¡± Seears announced, as all of Team Beefcake got up and cheered, high fiving, bumping chests, hugging like crazy, with Brad laying his hand in the middle.


    ¡°Beefcake now and Beefcake proud!!!¡± He exclaimed, as the others placed their hands in too, lifting them up in celebration. ¡°Who are we?!¡±


    ¡°BEEFCAKE!!!¡± They yelled.


    ¡°Indeed!¡± Efrem added, joining them in celebration.


    Seears cleared his throat into the microphone. ¡°Well done, guys.¡±


    ¡°So¡­¡± Wess said, sighing sadly. ¡°I guess we just lost.¡±


    ¡°Whatever.¡± Julia replied. ¡°Thanks for coming anyway.¡±


    ¡°You totally could have won if that trick question hadn¡¯t been so tricky.¡± Sola argued.


    ¡°No, that was a failing on my part.¡± Wess admitted. ¡°I suppose I¡¯m not as infallible as I want to believe.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m just glad you were here for any of it.¡± Julia said. ¡°You never would have come here when we first met, so¡­it means a lot to me.¡±


    ¡°Me too.¡± Sola agreed. ¡°You would¡¯ve killed us for dragging you somewhere like this.¡±


    ¡°Well¡­¡± Wess started, before agreeing that Sola was right on some level. ¡°Just¡­don¡¯t take that for granted in the future. My time is very valuable.¡±


    ¡°Okay!¡± Sola cheered, getting up from her seat. ¡°This day¡¯s been really long. I wanna sleep forever now.¡±


    Wess chuckled to herself. ¡°I¡¯d have to agree. Unfortunately, I¡¯ve still a few more things to take care of before the day is over¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°¡­she loves me¡­she loves me not¡­she¡¯s ignoring me¡­she¡¯s putting me off¡­¡±


    Cyrus lay back patiently, head against the picnic blanket as he stared at the clouds, watching the day slowly end.


    ¡°I stayed here all day waiting for her to come back.¡± He reflected. ¡°I guess I¡¯m playing second fiddle to the rest of her life¡­¡±


    He sighed to himself, before a rustling came from the bushes, Cyrus lifting his head in hopes of Wess finally making her return.


    Wait¡­Wess isn¡¯t a brunette.


    Getting caught on a small root, Joleicia stumbled a bit into the clearing, cleaning herself off, before spotting Cyrus on the top of the hill, looking back at her in surprise.


    ¡°Oh, hi Cyrus.¡± Joleicia said.


    ¡°Do¡­I know you?¡± Cyrus asked, as Joleicia joined up with him.


    ¡°¡­oh, right! We haven¡¯t met yet.¡± She laughed, before stretching out her hand. ¡°Joleicia. Wess told me about you, and I pieced some things together.¡±


    ¡°Ah.¡± Cyrus replied, shaking it. ¡°I thought you were just some stranger here to kick me out of the clearing.¡±


    Joleicia shook her head. ¡°Only a couple people know about this place, so it¡¯s fine if you wanna stay a bit longer.¡±


    Cyrus smirked to himself. ¡°I¡¯ve already been here the whole day. Wess kept me waiting for no real reason, then ditched me again.¡±


    ¡°Ditc¡­¡± Joleicia started, before a realisation hit. ¡°¡­oh.¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°We¡­had a book club today.¡± Joleicia said, sitting down with him. ¡°We had to reschedule a bunch. She also had training with Essex and Chops, and a couple other things too.¡±


    Cyrus was left aghast, as he blinked a few times. ¡°She was really that busy?¡±


    Joleicia nodded.


    ¡°And she didn¡¯t tell me?¡±


    Joleicia looked just as surprised. ¡°She didn¡¯t?¡±


    ¡°I¡­guess not.¡± Cyrus shrugged. ¡°But why should I know anything? I only put in the effort that she couldn¡¯t muster for me.¡±


    He rested his head in his lap, as Joleicia rubbed his back. She looked around at the half-eaten food taking up space on the blanket.


    ¡°Did you prepare this for her?¡±


    ¡°¡­yeah.¡±


    Joleicia grabbed one of the uneaten sandwiches. ¡°Well, there¡¯s no point letting it go to waste.¡±


    She handed one to Cyrus, who took it reluctantly and sat next to her.


    Joleicia took a bite, before audibly gasping. ¡°This is delicious! Did you make these?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, but Wess gave me the recipes.¡± Cyrus admitted. ¡°I was gonna surprise her¡­¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s a very social person. No matter what you do, she¡¯ll be splitting her time up with someone.¡± Joleicia explained, taking another bite.


    ¡°But why do I get so little of it?¡± Cyrus asked. ¡°I thought boyfriend and girlfriend meant something! I don¡¯t need all that romantic crap, just the time of day, enough for a decent conversation. Heck, I could just be her convenient booty call at this point.¡±


    Joleicia snickered into her hand. ¡°Some days, I¡¯m just so glad I¡¯m ace.¡± Joleicia giggled. ¡°There¡¯s no point getting angry at Wess without her getting to defend her side. You¡¯ll just make her out to be a villain when she¡¯s anything but.¡±


    Cyrus sat back up, before turning around and knocking his head against the large oak. ¡°¡­I¡¯m not angry at her¡­I just miss hanging out with her, and the fact that we AREN¡¯T talking this out is exactly the problem.¡±


    ¡°¡­well, you can blame her for that.¡± Joleicia confessed.


    Joleicia patted his shoulder, as both of them heard more rustling from the foliage, with Wess emerging, somewhat exhausted, but hardly showing it.


    ¡°Cyrus! My apologies again, but thi-¡°


    ¡°How dare you leave him waiting, Wess!¡± Joleicia complained. ¡°He planned a lovely day for the two of you, and you ditched him over and over!¡±


    Wess took a second to register that Joleicia was now with them too. ¡°Uh¡­you know how busy I was. I took as much time as I co-¡°


    ¡°No, you didn¡¯t! And don¡¯t say you did, cause we totally could¡¯ve moved our book club again!¡± Joleicia pointed out, Cyrus lifting his head. ¡°Stop burning yourself out and take care of this lovely boy!¡±


    ¡°We already moved it fr-¡° Wess started, before looking at how upset Cyrus clearly was, and feeling the unfortunate pang of guilt in her stomach.


    ¡­I really have overlooked him. She admitted.


    ¡°I know you don¡¯t have all the time in the world, but boyfriend and girlfriend mean something!¡± Joleicia professed, now trying to calm herself.


    Wess shuffled her feet. ¡°Can¡­I have a moment with Cyrus? Just us two?¡±


    Joleicia took a big breath, before nodding, getting up and ducking out, as Wess sat back down with Cyrus, still clearly upset with her.


    ¡°¡­you could¡¯ve told me.¡± Cyrus said. ¡°I get it if you¡¯re that busy, but don¡¯t plan things behind my back.¡±


    Wess sighed out and looked at the changing clouds. ¡°When I was with my parents, I could never plan personal events without them refusing to let me go. So, if I never told them, they couldn¡¯t say no.¡± Wess admitted. ¡°Old habits die hard, I suppose.¡±


    ¡°Is that meant to be an excuse?¡± Cyrus asked, clearly angry. ¡°I really want to see you, but if you have other plans, I¡¯ll just say no so I can have you all to myself? How selfish! I¡¯m just like your parents!¡±


    ¡°No, Cyrus¡­¡± Wess said, pulling him down to the blanket. ¡°I know we haven¡¯t had much time together, but you¡¯re nothing like them. You want to spend time with me, not hold me back.¡±


    Cyrus refused eye contact, leaving Wess in the dark as to his intentions, before he turned to her suddenly.


    ¡°Is this gonna be a problem going forward?¡±


    Wess stared blankly.


    ¡°Cause if it is, then¡­¡± Cyrus tried to say. ¡°¡­I need to know if I have a place in your life. If you can¡¯t make time for me, then I don¡¯t want to put in more effort than you feel you can.¡±


    ¡°Cy¡­¡± Wess said, stuttering. ¡°I-I don¡¯t¡­¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a simple yes or no.¡± Cyrus replied.


    Wess took a minute, playing with responses in her mind, trying to come up with whatever Cyrus wanted to hear, before deciding to just be earnest.


    ¡°I¡¯ll try. I¡¯ll try to make more time for us.¡± Wess decided. ¡°This is entirely on me. I¡¯m still¡­new to these relationships¡­and I¡¯m doing my best, I promise. But if my best isn¡¯t enough, then¡­I guess¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­yeah.¡± Cyrus said, a little unsure after Wess¡¯ declaration. ¡°¡­if it¡¯s not enough.¡±


    The duo sat in silence, assessing what the other had suggested, and trying to decide where to go from here, as Joleicia kept quiet on the sidelines, having eavesdropped without intending to.


    ¡°Oh, Wess¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    It was a short walk back to her dorm, but Wess appreciated the breather after what turned out to be a pretty heavy conversation. The sun finally considered its job finished for the day, and Wess caught the last glimpse of it as it ducked behind the Eldos mountains and headed into her dorm.


    Wess¡¯ head crashed to her pillow again, ready to sleep until she was dead, but still being kept awake as Julia continued to make noise in the kitchen.


    ¡°Son of a¡­not again!¡±


    Julia hobbled into the main room, sitting on her bed while grabbing her foot, before looking up at Wess on her top bunk, visibly exhausted.


    ¡°Sorry, do you want me to be quiet?¡± Julia asked.


    ¡°¡­it¡¯s fine.¡± Wess said, slowly sitting up. ¡°I have a few things to mull over anyway.¡±


    ¡°Hey,¡± Julia said, leaning on the bed frame. ¡°Harley told me about what you did at the job fair.¡±


    She indicated to the B-48 sword mounted on the wall, just above Wess¡¯ broken fish tank. ¡°You¡¯re building up a real collection here.¡±


    Wess jumped out of her bunk. ¡°It was mostly a consolation prize.¡±


    ¡°Be that as it may, getting us a sponsorship for next year is so worth celebrating.¡± Julia said, pulling out one of the more expensive wine bottles from the pantry. ¡°How does the 5008 Chardonnay sound?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re a woman after my own heart.¡± Wess remarked, following her into the kitchen, before stopping just in front of the sword mounted on the wall.


    She stared at it fixedly, catching her own reflection in the blades metal sheen, with a couple of the scratches covering up parts of herself, leaving a somewhat incomplete image, before she adjusted her hair a little and headed into the kitchen to celebrate her relatively successful venture.

 Chapter 18: Dealing

    ¡°Do you mind repeating your name for me?¡±


    ¡°My name?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s just a legal thing.¡±


    ¡°Oh, right. Florey Faraday.¡±


    ¡°You live in Central Point?¡±


    ¡°Yes, I do. Always have.¡±


    Mr Vent lay back in his seat, tapping his pen idly against his clipboard. ¡°Alright, starting off, these questions are meant to judge your character and whether you¡¯d be suited to join the Venator Academy. You¡¯ve already passed the physical¡­by the slimmest of margins, so if I judge you to be right, you¡¯ll be starting your degree next spri-¡°


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, judge me to be right?¡±


    Vent blinked. ¡°I¡¯m seeing if you¡¯ll work well with others. The team system isn¡¯t built for everyone, so we don¡¯t want you dragging down four other soon-to-be graduates.¡±


    ¡°O-oh, yeah¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­so, let¡¯s get the easy one out of the way. What type of Venator do you want to be?¡±


    Florey scratched his cheek awkwardly. ¡°I was hoping to¡­be a scientific Venator.¡±


    ¡°A scientific Venator?¡± Vent repeated. ¡°And you came to a combat focused school?¡±


    ¡°Well¡­¡± Florey said, hoping to avoid the question. ¡°¡­the Venator Academy¡¯s science program is nationally well-regarded.¡±


    ¡°Combat classes are still mandatory, though.¡± Vent pointed out. ¡°Most students pursuing solely science go to an actual research facility.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, but most of them aren¡¯t hiring unless you have Venator experience¡­¡± Florey remarked, laughing a little afterwards.


    Vent didn¡¯t look amused, as he filled a couple boxes out, causing Florey to tense up.


    ¡°Do you have a personal weapon or a Whil? And if so, do you have a weapon preference?¡±


    ¡°Uhh¡­¡± Florey let out. ¡°¡­no, and no. My dad¡­¡±


    Florey dismissed the thought and continued. ¡°I guess for preference I¡¯d say¡­melee? I don¡¯t¡­have much experience with weapons¡­¡±


    ¡°Uhuh.¡± Vent said, filling out a few more things, as a heavy feeling started to weigh down Florey¡¯s gut.


    ¡°¡­this¡¯ll be the last question.¡± Vent said, with a certain finality. ¡°Why do you want to become a Venator?¡±


    Florey was somewhat dreading this question, as he cleared his throat and leaned forward a bit. ¡°¡­I¡¯ll be honest¡­I don¡¯t know.¡±


    Vent sat back and looked back at him. ¡°That¡¯s a bold answer.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s true. I¡¯ve moved around most of my life, and I haven¡¯t had consistent groups of friends, or much to strive for, but I know I can. And being a Venator seems like a noble enough goal to pursue while I¡¯m still figuring things out.¡± Florey professed. ¡°I don¡¯t know what it is yet, but I¡¯m hoping to find my calling here.¡±


    Vent breathed out through his nose, before putting away his clipboard.


    ¡°You ever hear that legend of the pig who believed he was part bird?¡±


    Florey shrugged. ¡°I guess not.¡±


    Vent leaned back. ¡°Well, long ago, there was this valley filled with animals, and bordering it was a giant chasm engulfed in flame, and on the other end was a prosperous land filled to the brim with all the pleasures of the world. No one dared cross it, not even the flying animals, but one day, a pig approached the cliff and said ¡®I¡¯m gonna cross this chasm.¡¯ The other animals asked how he would do it, and he said ¡®Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯m part bird!¡¯¡±


    Florey sat there dumbstruck, as Vent continued. ¡°Of course, this only confused the other animals. ¡®No, you aren¡¯t!¡¯ They cried. ¡®You don¡¯t even have wings!¡¯ ¡®I¡¯ll prove you wrong!¡± said the pig, ¡®I¡¯ll grow my wings as I fly!¡¯ And just like that, the pig jumped and sailed into the chasm, right into the fire. Some say they saw him fly out, having grown his wings and let the wind carry him, but most agree he didn¡¯t make it.¡±


    ¡°¡­okay.¡± Florey said, smiling awkwardly. ¡°What does that have to do with anything?¡±


    ¡°Well, it has a couple interpretations, like appreciating where you are, listen to the advice of others¡­but to me, it¡¯s about not assuming more than you¡¯re actually capable of. You may think you¡¯re going here to find a purpose, but you may end up failing more than learning. In the end, you could be free as a bird, or crash and be engulfed in flames.¡±


    Florey realised what he meant and quickly lost his smile.


    ¡°¡­however,¡± Vent started. ¡°This isn¡¯t to say I¡¯m rejecting you outright. You don¡¯t have much experience, but the fact that you¡¯re trying anyway, and already made it this far shows your determination. A key trait of Venators has always been boldness.¡±


    With that, Vent scribbled down a few more notes and ticked a couple boxes, before standing up. ¡°If you can apply that to your team, I¡¯m sure you¡¯ll do great.¡±


    ¡°D-does that mean I get in?!¡± Florey asked excitedly, Vent raising his hand.


    ¡°You¡¯re on the shortlist.¡± He said. ¡°Your lack of combative drive certainly holds you back, but you may just have enough to be considered. Just be reminded that more qualified applicants will be ahead of you, okay?¡±


    ¡°Yes sir, thank you!¡± Florey exclaimed. ¡°I promise, I¡¯ll try my best! Count on it!¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Florey had spent the morning far more prepared than he¡¯d ever been. Mornings were usually pretty rough for him, but today had been an exception, all for one reason.


    He was doing something bold again.


    ¡°Alright, this is it¡­¡± He said, peering around the corner. ¡°No pressure. She¡¯s the nicest person ever¡­¡±


    He finally heard himself and sank to the floor. ¡°Why did I say that? Now there¡¯s way more pressure¡­¡±


    He peaked around the corner again and spotted Joleicia, waiting outside her classroom, adjusting her hair idly, before he took in a deep breath and stood back up.


    ¡°Hey there, Jo. I wanted to ask you¡­Jo? You¡¯ve never called her Jo.¡± Florey muttered, pacing back and forth. ¡°Hey, leader¡­hey boss¡­hey¡­Joleicia?¡±


    Florey hit his forehead. ¡°Obviously just use her name¡­¡±


    He took another deep breath, before forcing himself to sprint around the corner and finally approach her, as she lifted her head and noticed him.


    ¡°Oh, hey Florey.¡± She waved.


    ¡°Hey there¡­Jojo.¡± Florey tried, mentally berating himself.


    ¡°So, you locked your card in the dorm again?¡± She asked, giggling afterwards. ¡°We¡¯re gonna have to attach it to you somehow. This has to be the third time now.¡±


    ¡°Yeah¡­just forgetful, I guess.¡± Florey excused, moving his arms a little too much. ¡°Anyway, there¡¯s, uhh, something I wanted to ask¡­if that¡¯s okay.¡±


    ¡°Sure thing.¡± Joleicia said, bumping shoulders with him as they walked back to their dorm. ¡°What¡¯s up?¡±


    ¡°W-w-well¡­¡± Florey started, noticing his absurdly dry mouth. ¡°I was wondering¡­if you wanted to go somewhere¡­sometime¡­¡±


    Joleicia put her finger to her chin. ¡°That¡¯a a very vague invitation.¡±


    ¡°I-I meant¡­you know, together¡­¡± Florey said, finally clearing his throat. ¡°Like a date¡­¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± Joleicia realised. ¡°Oh! Wow, uhh, huh¡­¡±


    ¡°It doesn¡¯t have to be anything special!¡± Florey blurted out. ¡°Just a movie or something. I can pay too.¡±


    ¡°Oh, Florey.¡± Joleicia said, resting her hand on his shoulder. ¡°That¡¯s a really sweet offer, but I don¡¯t think that¡¯d be a good idea.¡±


    Florey¡¯s stare went blank, as he took a second to comprehend Joleicia¡¯s reply.


    ¡°It¡¯s not that I don¡¯t like you. We¡¯re a good team.¡± Joleicia said. ¡°But you know there¡¯s that stigma about teammates dating each other, and¡­I don¡¯t really feel the same way about you.¡±


    She rested a hand on his arm. ¡°Sorry, Florey.¡±


    Florey shook himself free of his trance and laughed a bit awkwardly. ¡°Yeah, right, of course! You¡¯re totally right. It was stupid of me to suggest.¡±


    Joleicia gave a well-meaning smile. ¡°It wasn¡¯t stupid, and we can still go out some time, just not on a date.¡± She clarified. ¡°¡­you aren¡¯t mad?¡±


    ¡°No, of course not!¡± Florey replied, breaking a sweat. ¡°You had every right to say no. I¡¯m not gonna force you out on a date or anything.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, exactly.¡± Joleicia agreed, as they arrived at their dorm room. ¡°Thanks for taking that so well. I¡¯m sure that wasn¡¯t easy for you.¡±


    ¡°Well, you know me.¡± Florey said. ¡°I roll with the punches.¡±


    Joleicia dug around her bag and pulled out her room card, swiping it and opening the door. ¡°Alright, that should do it. Try to remember your card next time, okay?¡±


    Florey nodded, watching Joleicia head off back down the hall and out of sight, as he entered the room and reached into his pocket, pulling out his own room card and gripping it tightly.


    ¡°Way to go, Florey¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°¡­nyway, while the Wailing are understood to possess what¡¯s called ¡®magic,¡¯ in actuality, it¡¯s generated by a certain chemical present within their bodies. Think of it as a secondary type of blood with extra properties.¡± Mr Cecil explained, writing a couple notes on his board, as a student raised their hand. ¡°Yes?¡±


    ¡°Has anyone tried drinking it?¡± They asked, getting a couple laughs from the room.


    Cecil chuckled. ¡°I think I heard of one guy drinking some down in Crasher¡¯s Ridge, who supposedly breathed fire for thirty minutes, but that was most likely an urban legend.¡±


    ¡°Or a circus performer.¡± Chops remarked to Lenin and Florey, getting a laugh out of them.


    ¡°And of course¡­¡± Cecil started, before looking at his watch. ¡°Oh, guess the class is already over. We¡¯ll pick up from here next week. You should have your test results back at some point today, but don¡¯t worry, you all managed to pass.¡±


    Cecil wandered over to Florey¡¯s desk. ¡°Of course, some of you did better than others.¡±


    Florey looked up at him, as Cecil gave him a subtle smile and thumbs up, leaving his desk with the rest of the class.


    ¡°What was that?¡± Chops asked, leaning over to Lenin¡¯s desk. ¡°You guys have a secret handshake too?¡±


    Florey ignored her comment, checking Activ for his test result, as Lenin leaned into Chops. ¡°Does that mean we didn¡¯t do as well?¡±


    ¡°It means Mr Cecil plays favourites.¡± Chops pointed out, as Florey found his results and gasped.


    No way¡­ He thought, Chops leaning over even further, grabbing his tablet.


    ¡°98?!¡± Chops exclaimed, showing the phone to Lenin. ¡°There¡¯s no way you got that!¡±


    ¡°It¡­checks out.¡± Lenin confirmed, assessing the legitimacy of the results. ¡°And Cecil wasn¡¯t playing favourites either. They were all Florey¡¯s own answers.¡±


    ¡°Hold up, that must mean¡­¡± Chops prefaced, checking her own results. ¡°¡­oh.¡±


    Lenin leaned over her shoulder and breathed in. ¡°Damn, only 62.¡± He pointed to his tablet. ¡°That¡¯s three more then what I got.¡±


    Chops and Lenin looked at each other, before both cracking up, as Florey studied over his results, still awestruck with the outcome.


    The trio left the classroom, following behind the others, Florey still staring down at his tablet in utter excitement.


    Does this mean¡­ He thought. I still have a chance at becoming a V-


    Having not looked where he was going, Florey nearly tripped over as a student walking the other way bumped into him, turning around to address him.


    ¡°Oh, sorry, I¡­¡± Florey started, staring up at the other person.


    Avalon looked gracious. ¡°It¡¯s quite alright. After all, the greatest Venator in the academy should be forgiving!¡±


    Florey blinked, as Avalon continued down the hall, flipping up his cape and attempting to look cool, before nearly tripping over said cape, and getting an earful from his team behind him.


    ¡°Oh geez, not Team Exemplary¡­¡± Chops groaned. ¡°If any team¡¯s undeserving of their name, it¡¯s those guys¡­¡±


    ¡°Why does he have a knockoff Northern royalty cape?¡± Lenin asked, offended at the sight. ¡°He doesn¡¯t have the right¡­¡±


    Florey kept staring, more dumbstruck than anything.


    Greatest Venator? He thought. Since when?


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°¡­nyway, while some Wailing possess the poorly named ¡®magic,¡¯ a few breeds have been found to lack it in recent years, most notably the Gelatinous Wailing.¡± Ferris explained, dryly pointing to her board. ¡°We still don¡¯t know why that is, and I doubt we¡¯re going to know for a while¡­¡±


    Most of the class was half-paying attention, as was the case with most of Ferris¡¯ classes, all except for Joleicia, Chops and Florey at their seats, Florey finishing up his notes, and quickly raising his hand.


    ¡°¡­oh.¡± Ferris let out, noticing it was Florey. ¡°I guess you have another opinion.¡±


    ¡°Actually¡­it¡¯s a theory. About what you were saying.¡± Florey said.


    Ferris tapped her head with the whiteboard marker, before sitting against her desk. ¡°I¡¯ll let you talk as long as I don¡¯t have to.¡±


    That was all the confirmation Florey needed. Joleicia gave him a thumbs up, as he looked back over his notes. ¡°Mr Cecil described a chemical that lets Wailing use their ¡®magic.¡¯¡± Florey explained. ¡°What if the Gelatinous Wailing have a disease that shuts off access to it? Like one that disrupts the Wailing¡¯s liver?¡±


    Ferris leaned tiredly against her desk. ¡°A mystery disease? That¡¯s your big idea?¡±


    Ferris walked about the lecture hall, as Florey started getting flustered. ¡°I-It would explain why they lose parts of their flesh, and why their offspring carry the same traits. It¡¯s a genetic trait that gets passed dow-¡°


    ¡°One that we haven¡¯t found or noticed yet, or even noticed developing? After centuries of studying the Wailing?¡± Ferris interrupted. ¡°I¡¯m not dismissing it, but if you wanna run with this, you¡¯re gonna need better reasoning then ¡®it kind of fits.¡¯¡±


    ¡°Wha-¡° Florey said. ¡°It doesn¡¯t kind of fit! The theory fits great!¡±


    ¡°Yeah, and cheese sales skyrocketed at the same rate as handguns, so clearly people are shooting their cheese!¡± Ferris argued. ¡°Correlation doesn¡¯t equal causation, Florey. Also, calling it a theory would imply it had evidence.¡±


    Florey stood up in his seat. ¡°If it was a disease, we wouldn¡¯t know. You¡¯ve said before that we can¡¯t properly autopsy Gelatinous Wailing.¡±


    Ferris sat back at her desk, before lifting her head excitedly. ¡°You¡¯re right.¡± She exclaimed. ¡°Since we can¡¯t autopsy them, let¡¯s diagnose them with everything! After all, it must be right if we can¡¯t be proved wrong.¡±


    ¡°Th-That¡¯s not what I meant!¡± Florey complained, Joleicia tugging on his sleeve.


    ¡°Florey, let¡¯s just calm down. We don¡¯t need to arg-¡°


    ¡°You just don¡¯t like the idea that I might be right.¡± Florey demanded, having woken up the class by the excitement of their argument.


    Ferris rolled her eyes. ¡°Is that so?¡±


    ¡°Why wouldn¡¯t it be?¡±


    Ferris scowled, before moving to her computer and attempting to start up the projector.


    ¡°Loudmouth little¡­this here is¡­god frickin¡­¡± She said, smacking the side of the projector, as it whirred to life, displaying an old photograph of a scientist. ¡°¡­this is Greta Callems, a very famous scientist from several decades ago. I¡¯m sure you know her.¡±


    Florey bit his tongue and nodded along.


    ¡°She was responsible for most of the genetic breakthroughs involving Wailing biology and behaviour.¡± Ferris explained, her demeanour surprisingly professional. ¡°She was also the first to come up with the idea that Wailing couldn¡¯t touch water. Along with her other discoveries, she touted this as fact, despite having virtually no evidence to back this up, and most of it being personal hearsay. Her biggest reasoning was having witnessed a group of Wailing wary about crossing a river, but never touching the water.¡±


    Ferris leaned her arm on her desk. ¡°Lines up pretty well, huh Florey?¡±


    Florey gritted his teeth, Joleicia still encouraging him to sit down.


    ¡°And surprise surprise¡­¡± Ferris said, quickly sitting up. ¡°She was proved wrong! Turns out aquatic Wailing exist, and most Wailing can swim fine. But everyone still brings up the Wailing water thing because it¡¯s easier to understand then real science, and a smart person said it once.¡±


    Ferris sat back down, rubbing her temple. ¡°Quite simply, she jumped to baseless conclusions.¡±


    ¡°So, you¡¯re saying never question anything?¡± Florey demanded.


    Ferris leaned back and massaged her temple. ¡°You¡¯re putting words in my mouth, Florey.¡±


    ¡°Oh, so now you¡¯re too tired to defend your side?¡± He pushed. ¡°It¡¯s clearly not from doing your job well.¡±


    A couple people gasped in the class, including Chops, who was here for every minute of this.


    Ferris looked back up. ¡°¡­yeah, I¡¯ll take that.¡± She said, shrugging it off.


    ¡°It¡¯s clear you don¡¯t care about your job, so stop acting like some authority on the Wailing conflict when all you¡¯re doing is putting others down!¡± Florey yelled. ¡°What¡¯re we supposed to be learning from you?!¡±


    Ferris held up a finger, pausing the conversation for about five seconds, before the bell rang out over the class.


    ¡°How to run out the clock.¡±


    With that, Ferris grabbed her bag and took her time leaving, leaving Florey fuming at his unresolved debate, Joleicia grabbing his shoulders.


    ¡°Florey, don¡¯t go yelling at our teacher.¡± Joleicia asked. ¡°If you¡¯ve got a problem with her, let her know outside of class.¡±


    ¡°You saw how she treated me!¡± Florey yelled. ¡°I brought up good points, an-¡°


    ¡°Florey!¡± Joleicia demanded. ¡°¡­it¡¯s not worth it. Okay?¡±


    Florey slowed his breathing, looking back at Joleicia tiredly, resting his hand on his face. ¡°¡­yeah¡­yeah, sorry.¡± He apologised. ¡°I shouldn¡¯t have¡­she really gets under my skin¡­¡±


    Joleicia patted his back. ¡°You want some time to cool off?¡±


    Florey nodded, pulling himself back through the halls, Joleicia watching on with an unfortunate stare.


    ¡°It¡¯s not his first time blowing up at a teacher, especially Ferris.¡± Chops reminded her.


    ¡°It isn¡¯t normally this bad.¡± Joleicia pointed out, sighing to herself. ¡°I wish he¡¯d actually talk to us. I don¡¯t even know what¡¯s going on with him¡­¡±


    Florey continued further through the academy grounds, focusing his breathing and trying to get some air, as a familiar figure appeared from the other direction, still flashing his new cape.


    ¡°Av, maybe don¡¯t peacock that thing around.¡± Acadia suggested, nearly tripping on it herself. ¡°It¡¯d be a bad look for the team if you broke something from trippi-¡°


    ¡°He¡¯s not gonna listen.¡± Claudius interrupted. ¡°Especially since it matches his new staff.¡±


    Avalon turned on his heel. ¡°My dear teammates, if the leader can¡¯t look good, then how¡¯s anyone going to know about the brilliant Team Exemplary?¡±


    ¡°A fashion disaster blog?¡± Acadia suggested, getting a smirk out of Claudius.


    Avalon pouted, before shaking it off. ¡°Come on, I know you¡¯re just jealous.¡±


    He turned back around and continued down the hall, passing Florey on his way. ¡°It must be hard comparing yourselves to the greatest Venator in the whole academy.¡±


    ¡°Hey.¡±


    Avalon turned back around, as Florey stamped his foot. ¡°Stop calling yourself that.¡±


    Avalon looked Florey over, before pushing his luck and leaning in. ¡°Did you notice the cape?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I noticed it.¡± Florey declared. ¡°If you want to be a great Venator, then stop showboating and actually accomplish something great.¡±


    ¡°Are you kidding? I accomplish something great everyday just by being me!¡± Avalon bragged, Acadia dragging her palm across her face.


    ¡°He didn¡¯t just stay that¡­¡± She let out.


    Florey¡¯s anger started building again. ¡°Venators are supposed to be, and act, like heroes. Comparing yourself to them is disrespectful.¡±


    This text was taken from Royal Road. Help the author by reading the original version there.


    ¡°Disre-¡° Avalon repeated, flustered. ¡°I have every right to! I¡¯m training to be one, after all, and I¡¯m surely doing better than you.¡± He scoffed openly. ¡°I don¡¯t even remember your name.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s Florey.¡± Claudius informed, Avalon¡¯s face losing its composure.


    He turned around and whisper-yelled to Claudius. ¡°I already knew that! I was trying to psych him out! Don¡¯t ruin my moments like that!¡±


    ¡°I thought you didn¡¯t know.¡±


    ¡°Of course I know! He¡¯s from Team Vanguard! They¡¯ve got that gorgeous platinum blonde on their team!¡±


    ¡°Oh, she¡¯s so hot¡­her boyfriend too¡­¡± Acadia added, Avalon realising Florey heard everything they¡¯d said.


    ¡°Ahem¡­there¡¯s no point arguing.¡± Avalon reasoned. ¡°It¡¯s clear just from looking at us who¡¯s going to live on in people¡¯s memories. You¡¯d be lucky to even intern for a Venator.¡±


    Florey had just about enough. ¡°You know what? If you¡¯re so much better, then put your money where your mouth is.¡±


    Avalon squinted. ¡°I¡¯m not following.¡±


    ¡°I want a sparring match.¡± Florey said. ¡°If you¡¯re the greatest Venator in the academy, then beating me should be no challenge. After all, I¡¯m so much worse than you, apparently.¡±


    Avalon took a second to register, before readjusting himself. ¡°Y-yes, of course! A sparring match!¡± Avalon declared. ¡°And after my victory, you¡¯ll finally acknowledge my rightful claim to the greatest Venator in the academy!¡±


    Florey leaned in. ¡°We¡®ll see about that.¡±


    Avalon leaned in as well. ¡°I look forward to our match.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Alright, I move¡­¡± Harley said, rolling her dice. ¡°¡­five spaces.¡±


    She did so, as Julia picked up a card and read aloud. ¡°Your sheep stock plummets, and you become desperate to regain capital.¡± She explained. ¡°You have thirty seconds to convince the nearest player to sell you their stock, or else you¡¯re bankrupt until next harvest.¡±


    Julia turned her hourglass over, as Harley looked frantically for the nearest player, noticing Essex only a few spaces away.


    ¡°Essex! Please, I¡¯m desperate!¡± Harley cried.


    Essex nodded. ¡°I will aid you i-¡°


    Julia leaned over and whispered in Essex¡¯s ear, as she nodded along and cleared her throat.


    ¡°You will need to offer something in exchange.¡± Essex said. ¡°I will not provide ¡®handouts.¡¯¡±


    ¡°Julia!¡± Harley complained.


    Julia checked the hourglass. ¡°Fifteen seconds.¡±


    ¡°Uhh, oh shit¡­¡± Harley panicked, picking up her numerous cards. ¡°What about wood? I¡¯ve got tons of that.¡±


    ¡°That will not suffice.¡±


    ¡°How about clams? You¡¯ve got no coastal cities.¡± Harley tried.


    ¡°You are failing to convince me.¡±


    ¡°Can I give her my stock?¡± Sola asked, raising her hand.


    ¡°Only on your turn. Five seconds.¡± Julia replied, eye to the glass.


    ¡°Marble! I¡¯ve got marble!¡± Harley cried, Essex only replying with a slow, painful head shake, as Julia watched the sand hit the bottom.


    ¡°Time¡¯s up.¡± She declared. ¡°You¡¯re now bankrupt until you harvest your remaining livestock.¡±


    ¡°Man, this sucks¡­¡± Harley complained, Wess shuffling her cards. ¡°You feel like helping me out?¡±


    ¡°Are you kidding? You were my main competitor on wood.¡± Wess reasoned. ¡°You¡¯ll have to raise the price absurdly to meet your debts, and everyone will flock to me. Basic economics.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a board game, Wess. No need to be so cutthroat.¡± Harley complained.


    ¡°Well¡­¡± Wess said, pulling out her wood cards and showing them off. ¡°Who¡¯s got the wood now?¡±


    ¡°Can I kick her out for being a jerk?¡± Harley asked Julia, as a knock came from the door.


    ¡°That¡¯s just how the game¡¯s played.¡± Julia replied, getting up from the floor to answer it.


    Harley turned to Essex. ¡°Now that¡¯s she¡¯s gone, can you still hel-¡°


    ¡°No.¡± Essex bluntly stated.


    Julia giggled to herself, opening the door to see Florey, momentarily distracted.


    ¡°Oh, hey.¡± Florey said.


    ¡°Florey, hi.¡± Julia replied, moving out of the way. ¡°Come in, we¡¯re just playing Corn Grinders.¡±


    ¡°Oh, I didn¡¯t realise I was interrupting¡­¡± Florey said, turning to leave, Julia nudging him in.


    ¡°Nonsense. You know you¡¯re welcome whenever.¡± Julia excused, as the others got up to address him. ¡°Did you need anything?¡±


    ¡°Actually¡­yeah.¡± Florey let out, sighing carefully. ¡°¡­I¡­challenged Avalon to a sparring match.¡±


    ¡°Seriously?¡± Harley remarked, leaning against the couch. ¡°Way to go. That¡¯ll finally teach him a thing or two.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, really knock some sense into him!¡± Sola agreed, scratching her chin. ¡°Or knock the nonsense out of him¡­¡±


    Julia looked at Florey¡¯s worried expression. ¡°I¡¯m assuming you didn¡¯t come over to brag.¡±


    Florey shook his head. ¡°¡­I need some help¡­I¡¯m¡­not the best at combat, and I need to be better if I¡¯m to beat Avalon.¡±


    Wess scoffed. ¡°He¡¯s not exactly a formidable foe.¡±


    ¡°Even still, he has a Whil, and I¡¯m pretty inexperienced with one-on-one combat.¡± Florey admitted. ¡°If I don¡¯t know what I¡¯m doing¡­¡±


    ¡°We will aid you in this.¡± Essex said, bowing to him. ¡°It is important that we use our knowledge for those who require it.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve already beaten him once. I can show you a couple techniques to really make him hurt.¡± Harley bragged, flexing a little. ¡°How about after our game?¡±


    Florey smiled proudly. ¡°Thanks. I didn¡¯t expect you to offer help so quickly.¡±


    The team sat back down to continue their game, as Julia rested a hand on Florey¡¯s shoulder and leaned into him.


    ¡°Florey¡­is there a reason you didn¡¯t ask your own team for help?¡± Julia asked. ¡°I¡¯m not accusing you of anything, but that¡¯s kinda what they¡¯re there for.¡±


    Florey went to speak, but deliberately let go of it and spoke again. ¡°They¡­were all busy. You know, we¡¯re near the end of semester, lots of assessments.¡±


    Julia looked him over, before smiling back at him. ¡°Yeah, makes sense. Admittedly, we should be studying a lot more too.¡±


    ¡°Right, yeah.¡± Florey said.


    ¡°Except us, since we¡¯re already geniuses.¡± Julia joked.


    ¡°Well, yeah, obviously. That¡¯d just be a waste.¡± Florey replied, laughing happily.


    ¡°You¡¯ll save us front row seats when it happens, right?¡± Julia asked, sitting back down with the others.


    ¡°Will do.¡± Florey clarified, nodding in confirmation.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°One¡­¡±


    ¡°Two¡­¡±


    ¡°Three!¡±


    Florey and Essex clashed on the field, blade to blade, pushing against each other, before Florey lost his footing and was knocked back, falling badly against the ground. His weapon fell from his hand, as Essex re-centred herself.


    ¡°Balance is important. A sparring match only requires you falling once.¡± Essex explained, as Florey picked himself back up. ¡°You have chosen a longer-range weapon, which will alter your centre of gravity as you attack.¡±


    ¡°Yeah¡­¡± Florey said, staring back at his halberd. ¡°I didn¡¯t really factor that into the design.¡±


    ¡°Keep it up, Florey! You can do it!¡± Julia cheered from the sidelines. ¡°You¡¯ve got this way more than Avalon!¡±


    Florey blushed and waved back. ¡°Thanks!¡±


    ¡°I know you¡¯re just encouraging him, but are you sure of his chances?¡± Wess asked, sitting beside Julia. ¡°His lack of experience is¡­¡±


    Florey fell backwards again, nearly landing on his own halberd.


    ¡°¡­obvious, and his lack of a Whil puts him at a disadvantage.¡±


    ¡°You seem to manage.¡± Julia remarked, getting a dry laugh from Wess.


    ¡°Might I remind you I¡¯ve lost both of my matches with Team Ferocity?¡± Wess recalled. ¡°Us Venators without a Whil always have to work around those who do. But if we¡¯re lucky, you become too reliant on them.¡±


    Wess waved her hand. ¡°Regardless, I¡¯m curious if Florey¡¯s ego will let him handle a loss.¡±


    ¡°Ego?¡± Julia asked.


    Wess stared back at her. ¡°He took offence to Avalon proclaiming himself the greatest. Most people wouldn¡¯t get up in arms about that.¡±


    ¡°¡­he doesn¡¯t have an ego.¡± Julia reasoned, watching Florey throw himself back at Essex over and over. ¡°He¡¯s passionate, and opinionated. He hasn¡¯t always had the best luck, so he often has to fight for what he wants, even if it terrifies him inside¡­¡±


    Florey hit the dirt again.


    ¡°¡­or if he¡¯s unprepared for it.¡±


    Harley and Sola re-emerged from the dorms, carrying out some freshly prepared food for the group, as Julia twiddled her thumbs. ¡°I¡¯m surprised he came to us and not the rest of Team Vanguard.¡± Julia said, rubbing her arm. ¡°I haven¡¯t been great about training him in the past¡­¡±


    Wess sighed out. ¡°Well, if Team Vanguard¡¯s as busy as he says, it might be safe to see us as his necessary backups.¡±


    ¡°More like his discount option.¡± Julia said, Wess chuckling to herself. ¡°Or his store-brand option.¡±


    ¡°His obligatory coupon purchase.¡± Wess retorted, Julia giggling now as well.


    ¡°His free trial.¡±


    ¡°His free sample at the counter.¡±


    ¡°His pre-order bonus.¡±


    ¡°His batteries included with the toy.¡±


    Julia and Wess snickered to each other, amusing themselves, as Florey caught a glimpse of them in the middle of his training, noticing how close Wess was to Julia. How much she¡­


    Julia¡­


    His frustration distracting him, Essex took a swipe at Florey, which he couldn¡¯t dodge in time, scratching his face and knocking him back, as he clutched it in pain.


    ¡°Ow, shit¡­¡± He let out, noticing some blood on his hand, Essex rushing over.


    ¡°Reliasda Selo. I did not mean to injure you.¡± Essex apologised, inspecting the wound. ¡°I had assumed you would block the attack.¡±


    ¡°¡­I guess I didn¡¯t.¡± Florey excused, the others soon joining them.


    ¡°Are you alright? Did you get hurt?¡± Harley asked. ¡°Essex, you¡¯re meant to go easy on him.¡±


    ¡°No, that was my fault. I got distracted.¡± Florey admitted, bringing up his halberd again. ¡°Come on, let¡¯s keep it up.¡±


    ¡°It would be reckless to not have that treated.¡± Essex advised, lowering her scythe. ¡°Pain is temporary, but injury is not to be ignored.¡±


    ¡°I said I¡¯m fine.¡± Florey said, aiming his weapon, as Essex refused to raise hers.


    ¡°I will not spar with you if you are acting this reckless. It will only mean I may damage you further.¡± She reasoned.


    Florey continued aiming his halberd, before breathing out and lowering it, holding his hand to his cut. ¡°Yeah¡­sorry, I¡¯ll get this checked out at the infirmary.¡±


    ¡°Here.¡± Sola said, offering a wet tea towel. ¡°You don¡¯t want it getting infected.¡±


    ¡°Thanks.¡± Florey replied, keeping it pressed against his cheek, Harley resting a hand on his shoulder.


    ¡°I¡¯m gonna take you there.¡± Harley offered, grabbing her things. ¡°Help yourself to the food. We should be back soon enough.¡±


    ¡°Okay. Don¡¯t take too long, Florey!¡± Julia called, watching them disappear into the main building.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Harley and Florey walked in silence, Harley admiring the architecture of the main building, as Florey still idly touched his wound, covering it with the towel to avoid any further bleeding.


    ¡°Sorry¡­¡± Florey said. ¡°I didn¡¯t mean to drag you away from the team¡­¡±


    ¡°Hey, I offered.¡± Harley pointed out, bumping his shoulder. ¡°Can¡¯t have you wandering around with a huge cut on your face.¡±


    ¡°Yeah¡­¡± Florey said, letting the moment breathe. ¡°How¡¯s first year been for you guys?¡±


    Harley placed a finger to her chin. ¡°Hectic.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Florey asked.


    Harley¡¯s eyes drooped. ¡°We got attacked by four Wailing. How many have you guys fought?¡±


    Florey looked a bit awkward. ¡°Fair call.¡±


    Harley kept walking, smiling to herself. ¡°But the team¡¯s been great. I don¡¯t think I would¡¯ve coped with half of the stuff this year if everyone wasn¡¯t so awesome and supportive. Sola¡¯s like my own personal cheerleader.¡±


    Florey looked to the side, thinking to himself. ¡°How¡¯ve¡­Julia and Wess been getting along?¡±


    ¡°Those two?¡± Harley said, snickering. ¡°They¡¯re as thick as thieves. Wess has been opening up little by little, but she¡¯s easily the most comfortable with Julia.¡±


    ¡°Comfortable?¡± Florey asked.


    ¡°Yeah. From what she¡¯s told us, Wess needed to act certain ways around her parents and rarely got a say in what she did or where she went. Also, and don¡¯t tell her I told you this, but her parents tried to stop her becoming a Venator.¡± Harley explained.


    Florey kept walking, his gaze focused forward, as he replied. ¡°Uhuh.¡±


    Harley nodded along. ¡°But with Julia, she doesn¡¯t need to act, or prove herself. She can just focus on herself, and she¡¯s always got someone in her corner. And Julia hears her out¡­more then we used to, admittedly.¡± Harley confessed. ¡°She was the first to really let Wess in.¡±


    Florey noticed his saddened expression in a passing window, as he turned away from Harley and questioned her further. ¡°¡­that sounds good for Wess.¡±


    Harley picked up on his subtle tells and smiled. ¡°You don¡¯t need to be jealous of her. Julia has plenty of room for you too.¡±


    Florey felt a pang in his chest, as they continued walking to the infirmary, Florey hoping to get back to sparring as soon as possible.


    If she does, then she hasn¡¯t shown it¡­


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Training continued as expected, with Florey slowly getting better and better with his halberd over the course of the week. Julia, Essex, and on occasion Sola, helped him get used to sparring against Whiled combatants, and Wess and Harley offered advice with melee combat.


    Harley¡¯s advice seemed very skewed toward hitting Avalon in the crotch, but Florey would be lying if he said he hadn¡¯t considered it.


    Regardless, the week was slowly consumed by Florey¡¯s training, save for the couple classes he still had to attend.


    ¡°Anyway¡­¡± Cecil said, checking his watch before the bell went off. ¡°¡­that would signify the end of class. You all know what¡¯s expected of you, so don¡¯t let me down. This assignment¡¯s important.¡±


    The class picked themselves up and left, as Chops rested herself against Florey¡¯s desk, Florey still scrawling notes down.


    ¡°Hey, you free this afternoon? Me and Lenin wanted to check out this new exhibition at the art gallery.¡± Chops asked, Florey breaking a sweat.


    That¡¯s right. I didn¡¯t tell them about the fight.


    ¡°N-no, thanks. I¡¯m getting myself ready for the assignment.¡± Florey lied, Lenin stretching tiredly.


    ¡°Your loss. They¡¯re displaying some works from as early as the Second Wailing War. Real cultured stuff.¡± Lenin sold, as Florey went back to his notes.


    ¡°I¡¯m sure¡­¡± Florey said, Chops and Lenin taking their leave, as Cecil was about to do so as well, before noticing Florey still in his seat.


    He wandered over and peeked at Florey¡¯s notes.


    ¡°Are these worth reading?¡± Cecil asked, pointing down to his notebook.


    Florey looked up at him and started sweating. ¡°O-oh, not really. They¡¯re¡­just some random theories I¡¯ve been working on¡­¡±


    ¡°Well, a theory would imply evidence, so there must be some validity to what¡¯s here.¡± Cecil pointed out, pulling out the notebook from under him.


    Florey reached for it instinctively, as Cecil flipped through the pages, nodding in affirmation.


    ¡°This is really good.¡± He said, turning back to Florey. ¡°These are your ideas?¡±


    Florey nodded. ¡°I-it just made sense, c-considering their biology¡­¡±


    Cecil kept reading in silence, before smiling to himself. ¡°A disease! It seems so obvious now. Of course the magic wouldn¡¯t be filtered through the liver¡­genetic component¡­wow¡­¡±


    ¡°B-but we can¡¯t autopsy Gelatinous Wailing, so it¡¯s pretty pointless¡­¡± Florey downplayed, Cecil waving his hand.


    ¡°Well, we can¡¯t autopsy them yet. Who¡¯s to say where we¡¯ll be six, seven years from now?¡± Cecil reasoned, handing the book back. ¡°Florey, those are exactly what I¡¯m looking for.¡±


    Florey lifted his head. ¡°Looking for? For what?¡±


    Cecil went to speak, before laughing to himself. ¡°Tell you what. I¡¯ve got a few more classes left in the day. After they¡¯re done, come to my office, and I¡¯ll let you in on something.¡±


    Florey looked around unsurely and laughed a bit. ¡°You¡¯re making it sound like I¡¯m joining a cult.¡±


    Cecil chuckled to himself. ¡°No, Florey¡­I¡¯ve got an offer. I don¡¯t want to promise much, but I think you¡¯ll take to it. I¡­know Venator combat hasn¡¯t been your favourite, and the other teachers tell me your results in their units are lacking, so this may be exactly what you need to really find yourself.¡±


    Cecil turned back and started getting ready to leave. ¡°Or you can just go back to swinging your halberd around.¡±


    Cecil waved to him as he left, leaving Florey to stare back down at his notebook, reading over his ideas again and weighing up the merits of the upcoming fight.


    Florey felt ready. Some part of him was ready to commit to his promise, whether it was the pressure of Team Valiant¡¯s presence, Avalon¡¯s showboating, or his own honour code.


    But even still, he hesitated on entering the training grounds.


    ¡°Well, I¡¯m not surprised!¡± Avalon announced, standing alone on the sparring court. ¡°I knew he was just talk and bravado!¡±


    ¡°Look who¡¯s also talking¡­¡± Acadia remarked, getting a laugh out of Wess sitting near her, as the rest of Team Valiant were getting antsy.


    ¡°Where the hell is he?¡± Harley asked, looking around the grounds. ¡°He didn¡¯t ditch us after all that training, did he?¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s be honest, he just ran away.¡± Avalon chimed in. ¡°Too scared t-¡°


    ¡°Could you shut up, Avalon?¡± Claudius asked, sitting with the others. ¡°He¡¯s not scared of you. I can promise that.¡±


    ¡°He should be here¡­¡± Julia said, pulling out her tablet.


    ¡°Florey wouldn¡¯t just leave us.¡± Sola said. ¡°That¡¯d be pretty shitty of him¡­I mean, we even bothered to get Ferris to referee.¡±


    Ferris was lying on the sidelines, half asleep and shouldering an unfortunate headache from her lack of an afternoon nap, as Essex cleared her throat.


    ¡°It would not matter if he were to lose anyway.¡± Essex pointed out. ¡°It is a petty conflict, but one he has promised to act on.¡±


    Julia sent another text to him, asking desperately where he was, as Florey lay outside the walkway¡¯s adjacent to the training grounds, catching a glimpse of the others on the field and shrinking back down into his seat with his halberd.


    What was I thinking? I¡¯m not built for this. I¡¯m gonna get my ass handed to me. He realised, as Julia¡¯s next text came in, surprising him with the buzz of his tablet.


    He looked it over, guilt hitting him again, as he noticed Team Valiant on the field, all looking out for him, despite not needing to be there.


    ¡­I can¡¯t just blow this off. I need to do what¡¯s right. Florey thought, pocketing his tablet and getting up, even if his legs felt like they refused.


    ¡°I¡¯m coming for you, Aval-¡°


    ¡°Florey?¡± Chops called, freezing Florey in place. ¡°There you are. Man, you¡¯re really hard to track down.¡±


    Florey turned and noticed Chops and Joleicia approaching behind him, clearly in a huff, as he looked between them and the fight, deciding which to commit to.


    ¡°Florey, I¡¯m mad at you!¡± Joleicia yelled, making that decision for him. ¡°Since when were you fighting Avalon?¡±


    Florey blinked. ¡°Who told you?¡±


    ¡°Sola mentioned you were training for it the other day.¡± Joleicia said, stamping her foot.


    ¡°Wait, that¡¯s why we¡¯re here?¡± Chops asked in utter disbelief. ¡°Florey, why didn¡¯t you tell us?¡±


    Florey tried to look innocent and rubbed the back of his neck. ¡°Well, you knew I was training with Team Valiant¡­¡±


    ¡°Not for this!¡± Joleicia yelled. ¡°And that¡¯s not a proper answer!¡±


    ¡°If you needed help training, you could¡¯ve asked us.¡± Chops reasoned, only half-facing Florey. ¡°It¡¯s common curtesy, at least¡­¡±


    ¡°Look, can we talk about this later?¡± Florey asked, looking back at the training grounds. ¡°If I¡¯m not out there soon, I might have to forfeit.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s still not the issue here!¡± Joleicia complained, getting legitimately angry. ¡°You lied to us for no reason! We totally would¡¯ve understood! Didn¡¯t you trust us?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not that¡­¡± Florey started. ¡°¡­I need to go out there. I made a promise and I intend to keep it.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, great moral compass there¡­¡± Chops remarked, Joleicia staring her down.


    ¡°Florey, if you really need to do this, then we¡¯ll support you.¡± Joleicia said, finally taking a breath. ¡°But if you do this again, don¡¯t go behind our backs and leave us in the dark.¡±


    ¡°¡­yeah, you¡¯re right.¡± Florey said, mostly to move things along to the fight. ¡°You don¡¯t have to stick around¡­¡±


    ¡°Oh, we¡¯re sticking around!¡± Joleicia declared, trudging out to sparring court with Chops in tow, as Florey finally made his appearance.


    ¡°There you are!¡± Harley called. ¡°We were about to send out a search party.¡±


    You indirectly did. Florey thought, catching Ferris refereeing, unfortunately, as he stood on the other side of the field opposite Avalon.


    Joleicia and Chops joined the other teams on the spectator seats, as Joleicia grumpily sat down next to Julia.


    Julia looked side to side. ¡°Are you okay?¡±


    ¡°Peachy!¡± Joleicia exclaimed, clearly still fuming.


    ¡°It¡¯s about time you showed up!¡± Avalon said. ¡°We were about to send out a se-¡°


    ¡°Harley made that joke already!¡± Florey called back, stunning Avalon in place.


    ¡°I-I know, it was a reminder!¡± Avalon said, getting into his pose and holding out his new staff. ¡°You¡¯ll be needing one after I knock you unconscious!¡±


    ¡°Yeah, that¡¯s not happening¡­¡± Ferris grunted, bothering to get up. ¡°You¡¯re knocking each other down, not out. No lasting damage.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s weirdly considerate of her.¡± Julia pointed out, as Chops tapped her shoulder.


    ¡°Wait a minute¡­¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t need Faller breathing down my neck about more students getting hurt because of me.¡± Ferris said, grabbing out her pocket flask and returning to her seat. ¡°But other than that, go nuts.¡±


    ¡°There we go.¡± Chops remarked, Harley laughing to herself.


    Florey resettled himself, ready to go again, as Avalon held up a finger.


    ¡°Hold on.¡± Avalon said. ¡°Instead of just once, let¡¯s make it first to three knock downs. Spice things up a little.¡±


    Florey was a bit thrown off and shrugged his shoulders. ¡°Okay? Can we do this already?¡±


    ¡°Of course!¡± Avalon declared, using his Whil to summon his ¡®electric fence¡¯ and sending it shooting across the ground toward Florey, as Florey was immediately shocked backwards, stumbling over his own feet while avoiding the approaching electricity, before falling to the ground clumsily.


    ¡°I guess that would be one for me.¡± Avalon proudly boasted, dancing around with his staff, Acadia and Claudius looking on in confusion.


    ¡°He could¡¯ve just ended the fight then and there if he didn¡¯t make it three knockdowns¡­¡± Acadia groaned, face in her hands.


    ¡°Avalon¡¯s two things. Prideful and arrogant.¡± Claudius pointed out.


    Acadia gave him the side-eye. ¡°They¡¯re practically the same thing¡­¡±


    Florey managed to get back to his feet, dusting himself off, as Julia called from the stands.


    ¡°Come on, Florey! You can bounce back!¡± She cheered. ¡°Show him how much ass you really kick!¡±


    Florey grinned back to her, as Avalon rolled his eyes.


    ¡°A cute display, you guys.¡± He remarked.


    Florey turned to him again, halberd to his side, as Avalon returned his electricity back to himself.


    ¡°I can assure you, I won¡¯t do that again.¡± Avalon said, moving his staff toward the suspended electricity. ¡°Only because I wouldn¡¯t be the best if I kept doing the same thing over and over.¡±


    ¡°Does than mean you¡¯ll stop asking me out?¡± Harley called from the stands, as Avalon froze in place.


    ¡°¡­anywho,¡± He started. ¡°I hope you¡¯re prepared. I¡¯m not just some one trick pony¡­¡±


    As he moved his staff around, the electricity from his ¡®fence¡¯ wrapped around it, creating what looked to be an electrified baton.


    ¡°¡­I¡¯ve got multiple.¡±


    Avalon started running, Florey freezing in place out of instinctual fear, until Avalon was too close to ignore, causing Florey to run away and around the court avoiding him.


    What was I thinking?! I¡¯m gonna die here!


    ¡°Florey, you¡¯ve gotta knock him down! You can¡¯t just run away! He¡¯s not even that good!¡± Harley called out, Florey narrowly avoiding a swing from Avalon.


    ¡°How about when I get a Whil, I can take matters into my own hands?!¡± Florey complained, swinging back at Avalon, Avalon narrowly dodging and hitting Florey¡¯s leg in turn, knocking him down for a second time.


    Ferris briefly glanced over, before lying back down. ¡°That¡¯s, uhh¡­two, I think. One to go.¡±


    I hate her so much. Florey thought, picking himself up again, Avalon cackling to himself on the sidelines.


    ¡°Oh, poor Florey. He sure looks quite pathetic right n-¡° Avalon boasted, before stepping back and tripping over his cape, falling down to the ground.


    Ferris looked up, then lay back down. ¡°That¡¯s two to one.¡±


    ¡°H-hey!¡± Avalon cried, fumbling back up. ¡°That¡¯s not fair! Don¡¯t give him special treatment!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t fall over your own cape.¡± Ferris advised, Avalon catching snickering coming from the stands.


    ¡°Stop it! I don¡¯t deserve this!¡± Avalon moped, stamping his foot. ¡°Why¡¯s everyone being so mean to me today?!¡±


    I¡¯m pathetic? Florey thought, regaining his composure as Avalon had his tantrum.


    ¡°You¡¯re all jealous of the cape! It¡¯s a status symbol tha-¡° He tried, before falling over the cape again, drawing more laughter from the stands, and admittedly Ferris.


    ¡°Two for two, loser.¡± Ferris chuckled, wiping a tear from her eye. ¡°Try to look a bit more dignified, okay?¡±


    Florey watched on as the other laughed at Avalon, even his own teammates, as Avalon desperately tried to come off as regal and important while falling on his face, and only proving everyone¡¯s assumptions of him.


    And then the question crossed Florey¡¯s mind in the midst of the show.


    Why was this happening?


    In the middle of her laughter, Ferris heard a sudden thump against the ground and noticed Florey lying flat on his back, arms splayed out, before he got up, grabbed his halberd and left the field.


    ¡°Hey kid, where¡¯re you going?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m forfeiting.¡± Florey announced, trudging off in the other direction, the others noticing and stopping their laughter.


    ¡°Forfeiting?¡± Avalon repeated. ¡°I-I should hope so! My brilliance has finally dawned on you! Team Exemplary will not be trifled wi-¡°


    ¡°Oh, would you give it a rest?¡± Acadia called from the stands, hands over the railing. ¡°You didn¡¯t beat him, he left! And no, not because he was scared of you!¡±


    ¡°Did he just leave?¡± Wess asked, peaking over the stands. ¡°Even though he was the one who initiated the fight?¡±


    Joleicia stared at him too and started to get out of her seat. ¡°I should g-¡°


    Essex held out her hand and blocked Joleicia off, before looking back at her.


    ¡°I will retrieve him.¡±


    And with that, Essex leaped out of her seat, following after the swiftly disappearing Florey, now out of sight from the grounds.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Florey kept up his pace, his frustration building, as he thought about kicking the wall to let off some steam, before Essex swung around the corner, catching up to him.


    ¡°Florey, you should not leave during a match.¡± Essex said, as he kept walking. ¡°There is no honou-¡°


    ¡°I don¡¯t wanna hear it!¡± He complained. ¡°Screw honour, screw doing what¡¯s right. Nobody appreciates me for it anyway.¡±


    Essex followed behind. ¡°We have aided in your training and observed during the match.¡±


    ¡°So?!¡± Florey yelled, turning around and repeatedly poking Essex¡¯s chest. ¡°Where were you when I was standing up to Avalon?! Where were you when I was calling Ferris out on her bullshit?! Where was anyone when I was¡­¡±


    Florey stepped back, before crouching to the ground. ¡°I hate this whole¡­bullshit academy!¡± He yelled. ¡°What¡¯re we doing?! We¡¯re not winning the Wailing conflict, we¡¯re fucking around! Are we actually becoming Venators?!¡±


    Essex waited for an appropriate moment before sitting down with him. ¡°We are here to train as Venators. We are not prepared to fight the Wailing.¡±


    ¡°And some of us never will be.¡± Florey spat, sighing deeply. ¡°¡­I¡¯m not gonna be a Venator, and I don¡¯t want to be anymore. No matter what everyone says.¡± Florey declared. ¡°Everyone assures me Venators are saving the day, and that they¡¯re something worth being. They¡¯re taking down the Wailing, one by one. No matter what happened in my life, I still had this idea of Venators being paragons of good, beacons of change for humanity.¡± Florey said, getting up angrily. ¡°But they aren¡¯t doing shit! Wailing are still just as much of a problem as they¡¯ve been for centuries, and we¡¯re letting idiots like Avalon walk around calling themselves the best and lead future Venator teams!¡±


    He threw his halberd onto the ground. ¡°And he goes unchallenged! Nobody cares enough to prove him wrong! Does no one care about the integrity that should come with being a Venator? He¡¯s a lousy fighter, he¡¯s a total wimp, and he¡¯ll probably die in a training accident! Where are the Venators who actually want to change things and finally wipe out the Wailing once and for all?¡±


    Essex breathed out, watching Florey hype himself up, before feeling like she needed to step in, and resting a hand on his shoulder. ¡°Florey, I must tell you¡­I have arrived at the academy with similar intentions. I wish to end the conflict by any means, with the Wailing no longer a threat to humanity.¡±


    She removed her hand. ¡°But this is not the way to handle the issue. Acting on selfish desires and only seeking catharsis is a self-destructive path. Do not let violence be your guide.¡±


    Florey looked back at her, clear and heavy thoughts crossing his mind after Essex¡¯s declaration, before he slapped her hand away.


    ¡°Hypocrite¡­¡± He declared, trudging off down the hall again.


    In frustration, Florey kicked the wall, bruising his foot, before doing it again, leaving a few scuff marks against it. He lifted his leg again, ready to continue, before sighing and following his way down the hall, wandering aimlessly.


    His foot started to sting, as he lay back against the wall. Why don¡¯t they get it? Don¡¯t they want the conflict to end? I am the only sane one here?


    Florey looked up at the ceiling, before scoffing to himself.


    ¡°You¡¯re the one talking to yourself¡­¡± He muttered, picking himself back up and continuing down the hall.


    He wandered far enough to make his way to the science building, looking over the equipment in need of something to do, as he crossed past Cecil¡¯s office and stopped by the door, drawing Cecil¡¯s attention away from his paperwork and his singing.


    ¡°¡­so the kingdom collapses in¡­ruined in despair¡­oh, Florey, you made it.¡± Cecil said, putting down his forms. ¡°I was starting to think you¡¯d chicken out.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, hi, Mr Cecil.¡± Florey replied, still dejected, as Cecil indicated to his seat.


    ¡°Please, take a seat. I promise I won¡¯t waste your time.¡± Cecil said, smiling back to him. ¡°And feel free to call me Ryan.¡±


    ¡°I¡­might just stick with Cecil.¡± Florey said, Cecil shrugging his shoulders.


    ¡°Whatever makes you comfortable.¡± He said, before grabbing a couple stacks of paper and placing them on his desk, as he sat against it. ¡°Now before I start, I want to ask a couple questions of you.¡±


    Florey nodded back to him.


    ¡°What does the term EHM mean to you?¡± Cecil asked, as Florey tapped his chin.


    ¡°That¡¯s¡­Event Horizon Manufacturing, right? They¡¯re the biggest tech manufacturers in Daysend.¡± Florey asked, Cecil nodding his head.


    ¡°Correct. Second question, how much experience do you have with Wailing biology?¡±


    Florey looked to the side awkwardly. ¡°I did some basic dissections in science class, and I¡¯ve spent a ton of time looking into it, but my knowledge is mostly theoretical¡­¡±


    ¡°Not a problem.¡± Cecil dismissed, before resettling himself. ¡°Last question. How much experience do you have with Wailing themselves?¡±


    Florey¡¯s pupils shrank, as he sunk into his chair a little, mostly avoiding eye contact. ¡°¡­I¡­was, uhh¡­face to f-face with one when I was little. My parents pulled me away, but it clawed into my neck before they saved me.¡±


    Florey pointed to the scar running past his hoodie, as Cecil nodded along.


    ¡°I tried to fight back, until a team of Venators came in and saved us.¡± Florey explained, pulling himself back up from the chair. ¡°I wanted to thank them afterwards, but they we-¡°


    ¡°Okay. That¡¯s all I needed.¡± Cecil said, grabbing the papers again and getting up from his desk.


    ¡°Wait, where are you going?¡±


    ¡°I figured we could move this to the lab. You seem uncomfortable in my office.¡± Cecil reasoned, insisting Florey follow him, as they moved to the main academy research lab, still as pristinely kept as it always was.


    Cecil rested against one of the counters, staring up at the night sky displayed through the overhead skylight before Florey felt pressured to follow his lead, propping himself on a counter as well.


    They both stared out the window, not saying a word to each other, as Cecil slid the papers over to Florey.


    ¡°I¡¯ll stop beating around the bush.¡± Cecil admitted. ¡°I have a job offer for you.¡±


    Florey was left stunned, struggling to process Cecil¡¯s request. ¡°A¡­w-what for?¡±


    ¡°A research position at Event Horizon Manufacturing. We¡¯ve been looking for someone to shadow me and my staff, someone with a keen interest in Wailing and their biology.¡± Cecil explained. ¡°Lines up pretty well, huh?¡±


    Florey blinked. ¡°Your staff? Are you¡­¡±


    Cecil nodded. ¡°Well, I¡¯m the co-CEO of the company. My business partner, Marcus, handles most of the bureaucratic work and board meetings.¡±


    Florey finally took in everything he was saying and stood back up frantically. ¡°This¡­I can¡¯t¡­I¡¯m in the middle of a degree¡­I can¡¯t just¡­¡±


    ¡°Florey, you¡¯re wasting your potential here. You have a brilliant mind that the Venators don¡¯t need, and you shouldn¡¯t need them either.¡± Cecil reasoned, turning to him. ¡°You¡¯re no good swinging some weapon around.¡±


    ¡°¡­but I¡¯d just be leaving my team.¡± Florey declared. ¡°This is my big opportunity to¡­¡±


    ¡°And this is a big opportunity too. I¡¯m here to help you, to give you the chances very few get. I wasn¡¯t lucky enough at your age to get this chance, so I don¡¯t want to see a fellow prodigy go unappreciated by those around him.¡± Cecil said.


    Cecil indicated to the paperwork again. ¡°This is your decision.¡± Cecil said, tapping his pen to the paper. ¡°Only you can decide this for yourself.¡±


    Florey stared back at the pages, reading over the ¡®Event Horizon Manufacturing¡¯ title again and again in his head, before picking up the first page, then putting it back down.


    ¡°¡­I need time¡­to think about it.¡± Florey said, leaving his hand on the stack. ¡°This is a big decision and I want to be completely sure. I don¡¯t just want to abandon people¡­¡±


    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t expect anything less.¡± Cecil remarked, getting up from the counter. ¡°Take the forms with you and sleep on it. And, come back whenever you¡¯ve made your choice.¡±


    Florey nodded, mostly to reaffirm himself, as Cecil rested a hand on his shoulder.


    ¡°We¡¯d really appreciate you.¡± Cecil insisted. ¡°I have faith you¡¯ll make the right choice for yourself.¡±


    Florey smiled back to him, taking the sheets and his bag and leaving out the lab¡¯s main door and reflecting on the day he¡¯d just had.


    Cecil stayed back in the lab, still staring out at the window, as he hummed to himself while watching Florey, waving back as he ducked around the corner.


    ¡°¡­but the rubble hides monuments¡­that are always there¡­¡±

 Chapter 19: Bestalow

    ¡°Bestalow, Bestalow, I have love, I want to show. Let those dear, oh dear to me, end the day, oh so happy¡­¡±


    Sola sang to herself as she hung up banners on the wall, reaching up on her high stool.


    ¡°Gifts for those, close to my heart, let my thanks, just be the start. Let the Old Gods, let them see, that you make me, so happy!¡± She finished, finally pinning up the other end of the banner and nearly falling off.


    She hopped off, looking around the room and admiring her decorations, as a ring came out from the kitchen and Julia pulled out some baked sweets from the oven.


    ¡°Whoa!¡± Sola cried out, rushing over to try some, before Julia moved her hand away.


    ¡°Sola, they¡¯re hot.¡± She warned. ¡°And they¡¯re for everyone tomorrow, remember?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I know.¡± Sola let out, sitting up on the kitchen counter.


    ¡°Are most of the decorations up?¡± Julia asked.


    Sola gave a thumbs up. ¡°Yessir! Lelvow itself would be proud!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sure they would be.¡± Julia smiled, tussling Sola¡¯s hair, as the dorm¡¯s door opened.


    ¡°Happy Bestalow!¡± Harley called out, bringing Julia and Sola into a hug. ¡°I¡¯m so excited for tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°Same!¡± Sola cheered, getting off the counter. ¡°I can¡¯t wait to show you my gift!¡±


    ¡°No jumping the gun.¡± Wess advised, joining them. ¡°We¡¯re waiting until tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°Aww, can¡¯t I get a peak early?¡± Harley teased, Wess batting her off.


    ¡°We respect Bestalow tradition in this dorm room, Harley.¡± Wess declared. ¡°Don¡¯t spoil it for the rest of us.¡±


    ¡°Vonodo.¡± Essex spoke up, having entered with the others, now standing off to the side of the room. ¡°What is the purpose of this decoration? And what is happening tomorrow?¡±


    The others looked confused.


    ¡°It¡¯s Bestalow.¡±


    Essex blinked.


    ¡°We¡¯re celebrating Bestalow with Team Vanguard.¡± Julia informed.


    ¡°Is that a form of merriment?¡± Essex asked, shocking the others further.


    ¡°You don¡¯t know about Bestalow?!¡± Harley cried. ¡°You poor thing!¡±


    ¡°What have you been doing with your life?!¡± Sola exclaimed.


    Essex shook her head. ¡°I have heard of this event, but we do not celebrate in the Segaru Clan. Indulgent time can be spent working and aiding others and is heavily discouraged. The only celebration permitted is Boncala Day.¡±


    She bowed to the others. ¡°Relias. I do not intend to be ill-informed of common customs.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not a problem.¡± Julia excused, grabbing her hands. ¡°It just means we can show you everything about it!¡±


    She spun around the room, showing off Sola¡¯s decorations. ¡°Every year, we put up decorations and hang out with our loved ones to show them how much they mean to us. We also gives gifts to those we care about.¡±


    Julia pointed to what looked like the academy Spire, but scaled down, with almost branch-like appendages coming off of it, each carrying a present.


    ¡°You tell the people giving you your gift what you want, and then they have to add something to it that shows how much they know you.¡± Harley said, joining Julia¡¯s side.


    Essex nodded along. ¡°So¡­if someone were to ask for a book, you would gift them a book about something they are passionate of.¡±


    ¡°Exactly.¡± Julia said, blushing in embarrassment. ¡°You can also be a bit vague about it. I indulged a little and asked for something really rare¡­¡±


    ¡°And guess who had to get her gift?¡± Wess joined in, sighing out loud. ¡°You better appreciate it.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sure I will.¡± Julia grinned, pointing to the decorations. ¡°And as part of the celebration, each state has its own Old God that¡¯s used for the holiday.¡± Julia explained, holding up some of the other decorations. ¡°Central Point celebrates with Lelvow, the god of homeliness.¡±


    Essex walked around, noticing the small, yellow figure adorning the banners and balloons across the room.


    ¡°All my decorations have Enprov on them.¡± Sola explained, sidling up to Essex. ¡°I already left them back home, but I wouldn¡¯t have hung them up anyway. It¡¯d be disrespectful.¡±


    ¡°And that¡¯s most of it.¡± Julia finished. ¡°We¡¯re inviting Team Vanguard over tomorrow night to celebrate and exchange gifts with them. Usually, you¡¯d get more then one gift, but it was easier to organise this way.¡±


    ¡°Wait, hold on.¡± Harley said, raising a finger. ¡°So, Essex didn¡¯t know about the gift giving?¡±


    Essex shook her head.


    ¡°So, who was she supposed to give a gift to?¡±


    Julia looked over her list and grimaced. ¡°Florey.¡±


    ¡°I may still have time to retrieve something.¡± Essex said, already opening the door.


    ¡°Every shop is closed. The best you could do at this moment is some sunscreen from the convenience store.¡± Wess advised, Essex realising what she was saying and closing the door again.


    ¡°¡­I suppose I am lacking options.¡± Essex admitted, blushing a little. ¡°What would be appropriate to say at this moment?¡±


    ¡°Oops.¡± Harley said.


    Essex sighed out. ¡°Oops.¡±


    ¡°Since you didn¡¯t ask him for anything, maybe you won¡¯t get a gift either?¡± Sola suggested, pouting a bit. ¡°But that¡¯d really stink for your first Bestalow¡­¡±


    Essex rested a hand on her shoulder. ¡°I will appreciate the company of others. That will be my gift.¡±


    The others looked at her sweetly, Julia blushing excitedly.


    ¡°Essex¡­¡± She said, playfully swatting her arm. ¡°Save the sweet stuff for tomorrow, silly!¡±


    Harley sidled up to Wess. ¡°And a happy Bestalow to you too.¡±


    ¡°Likewise.¡± Wess replied. ¡°Whose gift were you in charge of?¡±


    ¡°Chops.¡± Harley grinned. ¡°She¡¯s so getting the best gift.¡±


    ¡°Really? Ten¡­¡± Wess said, before looking back at Essex. ¡°¡­possibly eight, gifts are being exchanged, and you consider yours to be the best already?¡±


    ¡°Trust me, it¡¯s a good one.¡± Harley bragged, side glancing Wess. ¡°You care to make a wager?¡±


    ¡°Harley, you know I don¡¯t like betting.¡± Wess pointed out, before thinking it over. ¡°¡­but I suppose since it¡¯s nearly Bestalow¡­twenty capitals?¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s make it fifty.¡± Harley said, pulling out a fifty note from her wallet. ¡°So, I¡¯m saying Chops gets the best gift. I¡¯m guessing you¡¯re betting on your gift?¡±


    Wess shook her head and tapped her chinned. ¡°I¡¯m going to say¡­¡± She scanned the room, then landed her finger back on Harley. ¡°You.¡±


    ¡°I get the best one?¡± Harley asked. ¡°Isn¡¯t your gift for Julia?¡±


    ¡°Yes, and it¡¯s a very good gift.¡± Wess said. ¡°But I think you¡¯ll get the best.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡± Harley shrugged. ¡°It¡¯s really a win-win for me.¡±


    ¡°Wow, so advantageous.¡± Wess remarked, smirking to Harley. ¡°You sure d-¡°


    Wess felt her tablet vibrate in her pocket, as she pulled it out, reading her latest messages and groaning.


    ¡°Something up?¡± Harley asked.


    ¡°It¡¯s Cyrus.¡± Wess groaned. ¡°He was planning on coming over tomorrow so we could celebrate Bestalow, but now he insists on going back to the Southern Wayside to celebrate with his family. Honestly, he complains about not being able to spend time with me, and now he¡¯s the one showing me up.¡±


    ¡°You could always catch up with him before he leaves.¡± Julia suggested, now hanging up more decorations with Sola and Essex. ¡°There¡¯s time before the party.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a matter of principle, Julia.¡± Wess pointed out. ¡°¡­and it¡¯s disappointing.¡±


    Harley looked down at her. ¡°Did he stop putting out?¡±


    Wess refused to reply, simply deciding to leave the dorm room and go about her business, as the others gave Harley a look.


    Harley shrugged. ¡°What? It was worth asking.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Bestalow, Bestalow, I have love, I want to show.¡± Joleicia sang, nudging Saxin. ¡°Come on, join in.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡± Saxin agreed, idly peeling potatoes. ¡°Let those dear, oh dear to me, end the day, oh so happy.¡±


    ¡°You really should sing more.¡± Lenin said, entering the dorm and pecking her cheek.


    ¡°I sing plenty when we perform.¡± Saxin pointed out, handing the potatoes off to Joleicia.


    ¡°Yeah, but not enough off stage.¡± Lenin goaded, leaning by the kitchen counter. ¡°Your voice is really pretty.¡±


    ¡°Oh, I know.¡± Saxin advised, closing their distance. ¡°But don¡¯t worry, we¡¯ll both be singing plenty tomorrow night¡­¡±


    Lenin¡¯s eyes lightened up as he remembered their plans. ¡°Oh yeah! I forgot about that.¡±


    ¡°Are you guys performing?¡± Joleicia asked, closing up the oven. ¡°We can totally accompany you!¡±


    Saxin and Lenin giggled to themselves. ¡°Considering your persuasions, I really don¡¯t think you¡¯d want to.¡± Saxin clarified. ¡°It¡¯s not music related.¡±


    Joleicia took a second before it connected. ¡°¡­oh. Oh! You guys mean¡­okay, nevermind.¡±


    ¡°Thanks for the offer, though.¡± Lenin said, as Chops and Florey returned to the dorm, just ready enough to leave again.


    ¡°Morning classes are finally done.¡± Chops let out, collapsing onto the couch. ¡°Give me a second and we can go food shopping¡­¡±


    ¡°All good!¡± Joleicia cheered. ¡°Shepherd¡¯s pie is in the oven and should be ready once we get back.¡±


    ¡°You sure it¡¯s a good idea to leave it unattended?¡± Lenin asked. ¡°I¡¯ve had a couple experiences with fires before and they usually don¡¯t work out.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Team Valiant¡¯s just across the hallway. If this place goes up, they¡¯ll be the first to know.¡± Joleicia advised, clapping her hands. ¡°Let¡¯s get ready for the big shop!¡±


    The team went about grabbing their effects, leaving Florey as the odd one out, still standing near the entrance in his own little world.


    ¡°How was class?¡± Joleicia asked, grabbing her backpack.


    Florey awoke from his daze. ¡°Oh¡­good. Got, uhh, got a lot of stuff done.¡±


    ¡°You better get ready, Florey.¡± Chops said, having dragged herself from the couch. ¡°It¡¯s almost time to go.¡±


    ¡°Right.¡± He replied, heading to his bunk to empty his bag, dropping off a few of his textbooks, before pulling out¡­


    ¡­the papers. He realised, looking over them carefully, making sure to hide them with his body. Mr Cecil will want an answer soon.


    Florey kept reading ¡®EHM¡¯ in his mind, slowly but surely, floating off into his daze again.


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°Florey?¡± Joleicia asked, the rest of the team standing by the door. ¡°Are you ready to leave?¡±


    Florey took a moment to reply.


    ¡°Just a second.¡±


    He stuffed the papers back into his bag, following behind them with it slung over his shoulder, hanging back as the others talked amongst themselves.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Gifts for those, close to my heart, let my thanks, just be the start¡­¡± Julia mumbled to herself, heading back through the dorm halls. The following evening had fast approached, as she¡¯d spent most of the morning preparing the dorm, almost over preparing. Fortunately, Julia was finished for the day and could duck out to get some air and stretch her legs, as the time planned for the party was soon approaching.


    ¡°I¡¯ve gotta share some more Bestalow stories with Essex¡­¡± Julia mulled. ¡°I¡¯m sure she¡¯d get a kick out of them.¡±


    Julia skirted around the hallway, getting herself pumped for the party as she approached her dorm.


    ¡°Finally, a get together with Vanguard!¡± She cheered, pumping her fist in the air and dancing through the hall. ¡°And on Bestalow of all days! If dad could see me no-¡°


    ¡°Hi Julia.¡±


    Julia froze mid-dance, realising Joleicia was outside her team¡¯s dorm and in the hall, as Julia¡¯s anxiety was starting to set off alarm bells.


    Joleicia looked back at her. ¡°Were you just dancing through the hall?¡±


    Julia stayed still, failing to reply.


    ¡°I mean, it¡¯s cool if you were.¡± Joleicia dismissed. ¡°I do it when no one¡¯s looking.¡±


    Julia sighed out. ¡°Sorry, just got excited about the party¡­¡±


    ¡°No need to apologise.¡± Joleicia exclaimed, slinging an arm around her. ¡°Who wouldn¡¯t be excited? It¡¯s the season of sharing and love!¡±


    Julia let herself calm down and giggled. ¡°You make it sound really corny.¡±


    ¡°Oh, oops.¡± Joleicia let out, rubbing her neck. ¡°Anyway, the rest of Vanguard¡¯s already in your dorm. I hope you¡¯re ready for festivities!¡±


    ¡°I should be asking you that.¡± Julia laughed, opening the door for both of them, a-


    ¡°HAPPY BESTALOW!!!¡±


    Julia froze in place again, the roar from the collective teams throwing her off guard, as they dragged her and Joleicia inside.


    ¡°Wow!¡± Joleicia gasped, dotting around the room. ¡°Look at all the decorations! You guys really went all out!¡±


    ¡°Julia!¡± Harley called, bringing her in for a hug. ¡°Look like you¡¯re already excited!¡±


    ¡°Tell me about it¡­¡± Julia said, still recovering. ¡°Could you guys not yell at me next Bestalow?¡±


    ¡°We wanted to surprise you!¡± Sola clarified, joining in. ¡°Maybe it was too much.¡±


    ¡°Eh, I think it was just enough.¡± Chops agreed, slugging Julia¡¯s arm. ¡°Gotta keep you on your feet.¡±


    ¡°Or on the floor from a heart attack¡­¡± Julia remarked, Saxin stepping into the middle of the room and tapping her champagne flute.


    ¡°Attention!¡± She called. ¡°Now that everyone¡¯s officially here, it think it¡¯s only fair Wess, Lenin and I give you the official Northern Wayside Bestalow greeting before we commence with a night of revelry and cheer.¡±


    Saxin cleared her throat, as Lenin, followed by a somewhat reluctant Wess joined her side, bowing to the others.


    ¡°Celam?i, de vela sem?.¡±


    A light applause broke out in the room, before the party officially commenced, everyone chatting amongst themselves, swapping anecdotes, telling jokes, and sharing their Bestalow gifts with one another.


    ¡°Why¡¯s there a broken fish tank by your bed?¡± Joleicia asked, surprising Julia and Wess.


    Julia and Wess looked back it at, admittedly forgetting how weird it was to keep around.


    ¡°Souvenir.¡± Wess said.


    Joleicia blinked a few times, before shrugging it off. ¡°Why not? I¡¯ve got a collection of bullet shells back home that just sits there.¡±


    ¡°Wess has a sword that just sits there too.¡± Julia pointed out, indicating to the wall above the fish tank. ¡°You two sure collect a lot.¡±


    ¡°Well, you keep giving me stuff.¡± Wess clarified, looking to her present hanging from the Spire. ¡°But I guess I¡¯m turning that around tonight.¡±


    Wess went and grabbed Julia¡¯s present, Julia protesting. ¡°Isn¡¯t it a bit early? Nobody else has opened anything yet.¡±


    ¡°Nope. We¡¯re not dilly-dallying.¡± Wess professed, holding out the gift. ¡°My gift to you.¡±


    Julia looked back at the lovingly wrapped gift, before letting out a sigh and opening it carefully, slowly reading the cover of the book and gasping in surprise.


    ¡°Lelvow, thank you!¡± Julia confessed, flipping through the pages excitedly.


    Wess nodded happily. ¡°It was hard to track down, and not nearly cheap enough, but you asked for something rare. May I present the infamous Team Spectrum autobiography wh-¡°


    ¡°Where every time Vector is written, it was accidentally corrected to Vasectomy!¡± Julia exclaimed, jumping up and down. ¡°Wess, this is incredible!¡±


    ¡°You should expect nothing less.¡± Wess bragged, Julia hugging her happily. ¡°Alright, you can calm down. I already know you have a copy of the proper version.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, but this is really special.¡± Julia admitted. ¡°Thank you. Really.¡±


    Wess found herself staring, not really sure what she was feeling, as she looked to the floor.


    ¡°It¡¯s¡­no problem¡­¡±


    Having found a moment of silence, Wess cleared her throat, and for the first time looked unsure of herself.


    ¡°Julia¡­I¡®ve been doing some reflecting, and¡­I don¡¯t think¡­¡± Wess started, stumbling with her words. ¡°It¡¯s¡­I haven¡¯t thanked you yet. You, umm, I¡¯ve lost the exact phrasing, but you¡­broke me out of my shell¡­somewhat¡­and since it¡¯s Bestalow, I wanted you to know¡­you¡¯ve become¡­a good friend to me over this past year¡­so thank you.¡±


    Julia teared up a little, happily showing it off and grabbed Wess¡¯ hands. ¡°You¡¯re more than welcome.¡±


    Meanwhile, Joleicia teared up like up crazy, standing on the sidelines as to not interrupt the genuine moment.


    ¡°You two are so cute¡­can I take a photo of you guys?¡± Joleicia asked, taking out her tablet. ¡°Just a real quick one to remember this moment.¡±


    ¡°Only for you, Joleicia.¡± Wess excused, standing beside Julia in front of the fish tank, hand behind Julia¡¯s back.


    Joleicia lined up the shot, before giving the thumbs up and heading around the party to collect more memories, as Julia leaned into Wess.


    ¡°I think you got me out of my shell too.¡± Julia agreed, grabbing her hand, as they appreciated the eventful night, before Harley slotted herself into their moment.


    ¡°Look at my two favourite teammates, hanging out.¡± Harley grinned. ¡°Apart from Sola and Essex.¡±


    ¡°Of course¡­¡± Wess groaned, Julia giggling beside her. ¡°Thank you once again, Harley, for killing the earnest tone.¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t kill it, I made it better.¡± Harley pointed out, Wess rolling her eyes.


    ¡°Have you presented your present?¡± Wess asked. ¡°Or received yours yet?¡±


    ¡°No.¡± Harley moped, pointing to Julia¡¯s new book. ¡°Is that yours?¡±


    Wess blinked. ¡°It has Team Spectrum on the front and Julia¡¯s holding it. Who else would it possibly be for?¡±


    Harley shrugged. ¡°Joleicia?¡±


    Julia laughed to herself, patting Wess¡¯ shoulder. ¡°It¡¯s an okay guess. You just reminded me, I¡¯m gonna go give Joleicia her gift.¡±


    Wess waved her off, as Harley handed Wess a spare cup of punch, Wess inspecting it questioningly.


    ¡°I don¡¯t see Cyrus yet. Is he still a no show?¡± Harley asked.


    ¡°¡­unfortunately, yes.¡± Wess admitted, attempting to stomach the punch. ¡°I¡¯ve texted him, but scheduling¡¯s been a nightmare on his families end, so he¡¯s either going back home tonight to celebrate later, or not celebrating at all. I¡¯m¡­so unbelievably frustrated, and it¡¯s not even at him.¡±


    Harley leaned back with her. ¡°I think you should be. It¡¯s pretty last minute to be standing someone up on Bestalow.¡±


    ¡°I did it to him just a few weeks ago. He can¡¯t help holding it off this late.¡± Wess complained. ¡°I guess I¡¯m just envious that he has a family he wants to spend time with¡­¡±


    Harley knocked her shoulder. ¡°You¡¯ve got us, and Graham. And Belvedere.¡±


    Wess chuckled to herself. ¡°Oh yes, who needs a boyfriend when you have a broadsword?¡±


    She laughed despite her emotions, as Harley tried to analyse what she was thinking.


    ¡°¡­do you still wanna be with him?¡± Harley wondered.


    ¡°¡­I don¡¯t know¡­¡± Wess realised. ¡°I know the answer¡¯s yes, I mean heck, I still got him a gift, but it¡¯s just¡­¡±


    Wess stood up from the wall and readjusted her appearance. ¡°He gets one more hour. If he doesn¡¯t show up, I¡¯m going straight to him for an answer. I don¡¯t deserve to wait around.¡±


    ¡°Good on ya.¡± Harley agreed, cheering her with her glass. ¡°But in the event you make it work, I¡¯m really happy for you two.¡±


    ¡°Way to cover your bases.¡± Wess replied. ¡°He¡¯s making a decision tonight. Excuse or not, I¡¯m going to hear it straight from the horse¡¯s mouth.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Ooo, what could it be?¡± Avalon prefaced, shaking his box up and down, as the rest of Team Exemplary sat around the lounge area of their dorm. He kept shaking it, trying to guess its contents from the sound, as Acadia leaned over to Leandra.


    ¡°So, what¡¯d you end up getting him?¡± Acadia asked, curled up in her blanket.


    ¡°What do you think? It¡¯s what he¡¯s wanted for ages.¡± Leandra said, catching Roman¡¯s attention.


    ¡°A girlfriend?¡± Roman dryly remarked, Claudius chuckling to himself.


    ¡°That¡¯d be pretty rough considering there¡¯s no air holes.¡± Claudius suggested, all four of them laughing to each other, as Avalon finally gave into the temptation and opened it up.


    If you spot this narrative on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.


    ¡°Oh my, it¡¯s a¡­!¡± He exclaimed, before giving it a proper once over. ¡°Wait, what is this?¡±


    Leandra looked confused. ¡°It¡¯s a Northern royalty banner. You asked for something royal.¡±


    ¡°I wanted the OLDER print, back before the monarchy disbanded.¡± Avalon clarified. ¡°This is one of the worthless newer ones.¡±


    ¡°They¡­don¡¯t make the old ones anymore.¡± Leandra reasoned, starting to get pissed. ¡°And they¡¯re crazy expensive, too.¡±


    ¡°For good reason. They aren¡¯t this touristy stuff.¡± Avalon reasoned, laying the banner back down.


    ¡°Your face is about to be full of fisty stuff¡­¡± Leandra mumbled, Roman holding her back.


    ¡°Well, I always say not to half-ass these things.¡± Avalon suggested, clapping his hands excitedly. ¡°Who else is ready for more gifts?¡±


    Avalon kept digging around the gift pile, as Leandra felt her spine crawl.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know why I bothered¡­¡± She admitted, Roman patting her back.


    ¡°Cause you care.¡± He said, turning to her, Avalon handing his gift to Claudius. ¡°Like an idiot would.¡±


    ¡°I could¡¯ve gone back and seen my family for Bestalow. But no, let¡¯s spend it with the team¡­¡± Leandra grumbled, Acadia bumping her shoulder.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. My present for you kicks ass.¡± Acadia assured, as Claudius looked over his gift.


    ¡°Oh, wow.¡± Claudius said, unpacking a pair of very plain socks. ¡°They¡¯re¡­red.¡±


    ¡°You asked for something red for your feet.¡± Avalon said, visibly proud of himself.


    ¡°I asked for a bread-making kit¡­¡± Claudius muttered, Acadia leaning back.


    ¡°At least all our gifts are equally unliked.¡± She commented, Avalon and Claudius getting into an argument. ¡°Anyway¡­¡±


    She handed her gift to Leandra. ¡°Happy Bestalow.¡±


    Leandra managed a smile, as Roman perched his head on her shoulder while she unwrapped, pleasantly surprised with what was inside.


    ¡°Damn.¡± Roman remarked, as Leandra pulled out a hand-woven banner with the team logo stitched in. ¡°That looks custom built for your shield.¡±


    Leandra ran her hand on the fabric gently, as Acadia was visibly embarrassed.


    ¡°D-don¡¯t tug the fabric too much. I¡¯m not the best at sewing¡­¡± Acadia mumbled, rubbing her hands between her thighs. ¡°You wanted something flowing, so I thought it would look good outside of combat¡­¡±


    ¡°Is that a Team Banner?!¡± Avalon exclaimed, yanking it from Leandra. ¡°This would look incredible on my cap-¡°


    ¡°It¡¯s for my shield!¡± Leandra yelled, pulling it back quickly. ¡°And be careful with it! It¡¯s got delicate seams!¡±


    Avalon rolled his eyes, displaying his hands to the others, truly not reading the room. ¡°I¡¯d say this is quite the successful Bestalow!¡±


    ¡°For warm feet¡­¡± Claudius muttered, Avalon clapping together joyously.


    ¡°Happy Bestalow, everyone!¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°So, how¡¯s Bestalow been for you?¡± Saxin asked, suggestively leaning on the wall.


    ¡°Pretty good.¡± Harley said, rubbing her neck. ¡°I was hoping I¡¯d be the one getting your gift, but¡­¡±


    ¡°Oh, don¡¯t worry.¡± Saxin excused, leaning into her. ¡°You¡¯ll get to make up for that, I assure you.¡±


    ¡°Anytime soon?¡± Harley chuckled.


    ¡°Well, sooner then you might think.¡± Saxin teased, shaking her empty champagne flute. ¡°Looks like I need a refill.¡±


    Saxin sashayed off to the punchbowl, Harley taking her chance to admire her sway, before slumping back exhaustedly.


    ¡°I¡¯m never gonna sleep with her¡­¡± Harley lamented, as Saxin filled her glass up joyously.


    ¡°The only thing better than alcohol is fresh fruit.¡± She remarked, before noticing Florey against the wall, watching the party from the sidelines.


    She made her way over, waving gently. ¡°You know, a social event is best experienced socially.¡±


    ¡°Thanks, but I¡¯m comfortable here.¡± Florey stated, staying put.


    ¡°Alright. We¡¯ll be here if you get lonely, though.¡± Saxin professed, joining back with the others, as Florey was left to his own devices.


    He rested his hand on his leg, staring at the two teams playfully chatting, dancing, chugging punch, all while various terms floated in his mind.


    ¡°Is this party not to your enjoyment?¡±


    Florey turned his head to Essex. ¡°Not especially.¡±


    ¡°That is¡­unfortunate.¡± Essex sympathised, joining him. ¡°I do not experience these events often, so I am ill-equipped with how to enjoy them.¡±


    ¡°Pretty sure you just talk to people.¡± Florey reasoned. ¡°But Bestalow has presents and all¡­¡±


    ¡°Reliasda Selo, Florey. I must apologise.¡± Essex said. ¡°Upon hearing of Bestalow¡¯s customs, I have not provided a gift.¡± She cleared her throat. ¡°Oops.¡±


    Florey raised his hands. ¡°It¡¯s fine. I didn¡¯t really want anything anyway.¡±


    ¡°It is a blunder on my part, however.¡± Essex said. ¡°And I did not provide you with details on my desired gift.¡±


    Florey raised a hand and headed over to the spire to grab his gift. ¡°I still got something for you. It was kind of a safe bet.¡±


    Essex unwrapped it and realised it was a simple case of weapon polish.


    She bowed back to Florey. ¡°Grela. I am thankful.¡±


    Florey looked a bit awkward, backing off a little. ¡°It¡¯s just some polish. You don¡¯t need to be so thankful¡­¡±


    Florey was visibly uncomfortable, as Essex stared back at him and straightened her back.


    ¡°Does this attitude relate to your recent outburst?¡± Essex asked bluntly, surprising Florey.


    ¡°¡­can we stop talking?¡± Florey asked, Essex staring out at the rest of the party.


    ¡°Scull the pie! Scull the pie!¡± Cheered Chops, Harley and Sola, as Joleicia desperately tried to rip the shepherds pie away from Lenin.


    ¡°Don¡¯t scull it!¡± She complained, Lenin feeling guilty and giving it back, as the peanut gallery booed.


    ¡°He was gonna scull it!¡± Chops complained.


    ¡°I really wasn¡¯t.¡± Lenin pointed out, Joleicia placing the pie back on the table.


    ¡°I made the pie for everyone, Chops.¡± Joleicia admitted, looking around the table. ¡°Hey Julia!¡±


    ¡°Yeah?¡± Julia said, turning her head to face her.


    ¡°Can Lenin scull the punch bowl?¡± Joleicia asked, getting an excited reaction from the others.


    ¡°I¡­guess?¡± Julia shrugged, as Joleicia tried passing the bowl off to Lenin.


    ¡°Oh¡­no tha-¡° Lenin gagged, pulling himself away. ¡°I hate that stuff. I¡¯ll throw up halfway through the bowl.¡±


    Essex¡¯s ears perked up, before Florey watched her join the group and grab the bowl of punch.


    The group got excited again. ¡°Scull the punch! Scull the punch!¡±


    Essex lifted the punch bowl above her head.


    ¡°I will scull the punch!¡±


    ¡°Yeah!!!¡± The room cheered, everyone surrounding Essex as she prepared, save for Florey, still propped against the wall.


    She took a second, evaluating the mood of the room, before throwing her head back and chugging as much punch as she could.


    ¡°Go! Go! Go! You animal!¡± Chops called, pumping her fists.


    ¡°Show that punch who¡¯s boss!¡± Sola cheered, mimicking punching motions in the air.


    Essex looked unstirred, having already reached the halfway mark, before lifting the bowl even higher and pushing through until the end, finishing with a triumphant lift of the bowl and a resounding cheer.


    ¡°What a woman¡­¡± Saxin cooed.


    ¡°I know¡­¡± Lenin agreed, Essex lifting her arms into the air as some acknowledgment of her achievement.


    ¡°I always said she could roll with the punches.¡± Harley remarked, getting a guilty chuckle from Julia.


    Florey found himself smiling, amused at the joint camaraderie of the teams, even if he wouldn¡¯t let his own questions go.


    Should I be with them? Florey wondered, playing with his hands as a distraction. Do I deserve to be?


    Joleicia and Chops lifted Essex onto their shoulders, parading her around.


    I¡¯m never going to be a Venator. I know that much at this point. So, would it be worth my time? I mean, of course I like them¡­


    Saxin and Lenin roped Wess into cheering Essex on.


    We¡¯ve had arguments, and Joleicia¡¯s¡­but we still get along, even if we don¡¯t feel like a team.


    Sola was demanding the bowl be filled back up so she could try, getting encouragement from the others.


    No, that¡¯s stupid. We¡¯re still a team, I can still go here. They can help me out. Like they always¡­


    Florey then noticed Julia, weeping with laughter as Harley told more bad jokes, enjoying herself thoroughly.


    ¡­always have.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Liddy waited out in the hall, hesitating for a second as she stood outside Rose¡¯s door.


    I hate to do this on Bestalow¡­ She thought. But I can¡¯t leave it any longer¡­I¡¯m sorry, Rose, I have to break up with you.


    Rose heard a knock at the door, stunning her in place as she finished up the last of her decorations.


    ¡°Coming!¡± She hurried, heading to the door, before opening it up to Liddy, holding her present and decked in a giant winter coat.


    ¡°Hi, Rose.¡± Liddy greeted, bringing Rose into a warm embrace. ¡°Where are your teammates?¡±


    ¡°Oh, they all left to spend time with their families. So now we get the whole night to ourselves.¡± Rose boasted, showing off her decorations, along with a candlelit dinner out on the balcony.


    ¡°Oh, Rose¡­¡± Liddy said endearingly, melting a little at her kindness. ¡°That¡®s sweet, but I need to¡­¡±


    ¡°Come on, come on!¡± Rose encouraged, dragging her to the balcony.


    They made themselves comfortable outside, Rose revealing an absolutely stunning dress, as Liddy was finding it harder and harder to remember to break up with her.


    Come on, Rose. Why¡¯d you make it so form fitting? Just give me a minute¡­


    ¡°I hate that we have to be on different teams¡­¡± Rose lamented. ¡°I wish you could be with me more¡­¡±


    ¡°Well, that¡¯s actually something I wanted to talk about¡­¡± Liddy started. ¡°I th-¡°


    ¡°Wait!¡± Rose exclaimed, before clapping her hands. ¡°We can just become our own team after graduating!¡±


    ¡°Our own team?¡± Liddy asked, Rose clasping her hands around Liddy¡¯s.


    ¡°Absolutely! Then we can spend as much time together as we want!¡± Rose exclaimed, leaning over the table and bouncing around playfully.


    ¡°Okay, okay, calm down!¡± Liddy laughed, feeling warm again despite herself. ¡°Can we finish off dinner?¡±


    ¡°In a minute.¡± Rose said, reaching under the table, pulling out two small boxes. ¡°You asked for jewellery, so I got you a little something.¡±


    I forgot I asked. Liddy realised, mentally face-palming herself.


    Rose slid a box over, waiting desperately for Liddy to open it, as Liddy slowly lifted the lid, stunned in place as she lifted up the necklace.


    ¡°Rose, this i-¡°


    ¡°Wait! Wait wait wait!¡± Rose interrupted, opening up the other box and pulling out a similar necklace. ¡°And get this¡­¡±


    Rose leaned over the table and joined the two necklaces together.


    ¡°Oh, Rose¡­¡± Liddy let out, nearly tearing up. ¡°They form a heart¡­¡±


    Liddy tackled Rose to the ground, cuddling her adorably, as Rose took as much time to admire it as possible.


    ¡°Whoa, I need to get you jewellery more often.¡± Rose remarked, Liddy nuzzling her neck.


    ¡°Shut up, please, and let me apologise.¡± Liddy finally said, straddling Rose on the floor. ¡°I¡­feel really bad. I came over to break up with you, but you just had to be the absolute sweetest person ever.¡±


    Rose looked a bit shocked. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, what? Break up? Why?¡±


    ¡°Cause you¡¯re really pushy.¡± Liddy explained, as Rose felt a bit insulted by her bluntness. ¡°And I hardly get a word in edgewi-¡°


    ¡°What do you mean I¡¯m pushy?!¡± Rose complained, now angry at Liddy. ¡°I don¡¯t push, I¡¯m just excited to show you things.¡±


    ¡°And you make a point of that whenever you get the chance.¡± Liddy reasoned. ¡°While interrupting me, too.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s¡­¡± Rose started, before reflecting back on their time together. ¡°¡­oh¡­yeah.¡±


    ¡°I mean, we could have talked this out, but since yo-¡° Liddy started again before Rose pressed a finger to her lips.


    Rose sat up, still letting Liddy straddle her. ¡°¡­man, I feel dumb. I mean, I get excited when I¡¯m with you, you know¡­¡±


    ¡°Of course I know, silly.¡± Liddy said, rubbing her arms. ¡°I love that about you.¡±


    Rose shook her head. ¡°I wanna make this up to you. I¡¯m gonna let you do whatever you want tonight. No more interrupting from good ol¡¯ me.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Liddy asked in surprise.


    Rose nodded, as Liddy sat up and faced her, ready with her answer.


    ¡°I want you to [CENSORED] [CENSORED] [CENSORED] in my [CENSORED] [CENSORED] until I [CENSORED] myself, before [CENSORED] [CENSORED] [CENSORED] [CENSORED] [CENSORED] all over me.¡±


    Rose looked understandably surprised, before glancing back at the spare bedroom and facing Liddy again.


    ¡°Okay.¡±


    Liddy got all giddy, as Rose took her hand and led her to the bedroom.


    I love Bestalow.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Sure is windy outside.¡± Chops remarked, staring out at the balcony. ¡°Good thing Julia got you that scarf.¡±


    ¡°I know.¡± Joleicia said, snuggling up to it. ¡°She¡¯s so sweet.¡±


    Chops stared out at Wess, admiring herself and her new coat in the mirror, having just gotten it from Chops a minute prior.


    ¡°She asked for something elegant.¡± Chops pointed out, finishing off her punch. ¡°Figured a coat was both elegant and practical.¡±


    ¡°That was nice of you.¡± Joleicia realised. ¡°I thought you two didn¡¯t get along very well?¡±


    ¡°¡­she¡¯s not all that bad.¡± Chops admitted, avoiding eye contact. ¡°Maybe she¡¯s loosened up. Heck, she even thanked me for it¡­¡±


    ¡°Ahem.¡± Harley interjected, Chops turning to face her. ¡°I didn¡¯t know there¡¯d be absolute babes at this party.¡±


    Chops let out a weak laugh. ¡°That¡¯s your best pick-up line? Can¡¯t you think of one from when we were going out?¡±


    Harley tapped her chin. ¡°Uhh¡­do the curtains match th-¡°


    ¡°Eww, guys.¡± Joleicia let out. ¡°It¡¯s Bestalow. Can you keep it clean?¡±


    ¡°No problem, Jojo.¡± Chops assured, Joleicia folding back into the rest of the party, as Chops faced Harley again. ¡°I¡¯m assuming you¡¯re dropping off my gift?¡±


    Harley lifted up the giant gift from behind her. ¡°How did you know?¡±


    Chops grabbed it eagerly and started tearing off the wrapping, getting truly excited as the image was revealed to her.


    ¡°I¡­there¡¯s no way¡­¡± She said, lifting up the painting. ¡°It¡¯s Hardison¡¯s ¡®Voyager!¡¯ How the hell did you buy th¡­wait.¡±


    Upon closer inspection, she noticed some slightly shoddy paintwork, as a couple flakes came off the frame.


    ¡°It¡¯s not quite a Hardison.¡± Harley explained. ¡°You said you wanted something classy, but really cheap. So I thought, what better gift then a recreation of a famous painting? Hardison¡¯s still your favourite, right?¡±


    Chops grinned happily. ¡°You know me really well.¡±


    She put down the painting and hugged Harley. ¡°Thanks. You¡¯re still a great gift giver.¡±


    ¡°My goodness, is that a Hardison?¡± Wess exclaimed, baffled by the sudden painting. ¡°By the gods, how did you¡­oh wait, it¡¯s a recreation¡­¡±


    ¡°Meow, Wess. Love the coat.¡± Harley remarked. ¡°You doing anything later?¡±


    ¡°Not you.¡± Wess retorted, Chops snickering to herself.


    ¡°Had to burst my bubble like that.¡± Harley said, hooking Chops with her arm. ¡°By the way, Chops really liked her gift, so you better hope mine¡¯s better.¡±


    ¡°Oh, it will be.¡± Wess assured, as Sola¡¯s ears perked up.


    ¡°Oh yeah!¡± She realised, waving Harley over. ¡°Harley!¡±


    ¡°Alright, coming!¡± Harley replied, fist-bumping Chops. ¡°Enjoy the painting.¡±


    ¡°Pretty hard not to.¡± Chops reasoned, staring at Wess. ¡°Jealous?¡±


    ¡°Of a cheap knock-off?¡± Wess remarked, inspecting the painting. ¡°They couldn¡¯t even get the pointillism technique consistent¡­how cheap was this?¡±


    ¡°Harley so gets me¡­¡± Chops cooed, as Harley met up with Sola.


    ¡°Oh! Oh! Harley!¡± Sola exclaimed, grabbing her gift from the spire. ¡°Your gift! Take it take it take it!¡±


    Harley picked up the present and shook it around, noticing how flat and light it was in comparison to the others.


    Oh no, did she get me socks? Harley thought, opening it up. Alright, don¡¯t want to hurt her fee¡­


    Harley took a second to register the writing, as the weight was suddenly understood to be tickets instead of socks.


    ¡°So?¡± Sola asked.


    Harley mouthed the words, before checking their authenticity.


    ¡°The Ancient Collrino Pottery Exhibition¡­¡± Harley read allowed, before growing a grin and sweeping Sola off her feet. ¡°You remembered!¡±


    ¡°Remembered what?¡± Julia asked, overhearing them.


    Harley let Sola down, but still hugged her madly. ¡°I don¡¯t know how long ago it was, but I mentioned wanting to go to this exhibition. I¡¯m not great at saving money, so I couldn¡¯t afford to go even though I really wanted to.¡±


    Harley started hugging Sola again, causing her to laugh profusely. ¡°And then you just had to be the best and get it for me!¡±


    ¡°Haha! Stop! Stop it!¡± Sola laughed, struggling to breath, before Harley finally put her down. ¡°Oh boy¡­I just remembered you really wanted to, so it seemed like a no-brainer.¡±


    ¡°No-brainer? You don¡¯t even like pottery!¡± Harley cheered. ¡°And you still remembered it!¡±


    ¡°Well, yeah.¡± Sola said, blushing a bit. ¡°¡­it¡¯s cause it was important to you.¡±


    Harley blushed a bit too, as Wess wandered over to them.


    ¡°What¡¯s all the celebration for?¡± Wess asked.


    Harley leaned over to her. ¡°Hate to say it, but think you win our little bet. I just got the best gift.¡±


    ¡°Already?¡± Wess wondered. ¡°That was quicker than I thought they¡¯d be¡­¡±


    ¡°They? No, Sola got me the gift.¡± Harley said, waving the tickets. ¡°And there¡¯s just enough tickets to take the whole tea-¡°


    ¡°Hi there.¡± Harley heard, feeling a set of eyes on her, as she turned to see Saxin and Lenin standing right beside her.


    ¡°Oh, hey guys.¡± Harley said, showing off the tickets. ¡°Look what Sola got me. There might be enough for you guys too.¡±


    ¡°Harley, you¡¯re awfully sweet.¡± Saxin cooed, drawing her attention fully. ¡°And I¡¯d like to think we¡¯ve become very good friends.¡±


    Julia and Sola looked to each other, as Harley scratched her neck. ¡°Definitely! It would¡¯ve been good seeing my dads for Bestalow, but I¡¯m glad we did this team swap thing.¡±


    ¡°As are we.¡± Saxin agreed, looking to Lenin.


    ¡°But just because we¡¯re all celebrating Bestalow together doesn¡¯t mean you can¡¯t get another gift.¡± Lenin pointed out, confusing Harley.


    She looked back at the spire. ¡°I¡­don¡¯t see another present from you guys.¡±


    ¡°Oh, no, not like that.¡± Saxin excused, resting a hand on her shoulder. ¡°But it¡¯s still a physical gift, and one you need to unwrap¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­but it¡¯s not there.¡± Harley said, truly struggling to fit the pieces together, as Saxin rolled her eyes and whispered into her ear.


    ¡°¡­ah¡­oh¡­oh!...oh shit! That¡¯s makes so much sense now!¡± Harley realised, Wess face-palming in the background.


    ¡°How thick can she be?¡± Wess remarked.


    ¡°Wait, so we finally¡­¡± Harley repeated, starting to get excited, before looking to Lenin. ¡°Oh, I¡¯m assuming you¡¯re¡­okay with this?¡±


    ¡°Actually¡­¡± Lenin said.


    ¡°¡­he¡¯ll be joining in.¡± Saxin finished, Harley grinning like an idiot.


    Harley tried to hold back her excitement, as Saxin and Lenin guided her to the door.


    ¡°Joleicia, dear! We¡¯ll be using the Vanguard dorm room for a while! Just a heads up!¡± Saxin called, Joleicia popping her head up.


    ¡°O-okay. Just don¡¯t break anything.¡± Joleicia advised. ¡°And¡­clean up after yourselves, I guess?¡±


    Harley turned to leave, before noticing a smug Wess on the sidelines.


    ¡°Did you know about this?¡±


    ¡°I heard those two mentioning it a few days back.¡± Wess explained, smiling back to her. ¡°Go have fun.¡±


    Harley nodded back. ¡°I hope everything works out with Cyrus.¡±


    Harley handed her tickets off to Sola, hugging her again before hopping excitedly to Saxin and Lenin, as Julia and Sola looked to each other awkwardly.


    ¡°Uhh¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­yeah¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­well, she liked the tickets.¡± Julia said.


    ¡°Yeah.¡± Sola nodded. ¡°She probably didn¡¯t want to damage them.¡±


    Julia smiled, as Wess hooked a present off the tree, then headed for the door. ¡°Wess, where are you going?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve been putting this off for too long. I¡¯m confronting Cyrus.¡± She admitted, straightening herself out. ¡°And dropping off my gift.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Faller slinked through his front door, leaving his bag and coat by the entrance, as Ferris was laying on the couch in the dark, only illuminated by the TV light, flipping through channels idly.


    ¡°Nothing¡¯s on except Bestalow specials.¡± Ferris admitted, Faller collapsing beside her. ¡°You¡¯re making dinner.¡±


    ¡°Give me a minute to walk through the door¡­¡± Faller asked, resting his hand on the brim of his nose.


    Ferris sat up. ¡°Nothing new?¡±


    ¡°I keep hitting dead ends.¡± Faller admitted, grabbing a beer. ¡°The only good leads are that autopsy and Coatsworth, but he¡¯s yet to do anything definitive. Maybe if I¡¯m lucky, I¡¯ll catch him in the bathroom monologuing his evil deeds.¡±


    ¡°We can always break into his house.¡± Ferris suggested, opening up a new beer bottle. ¡°Rummage through his unmentionables. Maybe leave the taps on if we¡¯re feeling adventurous.¡±


    Faller didn¡¯t dignify her with a response, taking the remote and flipping through channels as well.


    ¡°I told you this was a waste.¡± Ferris brought up, leaning back into her seat. ¡°You dragged me to that academy for nothing¡­¡±


    ¡°It wasn¡¯t for nothing.¡± Faller said, still changing channels. ¡°I¡¯m still alive, aren¡¯t I?¡±


    ¡°Not if you throw yourself at the next Behemoth Wailing¡­¡± Ferris pointed out, stealing the remote back from him.


    Faller let her take it, before finishing off his bottle and reaching into his pocket, pulling out a small box and handing it to Ferris.


    Ferris took notice and let out a groan. ¡°You got me a gift? I didn¡¯t ask for anything.¡±


    ¡°Just open it.¡± Faller said, nursing another beer.


    Ferris decided to take it, opening it up and seeing it was two earrings, each with a topaz embedded in, the light glinting off of the TV.


    She took a second to look them over, before realising Faller was staring at her and closing the box quickly.


    ¡°They¡­look fine.¡± She begrudgingly admitted. ¡°¡­you¡¯re just wasting money.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m allowed to¡­hey.¡± He sat up and raised his bottle. ¡°Happy Bestalow.¡±


    Ferris rolled her eyes and grabbed her bottle, clinking them together. ¡°And cheers to more drinking.¡±


    ¡°Ain¡¯t that the truth.¡± Faller agreed, sinking back into the couch, as they continued to flip through channels together.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Wess hurried down the hallway, trying to remember her way back to Cyrus¡¯ room while reading over the room names in search of ¡®Team Salvation.¡¯ She stumbled around for a while, before turning a corner and noticing Cyrus outside his room, trying to get a handle on some suitcases.


    She found herself trudging over in anger, before slowly composing herself and continuing toward him.


    He nearly dropped his other suitcase, before noticing who was approaching. ¡°Wess! Hey! Sorry, I¡¯m on a really tight schedule, so I can¡¯t talk right now.¡±


    ¡°No, you can wait.¡± Wess stated, tapping her foot. ¡°I¡¯ve been doing it all afternoon, after all.¡±


    Cyrus looked confused. ¡°Wha¡­the party! Dammit!¡±


    He kicked his suitcase, then grabbed his foot in pain. ¡°¡­ow¡­that was dumb¡­¡±


    ¡°You aren¡¯t charming me with your clumsiness.¡± Wess reasoned, maintaining her ground.


    Cyrus waited for the pain to go before explaining himself. ¡°¡­I just got the go-ahead from my parents a couple hours ago. I¡¯ll be heading back to the Southern Wayside and celebrating Bestalow with the rest of the family. I spent the last hour packing like crazy so I can catch the last train.¡±


    ¡°You couldn¡¯t have texted and let me know?¡± Wess asked.


    ¡°I¡­was¡­¡± Cyrus tried, before sighing. ¡°No, you¡¯re right. I screwed up. I shouldn¡¯t have left you hanging.¡±


    He grabbed up his suitcases again. ¡°I¡¯ll make it up to you when I get back.¡±


    ¡°Oh no, you don¡¯t.¡± Wess said, blocking his path. ¡°We¡¯re talking this out.¡±


    ¡°Wess! I need to catch that train!¡± Cyrus complained.


    ¡°WE need to talk about our relationship. Because frankly, I don¡¯t feel like we¡¯ve been in one for a while.¡± Wess pointed out.


    ¡°Don¡¯t get snippy at me!¡± Cyrus argued back. ¡°And don¡¯t be hypocritical! You did the exact same thing last week!¡±


    ¡°The¡­team got a sudden assignment. I couldn¡¯t be the only member not participating.¡± Wess justified.


    ¡°But it keeps happening! Julia needs this, Harley needs that, Essex has this thing going on. Am I still not important enough for you?¡±


    ¡°Of course you are! But people need me, so I just can¡¯t make it work!¡±


    ¡°Neither can I!¡±


    The two stopped yelling for a minute, letting themselves breath, as Cyrus propped himself up on the wall.


    ¡°So, that¡¯s it. We can¡¯t make time for each other.¡± Cyrus complained, before finally hearing it. ¡°¡­I¡­guess we really can¡¯t make it work¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­that¡¯s¡­why I came over.¡± Wess confessed, struggling to get the words out. ¡°¡­I think we need to have that conversation we don¡¯t want to have.¡±


    ¡°¡­yeah, I think I¡­I think I follow you¡­¡± Cyrus sighed, ruffling his hair. ¡°Is that really why you came to see me?¡±


    ¡°I figured I should give you the courtesy of a break-up in person.¡± Wess reasoned. ¡°¡­I still don¡¯t want to, but¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­fuck¡­¡± Cyrus let out, lying back onto the wall. ¡°¡­sorry¡­¡±


    Wess scoffed. ¡°That¡¯s my line.¡±


    She closed the distance and stood beside him. ¡°¡­nobody can say we didn¡¯t try¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­I guess part of me thought this could still work.¡± Cyrus explained. ¡°I mean, we still like each other and all¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­yeah.¡± Wess agreed, looking over at him.


    She took Cyrus into a hug, bringing him in close. ¡°It was fun while it lasted¡­wasn¡¯t it?¡±


    ¡°I mean, the sex was.¡± Cyrus retorted. ¡°Really, that¡¯s all I was in it for.¡±


    Wess laughed to herself, before noticing a tear from Cyrus¡¯ eye, as she wiped it away for him.


    ¡°Hey.¡± Wess said, pulling out her gift. ¡°Happy Bestalow.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± Cyrus realised, reaching into his bag and taking out his. ¡°I was gonna drop this off outside your room before I left¡­¡±


    They opened them together, Cyrus chuckling at his and Wess hiding her embarrassment.


    ¡°¡®How to Be a People Person?¡¯¡± Wess read aloud, covering her face.


    ¡°Shampoo?¡± Cyrus remarked, getting another laugh from Wess.


    ¡°Oh, don¡¯t be too mad. It¡¯s travel size.¡± Wess replied, as Cyrus rolled his eyes and put it into his bag. ¡°Keep dressing well, okay?¡± Wess insisted. ¡°You¡¯ll never get hired if you can¡¯t look like an adult.¡±


    ¡°Ouch.¡± Cyrus replied, laughing a little. ¡°One last stab before you go, huh?¡±


    ¡°Had to make it count.¡± Wess said, breaking the hug while holding back tears of her own. ¡°Do you want help with your bags?¡±


    ¡°It¡­might be a bit weird. We did just break up¡­¡± Cyrus pointed out, Wess still processing it.


    ¡°O-oh¡­¡± She stuttered, before taking her leave. ¡°Well then¡­I¡¯ll¡­see you.¡±


    Cyrus waved her off, taking a minute to let himself cope before heading to the train, as Wess disappeared out the middle distance.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Florey had been tapping his foot against the wall repeatedly for a while. Despite everyone else having the time of their life, Bestalow wasn¡¯t cutting it this year.


    To him, he had more important things to do.


    ¡°Where are you going?¡± Essex asked, watching him pass as she stood by the door.


    ¡°Out.¡±


    With that, Florey slammed the door, the sound mostly unheard over the noise of the party, except for Julia, having caught the door closing in the corner of her eye.


    She walked over to Essex. ¡°Who just left?¡±


    ¡°Florey.¡± Essex said. ¡°He is currently frustrated.¡±


    ¡°¡­I should check on him. Just to be sure he¡¯s okay.¡± Julia professed, as Essex held her back.


    ¡°He has been in a similar mood as of recent.¡± Essex advised. ¡°¡­he may not wish to discuss anything.¡±


    Julia let out a breath, before swinging out the door. ¡°I¡¯ll make him.¡±


    Julia opened the door to find Florey out in the hallway, leaning his head against the wall, his foot tapping rapidly against the ground.


    ¡°Hey stranger.¡± Julia greeted, getting no response. ¡°Is the party not to your liking?¡±


    ¡°The party, the people, the academy¡­¡± Florey listed. ¡°¡­heck, let¡¯s throw the Venator industry into the mix too.¡±


    Julia blinked confusedly. ¡°What¡¯re you talking about?¡±


    ¡°Julia, you know!¡± Florey complained. ¡°It¡¯s what I¡¯ve been complaining about for ages! It¡¯s this stupid, hypocritical academy that refuses to even try and end the conflict! It¡¯s the students and teachers that sit by and watch, wasting time on people who shouldn¡¯t matter, and it¡¯s the Venator system, which has only been failing for the last century!¡±


    Julia noticed her breathing picking up but approached Florey regardless. ¡°Is this because of Avalon?¡±


    ¡°Avalon¡¯s a symptom of the problem!¡± Florey pointed out, kicking the wall. ¡°But as we all know, symptoms don¡¯t mean anything, especially according to high and mighty authorities like Miss Ferris!¡±


    ¡°Alright, alright. Let¡¯s calm down.¡± Julia said, resting a hand on his back. ¡°Let¡¯s talk this out. Clearly, you need to vent some stuff.¡±


    ¡°Vent?¡± Florey said, pacing around the hall instead. ¡°¡­I don¡¯t need to vent. I need somebody to see what I mean. Everyone else is so dumbstruck with cool weapons and their new teams that they can¡¯t see what¡¯s right in front of them.¡±


    Julia sighed out and faced him again. ¡°Remember in Year 7, when Mr Rubin gave you a 34 on that biology exam?¡±


    ¡°¡­no.¡± Florey lied.


    ¡°Exactly, you¡¯re obviously still angry about it. You like to hold grudges.¡± Julia smiled. ¡°But instead of just complaining, you got better at it. Now you¡¯re one of the smartest guys I know.¡±


    Florey looked back at Julia, visibly happy, happy with herself, and turned his back to her again.


    ¡°What¡¯s the point of being smart if no one¡¯s listening?¡± Florey criticised. ¡°You clearly aren¡¯t, or else you¡¯d be making arguments against my points, not me.¡±


    Florey turned back to her. ¡°If you¡¯re not gonna agree with me, at least admit why we haven¡¯t spent time together.¡± Florey argued, stumping Julia.


    Julia shrank back a little. ¡°That¡¯s¡­that¡¯s not what we¡¯re talking about.¡± Julia said.


    ¡°So? How much have we actually hung out this year?¡± Florey pointed out. ¡°Some shared classes? A few training sessions? This party? You¡¯ve been talking with everyone else except me¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve¡­been busy with my team. I¡¯m sure you have too.¡± Julia justified, avoiding eye contact. ¡°It¡¯s been hard¡­¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s been hard?¡± Florey reiterated. ¡°What kind of excuse is that? Just cause you¡¯re hanging out with your new friends doesn¡¯t mean it hasn¡¯t been hard on me too, you know.¡±


    Julia shook her head. ¡°Is that what this is about?¡±


    ¡°I dunno. You¡¯re so good at reading me, you tell me.¡± Florey argued, facing away from her, drawing Julia¡¯s sympathy.


    ¡°Florey¡­we¡¯re friends. That¡¯s not stopping anytime soon.¡± Julia reasoned, closing the distance. ¡°But back in school, we were all we had. I¡¯ve got other people in my life now that need me. I can¡¯t always be there for you, and them, and myself.¡±


    ¡°But why am I such a low priority?¡± Florey complained. ¡°We meet again after years, and now I¡¯m an afterthought?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s¡­¡± Julia started, sighing out and looking ashamed. ¡°¡­I¡¯ve needed to draw the line somewhere¡­and I guess you were it¡­sorry Florey.¡±


    ¡°¡­I guess I¡¯m not your pet project anymore¡­¡± Florey retorted, pissing Julia off.


    ¡°You were neve-alright, lose the attitude.¡± Julia demanded. ¡°You don¡¯t get my help if you¡¯re gonna act like this.¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t ask for help!¡± Florey yelled. ¡°And neither did Wess, but you just had to shove yourself into her business! Cause that¡¯s your thing!¡±


    Julia started yelling too. ¡°My thing? I was being nice! She¡¯s my teammate!¡±


    ¡°And I¡¯m your friend!¡± Florey cracked, his voice breaking up. ¡°So stop obsessing over your team and give me the fucking time of day!¡±


    Florey tried to hold back a few tears, failing to do so, as Julia¡¯s anger melted away, letting her reach out for him.


    ¡°Piss off¡­¡± He groaned, hitting her hand away, as he tried to clean his face. ¡°I¡¯m not five. You don¡¯t need to babysit me anymore¡­¡±


    Julia rubbed her hand, before looking back at him, huffing out, and heading back into the party.


    ¡°You can come back in when you stop acting like an asshole.¡± Julia demanded, slamming the door.


    Florey took deep heavy breaths, before kicking the wall once more for good measure, leaving a sizeable hole in it and stinging his foot.


    He grabbed his leg in pain, trying to take his mind off of everything that was going through his head. The noise from the party certainly wasn¡¯t helping.


    But there it was again. That same acronym¡­


    EHM.


    Reaching for his pocket, he pulled out his room card, letting himself into Team Vanguard¡¯s room, just catching the sounds of Harley, Saxin and Lenin enjoying themselves in the study.


    He dove for his bag, pulling out the papers and a pen, before slamming the papers to his table, messily trying to sign them without staining the page with too many tears. He cleaned his face again, managing to sign his name in full, as he held out the papers in front of him, assessing the weight of his commitment.


    He looked around the room again, searching for any excuse not to continue and truly finding nothing to hold him back, as the wind outside started to pick up to noticeable speeds.


    In a hurry, he grabbed his bag, stuffed as much as he could carry inside, and left the room promptly, holding the papers to his chest as he walked, dropping his room card to the ground as he exited the dorms.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Wess wandered back down to Team Valiant¡¯s room, making a point to clean herself up with her pocket mirror to hide the red around her eyes, as she found the rest of the team cleaning up around the room, Joleicia and Chops leaving just as she entered.


    ¡°What did I miss?¡± Wess asked, Sola dropping a couple bottles into the bin.


    ¡°The party went a bit sour.¡± Sola explained, helping Essex clear up the gift wrapping.


    ¡°Florey stormed out earlier, so we decided to call the party off early. Vanguard¡¯s out looking for him.¡± Harley explained, sitting with Julia, who was rubbing her hand. ¡°How did everything go with Cyrus?¡±


    Wess cleared her throat. ¡°We decided it was best to breakup. It was clear we couldn¡¯t make it work.¡±


    ¡°You guys broke up?¡± Julia said, popping her head up. ¡°I¡¯m so sorry.¡±


    ¡°That is unfortunate.¡± Essex added. ¡°Oops.¡±


    ¡°No, Essex¡­¡± Harley advised, as Wess scoffed openly.


    ¡°It was mutual. We both handled it well.¡± Wess said, somewhat standoffish. ¡°Honestly¡­it was about time we moved on.¡±


    ¡°But he was so nice!¡± Sola cried. ¡°You can still make it work!¡±


    Julia grabbed her hand. ¡°Do you need to talk about it? Because I¡¯m fine to ju-¡°


    ¡°Whoa, come on everyone, back off.¡± Harley said, stepping in between them and Wess. ¡°She just needs some time to herself. I¡¯m sure Wess wouldn¡¯t want a bunch of people obsessing over her right after a breakup.¡±


    Harley turned back to her. ¡°Right?¡±


    ¡°¡­yes.¡± Wess admitted. ¡°Just¡­for a while.¡±


    Julia nodded. ¡°Okay. But we¡¯re here if you need us.¡±


    ¡°¡­thank you.¡± Wess replied, as the others went back to cleaning, Harley turning to face her.


    Wess eyed her up. ¡°What?¡±


    Harley outstretched her arms. ¡°Come on. I¡¯ll leave you alone after.¡±


    Wess rolled her eyes and bore the hug, wrapping her arms around out of courtesy, as Harley patted her on the back.


    ¡°Breakups are never easy.¡± Harley said. ¡°I¡¯ve gone through plenty, so I really know how it feels. I know you don¡¯t want to talk to us about it, but we''re the next best thing, since you just broke up with the guy I know you¡¯d like to talk to instead.¡±


    Wess didn¡¯t reply but thought it over as Harley released her from the hug.


    ¡°Or, you know, take out some frustration on a training post with Belvedere.¡± Harley suggested. ¡°Whatever works.¡±


    ¡°¡­I¡¯ll see how I¡¯m feeling.¡± Wess confessed, joining the others as they cleaned up, making quick work of the dorm.


    ¡°That¡¯s the last of it.¡± Julia said, looking over at the still constructed spire. ¡°I¡¯m fine with leaving that until later.¡±


    ¡°Agreed.¡± Sola chimed in, storing the last few decorations away. ¡°Goodbye, Lelvow. Until next year.¡±


    ¡°I would like to thank all of you.¡± Essex stated, bowing to the team. ¡°This was a fun event. I wish to enjoy my other ¡®Bestalow¡¯ as much as this one and learn further about the associated customs.¡±


    Julia and Wess looked to each other cautiously, as Harley patted Essex¡¯s back welcomingly. ¡°I¡¯m glad you had fun. I thought for sure you¡¯d be regretting drinking that whole punch bowl by now.¡±


    ¡°¡­in truth, I have been putting off discomfort as to not disrupt anyone¡¯s enjoyment.¡± Essex said, turning to the bathroom. ¡°If you will excuse me.¡±


    Essex hurried in, leaving Harley to help Sola put some things away, and Julia and Wess to reflect on their night.


    ¡°It hasn¡¯t been a very good Bestalow.¡± Julia admitted, rubbing her arm. ¡°The party was nice, but¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­yeah. The night could have ended much better.¡± Wess confessed. ¡°I guess not every night can wrap up so nicely.¡±


    ¡°I was expecting a bit more for such a merry holiday.¡± Julia said. ¡°And now Florey¡¯s run off to who knows where¡­¡±


    Wess watched Julia struggle to compose herself, before resting her hand on her shoulder and smiling. ¡°He¡¯s sure to come back. If you¡¯re really close, then there¡¯s no reason he won¡¯t try to apologise.¡±


    ¡°¡­unless I was in the wrong¡­¡± Julia admitted, before shaking herself. ¡°Sorry, I shouldn¡¯t be so down on myself.¡±


    ¡°It happens to all of us.¡± Wess pointed out, grabbing a leftover wine bottle and a few glasses. ¡°The wind¡¯s dying down. Want to join me on the balcony?¡±


    Julia nodded. ¡°I think I need that.¡±


    They headed out to the balcony together, as Harley and Sola watched from the study, just out of sight.


    ¡°Rough night for those two.¡± Harley admitted.


    ¡°Yeah. But I¡¯m sure they¡¯ll help each other through it.¡± Sola said, looking up at Harley. ¡°And we can help too.¡±


    Harley tussled her hair. ¡°That¡¯s what it¡¯s all about.¡±

 Chapter 20: THREAT Part 1

    ¡°Can everyone please give it up for Team Vivisect! They¡¯re live and in person! Defenders of the Western Wayside! Slayers of the Waygone Wailing!¡±


    ¡°Owners of the loudest teammate ever¡­¡± Mike complained, opening up their hotel room door. ¡°Didn¡¯t we get enough of that at the meet and greet, Andy?¡±


    ¡°And everywhere else.¡± Andy mentioned, dropping his bags onto the couch. ¡°I thought you liked getting hyped up like this?¡±


    ¡°Before meeting fans, not after a long day¡­¡± Mike said, sitting on the bed and taking off his shoes. ¡°And they don¡¯t all sound like that.¡±


    ¡°Oh, come on, Mike. Even you can admit they all borrow from the same script.¡± Vanessa pointed out, passing right through and landing on another one of the beds. ¡°For once, I¡¯d like to hear them completely skip the Waygone Wailing stuff.¡±


    ¡°That was a big moment for us.¡± Mike reasoned.


    ¡°That was a decade ago!¡± Vanessa argued back, laying over the sheets. ¡°We took out three Wailing the other day, and I guarantee nobodies going to care about that epic bout in, what, five, six weeks?¡±


    ¡°Ahh, but remember what Rusty says.¡± Andy interjected, hunching his shoulders, and putting on a nasally voice. ¡°You¡¯re building a brand¡­it¡¯s all about your public image¡­remind people what Vivisect stands for¡­¡±


    Vanessa chuckled to herself, hitting the bed. ¡°Now do him on the phone!¡±


    Andy mimed picking up a phone. ¡°Hello, Sherri. Of course, I love you¡­of course I¡¯ll be home soon¡­but you¡¯ll have to wait another twenty minutes, I¡¯m currently five feet deep up some TV presenter¡¯s ass getting Team Vivisect another interview they don¡¯t need¡­¡±


    Vanessa was red-faced, struggling to breath from laughing too much, as Mike gave Andy a knowing look.


    Andy knew what he was going to say. ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°Rusty does good work for us, and you know it.¡± Mike argued, standing up.


    ¡°Yeah, I know¡­¡± Andy said, sitting against the couch. ¡°¡­and he can be a total hard-ass.¡±


    ¡°We need a hard¡­¡± Mike said, before rethinking his phrasing. ¡°¡­we need someone to watch out for us. He takes care of the important details we don¡¯t have time for.¡±


    Vanessa had finally recovered, only to watch Andy now miming Mike behind his back, rebuilding her laughing fit once again.


    ¡°We wouldn¡¯t get half our research grants or material without his effort, and he¡¯s managed to keep us relevant for far longer than most teams.¡± Mike pointed out, Andy still miming him. ¡°And sure, he can book us in for too many interviews, or insist on a cheap movie being made about us, but that¡¯s only because we take on every challenge, we¡¯re¡­¡±


    Mike finally faced Andy, catching him mid-act, as Andy played it off with a feigned innocence.


    ¡°¡­given.¡± Mike finished, going over to close the blinds to their room. ¡°I¡¯d rather be known as the team that faced everything head on over the team that sat by whi-¡°


    ¡­rumble¡­


    ¡°¡­what was¡­¡±


    ¡­rumble¡­


    ¡­rumble¡­


    ¡­RUMBLE¡­


    ¡­RRUUMMBBLLEE¡­


    ¡­RUMBLE¡­


    ¡­rumble¡­


    ¡°Whoa¡­¡± Vanessa let out, looking at Andy. ¡°What was that?¡±


    Vanessa turned to Mike. ¡°Was there something out there?¡±


    Mike was still by the window, having yet to close the blinds, as he froze in place, unable to move his arms.


    ¡°Mike, buddy, did you see something?¡± Vanessa asked, getting up to check on him.


    ¡°¡­what¡­¡±


    Vanessa and Andy looked at each other.


    ¡°¡­it couldn¡¯t be¡­¡± Mike said, a noticeable shakiness in his voice. ¡°¡­there¡¯s no way¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°¡­this enemy takes that many hits!¡± Harley yelled, throwing away her controller. ¡°How¡¯s it resistant to both fire and shock damage?¡±


    ¡°Well, we¡¯re twenty stages in.¡± Sola pointed out. ¡°Things are bound to get more difficult from here.¡±


    Harley slumped into the couch. ¡°How much longer does the game have?¡±


    Sola counted on her fingers. ¡°About¡­six hours.¡±


    ¡°Ugghhh!¡± Harley groaned, her head falling back onto the couch. ¡°Hurry up already!¡±


    ¡°Come on, Harley. We can do this!¡± Sola encouraged, unpausing the game. ¡°We¡¯re basically at the end already! We¡¯re just about to confront the henchmen, then we¡¯ve gotta raid the fortress, protect the captive from assassins, travel to the outer reaches, expose the monarchies corruption, end the demonic ploy, and escape the burning ruins with our frien-¡°


    Harley let out another groan. ¡°But that¡¯s so much!¡±


    ¡°And it¡¯s super worth it!¡± Sola exclaimed. ¡°Trust me, you¡¯re gonna love it.¡±


    ¡°¡­okay.¡± Harley let out, bothering to pick up her controller again. ¡°¡­you better keep on top of healing.¡±


    ¡°Yessir!¡± Sola exclaimed, saluting playfully, before losing focus on the game and taking damage. ¡°Oh, dammit.¡±


    Right after reviving, the dorm door opened, as Julia came in, collapsing next to Harley and Sola.


    Harley looked to her and hit pause. ¡°You okay, girl?¡±


    ¡°Did the search not go well?¡± Sola asked, closing in on her.


    ¡°We looked everywhere¡­¡± Julia said, sighing out. ¡°He¡¯s not on campus. Or he is, and he¡¯s hiding from us¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry to hear that.¡± Harley said, hugging Julia¡¯s side. ¡°Joleicia told me she asked the security to help look too.¡±


    ¡°Yeah¡­Dulce is pretty cool¡­¡± Julia let out, a noticeable lack of energy in her voice.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Julia. We¡¯ll find Florey at some point.¡± Sola encouraged. ¡°And then we¡¯ll smack him upside the head for making you worry.¡±


    Julia nodded, as Harley picked up her controller again.


    ¡°How¡¯s, uhh, how¡¯s¡­Wess?¡± Harley asked, a bit tentatively. ¡°She seemed okay when she left.¡±


    Julia smiled a bit. ¡°She¡¯s good. We had a¡­talk about Cyrus, but she¡¯s handling it so much better than she has any right to.¡±


    ¡°I hope I don¡¯t break up with anyone.¡± Sola added. ¡°It¡¯d feel pretty weird sharing a class with them too.¡±


    ¡°Me and Chops seem to manage.¡± Harley pointed out.


    ¡°Wait, Chops is your ex?¡± Sola asked, getting a donk on the head from Harley.


    ¡°How much info do you actually retain?¡± Harley questioned.


    Julia laughed a little, before turning her attention to the game. ¡°Is it any good?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, it¡¯s pretty fun.¡± Harley said, handing Julia her controller. ¡°You wanna have a go?¡±


    ¡°Uhh, sure.¡± Julia said, already in better spirits. ¡°Seems easy eno-¡°


    ¡°Fatal Injury.¡±


    Julia turned to the screen, barely being given a chance to play, before realising her character had already died.


    ¡°Oh, that was¡­¡± Harley started. ¡°How did that happen?¡±


    Sola looked back at her. ¡°You can keep playing, if you want.¡±


    ¡°¡­maybe later.¡± Julia said, taking a second, before getting up from the couch and wandering to the kitchen, checking the dates on the calendar to distract herself.


    Only a few weeks until the end of semester. She realised. Time really flies.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Dulce tapped her foot impatiently, resting on her knees in Faller¡¯s waiting area, just outside his office. As the Head of Security, she was used to early wakeups and sudden demands from higher-ups. Nothing about that was startling.


    However, the lack of any other staff members was definitely throwing her off.


    ¡°Geez, Faller¡­¡± She muttered, trying to get comfortable. ¡°Make a woman wait like this¡­¡±


    ¡°Hey, Dulce.¡± Called a voice, as Seears arrived from down the hall with noticeable bedhead.


    ¡°Oh, thank Reun¡­¡± Dulce let out, jumping out of her seat. ¡°I was so worried about being the only one called here.¡±


    ¡°Do you know why Faller asked us in?¡± Seears said, checking his reflection in his tablet casually. ¡°I swear, my boyfriend nearly threw me out the window for waking him up so early¡­¡±


    Dulce looked around, more out of obligation, then shrugged her shoulders. ¡°Staff meeting?¡±


    Seears¡¯ eyes drooped. ¡°In the dead of morning?¡±


    Dulce was noticeably embarrassed. ¡°Yeah, you¡¯re right. It¡¯s a little¡­cloak and dagger, you know?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m in charge of PR. Cloak and dagger is fine with me.¡± Seears reasoned, taking a seat. ¡°No point getting stressed out about it.¡±


    ¡°Unless it¡¯s something worth getting stressed about¡­¡± Dulce said, shuddering at the thought.


    ¡°That¡¯s paranoid thinking.¡± Seears said, tapping the seat beside him. ¡°Come on, we can wait.¡±


    It took a little over thirty minutes for the rest of the staff to arrive, the second-last obviously being Ferris, just as put off about the early wake-up as everyone else.


    ¡°You don¡¯t know either?¡± Cecil asked.


    ¡°Why would I know?¡± Ferris groaned, pulling out her flask.


    ¡°You live with him.¡± Cecil said, as Ferris rolled her eyes.


    ¡°He doesn¡¯t tell me shit. Hell, he drove here without me¡­¡± Ferris admitted, hardly stomaching her drink. ¡°That¡¯s the last time I¡¯m taking the Flash-Rail. I¡¯m stealing his car keys again¡­¡±


    ¡°Alright, hold up.¡± Seears said, interjecting. ¡°I get me and Dulce being here, along with Science Boy Ceci-¡°


    ¡°Head Scientist Cecil.¡± Cecil quickly and pointedly corrected.


    ¡°Sure, whatever.¡± Seears said. ¡°So, why¡¯s Ferris gotta be here?¡±


    The trio looked to Ferris, curious as to her place in this, as Ferris herself shrugged them off and took another swig.


    ¡°The guy hates me. He knew waking me up and dragging me here would piss me off.¡± Ferris reasoned, pocketing her flask. ¡°He¡¯s a secret sadist.¡±


    ¡°Kind words, Ferris.¡± Faller said, cutting through the crowd, as he emerged from his office, the door now open to the group. ¡°Don¡¯t make yourselves comfortable. I want to be brief.¡±


    ¡°Do you mind telling us why we¡¯re here?¡± Cecil asked, as the other filed in. ¡°You were pretty light on details.¡±


    ¡°I couldn¡¯t risk the information getting too public.¡± Faller said, placing himself in his seat, as Seears took the opportunity to raid his liquor cabinet. ¡°First of¡­Seears, what are you doing?¡±


    ¡°What? Ferris gets to drink.¡± Seears said, offering a glass to Dulce, who turned it down. ¡°I¡¯m a bartender, it¡¯s fine. Please, continue.¡±


    ¡°¡­I¡¯ll get to the point in a second. We¡¯re still waiting o-¡°


    Just as he said that, a knock came from the door.


    Vice-Principal Coatsworth was now standing in the entrance, a curious look on his face, but visibly unaffected by the early hour.


    ¡°Right on time, for the most part.¡± Faller said, indicating to the seat beside Ferris. ¡°If you would.¡±


    ¡°Of course.¡± Coatsworth replied, as Ferris glared him down. ¡°Do you know why we¡¯re here, Ferris?¡±


    ¡°Shut up.¡± She barked, pulling out her tablet, Faller letting it slide as he turned to address the room.


    ¡°I¡¯ll cut to the chase.¡± Faller said, the group looking back at him. ¡°As of last night, several residents of Michiri, along with Team Vivisect, saw a large group of Wailing crossing the border from the Eastern Wayside to Central Point.¡± Faller took a moment to breathe. ¡°¡­numbers were reported in the hundreds.¡±


    ¡°Holy shit¡­¡± Dulce let out, the rest of the room having a similar reaction.


    ¡°It¡¯s¡­unclear where they were headed, or even their exact numbers. These are mostly rumours at this point.¡± Faller clarified. ¡°But I think it¡¯s fair to say we don¡¯t want a repeat of the welcome event.¡±


    ¡°Hundreds?¡± Coatsworth asked. ¡°Th-that can¡¯t be¡­¡±


    ¡°It¡­it isn¡¯t unprecedented.¡± Cecil explained, struggling to maintain his demeanour. ¡°Wailing have been known to gather in these sorts of numbers before. They most likely originated from the north of the Aishanara Forest¡­¡±


    ¡°And that¡¯s coming here?¡± Seears let out. ¡°Great, there goes the academy.¡±


    ¡°Alright, come on people. Get over yourselves.¡± Ferris argued, standing up from her seat. ¡°We don¡¯t even know if they¡¯re coming here, considering there¡¯s all of Central Point and fucking mountain range to cross, or even if there are hundreds. This was at night after all, the dark can play tricks our vulnerable little eyes.¡±


    ¡°And I¡¯m not risking anything.¡± Faller declared in a tone insisting Ferris sit down. ¡°For now, we treat this like it¡¯s happening. We just got the support towers back up, I¡¯m not about to risk the whole campus. Dulce.¡±


    Dulce snapped out of her shock and faced him. ¡°Yes, s-sir?¡±


    ¡°Get those reinforced defences ready. I want increased patrols, and patrols into the forest as well. If we can keep an attack away from campus, we will.¡±


    Dulce processed his request, then took a deep breath in and saluted. ¡°Yes, sir. This campus is now a fortress.¡±


    ¡°Cecil, I need you to look into their potential behaviour or migration patterns. If we can predict movements, then we¡¯re one step ahead.¡±


    ¡°Right away.¡± Cecil said, getting up from his seat to leave.


    ¡°Seears.¡± Faller said, Seears still handling the information he¡¯d just heard. ¡°¡­admittedly, I don¡¯t have much for you. But if this gets out of control¡­¡±


    ¡°Yeah, got it, got it, sir. Control the narrative.¡± Seears said, finishing off his drink. ¡°Nip this in the bud¡­¡±


    ¡°Coatsworth and Ferris, you¡¯re mostly here to stay informed. Just¡­keep doing what you¡¯re doing. And don¡¯t let people on to what¡¯s happening.¡±


    ¡°Yes, sir. Thank for depriving me of sleep for this.¡± Ferris remarked, as Coatsworth stayed silent in his chair.


    ¡°Coatsworth?¡± Faller asked.


    ¡°¡­yes, sir. I¡¯ll do what I can.¡±


    Faller hesitated, before leaning back in his seat and sighing. ¡°You all know what to do. Keep this to yourselves, and don¡¯t let the rumours get around. Only a select few know about this for a reason.¡±


    The others got up to leave, all doing what was required of them, except for Ferris, still planted in her seat, as her and Faller waited for the others to clear out.


    Once the coast was clear, Faller sat back, rubbing his head in his hands, before Ferris kicked the table out of anger.


    ¡°God dammit!¡±


    ¡°I know¡­¡± Faller said, resting on his desk. ¡°The worst news yet¡­¡±


    ¡°A sudden attack?¡± Ferris let out. ¡°We start investigating Coatsworth and now a large group of Wailing are heading our way?¡±


    ¡°And right near the end of semester too.¡± Faller agreed. ¡°This lines up too well.¡±


    ¡°And that stupid¡­¡± Ferris groaned, kicking it again. ¡°Coatsworth was sitting right there, with that smug little look! Why¡¯d you bring him?!¡±


    ¡°It would¡¯ve been suspicious if I hadn¡¯t!¡± Faller argued. ¡°And if this attack was orchestrated by him, then he already knew it was coming!¡±


    ¡°Mother¡­¡± Ferris growled, kicking the desk a few more times, before Faller got up and stopped her.


    ¡°Get ahold of yourself. This doesn¡¯t change anything. You know what you have to do.¡± Faller admitted, holding her by the shoulders. ¡°At any cost.¡±


    Ferris stared him down, sharing a brief and intense glance with him, before shrugging off his hands. ¡°Yeah, I got it¡­¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry.¡± Faller said, sitting back down. ¡°If he¡¯s really behind this, he¡¯ll get what¡¯s coming to him. They always do.¡±


    Ferris turned away, before feeling she could speak. ¡°¡­there¡¯s nowhere else they could go, right?¡±


    ¡°Yeah¡­¡± Faller let out, the duo letting a silent moment pass, as neither knew how to respond.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Florey!!!¡±


    Silence rang out amongst the forest.


    ¡°Florey!!! We miss you!!!¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re making us worried sick!!!¡± Chops added, climbing onto a large, unearthed root. ¡°Come back already!!!¡±


    Silence continued to plague the forest, as Joleicia and Chops furthered their search, truly leaving no stone unturned.


    ¡°He¡¯s not here.¡± Chops said. ¡°I tell ya, if he¡¯d taken Tracking and Hunting like I¡¯d suggested, we wouldn¡¯t have to worry so much about him¡­¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t care, he¡¯s gotta be here.¡± Joleicia professed, climbing over more flora. ¡°FLOREY!!!¡±


    ¡°If he¡¯s here, then he¡¯s ignoring us.¡± Chops admitted. ¡°He just ran out on Bestalow, so ignoring us would be par for the course.¡±


    Joleicia shook her head. ¡°He didn¡¯t run out. He¡¯s just scared, or panicked, or doesn¡¯t want to admit something, or¡­¡±


    ¡°Jojo?¡± Chops asked, grabbing her shoulder.


    ¡°Did I do something wrong?¡± Joleicia asked, panic in her voice. ¡°I¡¯m the leader! I can¡¯t screw up like this! What kind of team leader loses a member in their firs-¡°


    ¡°Hey, hey, it¡¯s okay.¡± Chops assured. ¡°Don¡¯t go blaming yourself. You didn¡¯t kick him out or get into fights with him.¡±


    ¡°I should have, though.¡± Joleicia said, turning away. ¡°At least then I¡¯d know what he was thinking about¡­¡±


    She sunk to the ground, huddling her legs to her chest. ¡°He was having such a hard time, and we didn¡¯t even know¡­Julia had to tell us after the fact¡­¡±


    Chops found a spot to sit and join her. ¡°Don¡¯t act like that¡¯s all on you. A conversation¡¯s a two-way street. If he wasn¡¯t willing to talk to us, forcing it out of him probably wouldn¡¯t have worked either.¡±


    She leaned back against the ground and stared up at the foliage. ¡°He seemed fine when we were hanging out together.¡±


    ¡°He was keeping up appearances¡­¡± Joleicia realised, lying back too. ¡°¡­he really didn¡¯t want our help.¡±


    ¡°Well, he¡¯s getting it.¡± Chops assured her. ¡°We¡¯re gonna find that jerk and make him talk this out.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t¡­call him a jerk.¡± Joleicia insisted.


    ¡°He just ditched! That¡¯s what jerks do!¡± Chops demanded, splaying her arms. ¡°I want him back too, but once we find him, I¡¯m lording this over him so bad¡­¡±


    Joleicia looked concerned, as Chops was visibly sheepish.


    ¡°¡­after we help him work through his problems, of course.¡± She attempted.


    Joleicia stared up at the sky, or at least what little she could see through the forest¡¯s canopy.


    ¡°¡­we could¡¯ve helped him, right? If he¡¯d talked to us?¡±


    Chops turned to her, thinking it over for a second too long, before nodding back. ¡°Yeah. I think so.¡±


    Joleicia nodded back, more trying to convince herself, staring back at the foliage covering the sky, the few hints of clouds blocking the errant rays of sunlight breaking through.


    Where are you, Florey?


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Everyone at the academy agreed Ferris had a certain attitude about her. It was in no way welcoming, but it was recognisable.


    So seeing her lose that was almost alien, like seeing a duck without its bill. It made her classes especially off-putting. Team Valiant were easily the most confused.


    Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on the original website.


    The room was dead-silent, save for Ferris at the front, rhythmically tapping her fingers to her desk. A few students present looked around curiously, seeing if anyone else knew why the class was being held up.


    Ferris continued tapping, staring blankly at the floor, until Wess felt she had to butt in.


    She raised her hand, before realising Ferris wasn¡¯t paying attention and stood up instead.


    ¡°Excuse me.¡± She asked, projecting across the class. ¡°Is there a reason we aren¡¯t doing anything today?¡±


    Ferris stopped staring and lifted her head for the last half of her sentence. ¡°Maybe.¡±


    Wess blinked. ¡°Do you feel like telling us?¡±


    Ferris blinked as well, before getting up out of her seat, then laying against her desk.


    ¡°I think she¡¯s stalling.¡± Sola whispered to the rest of the team.


    ¡°At least that tracks for her.¡± Julia replied, watching Ferris attempt to draw something on the whiteboard, before putting the marker back down and banging her head against it.


    ¡°You kids¡­¡± She groaned, dragging herself away, then laying on the ground. ¡°You don¡¯t know how lucky you are¡­how much choice you really have¡­¡±


    A student leaned out of their seat. ¡°Miss? Are you alright?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m never alright¡­¡± Ferris let out, getting up again and sighing. ¡°I¡¯m only telling you this to get it off my chest. I don¡¯t want anyone here thinking it¡¯s cause I care about your safety.¡±


    ¡°Great way to start¡­¡± Harley remarked, as Ferris paced idly, trying to work up the nerve.


    ¡°¡­there¡¯s been rumours¡­going around¡­¡± Ferris prefaced, turning around to the class. ¡°¡­about a potential Wailing attack on the academy.¡±


    The class got into a panicked frenzy, muttering to each other about what they¡¯d just heard, as Ferris stamped her foot.


    ¡°Hey! Shut up!¡± She yelled, massaging her forehead. ¡°Nothing¡¯s been confirmed yet, but there¡¯s a group of Wailing from the Aishanara forest that have some people on guard. Apparently, Team Vivisect caught wind of it an-¡°


    ¡°Are they coming here?¡± A student asked.


    ¡°We don¡¯t know. The academy¡¯s preparing its defences¡­¡± Ferris said, causing more murmuring. ¡°¡­but it¡¯s relatively under control! Get a hold of yourselves!¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s gotta be something we can do.¡± Another student asked.


    ¡°As first-years?¡± Ferris pointed out, slumping back into her seat. ¡°Maybe wave some pom-poms for the security and third-years¡­¡±


    The murmuring continued, the students present all trying to rationalise what they heard, as Ferris was trying to drown it all out as best she could.


    ¡°Do you know why this is happening?¡± Julia asked, her voice cutting through the confusion.


    Ferris looked up at her knowingly, before sighing out. ¡°Beats me. Most Wailing attacks are small incidents, but sometimes they just amass and take out large things for¡­I dunno, the sake of destruction? It¡¯s like those disaster movies where the invading aliens keep hitting famous landmarks¡­¡± Ferris remarked, pulling out her tablet. ¡°Anyway, if the time comes, you guys know how to evacuate¡­¡±


    Julia realised just how many people were staring back at her now and sat back down, trying to calm her heart, as Harley stood up in her stead.


    ¡°If this is such a big deal, why hasn¡¯t Faller told us about it?¡± Harley asked, projecting louder than Julia had.


    ¡°Maybe he¡¯s busy.¡± Ferris played off, avoiding facing her. ¡°Maybe it¡¯s cause it¡¯s unconfirmed. Maybe he¡¯s giving himself less to do so he can focus on the attack. I dunno, I¡¯m just his easily ignored, lowly assistant¡­¡±


    Harley started snickering, as Ferris was visibly red-faced.


    ¡°What?¡±


    Harley kept up her snickering. ¡°¡­Ferris is embarrassed.¡±


    A couple laughs came from the class at the cheap rhyme, sending Ferris out of her seat.


    ¡°You think I like the name Ferris? If I had a¡­¡± Ferris complained, before dropping off the sentence. ¡°Forget I said anything. Class dismissed.¡±


    With that, she made a swift exit, surprising everyone there. They took an extra minute to leave just to make sure she wasn¡¯t pulling their leg.


    ¡°What was that about?¡± Harley asked, the team collecting their things.


    ¡°She had mentioned rumours of an attack.¡± Essex replied. ¡°This is concerning¡­¡±


    ¡°No, not that. The name thing.¡± Harley clarified. ¡°She got real pissy at the end there.¡±


    ¡°At least she wasn¡¯t really drunk this time.¡± Julia pointed out, facing Essex. ¡°And you¡¯re right about the rumours. I want a plan in place in case something happens.¡±


    ¡°There is a plan. Escape to the tournament arena.¡± Wess explained, grabbing her bag. ¡°Or it¡¯s only one Wailing and we go into lockdown for the night while security handle it. Or, the most likely option, it¡¯s absolutely nothing.¡±


    ¡°It can¡¯t be nothing! A bunch of people saw something.¡± Sola reasoned, following along with the team down the seating row. ¡°And remember that news report from a bit ago? A bunch of Wailing were missing from the Aishanara Forest.¡±


    ¡°Plus, we know Team Vivisect. They wouldn¡¯t go around spreading baseless rumours.¡± Harley pointed out, as the team left the classroom with everyone else.


    ¡°I¡¯m not saying they¡¯re untrue, I¡¯m saying we should indulge in some healthy skepticism.¡± Wess argued. ¡°We shouldn¡¯t always be panicking the moment we hear the word ¡®Wailing.¡¯¡±


    The team continued to discuss the issue, before Essex noticed Julia off to the side, consumed in her own thoughts.


    ¡°Julia? Are you alright?¡±


    Julia lifted her head and realised the team was looking back at her.


    She waited for the hallway of students to clear out before facing the team again.


    ¡°I-I was just¡­thinking¡­¡± Julia said, gulping to herself. ¡°¡­about something I talked about with Faller.¡±


    ¡°With Faller? When?¡± Wess asked.


    ¡°Well, it was back when Harley got in that fight with Baron.¡± Julia said. ¡°¡­he asked about Coatsworth, and I mentioned that we knew about his theory of a third party to the Wailing Conflict. Then he¡­said Coatsworth might be behind it¡­that he might¡¯ve been pulling the strings this whole time¡­¡±


    ¡°So it¡¯s true!¡± Harley exclaimed. ¡°Coatsworth must¡¯ve realised that Faller was onto him! Now he¡¯s sending in a Wailing army to finish the Behemoth Wailing¡¯s work!¡±


    ¡°Wait, he can control Wailing?¡± Sola asked, bewildered. ¡°Does he have mind control powers?¡±


    Wess ignored the comment and stroked her chin. ¡°¡­if he was working within the academy, then planning each of these attacks would be¡­well, criminally easy.¡±


    Essex nodded. ¡°We should attempt to stop him before he can attain the upper hand.¡±


    ¡°Whoa, whoa, guys.¡± Julia assured. ¡°Ferris just reminded us not to jump to conclusions, and, for once, we should probably listen to her. We don¡¯t have all the evidence here.¡±


    ¡°So, you don¡¯t think he¡¯s behind it?¡± Harley asked.


    ¡°I¡¯m saying we shouldn¡¯t play judge, jury, executioner.¡± Julia reasoned. ¡°Faller¡¯s looking into this. If this is¡­actually something, we really shouldn¡¯t be intervening.¡±


    ¡°¡­Julia¡¯s right.¡± Wess agreed. ¡°While justice would be sweet, we best leave this to the professionals for now.¡±


    ¡°¡­yeah, okay.¡± Harley admitted, kicking the ground.


    ¡°If this is our course of action, then the next concern is the attack.¡± Essex reasoned. ¡°Classes will be finished soon. We should establish consistent communication in order to assure everyone¡¯s safety.¡±


    ¡°We can just set up a group text.¡± Julia pointed out, Essex squinting uncomfortably. ¡°Oh, right, you don¡¯t¡­I can just show you how to.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll check Activ for any news on¡­¡± Wess started, before noticing a notification on her tablet she¡¯d yet to address. ¡°¡­oh.¡±


    ¡°Is it something bad?¡± Sola asked.


    ¡°No, it¡¯s¡­¡± Wess said, swallowing. ¡°¡­I have a meeting with Faller regarding transferring teams.¡±


    The team was left silent, trying to take in the news, with only Julia feeling like responding.


    ¡°Are¡­you going?¡±


    Wess took a second, before putting her tablet away. ¡°I guess I have to.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Ferris slumped against the wall, having found a quiet spot to rest where no students were mingling. A couple students from her class were demanding more answers she didn¡¯t have, which was supposed to be the point of the class, but clearly the message hadn¡¯t sunk in. Her day was far busier than she¡¯d ever intended.


    ¡°Faller¡­¡± She groaned, focusing on breathing. ¡°I will neve-¡°


    She was cutoff by her tablet, now buzzing in her hand frantically, as she picked it up wearily, landing against the floor while she took the call.


    ¡°This is Ferris speaking. Who may I be adding to my hit list?¡±


    ¡°This was you, wasn¡¯t it?¡±


    ¡°Oh, Faller. You sound upset.¡± She replied, lifting her head up.


    ¡°I heard students down my halls talking about an attack. A couple just knocked on my office door asking if they could hunt the Wailing for us.¡±


    ¡°They¡¯re morons, Faller. I keep telling you.¡±


    Faller was audibly frustrated on the other end. ¡°Why do you insist on making this harder for us?¡±


    ¡°The plan was to make it harder for you. I got caught in the crossfire.¡±


    Faller stayed silent, the only sound coming through being the creak of his office chair as he leaned back heavily.


    ¡°They¡¯re gonna keep coming, aren¡¯t they?¡±


    ¡°¡­yeah.¡±


    ¡°Self sacrificing¡­¡± Ferris grumbled, grabbing her leg. ¡°¡­you can¡¯t stop them from wanting to protect this place.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ve almost done our job too well.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not my job¡­¡± Ferris said, slumping down further.


    ¡°Well, thanks to your shortsighted actions, I¡¯ll need to address this soon rather then later.¡±


    ¡°¡­yeah.¡±


    ¡°¡­I don¡¯t want to push you any harder, but if you keep acting like thi-¡°


    Ferris hung up the call, chucking her tablet across the hallway out of frustration and rested her head in her hands, taking large, heavy breaths.


    ¡°What the hell is wrong with me?¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Julia couldn¡¯t explain it, but the academy had been whipped into a frenzy. News of the attack had spread fast, understandably, forcing the staff and security to really up their game in terms of defence. Security were working double-time and were now able to be more overt about it. Classes were regularly disrupted with students eagerly discussing and assessing the likelihood of an attack, stopping any real learning from happening, and this had all only happened within a week.


    For Julia, this meant her afternoon was suddenly free, and her schedule had a giant gap that she felt like filling with some walking. The rest of the team was pretty worried about the rumours, so going back to the dorm room to relax wasn¡¯t much of an option. But the sunlight on her back was certainly appreciated¡­


    ¡°Julia.¡±


    Julia turned around suddenly, having strolled down one of the main building¡¯s halls to appreciate the sideview out the window. She somewhat remembered the voice she was hearing, before spotting Donovan waving back to her in the hallway.


    ¡°Hey, Donovan!¡± Julia greeted, hopping over to them. ¡°How¡¯re things going?¡±


    ¡°Oh, pretty¡­good, considering the rumours.¡± Donovan replied, scratching their neck. ¡°My team insisted on spending Bestalow together. I don¡¯t really celebrate it¡­¡± They shrugged. ¡°¡­but it was pretty nice, all things considered.¡±


    Julia smiled pleasantly. ¡°Sorry we haven¡¯t seen much of each other. I keep meaning to hang out, but I¡¯ve been pretty busy with a lot recently.¡±


    Donovan waved their hand. ¡°There¡¯s only so much time in the day. Our training schedule¡¯s only gotten more involved over the year.¡±


    ¡°Oh yeah! Harley told me she sat in for one of those.¡± Julia remembered, giggling to herself. ¡°I think you nearly broke her.¡±


    ¡°Good enthusiasm, poor endurance¡­¡± Donovan reminisced, briefly forgetting Julia was there. ¡°She still needs a lot of work¡­¡±


    ¡°Hold on, she¡¯s my teammate.¡± Julia pointed out. ¡°Don¡¯t go training her behind my back. You¡¯ve already got four of your own members to worry about.¡±


    Donovan shook themselves from their trance. ¡°Right. Apologies, I haven¡¯t been training for the last few days, so naturally, that¡¯s all I can think about.¡±


    ¡°Oh?¡± Julia asked, walking alongside Donovan down the hall.


    ¡°The rumours have put my team on edge. Team Instinct living up to their name and all¡­¡± Donovan dryly remarked. ¡°It¡¯s hard to focus on physical training when all your energy is spent worrying about a potential attack.¡±


    ¡°Tell me about it. My team¡¯s been weirdly panicked recently.¡± Julia sympathised. ¡°I think we¡¯re all a little bit scared.¡±


    ¡°Less of that overt friendliness?¡± Donovan remarked.


    ¡°I guess.¡± Julia replied.


    ¡°Well, it¡¯s good to know this type of thing effects all teams.¡± Donovan said, eventually hitting the stairs and jogging up them, followed by Julia.


    They made it to the top and waited for Julia, who dragged behind, only just making the last few steps.


    ¡°You good?¡± Donovan asked.


    ¡°¡­yeah.¡± Julia panted, slowly getting up. ¡°It was¡­just sudden¡­¡±


    ¡°Sorry.¡± Donovan apologised, stretching casually. ¡°I want to get as much movement in as possible, even if my team doesn¡¯t want to.¡±


    Donovan twisted their hips. ¡°Did you hear that teams from any year can sign up for defence?¡±


    ¡°In case of the attack?¡± Julia asked.


    Donovan nodded mid-stretch. ¡°At first, it was just third-years and security, but so many people started demanding the right to defend their academy that they had to allow it.¡±


    Donovan turned to Julia during their stretches. ¡°Do you reckon your team¡¯ll volunteer?¡±


    Julia was a bit thrown off by the question. ¡°I¡­d-don¡¯t think we should. We¡¯ve already fought four Wailing this year¡­anymore would be pushing it¡­¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s understandable.¡± Donovan replied. ¡°I think I might be the only member of my team willing to volunteer.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t they want to?¡± Julia asked, trying to join along in their stretches.


    ¡°Well, it¡¯s not an inviting idea.¡± Donovan said, lunging forward. ¡°We¡¯re here to improve our physicality, not take out as many Wailing as possible. While we¡¯re training to be Venators, our priority is always about becoming stronger. Conflict isn¡¯t our biggest concern.¡±


    Donovan started lunging the other way. ¡°Dumbbells rarely fight back, after all.¡±


    Julia nodded, attempting some lunges herself, before toppling to her side and getting a laugh from Donovan.


    ¡°You could just stand.¡± Donovan suggested, helping Julia up. ¡°It¡¯s clear why you haven¡¯t joined our training routines.¡±


    ¡°Wow, hitting me while I¡¯m down.¡± Julia commented, playfully punching Donovan¡¯s arm.


    Julia and Donovan kept up their stroll, as Julia noticed a lull in the conversation.


    ¡°Are you¡­¡± Julia asked, catching Donovan¡¯s attention. ¡°Are you worried about the rumours being real?¡±


    Donovan looked up at the roof, then shook their head. ¡°No, it¡¯s not about them coming true. I¡¯m worried about the paranoia that follows.¡±


    Julia cocked her head. ¡°Paranoia?¡±


    Donovan nodded. ¡°It¡¯s all over the academy. That¡¯s why people are so up in arms about defending. It¡¯s already been affecting my team too. At this point, it doesn¡¯t matter if Wailing attack us or not. We¡¯re terrified already.¡±


    Donovan spun around to face Julia, walking backwards. ¡°We¡¯ve had a year to prepare since the last attack, and even the security are scared shitless. The attack could be nothing, or it could actually happen.¡± Donovan said, turning back around. ¡°But constantly being on the edge like this makes people act a lot more irrationally; jump to conclusions. Fear makes you defensive.¡±


    Donovan slowed down to line up with Julia. ¡°You get what I mean?¡±


    Julia was staring off, thinking back on the last few weeks, before turning to Donovan again. ¡°Yeah, I get it.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s why I want my team to keep training.¡± Donovan explained, reaching another stairwell. ¡°Exercise is good for you. Keeps you focused. Stops you from just dwelling on unhealthy base desires.¡±


    Donovan looked to Julia. ¡°We can just walk up this one.¡±


    Julia gave a good-natured laugh. ¡°Thanks.¡±


    The walk up the stairs was brisk, but helped Julia realise just how high up the main building they were. In their seemingly short walk together, the duo had already reached the rooftop, just catching the slow roll of clouds coming over the Eldos Mountains.


    ¡°Have you been up here before?¡± Donovan asked, bracing themselves against the sudden breeze.


    Julia nodded. ¡°Yeah, on Orientation Day, actually.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± Donovan said. ¡°Probably doesn¡¯t bode well for the rumours, then, if you coming up here is some kind of trigger for attacks.¡±


    Julia¡¯s expression sank, as Donovan looked visibly embarrassed.


    ¡°Oh wow, that joke really didn¡¯t land.¡± Donovan realised. ¡°I really didn¡¯t mean that, I was just¡­¡±


    Julia shook her head. ¡°It¡¯s¡­fine. I¡¯m still getting used to your sense of humour.¡±


    Donovan quickly joined her side, as they approached the edge of the building. ¡°It¡¯s incredible just how tall this building is.¡±


    ¡°Yeah¡­¡± Julia admitted, lifting her gaze. ¡°What do you reckon it¡¯s going to be like once we graduate?¡±


    Donovan shrugged. ¡°More of the same, really. I don¡¯t see much reason to change my life drastically.¡±


    ¡°But what if it changed without you getting a say?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯d still roll with it. If you can¡¯t adapt to the world around you, how¡¯re you supposed to survive?¡± Donovan replied, putting on an air of dignity.


    Julia smiled. ¡°You could always coast b-¡°


    Julia slipped.


    Her leg suddenly lifted into the air, having not noticed how wet the rooftop was from the overnight rain, on top of casually wandering during their conversation, as she was sent over the edge of the building.


    Donovan¡¯s instincts kicked in, causing them to reach over, grabbing Julia¡¯s arms before she fell any further and pull her up with an impressive amount of ease.


    Julia finally found her footing again, helping Donovan by using her Whil and slowing her fall, until she made it back over the edge, both her and Donovan collapsing back against the rooftop, exhausted and visibly panicked.


    Donovan took a second to recover from panting. ¡°Are you¡­okay¡­?¡±


    Julia was focusing on slowing her heartbeat to a reasonable speed, before sitting up and nodding in response. ¡°U-uhh¡­yeah¡­¡±


    ¡°That¡­was sudden¡­¡± Donovan said, wiping their forehead. ¡°¡­bad luck hits all of us, huh?¡±


    ¡°¡­can we get off the roof?¡± Julia asked, Donovan helping her to her feet.


    ¡°Yeah, sure.¡± Donovan said, patting her back. ¡°Roofs are overrated anyway.¡±


    Julia and Donovan left the rooftop, still reeling from the sudden experience, as Julia looked back at the building¡¯s edge, slowly disappearing from sight as they continued down the stairs and thought about anything else she could.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Is it¡­a solid?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Is it a primary colour?¡±


    ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°Traffic cone.¡±


    Renee sat back in shock. ¡°H-how did you guess that so quickly?¡±


    ¡°It was a good guess.¡± Gates said, popping her head back down. ¡°You¡¯ve always been predictable.¡±


    ¡°Takes one to¡­¡± Renee tried, before forgetting it and placing another card down. ¡°Are we staying in Shanlin any longer? The hotel room¡¯s nice and all¡­¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I¡¯m getting a bit stir crazy too.¡± Gates admitted, looking out at the town, as the duo sat out the front of the hotel. ¡°The jobs really dried up after those Valiant girls left.¡±


    ¡°You mean job.¡± Renee pointed out, lifting a finger. ¡°One job.¡±


    ¡°How do you reckon the others are doing in Pining?¡± Gates said, lying back and kicking her feet up onto the table. ¡°It has even less Wailing activity, if you can believe it.¡±


    ¡°Pretty sure it¡¯s famous for that.¡± Renee said, finishing off a house of cards. ¡°Oh, that¡¯s a good feeling.¡±


    Gates lazily turned her head, then smacked the cards down, before turning it back to the rest of Shanlin.


    ¡°How did I know you were gonna do that?¡± Renee admitted, sighing out and starting again, before Gates turned her head toward something.


    ¡°Uhh, Renee?¡±


    ¡°You can knock it over when it¡¯s finished.¡±


    ¡°No, seriously.¡± Gates said, as Renee lifted her head and followed Gates¡¯ gaze.


    ¡°Oh my¡­¡± Renee muttered, as Shanlin residents exited their homes, assessing where all the sudden and frantic rumbling was coming from.


    A few shrieked out in terror, some simply fainted, while others stared on at the mass of Wailing charging beside the town, heading straight past Shanlin and deep into the forest, slowly disappearing out of sight.


    ¡°W-was that¡­?¡± Gates asked, her hand visibly shaking, as Renee had her tablet out, frantically sending out a message on Activ.


    ¡°This is¡­¡± Renee mumbled, finding it hard to swallow. ¡°Are they heading for¡­?¡±


    Gates tried to shake herself from her trance. ¡°¡­well¡­the central forest is pretty massive, so it could be anywhere, really. It doesn¡¯t have to be Detu City.¡±


    ¡°Right, but¡­¡± Renee stumbled. ¡°Where else would they go?¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Harley swung the academy bar door open, just catching the weather starting to turn, as Essex followed behind, closing it for her.


    ¡°Seriously? Nobody in there caught your eye?¡± Harley asked, slinging her hands behind her back.


    ¡°Romance is not a concern to me as of right now.¡± Essex replied, assessing her scythe casually.


    ¡°What about that guy in the corner? He was totally eyeing you up.¡± Harley suggested, turning around. ¡°While you may not admit it, you make that suit look good.¡±


    ¡°The effort is appreciated, but I do not require a relationship.¡± Essex professed, following Harley toward the academy entrance. ¡°Once I am finished with my goals, I will seek one out.¡±


    ¡°Is that a Segaru Clan thing?¡± Harley asked.


    Essex shook her head. ¡°¡­admittedly, it is a personal choice. Clan members will often avoid romantic and sexual relationships all together to avoid indulging in personal desires.¡±


    ¡°Ouch. Sounds like the toughest abstinence ever.¡± Harley admitted. ¡°Well, when the time comes, I can be your wingwoman. Get you some really lucky babe, talk you up to them¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡­would not wish that.¡± Essex let out, somewhat impassioned. ¡°But I thank you for the offer.¡±


    ¡°No prob¡­¡± Harley said, before a couple security guards ran past, nearly running into them. They ducked around the corner, as a few more followed after.


    ¡°What¡¯s up with them?¡± Harley asked, Essex following her gaze, until Dulce appeared too, stopping by Harley and Essex.


    ¡°Hey, you two should really get out of here.¡± She projected. ¡°We¡¯ve just gotten confirmation from Shanlin of Wailing movement in the forest. It¡¯s not safe here.¡±


    ¡°Wait, the attack¡¯s happening?¡± Harley exclaimed, Essex just as shocked.


    ¡°Maybe. The forest is massive, so it could just be a false alarm, but we¡¯re not risking anything.¡± Dulce explained, directing a couple guards behind her. ¡°Unless you¡¯re helping defend, I suggest getting to the tournament arena ASAP.¡±


    ¡°Will th-¡°


    ¡°Come on, people!!! There¡¯s no room for slacking off!!!¡± Dulce commanded, interrupting Essex.


    ¡°¡­will the academy be properly defended?¡± Essex asked, her hand tentatively resting on her scythe handle.


    Dulce gulped. ¡°I can¡¯t speak for the academy, but I promise you¡¯ll be safe, if you do as you''re told.¡±


    Essex lowered her hand from her scythe. ¡°We will do as suggested.¡±


    ¡°Thanks, Dulce.¡± Harley said, running off with Essex. ¡°Keep up the good fight!¡±


    ¡°I always do¡­¡± Dulce said, finally letting herself break a sweat now that she didn¡¯t have an audience.


    ¡°We should locate the team.¡± Essex said, peering around the campus. ¡°Do we know where they are?¡±


    ¡°Well¡­if I remember correctly.¡± Harley replied, panting beside her. ¡°Julia¡¯s studying in the library and Wess should be at¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Faller rested his head against his window, staring up at the overcast sky, threatening to rain again at any second, as Ferris sat by his desk, tapping away at her tablet.


    ¡°I¡¯ve never liked the rain.¡± Faller said. ¡°Plenty of people find it relaxing for some reason¡­¡±


    He turned back to Ferris, still mostly ignoring him. ¡°You know, there used to be this myth back in the day that Wailin-¡°


    ¡°Couldn¡¯t touch water. I¡¯m fully aware.¡± Ferris interrupted, her attention still on the tablet.


    Faller turned back to the window. ¡°I¡¯ve always thought that was weirdly fascinating. Not from any factual point of view, but I guess some curious part of me wanted to see if it held any water.¡±


    He waited to see if Ferris would respond to the pun but found no purchase in his attempt.


    He took his seat again. ¡°Then, of course, aquatic Wailing were discovered, and the idea fizzled out as quickly as it started.¡± He leaned over his desk to address Ferris. ¡°Why do you think it started?¡±


    ¡°Cause we¡¯re stupid.¡± Ferris answered, finally looking up at him. ¡°Stupid and scared. We¡¯re desperate to find a weakness in the Wailing so we don¡¯t have to think about our own.¡±


    She looked back down, slinking her legs over the armrest. ¡°The theory fit, and we all clung to it for security.¡±


    ¡°But it didn¡¯t fit.¡± Faller reasoned. ¡°Everyone just thought it did.¡±


    Ferris sighed out. ¡°Is that different?¡±


    Faller went silent, spotting the security outside prepping themselves near the edge of the forest bordering the academy.


    ¡°Maybe if it was true, I¡¯d finally like the rain.¡± Faller expounded, sighing out loud.


    To break up the newfound silence, Wess popped her head into the opened office and knocked on the door.


    ¡°Principal Faller.¡±


    Faller lifted his eyes from the window, before indicating for Ferris to leave. ¡°Miss Nouvel. Please.¡±


    He pointed to his chair, Wess taking her seat and briefly locking eyes with Ferris, as Faller sat up properly, trying desperately not to look exhausted.


    ¡°If I recall correctly, you had problems with your team earlier this year and wished to transfer. Am I correct?¡± He genuinely asked, getting a basic confirmation from Wess. ¡°And we concluded that you should give them a chance before making your decision about transferring in second year.¡±


    Wess nodded along, as Faller stood up in his seat. ¡°I know this year hasn¡¯t gone perfectly, and you may have resented me for that suggestion, but I hope you saw what I was trying to show you. Regardless of the outcome, I want you to make the best decision for you, and if that means breaking four hearts, then so be it. With that said, seeing as you¡¯ve spent a full year with Team Valiant, is transferrin sti-¡°


    Wess raised her hand and interrupted him.


    ¡°Faller, let¡¯s be honest. I don¡¯t think there¡¯s any point dragging this out. No, I will not be transferring teams.¡±


    Faller looked somewhat relieved, before finally letting himself lose his professional demeanour and sit against his desk. ¡°That¡¯s¡­that¡¯s good to hear. May I ask why this change came about?¡±


    Wess went to make her point, before straightening herself out and cleaning up her appearance. ¡°I started the year with base assumptions about what constitutes a Venator. After spending more time with my team, and seeing what they had to offer, I¡¯ve come to see things from a more nuanced perspective.¡± Wess explained. ¡°Quite simply, I¡¯d yet to give my team a fair shake.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± Faller smiled, before sighing out. ¡°That¡¯s so much less work for me¡­¡±


    He sat back down in his seat, before leaning over to Wess. ¡°Truth be told, working out the logistics of a transfer with these attacks rumours floating around would¡¯ve been my whole week.¡±


    ¡°Oh¡­¡± Wess realised, blushing a bit. ¡°¡­well, let¡¯s be thankful it didn¡¯t come to that.¡±


    Faller shook his head. ¡°It isn¡¯t much easier anyway. This whole threat of an attack has made these last few weeks a living hell¡­¡±


    Wess nodded sympathetically. ¡°You¡¯re starting to sound like Ferris.¡±


    Faller gave her knowing look. ¡°We both know how much of an insult that is.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, sir. I¡¯m sure this matter will blow over soon enough.¡± Wess assured, getting up from her seat. ¡°These sorts of mass Wailing rumours pop up all the time and often just lead to a couple people freaking out like chickens with no heads. They only truly hold power if you let them.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, tell that to the board of investors¡­¡± Faller remarked, waving her off, as a quick knock came to the door.


    Sola popped her head in. ¡°Hey. How¡¯d the meeting go?¡±


    ¡°Good. I wish more meetings went that smoothly.¡± Wess pointed out, looking around the hall. ¡°I was half-expecting Julia to be here.¡±


    ¡°Yeah¡­she didn¡¯t want to be here in case you changed teams.¡± Sola said, avoiding eye contact. ¡°You didn¡¯t¡­?¡±


    ¡°No, Sola. Unfortunately, you¡¯ve gotten your hooks in me at this point.¡± Wess remarked, coming off as more sarcastic then intended, before Sola stared at Faller, deep in work-mode.


    ¡°Oh! Mr Faller sir!¡± Sola exclaimed, swinging into the office. ¡°I just remembered. I¡¯ve been meaning to tell you something! I totally forgot!¡±


    ¡°Uhuh. Can this wait until later?¡± Faller said, returning to his work.


    Wess looked to Sola, who nodded back at her confidently, prompting her to speak.


    ¡°I¡­believe this may be worth hearing. Sola wouldn¡¯t waste your time needlessly.¡± Wess reasoned, drawing Faller¡¯s attention.


    He sighed out. ¡°Fine. What it is?¡±


    ¡°Okay, so, I¡¯ve been seeing some weird bugs around campus. They¡¯re, like, all over the lecture halls and stuff, and I think they might be dangerous.¡± Sola explained with matching hand motions, as Wess was visibly disappointed. ¡°I don¡¯t know what kind th-¡°


    ¡°Apologies, sir.¡± Wess interrupted, cutting in front of Sola. ¡°I didn¡¯t realise Sola would actually elect to waste your time like this. If you¡¯ll excuse u-¡°


    ¡°Bugs?¡± Faller asked, surprising Wess.


    She stepped away from Sola and let her keep speaking.


    ¡°Yeah, they had this weird pattern, and they were on seats and the roof, but like, only a couple each room.¡± Sola elaborated. ¡°They looked lethal, so I wanted to tell you about it.¡±


    Faller visibly thought some things over, before getting out of his seat. ¡°Can you show me to one?¡±


    Sola nodded vehemently. ¡°There¡¯s just some in the lecture hall downstairs.¡±


    Faller followed Sola out the door, as Wess was still reeling from the sudden tone shift in the conversation, before following suite as well.


    Sola arrived first, swiping her ID to get into the hall, before jumping around the rows of seats, looking for the bugs, as Faller soon arrived, along with Wess.


    ¡°What do¡­they look like?¡± Faller asked, a little out of breath.


    ¡°They¡¯re green and red, and kinda like beetles.¡± Sola said, jumping down the seats. ¡°They should stand out pret-found one!¡±


    Faller and Wess joined up with her, crouching to spot the small beetle underneath one of the seats.


    ¡°It looks harmless enough¡­¡± Wess said, reaching out for it, before reeling back in pain. ¡°Ow! The little bugger bit me!¡±


    The beetle attempted to take flight, before Sola quickly caught the bug in mid-air, pulling up her jacket sleeves to avoid touching it directly.


    ¡°Gross¡­¡± Faller let out, as it squirmed around in Sola¡¯s hand, trying to pry itself from her grasp.


    Upon closer inspection, Sola noticed a few wires popping out the sides and jumped back in fear, dropping it on its back.


    ¡°Ah!¡± She cried. ¡°It¡¯s a robot! They¡¯re robot bugs!¡±


    ¡°I had a feeling something was up¡­¡± Faller said, trying to get close to it and failing. ¡°I can¡¯t inspect it while it¡¯s moving around so much.¡±


    Wess turned to Sola. ¡°Could you use your Whil to stun it?¡±


    Sola opened her eyes again. ¡°Like short circuit it? I guess so¡­¡±


    Sola got in closer and pointed her finger, trying desperately to hold back the raw power of her Whil. Her hand trembled, as a small jolt travelled into the bug, frying it, causing Sola to jump back again to prevent her Whil going out of control. Faller leaned into it to get a closer look.


    ¡°Remarkable¡­¡± Faller admitted, lifting up the metal casing to inspect the inside. ¡°There¡¯s a defensive shock barrier around it that stops tampering.¡±


    ¡°Tampering?¡± Wess asked, standing back. ¡°So, whoever made this had a plan in case someone went picking around?¡±


    Faller prodded further inside, before stopping suddenly.


    ¡°It has a listening device.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Sola asked, climbing back over.


    ¡°Sola, you said these were all over campus, right?¡± Faller asked, Sola nodding in response.


    ¡°Yeah¡­¡± She said, as it dawned on her. ¡°Then someone was listening in to our classes? That¡¯s so creepy¡­¡±


    ¡°But what could¡­¡± Faller wondered, before standing back up immediately and heading out the classroom, followed by Sola and Wess.


    He ran back up to his office, scanning around the room, spotting a small green and red dot on top of one of the bookshelves. Sola and Wess caught him pulling a chair over, getting a heavy book and smashing the bug flat.


    ¡°They¡¯re in here too.¡± He said, showing off the destroyed bug. ¡°They¡¯ve been listening in on my meetings¡­they¡¯ve¡­¡±


    He stopped, then threw the bug to the ground, stamping it out of anger. ¡°Right under my¡­!¡±


    Faller stopped again, before muttering to himself. ¡°But someone else was listening in¡­that confirms it¡­it has to¡­that confirms the third party¡­¡±


    In an instant, he jumped out of his chair and grabbed Sola and Wess by the shoulders. ¡°I was right! There is a third party to the Wailing conflict! They¡¯ve been pulling the strings, and now there¡¯s proof they w-¡°


    ¡°Attention: Multiple Wailing detected near campus. Please exit to the tournament arena and await further instructions. Attention: Multiple Wailing detected near cam¡­¡±


    ¡°What?! No!¡± Faller cried, jumping over to the window with Sola and Wess.


    As soon as the alarm rang, Venator teams lined up outside the entrance, side by side with the campus security, all frantically structuring themselves from the sudden call to duty. Eventually, the chaos turned to calm, as a dead air hung over the day, like a held breath for a coming conflict.


    The silence was deafening, almost letting everyone drop their guard, until a small rustling was seen near the forest foliage, drawing everyone¡¯s attention.


    Then it was gone.


    Then it returned.


    Then it grew.


    Then it was¡­


    ¡°No, no no no¡­¡± Faller let out, fist pounding against the window. ¡°Not now! I was finally there!¡±


    Waves upon waves of Wailing all filed out of the forest, now bordering the academy moat with an intimidating presence.


    They were unnaturally still, waiting for the moment to strike, or at least for when the defending army had its guard down.


    ¡°Hold!¡± Called Dulce, holding her arm up. ¡°We don¡¯t attack until they cross that moat! Anyone with water, ice, or electricity based Whils, approach and get ready!¡±


    ¡°This is¡­¡± Faller let out, forcibly removing himself from the window. ¡°I need to find Ferris. You two stay out of trouble and don¡¯t go down there. This isn¡¯t your fight.¡±


    Wess nodded in understanding, watching as he left, as Sola¡¯s view was fixated on the two parties, still sizing each other up, neither ready to make the move.


    ¡°They¡¯re actually here¡­¡± Wess admitted, a lack of composure in her voice. ¡°They weren¡¯t rumours¡­there really was a Wailing attack coming¡­¡±


    ¡°They look like they¡¯re waiting.¡± Sola mentioned, staring out at the Wailing.


    ¡°¡­I don¡¯t know if it¡¯d be waiting. It¡¯s most likely strategy.¡± Wess reasoned, trying to ignore the panic inside her. ¡°If we attack first, then they only need to retaliate to our actions.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know. The Wailing look kinda¡­¡± Sola started. ¡°¡­apprehensive.¡±


    SCCCRRRRRAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!!!


    Sola and Wess lifted their heads, along with everyone else present, as the walkway leading to the academy started shaking, the waterway running beside it further down the road starting to ripple and crash with violent, thrashing waves.


    Cracks formed on the walkway¡¯s sides, as what looked like tentacles climbed up its edges, emerging slowly from the water, until a mass soon followed to give cause to the appendages.


    The horde of Wailing lay in wait, unmoving, but all staring toward the growing creature, as it claimed the impressive width of the walkway as its own.


    The silence remained, but with all caution and apprehension increased tenfold to accommodate the added threat, as it dwarfed out what was left of the sun in the overcast sky, claiming it as its own.


    ¡°It¡¯s¡­¡± Sola started, too scared to admit what it was.


    ¡°¡­it¡¯s a Behemoth Wailing.¡± Wess said, staring out through the window. ¡°And one with an army.¡±

 Chapter 21: THREAT Part 2

    Jules was tapping her foot, more out of nervousness then boredom.


    In most of her missions, she was left in the dark about plenty of the details surrounding them, other then the basics and what she could contribute. Wicker was the planner, after all, and rarely let her have a say in the strategic part of operations.


    For the most part, this worked out to successful missions, but often left Jules waiting, or terrified of getting caught, or slipping up, or setting off her teammates temper¡­


    But despite everything, she knew Venators deserved it.


    No matter what, she was doing what needed to be done. What she could do.


    Even if it involved¡­


    Jules shuddered at the very thought, still waiting patiently by the parking lot in case of a necessary quick getaway. The overcast sky gave her an uneasy feeling in her stomach, but she knew she could defend herself if the worst came about.


    Then it happened.


    First came the roaring and thrashing, along with the cries of Wailing coming from the academy¡¯s entrance. The ground shook violently, a few car alarms set off just from the shock alone, as screams and yelling joined the crying Wailing. At first the figure blended in with the overcast sky, forming into a uniform blanket of grey, before the distinctive red markings lining its body came into view, standing out amongst the otherwise boxy academy skyscrapers.


    Its reflection shone in the newly rebuilt support towers, as Jules had fallen to the ground, staring blankly at the monstrous mass that was now towering over them.


    SCCCRRRRRAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!!!


    It hurt.


    Listening to its cry, Jules instinctively crawled back, forgetting all about the getaway car and booking it anywhere else.


    Even if she was needed, this wasn¡¯t going to make her do it. Nothing would at this point.


    Wicker¡­


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    The Behemoth Wailing claimed the walkway as its own, blocking off any attempted exit from the front of the academy. The other Wailing stayed apprehensively on the border of the forest, waiting for the appropriate moment to strike. The security and third years held their ground, ready to defend if necessary. The remaining staff and students left as soon as they could, heading out the back of the academy to wait it out in the tournament arena until it all blew over.


    And Wess and Sola stood in Faller¡¯s office, awestruck while staring out the window at their brand-new threat.


    ¡°They¡¯re here¡­¡± Wess bemoaned, slowly backing up. ¡°I-Is anything happening yet?¡±


    Sola shook her head. ¡°I don¡¯t think anyone¡¯s fighting. Even the big one¡¯s just sitting there.¡±


    Wess grabbed Sola¡¯s jacket by the collar. ¡°We need to find the others as soon as possible.¡±


    ¡°Wait!¡± Sola said, getting herself free. ¡°Faller said to stay here. And shouldn¡¯t we keep tabs on the fight anyway?¡±


    ¡°We can do that anywhere on campus.¡± Wess reasoned. ¡°And Faller said to stay out of trouble.¡±


    Wess left the office, as Sola followed her out, impassioned. ¡°But we can¡¯t do nothing! The academy could be destroyed! All our friends could get hurt, and we just found out someone might be behind these attacks!¡±


    ¡°¡­Sola, we¡¯re no match for that. No one is.¡± Wess argued, meeting her height. ¡°We¡¯ve fought Wailing before, and no matter what, we¡¯ve always struggled. Even against one, and even with backup, we¡¯ve come close to being seriously injured or killed.¡±


    Sola shook her head, as Wess rested her hands on Sola¡¯s shoulders. ¡°The best we can do is find the rest of the team and get ourselves to safety.¡±


    Sola shook herself free. ¡°The best we can do is stop the fight all together! I don¡¯t wanna run yet!¡±


    Sola was jumping up and down vibrantly. ¡°There¡¯s gotta be a reason why those bugs are all over campus! Someone¡¯s the source of it!¡±


    ¡°Sola¡­¡± Wess sighed, rubbing her temple. ¡°What are you getting at?¡±


    ¡°The campus gets attacked after orientation day, then it¡¯s attacked the end of the school year. That¡¯s too big a coincidence.¡± Sola pointed out. ¡°And the Wailing haven¡¯t attacked yet, so maybe they¡¯re being controlled by something that¡¯s holding them back.¡±


    ¡°¡­didn¡¯t Julia tell us that Faller was looking into Coatsworth?¡± Wess acknowledged. ¡°And that he warned her of the first attack before it happened?¡±


    ¡°Yeah!¡± Sola realised. ¡°He¡¯s gotta be behind it, right?¡±


    Wess looked surprised. ¡°You¡¯re asking me? Sola, we¡¯re not going to interrogate Coatsworth. All of this evidence seems too circumstantial anyway¡­¡±


    ¡°But we have a chance to help!¡± Sola exclaimed, locking eyes with Wess. ¡°Come on, Wess. It¡¯s better then sitting around the arena doing nothing.¡±


    Wess held her tongue, nervously glancing back at the window, before pulling out her tablet. ¡°We¡¯ll find the others first. Once we know everyone¡¯s safe, then we can talk about our game plan.¡±


    Sola nodded along. ¡°That sounds good. Do you think they heard the announcement?¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Julia tapped her pen against her notebook, listening to music on her tablet while taking the occasional note from a history textbook.


    ¡°¡­she¡¯s something special, and you know what I mean¡­¡± She mumbled, biting the pen lightly, as the library remained perfectly silent around her. ¡°¡­she¡¯s from the cosmos, an interstellar scene¡­¡±


    Julia¡¯s eyes started to drift, hitting pause on her music, as she thought back on her incident with Donovan on the roof, before focusing on the textbook again.


    It¡¯s okay. I¡¯m safe. She thought, sighing out and playing the music again. I¡¯m avoiding ledges for a while, though.


    She tapped her pen to the music, before getting out of her seat to dance.


    ¡°And I just love her, as we go face to face.¡±


    The alarm started to ring, as Julia kept up her singing.


    ¡°But it¡¯s a problem, and one from outer spac¡­¡±


    She eventually noticed the flashing light on the ceiling, as a message rang out across the library.


    ¡°Attention: Multiple Wailing detected near campus. Please exit to the tournament arena and await further instructions. Attention: Multiple Wailing detected near cam¡­¡±


    Julia took out her earbuds, looking around to see if anyone else was nearby and reacting, before pulling up her schedule on her tablet.


    ¡°No drill¡­¡± She muttered, looking around again and packing up her gear, then ducking over to the window, trying to spot any activity.


    The view of the training grounds showed nothing of note, other than the terrible weather, as the alarm continued blaring in the background.


    Julia started to worry, realising what might finally be happening, before leaving the library in search of her team.


    ¡°Julia!¡±


    Fortunately, Harley and Essex were running down the hall toward her, as a few people passed by in the hall, running to the back end of the academy.


    ¡°Did you hear the alarm?¡± Harley asked, the duo catching up to her.


    ¡°Yeah, I just did. There¡¯s no safety drill scheduled today, so¡­¡± Julia said, looking at them both. ¡°¡­I¡¯m assuming the¡­w-worst.¡±


    ¡°Wess has finished her meeting with Faller and is outside his office, along with Sola.¡± Essex explained.


    ¡°Okay.¡± Julia agreed. ¡°What¡¯s¡­i-it looking like out there?¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s a lot of them.¡± Harley said, the trio heading up the nearby elevator to meet with the others. ¡°Including another Behemoth.¡±


    ¡°Oh my god¡­¡± Julia let out, her spine crawling just from hearing that.


    ¡°Do not worry. They have yet to attack anyone.¡± Essex assured. ¡°Dulce is a good strategist. She would not risk anyone¡¯s safety unnecessarily.¡±


    ¡°Another Behemoth¡­¡± Julia mumbled, having missed what Essex had said, as the elevator opened up to Wess and Sola, waiting patiently for the others.


    ¡°Is everyone okay?¡± Sola asked.


    ¡°We¡¯re good. Julia¡¯s caught up on everything.¡± Harley explained, Wess frantically looking outside.


    ¡°It¡¯s horrifying¡­¡± She said, pressed to the window. ¡°Just a mass of tentacles and hatred¡­¡±


    The team stared out the window together, watching as the security lined themselves up, holding their ground, the Wailing still ever patient, and the Behemoth Wailing writhing around painfully, smashing its tentacles against the walkway.


    ¡°Are we fighting that thing?¡± Harley asked, getting a resounding silence from the others.


    ¡°I believe the defence will hold it off.¡± Essex said, looking to Wess and Sola. ¡°What is the plan you wished to discuss?¡±


    Wess and Sola looked at each other worriedly.


    ¡°We found something with Faller earlier.¡± Sola said, grabbing the team¡¯s attention. ¡°There were bugs around campus.¡±


    Harley rolled her eye. ¡°Yeah, we kn-¡°


    ¡°No, not¡­¡± Wess corrected. ¡°Listening devices. A few in each classroom, and some in Faller¡¯s office.¡±


    ¡°What?!¡± Harley exclaimed, Julia turning to face them. ¡°That-that can¡¯t¡­what?!¡±


    ¡°Faller said it was that outside influence he was talking about.¡± Sola added. ¡°And I don¡¯t know how or why, but I think Coatsworth is behind the bugs and the attacks.¡±


    ¡°The Vice-Principal?¡± Essex asked. ¡°He has been a suspicious figure as of recent¡­¡±


    ¡°But I argued this is too much for any one team and too coincidental to mean anything.¡± Wess debated, folding her arms. ¡°So¡­we don¡¯t know what to do.¡±


    ¡°Okay, okay¡­¡± Harley said, trying to get a grip on things. ¡°So, either we head to the arena and wait this whole thing out, go down their and risk our asses, or risk confronting Coatsworth and stopping it at its source.¡±


    The team was left puzzled, no one willing to make any hard decisions, as all eyes landed on Julia, still reeling from the shock of just what this attack might mean.


    ¡°Julia?¡±


    Julia lifted her head, visibly shaking.


    ¡°What should we do?¡±


    Julia tapped her fingers together, avoiding eye contact with anyone else, her gaze drifting back to the window again and again. Her heart was racing, but she didn¡¯t want to let on how this was affecting her.


    ¡°We can¡¯t just sit here.¡± Harley said, visibly agitated. ¡°We¡¯ve gotta do something.¡±


    Julia tried to focus her breathing, doing everything she could to calm her beating heart, before clenching her fists by her side and bracing through it.


    ¡°¡­we, uhh¡­we n-need to prepare.¡± Julia said, attempting to build up confidence. ¡°We¡¯re just sitting d-ducks without our weapons¡­and can¡¯t do much otherwise.¡±


    Sola nodded frantically. ¡°Don¡¯t worry! I¡¯ll get them from our room ASAP!¡±


    She sprinted down the hall, as Julia called out to her. ¡°Sola, come back! I-I was gonna say Harley sho-¡°


    Sola was too out of earshot, as Julia shook it off and started addressing the others. ¡°Okay¡­so Sola¡¯s getting our weapons¡­so we should help out here. Harley, Wess, go through the main building and find anyone who hasn¡¯t evacuated yet. I¡¯m sure there¡¯s gotta be a few.¡±


    ¡°¡­right.¡± Wess nodded. ¡°You can count on us.¡±


    ¡°Essex, since you already have your scythe, you need to stay with them and make sure they¡¯re safe. Those Wailing could move in at any minute.¡± Julia declared.


    ¡°Jesalo Mosori.¡± Essex said, bowing to her. ¡°I will do what is needed.¡±


    There was a pause, as Wess realised Julia wasn¡¯t talking. ¡°Are you not coming with us?¡±


    Julia shook her head, sighing out deeply. ¡°¡­somebody has to confront Coatsworth.¡±


    Harley stepped back. ¡°Alone? Uhuh, no way. That¡¯s way too dangerous.¡±


    ¡°We just established he might be a threat.¡± Wess reasoned, slightly yelling. ¡°If he is¡­manufacturing the attack, who¡¯s to say he isn¡¯t armed, or surrounded by bodyguards? What if he hurts you?¡±


    Julia shook her head frantically. ¡°I can¡¯t risk you guys getting hurt instead. I won¡¯t do it.¡±


    ¡°Jul-¡°


    ¡°Nope, nope, I¡¯m not hearing it.¡± Julia interrupted, turning around. ¡°I¡¯m the leader, and I say to stay behind. I can handle this. I know him, I¡¯m sure he¡¯ll listen to reason.¡±


    ¡°Confronting him without protection would still be reckless.¡± Essex advised. ¡°Your safety it our priority, remember? We will not leave you.¡±


    Julia refused to face them, remembering her recent brush with death and clenching her fist. ¡°¡­a Venators priority is to help people. You can help bystanders, and I can help you by keeping you out of danger.¡±


    The group was left silent, no one willing to argue the other side, as Julia acknowledged the difficult position she¡¯d put them in.


    ¡°¡­if I¡¯m put in danger, I¡¯ll¡­text you.¡± Julia said. ¡°By then, Sola should be back with our weapons and you would¡¯ve gotten some people to safety.¡±


    Julia forced herself to put on a brave face and face them again. ¡°Don¡¯t worry about me. I¡¯m tougher than I look.¡±


    The trio looked to each other.


    ¡°¡­okay.¡± Wess agreed, closing the distance. ¡°But you text us the moment you feel even the slightest danger.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll pound some teeth in for you.¡± Harley remarked, knocking her fists together.


    Essex peered out the window, before spotting something and grabbing Julia¡¯s attention. ¡°Julia, you should come here.¡±


    The group headed over, as Essex pointed down to the staff car park, indicating to the figure gathering work supplies and moving them to his car.


    ¡°C-Coatsworth¡­?¡± Julia realised, a shudder hitting her spine, as Wess moved a hand over to comfort her.


    ¡°We can stil-¡°


    ¡°Wess¡­we¡¯ve discussed this.¡± Julia declared. ¡°I¡¯m fine, really.¡±


    Feeling Julia¡¯s intention, Wess removed her hand, backing off a touch. ¡°¡­we¡¯d best get a move on.¡±


    ¡°Peno Decu.¡± Essex wished, bowing to Julia, before heading off with the others.


    ¡°Uhh, yeah. What she said.¡± Harley added, giving Julia a thumbs up. ¡°Go get him, tiger.¡±


    Julia watched them leave down the hall, as her eye caught the Behemoth Wailing still consuming the walkway with its presence, thrashing angrily.


    ¡°G-go get him¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°You follow my orders to a tee!¡± Dulce declared, the Venator students and security heading to the moat. ¡°We don¡¯t act until they do! Protect the academy but protect yourselves first and foremost!¡±


    Groups of students and security closed in on the moat, as the Wailing did the same, the Behemoth roaring out over the crowd, shocking all nearby with its presence alone.


    SCCCRRRRRAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!!!


    ¡°Damn it¡­¡± Dulce winced, keeping her eye on the Wailing, until the first few bordering the moat tentatively touched the water, cautiously keeping their distance. They backed away from it, as Dulce¡¯s eyes lit up.


    ¡°Wait¡­¡± Dulce said, watching as the front few stepped back. ¡°They don¡¯t like it?¡±


    The Behemoth roared out in the direction of the other Wailing, urging them forward. The Wailing present stood their, assessing their options.


    ¡°Does that mean¡­¡± Dulce muttered, gulping. ¡°¡­it¡¯s true they can¡¯t tou-¡°


    They started bounding forward, heading for the moat again, reaching the edge and leaping, clearing most of its length in a single jump. The Wailing continued to wade through, quickly closing the distance, as the Wailing still behind followed them through the moat.


    ¡°Shit! All electric Whil users, direct it at the moat! Ice and water, you slow them down!¡± Dulce cried, a few Wailing now flying over the moat and clinging to the main building. ¡°Everyone else, take out the flyers ASAP!¡±


    Dulce caught a Wailing breaking through the Whil users against the moat, now directly charging at her. A flying Wailing broke off the building and swooped at her too, as she stuck out her hand, used her Whil to absorb the charging Wailing¡¯s momentum, stopping it in its tracks, then directed a kick toward the swooping Wailing, channelling the momentum through to it and sending it sailing across the ground.


    The rest of the security made quick work of the charging Wailing, as Dulce folded back into the crowd, watching as the chaos unfolded around her, the Wailing causing as much devastation as they could.


    ¡°Whilit, save us¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Harley didn¡¯t know how to feel.


    With Julia out of the picture, all she could do was worry about her until she knew she was safe. Even then, the pressure to lead the team in her absence was starting to creep in, as the trio reached a fork in the hallway, apprehensive about which way they should go.


    ¡°We¡¯ll never explore them all in time.¡± Wess reasoned, a bit out of breath. ¡°The building has a hundred floors. Even divided up, we¡¯ll still be taking over thirty floors each.¡±


    ¡°The support towers will also be a factor.¡± Essex added, Harley trying to think.


    ¡°Uhh, shit¡­¡± Harley let out, a bit out of her element. ¡°Come on, brain¡­¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll only exhaust ourselves running through each building.¡± Wess added. ¡°And, heaven forbid, a Wailing breaks in¡­¡±


    ¡°Guys.¡±


    Harley grabbed their attention, having figured something out.


    ¡°The people on the bottom floors have probably evacuated already, right? It¡¯d be so much easier for them.¡± Harley said. ¡°So, I¡¯ll check the top floors going down, you two each check a support tower. We¡¯ll meet up back here with Sola once you guys are done and cover the rest of the building.¡±


    Wess went to critique but was coming up empty. ¡°¡­that¡¯s a good plan.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re damn right it¡¯s a good plan!¡± Harley exclaimed, slapping her on the back. ¡°Let¡¯s get to work!¡±


    ¡°Ow¡­¡± Wess let out, as her and Essex hurried back down the elevator.


    Harley took it to the top floor, getting a grand overhead view of the fighting at the entrance by the nearby window, as she started to make her way back down.


    ¡°Alright, Harley, you got this.¡± She assured herself, pulling out her tablet to time herself. ¡°Let¡¯s try ten floors in twenty minutes to start.¡±


    She bent down, getting into a running position, before shooting off down the hall, checking each classroom and lecture hall she passed for possible bystanders.


    Floor after floor, she came up empty, each room being clearly evacuated, before hurrying to next, calling out for anyone still present and hearing no reply.


    By the tenth floor, she was starting to lose hope, as she pulled out her tablet and noticed twenty-three minutes had passed.


    ¡°¡­not good enough.¡±


    Despite being out of breath, she entered her running stance again, hurrying through the next ten floors even faster then before, as she hit the nineteenth floor of her search and needed to stop.


    ¡°Stupid legs, hurry up¡­¡± She complained, leaning against the wall. ¡°What do I train you for?¡±


    She walked to the next classroom, having checked all the others on the floor and was about ready to give up her search.


    She scanned her card, opening the door and expecting disappointment, but was surprised to find Spence, crouched and shuddering underneath her desk, and a few of students nervously looking out the window.


    ¡°Yes!¡± Harley exclaimed, landing to her knees. ¡°Finally! Some actual people!¡±


    ¡°Who said that?¡± Asked one of the students, before turning to reveal who it was. ¡°Oh, for Whilit¡¯s sake, not blondie¡­¡±


    Harley¡¯s celebration was cut short once she realised it was Team Ferocity standing by the window, about as frustrated as she was.


    ¡°You didn¡¯t bring a Wailing here, did you?¡± Baron asked.


    Unfortunately, no. Harley thought. ¡°Why are you still up here?¡±


    ¡°Cause there¡¯s a Wailing outside.¡± Edward reasoned. ¡°We¡¯re not dumb enough to throw ourselves at an army.¡±


    ¡°Security can handle it.¡± Baron waved off, looking to Harley. ¡°I mean, your friends with the security chief. Surely, you¡¯ve got some confidence in her.¡±


    ¡°¡­regardless, you guys need to leave.¡± Harley insisted. ¡°There¡¯s no guarantee the academy¡¯s gonna be safe forever.¡±


    Baron looked to the rest of the team casually, before shrugging to himself. ¡°Fine by me.¡±


    Harley was surprised by how easy that turned out to be, as they passed her in the door frame with dry glances. ¡°A-and you better help me look for more people!¡±


    ¡°I already said fine, Harls.¡± Baron let out, heading out the lecture hall with his team, before Harley¡¯s attention was drawn back to Spence under the table.


    She crouched down to face her. ¡°Hurry up, teach. We¡¯ve gotta get you to safety.¡±


    ¡°No way, I¡¯m n-not going out there¡­¡± Spence fretted, shaking her head profusely. ¡°I c-can¡¯t face them again¡­¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to worry. I¡¯m gonna get you out of here.¡± Harley said.


    Spence kept shaking, jumping a bit at the echoing sounds of action coming from the ground, as Harley realised she wasn¡¯t getting through to her.


    ¡°What¡¯s the hold up?¡± Duke asked by the door.


    ¡°Just a second.¡± Harley replied, reaching out a hand and grasping Spence¡¯s.


    Spence flinched suddenly.


    ¡°Hey, it¡¯s okay.¡± Harley assured. ¡°I¡¯ve fought plenty of these things before. They¡¯re a piece of cake.¡±


    ¡°B-but I h-haven¡¯t¡­¡± Spence worried. ¡°And I know you don¡¯t m-mean that¡­¡±


    ¡°Nope, I really do.¡± Harley said. ¡°Cause every time I¡¯ve fought one, other people have had my back, even the times when I¡¯ve thrown myself at something way bigger and way angrier.¡±


    Harley looked back at the window. ¡°I can be pretty stupid at times, so it¡¯s nice to have others who can help me in what I¡¯m lacking. It lightens the load, you know?¡±


    Support creative writers by reading their stories on Royal Road, not stolen versions.


    Spence finally faced her, as Harley helped her out from under the table.


    ¡°¡­you¡¯ll l-look out for me, right? While we¡¯re down there?¡±


    ¡°I promise.¡± Harley said.


    ¡°Cause I really don¡¯t want to die yet.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I promise.¡± Harley reiterated, heading back outside and further through the building, as the fighting outside only raged on.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Wess¡¯ day was only getting harder.


    She would be the first to say she wasn¡¯t the most athletically inclined. She could swing a sword and had a decent amount of muscle built up, but she wasn¡¯t anywhere near as bulky as Harley, or physically capable as Essex.


    So naturally, scaling and surveying the left support tower, without the aid of an elevator was taking it out of her, despite her best efforts.


    She reached the fifth floor, before stopping at the entryway and cupping her hands.


    ¡°Is anyone down here?!¡±


    She got no response.


    ¡°Alright, moving on¡­¡± She groaned, dragging herself up the stairs, before taking a breather in order to collect herself.


    ¡°Why did I agree to this?¡± She said, catching the right support tower through the window. ¡°Essex is probably done by now.¡±


    Scanning through the window, she spotted the Behemoth Wailing in the distance, still planted on the walkway entrance to the academy, noticeably keeping its distance from the rest of the action. It still swung violently at anyone getting close but was far enough away that no damage it took would make a lasting impact.


    ¡°Crafty¡­¡± Wess noted, taking a second to analyse it. ¡°Has it learned from the last attack? Or maybe Coatsworth instructed it otherwise?¡±


    Having regained some stamina, Wess picked herself back up and continued up the stairs, ready to continue searching, until a small dot outside the window caught her eye.


    She stepped back, trying to catch what it was, until it grew larger, its shape slowly defining, until its manic movements could be clearly made out, before it was too late to get out of the way.


    A Wailing had broken off from the fight, and was now headed to the support tower, right toward Wess.


    Instinctively, she jumped back down the stairwell, just as it crashed through the window, sending debris flying out and opening the stairwell to the elements.


    Stray shards of glass caught Wess¡¯ cheek, cutting it open, and another landing in her shoulder, as the Wailing peered around, before catching Wess in its sights.


    KKKKKRRRRRRRAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!!!


    Wess was left speechless, deciding her best option was sprint away as fast as possible, swinging back down the stairs and through the hall.


    The Wailing crawled after her, clinging to the walls with noticeable dexterity, before struggling to break itself out of the stairwell¡¯s entrance, giving Wess enough time to find a place to rest, letting herself recuperate and calm her panicked heart.


    She touched at her cheek gently, reeling back as her wound stung to the touch, before acknowledging the glass shard still in her shoulder.


    Letting herself get over the initial shock, she steadied her breathing and hesitated slightly, before gripping the glass shard and yanking it out, holding back a cry of pain as it clattered to the floor. Nervously checking the status of the Wailing, she tore part of her dress, wrapping the fabric around her shoulder wound, as the Wailing finally broke through the wall, now crawling down the hall to Wess¡¯ direction.


    I¡¯m out of sight, so if I leg it, I can still escape. Wess rationalised, already sprinting in the other direction, before further noise cut over the Wailing¡¯s crawling, catching her eye.


    ¡°Come on, Liddy, we¡¯re almost out of the building!¡± Rose encouraged, pulling Liddy along. ¡°I totally heard someone calling out, so there¡¯s probably a search party. It¡¯ll be a smooth ride to the arena once we¡¯re out.¡±


    ¡°B-but the Wailing¡­¡± Liddy quivered, tentatively following. ¡°A-and the forest t-too¡­¡±


    ¡°I won¡¯t let ¡®em get to you.¡± Rose promised, turning her head around the corner toward the stairwell. ¡°Besides, the Wailing won¡¯t hurt someone as pretty a¡­¡±


    Rose and Liddy noticed the Wailing immediately, having just turned the corner into its field of view, now becoming the perfect target to take out its aggression on. They both froze in fear, as the Wailing redirected itself toward them, making its presence known and crying out once again.


    KKKKKRRRRRRRAAA-


    In shock, the Wailing keeled back, as a shard of glass was now jutting out near its eye, Wess resting her arm after such a forceful throw.


    The Wailing turned to its new assailant, dropping Rose and Liddy as its focus.


    ¡°Hey! You f-filthy beast!¡± Wess cried, holding back her anxiety. ¡°F-finish what you started!¡±


    The Wailing clawed at the glass, throwing it to the side, before screaming out again, as Rose and Liddy took their opportunity to escape, leaving Wess as its sole target once again.


    I did it. She realised, the Wailing now truly pursuing her. I did the right thing. I can die comfortably knowing I did what was best.


    Wess attempted to defend herself, but knew it was a mute point in the end, until the Wailing was charging at her, blood thirsty and ready to take her life.


    Wess closed her eyes, holding strong despite everything, until a sensation hit her shoulder, leaving her terrified to open her eyes again. She knew it was the Wailing¡¯s claw, it had to be, even if it was warmer then¡­


    ¡°Leave it to me.¡±


    Wess froze.


    What?


    ¡°Ch-chunk.¡±


    A flurry of shots rang out beside Wess, clearly identifiable as rounds from a sniper rifle, before the Wailing cried out in pain again, finally giving Wess the confidence to open her eyes.


    To her surprise, what she thought was the Wailing¡¯s claw grabbing her shoulder was actually Joleicia, resting a hand on her before aiming her sights at the Wailing and holding it off for them.


    As Wess¡¯ vision returned, she realised the rest of Team Vanguard were now holding it off, Saxin and Lenin weakening its legs with their blades and Chops loosening its footing with her ice Whil. The Wailing struggled to recover, but still put up a real fight.


    ¡°Wha¡­but¡­you¡¯re here?¡± Wess managed, Joleicia reloading her rifle.


    ¡°We thought some people might not have evacuated, so we stopped our search for Florey once the attack started.¡± Joleicia explained. ¡°We¡¯re just glad that yo-¡°


    Wess jumped Joleicia into a hug, Joleicia thoroughly surprised by this.


    ¡°You angel.¡± Wess praised. ¡°Of course you were.¡±


    ¡°Well, yeah, we¡¯re gonna be Venators.¡± Joleicia said. ¡°We can¡¯t just sit by while people are in danger, even if we are missing a teammate.¡±


    ¡°My thoughts exactly.¡± Wess chuckled, now overwhelmed with joy after being saved.


    ¡°Oh, that¡¯s a nasty cut.¡± Joleicia said, pointing to Wess¡¯ cheek, before remembering what they were doing. ¡°Oh yeah, guys! How¡¯s it going?¡±


    ¡°This thing¡¯s almost down!¡± Chops assured her. ¡°But we need some back-up!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Wess. We¡¯ve got this place covered. You should meet up with the rest of Team Valiant.¡± Joleicia encouraged, Wess grabbing her sleeve.


    ¡°You¡¯re going to be okay, right?¡± Wess asked, expecting a sure answer. ¡°This won¡¯t be the only one.¡±


    Joleicia smiled. ¡°Don¡¯t worry about us, silly. We¡¯re the ones who had to save your butt.¡±


    Joleicia focused her sights again, as Wess took the opportunity to navigate around the building and find an alternate exit, staring back up at the support tower once again, a massive crater now in its side.


    So soon repaired, so soon ruined once again. She lamented, focusing her attention back on the main building. Sola, you better be back by now.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Sola was lost again.


    She finally made it to the dorm building, just skirting past the entrance and searching down the halls for Team Valiant¡¯s room in retrieval of their weapons. She did her best to search, but she usually had the others to help guide her back.


    ¡°Room 374¡­Room 374¡­Room 347¡­no! 374!¡± She muttered, rushing down the halls. ¡°Come on! I know it¡¯s near the vending machi¡­¡±


    Due to her frantic scanning, Sola¡¯s attention drifted. She crossed past another hallway, searching the floor for the right room, before finding a figure gathered on the ground, back to the wall and head huddled to her legs.


    She was visibly shaking, jumping whenever a loud noise came from the attack outside. Sola noticed her quickly and made a point to slow down while approaching her.


    She stayed huddled, Sola standing over her curiously, before the girl noticed and jumped back in shock.


    ¡°Oh, sorry!¡± Sola professed, jumping back as well. ¡°I didn¡¯t mean to scare you.¡±


    The girl still looked terrified, staring directly at Sola, reflexively stretching her hand, as Sola cocked her head.


    ¡°Why¡¯re you out in the hall?¡± Sola asked. ¡°Did you lose your team or something?¡±


    The girl looked back at her, lowering her guard a little, before signing back to Sola.


    [I don¡¯t have a team. I¡¯m not a Venator.]


    ¡°Oh.¡± Sola realised. ¡°Why¡¯re you on campus?¡±


    She refused to reply, shying away from Sola again, before more crashing came from outside and sent her shuddering, hiding her head in her hands.


    Sola looked around the hallways again, before leaning in further to talk. ¡°I can let you stay in our room, if you want.¡±


    The girl lifted her head, side-glancing Sola.


    ¡°I¡¯m pretty sure it¡¯s safer than being out here, and probably quieter.¡± Sola reasoned. ¡°Since you don¡¯t have a team and all.¡±


    The girl stared back at Sola, trying to figure out her intentions and finding nothing but earnestness. For a supposed Venator, this girl was one of the least threatening people she¡¯d ever seen.


    ¡°I just need to find Room 374¡­¡± Sola admitted, looking around frantically, before the girl got her attention.


    She pointed down the other hallway, as it finally clicked for Sola.


    ¡°It was there the whole time? Don¡¯t I feel like a doofus.¡± Sola realised, the girl getting up to join her. ¡°What¡¯s your name, by the way?¡±


    The girl was apprehensive about being so open but gave it some thought and caved. [¡­Jules.]


    ¡°¡­Jules.¡± Sola sounded out, laughing a bit. ¡°That¡¯s funny. My team leader¡¯s name is Julia. Though Jules is probably a cooler name. My name¡¯s Sola, by the way.¡±


    Jules blushed a bit, as Sola hurried down the hall, arriving at their door. ¡°Here we are!¡±


    She opened it up, Jules immediately being thrown off by the homely feel of the place. The dorm truly lived up to its name and seemed like nothing more than a living space for a few students. The most threatening piece of decorum was the sword mounted by Wess¡¯ bed, but even that was undercut by the broken fish tank and Team Spectrum posters.


    ¡°Hold on, I¡¯ve gotta get our weapons.¡± Sola said, dashing into the team study. ¡°There¡¯s some leftover cake in the fridge if you¡¯re hungry.¡±


    Jules looked back at the kitchen, standing awkwardly in the middle of the room, before feeling like she could take a seat on the couch, while still not knowing what to do with her hands.


    This is so weird¡­ She thought to herself, looking around the room again. This can¡¯t be how Venators live.


    Jules jumped again as Sola carried out the team¡¯s weapons, nearly toppling over from just how many she was holding.


    ¡°I got it!¡± She cried, seconds before falling, until Jules reached out and grabbed a few, making sure they didn¡¯t fall.


    Jules dropped them to the couch, exhausted. [What¡¯re you doing?]


    ¡°I need to get these to my team.¡± Sola explained, lifting up her arm-cannons. ¡°We¡¯ve gotta defend the academy before it gets totally destroyed. You saw the Behemoth Wailing, right?¡±


    [Unfortunately¡­] Jules replied, still cowering despite herself, as Sola attempted to lift up Julia¡¯s rifle and Wess¡¯ sword and shield at the same time, nearly dropping them again.


    ¡°Hold on, I¡¯ll get a bag!¡± Sola let out, dropping them onto the couch and rushing into the study again, before Jules grabbed her shoulder.


    Jules picked up the rifle and slung it on her back, while also grabbing Harley¡¯s Buster Knuckles. Sola blinked for a second, before it connected for her, as she collected Wess¡¯ gear and her arm-cannons.


    ¡°You sure you don¡¯t want to stay here?¡± Sola asked, before both of them were distracted by more of the action outside.


    Jules peered out the balcony, before turning to Sola and shaking her head.


    ¡°Okay.¡± Sola agreed, opening the door. ¡°You can come back here if you need somewhere to go. There¡¯s plenty of room. I feel weird promising cake and not delivering on it.¡±


    While she didn¡¯t admit to it, Jules thought about it for a second, as Sola closed the door behind them.


    Sola looked around again, Jules turning to her.


    [Where are we supposed to go?]


    ¡°Uhh¡­¡± Sola struggled, before snapping to the left. ¡°This way!¡±


    Jules followed along, as Sola sprinted through the hallways, weapons in tow.


    Don¡¯t worry, guys. I¡¯ve got your backs.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Essex knew what she had to do.


    It had been difficult adjusting to her new setting over the last year. All of a sudden, she wasn¡¯t just defending her clan from Wailing, she was training to be a warrior. She had a team to consider, and not everything was so cleanly solved with her scythe.


    But this was something she could handle. Search and rescue.


    Protect nearby citizens. Essex repeated to herself. She swung up to the twelfth floor, having already evacuated a couple other students in the lower floors. They were relieved to see her, but she couldn¡¯t hang around any longer than she had, guiding them back to the building entrance and coming back up to continue her search. The attack raged on outside, just behind the main building, some teams and Wailing now splayed out further across the campus grounds.


    The teams handled themselves well, Essex recognising Team Beefcake holding off a few, a few from Team Salvation contributing covering fire, and even Team Instinct doing their part. Admittedly, it made her wish she was working closer with the rest of Team Valiant, but she knew the value in what they were doing.


    What didn¡¯t sit right, however, was the figure outside of the fights, deliberately trying not to draw the eye.


    ¡°Coatsworth?¡± Essex let out, getting a closer look, before realising they were covered head to toe in a black bodysuit, their identity near impossible to make out.


    Even with that, Essex could tell this wasn¡¯t Coatsworth. Just looking at their manoeuvrability and swiftness, nothing about the doddering, clumsy Coatsworth would even be capable of these movements.


    This could be a third-year student within costume. Essex rationalised, as another team came around the corner to join the fight, the figure ducking into the shadows to avoid them.


    Essex quickly shut that theory down, watching them navigate across campus, always avoiding being anywhere near the fighting.


    Essex stepped back down to go and confront them, before staring back up at the next floor, weighing up her options.


    I cannot abandon those that might need me. She realised. This is what I can do for them.


    She stared back at the figure, evading detection from anyone else.


    But if they are aiding in Coatsworth¡¯s plan¡­ Essex thought through. ¡­I will stop the attack all together. Rescue will not be necessary.


    Catching them just running out of sight, Essex stared up at the next few floors left to navigate, before quickly heading back down the building, bursting out the entrance in search of the figure.


    She last caught them circling through the main courtyard, just in the middle of the main building and support towers, as she headed there in a panic, scanning around for the intruder.


    ¡°Where are they¡­?¡± She muttered, the open walkway¡¯s surrounding the courtyard too dark from the overcast weather to make anything out.


    Essex wandered over to the left walkway, her scythe already out and prominently displayed, as she took her time traversing the yard, careful not to let her guard down.


    She closed in on the walkway, cautiously scanning around, glancing back at the main building as a reminder of where to go for help, before she turned around suddenly, a sword now being held against her throat.


    Processing what had just happened, Essex now saw the figure in front of her, before she knocked the assailant¡¯s hand away with her elbow, as they lost their grip on the sword. They backed up quickly, as Essex took a swing, just missing them, until both were facing each other again in combative stances.


    Essex noticed the figure¡¯s face was covered with a mask and their bodysuit was deliberately indiscernible as to any identifiable traits.


    The figure looked her up and down, careful not to lower their guard too, before speaking with a noticeably filtered voice.


    ¡°You¡¯re not worth my time.¡±


    With that, they skated around Essex, Essex taking another swing, before the figure landed on top of the scythe¡¯s blade, launching off of it, before retrieving their sword with a tumble and climbing up the walkway¡¯s covering, running across the roofs to the back of the campus.


    Essex took a second to recover after the figure threw off her balance, before she spotted them across the roofs, too far to catch now.


    Weighing her options again, she decided to head for the main building, pushing down her desire to pursue the assailant for now in favour of getting the assistance she needed.


    I will find you¡­


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡­not matter what.


    Julia trudged out from the main building, navigating her way through the car park in search of Coatsworth. By the looks of it, he was still unloading his work into his car, as Julia spotted him just outside the staff exit opening up his trunk.


    She mustered up her courage and let it all out.


    ¡°C-Coatsworth!!!¡±


    Coatsworth turned his head and watched as Julia marched over.


    ¡°Y-you better stop this!¡±


    ¡°Julia Alpine.¡± He said. ¡°If you¡¯re not defending the academy, I implore you to find a safe plac-¡°


    ¡°Sh-shut up! I¡¯m not gonna hear it!¡± Julia yelled, too scared to do anything else. ¡°I-I know you caused the attack, so you better s-stop it right now!¡±


    Coatsworth looked baffled, before opening his car again. ¡°I don¡¯t know how you got that impression, but it¡¯s simply untrue. Please, let me drop you off somewhere safe.¡±


    ¡°S-s-stop worming out of this!¡± Julia cried. ¡°There¡¯s n-no point hiding your intentions! Faller already knows!¡±


    ¡°Faller?¡± Coatsworth asked, genuinely thrown. ¡°Knows what? Julia, I don¡¯t understand what you¡¯re saying. Is there something I should be privy to?¡±


    Julia¡¯s eyes fluttered. ¡°I-Is there¡­? What are¡­¡±


    Julia dismissed the thought and continued pushing. ¡°Y-you¡¯re just lying again! Call off the attack!¡±


    ¡°Julia, I¡¯m not commanding this attack.¡± Coatsworth reasoned. ¡°What power do you think I hold?¡±


    ¡°B-but¡­you did it last time.¡± Julia warbled, trying to hold her ground. ¡°On orientation day¡­y-you told me to avoid the welcome event and that I¡¯d see why, and then it was attacked¡­¡±


    Julia stood back, forcing herself into an offensive position. ¡°I-I-I don¡¯t have my weapon, but I can still d-defend this academy.¡±


    Coatsworth displayed his palms. ¡°I think you¡¯re confused. That¡¯s not why I said what I said before the welcome event.¡±


    Julia froze in place, barely prepared for the revelation.


    ¡°You seemed like a social recluse, much like myself. Those events are very overwhelming and require plenty of socialising, and I assumed you wouldn¡¯t like it.¡± Coatsworth said, adjusting his suit. ¡°I wanted to make sure the event didn¡¯t put you off attending the academy.¡±


    ¡°N-no, that¡¯s¡­¡± Julia sputtered, trying to recall anything. ¡°¡­y-you ran away when Harley was fighting Baron instead of helping. Th-that¡¯s suspicious!¡±


    ¡°But I was trying to help. I was looking for a security guard to break up the fight.¡± Coatsworth said. ¡°I¡¯m not very physically strong, so separating the two would¡¯ve harmed me in the process. Fortunately, Ferris arrived in time to break them up instead.¡±


    Julia shook her head, refusing to take in what she was hearing. Nothing about this lined up for her, and yet it all did, she just refused to believe it. But he was¡­


    He was never¡­


    ¡°Has Ferris told you this? We haven¡¯t gotten along very well in the past, so I¡¯m worried she might have coloured your opinion.¡± Coatsworth asked, before shaking his head. ¡°Despite being a prominent figure in the academy, I¡¯m¡­very underdeveloped in my social skills. If this has come off as unsettling, then I want to apologise.¡±


    Julia hadn¡¯t properly taken in his explanation, still piecing together the disparate threads in her head, as Coatsworth grabbed his keys again.


    ¡°Julia, we must leave. Please, it¡¯s too dangerous to stay here for long.¡±


    Slowly returning to consciousness, Julia caught the sounds of Wailing and gunfire in the distance and was stunningly reminded of just what was going on.


    Coatsworth indicated for her to follow, opening his passenger door to her. She slipped in, as he turned on the ignition.


    ¡°We¡¯ll be out of here soon enough. If it¡¯s safe enough, there¡¯s an alternate route behind the academy that leads to the arena. I can drop you off, but I¡¯ll be returning to collect more of my work.¡±


    Julia slowly nodded her head, as Coatsworth pulled out of the car park.


    ¡°¡­sorry for¡­assuming you were¡­¡± Julia let out, curling up into herself. ¡°Everything pointed to¡­well, I thought it did¡­and then we found those listening devices¡­¡±


    ¡°Listening devices?¡± Coatsworth asked in disbelief, scanning as he headed down the road. ¡°In the academy?¡±


    Julia nodded. ¡°¡­and then Faller was talking about an outside influence working in the academy¡­and I jumped to a stupid conclusion¡­¡±


    Coatsworth continued driving, glancing back at Julia with notable concern.


    ¡°¡­I¡¯m worried you might be onto something.¡± Coatsworth admitted, turning the corner to avoid a Venator team. ¡°If there are listening devices located on campus, then perhaps you¡¯re right. Someone might have orchestrated or manufactured the attacks for an ulterior motive.¡±


    ¡°But I don¡¯t even know who!¡± Julia said, kicking the seat. ¡°Oh, sorry¡­¡±


    ¡°What could they want?¡± Coatsworth asked, passing near the training grounds. ¡°What could attacking the academy accomplish?¡±


    ¡°Revenge? Destroying Venators? Maybe a total accident?¡± Julia complained, slinking back into her seat. ¡°Does it even matter? We were all too stupid to even realise it was happening under our noses, and now everything¡¯s going wrong. The academy¡¯s going to be destroyed and I couldn¡¯t stop it¡­¡±


    ¡°You can¡¯t blame yourself.¡± Coatsworth reasoned. ¡°You¡¯re a first-year student. There¡¯s only so much that should be asked of you.¡±


    ¡°How about not blaming innocent people of being evil masterminds?¡± Julia complained, staring out at the academy, still climbing high into the sky. ¡°I mean, what could I do? They¡¯ve done such a good job of cover¡­ing¡­¡±


    Julia stopped for a second, pausing mid-sentence and sitting up in her seat again, still staring out at the pristine academy, before undoing her seatbelt.


    ¡°Pull over.¡±


    ¡°Julia?¡± Coatsworth asked, slowly pulling up to the curb. ¡°What is it?¡±


    ¡°I need to go.¡± Julia said, heading quickly out the door. ¡°You may not have anything to do with this, but I refuse to sit it out when I can still help.¡±


    Coatsworth cocked his head, as Julia leaned in through the window.


    ¡°They¡¯re covering something up! Whoever¡¯s behind all this is using the attack to distract all the guards and Venators away from something! That¡¯s why all the action¡¯s at the entrance to the academy! The campus is virtually untouched!¡±


    Coatsworth thought it over, nodding along with her. ¡°It would make sense. An academy of Venators will always be difficult to penetrate, especially with the increased security after the first attack.¡±


    ¡°And it explains the listening devices. Then you know how everyone¡¯s thinking and how Faller and the security are operating. You could just plan around the security patrols.¡± Julia reasoned, rubbing her chin. ¡°But what could they be doing? Apart from the Weapon Reserve, most of the academy just holds teaching equipment. There¡¯s nothing to steal¡­¡±


    Coatsworth¡¯s eyes widened, as he grabbed Julia¡¯s attention. ¡°I may know. Last semester, I noticed Ferris in the science department building late at night. She left with certain documents that she was very protective of.¡±


    ¡°Documents?¡± Julia asked, mumbling to herself and thinking it through. ¡°Maybe they need to steal them back? Or the documents detailed something sensitive?¡±


    She stopped muttering and turned back to Coatsworth in the car, her earlier embarrassment coming back. ¡°¡­thank you¡­for the lead. I¡¯m sorry again for¡­¡±


    Coatsworth raised his hand to stop her. ¡°Assure me you¡¯ll get your team to safety after you¡¯re finished.¡±


    Julia grew a smile and nodded to him. ¡°I promise.¡±


    ¡°Good.¡± He said, starting up the car again. ¡°Good luck to you.¡±


    Julia looked over to the science department. ¡°You too.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Anything?¡±


    ¡°No one up here!¡± Baron shouted back, slamming the door shut. ¡°Twentieth empty room in a row!¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re not leaving any stones unturned!¡± Harley yelled back. ¡°Come on, we¡¯ve only got five floors left!¡±


    Just then, Harley got a text from Wess asking where she was, Harley replying the sixth floor, as Team Ferocity took a breather by the window.


    ¡°Get up, guys.¡± Harley demanded, Baron flipping her off.


    ¡°Make me.¡±


    ¡°Ahh! A Wailing!¡± Harley cried, with only Edward actually believing her, before getting smacked upside the head by Duke.


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t we just evacuate with Spence?¡± Edward asked, rubbing his head. ¡°We could¡¯ve chilled out at the arena and avoided all this¡­¡±


    ¡°Chilled?¡± Baron said, just as Wess came out of the elevator, Harley noticing her wounds and rushing over to her.


    ¡°Wess! What happened?¡± Harley asked, nervously trying to inspect her cut cheek.


    ¡°A Wailing broke off an-don¡¯t touch it!¡± Wess demanded, smacking Harley¡¯s hand away. ¡°¡­Team Vanguard are taking care of it. Is Sola back with our weapons?¡±


    ¡°Not yet.¡± Harley admitted. ¡°I also realised that they¡¯re probably too heavy for her anyway.¡±


    Wess froze in place, as the realisation hit her too, causing her to crouch to the ground. ¡°We¡¯re so stupid¡­¡±


    The elevator dinged again, as Essex re-emerged, out of breath and panicked.


    ¡°Oh no, you¡¯re not hurt too, are you?¡± Harley asked again, as Essex ignored her question.


    ¡°There is a bigger prob¡­¡± Essex started, before realising Team Ferocity were with them, freezing her up. ¡°¡­I do not wish to discuss this with¡­them present.¡±


    Harley and Wess turned to Team Ferocity, before slinking off to the side of the hall to have their own conversation.


    ¡°They¡®re actually hiding shit.¡± Baron said, somewhat offended. ¡°What¡¯s so-¡°


    Duke tapped his shoulder, as the team spotted what looked to be Julia running through campus, directly to the science department, drawing Baron¡¯s eye.


    ¡°¡­that crazy¡­¡± He said, formulating something in his head, before turning to his team. ¡°George, Henry, continue searching through the building. Duke and Ed, follow.¡±


    The team split up, unbeknownst to Team Valiant, still reacting to Essex¡¯s news.


    ¡°They attacked you?¡± Wess asked.


    ¡°And then proceeded in the direction of the science department. I believe something might be present there that they are attempting to retrieve.¡±


    ¡°Well, we¡¯re not going yet.¡± Harley said, just as Sola turned the corner behind her. ¡°If they¡¯re armed, it¡¯d be stupid to go in bare-handed. Plus, we need to check in with Julia firs-¡°


    ¡°Hey!¡± Sola cried, running down the hall. ¡°I got them! I got them guys!¡±


    ¡°Oh, thank Reun¡­¡± Harley let out, turning to greet her. ¡°It¡¯s about time!¡±


    Sola trotted along, as Jules eventually swung around the corner with her, wary about finally confronting the Venator team Sola insisted on bragging about on the way.


    ¡°Who¡¯s this?¡± Wess asked, Sola handing off her shield and Belvedere.


    ¡°Oh, yeah. That¡¯s Jules.¡± Sola replied, equipping her arm-cannons. ¡°She helped me carry this stuff. And she was really terrified of the all the attacking earlier.¡±


    ¡°Cool.¡± Harley said, going over to her to pick up her Buster Knuckles. ¡°Thanks for the help, stranger.¡±


    Jules didn¡¯t reply, instead handing off the Buster Knuckles efficiently and quietly, before Essex approached her side, assessing her cautiously.


    ¡°Do you possess a sword?¡±


    Jules¡¯ fear shot through her, as she gave Essex a quick and terrified head shake.


    Essex looked unconvinced, but removed her hand from her scythe handle, as Harley strapped Julia¡¯s rifle to her back.


    ¡°So? Off to the science department?¡± Harley asked the team, Jules shooting up in surprise.


    S-science department?


    ¡°We should search for Julia first, right? She was confronting Coatsworth.¡± Wess argued, rubbing her temple. ¡°She hasn¡¯t texted us, and the attacking is still continuing, so either we were wrong and Coatsworth isn¡¯t working with the assailant, or¡­¡±


    Wess blanked out at the mere thought of it , before Essex rested an assuring hand on her shoulder.


    Sola broke from her train of thought. ¡°I just had a thought. What if it¡¯s a whole organisation?¡± Sola suggested.


    Jules stepped back in shock, starting to panic at Sola¡¯s suggestion, while going mostly unnoticed amongst the rest of the group.


    H-how do they know¡­


    ¡°How else could they get so many Wailing to work for them? I doubt only two people could do that.¡± Sola rationalised, Jules now off to the side, quietly hiding behind the others.


    ¡°Yeah, I mean, for all we know, there¡¯s a bunch of folks out there orchestrating this stuff.¡± Harley pointed out. ¡°But we don¡¯t know Coatsworth isn¡¯t still leading them.¡±


    ¡°This is all starting to sound like gossip. Surely, we can leave the speculation until after the attack is finished.¡± Wess reasoned. ¡°We find this assailant, find Julia, then retreat to the arena until the attack is resolved.¡±


    ¡°Everyone on board?¡± Harley asked, getting a nod of approval from everyone, save for Jules, as the team properly equipped themselves and started heading down.


    They crowded into the elevator, leaving Jules on her own, quietly standing, until Sola stuck her head out and waved to her with her cannon still on.


    ¡°Thank you, Jules! It was fun chatting with you!¡±


    Sola ducked back in, as the elevator disappeared from sight, leaving Jules profoundly lonely in the newfound silence, catching a glimpse of the action going on outside.


    Venators¡­


    She stared out at the conflict, the Venators managing to hold their ground, even as the Behemoth continued roaring and swinging from the sidelines, dealing massive blow after massive blow to the academy forces.


    You deserve this¡­I know you do¡­


    She started for the stairwell, before peering out the other window, catching Team Valiant hurrying out the building in search of their leader.


    ¡­this won¡¯t change my mind¡­


    She took a few steps down, before stopping suddenly and taking a breather.


    There¡¯s just no way¡­


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Julia finally made it.


    The night had been so chaotic, and the fighting refused to die down. Even being so far away from the academy entrance, Julia still caught every gun shot, every explosion, every cry from the approaching Wailing. She could even catch the outline of the Behemoth Wailing jutting out from behind the main building.


    Julia forced herself to look away.


    I can¡¯t focus on that. She demanded, re-centring herself and staring up at the science department.


    Fortunately, a majority of the academy had been untouched by the attack, only confirming Julia¡¯s hypothesis about the manufactured attack.


    She pulled out her tablet quickly, staring back at the imposing building again, before typing out a text to everyone about her location.


    It took a second for her to hit send, almost regretting it in her head, before she sighed out and let herself press it.


    It¡¯s okay. They¡¯ll be okay¡­you can trust them to be okay¡­


    She¡¯d reached the entrance to the building, scanning her card to let herself in, before bracing herself and entering, pushing as many nerves as she could down.


    Julia went to pull out her rifle, before remembering it wasn¡¯t there, only reaffirming her nerves, and instead started scouring the hallways in search of anything of note. The main floors were mostly lecture halls and classrooms, but Julia didn¡¯t plan on searching them.


    ¡°Labs, offices¡­anywhere else important¡­¡± She mumbled, heading up the stairwell.


    The top floors housed most of the research labs, used both by students and scientific staff alike, as well as the offices of most of the staff too.


    Julia planned to head off through the halls, before catching a small creak coming from the stairwell.


    Her nerves already heightened, she gave herself room to run, careful not to intercept any person who might¡¯ve posed a thre-


    ¡°Whoa!¡±


    Julia jumped back in panic, as Baron pressed his hand to his chest, struggling to breath.


    ¡°B-Baron?¡± Julia stumbled, standing up in a fury. ¡°Why the hell are you here?!¡±


    ¡°Geez, calm down. You come out of nowhere then berate me with questions.¡± Baron complained, recovering from his shock, as Duke and Edward followed suite and made themselves known.


    ¡°Wha-why aren¡¯t you guys out fighting the Wailing?!¡± Julia demanded.


    ¡°We could say the same to you.¡± Duke remarked, dragging his ball and chain up the stairs.


    ¡°Since you weren¡¯t with your team, and you seemed pretty adamant about coming here, we figured this was where the real action was happening.¡± Baron reasoned, wandering past Julia. ¡°If the Wailing were the most important part of this, knowing you, you¡¯d be jumping at them the second you got the chance.¡±


    Julia conceded their point, as Baron continued to wander.


    ¡°¡­there may be something dangerous here, or someone.¡± Julia explained, raising her voice. ¡°Just¡­be on the lookout for anything suspicious.¡±


    Baron looked back at her, before waving his hand nonchalantly. ¡°Whatever you say.¡±


    Julia and Team Ferocity split up, navigating the outside of the science labs, as Julia peered into each, struggling to find a hair out of place.


    ¡°They¡¯re really well kept¡­¡± Julia mumbled, entering the main lab, now cautious from the sudden open space.


    She knocked around each table, trying to spot any files or objects that looked to be worth stealing.


    Everything seemed quiet.


    And as you might expect.


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    All was perfectl-


    *SMASH!*


    Julia only had a moment to react, before a beaker was knocked down near her, followed by a kick connecting with her chest, knocking her to the ground.


    Pain shot through her chest at the sudden action, as a figure cloaked in black vaulted over her and out of the lab, dragging a sword behind them. Julia took a second to recover, before forcing herself up to chase after them, swinging back down the stairs.


    Baron turned and caught her running through the hallway, before turning to his team and nodding for them to follow.


    Julia sprinted out the front door, panting heavily while searching for the perpetrator. She caught the figure dashing down a nearby alleyway between buildings and continued her pursuit.


    ¡°Package retrieved without incident. Attempting exit now.¡±


    Julia caught the tail end of a message, as the figure attempted to leap over the wall blocking the alleyway, before Julia outstretched her arms and slowed them down with her Whil, causing them to trip up as they climbed.


    The figure hit the ground, taking a second to recover, as Team Ferocity approached from Julia¡¯s sides.


    ¡°Is this the person behind it?¡± Baron asked, swinging his sword and approaching.


    ¡°Maybe. I think I heard them talking to someone¡­¡± Julia mentioned, as Duke and Edward stepped out, brandishing weapons. ¡°Guys, don¡¯t hurt them! What if they¡¯re willing to talk to us?¡±


    ¡°Since they ran, that seems unlikely.¡± Edward pointed out, manipulating his sheet of metal with his Whil.


    The figure had recovered from the fall, now holding out their sword, as Baron closed in.


    ¡°You better watch it.¡± Baron boasted, outstretching his sword. ¡°We¡¯re the best there is. Our beef isn¡¯t personal, but attacking my academy deserves a punishment.¡±


    The figure didn¡¯t respond, but merely held out their sword, showing off its blade to Baron.


    Baron turned his head to Edward and nodded to the figure, before doing the same to Duke, as both jumped out in front of him toward the assailant.


    Edward started by wrapping his metal sheet around the figure¡¯s arms and legs, trapping them together, as Duke swung his ball and chain around, before sending it travelling through the ground with his Whil toward the figure.


    The figure stood there unmoving, before the metal around their arms and legs started turning a bright orange, then melted off and puddled on the ground. They turned to face the incoming spiked ball, before their sword also turned orange and cleaved the ball in two, sending half of it flying off into the wall.


    Duke dragged his chain and severed ball back and Edward regathered his metal, as Baron took a second to formulate another attack. All Julia could do was sit back and watch as they threw themselves at the assailant.


    ¡°They know what they¡¯re doing.¡± Baron admitted, whispering to Duke and Edward. ¡°I¡¯ll take the lead. You guys back me up where you can but focus on light damage. Don¡¯t let anything touch them for too long.¡±


    With that, Baron charged at the figure, separating his whip sword and lighting it ablaze with his Whil as he ran, swinging it around the figure¡¯s wrist, attempting to rip their sword away.


    The figure braced the chain and swung Baron around instead, flinging him off to the side, as Edward launched his metal as darts toward them, the figure avoiding each one.


    Meanwhile, Duke started surfing through the ground and around the figure with his Whil, trying to trip them up with his outstretched chain, while also unsettling the ground below their feet and trying to sink them down.


    The figure danced around the chain and darts, catching a dart in mid-air and throwing it back at Edward to distract him, before back-flipping, kicking off their feet-covering while in the air, and landing on Duke¡¯s chain with their bare feet, melting it down to nothing.


    Having his chain severed, Duke¡¯s momentum carried him into the wall, knocking him out cold, as the figure finally dug out Baron¡¯s sword from their arm and flung it toward Edward, knocking him back to the ground with a gash in his chest.


    As the figure slowly turned back to Julia, Baron finally got up again and took a swing, aiming his fist straight at the figure¡¯s head.


    They caught his fist before it made impact, then bent it backwards and broke it, causing Baron to scream out in pain, as the figure kicked him back into the wall, knocking him down for good.


    ¡°You should be glad I didn¡¯t melt it.¡±


    Finally, the figure turned their sights to Julia, as Julia noted how unfazed they were, barely winded, and as imposing as ever.


    They outstretched their sword again, ready and waiting, and it was all Julia could do to just stand there.


    The exit was behind her. She could run, maybe even lose them if she ran fast enough, but she couldn¡¯t do that. Not after all this trouble. She couldn¡¯t let them get away with this.


    ¡°Well?¡± They asked, cocking their head inquisitively. ¡°What¡¯re you waiting for?¡±

 Chapter 22: THREAT Part 3

    Julia finally made it.


    That¡¯s what she believed, at least.


    Along with the rest of the team, she¡¯d finally confirmed the existence of a third party, one manipulating the Wailing conflict for unknown purposes.


    She¡¯d risked everything confronting Vice-Principal Coatsworth, only to realise his innocence.


    She¡¯d realised the Wailing attack on the academy was a front, hiding something nefarious from wary eyes.


    And she¡¯d found a figure breaking into the science labs before they single-handedly ruined Team Ferocity and left her standing alone against them.


    To Julia, this was the price of her discovery, her safety.


    The figure held out their sword, their intentions made very clear, as Julia stared back at the opening to the alleyway they were both occupying.


    Running was her best option, but she knew they were faster.


    She could fight back, but without her rifle, she¡¯d be taken out in seconds.


    Her Whil could slow them down, but also leave her exhausted, rendering the whole thing mute.


    ¡°No team, huh? Where¡¯s your Venator camaraderie?¡± The figure asked, displaying their arms. ¡°Or bravery?¡±


    Julia looked out, starting to truly panic, before stepping back subtly.


    ¡°Not a smart move.¡± The figure responded, stepping forward as well, as Julia peered around each corner, looking for potential avenues.


    Just anything¡­


    Staring back at the figure, she noticed they were still bare foot and spotted them about to step over an out-sticking rock thrown around from the previous fight. Feeling her safest option was heading closer to the main academy structure, she used her Whil to slow the figure¡¯s leg, causing them to jam their foot into the rock, before slowing their other leg and tripping them over.


    She bolted to the left, running as fast as she could, knowing full well that the assailant had more then likely recovered and was chasing her down. She refused to look back.


    The figure managed to get up, struggling to stand on their pained foot at first, before picking up the rock and nearly melting it out of rage. Instead, they rounded the corner, sprinting after Julia, then threw the rock at her leg, knocking her to the ground with a painful thud.


    Julia barely had enough time to feel pain before the figure leaped above her, embedding their sword into the ground right next to Julia¡¯s neck.


    ¡°Scream.¡±


    Julia stayed tight-lipped, fumbling to grab her tablet, as the figure turned the blade toward her.


    ¡°Bad answer.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Does anyone see her?¡± Harley asked, the team still on their way. ¡°Her text said the science department, right?¡±


    ¡°I still don¡¯t get why she¡¯s there. Could she be tracking that figure too?¡± Wess asked, rounding the corner cautiously, Belvedere and her shield on full display.


    ¡°I hope she¡¯s not in trouble.¡± Harley lamented. ¡°Who knows what we¡¯r-¡°


    ¡°Over there!¡± Sola yelled, pointing off into the distance, terrified stiff at the sight of Julia under an unknown figure. The others quickly noticed the sword.


    ¡°Julia!¡± Wess cried out, as Essex leaped into action, sprinting over and aiming her scythe at the assailant again, before they defensively jumped off of Julia¡¯s body.


    ¡°Forseca!¡± Essex barked, the figure sizing her up.


    ¡°It¡¯s you again.¡± They said, circling Julia¡¯s body. ¡°You¡¯re persistent as ever.¡±


    The figure started assessing their options, before the rest of Team Valiant arrived, causing them to back off.


    The others surrounded Julia on the ground, walling her off from them, as they looked over the suddenly heavily armed team staring daggers in their direction, ready to repay Julia¡¯s pain tenfold.


    With visible frustration, they slowly stepped back, before jumping onto the wall, using their Whil to melt holes into it to help climb up, before leaping to the roofs and running back to the front of the academy.


    ¡°I will find you again!¡± Essex yelled, raising her scythe. ¡°This injustice will not be unpunished!¡±


    ¡°Julia?¡± Harley asked, slowly helping Julia up with Sola¡¯s help.


    Julia shook her head, the adrenaline and stress leaving her woozy. ¡°¡­they didn¡¯t g-get to me, don¡¯t worry.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re okay, right? They didn¡¯t hurt you?¡± Wess demanded, checking Julia for wounds.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine, really.¡± Julia assured her, Wess refusing to let go.


    ¡°I swear if that creep even touched yo-¡°


    ¡°Wess, look!¡± Julia said, holding her hands back. ¡°I¡¯m fine, really. You guys saved me just in time¡­¡±


    ¡°Of course we saved you.¡± Wess replied. ¡°You¡¯re our leader. We¡¯ll never let anything happen to you.¡±


    Julia blushed profusely, before a couple tears started rolling down her cheeks.


    ¡°¡­I¡¯m sorry¡­¡± She professed. ¡°¡­I wanted to keep you a-away¡­I thought you¡¯d get hurt¡­but then I n-nearly got hurt, and I-I-I almost-¡°


    ¡°Hey, it¡¯s okay.¡± Harley said, hugging her. ¡°You were trying to keep us safe, even if it meant getting hurt yourself.¡±


    ¡°We were really worried about you too.¡± Sola said, joining in on the hug.


    Wess decided to rest her hand on Julia¡¯s shoulder, as Julia now noticed her shoulder and cheek wound. ¡°We work in a dangerous industry. You can¡¯t take on the burden of everything dangerous for us. We¡¯re all bound to get hurt.¡±


    ¡°Pain is only temporary.¡± Essex added, smiling back at Julia. ¡°All wounds heal with time.¡±


    ¡°Guys¡­¡± Julia let out, a few more tears escaping. ¡°¡­you¡¯re right. I don¡¯t need to do this on my own.¡±


    Julia was let go from her hug and got up properly, finally taking in her surroundings, before spotting the figure off in the distance.


    Julia turned to address the team, still mid-preparation. ¡°Okay, you¡¯re just gonna need to believe me about this because I don¡¯t have time to explain. Coatsworth is not behind this, it was all a big misunderstanding.¡± Julia explained, the others taking a second to process this. ¡°I think that person stole something from the labs and may be the answer to ending the attack for good, so we can¡¯t let them get away.¡±


    The team was collectively confused, before Harley felt the need to speak up. ¡°Fuck me, really?¡±


    Julia nodded, before turning to Harley and Sola. ¡°First off, Team Ferocity are injured in the alleyway. I need you to get them to the arena and find them medical help.¡±


    ¡°Roger that.¡± Sola saluted back, following behind Harley as they headed for the alley.


    ¡°Wess, Essex, I need you to protect me while we hunt that person down.¡± Julia explained, Wess and Essex nodding along. ¡°They may try to blend into the attack and sneak out somehow, so be prepared for that. I don¡¯t want to have to fight them if we don¡¯t need to.¡±


    ¡°I will aid you in this endeavour.¡± Essex expressed, bowing and laying out her scythe, as Wess settled for an affirmative head nod.


    ¡°Okay. Okay¡­¡± Julia assured herself. ¡°We can do this. We¡¯ve got this.¡±


    Wess casually swung Belvedere, patting Julia on the back. ¡°You¡¯re damn right we do.¡±


    ¡°We will make them regret this.¡± Essex promised, as the trio headed out in the direction of the assailant, the battle in the academy raging on with seemingly no end in sight.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    For everything he wanted to do, and everything he was trying to get away from, that day had been a painful reminder of just what Florey was trying to escape.


    It was hard enough for Florey returning to the academy after leaving. He was dreading running into Team Vanguard on the way, but officially, he¡¯d yet to fully leave his enrolment, so returning was a must.


    Fortunately, Cecil had been able to smooth things over with Faller in terms of transferring to EHM. Faller planned on checking in with Team Vanguard to confirm his departure on their end, but¡­


    ¡­well, everything happened.


    But Florey felt he was doing the right thing. The team got along well without him, and he didn¡¯t want to distract them before the final exams of the year.


    At least, that was his excuse.


    All he had left to do was fill out some forms.


    Just a few incidental forms. Nothing too serious.


    So why of all days was this the one the academy was attacked on?


    Florey ran back down the hallway, peering through the archway outside, only to find more Wailing and Venators locked in combat. An arrow flew by his head, as he pulled himself back into the building, panting heavily.


    He calmed himself, making sure to keep his eye out for anymore danger nearby, before continuing his stride back through the main structure, trying to find any exit free of conflict.


    He caught a glimpse of the Behemoth Wailing through the window again and grimaced, watching it thrash about violently.


    ¡°Mark my words, you won¡¯t stop me anymore.¡±


    He continued trudging, coming up empty with exit after exit, before he was distracted briefly by his tablet buzzing in his pocket.


    Stopping in the hallway, he pulled it out to check who it was.


    ¡­dad.


    Florey stared back down at the screen, holding his finger above it fervently, before rejecting the call and hurrying along, desperate to find another exit out of this place before the building came down.


    Just get me out of this god damn academy¡­


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Which¡­way¡­¡± Julia started, catching her breath, as Essex scouted around the walkway between buildings, pointing to their left.


    ¡°The quickest route to the main entrance is down here. They may attempt to blend within the crowd.¡± Essex reasoned, as she ran ahead of the other two, Wess helping Julia along.


    Running through the walkway, they stopped by the large window overlooking the battle, catching the security and teams fending off the Wailing with their lives. Visible damage was already running through the front of the building and Dulce was doing everything she could to hold back a mass of Wailing trying to break through the entrance.


    However, Julia noticed Wess¡¯ gaze was focused instead on the Behemoth, still planted firmly on the academy walkway, blocking off any exit, a couple news helicopters now flying around it at a safe distance.


    ¡°It¡¯s still yet to move.¡± Wess realised.


    Julia sidled up to her. ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s only been sitting there, never getting any closer. This attack would be over in minutes if it only stepped ahead and hit the building itself.¡± Wess analysed, the Behemoth roaring out at the helicopters, swatting at them violently.


    ¡°Maybe it¡¯s being strategic.¡± Julia said. ¡°Maybe it heard about the other Behemoth that attacked the academy.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t think so.¡± Wess said, staring back at it. ¡°Sola said this earlier about the other Wailing. They weren¡¯t stalling, they were apprehensive.¡±


    Julia nodded along, before the connection made sense, shocking her still. ¡°¡­like they were waiting for orders.¡±


    ¡°Pelonos Decu!¡± Essex cried from down the hall. ¡°Do not wait! We must find the assailant!¡±


    ¡°Oh, sorry Essex!¡± Julia yelled back, following behind with Wess after regaining her stamina.


    Rounding the corner and heading down the stairwell, they found the exit out into the parking lot.


    A few slash marks ran across the wall, before they spotted the figure moving about the cars, slamming the side of each of them.


    ¡°How dare you! Why you little¡­!¡±


    ¡°There they a-¡°


    Julia cried out, Essex and Wess already heading out into the parking lot to confront them, until Julia stopped suddenly, turning to face down the hall and far away from the action.


    Florey looked back, out of breath from having navigated the campus over and over, now standing on the other side of the hall, just in eyesight of Julia.


    They both stared at each other intently, Florey taking the time to rest, and Julia apprehensive about trying anything.


    ¡°Julia!¡± Wess cried.


    Julia snapped out of her state, remembering their pursuit, before turning back to Florey.


    Florey stared at her, waiting to see what decision she¡¯d make, if any, as she wavered between which path to pursue.


    ¡°Julia, they¡¯ll get away if we wait!¡± Wess demanded, stepping out the exit, having not noticed Florey, as Julia held her tongue and balled up her fists.


    Sorry, Florey.


    Julia followed behind Wess, stepping out into the parking lot and out of the building, as Florey stood right where he was, barely managing to hold back his disappointment and frustration.


    ¡°You little bitch!¡± The figure yelled, bashing the side of one of the cars. ¡°You stay with the fucking vehicle! Wicker¡¯s a goddamn dipshit for even thinking you co-¡°


    ¡°That is enough!¡± Essex announced, closing in and brandishing her scythe. ¡°Return what you have stolen now and we will not need to fight!¡±


    The figure turned to her and flipped her off. ¡°You think I care?!¡±


    ¡°Essex, be careful!¡± Julia yelled. ¡°They¡¯re not afraid to hurt you!¡±


    ¡°Kill is more like it!¡± The figure yelled back, melting off a chunk of the car and chucking it at Essex. ¡°Don¡¯t test me, kid!¡±


    Essex looked ready to pounce, as Julia felt they were beyond talking at this point. Even if she could calm Essex down, the figure surely wouldn¡¯t hear it.


    Do I¡­do I have to¡­


    Tentatively and carefully, she lifted her rifle, preparing to fire, before shaking profusely, her conscience refusing her from pulling the trigger.


    Wess saw the struggle she was going through and rested a hand on the barrel, lowering it and smiling back at her.


    ¡°We¡¯ll take care of this. I¡¯ll make sure they give back what they stole.¡±


    Julia stared at her in awe, as she ran out and joined Essex¡¯s side in the lot, giving Julia some peace of mind.


    Wess and Essex shared an understanding nod while the figure pulled out their sword.


    ¡°Okay¡­this just got interesting.¡± The figure admitted, laughing a little. ¡°You guys are finally taking thi-¡°


    Essex didn¡¯t give them another word and jumped them. She swung her scythe toward theirs legs, as they jumped up onto the car, only for Wess to thrust Belvedere right as they landed.


    The figure managed to press Belvedere against the hood with their foot, now swinging at Wess with their sword, Wess managing to just block it with her shield.


    Still trapped underneath the figure, she noticed Belvedere¡¯s edge turning orange, its metal heating up the longer it touched them, as panic started to cross Wess, until Essex took another swing, the figure dodging off the car and freeing Belvedere just before it started to melt.


    Essex¡¯s scythe was embedded in the windscreen, as she tried to pull it out desperately. The figure let out a tired breath, just as Wess attempted to shoulder-bash them with her shield.


    Managing to hold their own, they slowly grabbed the sides of the shield, before ripping it away from Wess¡¯s arm, throwing her to the ground, then heating up its metal, slowly turning it orange as well, before ripping it in half right in front of her, the shield¡¯s metal puddling on the ground.


    Wess huddled to the ground in shock, and while she couldn¡¯t see the figure''s face, she could tell they were smirking.


    ¡°Shitty shield.¡±


    Having freed her scythe, Essex managed to get another swing in at the briefly distracted figure, them nearly dodging, before a loud static sound rang out amongst them, everyone present covering their ears.


    Essex had managed to cut near the figure¡¯s neck, a few sparks flying out from the slit in their bodysuit, as they grabbed at it frustratedly.


    ¡°You piece of shit!¡± They yelled, their altered voice starting to dissipate, revealing the voice of a woman. ¡°Of course one of you kids would aim for the neck!¡±


    Grabbing at the slit, the figure was visibly desperate, just as Coatsworth¡¯s car swung around the corner, heading back through to let him gather more of his work. The figure realised an opportunity to leave after their identity was compromised, running from Wess and Essex and stepping in front of the car, swerving him off course.


    Coatsworth managed to park it, and before he knew what was happening, had a sword pressed to his neck, the assailant shielding herself with his body.


    ¡°If you kids are smart, you¡¯ll let pencil-neck here live.¡± The figure announced, Essex and Wess now closing in on her. She started backing up into the car, before jumping in, slamming on the accelerator and tearing off, circling her way through the car park.


    Essex attempted to swing at the car, but missed it by a hair, as Coatsworth¡¯s car sped down the road, the others now giving chase.


    The figure would¡¯ve left then and there, she¡¯d retrieved the item, she¡¯d done her job, plain and simple, but lo and behold, Jules had just exited the building, looking around incredibly nervously.


    ¡°Of course, it¡¯s you again¡­¡±


    Slamming the break, she pulled up to her quickly. ¡°Get in, dipshit.¡±


    Jules¡¯ spine crawled, as she did so, only for the figure to smack her upside the head, Jules reeling in pain.


    ¡°You stay with the car! You goddamn moron!¡± She yelled, rubbing her temple. ¡°You¡¯ve fucked up this whole thing!¡±


    Jules stayed quiet, rubbing her head in pain, before she spotted three figures rounding the corner, now chasing them down.


    She grabbed her partner¡¯s shoulder and shook her, pointing desperately at their pursuers, before she picked up on it.


    ¡°Shit.¡± She said, starting up the car again and trying to circle around, only for the car to stay almost motionless, despite the wheels spinning profusely.


    Having caught up to the assailant¡¯s vehicle, Julia was now holding out her hands, using her Whil to slow the car¡¯s body, trying desperately to keep a grip.


    Julia tried to hold it back, the wheel¡¯s screeching loudly across the asphalt, until it was too much to the bare, letting the car race off down the road, only to swing back around in the direction of the conflict consuming the main entrance.


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    Wess and Essex only caught up in time to watch it race off down the road, but not before Essex spotted the person in the passenger seat, staring back at her in abject horror, until the car was too far out of sight.


    ¡°Dammit!¡± Wess yelled, breathing out heavily. ¡°That scum-sucker just had to get away!¡±


    ¡°That is the girl¡­¡± Essex realised, forcefully tightening her grip of her scythe. ¡°¡­who aided us earlier. She was an accomplice to this. That forseca was in on it¡­¡±


    Julia sat by the side of the road, having recovered from using her Whil so much, but feeling no need to get up after such a harrowing experience, as the car roared down the road, too far to pursue.


    ¡°You take it.¡± The figure said, taking her hands off the wheel, as Jules urgently grabbed it, trying hard to steer while still in the passenger seat.


    The figure pulled out her tablet, hurriedly dialing, as the car looped around the roads, crossing in front of the Behemoth Wailing.


    ¡°Call that thing back now!¡± She yelled into the tablet. ¡°Jules screwed up and we can¡¯t wait on campus anymore, so we need an exit!¡±


    She waited as the other person responded. ¡°¡­yes! We have the-of course the mask is on! Get us out or this is all on you!¡±


    Jules bit her tongue. He rarely talked this much if he didn¡¯t need to.


    ¡°How about a lecture once we¡¯re face to face again?¡± She remarked, now just interrupting him. ¡°Either you bring that thing back, or they find this on our dead bodies and your plan goes to shit!¡±


    There was more silence, until Wicker¡¯s voice said a few more words, letting the figure hang up.


    ¡°I¡¯m gonna kill him.¡± She said. ¡°I want to make him burn alive while damning my name¡­¡±


    Jules was still driving, her arms only getting more tired, as her partner realised and grabbed the wheel again, before a collective roar was heard across campus, shuddering through everyone present.


    ¡°And¡­there we go¡­¡± Harley panted, letting Baron down, as the medical staff in the tournament arena carried him off to the makeshift sickbay. ¡°You better thank me for this!¡±


    The arena was packed with people at this point, but Harley was lucky that most had avoided the fighting, meaning Team Ferocity could at least be treated sooner.


    Duke and Edward limped out with a bandaged chest and arm respectively, as Sola pointed their teammates Henry and George in their direction before meeting up with Harley.


    ¡°All done.¡± Sola acknowledged, checking her tablet. ¡°Should we check on the others?¡±


    Harley stretched her neck. ¡°Yeah, just give me a minute. I had to carry two of them, after a-¡°


    SCCCRRRRRAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!!!


    Everyone in the arena jumped in shock, a few covering their ears at the shrieking cry echoing over the academy. The sound was far shriller than any of the other cries.


    Harley and Sola caught the Behemoth Wailing¡¯s mass flailing passed the main building, more frantic and rapidly then before.


    ¡°I guess the security did a number on it.¡± Harley posited, Sola¡¯s ears still ringing.


    ¡°What?!¡±


    ¡°I guess the security did a number on it!¡± Harley repeated, yelling to Sola, who gave a thumbs up back.


    Sola looked back at it again. ¡°But it¡¯s not slowing down!¡±


    Harley noticed it too, before the arena all caught wind of the Behemoth¡¯s actions and collectively gasped at what they were seeing.


    Grabbing it by the horns, Dulce held back the Wailing, throwing it back into the moat to stumble around, as a third-year electrified them, causing it to keel over for good.


    ¡°One more down!¡± Dulce yelled, the new Wailing emerging from the forest seeming endless. ¡°Come on! We can hold!¡±


    ¡°Dulce!¡±


    One of the security yelled back to Dulce, pointing at the Behemoth Wailing, who was thrashing about more violently, before taking out large chunks of the walkway with each swing of its tentacles.


    ¡°It¡¯s started getting more agitated!¡± They informed, Dulce noticing it starting to close in.


    She bit her tongue, running her hand over the radio looped in her belt, before grabbing it and turning it on.


    ¡°Vick, we¡¯re desperate! I need you to activate the IF¡¯s and aim them at the Behemoth Wailing! It can¡¯t touch the building!¡±


    ¡°Understood.¡± Came a voice over the radio, Dulce staring expectantly at the sides of the academy, until large hatches opened in the ground, emerging two massive, unmanned gunner towers, each pointed directly at the approaching Behemoth.


    ¡°Start charging now and fire on my signal! We haven¡¯t used these yet, so we¡¯re only getting one good shot in!¡± Dulce yelled into the radio, as light started gathering around the barrels of each of the gunner towers, the Behemoth Wailing still flailing about, Dulce needing to dodge out of the way as a tentacle came crashing down.


    ¡°Now?¡±


    ¡°Not yet!¡± She said, the Behemoth closing in.


    It was moments away from crossing over into the academy proper, as Venators and Wailing alike started backing off to avoid its reckless path.


    ¡°Almost¡­¡±


    It slid ever closer.


    ¡°And¡­¡±


    SCCCRRRRRAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!!!


    The Wailing cried out, echoing across the academy once again, before sliding back and forth, grabbing at and swatting near its head, almost hitting the news helicopter circling around it.


    The other Wailing present froze stiff, listening out to its cries, before looking about awkwardly, almost without purpose.


    The Behemoth thrashed and cried out, stepping back over the walkway as it struggled to maintain ground. Part of it looked to be dragging itself back into the waterway, letting its body fall over the edge, as the rest of it clung to the walkway, desperate to continue the fight it had yet to finish.


    As it lost more and more ground, it slinked back into the water one tentacle at a time, slowly disappearing into the murky depths, before nothing was left of it, leaving the other Wailing without direction or guidance.


    Dulce took a second to take it in, shocked with how sudden everything had become, before noticing that the Wailing present were starting to leave, running off back into the forest or flying into the distance. A few security tried to get a few more hits in, but eventually, found the point mute.


    ¡°Do we pursue them?¡± An officer asked Dulce, as she briefly forgot her role in this.


    ¡°Uhh¡­no, we stay here and¡­and clean up.¡± She said, assuring herself as she spoke. ¡°We don¡¯t know if that Behemoth is gone for good or¡­¡±


    Their conversation was interrupted as a car roared down the road, swinging just in front of the entrance and speeding down the walkway, swerving to avoid all the fallen debris.


    Dulce blinked. ¡°Was that Coatsworth¡¯s car?¡±


    ¡°Are you okay, sir?¡± Wess asked, helping Coatsworth up after returning to the car park with Julia and Essex.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. She didn¡¯t hurt me.¡± He assured, managing to get up. ¡°I was shocked, not injured.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s good.¡± Wess said, stepping back and clearing her throat. ¡°Julia told us of what your intentions actually were. I want to apologise for jumping to conclusions.¡±


    ¡°As do I.¡± Essex added, bowing to him. ¡°We have assumed the worst of you, and it is not warranted.¡±


    Coatsworth smiled back to them. ¡°It¡¯s been a difficult time for all of us. Not many people would own their mistakes so candidly, though.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not like lying would help us anyway.¡± Wess remarked under her breath, before spotting Julia off to the side and staring in the direction of the academy entrance.


    She approached her side. ¡°Is something wrong?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s gone.¡±


    Wess took a second to process what she meant, before realising the cacophony of noise and panic was gone, and that the Behemoth Wailing had disappeared seemingly without cause.


    ¡°Oh my goodness, I barely even noticed.¡± Wess said, as Julia kept staring, fixated on that point.


    ¡°If the Wailing were being controlled, and them leaving means they weren¡¯t needed anymore¡­¡± Julia asked, turning to Wess. ¡°¡­does that mean we failed?¡±


    Wess rested a hand on her back. ¡°We didn¡¯t fail. We protected the academy. And if the Wailing don¡¯t return, that means we were able to hold off whoever¡¯s behind this.¡±


    ¡°But they probably got away with whatever they stole.¡± Julia argued. ¡°¡­I don¡¯t feel good knowing I could have stopped them.¡±


    ¡°There is nothing more you could have done.¡± Essex added, joining them. ¡°There is only so much we can accomplish at this time. While the attack was not prevented, it may have been ended sooner by our intervention.¡±


    Julia found herself agreeing with Essex, while still feeling terrible about everything that¡¯d happened before a memory hit her like a truck.


    ¡°Florey!¡± She yelled, heading back into the building, followed by Wess and Essex.


    She sprinted to the other side of the hallway, looking around frantically. ¡°He was here earlier!¡±


    ¡°On campus?¡± Wess asked, peering around too. ¡°How did we not find him?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know, but I have to keep looking.¡± Julia declared, cupping her hands. ¡°Florey! Florey?!¡±


    ¡°Julia.¡± Essex said, grabbing her arm. ¡°He is not here.¡±


    ¡°You can¡¯t leave! Not again, please!¡±


    ¡°Julia!¡±


    ¡°FLO-¡°


    ¡°He is not here!¡± Essex said, raising her voice and turning Julia to face her. ¡°We will find him, but you need to rest. This is a stressful experience, and you cannot keep pushing yourself.¡±


    Julia kept looking around, Essex¡¯s grip iron-tight, before she calmed down and sighed out.


    ¡°¡­yeah, okay, okay. I¡¯m sorry.¡± Julia let out, running her hands over her face. ¡°I guess if he wanted to stay¡­¡±


    Julia silently walked off, turning the corner, as Wess found herself shedding a tear, getting some comfort from Essex as they watched their leader dealing with one of the hardest days of her life.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°¡­nd by the looks of things, the Behemoth Wailing disappeared back from the waters in which it emerged. Officials from the Venator Academy state the intentions of the Wailing, and how they managed to avoid detection, are still unknown, but that the number of fatalities in the student population were fortunately zero, with the worst injuries still being considered treatable. However, many security officers and bystanders were unfortunately killed in the attack, with the numbers estimated around twenty-three, with five still unaccounted for. It¡¯s fair to say that this is a warning cry from the Wailing saying they are not afraid to go after our youngest and brightest, and feel no mercy in showing Daysend just what they intend to do if we let them. Back to you, Tim.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Dana, for that report. Later on, we¡¯ll be interviewing persons present about their exper-¡°


    The figure muted the TV, now lounging back in her couch, still having yet to remove her outfit from earlier in the day.


    She rested her head, splayed out with her legs over the coffee table before her tablet started buzzing beside her with an unmarked caller.


    ¡°Are you watching the news report?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I am. I knew you were gonna ask, so I¡¯m sitting through it.¡±


    ¡°Good job avoiding detection.¡±


    ¡°Fuck off.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m serious.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re never serious unless you feel like bragging about your stupid plans.¡±


    There was a pause over the call. ¡°Stupid? Well, which do you think plays better? Mysterious device disappears from campus without explanation, or device gets lost during an unprecedented attack?¡±


    The figure unzipped her bodysuit, holding the tablet with her shoulder. ¡°That¡¯s a lot of effort for one little chip. And wouldn¡¯t they just find more on the dead Wailing still there?¡±


    ¡°They didn¡¯t have any. The only one that was chipped was the Behemoth Wailing. The rest simply followed its direction out of respect.¡±


    ¡°Or fear.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t care which. What¡¯s done is done. Another attack on the academy, along with some extra security on our end.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t suppose that means I get a day off?¡±


    ¡°Oh, don¡¯t think you¡¯re off the hook.¡±


    ¡°Can¡¯t blame me for trying.¡± She replied, taking off her mask, before digging around in her pocket and pulling out a lollipop.


    ¡°You still failed to secure the device without complication.¡±


    ¡°Kinda hard with Venators around.¡±


    ¡°Venator students. Students. You even had trouble with a couple first-years.¡±


    ¡°They¡¯re pretty well-armed for first-years. That one with the scythe knew what she wa-¡°


    ¡°I don¡¯t care about excuses, I want some reassurance. I need to know they won¡¯t get in the way in the future.¡±


    ¡°¡­they won¡¯t stop me again.¡±


    There was a pause.


    ¡°¡­okay. That¡¯ll be all.¡±


    She hung up the call, throwing the tablet to the couch, before looking over her sword again, propped up on the wall, still with some scuffs from the conflicts prior in the day.


    She picked it up, bringing it to the couch, before grabbing some weapon polish and unmuting the TV, just as the news crew was interviewing witnesses at the scene.


    ¡°Of course I was scared. Fear is only natural when faced with something like this, but that¡¯s only more reason to do our jobs well. I¡¯m thankful for those on our force that¡­sacrificed their lives to defend this academy, and I want them to feel honour in their actions wherever they are now.¡±


    ¡°Pretty sure they¡¯re dead.¡± The figure brazenly stated, cleaning off the buffed metal.


    ¡°While this was unprecedented, Security Chief Dulce teamed up with Venator students in order to hold off the invading force. While some have raised the ethical debate over whether this was the right call, students say they were enlisted of their own free will and were only asked to defend out of desperation. Many Venator teams were also busy saving lives on campus too, including this team of young women.¡±


    ¡°We ran about the campus helping evacuate those that were still in the buildings. It was pretty tough running through the flights of stairs over and over, but it was worth it even to save just a few folks.¡±


    The figure dropped the lollipop out of her mouth, now crouching ahead on her couch as Essex took centre stage.


    ¡°We are Venators, and Venators aid others. It was only natural that we help those in need when something drastic is occurring. This will not be the last incident, but we shall only improve with time.¡±


    ¡°While she isn¡¯t here right now, I would like to credit our leader, Julia Alpine. She took charge and managed to lead us and keep us all safe while this attack took place. I think it¡¯s fair to say Team Valiant couldn¡¯t ask for a better team leader.¡±


    ¡°Were you four scared at all? This sort of thing is very unheard of.¡± Dana asked, as Sola grabbed the microphone.


    ¡°Totally! I kinda felt fine taking on the Wailing, cause we¡¯ve done that a bunch already, but then this mysterious figure showed up and tried to steal something from campus, so we were busy fighting her off. Hi Mum! Hi Dad! Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯m safe now!¡±


    ¡°I-I¡¯m sorry, a mysterious figure?¡± Dana asked for clarification.


    ¡°Yeah, some lady wearing all black sneaking around.¡± Harley replied, bringing everyone in for a group hug. ¡°So look out, jerkwad! You got the better of us this time, but don¡¯t you dare pull that kinda stunt again! You¡¯re messing with the wrong Venator team!¡±


    The figure picked up the remote, shaking furiously, struggling to turn it off.


    ¡°That team is Team Valiant, again!¡± Wess repeated, struggling to fit, as Dana attempted to worm her way out, cleaning herself up.


    ¡°W-well, with young Venators like these, I think it¡¯s safe to sa-¡°


    The figure turned it off, throwing the remote away and running her head through her hands, nervously glancing at her tablet.


    In a matter of seconds, it started ringing again, as she lifted it up and took a deep breath.


    ¡°¡­yeah?¡±


    ¡°¡­care to explain what was just reported on the news?¡±


    The figure felt herself going flush, the image of Team Valiant hugging each other burned into her mind, until she felt she could respond.


    ¡°What report?¡±


    ¡°¡­don¡¯t play dumb.¡±


    ¡°¡­this is a minor setba-¡°


    ¡°See that this never happens again.¡±


    Wicker hung up.


    The figure got up, pacing around her room in frustration, before picking up her sword, its sheen noticeable and clean once again.


    She shoved it into her TV, shattering the screen and leaving it jammed in there, as a few sparks flew out of it.


    ¡°¡­Team Valiant¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Good afternoon, students.¡±


    Faller leaned back, rubbing is face, before clearing his throat and trying again.


    ¡°Good¡­I¡¯m wishing you well on this¡­no, just say the first one¡­¡±


    Faller looked around his room, playing idly with the broken ¡®bug¡¯ on his desk, a few more littering his bin, as he spotted a couple strands of sunlight cracking through his window. The weather had cleared up over the last few weeks, but that hardly made up for the decimated walkway and war-torn entrance to the academy.


    Cleanup was underway, but¡­


    He checked his watch again, nervously tapping the bug against the table, before sighing out and turning on his intercom.


    ¡°¡­good¡­afternoon, students.¡± He started, pausing briefly. ¡°I have a small address for you all before the end of semester. This isn¡¯t what I wanted to be saying by the end of the year, but I figure you all need to hear this.¡±


    He tried to get comfortable, before giving up and continuing.


    ¡°This is not a kind world. At this point, you should all know that firsthand. If you look for it, there is danger and deceit around every corner. There¡¯s those willing to make our lives worse for their own personal gain, and willing to play on our most vulnerable aspects in order to divide and conquer us. This has always been true, and no amount of action can make that disappear.¡±


    He paused again. ¡°But I am proud of what I¡¯ve seen from you. I¡¯m proud of how you have all acted in these recent events, and what traits you embody. It¡¯s difficult to do the right thing, but it¡¯s even harder to admit when you¡¯ve done wrong. We didn¡¯t ask for you to defend this academy for us, but you have. You stepped up when we thought we were in the right, and for that, I want to apologise. If we were the great academy we promised to be, then it shouldn¡¯t have come to this.¡±


    Faller looked out his window at the cleanup before continuing.


    ¡°This is not a conflict we will win through bloodshed. This is not a conflict that should be won through bloodshed. We do what is required, but don¡¯t let violence be your sole guide. This is a combat school, yes, but I encourage practicing compassion and reason above all else. A small act of kindness now will always be worth more than any bullet fired. Protect those close to you. Reach out an olive branch. Take a chance on those you may not see anything in. It¡¯s those actions that count for so much more.¡±


    He sat back down, before finally putting the bug down.


    ¡°That¡¯s enough rambling from me. I encourage you to enjoy yourselves over the semester break, get some use out of your Bestalow gifts. Trust me, you¡¯ve earned it. And¡­don¡¯t feel disheartened. After all, you¡¯ve made it this far¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­so let¡¯s see how much farther you¡¯ll go.¡±


    The intercom cut out, as Joleicia looked up at it, twiddling her thumbs frantically.


    ¡°I¡¯m still really nervous¡­¡± Joleicia admitted, Julia patting her back.


    ¡°I know what you mean.¡± Chops agreed, rubbing her neck. ¡°Couldn¡¯t we¡¯ve put this off for a bit?¡±


    Saxin wandered around the empty classroom to let out some anxiety. ¡°We can¡¯t have our new team member waiting on a confirmation for months on end. Ripping off the bandage and all that¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m just worried we might get someone like Baron.¡± Lenin admitted, shuddering. ¡°Or Avalon¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­we didn¡¯t even get to say goodbye.¡± Joleicia confessed, closing into herself. ¡°He left before we could say anything¡­¡±


    The rest of Team Vanguard came to comfort her, as Team Valiant was off to the side with them, Wess offering Joleicia a hand too.


    ¡°I¡¯ve heard he has a tendency of doing this sort of thing. You shouldn¡¯t blame yourself.¡± Wess added, looking back at Julia.


    ¡°How¡¯re you holding up?¡± Harley asked, sitting next to Julia.


    ¡°Okay¡­¡± She admitted. ¡°¡­not good, but okay.¡±


    ¡°Did the board game night help?¡± Sola asked, getting a smile out of Julia.


    ¡°Yeah, it did.¡± She admitted.


    Essex leaned in closer to her. ¡°If you wish, we will attempt to track him down agai¡­¡± Essex suggested, before Julia raised a hand.


    ¡°He¡¯s made his decision. If he doesn¡¯t want to come back¡­¡±


    Julia realised what she said and crouched down.


    ¡°¡­he¡¯s really not coming back.¡± Julia muttered, Harley hugging her side.


    ¡°Yeah¡­sorry.¡± Harley said. ¡°You¡¯re probably taking this the worst¡­¡±


    ¡°You know, if he really was a friend, he wouldn¡¯t have just ditched like that.¡± Sola pointed out, sitting beside Julia. ¡°Friends don¡¯t do that to other friends.¡±


    ¡°Can we¡­stop talking about it?¡± Julia asked, getting up and joining Team Vanguard. ¡°This should be about welcoming Team Vanguard¡¯s new member.¡±


    Joleicia nodded. ¡°Thanks for joining us, you guys. I know you didn¡¯t need to come, but you being here is really appreciated.¡± She said, Wess leaning against a desk with her.


    ¡°It wouldn¡¯t be right. You guys have been there for us, so it¡¯s only right we¡¯re here for you.¡± Wess explained.


    ¡°I would agree.¡± Essex said, before clearing her throat. ¡°After all, we will need to approve of them as well.¡±


    The others laughed to themselves, as Vent popped his head into the classroom.


    ¡°He¡¯s just outside now.¡± Vent said. ¡°Are you guys ready?¡±


    Joleicia needed a second, before she nodded back somewhat frantically. Team Vanguard huddled around each other, each with a worst-case scenario in their head of who this could be.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, guys. We¡¯re here for you.¡± Julia assured, patting Joleicia¡¯s shoulder.


    With bated breath, the door swung open, and an unknown new member stepped his way through.


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­oh, uh, s-sorry¡­¡±


    He fumbled through the door, trying to stand up straight, while holding out a piece of paper in front of him awkwardly.


    ¡°He-¡° He started, squeaking his voice, before clearing his throat. ¡°Hello. M-my¡­my name is¡­oh boy¡­is Nathaniel. I¡¯m, uhh¡­r-really excited¡­to¡­be here¡­w-w-with Team¡­Vanguard? And¡­oh man, this is a lot¡­uhh, you welcome, no wait, I welcome¡­I hope you will welcome me into your Venator¡­team!¡­for the next y-years¡­to come!¡±


    Nathaniel posed extravagantly, trying to make up for his profuse sweating and quivering lip, as Team Vanguard watched on in utter surprise, trying to make sense of this new person.


    All eyes were on Joleicia, as she looked stunned and started to well up with tears.


    ¡°He¡¯s perfect¡­¡±


    Immediately, she jumped out and hugged him, followed by the rest of Team Vanguard, all celebrating Nathaniel¡¯s inclusion, even if Nathaniel himself was thoroughly nervous being a part of it.


    Team Vanguard laughed to themselves, joining in on welcoming him, Nathaniel making himself known to them, as Julia stood on the sidelines, her mood improving drastically.


    It was okay.


    Everything was okay.


    Despite everything, things were working out and the worst had been forgotten in favour of the new. All of a sudden, a breath of fresh air had cleansed the room, as Wess waved for Julia to join them in welcoming Nathaniel to the group.


    They were okay.


    Even with everything going on, the sun still pierced through the clouds, clearing up the remainder of the cloudy sky, until all that was left was bad memories and a feeling of romance, of preparedness for the new and unknown.


    For great things to come.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª


    The semester was finally over. After such a harrowing last few weeks, Team Valiant and Vanguard thought it best to spend a night on the town to forget their troubles and celebrate with Nathaniel. While they were ecstatic about this, not everyone was in the mood to party the night away.


    Julia decided to stay back and sleep in instead. There¡¯d been enough excitement recently, and with everything swimming around in her head, a stress-free night at home was everything she needed.


    Julia closed the dorm door behind her, grabbing herself a refreshing soft drink from the fridge and falling onto the couch, hand pressed to her forehead.


    I hope I¡¯m not coming down with something¡­


    She opened the can and took a sip, finally letting herself relax without the pressure of anymore classwork.


    ¡°How was this year even harder than high school?¡± Julia remarked. ¡°At least I¡¯m not failing my classes¡­¡±


    ¡°Hello.¡±


    Julia opened her eyes, catching what sounded like another door opening in the hall and dismissing it as nothing more.


    She lay back down, prodding the bags under her eyes and nursing her drink quietly, noticing a few insects bumping against the balcony window.


    ¡°Hello, Julia. I¡¯m your talking alarm clock.¡±


    Okay, she definitely heard that one.


    Julia sat up, her anxiety flaring up again, as she looked around for where she¡¯d propped her rifle in case of any more danger, before realising it was nowhere to be found.


    ¡°Ahem.¡±


    Julia turned around, as her rifle was now in the hands of a complete stranger, standing upward in the middle of the room.


    ¡°I read your mind. You¡¯re really scared right now.¡± He admitted, throwing the rifle back to her. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but that won¡¯t work.¡±


    Julia shakily held up her gun, as she inspected the figure in front of her. Despite invading her room unannounced, he was about her age and surprisingly casually dressed, with a bucket hat and floral shirt t-


    ¡°It¡¯s a Hawaiian shirt, by the way.¡± He admitted, vibrating up and down. ¡°But Hawaii doesn¡¯t exist in Daysend, does it?¡±


    Julia blinked profusely. ¡°Hawe¡­? W-what¡¯re you talking about?¡±


    ¡°Oh, I¡¯m sure they know.¡± He confessed, before miming zipping his mouth shut. ¡°Oops! Not meant to cross that threshold.¡±


    He cupped his hands and yelled at the ceiling. ¡°SORRY HUNNYBUN!!!¡±


    Julia was slowly lowering her gun, even though she was still just as terrified of this person.


    ¡°W-who¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m a sudden mysterious figure appearing out of nowhere¡­ooo¡­¡± He said, wiggling his fingers. ¡°But call me Adam if it makes you less kill¡­kill. Kill. Kill kill kill¡­what a word. Got distracted.¡±


    In an instant, he started levitating off the ground, floating above Julia¡¯s head. Julia refused to make eye contact, at least to make the conversation more bearable.


    ¡°Y-y-your name¡¯s Adam?¡±


    ¡°In three years, I guess it is.¡±


    Julia shook her head. ¡°What¡­why are¡­are you a halluc-¡°


    ¡°Shut up.¡± He said, landing in front of her. ¡°All this talking¡¯s giving you wrinkles. You¡¯ll end up in your mid-forties before we know it! Riding a horse and spouting about gods! Nay and pray! Na~ay!¡±


    Julia refused to respond, as Adam appeared in the floor, shooting up to face her again. ¡°What time is it?¡±


    Julia stepped back a little, before looking at the wall clock. ¡°It¡¯s¡­four thirty.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not late?¡± Adam asked, confusing Julia.


    ¡°I¡­guess not.¡± Julia said, starting to get angry again. ¡°Hey, wait! You changed the time on the clock! And what¡¯re you doing in my room?!¡±


    ¡°Julia, you complete idiot! You¡¯re meant to say, ¡®It¡¯s just early, early, early!¡¯ Like the Spin Doctors song.¡±


    Julia raised her rifle again and pointed it back at him. ¡°I-I really don¡¯t want to hurt you, but I expect some answers! Why¡¯d you break in?¡±


    ¡°Cause I can move through walls.¡± He answered, moving through walls to illustrate his point.


    ¡°Are¡­are you working with those people? From the attack?¡± She asked, struggling to speak. ¡°¡­are you Wicker?¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t remember.¡± Adam replied. ¡°I¡¯ve either killed them, or not, it¡¯s hard to remember¡­no, I haven¡¯t. I¡¯m not even old enough to legally drink yet.¡±


    Julia stared him in the eyes. ¡°¡­are you going to hurt me?¡±


    Adam shrugged. ¡°Physically, mentally, or emotionally?¡±


    ¡°¡­any of them?¡±


    ¡°No, not yet. Again, you¡¯ll have to wait three years.¡± He looked to the kitchen. ¡°You should mark it on your calendar to prepare yourself, Captain.¡±


    Julia lowered her gun a bit, before opening her mouth. ¡°¡­this is the last question. Why¡¯re you here?¡±


    ¡°Because I want to be!¡± He admitted, bouncing around the room. ¡°Because we¡¯re friends!¡±


    In another instant, Julia was whisked to the couch, turning to face the middle of the room, as Adam materialised a microphone.


    ¡°I¡¯m lucky to be the maid of honour at this beautiful occurrence. It¡¯s so hard not to cry here. I find most of existence antiquated, but I look so damn pretty in this dress!¡±


    He jumped away from the mic. ¡°You¡¯re a lesbian, aren¡¯t you?¡±


    Julia nodded, finally feeling¡­well, not comfortable, but content enough to put her rifle down.


    ¡°Would you prefer if I were female?¡± He said, excitedly jumping up and down. ¡°I¡¯ll be just like your friend Chops! Positive trans representation is very important, after all.¡±


    Adam tapped his chin and turned away. ¡°You¡¯d probably prefer if I was six times the me I am now, though. I don¡¯t know if I¡¯m capable of that. Maths is like a¡­¡±


    He turned back to Julia. ¡°Oh yeah, sorry again about suggesting I kill your dad.¡±


    ¡°Wha-what?!¡± Julia yelled. ¡°What¡¯d you mean kill my dad?!¡±


    ¡°Julia, there¡¯s no time for that!¡± Adam yelled back, grabbing her shoulders. ¡°Imma drop some cryptic shit on you, bitch!¡±


    He stood up straight, waggling his finger.


    ¡°Fire is the birth of change¡­and the wind will fuel its growth, slowly but surely.¡± He warned, dancing around the room now. ¡°Beware when arrows are dipped in flame, and when 6+1=-1. A sun will be broken, and a word barely spoken, as a robot man skyscraper¡¯s a face. The spectrum will be made clear and divorced, and this last rhyme will be very forced.¡±


    Adam closed in for the last part. ¡°When going to war, fight with arrows, spears and swords. When going to peace, mountain.¡±


    Adam spun around wildly, as he seemed to be looking for an answer. ¡°Oh yeah, and before I forget.¡±


    He stared Julia dead in the eyes. ¡°The harmony is now seven. Meow!¡±


    Adam closed in again, before hugging Julia unprompted. ¡°I¡¯ll finally go now. I¡¯ve done all I didn¡¯t need to do.¡±


    ¡°Bu-¡° Julia stammered. ¡°You didn¡¯t do anything!¡±


    ¡°Yes! And you really should¡¯ve written that down.¡± Adam said, before turning to the camera. ¡°Maybe you can help out! That¡¯s right, you! Now, you might want to get an adult to help for this part. All of my answers had one thing in common. Can YOU guess what it is?¡±


    Dropping the bit, Adam leaped into the broken fish tank and pretended to use a steering wheel. ¡°See you when your narrative gets a drivers license!¡±


    ¡°Wait, you¡¯re going?¡± Julia asked, Adam slowly floating into the ceiling. ¡°Were you real? Am I hallucinating?¡±


    ¡°Is this the Captain¡¯s bridge?¡± He said, before ducking his head back down. ¡°Obviously not, dipshit. I love you!¡±


    And with that, he was gone. Like, actually gone this time.


    Julia¡¯s fear had turned to confusion, but also hadn¡¯t really left. She wanted to sit back on the couch, but didn¡¯t know what would happen if she did, leaving her to sit on the floor, then lie on the floor.


    ¡°What the hell was that¡­¡± She mumbled, staring out the window again, as Adam popped his head up one last time and winked.


    She saw the half-finished can on the ground and picked it back up, before putting it down again.


    ¡°No more soft drink after midday¡­¡±


    Needless to say, she didn¡¯t get much sleep that night.

 An Update From C.

    ¡­I¡¯m the dumbest person alive.


    Oh, sorry. Welcome back! Ugh, fancy seeing you¡­here.


    This is C, breaking the silence on the story, as it were. I hope you¡¯ve all been patient over this last half a year. I know I have, for plenty of reasons¡­lovely, wonderful reasons...


    I¡¯m just¡­so¡­alright, I might as well tell you.


    During the¡­hiatus, while working on chapters¡­I¡­lost a lot of my writing.


    I made up for it, don¡¯t worry! I¡¯m still planning on uploading fortnightly, and you won¡¯t be getting less chapters. But, needless to say¡­


    ¡­it hurt like the dickens.


    Truly, this is my fault. I didn¡¯t back them up and lost the files during an unfortunate storm and power outage. If I had any sort of foresight¡­well, I wouldn¡¯t be able to write this, ironically. I¡¯m currently working on remedying this sort of thing in the future, so I¡¯ll update you on what¡¯s happening on my end.


    But, on some slightly lighter news, new chapters will be coming shortly, specifically starting on the 16<sup>th</sup> of April. Get ready for the second year at the Venator Academy with your favourite Venator team, as they battle through Wailing, new unknown foes, an annual tournament, the formal, and maybe something more¡­


    This tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report.


    And as another little bonus, I¡¯ve also uploaded a photo of my room to¡­Instagram. Yes, that¡¯s it. While these introductions would appear to be written, they¡¯re actually recorded live in the room, then transcribed into writing, for a more authentic experience. I figure it makes more sense with me presenting the story, as I do. As always, the link is right here</a>.


    And now, for the truly important news.


    I¡¯ll...be honest. One of the hardest things to do with art is to admit when what you¡¯ve made is at fault, or with what you could have improved on. Art can be very personal, but it also needs to be made in some practical way, meaning human error crops up here and there. No matter how much you love it, it can never be perfect.


    With all that said, I¡¯ve¡­never been too happy with Chapter 1. It¡¯s serviceable, at best. A little wordy, if I¡¯m being honest. Parts of it are salvageable. But I figured if people are going to get into Day-to-Day Kindred starting with second year, then I want my previous work to match the quality of my current work.


    So, on April 1<sup>st</sup>, I¡¯ll be re-releasing Chapter 1 of Day-to-Day Kindred.


    While it¡¯s not required to re-read it, I would encourage any fans who want the full experience to take the time to read it again. I promise, the changes have been a long time coming.


    Thank you again for sticking around. Your patience is always appreciated, and I¡¯ll try to reward it as best I can. Again, new chapters will begin on April 16<sup>th</sup>, so get ready.


    Take care.


    -C

 Chapter 23: Wellbeing

    Julia finally made it, and boy, was she exhausted.


    In her preparation for going back to the academy, she accidentally set her alarm an hour earlier than intended and woke up in a daze, before resetting it to the correct time and ending up waking up an hour later instead. She fumbled out of her room, nearly stubbing her toe on the kitchen counter while going to grab her bags and a quick breakfast. She passed her dad, Milo, in the kitchen, nearly banging her head on an open cupboard door, before heading out the door to the Flash-Rail station, where she actually stubbed her toe on the front door.


    Fortunately, the station was decently close to their house, as she limped her bags there, before finally taking a seat on the train and letting out an earned sigh, right as it started racing down the track toward Detu City.


    Before she could get too comfortable, she felt a tap on her shoulder from behind, before turning and being greeted by a welcome smile.


    ¡°Wasn¡¯t expecting to find you here.¡± Chops exclaimed, just as she sat across from Julia in the few empty seats available.


    Julia lit up once she saw her. ¡°I should be saying the same to you. I thought you were staying on campus over the break.¡±


    ¡°I was, but I started feeling cooped up. Makes sense since I was a drifter before coming here.¡± Chops clarified. ¡°So, I went out on an artist¡¯s retreat and took in the local nature. You know, helped me appreciate the world around me.¡±


    ¡°That sounds fun.¡± Julia said. ¡°What did you end up doing?¡±


    ¡°Eh, just drew some shit.¡± Chops said, underwhelming Julia. ¡°I don¡¯t really go for those sorts of experiences, anyway.¡±


    ¡°Tell me about it. I just stayed home the whole break and binge watched old Team Spectrum stuff.¡± Julia admitted, nervously laughing afterwards. ¡°It¡¯s good comfort food.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t make me think of food. I missed Joleicia¡¯s cooking so bad¡­¡± Chops expressed, leaning back in her seat, and getting a giggle from Julia. ¡°It¡¯s always so nice to have someone else cooking for you.¡±


    ¡°I miss cooking for the team.¡± Julia replied. ¡°Wess has such a refined palette¡­especially compared to my dad¡­¡±


    Chops sat back up. ¡°And Saxin¡¯s sexiness. That was sorely lacking from my break too.¡±


    Julia blushed to herself and looked away. ¡°I¡­don¡¯t think I can say the same for my team¡­¡±


    ¡°What? Come on, there¡¯s got to be someone in the team you fancy.¡± Chops pointed out. ¡°What about Harley?¡±


    ¡°N-No, of course not! I-I¡¯m the leader, that would just be weird¡­¡± Julia argued.


    ¡°Hey, don¡¯t be mean to my ex. She¡¯s a real catch.¡± Chops added, causing Julia to get more flustered.


    ¡°¡­I-I guess I just don¡¯t see them¡­like that.¡± Julia said, touching her fingers together. ¡°I mean, I do find them all attractive on some level¡­¡±


    ¡°Oh, I knew it! You¡¯re smitten! Admit it!¡± Chops bragged, getting no reaction from Julia, just as they passed the majority of the city, catching the Venator Academy in the skylines.


    Julia couldn¡¯t help but stare at its majesty, still standing strong after all it had been through. Considering it had been through two attacks in the same year by a newly discovered Wailing breed, each time taking very heavy damage, the fact it was still standing was a testament to its tenacity.


    But, of course, Julia knew the real reason it was still standing¡­


    The reason she tried to stop the attack all together¡­


    The reason she failed¡­


    ¡­


    ¡°You okay?¡±


    Julia lifted her head, before realising Chops was talking. ¡°S-Sorry?¡±


    ¡°I asked if you were okay.¡± Chops clarified, as Julia laughed it off.


    ¡°Y-Yeah. I¡¯m just excited to see the team again.¡± Julia insisted, only somewhat convincing Chops, just as the Flash-Rail pulled into the academy.


    Chops split off from Julia to meet up with her team, as Julia waded her way through the crowd, dragging her luggage behind her, slowly being intimidated by the sheer mass of people all greeting each other. However, it was pretty heart-warming to see, considering the last time she¡¯d been this close to the academy entrance, there was a Behemoth Wailing parked out front laying waste to the walkway. And considering the volume of damage, the walkway had no right looking as good as it did.


    Principal Faller really pulls his weight around here. Julia thought, finding a relatively open place to stand, peering out into the crowd for anyone in her team.


    ¡°I figured Essex would be here by now.¡± Julia muttered to herself. ¡°I hope she didn¡¯t mind staying here by herself over the break.¡±


    Julia thought it over. ¡°I guess she could¡¯ve hung out with Chops¡­¡±


    ¡°Julia!¡±


    Julia was ripped from her thoughts in an instant, as she spotted an excitable blonde leaving her bags behind and running up to her, before embracing her in a welcoming hug.


    ¡°It¡¯s so good to see you!¡±


    ¡°You too, Harley!¡± Julia replied, hugging her back. ¡°How was your break?¡±


    ¡°Awesome! I got to hang out with Angie back home, Sola texted me a bunch of great stuff, and my dads even let me take care of some pests with my Venator skills.¡± Harley let out. ¡°All in all, pretty perfect.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s good to hear.¡± Julia grinned. ¡°Sounds like you got up to some fun action.¡±


    ¡°Sure did.¡± Harley said, before leaning in and winking. ¡°In more than one sense.¡±


    Julia realised what she¡¯d accidentally implied and shied her face away, as Harley laughed to herself at Julia¡¯s cuteness, only to be interrupted by a groan coming from behind her.


    ¡°I¡¯m assuming these lazily thrown about bags are yours?¡±


    Harley turned around and walked back over to her luggage. ¡°It¡¯s good to see you too, Wess, my very dear friend.¡±


    ¡°Oh, cut it with the attitude.¡± Wess insisted, adjusting her dress before heading over to Julia and hugging her. ¡°Honestly, she can be so sassy sometimes.¡±


    ¡°Tell me about it.¡± Julia agreed. ¡°How was Mareau?¡±


    ¡°Heavenly. Every time I go there, I¡¯m reminded of why I love home so dearly.¡± Wess gushed, holding her hand to her chest. ¡°Once I was able to free myself of my parents, I explored the city to my leisure along with Graham. I took in as much as I could, and I even caught him crying during a performance of ¡®Richard Falinks and the Wayward Sun.¡¯¡±


    ¡°You got to see that?! Lucky!¡± Julia exclaimed. ¡°I loved that book back in high school, but I could never afford to go see the play.¡±


    ¡°Well, if we both happen to be in Mareau at some point, how about we go see it?¡± Wess suggested, as Julia jumped on the spot, before hugging Wess again instantly.


    ¡°Seriously?! Oh, thank you thank you thank you!¡± Julia exclaimed, surprising Wess with her excitability, as Harley clapped from the sidelines.


    ¡°Way to go, Wess! You sure know how to pull ¡®em!¡± Harley remarked, drawing a couple stares from onlookers, and Wess herself.


    ¡°Wait, I know that clapping!¡± Cried another voice, as an energetic girl in a large jacket jumped Harley, spinning her around in an embrace. ¡°Harley!¡±


    ¡°Sola! Hey!¡± Harley insisted. ¡°You haven¡¯t changed a bit!¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t need to!¡± Sola replied. ¡°You¡¯re just as beefy as I remember.¡±


    ¡°Why wouldn¡¯t I be?¡± Harley bragged, flexing a little, as Sola spotted Julia and Wess and tried to hug them as well, only to be held back by Wess.


    ¡°Wess! Let me welcome hug you!¡±


    ¡°No, thank you. Just seeing you is enough.¡± Wess insisted, only for Julia to embrace the hug openly.


    ¡°Julia, you won¡¯t believe it.¡± Sola started. ¡°I found an old Team Spectrum mug back home!¡±


    ¡°No way!¡± Julia cheered, just as Sola rushed back to her bags with Julia to grab it.


    ¡°They¡¯re just a couple of dorks, huh?¡± Harley remarked, as Wess sighed out.


    ¡°At points, yes.¡± Wess replied, before feeling a set of eyes on her from behind and turning.


    ¡°Cali.¡±


    Wess jumped suddenly at the voice, before seeing who it was and groaning.


    ¡°Essex, don¡¯t do that. I nearly had a heart attack.¡± Wess insisted, as Essex realised her mistake and bowed.


    ¡°Relias. I did not mean to startle you. This crowd has been difficult to navigate, and I had not considered my entrance.¡± Essex explained, bumping into a few people around her accidently. ¡°Moving my scythe out of the way was especially hard.¡±


    ¡°I hope you weren¡¯t bored out of your mind stuck on campus.¡± Harley said, as Essex shook her head.


    ¡°The time allowed me to catch up on training, when I was not minding our equipment and attempting to use my tablet to communicate with you.¡± Essex clarified. ¡°Chops was also appreciated company.¡±


    ¡°Essex, you¡¯re here!¡± Julia realised, her and Sola joining back up with the others. ¡°Considering you had to navigate this crowd, I¡¯m surprised you made it out in one piece.¡±


    Essex stared down at her suit, before cocking her head. ¡°One piece?¡±


    ¡°Unharmed.¡± Wess clarified, with Essex understanding what she meant.


    Quickly, she bowed to Julia. ¡°I can assure you I have taken care of myself and minded our weaponry without incident.¡±


    ¡°Nice one, Essex!¡± Sola exclaimed, looking around them hurriedly. ¡°I don¡¯t know about you guys, but I wanna get out of this crowd.¡±


    ¡°Yes. Let¡¯s make tracks.¡± Julia encouraged, grabbing her stuff. ¡°I wanna plan some stuff out for our second year.¡±


    ¡°Lead the way.¡± Harley said, as the team followed behind Julia, heading over to the academy dorms, as they navigated the halls around several other teams reacquainting themselves with their rooms.


    ¡°Rooooooom¡­374.¡± Julia said aloud, as she reached their room, scanning her card to let them in.


    The team familiarised themselves with the space, each setting down their bags and getting comfortable, as Harley checked over their calendar.


    ¡°Busy year, huh? We¡¯ve got the annual tournament for the last half of it.¡± She realised, as Essex joined her side.


    ¡°This will be opportune for fighting opponents.¡± Essex declared. ¡°Let us try our best.¡±


    ¡°The balcony¡¯s still great.¡± Sola let out, staring out over the training grounds, and spotting her potted ficus behind her. ¡°Hi, Aubrey.¡±


    ¡°Oh, Belvedere.¡± Wess cooed, holding her sword within its scabbard to her. ¡°I missed you, friend. Apologises for not bringing you back, but you know how mother and father are¡­¡±


    Wess quickly noticed Julia looking back at her and smiling, as she tried to hide Belvedere away, only causing Julia to laugh in response.


    ¡°Alright, before we get too comfortable¡­can you guys take a seat?¡± Julia asked, pointing to the lounge area, as the rest of the team took in the request and did so. ¡°Okay¡­¡±


    Julia took a deep breath before talking. ¡°Last year didn¡¯t go¡­well. I think that¡¯s a generalisation, but a pretty accurate one. Both the attacks were rough, to say the least.¡±


    The rest of the team stayed quiet as to give Julia enough room to address them.


    ¡°And, well, we came pretty close to getting seriously hurt. Some of us¡­¡± Julia said, briefly glancing at Wess¡¯ scar on her shoulder, before shaking her head. ¡°So, with all that said¡­¡±


    She sighed out again.


    ¡°I think we need to put some rules in place.¡±


    The team stayed silent, as Harley squinted in Julia¡¯s direction. ¡°Do you wanna be more specific?¡±


    ¡°Just¡­a buddy system. So we don¡¯t go out by ourselves and get ambushed.¡± Julia reasoned. ¡°¡­and maybe a curfew.¡±


    ¡°Buddy system?¡± Essex asked.


    ¡°Curfew?!¡± Harley yelled, standing up straight. ¡°Come on, Julia. I just got back to Detu City. I can¡¯t go out partying with some curfew in the way.¡±


    ¡°But we have to think about our safety, Harley.¡± Julia argued. ¡°We don¡¯t know who¡¯s out there looking for us, so we can¡¯t just go wandering about without some kind of protection.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t her muscles count as protection?¡± Sola asked, Harley flexing to prove her point, as Wess rubbed her forehead.


    ¡°Julia, we¡¯re training to be Venators. If we were just civilians, I might agree with you.¡± Wess pointed out. ¡°But if something arises again, I think we can hold our own.¡±


    Julia shook her head and clenched her fist. ¡°¡­you and Essex nearly got hurt by that...figure during the attack. She melted your shield to nothing.¡±


    Wess recalled the attack and quieted herself, along with the rest of the room.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to think about it either, but if anything happened to you guys¡­¡± Julia started, trying to put on a brave face. ¡°I¡¯m not saying we do it forever, just until I know we¡¯re safe for good.¡±


    ¡°¡­yeah, okay.¡± Harley agreed, kicking the floor.


    ¡°We will do what is required.¡± Essex added, presenting her scythe. ¡°On this, you can rely.¡±


    ¡°Thanks, guys.¡± Julia said, resting her hands on her hips. ¡°As long as we get into a routine, we should be golden for the rest of our degree.¡±


    ¡°Degree?¡± Sola said, whispering to Wess. ¡°I thought it would only be for this year.¡±


    Wess looked back at Julia, before sighing to herself. ¡°She plans ahead, that Julia.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°What do we have up first?¡±


    Julia looked over her schedule listed on her tablet while the team traversed the academy halls, watching as other students headed to their first classes for the year. ¡°¡­well, me, Sola and Essex have our new Whil class¡­¡®An Application of Whils and their¡­Principled Practicality.¡¯¡±


    Julia stopped walking. ¡°They made the name even worse somehow.¡±


    ¡°Is Ferris still teaching?¡± Sola asked, leaning over Julia¡¯s shoulder, before spotting Ferris¡¯ name and groaning. ¡°Oh no¡­¡±


    ¡°Yeesh.¡± Harley let out, before pointing to herself. ¡°Well, I know I¡¯ve got my ¡®How the Conflict Shaped Architecture¡¯ class in a bit, so that just leaves Wess.¡±


    Wess displayed her palms. ¡°Unfortunately, I¡¯ll be spending some precious time with myself. Head Engineer Jovie¡¯s teaching ¡®Weapon Technique: Bladed Melee¡¯ later today. Just me and Belvedere¡­¡±


    Julia looked a bit worried. ¡°I don¡¯t like the idea of you two on your own. Maybe we could come with yo-¡°


    ¡°Nope, no need to worry.¡± Harley said. ¡°Lenin¡¯s sharing the class with me, so that should be enough.¡±


    ¡°And I¡¯ll be equipped for mine.¡± Wess pointed out, tapping Belvedere by her side. ¡°Especially since I¡¯ll be getting my replacement shield.¡±


    Wess looked elated just saying that, only assuring Julia¡¯s concerns so much, before Wess felt a gentle tap on her shoulder, and turned around to spot Joleicia smiling back at her.


    ¡°Hiya.¡± She greeted. ¡°How¡¯s my second favourite team doing today?¡±


    ¡°Joleicia, hey.¡± Julia greeted back, just as the rest of Team Vanguard filtered in behind Joleicia, minus Chops. ¡°How was your break?¡±


    ¡°It was so great! I finally got to go back to Aceoro and see my folks. They were so happy to hear about everything we¡¯ve gotten up to!¡± Joleicia exclaimed. ¡°And I totally forgot how fun sand-surfing through the Altatafi desert is too.¡±


    ¡°You should have heard her once she was back.¡± Saxin added, her hand around Lenin¡¯s waist, before she went over and personally greeted Team Valiant. ¡°She wouldn¡¯t stop going on and on about it.¡±


    Saxin hugged Julia joyously, flustering Julia in an instant, before stopping in front of Harley and placing a finger to her cheek.


    ¡°Should I hug you? Considering how far we¡¯ve gone, it might be a little to-¡° She started, before Harley went and hugged her anyway, surprising Saxin.


    ¡°You big tease. Bring it in.¡± Harley said, as Saxin laughed and freed herself, before stopping in front of Essex.


    ¡°Oh, how I missed this.¡± Saxin insisted. ¡°How do you always fill out this suit so well?¡±


    Essex looked down at her clothes. ¡°Physical training and routin-¡°


    Saxin hugged her anyway, taking a little longer than the other hugs, as Harley felt herself getting jealous.


    ¡°Now, come on, Saxi, don¡¯t overwhelm them.¡± Lenin insisted, as Saxin returned to his side. ¡°They just got back, you know.¡±


    Lenin leaned into the others. ¡°Sorry about her. We didn¡¯t spend the break together, so I think she¡¯s a bit frisky.¡±


    ¡°Leni!¡± Saxin exclaimed, chuckling into her hand. ¡°Must you be so crass?¡±


    ¡°Am I wrong?¡± He asked, as Joleicia found herself laughing as well.


    The teams chatted amongst themselves, enjoying their reunion, before a fresh, but familiar face for the team made himself known, as he waved to Team Valiant.


    ¡°Oh, hi Nathaniel.¡± Sola greeted.


    ¡°H-Hi!!!¡± Nathaniel let out, trembling a little.


    He cleared his throat, before trying again. ¡°F-Funny¡­seeing you here.¡±


    Harley cocked her head. ¡°At the academy?¡±


    ¡°O-Oh yeah¡­¡± He quivered, as Joleicia grabbed his shoulders.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t he great? This¡¯ll be our first semester with him as part of our team!¡± Joleicia exclaimed, turning to Nathaniel. ¡°He¡¯s already super good at fighting, he can play the trumpet, which is great for our band, and we¡¯re already gelling super well! Isn¡¯t it exciting?¡±


    Nathaniel nodded frantically. ¡°Sure!¡±


    An idea hit Joleicia, as she turned to Team Valiant. ¡°Oh! And this year, we get to compete in the academy tournament! I¡¯m already so ready!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right. I¡¯d almost forgotten.¡± Wess admitted. ¡°Isn¡¯t there a formal coming up too?¡±


    ¡°So much to plan, so much to do.¡± Saxin said, grinning happily. ¡°I can¡¯t wait.¡±


    ¡°Hey.¡±


    In the midst of their conversation, the teams realised that from the sidelines, Baron had joined them seemingly out of nowhere, attempting to look charismatic, with his right arm noticeably in a sling.


    The teams went quiet once they acknowledged his presence, save for Joleicia, who suddenly hurried over and greeted him.


    ¡°Hi, Baron. How¡¯s the hand doing?¡± She asked, as he rubbed his neck.


    ¡°About as good as it could be. I¡¯m just lucky I¡¯ve still got it.¡± He clarified. ¡°Hey, if you¡¯re free, I¡¯ve got some time this afternoon to hang out.¡±


    ¡°Yeah! I need to reacquaint myself with Detu City, so this is a great excuse.¡± Joleicia replied.


    ¡°Good to know. I¡¯ll see you then.¡± Baron said, waving her off, as he got looks from the others, before turning his nose away from them and continuing down the hall.


    Joleicia turned back around, before getting a collective stare from Team Valiant. She tried to make out their reaction.


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°¡­w-why were you talking to Baron just now?¡± Julia tentatively asked, as Essex nervously checked to see if he was still there.


    ¡°To¡­hang out?¡± Joleicia said, smiling. ¡°I don¡¯t see what the problem is.¡±


    ¡°She means why were you two so chummy?¡± Harley clarified, as Joleicia blushed.


    ¡°That¡¯s right. I forgot to tell you guys.¡± Joleicia prefaced. ¡°We¡¯re dating.¡±


    Team Valiant went silent, taking in the very sudden, and very alarming news, as Saxin and Lenin stepped in to mediate.


    ¡°It¡¯s¡­relatively new.¡± Saxin explained. ¡°We only just heard about it a few days ago.¡±


    ¡°And¡­well, I think Joleicia should explain.¡± Lenin said, as Joleicia popped to attention.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, it¡¯s not like a big thing.¡± Joleicia assured. ¡°We just happen to cross paths over the break. I went to Mokuddo for a few days to meet up with a couple of my siblings, and he was there on a vacation, and¡­we sorta got to talking.¡±


    Team Valiant were still struggling to process how Baron could even land someone like Joleicia, as Joleicia tried to hold back her joy. ¡°Oh, it feels so silly looking back on it! I was a total nervous wreck then. But it worked out, fortunately.¡±


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    ¡°It sure did. And we¡¯re all very happy for her.¡± Saxin said, facing Team Valiant. ¡°Right?¡±


    ¡°O-Oh..yeah. Yeah.¡± Julia tried, getting a similar reaction from the others. ¡°That¡¯s¡­it¡¯s good to hear you¡¯re happy, Joleicia.¡±


    ¡°Aww, thanks guys!¡± Joleicia cheered, before remembering what they were doing. ¡°We should really head to class. Don¡¯t want to miss stuff on the first day.¡±


    She started leading the pack, confidently striding down the hall, as the others all hung back just out of earshot and whispered to each other.


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you tell us sooner?!¡± Julia let out, as Saxin looked just as frazzled.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you think we would have if we could?!¡± Saxin retorted. ¡°We had to process this too!¡±


    ¡°How the hell could she date Baron?! He¡¯s like a less sexy devil!¡± Sola exclaimed, almost too loudly, as everyone nervously checked to see if Joleicia had noticed.


    ¡°How should we know? All she said was that he apparently mellowed out a little while his hand¡¯s been recovering.¡± Lenin cleared up.


    ¡°Why¡¯re we whispering so much?¡± Nathaniel asked, getting looks, before it hit him. ¡°Oh, right! So she won¡¯t hear.¡±


    ¡°Will this be an issue?¡± Essex frantically asked, going for her scythe. ¡°Does Baron need to be eliminated?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t¡­come on, Essex.¡± Harley insisted, before thinking it over. ¡°¡­we¡¯ll keep that on the back burner.¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s¡­okay though, right?¡± Wess asked, getting an assuring nod from Saxin.


    ¡°He¡¯s been a perfect gentleman, as much as we¡¯ve heard.¡± She said. ¡°And she seems genuinely happy.¡±


    ¡°If he hurts a single hair on that sweet girl¡¯s head¡­¡± Harley suggested, pounding her fist.


    ¡°Regardless, we¡¯re keeping an eye on her.¡± Lenin said, giving a thumbs up. ¡°Baron¡¯s gonna be on his best behaviour. And if not, we¡¯ll force him to be.¡±


    Julia sighed out, before holding her head. ¡°What a way to start second year¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Quickly after, the team¡¯s split up and headed to their respective classes, with Wess excitedly heading off to her class alone. The creature comforts of studying and lectures were surprisingly needed after what had transpired during last semester, and considering how Julia was acting¡­


    A break from that might be needed. Her stressing¡¯s only making me stressed¡­ Wess admitted, just as she arrived at her classroom, casually taking her seat by the side of the class, happy to see no one else taking up the seat beside her.


    She took out her equipment in preparation, as the last few students filtered into the class, taking any spot they could. While I do enjoy the team¡¯s company, quality alone time can always be appreciated.


    Wess¡¯ comfortability was quickly interrupted by someone occupying her neighbouring seat, as she let out a sigh, looked over, and was greeted with an unfortunate smile.


    ¡°Hey, boo.¡± Chops grinned. ¡°Looks like we finally get a class together.¡±


    Wess found her gaze lowering, as she tried to return to preparing her workspace.


    ¡°What, no greeting?¡± Chops tried, leaning over to her. ¡°Come on, it¡¯s me.¡±


    ¡°Greetings, Chops.¡± Wess said, barely giving her any attention. ¡°There, are you happy?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m always happy.¡± Chops remarked, proudly sitting up in her chair, as Wess focused her attention on the board. ¡°Sorry I didn¡¯t meet up with you and the rest of Team Valiant sooner. I had to reorganise my room once I got back.¡±


    Don¡¯t you mean organise it in the first place? Wess thought, trying to filter Chops out.


    ¡°So, whatcha been up to over the break?¡± Chops asked, kicking her feet. ¡°Losing more fights?¡±


    ¡°Oh, you¡¯re hilarious.¡± Wess let out, staring directly at her. ¡°Are you going to be like this the whole class?¡±


    ¡°Maybe.¡± Chops smirked, shrugging playfully. ¡°Who can say?¡±


    Wess had a feeling she could, before reaching down to grab her equipment, only for Chops to quickly swap out the pencil on Wess¡¯ notebook with one from her pocket.


    As Wess popped her head back up, she quickly noticed something off and let out another sigh.


    ¡°Chops?¡±


    ¡°Yes?¡±


    ¡°Where¡¯s my pencil?¡±


    ¡°I dunno.¡± She replied, pointing to the book. ¡°But you can use that one.¡±


    Wess glared at it, before picking it up and going to write.


    ¡°Oh, wait, I forgot.¡± Chops interrupted, trying not to laugh to herself too much. ¡°I did use that to pick my teeth earlier. It¡¯s still usable, if you can stand it, so you might no-¡°


    Just as Chops said that she was immediately thrown off by Wess ignoring her taunting and using it anyway, stonefaced and clearly focused.


    Whoa. Chops thought. She¡¯s totally unfazed¡­


    Their attention was stolen away by Miss Jovie rushing through the door, to the best of her ability, considering she was dragging a giant, heavy container behind her. She made it about halfway to the front desk, needing a minute to catch her breath, before managing the last bit and dropping the container on the desk, letting out a well-earned sigh and collapsing into her chair.


    The class gave her a minute, before she got back up and started signing.


    [Good morning.] Jovie started. [Welcome back to the Venator Academy. I hope your breaks were far less stressful than last year.]


    ¡°I think they were by default.¡± Chops commented to Wess, who gave a light chuckle, surprising Chops again.


    [Before we start any class work, I¡¯ve got repaired weapons here for anyone who was waiting on those. If you¡¯ve got teammates who¡­]


    Jovie was interrupted by the class sprinting up to get them, which fortunately gave her a chance to sit back down and properly rest.


    Wess headed up as well, standing back while most of the class pulled out their weapons, looking over them carefully. Finally, someone lifted out one of the larger items, before holding it above their heads.


    ¡°Hey, is this anyone¡¯s shield?¡±


    ¡°Yes, yes, that would be mine.¡± Wess quickly answered, taking it swiftly and heading back to her seat, inspecting it carefully, while running her hand over the metal beam built through the middle.


    ¡°Cool shield.¡± Chops said, staring right at it, as Wess held it back from her.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you dare touch this. Knowing you, you¡¯d go up and throw it off the building just to spite me.¡± Wess pointed out, offending Chops.


    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t!¡± She professed, before miming a ramp. ¡°I would use my Whil to form an ice ramp at the bottom of the building, THEN throw it to launch it even further.¡±


    ¡°My point exactly.¡± Wess said, keeping her shield with her. ¡°Joking or not, I just got it back after it was ripped in half, and considering how Julia¡¯s acting, this is e-¡°


    ¡°Wait, what?¡± Chops asked, interrupting Wess. ¡°How¡¯s Julia acting?¡±


    Wess turned back to her in surprise. ¡°Well, she¡¯s been a bit frazzled after the last attack. She¡¯s insisting on a curfew and buddy system to keep us safe.¡±


    ¡°Buddy system?¡± Chops wondered, before looking down at her lap. ¡°She did seem worried on the train yesterday¡­¡±


    Wess caught a glimpse of Chops¡¯ face, legitimately worried for Julia¡¯s safety, before deciding to keep working.


    ¡°Well, I¡¯m sure she¡¯ll pull through. She¡¯s pretty badass.¡± Chops pointed out, before a thought came to her. ¡°By the bi, what¡¯s your type?¡±


    Wess was thrown for a loop and blushed, as she turned away from Chops. ¡°W-Why are you asking that?¡±


    ¡°I dunno. I¡¯m curious.¡± Chops said, leaning over. ¡°I wanna get some specifics.¡±


    Chops locked eyes with Wess. ¡°Is it someone like Harley?¡±


    ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°Baron?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t make me gag.¡±


    ¡°Juli-¡±


    ¡°Alright, now you¡¯re just being obnoxious.¡± Wess interrupted, now in Chops¡¯ face. ¡°I want to pay attention today. No more distractions, or Belvedere starts talking for me.¡±


    Chops glanced back at her, before smiling. ¡°Is it me? Cause you¡¯re pretty close to my face right now.¡±


    Wess bit her tongue and returned to her seat, as Chops decided to lay off of the teasing during the class, if only for a little bit.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    After leaving their Whil class with Ferris, Julia forgot she had a solo class on industry practices and unfortunately had to go to it alone. Obviously, she insisted to Sola and Essex that she would skip it instead of going off alone, but they insisted she should go and meet up with them after.


    Finally, the class had finished, as Julia was briskly hurrying down the hall to join the others in the study area.


    I don¡¯t want to be away too long. She thought. How would they feel if I¡¯m the only one not following my own rules?


    During her rush, Julia caught Vice-Principal Coatsworth in the corner of her eye, heading down a nearby hall. He looked to be moving a few heavy looking boxes by himself, just as he was about to drop a box on his foot.


    She decided to give him a quick visit, as he just barely managed to catch the box himself, before Julia came into view, trying to face him around the stack of objects he was holding.


    ¡°Julia¡­Alpine.¡± Coatsworth let out, briefly letting the boxes down. ¡°What a pleasure.¡±


    ¡°H-Hi, Mr Coatsworth.¡± Julia said, trying to let herself be comfortable. ¡°How¡¯s it going?¡±


    ¡°Do you mean moving these boxes or in general?¡± He asked.


    ¡°In general.¡± Julia clarified.


    ¡°¡­well, it¡¯s been somewhat frustrating.¡± Coatsworth admitted. ¡°Unfortunately, when that assailant stole my car, it meant I had to carpool with Seears for a few weeks. Lovely fellow, but his taste in music¡­¡±


    Coatsworth indicated to the boxes again, while tugging on his suit sleeve. ¡°I had to move most of my work during the attack, so now I¡¯m moving it back. The process was much easier when going downstairs.¡±


    ¡°I¡­can help with that, if you want.¡± Julia offered, as Coatsworth looked surprised, before nodding in acceptance, as Julia grabbed a box and helped him up the stairs.


    During their walk, Coatsworth looked over and realised Julia was barely struggling, especially compared to himself.


    ¡°Is your¡­lack of difficulty with this¡­from physical training?¡± Coatsworth remarked, as Julia blushed and shook her head.


    ¡°Actually, my Whil lets me slow down velocity.¡± Julia explained, readjusting her box. ¡°So, I¡¯m just using that a little to hold the box up and make it lighter.¡±


    ¡°¡­very¡­clever.¡± Coatsworth admitted. ¡°I must say¡­it¡¯s unfortunate I was never given a Whil. Regardless of what it was¡­I can only see it being a benefit.¡±


    ¡°I dunno. It might be weird for a Vice-Principal to have one.¡± Julia remarked, as they reached Coatsworth¡¯s office and let the boxes down.


    Coatsworth let out a sigh. ¡°¡­how are you feeling after the attack?¡±


    Julia shrugged a bit. ¡°Okay. The break was really appreciated, and it¡¯s good to see the team again. Seeing the academy in one piece is also pretty reassuring.¡±


    ¡°It was for me too.¡± Coatsworth agreed, opening his office, before stopping himself. ¡°¡­how about after the confrontation with the assailant?¡±


    Julia jumped a little, before her nervousness started to return, freezing her in place.


    ¡°¡­I¡¯ll be honest, I¡¯m pretty scared.¡± Julia admitted. ¡°I don¡¯t know who they were or what they wanted, or even if they were working for someone or not¡­I heard them mention the name ''Wicker'' at one point, but that¡¯s as much as I can go off of¡­¡±


    Julia stopped herself and shook her head. ¡°I-I¡¯m sorry, I¡¯m just venting at this point.¡±


    Coatsworth smiled. ¡°It¡¯s no problem. Thank you for the help. I shouldn¡¯t hold you up, as I¡¯m sure you have classes to attend.¡±


    ¡°Oh, right.¡± Julia remembered, going to leave. ¡°I¡­hope we can be less awkward around each other this year.¡±


    Coatsworth chuckled. ¡°One step at a time.¡±


    Julia let out a reluctant smile, as she was glad to see that Coatsworth had forgiven her after everything she¡¯d assumed.


    I still don¡¯t feel like he should be so forgiving. We lost his car, and he nearly got killed¡­ Julia thought, before shaking off the guilt and heading back down the hall. I promise, I¡¯ll keep my team safe no matter what.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°¡­can not is can¡¯t.¡±


    ¡°Yep.¡±


    ¡°Are not is aren¡¯t.¡±


    ¡°Yep.¡±


    ¡°And¡­¡± Essex stopped briefly, before reading over the page again. ¡°¡­will not is won¡¯t.¡±


    She pointed back at it. ¡°Would it not be ¡®win¡¯t?¡¯¡±


    ¡°Wouldn¡¯t it, and no, it¡¯s won¡¯t.¡± Harley clarified, patting Essex¡¯ back. ¡°That one¡¯s pretty tricky.¡±


    ¡°Contractions are more complicated than I suspected.¡± Essex realised, before clearing her throat. ¡°But I am sure¡­I¡¯ll will¡­understand them soon.¡±


    Harley chuckled at her effort. ¡°Close, but not quite.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s okay, Essex. Language is pretty dang complex.¡± Sola said. ¡°It must be hard since you¡¯re used to speaking the Segaru Clan language.¡±


    Essex shook her head. ¡°We speak multiple languages within the Segaru Clan. This is not a problem for other members. However, due to the year I spent trapped within the Aishanara Forest, I had to relearn to speak once finding the clan. This is why I only know two in total.¡±


    ¡°Huh. I guess that makes sense. Most of the forest animals wouldn¡¯t be much for conversation.¡± Harley remarked.


    ¡°Or the clan, for that matter.¡± Wess added in. ¡°From what we¡¯ve heard of them.¡±


    ¡°What have we heard?¡± Sola asked, as Wess put down her lunch on the team''s shared table.


    ¡°Apparently, the Segaru Clan doesn¡¯t allow creative expression, or storytelling.¡± Wess said. ¡°So many languages, but hardly a way to utilise them¡­¡±


    ¡°We utilise them to avoid language barriers. This is a way to avoid distraction, or unnecessary actio-¡° Essex explained, only for Wess to block her ears.


    ¡°Lalala, I can¡¯t hear you.¡± Wess said, taking her fingers out. ¡°I refuse to listen to you call art unnecessary or a distraction.¡±


    Essex glared a bit at Wess, before Sola got her attention. ¡°Wait, so you don¡¯t know about any recent events?¡± Sola said, with Essex shaking her head. ¡°What about the Northern monarchy disbanding? Or the Tragedy of Team Ballistic?¡±


    ¡°Oh, don¡¯t go down that rabbit hole.¡± Harley insisted, as Essex cocked her head.


    ¡°Are they a Venator team?¡± Essex asked.


    Harley scratched her head, before sighing. ¡°...well, they were one, a few years back. A pretty famous one, actually. Almost everybody liked them, they were touring all over Daysend, and they worked really well together¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­but then they did a job at Mt Cavalier.¡± Sola continued, nervously recounting. ¡°There was a Wailing stalking this ski lodge, and nobody wanted to step inside cause it knew the place inside and out. The owner got really worried after a while.¡±


    ¡°So, he hired Team Ballistic. And¡­¡± Harley said, before trailing off, as Essex was now leaning forward in her seat.


    ¡°And?¡±


    ¡°¡­only one of them made it out alive.¡± Sola finished. ¡°Commander Major. She managed to get out.¡±


    ¡°She kept declining interviews, and everyone started speculating that something went down that she didn¡¯t want to talk about.¡± Harley clarified. ¡°Then she disappeared without a trace. A lot of people say she just wandered off to who knows where, or got killed by another Wailing, or became some kind of Favour junkie, but no one¡­¡±


    Wess scoffed at Harley¡¯s remarks, as Harley turned to her. ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°You needn¡¯t be so dismissive toward Favour addicts.¡± Wess pointed out. ¡°Considering she most likely witnessed her whole team get killed, it wouldn¡¯t surprise me if that¡¯s what happened.¡±


    Wess leaned over to Essex. ¡°As tantalising as Team Ballistic¡¯s tale was, I¡¯m sure the reality of it is far less interesting than what you might think.¡±


    ¡°Favour?¡± Sola asked out of the blue, as Wess faced her.


    ¡°Oh, you poor sweet thing¡­¡± Wess said. ¡°It¡¯s this horrid drug that dulls the senses until you¡¯re basically catatonic.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m pretty sure it makes it so you stop feeling negative emotions.¡± Harley added in, only to get a dismissive look from Wess.


    ¡°It makes it so you stop feeling anything.¡± Wess clarified. ¡°It¡¯s been running rampant somewhat recently, especially within the Western Wayside. My guess is the Behemoth Wailing have been weighing on people¡¯s minds.¡±


    ¡°Kinda hard for them not too¡­¡± Sola pointed out, just as Essex squinted at the page on contractions again.


    ¡°How does ¡®am¡¯ and ¡®not¡¯ shorten to ¡®ain¡¯t?¡¯¡± Essex asked, before Harley let her head collapse onto their table.


    ¡°How should I know? I love dissecting language, but that stuff can be so stupid.¡± Harley commented, as Essex lowered the page.


    ¡°My apologies, Harley, but I do not think I will be able to understand these. However, despite this, I¡¯ll continue to attempt a-¡°


    ¡°Wait, you just did it! You said ¡®I¡¯ll!¡¯¡± Sola exclaimed, as Essex tentatively touched her lip.


    ¡°¡­huh.¡± Essex said, before standing up. ¡°I¡¯ll¡­understand contractions in no time.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, you will!¡± Harley added on, high fiving her joyously, just as Julia entered the study area, spotting the others gathered around one of the larger tables.


    ¡°There you are! I nearly got all turned around.¡± Julia said, joining them at the table. ¡°You guys stayed together after I left, right?¡±


    ¡°Dadoy. We¡¯d be pretty dumb not to.¡± Sola reasoned, as Julia looked at Harley, who rolled her eyes.


    ¡°Yeah, yeah. I walked with Lenin here. No Wailing found on the way, captain.¡± Harley teased, getting a giggle from Sola, as Julia sighed in relief.


    ¡°That¡¯s good. I¡¯m glad it¡¯s already working.¡± She started, before pulling out a notebook. ¡°Because I think I¡¯ve got a good schedule down for the next few months.¡±


    The team looked at each other, as Wess peered over to her pages. ¡°For training?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, training¡¯s included.¡± Julia clarified, pointing to the page. ¡°Of course, I had to move a couple things around to compensate. We¡¯ll be training together most nights, but with a-¡°


    ¡°Wait, nights?¡± Harley asked. ¡°We train during the day.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, but night¡¯s when we¡¯re all free. That way we have each other¡¯s backs and don¡¯t risk training on our own.¡± Julia said, as Wess finally read over the finer details.


    ¡°Julia, I¡¯m asleep at these times. I¡¯ll be completely exhausted in the morning.¡± Wess reasoned, passing it around to the others as well.


    ¡°Bathroom times?!¡± Sola let out, as Harley and Essex scanned over it as well.


    ¡°Oh, come on, this is too far!¡± Harley expressed, as Julia grabbed the book back.


    ¡°We might get ambushed if we¡¯re not careful! What if someone shows up with a Whil that lets them move through walls?¡± Julia argued, writing over a couple things. ¡°Fine, I¡¯ll change that, but I still think the train-¡°


    ¡°Julia.¡± Wess said, resting a hand on her arm. ¡°Don¡¯t you think this is too much?¡±


    Julia looked wide-eyed, before getting similar looks from the others.


    ¡°The planning is excessive and needless¡­we¡¯re still within the academy, with security, and with our weapons.¡± Essex reasoned. ¡°This is not safer.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll be ready if something comes up.¡± Harley said. ¡°But not if we¡¯re sleep deprived and constantly working around some schedule.¡±


    ¡°Even if it¡¯s for the best¡­¡± Sola mumbled, as Julia tried to take in what they were saying, before huffing out, grabbing her things, and getting up.


    ¡°¡­I¡¯m sorry for worrying about you guys.¡± Julia let out. ¡°Clearly, the attack hurt me more than you.¡±


    She trudged off out of the study area, not looking back, leaving the team to soak in the uncomfortable silence that was left behind. Nobody said a word, just as Joleicia walked by the study area, happening to catch the tail end of the whole thing.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Honestly, what is Julia playing at? I can¡¯t keep making sacrifices just for an artificial safety. If we¡¯re not careful, she¡¯ll have us tied up and gagged to a chair soon enough.


    Wess kicked her feet as she walked, clearing her head while travelling to her class on ¡®The Wailing Conflict and its Artistic Presence.¡¯ She only had one more until the end of the day, so at least she could focus on something comfortable.


    ¡°At least Chops i-¡°


    ¡°Why¡¯re you saying my name?¡±


    Wess already let out a groan before turning around, only to come face to face with Chops again, quickly remembering something.


    ¡°That¡¯s right. I forgot you¡¯re an art fanatic.¡± Wess realised. ¡°Oh, woe is me¡­¡±


    ¡°Harsh. I have a great artistic eye.¡± Chops reasoned, skipping alongside Wess. ¡°How¡¯s your day been?¡±


    ¡°Bizarrely stressful.¡± Wess said, refusing to elaborate, as Chops glanced her over, before noticing her shield still folded up and hanging by her hip.


    Chops leaned in. ¡°Can I get a look at it now?¡±


    Wess eyed Chops up, trying to guess her intentions, before noticing she was blocking the way forward and sighing out, handing it to her anyway.


    Chops held it above her, checking every crafted edge with a fine eye for detail, before handing it back.


    ¡°Artisan.¡±


    ¡°I know. Jovie did a wonderful job with it.¡± Wess said, as Chops snickered.


    ¡°No, no, I meant for a name.¡± Chops said. ¡°It doesn¡¯t have a name yet, right?¡±


    Wess eyed Chops up again, before squinting. ¡°Why are you suggesting that?¡±


    ¡°Is it such a shock that I¡¯d help you with that? I already gave Julia the name for her Whil.¡± Chops said, pocketing her hands. ¡°It¡¯s just, I know names are really important in Northern Waysider culture and Artisan, was, like, the first king or whatever¡­¡±


    Chops turned away. ¡°Fine, don¡¯t use it. Doesn¡¯t bother me.¡±


    Wess glanced over Chops again, noticing a humility she rarely ever saw in her, before holding up her shield again.


    ¡°I have been struggling to come up with one¡­¡± Wess said. ¡°Artisan, you say?¡±


    Chops turned back excitedly. ¡°You¡¯ll use it?¡±


    Wess tapped her chin and smiled. ¡°Why not?¡±


    ¡°Really?!¡±


    ¡°As a placeholder.¡± Wess corrected, before holding it out with her sword. ¡°Until I think of something better. Belvedere and Artisan, warriors in arms.¡±


    Chops realised she¡¯d been played, before growing a proud smile. ¡°Well done, Wess, you got me.¡±


    ¡°When don¡¯t I?¡± Wess pointed out, before continuing down the hall unimpeded.


    ¡°I think you¡¯ve softened up a little since first year. I used to really hate you.¡± Chops admitted, grinning. ¡°But now, I can just tolerate you.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s what I strive for.¡± Wess joked, sheathing Belvedere. ¡°¡­to be honest, I wasn¡¯t my best self last year. I¡¯m just¡­fortunate I had people like Julia looking out for me.¡±


    Chops tried to make out Wess¡¯ expression, before walking backwards casually.


    ¡°You¡¯re a good friend.¡± Chops admitted, following alongside her. ¡°I know you¡¯re worried for yourself after the attack, but it¡¯s clear you¡¯re worried about your team even more.¡±


    Wess held her shield to her chest. ¡°¡­I can¡¯t help it, really. They¡¯ve become one of the most important things in my life right now. I don¡¯t want to risk losing that. But I also want to take full advantage of that.¡±


    Wess folded her shield back up and hung it on her side. ¡°I never used to be able to act on my own, and now I can finally do that. There¡¯s no way I¡¯m relinquishing that freedom, but at the same time, indulging in that might mean I lose it anyway. How can I choose?¡±


    Wess slowed down again, now just trudging through the hall as she thought on her opportunities, as it looked like Chops was about to weigh in, only for her to poke Wess¡¯ forehead.


    ¡°You think too much.¡± Chops said. ¡°If you wanna enjoy life, go for it. Go get drunk, get some action, fall in love, start some fights. Do something out of left field and don¡¯t regret it. What¡¯s the point of being alive if you aren¡¯t living?¡±


    Chops stared up at Wess again. ¡°There¡¯s no point in having independence and then using it to mope.¡±


    Wess raised an eyebrow, before looking back down at Chops and, admittedly, smiling to herself.


    ¡°You¡¯re an odd one.¡± Wess remarked. ¡°But I¡¯m starting to tolerate you too.¡±


    With that, Wess passed right by Chops, who was still reeling from Wess¡¯ brazenness, before catching up to her in order to share their class.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Julia finally made her way back to the team¡¯s room just as the day was nearing its end. She hadn¡¯t seen any of the others for the rest of the day, but she knew that wouldn¡¯t last long, as she pulled out her card to open the door.


    Before she could, Joleicia arrived from down the hall, before noticing Julia¡¯s agitation and stopping by Team Vanguard''s dorm door, just opposite of Julia¡¯s.


    ¡°Hi there.¡± Joleicia started, leaning on her dorm door. ¡°I saw you and the others in the study area earlier.¡±


    Julia looked a bit sheepish, as Joleicia bobbed back and forth.


    ¡°I¡¯m worried about my team too, you know.¡± Joleicia empathised. ¡°We were at that attack as well. We didn¡¯t even sign up to fight off the Wailing, and we ended up doing it anyway.¡±


    ¡°But that doesn¡¯t mean that has to happen again.¡± Julia insisted. ¡°If I can keep my team out of danger, I will. No matter what.¡±


    ¡°How? You¡¯re one person. You of all people should know not to shoulder all that on yourself.¡± Joleicia stated. ¡°We work in a dangerous industry. You can¡¯t stop everyone from getting hurt forever.¡±


    Julia didn¡¯t want to admit to Joleicia¡¯s point, but still refused to enter her team room, as Joleicia looked back at her.


    ¡°You know, it¡¯s not enough to make your team as safe as possible if they don¡¯t feel safe.¡± Joleicia pointed out, opening up her team¡¯s door. ¡°Panicking and trying to keep an iron grip on everything won¡¯t help anyone.¡±


    She glanced back at Julia warmly.


    ¡°I¡¯m sure you¡¯ll make the right call.¡± Joleicia said, closing the door behind her, as Julia was left standing in the hallway, her hand stuck on the team¡¯s doorknob.


    ¡°¡­do you think we should apologise to Julia?¡± Wess asked, leaning forward on the team¡¯s couch, as Harley and Essex worked away at dinner in the kitchen.


    ¡°Maybe. She did seem more upset than usual¡­¡± Harley agreed, grabbing the countertop. ¡°I want to go along with it, but¡­¡±


    ¡°That may not be the answer. It would be just as reckless to be overly cautious.¡± Essex reasoned, handing off a few vegetables to Harley, as Sola kicked her legs on her bed.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to have to hide away forever. I wanna take the fight to them!¡± Sola exclaimed, before settling back down. ¡°Once we find out who they are.¡±


    ¡°Well, that¡¯s not happening anyt¡­¡± Wess started, before being interrupted by the dorm door opening, as Julia made herself know again. ¡°Julia.¡±


    ¡°Hey, you made it just in time for dinner.¡± Harley said, putting their roast in the oven. ¡°The chicken just needs a few more minutes.¡±


    ¡°Yeah¡­thanks, Harley¡­¡± Julia let out, as she joined Wess on the couch, slumping into her seat.


    ¡°Do you want to watch anything?¡± Wess asked, flipping through channels. ¡°I think I saw a Team Spectrum documentary a few¡­¡±


    Wess heard a loud sniff and noticed Julia was now crying beside her, trying to wipe away the tears as soon as they formed, as she quickly got the attention of the team.


    ¡°Julia? What¡¯s wrong?¡± Sola asked, jumping up from her bed, followed by Harley and Essex, as Julia tried to look presentable.


    ¡°¡­I-I¡¯m sorry, I-I shouldn¡¯t have f-forced you guys to¡­I just¡­¡± She tried, getting a pat on the back from Wess. ¡°I was so scared¡­a-and I don¡¯t know what I¡¯m supposed to do¡­and I don¡¯t even know who¡­¡±


    ¡°Hey, hey, it¡¯s okay. We¡¯re all fine.¡± Wess assured her, leaning down to look her in the eyes. ¡°You don¡¯t have to be worried for us.¡±


    She sat back up to address her. ¡°We should have gone along with your plan, at least for a while. I know it¡¯s not ideal, but at least you¡¯d know we¡¯re safe.¡±


    ¡°But I wouldn¡¯t¡­I c-can¡¯t keep you guys safe forever.¡± Julia realised, wiping her nose. ¡°W-We¡¯re only going to keep coming up against threats¡­and I can¡¯t fight every Wailing or¡­sword wielding assassin alone¡­¡±


    ¡°Nobody said you needed to.¡± Harley pointed out. ¡°You¡¯ve got our backs and we¡¯ve got yours.¡±


    ¡°But that shouldn¡¯t stop us from living our lives.¡± Sola said. ¡°We¡¯ll take on what hits us, and we¡¯ll just hit ¡®em back!¡±


    ¡°Harder, ideally.¡± Essex added, smiling gently back at Julia, as Julia went to wipe her tears away one last time.


    ¡°¡­if only we knew who we were up against¡­¡± Julia muttered. ¡°Then we could ask for help, or at least know what to look out for¡­¡±


    The team continued comforting her, letting her finally breathe, as Harley put her arms on Julia¡¯s shoulders and stood up straight.


    ¡°Well, then let¡¯s figure out who they are!¡± Harley proclaimed, surprising everyone.


    ¡°Sorry¡­¡± Wess asked, rubbing her temple. ¡°¡­what?¡±


    ¡°If we keep wandering around without any idea who might be looking for us, we¡¯ll just keep jumping to the worst conclusions.¡± Harley reasoned, circling the couch and standing in front of it. ¡°So, let¡¯s try and figure out who that assailant from the attack was and go from there.¡±


    ¡°Yeah! Then we can take them down!¡± Sola cheered, joining Harley¡¯s side.


    Harley turned to the others. ¡°So, what do we know about them?¡±


    Wess rolled her eyes. ¡°Well, if you insist. She had a woman¡¯s voice, and showed a lot of physical prowess, considering how often she scaled up walls.¡±


    ¡°She¡­knew how to use a sword too. With both hands.¡± Julia added, sitting up a little more.


    ¡°She also possessed a Whil that allowed her to heat up her body.¡± Essex informed. ¡°There were also discussions over the phone to someone, and she briefly mentioned the name ¡®Wicker.¡¯¡±


    ¡°Wicker? Maybe that¡¯s who she was talking to?¡± Harley deduced, as she started to think. ¡°So that¡¯s a fair bit to go off of¡­¡±


    In an instant, Sola gasped at a sudden realisation, catching everyone¡¯s attention, as Harley turned to her.


    ¡°What?¡±


    Sola stared back up at her. ¡°I just thought¡­do you think¡­¡±


    Harley turned her head, before the idea hit her too, giving a similar reaction.


    ¡°No¡­¡±


    ¡°What? What is it?¡± Julia frantically asked, now on the edge of her seat, as Harley and Sola turned to her.


    ¡°I just had a thought¡­¡± Sola said, trembling a little. ¡°¡­what if it was Ferris?¡±


    The room was dead silent, as the team pieced together things in their head, before Wess scoffed a little.


    ¡°Oh, come on, that¡¯s ridiculous.¡± Wess argued. ¡°Ferris? Of all people?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m with Wess. How could Ferris be the assailant?¡± Julia wondered, as Harley started counting on her fingers.


    ¡°Well, we know she has a sword. And considering she¡¯s teaching us how to fight, she¡¯s probably damn good with it.¡± Harley said, Sola nodding beside her.


    ¡°And she¡¯s teaching a bunch of classes on Whils, but we don¡¯t even know if she has one!¡± Sola exclaimed. ¡°So, she could totally be hiding hers!¡±


    ¡°She also has tendencies towards discussions over the phone, most notably with Faller.¡± Essex added in, now deep in thought. ¡°Could she really be¡­?¡±


    ¡°No, no, she couldn¡¯t be the assailant. Sola and I saw her with Faller just before the attack.¡± Wess reasoned, starting up Sola again.


    ¡°But we didn¡¯t see her during it.¡± Sola pointed out, as Wess realised she was right. ¡°She disappeared once we showed up.¡±


    ¡°¡­huh.¡± Wess let out, scratching her chin. ¡°¡­well then.¡±


    ¡°And, and!¡± Harley continued. ¡°She totally admitted that Ferris was a fake name during class, remember? Totally suspicious.¡±


    ¡°But, wait¡­¡± Julia started, as everyone focused on her. ¡°So, if Ferris was¡­the figure at the attack, then does that mean that¡­¡±


    Julia gulped before she spoke. ¡°¡­Wicker¡­could be Faller?¡±


    ¡°No way! I hadn¡¯t even thought about that!¡± Harley yelled, grabbing her head. ¡°Holy shit!¡±


    ¡°But it¡­does make sense.¡± Wess begrudgingly admitted. ¡°Ferris and Faller are often having private discussions about this and that. And we know that whoever was behind the attack has to be working within the academy.¡±


    ¡°Cause of the listening bugs.¡± Julia worked through. ¡°And so they could get past the academy¡¯s security¡­¡±


    ¡°Wait, no!¡± Sola interrupted, now arguing back. ¡°We were with Faller once he found the bugs. He was really upset to see them.¡±


    ¡°He could have been acting, Sola. At least to cover up his connections to it.¡± Wess pointed out, as Julia lay back into the couch once more, now exhausted instead of agitated.


    ¡°I never even liked Ferris, but the idea that she was at the attack, stealing something while the fighting was going on, and attacking me¡­¡± Julia tried to rationalise, getting sympathy from the rest of the team. ¡°And that Faller might have manufactured the attack just to cover it all up¡­¡±


    ¡°This is an uneasy realisation.¡± Essex admitted, before turning to Harley. ¡°But I thank you for this suggestion. This is something we may work with.¡±


    ¡°Now we can start investigating ourselves. We might actually figure out who these people are that keep ¡®attacking¡¯ the academy.¡± Wess said, before shrugging. ¡°Or it¡¯s all a horrible coincidence. Who¡¯s to say?¡±


    Harley looked back at Julia and noticed how visibly tired she was, before realising the roast was still in the oven.


    ¡°Oh, dammit!¡± She let out, hurrying over, before turning back and calling to Julia. ¡°You look like you need something to eat. Want me to just bring you something?¡±


    ¡°Yes, please.¡± Julia thanked, getting another reassuring pat from Wess. ¡°So, I guess what we do next is investigate Ferris and see if she really is that person from the attack.¡±


    ¡°And then we check out Faller.¡± Sola added. ¡°If that¡¯s the case, we can always ask some Venator teams to help us bring them to justice.¡±


    ¡°Well, we know two professional teams already, so that shouldn¡¯t be too hard.¡± Wess mentioned, as Essex brandished her scythe.


    ¡°And we shall contribute our skills as well.¡± Essex declared, staring off, before looking back at Julia. ¡°To keep us all safe.¡±


    ¡°¡­thank you¡­¡± Julia let out, trying to avoid blushing too much, as the rest of the team found her attempt to be far too cute, before Harley handed off dinner to her, and she was reminded of just how nice it was to have someone else¡¯s cooking.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Hey, Jojo?¡±


    ¡°Yeah?¡±


    ¡°What do you think of Team Valiant?¡±


    Joleicia put a finger to her chin. ¡°No complaints from me. They¡¯re great.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡± Chops said, leaning against Team Vanguard¡¯s couch.


    Joleicia slowly watched her meal rotate in the microwave. ¡°Why do you ask?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s just¡­I dunno, don¡¯t they seem pretty close to you?¡± Chops pointed out, as the microwave dinged.


    ¡°Well, we¡¯re pretty close.¡± Joleicia replied, bringing her dinner over to join Chops on the couch. ¡°What¡¯s wrong with that?¡±


    ¡°Nothing, I guess¡­¡± Chops said, looking over at Saxin and Lenin in their bunkbed, as well as Nathaniel in his. ¡°¡­I¡¯m just curious, is all. I wanna see what comes of it.¡±


    Joleicia looked back at her, before wiggling her fingers. ¡°Ooo, so mysterious.¡±


    ¡°Shut up.¡± Chops laughed, grabbing the remote. ¡°You wanna watch anything?¡±


    ¡°Whatever works for you.¡±

 Chapter 24: Coaction

    ¡°Everyone packed?¡±


    ¡°All ready to go!¡±


    ¡°Hey, how long are we going to be there for?¡±


    ¡°As long as the job takes, I imagine. Assuming it¡¯s as easy as suggested.¡±


    ¡°It would not be wise to assume. This may be more difficult than we perceive it to be.¡±


    ¡°Essex makes a fair point.¡± Julia pointed out, before turning back to her team as they all walked. ¡°But considering we¡¯re just taking care of some pests, I think we can be a little gung ho.¡±


    Team Valiant made their way over to the academy helicopter platform, readying for their first official job. While they¡¯d been out on a mission already, this would be their first time without a professional team watching over them, and needless to say, they were pretty exc-


    ¡°Woo!!! Let¡¯s go to Kaju! I wanna zap some Raski¡¯s with my lightning!¡± Sola exclaimed, running to the helicopter platform, as Harley chased after her, trying to beat her there.


    ¡°This should be pretty fun. I¡¯ve never been to Kaju before.¡± Julia said, turning to Wess and Essex beside her. ¡°We finally get to see more of Central Point.¡±


    ¡°Considering you¡¯re the local, I¡¯m impressed you¡¯ve stayed in Detu City almost your whole life.¡± Wess commented, as Julia looked a bit embarrassed.


    ¡°Yeah. I¡¯m a bit of a home body¡­¡± Julia admitted, laughing a little, while Essex inspected her scythe.


    ¡°I¡¯ve seen a large majority of Central Point, but rarely any metropolitan areas. This shall be interesting.¡± Essex declared, strapping her scythe onto her back, as Harley and Sola quickly tired themselves out.


    ¡°Well, we¡¯ll mostly be in the surrounding area while on the job.¡± Julia said, before noticing the duo and smiling, calling out to them. ¡°Hey, can you guys come here real quick?¡±


    Harley and Sola got up and headed back, as Julia cleared her throat. ¡°Now, I know our top priority is to handle this mission, and we¡¯re definitely going to do that. But, since this is our best shot, today¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­we have to find out whether Ferris was there at the attack.¡±


    The team nodded in unison, ready to hear her out, as Julia illustrated her plan. ¡°Since Ferris and Spence are escorting us today, we can finally get her alone to question. I¡¯ve got some ways of figuring out whether it was her at the attack, so what I want from you guys is to take care of the Raski¡¯s and our mission to give me room to question her. All good?¡±


    ¡°Hell yeah!¡± Harley cheered, pumping her fist. ¡°Just leave it to us! We¡¯ll keep those pests off your back.¡±


    ¡°This will be enlightening.¡± Essex assured, bowing to Julia, as Wess rolled her eyes.


    ¡°Fortunately, I was planning on doing that anyway.¡± Wess said, patting Belvedere in its scabbard.


    ¡°I just hope we¡¯re wrong about this.¡± Sola admitted. ¡°I don¡¯t want to start second year knowing Ferris is some evil henchman.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, wait, what do we do if it turns out she was that person at the attack?¡± Harley asked, as Julia avoided eye contact. ¡°We can¡¯t go to Faller, cause¡­well¡­¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll get to that bridge when we cross it.¡± Julia explained. ¡°Let¡¯s just try and get some answers for now.¡±


    And with that, they continued to the helicopter platform, where Ferris and Spence lay in wait, trying to pass the time.


    ¡°Is it¡­a solid?¡±


    ¡°Shut up.¡±


    ¡°Is it a primary colour?¡±


    ¡°I said I wasn¡¯t playing this with you.¡±


    ¡°Traffic cone! That¡¯s it, right?¡±


    ¡°Bleakh, take me in your embrace and end it all¡­¡± Ferris groaned, as Spence pouted at her lack of participation.


    ¡°You know, Lola, you can catch a lot more flies with honey than with vi-¡°


    ¡°Who the hell¡¯s catching flies?¡± Ferris argued. ¡°What kinda shitty metaphor is that? You should¡¯ve said bees.¡±


    Spence held her tongue, trying not to get too down, before she spotted Team Valiant and found her energy shoot right back up.


    ¡°Why, hello! Ready for the old Kaju one two?¡± Spence exclaimed, leading Ferris to pull out her pocket flask.


    ¡°That¡¯s the idea.¡± Julia replied, patting her rifle strapped to her back. ¡°This¡¯ll be the first time I get to properly use Sunrise Quickfire.¡±


    ¡°Hey, since when did you name it?¡± Harley asked, playfully punching her arm, as Spence gave a thumbs up.


    ¡°I love that initiative! You girls¡¯ll do fine today!¡± Spence encouraged, hopping onto the helicopter. ¡°Come on! We¡¯re burning daylight! Or should I say¡­quick-burning sunlight?¡±


    Julia cocked her head. ¡°Was that an attempt at a pun?¡±


    ¡°Get used to it¡­¡± Ferris groaned, slouching onto the cargo helicopter, as Team Valiant each took their seats, manoeuvring their weapons beside themselves while the helicopter slowly started to take off.


    ¡°How long until we arrive?¡± Wess asked, as Ferris counted on her fingers.


    ¡°Uhh¡­twenty minutes, I guess? Don¡¯t get too comfortable.¡± She said, lying back in her seat. ¡°There¡¯s no set goal for today, but we¡¯ll be assessing your skills as you handle the task. Take this as seriously as a Wailing hunt.¡±


    ¡°Geez, you can be so doom and gloom.¡± Spence said, turning to the team. ¡°Just have fun with it! This is only your first real mission, after all.¡±


    ¡°This is bad advice¡­¡± Essex remarked to herself, getting a snicker out of Harley, as she looked over her tablet.


    ¡°So apparently, Kaju¡¯s this famous mining town in Central Point. Lot of copper and lead deposits in the Eldos Mountains, as th-¡°


    ¡°Uggghhhhh¡­I wasn¡¯t expecting you to be the nerd type.¡± Ferris groaned, taking another swig of her flask, trying to nurse her headache, as Harley pouted back at her.


    ¡°And APPARENTLY, where we¡¯re headed is near this famous mine shaft.¡± Harley explained, Sola staring at her tablet too. ¡°It¡¯s no longer in use, but it¡¯s got plenty of tours and acts like a museum to Kaju¡¯s history. Of course, nobody¡¯s been able to go recently cause of all the pe-¡°


    ¡°Oh god, shut it!¡± Ferris barked, making Harley and Sola jump. ¡°This trip¡¯s long enough without the lecture! Don¡¯t you get enough of this from your classes?¡±


    Harley scowled and put her tablet away, as Spence berated Ferris, with Ferris lying down to ignore her, just as Julia decided to try out her first idea.


    ¡°So¡­Ferris.¡± Julia started, grabbing a water bottle from her bag. ¡°Do you want a drink?¡±


    Ferris shook her flask, realising it was empty, before scoffing at Julia. ¡°No.¡±


    Julia shook the bottle. ¡°It¡¯s got cheap beer in it.¡±


    Ferris blinked, before stretching out her hand. ¡°Fuck it, give it here.¡±


    Julia decided to chuck it, as Ferris struggled to grab the bottle with her left hand lying down, before getting up and opening it up, only to move it to her right and take a swig.


    Wess noticed Julia check something off on her tablet, before leaning over. ¡°What was that about?¡±


    Julia smiled to Wess. ¡°Well, the figure at the attack was ambidextrous, but Ferris made a point to move the bottle to her right hand instead of her left, meaning she¡¯s probably not very good with it.¡±


    Wess realised Julia¡¯s point. ¡°I see. Though, that doesn¡¯t prove she¡¯s not the figure. Perhaps she can use her sword with both hands, just not anything else?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. That¡¯s only one point.¡± Julia grinned, showing off her list to Wess. ¡°If she doesn¡¯t fit any of these, then we¡¯re good to go.¡±


    Julia put her tablet away and found herself with an excitable energy. ¡°Now I just need to ask about her sword and whether she has a Whil, and if all else fails, I-¡°


    ¡°Look! There it is!¡± Sola exclaimed, staring out the helicopter window, as Kaju slowly came into view, visibly built into the sides of the Eldos Mountains.


    Kaju¡¯s history was always steeped in its usefulness. Initially built as a refuge for those hoping to gather resources from the Eldos Mountains, it quickly formed into a bustling town filled with commerce and movement. Often trading with its sister city to the east, Shanlin, it¡¯s mostly used as a platform for new industry, where most of Daysend¡¯s mining technology gets its first time to shine.


    Team Valiant stared out at the climbing infrastructure, similar to Shanlin¡¯s hillside buildings, but far more vertical, literally being built into the mountainside. Buildings were connected with suspended walkways and crude elevators, often looping together and creating a connective effect.


    ¡°Hey.¡± Ferris snapped, snapping her fingers. ¡°Don¡¯t get too comfy. We¡¯re not here to sightsee. We¡¯ll be heading straight out into the nearby wilderness to go take care of this Raski infestation.¡±


    ¡°I have been meaning to ask. What is a Raski?¡± Essex asked.


    ¡°They¡¯re like little rodents that scurry around and steal food. They¡¯re pretty common in Central Point.¡± Julia explained. ¡°They¡¯re not that dangerous, but if too many gather at once, they can get out of control pretty quickly.¡±


    The team quickly noticed a few citizens chasing after the rodents, batting them off as they snuck away food and darted back into the foliage.


    ¡°Oh yeah. We had little fellas like that back on the farm.¡± Harley remarked, pounding her fists together. ¡°This¡¯ll be a cakewalk.¡±


    ¡°I like that enthusiasm!¡± Spence encouraged, just as the helicopter set down to land. ¡°Quick! We can¡¯t let them get away!¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s like a child chasing a butterfly.¡± Wess commented, getting a guilty laugh from Julia, as the team took in as much of Kaju as they could, before being whisked away by Ferris and Spence toward their mission.


    ¡ª-¡ª<u>TEAM VALIANT MISSION</u>¡ª-¡ª


    ¡ª-¡ª<u>HUNT DOWN THE RASKI¡¯S PLAGUING KAJU¡¯S WILDERNESS</u>¡ª-¡ª


    While its wilderness was still vast, the mining industry¡¯s effects on the ecosystem were immediately noticeable. Large pathways had been carved through the trees, connecting each of the disparate mine shafts to each other, while giving a helpful track for the rodents to scurry across with their ill-gotten goods.


    Team Valiant headed down the main pathway, a few signs populating the sides of it pointing to the repurposed mining museum, as they spotted a handful of Raski¡¯s running here and there, quickly diverting from the path.


    ¡°We will not catch them in the open. And attempting to handle them one on one will be inefficient.¡± Essex reasoned, readying her scythe.


    ¡°Plus, I¡¯ve only got so many cannon blasts in me until I¡¯m super exhausted.¡± Sola pointed out, proudly showing off her Whil-powered arm-cannons.


    Julia felt Ferris¡¯ judging eyes baring into her, as she quickly decided to act.


    ¡°A-Alright, well, is there any way we can get a bunch of them at once?¡± Julia asked, as an idea popped in Harley¡¯s head.


    ¡°Actually, the Raski¡¯s back home had a nest for resting. That¡¯s probably where they¡¯ve taken the food.¡± Harley said, proudly grinning.


    ¡°Great! So, you and Essex can scout ahead and find the nest.¡± Julia suggested, getting a thumbs up from Harley, then a more rigid thumbs up from Essex.


    ¡°We can start clearing the surrounding areas as well.¡± Wess brought up, Sola nodding along beside her. ¡°If we keep heading within the forest, we should wall them off from going back to Kaju.¡±


    ¡°Okay. You guys can take the left side of the path.¡± Julia said, before pointing to the other side. ¡°And I¡¯ll take the right with Spence and Ferris and update you on our progress.¡±


    Wess noticed Julia¡¯s emphasis, then her more overt smile, as she nodded in agreement. ¡°Oh. Well then, all the best of luck. To use a figure of speech, this forest will be as clean as a whistle.¡±


    Ferris raised an eyebrow at their seeming nonsense before Julia huddled in with the team again.


    ¡°Everyone got their jobs?¡± She asked, getting a show of approval from the team. ¡°Alright. We¡¯ll meet back here once Harley and Essex are done scouting.¡±


    ¡°Peno Decu.¡± Essex wished, hopping into the trees with her scythe and swinging across, as Harley started jogging to keep up.


    ¡°Uh, yeah, Peno Decu as well.¡± Harley repeated, following Essex on foot.


    ¡°We shouldn¡¯t be long either.¡± Wess said, ushering Sola along, as Sola looked back at Julia.


    ¡°What was with all that weird stuff you were talking about?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll explain later.¡± Wess said, heading off the path, as Julia looked back at Ferris and Spence.


    ¡°Look at you, Miss Leader! I¡¯m going to have to call you Jovial Julia for all that positivity!¡± Spence exclaimed, giggling to herself, as Ferris rolled her eyes.


    ¡°I¡¯d keep an eye on your team if I were you. You don¡¯t want them wandering off and dying.¡± Ferris warned, as Julia¡¯s anxiety started to perk up.


    ¡°Oh, behave yourself, Ferris. They won¡¯t die fro-¡± Spence assured, before a Raski ran past her feet, causing her to jump backwards. ¡°AH!¡±


    Ferris watched her fall into a bush and snickered to herself. ¡°At least they¡¯re not total wusses.¡±


    Julia helped Spence out, before Spence stamped her foot at Ferris. ¡°You¡¯re meant to be teaching them, not scaring them!¡±


    ¡°Is there much of a difference?¡± Ferris pointed out, grabbing the bottle Julia gave her and taking a swig. ¡°Consider the industry we work in, Spence.¡±


    ¡°I am, and frankly, they don¡¯t need you filling their heads with ghost stories about Wailing!¡± Spence declared, as Ferris turned to her and blew a raspberry.


    ¡°Hey, how about when you take down a Wailing, you get to lecture me.¡± Ferris remarked, as Julia started to think she should intervene, before Spence crossed her arms.


    ¡°Oh, and what, you have?¡± Spence said, catching Ferris¡¯ attention, before turning her nose up. ¡°Just because I keep my distance doesn¡¯t mean I-¡°


    ¡°You know, you¡¯re lucky.¡± Ferris said, trudging over to Spence. ¡°You¡¯re a very lucky person, and yet, you don¡¯t seem to realise just what that means. It means you don¡¯t lose anything, you¡¯re incapable of it, and yet, you insist on people protecting you. I don¡¯t have time for leeches, so stop acting like yours is a life worth pitying.¡±


    Ferris stormed off, trying to finish off the bottle as best she could, as Spence just made a point to sigh, letting the remark wash over her.


    ¡°Wow¡­that was brutal.¡± Julia said. ¡°I¡¯m starting to think I shouldn¡¯t have given her that beer¡­¡±


    ¡°Lola¡¯s an odd one. She¡¯s got plenty of walls built up.¡± Spence noted, watching her start to head off the trail. ¡°I want to help her out, but I don¡¯t think she¡¯ll let me¡­especially since she seems to hate everything about Venators.¡±


    ¡°Yeah¡­¡± Julia realised, worrying what that might imply, being briefly reminding herself about asking Ferris more questions. ¡°I¡¯ll¡­try to help, if I can.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t push yourself. This day should be about you and your team.¡± Spence encouraged. ¡°You can leave grouchy pants to me, if you want.¡±


    Julia smiled, deciding to head up to Ferris anyway, as Spence made a point to hang back and give them some space.


    ¡°So¡­Ferris.¡± Julia said, keeping pace alongside her, while briefly checking her notes. ¡°How long have you been using your sword?¡±


    Ferris rested her hand on her sheathed broadsword, before tapping her chin. ¡°Well, in the elite assassin training school I was raised in, they gave this to me at birth. By the time I could say my first word, I had already killed a thousand warriors alone, as was part of our rituals, and was shaping up to be their youngest killer at the age of two.¡±


    Julia pouted as Ferris¡¯ answer, as Ferris continued to weave her nonsense tale.


    ¡°Of course, this meant my first word ended up being ¡®bloodlust¡¯ and¡­¡± Ferris continued, before noticing Julia¡¯s unsatisfied expression and dropping the bit. ¡°You know, it¡¯s not smart to broadcast these things out loud.¡±


    Julia cocked her head. ¡°But it¡¯s just us.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, and who are you going to tell?¡± Ferris pointed out, slouching further to meant Julia¡¯s height. ¡°I guarantee I¡¯ve got more enemies than you¡¯ve got pubic hairs.¡±


    Julia turned away, embarrassed by the insinuation, as Ferris saw Julia¡¯s nervousness and earnest intent, before scratching her neck and handing her the sword anyway.


    ¡°Fuck it. You¡¯re not about to stab me with it.¡± Ferris reasoned, giving it to Julia. ¡°And it¡¯s been with me for few years now. Faller gave it to me as a gift for working at the academy.¡±


    Julia unsheathed the broadsword, staring at its fairly generic make and build, recalling the sword used against her during the attack.


    If I recall, the figure was using a katana¡­ Julia acknowledged. And this doesn¡¯t even look like it.


    ¡°Is, uhh, is this your¡­only sword?¡± Julia tentatively asked, as Ferris raised an eyebrow and took the scabbard back from her.


    ¡°Yeah. I only use it for missions like this, so another would be pointless. You know, in case you fuck up.¡± Ferris reasoned, as Julia tried to hide how relieved she felt.


    Unfortunately, Ferris noticed.


    ¡°You look relieved.¡±


    Julia jolted a bit, before trying to play it off. ¡°S-Sorry, I was just really nervous about dropping it. Wess is pretty protective with Belvedere, so I f-figured you¡¯d be the same.¡±


    Ferris continuing staring, before shrugging and not pursuing her thought any further, as Julia finally let go of her breath.


    That was close. She admitted, taking out her tablet again, before marking off another point. But we¡¯re getting somewhere.


    Julia watched as Ferris kept walking further into the forest, hanging her head back in exhaustion, as she felt her grip tighten.


    Please be innocent, Ferris.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Agh! Come on! Just-¡°


    Wess swung at the rodents again, managing to strike one down, only for three more to emerge from the bushes to replace it.


    ¡°Oh, for heaven¡¯s sake.¡± Wess let out, just blocking off their scratches with her shield, as she noticed Sola right beside her, struggling to aim at the rodents.


    ¡°Alright, you gross little things¡­¡± Sola said, holding her breath. ¡°Take¡­!¡±


    She charged up her arm-cannons, aiming right at two Raski¡¯s in the distance, before they stepped to the side and easily dodged her beams of light. The ground looked singed beneath them, as they hissed at her and scurried away with their food.


    ¡°Dang it. These little guy¡¯s suck so much.¡± Sola remarked, waving her cannons around frantically, just as Wess broke off from her pack of Raski¡¯s and joined up with her.


    ¡°It seems we¡¯re both struggling a bit.¡± Wess admitted, still panting, while getting a sigh from Sola.


    ¡°Tell me about it. Why can¡¯t they be big like Wailing? I can hit those.¡± Sola pointed, watching as Wess¡¯ rodents looked at her, almost mockingly.


    ¡°Well, our flimsy attempts aren¡¯t getting us anywhere.¡± Wess noted, glancing back at the Raski¡¯s circling around each other, before getting an idea in her head. ¡°Actually, I think I¡¯ve just thought of something.¡±


    ¡°Really? Nice!¡± Sola cheered.


    ¡°Just wait for my signal, then come in to attack, okay?¡± Wess asked, getting a firm nod from Sola, as she approached the rodents, reigniting their territorial nature.


    Just as they charged back at her, Wess led them around, managing to group a few together, before holding them off with her shield, watching as they needlessly clawed at it in desperation.


    ¡°Now!¡± She cried at, as Sola jumped to attention, aiming at the now large group of Raski¡¯s gathered by Wess¡¯ shield, then firing a clean shot with her cannons and managing to take them all out.


    ¡°Whew!¡± Sola let out, feeling the exhaustion that came with overusing her Whil. ¡°That totally worked!¡±


    Wess managed to stand up, as she realised just how many they¡¯d taken out. ¡°Yes¡­it actually did.¡±


    Sola regained some energy and jumped to Wess excitedly. ¡°Great plan, Wess! We would¡¯ve been toast without it.¡±


    Wess tried to hide her blush, as she looked away. ¡°Oh, you needn¡¯t say that¡­¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s keep it up! I like this momentum!¡± Sola exclaimed, hurrying further into the forest, as Wess decided to follow along, finding herself smiling at Sola¡¯s pleasant optimism.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Essex continued to effortlessly swing through the trees, moving between hooking branches with her scythe and running across flatter sections where she could.


    Harley tried to keep up as best she could but found it difficult to quickly navigate the forest¡¯s dense interior with her much larger frame, nearly tripping over a few out-sticking branches as she did.


    Finally, Essex landed back on the ground, scouting the area around her, as a panting and sweaty Harley followed slowly behind, propping herself up on a nearby tree.


    ¡°Oh geez¡­that¡­was rough¡­¡±


    ¡°Vonodo, are you in need of aid?¡± Essex asked, as Harley shook her head.


    Stolen from its rightful author, this tale is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.


    ¡°You¡¯re like a frickin¡¯ animal. How do you not get tired?¡± Harley confessed, Essex looking confused at the question.


    ¡°I¡¯m built for endurance. If I were to lose stamina, then fighting off Wailing would be much more difficult.¡± Essex explained, just as Harley started to regain some composure.


    ¡°I would¡¯ve thought all my sleeping around would improve endurance¡­¡± Harley remarked, shrugging her shoulders. ¡°But I guess not.¡±


    ¡°You are built for strength, not stamina.¡± Essex pointed out. ¡°You are our strongest combatant by far.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, how about saying that when I can jump off trees and flip through the air with a scythe.¡± Harley commented, waving her hands about, as Essex went back to scouting the area.


    ¡°The Raski¡¯s were headed in this direction, toward the mine entrance¡­¡± She muttered. ¡°But there are no notable signs of a nearby nest.¡±


    ¡°But they were carrying food.¡± Harley pointed out. ¡°Where are they taking it if not to a nest?¡±


    ¡°Perhaps it is further ahead.¡± Essex said, spotting a few more rodents in the distance headed south. ¡°Let us continue.¡±


    Essex hurried through the tree line, followed behind by Harley, as they tried to stay out of sight of the rodents.


    ¡°You reckon I¡¯d look good with a scythe?¡± Harley asked, surprising Essex.


    ¡°¡­I would suppose.¡± Essex answered, looking unsure. ¡°I do not know about fashion.¡±


    ¡°Oh, what are you talking about? You dress so damn well. That suit literally always looks great on you.¡± Harley said, as Essex was visibly embarrassed. ¡°Seriously, we¡¯re trudging through the forest, and you still look like dynamite.¡±


    ¡°¡­w-we should focus on the task at han-¡° Essex said, before stopping in her tracks, having just reached a nearby cliff¡¯s edge.


    ¡°And that¡¯s not me being all flirty, that¡¯s just the truth.¡± Harley admitted. ¡°I mean, I¡¯ve only ever met, like, one other person who could pull off purple, and I mean literally pull off pur-¡°


    ¡°Harley.¡±


    Harley stopped talking. ¡°Yeah?¡±


    Essex crouched down suddenly, indicating to the now visible mine shaft entrance, as Harley realised just how far they¡¯d trekked.


    ¡°Wow. We really made some tracks.¡± She said. ¡°That must have been, what, five hundr¡­¡±


    All of a sudden, Harley noticed what Essex was referring to. It wasn¡¯t just that they¡¯d reached the mine shaft, or the fact that a large number of the Raski¡¯s had gathered outside of the mine entrance with their food, but rather, what was inside of it, slowly breathing to itself, tucked away inside the interior of the mine.


    It was¡­


    ¡°¡­a Wailing.¡± Harley let out, instinctively joining Essex on the ground. ¡°Holy shit¡­¡±


    Essex raised a finger to her lips, before lying down and crawling to the cliff¡¯s edge, looking out at the clearing below them, filled with old mining equipment and dirt mounds leading toward the mine.


    The mine itself was noticeably spacious, as passing Raski¡¯s ran the food they stored in their mouths over to a slowly gathering pile in front of the entrance, building up in front of a curled up figure, huddling itself into a ball, as faint, glowing orange lines ran up and down its body.


    ¡°¡­okay.¡± Harley started, backing up a little. ¡°S-So, this is¡­huh¡­¡±


    ¡°A Wailing is using the mine as a shelter.¡± Essex noted, letting Harley follow along. ¡°Why has no one from Kaju noted this?¡±


    ¡°Well, not too many people visit the mine shaft these days. If the Raski¡¯s only became a real problem a few days ago, then that¡¯s probably when it moved in.¡±


    ¡°At the moment, it would appear to be asleep.¡± Essex said, backing away too. ¡°Before continuing any further, we should alert the team of this development.¡±


    Harley nodded along, watching as Essex started to head back, before stopping her. ¡°Wait.¡±


    Essex turned back to her.


    ¡°Shouldn¡¯t we just call a professional team in?¡± Harley reasoned. ¡°I mean, our job was to take out the pests, not a full-blown Wailing. There¡¯s no reason to put ourselves in danger.¡±


    ¡°But eliminating it will end the Raski problem, and it would be dangerous to leave it.¡± Essex argued. ¡°If it were allowed to leave, it may attack Kaju due to our negligence.¡±


    ¡°Right, but we¡¯re still only second-years.¡± Harley added, rubbing her head. ¡°Okay, let¡¯s just ask the others and see what they think. I still don¡¯t know if we¡¯re ready¡­¡±


    ¡°We have survived a confrontation with that figure from the attack. I believe we can handle a Wailing.¡± Essex pointed out, making tracks back toward the team.


    ¡°Well, you did.¡± Harley muttered under her breath, before quickly following her.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Eww, eww eww!¡± Julia let out, poking away at the rodents flailing their arms at her, before firing her rifle and taking it out, letting go of her held breath. ¡°Ugh, they¡¯re so nasty.¡±


    ¡°Oh, I¡¯m sure they¡¯re friendly if yo-GO AWAY!¡± Spence yelled, scaring off a couple that were sneaking up on her. ¡°If you give them a chance.¡±


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you go join WRNG, you hippie?¡± Ferris remarked, snickering to herself, as Spence tried to nudge her off of the log they were both on.


    Julia cleared out the area of Raski¡¯s, before noticing there was another free moment she could have with Ferris.


    ¡°Hey, Spence?¡± Julia asked. ¡°Could you go back to the main path and see if you can find the others? I want to gather back together soon.¡±


    ¡°Oh, sure thin-¡° Spence said, before Ferris glared at her. ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°Did you forget we¡¯re not meant to be helping them?¡±


    Spence decided to play it coy and touched her cheek. ¡°Huh, I guess I did. How silly of me. You know what? I¡¯m going to walk all the way to the main path just to punish myself for that.¡±


    Spence carried on, deciding to ignore Ferris, as Ferris decided she really didn¡¯t give enough of a shit to care.


    Now that it was just the two of them, Julia put away her rifle.


    ¡°So¡­Ferris.¡± Julia let out, feeling a little overconfident. ¡°How have you been after the attack?¡±


    ¡°Drunk and angry, so no different.¡± She quickly replied, peering through the foliage of the forest. ¡°Are you looking for some kind of sympathy?¡±


    Julia blushed a bit. ¡°No, I just remember¡­hearing a couple weird things during it.¡±


    Ferris turned to her and sat up. ¡°Okay.¡± She said, waving her hands. ¡°Good for you.¡±


    Ferris continued her mulling, as Julia prepared herself for what she was about to admit.


    ¡°I can¡¯t remember who said it, but at some point, I heard someone say the word¡­¡±


    Julia gulped.


    ¡°Wicker.¡±


    It took Ferris a second, before she immediately straightened her back.


    Julia continued on normally. ¡°I don¡¯t really know what i-¡°


    Ferris rushed over and grabbed Julia by the neck, pinning her to the nearest tree with a frantic look in her eyes.


    ¡°Where the hell did you hear that?!¡± Ferris yelled. ¡°Don¡¯t fuck with me! Where did you hear that?!¡±


    Julia was having trouble breathing, trying not to panic, before managing the words ¡®mystery figure,¡¯ as Ferris shared a confused glance with her and loosened her grip.


    ¡°Mystery¡­?¡± She let out, before realising Julia was still struggling and letting her go. ¡°Shit¡­¡±


    Julia tried to recapture her breath, instinctively going for her rifle, before spotting Ferris huddled over, muttering to herself about something.


    ¡°¡­there¡¯s no way¡­god frickin¡­¡±


    She punched her fist into a nearby tree, before hearing what sounded like Harley and Essex crying out and whipping back around to Julia.


    ¡°We¡¯re not done with this. I expect some reasoning as soon as this mission¡¯s over.¡± Ferris demanded, before trudging back over to a terrified Julia. ¡°You just love playing with fire, don¡¯t you?¡±


    She stormed away, leaving Julia panting and panicked, as Julia felt a residual pain and growing red mark around her neck.


    Once she had calmed down her breathing somewhat, she noticed her tablet had fallen to the ground, before noticing her notes and stressing all over again.


    ¡°Ferris¡­¡± Julia let out, before getting up and deciding to join the others.


    ¡°I think I heard them over here¡­¡± Wess said, spotting Harley waving her arms, and Essex copying her motions in the distance.


    ¡°There they are!¡± Sola exclaimed, hurrying ahead, as Wess groaned and tried to keep up.


    ¡°Sola!¡± Harley cheered, grabbing her into a hug. ¡°Where¡¯d you guys get off to?¡±


    ¡°We just headed off further to take more pests out. What¡¯d you two find?¡± Sola asked, just as Wess managed to catch up.


    ¡°We¡¯d best wait for Julia and the other two.¡± Harley said, resting her hands on her hips. ¡°I hope she was able to get some more info from Ferris.¡±


    ¡°Oh, there you are!¡± Spence exclaimed, carrying herself along. ¡°This track is so crazy! I couldn¡¯t find it at all, then I stumble on to you guys, and here it is!¡±


    ¡°Funny how that works.¡± Harley remarked, just as Ferris hurried through the leafage. ¡°And now we¡¯ve got both of you.¡±


    Ferris turned to Spence and groaned, as Spence pouted back at her for the poor attitude.


    ¡°Were either of you with Julia?¡± Essex asked, leaving Ferris looking sheepish, before Julia emerged from behind her, now keeping her distance from Ferris.


    ¡°There you are. We were starti-¡° Wess started, before noticing the ring of red around Julia¡¯s neck and checking up on her. ¡°Goodness, what happened?¡±


    Julia went to open her mouth, before thinking through her situation and smiling. ¡°I¡­just tripped weirdly going after some of those rodents. I¡¯m fine, really.¡±


    Wess still inspected it carefully, making sure Julia was okay, as Julia gave her attention to Harley to avoid Ferris¡¯ glare. ¡°So, what did you find out?¡±


    Harley gulped. ¡°You¡¯re gonna need to see this.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    It took a minute for Julia to fully assess the situation, but from what Harley and Essex had explained, it was pretty clear to see.


    She raised up her rifle, using the scope to get a closer look at the resting Wailing, as it slowly rose and fell with each breath, its body pulsating with an orange glow that illuminated its silhouette.


    She lowered it and sighed out, before looking back at the rest of Team Valiant, now sitting on the cliffside with her. ¡°Yeah¡­there¡¯s no mistaking it.¡±


    ¡°I knew it!¡± Harley exclaimed, watching as Sola grabbed for the scope as well, before re-evaluating her celebration. ¡°Oh, but that¡¯s not a good thing¡­¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s yet to make a move though, right?¡± Wess questioned, as Sola nodded, taking her eye from the scope.


    ¡°Yep. It¡¯s just sleeping right no-wait!¡± Sola let out, pointing at it frantically, as it reached out a claw, grabbing for the pile of food in front of it, then bringing it in to its curled mass, seemingly to digest it.


    ¡°It¡¯s like it¡¯s hibernating.¡± Harley noted, as Julia noticed the slightly different coloration on the inside of its body, taking the scope back from Sola.


    ¡°I think its outer body is a protective shell, and the inside is much softer in comparison.¡± Julia reasoned.


    ¡°That would mean a potential weak point if it were to reveal itself.¡± Essex pointed out, as Julia gave her eye a rest and turned to her.


    ¡°So, saying we actually take this thing on, and since you have experience with the forest¡­¡± Julia proposed. ¡°How do you think we would approach this?¡±


    Essex looked surprised, somewhat caught off guard by being asked this, but took to it anyway and laid out a plan.


    ¡°¡­we are at an inherent disadvantage.¡± Essex explained, pointing to the mine entrance. ¡°The entrance provides a cover from attacking in all directions except for the front.¡±


    She moved her finger down, as the others followed. ¡°Additionally, in front and below us is a large clearing, meaning if we were to enter, it would notice us quickly. Escaping would also be difficult.¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t there another entrance to the mine?¡± Julia asked, as Harley shook her head.


    ¡°The mine¡¯s not actually an active mine anymore, so they blocked up all the other entrances for safety reasons.¡± Harley explained, as Julia briefly remembered her researching on the helicopter.


    ¡°I see¡­¡± Julia mulled, stroking her chin. ¡°So, we¡¯d have to move it away from the entrance to even get a chance at winning¡­¡±


    ¡°Assuming it hasn¡¯t planned for that already.¡± Wess pointed out. ¡°If its shell is as strong as we think, it could just sit there, unmoving, while we flounder about with what to do.¡±


    Sola joined Julia¡¯s side, before jumping where she sat. ¡°Oh! What if we steal its food? That¡¯d probably annoy it a ton.¡±


    Julia thought it over, watching as the rodents deliberately avoided getting too close to the food pile. ¡°Then it¡¯d chase whoever stole it and leave itself vulnerable¡­¡±


    ¡°While it is lured out, Harley and I shall wait beside the entrance and attempt to weaken it.¡± Essex said.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine with that.¡± Harley agreed, pointing to Wess. ¡°Are you good to grab the food?¡±


    Wess promptly showed Belvedere and Artisan. ¡°I¡¯d be a sitting duck without my weapons. You¡¯d spend half your time protecting me instead of attacking it.¡±


    ¡°Well, how about I grab the food, and Wess can focus on protecting me?¡± Julia reasoned. ¡°That way, Harley and Essex can keep doing their job.¡±


    ¡°Oh, oh, what do I do?¡± Sola asked excitedly, still vibrating in her seated position.


    Julia gave a well-meaning smile. ¡°To be honest, you¡¯d be best hanging back here in case we need you. We don¡¯t know if its shell can reflect your lasers back at us, or absorb them, or whatever, so it¡¯s best not to risk it unnecessarily. Plus, we need you with as much energy as you can keep.¡±


    ¡°Oh. Okay¡­¡± Sola let out, visibly losing energy, as Harley slung an arm around Sola.


    ¡°What she means is, you¡¯re our last resort.¡± Harley told Sola. ¡°If anything goes wrong, you jump in and do as much damage as you can to it to help us.¡±


    Harley turned to Julia. ¡°Right?¡±


    ¡°Oh, right, sorry. I didn¡¯t mean to sideline you.¡± Julia apologised, looking visibly embarrassed. ¡°My brain just keeps defaulting to keeping everyone safe.¡±


    ¡°So, you¡¯re actually planning on taking this thing down?¡± Ferris asked, now joining the conversation, as Spence carefully peered at the resting Wailing from another part of the cliff, visibly shivering to herself.


    ¡°Well, that¡¯s the source of the Raski problem.¡± Wess pointed out. ¡°However, we¡¯re also only meant to be taking out those pests.¡±


    ¡°I mean, we can just call in Team Swift or whatever. It doesn¡¯t have to be us.¡± Harley pointed out, as Essex sat back up.


    ¡°It would still be irresponsible to leave this Wailing here until they arrive.¡± Essex reasoned, as Julia tried to think things through.


    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t do it if I were you. That thing¡¯s gonna kill ya.¡± Ferris brazenly stated, getting complaints from Spence beside her.


    Julia¡¯s thoughts kept drifting back to Ferris, worried this might be some form of reverse psychology to get them into harm¡¯s way, as her suspicions that she was the figure only worsened.


    ¡°¡­if we¡¯re going to do this, it needs to be unanimous.¡± Julia insisted. ¡°While we don¡¯t need to do this¡­it would be good practice for us. And we¡¯d be doing a service to Kaju.¡±


    She turned to the team, as Essex nodded in agreement. ¡°I will gladly aid in this endeavour.¡±


    ¡°I mean, we already planned out our attack.¡± Wess reasoned, getting a thumbs up from Sola beside her, as Julia turned last to Harley.


    ¡°¡­yeah, alright.¡± Harley said, brandishing a proud smile. ¡°We can totally do this together.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± Julia said, putting her hand in the middle of them. ¡°Let¡¯s do that hand thing from sports movies.¡±


    Everyone followed along, as Julia stayed silent.


    ¡°¡­oh, sorry, I was meant to say something¡­¡± Julia realised, as everyone looked back at her confusedly, before bursting into laughter and breaking anyway.


    ¡°They¡¯re dead meat¡­¡± Ferris muttered, before getting up and turning to Spence. ¡°Don¡¯t ask where I¡¯m going. Just stay here and don¡¯t become a victim.¡±


    ¡°Y-Y-Yeah, that was the plan!¡± Spence admitted, still shaking profusely, as Team Valiant readied themselves for the oncoming fight.


    ¡ª-¡ª<u>TEAM VALIANT MISSION UPDATE</u>¡ª-¡ª


    ¡ª-¡ª<u>HUNT DOWN THE RASKI¡¯S WAILING PLAGUING KAJU¡¯S WILDERNESS</u>¡ª-¡ª


    Just out of sight, Julia managed to lower Harley, Wess and Essex down the cliffside with her Whil, slowing their velocity to nearly nothing, letting them circle around the mine entrance and get into position. Sola, meanwhile, had done her best to sneak behind one of the many dirt mounds within the clearing, staying clear of the entrance until she was needed.


    After some difficulty lowering herself down, Julia took a breather while everyone went into position, before joining Wess and Essex on the right side of the mine.


    She gave a thumbs up to Harley on the left side, before mentally preparing herself, only to re-evaluate what she was about to do and freak out again.


    Before she could get in her own head to much, Wess and Essex gave her a reassuring glance, letting her know she would have their full support, as Julia worked up the nerve and readied herself for the plan.


    She went up, grabbed the food, and ran.


    Immediately, the Wailing perked up, uncurling itself and stretching out a claw to swipe at Julia, just as Wess came along and blocked it, holding against it with her shield.


    The Wailing started to pull itself out of the mine entrance, emerging and proving just how massive it was in comparison, as Wess pulled back to keep on top of Julia, and Harley and Essex got in position to attack at its now exposed legs.


    Essex dug into the Wailing¡¯s leg with her scythe, attempting to trip it over, to no avail, only for Harley to come in with her Buster Knuckles equipped and aim for the other leg, activating the jet boosters on her right gauntlet to punch directly into the weak part of its knee.


    The Wailing started to fall, just as Julia dropped the food and re-equipped her rifle, as a large billow of dust accompanied the Wailing¡¯s fall.


    Wess blocked what she could of Julia with her shield, as Julia found no reason to hesitate, taking out her rifle to kill it for good.


    The Wailing was splayed out over the ground, seemingly down for the count, as Julia approached it with the barrel pointed at its head, only to hesitate for a brief second as it shared a glance with her, giving the Wailing just enough time to sweep her leg.


    ¡°Julia!¡± Wess cried, managing to catch her, as the Wailing pulled itself back up, then sunk back down, now even further, going into the ground, until its body was completely submerged underground, invisible and undetectable.


    ¡°Okay, what the hell was that?¡± Harley let out, Essex getting her scythe ready, as Wess checked on Julia.


    Julia managed to stand back up, grabbing her rifle again, as she heard Sola¡¯s voice calling out to her.


    ¡°Do you guys need me yet?¡±


    ¡°Not yet!¡± Julia called back, looking around frantically, until the ground started to rumble again. ¡°I-I think it has a form of magic. There¡¯s no way it just dug into the ground that fast.¡±


    ¡°Be on your gu-¡° Wess started, only to turn around and see a large whirling sphere launched right into the sky, now barrelling toward her and the others with impressive speed and power.


    She jumped out of the way, as it tore past her, carrying on back to the mine entrance, before the Wailing unfurled itself from its shell and prepared itself to attack again.


    With the team scattered, the Wailing started to gain the advantage, as it used its shell to block off their melee attacks, then swiped at them whenever it saw an opportunity.


    Essex tried to pry it open, as Harley turned her jets around and attempted to burn through it, both to no avail, while Julia changed the configuration of her assault rifle to a sniper rifle and started taking pot shots at its exposed head.


    In response, the Wailing¡¯s throat began to bulge, before it spat up a virile orange bile at her, burning the spot where Julia had just dodged from.


    Wess¡¯ first instinct was to go and protect Julia, before she noticed Sola on the sidelines, calling her over frantically.


    Julia noticed her running off. ¡°Wess! Where are you going?!¡±


    ¡°I think Sola has a plan! Just hold it off!¡± Wess yelled, as Julia went back to firing at the Wailing, just as Wess caught up with a pacing Sola.


    ¡°This better be worth it.¡± Wess insisted, as Sola nodded over and over to confirm it.


    ¡°I know I wasn¡¯t meant to get involved unless it got bad, but it looks kinda bad, and I really wanted to help you guys out, so-¡° Sola rambled, before Wess grabbed her shoulders.


    ¡°Sola.¡± She said. ¡°Tell me your plan.¡±


    Sola let out a quick breath, before pointing back at the Wailing. ¡°Okay, so because its shell is shielding its body, the only vulnerable spot right now is its head, right?¡±


    ¡°Yes, it would appear that way.¡± Wess agreed.


    ¡°But we can¡¯t reach it cause its really tall, and it¡¯ll just spit that weird acid.¡± Sola added, waving her hands to dictate her points. ¡°So, what if I hit it really hard in the head with my lasers? One clean blast.¡±


    ¡°That might just do it¡­¡± Wess mumbled. ¡°But how would you get high enough? If you try to leave the clearing, you¡¯ll be spotted in an instant.¡±


    ¡°Right. Yeah.¡± Sola agreed. ¡°That¡¯s where my plan comes in.¡±


    She pointed at the ground.


    ¡°I¡¯m gonna launch myself with my lasers.¡±


    Wess blinked frantically. ¡°Sorry, what?¡±


    ¡°Well, it¡¯ll be us.¡± Sola added, only confusing Wess more. ¡°I¡¯m gonna shoot my lasers at the ground, launch us in the air, then fire again to kill it. You¡¯ll be there to block its acid shot with Artisan.¡±


    Wess looked at her shield, before grabbing her temple. ¡°Alright, obvious question first, can you launch yourself with your lasers?¡±


    ¡°Yeah!¡± Sola said, before thinking on it. ¡°Well, I should. I¡¯ve never done it before. But it does push me back a little when I fire.¡±


    ¡°Okay¡­¡± Wess said, now with her head in her hands, before catching the fighting still going on and reassessing her priorities. ¡°Still, can you fire twice that fast? You get easily exhausted after only one blast.¡±


    ¡°I know.¡± Sola said, pumping her fists. ¡°But I¡¯ve gotta do it for the team. At least this once.¡±


    Wess stared at her incredulously, before looking back at the rest of Team Valiant, still struggling against the Wailing, as it visibly wore them down.


    Feeling her anxiety getting to her, Wess made a quick decision. ¡°Fine, yes, we¡¯ll do it.¡±


    Sola jumped in celebration, before finding a spot to launch from, as Wess put Belvedere back in her scabbard and held onto Sola.


    ¡°Oh Whilit, please keep me safe¡­¡± Wess wished, noticing Sola was pointing downward and freaking out. ¡°Sola!¡±


    Sola quickly noticed and pointed off to the side. ¡°Sorry. Nearly burned our feet there.¡±


    Wess watched as the Wailing started to gain ground, knocking Harley off to the side and stepping closer to Julia as she huddled against one of the dirt mounds, all while Essex tried in vain to hold it back.


    She held on tight to Sola, nodding confidently to her, as Sola started to charge up her cannons, preparing herself for the launch, all while the Wailing started to take its victory in stride.


    After a few more seconds of charging, Sola let go, firing directly at the ground, as her and Wess started to lift off the ground, now being propelled up into the sky and above the tree line from the momentum of Sola¡¯s blast alone.


    It took Wess a few seconds to acknowledge they were actually above the ground, but it only took the Wailing one, as it quickly fired an acidic shot toward the now hurtling Sola and Wess.


    Sola did her best to charge her cannons, even as she felt resistance from her own body due to fatigue, but managed to push through, letting light build up in the barrels again.


    Wess snapped back to reality and prepared herself for the oncoming blast, holding out her shield as the acid soared toward them, before being cleanly deflected by the shield.


    ¡°Sola!¡± Wess yelled, as Sola scrunched up her face, feeling the two of them starting to go down, until the light reached its height and blasted out of the arm-cannons, launching them back through the air, and heading straight for the now exposed Wailing.


    Julia, Harley and Essex only now acknowledged what was going on, as the beam of light travelled across the sky, just overhead, and directly into the Wailing, singing its face, and collapsing it over, letting out one final cloud of dust with its fall.


    Due to the force of Sola¡¯s blast, her and Wess were sent right back onto the cliffside, just clipping the grass as they tumbled across the ground, feeling generally sore all over.


    It took them a minute to recover, as they now acknowledged someone over their bodies with a great, wide smile.


    ¡°You guys really took that thing out!¡± Spence exclaimed, jumping up and down. ¡°What an accomplishment!¡±


    Wess and Sola managed to get back up, Sola still very dizzy after her attack, as Wess noticed the others waving to her down in the clearing, indicating to the collapsed Wailing.


    ¡°Sola, that was incredible!¡± Julia exclaimed, as her and Wess joined back up with the others. ¡°You really saved us just there.¡±


    ¡°What did I tell ya. Just point her at the Wailing, and we won¡¯t have a problem.¡± Harley grinned, bringing Sola in for an embrace.


    ¡°That was some great teamwork, you guys!¡± Spence let out, now joining them as well, as she stumbled a little at the ground shaking.


    ¡°This was a difficult bought, but we have managed.¡± Essex acknowledged, feeling a slight breeze beneath her leg. ¡°We should find Ferris and report our victory.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, tha¡­¡± Julia said, before noticing that the rest of the team were now staring past her, with a large shadow having formed over her as she was talking.


    To everyone¡¯s surprise, what looked to be a definitive end to the fight was merely a scratch on the Wailing, as it managed to brush off Sola¡¯s supposedly devastating blast like it was nothing.


    Of course, it wasn¡¯t nothing, as now the team had made an enemy of it, it was hellbent on paying back their damage in kind, leaving the team stunned.


    Spence started to fall, before fainting suddenly, as the Wailing towered over the team, readying to start attacking the unprepared team, just as a slight glint formed above it, reflecting off of a sword that had suddenly emerged from a nearby tree.


    In the least likely of events, Team Valiant saw Ferris, now leaping out of the tree and toward the Wailing, her sword at the ready, as a brilliant white light formed around the blade, just as the Wailing acknowledged what was going on.


    It tried to prepare however it could, but even managing to block Ferris¡¯ attack with its shell, she still pierced right through it, only to continue even further, stabbing her way through its body, until she stood atop it, watching as its shell lost form and the body collapsed backwards, crashing against the ground for the last time. The dust slowly settled on its form, revealing a Wailing slain in a mere matter of seconds.


    Taking in everything they had just witnessed, the team watched as Ferris managed to retrieve her sword, trying to flick off the Wailing¡¯s blood as best she could.


    The first one to speak was Julia, as she stammered over her words. ¡°H-How did you-¡°


    ¡°It¡¯s my Whil.¡± Ferris admitted, slowly climbing off the lifeless husk. ¡°I can sharpen any blade to be ten times as sharp. It was the only thing that could have gotten through that shell.¡±


    Julia blinked. ¡°Y-Your Whil?¡±


    ¡°Here.¡± Ferris said, using her Whil on her sword to break a part of the Wailing¡¯s shell, before chucking it in the team¡¯s direction. ¡°Souvenir.¡±


    Harley just managed to grab it, as Ferris carried her over to them, before picking up the unconscious Spence and propping her on her back.


    ¡°That¡¯s enough excitement for one day.¡± Ferris said, heading in the direction of Kaju. ¡°Pest problem solved.¡±


    The team only now acknowledged that the rodents had scattered, seemingly abandoning the area now that they now longer had to serve the Wailing.


    ¡°Well then.¡± Wess said, still trying to get back her composure. ¡°We¡¯d best follow her, right?¡±


    ¡°It wasn¡¯t her.¡± Julia managed to say, catching the team¡¯s attention. ¡°She wasn¡¯t the figure at the attack. They had a different Whil. It couldn¡¯t have been Ferris there.¡±


    The team looked at each other, before collapsing to the ground in relief, let out groans of exhaustion and happiness that Ferris was no longer their enemy.


    ¡ª-¡ª<u>TEAM VALIANT MISSION</u>¡ª-¡ª


    ¡ª-¡ª<u>HUNT DOWN THE WAILING PLAGUING KAJU¡¯S WILDERNESS</u>¡ª-¡ª


    ¡ª-¡ª<u>COMPLETED</u>¡ª-¡ª


    Ferris glanced over at Spence, still passed out on the seat beside her, as the helicopter carried her and Team Valiant back to the academy. Her hand casually rested on the handle of her sword, cautious of anything that might still surprise her.


    ¡°So¡­¡± Ferris started, lifting her head. ¡°I¡¯m guessing you know more then you¡¯re letting on.¡±


    Julia jumped a little, getting a look from the others, before avoiding Ferris¡¯ stare. ¡°I-I don¡¯t know what you mean.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t just casually drop the name Wicker like it¡¯s nothing.¡± Ferris said, being noticeably more deliberate with her words. ¡°Spill.¡±


    Julia felt put on the spot, before sighing out and rubbing her neck. ¡°¡­we found someone during the attack.¡±


    ¡°She¡­was trying to steal something from the academy¡­and we¡¯re pretty sure she got away with it.¡± Harley added, backing Julia up.


    ¡°We attempted to fend her off, but she had managed to escape along with the Behemoth Wailing.¡± Essex continued, still regretting the moment.


    ¡°¡­we also thought she was you.¡± Julia openly admitted, as Ferris crossed her arms and leaned back in her seat.


    ¡°¡­huh.¡± She let out. ¡°I did think it was weird how interested you were in me all of a sudden.¡±


    Ferris ruffled her hair a little, before finally taking her hand off the sword. ¡°¡­I know who you¡¯re talking about. Heck, I¡¯m surprised you¡¯re even here to talk about it.¡±


    The team sat to attention, as Ferris actually felt like talking.


    ¡°I¡¯m only going to say this once, so shut up and listen.¡± Ferris demanded, still avoiding direct eye contact. ¡°¡­I¡¯ve been hunting her down too. I¡¯ve been doing it in my spare time.¡±


    ¡°Why?¡± Harley asked, before Ferris death-stared her.


    ¡°Hey, I said shut up.¡± She barked, before continuing. ¡°And don¡¯t ask why. It doesn¡¯t concern you, trust me. Unless, of course, you pissed her off for whatever reason¡­¡±


    Ferris let out a heavy breath, before resettling herself.


    ¡°¡­Rosalind Castello.¡± Ferris said. ¡°She¡¯s an infamous assassin currently working for Wicker in some capacity. And by the sounds of it, she was on campus during the last Behemoth Wailing attack. She¡¯s as slippery as they are, so finding hers as difficu-¡°


    ¡°Wait, hold on.¡± Wess interrupted, frustrating Ferris again. ¡°So, Rosalind leads to Wicker, right, but why¡¯s that important? What¡¯s Wicker doing?¡±


    ¡°¡­we don¡¯t know.¡± Ferris admitted, sitting up and getting more comfortable. ¡°They¡¯re a complete enigma in every sense. But I have it from¡­a somewhat reliable source¡­that they¡¯re manipulating the Wailing Conflict for their own benefit.¡±


    ¡°Reliable source?¡± Sola whispered to the others, as they gave it a second¡¯s thought.


    Faller. They all thought, as Ferris waved her hand to dictate her point.


    ¡°Some say they¡¯re a major government official, some say they¡¯re an elite council of no names, passing down the title for generations, and some say they¡¯ve been dead for years. No one can get a read on them.¡± Ferris explained, before sitting forward. ¡°Admittedly, our best guess is Vice-Principal Coatsworth, but so fa¡­¡±


    Ferris stopped as she realised everyone was avoiding eye contact, before grabbing her nose. ¡°Alright, what aren¡¯t you telling me?¡±


    Julia looked to the others before blurting it out. ¡°We know that Coatsworth¡¯s innocent. We questioned him, and then Rosalind, I guess, stole his car, a-¡°


    ¡°That¡¯s why he was carpooling with Seears!¡± Ferris let out, a weight having been lifted, before turning her attention to a dazed Julia. ¡°Oh, right. Well, I was starting to think it was a dead end anyway.¡±


    Ferris pointed back to Julia. ¡°But we still have one lead: Rosalind. Tracking her can lead us to the real Wicker.¡±


    Ferris noted Spence still lying beside her, before grabbing her temple. ¡°And finding Wicker might mean ending the Wailing Conflict for good¡­¡±


    ¡°W-Wait, really?¡± Julia let out, shocking the rest of the team as well, as Ferris groaned at her.


    ¡°Gods, you kids really want to get your hands dirty, huh?¡± Ferris remarked, leaning forward. ¡°Well, you¡¯re in it now. But word to the wise, keep your heads down and shut up. Let us handle this. You could barely take on one Wailing today. You¡¯re no match for Wicker.¡±


    Just as she said that, the group felt the helicopter start to land, as Spence was stirred from her rest, sitting up in a dazed state.


    ¡°Wha¡­where¡¯d the Wailing¡­¡± She mumbled, as Ferris pulled at her shoulder.


    ¡°Taken care of. Come on.¡± She said, taking her off the helicopter, before staring up at the sky. ¡°It¡¯s still surprisingly early.¡±


    The team headed off the helicopter, stretching as they hit the ground, before Ferris double-checked her empty pocket flask.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think I should accompany you kids on missions anymore.¡± Ferris admitted, noticing how empty it was and pocketing it again. ¡°Knowing my luck, you¡¯ll just keep getting hurt with me around¡­¡±


    Julia felt around the red mark on her neck, before Ferris finally took her leave, only for Wess to call out to her.


    ¡°Hey! How well did we do on our mission?¡±


    ¡°Serviceable!¡± She called out, just as Spence caught up to her, desperate to hear a recap of what she¡¯d missed.


    ¡°Huh. That was¡­decent of her.¡± Sola said, as the team had to admit that they agreed.


    ¡°So, Ferris is part of this too?¡± Harley reiterated, holding up her piece of the Wailing shell. ¡°Damn. You think you know a person.¡±


    ¡°This Rosalind person was at the attack?¡± Essex asked, getting a nod from Julia. ¡°¡­I see.¡±


    ¡°At least we know who she was now. That¡¯s quite a relief¡­¡± Wess admitted, sighing out loud.


    ¡°But we don¡¯t know who Wicker is.¡± Julia pointed out, pressing her fingers together. ¡°¡­and I¡¯m still worried it might be Faller.¡±


    ¡°Then he¡¯s our next suspect!¡± Sola declared. ¡°Ferris is cleared, so next up is Principal Faller.¡±


    ¡°He¡¯ll be harder to get a hold of. His schedule is notoriously busy.¡± Wess noted, as the team started making their way to the dorms.


    ¡°Alright then. We keep an eye out for when he¡¯s free and investigate. We¡¯ll see if he knows anything about ¡®Wicker,¡¯ whether that¡¯s him or not.¡± Julia assured, pumping her fist. ¡°I don¡¯t know about you guys¡­but I¡¯m kind of excited.¡±


    ¡°Me too!¡± Harley cheered, picking her up and putting her on her shoulders, as Julia asked to be put down, getting a hearty laugh out of the whole team.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Atchoo!¡±


    Rosalind scratched at her nose, trying not to let it drip, as she noticed Jules passing her room.


    ¡°Hey, hey.¡± She called out. ¡°I just sneezed. You reckon someone¡¯s talking about me?¡±


    Jules just rolled her eyes and carried on, as Rosalind sat back on her couch, staring at her newly replaced TV, before a piece on the last academy attack came up, now reflecting on what it meant with a few months¡¯ hindsight.


    Rosalind groaned as the same report with Team Valiant came up on the screen, showing them off proudly, as she recalled the verbal berating Wicker had given her over their¡­


    ¡­over her screw up.


    ¡°¡­never again¡­¡±


    She picked up her sword, before thrusting it into the new TV and breaking it a new, then heading out into the hall to clear her head.


    ¡°¡­never¡­again¡­¡±

 Chapter 25: Summer & Lightning

    ¡°Again!¡±


    ¡°Hyah!¡±


    ¡°Again!¡±


    ¡°Huff¡­hyah!¡±


    ¡°Again!¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°I said again!¡±


    ¡°I¡­can¡¯t do it that fast!¡± Sola complained.


    ¡°Yes, you can. I saw you do it back in Kaju.¡± Ferris pointed out.


    ¡°I only did it twice then!...you want me to do it, like, five times!¡±


    ¡°Alright, I guess you WANT the Wailing to kill you!¡± Ferris shot back, as her and Sola kept complaining in front of the rest of the class.


    ¡°This is just last year¡¯s Whil App class all over again.¡± One student pointed out, getting agreement from the other students.


    Julia watched on as Sola and Ferris continued their shouting match, before turning to Essex. ¡°I know we proved Ferris''s innocence, but she can still be a real pill.¡±


    ¡°I would agree.¡± Essex said, wondering if she should intervene. ¡°She is a horrid teacher.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re saying you can¡¯t do it?¡± Ferris asked, stamping her foot.


    ¡°Yes!¡± Sola shouted back. ¡°I get too tired and then I can¡¯t think straight!¡±


    ¡°Clearly. Your Whil¡¯s too powerful for you.¡± Ferris acknowledged, indicating to Sola¡¯s small stature. ¡°The fact that it hasn¡¯t torn you up from the inside is remarkable.¡±


    ¡°Then train me better!¡± Sola yelled back. ¡°I don¡¯t want it to tear me up!¡±


    Ferris grabbed her forehead, before pointing back at the training posts. ¡°Alright then. Fire on my mark.¡±


    Sola groaned, trying her best to lift her arms again, as the weight of her exhaustion and arm-cannons pulled them back down. She stood up straight, aiming both her cannons forward and building up a bit of electricity, before a small beam of light grazed the training posts, not even leaving a mark.


    Ferris watched as Sola struggled to fire again, before sighing out and turning to the rest of the class. ¡°What a shocker¡­Team Crater, get up here.¡±


    Sola pouted at Ferris¡¯ immediate dismissal, before storming off past the class, throwing off her arm-cannons as she trudged away.


    Julia and Essex retrieved them and tried to catch up with her, as Ferris watched on from the side, clicking her tongue.


    ¡°If she ever starts getting good with that Whil, I¡¯m gonna eat my hat.¡±


    ¡°Sola, wait!¡± Julia called, catching up to her. ¡°I can¡¯t just storm out of class like that.¡±


    ¡°I so can!¡± Sola snapped back. ¡°Especially when my teacher¡¯s¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°¡­the absolute worst!¡± Sola complained, stomping around the team¡¯s dorm room, as the rest of Team Valiant kept their distance and let her work out her frustration.


    ¡°Is this Ferris again?¡± Wess asked, sitting on Julia¡¯s bed, as Julia giving a solitary nod beside her. ¡°I swear, that Whil class sounds like a nightmare.¡±


    ¡°It is usually¡­¡± Essex said on the opposite bed, before Sola let out another frustrated groan. ¡°¡­calmer.¡±


    Harley emerged from the kitchen with a couple sandwiches she''d just finished, as Sola grabbed one angrily and took a bite.


    Harley stood by, waiting on Sola, before Sola finally swallowed and looked away.


    ¡°¡­thank you.¡±


    ¡°No prob.¡± Harley smiled, handing off some to the rest of the team. ¡°Man, Ferris is a pill.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s what I said!¡± Julia let out, grabbing her sandwich. ¡°I wish we got another teacher for our Whil App class. Getting her in both first and second-year is¡­a lot.¡±


    ¡°And it sucks!¡± Sola added, rejuvenating her frustration. ¡°How am I supposed to learn anything from her?¡±


    ¡°Well, you somewhat did last year.¡± Wess pointed out, thinking back on it. ¡°Of course, under horrible circumstances.¡±


    Sola recalled the night trapped in the Central Forest with the Gelatinous Wailing and winced, before sighing out. ¡°I just want to get better at fighting, but my Whil is all I¡¯ve got¡­¡±


    Hearing this, Harley jumped in excitement, before hopping over to Sola and grabbing her side. ¡°Well, here¡¯s an idea. What if I tutor you for a few weeks?¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Sola let out, visibly excited. ¡°You¡¯d do that?!¡±


    ¡°Yeah! I¡¯ve got some free time coming up, so I can teach you how to really fight. Who knows? Maybe you''ll get better with your Whil too.¡± Harley bragged, shrugging her shoulders. ¡°Then we can rub it in Ferris¡¯ stupid face.¡±


    ¡°Wait, hold on.¡± Julia interrupted, as Sola ignored her while thinking about training with Harley. ¡°Won¡¯t that get in the way of Sola¡¯s other training?¡±


    ¡°Not really.¡± Harley pointed out. ¡°Considering she hates her current training with Ferris. I¡¯ll just teach her useful things instead.¡±


    Harley waved her hand. ¡°I¡¯ll just show her how to throw a punch and let her build up some muscle. And if anyone can do that, it¡¯s me.¡±


    ¡°Yeah!¡± Sola cheered, jumping up and down on the spot. ¡°I¡¯m gonna learn to fight!¡±


    Harley and Sola celebrated to themselves, as Julia, Wess and Essex watched on in a mix of curiosity, paranoia, befuddlement, and doubt.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°How can I help you?¡±


    ¡°Can I get three of the posts back there?¡±


    ¡°Do you want any specific ones?¡±


    ¡°Uhh, lightning ones? Is that a¡­?¡± Harley asked, getting a nod from the Weapons Reserve attendant, as they went to retrieve the training posts for her.


    Essex waited alongside Harley, as she felt a need to fill the dead air. ¡°¡­are you not apprehensive about mentoring Sola?¡±


    Harley thought for a second, then shook her head. ¡°Not really.¡±


    ¡°But this won¡¯t be an easy task. While none of us agree with Ferris¡¯ methods, she is still a qualified educator.¡± Essex reasoned.


    ¡°But she sucks! I don¡¯t know why Faller keeps her around here, cause it¡¯s clearly not for teaching.¡± Harley pointed out. ¡°And, as far as I can see it, Sola needs help, and I can help her.¡±


    ¡°¡­that is the principal tenant of Muer,¡± Essex said. ¡°So, I understand your intention.¡±


    ¡°Muer?¡± Harley asked.


    ¡°It is the guiding philosophy for the Segaru Clan. We shed needless wants and desires and devote our lives to helping those around us.¡± Essex explained, as the attendant came back with the posts.


    Harley made a point to thank the attendant and grab two of the posts, as Essex went for the third. ¡°Huh. I guess that makes sense. That¡¯s basically what a Venator is, anyway.¡±


    ¡°¡­in a sense.¡± Essex replied, as they started heading for the training grounds. ¡°But I am appreciative that you have adopted the philosophy of Muer in your own way.¡±


    ¡°Admittedly, this is the first I¡¯m hearing about it.¡± Harley remarked, laughing a bit. ¡°And¡­to be honest, I¡¯m kinda worried about helping her with her Whil.¡±


    Harley waved her hand. ¡°Punching and stuff, that I know, but¡­apart from Wess, I¡¯m the only member without a Whil, and I don¡¯t know that much about lightning or¡­physics? I guess it¡¯d be physics¡­¡±


    The duo saw the grounds just around the edge of the forest, as Essex spotted the rest of the team waving at them. ¡°The fact that you are still inclined to help is very noble.¡±


    ¡°Oh, stop it¡­I¡¯m gonna get a big head about it.¡± Harley teased, bumping Essex¡¯s side.


    Patiently waiting on the grounds, Sola stood somewhat firmly out on the dirt, as Julia and Wess watched her from the spectator stands.


    Julia noticed a bit of apprehension in Sola¡¯s stance, as she leaned over from the stands. ¡°Everything alright, Sola?¡±


    ¡°Y-Yeah.¡± She replied. ¡°K-Kinda.¡± She added. ¡°N-No.¡± She finished.


    ¡°Are you nervous?¡±


    Sola nodded frantically. ¡°A-After I thought about it more, the worry came that I might screw up and make Harley feel bad.¡±


    ¡°Oh, this is Harley we¡¯re talking about. She has self-confidence in spades.¡± Wess argued from the stands.


    ¡°B-But still! I¡¯m her first mentee, I don¡¯t want to be a burden!¡± Sola expressed, having trouble keeping her feet still, just as Harley and Essex came into view.


    Essex dropped off the post and joined Julia and Wess up in the spectator stands, as Harley put down her posts and faced Sola proudly.


    ¡°Sola!¡±


    ¡°Y-Yeah!¡±


    ¡°Are you ready for training?¡±


    ¡°M-Maybe!¡±


    Harley laughed. ¡°Come on, let¡¯s make that a yes!¡±


    ¡°Y-Yes!¡± Sola replied, getting a thumbs up from Harley.


    ¡°I like that initiative!¡± Harley exclaimed. ¡°Now, before we get to training proper, I want to hear some personal goals from you. What do you want to get out of this training?¡±


    Sola felt a bit put on the spot but thought hard about it anyway. ¡°¡­I wanna get better at fighting! And with my Whil! I don¡¯t feel like I¡¯d be very useful in most fights, so I¡¯m gonna improve to help the team.¡±


    Sola pumped her fists. ¡°I¡¯m sick of being a glass cannon the team has to wheel around! I wanna wheel myself around!¡±


    Sola put her hands down and blushed. ¡°Did that make sense?¡±


    Harley chuckled. ¡°Yeah, that tracked. Let¡¯s start with some warm-ups.¡±


    Sola nodded along, as Harley lowered her sunglasses confidently.


    ¡°Alright.¡± She said, before darting off to the side. ¡°One lap around the training grounds!¡±


    Before Sola could comprehend it, Harley was already off down the considerable length of the trainings grounds, leaving her to try and catch up as best she could. Sola struggled to even match her speed, as the others looked on in worry.


    ¡°Harley¡¯s going to crush that poor girl.¡± Wess expressed, watching on, as Julia rummaged around in her bag.


    ¡°I believe at this rate, we will be here a while.¡± Essex realised.


    ¡°Well, while we¡¯re here, you wanna play some Bears and Twigs to pass the time?¡± Julia asked, pulling out the box for a card game, as Wess and Essex happily joined in, all while Sola was barely managing to get through.


    She¡¯d taken off her jacket, but this hadn¡¯t helped much, as her legs were already about to give out.


    ¡°Geez¡­oh man¡­I¡¯m¡­oh boy¡­¡±


    Sola noticed Harley hanging back to catch up with her, still jogging beside her.


    ¡°You¡¯ve got this! Just repeat after me! I¡¯m so awesome!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m¡­so awesome!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m so great!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m¡­real great!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m on my way!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m¡­on the ground¡­¡± Sola let out, starting to slow even more.


    ¡°Come on, there¡¯s got to be more drive in you!¡± Harley encouraged. ¡°Just a bit further!¡±


    Sola was already struggling again, as Harley sighed out and quickly picked her up, planting Sola square on her shoulders.


    ¡°Whoa!¡± Sola let out, now desperately holding on in fear, as Harley dashed around the length of the grounds.


    Harley breathed out heavily, as Sola clung on for dear life.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry¡­I¡¯ll help you¡­clear the rest of it!¡± Harley promised, visibly slowing down.


    ¡°B-But aren¡¯t you getting tired too?¡± Sola questioned aloud.


    ¡°It¡¯s¡­all about¡­pushing yourself!¡± Harley insisted, still keeping up. ¡°Even when you think you¡¯re done!¡±


    Harley managed to get back to the duo¡¯s starting point, before toppling on to the ground, fortunately letting Sola down safely before she did so.


    Sola joined her as well, her heart racing from both the race and the impromptu piggyback.


    ¡°That¡­was¡­ugh¡­¡± Sola let out, struggling to stand back up, as Harley managed to jump to her feet.


    ¡°Don¡¯t quit on me yet.¡± Harley said, quickly entering a combative pose. ¡°The real workout starts now.¡±


    ¡°Real workout?!¡± Sola complained, while Harley held up her palm.


    ¡°We¡¯re gonna be training up your punching.¡± Harley clarified. ¡°I know you¡¯re gonna be wearing cannons most of the time, but it¡¯d be irresponsible not to show you how to throw a proper punch.¡±


    Sola let out a sigh, more from exhaustion than annoyance, as she wound up her fist, lifting a leg off the ground, and took a swing.


    ¡°Ouch.¡± Harley said, ironically about how weak the punch was. ¡°Okay, first things first. Keep both feet on the ground. Remember when I taught you grounding?¡±


    Suddenly, the memory clicked of her and Harley¡¯s earlier training sessions. ¡°Oh yeah! I can do that!¡±


    Sola scooched her feet into position, as Harley turned her more to the side.


    ¡°You also don¡¯t want to face head on. You¡¯ve got the right idea about winding up, but it only works if you¡¯ve got weight behind it.¡± Harley explained, standing firmly and showing her palm again. ¡°Let¡¯s go again.¡±


    Sola breathed out and pulled her fist back, closing her eyes while she swung, before she landed her punch with a noticeably heavy impact.


    ¡°Whoa!¡± Harley said, shaking her hand. ¡°That was a big improvement.¡±


    Sola eyes lit up. ¡°Really?¡±


    Harley nodded excitedly, before posing again. ¡°Alright, let¡¯s go again! You''ve got this!¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Harley hated having to put her dad out like this.


    She was pretty used to it at this point. She¡¯d been getting into fights for most of primary school, usually over minor things, and every time, William drove her home. But not this time.


    Now it was Davidson¡¯s turn.


    ¡°This is such bullshit.¡±


    Harley felt the pang of guilt in her chest, sitting right next to Davidson in the passenger¡¯s seat, as he rested one hand on the wheel and one on his head.


    ¡°I get one day off. One day, and then I get called out of nowhere to your school for Reun knows what...¡±


    Harley clenched her fist and nearly kicked the seat out of frustration, as Davidson¡¯s own frustration started to build.


    ¡°I mean, they drag me out there, convince me you got into some kinda fight, then it turns out all you were doing was protecting other kids from bullies.¡±


    Harley opened her eyes and looked back at Davidson, still fairly pissed off.


    ¡°And do the bullies get in trouble? Do they get punished? No, just you. Some school¡­¡±


    Harley tugged on her clothes, still nervous that she was in trouble. ¡°You aren¡¯t mad at me?¡±


    ¡°No, I¡¯m not mad at you.¡± Davidson said. ¡°You were awesome.¡±


    Harley wiped her nose, before sitting up in her seat. ¡°But aren¡¯t you going to tell me hitting¡¯s wrong?¡±


    ¡°Uhh, yeah, don¡¯t hit.¡± Davidson let out, not really committing to it, as he focused mostly on the road. ¡°But it sounds like they totally deserved it.¡±


    ¡°They so did! I saw this one big guy picking on some kids, so I blocked him off like Will taught me! Then a bunch of his cronies showed up, so I held ¡®em off, and then¡­¡±


    ¡°You tripped them?¡±


    ¡°Yeah! I tripped them all!¡± Harley bragged, standing up in her seat, as Davidson pumped his fist.


    ¡°That¡¯s my girl!¡± Davidson cheered, before remembering he was the parent and clearing his throat. ¡°¡­but what it sounds like is that you kept hurting them when you should¡¯ve stopped.¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t wanna!¡± Harley expressed, folding her arms and pouting. ¡°But that¡¯s the only way they would get the message¡­¡±


    Davidson looked back at Harley, before pulling the car over to the side of the road and parking it.


    ¡°Alright, Harley, I¡¯m gonna tell you something important, so listen up.¡± Davidson prefaced.


    Harley nodded in bated interest.


    ¡°Hurting people is wrong, no doubt about it, but fighting isn¡¯t.¡± Davidson said. ¡°If you¡¯re fighting someone, and I mean really fighting them, that means you¡¯re doing it for a good reason, like defending people or standing up for something right.¡±


    ¡°Okay¡­¡± Harley thought over. ¡°So if I fight them again¡­¡±


    If you spot this tale on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.


    ¡°Well, no, that¡¯s the thing. You shouldn¡¯t go out looking for a fight. At that point, you¡¯re just as bad as the bullies.¡± Davidson reasoned. ¡°You only fight if that¡¯s your last option. A lot of problems can be solved just by talking things out.¡±


    Harley nodded along, thinking back to the bullies, as Davidson patted her head.


    ¡°You¡¯re on the right track. Keep taking care of those who need your help, okay?¡± Davidson insisted, as Harley gave an enthusiastic thumbs up.


    Davidson resettled himself, as Harley touched her fingers together. ¡°¡­the teachers are gonna get mad at me for fighting again, aren¡¯t they?¡±


    ¡°Oh yeah.¡± Davidson grinned, before leaning in. ¡°But truth be told, they stink pretty hard, so I wouldn¡¯t listen to what they have to say.¡±


    Harley giggled adorably, feeling her spirits rejuvenate, before kicking her legs back and forth, as Davidson started up the car again.


    ¡°Now, if Will asks us, this conversation never happened, okay?¡± Davidson said, as Harley mimed turning a key.


    ¡°Locked up tight!¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Sola! Sola! Stop already!¡±


    Sola finally pulled her punches, as Harley¡¯s hand was starting to get a bit red.


    ¡°Wow, you really got into that.¡± Harley remarked. ¡°My hand¡¯s starting to sting.¡±


    ¡°Oh, sorry.¡± Sola apologised. ¡°I just got really focused at some point.¡±


    Harley grinned proudly. ¡°That just means my teaching¡¯s working.¡±


    Suddenly, Harley sprinted off down the grounds again, before calling back to Sola.


    ¡°Another warm-up! One more lap of the grounds!¡±


    ¡°Come on!¡± Sola whined, still following along regardless, as the others stared back down from the stands.


    ¡°And with my Ursa Minor and Ursa Major allied¡­¡± Wess said, before noticing them doing laps again. ¡°Well, this is shaping up to be an interesting routine.¡±


    ¡°I hope Harley isn¡¯t too rough with her.¡± Julia wished. ¡°Her training can be pretty intense when it wants to be.¡±


    ¡°It seems Sola¡¯s taking to it, though.¡± Wess commented, noting Sola trying her best to keep up.


    Essex perked up, before clearing her throat. ¡°You could say she has¡­caught the train.¡±


    Julia and Wess stared at her dead-faced in response to the joke, before Wess ended up laughing at the proceeding silence instead. However, Essex considered any laugh a success and smiled, just as Harley and Sola¡¯s training was starting to pick up.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Harley¡¯s mentoring style worked surprisingly well with Sola.


    Sola was never much of a book learner, and while she did okay in school, her grades were always bordering on just not good enough.


    Harley, on the other hand, loved reading, and literature in general, but¡­her grades were about the same. This wasn¡¯t from lack of trying, and they hardly reflected how smart she could be, but they could be demoralising.


    Even so, there was an understanding the two had with each other that didn¡¯t come from their teachers or classes. Somewhat respect, somewhat shared language, somewhat¡­


    ¡°So, my Ursa Pyro, Ursa Ranger and Urssassin combine their powers¡­forming the Wild Pack.¡± Wess detailed, throwing down her cards, as Julia and Essex sat back in stunned silence. ¡°With a bear collective on my side, I can summon the Trickster Tree Spirit, a near invincible wall for my Polar Bear Tribe.¡±


    Julia gulped nervously, before leaning over to Essex and whispering. ¡°I don¡¯t have enough Honey Mana to play anything good, and I don¡¯t think either of us can take her out on our own.¡±


    ¡°Scheme all you want, your Ursafacts are as good as mine.¡± Wess remarked, casually checking her nails.


    ¡°I believe I may have a strategy, but you will need to follow my lead.¡± Essex said, getting ready for her turn, as Wess addressed her.


    ¡°How goes the Black Bear Tribe these days, Essex?¡± Wess rhetorically asked, as Essex cleared her throat before answering.


    ¡°Wouldn¡¯t you like to know.¡± She stated plainly, before playing her hand. ¡°First, I shall play the Honeypot card, drawing your Ursa Pyro to my side of the field.¡±


    ¡°Great. That will just save me a turn of moving.¡± Wess pointed out, smiling wickedly. ¡°Your demise is inevitable.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t like her when she¡¯s like this.¡± Julia let out, as Essex continued.


    ¡°Next, I will play the Ent Hunter, killing any bears on my side of the field.¡± Essex said, discarding the Ursa Pyro, as Wess only just began to sweat. ¡°With the Pyro disposed of, your Wild Pack disbands, dissipating your Trickster Tree Spirit, but not before I revive your trickster and turn it to my side.¡±


    Essex placed another card down, as Wess tried to maintain her composure.


    ¡°Finally...I move my farmer.¡± Essex stated, throwing Wess off with how mundane it was, as she still reeled from having lost her best creature so soon after getting it.


    Julia touched her fingers together. ¡°Uhh¡­since your¡­Ursafact is unguarded¡­¡± Julia nervously said, playing her turn. ¡°I move my¡­Cub Scout in and take it for the Grizzly Bear Tribe¡­knocking you out of the game.¡±


    Wess stayed silent, sitting and looking over the cards on display, before she got up off the floor and headed to the kitchen.


    ¡°I¡¯m going to get myself a drink.¡±


    ¡°Come on, Wess, don¡¯t get pouty.¡± Julia insisted, as Wess raised a finger.


    ¡°I¡¯m not pouty. I¡¯m just getting a drink. No need to look into that more than you have to.¡± Wess played off, with a noticeable tightness in her hand, before Essex leaned over to Julia.


    ¡°Should we continue this game?¡± Essex whispered.


    ¡°Probably best¡­¡± Julia said, readying her turn again, just as Harley burst through the dorm door, rushing over to the fridge, pushing Wess aside and grabbing out a bottle of water.


    ¡°Harley, you¡¯re a wild animal.¡± Wess expressed, Harley choosing to ignore her.


    ¡°Sorry, but I need to stay hydrated.¡± Harley exclaimed, pouring the water on her face. ¡°Sola¡¯s so full of energy! She¡¯s like a little firecracker!¡±


    ¡°So, training¡¯s going well?¡± Julia asked, with Harley nodding back emphatically.


    ¡°Yeah! I get to teach her stuff and she, like, actually listens! I¡¯m almost never the smartest person in the room, but she really wants to hear what I have to say.¡± Harley grinned, chucking the bottle back in the fridge and heading back out the door. ¡°I¡¯ve got to keep up the momentum! Don¡¯t wait up!¡±


    Harley slammed the door excitedly, leaving the others stunned where they were, as Essex decided to speak up.


    ¡°She seems to be excited about mentoring Sola.¡± Essex said.


    ¡°To be fair, it makes sense.¡± Wess replied, taking a sip of her drink. ¡°Sola felt unheard being taught by Ferris, but now Harley hears her out, and vice versa.¡±


    ¡°And they both get along already, so that probably helps them in training.¡± Julia reasoned, as the idea connected for Essex.


    ¡°Could this be considered passion?¡± Essex asked, as Julia looked a bit embarrassed.


    ¡°Well, yeah, there¡¯s certainly passion behind it.¡± Julia admitted. ¡°Passion¡¯s a good motivator, after all.¡±


    ¡°Most of the great artists in the world wouldn¡¯t create without passion.¡± Wess added, joining them on the floor again. ¡°Scientists have a passion for the world, hairdressers with hair, et cetera.¡±


    ¡°But¡­I dunno, I think it¡¯s more respect.¡± Julia confessed. ¡°Sola respects Harley enough to let her teach her, and Harley respects Sola enough not to waste her time. They both have plenty to gain out of this.¡±


    Essex nodded along, thinking over what that kind of relationship meant to her, as Wess chimed in.


    ¡°Of course, we can only hope that this will funnel itself into useful training.¡± Wess pointed out. ¡°Worst case scenario, they¡¯re just goofing off while we''re not around.¡±


    ¡°I do not believe they would.¡± Essex argued. ¡°If they are truly passionate about this, they would not waste this opportunity, even for a moment.¡±


    As Harley hurried back down to the grounds, she noticed Sola near their rest spot, strapping on her arm-cannons while she¡¯d been out, as Harley cocked her head in response.


    ¡°It¡¯s gonna be kinda hard to punch with those things on.¡±


    Sola turned to her excitedly. ¡°I thought we could start doing Whil training now. All this punching and grounding is good, but I still wanna get better with my Whil.¡±


    Harley sweated nervously, as she tried to maintain some backbone. ¡°B-But we don¡¯t need to jump to that right now. Y-You¡¯ve got all the time in the world to work on that.¡±


    Sola noticed Harley¡¯s jittering and squinted. ¡°Are you okay?¡±


    ¡°Yeah! O-Of course I¡­¡± Harley tried, before sitting on the ground after remembering Sola wasn¡¯t that dumb. ¡°¡­no, you got me.¡±


    Harley played with her fingers, as Sola stood by her. ¡°I-I¡¯ve been deliberately putting off Whil training with you¡­c-cause¡­¡±


    Sola blinked. ¡°Cause you don¡¯t have one?¡±


    ¡°Well, yeah!¡± Harley let out. ¡°With fighting, I could actually teach you things! But I don¡¯t know this stuff. How am I gonna help you if I can¡¯t even¡­¡±


    Harley gave up and slumped over, avoiding looking at Sola, as Sola reached over and grabbed her shoulder.


    ¡°Hey, it¡¯s okay. You don¡¯t need a Whil as well to be a great teacher. Heck, Ferris has one and she¡¯s terrible.¡± Sola assured. ¡°You¡¯ve helped me this far. You¡¯re on the right track.¡±


    Harley looked back up at her, as Sola gave her a warm smile.


    ¡°We¡¯re both learning together, aren¡¯t we?¡±


    Harley managed to nod back, before Sola helped her to her feet and pointed at her with her cannon.


    ¡°Now, come on, teach! Work your magic!¡± Sola exclaimed, giggling to herself and getting into position with her arm-cannons out. ¡°You got this!¡±


    Harley watched as Sola hyped both of them up, still worrying that she couldn¡¯t keep up with her, as she breathed to herself to calm down.


    ¡°Come one, brain, help me out here¡­¡± Harley demanded to herself, tapping her forehead.


    She looked over Sola¡¯s form again and noticed her already struggling with the cannons, as she fell back on what she knew.


    ¡°Alright, how about trying to ground yourself, like with the punching.¡± Harley suggested, as Sola tried to plant her feet. ¡°And¡­what¡¯s your biggest problem with the cannons?¡±


    ¡°Well, I can only fire them a few times, then I get really tired.¡± Sola explained. ¡°And then I become totally useless.¡±


    ¡°Endurance, huh? Shit, that¡¯s Essex¡¯s thing¡­¡± Harley mumbled, before shaking her head. ¡°No, you¡¯ve got this¡­¡±


    Harley glanced back at Sola and cocked her head. ¡°Do you always shoot with both cannons at once?¡±


    ¡°Yeah? That¡¯s how I fire my Whil without them too.¡± Sola said, lowering her arms. ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°Well, what if you only fire with one at a time? That way, you get less tired and can charge up the other one while the other¡¯s shooting.¡±


    Sola¡¯s eyes lit up. ¡°Hey, yeah! That¡¯s a great idea!¡± Sola said, grounding herself again, before perking up and turning to Harley. ¡°And, and, what if I hold up the cannon that¡¯s firing with the arm that¡¯s charging? Then I can aim better and switch a lot quicker!¡±


    Harley chuckled. ¡°Go ahead. There¡¯s no harm in trying.¡±


    Sola planted her feet on the ground and aimed back at the training post, before holding up her right cannon, while using her left arm to hold it up and aim. She charged up the cannon, building up light in the barrel, before firing a clean blast at the post, then another, and another, as the exhaustion caught up to her.


    As she landed her fourth shot, she started charging her left cannon, then changed them around to start firing with the left, as shot, after shot, after shot, kept hitting.


    She managed one last blast with the left, before lifting up her right again and finishing it off with one last clean hit.


    As Sola stood back and watched her handiwork, Harley came up from behind and swept her up in a joyous embrace.


    ¡°Sola, you badass! That was, like, nine times!¡±


    ¡°I did it! I totally did it!¡± Sola cheered.


    ¡°You¡¯re so awesome!¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re so awesome!¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re so great!¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re on our way!¡±


    Harley let Sola down, and found herself a little dizzy, as Sola jumped around happily.


    ¡°I¡¯m gonna set up a few more posts and try again!¡± Sola exclaimed, getting a high-five from Harley with the cannon.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go for ten this time!¡± Harley cheered, watching as Sola propped up a few more posts, before taking aim again.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Sola hated having to leave the house.


    School wasn¡¯t very fun, and she never had anywhere she wanted to go. And whenever she did leave, it was so her parents could drive her somewhere important.


    ¡°Hey mum?¡±


    ¡°Yeah?¡±


    ¡°What¡¯re we doing here?¡±


    Maxine sighed out, as she pulled into the recreation centre parking. ¡°You¡¯re taking those shock treatment classes, remember?¡±


    ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°Exactly. That¡¯s why I drove you here.¡± Maxine reasoned, locking the car as they headed for the entrance. ¡°And that way, you wouldn¡¯t worm your way out of it.¡±


    ¡°But I don¡¯t even get a say in this!¡± Sola complained, stamping her foot.


    ¡°Damn right you don¡¯t. I¡¯m not letting whatever poor Venator saps you get stuck with get hurt just because I didn¡¯t do my job right.¡± Maxine insisted, opening the front door and reaching the front desk. ¡°You¡¯ll thank me later.¡±


    ¡°Can I help you?¡± The clerk asked.


    ¡°Yeah, she has a shock treatment class here.¡± Maxine said, as the clerk tapped a couple things into her computer.


    ¡°May I ask how old she is?¡±


    ¡°Thirteen.¡± Maxine replied, idly watching as Sola distracted herself.


    ¡°And reason for attending?¡±


    ¡°Uhh, Whil development? Is that a¡­¡± Maxine asked, as the clerk nodded back and handed Maxine a few forms.


    ¡°Just fill these out and head through the door down the hall.¡± The clerk said, as Maxine took the sheets and sat down with Sola, watching as she kicked her legs back and forth.


    Maxine dutifully filled out each option, before finding one she unfortunately couldn¡¯t answer and tapping Sola¡¯s shoulder.


    ¡°Hey, uhh, quick question.¡± Maxine prefaced. ¡°When¡¯s your¡­birthday?¡±


    ¡°December 22<sup>nd</sup>.¡± Sola replied, before realising what that implied. ¡°Hey!¡±


    ¡°Sorry!¡± Maxine quickly apologised. ¡°You can hardly blame me. I wasn¡¯t there for eight of them, after all.¡±


    Sola pouted in her seat, as Maxine finished up the forms, before getting out of her seat.


    ¡°Alright, that should do it.¡± Maxine said to herself, before realising Sola hadn¡¯t followed her, and was now standing shakily just out of eyeshot of the shock treatment classroom.


    Maxine walked back over and crouched down. ¡°Alright, what¡¯s up?¡±


    ¡°I-I¡¯m gonna screw it up!!!¡± Sola yelled a little too loudly, getting the rest of the room¡¯s attention, as Maxine tried to quiet her.


    ¡°Hey, calm down. Why¡¯re you gonna screw up?¡±


    ¡°C-Cause I¡¯m not good with this type of stuff, and I might accidentally hurt someone in there¡­¡± Sola pointed out, as Maxine tried to make out her expression.


    ¡°So? You¡¯re one of the most creative people I know, even for a teenager.¡± Maxine explained. ¡°And, sure, it took some convincing, but you¡¯re here, and you¡¯re worried about people. That shows a lot of maturity.¡±


    ¡°B-But it isn¡¯t mature to be scared¡­¡± Sola let out, as Maxine laughed.


    ¡°Yeah, it is! That means you know what could go wrong.¡± Maxine said. ¡°Who cares if you screw up? Life¡¯s more interesting when things go wrong anyway.¡±


    Sola still looked unconvinced, as Maxine sighed out and got back up, looking at the classroom.


    ¡°Okay, here¡¯s a better idea. Imagine there¡¯s a cute girl in there.¡± Maxine suggested, peaking Sola¡¯s interest. ¡°Like, a really cute one.¡±


    ¡°Is she blonde?¡± Sola asked suddenly, as Maxine gave a noncommittal shrug.


    ¡°Uhh, sure, why not.¡± Maxine said.


    ¡°I don¡¯t see any in there.¡± Sola pointed out, looking inside the class, as Maxine rolled her eyes.


    ¡°She¡¯ll probably show up later.¡± Maxine insisted, before crouching again. ¡°At least this way, you¡¯ll have someone you want to impress in there.¡±


    Sola nodded along surely. ¡°Okay¡­but even if I screw up, I¡¯m gonna make sure to impress you too.¡±


    She took a deep breath and walked to the class, before turning back around and hugging Maxine, then heading inside proper, as Maxine found that her cheeks had flushed.


    Maxine reached into her pocket and fished around for her tablet, making a call.


    ¡°¡­hello? Wayne? Yeah, I just dropped her off¡­she seemed good. She needed a bit of convincing, though¡­well, that makes sense. I hate to say it, but I think we might be good parents¡­yes, both of us¡­I¡¯m sorry, who drove her here?...exactly.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Again!¡±


    ¡°Hah!¡±


    ¡°Again!¡±


    ¡°Hyah!¡±


    ¡°Nice! That was thirteen!¡±


    ¡°¡­woo!¡± Sola cheered, struggling to catch her breath, as Harley noticed the sun starting to set.


    ¡°Alright, I¡¯m calling it, we¡¯re so done for today¡­¡± Harley let out, collapsing to the ground, as Sola quickly joined her. ¡°What a day¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m so tired. My hands feel like jelly¡­¡± Sola sympathised.


    ¡°Stop, you¡¯ll make me think about food.¡± Harley groaned, only for Sola to join her.


    ¡°Dammit, now I am too.¡± Sola said, causing Harley to laugh.


    ¡°We¡¯re just a couple of idiots making each other hungry, huh?¡±


    Sola smiled. ¡°At least we¡¯re hungry together.¡±


    Harley noticed the sky changing colour and laughed a little. ¡°You¡¯ve improved to an insane degree. I¡¯m really proud of you.¡±


    Sola tried to look humble. ¡°Thanks. But it was a team effort¡­¡±


    ¡°Wha-hey, the others barely helped at all!¡± Harley joked, getting a laugh out of Sola.


    ¡°I meant us!¡± Sola corrected, knocking her head into Harley¡¯s shoulder. ¡°Stop being a doofus.¡±


    Sola stared up at the sky as well and sighed out. ¡°It feels so weird.¡±


    ¡°What does?¡±


    ¡°Just, being here. I had no idea what I wanted to do when I got here.¡± Sola admitted, standing back up. ¡°But now, I dunno, I actually feel motivated, and I can kinda control my Whil.¡±


    Harley chuckled. ¡°It sounds like you¡¯ve got some direction now.¡±


    ¡°Yeah! Direction!¡± Sola agreed, pointing frantically. ¡°I wanna help people! I want to keep getting better and better at what I can and use that for whoever I can!¡±


    ¡°And beat up some Wailing along the way.¡± Harley said, as Sola sat back down, nodding.


    ¡°That too.¡± Sola said, settling back down. ¡°If I can do that with you guys, then I think I¡¯ll be set.¡±


    ¡°I think I know why you wanted to become a Venator now.¡± Harley said, nudging her shoulder. ¡°So that we could be a team.¡±


    Sola blushed and nodded, as Harley felt a gentle chill running through the air, now regretting her choice of tank top.


    Sola quickly noticed and undid her jacket, wrapping it around them both.


    ¡°Thanks.¡± Harley let out, bundling up to it. ¡°You know, I used to say the same stuff.¡±


    Sola turned to Harley in shock. ¡°When?¡±


    ¡°It was¡­a while ago.¡± Harley admitted. ¡°Back in primary school, I used to get into a bunch of fights with bullies. They kept picking on the little kids, an-¡°


    ¡°You used to fight off bullies? That¡¯s so cool!¡± Sola cheered, vibrating excitedly, as Harley looked away, her face turning crimson.


    ¡°It¡¯s not that cool¡­¡± Harley murmured. ¡°It put my dad¡¯s out a lot¡­¡±


    She turned back to Sola. ¡°Anyway, the bullies kept getting tougher, so I had to get tougher to compensate. Eventually, I decided to become a Venator so I could keep fighting the good fight, but now with Wailing instead of loudmouth kids.¡±


    Sola stared at Harley in admiration, before leaving her head on Harley¡¯s side, resting as the night grew colder.


    ¡°Hey, Harley?¡±


    ¡°Yeah?¡±


    ¡°You reckon we¡¯ll ever do anything big?¡±


    ¡°Big?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I mean more than just be Venators.¡±


    Harley smirked. ¡°What, like end the Wailing Conflict? Inspire some great social change?¡±


    ¡°It could happen.¡± Sola said, staring up at the night sky. ¡°We¡¯d probably need a few more people, though. I don¡¯t think five of us are going to cut it.¡±


    Harley wrapped an arm around Sola. ¡°I bet every team leaves the academy thinking they¡¯ll be the ones to end it. I mean, that¡¯s probably what Team Ballistic thought¡­¡±


    ¡°Yeah¡­¡± Sola agreed, briefly remembering the Tragedy of Team Ballistic. ¡°But we¡¯ll be careful about it.¡±


    Harley found herself laughing again. ¡°Let¡¯s just work on Whil training first.¡±


    ¡°Okay¡­¡± Sola said, leaning into Harley, appreciating the sunset¡¯s gradient with her, just as Julia arrived with a couple plates of food, before the cold hit her immediately.


    ¡°Hey, brought you guys dinn-oh, jeez, that¡¯s smarts.¡± She let out, dropping off the plates. ¡°Are you coming back inside soon?¡±


    ¡°Nah, I think we¡¯ll stay out here for a bit longer.¡± Harley said, letting Sola rest on her. ¡°We won¡¯t be too long.¡±


    ¡°Okay. Have fun, you two.¡± Julia wished, waving them off, leaving the duo to appreciate each other¡¯s company, huddled together under the night sky.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    And just like that, a few weeks had already passed them by. It hadn¡¯t felt very long, save for the few classes Sola still had to attend with Ferris, but she was always secure in the knowledge that training with Harley was just after, and that she could learn how to fight for real.


    But of course, the mentoring was never meant to be a permanent thing. The team would usually train together, but Harley and Sola¡¯s one-on-one sessions couldn¡¯t afford to take up as much time as they had.


    Sola jumped back, flexing her cannons to her side, as Harley lifted up her Buster Knuckles again, ready to continue sparring.


    ¡°Remember, your cannons can take a hit. I know it¡¯ll feel weird but blocking with them will be much better than getting hit yourself.¡± Harley advised, as she noticed Sola seemed a bit out of it. ¡°Something got you up?¡±


    Sola lowered her cannons. ¡°¡­it¡¯s just¡­we¡¯re finishing training soon, and¡­I wanna do something big!¡±


    ¡°Big?¡± Harley asked.


    ¡°Yeah! We¡¯ve made a ton of progress, but it¡¯d feel weird to end it without something to celebrate.¡± Sola reasoned.


    Harley grinned along happily. ¡°Celebrate, huh? Luckily, you¡¯re with the resident party girl here. I¡¯ll think of¡­¡±


    Harley glanced around them, looking for some kind of inspiration, and almost coming up short, before spotting the large, pointed figure jutting out from in between the boxy skyscrapers of the academy.


    ¡°There.¡± Harley said, pointing right at it. ¡°We¡¯ll finish it there.¡±


    Sola gulped. ¡°Th-The Academy Spire?¡±


    ¡°Why not? No one really goes there anyway.¡± Harley mentioned. ¡°One last sparring match to end off our mentoring.¡±


    Sola struggled to build the confidence to say yes, before looking back at Harley, feeling rejuvenation just by sharing a glance with her, and pumping her fists inside her cannons.


    ¡°L-Let¡¯s do it.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s a yes!¡± Harley exclaimed, bolting down to the Spire, as Sola frantically followed behind.


    Sola paced herself as she caught up, and was now standing next to Harley, staring up at the massive marble spike pointing right at the sky.


    Harley whistled. ¡°Never get tired of seeing this.¡±


    She stepped inside, careful to look around the hollow interior for anyone else that might be there, and fortunately found that the cost was clear.


    ¡°All good. We shouldn¡¯t bother anyone.¡± Harley remarked, as Sola just caught it.


    ¡°I thought you said no one comes here.¡±


    Harley tried not to break a sweat. ¡°W-Well, I j-just wanted to be sure.¡±


    She gave a very fake sounding laugh, as Sola decided not to press her anymore.


    Sola looked around at the empty, circular interior curiously. ¡°So, are we going to spar here?¡±


    ¡°Well, technically.¡± Harley played off. ¡°But¡­I kinda lied¡­this won¡¯t just be a sparring match.¡±


    Sola looked confused, as Harley stood atop the first few steps of the stairs running up the inside of the Spire.


    ¡°This is also gonna be a race!¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    Harley pointed back at Sola. ¡°You have to stop me from getting to the top of the Spire!¡±


    ¡°Wha?¡±


    ¡°This will be your final challenge, Sola Lusagi!¡±


    ¡°Uhh?¡±


    ¡°Ready, set, go!!!¡± Harley announced, already bolting up the staircase, as Sola frantically got into action, doing her best to follow up behind her.


    Harley¡¯s powerful muscles were already carrying her most of the way. She managed to make it a fair distance, out speeding Sola handling due to her well-defined physique, before the exhaustion of sprinting upstairs really started to hit her, causing her to struggle for a bit.


    Meanwhile, Sola was still focused on closing the distance, having already ditched her jacket at the bottom of the stairs. Unfortunately, her cannons were starting to weigh her down, making the already difficult climb even harder.


    After regaining her breath, Harley carried on up the stairs, already making it a quarter of the way there, while she looked back at Sola further down and waved.


    ¡°Serves you right for trying to best me! You could never win!¡± Harley yelled, hurrying back up, before feeling bad about the comment. ¡°I don¡¯t actually mean that, I¡¯m just being a douche to spur you on!¡±


    Sola groaned, the staircase seeming endless to her, as she debated ditching her cannons to try and catch up, before she looked at them and an idea came across her mind.


    Harley was fast approaching the halfway point, feeling that she¡¯d need another break soon enough, only to hear weird noises coming from further down the Spire, causing her to peer over the spiralling stairs.


    She noticed Sola, now propelling herself upwards with blasts from her cannons, bounding up several steps at a time from the force of each shot, which was enough for Harley to freak out and really pick up her game.


    Just as Harley hit the halfway point, Sola was quickly approaching, just about ready to pass her, before feeling fatigue from using her Whil so much.


    She lay down on a few steps, as Harley sat by one of the steps, both panting and tired.


    ¡°Pretty¡­impressive.¡± Harley managed.


    ¡°¡­thanks.¡± Sola replied, focusing on breathing.


    ¡°How¡¯d¡­you think of that?¡± Harley asked, as Sola closed her eyes.


    ¡°Well¡­I thought I could do¡­what I did back in Kaju¡­but¡­obviously witho-¡°


    ¡°See ya!¡± Harley let out, shocking Sola suddenly, as she opened her eyes and noticed Harley now clearing her way upward, taking advantage of Sola¡¯s tiredness.


    Sola quickly hurried back to her feet, already struggling to stand, before really pushing herself to keep going up and follow Harley, just as Harley only had a quarter of the way to go.


    ¡°Oh boy¡­I shouldn¡¯t have gotten up that fast¡­¡± Harley admitted, only to ignore her exhaustion as she noticed Sola leaping up to her and hurry up, finally spotting the viewing platform at the top of the Spire.


    Sola noticed the light coming from it too, as Harley frantically sprinted up the last few steps, ready to claim her victory.


    She turned back to Sola excitedly, pumping her fists in the air as she sprinted. ¡°A well-fought victory! I hate to say it, but this¡¯ll have to mark the end of ou-¡°


    In her excitement and distraction, Harley hadn¡¯t realised just how fast she was going, and how much the viewing platform levelled out compared to the staircase. The realisation only hit as the safety rail that was supposed to keep people from falling suddenly collided with Harley¡¯s stomach, and the rest of her body started to carry itself over the rail, now suddenly dropping over the edge of the Spire.


    Once Sola had finally caught her way up, she was just in time to watch Harley collide with the railing and start to fall.


    ¡°Harley!!!¡± She cried, as her instincts kicked in, bolting over to catch her as she threw off one of her cannons.


    It clattered to the floor, just as she managed to grab Harley with her free hand. Harley¡¯s look was one of terrified desperation, as Sola tried her best to pull her up, but just couldn¡¯t manage.


    Not determined to give up, she grounded her foot against the railing and pointed her remaining cannon out toward the sky, before blasting it at full force to push them both back up onto the platform.


    Due to Sola¡¯s efforts, Harley was able to grab onto the railing with her other arm, before pulling herself up and tumbling over with Sola due to the momentum of her cannon blast.


    It took them both a second, before they could acknowledge that they were safe, as Harley found her heart beating intensely, and Sola was only now feeling the pain in her right hand.


    Tentatively, Sola placed her hands on Harley¡¯s cheeks.


    ¡°Are you¡­¡±


    Harley nodded, letting Sola feel some relief, as the sun started to set just beside them.


    ¡°I-I¡­I was really¡­¡± Sola let out, as Harley held her hand reassuringly.


    ¡°Yeah¡­I shouldn¡¯t have¡­¡± Harley panted. ¡°I think¡­I¡­¡±


    Harley only now realised that she¡¯d fallen backward, and that Sola was propped up above her, holding herself up above Harley¡¯s legs, as Harley leaned back, sharing a glance with Sola in the sudden and wild moment.


    The sunset lit both of their faces, bathing them in a gentle evening glow, as they felt a real warmth they hadn¡¯t felt in however long.


    After the panic and worry of the fall had worn off, Sola felt herself compelled to act, compelled to close the distance and slowly crawl forward, as Harley sat up to help, her heart still racing after everything that had transpired.


    Sola¡¯s other hand slipped onto Harley¡¯s, as both of them let it happen, both waiting until Harley was properly up, and Sola was now above Harley¡¯s body, the distance only shrinking as time went on.


    The sun continued to compliment the moment, as the distance between them became less and less of a factor, but the warmth continued to grow, culminating in something special.


    And then, it happened.


    It was brief.


    It was the beginning of everything, and yet, at the time, it felt so innocuous.


    They kissed, holding it for however long it felt right, before breaking it, letting each other breathe heavily and process what had just happened.


    ¡°So¡­¡± Harley let out, still trying to collect herself. ¡°I guess this is happening.¡±


    ¡°Yeah¡­¡± Sola agreed, thinking things over again, as the sunset truly made itself known, glinting off of Harley¡¯s sunglasses and Sola¡¯s eyes.


    Neither could say what would come of this, or how things would work themselves out after everything had taken its course.


    But one thing was for certain.


    The sunset was truly lovely that night.

 Chapter 26: Right and WRNG!

    ¡°One¡­¡±


    ¡°Two¡­¡±


    ¡°Three!¡±


    ¡°Aw, dammit!¡± The guard yelled, throwing down his cards. ¡°Every god damn time, Devon¡­¡±


    ¡°Hey, don¡¯t get upset. You dealt the cards.¡± Devon said.


    ¡°That deck was rigged. Nothing about that game was fair.¡± The guard pointed out, standing back up. ¡°You screwed with it somehow.¡±


    Devon moped, as he stood up and leaned on the bars to his cell. ¡°Aww, don¡¯t be mean. I may be a charmer, and very good with my hands, but I don¡¯t cheat at cards.¡±


    Devon shrugged playfully. ¡°You¡¯re just lucky I don¡¯t have any money to bet.¡±


    ¡°You could always steal some of mine.¡± The guard retorted, frustrating Devon. ¡°That might just put you behind for another twenty years, huh?¡±


    ¡°You misheard. The judge said twenty minutes. I¡¯ve been held here far too long.¡± Devon remarked, as the guard started to lose interest.


    ¡°You¡¯re a riot.¡± He said, before walking off to continue his night shift.


    ¡°If you want to let me out, we could play slaps instead.¡± Devon encouraged, sticking his hands through the bars, and getting little reaction.


    The guard continued on.


    ¡°Hey, come on, I know you¡¯re bored too. Don¡¯t leave me so lonely.¡± Devon insisted, waving through the bars. ¡°One more hand. If you want, I can let you win.¡±


    The guard turned around, before groaning and sitting back down. ¡°It¡¯s no fun if you hand me the victory.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s no fun if you keep losing either.¡± Devon reasoned, dealing another few cards. ¡°¡­are you folding?¡±


    ¡°No¡­I¡¯m good with this.¡± The guard said, as Devon briefly glanced at his, before nodding. ¡°Okay. On the count of three.¡±


    ¡°One¡­¡±


    ¡°Two¡­¡±


    ¡°Thr-¡°


    BOOOOOOMMM!!!!!


    Just as they threw their hands down, the back of Devon¡¯s cell flew open with a large explosion, with the cell now exposed to the elements.


    It took a second for the rubble and smoke to settle, momentarily panicking Devon, before he spotted the silhouette of someone he recognised and was quickly assured of what was happening.


    Before the guard had time to comprehend what was going on, Devon reached through the bars again, grabbed the guard¡¯s collar, and banged his head into the cell¡¯s bars, knocking him unconscious.


    ¡°Devon!¡± Cried the voice behind him.


    Devon turned around with his arms out. ¡°Alani!¡±


    Alani ran into his arms and hugged him, before staring back down at him. ¡°Oh, my poor, sweet Devon, what have they done to you?¡±


    ¡°I know. They¡¯re standard issue here.¡± Devon complained, glancing down at his prisoner¡¯s outfit.


    ¡°Well, lucky for you¡­¡± Alani said, fishing around in a bag that she¡¯d brought, before pulling out a change of clothes.


    ¡°Oh, you¡¯re an angel.¡± Devon said sweetly, quickly changing his outfit. ¡°You truly think of everything.¡±


    ¡°Well, to be fair, not everything.¡± Alani admitted. ¡°I don¡¯t have much of an escape in mind.¡±


    Devon grabbed his watch and strapped it back on, before polishing it up. ¡°Well, let¡¯s just go out the quickest way we can.¡±


    ¡°Oh, better yet, what if we don¡¯t do that?¡± Alani suggested. ¡°Let¡¯s really make a meal of it.¡±


    ¡°I just love the way you think.¡± Devon said, grabbing Alani¡¯s hand, right as the rest of the prison guards started making their way to the cell. ¡°And don¡¯t you worry, I¡¯ve already got an idea of where we can go first.¡±


    Devon held up his hand. ¡°On three?¡±


    Alani and Devon stood on the edge of the exploded back of the cell, before swinging their linked arms back and forth.


    ¡°One¡­¡±


    ¡°Two¡­¡±


    ¡°Three!¡± They cried, before jumping off the edge, just as the guards managed to get into the cell, seconds away from having caught them again.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    The Flash-Rail bumped along the tracks to Detu City at high speed, as all of Team Valiant were now dead silent in their seats due to the recent news.


    ¡°¡­guys?¡±


    No one budged.


    ¡°Guys?¡± Harley asked, looking to Sola for support. ¡°Are you gonna say anything about it?¡±


    Julia, Wess and Essex were still reeling, before Sola leaned forward and snapped her fingers.


    ¡°Hey!¡± She yelled, as Wess jumped in her seat.


    ¡°Goodness, I heard you, I just needed a minute.¡± Wess admitted. ¡°This is¡­a lot to take in¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­I will agree.¡± Essex added, spinning her scythe handle in her hands idly. ¡°I do not know how to react to this.¡±


    ¡°You guys¡­¡± Julia finally managed to say, before jumping forward from her seat and grabbing Harley and Sola into a hug. ¡°I¡¯m so happy for you!¡±


    ¡°Finally, THANK YOU Julia.¡± Harley drew out, as Wess and Essex sat at attention.


    ¡°Harley, Sola, I¡¯m incredibly glad for you.¡± Wess finally said, her hand to her chest. ¡°May Lelvow smile upon you with warmth and love.¡±


    ¡°A-As am I. My apologies for not congratulating you sooner.¡± Essex said, bowing in her seat. ¡°If you are in need of anything in order for your relationship to flourish, you need only ask.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s¡­it¡¯s just¡­¡± Julia said, sniffling to herself, before sitting back down. ¡°It¡¯s so lovely, and sweet, and I didn¡¯t even, but now, and I¡­I just¡­¡±


    Julia started to tear up. ¡°I hope I have what you guys have someday¡­¡±


    Julia tried to wipe at her eyes with her sleeves, as Wess rolled hers. ¡°Oh, look at you. You¡¯re a mess.¡± Wess commented, grabbing out her handkerchief to help Julia clean herself up, as Harley blushed a little.


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to treat it like this big thing¡­¡± Harley insisted. ¡°I mean, it only really started yesterday¡­¡±


    ¡°Yeah. We¡¯re still figuring stuff out.¡± Sola explained, going to grab Harley¡¯s hand. ¡°But we¡¯ll keep you in the loop.¡±


    ¡°I should hope so. Venators in relationships are nothing to scoff at.¡± Wess reasoned, before staring out the window. ¡°But for now, let¡¯s just enjoy some shopping in Detu City.¡±


    The team chatted amongst themselves as the Flash-Rail carried on, before Sola spoke up.


    ¡°Hey, uhh, can I borrow some money from you guys?¡± She asked sheepishly. ¡°I have some shopping plans, but I¡¯m a little low on funds¡­¡±


    ¡°Yeah, that¡¯s fine.¡± Julia allowed, handing over a couple tens of capitals. ¡°What¡¯re you getting?¡±


    Sola looked away briefly. ¡°I don¡¯t wanna say¡­¡±


    Quickly, however, she popped her head back up. ¡°Hey, how do you guys get your money without working any jobs?¡± Sola asked curiously.


    ¡°Dad.¡± Julia answered bluntly.


    ¡°Dads.¡± Harley also answered.


    ¡°Smart saving.¡± Wess replied.


    ¡°My scholarship.¡± Essex added.


    ¡°Huh¡­¡± Sola let out, looking at the floor. ¡°I guess that makes sense¡­¡±


    ¡°My dad insisted I focus on my studies.¡± Julia elaborated, laughing awkwardly. ¡°I said it was fine if I got a job, but he wasn¡¯t gonna hear it.¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t even ask my parents¡­they just gave it to me as well¡­¡± Sola realised, just as the Flash-Rail pulled into the station, which threw her off like usual.


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to feel bad. They probably just wanted you to focus on your degree as well.¡± Harley pointed out, as Sola nodded back somewhat solemnly.


    ¡°Our studies are very important at the moment. If we are to acquire funds in the future, then focu-¡°


    Essex was interrupted by a passer-by knocking into her, throwing her off, before a few more ran by, chanting something to themselves.


    ¡°Wailing die, Venators fight! Wailing deserve better rights!¡±


    ¡°Whoa!¡± Julia let out, as even more came charging down the street, causing the team to back up a bit. ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡±


    Eventually, they spotted what looked to be a gathering of them, all chanting amongst themselves and holding up banners, as soon, a crowd of hundreds had started to build.


    ¡°Oh great, not these guys¡­¡± Harley let out, as Sola blocked her ears to drown out the chanting.


    ¡°What¡¯re they doing?!¡± She yelled, as Harley leaned down to her.


    ¡°They¡¯re just being loud!¡± She replied, as the crowd¡¯s noise died down enough for Sola to unblock her ears.


    ¡°No, I mean, why¡¯re they gathering?¡±


    ¡°Haven¡¯t you heard of them? They¡¯re this nonsense protest group vying for the rights of Wailing.¡± Harley pointed out. ¡°They keep blabbing on about how Venators are the real villains¡­¡±


    ¡°The Wailing Rights and Non-discrimination Group.¡± Wess clarified, indicating to them with zero affection. ¡°Also known as¡­¡±


    ¡°WRNG will not be silenced!¡± The protester heading the pack yelled again. ¡°Wailing die, Venators fight! Wailing deserve better rights! Come on!¡±


    ¡°Oh, I¡¯ve heard of them before.¡± Julia realised. ¡°I thought they were a bit more mannered than this.¡±


    ¡°The crowd is certainly unruly.¡± Essex acknowledged, as a new leader for the crowd started to emerge out the front.


    ¡°Who¡¯s this guy?¡± Harley asked, as the spindly guy with a megaphone stood out the front of the crowd, ready to announce.


    ¡°You all know me as Guy, the leader of this here wonderful protest!¡± He yelled out.


    ¡°Guy, apparently.¡± Sola remarked, as the yelling continued.


    ¡°For too long, the Wailing haven¡¯t been given a voice and have been persecuted without reason!¡± Guy declared, getting voices of agreement from the crowd. ¡°We won¡¯t stand for that! We refuse to stand for that! We¡¯ll make sure the government knows we can¡¯t stand for that!¡±


    ¡°Were the Wailing being persecuted when they destroyed my home?¡± Called a random passer-by, as she quickly got the attention of Guy.


    He leaned down toward her. ¡°And who might you be?¡±


    ¡°Why should that matter? Nobody deserves that sort of thing. If they¡¯re so innocent, why¡¯d they go out of their way to hurt me?¡± She asked, getting the support of a further few onlookers, now gathering near WRNG.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know, what did you do to provoke them?¡± Guy accused, getting backup from the rest of WRNG behind him.


    ¡°Now WRNG¡¯s accusing some innocent woman? Really classy, guys!¡± Another onlooker yelled.


    ¡°Hey, what a surprise everyone, WRNG is wrong!¡± Someone in the crowd remarked, getting a laugh from the rest of them, as Guy looked to be pissed.


    ¡°Wha-stop undermining me! We¡¯re not the villains here! At least we¡¯re better than those so-called Ve¡­¡±


    Just as Guy started to rile himself up, he looked back over the rest of WRNG and caught the top of Essex¡¯s scythe poking out, before groaning.


    ¡°And the aggressors show themselves!¡± He yelled out, pointing his megaphone right at them. ¡°Who else decides to show up but a team of Venators, wiping off the blood as we speak!¡±


    ¡°What blood?¡± Julia asked, before realising the crowd was starting to get hostile, as Harley managed to pull her away with the rest of the team, just out of sight of WRNG.


    ¡°That¡¯s right, run away! Don¡¯t confront your actions, just benefit from all the Wailing¡¯s suffe¡­¡± Guy continued to spout on, as his voice started to fade out with the distance the team made.


    ¡°Phew¡­that was¡­a quick turn¡­¡± Julia said, catching her breath, as Harley checked around the corner to make sure they weren¡¯t followed.


    ¡°I¡¯ve known those guys for three minutes and I already hate them.¡± Sola expressed, pumping her fists. ¡°Who goes and accuses people of those sorts of things?¡±


    ¡°They are of poor character.¡± Essex agreed. ¡°And I, too, hate them.¡±


    ¡°If they changed Group to Organisation, they¡¯d save themselves so much trouble¡­¡± Wess muttered to herself, before getting strange looks from the rest of the team. ¡°Well, obviously, I don¡¯t sympathise with their goals, but I think we can all agree, it¡¯s a terrible acronym.¡±


    ¡°Why do they want to support Wailing? They¡¯re horrible monsters who destroy people¡¯s lives.¡± Sola asked, as Harley slung an arm around her.


    ¡°Stupid people are everywhere. If there¡¯s room for a debate, then they¡¯ll make themselves known one way or another.¡± Harley reasoned, as Julia clapped her hands.


    ¡°Well, there¡¯s no reason this has to ruin our day in the city. Let¡¯s just avoid them as best we can.¡± Julia pointed out. ¡°So, what¡¯s everyone¡¯s plan for the day?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m¡­gonna do some shopping!¡± Sola quickly answered, raising her hand. ¡°On my own. By myself.¡±


    ¡°I kinda thought we¡¯d be shopping together¡­¡± Harley admitted, before giving a good-natured shrug. ¡°I¡¯ll just tag along with Wess then.¡±


    Julia clapped her hands. ¡°Easy enough. Wess, you said something about wine shopping?¡± Julia said, as Wess nodded in reply.


    ¡°I most certainly did. I can¡¯t imagine a more pleasant shopping trip.¡± Wess said, with Harley beside her giving a thumbs up.


    ¡°Essex? Do you have plans?¡± Julia asked, as Essex efficiently shook her head. ¡°Well, you can just accompany me. I¡¯ve gotta sort a few things out at my bank. Maybe I can teach you about finance!¡±


    Essex bowed in response. ¡°If you believe it will be beneficial.¡±


    Julia stood in front of everyone. ¡°Everyone know what they¡¯re doing?¡±


    The team nodded back to her, before breaking out into their groups and heading off into the streets of Detu City.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Wailing die, Venators fight! Wailing dese¡­¡±


    ¡°Ugh, I can still hear them from here¡­¡± Harley groaned, trying to cover her ears. ¡°They¡¯re like noisier Wailing we can¡¯t beat up.¡±


    ¡°I know. They¡¯re an awful pain.¡± Wess agreed. ¡°Let¡¯s just be fortunate we don¡¯t have to deal with them at the academy.¡±


    ¡°How do you reckon they¡¯d fair fighting an actual Wailing?¡± Harley suggested, getting a snicker out of Wess.


    ¡°Help! We were totally wrong!¡± Wess played up, waving her arms about, as Harley laughed hysterically.


    ¡°Who would have guessed? WRNG was wrong again!¡± Harley exclaimed, Wess laughing in response. ¡°You planning on getting anything other than wine today?¡±


    ¡°Not really. Frankly, we¡¯re in need of a few refills for the team¡¯s collection. I¡¯ve been eyeing up this particular bottle of Pinot Noir recently¡­¡± Wess admitted, looking dreamy-eyed, as Harley chuckled to herself.


    ¡°You sound like me when I¡¯m scoping someone out at a bar.¡± Harley remarked, as Wess gave her a side-eye.


    ¡°¡­have you been thinking of buying anything?¡±


    ¡°Nah, probably just gonna window shop. I don¡¯t really need anything right now.¡± Harley admitted, as Wess kept to herself.


    ¡°¡­and what about something for Sola?¡±


    Harley looked confused. ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°Why? Because you two are dating now.¡± Wess pointed out. ¡°You¡¯re not going to signify that with anything?¡±


    ¡°I mean, we did kiss¡­¡± Harley mentioned, as Wess grabbed her forehead.


    ¡°You shouldn¡¯t need a reason to get your partner a gift.¡± Wess said. ¡°I wasn¡¯t expecting to coach you on this¡­¡±


    Harley pouted her lips. ¡°Hey, how about you stay out of my business? I¡¯ve had plenty of relationships before, and I¡¯d like to think I know what I¡¯m doing.¡±


    ¡°And I¡¯ll have you know I have a vested interest in your relationship working out.¡± Wess rationalised, looking around for a store as they walked. ¡°A fight or break up between you two becomes something for all of us to deal with. We can¡¯t have you getting into an argument later down the line that divides the team.¡±


    Wess turned to her again. ¡°And, as your friend, I want to see you two very happy together.¡±


    Harley avoided looking at her, before touching her fingers together. ¡°¡­that¡¯s nice and all, but I¡¯d feel weird just getting her a gift¡­¡±


    ¡°Oh, where¡¯s your sense of romance?¡± Wess bemoaned, still searching for somewhere appropriate. ¡°How have you had more relationships than I?¡±


    Harley bumped her side cheekily. ¡°Probably cause my boobs are bigger.¡±


    Wess rolled her eyes and carried on. ¡°Maybe it¡¯s the Northern Waysider in me, but I can¡¯t help but want this romance to flourish.¡± Wess expressed, now slightly lighter on her feet as she searched. ¡°Ah, there we are.¡±


    Harley glanced over at the clothing boutique and general goods store just across the road, before giving Wess a knowing look.


    ¡°Really?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re getting Sola at least one gift. Then we can head over to somewhere else.¡± Wess declared. ¡°Alright?¡±


    Harley pouted, before carrying on across the street anyway. ¡°Fine, fine. I¡¯ll just get her, like, a t-shirt or something. She likes those.¡±


    ¡°Sweet lord¡­¡± Wess groaned, quickly following behind her in a frenzy.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Sola wasn¡¯t too familiar with the layout of businesses in Detu City, but even she knew it was odd that plenty of the stores around her had closed for the day.


    ¡°There¡¯s barely anywhere to shop.¡± Sola acknowledged, pouting to herself. ¡°How am I supposed to get Harley a new-girlfriend gift now?¡±


    She kept wandering, hoping to come across something eventually, before finding at least one store that was still open.


    She squinted at the sign overhead.


    ¡°The¡­Abandonal Shop?¡± Sola read aloud. ¡°Sounds weird¡­¡±


    To her surprise, after entering, it was surprisingly regular as far as stores went. There was a healthy number of groceries, clothes, knick knacks and all manner of other products on display, with a very light stream of customers bumming around here and there.


    As the entrance bell rang above her, Sola looked around cautiously, before immediately stumbling upon boutiques of flowers by the entrance and getting quickly enamoured.


    Just by the register, the clerk watched as she hopped from one flower to another, looking over her options thoroughly, before leaving the flowers all together to look at the clothes, only to go back to the flowers right after not finding anything worth getting.


    After watching her display, the clerk decided to get up and check on her, as he slowly approached.


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­ahem¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­excu-¡°


    ¡°WHOA!¡± Sola yelled, jumping back, as the clerk started to panic.


    ¡°What?! What is it?!¡±


    Sola let out a breath. ¡°Sorry. You just really spooked me.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± He sighed. ¡°That¡¯s a relief¡­¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t mean to spook you too¡­¡± Sola said, leaning forward to read his name tag. ¡°¡­is your name really Virgil?¡±


    Virgil adjusted his uniform a little. ¡°Unless I stole someone else¡¯s name tag, yes.¡±


    Sola nodded, before going back to her flower conundrum, as Virgil raised a finger.


    ¡°What are you looking for?¡±


    ¡°¡­I wanna get my girlfriend a gift.¡± Sola said, scratching her chin. ¡°We only just started dating, but she¡¯s my first ever girlfriend, so I want to get her something special.¡±


    Sola moped. ¡°But all the stores are closed for some reason.¡±


    ¡°Oh, that would be because of the WRNG protests.¡± Virgil explained. ¡°It¡¯s not great for business if you¡¯ve got shouting crowds just outside the store.¡±


    ¡°So, why haven¡¯t you closed this place?¡± Sola asked, almost forgetting about getting a gift.


    ¡°Well, I¡¯m my only source of income, so I can¡¯t just close the store for the day.¡± Virgil reasoned, huffing out. ¡°Even if it means putting up with WRNG marching down the street¡­¡±


    Virgil jumped to attention, before reaching out for a boutique. ¡°If I can make a recommendation, the Bosolom rose is considered a very romantic gift. It¡¯s often seen as the flower of the heart, and they last a surprisingly long time without water.¡±


    ¡°I guess that would work. Flowers are pretty romantic and stuff.¡± Sola said, grabbing the handful of orange flowers. ¡°Do you have any red ones? I think she¡¯d like those more.¡±


    Virgil snapped his fingers. ¡°I¡¯ll go check in the back.¡±


    Virgil ran to the back of the store, ducking behind his counter, as Sola waited patiently for him to return, only to be interrupted by a loud clattering coming from the backroom.


    She quickly rushed behind the counter to see what was going on, only to find Virgil on the ground of what looked to be a packed storeroom, rubbing his forehead, surrounded by fallen boxes.


    ¡°Oh geez¡­¡± He let out, dabbing at his head.


    ¡°Are you alright?¡± Sola asked, helping him up.


    ¡°Yes, I just knocked over a couple boxes. I¡¯ve been meaning to clean back here.¡± He played off, before searching again. ¡°Sorry, I meant to get you those flowers.¡±


    Virgil kept looking around, as Sola stared at the boxes strewn about the ground, before picking them up and putting them back on the shelves while he searched.


    Virgil turned back around, only to see the boxes that had fallen had been tidied for him.


    Sola noticed him staring, before looking around her. ¡°What are you looking at?¡±


    Virgil smiled a little, before digging through some boxes again and finding the red Bosolom flowers.


    ¡°Ah, there we go.¡± Virgil let out, just as he heard the store¡¯s entrance bell ring out suddenly, with him now noticing some customers coming in.


    Stolen story; please report.


    He frantically turned to Sola. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but I have to take care of them. I¡¯ll ring up the flowers in a bit, bu-¡° Virgil said, before stubbing his toe on a nearby vase. ¡°¡­ow, ow, ow.¡±


    ¡°Do you want me to clean up back here?¡± Sola asked out of the blue, throwing Virgil off. ¡°It might help in case you need to come back here later.¡±


    ¡°Oh, no, I couldn¡¯t ask you to do that. You¡¯re a customer.¡± Virgil insisted.


    Sola grinned. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ve got plenty of time today. It¡¯s no bother to me.¡±


    Virgil turned his head between her and the customers, before reaching for his wallet and pulling out a few tens of capitals.


    ¡°Here.¡± He said. ¡°I won¡¯t have you clean up without compensation.¡±


    Sola took the capitals, just as Virgil hurried out, greeting the new customers, before Sola went about clearing up the storeroom.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Wailing die, Venators fi¡­¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t believe there¡¯s people that actually think like that.¡± Julia let out, carrying on with Essex on their way to the bank. ¡°I mean, alright, not all Wailing are horrible monsters, but there¡¯s a reason the Wailing Conflict¡¯s gone on for so long.¡±


    ¡°I would have to agree.¡± Essex added. ¡°WRNG appear to be confused about many aspects of the conflict. I hope they will not be an issue in the future¡­¡±


    ¡°Well, I¡¯m sure we can handle them.¡± Julia assured, only to realise Essex¡¯s intention behind her line was far more serious.


    Julia stopped her. ¡°Essex, you aren¡¯t saying we¡¯ll have to fight them at some point, are you?¡±


    ¡°If it is to come to that, then we may have no choice.¡± Essex pointed out, as Julia shook her head.


    ¡°But we can¡¯t do that. They¡¯re people, and it¡¯s illegal.¡± Julia reasoned, as Essex cocked her head.


    ¡°Illegal?¡±


    ¡°Venators can¡¯t hurt people. That¡¯s always been the case.¡± Julia said, confusing Essex even more. ¡°We¡¯re only training to fight Wailing, not each other.¡±


    ¡°But¡­what if we are to see someone doing something wrong?¡± Essex asked, still trying to comprehend what Julia was saying.


    ¡°Well, we call law enforcement, or someone else that¡¯s meant to deal with that.¡± Julia pointed out. ¡°People can¡¯t just hire us to hurt, or...worse, kill people. At that point, we¡¯d just be assassins.¡±


    Essex shook her head. ¡°That does not seem like an appropriate response to wrongdoing. If we witness something wrong, we should intervene, as we have the capability to do so.¡±


    ¡°Not if we have access to weapons. We¡¯ll only escalate things.¡± Julia argued. ¡°We don¡¯t get to make those calls, Essex.¡±


    As they walked, Julia spotted the Gold Lelvow bank in the distance and started heading to it.


    ¡°¡­so, Venators are to only intervene in situations where Wailing are a threat.¡± Essex asked for clarification.


    ¡°Yes.¡± Julia answered, heading up the decently packed stairs to the entrance.


    ¡°But not if a person were to do something similar?¡± Essex asked, as a security guard posted by the entrance approached them.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but you¡¯re not allowed to carry that in here.¡± He said, pointing to Essex¡¯ scythe. ¡°I¡¯m gonna have to take it until you leave.¡±


    Essex growled as the guard approached, before Julia stepped in. ¡°Can she please keep it? We¡¯re training to be Venators, and it¡¯s part of her cultur-¡°


    ¡°If she wants to keep it on her, she has to wait outside. We¡¯ve had problems with this kind of security before.¡± The guard insisted, as Essex breathed out heavily and handed off her scythe to the guard, eyeing him up as he stored it away.


    ¡°Anyway, it¡¯s different. Wailing have been trying to kill us for centuries. We know they¡¯re bad.¡± Julia reasoned, stepping in line to the front counter with Essex. ¡°But people are complicated. If we start calling the shots on severe punishments, we¡¯ll be just as bad as the criminals we¡¯re punishing.¡±


    ¡°Then how are Venators meant to act as peacekeepers?¡± Essex asked aloud, getting the attention of the couple in front of them.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, did you mention Venators?¡± The woman asked, swinging her head back. ¡°Oh, they¡¯re absolutely dreadful!¡±


    ¡°Truly dreadful. We just lost our summer home to a couple no good thieves a few years ago.¡± The man brought up, dabbing at his eyes. ¡°It¡¯s a true tragedy. And when we ask for help from some Venators, they turn us away!¡±


    ¡°This is meant for the police, they say!¡± The woman bemoaned, as the line moved up. ¡°We don¡¯t handle domestic crimes!¡±


    ¡°The last people we¡¯re going to for help is the police.¡± The man pointed out, as Essex turned to Julia with a knowing look of validation.


    ¡°That¡¯s a really specific example¡­¡± Julia muttered, as the couple reached the front counter.


    ¡°Hi, how can I help?¡±


    ¡°First of all, quick question. Is the vault door there just decorative?¡± The woman asked, as the clerk chuckled awkwardly.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but I can¡¯t go into specifics. We had an incident a year back, so that information¡¯s not available to the public.¡± She replied.


    ¡°Alright then. Well, we¡¯re just here to make a withdrawal.¡± The woman said, leaning on the counter. ¡°Let¡¯s say¡­one billion capitals?¡±


    The clerk looked a bit surprised and chuckled again. ¡°M-Ma¡¯am, we don¡¯t hold that much on site.¡±


    The woman rolled her eyes. ¡°Fine, less than a billion.¡±


    The clerk looked visibly confused, as the man stepped ahead, before pulling out a gun from his side, causing the clerk to scream out in panic.


    The rest of the bank quickly took notice, including the security, who all went for their firearms as well, before realising they were missing.


    ¡°Ahem.¡± The man said, now spinning a couple pistols around on his fingers. ¡°You need to keep better care of these.¡±


    ¡°So sloppy. You think they would have improved since last time.¡± The woman said, before taking one of the guns and pointing at the guards, who despite their best intentions, had no choice but to kneel to the ground.


    As Julia was slowly stepping away during the panic amongst the crowd, Essex went to pick up one of the nearby bollards, changing her skin to iron with her Whil, before taking a swing at the man.


    ¡°Essex!!!¡± Julia cried out, terrified she might get hurt, as Essex went for a finishing blow, only for the bollard to float out of her hands and toward the man, followed by her iron hand flying toward him as well, getting stuck to his chest.


    ¡°Nifty Whil.¡± He said. ¡°Unfortunately, mine¡¯s a good counter.¡±


    As Essex desperately tried to pull herself off of him, the woman quickly tied up Essex¡¯s legs with rope, before moving to her arms, knocking her to the ground.


    ¡°What a brave and stupid thing to do!¡± The woman said, before addressing the rest of the bank with her gun in the air. ¡°Calm down, everyone! We¡¯re not going to hurt you!¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re being very courteous towards your needs!¡± The man added.


    Those who were panicking slowly stopped themselves, freezing in place.


    ¡°That¡¯s better.¡± The woman said. ¡°Alright, introductions! I¡¯m Alani, and you¡¯re going to love me!¡±


    ¡°And I¡¯m Devon, a gift from heaven.¡± Devon declared, sitting up on the front desk. ¡°Now, with that out of the way¡­if this seems a bit familiar, it¡¯s because a year ago, we pulled off a similar heist at this very bank.¡±


    ¡°And after not getting to steal anything, we decided to come back after all this time.¡± Alani pointed out, going off to tie up everyone else present, starting with a terrified Julia. ¡°Because we are nothing if not loyal customers.¡±


    ¡°Of course, last time, my dear and wonderful Alani here managed to escape, and tragically, I was locked away, never to be seen again.¡± Devon played up, casually waving the gun at the clerk. ¡°So, apologises if you didn¡¯t mean to get caught up in this. We¡¯ll try to be quick.¡±


    He leaned into the clerk, while still making the pistol very noticeable. ¡°Hey, quick question.¡± He smirked, pointing to the large vault again. ¡°Real talk, is that vault still in use, or is it just decorative after last year¡¯s little skirmish?¡±


    The clerk was having trouble holding it together, before managing to blurt out the words in a panic. ¡°U-U-Unfortunately, it¡¯s just decorative¡­t-there¡¯s no more money in there. Now.¡±


    Devon gave her a thorough once over, noticing the sweat build-up on her forehead, before smiling to himself and calling out to Alani. ¡°It¡¯s still in there! Just like last time!¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Alani let out, having finished tying up the guards. ¡°It¡¯s like you wanted to be robbed again.¡±


    Julia and Essex sat back helplessly, watching as Alani and Devon slowly took over the situation.


    ¡°Oh geez¡­don¡¯t panic¡­just breath¡­¡± Julia repeated to herself, as Essex tried desperately to break out of her constraints, to no avail.


    Julia did her best to maintain her composure, before noticing Essex struggling more and more. ¡°Essex¡­please don¡¯t waste energy like that.¡±


    Essex heard her out and stopped herself.


    ¡°We¡¯ll¡­get a better opportunity later.¡± Julia reasoned, trying to calm herself. ¡°If we can get your scythe¡­we might get out of this¡­¡±


    Essex watched as Alani analysed the vault door, before pulling off her glove and using her Whil to create a small jet of flame from her finger, directing it at the door to slowly cut a hole through. Devon kept an eye on everyone else, before locking eyes with Essex and smirking.


    ¡°I will remove these constraints¡­¡± Essex declared. ¡°¡­and they will pay for this.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Wait, who¡¯s paying for this?¡±


    ¡°You are. It¡¯s your gift.¡±


    ¡°But you made me get it!¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re welcome, by the way.¡± Wess corrected, as Harley reluctantly handed over her card to the very confused cashier.


    ¡°Hey, if you wanna date Sola for me, go ahead.¡± Harley remarked.


    ¡°I should only be so lucky.¡± Wess replied with a sly smile. ¡°I¡¯d treat her to much more gifts than you would.¡±


    ¡°Uhuh.¡± Harley let out, as they promptly left the store. ¡°Do you think she¡¯ll like it?¡±


    Harley held up the mug with a tired cat saying ¡®Rough Meow-ning¡¯ on it, as Wess scoffed a little.


    ¡°She¡¯s going to love it.¡± Wess assured. ¡°Remember, it¡¯s not about price point, it¡¯s about how much the person receiving it will like it.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, easy for you to say when you¡¯re not payi¡­¡± Harley muttered under her breath, only to be interrupted by a few police cars blaring past, heading just around the corner to join up with the growing commotion.


    ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡± Wess asked, as her and Harley quickly jogged over to see a giant crowd and police barricades surrounding the Gold Lelvow Bank.


    The confusion was hard to make out, as Harley tapped the shoulder of a nearby crowd member.


    ¡°Hey, what¡¯s this all about?¡±


    ¡°Oh, apparently, some people are holding up the bank and taking hostages. Real serious stuff.¡± He insisted. ¡°I swear, it¡¯s the worst luck. This exact thing happened, like, a year ago.¡±


    Harley¡¯s eyes widened, as she turned to Wess suddenly. ¡°Weren¡¯t Julia and Essex planning on going there?¡±


    The realisation pierced Wess, as she stumbled back, before charging through the crowd toward the officers on duty.


    ¡°Excuse me! Excuse me, sir!¡± She cried, leaning over the barricades set up. ¡°Who was taken hostage?! Do you have any idea what¡¯s happened to them?!¡±


    ¡°Hey, hey, back up.¡± He said, readjusting his megaphone. ¡°We¡¯re doing what we can, but we know just about as much as you do right now.¡±


    He pointed it at the bank and turned it on. ¡°We ask that you leave peacefully and let the hostages go. If not, we¡¯ll be forced to take action.¡±


    There was no response.


    ¡°If you give yourselves up now, this can all be over with.¡±


    Devon popped his head out from the front door. ¡°Oh, you¡¯re no fun!¡±


    He quickly ducked back inside, as the officer pulled out his radio.


    ¡°We have an ID on one of the suspects. Devon However, recent escapee of the Kaikojo prison. Possible accomplice, Alani Bytheway.¡± He declared, only worrying Wess further.


    ¡°S-So, they¡¯re known criminals.¡± She stammered, frantically grabbing for her tablet. ¡°I¡¯m messaging them. I-If we¡¯re lucky, they may not be in there. Please please please¡­¡±


    ¡°Hey, hey, calm down.¡± Harley encouraged, grabbing Wess¡¯ shoulders. ¡°We don¡¯t need to panic. It doesn¡¯t sound like things have gotten violent. And we know them, they wouldn¡¯t endanger themselves needlessly.¡±


    ¡°¡­I know.¡± Wess agreed, brushing Harley¡¯s arms off. ¡°But I¡¯m making sure.¡±


    Harley nodded in agreement, as the noise around them only seemed to pick up. ¡°It sounds like everyone¡¯s a bit on edge.¡±


    Wess lifted her head to see what Harley meant, only to spot the real reason for all the noise.


    She pointed right at it, as Harley let out a belaboured groan.


    ¡°Wailing die, Venators fight! Wailing deserve better rights!¡± Cried out WRNG, marching just beside the blockade and stopping right in front of it.


    ¡°Oh, for the love of¡­¡± The officer let out, before blocking off WRNG as best he could. ¡°Hey, move it out of here! This is a hostile situation!¡±


    ¡°Wha-oh, it¡¯s a hostile situation all right!¡± Guy spoke up, turning to the officer. ¡°WE¡¯RE on our way to the Senator Carmichael''s office, and you¡¯re right in our way!¡±


    ¡°This is an active crime scene. You can¡¯t just charge through here.¡± The officer insisted. ¡°Redirect yourselves.¡±


    ¡°Redirect, he says.¡± Guy spat, now announcing to the rest of WRNG behind him. ¡°Tell me, comrades, what is it we never do?¡±


    ¡°NEVER BACK DOWN, NEVER BACK AWAY!¡± The rest of WRNG cheered, with Guy continuing to rally them, as the officer grabbed his forehead.


    ¡°Should we move them out of here?¡± Another lower-rank officer asked, as the higher-rank shook his head.


    ¡°We can¡¯t focus on them yet. We get the bank under control, then we can take care of WRNG.¡± He ordered, before turning back to the more immediate threat at the bank, as WRNG continued to chant beside the other crowd, annoying most of those who were gathered around the bank.


    Harley and Wess decided to put up with it, if only to keep an eye on what might be happening to Julia and Essex, as Wess kept glancing back her tablet for a reply.


    ¡°Please be okay¡­


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°¡­oof!¡±


    Sola let down another large box of office supplies, before leaning on a nearby shelf to cool off.


    ¡°Wow, there¡¯s a lot of stuff in here¡­¡± Sola remarked, before acknowledging the large amount of space she¡¯d managed to clear. ¡°Guess the training with Harley¡¯s already paying off¡­¡±


    During her break, Virgil re-emerged from outside of the shop with a few empty boxes, before setting them down and whistling.


    ¡°You¡¯ve done a great job.¡± He praised. ¡°I can actually see the floor now.¡±


    ¡°I guess¡­I really earned those flowers¡­¡± Sola joked.


    ¡°Five times over. Take as many as you want once we¡¯re done here.¡± Virgil insisted, as Sola jumped up with a newfound energy.


    ¡°Really?!¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s the least I can do.¡± Virgil admitted. ¡°Love¡¯s an important thing, and showing it¡¯s just as important.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, it is!¡± Sola agreed. ¡°Thanks!¡±


    ¡°No problem.¡± Virgil said, before staring off forlornly into the distance. ¡°You know, I had a love once¡­¡±


    Sola stared at him curiously. ¡°Did you?¡±


    Virgil snapped back to reality and dipped his head. ¡°Oh. Daydreamed a little there. Sorry, I tend to lose focus sometimes.¡±


    Sola smiled back at him ¡°Same here!¡±


    Sola quickly went back to moving things, before grabbing the base of a giant vase and struggling to lift it.


    Virgil noticed and hurried over. ¡°Do you need help?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, but I think we¡¯ll have to rol-¡°


    Before Sola could finish her thought, Virgil had already grabbed the base and picked it up seemingly effortlessly, before expertly moving it to a free shelf with a few other vases.


    He wiped his hands and turned back to Sola, who was enamoured with what she¡¯d seen.


    ¡°Whoa!¡± She exclaimed. ¡°I didn¡¯t know you were secretly buff!¡±


    Virgil blushed a little. ¡°Well, I wouldn¡¯t describe it like that. Working back here tends to build up some muscle.¡±


    Virgil touched his fingers together. ¡°Actually, there is a reason for it¡­¡±


    ¡°Yeah?¡±


    ¡°Well, you see¡­¡± He prefaced. ¡°¡­I¡¯m training to be a Venator.¡±


    Sola¡¯s mouth was left agape, as Virgil tried to hide some embarrassment.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be weird about it.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not, I¡¯m just surprised!¡± Sola let out, grabbing his hands. ¡°That¡¯s so cool!¡±


    ¡°Oh geez. H-Hold on!¡± Virgil exclaimed, pulling himself away. ¡°I-I¡¯m not actually training¡­yet. I haven¡¯t been accepted by the Venator Academy. I¡¯m stuck on the waiting list.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± Sola said. ¡°Wait, waiting list?¡±


    Virgil nodded. ¡°If you don¡¯t quite meet the academy¡¯s standards during the physical or interview, you get put on the waiting list in case a spot opens up. Fortunately, if a team needs an extra member to make it to five, they tend to bring some from the list, but that¡¯s only a couple every semester or so.¡± Virgil explained, as Sola was left shocked.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t even know that was a thing.¡± Sola said, sitting against one of the empty shelves. ¡°So, why¡¯re you on the list?¡±


    ¡°I¡­don¡¯t have enough time to train.¡± Virgil confessed. ¡°Running the shop takes it all out of me, and without impressive physical results or a Whil, I just can¡¯t compete with most of the other students¡­¡±


    Virgil sighed out. ¡°I¡¯ve been on the waiting list for five years.¡±


    ¡°Wow. Sorry to hear that.¡± Sola admitted, scratching her neck. ¡°I guess I took getting accepted in for granted.¡±


    ¡°Wait, accepted in?¡± Virgil asked, as Sola nodded. ¡°To the Venator Academy?¡±


    ¡°Yeah.¡±


    Virgil jumped over to her excitedly. ¡°Y-You¡¯re training to be a Venator?!¡±


    ¡°Yeah!¡±


    ¡°No way!¡± Virgil exclaimed, hopping on the spot. ¡°I-I¡¯m so jealous! You must be really strong! What year are you in?¡±


    ¡°Second-yea-¡°


    ¡°You¡¯re going into the tournament soon, then?¡± Virgil let out, struggling to hold back his excitement. ¡°Oh man, I¡¯m definitely going to watch your matches!¡±


    Virgil realised that Sola had backed up, and that he was coming on pretty heavy, before he pulled himself back and cleared his throat.


    ¡°S-Sorry, I¡¯ve never met an actual Venator before.¡± Virgil admitted. ¡°At least, one that I know personally. I guess the waiting¡¯s kind of gotten to me¡­¡±


    Virgil sat down on one of the boxes and rested his head in his hands. ¡°It¡¯s just¡­even when they say I might get in, I know they mean no. I just have to wait around for it to come along, but I don¡¯t think ever will. I feel so unwanted¡­¡±


    Sola looked back at Virgil forlornly, before going back to packing a few more things up. ¡°You know, I kinda felt the same way back at the orphanage I grew up in. A bunch of adults that I thought would adopt me would come through, and then they never did. I remember at the time, it felt like my parents were never going to come along.¡±


    Sola struggled to push a box onto a higher shelf. ¡°And then¡­there we go! And then, when I was eight, Wayne and Maxine showed up and took me in, and they¡¯re awesome. So, I¡¯d say the waiting was worth it.¡±


    Sola stepped back down with her hands on her hips. ¡°And the time at the orphanage wasn¡¯t bad either. I made a ton of friends there, and I¡¯m still really close with Sister Magen.¡±


    Sola went to make another point, before tripping over one of the last few boxes still on the ground, which got a guilty laugh out of Virgil.


    ¡°Ow¡­¡± Sola let out, as Virgil helped her up. ¡°What was I saying?¡±


    ¡°I get it.¡± Virgil replied. ¡°The waiting makes it worth it.¡±


    ¡°¡­yeah, that¡¯s it!¡± Sola said.


    Sola waved her hands. ¡°I¡¯ll finish up in here. You go handle the front desk.¡±


    Virgil smiled. ¡°Okay. But join me for my break. I¡¯d appreciate the company.¡±


    ¡°Will do!¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°¡­and there¡­we¡­go!¡±


    Devon chucked the last of the bollards into one of the offices connected to the main bank floor, before locking it and pocketing the key.


    ¡°All done.¡± Devon said, turning to a still helpless Essex. ¡°Can¡¯t have you breaking out and going for my head again.¡±


    Essex growled, as Devon found himself getting comfortable, watching the ring of hostages around him while Alani cut through the rest of the vault door.


    ¡°You know, funny story, I was planning on doing that anyway due to a prior incident in our last heist.¡± Devon explained, as Alani perked her head up.


    ¡°My elbow still hasn¡¯t recovered.¡± Alani moped. ¡°I hope that guard got fired.¡±


    ¡°¡­do you see an opening?¡± Julia asked Essex quietly, as she reluctantly shook her head.


    ¡°They have planned for this well.¡± Essex admitted. ¡°Without my scythe, we are without means. Once it¡¯s returned, I wish to make them pay thoroughly¡­¡±


    Julia¡¯s pupils shrank. ¡°Essex, what are you planning on doing?¡±


    Essex grit her teeth. ¡°If they wish to capture us, then I will not go down without fighting.¡±


    Julia shook her head. ¡°But they haven¡¯t hurt anyone yet.¡± Julia insisted, scooching over to her. ¡°Please don¡¯t make this worse. We have to consider the safety of everyone here. If you start attacking the-¡±


    ¡°This is an action that needs to be punished.¡± Essex demanded. ¡°How else do we deter their wrongdoing?¡±


    ¡°By making sure they can¡¯t do this again, or changing their ways. If we go straight for the violent option, that¡¯ll only encourage them to start throwing punches too. If we¡¯re supposed to be the peacekeepers, then we wouldn''t be doing our job right, would we?¡± Julia pointed out. ¡°We¡¯ll get your scythe, break out and get them to the authorities. That¡¯s it.¡±


    Essex huffed out, trying again in vain to break the ropes around her arms, as Julia sighed to herself.


    ¡°¡­I wish the others knew we were okay.¡± Julia mumbled. ¡°They must be so worried¡­¡±


    ¡°Did I overhear something?¡± Devon let out, as Julia and Essex noticed he was now right above them.


    They shot back, as Devon looked over them curiously.


    ¡°Did you say you wanted to talk to someone?¡± Devon asked, as Julia weighed up her options and nodded her head. ¡°I thought someone here might.¡±


    He quickly got back up and trotted over to the locked office, unlocking it to dig around for a bit, before pulling out a tablet. ¡°Is this yours?¡±


    Julia nodded again, as Essex started to take interest, with Devon now trotting back over and sitting on the nearby counter with the tablet in his hands, now noticing the message already on the screen.


    ¡°Seems like they were worried about you too.¡± Devon said, waving it about. ¡°I¡¯m assuming ¡®Wess¡¯ is the one you want to message?¡±


    Julia quietly nodded her head, as Devon noticed the other group chat with the rest of the team and whistled. ¡°Hey¡­you guys are Venators, huh? That explains why she had a scythe coming in. Alright, what do you wanna say?¡±


    Julia¡¯s eyes lit up, as she turned to Essex hurriedly. ¡°J-Just that we¡¯re okay, and that we¡¯ll be out of here soon. A-And that we aren¡¯t hurt!¡±


    ¡°Okay, okay, easy enough.¡± Devon said, typing it out, before showing it to Julia for confirmation. ¡°You know, we may be criminals, but we¡¯re not heartless.¡±


    Devon raised his hand to the side of his mouth. ¡°To be honest, though, I was just a little bored.¡±


    Devon perked up and yelled to Alani. ¡°Oh yeah. Hey, Alani! These two are Venator trainees!¡±


    ¡°No kidding!¡± Alani let out, briefly stopping her cutting to join them, confusing the rest of the hostages present as to their motivations.


    ¡°You know, Alani and I were gonna become Venators earlier in life.¡± Devon admitted, as Alani nodded along.


    ¡°Not enough excitement.¡± Alani confessed. ¡°You¡¯ve seen one Wailing, you¡¯ve seen them all.¡±


    ¡°That is not tr-¡° Essex started, before Julia stopped her.


    ¡°Honestly, we really like you guys. You¡¯re doing a great service for everyone in Daysend.¡± Devon said, as Julia felt a surprising kinship.


    ¡°R-Really?¡±


    ¡°After all, it¡¯s nice to know you won¡¯t be gunning for us what with only attacking Wailing. Makes our work a lot easier.¡± Alani clarified.


    Julia¡¯s feeling was immediately ripped away, as Essex finally decided to speak up.


    ¡°That will not prevent us from bringing you to justice.¡±


    Devon turned to Alani. ¡°Justice?¡±


    ¡°Justice, she says.¡±


    ¡°Wowee.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s a concept.¡± Alani said, leaning in. ¡°But we haven¡¯t done anything wrong.¡±


    ¡°You are stealing capitals from Detu City¡¯s people. They need that to live.¡± Essex clarified.


    ¡°And so do we.¡± Alani said. ¡°We buy our bread from the store just like anyone else.¡±


    ¡°And then we get a really flashy car.¡± Devon added. ¡°For fun.¡±


    ¡°And we still work hard for our money! Robbing a bank is very difficult, after all.¡± Alani explained, before jumping on the spot. ¡°Which reminds me, back to it!¡±


    She headed over to the vault and continued cutting, as Devon closed in.


    ¡°And even if we steal this money, you guys are unhurt. We haven¡¯t shot anyone.¡± Devon pointed out, as Julia recalled her previous remarks. ¡°If we¡¯re talking about justice, that would only mean we have to pay back the money we stole.¡±


    Devon tapped Essex on the nose. ¡°And you don¡¯t get to touch us.¡±


    He started walking away, as Julia raised her voice. ¡°Th-That doesn¡¯t mean you can get away with this! Y-You¡¯ll get captured again!¡±


    ¡°And we¡¯ll break out again!¡± Devon bragged, watching as Alani reached the bottom of the vault door. ¡°Oh, how sweet it is!¡±


    Having cut a large enough hole in the vault door, Alani pushed against the metal to move it, only to find it far too heavy, before she stepped aside and let Devon pull it back with his magnetic Whil.


    And then, the vault was theirs.


    ¡°Oh, Alani, look! They still have those little bags for all the money.¡± Devon let out, as Alani used her Whil to burn the lock off of one of the many deposit boxes.


    ¡°And it¡¯s still in cash! I was really worried it would be digital. This is so much more aesthetically pleasing.¡± Alani confessed, grabbing a handful and chucking it into one of the bags. ¡°Let¡¯s get to work.¡±


    Alani and Devon broke open each of the vaults with their Whils, pouring the excess money into each of the bags, before grabbing as many as they could and heading back into the main room.


    ¡°Now we need an escape route.¡± Alani admitted. ¡°Drat. I guess we should have thought of one¡­oh well, let¡¯s go out guns blazing.¡±


    ¡°Oh, better yet, what if we don¡¯t do that?¡± Devon insisted, slinging a couple of the coin bags over his shoulder. ¡°Let¡¯s duck away into some nearby alley and figure things out from there.¡±


    ¡°Ooo, that¡¯s way more fun!¡± Alani cheered, setting down some bags. ¡°I¡¯ll go look for a back exit.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll throw off the police.¡± Devon added, as he sprinted to the main door, opening it briefly to pop his head out. ¡°We¡¯re almost there, guys! You¡¯re getting sloppy!¡±


    He excitedly hurried to catch up with Alani down the back of the bank, as a small clang rang out in the main room, ringing out right near the security guards tied up by the entrance.


    Julia and Essex¡¯s ears perked up, as they spotted the glint of a single capital, lying on the ground, having fallen out from Devon¡¯s bag while he was running.


    The guard nearby quickly spotted it too, before getting an idea, whistling to grab Julia and Essex¡¯s attention, along with the rest of the room.


    Manoeuvring as best he could, he spun himself around and managed to grab the coin with his tied-up hands, before rolling it in the direction of Essex with as much energy as he could muster.


    A glimmer of hope broke out on those present before it started to slow down after reaching halfway.


    Instinctually, Julia reached out a finger and used her Whil, speeding up the coin¡¯s velocity, before it managed to reach Essex¡¯s feet, exciting everyone in the room.


    Essex performed the same manoeuvre the guard had to grab it quickly, before using her Whil to change the hand touching the coin to copper and cut through her rope binding with her metallic fingernail.


    She loosened her restraints, causing a noticeable rise in energy in the room, as she unbound her feet, then went to free Julia as well, before suddenly hearing footsteps coming from back down the hall and ducking underneath the front desk.


    ¡°¡­at seems doable. We¡¯ll grab as much as we can an-¡° Devon managed, before getting clocked in the face by Essex, knocking him to the ground. Devon grabbed for his face, as Essex was drawn to a whistle down the hall.


    ¡°Yoo hoo!¡± Alani taunted, swinging a bag of capitals while halfway through an exit door. ¡°Catch me, justice girl!¡±


    Essex set her sights on Alani, trudging in her direction, only to be pulled back suddenly through the air, colliding her metal fist with the wall behind her, as Devon had managed to get back up and use his magnetic Whil to pull her closer, before stepping out of the way.


    He grabbed what bags of money he could, using Essex¡¯s weakened state to his advantage, before meeting up with Alani by the exit and ducking out.


    Essex found herself on her feet again, still recovering from the shock and pain of hitting the wall, as she charged at the exit door, only to find the lock melted from what looked to be Alani¡¯s Whil.


    She grabbed the handle and turned her shoulder to iron before busting through the door, before finding an empty alley way, closed off, but with a recently used fire exit running up toward the roof.


    They¡¯d gotten away.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°¡­those vile robbers.¡± Wess expressed, still staring intently at her tablet. ¡°If I ever meet them, I¡¯l-¡°


    ¡°Grace!¡±


    Wess lifted her head, as someone from the bank joined up with a woman in the crowd and hugged them. Eventually, more and more people started flooding out, overwhelming the existing crowd, leading to a mass of confusion and excitement amongst everyone present.


    ¡°Essex?!¡± Harley called out. ¡°Julia!!!¡±


    Her voice fell silent over the crowd, before a hand shot out from the rush of people, revealing itself to be Julia waving at them, quickly followed by Essex, now with her scythe returned.


    ¡°Julia!¡± Wess let out, running up to check on her. ¡°I¡¯m so glad you¡¯re okay¡­¡±


    Essex quickly followed, as Wess grabbed her hands as well. ¡°You¡¯re both okay, right?¡±


    ¡°Yeah. Fortunately, the criminals held their punches.¡± Julia admitted, as Essex quickly pulled her hands away from Wess, now searching amongst the large crowd.


    ¡°You alright, Essex?¡± Harley asked.


    ¡°The assailants have escaped. I failed to detain them¡­¡± Essex admitted, grabbing her still stinging arm, while staring out in the direction they had headed. ¡°¡­why is WRNG gathered here?¡±


    ¡°Uhh, cause they have, I guess.¡± Harley admitted, before double taking. ¡°Wait, escaped?¡±


    ¡°Well, they can¡¯t have just gotten away.¡± Wess pointed out. ¡°They¡¯re known criminals and surrounded on all ends. They would be too recognisable.¡±


    Harley thought about this, before snapping her fingers. ¡°Unless they¡¯re somewhere the police aren¡¯t checking.¡±


    It took the others a second to connect the dots, before they all looked back at WRNG, bunched up together while the police focused on the hostages, before the team spotted two members just out the back, heading in the opposite direction of the protest.


    ¡°They¡¯re in the WRNG crowd!¡± Julia cried out, before realising how it sounded. ¡°I mean, they¡¯re hiding inside WRNG!¡±


    Julia, Wess and Harley went to circle around WRNG, skirting the edge of the protest group to catch them on the other end, as Essex immediately broke into a sprint, heading right into the middle of WRNG, straight toward Alani and Devon.


    ¡°Wailing die, Venators fight!¡± A crowd member cheered, before Essex ran right by, squeezing through members as she ran. ¡°Hey, it¡¯s what¡¯s-her-face from earlier! The Venator!¡±


    The crowd started booing Essex, trying to shove her about, which only caused her still pained arm further pain, slowing her down, as she spotted Alani and Devon further in the crowd, attempting to blend in.


    ¡°Lousy Venators! Never liked them!¡± Devon cried, trying to incite more anger.


    ¡°Venators fight, Wailing die!¡± Alani chanted while pumping her fist. ¡°What¡¯s the reason? Don¡¯t know why!¡±


    Essex tried to hold herself back against the crowd while still forcing her way through, as the others caught her from the sidelines, running to catch up with her.


    ¡°Essex!¡± Julia yelled out, to no avail. ¡°We¡¯ve got to help her, right?¡±


    ¡°On it.¡± Harley said, charging in to help break her out, as Wess pulled out her tablet again.


    ¡°I¡¯m texting Sola. We need as much help as we can get.¡± Wess said, watching as Alani and Devon finally made their way to the back of WRNG, slipping out as best as they could.


    Virgil watched as a few more police cars drove by the store, blaring their sirens loudly.


    ¡°Sure are a lot of cops today.¡± Sola let out, leaning against the store counter with him.


    ¡°I hope the WRNG protests haven¡¯t gotten violent.¡± Virgil wished, before Sola felt a buzz in her pocket, pulling out her tablet.


    ¡°Oh, it¡¯s the team.¡± Sola said, as Virgil inquisitively popped his head over.


    It took them a second to read it, before they both reeled from how much they¡¯d missed.


    ¡°They¡¯ve been doing what?!¡± Sola cried, as Virgil went for the front door.


    ¡°The Gold Lelvow Bank¡¯s just a few blocks from here.¡± Virgil explained, looking back at Sola. ¡°They said it¡¯s two criminals, right?¡±


    Sola nodded, as they both stepped out of the store, only to find a few figures on the horizon running toward them, a couple frantically carrying bags and a couple just behind them.


    The couple ahead dropped a bag behind them, tripping up one of their pursuers, before high-fiving and continuing their sprint.


    ¡°I think we might be in the clear.¡± Devon said, keeping up pace with Alani.


    ¡°I think so too.¡± Alani added, jumping in the air slightly. ¡°We actually did it!¡±


    ¡°What a redemption!¡± Devon cried, holding his arms out. ¡°Freedom¡¯s never felt so good!


    ¡°I¡¯m buying a yacht first!¡± Alani announced. ¡°Then we can go and rob some cruise ships!¡±


    ¡°Oh, I love the way you think!¡± Devon declared. ¡°Next stop, Myvo-¡°


    Before he could say anything else, Virgil charged out onto the street, sweeping Devon¡¯s leg out from under him and tripping him over.


    He pulled off a similar manoeuvre with Alani, catching her off guard, as he pinned Devon¡¯s hands together.


    Just as he got him to the ground, Wess arrived behind him, trying to make sense of the situation, before Virgil pointed to Alani frantically.


    ¡°Hold her arms together. Sola!¡± Virgil yelled, as Wess did so. ¡°Grab some wire from the back! You should know where it is!¡±


    ¡°Okay!¡± Sola called back, ducking off to do so, as a banged-up Julia slowly approached, followed by Harley and Essex.


    Sola hurried back with the wire, just as Alani came to consciousness and realised Devon was knocked out next to her.


    ¡°Devon!¡± She cried, before using her Whil to burn away the wire holding her and getting back up quickly, only to come face-to-face with a pissed off Essex.


    Alani looked to the side awkwardly. ¡°Ahe¡­come on, we haven¡¯t done anything wrong.¡±


    Essex grabbed for her scythe.


    ¡°I mean, sure, we robbed a bank, but who hasn¡¯t?¡±


    Essex looked like she was about to swing with the scythe, before she merely held it by Alani¡¯s head, indicating for her to go back onto the ground.


    ¡°You will not cause a fuss when returning to prison.¡± Essex insisted. ¡°Reflect on this when considering your next move.¡±


    Alani rolled her eyes and muttered what Essex said under her breath, before complying and laying back down, taking her due punishment.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°It was fun though, right?¡±


    ¡°Until we got captured again.¡±


    ¡°Well, yeah, but we¡¯ll just avoid that next time.¡±


    Devon smiled back at Alani. ¡°Next time indeed.¡±


    Alani and Devon were moved to the back of a station wagon, as the officers closed the doors and drove off, leaving Team Valiant and Virgil to their own business.


    ¡°Wess, it¡¯s fine!¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not fine, I can see it.¡±


    Julia tried to stop Wess from cleaning her wound after falling against the road, as Essex approached from the side, looking somewhat solemn.


    Essex bowed.


    ¡°I am sorry for my earlier suggestions.¡± Essex said, grabbing at the stinging arm she¡¯d used to bash the door down. ¡°¡­my violence caused me to lose them. If I had detained Devon when I had knocked him down instead of chasing Alani, this would have been avoided. I wished to punish them both, and it only punished me in the end.¡±


    She stood back up. ¡°There were peaceful solutions, but I didn¡¯t take them.¡±


    Julia scratched her neck awkwardly. ¡°To be honest¡­we wouldn¡¯t have gotten them anyway without some force. They were going out swinging, and while we shouldn¡¯t be hurting people whenever we feel like it, we can always help out¡­¡±


    Julia sort of bowed as well. ¡°So, I¡¯m sorry for insisting we had to do less than we could.¡±


    Essex held her scythe out proudly, still feeling a residual sting in her arm, before strapping it to her back. ¡°These points are not so easily argued.¡±


    ¡°Yeah¡­¡± Julia agreed, before hugging Essex suddenly. ¡°I¡¯m just so glad we¡¯re okay¡­¡±


    The hug kept up until a loud noise landed beside them, as they noticed Sola dropping off a giant box of flowers in front of Harley, stunning her into silence.


    ¡°W-Wow¡­¡± Harley let out, as Sola beamed at her.


    ¡°Surprise! I got you a start-of-dating gift!¡± Sola exclaimed. ¡°I worked a ton to get you all of these!¡±


    ¡°R-Really?¡± Harley said to herself, digging through the box, as the mug behind her back started to feel pretty heavy.


    Sola noticed it quickly. ¡°Whatcha got there?¡±


    ¡°Oh¡­¡± She said, looking to Wess for support, before tentatively holding it out. ¡°I got you a¡­start-of-dating gift too.¡±


    Sola squeed in delight and grabbed it, before taking a second to read it and laugh.


    ¡°The cat¡¯s saying meow-ning!¡± Sola laughed. ¡°That¡¯s so good!¡±


    Harley turned to Wess subtly and gave her a thumbs up, as she gave one in return.


    ¡°Well then.¡± Virgil spoke up, before bowing similarly to Essex. ¡°Thank you for letting me help with those two. It¡¯s¡­pretty wild to put a face to the people Sola¡¯s been describing all day.¡±


    ¡°Yeah. No problem¡­?¡± Julia said, stepping forward to shake his hand.


    ¡°Virgil.¡±


    ¡°Virgil, got it. You¡¯ve got some great skills.¡± Julia complimented, as Virgil blushed a little.


    ¡°W-Well, I¡¯m just fortunate to see you guys in action. I¡­hope I can join you someday. At the academy.¡± Virgil admitted, before turning back to his shop. ¡°I should probably get back to running things. It was nice meeting you all.¡±


    The team and Virgil started heading their separate ways, only for Sola to break off and join up with Virgil again.


    ¡°Wait! I have an idea!¡± Sola admitted, as Virgil turned to face her. ¡°What if I work here in my spare time? That way, you¡¯ll have enough time to train and get accepted into the academy.¡±


    ¡°R-Really?¡± Virgil quivered, shaking his hands. ¡°I-I-I couldn¡¯t force you to do that, a-and there¡¯s no guarantee more training wi-¡°


    ¡°I¡¯m insisting.¡± Sola said. ¡°It¡¯s the least I can do.¡±


    Virgil looked back at Sola, then to the rest of Team Valiant, then to the barely visible peaks of the Venator Academy¡¯s buildings in the distance.


    ¡°¡­you can start next week.¡± Virgil said. ¡°I¡¯ll send a more detailed schedule later, but I insist you get paid for your work. You¡¯re not working for free.¡±


    Sola nodded. ¡°Great! I¡¯ll see you soon then!¡±


    Sola hurried off to join back up with Team Valiant, as Virgil headed back into his store, but not before looking back at the outline of the Venator Academy, letting out a relieved sigh as the afternoon breeze started to come in.


    ¡°We¡¯re almost there¡­¡±

 Chapter 27: Spotless

    ¡°¡­n more recent developments, there¡¯s been a noticeable spike in Favour lab raids by authorities, with sources saying that consumption of the substance has only increased with the recent large-scale ¡®Behemoth¡¯ Wailing attacks. Similar drugs have also been noted as highly widespread and dangerous, with a recognisable sign of addiction being puncture wou-¡°


    ¡°Dammit.¡±


    Julia picked her glass up off the floor, noticing the slight layer of dust that had built up over the carpet, before putting it back on the coffee table and acknowledging the spilt drink.


    ¡°Hold on, I¡¯m gonna grab something to clean this up.¡± She said, as Wess pointed toward the TV.


    ¡°This has been going on for ages, and how often is it acknowledged by the media? Almost never.¡± Wess insisted, just as Julia came back with some paper towel, dabbing at the spill.


    ¡°Well, it¡¯s a touchy subject.¡± Julia pointed out, acknowledging it sinking into the carpet. ¡°I don¡¯t know much about Favour, and frankly, I don¡¯t think I want to. Even the idea of a drug that dulls every sense in your body scares me.¡±


    Wess incredulously stared down at Julia trying to get the stain out, before the dorm door opened up, letting in a frustrated Harley, concerned Sola and curious Essex.


    ¡°Is everything alright?¡± Julia asked, as Harley trudged onto the balcony.


    ¡°FEROCITY!¡± She yelled, storming off and sitting down.


    Julia and Wess looked to Sola and Essex, as Sola just shrugged.


    ¡°She¡¯s just been saying that on the way back here.¡± Sola admitted, going to join her. ¡°I¡¯ll check what¡¯s up.¡±


    Essex watched as Julia struggled to clean the stain, before cocking her head.


    ¡°Do we not have the room inspection coming within a few days?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, that¡¯s why I¡¯m really¡­giving this¡­a red-hot go!¡± Julia tried, putting in noticeable amount of elbow grease, before giving up. ¡°Dang. That¡¯s just not going anywhere.¡±


    ¡°Hold on, I¡¯ll just get¡­¡± Wess started, before a realisation hit. ¡°That¡¯s right. We don¡¯t have cleaners here.¡±


    Wess thought back to her manor in Mareau. ¡°I¡¯m surprised this hasn¡¯t happened more often¡­¡±


    Essex watched the duo doing their own thing and decided to join Harley and Sola out on the balcony, as Harley had managed to calm herself down.


    ¡°Can you say more words now?¡± Sola asked, Harley nodding in response.


    ¡°Yeah, sorry. I just¡­¡± Harley said, before sighing out. ¡°So, you know how I¡¯m taking that architecture unit?¡±


    ¡°Yeah.¡± Sola nodded, as Harley scratched her face.


    ¡°Well, the unit¡¯s great, Cecil¡¯s a damn good teacher, but I¡¯m stuck sharing it with Baron, Duke and Edward from Team Ferocity.¡± Harley pointed out, with a noticeably disgusted face. ¡°Fortunately, they¡¯ve kept to themselves, but Cecil just invited us on an excursion to the Ruins of Revs, and only so many people can go.¡±


    Harley touched her fingers together. ¡°And I¡­kinda forgot it was happening.¡±


    ¡°Were you excited to go?¡± Essex asked, getting an efficient nod from Harley.


    ¡°Yeah! I¡¯ve never been! It¡¯s right on my bucket list.¡± Harley elaborated. ¡°So now there¡¯s only one slot left, and I want it, but so do Team Ferocity. Cecil didn¡¯t want to get involved, so he told us to work it out ourselves, and¡­now I¡¯ve got to win against all three of them in a sparring match.¡±


    ¡°What?!¡± Sola exclaimed. ¡°I get why you were angry now! That¡¯s so not fair! Why do you have to fight all three?!¡±


    ¡°Duke and Edward said they¡¯d give their spot to Baron if they got it, so I¡¯ve got to beat them too.¡± Harley explained, clenching her fist. ¡°It¡¯s so spineless of them.¡±


    ¡°If this is to be fair, then we shall aid you in this.¡± Essex offered. ¡°Three on one is not a reasonable match.¡±


    ¡°Thanks, Essex, but I couldn¡¯t do that.¡± Harley excused. ¡°I¡¯m the one who screwed up in the first place by not signing up quicker. This isn¡¯t something I want you getting hurt over.¡±


    Harley sat back up and stretched. ¡°Plus, Baron wouldn¡¯t allow it anyway. Knowing that guy, he¡¯d just go behind my back and pull some cheap trick. At least this way, there¡¯s a chance that he¡¯ll respect our deal and give it to me fairly.¡±


    Harley palmed her forehead. ¡°I still hate that I have to fight those freaking guys, but at least I tried talking it out this time...¡±


    ¡°Can I watch the matches? The least I can do is cheer you on while you¡¯re pummelling them.¡± Sola encouraged, as Harley grinned proudly at her.


    ¡°Of course! I wouldn¡¯t have it any other way.¡± Harley beamed, looking to Essex. ¡°The invite¡¯s open to you too, if you want.¡±


    ¡°I¡­will see how I am. I do not feel comfortable around Team Ferocity.¡± Essex reminded her, as Harley gave a thumbs up.


    ¡°Whatever works for you.¡± She said, playfully picking Sola up and carrying her. ¡°Alright, you¡¯re coming with me. I¡¯m gonna need some motivation while I train.¡±


    ¡°H-Harley! Put me down!¡± Sola laughed, as Harley charged out of the room, leaving the remaining trio to themselves.


    ¡°Well, they were in quite a hurry.¡± Wess pointed out, looking to Essex. ¡°Lover¡¯s appointment?¡±


    Essex shook her head. ¡°Harley has been challenged to another match with Team Ferocity. She¡¯s now training with Sola.¡±


    ¡°Again? Those guys don¡¯t know when to quit.¡± Julia remarked, before thinking things over. ¡°Wait, does that mean they can¡¯t help us clean the dorm for the inspection?¡±


    Essex realised Julia¡¯s point and nodded. ¡°I believe so. However, I will still offer my aid where needed.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re too good to us, Essex.¡± Wess insisted. ¡°Honestly, it might be better if you follow them. Last time they trained together, Harley nearly fell off the Spir-¡°


    Just as Wess finished her anecdote, the dorm door opened back up to show Harley now in Sola¡¯s arms, being carried along, as Harley showed visible pain on her face.


    ¡°Ow, ow ow ow ow ow!¡± Harley let out, jerking her left foot up as it touched the ground.


    ¡°Oh, of course I jinxed it.¡± Wess groaned, with Sola now lying Harley on the couch and raising her foot with a few stacked pillows.


    ¡°What happened to her?¡± Julia asked, leaning down and inspecting Harley¡¯s leg.


    ¡°Well, Harley was being really fun and flirty by carrying me, but she tripped on the way down to the grounds¡­¡± Sola said, just as Harley groaned. ¡°¡­and sprained her ankle.¡±


    ¡°Nope, nope, it¡¯s not sprained, I just scraped something.¡± Harley insisted, as Julia helped take off her shoes and socks. ¡°I can¡¯t-oww!¡±


    ¡°Oh, s-sorry.¡± Julia apologised, carefully removing the sock.


    ¡°I can¡¯t have a sprain, I need to win against Team Ferocity!¡± Harley reiterated, before idly looking down at the carpet. ¡°Was that stain always there?¡±


    Julia managed to pull off Harley¡¯s sock, before noticing the growing red mark on her foot and tentatively inspecting it.


    ¡°No, that¡¯s definitely a sprain. Wess, can you get some ice?¡± Julia asked, as Wess promptly did so, only for Harley to try and sit back up.


    ¡°I¡¯m not sitting on my ass while I miss out on my ruins trip. I missed my first chance, I¡¯m no-oww!¡±


    Wess pulled back the ice pack, before placing it on Harley¡¯s foot more gently. ¡°Oh, quit complaining.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll do that when it stops hurting!¡± Harley groaned, as Sola held her hand. ¡°Am I gonna be okay?¡±


    ¡°I hope so¡­¡± Sola let out, as Wess rolled her eyes behind them. ¡°I guess that means you can¡¯t fight after all. I¡¯d take your place, but I¡¯m still not very good at sparring¡­¡±


    Harley held her hand comfortingly, as Essex cleared her throat behind them.


    ¡°If the excursion is this important to you¡­¡± Essex started, brandishing her scythe. ¡°Then I will take your place.¡±


    The team looked at Essex inquisitively, as Harley turned her head. ¡°You mean on the excursion?¡±


    Essex looked a bit confused. ¡°No¡­with fighting Team Ferocity.¡±


    ¡°Oh, that makes more sense.¡± Harley said, before she double-took. ¡°Oh no, I can¡¯t have you do that.¡±


    ¡°I am offering. You are indisposed and unable to act, so I shall defeat them for you.¡± Essex said, re-brandishing her scythe.


    ¡°Essex, please. We have an opportunity to avoid fighting them now. Harley can visit the ruins another¡­¡± Wess pointed out, only to get a devastated look from Harley. ¡°¡­you agree with me, right Julia?¡±


    Julia shared a glance with Wess, before turning her attention to Essex proper. ¡°Has Harley tried talking them out of it?¡±


    Essex nodded briefly, as Julia sighed out and shrugged.


    ¡°If Essex is offering, I say go for it.¡± Julia allowed. ¡°I trust her to do well.¡±


    ¡°Jesalo Mosori. I refuse to falter.¡± Essex declared. ¡°This will be swift and skilful.¡±


    ¡°I like hearing that.¡± Harley admitted, sitting up a little. ¡°Alright, fine. If Ferocity agrees, you can take my place. But I¡¯m definitely going down to watch.¡±


    ¡°Me too! I wanna see you wallop them!¡± Sola expressed. ¡°And so I can make sure Harley doesn¡¯t try to take them on anyway.¡±


    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t¡­¡± Harley said, before really thinking on it, as Wess shot up.


    ¡°Hold on, that means only Julia and I will be cleaning the room.¡± Wess pointedly noted, as Sola looked away sheepishly.


    ¡°Oh, wow! I¡¯m feeling so much better.¡± Harley played up, grabbing the ice pack from Wess. ¡°I think I¡¯ll be able to make it to the infirmary and get a wrap for my ankle. Care to help me, Sola?¡±


    Sola took a second, before realising Harley¡¯s plan. ¡°Oh. Oh! Yes, I will very much do that.¡±


    ¡°Hey, wait a-¡° Julia said, just as Harley and Sola quickly dashed out of the door, Essex following behind in order to help where she could. ¡°¡­huh.¡±


    ¡°Honestly, they can be so rude.¡± Wess admitted, looking around them and noticing the sheer workload. ¡°Oh lord, this one¡¯s going to be rough¡­¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s no problem. We can do it together.¡± Julia encouraged, slinging an arm around Wess. ¡°We¡¯ll just plan out our time and take it in stages. Sure, it¡¯s a dorm room for five, but it¡¯s still fairly small.¡±


    ¡°And I have almost no experience with cleaning, in case you forgot.¡± Wess noted. ¡°You¡¯ll be herding me like a sheep dog for the whole sorted affair.¡±


    ¡°Should I put on some dog ears then?¡± Julia joked, as Wess gave a tepid smirk and decided to change into more appropriate cleaning clothes in the group study.


    Julia looked around and mapped a couple things out, before acknowledging the daunting presence of the main room. ¡°I think we should start in here. Maybe clean around the beds first and then move onto the lounge area.¡±


    ¡°Is that so we can put off touching your drink stain?¡± Wess remarked, leaning out mid-change from inside the closet, as Julia looked to the side.


    ¡°Maybe¡­¡± She said, before noticing Wess hadn¡¯t closed the door and was missing a noticeable amount of clothing. ¡°W-Wess! Close the door!¡± Julia insisted, as Wess looked down and drooped her eyes.


    ¡°Oh, grow up. We live together.¡± Wess pointed out, re-emerging with a more practical shirt and jeans combo. ¡°You¡¯ve already seen me bathing.¡±


    ¡°Not on purpose¡­¡± Julia mumbled, as Wess¡¯ eye was drawn to the broken fish tank by their shared bunk bed.


    ¡°Do you think they¡¯re going to find that odd?¡± Wess asked, as Julia walked over to it.


    ¡°They didn¡¯t mention anything in the last inspection.¡± Julia said, now glancing at the sword hanging above it. ¡°Got to hand it to the dorm staff, they¡¯ll let a lot of stuff slide. I thought they were gonna have your head when you put nails in the wall.¡±


    ¡°I think losing an arm would be a more fitting punishment. That way I couldn¡¯t add more nails.¡± Wess remarked, before pointing to their bed. ¡°Shall we start?¡±


    ¡°I thought you¡¯d never ask.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Hey, Harley?¡±


    ¡°Yeah?¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s she doing?¡±


    Harley and Sola looked down at Essex from the spectator stands, as she was sat down at one side of a sparring court, having removed her suit jacket, while slowing breathing in and out. She ran her fingers over the edge of her scythe handle, repeatedly changing her skin to the same steel as the rod inside the handle with her Whil.


    ¡°I think she¡¯s getting in the right headspace. Considering she¡¯s fighting three guys one after the other, she¡¯ll need all the help she can get.¡± Harley said, her leg resting against the stands and her head resting in Sola¡¯s lap, as Sola watched Essex¡¯s skin change from metallic silver to brown over and over.


    ¡°It was really nice of her to take your place.¡± Sola mentioned. ¡°I¡¯m sorry I¡¯m not the one doing it.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s cool. You¡¯ll be here for moral support.¡± Harley said, slightly adjusting her leg. ¡°Plus, now I¡¯ve got some eye candy while I watch Team Ferocity lose again.¡±


    Sola giggled cutely, distracting Essex from her focus, before she stood back up and stretched, anxiously waiting for Team Ferocity to arrive.


    ¡°You have confirmed with Team Ferocity the replacement?¡± Essex asked, as Harley lifted her head and nodded.


    ¡°They were surprisingly cool with it. I thought Baron would be ready to take me down after losing last time.¡± Harley acknowledged. ¡°Though, I guess he technically won after I lost my cool¡­¡±


    ¡°No, you totally won that!¡± Sola insisted.


    Harley lifted her head from Sola¡¯s lap and faced Essex. ¡°How do you think you¡¯ll fair, considering how you tend to react to them?¡±


    ¡°Oh yeah. Don¡¯t you get all quiet and withdrawn when Baron''s around?¡± Sola pointed out, getting an unfortunate confirmation from Essex. ¡°Won¡¯t that make fighting difficult?¡±


    ¡°¡­I will figure that out.¡± Essex declared, tightening her stretch. ¡°I have to¡­¡±


    Almost on cue, she spotted four silhouettes approaching from the distance, as Baron, Duke and Edward made themselves known, along with Mr Cecil accompanying.


    Just as they made it to the court, Essex bowed in their direction, both in order to be polite and to avoid looking at them directly.


    ¡°Calias. I thank you for allowing my replacement of Harley. This will be a match worth having.¡± Essex promised, as Baron hunched his shoulders.


    ¡°It¡¯s not a real bother. You guys tend to blend together for me.¡± Baron remarked, getting a low chuckle from Duke.


    Essex chose to ignore the remark, before forcing herself to lift her head and stare them in the eyes, only to immediately regret her decision.


    Baron glared back at her, gently balancing his sword on his shoulder, as Essex¡¯s confident stance was slowly sacrificed to her anxiety.


    ¡°Now, please, don¡¯t mind me.¡± Cecil insisted, going to sit down by the spectator stands. ¡°I¡¯m just here to oversee things and make sure you guys don¡¯t get seriously injured. Remember, you¡¯re here to fight Wailing, not each other.¡±


    ¡°What a buzzkill¡­¡± Edward let out, only to notice Essex staring back at him and jumping. ¡°U-Uhh, forget you heard that.¡±


    ¡°If Essex manages to win all three matches, then Harley gets to go on the excursion. But if she loses, then the winner takes the spot. Got it?¡± Cecil asked, getting a nod from the participants.


    ¡°No point wasting time then.¡± Baron said, indicating from Duke and Edward to head up to the stands, as they sat somewhat close to Harley and Sola.


    ¡°I guess Baron¡¯s going first.¡± Harley commented, resting back on Sola, as Edward noticed their closeness and squinted.


    ¡°What, are you two an item?¡±


    ¡°Damn right we are!¡± Sola yelled back, scaring Edward, as Harley calmed her down, turning their attention back to the field.


    Baron gripped his sword, holding it out in a combative stance, as Essex quickly took a similar stance with her scythe, both seemingly ready to start their match, before Baron moved out of his stance and stood up straight.


    ¡°Actually, nevermind. Edward, get down here.¡± Baron corrected, pointing to Edward, as he swiftly jumped out of his seat and onto the field, only confusing Essex.


    ¡°Same old Baron.¡± Harley remarked under her breath, as he joined them on the stands. ¡°You just did that to throw her off, didn¡¯t you?¡±


    ¡°Hey, it works.¡± Baron pointed out, slumping back in his seat while noticeably readjusting his right arm.


    Harley spotted his manoeuvre. ¡°¡­how¡¯s the hand doing?¡±


    Baron glanced back at her, before sighing to himself. ¡°It¡¯s still a bit stiff after the cast was removed. But I''ve gotten back into the swing of training, thanks to Joleicia.¡±


    Harley winced. ¡°I forgot you guys were dating.¡±


    ¡°She''s a keeper.¡± Baron remarked, grinning slightly to Harley.


    ¡°And you still challenged me to a fight just after it¡¯s healed?¡± Harley pointed out.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t think it would hold me back.¡± Baron remarked, turning his back to her and ending the conversation, as Edward pulled out a large metal sheet from his side, using his Whil to manipulate the metal in mid-air.


    ¡°You¡¯d best get ready, Essex. I¡¯m the best fighter in Team Ferocity.¡± Edward bragged, before locking eyes with Baron and losing his composure. ¡°O-Obviously excluding Baron. And maybe Duke.¡±


    Well¡­that was pointless. Essex noted, as Cecil stood up from his seat.


    ¡°First one to knock down the other wins. No serious damage, if it can be avoided.¡± Cecil insisted, waving his hand and sitting back down with a book. ¡°Begin.¡±


    Edward immediately started firing large blocks out of his metal sheet, attempting to knock Essex¡¯s scythe out of her hand, as she dodged around them, closing in on him in a near instant.


    The spectators had trouble keeping up, just as Essex went to sweep out Edward¡¯s feet with her scythe, only for him to quickly block the move with a wall of his metal.


    He regathered the fired chunks of metal, continually blocking Essex¡¯s further swings, before sliding a thin layer of it under her feet, lifting up one higher than the other.


    Essex nearly toppled over, before jumping back and re-centring herself, as Edward allowed himself a moment to catch a breath.


    She doesn¡¯t quit! He thought, testing his Whil with some subtle flexing. I¡¯m already at my wits end!


    ¡°Edward! Don¡¯t lose this!¡± Baron yelled, making both combatants jump. ¡°Go for heavy attacks! She¡¯s light on her feet, so she can¡¯t defend against them!¡±


    ¡°Hey! Don¡¯t give him advice!¡± Harley yelled, indicating to Cecil. ¡°Teach! Baron¡¯s giving Edward an advantage!¡±


    ¡°Baron, refrain from interfering.¡± Cecil insisted, not lifting his attention from his book, as Baron sat back casually, seemingly satisfied with what he¡¯d done.


    Edward quickly put his words into action and summoned a large wall of metal, sending it sliding toward Essex, as she swiftly dodged, refocusing on Edward, only for the wall to come back around and block her again.


    Unauthorized reproduction: this story has been taken without approval. Report sightings.


    She did her best to avoid getting hit, but the wall still clipped her, scratching her arms and nearly knocking her scythe away. Before he could get the upper hand, she waited for the wall to swing at her again, only to swing her scythe into it, hooking herself onto the wall and climbing on top.


    Edward tried to respond by pulling it down and regathering it, but was just too late, as Essex used her height advantage to jump off the top of it and land right beside Edward, before knocking his feet out proper.


    She spun her scythe in her hand and slammed it down, as Cecil lifted his attention for a moment to acknowledge the victory.


    ¡°The first match goes to Essex.¡± He said, with Harley and Sola clapping to her in the stands, while Edward slinked back up to his seat, avoiding looking at Baron.


    ¡°Rough loss.¡± Duke mentioned, sitting back comfortably, as Baron just stared off into the sky.


    Edward felt he should speak up. ¡°I-I swear I should have ha-¡°


    ¡°She won. Get over it.¡± Baron insisted, giving him a dismissive look. ¡°Don¡¯t complain when you lose. Demand a rematch or stay quiet.¡±


    Edward shut up again, proverbially licking his wounds, as Essex went up to Harley and Sola to take a small break.


    ¡°How¡¯re you holding up? Need a drink?¡± Sola asked.


    ¡°I will be fine. That was a light workout.¡± Essex remarked, as Harley looked impressed.


    ¡°Whoa, trash talk from Essex. I never thought I¡¯d see the day.¡± Harley said. ¡°Love the confidence. Very sexy.¡±


    Essex blushed gently, while trying to keep her demeanour up as best she could. ¡°Th-That was not my intention, but I am glad it had a positive outcome.¡±


    ¡°Next match in five minutes. Use the break well.¡± Cecil said, as Essex eyed Duke up, preparing for her next challenge.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Alright, hold it up for me.¡±


    ¡°Is this the most practical way to clean?¡±


    ¡°No, but it¡¯s fun.¡±


    Wess barely held up the bin, deliberately giving Julia some attitude, before Julia chucked a wad of paper toward her, only to watch it bounce off the rim.


    ¡°Oh, come on marksman, I thought you were good at aiming.¡± Wess taunted, as Julia threw another one, only for it to go soaring and smack Wess in the face.


    Julia grabbed her chest in laughter, as Wess tried not to look embarrassed. ¡°Oh no. I was trying to slow it with my Whil, but it looks like I accidentally sped it up. Clumsy me.¡±


    Julia struggled to hold back laughter, just as Wess picked the paper ball back up and chucked it back at her, to minimal results. Regardless, Wess smiled along with Julia, as they went about cleaning normally, scouring through the team¡¯s study in meticulous detail.


    ¡°Essex does a good job of keeping this place clear.¡± Julia pointed out. ¡°I¡¯d hate to be cleaning Chops¡¯ room right now.¡±


    ¡°Oh, poor Joleicia. She¡¯s probably drowning in sketchbooks.¡± Wess added, just as Julia poured through the team¡¯s shared drawers of clothes, before pulling out a lovely winter coat.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t this the coat Chops got for you on Bestalow?¡± Julia asked, as Wess gave it a brief side-eye and nodded.


    ¡°Unfortunately, I haven¡¯t had many opportunities to wear it. Central Point is nowhere near as cold as the Northern Wayside, after all.¡± Wess said, with Julia jumping up and down excitedly.


    ¡°Are you gonna wear it with your formal outfit? I bet it¡¯d look really pretty.¡± Julia exclaimed, as Wess scoffed beside her.


    ¡°Nice try, but you¡¯re not seeing my formal outfit just yet.¡± Wess said, frustrating Julia.


    ¡°Come on. I wanna see it already! You¡¯re easily the most stylish of the team.¡± Julia encouraged, causing Wess to chuckle.


    ¡°Flattery will get you nowhere.¡± Wess commented. ¡°But I greatly appreciate it.¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t help it. Your hair¡¯s really pretty, so I can¡¯t help but think about it flowing over an evening gown.¡± Julia complimented, surprising Wess as she went for a broom.


    ¡°¡­Julia, please. All the compliments will go to my head.¡± Wess insisted, as Julia grinned back.


    ¡°Alright. But you can¡¯t blame me for being honest.¡± Julia said, flustering Wess even further, as she ran her fingers through her hair to compensate.


    ¡°¡­you¡¯re an awfully giving person, aren¡¯t you?¡± Wess pointed out, turning Julia¡¯s attention toward her.


    ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    Wess faced her and laughed a little. ¡°You don¡¯t even know you¡¯re doing it¡­¡±


    Julia¡¯s confusion only continued, as Wess dismissed the point and went back to sweeping. ¡°Nothing, just thinking aloud.¡±


    Julia shrugged and grabbed a broom to join her. ¡°Alright.¡±


    Julia kicked up a bit of dust, before catching Wess gently humming to herself, only for Julia to join in, causing another pleasant laugh between the two.


    In a moment of comfort, Wess pulled back her hair a little to see where she was sweeping better, still humming quietly, as Julia looked over to her and noticed something on the now exposed part of neck.


    ¡°Hey, Wess?¡±


    ¡°Yes?¡±


    ¡°What¡¯re those little dots?¡±


    Wess squinted and laughed. ¡°Little dots? What a¡­¡±


    Only realising too late, Wess acknowledged that she subconsciously moved her hair away from where it normally sat, before frantically returning it to where it was, as Julia closed in.


    ¡°Is it some kind of ras-¡°


    ¡°Julia, let this go.¡± Wess demanded. ¡°Just keep to yourself and clean.¡±


    Julia looked shocked, before reaching out a hand. ¡°Is it something you wan-¡°


    ¡°I said to leave it alone.¡± Wess urged, dropping her broom as her frustration started to build. ¡°What part of that don¡¯t you understand?¡±


    Julia backed off worriedly. ¡°S-Sorry, I just though-¡°


    ¡°You needn¡¯t prod me for every little detail of my life! So just shut up and focus on cleaning!¡± Wess let out, breathing heavily, while still trying to keep her mannered demeanour, as Julia found herself breathing heavily as well.


    ¡°¡­okay.¡± Julia said, slowly picking up her broom. ¡°¡­I¡¯m sorry. I¡¯ll shut up now.¡±


    Wess watched as she went back to cleaning, calming herself down a little and rechecking her hair thoroughly, before grabbing her broom and returning to cleaning in dead silence.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Are you two ready?¡±


    Essex jumped a little as Cecil called out for her, watching as Duke stood up as well, taking slow, deliberate steps with his large ball and chain dragging behind him.


    Duke looked back at Baron and smiled. ¡°What, no advice?¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t need it.¡± Baron admitted, upsetting Edward next to him.


    ¡°You¡¯ve got this, Essex. Don¡¯t let his Whil throw you off.¡± Harley advised, propping her leg back up on the seat.


    ¡°And don¡¯t be intimidated cause he doesn¡¯t talk that much.¡± Sola added, before looking back at Essex properly. ¡°Actually, you don¡¯t talk much too, so try to use it to your advantage!¡±


    Essex nodded back to her, before stepping down the stands, only to make momentary eye contact with Baron, freezing her in place with his intimidation.


    Baron looked back at her, locking eyes with her motionless body, before leaning on his hand and smiling casually, waving to her as if she wasn¡¯t struck with fear, only throwing her off more.


    She managed to push through, heading down and meeting Duke on the field, as Cecil held up a hand to get their attention.


    Duke casually checked the weight of his steel ball and chain, as Essex started tapping her foot on the ground rhythmically, before Cecil raised his hand and lowered it.


    ¡°Begin.¡±


    Duke started by chucking his ball across the field, before sinking it into the ground with his Whil and grabbing the chain, then using his Whil to propel himself through the ground around the submerged ball in a radius.


    Essex quickly dodged out of the way as he started to build up speed, only just missing crashing into her, as he started to go around again. Essex stood just outside the radius, trying to find an opening to attack from.


    She settled on striking as he next went past, as she aimed the flat of her scythe toward him, only for Duke to sink further into the ground and duck under it.


    Essex backed off again, as she thought about going inside the radius, before remembering Wess¡¯ fight with him and acknowledging what a bad idea that was.


    ¡°She can¡¯t do anything.¡± Harley pointed out, Sola holding her hand for comfort.


    ¡°Is he waiting for her to get impatient?¡± Sola asked, as Essex felt the pressure to try attacking again.


    She waited for him to pass once more, only for him to stop suddenly, slowing down in an instant, giving Essex another chance to attack.


    She went in to take him out, only to notice that his chain was still moving, as the once submerged spiked ball was now hurtling toward her through the ground, crashing right into her, as she fell backward, nearly stumbling onto her knees.


    Duke returned the ball to himself, as he lifted it up playfully, showing off to the downed Essex.


    ¡°I thought you¡¯d be tougher.¡±


    Essex instinctually growled, as her temper started dragging her over to him, only to stop herself and think things over, as he frowned and sunk the ball again, restarting his radius spinning.


    This will not end well if I continue to miss attacks. Essex thought, watching as he spun around. He will only need a few to fend me off.


    Essex noticed him spinning around, recalling Wess¡¯ last fight with him, before remembering a manoeuvre she used in the middle of his radius.


    Closing in will not work. He will merely trip me with his chain, or sink the ball and shrink his rotation to catch up with me. Essex acknowledged, clenching her fist. ¡­I will use his strength to my advantage. This will not stand.


    Essex strapped her scythe to her back, watching as Duke waited for her to interrupt him, just as she spotted where the ball had submerged and where the chain was emerging from.


    Waiting for him just to pass her, she ran toward the middle and waited for Duke to unsettle the ground, sinking the ball down further and shortening his radius to reach her.


    However, just as the ground was loosened, she grabbed at the chain, using her Whil with it to change her hands to steel, and pulled up, ripping it out from the ground along with the ball.


    Watching as Duke lost control of his momentum, she dodged as he flew past, just as he tripped over his steel ball, landing directly on his face.


    Essex let out a steady breath, as Duke slowly got back up, noticeably dizzy, before shaking it off and looking around frantically, trying to make sense of what happened.


    ¡°Oh my god¡­¡± Edward let out, turning frantically to Baron. ¡°Did you see that?¡±


    ¡°¡­yeah.¡± Baron admitted, laying back against the stands.


    ¡°This round also goes to Essex.¡± Cecil announced, just as Duke stared back at his ball and chain, picking it up in frustration.


    As he got ready to exit, Essex bowed toward him. ¡°That was a worthy match. I commend you for yo-¡°


    ¡°Lucky bitch¡­¡± He muttered, slumping back onto the stands, as Essex was left stunned, trying not to take the words personally.


    ¡°Forseca¡­¡± She muttered back, before calming herself down, only to lock eyes with Baron again, stunning her stiff, as he milked the eye contact for all he could.


    Essex ripped herself away, joining Harley and Sola back on the stands, as she cautiously waited for her last challenge.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Alright, that should be everything.¡±


    Julia wiped a bit of sweat away, as she finished wiping off the kitchen counter, just as Wess emerged from the bathroom with a few spray bottles.


    ¡°The shower¡¯s clean.¡± She said, returning the bottles to the cupboard, before awkwardly facing Julia and trying to navigate out of her way and onto the couch.


    Julia decided not to speak up, before doing a once over of the kitchen, making sure everything was as clean as it could be, only to remember the stain still on the carpet.


    Of course. She thought. Maybe I can move one of the chairs over it?


    As Julia thought over her options, Wess flipped through channels on the TV, but without paying any attention to what was on it. Her mind kept floating back to Julia and how she must be feeling, as she realised just how long they¡¯d been cleaning for at this point.


    She noticed the sun just about to set over the Eldos Mountains in the distance, before finally turning off the TV and turning to Julia.


    Julia kept inspecting the kitchen, before noticing Wess looking at her, only to worry that she was in trouble again. ¡°Y-Yeah?¡±


    ¡°¡­can you come over?¡± Wess asked, patting the couch cushion next to her, as Julia tentatively did what she said, still trying to assess the situation.


    ¡°A-Are we going to have a talk about boundaries?¡± Julia worried, as Wess shook her head.


    ¡°¡­I wanted to apologise for yelling at you earlier.¡± Wess said. ¡°I¡­shouldn¡¯t have¡­you did nothing wrong. And¡­I really shouldn¡¯t be hiding this¡­¡±


    Julia tried to get a read on Wess, noticing the clear amount of effort it was taking to say all this, before Wess straightened out her back and properly faced Julia.


    ¡°Alright. I¡¯m just going to tell you, and¡­please don¡¯t react poorly.¡±


    Julia nodded insistently, as Wess took a heavy breath.


    ¡°I¡­used to be a Favour addict.¡±


    Julia reeled for a bit, surprised at just what Wess was admitting, before Wess waved her hands.


    ¡°Well, technically, I still¡­am. Addiction isn¡¯t so easily¡­¡± Wess started, before noticing Julia¡¯s expression and worrying. ¡°I-I don¡¯t still take it if that¡¯s wha-¡°


    ¡°No, no, sorry. I¡­just needed a second.¡± Julia admitted, trying to keep herself composed. ¡°Th-This is a pretty big thing to take in.¡±


    Julia shook her head. ¡°Sorry, you were talking.¡±


    ¡°Right, yes.¡± Wess replied.


    There was an uncomfortable silence just as she said that before Julia felt she had to speak up.


    ¡°I-Is it okay if I ask a question?¡±


    Wess nodded, as Julia touched her fingers together.


    ¡°Wh-When did¡­well, how¡­uhh, I can¡¯t talk.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s¡­alright. I get it.¡± Wess said, letting herself breath again. ¡°It was¡­back in Mareau¡­I was having a particularly difficult time at home. I was still attending my parents ¡®Venator classes,¡¯ all while they insisted I accompany them to social functions and live out their little fantasies, belittling me every chance they¡­so¡­¡±


    Wess found the next part difficult to say, as Julia reached out and held her hand, helping her through.


    ¡°¡­so, I won¡¯t go into details, but I acquired some¡­Favour.¡± Wess continued. ¡°It¡­numbs the body and mind so that you don¡¯t have to feel anything, which meant I could sit through those Venator classes and my parent¡¯s lectures without taking any of it in. And what a welcome change that was. For a brief moment, life was so much easier¡­¡±


    Wess sighed out again. ¡°¡­but it became less and less effective with each dose, and meant I was¡­almost catatonic for most of the day. While it meant I didn¡¯t have to take in those nonsense classes, I also couldn¡¯t properly train with Belvedere either.¡±


    Wess took another few moments to herself, before mustering up the courage and pulling back her hair again, showing Julia the side of her neck.


    ¡°¡­and, in order for the doses to be effective, they need to be injected¡­through the neck.¡± Wess said, indicating to what Julia could now see were puncture wounds.


    Once Julia got a good look, Wess quickly moved her hair back and ran her hands through it quickly. ¡°E-Eventually, Graham found out about it and put a stop to it. He¡­we both worked on my recovery.¡± Wess confessed, fiddling with her fingers. ¡°It was a difficult process, but I was much better for it.¡±


    Wess nervously held up three fingers. ¡°As of now, I¡¯ve been three years sober.¡±


    Julia let herself take this all in, going back to holding Wess¡¯ hand comfortingly, as Wess felt prompted to speak this time.


    ¡°I-I hope you don¡¯t think any less of me because of this.¡± Wess let out, as Julia shook her head and closed the distance between them.


    ¡°No, no, of course not. I wouldn¡¯t look down on you for this.¡± Julia said, smiling back at her. ¡°What you went through was clearly rough, but it¡¯s not your fault. What¡¯s important is that you got help.¡±


    Julia went in for a hug. ¡°Thank you for telling me. It was clearly a difficult thing to admit to, so I¡¯m glad you¡­felt comfortable letting me know.¡±


    ¡°Yes, eventually¡­¡± Wess let out, breaking the hug, before noticing Julia staring at the couch. ¡°You look like you have something on your mind.¡±


    ¡°Oh, no, I was just curious¡­¡± Julia said, before jumping a little. ¡°Can I ask another question?¡±


    Wess chuckled a little, before holding her finger up. ¡°Alright, you¡¯re permitted one question.¡±


    Julia avoided eye contact. ¡°Feel free¡­not to answer.¡± She said. ¡°Do¡­you still get cravings? Or something similar?¡±


    Wess pressed her finger to her chin. ¡°On occasion. It¡¯s faint, but it¡¯s there. All that can really be done is the selfcare I¡¯ve been employing already.¡± Wess admitted. ¡°Actually, wine tasting has been a great way to stave it off.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Julia asked. ¡°Huh. Go figure.¡±


    Wess nodded back, before looking a little nervous again. ¡°You would¡­understand if I didn¡¯t tell the others, right?¡±


    Julia gave a thumbs up. ¡°Absolutely. Only tell them if you¡¯re comfortable with that. I¡¯ll keep this between us for now.¡±


    ¡°Thank you¡­¡± Wess said, sighing back out and sinking into the couch. ¡°What an exhausting day¡­¡±


    ¡°I know¡­I¡¯m so sick of looking at this place¡­¡± Julia said, joining her. ¡°¡­you wanna go see Essex¡¯s fight?¡±


    ¡°¡­oh, why not.¡± Wess agreed, getting up and grabbing her things, before heading out with Julia to watch the last match.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Are the participants ready?¡±


    Baron glanced back at Essex, still nervously staring back at him, as he scratched his neck. ¡°Yeah, I¡¯m good to go.¡±


    Cecil looked over to Team Valiant, still seated right at the front of the stands. ¡°Essex?¡±


    Essex jumped, shakily grabbing for her scythe, looking toward Baron and shrinking from their height difference, as he stood right at the back of the stands, straightening his back.


    ¡°Essex? Are you feeling okay?¡± Harley asked, grabbing her shoulder, as Essex backed up a little, shaking her head.


    ¡°Y-You need not worry. I-I shall d-defeat him.¡± Essex stuttered, desperately trying to convince herself, as Baron saw his opportunity and laughed.


    ¡°You¡¯re actually scared, aren¡¯t you?¡± He asked. ¡°And you think you¡¯re ready for the Wailing?¡±


    Essex tried stepping forward, before finding herself backing off instead.


    ¡°Come on, you took on Duke and Edward. What¡¯s one more?¡± Baron teased, visibly enjoying himself. ¡°What¡¯s so different about me?¡±


    ¡°Baron, just shut it already.¡± Harley groaned, as Sola held Essex¡¯s arm.


    Baron swung his sword casually. ¡°Just one match. And then one of us¡­¡± Baron prefaced. ¡°¡­gets to push the other down.¡±


    Essex flinched, falling back to the stands, as Baron sneered and walked down to the field, patiently waiting for Essex to join him.


    ¡°That douchebag.¡± Sola let out, patting Essex¡¯s back. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, you can take him.¡±


    ¡°¡­I d-do not believe I can.¡± Essex admitted. ¡°I-I will freeze up and fail. I am not ready¡­¡±


    ¡°Hey, don¡¯t let him get to you. He pushes buttons, that¡¯s all he¡¯s good at.¡± Harley assured, as Essex looked unconvinced.


    ¡°¡­Harley, I must confess¡­I did not do this just to aid you.¡± Essex admitted. ¡°I had¡­other motives for fighting today.¡±


    Harley looked back at her in confusion, as Essex stared to the ground.


    ¡°¡­I-I¡­am worried about the person. The one we fought at the attack on the academy.¡±


    Sola held onto her arm. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I think we all are.¡±


    Essex shook her head. ¡°It isn¡¯t so simple. I have fought with her personally and failed to defeat her. Wess had nearly lost Belvedere because I could not handle her. Coatsworth was almost attacked...¡±


    Essex tried to avoid looking at Harley and Sola. ¡°I could not defend against her, and I¡­needed to know whether I could match her skill.¡±


    The idea hit Harley. ¡°Oh shit. That¡¯s why you wanted to fight Team Ferocity. The figure demolished all three of them without breaking a sweat, and¡­¡±


    Essex nodded in response, as a small tear rolled down her cheek. ¡°B-But I cannot take them, even when it¡¯s only one on one. I struggled with Duke, and I cannot do something as simple as look Baron in the eyes. H-How useful am I if I can¡¯t defend this team¡­¡±


    Harley quickly embraced Essex, along with Sola, before sharing a glance together. ¡°Nobody said you had to fight her alone. We¡¯ll have your back.¡±


    ¡°You might not be able to take her out, but there¡¯s no way she can handle all five of us.¡± Sola assured. ¡°And you really need to lighten up on yourself. You wiped the floor with Duke, literally.¡±


    ¡°Baron¡¯s just some dumb jerk. Don¡¯t let him dictate how strong you are.¡± Harley advised. ¡°You¡¯re still the strongest of us, and if anyone can take him down a peg, it¡¯s you.¡±


    Essex found herself speechless at Harley and Sola¡¯s passionate declarations, before wiping her eyes clear. ¡°Th-This was a momentary lapse in emotional control. I apologise.¡±


    ¡°Oh, don¡¯t say that. You¡¯re allowed to feel bad.¡± Harley said, punching her arm. ¡°Just don¡¯t bottle it up next time.¡±


    Essex nodded again, managing to stand up on her own, as she looked back at her team.


    ¡°I-If it is alright with you, I would still like to challenge Baron.¡± Essex asked, carefully holding her scythe. ¡°While I do not need to worry about the figure, I would still like to give you that excursion.¡±


    ¡°Aww, you sweetie.¡± Harley cooed, blushing. ¡°Go for it. Kiss his ass.¡±


    ¡°Smack that grin off his face!¡± Sola insisted, before Harley remembered something and leaned down to Essex.


    ¡°Oh, and if you want to get a few cheap shots in, his right hand¡¯s still recovering.¡± Harley grinned, as Essex looked offended.


    ¡°I would not debase myself with that!¡± Essex declared, Harley shrugging in response, as Cecil looked up at the trio with a stare of disinterest.


    ¡°Are you finished?¡± Cecil asked, as Essex realised how long she¡¯d kept everyone waiting and quickly hurried along to the other side of the field.


    Once again, she locked eyes with Baron, staring deeply at his piercing yellow gaze, before pulling herself away, looking down at the ground instead.


    ¡°Y-You¡¯ve got this, Baron! Th-This¡¯ll be a cinch for you!¡± Edward cheered, not joined by Duke, as Baron sighed out and rubbed his temple.


    ¡°Thank you for that, Edward.¡± Baron stated, testing his grip strength on his sword.


    Just as Essex prepared herself, she noticed Julia and Wess coming in from off field, joining Harley and Sola in the stands to watch her match, as she equipped her scythe proudly, taking a combative stance.


    ¡°If both participants are ready¡­¡± Cecil asked, getting a nod from Essex and Baron. ¡°¡­begin.¡±


    Baron started by pressing the handle in his sword hilt, releasing his whip sword, before he charged at Essex, aiming directly for her.


    Essex went to block with her handle, only for Baron to leave his sword dragging behind him, not taking the chance to strike, but choosing to share another glance with Essex, throwing her off once again.


    During her stunned silence, Baron used the moment to swing at her from behind, which she narrowly blocked with her scythe blade, trying to pry Baron¡¯s sword off of him.


    Baron pointed his fingers at Essex¡¯s handle, using his Whil to create a small flame above it and heat it up, which she blocked by using her own Whil to turn her hands to the steel in the handle, before breaking off from him again.


    Essex still looked away from him, trying to recover some breath, as Baron glanced over his sword, stretching his stiff right hand.


    Essex could already tell avoiding him would be her biggest priority but struggled to find a way that didn¡¯t involve clumsily blocking him from view with her scythe. However, upon looking at her scythe handle, she noticed the reflection of the nearby forest, just adjacent to the training grounds, and started to get an idea.


    Before Baron could continue the fight on his own, Essex hurried off the field, locating the nearest tree and climbing up it with her scythe, leaving everyone present stunned as to her intentions.


    ¡°Wait, where¡¯s she¡¯s going?¡± Julia asked, just as Cecil got out of his seat.


    ¡°What the heck is she trying to do?¡± Harley wondered aloud, watching as Baron stared at her, before intently following behind her on foot, desperate to continue the fight. ¡°Come on, we¡¯ve got to follow.¡±


    ¡°Honestly, we just got here¡­¡± Wess pointed out, helping to lift Harley up, as Team Valiant, Team Ferocity and Cecil followed the fight into the woods.


    The group gathered in a nearby clearing, surrounded on all ends by indiscernible foliage, as Baron stood directly in the middle with his sword out, staring up at the tops of the trees.


    ¡°¡­Baron.¡± Cecil let out. ¡°This is¡­grounds for disqualification¡­you can just call it off¡­¡±


    ¡°No. We¡¯re finishing this.¡± Baron declared, flexing his right hand more fervently. ¡°Finally¡­¡±


    Baron cupped his hands around his mouth. ¡°That¡¯s why you moved to the woods, right?! So you wouldn¡¯t have to look at me!¡±


    Essex hid herself amongst the leaves, watching the group from a distance, as she planned out her next move.


    ¡°You¡¯re clever, I¡¯ll give you that!¡± Baron yelled, quickly noticing one of the branches gently rustling, before deciding to subtly burn it at the base with his Whil. ¡°But you¡¯re delaying the inevitable! It¡¯s useless to run!¡±


    Essex readied herself, taking out her scythe while using the leafage as cover, before realising the branch she was on was starting to crack, only to notice Baron was pointing at it with his Whil.


    It plummeted to the ground, landing suddenly, only without Essex, before Baron noticed her swinging around the base of the branch¡¯s tree with her scythe, and launching herself into him, knocking him over.


    He managed to get back up quickly, releasing his whip sword once more, and watched as Essex hurried up the tree again, breaking off branches as she ran and throwing them at him.


    Baron sliced at a few, before lighting his sword on fire with his Whil and more effectively taking them out, as he ran up to the branch Essex was running across and cleanly cut through it, hoping to trip Essex up.


    Essex just managed to land on the next tree, trying to hook into its base with her scythe, only for Baron to slice through the trunk, standing back as the tree slid over and toppled to the ground.


    ¡°This is getting out of hand.¡± Julia let out, turning to Cecil. ¡°We¡¯ve got to call this off.¡±


    Cecil stared intently at the duel on display, before registering Julia¡¯s comment. ¡°Oh, yes, we should.¡±


    ¡°Come on, Baron! Keep up the pace!¡± Duke shouted, with Edward cheering beside him.


    ¡°Take him out already!¡± Harley added, only to be backed up by Sola, as Cecil looked back down at Julia.


    ¡°Public opinion would say otherwise.¡± He remarked, turning back to the conflict with fascination, as Essex hid amongst the foliage again, regaining some stamina.


    ¡°Essex!¡± Baron yelled, causing Essex to jump. ¡°Come on out! Let¡¯s finish this!¡±


    Essex took his words to heart and stared back down at her scythe, before pressing the button in the handle and changing the blade of her scythe to magnesium, finally making the decision to end their fight for good.


    She got up, before re-emerging from the bushes and charging at Baron, attempting to trip him as she passed with her scythe, only for Baron to dodge. She hid back in the bushes and did so again, only for him to dodge a second time, now trying to swing at her with his flaming whip sword.


    Essex waited a second in the foliage, checking in on him to make sure he was waiting for her, before charging ahead with her scythe, aiming to trip him, only to pull her scythe back up and clash with his swung sword.


    The blades clashed, as the magnesium in the blade reacted to the heat and brightly sparked, catching Baron off guard and tripping him up, giving Essex enough room to go in for the finishing blow.


    Baron saw his defeat coming and tried to recover with another swing of his sword, only for his right hand to finally cramp up after so much action, leaving him defenceless as Essex pulled her scythe out from under him, sending him to the ground with a final thud.


    It took Baron a second to recover, as his eyes adjusted to the gentle light coming through the tops of the trees, with all he could register being Essex above him, holding out a hand to help him up.


    He attempted to ignore it, trying to push himself back up, only to push on his right hand and have it shoot out pain across his body, before sighing and reaching out with his other hand.


    Essex quickly helped him up, pulling him to his feet, before bringing him in roughly and holding him in place, tightly clasping his hand.


    ¡°You will not harass my team any longer. They are under my protection.¡± Essex declared, closing her steel grip. ¡°I held back in order to avoid hurting you. This will not happen again.¡±


    Baron backed off and pulled his hand away, as he avoided looking back at Essex. ¡°Get over yourself.¡±


    ¡°Essex, I think that was a clear victory for you.¡± Cecil announced, before turning to Harley. ¡°Which means I¡¯ll get to see you at the Ruins of Revs.¡±


    Harley pumped her fist, while staying perfectly still. ¡°I wish I could celebrate more, but my ankle¡¯s killing me.¡±


    ¡°Then, I¡¯ll leave you to it.¡± Cecil assured, taking his leave, before addressing Team Valiant, and mostly Essex. ¡°With you girls handling things, I have a feeling the Wailing won¡¯t be around for much longer. Keep this up, and I may just have some work for you down the line.¡±


    ¡°Thanks, sir.¡± Julia called back, watching as Cecil left to handle his business, before joining up with Essex in celebration.


    ¡°You¡¯re so awesome, Essex!¡± Sola cheered, hugging her side. ¡°You won all three like it was nothing!¡±


    ¡°That¡­is not true.¡± Essex pointed out, before sharing a glance with Sola. ¡°But having encouragement helped.¡±


    ¡°H-Hey, do you need ice for your hand? The nurse said¡­¡± Edward asked, only to get a disapproving look from Baron, giving him his answer. ¡°Right, it¡¯s your hand.¡±


    ¡°Come on, this place is giving me bad vibes¡­¡± Duke said, leaving with the rest of Team Ferocity, as Baron looked back to Essex, only feel his gaze drift as she didn¡¯t flinch.


    ¡°That Essex¡­¡± Baron mumbled, strapping his sword to his back. ¡°I¡¯d almost respect her if I didn¡¯t hate her so much.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°I hope this stupid ankle heals up in time for the excursion.¡± Harley said, getting carried by Wess and Sola through the dorm door, before getting lain back down on the couch and addressing Sola. ¡°Actually, if it doesn¡¯t, I can use that as an excuse to bring you along.¡±


    ¡°To the ruins?¡± Sola asked, Harley nodding emphatically. ¡°I dunno¡­¡±


    ¡°Wha, how can that not excite you? They¡¯re centuries old!¡± Harley exclaimed, as Wess went to grab herself a drink, offering one to Julia as well.


    ¡°Sort of like your hobbies.¡± Wess remarked, causing Sola to giggle, as Harley groaned and lay back on the couch.


    Julia went for her drink, before spotting the carpet again and grunting, quickly remembering the stain that, at this point, was only there to taunt her.


    However, in a flash of brilliance, she hurried over to the carpet and lined herself up opposite of the stain, drawing the attention of the room.


    ¡°What are you doing?¡± Essex asked, as Julia tipped her drink over where she was standing.


    She looked back proudly and showed it off. ¡°There! Now the stain looks like it¡¯s part of the carpet''s pattern.¡±


    Wess sipped hers and smirked. ¡°We could have just rolled up the carpet and moved it to the study to be cleaned later.¡±


    Julia thought about it for a second, before losing all the energy she¡¯d just given to that action, as Wess patted her shoulder assuredly.


    ¡°I guess it can just appreciate the company.¡± Wess said, sharing a smile with Julia, as they rolled up the carpet, ready for the inspection, even if the room wasn¡¯t quite spotless.

 Chapter 28: Empathy

    Sydney Pather was a lot of things.


    Most commonly, she was in charge of the medical team at the Venator Academy, patching up students that came in from missions, or training accidents, or all manner of weapon mishandlings.


    However, since those fortunately weren¡¯t too common, she also functioned as the academy¡¯s Relationship Councillor. Due to the structure of the team system, intimate relationships were bound to occur, and naturally, lead to some tension here and there.


    Pather loved what she did, every part of it. But, comparing the two¡­


    ¡°Harley, just talk to me.¡±


    ¡°I am talking. This is what talking looks like.¡±


    ¡°Nuh uh! Talking¡¯s better than this.¡±


    ¡°Well, it has to be from both of us!¡±


    ¡­the medical work was far more rewarding.


    Pather slowly rubbed her forehead in frustration, watching as Harley and Sola argued in circles around each other, struggling to come to any kind of understanding.


    ¡°What did I do? I don¡¯t even know why you¡¯re mad.¡± Sola confessed, as Harley turned away from her.


    ¡°Well, you should know already. I shouldn¡¯t have to tell you.¡± Harley said, with Pather on the sidelines, spinning her pen impressively in her offhand.


    This is getting nowhere. Pather thought.


    ¡°Alright, can we focus things again?¡± Pather insisted, leaning forward in her seat. ¡°Now, Harley, how do you feel right now?¡±


    ¡°Angry.¡± Harley pouted.


    Pather waved her hand. ¡°Can you be a bit more specific?¡±


    Harley huffed. ¡°I just¡­I think we¡¯re going really fast, and Sola doesn¡¯t think we are, and I don¡¯t think she¡¯s listening.¡±


    Sola puffed up her cheeks. ¡°I¡¯m listening! I listen all the tim-¡°


    Pather raised her hand to interrupt, as Sola quieted herself. ¡°Sola, how do you feel?¡±


    ¡°I feel¡­¡± Sola started, looking to Harley¡¯s back. ¡°¡­like I don¡¯t know why we¡¯re fighting.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve already sai-¡° Harley let out, as Pather shut her down too.


    Pather urged Sola on, as Sola worked up the nerve.


    ¡°And I think we could work through this a bit better if you were clearer with how you feel.¡± Sola succinctly put, as Harley ran her head through her hands.


    ¡°But I just told you! Pather.¡± Harley complained. ¡°Why¡¯re we doing this if it¡¯s not even working? You¡¯re supposed to be a therapist.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not a therapist, I¡¯m a councillor.¡± Pather pointed out, waving her pen around. ¡°Alright, we¡¯re going to do a word association game to get some things out in the open.¡±


    Pather turned to Harley. ¡°What word comes to mind when you think of Sola? 3, 2, 1...¡±


    ¡°...cute.¡± Harley mumbled, visibly embarrassed, as she tried to hide herself from Sola.


    ¡°Okay.¡± Pather said, turning to Sola. ¡°What word comes to mind when you think of Harley? 3, 2, 1...¡±


    ¡°Bad...with words.¡± Sola answered, as Harley looked offended.


    ¡°That¡¯s like thr-¡±


    ¡°Harley, Sola¡¯s talking right now.¡± Pather mediated, as she wrote a couple notes down. ¡°So, you might shorten that to ¡®reserved?¡¯¡±


    ¡°Yeah.¡± Sola agreed, pointing to Harley. ¡°Cause she¡¯s bad with words.¡±


    Harley sank into her chair, as she muttered to herself. ¡°...cause she¡¯s bad with words...¡±


    Sola glared at Harley, as Harley decided to glare back at her, all while Pather had to watch on, feeling her stress slowly build up.


    ¡°I know this is supposed to be about airing out your dirty laundry.¡± Pather remarked, sitting up. ¡°But it doesn¡¯t work if you¡¯re both feeling too hostile.¡±


    Pather leaned back in her chair. ¡°I¡¯m gonna schedule another session in a few days. I want you to spend some time apart to cool off and come back later to work things through, okay?¡±


    ¡°But we live in the same dorm.¡± Sola pointed out, as Pather waved her pen around.


    ¡°I¡¯m sure you can work something out.¡± Pather said. ¡°Okay?¡±


    Harley nodded firmly, as Sola decided to nod as well, letting Pather dismiss both of them, leaving her alone with her slowly growing headache.


    ¡°Ugghhh¡­what a session to have first thing in the morning¡­¡± Pather groaned.


    Pather was a lot of things, and patient was her most admirable.


    ¡°It¡¯s not a big deal! I¡¯m allowed to be mad sometimes.¡±


    ¡°Not when it¡¯s for no reason! You have to tell me these things!¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t just broadcast my feelings whenever I have them. It¡¯s not that easy.¡±


    ¡°Then make it easier! I¡¯m just¡­¡±


    Sola stamped her foot out in the hallway, as Harley stopped walking.


    ¡°Come on.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t come on! If you can be mad, I can be mad!¡± Sola complained, just as the two reached the team¡¯s room, carrying their fighting into the dorm as well.


    ¡°You don¡¯t get to be mad! I¡¯m in the right here!¡± Harley yelled, causing Julia to jump to attention at the sudden increase in noise.


    ¡°Well, I don¡¯t know why you¡¯re mad, so who¡¯s to say I¡¯m not right?¡± Sola pointed out, grabbing Essex¡¯s attention as well.


    Wess quickly emerged from the bathroom to catch the tail end of the commotion, just as Harley quickly stormed into it, with Sola hiding herself away in the team study too.


    The trio was left flabbergasted at what was going on, as Julia looked at both closed doors.


    ¡°Oh boy¡­¡± She let out. ¡°I guess going to see Pather didn¡¯t help too much¡­¡±


    ¡°They appear to be worse off than before.¡± Essex noted. ¡°Are these the desired results of counselling?¡±


    ¡°Far from it.¡± Wess clarified. ¡°But this is exactly why there¡¯s a stigma around team members dating. It¡¯s only trouble further down the line¡­¡±


    ¡°Wasn¡¯t there that team that were all in a polyamorous relationship? I think they got into a big fight later in their career and had to split up.¡± Julia recalled, as Wess nodded along.


    ¡°Oh yes, Team All-Weather.¡± Wess recalled. ¡°I¡¯m pretty sure the saying at the time was ¡®All-Weather, all-together.¡±


    ¡°Yeah. I felt pretty bad for them¡­¡± Julia said, sighing out.


    ¡°I would hope Harley and Sola will have this under control while we investigate Faller.¡± Essex expressed, before a sudden door slam rang through the room.


    ¡°And another thing!¡± Sola started up again, coming out of the study, just as Harley came back into the main room too. ¡°If I wanna frazzle your hair, I should be able to do it!¡±


    ¡°No way!¡± Harley yelled. ¡°I like it how it is!¡±


    ¡°But it¡¯s already super messy!¡± Sola yelled back. ¡°It wouldn¡¯t look any different!¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not messy! It¡¯s got a very particular style!¡± Harley responded, turning to Julia and grabbing her shoulder. ¡°You agree with me, right Julia?¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    ¡°Exactly, she totally gets it.¡± Harley bragged, just as Sola moped and looked to a terrified Essex, before pulling her over too.


    ¡°Well, ESSEX thinks hair stuff is super romantic, right?¡± Sola insisted, as Essex looked away.


    ¡°I do not wis-¡°


    ¡°Yeah, there you go!¡± Sola taunted, as Harley decided to end it by dragging Julia out of the dorm, with Julia just going along with it.


    ¡°Well, since Julia¡¯s way cooler than you, I¡¯ll just hang out with her until our next session!¡± Harley yelled, slamming the door behind her.


    ¡°Fine! I¡¯ll hang out with Essex!¡± Sola responded, only confusing Essex further, as she was dragged into the study with her, leaving Wess standing alone in the middle of the room.


    ¡°¡­I¡¯m on a team of morons.¡± Wess groaned, pinching her nose. ¡°You might just get away with it, Faller.¡±


    Wess decided to leave the room and take advantage of Faller¡¯s limited free time, putting on and readjusting her visibly large backpack, before feeling a pair of eyes on her from around the corner.


    She thought little of it, until the presence kept up for just a little too long, causing her to glare off to the side with a noticeably threatening aura.


    The eyes jumped suddenly, before the person they were attached to fell over, revealing themselves to be Lenin.


    Wess sighed out. ¡°Lenin, what were you doing?¡±


    ¡°Sorry. I was trying to be stealthy.¡± Lenin apologised, dusting himself off. ¡°I heard about some secret plan to investigate Faller, but I didn¡¯t want to interrupt.¡±


    Wess froze stiff, watching as Lenin straightened out his clothes before he looked up curiously.


    ¡°It¡¯s not a secret, is it?¡± Lenin asked, as Wess froze again.


    ¡°H-How did yo-¡°


    ¡°The dorm walls aren¡¯t as thick as you¡¯d want them to be.¡± Lenin admitted, banging on Team Vanguard''s wall as an example. ¡°I overheard you guy a few days ago.¡±


    ¡°H-Hello? Who is that?¡±


    ¡°Sorry, Nathaniel. Just proving a point.¡± Lenin called back, before facing Wess again. ¡°Anyway, oops. I¡¯ll leave you to you-¡°


    ¡°Actually, wait, hold on.¡± Wess said, raising her hand. ¡°Your help might be appreciated¡­¡±


    Lenin stayed where he was.


    ¡°Considering most of the team is caught up in Harley and Sola¡¯s lovers quarrel¡­¡± Wess muttered to herself, tapping her chin. ¡°And it might be dangerous to head there alone¡­¡±


    Lenin looked even more confused than he was before, until Wess got his attention again and continued down the hall.


    ¡°If you want to accompany, then I¡¯ll explain on the way.¡± Wess said, watching as Lenin jogged to catch up with her. ¡°Just¡­a heads up. This won¡¯t be a pleasant trip.¡±


    Lenin held his fist out in front of her. ¡°Let¡¯s do it.¡±


    Wess reluctantly fist-bumped him, as they made their way to the academy Flash-Rail station.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Pather took her time down the hall, appreciating the peace and quiet after her first session of the day, as she passed through a few of the halls in the main building lit up by the morning sun.


    ¡°Ah, Sydney!¡±


    Pather noticed Principal Faller coming down the hall toward her, as she waved back welcomingly.


    ¡°Faller. Where¡¯re you off to today?¡± Pather asked, as Faller pointed downward.


    ¡°Since I¡¯ve got the day to myself, I¡¯m catching up on a prior engagement.¡± Faller said, giving a thumbs up. ¡°I just came in to finish up a few things. How¡¯s the day been for you?¡±


    Pather passed her clipboard between her hands idly. ¡°I started with a very noisy session where almost no progress was made, so that was demoralising.¡±


    ¡°Your academy thanks you.¡± Faller remarked, as Pather gave a limp laugh.


    ¡°If you want to actually thank me, a raise wouldn¡¯t b-¡°


    ¡°Oh no, is that the time?¡± Faller ¡®realised,¡¯ indicating to his watch. ¡°If I stick around, I¡¯ll lose the whole day. Sorry.¡±


    Pather bit the inside of her cheek, as Faller tried to sidestep her as best he could. She watched as he walked away, before noticing Harley coming back down the hall toward her and instinctively ducking into a nearby classroom.


    ¡°Oh, great¡­just what I needed¡­¡± She let out, sliding against the wall and checking the corner, as Harley passed by the classroom, loudly professing her problems to Julia beside her.


    ¡°It¡¯s just¡­ugh!¡± Harley bemoaned. ¡°Why does it have to be so hard?! I want it to be great between us, but she¡¯s making it difficult!¡±


    Julia didn¡¯t really know how to respond and simply nodded back, as Harley continued her rant.


    ¡°Like, it is so unreasonable to ask for a bit of space?¡± Harley rhetorically asked, before looking to Julia, as she realised it wasn¡¯t rhetorical.


    ¡°¡­no?¡±


    ¡°Exactly!¡± Harley exclaimed, turning sharply in the hall, as Julia struggled to keep up. ¡°And don¡¯t get me wrong, I¡¯m not one of those people that¡¯s all ¡®only hand holding until marriage,¡¯ but there¡¯s still gotta be a line, right?¡±


    Harley turned to Julia again, as she looked to side awkwardly.


    ¡°¡­yes?¡±


    ¡°Exactly!¡± Harley let out, running her hands over her face, as students passing by gave her curious looks. ¡°If I¡¯m not careful, this is gonna be Chops all over again.¡±


    ¡°Did I hear the sultry sound of my own name?¡± Chops spoke up, having just arrived behind the duo, as Harley continued her ranting.


    ¡°Speak of the devil!¡± Harley said. ¡°Chops, can you tell Julia why we broke up?¡±


    Chops looked to a very confused Julia, before giving her attention back to Harley. ¡°Do you want my version or your version?¡±


    ¡°My vers¡­¡± Harley started, before correcting herself. ¡°I mean the right version.¡±


    Chops rolled her eyes and addressed Julia. ¡°Well, according to Harley, we broke up because we were going our separate ways. I wanted this, she wanted that, and we couldn¡¯t make it work.¡±


    Julia looked to Harley. ¡°And you¡¯re worried this will happen with Sola?¡±


    ¡°Yeah.¡± Harley said, huffing out. ¡°And it¡¯s gonna be even more awkward since we¡¯re on the same team. I don¡¯t want to¡­break up and have to see her all the time afterwards. That¡¯d suck for all of us.¡±


    ¡°Yikes.¡± Julia realised. ¡°I guess the stigma about Venators dating is pretty serious.¡±


    ¡°But I won¡¯t let that happen! This is just another fight, and I win fights no matter what!¡± Harley exclaimed, charging down the hall to nowhere in particular.


    ¡°Hey, Harley! Before you go, I need some help with a project! Can you come over tomorrow afternoon?¡± Chops yelled out.


    ¡°Okay!!!¡± Harley shouted, before rounding the corner, forgetting she was meant to be hanging out with Julia.


    ¡°By the by, Harley¡¯s so wrong about why we broke up. Two words.¡± Chops said, holding up her fingers. ¡°Commitment issues.¡±


    ¡°Somehow, that doesn¡¯t surprise me.¡± Julia noted, scratching her neck. ¡°Hey, can you give me some pointers on how to help her through this? I hate seeing her and Sola in such bad moods.¡±


    Chops laughed a bit awkwardly. ¡°If I knew how to help, we probably wouldn¡¯t have broken up.¡±


    ¡°Oh, yeah¡­¡± Julia realised, blushing. ¡°Da doy.¡±


    ¡°Julia! Where¡¯d you go?¡± Harley called out, as Julia¡¯s spine jumped. ¡°We¡¯ve gotta hang!¡±


    ¡°Chops, please help.¡± Julia begged, as Chops quickly ran away.


    ¡°You¡¯re on your own! I¡¯m not getting caught up in this!¡± She let out, disappearing up the nearby stairwell, as Harley appeared suddenly behind Julia.


    ¡°There you are! I thought you were still following me.¡± Harley admitted. ¡°Come on, we¡¯re going to the bar so I can forget my woes.¡±


    ¡°Help me Whilit, please¡­¡± Julia gasped, before Harley dragged her away, most likely to keep talking her ear off about this and that.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°And then she keeps going on about this and that!¡± Sola complained, stomping around the study, before realising the study wasn¡¯t large enough for her to stomp around in it. ¡°I need a mug.¡±


    Essex watched as Sola fished around in one of the closet drawers for her mug collection, before grabbing one of the numerous ones stored in there.


    She quickly hurried to the kitchen to fill it up, giving Essex the briefest hope she could escape the study and leave, only for Sola to come back near instantly and dash her hopes.


    ¡°I¡¯m trying to love her, but she¡¯s making it really difficult!¡± Sola complained, taking a swig of water. ¡°Why can¡¯t she tell me? We¡¯ve already known each other for years!¡±


    Essex tried to manoeuvre herself on her bed. ¡°It would technically only be a year and a half.¡±


    ¡°That still counts!¡± Sola yelled again, taking a bigger swig. ¡°There¡¯s no reason to be so closed off!¡±


    ¡°It may be difficult for her to discuss these personal matters.¡± Essex reasoned. ¡°Do you not know how you offended her?¡±


    Sola shook her head grumpily. ¡°Cause she wouldn¡¯t tell me!¡±


    ¡°Is there anything that has occurred recently that might have spurred it on?¡±


    Sola thought about it, before lifting her head. ¡°We were going to study together, but I had to cancel for a shift at Virgil¡¯s shop. Do you think it was that?¡±


    Essex blinked. ¡°Did she seem mad about it?¡±


    ¡°No.¡± Sola answered. ¡°But maybe it was a delayed thing. Like, she got mad thinking about it.¡±


    Essex looked to the side. ¡°If that¡¯s the case, then it would appear you¡¯re in the right.¡±


    ¡°Exactly!¡± Sola exclaimed, finishing off her drink. ¡°I¡¯m getting a refill!¡±


    Sola stormed off to the kitchen, letting Essex plan her escape once more, only to be thwarted again by Sola¡¯s surprisingly quick return speed.


    ¡°I need to get her to admit she¡¯s wrong!¡± Sola demanded. ¡°Then we¡¯ll be happy again!¡±


    Are you sure of that? Essex thought, as she watched Sola clean out her mug.


    ¡°I may have a suggestion.¡± Essex said, grabbing Sola¡¯s attention. ¡°Would it not be smart to admit you¡¯re wrong, even if you¡¯re not wrong?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not doing that! Screw that!¡± Sola complained. ¡°Why would I admit it when I¡¯m so not wrong?¡±


    ¡°I am not saying you accept it yourself. But if you were to apologise, Harley might divulge why she is upset.¡± Essex pointed out, as Sola thought it through. ¡°My apologies if this will not work. I do not have experience with romance.¡±


    Sola bit her lip, before shaking her head. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but I can¡¯t do that. That¡¯d still be accepting I screwed up, even if I know I didn¡¯t!¡±


    Sola chugged the rest of her mug. ¡°But I won¡¯t let that happen! This is just another fight, and I promised to win those from now on!¡±


    Sola looked back down at her mug, before huffing out. ¡°I¡¯m going to the bathroom!¡±


    You might be reading a stolen copy. Visit Royal Road for the authentic version.


    Sola quickly ducked off to the bathroom, as Essex finally found an out, using the opportunity to leave the dorm room quietly, just as she heard Sola calling out to her inside.


    ¡°Essex? Where¡¯d you go?¡±


    Essex sprinted away, leaving the dorms as soon as she could, only to accidentally run into someone else coming the opposite way, knocking her over.


    Pather rubbed her forehead, now hurting from her constant headache and the fall, as Essex quickly got up, bowed in apology, and continued running.


    Pather tried to make sense of the situation, before hearing a voice calling from down the hall and shuddering.


    ¡°Essex? Are you out here? I wasn¡¯t done planning with you!¡±


    ¡°Seriously?!¡± Pather groaned to herself, ducking just out of sight in a nearby stairwell, as Sola passed her by. ¡°Why can¡¯t I just avoid my patients? I don¡¯t need to deal with this shit outside of business hours¡­¡±


    Pather was a lot of things, and stealthy was her most surprising.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Lenin¡¯s mouth was agape, as Wess finished up her explanation of everything that had gone down over the last year and few months.


    ¡°Uhh¡­¡± He said, leaning back in his train seat. ¡°Wow. You guys have been through a lot.¡±


    ¡°Tell me about it¡­¡± Wess lamented. ¡°There¡¯s something going on here, and frankly, I¡¯m worried we might be the only ones who can do something about it.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, no kidding.¡± Lenin let out, readjusting his hat. ¡°Just so I¡¯m clear, you think¡­¡±


    ¡°That Principal Faller is Wicker.¡± Wess finished.


    ¡°And Wicker is¡­?¡±


    ¡°Very bad news.¡± Wess finished again, getting a head nod from Lenin. ¡°And, understandably, we don¡¯t want anyone else to know about this. That means you can¡¯t let the rest of Team Vanguard in on it either.¡±


    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t put them in danger like that.¡± Lenin promised. ¡°And don¡¯t worry. I¡¯m damn good with secrets.¡±


    I¡¯ll take your word on that. Wess thought, as Lenin stared out the window.


    ¡°So, Wi-¡° Lenin said, before stopping himself. ¡°I mean Faller¡¯s in the city.¡±


    This was a horrible mistake. Wess realised, trying to keep her composure. ¡°Yes. Today¡¯s his day off, so we won¡¯t have to worry about surveillance from the academy, or about him being interrupted. Apparently, he¡¯s heading to the city centre to do some shopping.¡±


    ¡°Malicious shopping, no doubt.¡± Lenin said bitterly.


    Wess ignored the comment and focused on breathing. ¡°Can you please take this seriously? We don¡¯t know how dangerous he can be, and I¡¯d feel much more assured if you weren¡¯t making quips.¡±


    ¡°Oh, sorry.¡± Lenin said, gazing awkwardly. ¡°After you, uhh, explained all that, I started to get a bit nervous¡­¡±


    Lenin looked a bit forlorn, as the cityscape started to pass by the train window. ¡°I was just thinking about how the rest of Vanguard reacted after the attacks on the academy, everyone was all jittery and worried¡­Saxin was really shaken up¡­just thinking that they might have been manufactured by the guy running the place feels gross¡­¡±


    Wess started to remember how Team Valiant was as well, especially how Julia was right after Florey left.


    ¡°And then Florey left, and it got really weird for a¡­¡± Lenin continued, before noticing Wess thinking to herself. ¡°Sorry, I¡¯m talking your head off.¡±


    Wess lifted her head back up. ¡°No, I was¡­it doesn¡¯t really matter. Look.¡±


    The Flash-Rail¡¯s doors opened, as people from the city poured in, just as Wess and Lenin got out, looking around the packed and animated city centre.


    Wess struggled to navigate her large backpack through the new crowd, as Lenin managed to clear a path for her until they were off the street and out of the noise.


    ¡°What¡¯s with the backpack?¡± Lenin asked, as Wess adjusted its weight.


    Wess scowled as it dug into her. ¡°Well, since we¡¯re not professional Venators yet¡­we can¡¯t go carrying our weapons around outside of the academy.¡±


    Lenin nodded along. ¡°Okay.¡±


    It took him a second, as Wess gave him an incredulous look, before he suddenly got it.


    ¡°No way¡­is Belvedere in there?¡± Lenin asked, as Wess quickly shooshed him.


    ¡°Don¡¯t just blurt it out! What if someone hears you?¡± Wess complained.


    Lenin rolled his eyes. ¡°How many people would hear the name ¡®Belvedere¡¯ and think it¡¯s a sword?¡±


    ¡°¡­touch¨¦.¡± Wess admitted. ¡°But don¡¯t draw attention to it. If I get caught with it here, we¡¯ll be in trouble.¡±


    ¡°Now I¡¯m thinking I should¡¯ve brought my claws.¡± Lenin lamented, stretching his fingers. ¡°And my cloak.¡±


    Yes, very inconspicuous. Wess thought to herself, as the duo headed to the city centre, glancing around them for any sign of Faller, only to come up short.


    ¡°We might be here a while. Faller isn¡¯t exactly the mos-¡°


    ¡°He¡¯s over there.¡± Lenin pointed out, indicating to a bustling alley way just off the city centre, stunning Wess.


    She now noticed Faller heading down the alley, dressed in far more casual clothes than she normally saw him in, looking around himself a bit sheepishly.


    Wess indicated for Lenin to follow her to the alleyway, as they stood just outside the entrance, watching as Faller looked around at the various stores littering the lane.


    ¡°Alright. We¡¯re approaching in a subtle manner.¡± Wess said. ¡°It would just be weird for two students to greet him out of nowhere.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I can handle this.¡± Lenin insisted, giving a very confident thumbs up, as worse case scenarios flashed across Wess¡¯ mind.


    Lenin worked his way through the crowd and walked over to Faller casually, before suddenly patting him on the back.


    ¡°Hey, Wi-I mean, Faller! What a shock to see you here!¡± Lenin let out, getting little reaction from Faller, before he gave another thumbs up to Wess.


    What¡¯s that supposed to mean? Wess thought, deciding to rescue this trainwreck, just as Faller moved away from Lenin.


    ¡°Ugh, oh, Lenin Diggs.¡± Faller let out, before Wess joined his side. ¡°And Miss Nouvel. What a surprise to see you here.¡±


    ¡°Apologies for Lenin¡¯s behaviour, we just weren¡¯t expecting to find you out and about.¡± Wess explained, subtly stepping in front of Lenin. ¡°I hope we weren¡¯t interrupting any well-laid plans.¡±


    ¡°Plans?¡± Faller asked, as Wess patted herself on the back for her clever wordplay.


    That¡¯s how it¡¯s done. Wess said, smugly staring at Lenin, who struggled to read the expression.


    ¡°No, I was looking for somewhere to eat. Dulce recommended a place nearby.¡± Faller explained, which only disappointed Wess. ¡°I was a bit worried Ferris might have followed me, but I think I truly have a day to myself.¡±


    Faller spotted what looked to be the restaurant and ran to check it out, as Wess looked glum at her strategy not panning out.


    ¡°So, anything?¡± Lenin asked, watching as Faller struggled to make out any directions.


    ¡°His behaviour¡¯s perfectly normal.¡± Wess reasoned. ¡°He might have cleaned up his act after you rushed in.¡±


    ¡°¡­isn¡¯t that a good thing?¡± Lenin wondered, as Faller made his way back.


    ¡°She said it was this place that specialised in Mokuddo food, like it had this edible tree bark thing going on¡­¡± Faller mentioned, sighing out. ¡°I¡¯ll find it eventually.¡±


    Suddenly, an idea struck Wess.


    ¡°Well, why don¡¯t we accompany you? It would get awfully boring just to wander about on your day off.¡± Wess reasoned, as Lenin saw her plan and decided to help.


    ¡°Plus, I think I know where you¡¯re talking about.¡± Lenin lied, slyly winking to Wess, as Faller looked to have regained some energy.


    ¡°Really? Well, aren¡¯t I a fortune person?¡± Faller let out. ¡°I¡¯ll be honest, I was a little disappointed to see students on my day off, but thank you for being so helpful.¡±


    Wess and Lenin lead the way, followed just behind by Faller, as she leaned over to Lenin.


    ¡°You¡¯d better hope we find it soon.¡± Wess whispered. ¡°And once we do, I want you to look out for anyone who might pose a threat. We don¡¯t know if this restaurant¡¯s secretly a villainous meeting spot, or the entrance to some underground complex.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry.¡± Lenin insisted again, giving a third thumbs up. ¡°Even without my claws, I¡¯m one tough customer.¡±


    ¡°¡­sure.¡± Wess said, giving a well-meaning smile. ¡°Okay.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Essex had been on her feet a fair bit in the last few days.


    Sola kept trying to draw her into her quarrel, despite Essex¡¯s clear disinterest in their arguments. Obviously, she couldn¡¯t avoid Sola forever, and for all her complaining about being the weakest physically of the team, Sola managed to pursue Essex thoroughly all across campus.


    ¡°Essex! Are you avoiding me again?¡±


    Essex planted herself just outside the assembly hall, panting quietly while listening out for Sola announcing herself. She tried to hide herself behind the nearby pillars, as she glanced down the hall to scope out her surroundings.


    ¡°There you are!¡±


    Essex frantically jumped back as Sola yelled beside her, having come the other way.


    ¡°I was worried you were trying to hide, but I knew you wouldn¡¯t be that rude.¡± Sola clarified, as Essex found her shirt collar getting a bit tight.


    ¡°¡­y-yes¡­that would be¡­insensitive¡­¡±


    ¡°Anywho, I need a break.¡± Sola said, landing on the floor beside Essex. ¡°All that chasing really took it out of me.¡±


    Sola looked around them idly, before spotting the large assembly hall doors and getting excited. ¡°Oh, no way! We¡¯re back here!¡±


    Sola spun around to Essex. ¡°Remember? This is where we first met!¡±


    Essex only just realised where they were and blinked. ¡°Yes. I had asked you for help with my tablet.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, you still hate that thing.¡± Sola laughed, lying back on the wall. ¡°¡­I can¡¯t believe I have a girlfriend now.¡±


    Essex was a bit surprised at her sudden subject change, but decided it was about time to hear her out. ¡°I imagine it¡¯s a big change within your life.¡±


    Sola nodded. ¡°I think it felt bigger when we first got together, but I¡¯m still totally reeling from it.¡±


    Sola¡¯s face quickly turned to a scowl, as she balled herself up. ¡°And now Harley¡¯s being all douchey, and I¡¯ve got to apologise for nothing just to make her happy¡­¡±


    Essex took a subtle glance at Sola¡¯s face, noticing her scowl turn to a more solemn frown, as she lay out her scythe in front of her to lean against the wall with Sola.


    ¡°Fights are a natural result of caring for someone.¡± Essex argued. ¡°If you do not care for them, then the fight would not mean anything.¡±


    ¡°But Harley and I don¡¯t fight! That¡¯s not our thing!¡± Sola complained. ¡°I don¡¯t want that to be a part of it¡­¡±


    Essex sat up a little. ¡°¡­I will not ¡®bore you¡¯ with the details, but when I was introduced to the Segaru Clan, I was accompanied by a fox cub. He had helped me to survive in the Aishanara forest.¡±


    Essex ran a finger over her scythe handle. ¡°But when we had first met, we were both desperate to survive. So, we fought for our safety, until we realised it would be safer to work together.¡±


    ¡°Oh. That¡¯s kinda sweet.¡± Sola added, as Essex moved her finger to the scythe¡¯s blade.


    ¡°But this did not stop us from fighting in the future. Food was still difficult to attain, and he was still a wild animal¡­¡± Essex reasoned, lifting her finger off. ¡°And yet, with all the fighting we endured, his passing was still heavy for me.¡±


    Sola sat their quietly, watching as Essex wondered whether she¡¯d helped, before reaching over and grabbing her hand.


    ¡°Well, don¡¯t your worry. I¡¯m gonna work things out with Harley.¡± Sola promised. ¡°And even if we fight in the future, we¡¯ll still be together. Both us and the team.¡±


    Essex hadn¡¯t realised, but a blush had crept over her face, as Sola proudly smiled to her, before getting up and heading back down the hall.


    ¡°I still don¡¯t know why she¡¯s mad, but that¡¯s okay. I¡¯m not gonna try to force her to give it if she really doesn¡¯t want to.¡± Sola said. ¡°But I¡¯ll still try and get us on the same page.¡±


    With that, she headed down the hall, as Essex watched her stride proudly, realising just how much she really cared for her teammate.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°How enormous is this alley?¡± Faller asked aloud, staring up at the imposing skyscrapers. ¡°Honestly, it¡¯s like I¡¯m back at the academy.¡±


    ¡°It is somewhat of a labyrinth.¡± Wess remarked, before Lenin started to perk up, pointing at an Eastern Wayside-style eatery named ¡®The Oak Tap.¡¯


    ¡°Oh, looks like we¡¯re here.¡± Wess said, glancing around to see if anyone suspicious was entering.


    ¡°It¡¯s about time. I was hungry before, but that searching just made it worse.¡± Faller bemoaned, deciding to head inside. ¡°If you want, you can join me for a bit. I¡¯ll get you something as thanks for the company.¡±


    Wess shrugged. ¡°A free meal is always appreciated.¡±


    Wess followed Faller inside, as Lenin stayed outside, with a noticeably defensive pose.


    ¡°You guys go ahead. I saw this great Northern ice cream place a few blocks back, and I need to use the bathroom.¡± Lenin excused, giving a sly wink to Wess, as Wess nodded back in approval.


    Just as he was out of eyesight, Lenin propped himself outside of the Oak Tap, getting several confused looks from passers-by, just as Wess and Faller took their seats by the bar counter, with Wess leaving her bag by her legs.


    ¡°What a lovely eatery.¡± Wess remarked, staring at the carved wooden d¨¦cor. ¡°I must make a point to explore these alleyways more thoroughly in my own time.¡±


    ¡°Do it while you can. If you ever get a job like mine, you¡¯ll never have time for this stuff.¡± Faller pointed out, looking over his menu. ¡°What to get¡­¡±


    ¡­nothing suspicious about this place so far. Wess acknowledged, looking around, before spotting a waiter.


    ¡°Excuse me.¡± Wess said, calling over the waiter and pointing to the menu. ¡°One pink lemonade, with a dash of watermelon.¡±


    ¡°Uhh, water for now.¡± Faller asked, as the waiter took their orders, giving Wess some space to start her questioning.


    ¡°So, Faller¡­¡± She started. ¡°Any reason for going here today?¡±


    ¡°¡­I just need some time on my own. Going home means spending time on work or with Ferris and¡­¡± Faller said, before giving up on the sentence. ¡°Here, I get some proper me-time.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s understandable. My teams currently caught up in relationship drama, and frankly, that sounds awful to deal with.¡± Wess clarified, getting a brief chuckle from Faller.


    ¡°Glad I don¡¯t have to deal with that.¡± Faller said, shaking his head. ¡°Running the academy¡¯s enough for me.¡±


    ¡°Is it now?¡± Wess asked pointedly, getting a confused reaction from Faller, before Wess continued on. ¡°At the very least, training future Venators should have its appeal.¡±


    Faller scoffed. ¡°Yeah, you¡¯d think.¡±


    Wess sounded a bit stunned. ¡°You sound as if you don¡¯t agree.¡±


    Faller scratched his neck, as the waiter came by and dropped off their drinks. ¡°It¡¯s more¡­complicated than that. This whole conflict¡¯s taken its toll.¡±


    Faller shook his head. ¡°¡­I don¡¯t think Venators are helping that much.¡± Faller admitted. ¡°And I don¡¯t know that being the Venator Academy¡¯s principal is helping that much either.¡±


    Wess rested her hand on her lemonade. ¡°How so?¡±


    ¡°¡­have you heard of Conrad Baxter?¡± Faller asked, as Wess shook her head. ¡°He¡¯s one of the former principals of the academy. A lot of people look up to him, but I despise his guts.¡±


    Faller waved his hand about, before nearly hitting one the waitstaff walking by. ¡°He¡¯s keeps going on about how great the industry is and what a difference it¡¯s making. ¡®The Wailing won¡¯t be a problem for much longer,¡¯ and all that. If he¡¯d done his research into Daysend¡¯s history, he¡¯d know that¡¯s just nonsense.¡±


    Faller lay his hands down on the counter. ¡°Then you¡¯ve got WRNG yelling about this and that, not to mention all the civilians who are just agitated by the whole thing. Everybody¡¯s working to end the conflict, but no one¡¯s making any headway.¡± Faller pointed out. ¡°We¡¯ve been fighting the Wailing for centuries, and it¡¯s only lead to a larger, more unwieldy Venator industry and stronger Wailing. There¡¯s no end in sight.¡±


    Wess watched as Faller took on a more serious tone, staring bitterly down at the counter in front of him.


    ¡°I don¡¯t care what I have to do, but I¡¯ll see the end of this Wailing Conflict. No matter what it takes, no matter what I have to do¡­¡± Faller ended, gripping his drink.


    Wess carefully took in his demeanour, slowly resting her hand on her backpack, just as their conversation died down, with the restaurant atmosphere started to bleed in again.


    ¡°You have some awfully strong convictions.¡± Wess noted, moving around the drink in her glass.


    ¡°You have to if you want to be in my position.¡± Faller reasoned. ¡°But don¡¯t let my mood get you down. Order something to eat. Remember, I¡¯m paying.¡±


    Wess stared at Faller clearly trying to distract himself with his menu, as her mind tried to focus on enjoying her meal, and not the implication of what Faller had just said.


    After nearly an hour, one that Lenin had regretted standing for the entirety of, Wess and Faller had finished their meals, leaving promptly after.


    ¡°Well, that was better than I had expected.¡± Faller said, only now noticing Lenin back with them. ¡°Lenin. I¡¯m sad to see you didn¡¯t join us.¡±


    Lenin started to sweat a little. ¡°Yes, th-the ice cream place was pretty tucked away¡­and I ordered their twice¡­and used the bathroom three times¡­an-¡±


    ¡°Alright, you didn¡¯t feel like joining. You can just admit it.¡± Wess played off, joining Lenin¡¯s side. ¡°Anyway, we must be off. Plenty of study material to catch up on.¡±


    ¡°Right, of course. I¡¯d feel like a real hypocrite if I held you up from that.¡± Faller joked, waving to them. ¡°I might see you back at the academy.¡±


    Wess waved goodbye as well, leaving promptly with Lenin, as he looked back as Faller.


    ¡°The study material thing was a lie, right?¡±


    ¡°Obviously.¡± Wess said, reaching the corner in the alley, before pulling Lenin aside. ¡°Did you notice any strange behaviour?¡±


    ¡°Outside the grocery store, one lady dropped some fruit and decided she shouldn¡¯t have to pay for it cause it was on the ground.¡± Lenin explained. ¡°So, no, there wasn¡¯t anything. Did you get any info from him?¡±


    ¡°He wasn¡¯t too talkative while we ate, but¡­¡± Wess began, needing to swallow. ¡°¡­he said some¡­concerning things beforehand.¡±


    Lenin was left a bit speechless, but still tried to put on a brave face. ¡°¡­okay then.¡±


    Wess looked back and noticed Faller was no longer there, as she finally let go of her breath. ¡°We should head back to the academy. I need to tell the others what I heard in person.¡±


    Wess started heading back to the train station, before Lenin stopped her.


    ¡°Hey, don¡¯t you worry.¡± Lenin said. ¡°If he really is¡­who we think he is, then we¡¯ll take care of it. If you guys are ever in danger, just know that Team Vanguard¡¯s got your back, through thick and thin.¡±


    Wess rested her hand on Lenin¡¯s and smiled back to him, before continuing to the train station, riding it to the academy and making her way to the dorms.


    Lenin parted from her and headed into his dorm, just opposite of Team Valiant¡¯s, giving a reassuring thumbs up, as Wess was suddenly greeted by Julia groaning on the floor, staring up at the ceiling.


    ¡°Oh, dear Whilit. What did Harley do to you?¡± Wess groaned, as Julia sat up, noticeably dizzy.


    ¡°She just dragged me around to every bar she could find, talking about this and that¡­¡± Julia managed, trying to stop herself from spinning. ¡°I really hope Pather can help them through this.¡±


    Wess grabbed Julia a glass of water and sat down with her. ¡°Where are the others?¡±


    Julia took a gulp welcomingly. ¡°Mmm¡­I think Sola and Essex are hanging out, and Harley¡¯s helping Chops with some project. Why, did you have something important?¡±


    Wess sighed out and stared at the dorm door. ¡°I think it can wait until all this blows over.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Team Vanguard¡¯s room was pretty quiet, but considering most of the team were out and its only occupants were Harley and Chops, that made sense.


    ¡°Can I get another pink one?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, here.¡±


    Chops had invited Harley over to work on Saxin and Lenin¡¯s outfits for the formal. They ended up moving from the study to the lounge area, due to the completely cluttered nature of the study, filled with Chops¡¯ art supplies.


    ¡°Hey, does this look good?¡±


    ¡°Uhh, move it left a little.¡±


    ¡°Like this?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, that¡¯s good.¡±


    The outfits were coming along nicely, as both of them did their best to add more flare where they could, sewing in flower patterns here and there. However¡­


    ¡°Rgh¡­come om¡­¡± Harley said, a thread between her teeth. ¡°Jus a liddle¡­¡±


    She missed the needle¡¯s eye again, before throwing it to the floor in frustration and folding her arms.


    Chops quickly picked it up and nailed it her first try, before handing it back to Harley.


    ¡°How the hell did¡­?¡±


    ¡°Really steady hands.¡± Chops bragged, before looking at Harley. ¡°I also used my Whil to freeze the end of the thread so it¡¯d go through.¡±


    Harley moped. ¡°Freaking Whil users¡­¡±


    ¡°Ooo, someone¡¯s salty tonight.¡± Chops remarked, watching as Harley took the comment seriously. ¡°I heard about you and Sola.¡±


    ¡°¡­oh.¡± Harley let out, losing focus on sewing.


    ¡°It¡¯s not like you to get into fights.¡± Chops teased, smirking at Harley, as Harley glared at her.


    ¡°Yeah, laugh it up. It¡¯s real funny now that it¡¯s not us¡­¡± Harley said, admittedly stinging Chops a little.


    ¡°Wow, that¡¯s a low blow.¡± Chops pointed out. ¡°Alright, spill. What¡¯d she do that got you on such bad terms?¡±


    Harley shied away from Chops, keeping her tight lipped, as Chops started to poke her side anyway.


    ¡°Quit it.¡±


    ¡°You quit being a baby.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not¡­!¡± Harley started, before stamping her foot to calm herself. ¡°¡­fine. I¡¯ll¡­¡±


    Harley took a deep breath and stared down at the table.


    ¡°¡­she said she loved me.¡±


    Chops¡¯ mouth was agape, before she grinned back at her. ¡°Fuck off.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m serious!¡± Harley admitted, hitting the table. ¡°We were just outside of class, and she¡¯s walking beside me, then totally out of the blue, she says ¡®I love you¡¯ like it¡¯s nothing!¡±


    ¡°Oh my god¡­¡± Chops managed, trying not to laugh too much. ¡°Harley, this is some high school level shit.¡±


    Harley grit her teeth. ¡°See? I knew you wouldn¡¯t get it! This is what I get for telling you¡­¡±


    ¡°Wouldn¡¯t get it?¡± Chops reiterated. ¡°Please. You did the same thing when we were dating.¡±


    Harley looked offended. ¡°No, I didn¡¯t.¡±


    Chops drooped her eyes. ¡°Remember when I said ¡®I love you¡¯ for the first time? You just said ¡®right back atcha!¡¯ and left it at that.¡±


    ¡°No, no.¡± Harley refuted. ¡°That¡¯s not the same. I said it back.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not saying it back!¡± Chops complained. ¡°How is that saying it back? You¡¯re dismissing it like it¡¯s nothing.¡±


    ¡°Then why am I in a fight with Sola? If I¡¯m treating it like it¡¯s nothing, then shouldn¡¯t this fight mean nothing?¡± Harley ¡®reasoned,¡¯ as Chops looked away.


    ¡°Gods, this is exactly why we broke up¡­¡±


    Harley ran her head through her hands. ¡°No, we broke up cause I wanted to become a Venator and you wanted to go and join those morons at WRNG! And then, low and behold, you¡¯re here anyway with a really fun new attitude!¡±


    ¡°Alright, since when do you get to dictate my life? Yeah, I didn¡¯t stick to some decision I made when I was a teenager, what a shocker! Not everyone was training their whole life for one job!¡± Chops yelled back. ¡°And in case you forgot, we left off on good terms!¡±


    ¡°I was being NICE!!!¡± Harley shouted back, now standing up in the middle of the room, before both of them realised what a scene they¡¯d made and tried to calm themselves down.


    Harley went to pick her needle back up, as Chops grabbed for Saxin¡¯s dress, both looking back at the table, before Harley put the needle down and closed the distance to Chops, hugging her.


    ¡°¡­I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    ¡°¡­I¡¯m sorry too.¡± Chops replied, hugging her back. ¡°¡­I¡­should¡¯ve explained why I came here, or warned you ahead of time.¡±


    ¡°¡­yeah.¡± Harley admitted, breaking the hug and rubbing her neck. ¡°¡­I¡¯m just really scared about ruining things with Sola.¡±


    ¡°I know¡­¡± Chops confessed, patting her shoulder. ¡°Our shouting match probably didn¡¯t help that, then.¡±


    Harley laughed a little. ¡°I dunno. Cleared the air a bit.¡±


    ¡°So, what¡¯s the big problem?¡± Chops asked. ¡°Why can¡¯t you just say it back, or just take it?¡±


    ¡°I¡­¡± Harley started. ¡°It¡¯s not that easy. The moment I say it, like, that¡¯s it. We¡¯re together.¡±


    Chops spurred her on. ¡°And?¡±


    ¡°And that¡¯s scary! I don¡¯t do long term, and every time I have, I just¡­fuck it up in some major way, or I act careless, or sleep around and barely acknowledge them¡­or they end up leaving anyway¡­¡±


    ¡°Geez. I thought it was just an us issue.¡± Chops admitted, getting more comfortable. ¡°So, have you taken her out on a date yet?¡±


    ¡°¡­do class trips count?¡± Harley asked, getting a firm head shake from Chops.


    ¡°Fun pet names?¡±


    ¡°I say she¡¯s badass sometimes.¡±


    ¡°Hoo boy¡­alright, what about sex?¡± Chops questioned, getting a surprised look from Harley.


    ¡°C-Come on¡­¡±


    Chops glared at her, as Harley conceded and slowly shook her head.


    ¡°I-It¡¯s not like I don¡¯t want to do these things¡­¡± Harley admitted. ¡°B-But what if it ruins it¡­?¡±


    ¡°Harley.¡± Chops started. ¡°As someone who is intimately familiar with you, dates and sex won¡¯t ruin it.¡±


    Chops leaned in. ¡°You need to start taking some risks. Stop being so precious with her and show her a good time! You¡¯re her first girlfriend, and she deserves it. The least you can do is show you care.¡±


    Harley tried to get comfortable but found her hands starting to cramp as she leaned on them, before going for the sewing needle again and disengaging from the conversation.


    Chops simply rolled her eyes and went back to her work as well, finishing up the last patterns on Saxin¡¯s dress.


    ¡°I wasn¡¯t lying about it being high school shit.¡±


    Harley pouted. ¡°I never should have said anything¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Pather was a lot of things, but she wasn¡¯t quite ready for her next appointment.


    Her cooling off idea for Harley and Sola was a bit of a Hail Mary, and unless they started talking to each other properly, she wasn¡¯t going to be much help.


    Why the heck am I stressed? It¡¯s their meeting. Pather rationalised, sinking back in her seat. Maybe it¡¯s all the exhaustion from avoiding them this week¡­


    As Pather waited for the hour to tick over, Harley waited outside of her office, checking her tablet for the time regularly, until she noticed Sola hurrying down the hall, trying to avoid eye contact.


    Harley did so as well, as they met up outside of the office, just a few moments from going in.


    ¡°¡­do we have to do this?¡± Harley questioned. ¡°¡­I don¡¯t like avoiding you and getting all mad like this.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t like it either¡­¡± Sola said. ¡°¡­but we promised to see the meeting out.¡±


    Harley conceded Sola¡¯s point, as she checked her tablet again, noticing the time had turned over, and hurrying into the office. ¡°Let¡¯s get this over with.¡±


    Harley and Sola both took their seats across from Pather¡¯s, as Pather could already sense the tension still present between the two.


    ¡°Okay, so should we pick up from last time?¡± Pather asked, as Harley let out a huff.


    ¡°Can we just apologise? I want to stop fighting already¡­¡± Harley admitted, as Sola leaned over in her seat.


    ¡°Well, I do too, but we¡¯ve both gotta know why the fight happened, or else it¡¯ll happen all over again.¡± Sola pointed out, as Pather raised her hand.


    ¡°Sola makes a good point. Harley, I think it¡¯s only fair you offer an explanation to Sola as to why this happened in the first place.¡± Pather asked, as Harley looked annoyed.


    ¡°But we were-why can¡¯t¡­fine! I¡¯ll just¡­¡± Harley said, taking a deep breath and turning to her side. ¡°Sola¡­you said you loved me.¡±


    Sola thought it over, before nodding. ¡°Yeah.¡±


    Sola took a minute, before cocking her head. ¡°Wait, that¡¯s it?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s it?! What do you mean ¡®that¡¯s it?!¡¯¡± Harley let out. ¡°That¡¯s a big deal!¡±


    ¡°No, it isn¡¯t! I love you, so I said I love you! Why are we fighting about this?!¡± Sola added, as Pather tried to raise her hand.


    ¡°Cause I don¡¯t do well with this stuff! And I don¡¯t think you understand where I¡¯m coming from!¡± Harley pointed out, as Pather started to tap on her clipboard.


    ¡°Can you please stop talking ov-¡°


    ¡°I totally understand! I just don¡¯t want to be a couple that fights about these things!¡± Sola yelled, as Pather started to scratch at her forehead. ¡°We can do better than that!¡±


    ¡°Couples fight! It happens! And we¡¯re training at the Venator Academy! Of course we¡¯re gonna fig-¡°


    ¡°Oh, would you two stop it already?!¡± Pather complained, shocking Harley and Sola. ¡°I¡¯ve had enough of this!¡±


    She leaned over in her seat and ran her head through her hands. ¡°I¡¯m gonna tell you what I think, and you give me your feedback, okay?¡±


    Pather leaned in. ¡°Harley, you¡¯re scared of being intimate with Sola cause you¡¯ve been hurt before, so when she said I love you, you got scared.¡±


    Pather looked to Sola. ¡°Sola, you¡¯ve never dated anyone, so you¡¯ve got these great expectations of what Harley should be, which she can¡¯t meet.¡±


    Pather leaned back and rubbed her forehead. ¡°Harley, get over it. Sola, lower your expectations. We all good?¡±


    A quiet lulled over the room, as Harley and Sola tried to calm themselves down, with Pather scribbling something down on her clipboard.


    ¡°I know this stuff is hard, but I think you two can get through it.¡± Pather said, adding a final point with her pen. ¡°Okay? Okay. I think we¡¯re done here.¡±


    Pather was a lot of things, and efficient was her most noteworthy.


    After what felt like a near unending walk back to their dorm, Harley and Sola had barely spoken a word, still processing what they¡¯d unpacked during Pather¡¯s counselling session.


    Harley opened the door, as they both walked in quietly, taking a deep breath once they came in.


    ¡°I guess the others went out somewhere.¡± Sola said, noting the rest of the team¡¯s absence.


    ¡°It is getting pretty late. Man, I¡¯m sweaty¡­¡± Harley pointed out, getting a brief whiff of herself, before recoiling. ¡°I¡¯m gonna have a quick shower.¡±


    Sola watched as Harley ducked into the study¡¯s drawers and pulled out a few towels, before heading to the bathroom and closing the door behind her.


    Sola heard the sound of the shower turning on through the walls, before an idea popped in her head suddenly.


    She hurried over to the study and grabbed another towel out, checking again to see Harley was still in the shower, before heading out of the dorm with it.


    She jogged down the hall, passing a couple students on her way, before arriving at the dorm¡¯s laundry room, noticing a free tumble dryer. She threw the towel in and turned it on, warming it up gently for a few minutes, before taking it out, feeling the warmth emanating from it.


    She hurried back to the dorm, hoping to catch Harley just as she was stepping out of the shower, which she fortunately managed, with the bathroom door opening the moment she got back.


    Harley stepped out with a towel draped around her, and a second one bundling up her hair, as Sola greeted her with the new towel, holding it out for her.


    Harley cocked her head. ¡°What¡¯s this for?¡±


    ¡°To help warm you up. Whenever I get out of the shower, I feel kinda cold, so I thought I¡¯d get a hot towel for you.¡± Sola clarified. ¡°You know, so you¡¯d have a fresh, warm towel while you dry off.¡±


    Harley found herself impressed with the small gesture, taking the new towel and replacing the one draped around her body.


    ¡°Thanks, Sola.¡± Harley let out, admittedly blushing. ¡°That was¡­really sweet¡­¡±


    ¡°No worries.¡± Sola grinned, leaning up to kiss Harley¡¯s cheek. ¡°It¡¯s the least I can do.¡±


    Sola then backed off and grabbed her bag, before turning to the door. ¡°Anyway, I¡¯m gonna do some studying in the library. All this counselling¡¯s put me a bit behind in some classes, and I bet you could use some space.¡±


    Sola went to open the door, before Harley reached out again.


    ¡°Hold on. I¡­really mean it.¡± Harley admitted. ¡°You do this kinda stuff all the time, and I don¡¯t thank you enough for it, or do it enough myself, so¡­thank you.¡±


    Harley tried to work up her confidence, as Sola stood patiently by the door.


    ¡°And¡­¡±


    Harley flexed her hands and took a deep breath.


    ¡°¡­I love you.¡±


    Harley avoided eye contact and, along with the towel, started to feel very warm all over, as Sola just brightly smiled to herself and waved as she exited.


    ¡°I love you too!¡±

 Chapter 29: Team Vanguard Variety Hour

    ¡°Doo doo doo¡­mmm yeah¡­show me what you got¡­on the dancefloor¡­¡±


    ¡°Julia?¡±


    ¡°Yeah?¡±


    ¡°Where¡¯s my limited edition Waygone Wailing mug? With the teeth marks on the handle?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s in the sink.¡± Julia called out, working at a stew on the stove, as Sola emerged from the study hurriedly.


    ¡°Thanks. I thought I¡¯d lost it.¡± Sola said, grabbing it out, before staring up at Julia. ¡°Hey, what do you think Team Vanguard does all day?¡±


    Julia blinked. ¡°What made you think of that?¡±


    ¡°Well, when I was searching for the mug, I found this old DVD I brought from home for the movie ¡®Marry Me, I¡¯m Choking,¡¯ then I started thinking about a funny joke from the movie.¡± Sola explained, as Julia let go of the ladle to focus on Sola, but continued to let it stir using her Whil. ¡°Then I thought, ¡®Hey, Chops is pretty funny.¡¯ And THEN I thought, ¡®Hey, what¡¯s she doing when she isn¡¯t being funny?¡¯¡±


    Julia blinked again, before grabbing the ladle. ¡°Okay¡­I¡¯d probably guess the same as us.¡±


    ¡°Hmm.¡± Sola replied, as the dorm room filled with a noticeable silence.


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­yeah, probably.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°¡­but you rock that body¡­like it ain¡¯t no thing¡­show me how to love¡­tonight!¡±


    Joleicia struck a dynamic pose at the end of the song, before laughing into her hand and gently singing to herself. She grabbed her controller again and unpaused her game, as she lay on her team¡¯s couch.


    ¡°Man, grinding sucks¡­¡± She let out, pouting as she wailed on a few low-level enemies. ¡°I always skip out on the early game rare drops, and now I¡¯m paying for it¡­¡±


    She eventually headed back to the village in game, before coming across an NPC, who bowed politely to her with an elegant dress and gestured to their home.


    ¡°May I offer you some tea back at my abode?¡±


    Joleicia freaked out, before shooting up in her seat.


    ¡°No way!¡± She exclaimed. ¡°The event¡¯s already happening!¡±


    She frantically grabbed for her tablet and typed ¡®Last Remembrance Eveneer romance path,¡¯ before finding a walkthrough and leaving it open as she played.


    ¡°Oh boy. Eveneer¡¯s actually talking to me.¡± Joleicia squeed, fortunate that none of her other teammates were there with her. ¡°Don¡¯t screw this up¡­follow the guide¡­just give her the butterfly taxidermy¡­¡±


    Joleicia quickly hovered over it, double checking she had the right item, before accepting, only for Eveneer to reject the gift outright.


    ¡°Whatever made you think I would like that?¡±


    ¡°Wha-¡° Joleicia let out, checking the walkthrough again, only to notice most of the information listed was incorrect.


    ¡°Sandra doesn¡¯t like vases!¡± Joleicia yelled out. ¡°What kinda stupid walkthrou-¡°


    Joleicia was interrupted by Eveneer leaving, as she grabbed the controller again. ¡°No, wait, come back!...dammit!¡°


    ¡°Heyo, Jojo.¡± Chops greeted, stepping through the door, as Joleicia frantically paused the game, trying to look natural.


    ¡°O-Oh, hey there.¡± Joleicia greeted, leaning on the controller uncomfortably, as Chops glanced at the screen and whistled.


    ¡°Use some fire magic.¡± She remarked, as Joleicia turned her attention back to the game.


    ¡°It¡¯s not that kind of game. You can¡¯t use magic in town.¡± Joleicia explained, unpausing it.


    ¡°Oh. Use some water magic then.¡± Chops replied, miming the action, as Joleicia just ignored her and played out the rest of the cutscene.


    ¡°Bye Eveneer¡­maybe next time¡­¡± Joleicia moped, with Chops leaning over the couch next to her.


    ¡°Damn, she¡¯s cute.¡± Chops remarked.


    ¡°Yeah. Stupid guide.¡± Joleicia said, as Chops went to grab some art supplies from her room. ¡°I should have just given her the book on hotel management. Back to the single life for me¡­¡±


    ¡°Good thing real dating isn¡¯t like that.¡± Chops pointed out, bringing out a sketchbook and sitting next to Joleicia.


    Joleicia nodded in agreement. ¡°Don¡¯t I know it. Could you imagine Baron being so fickle about something like that?¡±


    Very easily. Chops thought, as Joleicia laughed at her notion.


    ¡°I feel so silly. I keep bringing him up like some lovesick schoolgirl.¡± Joleicia joked, blushing in embarrassment. ¡°I get a boyfriend after all this time, and now I can¡¯t stop yapping on about him.¡±


    Chops just went about illustrating, mostly ignoring what Joleicia was saying, until she started patting Chops¡¯ leg.


    ¡°Sorry if it sounds like I¡¯m bragging.¡± Joleicia apologised. ¡°I¡¯m just really excited for our upcoming dinner¡­¡±


    Chops lifted her head. ¡°Dinner? With Baron?¡±


    ¡°Yeah! He invited me out tomorrow.¡± Joleicia explained. ¡°I¡¯ve still got to get an outfit ready, but¡­¡±


    Joleicia leaned in. ¡°¡­between you and me, I¡¯m thinking of just wearing my formal dress.¡±


    Joleicia giggled, as Chops couldn¡¯t help but pick up on how genuinely happy she was.


    Baron can¡¯t be treating her that well¡­ Chops wondered, half-heartedly smiling back at Joleicia.


    ¡°I still have to get it fitted, though, so that¡¯ll be a whole trip.¡± Joleicia pointed out, as Chops perked up.


    ¡°I could, uhh, help you with that.¡± Chops offered, with Joleicia¡¯s eyes lighting up. ¡°You know, make sure the night goes well for you.¡±


    ¡°Aww, Chops.¡± Joleicia said, hugging her. ¡°You¡¯re too kind.¡±


    ¡°I sure am.¡± Chops bragged, just as the dorm door opened up again, with Saxin, Lenin and Nathaniel entering soon after.


    ¡°Hey guys! How was Detu City?¡± Joleicia asked, as Saxin waved a shopping bag around.


    ¡°Wonderful. Lenin and I had a lovely time, and we bought these great pairs o-¡° Saxin started, before Lenin quickly interrupted her, reminding her of the sensitive nature of the items. ¡°W-Well, let¡¯s just say they¡¯re meant for me and Lenin¡¯s private...use.¡±


    ¡°Phew¡­¡± Lenin sighed to himself, as Chops got up to greet Nathaniel.


    ¡°Get anything interesting?¡± Chops asked, slinging an arm around Nathaniel, who just frantically shook his head.


    ¡°I-I didn¡¯t feel like buying anything.¡± Nathaniel admitted. ¡°And there were way too many people at the HyperMall for me¡­¡±


    ¡°You big scaredy cat.¡± Chops teased, as Saxin joined Joleicia on the couch, with Lenin sitting on his bed and opening up a book.


    ¡°Oh, I know this one! Use your fire magic.¡± Saxin remarked, as Joleicia rolled her eyes.


    ¡°It¡¯s water magic.¡± Lenin interjected, speaking to Joleicia. ¡°Use it on the town fountain to get an extra bag of gold.¡±


    Joleicia perked up. ¡°Really?¡±


    She tried it out for curiosities sake, and was surprised that it actually worked, as Lenin leaned back proudly.


    ¡°Hot dog.¡± Joleicia let out joyously. ¡°I never knew that was a thing. I¡¯m gonna get my baby Wyvern Prince a snack.¡±


    Lenin eyed the screen quickly, as Saxin cocked her head.


    ¡°Baby Wyvern Prince?¡± Saxin let out, before an adorable creature appeared on screen, with Joleicia handing it a bag of worms to eat. ¡°Aww, that¡¯s absolutely precious! If only I could have one in real life!¡±


    Lenin shuffled awkwardly on his bed, unsure if he heard her correctly, as Saxin quickly noticed and turned her head.


    ¡°What is it, dear?¡±


    ¡°O-Oh, n-nothing.¡± Lenin replied, trying to hide his nervousness, which Saxin didn¡¯t seem to notice.


    ¡°Look at those two.¡± Chops muttered, leaning against the team¡¯s kitchen counter, accompanied by Nathaniel. ¡°I want that so bad¡­¡±


    Nathaniel watched on curiously, as Chops sat back up. ¡°Ever since Harley, I¡¯ve been a big single mess. Come on, universe, throw me a bone already¡­¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t get too down. You¡¯ll find someone.¡± Nathaniel assured. ¡°P-Probably.¡±


    ¡°¡­wow, a probably. You¡¯ve inspired some real hope in me.¡± Chops remarked, as Nathaniel tried to hide his nervous sweating.


    ¡°O-Oh, s-sorry. If it helps, I-I¡¯m just as single as you are¡­¡± Nathaniel admitted, getting a sigh from Chops.


    ¡°It doesn¡¯t. Want to help me with Joleicia¡¯s date and make it up to me?¡± Chops offered, with Nathaniel offering a weak head nod in response, just as Joleicia joyously called out again.


    ¡°It worked again! Hoo baby!¡± Joleicia cheered, as Lenin continued his stirring, before quickly getting up from the bed.


    ¡°I-I¡¯m gonna head out for a bit. Don¡¯t wait up.¡± Lenin quickly announced, leaving and shutting the dorm door behind him, as the room went weirdly silent.


    ¡°Odd.¡± Saxin let out. ¡°Why did he decide to leave¡­?¡±


    ¡°Ooo, trouble in paradise.¡± Chops called out. ¡°I guess the honeymoon phase had to end at some point.¡±


    Saxin turned to her in frustration. ¡°And what¡¯s that supposed to mean?¡±


    ¡°It can¡¯t all be sex and pet names. Things have to get serious at some point.¡± Chops pointed out. ¡°Don¡¯t you think it was a weird coincidence he kept freaking out at the word baby?¡±


    Saxin¡¯s eyes widened, before she went into deep thought. ¡°That can¡¯t¡­no, it couldn¡¯t...¡±


    ¡°But you guys have only been together for a year.¡± Joleicia rationalised. ¡°It¡¯s a bit soon to be thinking about that.¡±


    ¡°Can¡¯t hurt to plan ahead.¡± Chops said, before noticing Saxin start to mumble to herself. ¡°You good there, Saxin?¡±


    ¡°¡­y-yes, yes, I¡¯m fine. Just a lot to consider.¡± Saxin excused. ¡°I guess I never really gave it that much thought until now. I don¡¯t even know if he wants to get married¡­do we even know each other that well?¡±


    ¡°Chops! Look what you did!¡± Joleicia yelled, as Chops threw her hands up.


    ¡°I pointed out the obvious! Don¡¯t go finger wagging at me!¡± Chops complained, only freaking out Nathaniel beside her. ¡°They¡¯re not about to break up!¡±


    ¡°B-Break up?!¡± Nathaniel let out.


    Saxin rested a hand on Joleicia. ¡°We¡¯re not breaking up. Chops is right. I just need some clarification on his end. That¡¯s all.¡±


    Saxin was clearly still thinking to herself, as Joleicia tried to focus back on the game, with Chops staring on and Nathaniel wondering where he fit into all of this.


    Lenin hurried down the hall, avoiding looking at too many people passing by, before coming across Julia going the opposite way.


    ¡°Hey Lenin.¡± She greeted, waving. ¡°Got any plans for the semester break coming up?¡±


    ¡°Yep, all good.¡± Lenin replied, quickly rushing past her, leaving Julia thoroughly confused, as Lenin found a quiet part of the campus where he could breathe.


    ¡°¡­I have to tell her¡­¡± He muttered, feeling his heart race, before slapping himself in the face. ¡°Idiot!¡±


    He stroked his chin to help think. ¡°Maybe she doesn¡¯t know yet¡­could I be so lucky¡­?¡±


    He slapped his face again, before charging back down the hall. ¡°This sucks so hard¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Nathaniel.


    A lot could be said about him.


    And paradoxically, a lot couldn¡¯t be said too.


    While he was well respected by most, and seen as a genuinely nice boy, that was as far as most people¡¯s opinions went. People remember liking him but didn¡¯t remember him as much.


    Of course, Nathaniel went out of his way to go against this notion, but there was only so much he could do, what with being so forgotten.


    It didn¡¯t help that even the mere thought of talking to people scared him like the dickens.


    ¡°Oh boy¡­¡±


    For instance¡­


    Nathaniel cowered around a corner, just outside the academy Spire, as a few members of Team Ferocity had gathered nearby, shooting the shit amongst themselves.


    And Nathaniel needed to walk past them.


    ¡°J-Just move already¡­¡± He hoped, waiting for his opportunity which never seemed to come.


    M-Maybe I can circle the Spire. He rationalised, before throwing the thought away. They¡¯d just see me walk away from them and think I¡¯m being weird!


    He tried to hide his nerves, mostly to convince himself he could handle this, before all his nervous energy came out in his legs.


    I-I know! I¡¯ll use my Whil on them and knock them onto the ground! Then they¡¯ll think it¡¯s a ghost or something! He¡­didn¡¯t rationalise, before throwing the thought away too. They know ghosts aren¡¯t real!


    Fortunately, and not soon enough, they started to clear out, leaving just as suddenly as they¡¯d arrived, as Nathaniel let out a huge relieved sigh.


    ¡°Fina-¡°


    ¡°Hey.¡±


    Nathaniel jumped away, falling to the ground, only to turn back and spot Baron, standing straight up, then leaning down to greet him.


    ¡°You spying on my team?¡±


    ¡°N-N-N-N-No-o-o-o-o-¡° Nathaniel tried to reply, as Baron sneered, before blowing on his face, freaking Nathaniel out again.


    ¡°Relax.¡± Baron said, standing back up. ¡°I¡¯m not about to wail on you.¡±


    ¡°Y-Y-Yeah, o-of course.¡± Nathaniel excused, standing back up. ¡°Y-Y-You¡¯re way too nice to do that.¡±


    Baron lifted his nose up. ¡°Am I?¡±


    Nathaniel didn¡¯t know how to respond, as Baron quickly pushed past him, going to follow the rest of his team.


    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t beat you up for no reason.¡± Baron pointed out, before stopping and turning back. ¡°How about you find me when I¡¯m in a bad mood?¡±


    Baron shot him a quick grin, before rounding the corner, leaving Nathaniel with his rapidly increased heart rate.


    What the hell does Joleicia see in him?! Nathaniel thought, only to remember why he wanted to leave in the first place, as he hurried out of the main building and toward the train station.


    ¡°Yo, Nath!¡± Chops called out, getting his attention. ¡°We¡¯re over here!¡±


    Nathaniel trotted over and caught his breath, as Joleicia grabbed his shoulders.


    ¡°Ready for some clothes fitting?¡±


    ¡°I-I am!¡± Nathaniel replied, as the trio headed onto the Flash-Rail and into Detu City.


    The trio quickly arrived at the tailor, as Joleicia struggled to hold back her energy.


    ¡°I¡¯m gonna go check on my dress. Be right back!¡± Joleicia exclaimed, hurrying to the front desk.


    Chops and Nathaniel waited patiently, sitting on the sidelines, as Chops slung a friendly arm around Nathaniel, before pulling him in suddenly and quickly.


    ¡°Alright, listen. We aren¡¯t just here to get Joleicia¡¯s dress ready.¡± Chops whispered, freaking Nathaniel out. ¡°I¡¯m gonna try to stop her going on this date with Baron.¡±


    ¡°W-Wait, really?¡± Nathaniel realised, as Chops nodded back.


    ¡°We both know how much he sucks. I can¡¯t stand the idea of him treating Joleicia that bad.¡± Chops pointed out. ¡°But I¡¯m gonna need your back on this. She¡¯s a tough one to crack.¡±


    ¡°Yes!¡± Nathaniel immediately replied. ¡°Baron sucks! Let¡¯s save her from his wicked grasp!¡±


    Chops grinned proudly. ¡°You may have only joined the team this year, but you¡¯re already killer in my books. For Jojo!¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s do it!¡± Nathaniel cheered, high fiving Chops, just as Joleicia came back, skipping happily.


    ¡°The dress is rea-dy!¡± Joleicia sang. ¡°I¡¯ve just got to make sure it fits. Come on, I need some second opinions on how it looks.¡±


    ¡°Of course.¡± Chops said, following behind her with Nathaniel, as they entered the changing area. Joleicia took a few minutes to change privately, before coming out in a modest green dress, with a floral pattern running down its lower half.


    ¡°Whoa!¡± Chops let out, taking a second to take it in. ¡°That looks great on you!¡±


    ¡°Aww, thanks¡­¡± Joleicia blushed, trying not to look too embarrassed. ¡°It¡¯s not too big?¡±


    ¡°No, the bigness works. The moment you step into the formal, all eyes are gonna be on you.¡± Chops clarified, before turning to Nathaniel with an idea. ¡°In fact, it seems like kind of a waste to be using it for a date.¡±


    This story originates from a different website. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.


    Joleicia spun around to face Chops. ¡°Really?¡±


    Chops nodded, before elbowing Nathaniel¡¯s side, who immediately sprung to action. ¡°O-Oh, yeah! You don¡¯t want to show it off too early. I-It¡¯ll¡­spoil the surprise for the big day.¡±


    Nathaniel looked pretty proud of himself, as Joleicia thought over their critiques.


    ¡°¡­I guess that could be a problem.¡± Joleicia acknowledged, only to wave it off. ¡°But I don¡¯t really care. What¡¯s wrong with looking nice for two different nights?¡±


    Chops went to argue, but came up empty, as Joleicia checked herself out in the mirror. ¡°And Baron¡¯s a bigshot in Northern nobility, so he¡¯s sure to dress really well. I like my t-shirts and jeans, but if I¡¯m being honest, this is the nicest thing I own.¡±


    Chops felt a bit defeated, before Nathaniel sat up in his seat. ¡°H-Hey, what¡¯s Baron like? When you guys are together?¡±


    Joleicia visibly thought the question over and smiled. ¡°He¡¯s pretty great. We don¡¯t get a lot of time together, since we¡¯re both leading our own teams, but we have some great conversations over our dates. And¡­¡±


    Joleicia started laughing to herself, before trying to continue. ¡°He has this one joke about a croissant and a waiter¡­I can¡¯t remember how it goes, but it¡¯s really good.¡±


    Chops raised an incredulous eyebrow, as Joleicia fiddled with the collar on her dress. ¡°And even when he wanted to¡­go a bit further, I politely declined, and he hasn¡¯t brought it up since. That was pretty refreshing.¡±


    Joleicia focused back on cleaning up her outfit, as Chops and Nathaniel looked to each other in doubt.


    ¡°Has he ever been¡­like, shitty on a date?¡± Chops blatantly said, as Joleicia rolled her eyes.


    ¡°No, of course not.¡± She replied, before stopping herself suddenly. ¡°Well¡­there was that one time we were out on a picnic.¡±


    She tried to draw her attention back to the dress, but instinctively looked to the floor. ¡°It was pretty nice at first, but then this bird nearby started squawking really loud. I said it would just go away at some point, but he got really mad and tried to chase it off. He almost cut the tree down...¡±


    She took a second to herself, before going back to fixing up her hair. ¡°He insisted it had ruined the mood, but frankly, he was the one doing that. We were pretty silent for the rest of the picnic afterwards.¡±


    Joleicia finished up her hair, before twirling on the spot joyously. ¡°Hopefully, this next date goes a bit better than that. I¡¯m not dressing up this nice for nothing.¡±


    After the anecdote, Chops gave her a cautious smile, and Nathaniel followed it up with two thumbs up, as Joleicia heading back into the private changing room, letting Chops and Nathaniel share a worried glance.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Ahh...what a calm atmosphere...no more awkward moments with Saxi...


    Lenin enjoyed himself in the study area, spending a bit of private time with a coffee and good book, as the day started to disappear just outside the window. He didn¡¯t care for the book that much, but it passed the time.


    Admittedly, he¡¯d rather be with Saxin, sightseeing, love making, or just enjoying each other¡¯s company, bu-


    ¡°Hello, dear.¡±


    Lenin jumped out of his seat, hitting the floor hard, as Saxin rested a hand on her hip, watching as he pulled himself up.


    ¡°You¡¯ve been awfully squirrely today.¡± Saxin remarked. ¡°I guess those comments this morning really did get to you.¡±


    Lenin tried to fix up his appearance, while still trying to come off as ignorant. ¡°Comments?¡±


    ¡°You know the ones.¡± Saxin replied, sighing out, before sitting next to him. ¡°¡­it got me thinking¡­about us.¡±


    Lenin tried to settle himself, before bumping Saxin¡¯s side playfully. ¡°Those lines rarely precede anything good.¡±


    Saxin chuckled, before reaching out to grab his hand. ¡°It¡¯s just¡­it finally occurred to me that we¡¯ve been together for over a year now, and I still don¡¯t know you very well.¡±


    Lenin¡¯s eyes widened, as he instinctively pulled his hand away. ¡°What¡¯re you talking about? We know each other plenty.¡±


    Lenin raised a finger. ¡°I know your favourite colour¡¯s amaranth red, you love beaches, but only when it¡¯s about to rain, and that you like being called names when w-¡°


    ¡°Public, public.¡± Saxin quickly interrupted, reminding Lenin where they were, as Lenin used the opportunity to grab her hand.


    ¡°And I know that I love you.¡± Lenin said. ¡°And I¡¯m hoping it¡¯s reciprocated.¡±


    Saxin gave a good-natured laugh. ¡°It definitely is. And I could say the same about you.¡± Saxin admitted. ¡°But that¡¯s surface level. What about you? What do you want to do after graduating? Are you staying with the team or going solo? What about marriage?¡±


    ¡°M-Marriage?¡± Lenin reiterated, starting to sweat. ¡°I haven¡¯t even thought about that¡­¡±


    Saxin smiled warmly to him. ¡°I don¡¯t need an answer straight away. But we should have one at some point.¡±


    Saxin rubbed their hands together. ¡°I love what we have, but I want it to be a bit more¡­which means no secrets between us.¡±


    Shit. Lenin thought, as Saxin stared off into the distance.


    ¡°¡­I want to clear the air, since there¡¯s something I¡¯ve yet to tell you.¡± Saxin let out. ¡°But not here. It¡¯s important to me, so we¡¯ll make it something important.¡±


    Lenin went to complain but could tell how much effort Saxin was putting in, before deciding to put in just as much.


    ¡°¡­yeah. I think I need to clear something up too.¡± Lenin admitted, surprising Saxin. ¡°We can¡­do it together, if you want. Just get it all out in one big go.¡±


    ¡°Rip off the bandage, as it were.¡± Saxin smiled. ¡°I¡¯d like that.¡±


    Saxin leaned in and kissed him, reassuring him of what they were doing, as Saxin got up to leave, letting Lenin wallow in the promise he now had to keep.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°¡­but you rock that body¡­like it¡­like it ain¡¯t no thing¡­show me how to love¡­show me how¡­show me how to¡­¡±


    Chops laid her bass guitar down and sighed out, stretching out on the team¡¯s couch.


    ¡°It just doesn¡¯t work in a minor chord¡­¡± She accepted, running her hands over her face, before picking it back up again.


    She plucked at a few more strings tiredly, before the dorm door opened to Joleicia, wiping a bit of sweat off her brow.


    ¡°Man, I don¡¯t know what it is about training right before going out somewhere, but it really works for me.¡± Joleicia remarked, before noticing Chops with her new guitar. ¡°I thought you played regular guitar.¡±


    ¡°Well, considering our last bassist left due to creative differences, I wanted to try my hand at it. I figured we¡¯d need at least one bass in our band.¡± Chops excused, looking up over the couch arm. ¡°Are¡­you leaving soon?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, just came back to get changed. Shouldn¡¯t leave him waiting too long.¡± Joleicia replied. ¡°Don¡¯t want him getting all cranky again.¡±


    She laughed and played it off, heading into the team study, as Chops watched on, silently practicing to herself, just as the door opened again to Nathaniel coming in, looking at Chops worriedly.


    ¡°I-Is she¡­?¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s in there.¡± Chops said, indicating to the study.


    Nathaniel looked between it and Chops skittishly. ¡°A-Are we still going th-through with it?¡±


    ¡°¡­it¡¯s better late than never.¡± Chops sighed, getting up from the couch and joining Nathaniel¡¯s side, as they waited for Joleicia to finish getting changed.


    It took a few minutes until she re-emerged, visibly excited. ¡°Oh yeah! What do you guys th¡­¡±


    Quickly, she noticed the serious expressions on Chops and Nathaniel¡¯s faces and took a more reserved approach.


    ¡°What happened?¡±


    Chops did her best to gather enough confidence, before finally admitting her feelings.


    ¡°We don¡¯t think you should see Baron anymore.¡±


    Joleicia¡¯s face tried to look shocked, but the best she could manage was confusion. ¡°W-What are you saying? Chops, this is pretty weird to jus-¡°


    ¡°Jojo, I¡¯m serious.¡± Chops interrupted. ¡°Baron¡¯s not a good person. And¡­we¡¯re sick of watching on the sidelines, waiting for him to improve.¡±


    Joleicia struggled to form words, as she looked to Nathaniel for some kind of comfort, only to get the same reaction.


    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t be saying this if I didn¡¯t think it was the right thing to do.¡± Chops argued, pushing through despite her guilt. ¡°I know he¡¯s usually been good with you, but he¡¯s a terrible guy, and I¡¯m worried he¡¯s gonna¡­hurt you in the future.¡±


    ¡°I-I don¡¯t want to force a-anything¡­¡± Nathaniel excused, hiding himself while he spoke. ¡°B-But every time we¡¯ve spoken, h-he¡¯s pushed me around and b-belittled me. I d-don¡¯t feel safe with him around¡­¡±


    Joleicia¡¯s left her mouth open, before consciously closing it and taking it all in.


    ¡°W-Why d-didn¡¯t you tell me s-sooner¡­?¡±


    Chops looked to Nathaniel for a shared glance. ¡°¡­because you seemed so happy with him, and we thought he¡¯d changed. But¡­he hasn¡¯t. At least around us.¡±


    ¡°A-And you just waited u-until right before a date?¡± Joleicia let out.


    ¡°It was gonna happen eventually!¡± Chops pointed out. ¡°It¡¯s not easy for me either. But, frankly, ever since you started dating him, I¡¯ve had doubts¡­¡±


    Joleicia shook her head impatiently, as Chops went to grab her hand.


    ¡°If you can prove me wrong, go ahe-¡°


    ¡°Y-You didn¡¯t know what it was like¡­¡±


    Chops gave another frantic glance to Nathaniel. ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°L-Last year¡­¡± Joleicia struggled to say, pulling her hand away. ¡°Y-You didn¡¯t¡­¡±


    Chops huffed up. ¡°Jojo, what¡¯s wrong?¡±


    ¡°I¡­I missed him¡­¡± Joleicia let out, scrunching up her fist, as Chops leaned in.


    ¡°Who?¡±


    ¡°¡­Florey.¡± Joleicia confessed. ¡°I missed Florey.¡±


    Joleicia tried to shake away some tears. ¡°H-He just left¡­out of nowhere¡­he didn¡¯t even come back and say goodbye¡­or apologise¡­a-and I did all I could to stop him from leaving forever¡­¡±


    Chops held herself back, as Joleicia poured her heart out. ¡°¡­a-and I needed something¡­someone I knew w-wasn¡¯t going to leave¡­¡±


    Joleicia shook her head. ¡°Of course he¡¯s not perfect! He¡¯s got problems, a-and might have some anger issues¡­but for what little it matters, he makes me happy.¡±


    Joleicia scowled back at Chops, before wiping her eyes. ¡°So¡­I¡¯m sorry if I was looking for some comfort. And I¡¯m sorry if that comfort wasn¡¯t according to your standards. So stop trying to protect me already. Just because you had a bad experience with him doesn¡¯t mean you get to ruin it for me.¡±


    Chops wanted to speak up, but Joleicia made her intentions clear and walked out, leaving without another word in a clear fit of emotion.


    Chops sat back down on the couch in a quiet frustration, as Nathaniel finally decided to speak up again. ¡°S-she didn¡¯t mean it. She¡¯s just angry right now.¡±


    ¡°¡­no¡­she¡¯s right.¡± Chops admitted, running her hand over her face. ¡°I fucked up¡­¡±


    ¡°B-But we both know how much Baron sucks!¡± Nathaniel expressed, standing upright. ¡°You were in the right!¡±


    ¡°No, I wasn¡¯t! And I shouldn¡¯t have yelled at her!¡± Chops pointed out, waving her hand. ¡°Whether Baron¡¯s good for her or not, she¡¯s the team leader, and I should trust her judgement. If she says he¡¯s good, then I should believe her. We shouldn¡¯t force these things.¡±


    Nathaniel huffed out, before shaking his head. ¡°That¡¯s not enough for me. I won¡¯t know that he makes her happy until I see it myself.¡±


    Nathanial grabbed his jacket, as Chops lifted up her head. ¡°You¡¯ll just piss her off more if you get in her way.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not my plan.¡± Nathaniel clarified, tying up his shoes. ¡°But if he¡¯s good for her, then I¡¯ll prove it.¡±


    Nathaniel left the dorm and hurried after Joleicia, as Chops leaned back on the couch, staring up at the ceiling.


    ¡°Reun¡¯s speed, Nath¡­¡± Chops let out.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    It had been a pretty silent day between the two, but it was finally time to clear the air.


    Just as the day was winding down, Saxin and Lenin had walked wordless through the academy, as they headed to the centre of the campus by Saxin¡¯s direction and climbed up the academy Spire, standing atop its viewing platform in a continued silence, which Lenin finally decided to break.


    ¡°¡­the Spire.¡± Lenin said.


    Saxin sighed out. ¡°It seemed fitting. This is where we had our first date, after all.¡±


    ¡°Good call.¡± Lenin said, trying to balance on his toes, as Saxin mustered up the courage and turned back to him.


    ¡°You needn¡¯t be nervous. This isn¡¯t¡­¡± Saxin started, before abandoning it and taking a breath. ¡°Alright, I¡¯m just going to do it¡­clear the air¡­you¡¯ve got this¡­¡±


    Lenin pretended not to hear her hyping herself up, before Saxin turned to properly address him.


    ¡°I¡­know why you were upset yesterday.¡± Saxin started, immediately stunning Lenin. ¡°It was pretty obvious after Chops explained, and frankly, I¡¯m surprised it¡¯s never come up before.¡±


    Shit shit shit shit¡­ Lenin panicked.


    ¡°And...well, we should talk about it if we¡¯re going to go any further...¡±


    Shit shit shit shit shit shit shit shit... Lenin continued.


    ¡°¡­you want to talk about having kids.¡± Saxin stated.


    Lenin froze again, but more out of confusion, before the realisation hit.


    She doesn¡¯t know? He realised. Oh, thank Whilit!


    ¡°Obviously, we¡¯d get there at some point, if¡­we both feel like it.¡± Saxin said, not noticing the now much calmer Lenin in front of her. ¡°And, really the question is if we do¡­¡±


    ¡°Yeah, yeah, totally.¡± Lenin said, relieved. ¡°I th-¡°


    ¡°Hold on. I¡¯m not finished.¡± Saxin stated. ¡°Just¡­a bit longer.¡±


    Lenin held his tongue, as Saxin finally readied herself, trying to work out her worry through her legs.


    ¡°I¡¯m¡­intersex.¡± She admitted. ¡°And while I won¡¯t go completely into detail¡­my¡­v-variation means¡­I can¡¯t have children.¡±


    Lenin needed a second to process, as Saxin worried she might have gone too far and stepped back, trying not to look too desperate for approval.


    ¡°¡­okay.¡± Lenin started. ¡°¡­can you go a little into detail?¡±


    Saxin took another needed breath. ¡°Well, as far as¡­genitalia goes, it works fine. I mean, you of all people should know that.¡±


    Lenin gave a thumbs up, as Saxin felt a bit more at ease. ¡°¡­but the¡­ovaries are¡­well, they don¡¯t work like they should, and even with medical assistance, the chances would be insultingly low, so¡­if we ever wanted to raise children¡­¡±


    Saxin let the sentence end there, feeling she¡¯d explained herself enough, even if she wasn¡¯t all that comfortable with where she¡¯d left it. She watched as Lenin noticed how uncomfortable she looked, as he closed the distance between them and hugged her warmly.


    He held her head against his chest and caressed her hair, before letting out a relieved breath.


    ¡°Okay.¡± Lenin assured. ¡°You had me a bit worried.¡±


    Saxin looked back up at him, as Lenin smiled back at her.


    ¡°I hope you¡¯re not feeling down on yourself cause of it. It doesn¡¯t make you any less Saxin to me.¡± Lenin confessed, causing Saxin¡¯s heart to race. ¡°¡­I didn¡¯t know you were gonna confess that¡­but I¡¯m happy you trusted me to know.¡±


    Lenin looked a bit embarrassed now. ¡°I¡¯m...sorry it can¡¯t be how you wanted...but¡­if it comes to that at some point, that doesn¡¯t mean we can¡¯t have kids together. We can adopt, or, like, do that surrogate parent thing. I-If you felt comfortable with that...¡±


    ¡°¡­you¡¯re being too nice.¡± She giggled, letting herself be held. ¡°Why aren¡¯t you being a dick about this?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m just too cool for that.¡± Lenin joked, getting a laugh out of Saxin.


    ¡°¡­I wouldn¡¯t mind.¡± Saxin admitted. ¡°If we had one later down the line¡­maybe two, if we could handle that sort of thing.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll just get the rest of the team to babysit for us.¡± Lenin reasoned. ¡°We¡¯ll make it their problem, then treat ourselves to a night of strawberries and chocolate.¡±


    ¡°How sweet of you.¡± She giggled. ¡°I¡¯m glad that¡¯s out there. You seemed so agitated about the thought of having kids yesterday¡­¡±


    Lenin¡¯s memory hit him like a truck, as he¡¯d remembered his part of the deal and why he¡¯d come up in the first place, before breaking off the hug with Saxin.


    ¡°A-Actually, I¡¯ve still got something to confess.¡± Lenin admitted. ¡°U-Unrelated to the baby thing¡­¡±


    Unrelated? Saxin wondered.


    Lenin tried to ready himself, but just couldn¡¯t manage it like Saxin had.


    ¡°Alright, I¡¯m just gonna¡­¡± Lenin started, before backing out. ¡°¡­can we¡­make a small promise first?¡±


    Saxin nodded curiously, as Lenin stood up. ¡°Just let¡¯s¡­not make things weird, okay? I don¡¯t want anything to change.¡±


    Saxin blinked. ¡°I think that depends on what it is.¡±


    Lenin conceded her point, before forcing himself to grab the brim of his hat. ¡°So, uhh¡­you know about the Northern Monarchy, right?¡±


    ¡°I should hope so. They¡¯ve been around for centuries.¡± Saxin said. ¡°Well, before disbanding a few years back.¡±


    ¡°Okay, just making sure.¡± Lenin said, slowly taking his hat off. ¡°And do you know anything about the last two kings?¡±


    Saxin slowly squinted, before shaking her head. ¡°They were fairly¡­private. I know they had a son, and that they helped bridge the cultural gap betwe¡­¡±


    Saxin slowly stopped talking, as Lenin faced her again, hat in his hands, before he gave a well-meaning smile.


    ¡°Surprise.¡± Lenin said, as it took Saxin a second.


    ¡°¡­oh, okay, very funny, Lenin.¡± Saxin remarked. ¡°You know, it took a lot of effort to bare my heart earlier, and I don¡¯t appreciate being made fu-¡°


    Saxin locked eyes with Lenin again, before properly taking in his earnest appearance and gasping.


    ¡°Juslue, help me!¡± She cried, having trouble standing. ¡°Y-You¡¯re actually¡­I¡­¡±


    She nearly went to bow out of instinct, before managing to stay up, even if her face made her look far less composed. ¡°B-But, i-it¡¯s not possible. Th-The prince should be in the Northern Wayside, and y-your eyes should be green.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I figured you¡¯d react like this.¡± Lenin said, before popping out one of his contacts. ¡°Let¡¯s be honest, you would have noticed immediately otherwise.¡±


    ¡°Still!¡± Saxin exclaimed, trying to calm down. ¡°How on Daysend did this happen?¡±


    ¡°Yeah. It¡¯s not every day you get to say you¡¯re dating a former prince.¡± Lenin joked, trying to clear the air, as Saxin shook her head.


    ¡°How didn¡¯t I notice sooner? You¡¯re the spitting image of¡­well, yourself. My mother even had a plate with your face on it.¡± Saxin pointed out, walking up to him and holding her hand out. ¡°It¡¯s actually¡­¡±


    Lenin lowered her hands. ¡°You can stop saying that now.¡±


    ¡°Oh¡­right.¡± Saxin said, lowering it again. ¡°But¡­why are you studying to become a Venator? What sort of life is that for the prince?¡±


    ¡°The one he wanted, actually.¡± Lenin answered. ¡°I asked their majesties if I could, and they insisted I should go for it. It¡¯s better than me being cooped up in Louileon clinging to the former monarchy.¡±


    Lenin waved his hand. ¡°Of course, I needed a fake name and stuff, you know, to avoid¡­this conversation every other day.¡±


    Saxin nodded along. ¡°¡­to be honest, I always had my suspicions about the name. I mean, a man named Lenin Diggs whose Whil lets him dig through the ground¡­¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I¡¯m not great with that stuff.¡± Lenin excused, letting out a large breath. ¡°Wow. That was a lot.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re telling me. I don¡¯t know which of our confessions was more surprising.¡± Saxin said, as Lenin casually stroked her hair.


    ¡°So, you¡¯re actually fine with it?¡±


    Saxin looked up at him and chuckled. ¡°I fell in love with Lenin. Whether he¡¯s a former prince or a random shmuck, that won¡¯t change anything for me.¡±


    Lenin tried not to look embarrassed, but couldn¡¯t help himself, as the rush of excitement got to him, causing him to lean in and kiss her passionately.


    ¡°Alright, come on.¡± Lenin said, jokingly picking up an excited Saxin bridal-style. ¡°Someone¡¯s been feeling insecure about their body, so now it¡¯s my job to give it the royal loving it deserves.¡±


    ¡°Oh my.¡± Saxin said, fanning herself off. ¡°Who could this lucky someone be?¡±


    ¡°The most gorgeous woman in all of Daysend.¡± Lenin flirted.


    ¡°Oh, you sweet talker!¡± Saxin proclaimed, laughing with him as she let him carry her before they rushed back to their dorm room to consummate their confessions.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Joleicia did her best to clean herself up.


    Since she left in such a huff, Joleicia hadn¡¯t managed to finish applying makeup, as she made an effort while trudging to her date. A bit of her foundation smudged due to a couple tears, but she cleaned it quickly after and hurried down to the train station.


    Baron tapped his foot impatiently, straightening his suit while he waited, before spotting Joleicia rounding the corner, brandishing a somewhat forced smile as she ran.


    ¡°You took your time.¡± He remarked.


    Joleicia waved her hand. ¡°Sorry about that. Getting ready took longer than I thought it would.¡±


    Baron gave her a once-over. ¡°Well, it paid off.¡±


    ¡°O-Oh, thanks¡­¡± Joleicia blushed, before spotting a figure running from where she¡¯d just emerged and quickly recognising it as Nathaniel.


    She grabbed Baron¡¯s arm. ¡°H-How about we hurry along to the restaurant? I¡¯m starving!¡±


    ¡°Uhh, sure, that¡¯s¡­¡± Baron started, before spotting Nathaniel running toward them, waving his arms.


    ¡°Wait!¡±


    Joleicia regrettably turned back around, as Nathaniel leaned against his knees, catching his breath from his frantic sprint.


    ¡°Give me¡­one reason¡­¡±


    Joleicia cocked her head, as Baron leaned down to him.


    ¡°Who the hell¡¯s this?¡±


    Nathaniel raised a finger. ¡°Give me¡­one reason why he¡¯s worth it¡­one reason why he deserves...to make you happy...¡±


    Joleicia was about to drag him away, but found herself hesitating at his question, only to berate herself for even questioning it.


    Baron stepped forward and leaned over Nathaniel, as Nathaniel just caught his breath again. ¡°Mind telling us why you¡¯re here?¡±


    Nathaniel found himself unable to speak, but started to step away, indicating for Joleicia to follow.


    ¡°Is he a friend of yours?¡± Baron asked suddenly, getting no response from Joleicia, who was still trapped in her own head with Nathaniel¡¯s query.


    ¡°A-A-Actually, I¡¯m he-¡° Nathaniel went to answer, only for Baron to grab his collar.


    ¡°What kinda weirdo follows people to a train station and starts asking random questions?¡± Baron wondered aloud, as Nathaniel tried to loosen his grip.


    Joleicia finally noticed what was going on around her and snapped to attention. ¡°B-Baron! What are you doing?¡±


    ¡°Teaching the kid some manners.¡± Baron insisted, as Nathaniel tried to pry his hand apart, only for Baron to pin him to the nearby wall, now grabbing him by the neck. ¡°Hey, dipshit, leave the lady alone.¡±


    ¡°Baron, let him go!¡± Joleicia insisted, as Baron turned to her suddenly, considering dropping him for a second, before sharing a glance with Nathaniel again.


    ¡°Hold on¡­you were that weirdo spying on my team the other day.¡± Baron said, tightening his grip. ¡°And now you¡¯re getting in my business. What, are you stalking us? Trying to steal her away from me?¡±


    ¡°¡­n¡­n-no¡­¡± Nathaniel managed, feeling his neck tighten, as Joleicia stepped in and pulled Baron off of him, letting him finally catch a breath.


    ¡°He¡¯s my teammate, you jerk!¡± Joleicia yelled, pulling Nathaniel to his feet. ¡°He was just worried about me!¡±


    Joleicia turned to check on Nathaniel. ¡°Are you okay?¡±


    Nathaniel weakly nodded, as Baron reached out to rest a hand on Joleicia¡¯s shoulder.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t know he wa-¡°


    ¡°That shouldn¡¯t matter!¡± Joleicia insisted, swatting his arm off. ¡°You were way too violent!¡±


    ¡°Well, what did you expect? For all I knew, this guy was following me around and harassing us on our way to our date, so yeah, I got violent.¡± Baron excused. ¡°If he¡¯d bothered to explain himse-¡°


    ¡°You didn¡¯t let him!¡± Joleicia pointed out, taking a focused breath. ¡°You just started choking him, no questions asked.¡±


    Baron scoffed. ¡°Oh, don¡¯t get high and mighty. This is a Venator school. If someone steps to me, I make them hurt. Next time something like this happens, they may not be so meek and fragile.¡±


    Joleicia went to reply, but held herself back, as she helped Nathaniel hold himself up. Just as the air started to clear, the Flash-Rail pulled into the station, opening up beside Baron.


    Baron went to step on, only to realise Joleicia was staying behind, glaring at him as he left.


    ¡°Oh, come on. Don¡¯t¡­¡± He let out, trying to collect himself. ¡°¡­this is the picnic all over again¡­I¡¯m sorry. I fucked up. This won¡¯t happen again.¡±


    Joleicia folded her arms. ¡°Can you promise that?¡±


    Baron shrugged. ¡°Yeah. Of course I can.¡±


    Joleicia huffed out, before stepping up to him and joining him on the Flash-Rail, only to start pointing in his face.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think you can. I turned a blind eye to this kind of stuff before¡­but I don¡¯t want to do that anymore.¡± Joleicia said, as Baron just stood there. ¡°This is not okay, especially for a team leader. And this isn¡¯t just because you picked on my team. I told you to stop, and you kept going. That is NEVER going to be okay with me.¡±


    Joleicia stepped back off the Flash-Rail.


    ¡°You¡¯re here to be a hero. Start acting like one.¡±


    Joleicia watched as the doors closed on him and his stunned expression, with the Flash-Rail slowly pulling out, then shooting down the track toward Detu City, leaving Baron in the compartment on his own once again.


    Joleicia let go of the breath she was holding, only for Nathaniel to tap her shoulder tentatively, then bow profusely to her.


    ¡°What I did was wrong, but I don¡¯t regret doing it!¡± Nathaniel stated. ¡°I¡¯m sorry¡­kind of!¡±


    Joleicia smiled a little and lifted him up, before playfully bonking him on the head. ¡°That¡¯s for interrupting my date.¡±


    Then she hugged him. ¡°And that¡¯s for stopping me from doing something stupid.¡±


    Joleicia broke the hug and sniffled a little, as Nathaniel helped her back toward the academy dorms, holding her hand as they walked.


    ¡°¡­he really sucked, didn¡¯t he?¡± Joleicia admitted. ¡°Why didn¡¯t I want to admit that?¡±


    ¡°¡­maybe because it was easier.¡± Nathaniel offered, staring at the ground. ¡°Love can feel really simple in the moment. But sometimes, we force it so that we can feel happy instead¡­¡±


    Joleicia laughed. ¡°And I guess that was enough for me.¡±


    ¡°But that¡¯s not a bad thing.¡± Nathaniel admitted. ¡°Love has a lot of trial and error. My mum used to say you¡¯ve got to kiss a couple frogs before you find a prince.¡±


    ¡°Huh.¡± Joleicia said. ¡°She sounds smart.¡±


    Joleicia and Nathaniel swung their hands back and forth, as the crisp evening air started to hit.


    ¡°¡­hey¡­¡± Nathaniel started. ¡°¡­I-I didn¡¯t know Florey, but I don¡¯t think he¡¯d want you dating that guy. If he was ever your teammate, then he¡¯d probably want you to find happiness somewhere else.¡±


    Joleicia stared down as Nathaniel, who broke a sweat and put some distance between him and her. ¡°B-But that might just be me projecting¡­I¡¯m still new, a-after all¡­¡±


    Joleicia grinned back at him. ¡°At least you¡¯re fitting in.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°How about Orville?¡±


    ¡°No. I hate that.¡±


    ¡°Rosetta?¡±


    ¡°That sounds like too much. Like those parents that name their kids after gemstones.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t hear you offering any good names.¡±


    ¡°...Jango.¡±


    ¡°I thought we said no J names.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I panicked...¡±


    Saxin chuckled, as she rested on Lenin¡¯s chest. ¡°We¡¯ve still got time.¡±


    ¡°What about Alma?¡± Lenin offered, getting comfortable under the sheets with Saxin. ¡°That¡¯s a cool name. They could be, like, an adventurer or something.¡±


    ¡°An adventurer?¡± Saxin asked, sitting up slightly. ¡°What, are we deciding their career now?¡±


    ¡°No.¡± Lenin said, before pouting. ¡°Shut up. It sounds cool.¡±


    Saxin sighed out and rested on him again. ¡°Give me a few years. I might warm up to it.¡±


    ¡°Then there¡¯s still a chance.¡± Lenin teased, as Saxin laughed to herself, only for the duo to hear a knock at the door.


    ¡°Hey, it¡¯s Chops!¡± Chops called out. ¡°Are you two decent?¡±


    ¡°Yes, dear, we¡¯re finished!¡± Saxin called out, as Chops opened the door to find Saxin and Lenin sharing what looked to be a double bed.


    ¡°What happened to the bunk bed?¡± Chops asked.


    ¡°Apparently, you can take the top bed off and join it to the bottom one.¡± Lenin explained, grabbing a shirt, as Saxin did the same. ¡°Frankly, we found that out way too late.¡±


    ¡°Cool, cool. Have you guys seen Jojo or Nath?¡± Chops asked, frantically checking in the team¡¯s study. ¡°Nath went to convince her to break up with Baron, but I¡¯m starting to worry about them.¡±


    Saxin perked up. ¡°That was awfully bold of him.¡±


    Lenin finished getting dressed and stood up. ¡°We can help look.¡±


    ¡°Thanks. If we split up, we mi-¡± Chops suggested, heading out the door, before running into Joleicia and Nathaniel, just returning from their walk from the train station.


    ¡°There you are.¡± Chops sighed. ¡°We were worried about you.¡±


    ¡°I thought that brute Baron had done something to you.¡± Saxin casually said while walking over to them, before realising the obvious. ¡°W-What I meant t-¡°


    Joleicia raised her hand. ¡°It¡¯s fine¡­we broke it off, for good¡­¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± Lenin added. ¡°How¡¯re you doing then?¡±


    ¡°¡­well, even though he sucked, I still feel bad¡­¡± Joleicia admitted. ¡°¡­back to the single life for me¡­¡±


    ¡°At least it¡¯s not all bad.¡± Chops said, hugging Joleicia to her side. ¡°You can always try again with Eveneer.¡±


    Joleicia giggled a little, as Lenin stretched out a hand toward her, beckoning her to grab it.


    ¡°It¡¯d be a shame to waste that dress on a night like this.¡± Lenin encouraged, holding out his hand.


    Joleicia looked a bit stunned, but graciously took it. The rest of the team sat on the sidelines and watched as he started to lead her in a slow dance. Lenin let Joleicia rest her head on his shoulder, bearing the weight of her last few months, as she let herself feel the quiet sadness that accompanied the night sky peering through the team¡¯s window.


    Chops leaned behind the couch and pulled out her bass guitar, before playing a gentle tune for the two to dance to.


    ¡°She¡¯s going to be okay.¡± Nathaniel assured, as Saxin leaned over and wrapped an arm around him.


    ¡°We¡¯ll make sure of it.¡± She insisted.

 Chapter 30: Rockgarden

    Familial ties


    Cautioned by a distance kept


    Bonded by a team


    Essex took her time heading to the team¡¯s dorm, holding an envelope, just as a few teams passed by, talking about what they were planning to do in the upcoming semester break.


    Essex chose not to listen in and rounded the corner to the team¡¯s room, as she opened the door and found Julia and Harley on the couch, watching whatever was on.


    ¡°Cali.¡± She greeted, as Julia sat up.


    ¡°Hey. Was there anything in our mailbox?¡± She asked, before Essex held up the envelope in her hands.


    ¡°Only a correspondence from the Segaru Clan.¡± Essex replied, grabbing Harley¡¯s attention, as she shot up off the couch in excitement.


    ¡°So old-school. They actually sent a letter? Like, with paper and everything?¡± Harley asked, as Essex opened it.


    ¡°No. It would appear to just be the paper.¡± Essex flatly replied, before taking time to read over the message. ¡°¡­it seems one of our members has recently passed.¡±


    ¡°Oh. Sorry to hear that, Essex.¡± Julia said, now getting up from the couch. ¡°Did you know them?¡±


    Essex shook her head. ¡°They had left the clan a few years ago, but news of their passing must have travelled back. We will be celebrating another Boncala Day in a month¡¯s time to honour them.¡±


    Julia looked confused. ¡°What¡¯s Boncala Day?¡±


    Harley quickly went to answer. ¡°It¡¯s this entire day spen-¡°


    Harley stopped herself and turned to Essex, before clearing her throat. ¡°Sorry, you should explain it.¡±


    Essex nodded back to her. ¡°It is a Segaru Clan tradition for those that have passed. We spend a day indulging in what we normally abstain from to show the lingering spirit that life will continue on without them.¡±


    Essex pointed back to the letter. ¡°I have never experienced one myself, but the clan will be gathered in the Aishanara Forest for this, so I¡¯ll be able to attend.¡±


    ¡°They¡¯re that close?¡± Harley realised. ¡°Great! That can fit in with my idea!¡±


    ¡°Idea? What idea?¡± Julia asked, just as the door opened to Wess and Sola coming in, catching Harley setting up.


    ¡°Whatcha up to, babe?¡± Sola asked, as Harley tried to talk with a marker in her mouth.


    ¡°Jus a segond!¡±


    ¡°Julia, is it alright if I discuss something with the team?¡± Wess asked, catching Julia¡¯s attention briefly. ¡°It has t-¡±


    ¡°Done!¡± Harley exclaimed, pointing to the calendar. ¡°I¡¯ve got a suggestion for the upcoming semester break.¡±


    The team all looked at each other, as Julia indicated to Wess. ¡°Actually, Wess had some news, s-¡±


    ¡°Hold on.¡± Wess said, staring over Harley¡¯s plans, before resettling herself. ¡°Harley, explain yourself.¡±


    ¡°Alright, I know we were all planning on going back home for the upcoming break in two weeks, just like last year¡­¡± Harley prefaced. ¡°¡­but what if, instead, we all visit each other¡¯s homes on a cross-country trip?¡±


    Julia blinked, Wess massaged her forehead, Sola vibrated with excitement, and Essex barely registered an emotion, as Julia broke the silence. ¡°In just two weeks?¡±


    ¡°Yeah.¡± Harley said, mapping it out. ¡°We¡¯ll spend a couple days at each home and just hop around between them on the Flash-Rail. When¡¯s your Boncala Day, Essex?¡±


    ¡°One month¡¯s time.¡± Essex reiterated.


    ¡°Perfect! That¡¯s, like, right at the end of the break!¡± Harley exclaimed, writing it all down. ¡°We can start at Julia¡¯s place, since she¡¯s the closest, then head down to Denilee, back up to Mareau, travel all the way to Mykonori, then finally head back and meet the clan in the Aishanara Forest.¡±


    ¡°I-I dunno¡­I don¡¯t really i-invite a lot of people over¡­¡± Julia admitted.


    ¡°And in case you¡¯re forgetting, my parents would be the last people to host Venators in their home.¡± Wess pointed out.


    ¡°Plus, that¡¯s a lot of travel for just two weeks.¡± Sola said, shuddering now that she gave it more thought. ¡°And a lot of trains¡­¡±


    ¡°Well, we can¡¯t help that it¡¯s two weeks of travel.¡± Harley acknowledged, joining the team¡¯s sides. ¡°But wouldn¡¯t it be great to see our hometowns together? I want you guys to finally meet my dads! And Wess keeps bragging about Mareau, AND I still haven¡¯t seen the Colossus of Mykos.¡±


    Harley pointed to Essex. ¡°Also, we get the rare chance to witness a Segaru Clan tradition in person. How many opportunities are we gonna get like that?¡±


    ¡°¡­you know what, I like this idea.¡± Wess intervened. ¡°I¡¯ve been stuck in either Mareau or Detu City my whole life, and gosh darn it, the spirit of adventure¡¯s calling me. I want to see more of Daysend.¡±


    ¡°¡­it¡¯s been a while since I¡¯ve left Detu City.¡± Julia admitted. ¡°And it won¡¯t be too weird having you guys over. I mean, Essex stayed over last year.¡±


    ¡°It was a pleasant experience.¡± Essex said, turning to Harley. ¡°This idea sounds beneficial to our team collectiveness. I hope the clan is to your liking.¡±


    ¡°And Mykonori! I¡¯ve barely even seen most of it myself.¡± Sola confessed. ¡°I¡¯ll have to call my parents and tell them we¡¯re staying over.¡±


    ¡°Oh, right! I should clear it with my dad too.¡± Julia realised, pulling out her tablet, as Harley continued to mark things on the calendar.


    ¡°This is gonna be so fun. In just a fortnight¡¯s time, we¡¯ll be travelling all around Daysend.¡± She said to herself, before Essex joined her side. ¡°You reckon this¡¯ll be what it¡¯s like once we graduate?¡±


    ¡°¡­possibly. Venator work requires travel, doesn¡¯t it?¡± Essex asked, getting a nod from Harley.


    ¡°Yes, hello Graham.¡± Wess said into her tablet, wandering around the room while avoiding Julia and Sola on their own calls. ¡°I was hoping to talk to father about something. I doubt he¡¯ll even hear me out, but I¡­oh, hello father.¡±


    She stopped in the middle of the room. ¡°My team and I were hoping to visit Mareau on an upcoming trip, and¡­what¡¯s that?...oh, I¡­of course¡­that¡¯s¡­that¡¯s understandable. Lo reme.¡±


    Wess took her tablet down, as the room focused on her.


    ¡°Well then.¡± Wess said. ¡°He said yes.¡±


    ¡°We can stay over?¡± Julia asked, getting a quick head nod from Wess, before she heard her dad¡¯s voice coming from her tablet. ¡°Hey, dad? Yeah, my team had this idea for the break¡­¡±


    ¡°If it¡¯s a bit awkward, we can just get a hotel room.¡± Harley offered, as Wess raised her hand.


    ¡°It should be fine. The fact that he¡¯s allowing us all to stay is quite out of character, so maybe he¡¯ll continue that behaviour for our trip and act like a complete gentleman?¡± Wess remarked. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. It¡¯s technically my manor too. I won¡¯t let my parents disrespect you while you¡¯re there.¡±


    ¡°Oh. Thanks, Wess.¡± Harley said, just as Sola gave her a thumbs up, letting her mark off more on the calendar.


    ¡°My dad said he¡¯s cool to play host.¡± Julia called out, as she leaned over to Wess. ¡°What was it you were going to tell us earlier?¡±


    ¡°I think it¡¯s best if I hold that until we¡¯re off campus.¡± Wess clarified. ¡°Let¡¯s focus on our trip for now.¡±


    ¡°That settles it.¡± Harley announced, jotting down the last of her details, before she dynamically put her marker down. ¡°In two weeks, we start our journey around Daysend.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    And just like that, two weeks passed in an instant.


    After a fortnight of classes and preparations, the team were packed and ready with their suitcases, as they huddled around the Flash-Rail station somewhat early in the morning, which only really affected Sola and Wess.


    ¡°¡­are we¡­at Julia¡¯s¡­¡± Sola tried, barely managing to stand, as Harley helped her stay upright.


    ¡°Yes, let¡¯s hurry this up¡­I¡¯m worried that once we arrive, your father¡¯s impression of me will be ¡®Julia¡¯s friend who immediately collapsed on my couch.¡¯¡± Wess expressed, rubbing some sleep from her eye.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. My dad¡¯s pretty chill.¡± Julia excused, grabbing her suitcases. ¡°If you want to collapse on the couch, be my guest.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re too kind.¡± Wess remarked, hopping onto the Flash-Rail with her suitcases, as the others did the same, storing what they could in the overhead compartment and taking their seats.


    ¡°There¡¯re a few snacks packed if anyone¡¯s hungry. It¡¯ll be a bit until we arrive.¡± Julia encouraged.


    ¡°I would guess this will become familiar to us over the next two weeks.¡± Essex said, indicating to the train.


    ¡°Hopefully, Sola can get over her fear of them.¡± Harley said, letting Sola lie down and sleep on her lap. ¡°Let¡¯s just be lucky she¡¯s asleep for now.¡±


    After a few more minutes, the train shot down the track toward Detu City, passing by numerous skyscrapers, the Gold Lelvow Bank, and the HyperMall, before opening out into the suburban surrounding area, dotted with streets and houses built for the common folk. It was noticeably less developed than the rest of Detu City, but if anything, it made it feel much homier.


    ¡°So, before we get there, just a heads up¡­¡± Julia prefaced. ¡°My dad¡¯s a bit dorky.¡±


    ¡°¡­yeah.¡± Harley replied. ¡°They all are. That¡¯s basically a job requirement.¡±


    ¡°Is he the one who gave us that bottle of wine?¡± Wess asked, getting a nod from Julia. ¡°Well then, I should think that speaks well to his character.¡±


    ¡°I was not under the impression that he was dorky when we last met.¡± Essex said.


    Julia laughed a little. ¡°Maybe I¡¯ve got nothing to worry about then¡­¡±


    The Flash-Rail pulled into the station, just a few minutes away from Julia¡¯s house, as they exited the compartment, before feeling a set of eyes on them from behind.


    ¡°Surprise!¡±


    Everyone jumped back suddenly, save for Essex, as they turned around and spotted Julia¡¯s dad behind them with his arms out.


    ¡°I¡¯m up! I¡¯m up!¡± Sola let out, now suddenly very alert.


    ¡°Dad!¡± Julia cried. ¡°Don¡¯t do that!¡±


    He rested his hands on his hips, before looking to the unprovoked Essex. ¡°Aw man, you were the one I was trying to get.¡±


    Milo was noticeably taller than Julia, dressed in what was clearly lounge wear that was only just passable for being out in public. He already had a couple grey streaks in his hair, but showed a breadth of energy that was immediately engaging.


    ¡°Calias, Milo.¡± Essex greeted with a bow, as Milo bowed back.


    ¡°Calias as well.¡± Milo said unsurely, before turning to the others. ¡°So, this is the team!¡±


    He quickly went around to each member and gave them a welcoming handshake, proudly smiling toward them. ¡°Great to meetcha! Really respect the work you do!¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t need to treat them like colleagues.¡± Julia pointed out. ¡°Come on, let¡¯s go home. I think Sola¡¯s about to fall over.¡±


    ¡°N-No¡­no¡­¡± Sola assured, already falling backwards and landing right in front of Milo.


    ¡°Oh shit.¡± He let out, lifting her up with Harley¡¯s help. ¡°Not a morning person, huh?¡±


    ¡°What are you gonna do?¡± Harley remarked, as the group carried themselves off to Julia and Milo¡¯s house, with Julia leading the pack and using her key.


    ¡°Whoa!¡± Harley exclaimed, nearly dropping Sola once she saw the cosy suburban interior. ¡°It¡¯s so cute!¡±


    ¡°And awfully quaint.¡± Wess muttered, before realising their group was one short.


    She spun around and noticed Essex bowing in front of the house with her scythe out, confusing the rest of the team, before Milo snapped his fingers.


    ¡°Right! You¡¯re allowed to stay here.¡± He declared, as she stood back up.


    ¡°Grelo.¡± She thanked, grabbing her things and heading inside.


    ¡°She needs permission before she can stay somewhere.¡± Julia explained to Harley and Wess, as Milo stood proudly in the centre of the room.


    ¡°Make yourselves at home. I¡¯ll try to be as accommodating as possible.¡± Milo announced, as Julia went to make a point, before being interrupted. ¡°And before you ask, yes, I¡¯m taking the next few days off of work, and YES, I don¡¯t need your permission since I¡¯m the adult here.¡±


    ¡°But I¡¯m twenty¡­¡± Julia said, as Harley dropped Sola onto the couch.


    ¡°Can we see Julia¡¯s room?¡± Harley asked immediately.


    ¡°Yeah, it¡¯s right there.¡± Milo pointed.


    ¡°Dad!¡± Julia let out, as Harley was already peeking inside.


    ¡°What? Essex already stayed in there last time. And I moved that pool table out for you guys.¡± He said, indicating to Essex following behind Harley, as Julia hurried over to try and stop them, before Milo noticed Wess watching on. ¡°Aren¡¯t you curious?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll wait for a more opportune time.¡± Wess explained, as Milo nodded to himself.


    ¡°You¡¯re Wess, right?¡± He asked. ¡°Julia¡¯s mentioned you before. How¡¯d you like the wine?¡±


    ¡°It was surprisingly tasteful.¡± Wess absentmindedly mentioned, before clearing her throat. ¡°I-I mean it was a lovely gift.¡±


    Gods, she must be made of money. Milo said, noticing her appearance. Is Julia really keeping this kind of company?


    ¡°Hey, just out of curiosity¡­how¡¯s Julia back at the academy?¡± Milo asked, as Wess watched the tussling match between Julia, Harley and Essex, before turning to him.


    ¡°Everything you¡¯d want from a leader, really.¡± Wess explained, as the trio had visibly tired each other out and collapsed to the floor. ¡°Excuse me.¡±


    Wess used the opportunity to step around them and head inside Julia¡¯s room, as Milo watched Julia on the ground, wondering if Wess hadn¡¯t just been blowing smoke.


    Wess was immediately struck with how¡­Julia the room was, for lack of a better term. Partly, it was organised, and partly, it was a bit of a mess. A clear love of Venators was shown across the board, with posters and figures and a few movie cases, on top of several board games, posters for shows she loved, and a few ticket stubs for the local gun range. Frankly, the room looked big enough to hold two beds, but Julia seemed to make good use of the space.


    Which was explained by the sheer state that was her wardrobe.


    ¡°And I thought your Team Spectrum memorabilia at the academy was excessive.¡± Wess remarked, digging through Julia¡¯s wardrobe. ¡°Is this a mock weapon?¡±


    Julia suddenly sprung to life and jumped to intercept Wess, as she grabbed the foam rifle from her. ¡°Y-Yes. It¡¯s X-Ray¡¯s Prism Rifle.¡±


    ¡°I thought Infra had the rifle.¡± Harley brought up, getting up again and planting herself onto Julia¡¯s bed.


    ¡°They both did, but X-Ray¡¯s reflected his Whil. Infra¡¯s was a proper sniper rifle that he used with his Heat Signature Whi-¡° Julia clarified, only for Harley to start digging under her bed halfway through. ¡°D-Don¡¯t do that! Th-There¡¯s private stuff there!¡±


    ¡°Well, now I¡¯m even more curious!¡± Harley let out, checking more vigorously, before finding nothing of note except for an old, framed photo with a thick layer of dust covering it.


    She wiped it off as best she could, before realising it was a photo of Julia standing next to another girl.


    ¡°Who¡¯s that?¡± Harley asked, before Julia ripped the photo away from her.


    ¡°Just a¡­f-friend from high school.¡± Julia stammered, as Essex finally came in as well, which caused Julia to give up stopping them all together. ¡°Fine, just dig through my stuff¡­¡±


    ¡°And who might this be?¡± Wess asked playfully, as she held up a photo album with pictures of baby Julia. ¡°Aww¡­¡±


    ¡°Dad!¡± Julia called out, as he peeked in from around the door, before shrugging his shoulders.


    ¡°Hey, I had to use your room as storage. Sorry¡­¡± He said, before noticing the pictures again. ¡°Aww¡­you were so cute¡­¡±


    Julia quickly got up and closed the door in his face, before noticing Wess flip through a couple more pages.


    ¡°Who¡¯s this other girl beside you?¡± Wess asked, as Julia joined her side.


    ¡°That¡¯s my sister, Bell.¡± Julia said, reminiscing on the origin of some of the photos. ¡°It was a bit of a tradition when we were younger¡­she always hated getting her picture taken, though.¡±


    Harley leaned over to them and laughed at a photo of Bell in a dress far too big for her, holding up a few papers on a seemingly makeshift stage.


    ¡°Oh yeah¡­Bell took one of mum¡¯s dresses to put on a play for me.¡± Julia said, chuckling a little at the memory. ¡°Man, mum was angry about that. But then Bell showed her some of the play and warmed her up to it.¡±


    ¡°Aww¡­I wanna meet her now.¡± Harley expressed, before a gentle knock came from Julia¡¯s door.


    She sighed out and opened it again, as Milo raised his eyebrows.


    ¡°Can I talk now?¡±


    ¡°¡­okay.¡± Julia said, as Milo rolled his eyes.


    ¡°Alright, there¡¯s only room for a few of you in here, so two of you are going to need to sleep on the couches.¡± Milo explained, pointing to Sola still asleep on the couch. ¡°¡­well, that makes it pretty easy. Who¡¯s joining her?¡±


    ¡°It would only be fair that I do.¡± Essex offered. ¡°I have already occupied Julia¡¯s room for a time.¡±


    ¡°Oh, look at you. Julia, your friends are really polite.¡± Milo praised, as Julia tried to hide her blush away.


    ¡°¡­yeah¡­th-thanks¡­¡± Julia let out, as Harley and Wess finally left her room, only to grab their bags to bring in. ¡°...I think so too...¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°I just have to ask.¡±


    ¡°She is doing very well in her classes.¡±


    ¡°Right, but like, how¡¯s she holding up? I know her grades are fine, but I¡¯m sure the missions are a lot for her to handle.¡±


    ¡°She has handled them with tact and confidence. While her skill with firearms is remarkable, her leadership abilities are especially impressive.¡± Essex explained, as Milo rested his head on the kitchen counter.


    ¡°See, that just doesn¡¯t make sense to me. Since when did she get so¡­I dunno, self-assured?¡± Milo wondered. ¡°My daughter¡¯s a lot of wonderful things, but being a leader feels like it would bottom the list.¡±


    Essex rested her mug on the counter as well. ¡°I did not know Julia before attending the academy, but, if you¡¯ll allow me to assume, I think she¡¯s¡­¡±


    Essex raised her hands to do air quotes. ¡°In her element.¡±


    ¡°No kidding¡­¡± Milo said, watching his drink swirl in his own mug, before Julia¡¯s bedroom door opened up to reveal her in her pyjamas. ¡°Hi girls. How was your sleep?¡±


    ¡°Uhh¡­p-pretty standard.¡± She remarked, as Wess quickly followed behind her.


    ¡°Harley insisted on changing out in the open, giving us quite the interesting awakening.¡± Wess mentioned, yawning loudly. ¡°You set that alarm far too early, Julia.¡±


    Stolen content alert: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.


    ¡°O-Oh¡­okay then.¡± Milo said, refusing to let them elaborate. ¡°It wasn¡¯t too stuffy?¡±


    ¡°Nope.¡± Julia replied, as Harley exited last, looking at Julia and Wess while stretching.


    ¡°Come on, it¡¯s nothing you haven¡¯t seen before.¡± Harley pointed out, smiling back at them, before heading over to a still sleeping Sola. ¡°Hey, boo.¡±


    ¡°¡­huh?¡± Sola managed, finally waking up, before noticing where she was and just how many people were around her. ¡°¡­oh yeah, I forgot we were already here.¡±


    ¡°You were out like a light.¡± Julia said, sitting on top of the couch. ¡°Do you want something to drink?¡±


    ¡°Oh, hold on, I¡¯ve got something.¡± Milo insisted, grabbing a hot chocolate he¡¯d already made and handing it to her, before sitting on the opposite couch. ¡°I¡¯m Julia¡¯s dad, in case you need a reminder.¡±


    ¡°Hi, Julia¡¯s dad.¡± Sola replied, still half asleep, before taking a sip of the hot chocolate and immediately springing to life. ¡°This is so good!¡±


    ¡°Thank you.¡± Milo replied, looking a bit smug. ¡°I¡¯m kind of a wiz in the kitchen.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s weird. I remember making all my own meals in high school¡­¡± Julia remarked, as Milo looked back at her and pulled her into a friendly noogie.


    ¡°I made you some! You were just too good at it!¡± Milo insisted, as Julia laughed to herself, trying to pry herself away. ¡°You¡¯re the one who figured out that stirring trick with your Whil!¡±


    ¡°Finished!¡± Sola announced, showing off the mug proudly, before studying it a bit more. ¡°Hey, this is a pretty nice mug¡­¡±


    Wess rustled herself up some breakfast with Essex, as Harley sat against the couch with the others, looking to Milo. ¡°Hey, I¡¯m curious. Do you have a Whil too?¡±


    Milo finally let go of Julia. ¡°Yeah, I¡¯ve got one. I just never use it.¡± Milo admitted, before getting an idea. ¡°Hey, Sola, can you chuck me the mug?¡±


    Sola held it up, as Milo stared at it intently, before she threw it to him, only for it to go flying into his face, smacking his nose.


    ¡°Shit!¡± He let out, grabbing for his nose and getting a laugh from Harley, as Julia tried to check on him. ¡°I was gonna slow it down¡­¡±


    ¡°Dad¡¯s basically got the same Whil as me. He changes velocity with his thoughts, while I direct it through my hands.¡± Julia explained. ¡°I¡¯m just lucky I don¡¯t have to stare at stuff like he does.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, you won the genetic lottery there.¡± Milo remarked, pulling out his tablet to look at the state of his nose. ¡°Bell can do it too, but just like me, she hasn¡¯t really trained it.¡±


    ¡°And yet, you still call yourself a wiz in the kitchen¡­¡± Julia joked, which only let Milo noogie her again, getting a silent groan from Wess in the kitchen.


    ¡°They¡¯re acting awfully chummy.¡± Wess said, staring as Julia couldn¡¯t help herself but laugh. ¡°Well, good for them.¡±


    ¡°Are you jealous?¡± Essex asked, surprising Wess, who tried to play it off.


    ¡°Of whom?¡±


    Essex blinked. ¡°Julia. The way you described your parents suggests they wouldn¡¯t act like this.¡±


    Wess grabbed at her forehead. ¡°Essex, it¡¯s too early in the morning for this¡­¡±


    Almost to accompany her headache, the doorbell rang out suddenly, as Milo jumped to attention and got up, hurrying over to the door.


    ¡°Who¡¯s that?¡± Julia asked, as Milo tried to hide a playful smirk.


    ¡°I was gonna tell you before you showed up, but I figured I¡¯d surprise you.¡± Milo prefaced, before opening the door. ¡°Surprise!¡±


    Nothing followed Milo saying that, as he stood by the door awkwardly, waiting patiently, only for Bell to slowly step through, wondering if she was meant to accompany his theatrics, before waving.


    Julia blinked. ¡°B-Bell?¡±


    ¡°O-Oh, Julia.¡± Bell realised, before turning to Milo. ¡°So, you didn¡¯t tell either of us?¡±


    Milo realised it as well and blushed. ¡°I¡­guess I didn¡¯t.¡±


    Bell shook her head in frustration, before turning back around, only to now notice the plethora of other people occupying the lounge room in their pyjamas, looking at her curiously.


    ¡°Is this your sister?¡± Harley asked, as Julia nodded politely. She looked just like an older Julia, save for shorter hair and a bit less energy in her eyes. Her maturity was definitely on display, but as Julia stood next to her, this was only made more apparent.


    ¡°A-Apologies. If my father had bothered to inform me you were here, I wouldn¡¯t have interrupted you so early.¡± Bell remarked, turning to Milo, who tried to not look guilty.


    Bell gave her attention back to Julia. ¡°It¡¯s actually good you¡¯re here. Mum wanted to talk to you whenever you were around.¡±


    Julia shrunk back a little, as her team noticed her demeanour change. ¡°I-In person?¡±


    Bell nodded. ¡°When you have time, of course. How long are you staying?¡±


    ¡°Just a few days.¡± Wess noted, as Julia started to sweat.


    ¡°I-I-It¡¯s fine, I-I can just see her another time.¡± Julia tried to play off, only for Milo to sigh out.


    ¡°Now, come on, Julia. I know you want to stay here with your team, but you never really visit her.¡± Milo pointed out. ¡°And you¡¯ve yet to see her since you started at the academy.¡±


    ¡°Y-Yeah, I know¡­¡± Julia muttered, as Milo rolled his eyes.


    ¡°Tell you what. I need to get some groceries later today, so I¡¯ll drive you there. And don¡¯t worry about your team, they can stay here with Bell.¡±


    Bell turned suddenly. ¡°Huh?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, you¡¯ll get along. Julia makes good friends.¡± Milo assured, as Bell glanced around her at the house¡¯s current occupants.


    I hope you meant that¡­


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    After a few well spent hours hanging out and chatting at Julia¡¯s house, the inevitable grocery shop came around, meaning Julia was to be whisked away from it and into the thralls of her mother.


    Julia looked out of the car window quietly, as Milo stared at her from the driver¡¯s seat, starting to get flashbacks to her in high school.


    ¡°It¡¯s only mum.¡± Milo pointed out. ¡°She¡¯s plenty of fun to be around.¡±


    Julia nodded to him. ¡°Yeah.¡±


    She turned back to the window, as Milo tried his best to pay attention to the road.


    ¡°Hey, if Bell¡¯s any indication, she¡¯s probably mellowed out.¡± Milo assured her. ¡°I know you two are pretty different, but so¡¯s your team. And you seem to get along great with them.¡±


    ¡°Dad, can we not have this conversation right now?¡± Julia asked with a certain finality, as Milo closed his mouth and simply nodded, focusing back on the road, with Julia doing the same.


    It was a little while until they reached her house, due to it being on the other side of Detu City, but eventually they found their way into her driveway.


    ¡°Have fun. I¡¯ll be back in a few hours.¡± Milo called out, as Julia nodded back to him. ¡°And engage with her! Do your best to chat!¡±


    Julia rolled her eyes and nodded again, insisting he finally go until he ended up doing so. She climbed up the main path toward the entrance, before reaching the door and holding her finger over the doorbell.


    She let out a sigh, before going to press it.


    ¡°Give me your money!¡±


    Julia jumped back in shock, grabbing at her chest, as Madelyn chuckled to herself.


    ¡°Gotcha.¡± She snickered. ¡°I¡¯m still just as wily as ever.¡±


    Julia let herself focus on breathing, as Madelyn locked eyes with her.


    ¡°I just happened to be in the driveway when you came in. I¡¯ll be honest, I was expecting you to put off visiting for a lot longer.¡± Madelyn remarked, as Julia did her best to clean herself up, before staring at Madelyn. ¡°What? I wanted to greet you in a fun way.¡±


    Madelyn quickly opened up the door for them, before walking around Julia and heading to the kitchen.


    ¡°¡­y-you could have been quieter about it.¡± Julia finally said, as Madelyn laid out her hand.


    ¡°There we go. I guess they¡¯re not teaching you manners at that Venator school.¡± Madelyn remarked, before noting Julia¡¯s offended expression. ¡°I¡¯m kidding. Come, sit.¡±


    Julia tentatively followed her to the kitchen and pulled up a stool by the counter.


    ¡°What do you want?¡± She asked, as she grabbed a bottle of wine and poured herself a glass.


    ¡°Uhh¡­isn¡¯t it a bit early for that?¡± Julia pointed out, as Madelyn turned to face her.


    ¡°Geez, I thought I was your mother.¡± Madelyn said, taking a drink and pointing to the fridge. ¡°Mmm¡­go on, tell me while I¡¯m up.¡±


    ¡°¡­just a¡­water.¡± Julia said, as Madelyn rolled her eyes.


    ¡°Fine.¡± She said, grabbing her a glass. ¡°One water.¡±


    Madelyn started pouring Julia her cup, before speaking up. ¡°So, how¡¯re things on your end?¡±


    Julia felt a bit thrown off by the question, as she looked down at her lap. ¡°Do you¡­mean at the Venator Academy?¡±


    ¡°Well, partly. It¡¯s been a couple years since you were last here, so it¡¯s the least you could talk about.¡± Madelyn said, spinning around and placing the glass down, before pulling out her tablet. ¡°I saw your teammates on Activ.¡±


    Julia broke a sweat. ¡°H-Huh?¡±


    ¡°I swear, it¡¯s the only reason I¡¯ve ever used the app.¡± Madelyn said, pulling up Team Valiant¡¯s profile. ¡°They¡¯re pretty cute. Especially that one with the big eyebrows.¡±


    ¡°M-Mum!¡± Julia cried out, trying to take the tablet away, as Madelyn held it just out of reach.


    ¡°And who¡¯s the blonde one? She kinda reminds me o-¡° Madelyn teased, before Julia got a hold of it, frustrating Madelyn. ¡°Alright, fine, I guess I don¡¯t get to hear about them.¡±


    ¡°D-Don¡¯t go looking through this stuff. I-I¡¯ll tell you about them when I¡¯m ready¡­¡± Julia admitted, as Madelyn casually leaned against the counter, before shrugging her shoulders.


    ¡°You can hardly blame me. Your father never tells me anything either¡­¡± Madelyn expressed, turning her back to Julia. ¡°The first time I heard you were going to that academy was when it was being attacked by that thing last year¡­¡±


    ¡°B-Behemoth Wailing¡­¡± Julia corrected.


    ¡°Right. Behemoth.¡± Madelyn said. ¡°Milo called to assure me you were safe, but I didn¡¯t even know you were there. I just saw on the news that the Venator school had been torn a new one¡­¡±


    Madelyn raised a finger. ¡°Then it got attacked again, and I saw this team on there talking about their fearless leader ¡®Julia Alpine.¡¯¡±


    Madelyn faced Julia again. ¡°I had half a mind to call you myself and ask what the hell was going on.¡±


    Julia hid her face and ever-increasing blush, as Madelyn lay against the other countertop.


    ¡°¡­they look like they¡¯ve got your back.¡± Madelyn admitted. ¡°I mean, you¡¯re still here. We can all be thankful for that.¡±


    Julia nodded along, as Madelyn leaned over and tapped her shoulder. ¡°You know a conversation¡¯s more interesting if both parties talk, right?¡±


    ¡°S-Sorry¡­i-it¡¯s just been a while since I¡¯ve been over¡­and a lot¡¯s changed¡­¡± Julia confessed, as Madelyn swirled around her wine.


    ¡°¡­hey, did you hear Bell got a new gig?¡± Madelyn mentioned, grabbing Julia¡¯s interest. ¡°In that show you and your father like.¡±


    Julia blinked. ¡°The Beggar¡¯s Heart?¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t she tell you?¡± Madelyn asked, as Julia shook her head. ¡°She¡¯s playing some¡­doctory thing, I dunno. Really hitting the big time now.¡±


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t she tell me?¡± Julia mumbled to herself, as Madelyn noticed the still full glass.


    ¡°Hey. Finish your water.¡± She said. ¡°I prepared that lovingly. Don¡¯t let it go to waste.¡±


    ¡°O-Oh, sorry¡­¡± Julia said, as Madelyn used to opportunity to grab her tablet back and scroll through Activ again.


    ¡°You went to Kaju?¡± Madelyn asked, as Julia flailed at her in an attempt to get it back. ¡°Did you go to that mining museum?¡±


    ¡°Mum!¡±


    ¡°Alright, alright, no more teasing.¡± Madelyn forfeited. ¡°Geez. No wonder you¡¯re so high-strung¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Bell cautiously looked over what was apparently Julia¡¯s Venator team, sprawled out over the lounge room. Now that she was properly alone with them, she had no idea what to say or do. She barely even knew what to make of them, save for Essex, who she was at least familiar with.


    Is Julia friends with them? Bell wondered, as they looked back at her as well. The blonde one looks way too intimidating, and the short one¡¯s¡­


    Actually, she couldn¡¯t get a great read on Sola, but despite Julia¡¯s very limited friend group growing up, Bell knew that Sola was pretty out of the ordinary for her.


    And what¡¯s with her? Bell thought, turning to Wess, who¡¯s piercing stare managed to send a shiver down her spine. She¡¯s like a gargoyle in human form¡­


    In all this time, Bell had just been silently staring at Team Valiant, who all looked at each other in confusion, wondering if this was normal behaviour for Julia¡¯s sister.


    Harley was the first to lean forward, as she waved her hand in front of Bell¡¯s face. ¡°You good?¡±


    Bell snapped out of her studying trance and stepped back. ¡°O-Oh, sorry. I-I wasn¡¯t expecting you to have multiplied.¡±


    ¡°Multiplied?¡± Sola asked, leaning over the back of the couch, as Bell fumbled again.


    ¡°I-I meant since last time. I didn¡¯t know Julia was bringing her whole¡­Venator¡­team home.¡± Bell managed, sighing afterwards.


    ¡°Well, to be fair, we didn¡¯t give you much warning of our arrival.¡± Wess reasoned, leaning against the wall. ¡°I¡¯m Wess Delacroix Nouvel.¡±


    ¡°Harley.¡± Harley added.


    ¡°And Sola!¡± Sola cheered, before pointing to Essex. ¡°And you already know Essex.¡±


    ¡°Y-Yes, I do.¡± Bell said, before noticing the silence and realising what she should do. ¡°O-Oh, right! My name¡¯s Bell Vale. Julia¡¯s sister, aspiri¡­working actor and¡­actually, that¡¯s¡­kind of it.¡±


    Bell left it there, as Harley plonked herself on the couch and patted the spot beside her.


    ¡°You might as well tell us a little bit more.¡± Harley encouraged, as Bell took the offer, mostly so she could get off her feet.


    ¡°Okay. Yeah. Sure.¡± Bell said, noticing everyone looking at her. ¡°What do you want to know?¡±


    ¡°Oh! Oh! Milo said you had a Whil!¡± Sola asked excitedly. ¡°What¡¯s it like? Have you used it at all?¡±


    ¡°Well, I¡¯ve used it once.¡± Bell said, holding up a finger. ¡°I accidentally tripped a few days before an audition and tried to slow my fall, but ended up speeding up instead. I had to go in with a broken nose after that.¡±


    ¡°Did you¡­get the part?¡± Harley asked, as Bell shook her head slowly.


    ¡°No, it was for a nasal spray, so they didn¡¯t think¡­¡± Bell started, before waving her hands. ¡°I-It doesn¡¯t really matter. The point is, I don¡¯t have a good reason to use it.¡±


    ¡°That is understandable.¡± Essex reasoned, turning to her spot on the couch. ¡°While my knowledge on acting is limited, I would imagine manipulating velocity wouldn¡¯t factor in very often.¡±


    ¡°On that point.¡± Wess said, still standing against the wall behind Bell. ¡°Are there any performances we might know you from?¡±


    ¡°Uhh, in short, no.¡± Bell admitted. ¡°I¡¯m not as prolific as some of my peers. Most of my training is in stage acting, but there isn¡¯t much work here for that. There is up north, but I just can¡¯t stand the Northern Wayside.¡±


    Wess felt a twitch coming to her eye, as Bell quickly noticed and waved her hands.


    ¡°I-It¡¯s nothing personal! I-It¡¯s just the cold climate. It doesn¡¯t agree with me.¡± Bell insisted, easing Wess somewhat. ¡°I¡¯ve always wanted to go to the Juslue theatre. B-But I don¡¯t think I¡¯m ready yet. And I¡¯ll keep comparing myself to all the other actors there out of habit¡­¡±


    ¡°Maybe we can take you. We¡¯ll be travelling around a lot once we become Venators.¡± Harley insisted. ¡°We¡¯ll pick you up and drive you down with us.¡±


    Bell hid herself. ¡°...thank you, but that wouldn¡¯t sit right with me¡­like, at all¡­¡±


    ¡°How so?¡± Essex asked, as Bell tried not to look at anyone.


    ¡°It¡¯s¡­I don¡¯t really¡­get¡­Venators¡­¡± Bell admitted, surprising the team with her brazenness. ¡°It¡¯s not that I don¡¯t appreciate the work you put in. I do. I just don¡¯t understand the frenzy¡­or the warrior-for-hire thing¡­¡±


    Bell sat up a little suddenly. ¡°Like, that¡¯s weird, right? You get hired to kill giant monsters, meanwhile other folks are working eight-hour desk shifts just to make ends me-sorry, I¡¯m rambling. I¡¯ll stop now.¡±


    ¡°But Julia¡¯s becoming one.¡± Sola pointed out, as Bell leaned over to her.


    ¡°I know, but I¡¯m not about to tell her it¡¯s wrong or something.¡± Bell argued. ¡°Just because I don¡¯t understand it doesn¡¯t mean I have to take that away from her¡­she seems really happy these days¡­¡±


    Bell glanced around her, before leaning into the team. ¡°¡­I know I just said what I just said¡­but I really want to thank you for being there for Julia. We didn¡¯t spend enough time together when she was in high school, cause of the¡­so I wasn¡¯t¡­¡±


    Bell shook her head. ¡°But even just talking to her, I can tell she¡¯s much better off. And¡­even though I don¡¯t know you guys very well¡­just knowing that you¡¯ve been taking care of her really puts me at ease¡­¡±


    ¡°We do what we can.¡± Harley grinned, patting Bell¡¯s back a little too hard. ¡°She¡¯s been an awesome leader for us.¡±


    Feeling a bit more at ease, Bell let herself take up more room on the couch, before raising her head. ¡°¡­can I¡­ask you guys a question now?¡± Bell asked, getting a nod from the team.


    She sighed out, before looking around at them. ¡°Did she bring that fox plushie from when she was a kid with her? I think it was called Maxie.¡±


    Essex nodded silently, as Bell shrank back down.


    ¡°I was worried she had¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Milo drove into Madelyn¡¯s driveway again, honking the horn a couple times, just as Julia emerged from the house to join him, slowly followed by Madelyn.


    She waved a hand as she leaned on the doorway, as Milo waved back to her, before opening the door for Julia.


    ¡°I hope you had a good time.¡± Milo asked, as Julia sighed to herself.


    ¡°She can be a lot¡­¡± Julia admitted. ¡°¡­but I think it¡¯s good we caught up.¡±


    Milo took what comfort that gave and drove off, heading back home, which despite being the same distance felt significantly shorter than the last drive.


    They reached their home and quickly grabbed the groceries from the car, as Julia helped with the front door, only to spot her team and Bell all on the floor, fiddling with an open box and game pieces.


    ¡°Uhh, hey guys.¡± Julia greeted, putting the bags in the kitchen. ¡°Having fun?¡±


    Bell popped her head up, before realising Julia wasn¡¯t in on what they were doing. ¡°Right. This probably looks weird.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re playing Goldstar LP!¡± Sola announced, holding up the box happily, as Julia looked even more confused.


    ¡°But I left my set at the academy?¡± Julia wondered, causing Bell to blush.


    ¡°Actually, since you mentioned it last time you were here¡­I bought another set. It¡¯s just been sitting in my car.¡± Bell explained, avoiding eye contact. ¡°I figured since we¡¯re all here, it¡¯d be kinda fun.¡±


    ¡°And Bell¡¯s assured us that she knows the rules, so we can actually play this time.¡± Harley clarified, giving a big thumbs up, as Julia laughed a little to herself.


    ¡°Julia, you had the frozens!¡± Milo yelled out from the car, as Julia jumped to attention and hurried back to the kitchen to pack them.


    Milo stepped into the house and looked to Bell, before putting the bags down. ¡°Why didn¡¯t you tell us you¡¯re in The Beggar¡¯s Heart?¡±


    Bell blushed all over again, as she stood up suddenly, grabbing the attention of Team Valiant with her. ¡°W-Where did you hear that?¡±


    ¡°Madelyn told Julia, and then she told me in the car.¡± Milo answered, resting his hands on his hips. ¡°I can¡¯t believe you got such a big role and didn¡¯t even tell us.¡±


    Bell looked away, as she touched her fingers together. ¡°Th-That¡¯s just mum¡­joking around. You know how she likes to¡­do that¡­¡±


    ¡°I wish I did.¡± Milo remarked, before joining her in the lounge room and grabbing the remote.


    ¡°W-What¡¯re you doing?¡±


    ¡°Well, we were going to watch the new episode anyway.¡± Milo pointed out, turning on the TV. ¡°So, whether you¡¯re in it or not, we¡¯ll just have to see.¡±


    Bell went to argue as he sat down. ¡°¡­alright, okay, fine, I¡¯m in it, but¡­it¡¯s not a noteworthy role by any means. I just need to build up my resume to find any decent work¡­¡±


    ¡°Hey, hey, work is work. If you truly want to be an actor, then you¡¯ll put your heart into all your roles.¡± Milo pointed out, watching the screen intently. ¡°My girl¡¯s on TV¡­¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t that the soap opera Julia likes?¡± Harley whispered to the others, as they continued to set up the game. ¡°Lucky break.¡±


    ¡°Is it on yet?¡± Julia called out from the kitchen.


    ¡°Just a few minutes!¡± Milo yelled back, before turning to Bell happily. ¡°I can¡¯t believe it! You¡¯re gonna be on the big screen!¡±


    ¡°He knows that means movies, right?¡± Wess commented, as Julia hurried into the room to catch the new episode.


    Julia, Milo and Bell sat down and watched together, with Julia and Milo in quiet excitement, as Bell worried about when her scene would inevitably arrive. Meanwhile, the rest of Team Valiant worked on setting up the game of Goldstar LP, writing up character sheets and occasionally catching moments of the episode out of context.


    After a very sudden betrayal, followed by a chase out of a burning building and a confrontational Wailing fight, the action seemed to die down a bit, as the episode continued on.


    ¡°When¡¯s your scene?¡± Milo asked, as Julia shooshed him, leaning into her seat, just as it cut to a hospital scene.


    ¡°How is he, doctor?¡± A young man asked, as the doctor shook her head.


    ¡°I¡¯m¡­sorry. There¡¯s only so much we could do.¡± The doctor said. ¡°He suffered a major spinal injury, but he may be able to recover after a few mon¡­¡±


    Just as she said that, the patient rose up from his hospital bed, slowly removing the bandages from his face.


    ¡°Could it be?¡± The doctor said, as the bandages fell to the floor.


    ¡°But how?¡± The young man asked, before it cut back to the patient.


    ¡°I¡¯m Ricky Rick Ricardo.¡± He declared, dynamically standing from his bed. ¡°Now where the hell is my mansion?¡±


    ¡°Do you have any idea what¡¯s going on?¡± Harley whispered to Essex, who shrugged aimlessly.


    ¡°He¡¯s back! No way, he¡¯s actually back this time!¡± Milo cried, as Julia shooshed him again, pointing to the screen, and embarrassing Bell immediately.


    ¡°Where¡¯s my bodyguard?¡± Ricky demanded. ¡°I¡¯ll be the son of a Wailing if she doesn¡¯t get here soon.¡±


    Just then, the on-call nurse, played by Bell, walked onto the scene, holding a clipboard to her chest in a hurried manner.


    ¡°Doctor?¡± She asked, as Ricky started putting on his suit.


    ¡°Nurse, get me my car. I need to pay a visit to my¡­son in law. He needs to know the truth.¡± Ricky explained, as the nurse nodded frantically, running off to supposedly do that, before it cut to a seemingly unrelated school play.


    Julia and Milo turned to Bell in shock, as she shied away from them.


    ¡°I told you it wasn¡¯t a big role¡­¡± Bell excused. ¡°I figured you wouldn¡¯t even notice a one-off nurse i-¡°


    ¡°You did great!¡± Julia cheered, hugging her sister. ¡°You only had one line and you killed it!¡±


    ¡°My daughter got to be a part of Ricky coming back!¡± Milo exclaimed, joining in their hug. ¡°You¡¯ve come so far, dear.¡±


    Bell was still balancing between sheer embarrassment and elation, while trying not to let it show as she was sandwiched into the hug. The team watched the family embrace, just as the credits for the episode rolled on screen.


    ¡°Alright, guys, I think we¡¯re done here.¡± Harley announced, pointing to the set-up game. ¡°You feel like playing while we eat dinner?¡±


    Milo broke the hug and went to agree, before realising the obvious. ¡°Shit. I got so wrapped up in the episode that I forgot to start making it¡­¡±


    He quickly got up and rushed to the kitchen. ¡°You girls play without me. Sorry, dinner might be a while longer.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s fine. We can just get started!¡± Sola exclaimed, holding up a stack of detailed papers to Julia and Bell. ¡°We made a bunch of character sheets to help speed things up!¡±


    ¡°I believe you offered to lead the game.¡± Essex said, as Bell remembered her promise and joined their makeshift circle with Julia.


    ¡°That¡¯s right. I did.¡± Bell said, still coming off her recent high, as Julia rested a hand on her shoulder warmly, while Sola went around and passed out character sheets.


    ¡°This is Wess¡¯ handwriting, for sure.¡± Harley grinned, showing off the page. ¡°I¡¯m some kind of Gospel Cleric.¡±


    Wess glanced down at her page, before looking to Essex knowingly, who just looked confusedly back.


    ¡°Vonodo?¡± Essex asked.


    ¡°Their name is Bessex.¡± Wess remarked, as Essex blushed a little. ¡°It¡¯s a true mystery who wrote this.¡±


    ¡°¡­I-I am still not very creatively inclined.¡± Essex admitted, taking her sheet sheepishly, as Sola handed one to Julia and sat down with hers.


    Julia noticed the player guide on the ground and picked it up with a sense of nostalgia. ¡°Is this the module we¡¯re playing?¡±


    Bell nodded back. ¡°I thought it would be best since they¡¯re beginners to the game.¡±


    I mean, technically. Julia thought, before Bell cleared her throat.


    ¡°So, just to clarify, you¡¯ve all been hired by the King of Metal to raid one of Outune¡¯s fortresses.¡± Bell explained, setting out the pieces. ¡°I¡¯ll do my best just to ease you in, but¡­take it at your own pace.¡±


    Bell took a deep sigh, looking over the team in front of her, curious as to how she saw them as anything but pleasant by the start of the day. It hadn¡¯t been long with them, but it was time well spent, enough that she knew Julia was¡­


    ¡­going to be okay.


    Bell took a steadier sigh now, before standing up in front of all of them and miming a microphone in hand, ready to belt out.


    ¡°GET READY FOR THE ADVENTURE OF A LIFETIME!!!!!¡±


    The team was blown away as Bell shouted into her hand, taking on the sheer presence of a rock god, as Milo hurried into the room to make sure nothing was wrong.


    ¡°OUTUNE¡¯S OUT OF HIS MIND!!! SO LET¡¯S SEE WHAT WE FIND!!!¡± Bell continued, playing up the character of the ¡®King of Metal¡¯ with everything she had. ¡°TIME TO RAID THAT FORTRESS WHILE WE STILL HAVE THE TIME!!!!!¡±


    ¡°Tear it up, Bell! Woooo!!!¡± Sola cheered, emboldened by her performance, as Bell pointed back down at them.


    ¡°IT¡¯S TIME TO ROOoooOOOoooOOOLL FOR INITIATIVE!!!!!¡± ¡®The King of Metal¡¯ announced, pointing back down at the board, as everyone excitedly rolled right after, already on board for the game.


    Milo watched from the sidelines, taking a break from cooking just to appreciate seeing his daughters sharing in one of their favourite hobbies again. It had been a while since he¡¯d seen this expression on their faces.


    And he knew it might be a while until next time.


    But I think they have it handled for now¡­


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°It felt so short!¡± Harley announced, stretching out. ¡°I wanna stay in your house longer.¡±


    ¡°We might be able to next year.¡± Julia offered, tugging at her suitcases. ¡°If dad doesn¡¯t accidentally burn the place down.¡±


    ¡°Hey, give me some credit. I haven¡¯t done it yet.¡± Milo complained, turning his back to Julia. ¡°With talk like that, I might not let you stay anyway.¡±


    ¡°Aww, but I wanna come back too!¡± Sola added, letting go of her bags. ¡°It was really nice meeting you, Mr Alpine.¡±


    ¡°Likewise.¡± Milo said, shaking Sola¡¯s hand again, as Wess grabbed their attention.


    ¡°The Flash-Rail¡¯s to Denilee¡¯s here.¡± Wess announced, stepping onto it with Essex, as Julia took one last chance to hug her dad before leaving.


    ¡°Hey, kid.¡± Milo said, leaning down to meet her height while taking on a more serious tone. ¡°You¡¯ve...you¡¯ve been really impressive, you know? I know¡­it was hard for us¡­a-after the divorce. And I know I could have been a better dad in¡­a lot of ways, but¡­¡±


    He tried not to tear up, before he brought Julia in again.


    ¡°I¡¯m so proud of how you turned out¡­¡±


    Julia tried to keep her composure as well, as she took her time to enjoy the embrace before breaking it. ¡°Thanks¡­I¡¯m doing my best¡­¡±


    ¡°Of course you are.¡± Milo smiled, tussling her hair, while cleaning himself up. ¡°You better get a move on. I don¡¯t want to hold you up.¡±


    Julia took her suitcases and joined her team in the compartment, before waving to her dad through the window, just as the Flash-Rail shot down the track, leaving Milo with a comfort he hadn¡¯t felt when she first left for the academy.


    ¡°Keep her safe, you guys.¡± Milo muttered to himself, before leaving proper.


    ¡°I¡¯d say part one of our trip went over pretty well.¡± Harley declared, getting approval from the others, before bumping Julia¡¯s shoulder. ¡°And it was fun to meet your family.¡±


    ¡°Yeah¡­¡± Julia said, as she found herself smiling. ¡°It really was.¡±


    ¡°Thank you for hosting us, Julia.¡± Wess insisted, before sighing out. ¡°And now that we finally have some proper free time...I have some news.¡±


    The team drew their attention to Wess, as she prepared herself.


    ¡°It¡¯s regarding Faller.¡± Wess admitted. ¡°...I don¡¯t believe he can be trusted.¡±


    ¡°Why¡¯s that?¡± Sola asked curiously.


    ¡°Well, I conducted our investigation of him while he was in Detu City.¡± Wess explained. ¡°Since you were all caught up in Harley and Sola¡¯s relationship drama, I had to have Lenin accompany me while we looked him over.¡±


    ¡°Sorry about that.¡± Harley apologised, before double-taking. ¡°Wait, does that mean Lenin knows about Wicker now?¡±


    ¡°Yes, but that was unavoidable.¡± Wess confessed, before sighing out. ¡°However, while sharing a meal with Faller...he made remarks about ending the Wailing Conflict by any means necessary. He also spoke unkindly toward Venators and thought the industry wasn¡¯t pulling its weight.¡±


    ¡°He said this toward you?¡± Essex asked, as Wess nodded back. ¡°This is troubling...¡±


    ¡°So, wait...¡± Julia said. ¡°If he¡¯s really ¡®Wicker,¡¯ who planned the attacks on the academy, and he¡¯s talking about ending the Wailing Conflict no matter what...¡±


    ¡°...then he might be trying to destroy the Venator industry.¡± Wess finally said, shocking everyone with the realisation.


    ¡°There¡¯s no way!¡± Harley let out. ¡°He¡¯s the principal of the academy! Why would he want to destroy the industry he¡¯s in?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯d be the dumbest thing he could do!¡± Sola added, backing her up.


    ¡°Maybe he only became the principal to gain the power to do so?¡± Julia wondered aloud. ¡°This changes everything...¡±


    ¡°You can see why I wanted to wait until we were out of the academy walls to tell you this. Considering the listening devices from last year, it¡¯s not exactly a private environment.¡± Wess cleared up. ¡°Unfortunately, I don¡¯t know where to go from here...¡±


    The team stayed silent, as Wess¡¯ chance meeting with Faller was the only opportunity they¡¯d had for months to learn more about what was going on.


    ¡°...we can worry about that when we get back.¡± Julia decided. ¡°The whole point of this break is to wind down after the semester. No Wailing, no Venator training...¡±


    ¡°Yeah! There¡¯s no point stressing about it when we can¡¯t do anything!¡± Sola encouraged. ¡°We¡¯ll just get back to the academy antsy and paranoid.¡±


    ¡°...once we return, we must do what we can to bring ¡®Wicker¡¯ to justice.¡± Essex insisted, before turning to Harley. ¡°But for now, Denilee.¡±


    ¡°Denilee, here we come!¡± Sola yelled out, pumping up the rest of the team, before a slight bump in the Flash-Rail shot nerves through her body, landing her firmly in Harley¡¯s lap. ¡°S-Soon, hopefully¡­¡±


    ¡°I just hope your dads aren¡¯t too much.¡± Wess commented, drawing a glare from Harley. ¡°If they¡¯re anything like you, we might be in for quite the trip.¡±


    Julia just kept to herself, as she watched Detu City pass by in the window with a smile across her face that she couldn¡¯t quite get rid of.


    And one she didn¡¯t want to.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°...son of a...¡±


    Due to her eyes being pressed to her binoculars for so long, Rosalind pulled herself away to avoid any further strain. She dropped them back onto her car, just as she spotted Team Valiant entering their Flash-Rail and watched as it headed southward.


    ¡°...alright then.¡± She said, quickly hopping into her car and starting it up, popping a lollipop into her mouth while she drove. She caught up to the Flash-Rail and followed the road running below it, making sure to keep it in eyesight.


    Rosalind started to get comfortable, before smirking to herself.


    ¡°You never should have left the academy¡­¡±

 Chapter 31: Fireplace

    Warmed by the hearth stone


    Though hearts are kept closer in


    All fires soon spread


    ¡°Goodbye, Central Point¡­¡± Julia muttered, waving at the window, as the Eldos Mountains started passing by the Flash-Rail. ¡°Welcome, Southern Wayside.¡±


    ¡°I have never been so close to the Eldos Mountains before.¡± Essex remarked, joining Julia by the window, before pointing at the mountains on the right. ¡°What are the lines running down the side of those peaks?¡±


    ¡°Oh, those are rivers.¡± Julia explained, joining her gaze. ¡°Apparently, water gathers at the top of a few of the mountains and slowly trickles down. A lot of people don¡¯t know why they formed, but the fact that they¡¯ve been flowing for centuries makes them pretty noteworthy.¡±


    ¡°How romantic¡­¡± Harley added, joining them and staring at the peaks as well. ¡°I bet that¡¯s a great date spot¡­¡±


    ¡°Most people can¡¯t be bothered to climb all the way up there.¡± Wess pointed out, sitting down with a book, before casting her gaze at her teammates. ¡°As sweet as that thought is.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯d do it.¡± Sola chimed in, smiling back at Harley, who quickly shied away, causing Julia to laugh.


    ¡°So, Harley.¡± Julia asked. ¡°What can we expect from Denilee?¡±


    Harley swapped out her embarrassment for a grin. ¡°Only the best town ever. It¡¯s got Detu City beat, for sure.¡±


    Julia giggled back. ¡°Is that a challenge?¡±


    ¡°Trust me, once we get there, you¡¯ll fall in love with it too.¡± Harley declared.


    Wess let out a haughty laugh, not lifting her gaze from her novel, as Harley sat back down with Sola, taking off her shoes to get more comfortable, while patiently waiting for the ride to reach its destination.


    Funnily enough, Rosalind was doing just the same, tailing the Flash-Rail as closely as she could manage from the road below, with her arm hanging out the window.


    Rosalind considered pulling it back in for safety, before chuckling at the notion, as she stared up at the Flash-Rail compartment, Team Valiant¡¯s faces plastered against the glass.


    Their enjoyment soured her mood immediately, which only fuelled her to keep chasing after them, before she was immediately interrupted by the border guard waiting right at the border line.


    She slowed her car down, as she watched the Flash-Rail pass over into the Southern Wayside and off into the distance without her, leaving her to go through the rigmarole of an inspection as her anger boiled.


    ¡°You¡¯re not getting away that easily¡­¡±


    After another few hours on the Flash-Rail, the team eventually arrived at Denilee, stopping at its train station with their bags in tow.


    Just before anyone else could take another step, Harley stepped in front of the team, while blocking their view of Denilee from inside the station.


    Once she felt the team was ready, she displayed her hand and presented the town.


    ¡°Welcome to Denil-¡° Harley declared, stepping forward, before standing directly on top of a bindi patch, stabbing directly into her uncovered sole. ¡°Mother fucker!¡±


    Harley hobbled back, grabbing her foot tightly, which admittedly amused Wess, before she held it up and plucked each bindi out.


    ¡°I shouldn¡¯t have taken my shoes off.¡± Harley realised, putting her foot back down, while still feeling a tingle of pain running through it. ¡°Alright, WELCOME to Denilee.¡±


    Immediately, the difference to Detu City was on full display. The Southern Wayside¡¯s foliage had always been distinguished for its year-round autumn colours, and nowhere was that clearer than Denilee. A ring of trees bordered the outside of the town, following it as it travelled through the forest with long roads of buildings and houses. Businesses were tightly packed, each fairly humble in their presentation, but it was clear the town stretched much further than was apparent from main street.


    To Harley, it was the perfect home.


    ¡°Son of a¡­!¡± She yelled out, stepping into another bindi patch, which gave the rest of the team enough time to appreciate the vibrance and natural feel of the town.


    ¡°What a gentle atmosphere.¡± Wess remarked, as Sola took a deep breath.


    ¡°I am surprised somewhere so untouched is surrounded by farmland.¡± Essex pointed out, before Julia took notice of the buildings around them.


    ¡°You guys have a museum?¡± Julia asked, as Harley looked back at her.


    ¡°Yeah? Of course, we do. Why wouldn¡¯t we?¡± Harley questioned, as Julia realised how rude it must have sounded.


    ¡°O-Oh, sorry, I-I didn¡¯t mea-¡°


    ¡°I guess us country folk wouldn¡¯ be all fancy like you city types!¡± Harley mocked, putting on a deliberately absurd voice.


    ¡°Harley, I really didn-¡°


    ¡°We¡¯s just too busy milkin¡¯ goats and wrestlin¡¯ cows!¡± Harley continued, starting to get a few laughs from the rest of the team.


    ¡°Alright, now you¡¯re jus-¡°


    ¡°Imma read some corn on da cob for en¡¯ertainment!¡± Harley added further, now adding a silly dance to her routine, as Julia gave up and decided to move on.


    ¡°Geez¡­¡± Julia let out, getting a comforting pat on the back from Wess, as Harley caught up to her and led the charge again, with the team dragging their suitcases behind them.


    ¡°So to recap, yes, we do have a museum.¡± Harley clarified, drawing more embarrassment from Julia. ¡°As well as a theatre, dance hall, concert hall, a couple other halls I can¡¯t remember¡­¡±


    Harley started pointing out the noteworthy as they walked. ¡°That¡¯s the Big Taco, one of our main illustrious landmarks. Then there¡¯s the overpriced movie theatre, the Speed Chicken fast food joint¡­¡± Harley prattled on, as the rest of Team Valiant struggled to take in everything around them, despite it being a small town.


    ¡°And there¡¯s the roundabout of doom.¡± Harley pointed out, noting a particularly busy roundabout at the intersection of several roads. ¡°Trust me, never drive on that thing. It¡¯s got five different exits and six different businesses connected to it, and all of them will get you killed.¡±


    Sola stared at the ill-conceived roadwork and shuddered. ¡°And I thought being a Venator was dangerous.¡±


    ¡°And, oh here we go¡­¡± Harley said, excitedly presenting the next landmark. ¡°This is the PlyPlace, the best hardware store you¡¯ll ever find. This place has, singlehandedly, kept my dad¡¯s farm in business for years.¡±


    ¡°It is very large.¡± Essex mentioned, staring at how far back the building stretched into the forest behind it.


    ¡°The carpark¡¯s almost excessive.¡± Wess remarked, watching a couple go by with an enormous stack of boxes. ¡°There¡¯s nothing like this in the Northern Wayside.¡±


    ¡°Nope. It¡¯s a Southern Wayside staple for a reason, especially the bake sale on Sundays.¡± Harley bragged, just as the front entrance opened, despite none of them stepping in front of it.


    Eventually, the reason why made herself known, before gasping at Harley¡¯s arrival.


    ¡°No way! Harley!¡± She cried, rushing over to her from the entrance. ¡°You have to tell me when you¡¯re coming back!¡±


    ¡°I was gonna surprise you later! I forgot you worked here.¡± Harley said, before noticing the team¡¯s confusion. ¡°Guys, this is Angie, one of my dearest childhood friends.¡±


    ¡°Oh, stop it.¡± Angie teased, before acknowledging the four other people around her. ¡°Heya, Angie Prilia. I love fun, parties, and appreciating life in all its many facets.¡±


    Angie was impressively bubbly, which only seemed to amplify Harley¡¯s existing optimism. Despite being in a fairly drab work uniform, Angie had made an effort to splash it up with some colour. When next to Harley, it was clear the two had been close for a while, which was immediately apparent by their actual closeness.


    Julia stepped forward and shook her hand. ¡°Uhh, Julia. I¡¯m the¡­leader of Harley¡¯s team.¡±


    ¡°No kidding. I thought Harley was the leader.¡± Angie said, grabbing her hand and shaking it a bit wildly. ¡°Guess you beat her to the punch, huh?¡±


    ¡°I-I really didn¡¯t.¡± Julia replied, as Angie let go and moved on to Wess, before immediately stopping.


    ¡°Whoa. You¡¯re huge.¡± Angie let out.


    Wess stared down at her chest and back up to Angie. ¡°Thank you.¡±


    ¡°I mean, not Harley big, but damn¡­¡± Angie let out, staring a little too long, before Harley dragged her away to her protest. ¡°Noooo¡­¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t creep on my team.¡± Harley insisted, before plopping her in front of Sola. ¡°This is Sola. All around great, and¡­my girlfriend.¡±


    Sola stared at Angie curiously, as Angie grabbed her hands and shook them sporadically.


    ¡°You¡¯re a lucky lady, Sola!¡± Angie congratulated, grinning back at her. ¡°Harley¡¯s been with a lot of folks before, so you must be something special to catch her e-¡°


    Harley dragged Angie off again, while muttering into her ear. ¡°Can you not mention my exes? That¡¯s just weird.¡±


    ¡°Sorry, sorry.¡± Angie apologised. ¡°My big ol¡¯ heart just can¡¯t help but bring in new people. Especial¡­¡±


    Angie¡¯s voice dropped the moment she lay her eyes on Essex, who stood somewhat proudly with her scythe on display.


    ¡°Uhh¡­ummm¡­hi.¡± Angie settled on, slowly extending her hand, as the team was shocked at her sudden shift in demeanour.


    Essex looked at her and bowed. ¡°Aerlo Decali. My title is Essex.¡± She then shook the hand back, as Angie gently giggled to herself, trying not to blush too hard.


    ¡°What the¡­¡± Harley let out, as Essex stared at her mid-handshake, curious if this was normal behaviour for Harley¡¯s friend.


    ¡°I know this may be a bit presumptive¡­¡± Angie mumbled, struggling to look at Essex¡¯s striking lilac eyes. ¡°¡­but do you want to go somewhere tomorrow?¡±


    Essex¡¯s mouth hung open, before she looked back at the team, all fairly confused. ¡°¡­it would depend on my schedu-¡°


    ¡°Great! I can¡¯t wait!¡± Angie let out, cheerily leaving Essex¡¯s side, before joining up with Harley again. ¡°What a team! It almost reminds me of back in high school with Sloane.¡±


    ¡°Oh, I miss her. What¡¯s she doing nowadays?¡± Harley asked.


    ¡°She¡¯s some bigshot fashion designer in Louileon, I think. I wanna visit her, but I¡¯m still saving up to move out of here.¡±


    ¡°I think at this point, that¡¯s never gonna happen¡­¡± Harley admitted, before instinctively walking off with Angie, leaving the rest of the team to themselves.


    ¡°Huh.¡± Julia managed. ¡°Do we just¡­?¡±


    ¡°Guys, come on! We¡¯ll walk to my house!¡± Harley announced, as the others looked to each other, before following behind, hurrying down main street.


    ¡°Alright, spill. I need details.¡± Angie asked Harley, standing further ahead from the others. ¡°How did you and Sola happen?¡±


    ¡°Well, I was training her for some class stuff, and we worked through a few things together.¡± Harley explained. ¡°Then, after an ill-advised sparing match, we¡­sorta realised we both wanted it to happen. It¡¯s been a few months now, so I¡¯ve already outlasted my relationship with Chops.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s that serious?¡± Angie exclaimed, before whispering into her ear. ¡°Have you gone any further yet?¡±


    ¡°Further?¡± Harley asked.


    ¡°You know.¡± Angie said, shuffling her shoulders. ¡°The horizontal tango. The dance with no pants. Have you given her a physical pleasure only shared between lovers?¡±


    Harley tried to look away, before shaking her hand. ¡°No, no, we haven¡¯t¡­I mean¡­¡± Harley started, before leaning in further. ¡°¡­you know¡­¡±


    Angie stood back, mouth agape in utter shock.


    ¡°Harley Baroke, I can¡¯t believe you!¡± Angie cried. ¡°You of all people have been putting off se-?!¡±


    ¡°Shh, shh shh!¡± Harley insisted, covering Angie¡¯s mouth, before making sure the rest of Team Valiant behind them didn¡¯t hear. ¡°I haven¡¯t been putting it off! We¡­had some things to work out.¡±


    Angie broke herself free. ¡°And did you work them out?¡±


    ¡°Well, yeah.¡±


    ¡°Then what¡¯s your excuse?!¡± Angie yelled again, causing Harley to block her mouth again.


    ¡°I¡¯m just waiting for the right time!¡± Harley said. ¡°She hasn¡¯t ever¡­done it before, so I want to make it really special. It¡¯s the least I can do.¡±


    Angie rolled her eyes, before moving away from Harley¡¯s hand again. ¡°Are you just trying to make up for how you lost your v-plates?¡±


    Harley glanced to the side for a little too long. ¡°No.¡±


    Angie¡¯s eyes drooped. ¡°Well, I can¡¯t blame you. Theme parks and first times just don¡¯t mix.¡± Angie mentioned, as they both shuddered at the thought of it. ¡°That poor clown¡­¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not entirely it.¡± Harley said, looking behind her and watching as Sola stared wide-eyed at the new sights and sounds around her. ¡°She¡¯s fragile.¡±


    Angie pouted her lips, before poking Harley¡¯s side. ¡°Sounds like you¡¯re the fragile one. Come on, Girl in Red, where¡¯s that mojo of yours?¡±


    ¡°Oh, don¡¯t get me started, or else I¡¯ll turn my mojo on you.¡± Harley teased, ready to play around with Angie, before she side-glanced Sola again and stopped herself, shuffling along, which only confused Angie further.


    Just off into the distance, Rosalind had parked by the edge of the forest, high enough to watch as everyone traversed the main street of Denilee. She fortunately caught up after her inconvenience at the border but didn¡¯t get the chance to catch the team off guard like she had hoped.


    She rested against the hood of her ute again, as she stared at Team Valiant crossing main street, before ducking behind some buildings, just out of sight.


    Having disappeared on her, she grit her teeth, banging her fist on the car, before opening up the door and taking out her sword.


    In her fit of anger, she remembered to calm herself and slowly put the sword back.


    ¡°¡­this won¡¯t work.¡± She realised, staring back at main street. ¡°I just can¡¯t get closer without being spotted¡­¡±


    She rested against her car, thinking through her options, as she side-glanced her tablet, wondering if she needed backup.


    ¡­I can¡¯t do anything here. Rosalind rationalised. But not using this chance would be a waste.


    She went to grab it and held her finger over the number pad, before sighing out and displaying her hands.


    ¡°But what if they got in the way again?¡± Rosalind said aloud to herself. ¡°I was looking out for your work, Wicker. This is my job, isn¡¯t it?¡±


    Rosalind nodded to herself, before committing to the call and watching main street again.


    ¡°Yeah¡­RC¡­I was hoping to have a package delivered to me¡­yes, he allowed it...I don¡¯t know if I¡¯ll return it yet, but I¡¯ll¡­oh yeah?...they¡¯re...okay¡­I can work with that¡­yeah...I¡¯ll send you my location. Don¡¯t waste my time here.¡±


    Rosalind sent over her details and hung up, before grabbing a half-finished bag of chips from her backseat and getting comfortable, kicking her feet up on the dashboard.


    ¡°Suck a dick, Team Valiant¡­¡±


    ¡°Here we are!¡± Harley announced, standing just beside a long, winding path running through the surrounding forest. ¡°My dads cottage is just through here.¡±


    ¡°Well, I guess I¡¯ve gotta go now. It was fun meeting you guys.¡± Angie announced, grinning widely, before spotting Essex and shying away.


    ¡°I¡¯ll¡­see you on our date, Essex¡­¡± Angie said, giggling to herself, which only confused Essex further, before she turned back to Harley. ¡°And we¡¯re going out tomorrow night! We need some more mojo in our lives!¡±


    ¡°Mojo?¡± Sola wondered, frustrating Harley, before Angie started to walk off, waving to the team.


    ¡°The invite¡¯s open to you too, Sola! I think you¡¯ll really dig it!¡± Angie called out, heading on her way.


    Harley looked to Sola. ¡°Y-You really don¡¯t have t-¡°


    ¡°I¡¯ll see you there!!!¡± Sola yelled back, waving happily to Angie as she left, before smiling at Harley. ¡°She¡¯s so nice. I¡¯ve never been to a club before. We¡¯re going to a club, right?¡±


    Harley huffed out. ¡°Yeah, I guess we are. Man, Angie¡¯s a handful¡­¡±


    ¡°I can only imagine.¡± Wess remarked, walking past Harley onto the path, as the bright red and orange forest surrounded them.


    ¡°This is a different experience to the Aishanara Forest.¡± Essex mentioned, staring up at the foliage. ¡°It is less dense and far more colourful.¡±


    ¡°Hey, what colours do the leaves turn in autumn?¡± Julia asked, as Harley rested a finger to her chin.


    ¡°Uhh, purple-ish, I think.¡± Harley replied. ¡°Central Point¡¯s looking a little baren in comparison now, huh?¡±


    ¡°¡­I still like it.¡± Julia let out, just as the cottage came into view, standing atop a hill with rolling fields of grain stretching out behind it. The cottage was noticeably small, but in that perfect sort of cosy way that made you appreciate the space all the more.


    ¡°Davidson! William! I¡¯m back!¡± Harley yelled out, waiting for a response, before Davidson poked his head out from the front door.


    ¡°Already?¡± He asked, stepping out onto the porch. ¡°You could have at least texted u-¡°


    He immediately stopped once he acknowledged the rest of Team Valiant, before grinning giddily. ¡°Is THIS your team? I love them already!¡±


    ¡°Davi, was that Harley yelling out?¡± William asked, sticking his head out the front door too, before realising Davidson was already down the hill, greeting the team properly.


    Davidson was a fairly well-built guy, but wore it in a way where his muscles weren¡¯t immediately apparent. Despite being somewhat unclean from his evident farm work, the slight bit of stubble and blonde messy hair managed to work for him, even if his attire was as overtly farm-chic as you could get.


    ¡°Okay, hold on. I¡¯ve got this.¡± He prefaced, before pointing to Essex. ¡°You¡¯re Essex.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Wess.¡±


    ¡°Correct.¡±


    ¡°And¡­?¡± He said, before staring at Julia. ¡°Sola?¡±


    ¡°Julia¡­actually.¡± She corrected, before Davidson rolled his eyes.


    ¡°Hey, two for four isn¡¯t too bad.¡± He confessed, before landing his eyes on Sola and standing above her. ¡°So. You¡¯re the girlfriend I keep hearing about.¡±


    Sola looked around her, before nodding. ¡°Yeah.¡±


    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Davidson said, looking over her, as William walked down the hill to join them. ¡°You¡¯re shorter than Chops, and you¡¯re about as well-dressed¡­¡±


    ¡°Oh, come on, give the girl a break.¡± William insisted, joining his side. ¡°Not everyone can be like Chops.¡±


    ¡°Oh my god¡­¡± Harley let out, groaning into her hands, as Davidson got defensive.


    ¡°What? I¡¯m making sure she¡¯s right for our Harley.¡± Davidson insisted, before leaning down to meet Sola¡¯s height. ¡°Now, how long¡¯s this been going on?¡±


    ¡°A few months.¡±


    ¡°Do your parents know too?¡±


    ¡°Yeah.¡±


    ¡°And do you love her?¡±


    ¡°Of course!¡±


    ¡°Well, I¡¯m sold. Sola, welcome to the family!¡± Davidson announced, bringing her in for a hug.


    ¡°Come on, don¡¯t crowd her.¡± William insisted, as Davidson went to complain, before rolling his eyes and standing up. ¡°Apologies for my husband. Despite his age, he¡¯s still learning the basics of boundaries.¡±


    William bowed to the team. ¡°William Baroke. It¡¯s a pleasure to meet Harley¡¯s friends.¡±


    In stark contrast to Davidson, William was noticeably more put together, with much darker skin, a fairly heavy beard and a mannered disposition. It was clear he was more of a homebody, but that didn¡¯t stop him for putting in just as much work as Davidson, whether that be farm work or basic chores. Noticeably, despite their little spat, he stood very close to Davidson.


    ¡°Can we help with your things?¡± William asked, before grabbing a few of the suitcases and wheeling them up the hill toward the cottage. ¡°I hope the train ride wasn¡¯t too much for you.¡±


    ¡°It was for some of us¡­¡± Sola admitted, getting a hearty laugh from Davidson, as the team entered the cottage, acknowledging just how small it truly was.


    ¡°Wow. I¡¯m surprised Harley can even fit in here.¡± Julia remarked, as Harley smirked at her.


    Reading on this site? This novel is published elsewhere. Support the author by seeking out the original.


    ¡°Was that supposed to be a dig?¡± Harley asked, before she spotted Davidson staring at Essex, bowing in front of the front door.


    ¡°What¡¯s up with her?¡± Davidson asked, as Harley looked down at her, before remembering her similar action at Julia¡¯s house.


    ¡°Right. You can stay here.¡± Harley said, before Essex quickly got back up, struggling to fit her scythe in the door.


    ¡°Couldn¡¯t she have just asked instead of bowing?¡± Davidson wondered, as Essex turned to answer.


    ¡°I cannot formally ask to be invited in. It would be seen as presumptive.¡± Essex answered, as Davidson quickly looked over her, before putting the dots together.


    ¡°Oh! You¡¯re the Segaru one! The one from the clan!¡± Davidson realised, smacking his forehead. ¡°I didn¡¯t realise since you weren¡¯t wearing the robes!¡±


    ¡°Robes?¡± Wess perked up, setting her bags down in the lounge room with the others, as Davidson looked back at Team Valiant.


    ¡°Yeah. It¡¯s tradition for members of the Segar-¡° Davidson started, before realising Essex was right there and clearing his throat. ¡°Sorry, you should explain it.¡±


    ¡°¡­for members to wear robes as to mask their identity.¡± Essex finished, shying away with the explanation. ¡°It is to ensure that we do not garner fame or favour for our actions, and that we only act for the reason of helping others.¡±


    ¡°So, why aren¡¯t you wearing yours?¡± Sola asked, as Essex was noticeably embarrassed.


    ¡°¡­it is a personal choice.¡± Essex answered, hoping that would suffice, as Julia leaned over to Wess.


    ¡°I thought personal choices like that weren¡¯t allowed in the clan?¡± She whispered.


    ¡°Perhaps they made an exception?¡± Wess whispered back, before speaking up. ¡°Apologies for taking up so much room. We¡¯ll try to use the space well.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s really no problem.¡± William chimed in, heading to the kitchen. ¡°We have a few spare beds we¡¯ll set up soon. I¡¯ll make you guys something after your long trip here.¡±


    ¡°Is that a Northern Wayside accent?¡± Davidson asked again, as Wess nodded back. ¡°Wow. Harley, you¡¯ve made some interesting friends at your academy.¡±


    ¡°Damn right, I have.¡± She grinned proudly, before bringing in the team for a hug. ¡°I¡¯m gonna get everyone settled in. Don¡¯t wait up.¡±


    Harley indicated to the staircase up to her room, as the team hurried up there, letting Davidson breath out a sigh of relief.


    ¡°I always thought Harley was embellishing with her team.¡± Davidson admitted, as William worked on a couple sandwiches. ¡°They seem really nice so far.¡±


    ¡°We raised her right. She tends to draw in the good ones.¡± William said, before Davidson joined his side, wrapping an arm around his waist.


    ¡°Kinda like someone I know.¡± Davidson remarked, leaning in to kiss his cheek, as William started to blush.


    ¡°Davi, please¡­¡± William insisted, smiling despite himself, as Davidson got a bit friskier, before Harley popped her head back down the stairs.


    ¡°Hey, where¡¯s the spare lin-guys! Come on, not while we¡¯re in the house.¡± Harley insisted, as to two quickly separated, with Davidson giving a nervous laugh.


    ¡°Sorry, Harls. Old habits.¡± He joked, as William quickly went to hide his embarrassment.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    After settling in for the rest of their first day, the team thought it best to spend their second day exploring Denilee to its fullest, even if not all of them were as keen to head out.


    ¡°What¡¯s up, Essex?¡± Harley asked, her arm around Sola as they walked, as Essex scanned around main street cautiously.


    ¡°I am curious as to whether Angie was serious about her date invitation.¡± Essex admitted.


    ¡°Oh, she definitely was.¡± Harley confessed. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. She¡¯s a lot at first, but she really grows on you.¡±


    Essex nodded unsurely, as Sola skipped ahead of the group, excitedly checking out every unique building they passed, letting Harley pull the rest of the team back for an aside.


    ¡°Hey, guys. Can I ask a favour?¡± Harley said. ¡°Can I have my bedroom for tonight? Just for me and Sola?¡±


    ¡°Oh. Of course, Harley.¡± Julia agreed. ¡°I don¡¯t wanna pry, but¡­¡±


    ¡°Julia, I think we all know what it¡¯s for.¡± Wess insisted, as Julia admitted to herself that she knew, before they realised Essex wasn¡¯t clued in. ¡°Sex, Essex.¡±


    ¡°Oh. Understood.¡± Essex replied, before her face went quickly flush, as the implications flooded her mind. ¡°R-Right¡­¡±


    ¡°Thanks. This means a lot to me.¡± Harley assured, sighing out, before realising Sola was now talking to Angie of all people, forcing her to hurry over and intervene as soon as possible.


    ¡°I¡¯ve got this great place i-oh, hey, Harley!¡± Angie called out, waving as she ran up to them. ¡°I was just filling in Sola on our plans.¡±


    ¡°I-Including her?¡± Harley worried, before the others followed behind, most notably Essex. Angie¡¯s pushing it way to fast. I need to slow her somehow...


    ¡°Oh my¡­¡± Angie let out, closing in on Essex. ¡°I didn¡¯t realise you were so eager to spend time with me¡­¡±


    ¡°That is no-¡°


    ¡°Angie, you read her like a book!¡± Harley insisted, grabbing Essex¡¯s shoulders. ¡°She¡¯s been dying to spend most of the day together, preferably alone.¡±


    ¡°Harley, what i-¡° Essex went to ask, before noticing Harley¡¯s pleading expression and indicating to Sola, as Essex realised her responsibility.


    ¡°¡­yes.¡± Essex let out. ¡°I will spend time with you.¡±


    Angie prompted her further.


    ¡°¡­on a date.¡±


    ¡°Then let¡¯s go already! Bye, team!¡± Angie cheered, grabbing Essex¡¯s arm and skipping away, as Essex looked back at Harley with concern, while Harley mouthed the word ¡®sorry.¡¯


    Just as Angie was out of eyesight, Harley turned to Julia and Wess just as desperately.


    ¡°Is it cool if you guys go explore on your own while I talk with Sola?¡± Harley asked, trying not to seem too forceful, as Julia and Wess both looked at each other, before shrugging.


    ¡°Why not? Sounds like fun.¡± Wess said, before pointing to a large windmill nearby. ¡°Let¡¯s stop by there first.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re gonna split up for a bit, Sola! See you later!¡± Julia called out, heading off with Wess, leaving Sola to realise it was just her and Harley on their own.


    ¡°Huh.¡± She let out. ¡°We sure split up quickly.¡±


    ¡°Yeah. Coincidences.¡± Harley replied, before ushering Sola down the street. ¡°Let¡¯s enjoy ourselves then.¡±


    The duo walked in silence for a bit, before the uncomfortable air started to build up.


    ¡°Soooooo¡­how¡¯re you liking Denilee?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s great! Seeing this place really clears up a lot about you.¡± Sola exclaimed, surprising Harley.


    ¡°How so?¡±


    ¡°Well,¡± Sola started, pointing at the museum. ¡°That¡¯s probably why you¡¯re such a big history buff.¡±


    ¡°I mean, Davidson likes that stuff too.¡± Harley excused, as Sola indicated to the farmland just off into the distance.


    ¡°That explains all your agriculture knowledge.¡± Sola added, as her finger landed on a few garish buildings taking up one of the many side streets. ¡°And all those clubs are where your partying comes from!¡±


    Harley looked over them again, as a few scenes in her life of getting wasted, partying like crazy and ending up in someone else¡¯s bed flashed before her, as she looked back at Sola worriedly.


    Sola noticed quickly. ¡°You okay?¡±


    ¡°¡­y-yeah. Nostalgia¡­rush.¡± Harley said, hoping that was a thing. ¡°I¡­guess you didn¡¯t get up to that in Mykonori, huh?¡±


    ¡°Nope!¡± Sola cheered, hopping along, as Harley berated herself for missing her chance.


    ¡­would she ever be okay with that? Harley wondered. She¡¯s never had a problem with it before, but maybe it¡¯s different now that we¡¯re dating¡­


    Angie stared at Essex adoringly, resting against their shared table overlooking the main street at some restaurant, while Essex did everything she could to try and ignore the fact that she was there.


    ¡°You¡¯re really attractive¡­¡±


    Essex blinked. ¡°That was not intentional.¡±


    ¡°Could¡¯ve fooled me.¡± Angie let out, resting her head on the table. ¡°You carry yourself very well¡­¡±


    ¡°It¡­would be more difficult for me not to.¡± Essex replied, confused by Angie¡¯s comment, before Angie sat back up suddenly.


    ¡°So, how is it? Is this romantic? What are you feeling right now?¡±


    Essex pulled herself back, before staring out at the street beside them. ¡°¡­mostly perplexment.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Angie let out. ¡°Was it the restaurant? We can go somewhere else.¡±


    Essex shook her head in reply. ¡°I am afraid that¡­I am not interested.¡±


    Angie¡¯s cheerier demeanour sank, as she also sank back into her chair. ¡°Oh.¡±


    Angie quickly picked her energy back up. ¡°Well, it¡¯s not the most embarrassing rejection I¡¯ve gotten. I flirted with a Venator for a while, until they said ¡®I¡¯d rather fight the Wailing than date you.¡¯ Talk about a turnoff.¡±


    Essex nodded in acknowledgement, as Angie leaned over again, less in infatuation and more in curiosity.


    ¡°Alright then, who¡¯s the ideal partner for you?¡±


    Essex tried to hide her face, which only caused Angie to lean in further.


    ¡°I can tell you mine.¡± Angie said, leaning back and counting on her fingers. ¡°First, I¡¯d want a really built butler to wait on me, then another really built gardener to watch. I should say, this all takes place in a mansion I own. Then a really, really, sexy maid, if I can get one, who¡¯s go¡­¡±


    Essex attention started to drift, as she looked out onto main street in order to ignore Angie, before she noticed Harley and Sola on their stroll together. Her gaze fixed on the two of them, their touching hands, their slightly flirty body language, the remnants of a joke they were both still laughing at. They were happy, pretty much like they always were.


    Essex wondered if this was even possible for her. It had never been her sole focus in life¡­


    ¡­but neither has becoming a Venator.


    ¡°Yo, Essex?¡±


    Essex turned back frantically. ¡°Y-Yes?¡±


    ¡°You barely heard me out. I was describing the really naughty stuff.¡± Angie mentioned, as Essex was grateful she had missed out on that. ¡°What¡¯s got you so distracted?¡±


    Essex didn¡¯t want to answer, but felt Angie¡¯s gaze digging into her.


    ¡°..th-the idea¡­of ideal partners¡­¡± Essex muttered, as Angie snapped her fingers.


    ¡°There we go. All it takes is a little bit of my magic.¡± Angie bragged, leaning back in her seat. ¡°Some say I¡¯m a distant relative of the original cupid.¡±


    Essex glanced back to her, even if she didn¡¯t actually care about anything she was saying.


    Harley noticed the silence between her and Sola creeping in again, as she forced herself to get to the point of her private walk.


    ¡°Umm¡­Sola.¡± Harley started, already feeling uncomfortable, as Sola linked arms with her.


    ¡°Yeah?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve...I¡¯ve never asked about, uhh¡­intimate things¡­between us.¡± Harley paraphrased, as Sola cocked her head.


    ¡°Like kissing?¡±


    ¡°No, a bit more than that¡­¡±


    ¡°Groping?¡±


    ¡°Uhh, more.¡± Harley prompted, raising her eyebrows. ¡°The big one.¡±


    It took Sola a second before she got it. ¡°Oh. That one.¡±


    ¡°Yeah.¡± Harley said, swallowing. ¡°I wanted to have this conversation a little sooner, but since the dorm rooms aren¡¯t exactly private, it didn¡¯t feel right to bring up there¡­¡±


    Sola didn¡¯t add much to the conversation, leaving Harley somewhat lost on her point.


    ¡°I-I mean, would you be¡­¡± Harley started, before stopping herself suddenly.


    Why the hell am I struggling with this?! It¡¯s never been this hard before. Harley thought, as she stared back at Sola¡¯s eyes. ¡­she¡¯s so cute.


    Harley shook herself free from her own thoughts, as Sola continued to look on confusedly.


    ¡°Harley¡­¡± Sola replied, resting her head on Harley¡¯s arm. ¡°I-I mean, I¡¯ve never¡­you know¡­so I wouldn¡¯t really know what to¡­say.¡±


    ¡°I know, it¡¯s¡­¡± Harley quickly added, trying to assure her. ¡°I¡¯m not gonna force you into anything.¡±


    ¡°Yeah. Yeah, right.¡± Sola said, before the duo felt the uncomfortable silence creeping in again.


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°You wanna put this off for a bit?¡±


    ¡°Uh huh.¡± Sola said, nodding back at Harley, leaving them to their stroll, just as Julia and Wess came back over to join them.


    ¡°What a gorgeous windmill. Honestly, the architecture to this place astounds me.¡± Wess said, before looking at a slightly uncomfortable Harley and Sola. ¡°Are you two alright?¡±


    ¡°Of course!¡± Sola replied. ¡°It¡¯s all perfectly natural!¡±


    ¡°Natural?¡± Julia wondered, looking to Wess, before they spent the rest of the day exploring the town to their leisure.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Eventually, night fell over the gentle town, letting the local businesses shut down for the day and allowing the nightlife to awaken properly. Harley and Sola gave a quick farewell to Davidson, William and the rest of the team, before heading out to join up with Angie.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t you feel like joining them?¡± Davidson asked, as Julia shook her head.


    ¡°It¡¯s not really our thing.¡± She replied, getting a similar reaction from Wess and Essex.


    ¡°That¡¯s understandable. Do you feel like anything special for dinner?¡±


    ¡°Whatever works for you, Mr Baroke.¡± Julia insisted, sitting by the kitchen counter to join Wess and Essex, as Davidson gave her a knowing look.


    ¡°You can call me Davidson. Anyone who¡¯s won my Harley¡¯s heart deserves first name privileges.¡± Davidson said, heading to the fridge, as William looked out the window quietly.


    He sighed out, before turning around, only to realise Julia, Wess and Essex were looking at him.


    ¡°Are you worried about Harley?¡± Essex asked, as William tried to keep his composure.


    ¡°No, we¡¯re pretty used to this by now. She can handle herself.¡± William confessed, turning back to the window. ¡°But I am worried about¡­her and Sola.¡±


    ¡°Oh, that¡¯s just paranoid thinking.¡± Davidson said, grabbing a leftover pie from the fridge, before starting up the oven. ¡°She seemed a lot better with Sola.¡±


    ¡°What might the concern be about?¡± Wess asked, leaning against the kitchen counter, as William faced her again.


    ¡°Harley hasn¡¯t had a great track record with long-term relationships in the past.¡± William admitted. ¡°The best she¡¯d done was Chops, but even that ended pretty abruptly.¡±


    ¡°At first, we just thought that wasn¡¯t really her thing.¡± Davidson added, joining William¡¯s side. ¡°But it¡¯s clear she really wants it. I guess the concern is¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­now that she¡¯s dating a teammate, a breakup would be much messier.¡± Julia finished, getting a solemn nod from Davidson.


    ¡°We¡¯re just looking out for you guys. No need to get her new friends caught in the crossfire.¡± Davidson insisted, looking out the window as well, before noticing the lights still on for his tractor. ¡°Is that still running? Hold on, I¡¯ve got take care of this.¡±


    He gave William a quick kiss on the cheek, before ducking outside to turn it back off, as William sighed out again.


    ¡°I love them both so much.¡± William muttered, drawing the girls attention. ¡°And it feels weird not being Harley¡¯s safety net anymore.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right. Weren¡¯t you two responsible for Harley¡¯s training?¡± Wess asked, getting up while the pie was cooking, as William nodded back.


    ¡°When we had the time. Davidson handled most of the combative techniques, and I showed her how to defend herself.¡± William said, chuckling a little at the memory. ¡°She got so grouchy whenever I showed her, but she¡¯d thank me for it now¡­¡±


    William sighed out. ¡°And sure, it was a bit hard to reign in her party antics when she got older, but we made sure she was being safe, and that if she didn¡¯t come home at night, she¡¯d at least be back for breakfast.¡±


    William circled his finger on the countertop. ¡°But now, we just have to hope she¡¯s still doing that¡­¡±


    William was quiet for a moment, letting his eyes drift up to the window and the lights coming from the club district, as Julia shuffled in her seat.


    ¡°W-Well, if it assures you, she definitely has with us.¡± Julia mentioned, peaking William¡¯s interest. ¡°Even with her spending plenty of nights at the academy bar, or out in Detu City, she¡¯s still on top of her grades. And she helps with team assignments all the time.¡±


    ¡°If you want further evidence, look no further than Sola.¡± Wess assured. ¡°The only reason they got together was because Harley offered to help Sola when she really needed it. If she wasn¡¯t considering others, they never would have ended up together.¡±


    ¡°¡­somehow, I¡¯m not surprised.¡± William said, before gently chuckling to himself. ¡°But it¡¯s still lovely to hear.¡±


    Davidson hopped back in just as the pie finished up, before scooting Wess out of the way.


    ¡°What did I miss?¡± Davidson asked, retrieving the pie from the oven, as William let out another light laugh.


    ¡°Only that our daughter¡¯s as wonderful as ever.¡± William assured.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°This is so new for me! I¡¯d never go to a club back in Mykonori.¡± Sola mentioned, skipping along happily, before stopping in front of Harley. ¡°How¡¯s my outfit?¡±


    Harley gave her dress a quick once-over, admitting in her head that it was pretty conservative for a club, but still looked really cute on Sola.


    ¡°You look great.¡± Harley assured, before Sola pulled her along quicker.


    ¡°Then let¡¯s get there faster!¡± Sola exclaimed, causing Harley to laugh, before they spotted someone just outside the club.


    ¡°Wassup bitch!¡± Angie called out, significantly dressed down compared to her outfit earlier in the day, as the sound of the club district started to bleed in for the arriving duo. ¡°I¡¯ve already got a table for us inside! Come on!¡±


    Angie started dragging Harley along with Sola, giving her whiplash as the loud music and stuffy atmosphere hit her the moment she entered. She¡¯d been there several times before, but the strange claustrophobia was still just as comforting to her.


    Angie dragged them both to their reserved seating area, just between the dance floor and bar, as Sola tried talking over the music.


    ¡°How¡¯d you get these seats?!¡± She yelled, still trying to adjust, as Angie scooched closer.


    ¡°I know the owner¡¯s son, and we sorta have a thing¡­¡± Angie teased, before laughing. ¡°I won¡¯t go into details, but he¡¯s very accommodating.¡±


    Sola half-heard what she said and simply nodded along before looking to Harley. ¡°Have you been here before?!¡±


    ¡°Uhh, yeah, plenty of times¡­¡± Harley admitted, feeling a bit awkward as other people started crowding near them.


    Angie¡¯s eyes lit up, as she spotted a couple women walking in and sitting themselves at the bar. ¡°Oh, Harley! Check them out.¡±


    Harley instinctively looked, noting two very attractive woman at the bar, as one briefly locked eyes with her.


    She quickly turned back around, as Angie rested a hand on her leg. ¡°You should talk to them! That one on the left¡¯s so your type! Use some of that Girl in Red magic!¡±


    Harley felt herself starting to break a sweat, before she spotted Sola, looking around curiously while blocking her ears.


    ¡°Hey, babe?¡±


    Sola perked up and looked at her.


    ¡°Can you get us a couple drinks at the bar?¡± Harley asked.


    ¡°Can do!¡± Sola replied, quickly nodding and getting up, navigating the crowd of people between them and the bar, as Harley slinked back in her seat.


    ¡°What¡¯s up?¡± Angie asked, as Harley dragged her hands over her face. ¡°Aren¡¯t you feeling it tonight?¡±


    Harley dropped her hands down, as she stared at the ceiling to avoid looking around her.


    ¡°I¡¯ve¡­got a confession¡­¡±


    Angie cocked her head. ¡°About you and Sola?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not just that¡­¡± Harley admitted, visibly down on herself. ¡°¡­I¡¯ve been putting it off entirely.¡±


    Angie¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°You mean¡­?¡±


    Harley nodded, before resting her head in her hands. ¡°I haven¡¯t had sex for months.¡±


    ¡°With anyone?!¡± Angie freaked out, still being drowned out by the club atmosphere around her. ¡°How the hell did you manage?!¡±


    Harley ignored the question and stared at the floor. ¡°¡­it didn¡¯t feel right. I wasn¡¯t¡­doing it¡­with Sola, so it didn¡¯t feel right to hook up with random people at a bar, or anyone else for that matter¡­¡±


    Angie sat back down and rested a hand on Harley. ¡°Have you talked with her about it?¡±


    Harley shook her head. ¡°I don¡¯t know where to start. I don¡¯t even know what she wants. Are we exclusive? Does she not want me sleeping with other people? What about clubbing? It¡¯s clearly not her thing.¡±


    Angie patted Harley comfortingly. ¡°So? We¡¯ve had sex before, and I¡¯m not some pottery nut who¡¯s bending over backwards to visit some ruins or whatever.¡±


    ¡°¡­that¡¯s a gross oversimplification, but okay.¡± Harley said, as Angie did her best to drown out the noise around them.


    ¡°Just talk with her. Take a risk.¡± Angie said. ¡°If she¡¯s worth it, you guys can figure this out.¡±


    Angie nudged her with her elbow. ¡°And if you¡¯re lucky, you two might finally consummate things.¡±


    Harley couldn¡¯t help but grin, as she shoved Angie away. ¡°You horndog. Is sex all you think about?¡±


    ¡°Hey, I was thinking about sex AND my friend¡¯s feelings.¡± Angie insisted, indicating to Sola still waiting by the bar. ¡°You guys can leave if you want. It might be better to work things out at home.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, you might b-¡° Harley started, before spotting Angie staring back at a hunky guy near the bar, making eyes at her as well. ¡°¡­of course. One track mind¡­¡±


    Harley accepted her losses and waded through the crowd to meet Sola at the bar, who was waving her hands at the bartender wildly.


    ¡°HEY!!! TWO CRASHER¡¯S RIDGE COCKTAILS!!! HELLO???¡± She yelled, trying to speak over the music, as he finally noticed her and turned around. ¡°FINALLY!!!¡±


    ¡°¡­I¡¯m gonna need some ID.¡± He asked brazenly, as Sola looked immediately offended, just as Harley joined her side.


    ¡°Hey, Harley, glad you¡¯re here! This guy¡¯s trying to stiff us out of our drinks, so I figu-¡° Sola started, as Harley grabbed her shoulder.


    ¡°Do you wanna head home early? I need to talk some stuff out.¡± Harley stated.


    Sola studied her expression for a bit, before nodding back to her, as they worked their way to the entrance of the club, with Harley leading Sola through as best she could.


    Harley waved back to Angie as they left, before making a beeline with Sola to her cottage, huddling together to avoid some of the evening breeze.


    ¡°...this has to do with what we talked about yesterday, right?¡± Sola asked, as Harley nodded her head.


    ¡°Yeah...I guess I didn¡¯t hide it well...¡± Harley admitted. ¡°¡­I was¡­planning¡­on us¡­well, I mean I don¡¯t know if¡­¡±


    Harley tried starting again, as Sola linked her hand with Harley¡¯s and smiled back at her.


    ¡°¡­I¡¯ve been a bit worried¡­about us having sex.¡± Harley confessed. ¡°I know I¡¯ve done it plenty, and you¡­haven¡¯t, so I didn¡¯t want to just take that from you so brazenly¡­¡±


    She sighed out. ¡°¡­but I really want us to do it. I wanted it to be special, and¡­it didn¡¯t feel right to do it with anyone else¡­¡±


    Sola stared back at her curiously. ¡°So does that mean¡­?¡±


    Harley nodded back. ¡°I haven¡¯t¡­had sex with anyone else since we started dating.¡±


    ¡°But that¡¯s been, like, four months now.¡± Sola realised, as they stopped briefly. ¡°You didn¡¯t have to do that.¡±


    ¡°I mean, we never really talked about being¡­exclusive.¡± Harley said, muttering by the end, before facing Sola again. ¡°But if that¡¯s what you want¡­then that¡¯s what I¡¯ll do. You mean so much to me, and I don¡¯t want to ruin that by taking you for granted.¡±


    Sola noticed how much Harley was putting into her confession, as she reached out to grab her hands again and face her.


    ¡°Well, it¡¯s fine by me. I trust you to be safe about it.¡± Sola smiled. ¡°I know it¡¯s not really my thing, but I won¡¯t take it from you if that¡¯s what you enjoy.¡±


    Harley blinked. ¡°R-Really?¡±


    Sola nodded sweetly. ¡°Just as long as¡­we¡¯re still a thing. And¡­we still get to¡­you know¡­¡±


    Harley pounced Sola into a hug. ¡°Oh, you¡¯re the best girlfriend ever!¡±


    Sola started laughing wildly, trying to get Harley to put her down. ¡°Cut it out! People¡¯ll stare!¡±


    ¡°Who cares! My girlfriend¡¯s awesome!!!¡± Harley yelled out, drawing the attention of a couple passers-by, as Harley grabbed up Sola¡¯s hand again. ¡°Come on. We¡¯re pretty close to home now.¡±


    They carried on down the rest of main street, through the pass in the surrounding forest and up the hill to Harley¡¯s cottage, holding hands the whole way, as they walked in to find Harley¡¯s dads and the rest of the team by the TV, watching a Team Spectrum documentary with their reheated pie.


    ¡°Oh, back home early?¡± Davidson called out, leaning over the couch, as Harley smiled back at Sola.


    ¡°Yeah, just felt pretty tired. We¡¯re probably going to head to bed early.¡± Harley excused, having trouble hiding her and Sola¡¯s excitement. ¡°Goodnight.¡±


    ¡°Goodnight!¡± William called out, watching them head up the stairs, as he realised everyone else was looking with him. ¡°¡­I¡¯m going to turn up the TV.¡±


    Sola jumped right onto the bed, as Harley quickly followed, holding herself above her, as they shared a glance for a moment.


    ¡°Are you really sure?¡± Harley asked again, a little out a breath. ¡°If you¡¯re not ready¡­¡±


    Sola held up a hand and rested it on Harley¡¯s cheek. ¡°So ready.¡±


    Harley smiled again, watching as Sola got herself comfortable.


    ¡°I¡¯m gonna make this the best night of your life.¡± Harley assured, taking off her shirt. ¡°Just sit back and enjoy yourself.¡±


    Sola nodded, a slight hint of nervousness finally creeping over her face, as she lay back gently, watching as Harley slipped under the covers, planting kisses along her neck, before reaching down, opening up he-


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Hello, C. here, censoring this for your convenience. There are certain boundaries we don¡¯t cross as writers. Some dirty laundry is best not aired.


    Don¡¯t worry, nothing important was lost. I¡¯m not one of those ¡®sexposition¡¯ writers.


    And unless you¡¯re some sort of degenerate, this wouldn¡¯t be to your taste anyway, I assure you.


    Now, back to our regularly scheduled programming.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Harley was left panting wildly, splayed out in a mass of sweat and tangled sheets. Meanwhile, Sola lay under the sheets as well, holding the covers up to her as she focused on breathing.


    Just as she managed to get her breath back, Harley turned to Sola frantically. ¡°Sola, you¡¯re incredible!¡±


    ¡°I am?¡± Sola asked, as Harley leaned in to kiss her again.


    ¡°Wow. That was something else.¡± Harley remarked with noticeable energy. ¡°Where¡¯d you learn to do that leg thing?¡±


    Sola thought on it for a bit, before shrugging. ¡°I dunno. This was my first time.¡±


    Harley grinned, before kicking her legs happily. ¡°AH! That was so much fun! Yes yes ye-¡±


    Sola smiled back at her, as Harley realised the mood and sequestered herself.


    ¡°O-Oh, sorry¡­how¡­did you like it?¡± Harley asked, avoiding eye contact, as Sola placed a finger to her chin, before pouncing Harley.


    ¡°It was great! Definitely the best I¡¯ve ever had!¡± Sola joked, as Harley patted her head.


    ¡°Oh, just wait until next time. This¡¯ll look like nothing compared to that.¡± Harley bragged, just as Sola pulled back.


    ¡°Next time?¡± She asked. ¡°We¡¯re done for tonight?¡±


    Harley found her face forced into a grin, just as she pulled Sola back onto the bed, ready to continue their night together.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°You¡¯re cute.¡±


    ¡°No, you¡¯re cute.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not cute, I¡¯ve got a bunch of muscles.¡±


    ¡°Muscles can be cute! Don¡¯t sell yourself short.¡±


    ¡°No, the muscles make me sexy, not cute.¡± Harley reasoned, following Sola up the stairs to the Flash-Rail station. ¡°Big difference.¡±


    ¡°What if I got muscly?¡± Sola asked, swinging their locked hands back and forth.


    ¡°You¡¯d still be cute.¡± Harley grinned, as they reached the top to find Julia, Wess, Essex, Davidson and William waiting for them. ¡°Sorry we didn¡¯t walk with you.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s fine. We didn¡¯t want to¡­interrupt¡­in case¡­¡± Julia started, before waving her hands back and forth. ¡°You know what, forget I said anything!¡±


    ¡°In case you were ¡®being intimate.¡¯¡± Essex finished, using air quotes, before nodding to Julia for approval, which she didn¡¯t get.


    ¡°We won¡¯t pry. We¡¯re just here to see you off.¡± Davidson insisted, dropping a few bags by the team¡¯s side. ¡°It was great to have you guys over.¡±


    ¡°If you want, we might have some work for you on the farm once you¡¯re in the industry.¡± William suggested. ¡°Mostly dealing with pests and the occasional Wailing.¡±


    ¡°Hey, Julia, we¡¯ll be like Team Spectrum.¡± Harley pointed out, surprising Julia. ¡°With the Savage Wolf Wailing?¡±


    Julia¡¯s eyes lit up. ¡°Yeah, that¡¯s right! That¡¯d be so aweso-¡±


    Julia¡¯s attention was drawn to Harley¡¯s dads grinning at her, as she quickly quieted down. ¡°...you don¡¯t need to...go out of your way...¡±


    ¡°We¡¯d be happy to.¡± Davidson added, joining William by the stairs. ¡°Safe travels. Good luck with the train, Sola.¡±


    ¡°Thank you!¡± Sola exclaimed, waving as they left. ¡°And don¡¯t you worry! I¡¯ll take good care of your daughter!¡±


    ¡°We wouldn¡¯t have it any other way!¡± Davidson called back, waving as well, as William found himself laughing at the exchange.


    ¡°I¡¯m glad to see you¡¯re both in good spirits.¡± Wess remarked, watching as Harley and Sola struggled to get off each other. ¡°Was it just that good?¡±


    Harley smirked back at her. ¡°Wess, since when did you get so interested?¡±


    ¡°Oh, hush. Stop looking into things.¡± Wess insisted, resting on her suitcase. ¡°Love is beautiful, no matter how it¡¯s expressed.¡±


    Wess watched the couple playfully flirt, before shrugging. ¡°You just seemed to be in an even better mood than I was expecting.¡±


    ¡°Oh yeah.¡± Sola realised. ¡°Well, Harley and I sorted some things out.¡±


    ¡°We talked it through and decided we don¡¯t need to be exclusive.¡± Harley explained.


    ¡°Vonodo, what might that mean?¡± Essex asked curiously, as Harley blushed.


    ¡°Essex, I didn¡¯t realise you were interested.¡± Harley teased, closing in on her. ¡°If you¡­wanted something more, I-¡°


    Essex¡¯s eyes widened and she backed off immediately. ¡°Th-That was not my intention! I do not wish to disrupt our current relationship in that manner!¡±


    The team was thrown back by her suddenness, as Harley sunk back a little and lessened her smile.


    ¡°O-Okay, I was just joking.¡± Harley excused, looking a bit embarrassed. ¡°Sorry, I thought that translated¡­I didn¡¯t mean it, obviously.¡±


    Essex quieted down, avoiding looking at Harley and Sola, just as the Flash-Rail for the Northern Wayside arrived behind them, slowing to a stop.


    ¡°Oh, Mareau. I¡¯ll be home soon¡­¡± Wess cooed, joyously stepping onto the train. ¡°Come on! We needn¡¯t burn daylight!¡±


    The rest of the team soon followed, settling down for their long trip, save for Essex, who steadied herself on the platform, before stepping on and taking a deep breath.


    ¡°This will be a long trip¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°¡­ch ch ch¡­they call me Rosalind, I¡¯m known for my¡­posturing.¡±


    Rosalind sat up in boredom, checking her tablet again over and over, before spotting a familiar truck further down the hill she was parked on.


    Quickly, Rosalind got back into her car and drove down to meet it, as her and the driver parked the truck somewhere away from prying eyes.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you think this is overkill?¡± The driver asked, getting ready to empty the cargo.


    ¡°We¡¯re dealing with a Venator team here, one that¡¯s beaten me before, so no.¡± Rosalind pointed out. ¡°Plus, if I screw this up again, Wicker¡¯ll be on my ass¡­¡±


    The driver lifted his eyebrows, as he unhooked the back of the truck. ¡°I guess¡­¡±


    Rosalind ignored the comment for the moment and watched as the hatch swung open, revealing a mostly empty storage container, until several pairs of eyes opened up, glowing against the interior of the truck, before a set of two, large Wailing emerged from the back, immediately imposing, and coiling around each other symbiotically.


    They studied their surroundings quickly, before noticing Rosalind in front of them, causing them to act out and panic the driver.


    ¡°Easy.¡± Rosalind said, holding up a remote control, before turning to the driver. ¡°How effective is this?¡±


    ¡°A-Activating the remote should kill them.¡± The driver replied. ¡°But that¡¯s as far as it goes.¡±


    Rosalind clicked her tongue, before facing the Wailing. ¡°You know what this is, right?¡±


    The Wailing froze and studied the remote for a second, as Rosalind nodded back.


    ¡°Correct. I have a job for you.¡± Rosalind said, pulling up photos of the news report involving Team Valiant and showing it to the Wailing. ¡°You need to kill them.¡±


    The Wailing both looked at each other, then to Rosalind, which caused her eye to twitch.


    ¡°Gods, it¡¯s like talking to Jules¡­alright, I¡¯m gonna assume you got that. They¡¯ll be leaving on a Flash-Rail later this afternoon. Follow them.¡± Rosalind commanded. ¡°And when the time¡¯s right, quickly and quietly finish them off.¡±


    The Wailing continued staring at her, before coiling around each other again and leaning into her, almost ready to bite her head off.


    ¡°Threat of death wasn¡¯t enough?¡± Rosalind said, before sighing out. ¡°Fine. If you manage to kill them, you¡¯ll be set free. For good.¡±


    The Wailing shot up in recognition, staring at each other in visible disbelief, before dashing toward Denilee, slinking through the trees together with clear drive.


    ¡°There we go.¡± Rosalind said. ¡°You said they¡¯re good at tracking?¡±


    ¡°Y-Yeah. They can¡¯t forget a face.¡± The driver assured, joining her side. ¡°You¡¯re not actually letting them go, right?¡±


    ¡°No.¡± Rosalind sneered.


    ¡°Right, right. That was pretty smart, though.¡±


    Rosalind stared at him.


    ¡°It¡¯d just be suspicious if you killed them, but Wailing kill rookie Venators all the time. Especially since they don¡¯t have their weapons.¡± The driver pointed out, as Rosalind stayed silent. ¡°Wicker sure was clever to think this one up.¡±


    ¡°He didn¡¯t. He doesn¡¯t even know about this.¡± Rosalind admitted, stunning the driver.


    ¡°P-Pardon?¡±


    ¡°I lied.¡± Rosalind said, as the driver found it hard not to shake. ¡°Get over it.¡±


    Rosalind took a deep breath, before heading back to her car, only to find the driver still weighing his options silently. ¡°You¡¯re not planning on telling him, are you?¡±


    ¡°O-Oh, no, I¡¯d never be that stupid.¡± The driver insisted. ¡°B-But if he finds out...¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll get a big ol¡¯ thank you for a job well done. One less problem.¡± Rosalind remarked, rolling her eyes. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ll return them. It¡¯ll be my head too.¡±


    ¡°Y-Yeah, right. Of course...¡± The driver replied, before getting back into his truck and tentatively tipping his hat to Rosalind. ¡°Afternoon, Miss Castello.¡±


    The driver drove off, as Rosalind gave him a fair bit of distance, before driving out herself, heading off to follow behind the Wailing, tracking them on her tablet as they carried on through the forest after their targets, and their eventual freedom.


    ¡°¡­they call me Rosalind¡­confident in what I am¡­sorry, girls, cause it¡¯s the end¡­your sacrifice was¡­Valiant¡­¡±

 Chapter 32: Fishtank

    A shelter of glass


    Shattered for the free to live


    Shall never repair


    Wess found herself humming gently as the familiar frost of the Northern Wayside graced the train window. She¡¯d gotten pretty used to the effect by now, but it still amused her whenever it happened.


    The team minded their business, each passing the time until they arrived to Mareau, while the Flash-Rail pulled into the nearby station of Mareau¡¯s sister city, Coureta.


    Julia heard the chime of the doors opening and popped her head up.


    ¡°Are we stopping in Coureta?¡± She asked excitedly, as Wess chortled into her hand.


    ¡°Good one, Julia.¡± She laughed, having trouble holding it back. ¡°Stopping in Coureta¡­¡±


    ¡°Good one?¡± Julia asked, as Sola sat up in her seat, staring at the window in disappointment.


    ¡°Really? Well, at least we get to see Mt Cavalier out the window.¡± Sola said, her face glued to the glass, before Essex turned to Wess curiously.


    ¡°Before we are to arrive, would you mind explaining what sort of place Mareau is?¡± Essex asked, as Wess became starry-eyed.


    ¡°Oh, it¡¯s magnificent! Art and culture as far as the eye can see, and the home of so many of Daysend¡¯s greatest stories. Such a small refuge built into the mountainside of the Northern Wayside¡¯s unforgiving tundra.¡± Wess laid out, enrapturing the team. ¡°But to me, it¡¯s oh so vast and endlessly endearing. You couldn¡¯t ask for a better home.¡±


    ¡°Wow, surprised you wanted to leave so bad.¡± Harley remarked, before getting looks from the others and realising her mistake. ¡°Sorry, that was my bad. I forgot about your¡­¡±


    Wess waved her hand casually. ¡°It¡¯s understandable. They¡¯re an unfortunate spot on an otherwise perfect city.¡±


    ¡°To be honest, though, why didn¡¯t you go to the academy here?¡± Harley questioned. ¡°I get avoiding the Venators of Coureta, but the VA Defender¡¯s Guild is world renowned for its training.¡±


    Wess stared out the window, as the Flash-Rail slowly pulled out of Coureta. ¡°¡­I needed a change of scenery. Even with my fondness for Mareau, I knew the Defender¡¯s Guild wouldn¡¯t be right for me. Also, my parents hated the Venator Academy, so I knew that spoke well for its character.¡±


    The team laughed at her statement, leaving Wess with a bashful smile for the rest of their trip, only to have her attention drawn half an hour later to Sola jumping by the window.


    ¡°It¡¯s right there!¡± She exclaimed, pointing frantically. ¡°And you weren¡¯t kidding! It¡¯s really built into a mountain!¡±


    Wess got up and joined her by the window and watched as the fog surrounding the Flash-Rail melted away, giving life to the bustling warmth of Mareau. A bright, but gentle glow of orange stood out against the harsh white snow it was enveloped in, opening into a cavern built from roads and alleys bursting with personality. Music poured out most corners, and performers used the streets as their canvas, giving life to the otherwise frigid tundra.


    The Flash-Rail pulled into its busy station, letting the team off and into the crowd, as they exited the station in a hurried excitement.


    ¡°This place looks incredible.¡± Julia said, glancing around at the eye-catching vistas throughout the city.


    ¡°Oh! Oh Oh! Wess!¡± Sola said, trying to get her attention. ¡°Can we go see those dancers later?¡±


    ¡°Of course we can.¡± She insisted, as Sola pumped her fist.


    ¡°So, where¡¯s your place?¡± Harley asked, trying to look around. ¡°There¡¯s a lot of residential buildings, but none of them are screaming Wess to me.¡±


    Wess let out a sigh and placed her hand on Harley¡¯s chin, before lifting it higher, drawing her attention to the few manors built higher into the city, far larger and more prominent than what surrounded it. One in particular stood out the most, which Wess visibly didn¡¯t want to claim ownership of.


    ¡°Oh.¡± Harley let out, as the others looked at it in shock.


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°It is noticeably big.¡± Essex let out, before breaking everyone¡¯s trance.


    ¡°Let¡¯s not dwell on that, please.¡± Wess said, dragging her suitcase behind her. ¡°It¡¯s my parents manor, after all, not mine. And I doubt I¡¯m inheriting it...¡±


    Wess searched around for the family car, as Harley leaned over to the others and whispered again.


    ¡°I¡¯m kind of dreading meeting her parents.¡± She said. ¡°Everything she¡¯s told us about them makes them seem like a nightmare.¡±


    ¡°It would appear that way. Considering her difficulties when first meeting us, her parents are¡­of questionable morals.¡± Essex added.


    ¡°And they don¡¯t like Venators either.¡± Sola pointed out. ¡°So, that sucks.¡±


    Julia scratched her chin. ¡°Let¡¯s try our best to get along with them, at least to make things easier on Wess. If we¡¯re lucky, us being nice might force them to be nice too.¡±


    ¡°I hope you¡¯re right. This might be an uncomfortable few days otherwise.¡± Harley realised, just as Wess spotted the stretch car and waved to the driver, hugging her in greeting.


    ¡°Oh, it¡¯s wonderful to see you again, Valerie.¡± Wess insisted. ¡°How goes things?¡±


    ¡°Nothing to report, really, Mis¡­Wess.¡± Valerie corrected. ¡°I hope your studies have gone well.¡±


    ¡°Certainly. It helps that the academy¡¯s not been attacked again.¡± Wess replied, getting a little chuckle from Valerie.


    ¡°It¡¯s still reassuring to see you safe. You have no id¡­¡± Valerie started, before noticing the others near Wess and dropping her professional facade. ¡°Is this your team?! Oh my goodness, they¡¯re adorable!¡±


    Valerie rushed over and made a point to shake everyone¡¯s hand. ¡°Thank you for taking such good care of Wess! The help was so worried when she first headed out into the world! We don¡¯t get to hear as much from her as we¡¯d like, but your names keep coming up over and ov-¡°


    ¡°Alright, Valerie, that¡¯s enough.¡± Wess interrupted, stepping in front of her, before turning to the rest of the team. ¡°My apologies. She can very over eager.¡±


    ¡°Guilty.¡± Valerie admitted, laughing a bit to cushion the blow.


    To the team, Valerie looked to be the near opposite of Wess. Immediately bubbly, energetic, and with a smile that looked about as permanent as Wess¡¯ typical scowl. Her clothes were noticeably less showy, though just as well-maintained, making it clear who was serving who, even if Wess¡¯ body language was much friendlier than that.


    Wess started indicating to the car. ¡°We mustn¡¯t be late.¡±


    ¡°O-Of course.¡± Valerie said, helping everyone¡¯s bags into the car, before stopping in front of Julia. ¡°You must be¡­Sola.¡±


    ¡°¡­no, I¡¯m Julia.¡± Julia corrected, as Valerie blushed and chuckled.


    ¡°Apologies. It¡¯s hard to put names to faces.¡± Valerie excused. ¡°You¡¯re the leader then, right?¡±


    ¡°Y-Yes, I¡­guess I am.¡± Julia acknowledged, mumbling to herself. ¡°It still feels weird saying that¡­¡±


    Valerie closed up the boot, as the others hopped inside the car. ¡°It¡¯s a pleasure to meet you after hearing your name dropped so much. You¡¯re easily the one Wess talks about the most.¡±


    Julia suddenly blushed. ¡°R-Really?¡±


    ¡°Oh yes. I had to stop her from going on last time she was here because she kept mentioning stuff you¡¯d done for her.¡± Valerie said, now leaning on the car. ¡°I even found her looking over some photos of you guys on her tablet when w-¡°


    ¡°Any day now, Valerie!¡± Wess let out, stunning Valerie and reminding her of her duties, as Julia whisked herself to the back of the car.


    ¡°It¡¯s so roomy back here.¡± Harley commented, as Sola lay across her. ¡°You ever have any special visitors?¡±


    ¡°For what, Harley?¡± Wess stated sarcastically, folding her arms. ¡°What could you possibly mean by that?¡±


    Harley glared off to the side. ¡°You could play along, at least¡­¡±


    ¡°Please no remarks like that when we arrive.¡± Wess asked, as the team felt the car pulling out onto the road. ¡°I trust Julia and Essex, but not you two.¡±


    Harley and Sola stared at her sadly, as Wess rolled her eyes.


    ¡°Okay, I do. But I feel the reminder is necessary.¡± Wess pointed out, as Essex lay her scythe flat on the stretch car¡¯s floor.


    ¡°This will not be an issue.¡± Essex assured her, giving a thumbs up. ¡°We will impress them.¡±


    Just as she said that, the car hit a slight bump, shaking the back and sending the scythe¡¯s blade sharply into the bottom of the seat cushion.


    Essex looked back at Wess in shock, before starting to sweat worriedly.


    ¡°I-I did not mean t-¡°


    ¡°It¡¯s fine, really. My parents never use this car anyway.¡± Wess played off, easing Essex¡¯s worry, as Valerie moved the divider down to talk.


    ¡°We should be there in a matter of minutes, ma¡¯am.¡± She said, as Sola stared back out the window again, watching the streets of Mareau pass by in an instant, before they started to peter out in favour of the mountain¡¯s interior, leading up to the larger manors atop the city.


    The car pulled into the manor¡¯s front entrance, dropping off the team with their bags before they were accompanied by Valerie to the front door.


    ¡°I¡¯ll show you where you¡¯re staying. We have a few guest rooms set up just for your visit.¡± Valerie informed, knocking on the front door, as the team were greeted by an older man, well put together, who¡¯s face lit up the moment he saw Wess and her team.


    ¡°We-¡°


    ¡°Wess, dear!¡± Called another voice from behind him, as Wess¡¯ mother emerged from behind the door, waving excitedly and pulling her inside. ¡°I¡¯m so glad you could make it!¡±


    Wess waited to be let go, as her mother waited for the rest of the team to make their way in. They watched as she danced on her feet, positively brimming with energy.


    ¡°This must be your team then! I¡¯ve yet to properly meet them in person.¡± She said, before curtsying politely. ¡°I¡¯m Wess¡¯ mother, but feel free to call me Iota.¡±


    ¡°So, you made it.¡±


    Another voice came down from the centre staircase, not even giving the team a chance to breathe, as they spotted Wess¡¯ father coming down. ¡°I hope the Flash-Rail wasn¡¯t too crowded.¡±


    ¡°The¡­Flash-Rail was fine.¡± Wess replied, as he stood beside Iota, looking over the team.


    ¡°Master Delta Delacroix.¡± He greeted, bowing to the team. ¡°Welcome.¡±


    Wess¡¯ parents looked tailor-built to be wealthy. If it wasn¡¯t immediately apparent by their enormous manor, Iota¡¯s giant, fur coat and Delta¡¯s ornate suit showed status just in being worn, with smiles that warm in the same way a blowtorch would.


    ¡°You must be the young women who have been watching over our daughter.¡± Delta stated.


    Julia looked to Wess for confirmation, before stepping forward. ¡°Y-Yes, sir and ma¡¯am. I¡¯m Julia. I-I¡¯m the leader¡­¡±


    Delta stuck out his hand, as Julia tentatively grabbed it, shocked by the strength of the shake.


    ¡°Valerie, would you mind taking their effects up to their rooms?¡± Delta asked, as Valerie snapped to attention.


    ¡°O-Of course, Master Delacroix.¡± Valerie replied, doing so at once, as the rest of the team waited on the sidelines.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry to leave so soon after greeting you, but as you can imagine, we¡¯re very busy people.¡± Delta insisted.


    ¡°But you needn¡¯t worry. Graham here will accompany you throughout your visit.¡± Iota assured. ¡°He¡¯ll be at your beck and call, right?¡±


    ¡°Of course, Miss Nouvel.¡± The older man from earlier replied, as Iota clapped excitedly, causing Wess to jump.


    ¡°Well then. No point dilly dallying. We¡¯ll see you later for dinner in the dining hall.¡± Iota said, heading for the door. ¡°Enjoy your stay in Mareau. It truly is a luxury to be here.¡±


    Delta nodded to the team, then back down at Julia again.


    ¡°Julia.¡± He said, before leaving back up the centre stairs, finally giving the team a moment to be inside the manor without interruption.


    The room was left to breathe.


    ¡°¡­I apologise for their abruptness.¡± Graham said, stepping out in front of the team. ¡°They so rarely receive guests.¡±


    Graham bowed to the team as well. ¡°Graham Beauregard, Wess¡¯ caretaker.¡±


    The difference in respect was immediately apparent. Graham showed a humility fitting of his presentation, looking significantly older than either of Wess¡¯ parents, but with the same status as Valerie in terms of appearance. His natural professionalism was also quickly picked up on.


    He stood back up and faced the team proper. ¡°I¡¯m pleased to meet the team Wess talks so fondly o-¡°


    ¡°My goodness, can everyone stop saying that?¡± Wess interrupted, followed by a collective laugh from the team, with Graham nearly joining in too.


    ¡°She talks pretty fondly of you too.¡± Julia pointed out, surprising Graham. ¡°It¡¯s nice to meet you.¡±


    ¡°You must be Julia then.¡± He warmly replied, as the team spread out in the entrance.


    ¡°This is a gorgeous place.¡± Harley commented, staring up at the ceiling and whistling. ¡°...48th century build, right?¡±


    ¡°47th, actually, but it¡¯s had some work done over time.¡± Graham pointed out, indicating to the updates made on the walls before Valerie came back down the stairs to grab the second load of luggage.


    ¡°I can help with that.¡± Sola insisted, picking up a couple of bags and helping her along, as Valerie beamed with pride.


    ¡°I like this one.¡± Valerie told Wess, as she let out a gentle chuckle, before noticing Essex was now laying on the floor, just by the entrance.


    ¡°Might I ask what she¡¯s doing?¡± Graham questioned, as Wess raised a hand.


    ¡°She needs permission before staying here.¡± Wess explained, leaning down to her. ¡°You have my permission, Essex.¡±


    ¡°Grelo. Thank you for the accommodation.¡± Essex said, before following Sola and Valerie up the stairs to drop off her bags.


    ¡°We don¡¯t often allow weapons on the premises, but we can make an exception for your friend there.¡± Graham pointed out. ¡°Personally, I¡¯ll assure your parents don¡¯t make a fuss about it.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Graham.¡± Wess said, before trailing off in thought.


    ¡°Well, your parents¡­seemed nice.¡± Julia let out, hoping to test the waters.


    ¡°¡­yes, they did.¡± Wess replied, still thinking to herself. ¡°Considering I was bringing my Venator team, I thought they would have a field day with that.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s be thankful they didn¡¯t. The less drama, the better.¡± Harley added, turning to Graham. ¡°When do we get to check out the rest of Mareau?¡±


    ¡°Whenever you¡¯d wish.¡± Graham said. ¡°Might I suggest a small festival that¡¯s happening down main street?¡±


    ¡°Were those the dancers we saw earlier?¡± Sola asked, rushing back down the stairs and into the room. ¡°Let¡¯s go right now!¡±


    ¡°Come on, Graham. Surely there¡¯s much better that we can show them.¡± Wess insisted, sticking her nose up. ¡°The festival¡¯s nice, but it¡¯s hardly the best Mareau has to offer.¡±


    ¡°Aww, but I wanna see it.¡± Sola moped.


    ¡°Yeah, we wanna see it, Wess.¡± Harley agreed, moping with her.


    ¡°¡­yes, we want to see it, Wess.¡± Essex added, re-entering the room too, trying to get confirmation from the others.


    ¡°Guys, it¡¯s Wess¡¯ home. I think it¡¯s only fair if she shows us around.¡± Julia reasoned, before Graham was immediately struck with an idea.


    ¡°Well, how about I accompany these three to the festival, and you and Julia can go somewhere?¡± Graham suggested, getting an excited reaction from Julia and reserved one from Wess.


    ¡°B-But we needn¡¯t split up the t-¡°


    ¡°Can we go to the Juslue Theatre then? I really wanna see a Northern Wayside play.¡± Julia hoped, struggling to hold back her enthusiasm, as Wess saw her excitement and caved.


    ¡°¡­oh well, why not.¡± Wess said, smiling. ¡°Let¡¯s enjoy ourselves.¡±


    ¡°Festival! Festival!¡± Sola cheered, getting lifted up by Harley as the rest of the team followed them out, but not before Graham stopped Wess by the door.


    ¡°Make sure to enjoy yourself. See something light.¡± Graham encouraged, as Wess rolled her eyes.


    ¡°I think I can handle that. At least you won¡¯t be crying in the seat next to me.¡± Wess remarked, as Graham hid some embarrassment and cleared his throat.


    ¡°¡­we both know that was a very moving play.¡± Graham pointed out, as he whisked the team off to the main streets of Mareau.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Once they hit the main streets, the team quickly split up into their own groups, with Julia and Wess off to the theatre, and Harley, Sola, Essex and Graham hanging back to enjoy the parade.


    ¡°Wow¡­¡± Julia let out, gazing up at the giant spotlights and massive posters for upcoming plays. ¡°This is the Juslue Theatre. Bell¡¯s gonna be so jealous.¡±


    ¡°The pride and joy of Mareau¡­¡± Wess sighed, leading Julia into the building. ¡°I¡¯ve attended many times, and there¡¯s yet to be a performance that hasn¡¯t gripp-¡°


    ¡°Oh my god! There it is!¡± Julia exclaimed, rushing over to the posters on display. ¡°Richard Falinks and the Wayward Sun!¡±


    Julia immediately turned back to Wess. ¡°Wess, can we see it? You promised, remember? Wess? Please? You promised we¡¯d see it together. Come on, please? Can we can we ca-¡°


    ¡°Yes, fine! We can see it.¡± Wess interrupted, just as Julia excitedly backed off. ¡°Goodness gracious¡­¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t wait!¡± Julia cheered, hurrying over to the ticket booth. ¡°Two for Richard Falinks, please!¡±


    Wess was having trouble holding back her smile, as she watched Julia excite herself over everything around her.


    ¡°She certainly makes things lively¡­¡± Wess muttered.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Dearest greetings, Mareau!!!¡±


    Just outside the theatre, and across most of Mareau¡¯s main street, was an enormous parade, hosting lively, colourful dancers, enormous floats, and all manor of performers expressing themselves through their art.


    Stolen from its original source, this story is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.


    ¡°Get me up higher!¡± Sola yelled, as Harley held her up above the crowd. ¡°There¡¯re the dancers!¡±


    Harley did her best to catch as much as she could, as Graham watched them from the side, only to notice Essex losing focus on the event.


    ¡°Is this not your sort of thing?¡± He asked, as Essex looked up and shook her head.


    ¡°I merely wished to accompany Harley and Sola.¡± Essex admitted, before finding herself blushing. ¡°A-And allow Julia and Wess to enjoy the theatre themselves. Art is not to my enjoyment.¡±


    ¡°Be careful who you admit that to around here.¡± Graham confessed. ¡°Mareau¡¯s culture has helped it through some difficult periods of its history.¡±


    ¡°I can tell you all about that.¡± Harley insisted, spinning around to join their conversation, before Sola nearly fell off her shoulders. ¡°Oops. Sorry, babe.¡±


    ¡°Relias, but I do not care for history.¡± Essex insisted, before pointing to the edge of Mareau, just down the street. ¡°However, I wish to ask about the insulation of this city.¡±


    ¡°Of course. Most tourists do find it strange how our city came to be.¡± Graham admitted, before clearing his throat. ¡°Initially, the mountain served as a cover for the city, insulating most of it against the elements. However, it couldn¡¯t protect against any severe weather or temperatures, so large heaters were built to keep out the cold as best it can.¡±


    Graham indicated to the massive heaters built onto the edges of the where Mareau ended, where a clear divide between the city and near endless tundra outside was firmly established.


    ¡°They were gas powered at first, but now specialist Whil-users create the heat themselves.¡± Graham further clarified, as Harley stuck up her hand, shaking Sola again.


    ¡°What about blizzards?¡± Harley asked.


    ¡°We have special blast doors for those. We get a warning ahead of time from Louileon and block off the city, but most of the population use it as an opportunity to party with the artificial darkness created.¡± Graham said. ¡°I hope that clears things up for you, Miss Essex.¡±


    ¡°It does. Grela.¡± Essex thanked, bowing to him, just as a large cheer came from the crowd behind them at what had happened in the parade.


    ¡°What? What did I miss?¡± Sola asked, swinging Harley back around to try and see it, nearly knocking them both over again.


    ¡°If I may speak frankly, Wess has befriended a curious bunch.¡± Graham admitted, chuckling to himself. ¡°In all my years, I never would have suspected her to get along with people of your¡­¡±


    He looked back to Essex, before clearing his throat. ¡°Apologies. I¡¯ll just say her normal associates here were of a different nature.¡±


    ¡°Similar to her parents, I would assume.¡± Essex remarked, giving Graham pause for thought.


    ¡°¡­yes, in a sense.¡± Graham said. ¡°I could tell it wasn¡¯t for her, but there was only so much I¡­¡±


    Graham noticed he was rambling and waved his hands to Essex. ¡°Apologies again. We¡¯ve only just met. I shouldn¡¯t berate you with personal dilemmas.¡±


    He straightened up his appearance and stood firmly. ¡°But that¡¯s one of the many side effects of being a caretaker. My job is to help wherever I can, after all.¡±


    Essex looked up at him in surprise, before smiling subtly. ¡°That is appreciated, Graham.¡±


    Essex found her attention drifting to the nearby Juslue Theatre. ¡°I would hope Julia and Wess are enjoying their play.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Spare me your sentiments! You¡¯re nothing but a rascal! A child hiding behind the veneer of complicated thought and principles!¡±


    ¡°But those principles are mine alone! You may not accept me, but I¡¯m not yours to be accepted! Consider yourself lucky to have ever cared for me!¡±


    ¡°That luck ran out years ago, Richard. So much for a self-made man.¡±


    The audience watched in bated breath, as the actors on stage glared each other down with a practiced hatred, only reserved for that of a stubborn child and bitter father. Julia in particular couldn¡¯t keep her eyes off of the action.


    ¡°And what is this band of misfits of yours even called?¡±


    Richard took a beat and faced his father. ¡°The Wayward Sun.¡±


    ¡°Ha. A fitting name for juveniles who think themselves the centre of everything.¡±


    ¡°Oh, you¡¯re one to talk of ego! Your business, your lifestyle, your legacy is all yours. And what do I get? A rejection of happiness! A rejection of catharsis! I try to help the world, and you only drag me into your misdeeds!¡±


    His father scoffed. ¡°For Whilit¡¯s sake¡­¡±


    Wess tried to pay attention to the play, even as she¡¯d seen it several times before, but kept finding her attention drifting to Julia beside her. Her reactions were something else, as she managed to convey every emotion the play was showing in her face alone, while also occasionally miming along to lines she remembered from the book. But all throughout, she could see just how happy Julia was to even be there.


    To Wess, it was like seeing the play for the first time all over again.


    Wess rested her head against her hand and stared back at Julia pleasantly, before a gunshot rang out from the stage and caused her to jump, as the audience gasped at the dramatic turn unfolding on the stage.


    ¡°What¡­what have I done?¡± Richard managed, falling to his knees and dropping the gun. ¡°¡­there¡¯s no way. I¡¯m not capable of this¡­¡±


    ¡°Richard, no¡­¡± Julia let out, watching on in shock and awe, as Richard tried to wipe the blood off.


    ¡°I cannot kill. This is not what makes me.¡± Richard insisted, before letting his body go limp. ¡°Where did I go wrong¡­¡±


    The scene closed along with the curtains, as the house lights quickly turned on and indicated it was intermission, just as Julia let out a huge breath.


    ¡°Wow. It¡¯s already better than I thought it would be.¡± Julia expressed, sinking into her chair, as Wess tapped her shoulder.


    ¡°I¡¯m glad you¡¯re enjoying it.¡± She said, indicating to the foyer. ¡°Do you want anything?¡±


    ¡°I want Richard to find his humanity.¡± Julia remarked, before looking to Wess. ¡°And a bag of chips.¡±


    Wess playfully rolled her eyes and got up to leave, finding that there was already a line for snacks formed.


    She let out a groan, looking back at Julia patiently waiting in her seat, before sighing out and standing in line.


    She could tell it was going to be a few minutes, as she decided to pull out her tablet.


    ¡°¡­is everything alright, Miss Nouvel?¡±


    ¡°Yes, just checking up on you. How are the others enjoying the parade?¡±


    ¡°They¡¯re having a wonderful time. Sola tried to join the dancers at one point, but we managed to hold her back.¡±


    ¡°Good.¡± Wess replied, resting the tablet on her shoulder. ¡°So¡­how are you doing?¡±


    ¡°Quite well, Miss. It¡¯s always a pleasure having you home.¡±


    ¡°Right, right¡­¡± Wess muttered, looking back to Julia again. ¡°¡­and what do you think of the team?¡±


    ¡°Are you looking for my approval?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t need your approval, Graham.¡± Wess pointed out, moving up a bit in line. ¡°I just¡­want to know what you think of them.¡±


    There was a pause over the call, as Graham took a breath.


    ¡°I think they¡¯re perfect for you.¡±


    Wess found a blush creeping over her face, which she tried her best to hide it from the others in line with her.


    ¡°Miss?¡±


    ¡°¡­s-sorry, I just needed a second.¡± Wess confessed, getting more comfortable. ¡°Don¡¯t tell them this yet, but¡­I¡¯m hoping to keep working with them after graduation.¡±


    ¡°Is that not standard for Venators?¡±


    ¡°In some cases, but plenty go solo as well.¡± Wess explained. ¡°We¡¯ve already talked about our graduation plans, though they¡¯re not set in stone yet. Essex has said she might go solo, and Sola¡¯s floated the idea around too. I¡¯m less worried about them thinking I¡¯ll go solo¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­but that they might go off on their own.¡±


    Wess nodded, despite it being a call. ¡°Regardless, despite my initial worries¡­this team means a lot to me now, and I¡¯d rather not let them go so easily.¡±


    ¡°Knowing you well, Miss Nouvel, I¡¯m sure you¡¯ll keep things together.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s all I can hope for.¡± Wess answered, before realising she was at the front of the line. ¡°I have to go now. Lo reme.¡±


    ¡°Lo reme, Miss.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    With most of the day cleared, it was about time to head back to Wess¡¯ manor. Just as the evening glow enveloped what it could of Mareau, the family coach pulled into the driveway of the manor, unloading the team and Graham.


    ¡°That was incredible!¡± Sola let out, still visibly animated. ¡°Why isn¡¯t Mykonori like this?¡±


    ¡°Hey, don¡¯t disappoint us. We¡¯ve still got a few days until we get there, remember?¡± Harley pointed out, following her inside, as the rest of the team followed.


    ¡°That was a beautiful play¡­¡± Julia cooed, still starry-eyed. ¡°Thank you so much for taking me, Wess.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s the least I can do.¡± Wess insisted, following just inside, before the team were confronted with Delta and Iota standing right by the front door.


    ¡°There we are. Just in time for our dinner plans.¡± Delta encouraged, pointing to the hall on the right. ¡°We¡¯ve prepared something marvellous for tonight.¡±


    ¡°Tonight?¡± Julia said, before stepping in front of everyone. ¡°W-Well, we wouldn¡¯t want to impose¡­¡±


    ¡°Nonsense! It¡¯s already been made!¡± Iota said, shooing the team down the hall. ¡°You can rest properly after your meal. Trust me, you¡¯d regret not having this at least once while you¡¯re here.¡±


    Julia instinctively looked to Wess for her input, as she subtly rolled her eyes and moved everyone along, deciding to indulge her parent¡¯s antics.


    ¡°Shall I accompany?¡± Graham asked, as Delta raised his hand.


    ¡°You needn¡¯t bother.¡± Delta insisted, following the team to the dining hall. ¡°Just attend your regular duties.¡±


    Graham watched as Wess disappeared down the hallway corner, before giving a firm nod in Delta¡¯s direction and doing as told.


    After another minute of walking, the team arrived at the manor¡¯s enormous dining hall, housing one massive table, large enough to fit the team five times over. A few plates were still being passed around by the help, giving the team enough time to sit themselves, just opposite of Delta and Iota.


    Iota smiled to Wess as she passed her seat, taking hers near Delta, while he sat right at the end of the table, opposite Wess.


    Once all the food had been passed around, Valerie stepped out of the kitchen with a far more dignified demeanour than usual, splaying out her hands.


    ¡°Tonight, we¡¯ve prepared the finest steak this half of Daysend, coupled with steam vegetables, a-¡°


    ¡°Thank you, Valerie, but they can see what they¡¯re eating.¡± Delta said, waving his hand, as she quickly stopped explaining, letting the team look over the food themselves.


    Out of everyone there, Sola was struggling to hold herself back. ¡°Wow. This looks really good, Mister Delacroix. Can we dig in?¡±


    ¡°¡­it¡¯s Master¡­Delacroix.¡± He corrected, sighing out, before waving his arm. ¡°Please, enjoy the meal.¡±


    With permission, the team dug in, taking their time with the lovingly prepared food, as Delta shooed away the help staff, leaving just the team, Iota and Delta.


    Valerie gave one last smile to Wess, before indicating to the team and giving a thumbs up, as Wess tried to hide herself smiling back.


    She stared around at the table and appreciated the sight of her team enjoying the food, with Julia next to her taking careful consideration to eat cleanly.


    Julia looked up and smiled back at Wess, before glancing over to Delta at the other end of the table. ¡°This is a lovely dining room, Master Delacroix.¡±


    Delta made a point to smile back at Julia, before leaning over the table and looking at Wess on the other end. ¡°So, how have your studies been going?¡±


    Wess took a second to process her father talking to her, as she quickly swallowed her food and answered. ¡°Very well. We¡¯ve been consistent with our grades and successfully completed each mission we¡¯ve been on.¡±


    ¡°I see.¡± Delta said, started to work at his dinner, while Wess looked to the rest of the team in surprise.


    ¡°And.¡± Harley said, swallowing, before turning to Delta. ¡°She got us a sponsorship for the upcoming tournament.¡±


    ¡°Oh, yes, I nearly forgot about that.¡± Wess excused, laughing and looking to Iota, who was mostly focused on eating, while Delta picked up his fork.


    He rested it on top of his steak and spun it in place. ¡°One sponsorship?¡±


    The team was surprised a bit by the suddenness of the comment, as Wess went to answer. ¡°Well, considering most other teams won¡¯t even have one, we¡¯ll alrea-¡°


    ¡°Is this your only industry contact?¡± Delta asked, still not really eating, as Wess made a point to put her utensils down.


    ¡°We¡¯ve also befriended several other teams attending the academy.¡± Wess pointed out. ¡°Team Vanguard are quite close friends, as well as Team Instinct, a few members of Team Salv-¡°


    ¡°So, after a year and a half of studies, the most you¡¯ve managed are some personal contacts and a single sponsorship?¡± Delta openly questioned, now looking back at Wess properly.


    ¡°It¡¯s¡­been difficult.¡± Wess defended, sitting up a little in her seat, as the rest of the team wondered if they should intervene. ¡°The academy''s been attacked twice, and we¡¯re only second-year stude-¡°


    ¡°I thought we taught you better.¡± Delta groaned. ¡°The least you could have done is take what you learned here and apply that to the Venator Academy.¡±


    Wess found herself at a loss for words, as she looked back at Iota, who was still looking down at her plate, but now with a more open scowl on her face, making it clear she wasn¡¯t going to intervene.


    ¡°Father, can we not do this while my team is here?¡± Wess asked, noticing the rest of the team getting agitated around her, before Essex decided to speak up.


    ¡°Master Delacro-¡°


    ¡°Quiet. I¡¯m talking to my daughter.¡± Delta interrupted, now properly out of his seat. ¡°So, instead of taking this opportunity to expand your contacts, you¡¯ve¡­what, been waving your sword at whatever Wailing shows up? Is that your plan for graduation?¡±


    ¡°Our team is at a very healthy growth rate.¡± Wess assured, leaning over to rest a hand on the still shaken Essex. ¡°And we¡¯ve agreed the plan for graduation is freelance.¡°


    ¡°¡­so it is.¡± Delta let out, landing his hands on the table, spooking everyone, save for Iota. ¡°You¡¯re not even planning on signing with an agency? And you expect to drag our name around while you¡¯re caravanning across Daysen-¡°


    ¡°Alright, since when do you get to make these decisions?¡± Wess argued back, staring back at him. ¡°First you don¡¯t want me attending, and now you want to dictate my career? Which is it, father?¡±


    ¡°Whichever keeps you from wasting your life.¡± Delta assured, grabbing at the tablecloth.


    ¡°Last I checked, you¡¯re the one wasting it for me.¡± Wess spat back, as Julia rested a hand on her, trying to get her to calm down.


    ¡°You¡¯ll be careful how you speak in this house.¡± Delta stated, only tightening his grip on the tablecloth, as everyone accepted this was no longer a family dinner.


    Wess made a point to straighten her back and clean herself up. ¡°Perhaps if you were half the man Graham was, I would ha-¡°


    ¡°Wess!¡± Iota yelled out, shooting out from her chair, as everyone else did the same. She hurried over and grabbed Wess¡¯ arm forcefully, before pulling her into a nearby hallway. ¡°You do not talk to your father like that!¡±


    The team watched Wess get dragged off, while Julia did her best to hold Harley back from chasing after her.


    Harley stared back down at Julia, as she looked back up and shook her head.


    ¡°Apologies for my daughter¡¯s behaviour.¡± Delta assured, cleaning up his appearance. ¡°I was hoping she had grown out of this by now, but it seems she still insists on acting out. I think it best you head to your rooms while we sort this out.¡±


    Delta promptly left, leaving the rest of Team Valiant to figure out what to do.


    ¡°Wess was right. They were just playing with us.¡± Harley let out, turning to the others in frustration.


    ¡°But¡­I don¡¯t think we should act out against them.¡± Sola added in. ¡°It¡¯ll only make things harder for Wess.¡±


    ¡°Should we not defend her here?¡± Essex asked, as Julia thought things through.


    ¡°¡­Sola¡¯s right. We¡¯ve got to do what¡¯s right for Wess here.¡± Julia assured. ¡°You guys get some rest and pack our things. We might need to move Wess out soon, just in case.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯re you gonna do?¡± Harley asked, as Julia steeled herself.


    ¡°I¡¯ll make sure she¡¯s okay. Promise.¡± Julia said, nodding assuredly to the others, as they split off to their rooms for the night, while Julia tentatively followed in the direction of Wess and Iota.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Iota kept trudging, taking Wess as far as she felt it was necessary, while Wess tried to pull herself from her grip.


    ¡°How dare you speak out against your father like that!¡± Iota yelled, finally letting her iron grip of Wess¡¯ hand go. ¡°Where are your manners?!¡±


    Wess rubbed her wrist, as a slight red bruise had grown on it. ¡°Oh, that¡¯s rich. He¡¯s the one who started berating me during a supposedly pleasant dinner. Yet, you won¡¯t call him out about that, will you?¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re not talking about him, we¡¯re talking about you.¡± Iota insisted, trying to look pitiful. ¡°I can¡¯t believe this is the thanks we get after so many years of caring for you. We give you food, a lovely home, provide you wait staff to serve your every need, and even when you wanted to become a Venator, we did all that we could to help you. We even invited your little Venator team over. And yet, you still act out.¡±


    Wess gasped. ¡°You did nothing of the sort! You belittled my wishes, restricted my finances, provided nonsense classes painting Venators as violent thugs, and then tried to steal Belvedere away every chance you got! You never helped me! You did everything you could to stop me being happ-¡±


    ¡°Watch your tone!¡± Iota yelled, clearly more offended this time. ¡°How is it not helping to try and stop you becoming a warrior? We don¡¯t want you out there throwing your life away.¡±


    Iota closed in, as she reached out for Wess¡¯ hand. ¡°We don¡¯t want to see our daughter hurt and miserable. Those Wailing are horrible creatures. They¡¯d take your life away without a second thought¡­¡±


    Wess looked down at Iota¡¯s hand, before ripping hers away. ¡°And you¡¯re not doing that right now?¡±


    Iota scrunched up her fist, trying to keep her composure. ¡°It¡¯s your fault for wanting to risk your life so much! Those Venators have been brainwashing you with dreams of being something you¡¯re never going to be!¡±


    ¡°But it¡¯s still my decision! Why can¡¯t you trust me to know what I¡¯m doing?!¡±


    ¡°Because you don¡¯t! You never have!¡± Iota let out. ¡°For Juslue¡¯s sake, listen for once!¡±


    ¡°NO!!!¡± Wess yelled. ¡°I¡¯m done listening to the bullshit that spews out of your mouth! Stop lying and just tell me why you really want me here. Is it a point of status? Shame? Because I can assure you, it isn¡¯t from caring about me.¡±


    Iota stamped her foot. ¡°I am TIRED of you acting superior to us! We¡¯re your parents! Why can¡¯t you love us already?¡±


    Wess folded her arms. ¡°I refuse to love a crusty old man and his yappy dog.¡± Wess spat, shocking Iota stiff, as she tried to restrain herself.


    She attempted to stare Wess down, refusing to budge an inch, as Wess only stared back, forcing her to turn around in a huff, clasping her hand.


    ¡°¡­you¡¯re having a talk with your father.¡± Iota said with a certain finality.


    Wess scoffed. ¡°¡­I think we both know what that means.¡±


    ¡°Yes, well it might just straighten you out and finally put this childish fantasy to rest. Ungrateful little¡­¡± Iota grumbled, heading out of the hall, before turning back. ¡°Where on Daysend did this attitude come from?¡±


    Wess stared her down. ¡°You made me. Answer that yourself.¡±


    Iota bit her lip in a quiet fury, before exiting proper, as Wess leaned against the wall, trying to recollect herself while she had the time.


    She debated leaving all together, but knew from experience that would only lead to a harsher punishment, especially with the kind of temper her parents were in.


    Her mind kept flashing to the rest of Team Valiant and what they must be going through, especially after being convinced that her parents were decent.


    That was my first mistake. Wess admitted, letting out a sigh.


    Quickly interrupting her thoughts, Delta slowly opened and closed the door Iota had just left through, trying to keep his cool, right as Julia found herself around the corner after a minute of searching, peering in on the situation and noticing just how uncomfortable Wess looked at that moment.


    ¡°¡­your mother told me what you said.¡±


    Wess gulped a little, as she instinctively stepped back, watching Delta rub his temple.


    ¡°¡­none of this is new.¡± Delta said. ¡°You¡¯ve always been this difficult.¡±


    Wess kept herself tight lipped, as Delta opened an eye.


    ¡°What, no retort this time? Was it just some kind of show for your companions at dinner?¡±


    ¡°¡­n-no.¡± Wess said, hoping to regain some strength. ¡°I don¡¯t ne-¡°


    Delta glared at her. ¡°I didn¡¯t say you could talk yet.¡±


    Wess¡¯ pupils shrank, as Delta started to close in, causing Julia to panic on the side lines.


    ¡°Tell me why. Why do you want to ruin us?¡± Delta asked. ¡°Do you know what sort of reaction my associates will have? Hearing that my daughter¡¯s run off to throw her life away as a Venator, all while cursing our names? Hell, the only one who¡¯d sympathise is that bastard Devatta and his son.¡±


    Julia watched him hold himself up against the wall, as Wess¡¯ legs started to shake.


    ¡°I have to be the sort of father who¡¯s only daughter runs off to join the Wailing Conflict, effectively killing herself and any chance of carrying on the family legacy.¡± Delta explained, stopping briefly. ¡°What do think that does to me? My bitch of a daughter says she hates us, and I have to put up with it.¡±


    He pounded his fist on the wall, as Wess jumped, watching his attempts to calm himself slowly fail.


    ¡°Why do you do this?¡± Delta asked one last time, now towering over Wess. ¡°What could possibly drive you?¡±


    Wess waited for another line, or a reaction, before finally swallowing, just as Julia readied herself behind the corner.


    ¡°B-Because you¡¯ve never loved me. My team cares for me, and you can¡¯t. You¡¯re incapable of that.¡± Wess projected, finding her strength come back. ¡°You¡¯re just furious I¡¯m acting on my own wishes instead of dancing around for your amusement, wishing I were dead. You¡¯re no dignitary. You¡¯re just as bad as the Waili-¡°


    Despite the fact that she saw it coming, Wess still wasn¡¯t prepared once Delta swung his hand at her, ready to hit her for talking out, as she closed her eyes in worry, before realising nothing had happened. She opened them back up to spot Julia in between them, holding back Delta¡¯s arm with her hand, having slowed it down with her Whil.


    Delta forced his arm free, running his hand over it to alleviate the stress on it, before glaring back at the two of them.


    Julia blocked off Wess from him, standing strong in between them, as Wess finally let herself feel vulnerable in the moment, just as Delta scoffed.


    ¡°Despite all that warrior training, you really can¡¯t stand up for yourself.¡± Delta said.


    ¡°Leave her alone already.¡± Julia declared. ¡°She doesn¡¯t deserve any of this.¡±


    ¡°J-J-Julia?¡± Wess managed, as Julia nodded back to her confidently.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I-I promised I¡¯d keep you safe.¡± Julia assured, facing Delta down again, as he tried to straighten out his suit sleeve.


    ¡°I want you out of this house.¡± Delta stated. ¡°You¡¯re not to set foot in this building again. You¡¯ll be escorted out in the morning with your belongings and free to continue your training as Venators. If I ever see you in Mareau again, there will be swift punishment.¡±


    Julia stood her ground, as Wess tried to take all he was saying in.


    ¡°If we ever forgive you in the future, don¡¯t expect it to be soon. You¡¯ll need to earn our trust back bit by bit.¡± Delta said, only addressing Wess now. ¡°Reflect on this.¡±


    With that, Delta took his leave, exiting the way he came in, as Julia made sure the coast was clear, before turning to Wess and checking on her, holding her hand to her cheek.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay¡­you¡¯re gonna be okay.¡± Julia made clear, letting Wess go through her shock. ¡°Are you hurt anywhere?¡±


    Wess slowly shook her head, still trying to piece some words together, thanking the warmth that Julia¡¯s touch was bringing.


    ¡°Y-You shouldn¡¯t worry. This isn¡¯t new for them.¡± Wess tried to assure. ¡°I-I can handle¡­¡±


    Wess wanted to finish her sentence, before finding a few tears escaping her eyes and bowing her head.


    ¡°¡­th-th-thank y-you¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°¡­I don¡¯t like this.¡± Sola admitted, rubbing her arms while propped up on her bed. ¡°I hate seeing Wess go through this¡­¡±


    Harley tapped her foot impatiently, stationed close by the door, while Essex sat next to Sola, focusing herself.


    After a few more minutes, Harley finally got up out of frustration. ¡°This is killing me. I can¡¯t ju-¡°


    Just as she was about to go through the door, a few brief knocks came from outside of it, leaving the team stunned.


    Harley steeled herself and carefully opened it up, preparing for a confrontation with Wess¡¯ parents, only to find Graham perched outside.


    ¡°Graham.¡± Harley said, as she suddenly noticed his worried expression.


    ¡°Apologies for bothering you. I¡­know you¡¯ve had a difficult evening.¡± Graham excused, as his eyes darted down the hall. ¡°I have some news for you, Miss Nouvel and Miss Alpine.¡±


    ¡°Is it concerning?¡± Essex asked, getting up with Sola to meet him, as Graham sunk his head down.


    ¡°Unfortunately¡­¡± He muttered, before noticing Wess coming up the stairs, accompanied by Julia.


    Graham went out to greet her, only to realise Julia was comforting her and that she was visibly shaken.


    ¡°My dear¡­¡± He let out, crouching to meet her height. ¡°¡­I feared what had happened¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­it¡¯s fine, Graham.¡± Wess managed. ¡°I¡¯m¡­I¡¯m fine.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re taking her out of here first thing in the morning.¡± Julia admitted, which reminded Graham of his news.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry to say, but that won¡¯t happen.¡± He confessed. ¡°I¡¯ve just heard news from the other help. Your parents are planning on removing your friends from the building tonight. You won¡¯t be allowed to leave either, Miss Nouvel.¡±


    ¡°W-What?¡± Wess said, as her panic started to return in spades.


    ¡°Seriously?! Those sons of...¡± Harley groaned. ¡°When¡¯s this happening?¡±


    ¡°Any minute now. That¡¯s why I had to warn you.¡± Graham insisted, carefully grasping Wess¡¯ hand. ¡°It wouldn¡¯t sit right with me to just let that happen. The other help will try to delay them, but if we don¡¯t leave now, you may not get the chance again.¡±


    Wess was still processing everything going on around her, as the team did their best to let her breathe, with Julia holding Wess¡¯ other hand in comfort.


    ¡°B-but¡­we j-just¡­¡± Wess tried to say, struggling to form a sentence, only for a few voices to come down the hall.


    ¡°¡­ink I saw them back at the dining hall, cleaning up thei¡­¡±


    Graham bit his lip and stood back up, as he held the door.


    ¡°That was Valerie. She¡¯ll redirect them as best she can.¡± He said, indicating to the team¡¯s bags. ¡°Quickly, out the front door.¡±


    The team hurriedly booked it and grabbed their suitcases, with Harley and Essex pulling along Wess and Julia¡¯s bags. Julia did her best to guide Wess to the front door, as Graham and Sola watched out around them.


    ¡°Where are we going?¡± Julia asked, as Graham ushered them outside.


    ¡°The train station. You can catch a Flash-Rail to where you¡¯re headed next.¡± Graham said, giving Wess space to go through, before she stopped herself just in the doorway.


    She looked back at the manor¡¯s interior, scanning everything she could, just in case she could never see it again, before she looked back at Graham, then solemnly nodded as she went and joined the others by the coach.


    Graham hopped into the driver¡¯s seat, quickly taking the team down the now much emptier streets of Mareau, all while Wess quietly stared out the windows at the passing buildings, still full of so much colour and life even while asleep, as the team noticed her lip quivering just slightly.


    Eventually, they made it to the empty train station, now feeling the cold coming in from outside of Mareau¡¯s interior, as the team stepped onto the platform and Graham passed off his coat to Wess.


    ¡°My apologies¡­for all of this, Miss Nouvel¡­¡± Graham muttered, trying his best to stay strong, all while Wess did her best too as well.


    ¡°Thank you so much, Graham.¡± Julia said, helping with Wess¡¯ bags. ¡°If you hadn¡¯t come in¡­¡±


    He quickly raised a hand. ¡°Think nothing off it. I¡¯m her caretaker.¡±


    ¡°The Flash-Rail shall arrive shortly.¡± Essex informed them, as the team patiently waited, all while Wess hung back with Graham, staring at the ground on the verge of tears.


    ¡°¡­I¡¯m not going to be able to return, am I¡­if they ever found out¡­¡± Wess asked, even though she knew the answer.


    Graham quietly nodded back to her, before making a point to hug her.


    ¡°There¡¯s no need to cry. I know you¡¯ll miss Mareau dearly¡­¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not about Mareau.¡± Wess confessed, breaking the hug to face Graham again, before feeling her tears returning. ¡°It¡¯s you¡­¡±


    Graham did his best to hold back his emotions, even if what she was saying was ripping him up inside, as she reached out for his hand again.


    ¡°I can¡¯t just leave you behind¡­after I only stopped being a burden to you¡­¡± She mumbled, as Graham grabbed her shoulders.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you dare say that about yourself, Wess.¡± Graham declared. ¡°Watching you grow has been one of the most rewarding parts of my life. You continue to astound me with what you accomplish¡­¡±


    ¡°Graham¡­¡± Wess let out, feeling her tears well up again, just as she noticed the Flash-Rail coming into view.


    ¡°Don¡¯t let this hold you back.¡± Graham said. ¡°And don¡¯t let this memory of Mareau be of tears. It¡¯s a beautiful place, one that I promise you will return to someday. For now¡­¡±


    He looked back at Team Valiant, as they all started to board the train together. ¡°¡­please take care of them. And let them take care of you. You deserve it.¡±


    ¡°Wess, come on!¡± Julia called out, as Wess wiped away her tears, before hugging Graham again.


    ¡°I promise¡­I-I¡¯ll come back¡­a-and I¡¯ll see you again¡­¡± Wess stammered, before letting go and taking off Graham¡¯s coat, before Graham stopped her.


    ¡°Keep it as a reminder.¡± He insisted, indicating to the Flash-Rail and smiling. ¡°Don¡¯t leave them waiting.¡±


    Wess frantically nodded, letting go of Graham¡¯s hand, before joining the rest of the team on the Flash-Rail, taking her seat quietly with the others, just as it started slowly heading back down the track, passing through the tundra just outside and away from the lights of Mareau.


    The compartment was quiet, as Team Valiant tried to make themselves comfortable.


    Harley and Essex sat across from Wess, watching as Sola made an effort to comfort her, while she rested her head in Julia¡¯s lap and stared at the floor.


    Slowly, the image of Mareau vanished from her mind as quickly as it had arrived, with the only warmth she could still feel being that of Julia and Sola¡¯s bodies, and Graham¡¯s coat, wrapped around her to comfort her, in leu of the real thing.


    Goodbye¡­dear friend¡­

 Chapter 33: Houseplant

    Safety in numbers


    But peace of mind is not so


    Easily embraced


    It had been a long search.


    Tracking down Team Valiant hadn¡¯t been an easy task. Right after being set onto them, they had headed off up north down the Flash-Rail line. If anything, that meant they were easy to track back, since there was only one Flash-Rail in and out of the Northern Wayside.


    However, it meant the two Wailing sent to kill them not only had to trek through the Southern Wayside and Central Point, but they then had to wait a full day for the train to return just to catch it.


    Fortunately, while waiting patiently on the border, a Flash-Rail passed overhead, which one of the Wailing noticed contained the faces they were looking for.


    They spun around each other in excitement, before slinking off down the track, ready to continue their hunt anew.


    Sola did her best to calm her nerves. She tried to avoid thinking about being on a train, but considering it was still a few hours until they reached Mykonori, the trip wasn¡¯t going by nearly fast enough.


    Dawn had only just broken, with the sun just reaching over the horizon, though none of the team had gotten any sleep considering what had transpired in Mareau, save for Wess who, after the night she had, desperately needed it.


    ¡°How¡¯s she holding up?¡± Harley asked, sitting with Sola, as Julia looked to her side at Wess, sleeping across two seats with Graham¡¯s coat draped over her.


    ¡°Alright, but that only means so much when she¡¯s asleep.¡± Julia admitted, watching over her peacefully.


    ¡°I¡¯m afraid we are out of food. We failed to retrieve our suitcase of provisions from the manor.¡± Essex explained, digging through their luggage. ¡°We will have to buy some from Mykonori.¡±


    ¡°Did you message your folks about us staying a bit longer?¡± Harley asked, as Sola nodded.


    ¡°Yeah, Maxine said it¡¯s fine. She¡¯s gonna pick us up at the station.¡± Sola explained, before looking over the seats at Wess again, feeling a pang of empathy ring through her.


    ¡°¡­I hope she¡¯s okay.¡± Sola let out, drawing everyone¡¯s attention back to Wess. ¡°Being there felt so¡­scary. I never knew her parents were that ugly¡­¡±


    Julia noticed Sola¡¯s sorrow and smiled to her. ¡°She¡¯ll be okay. We¡¯ll take some time to recover in Mykonori and she can get some well-deserved rest.¡±


    ¡°If she¡¯s up for it, we can take her to the Colossus of Mykos.¡± Harley offered, hugging Sola and grinning. ¡°I know that¡¯d cheer me up.¡±


    ¡°Were we not doing so anyway?¡± Essex pointed out, only for Harley to avoid responding.


    ¡°¡­no¡­what are¡­¡±


    Wess stirred a bit in her sleep, as Julia reassuringly rubbed her arm, just as the Flash-Rail rumbled suddenly, briefly freaking out Sola.


    ¡°I-I¡¯m fine.¡± She let out, grabbing the arm rests. ¡°G-Geez, since when were these things so bumpy?¡±


    Unbeknownst to Team Valiant, despite their otherwise empty train carriage, their trip was now accompanied by the two symbiotic Wailing, riding on top of the carriage with their claws grabbed onto each side.


    Both briefly glanced inside to get a better idea of who they were dealing with, as they realised the team was visibly tired and noticeably unarmed.


    The thought came to just take them out, then and there like it was nothing, before the reminder of Rosalind insisting the deaths look as natural as possible popped into their minds. They also knew Flash-Rails were well-guarded and that any attempt to get inside would end lethally.


    They couldn¡¯t screw this up.


    They couldn¡¯t risk it.


    Waiting patiently, they rode it out with them, hoping to find their opportunity to strike and finish off Team Valiant for good.


    ¡°Oh, there it is!¡± Sola called out, just as the Flash-Rail skirted closer to the coastline of the Eastern Wayside.


    Immediately, it was a breath of fresh air. Mykonori stood proudly against the cliffsides and coast of the Eastern Wayside, with smaller residencies running up the hills, before leading to the more built-up parts of the town down the coast. Canals ran through the city streets, breaking up the mostly white architecture with streaks of blue, only to be broken up further by the Colossus of Mykos standing proudly in the centre, reaching up to the sky in worship.


    The town only looked more gorgeous as the sunrise continued to careen, painting everything in the limited but welcoming orange of morning.


    The station started to come into view, with it seeming entirely empty, save for the car parked outside and Maxine near the station, huddled together in a jacket.


    She lifted her hand to try and make out the figures coming out of the Flash-Rail, before the doors opened up to Sola, hopping down the stairs joyously.


    ¡°There you are.¡± Maxine sighed, before fully yawning. ¡°Couldn¡¯t you have texted me when people are normally awake?¡±


    ¡°Not really.¡± Sola admitted, just as the sunlight coming in started to blind her. ¡°I¡¯ll explain when we get home. Thanks for picking us up.¡±


    Maxine huddled even more. ¡°Well, I figured if the message was so sudden, it had to be important. You¡¯re just lucky I was awake to catch it.¡±


    ¡°Easy now.¡± Harley said, holding up Wess along with Essex, trying not to disturb her sleep. ¡°Is there gonna be enough room in the car?¡±


    ¡°You know, a hello wouldn¡¯t go amiss.¡± Maxine pointed out, as Harley immediately felt embarrassed.


    ¡°O-Oh, right¡­I¡¯m Harley.¡±


    Maxine¡¯s eyes widened, as she looked to Sola. ¡°Oh. That Harley.¡±


    Maxine turned to the rest of the team and gave a very brief bow. ¡°Maxine Lusagi. You¡¯re welcome, in advance.¡±


    Anyone compared to Sola looked older by comparison, but Maxine was clearly much older, having at least three and a half decades on her. She was visibly stern, and just by how much she was looking over Sola, decently cautious. However, her choice of rabbit-themed pyjamas underneath the jacket certainly took away from that vibe.


    The team started packing themselves and their luggage into the car one by one, as Maxine asked Sola a quick question, before being redirected to Julia.


    ¡°You¡¯re Julia, right?¡± Maxine asked, as Julia sighed in relief.


    ¡°Yeah, I am.¡± She replied.


    ¡°Okay. Sola told me you¡¯re the team leader.¡± Maxine stated. ¡°And from what I¡¯ve heard, a pretty good one.¡±


    ¡°W-Well, I don¡¯t like bragging¡­¡± Julia excused with a nervous smile, as Maxine took on a more serious expression.


    ¡°I don¡¯t wanna pry too much, but why the sudden early visit?¡± Maxine asked, still rubbing some sleep from her eye, as Julia noticed the tone shift.


    Julia averted her eyes. ¡°Th-Things were¡­difficult at Wess¡¯ home. It didn¡¯t feel safe to stay¡­¡±


    Maxine nodded back. ¡°Alright.¡±


    She quickly looked and pointed to Wess, slumping into the back of the car. ¡°And how¡¯s she doing?¡±


    ¡°It was pretty heavy on her, so a few days of recovery should help.¡± Julia reasoned. ¡°Her parents have been difficult before, but this was¡­¡±


    Julia noticed Maxine making an effort to stare at her, as she waved her hands. ¡°I-It doesn¡¯t matter. Th-Thank you for letting us use your house¡­a-and your car.¡±


    Maxine smiled and rested a hand on Julia¡¯s shoulder. ¡°You¡¯ve kept my daughter safe on plenty of occasions. The pleasure¡¯s mine.¡±


    They moved over to the car, now with Maxine in the driver¡¯s seat, Julia next to her, and Harley, Wess and Essex packed into the back, with Sola on Harley¡¯s lap.


    ¡°You good?¡± Harley asked, as Sola failed to pull the seat belt over. ¡°Oh.¡±


    ¡°This¡¯ll have to do.¡± Maxine excused. ¡°I¡¯ll drive slowly. We¡¯re not too far anyway.¡±


    The group drove in silence down the street, turning around a few tricky corners, all while everyone stayed quiet and Maxine focused on the road.


    ¡°¡­this is a nice car.¡± Essex said.


    ¡°Yeah, it¡¯s pretty good.¡± Maxine replied.


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­so¡­¡± Julia said, drumming on her legs. ¡°How, uh, how long have you been taking care of Sola?¡±


    ¡°Uh, good question.¡± Maxine said, leaning back to Sola. ¡°How long¡¯s it been? Nine years?¡±


    ¡°Twelve.¡± Sola answered, as Maxine noticed her face go flush.


    ¡°Y-Yeah, twelve. That¡¯s it.¡± She tried to save, before keeping to herself, just as the car was noticeably quiet again.


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­oh, we¡¯re here.¡±


    Maxine reached their house and parked the car, just as everyone made their way inside.


    ¡°Just leave your stuff in the lounge room for now. We can take care of it later.¡± Maxine insisted, just as the team got comfortable, as Sola allowed Essex to stay in her home. ¡°Wayne and I will set up your beds soon, too.¡±


    ¡°Thanks, mum.¡± Sola said, grabbing Wess a blanket from the closet, laying it on her while she slept on the couch.


    ¡°I¡¯ll leave you girls to it.¡± Maxine said, heading back to bed for a few, all while thinking back on the team. ¡°So those are the folks looking after her¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Old Gods, kill me...the morning isn¡¯t my friend...¡±


    It had been a rough morning for Ferris, but most mornings were. She¡¯d kind of accepted that at this point. It was never fun having to drag herself over to the academy, and waking up in the same house as Faller was impressively off-putting as well.


    ¡°I hate him so much¡­¡± She muttered to herself, lying her head on the Academy Daiquiri Lounge bar, surrounded by members of the campus security team.


    Technically, the Academy Daiquiri Lounge wasn¡¯t supposed to serve as a bar until the evening, but Ferris tended to cause a fuss if Seears didn¡¯t fork over any alcohol. Fortunately, Seears could rely on the security team to be good sports, but that didn¡¯t mean Ferris wasn¡¯t a bother.


    ¡°You know who else sucks? Coatsworth.¡± Ferris complained, grabbing the attention of a few of the security. ¡°Little brownnoser who looks like the living embodiment of a virgin pencil¡­¡±


    ¡°Oh, here we go again.¡± One of the guards remarked, getting a laugh from a few others, as Ferris hyped herself up again.


    ¡°And Cecil! That fucker¡¯s as bland as a wet paper towel that never learned to love.¡± Ferris added, sloshing her beer around, as Seears waited on the sidelines for his chance to clean up her spills.


    ¡°Oh, oh, what about Spence?¡± Another guard asked, as Ferris pointed to them excitedly.


    ¡°What about her? She¡¯s like if a rainbow fucked a pixie, but if both were terrified of the experience.¡± Ferris remarked, causing a roar of laughter from the guards.


    Just in the middle of the laughing fit, Chief of Security Dulce made her presence known and cut through the crowd.


    ¡°Hey, hey, come on now.¡± Dulce said, raising her hands. ¡°They¡¯re good people. No need to bad mouth your fellow staff members behind their backs.¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s so good at it, though.¡± A guard mentioned, before turning away from Ferris, as Dulce took a seat beside her.


    ¡°Another rough morning?¡±


    Ferris took a swig of beer. ¡°Don¡¯t try to armchair therapy me.¡±


    ¡°Oh, trust me, I don¡¯t know anything about that stuff.¡± Dulce insisted, before grabbing Ferris¡¯ bottle. ¡°But I do know that drinking this early in the morning can¡¯t be good for you.¡±


    Ferris eyed the bottle, before turning back to Seears. ¡°Hey, Seears! Get me another one!¡±


    Dulce quickly looked to Seears and shook her head, as Seears took the hint and decided to cut Ferris off.


    ¡°I hate you.¡± Ferris groaned, crashing into the bar top again, as Dulce patted her back.


    ¡°I don¡¯t care if you do. As long as you aren¡¯t killing yourself with this stuff.¡± Dulce said, giving a thumbs up that Ferris couldn¡¯t see. ¡°I know you¡¯re just worried about the academy.¡±


    ¡°No, I¡¯m not.¡± Ferris flatly replied. ¡°I hate this place.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Dulce let out, scratching her head. ¡°Huh. How about that.¡±


    Dulce sat back up and patted her back again. ¡°At least you get to work for a great guy like Faller.¡±


    ¡°Were you even listening?!¡± Ferris yelled out, as Dulce went back to join her peers, before Ferris lay on the bar top, wondering to herself quietly.


    Great guy¡­ Ferris thought. ¡­great guy¡­


    Just as she started to take refuge in her solitude, Ferris felt another pair of eyes on her, before she sat up and spun around to threaten them.


    ¡°Good morning, Miss Ferris.¡± Coatsworth greeted. ¡°Though, it would appear the morning hasn¡¯t been good to you.¡±


    ¡°¡­ugh.¡± Ferris let out, realising she didn¡¯t have the energy to lash out at him, as he joined her at the bar. ¡°Why are you here?¡±


    ¡°I wanted to see Seears.¡± Coatsworth replied, grabbing his attention. ¡°And return the sunglasses he lent me.¡±


    ¡°I was wondering where they went!¡± Seears let out, leaning over the counter and grabbing them excitedly. ¡°Why¡¯d you have them?¡±


    ¡°You had lent them to me when we were carpooling together.¡± Coatsworth explained. ¡°I was too busy with work and kept putting off giving them back.¡±


    ¡°Well, it¡¯s much appreciated.¡± Seears grinned back. ¡°I¡¯ll put in a word to Faller to get you a raise.¡±


    ¡°Ughhh¡­¡± Ferris groaned, as the duo looked at her puzzlingly.


    ¡°Is she in poor health?¡± Coatsworth asked.


    ¡°No, she¡¯s just got a hate boner for Faller, like that¡¯s anything new.¡± Seears remarked, before grabbing a glass. ¡°I¡¯ll get you a thank you drink in the meantime.¡±


    Coatsworth gave his attention to the hunched over Ferris. ¡°What¡¯s your problem with Faller?¡±


    ¡°¡­you don¡¯t need to know.¡± Ferris muttered, circling the ring of condensation left behind from her bottle. ¡°And for your information, that¡¯s not why I¡¯m bitter right now.¡±


    Coatsworth turned his head curiously, as Ferris started imagining him as a bird.


    ¡°Don¡¯t get chummy with me. I can handle this by myself.¡± Ferris declared, sitting back up to poke at Coatsworth. ¡°I don¡¯t need a yuppy following me around.¡±


    ¡°Lola.¡± Coatsworth said, leaning in and laying his hand on hers. ¡°I suspect this is important, and if this concerns the safety of the academy and its students, then you do need me.¡±


    Ferris gave it a second, before ripping her hand away, as the bar counter suddenly didn¡¯t feel as comfortable anymore.


    ¡°¡­screw it.¡± She said, finally getting up, before stumbling to her feet. ¡°You keep quiet, don¡¯t let anyone in on this, and for Whilit¡¯s sake, don¡¯t bring up that we¡¯re working together.¡±


    ¡°This will be swift.¡± Coatsworth assured, following behind Ferris just as Seears went to get him his drink, as she started to regret working with him already.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Wayne stretched his arms, as well as the rest of his body the moment he was out of bed. A few things clicked into place, as he leaned over and kissed Maxine on the forehead, before heading to the bathroom and grabbing a couple bottles of pills.


    He groaned as he poured them into his hand, before he swallowed them back, then readjusted his appearance in the mirror, before stepping out into the hall and finding four new people in his living room along with his daughter.


    ¡°Uhh¡­¡± He let out, looking over them curiously, as they did the same to him. ¡°Hey, kid?¡±


    ¡°Yeah?¡± Sola replied.


    ¡°Does Maxine know about this?¡±


    ¡°Yeah.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± He said. ¡°¡­okay then.¡±


    He headed over to the kitchen, digging through the fridge, as he could feel the stares of Sola¡¯s companions still on him.


    ¡°Oohh¡­going back to sleep was a big mistake¡­¡± Maxine groaned, heading out of the hallway, before meeting up with Wayne. ¡°Hey, dear.¡±


    ¡°Morning.¡± He said, indicating to the living room occupants. ¡°Whose Sola hanging out with?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s her Venator team. They came in early last night.¡± Maxine explained, squeezing around him to reach the fridge.


    Wayne smacked his forehead. ¡°Oh! That¡¯s makes a lot more sense.¡±


    He wandered over to them and rubbed his neck. ¡°Hey, sorry for the awkward welcome. I¡¯m Wayne, Sola¡¯s father.¡±


    Wayne was showing his age a lot more than Maxine was. Granted, his grey hair was fairly well styled, and he clearly had a bit of build to him, but the heavy bags under his eyes and slightly withered skin showed someone who time hadn¡¯t been too kind to. Despite that, his smile was as polite and genuine as you could ask for.


    ¡°Julia. Sorry we arrived so suddenly.¡± Julia apologised, as Wayne shrugged.


    ¡°It makes no difference. I¡¯d offer you breakfast but, sorry to say, we don¡¯t have much food in the house right now.¡± Wayne noted, pointing to Maxine as she struggled to find anything to eat. ¡°We were going to go shopping before you arrived.¡±


    ¡°Hey, we need to go food shopping too. We¡¯ll just join you!¡± Sola offered, as Wayne grinned.


    ¡°Great!¡± He said, looking to Harley. ¡°The blonde one can carry the bags.¡±


    ¡°¡­sure?¡± Harley said, as Maxine walked over to Wayne.


    ¡°That¡¯s Harley, dear.¡± Maxine said, sharing an intense glance with Harley before turning back around.


    ¡°Oh. Oh!¡± He realised. ¡°That Harley!¡±


    ¡°Sola, there¡¯s an echo in your house.¡± Harley joked, as Sola looked around curiously and Julia laughed to herself.


    Just as Wayne got comfortable, he suddenly registered the giant scythe lying beside Essex, as Essex looked at him and cocked her head.


    ¡°U-Uhh¡­hi.¡±


    Essex turned to face him. ¡°Aerlo Decali. My title is Essex.¡±


    He nodded hurriedly, glancing between her and the scythe, before rustling came from the other side of the couch.


    ¡°¡­huh¡­¡± Wess managed, slowly getting up and registering her surroundings. ¡°¡­oh. We must have arrived already.¡±


    She acknowledged the team around her, before spotting Sola¡¯s parents.


    ¡°Apologies for the sudden intrusion.¡± Wess said, bowing in her seated position. ¡°In an ideal scenario, we wouldn¡¯t have barged in during the middle of the night.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine, honestly.¡± Maxine excused. ¡°I don¡¯t know what happened in Mareau, but stay as long as you need. It¡¯s no pain for us.¡±


    ¡°How¡¯re you feeling?¡± Julia asked, reaching out to Wess, as she took a deep breath.


    ¡°¡­I don¡¯t think I¡¯ve quite processed it yet¡­¡± Wess admitted, holding her hand back. ¡°But I hope we¡¯ll continue our plans. I¡¯d hate for my parents to ruin this trip of ours.¡±


    Just as Wess was feeling content, her stomach growled quite loudly, embarrassing her almost immediately.


    ¡°S-Sorry.¡±


    ¡°I had a feeling that might be the case.¡± Wayne said, before heading back to his bedroom. ¡°I¡¯ll get dressed, then we can all head out to Mykonori proper and buy some food.¡±


    ¡°I suppose we didn¡¯t end up eating much of dinner¡­¡± Wess remarked, before noticing everyone in Team Valiant was looking at her with concern. ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re really sorry about what happened.¡± Harley said, leaning over to her.


    ¡°It was difficult to witness, so I only imagine how it must have felt.¡± Essex added, as Sola nodded beside her.


    Wess sighed out. ¡°I¡¯ll be fine. Unfortunately, this sort of behaviour is quite common for those two. I just rarely have friends around for it¡­¡±


    Wess looked back at Sola and held her hand. ¡°Please, let¡¯s enjoy our time in Mykonori. I¡¯m dying to see the Colossus of Mykos.¡±


    Sola noticed her happy demeanour and grinned back. ¡°Me too!¡±


    ¡°Alright, that should do it.¡± Wayne said, re-emerging with a very similar outfit, save for a nice jacket and actual pants. ¡°Let¡¯s make tracks.¡±


    ¡°Hold on.¡± Maxine interrupted, just as the team got up to leave. ¡°Before you go, I wanna have a quick talk.¡±


    Sola and Julia pointed to themselves respectively, as Maxine shook her head and indicated to Harley.


    Unauthorized usage: this narrative is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings.


    ¡°Me?¡± Harley asked, as Maxine pointed her head to the hall, grabbing two cups of water as she went.


    Harley looked back to Sola for help, as Sola shrugged and encouraged her to go, with Harley just doing so.


    Maxine led her to a side room, seemingly meant for guests to stay in, but only just barely. Bookshelves were thoroughly packed on each wall, and a decent amount of garden supplies were piled up in front of them, giving just enough room for the two seats set up.


    Maxine pointed Harley to her seat, which she promptly sat in, then sunk into a little, as Maxine made herself comfortable.


    ¡°Harley Baroke.¡± She prefaced, folding her arms. ¡°So, you¡¯re the one who¡¯s captured my girl¡¯s heart?¡±


    Harley broke a sweat. ¡°I-I wouldn¡¯t phrase it like that¡­¡±


    Maxine didn¡¯t look too impressed. ¡°I have to say, out of everyone she mentioned from her team, you seemed the least likely to end up together. Just looking at you two, the differences are immediately apparent.¡±


    Harley didn¡¯t know whether that was a comment about her muscles and tried to cover them up as best as she could, as Maxine took a sip of her drink.


    ¡°Forgive me for being protective. I have certain expectations. She¡¯s never been in a relationship before, but from what I¡¯ve heard, you¡¯ve been in plenty.¡±


    Where¡¯s she going with this? Harley thought to herself.


    ¡°So, why do you think you¡¯re good enough for my daughter?¡± Maxine stated bluntly.


    Harley was caught off guard, but tried to give a quick response. ¡°I¡¯m¡­not?¡±


    Maxine nodded. ¡°Correct. Why do you like my daughter?¡±


    ¡°Umm¡­it¡¯s a little hard to describe.¡± Harley wavered.


    Maxine made a point to fold her legs.


    Harley gulped. ¡°I don¡¯t think I could sum it up as one big thing, or even a bunch of small things...but truth be told, she¡¯s one of the best people I¡¯ve ever met. And funniest. She really impresses me with what she¡¯s been able to accomplish, and truth be told, I think she¡¯s handled our relationship better than I have.¡±


    Harley started circling her fingers. ¡°When she first came to the academy, she couldn¡¯t even fathom using her Whil, and now she¡¯s actually comfortable with it. I couldn¡¯t even imagine being in her position with something like that.¡±


    Maxine stared at her, as Harley laughed to herself. ¡°And she¡¯s totally adorable. I love when she gets excited, and she¡¯s amazing in be-¡°


    Maxine¡¯s eyebrows raised, as Harley cleared her throat and stopped herself.


    ¡°W-Well, it¡¯s a lot of things, really. She¡¯s too good to put into a few words.¡±


    Maxine looked her up and down, trying to make out whether her expression was genuine or not, before sighing. ¡°¡­I believe you. You pass for now.¡±


    Harley felt the tension leaving her body, as she felt comfortable enough to go for her drink.


    Maxine watched her take a sip. ¡°But I swear, if you¡¯re my daughter¡¯s first heart break, I¡¯ll kill you.¡±


    Harley nearly choked on her drink. ¡°Y-yes, ma¡¯am.¡±


    ¡°Good.¡± Maxine nodded, standing back up. ¡°Enjoy your trip.¡±


    ¡°S-Sure.¡± Harley managed to say, trying not to seem too desperate to leave, as she quickly ducked out to meet up with the others.


    ¡°How was your talk?¡± Sola asked, as Harley quickly whisked them out the door.


    ¡°Informative. Let¡¯s go.¡± Harley said, rushing them into the car and out of the residence of Mykonori.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°First things first, I need information. Any important to do with Faller or personal plans. I¡¯ll¡­¡± Ferris started, before struggling to get out the words. ¡°I¡¯ll¡­talk¡­to the other staff members and see what they know. You go through his office and bring back anything of note. Got it?¡±


    ¡°No.¡± Coatsworth replied, as they both stopped rushing down the hall. ¡°I¡¯m unsure why we¡¯re doing this.¡±


    Ferris rolled her eyes and leaned on the wall. ¡°I¡¯m worried that¡­some of Faller¡¯s information might not match up with his actions. So I want to double-check it.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s still very broad. It would be much more helpful if we were searching for something in particular.¡± Coatsworth pointed out, as Ferris massaged her forehead.


    ¡°Fine. You know that drawer Faller has on the right side of his desk?¡± Ferris frustratedly asked, as Coatsworth slowly nodded his head. ¡°Just bring that to me.¡±


    Coatsworth blinked. ¡°The whole drawer?¡±


    ¡°Yeah.¡± Ferris confirmed. ¡°Meet me in the staff room with it in an hour, then I¡¯ll see what we¡¯ve got.¡±


    Coatsworth still struggled to make out Ferris¡¯ reasoning. ¡°Ferris, I don¡¯t know what your intentions for this are, but I want your assurance that you will not harm the academy with your actions.¡±


    Ferris mockingly saluted. ¡°I assure you, this is to help it. I love this place.¡±


    Coatsworth ignored to terse remark and headed off in the direction of Faller¡¯s office, as Ferris finally relished in the lack of companionship, only to stare worriedly at the entrance to the academy library.


    ¡°Alright¡­just get it over with¡­¡± Ferris groaned, slinking her way in, looking around. ¡°Shit, who¡¯s the librarian here again? Whatever, I¡¯ll find out¡­¡±


    Ferris wandered around the library in search of any staff members present, only to come up dry, as she leaned on the bookshelves.


    ¡°I always hated libraries¡­¡±


    ¡°Umm, Ferris?¡±


    Ferris turned her head to see no one on her left, just as a tap came from her right, belonging to Spence.


    ¡°You can¡¯t lean on the bookshelves.¡± Spence clarified. ¡°It¡¯ll damage the books.¡±


    Ferris stared back at her with dead eyes, before pulling herself off the shelves and facing her. ¡°What are you doing here?¡±


    ¡°I volunteer here when I have spare time.¡± Spence explained, giggling afterwards. ¡°It beats hunching over my desk scrawling away at paperwork.¡±


    ¡°Even when it¡¯s semester break?¡± Ferris reasoned.


    ¡°Well, you¡¯re here too.¡± Spence pointed out, which Ferris begrudgingly conceded to. ¡°What¡¯s up?¡±


    I guess this¡¯ll have to do. Ferris said, looking her over. She¡¯s been here longer than me. Maybe she knew him before I did?


    ¡°What do you know about Faller?¡± Ferris bluntly asked, as Spence looked puzzled.


    ¡°Faller?¡± She wondered, putting a finger to her chin. ¡°You mean in general?¡±


    Ferris shrugged. ¡°Pretty much.¡±


    ¡°Well, he worked here for a few years as a teacher. I think he was head of the Engineering Department before Jovie.¡± Spence recalled, before leaning on the bookshelves while lost in thought.


    Ferris chose not to note her hypocrisy. ¡°What was he like back then?¡±


    ¡°Uhh¡­studious. Mostly kept to himself.¡± Spence said. ¡°He was reeeeeally passionate about the Wailing Conflict. It was hard to bring up anything else around him. Actually, there was this running joke among the other staff at the time, you¡¯re gonna love this, where we sai-¡°


    God, this isn¡¯t going anywhere. Ferris realised, slowly ignoring Spence as she spoke. Man, she can run her mouth off.


    ¡°-ourse, nobody found it funny at the time, let alone him, so w-¡±


    Ferris sighed out. I wonder if Cecil has anything better to say?


    Coatsworth cautiously and stealthily walked up to Faller¡¯s office, despite it being a very standard thing for him to do as Vice-Principal.


    Admittedly, most of that was pre-emptive nervousness for carrying around a desk drawer in the middle of the hall, but he could always say he¡¯s moving offices again.


    Just as he was about to reach the office, Faller¡¯s secretary came into view, sitting by the desk just outside Faller¡¯s door.


    Coatsworth¡¯s walk became stiffer than normal, as he crossed passed them, causing them to look up.


    ¡°Yes, Coatsworth?¡±


    ¡°...I need to enter.¡± He explained. ¡°And leave with a desk drawer.¡±


    The secretary blinked, before looking back down at their computer.


    ¡°Just make sure to return it.¡±


    Coatsworth sighed out, quickly ducking into the office, while tugging on his suit. ¡°That was fairly simple...¡±


    He glanced around the daunting room, before starting to shake. ¡°Now where do I begin?¡±


    ¡°Faller?¡± Cecil asked.


    ¡°Yeah. Did you know him before he was principal?¡± Ferris asked, as Cecil continued to wipe down the counters in his lab.


    ¡°That feels like a loaded question, Ferris.¡± Cecil pointed out. ¡°Actually, I was up for the same position.¡±


    Ferris squinted. ¡°The Venator Academy principal?¡±


    Cecil nodded, reaching further across the counter. ¡°The board didn¡¯t want me, though. Considering I¡¯m running my own manufacturing company, they saw it as a conflict of interest.¡±


    Makes sense. Ferris thought, watching as he looked back at her.


    ¡°What¡¯s with all the questions about Faller?¡± Cecil curiously asked, cleaning off his rag, as Ferris looked away.


    ¡°I¡¯m trying to get dirt on him. He wants me to go to this social thing, so I¡¯m gonna blackmail him out of it.¡± Ferris explained, causing Cecil to laugh.


    ¡°That¡¯s a good strategy.¡± Cecil chuckled. ¡°I may just borrow that if he does the same to me.¡±


    I¡¯m surprised he bought that. Ferris wondered. For the head scientist, he¡¯s a bit dense.


    ¡°Well...I hate to spread rumours about anyone.¡± Cecil said, leaning against his counter. ¡°But he did have a pretty aggressive streak as a teacher.¡±


    ¡°No shit.¡± Ferris said, with Cecil nodding along.


    ¡°All the time. Except around students.¡± Cecil said. ¡°He made a real point of that.¡±


    Cecil tapped his chin. ¡°And ever since the attacks on the academy, that¡¯s been flaring up again. I¡¯m sure you¡¯ve seen how he¡¯s acted behind closed doors.¡±


    Ferris kept to herself, as she recalled just how aggressive Faller had gotten before the last attack.


    ¡°Scary guy sometimes. Power like that can...I¡¯m sorry, but that¡¯s all I have.¡± Cecil apologised. ¡°If I could tell you anything more, I would.¡±


    ¡°No, that was...enough.¡± Ferris said, before sighing out. ¡°But I think I need to visit the Engineering Department.¡±


    Coatsworth rummaged around Faller¡¯s desk, trying to find anything important that Ferris might want, but struggled to make anything out amongst the piles of administrative files and desk supplies.


    I suppose only the drawer will be necessary. Coatsworth realised, as he noticed the draw on the right side. How can Faller tolerate her behaviour?


    Coatsworth sidelined the thought and pulled the drawer out, before lifting it off its hinges and immediately struggling with its weight.


    ¡°Oh no...¡± He quickly realised, just as it landed on his foot. ¡°AH!¡±


    He jumped back as it clattered to the floor, grabbing at his foot painfully.


    ¡°Sweet Susan, that stings...¡± He let out, setting the foot back down and readjusting his suit. ¡°This will not work...¡±


    He crouched to the ground and started taking a few less essential items out of the drawer, mostly spare paper, files, and...


    ...something odd.


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    Coatsworth lifted up a strange looking metal object tucked into the back of the drawer, seeming to resemble an insect in some way.


    What a strange paperweight. Coatsworth wondered, putting it to the side, before remembering what Ferris had asked of him, and deciding it was best to pocket it instead.


    He got the best grip of the drawer he could and lifted it again, before manoeuvring it out of the office to meet up with Ferris before he passed out from exhaustion.


    Jovie stopped what she was doing and turned to Ferris in annoyance.


    [Why are you here?] Jovie signed.


    ¡°I¡¯m sightseeing.¡± Ferris said, looking around at the engineering department. ¡°It¡¯s lovely.¡±


    Jovie furrowed her brow. [You know how busy we are before the tournament.]


    [Sorry.] Ferris signed. ¡°But this is pretty important stuff. Did you know Faller before he was the principal?¡±


    Jovie nodded pretty fervently. [I was his assistant. I took over after he got promoted.]


    ¡°And, while you were working for him...¡± Ferris started. ¡°...did he get pissed off a lot?¡±


    Jovie drooped her eyes. [Is that a dig at me?]


    Ferris scowled. ¡°I mean in general.¡±


    [...sometimes.] Jovie admitted. [It was rare, but he could get pretty annoyed when machinery acted up, or when a student did something dumb with their equipment.]


    Seems reasonable to me. Ferris admitted, as Jovie went back to sorting through spare parts.


    ¡°Follow up question.¡± Ferris prefaced, as Jovie faced her again.


    [Yeah?]


    ¡°If...someone had...attacked the academy...¡± Ferris wondered aloud. ¡°Like the last Wailing attack...why do you think they¡¯d do it?¡±


    Jovie thought on this for a bit, before the obvious answer came to her.


    [Hatred.]


    ¡°...hatred.¡± Ferris repeated, just to confirm it to herself.


    [There¡¯s always a frustration behind violence. What happens when a computer acts up?] Jovie posed, shrugging. [You don¡¯t ask it politely to start working again, you smack the side of it until it does. That¡¯s why Wailing attack so much.]


    ¡°The Conflict¡¯s been going on for centuries...¡± Ferris reasoned. ¡°...and some people just want it over with by whatever means...¡±


    [The Conflict won¡¯t end until one of two things happen.] Jovie signed. [Either the Wailing die, or we do.]


    ¡°Yeah, yeah, I know...¡± Ferris muttered, avoiding looking directly at Jovie, who just went back to her work. ¡°You¡¯re surprisingly wise.¡±


    [Glad I could help.]


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Do you ever feel like you¡¯re being watched?¡±


    Julia turned to Sola. ¡°That a weird question to bring up out of nowhere.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± Sola said, pointing at the Aishanara Forest as Wayne drove them down the streets of Mykonori. ¡°Well, I always felt that way back at the orphanage. The Aishanara Forest is right next to it, and some people would say they saw eyes coming out from the darkness.¡±


    ¡°Maybe it¡¯s Enprov, the Old God?¡± Harley added. ¡°Some say they¡¯ve seen it float through the forest, lost and purposeless.¡±


    Sola thought about it, before shaking her head. ¡°Nah, that¡¯s dumb. The Old Gods don¡¯t have eyes.¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s got you there.¡± Wess remarked, as Harley blushed and turned away to avoid looking stupid.


    The Wailing pair stared at the car passing by, just as it entered the main district of Mykonori. They¡¯d lost their chance to attack when the team had arrived due to the suddenness and exposure of morning, meaning they were stuck slinking into the Aishanara Forest to cover, waiting for the team to make themselves vulnerable.


    They slithered against each tree trunk, avoiding direct sunlight to stay in stealth, as the nearby orphanage let out the younger children to play, just as Bradley looked over at the nearby forest and spotted something.


    ¡°Sister Magen!¡± He yelled out, pointing at the forest. ¡°I saw a shadow.¡±


    ¡°A shadow?¡± She asked, looking to the forest. ¡°Do you mean something in the shadows?¡±


    ¡°Uhh...¡± He said, trying to think if that¡¯s what he meant, before losing interest. ¡°I dunno. Look what I can do with this ball!¡±


    ¡°Wow! That¡¯s very impressive!¡± Sister Magen praised, watching as he kicked it between his legs, before looking to the forest soon after, hoping to spot something herself.


    ¡°Will we be within town soon?¡± Essex asked, as Wayne stretched his head back.


    ¡°Any second now. I just need a good park.¡± Wayne explained, as the team all stared out the windows, watching as the pristine white architecture and crowds passed them by. ¡°There we go.¡±


    Wayne pulled over to an empty spot, as the team all got out, still admiring the sights around them.


    ¡°Here¡¯s an idea.¡± Wayne floated. ¡°How about you girls go sightseeing for a bit, then you can come back and get the groceries? I¡¯ll hang back and shop a bit myself.¡±


    ¡°Great idea!¡± Sola exclaimed, pointing to the Colossus of Mykos in the distance. ¡°First one there wins!¡±


    ¡°Wins what?¡± Julia asked, as Sola quickly ran off, followed by Harley.


    ¡°No way you¡¯re beating me again!¡± Harley yelled out, only for Essex to stand to attention.


    ¡°I-I will join in as well!¡± She cried, frantically following behind, leaving Julia and Wess to themselves.


    ¡°We could¡¯ve walked together if they¡¯d just waited.¡± Julia reasoned, sighing out. ¡°Oh well.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s hurry up, shall we?¡± Wess encouraged, as Julia perked to attention and joined her side, linking hands with her.


    Wess looked down. ¡°Julia, you needn¡¯t hold my hand.¡±


    ¡°I know. I just wanna make sure you¡¯re okay.¡± Julia assured, smiling gratefully. ¡°And that you know we¡¯re here for you.¡±


    Wess smirked back at her. ¡°Like I don¡¯t know that already. You¡¯ve made that painfully clear.¡±


    ¡°I should hope so.¡± Julia grinned. ¡°Enjoy your rest, okay?¡±


    ¡°Yes, yes.¡± Wess assured, patting Julia¡¯s hand, as they took their time joining up with the others.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Huh.¡±


    Harley scratched her head, as she looked directly up at the Colossus of Mykos.


    The giant figure stood over the largest canal in the town, with its legs stretched to each side and its palms displayed to the sky. To everyone gazing at it from below, it was a great symbol of worship.


    Meanwhile, Harley was staring at its crotch under the robe.


    ¡°I was kinda hoping to see something. There¡¯s, like, nothing there.¡± Harley realised.


    ¡°It¡¯s just like a doll.¡± Sola pointed out, getting a snicker from Harley.


    ¡°What is it you were expecting?¡± Essex wondered.


    ¡°I dunno. Giant carved dick.¡± Harley bluntly put, as Essex blushed in response.


    ¡°O-Oh.¡±


    ¡°Come on! Show us the junk!¡± Harley called out.


    ¡°Yeah! Where¡¯s the junk at? Give it up already!¡± Sola added, as they started getting looks from everyone around them.


    ¡°What are you two yelling about?¡± Wess demanded, just as she and Julia joined up with them.


    ¡°Great Prophet Mykos is lacking in the package department, and we¡¯re mad about it.¡± Harley explained.


    ¡°Might I remind you two we¡¯re performing in the nationally broadcasted tournament soon?¡± Wess pointed out, trying to hide her face. ¡°Don¡¯t have them associate Team Valiant with yelling at a statue for lacking genitalia.¡±


    Harley and Sola looked at each other.


    ¡°This is Team Valiant, demanding this statue show us the goods!¡± Harley yelled even louder, only grabbing more attention.


    ¡°Mykos betrayed us!¡± Sola added, just as Wess started to walk away.


    ¡°I¡¯m leaving before someone films this.¡± She aptly stated, just as Julia turned to Harley and Sola and folded her arms.


    They looked back at her in shame.


    ¡°Bad idea?¡± Sola said.


    ¡°Come on, guys. I know you¡¯re having fun, but don¡¯t do it at Wess¡¯ expense.¡± Julia insisted. ¡°We¡¯re trying to put her mind at ease, okay?¡±


    ¡°...yeah, sorry.¡± Harley said. ¡°We thought she¡¯d get a kick out of it.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s just try to avoid PR disasters.¡± Julia reasoned, as Sola perked up with an idea.


    ¡°I¡¯m gonna get some food for Wess early. That way, we can eat it while we walk.¡± Sola suggested, as Julia tapped her chin.


    ¡°Great idea. We¡¯ll just get the rest later.¡± Julia said, just as Sola was getting excited again. ¡°Good thinking, Sola.¡±


    ¡°Thanks!¡± Sola cheered, running off to a nearby store she was familiar with. ¡°I know the perfect place!¡±


    Julia found herself laughing. ¡°She¡¯s really giving, huh?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s what I love about her.¡± Harley remarked, just as she noticed Essex off to the side, staring up at the statue in awe. ¡°Don¡¯t you agree?¡±


    Essex took notice and faced her suddenly. ¡°Vonodo, what did you say?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t you like her too?¡±


    Essex averted her eyes and tried not to look too nervous. ¡°Y-Yes, yes, I...yes.¡±


    ¡°...okay then.¡± Harley let out, shrugging to Julia, as she watched Sola happily head off to the shops.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Thank you!¡± Sola called out, walking out of the store with her bag, as she looked down at the store-bought grape tarts. ¡°These¡¯ll really knock her socks off.¡±


    ¡°Hey, kid!¡± She heard behind her, as she spotted Wayne emerging from a shop nearby. ¡°Just couldn¡¯t wait to get to shopping with your old man, huh?¡±


    ¡°No, I was just buying something for Wess.¡± Sola explained. ¡°I was gonna get it later, but she needs cheering up now.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s a good kid.¡± He said, rustling her hair. ¡°Let¡¯s meet up with your team.¡±


    ¡°Can do.¡± Sola beamed, joining his side, as they walked down the fairly busy streets of Mykonori.


    ¡°So...what have you been up to during your degree?¡± Wayne asked, as Sola shrugged.


    ¡°Just the same old, same old, really.¡± Sola said.


    ¡°And how¡¯s the team been?¡±


    ¡°Awesome.¡± Sola grinned. ¡°This is the most fun thing I¡¯ve ever done in my life.¡±


    Wayne rubbed his neck. ¡°I¡¯d be lying if I said I wasn¡¯t jealous.¡±


    ¡°You and mum are fun too. But Team Valiant¡¯s my age.¡± Sola bluntly put it.


    ¡°Yeah, you¡¯ve got us there.¡± Wayne laughed, which slowly turned into a cough.


    The coughing got more out of hand, before he slammed his fist to his chest. ¡°Oh geez...¡±


    ¡°Have you been taking your pills?¡± Sola asked, as Wayne rolled his eyes.


    ¡°Against my will. Like they¡¯re helping at all...¡± He groaned. ¡°It¡¯s not about to reverse it...¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sure it¡¯ll clear up.¡± Sola said, before reaching into her bag. ¡°Tarts usually cheer me up.¡±


    ¡°Thanks, kid, but that¡¯ll only make me feel worse.¡± Wayne admitted, as Sola put the tart back. ¡°I can¡¯t eat that much processed sugar at my age.¡±


    ¡°Oh...¡± Sola let out, as Wayne noticed her dejectedly staring at the ground.


    ¡°...but I could probably eat the grapes on them.¡±


    Sola stopped. ¡°Oh yeah! Why didn¡¯t I think of that?¡±


    She went to grab one, as Wayne sat back and appreciated watching her go to such lengths just to make him happy.


    Sola and Wayne quickly met up with the rest of Team Valiant by the Colossus of Mykos, as Sola hurried over to Wess, lying on an empty bench.


    ¡°Hey, Wess!¡± She called. ¡°I got you something!¡±


    ...another gift? Wess wondered, sitting up. Hopefully this one¡¯s intact.


    ¡°I was gonna get it later, but I thought you could use it.¡± Sola said, showing off a few of the small tarts.


    Wess noticed the grocery store packaging and slightly winced. ¡°...tarts.¡±


    ¡°I know they look cheap, but trust me, they¡¯re good.¡± Sola insisted, before Wess took a breath and grabbed them.


    ¡°I¡¯ll take your word for it.¡± Wess said, opening them up and taking a small bite, before reeling a bit. ¡°Goodness gracious, that¡¯s excellent.¡±


    ¡°I got a couple years back and never forgot how good they taste.¡± Sola explained, sitting down with Wess and going for one herself. ¡°I thought your fancy palette wouldn¡¯t really like it.¡±


    ¡°Sola.¡± Wess assured. ¡°I know good taste when I have it.¡±


    Wess went for another bite. ¡°And you, my dear teammate, are good taste.¡±


    Sola smiled back at her, before kicking her legs a little. ¡°...how are you after yesterday?¡±


    Wess swallowed and faced Sola proper. ¡°I¡¯ve...been through worse, but those were usually isolated experiences...¡±


    Wess ran her hands through her hair, debating whether to show Sola her Favour scars, before deciding against it taking a breath.


    ¡°...I felt so weak.¡± Wess admitted. ¡°That...vile, vile man takes a swing at me, and I couldn-¡±


    ¡°No, don¡¯t say that.¡± Sola assured, resting a hand on her. ¡°You weren¡¯t weak.¡±


    Wess stared to the side. ¡°I¡¯m training as a warrior, and I couldn¡¯t even fight back.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t need to fight back to be strong.¡± Sola insisted. ¡°You were strong every day you were in that house.¡±


    Wess stared at the floor in frustration, before sighing out and patting Sola¡¯s hand. ¡°...part of me¡¯s just mad I didn¡¯t get the last word in.¡±


    ¡°You left.¡± Sola said. ¡°That was the last word.¡±


    Wess nodded to her solemnly, before going in to finish her tart.


    ¡°...thank you for that.¡± Wess said, smiling and pointing to the tart. ¡°And this.¡±


    Sola giggled. ¡°It¡¯s better than me trying to cook.¡±


    The duo kept laughing to each other, as Wayne did his best to stand back and let them enjoy themselves, just as he felt his tablet buzz in his pocket.


    Maxine [How goes the shopping trip?]


    Wayne looked back at her on the bench and typed.


    Wayne [Our daughter¡¯s made some very good friends.]


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Ferris tapped her foot impatiently, just by her desk, as she waited for as long as she could manage.


    ¡°Slow bastard...¡± Ferris muttered. ¡°I trounce around the whole academy drunk and I¡¯m still faster...¡±


    Almost immediately after, she noticed someone coming in, only to be disappointed that it was Vent.


    Vent looked up at her. ¡°Geez. What crawled up your a-¡±


    ¡°Bite me, Vent.¡± Ferris spat back, as he just ignored her and found his way to his desk, right as Coatsworth came in a few seconds behind him.


    ¡°My...apologies...¡± Coatsworth said, struggling to hold the drawer. ¡°...this...has travelled several floors...¡±


    ¡°Did you use the elevator?¡± Ferris asked.


    Coatsworth blinked. ¡°There is an elevator?¡±


    Ferris looked shocked. ¡°Wha-yes, there¡¯s an elevator! This place is huge!¡±


    ¡°Well, I was not aware of one.¡± Coatsworth excused, hoisting the drawer onto Ferris completely empty desk, before he took the chance to tug at his tight suit again. ¡°That should make returning it much simpler.¡±


    ¡°As simple as you, apparently.¡± Ferris remarked, watching as Coatsworth made a meal of working out the tightness in his suit. ¡°Geez...¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Coatsworth asked, straightening out his sleeve.


    Ferris¡¯s eye twitched. ¡°Woulda stop tugging at your suit? It¡¯s pissing me off.¡± Ferris complained, as Coatsworth briefly stopped. ¡°Just get a new fucking suit already.¡±


    Coatsworth shook his head. ¡°I can¡¯t do that.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re the Vice-Principal. I¡¯m sure you can afford it.¡± Ferris croaked, as Coatsworth shook his head.


    ¡°It has sentimental value to me.¡± Coatsworth explained, looking down at it and running his hand over the sleeve. ¡°It¡¯s a gift from my wife.¡±


    Ferris raised an eyebrow. ¡°Doesn¡¯t she know your size?¡±


    ¡°No.¡± Coatsworth said, before letting out a gentle smile. ¡°But she knew I liked it. She was in hospital for a few years, but once I was hired here, she got me this suit as a gift. It was such a sweet gesture¡­¡±


    Coatsworth tapped his fingers together. ¡°¡­and it was her last gift before passing.¡±


    Ferris reeled a bit, before glancing at Coatsworth solemnly, watching as he clearly recalled something tragic.


    ¡°I was going to suggest that we go and get the suit refitted once she was out of hospital¡­¡± Coatsworth explained. ¡°But, of course, that didn¡¯t end up happening. And, after a while, I couldn¡¯t bring myself to refit it at all.¡±


    Coatsworth stared at the floor. ¡°I¡¯ve gotten used to it, however. At first, I just bore through it, but in a strange way, I think it¡¯s grown on me. Whenever it pulls on me, it makes me think that she¡¯s trying to get my attention again.¡±


    With visible confidence, Coatsworth turned to Ferris. ¡°So no, I won¡¯t get a ¡®new fucking suit.¡¯¡±


    Ferris kept her mouth shut, as she took the opportunity to sit at her desk, before the need to respond hit her.


    ¡°¡­it¡¯s not easy losing those close to you.¡± Ferris lamented. ¡°I commend you for sticking it out.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s the right thing.¡± Coatsworth assured, leaning near the desk. ¡°She wanted to have kids at some point, so¡­I guess I started seeing the students here like that.¡±


    He stared up at the ceiling with pure elation. ¡°And if I can keep them safe, then I know she¡¯ll be happy, wherever she may be.¡±


    Ferris started digging through the drawer as he was talking, checking out a bit by the end, as Coatsworth turned to her in annoyance. Eventually, she stopped digging and sighed.


    ¡°...you might as well know¡­I saw him leave a book in here.¡± Ferris admitted. ¡°It just looked like a day planner, but he seemed protective of it¡­¡±


    Ferris held up the book in question and chuckled. ¡°Turns out¡­it was just a day planner. A few days are marked ¡®Ferris-free.¡¯ No wonder he didn¡¯t want me seeing it.¡±


    Coatsworth looked down at her. ¡°I¡¯m sorry to hear that.¡±


    ¡°Whatever. If I bothered to keep ones of these, I¡¯d do the same.¡± Ferris said, shrugging. ¡°The rest of the draw is empty too. Just a few loose files and office supplies. I guess I wanted it to have what I was looking for, but¡­¡±


    Coatsworth casually ran a finger over the pocket carrying the metal insect he¡¯d found earlier, as he debated showing it to Ferris, before inevitably giving in to his good nature.


    ¡°...I did find an additional object.¡± Coatsworth brought up, taking it out of his pocket and grabbing Ferris¡¯ attention. ¡°It didn¡¯t know what to make of it...¡±


    Ferris¡¯ eyes widened the moment she saw it, as she grabbed for it suddenly. ¡°Where¡¯d you find this?!¡±


    ¡°In his drawer. It was tucked away.¡± Coatsworth said, as Ferris scoured over it.


    ¡°This is one of the listening devices.¡± Ferris explained. ¡°They were all over the academy during the last attack. Faller sent me to deactivate them.¡±


    Coatsworth recalled what Julia had told him during the attack and joined her. ¡°That is the listening device?¡±


    ¡°That sneaky...¡± Ferris said, as she nearly chucked it across the room, briefly scaring Vent. ¡°Great guy! Fuck off with that! He hid this from me like I wouldn¡¯t find out!¡±


    Coatsworth stared at her as she freaked out over the bug and sighed out in frustration. ¡°What is with you and Faller? I feel like you¡¯re having this cat and mouse game where neither participant wants to play. What were you hoping was in that planner?¡±


    Ferris stared back at him, before looking to the ceiling, just as she slumped into her chair.


    ¡°Are you really concerned for the safety of the academy?¡± Ferris asked.


    Coatsworth was caught off guard, as he watched Ferris instinctively go for her pocket flask.


    ¡°¡­I don¡¯t know if I can trust him right now.¡± Ferris admitted. ¡°For a while, I just didn¡¯t like the guy, but¡­I¡¯m starting to get¡­cautious.¡±


    ¡°Cautious?¡± Coatsworth asked.


    Ferris stared at him, studying his face, and trying to study his intentions, before just giving up and resting her head on the wall while taking a swig.


    ¡°¡­for a while, me and Faller have been looking for¡­something.¡± Ferris confessed. ¡°Something dangerous. Something that might be influencing the Wailing Conflict.¡±


    Coatsworth nodded along. ¡°Something that caused the attacks on the academy last year?¡±


    Ferris turned to him. ¡°You¡¯re a perceptive one¡­yeah. I think Faller told you about the listening devices, but he never showed you them¡­¡±


    Coatsworth wondered over what Ferris was admitting, before coming to a conclusion. ¡°Do you believe that Faller might be involved with this?¡±


    Ferris shook her head. ¡°Not just involved.¡± Ferris said. ¡°I think he¡¯s running it. Whatever all this is¡­he¡¯s part of it somehow.¡±


    She held up the bug. ¡°And the fact that he kept this only proves it more.¡±


    She banged her head against the wall to get out some frustration. ¡°And I fell for it¡­¡±


    Ferris waved her hand. ¡°I¡¯m supposed to protect him, but now I¡¯m wondering if I haven¡¯t been aiding the enemy¡­¡±


    ¡°...but what could he have against the academy? Against Venators?¡± Coatsworth asked. ¡°He¡¯s the principal, for goodness sake.¡±


    ¡°Maybe he only got the position so he¡¯d have power over this place?¡± Ferris pointed out, feeling a strong headache coming on. ¡°We already know someone¡¯s working from the inside. For all we know, Faller let us onto that just so we wouldn¡¯t find out it¡¯s him. Then he could get any potential heat off of himself...¡±


    Ferris watched Coatsworth properly sitting on her desk, processing this information in his own way.


    ¡°I should apologise, by the way.¡± Ferris said. ¡°About this time last year, I was accusing you of the same thing.¡±


    Coatsworth recalled Julia¡¯s accusation and waved his hand idly. ¡°It¡¯s understandable...so, what do we do now?¡±


    Ferris leaned further back in her chair. ¡°How the fuck should I know? I¡¯m not even completely convinced.¡±


    Coatsworth stared back at the drawer, before picking it back up again. ¡°I should return this. It will only cause suspicion if Faller finds it missing.¡±


    Coatsworth waited for Ferris to put the bug back in, as she rolled her eyes and begrudgingly did so.


    ¡°Whatever this plot is, we will find out who¡¯s behind it.¡± Coatsworth assured, carrying the drawer. ¡°We may not be friends, but we both share this goal.¡±


    Coatsworth took his leave, just as Ferris got up to stop him.


    ¡°Hey.¡± Ferris said. ¡°...if this gets dangerous, don¡¯t throw yourself into the fire, you know?¡±


    Coatsworth looked puzzled.


    ¡°The students may be your...¡± Ferris started, before groaning. ¡°...children, but they¡¯re also training to be warriors. They can keep themselves safe.¡±


    Coatsworth let out a smile. ¡°I was already saved by Team Valiant once. I just hope to return the favour in kind.¡±


    Coatsworth left proper with the drawer in hand, as Ferris clicked her tongue and went back to her desk.


    ¡°...Team Valiant.¡± She muttered, staring at the ceiling. ¡°Stay safe, you little bastards...¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    After a few more days of enjoying Mykonori¡¯s vastness and calming nature, the team were restocked and ready to head out once again. Due the extra few days, they took their time to hang out with Sola¡¯s parents and appreciate the homeliness of their little abode.


    Especially Sola.


    ¡°Have fun, you guys.¡± Maxine said, waving them off. ¡°Travel safe.¡±


    ¡°I hope Mykonori was to your liking.¡± Wayne added, waving as well, as Sola gave them both one last hug.


    ¡°It was even better this time.¡± Sola exclaimed, hopping onto the train with the rest of the team, save for Julia, who was still retrieving her bags from the car.


    Maxine noticed and went down to help. ¡°Don¡¯t worry.¡±


    ¡°Oh, thanks.¡± Julia said, handing off a bag. ¡°This was a really nice trip.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m glad you liked it.¡± Maxine said, hauling the bag up, before reaching the top of the stairs.


    Julia went to join the others, just as Maxine grabbed her shoulders.


    ¡°I just have one question for you before you leave.¡±


    Julia tried not to look nervous and nodded.


    ¡°Are you safe?¡±


    Julia double-took, as she tried to understand the question. ¡°W-What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°I wanna know if you¡¯re safe right now.¡± Maxine asked. ¡°If you¡¯re taking care of my daughter, I need to know I can keep trusting you. If you feel safe, then I can be confident she is too.¡±


    Julia gulped a little, watching as Maxine took the question very seriously, before giving an honest answer.


    ¡°Yes. You can count on us.¡±


    Maxine patted her. ¡°Okay then. Happy travels.¡±


    Wow, she can be scary. Julia realised, taking the chance to join the others on the train, just as it shot off down the track, heading deeper into the Aishanara Forest.


    ¡°You packed more of those tarts, right?¡± Wess asked, as Sola happily handed her another one. ¡°Oh, you angel.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯re friends for?¡± Sola giggled, just as the forest came into view. ¡°The Aishanara forest is so calming...I¡¯m not even worried about being on a train...¡±


    ¡°So, you said the clan¡¯s gathered in the forest?¡± Harley asked, as Essex nodded back to her.


    ¡°Dal. They are situated close to Michiri for the next few months.¡± Essex explained. ¡°We shall arrive just in time for Boncala Day.¡±


    ¡°Man, I can¡¯t wait to meet them!¡± Harley let out. ¡°This is gonna be so good!¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t believe we¡¯ve been traveling for nearly two weeks.¡± Julia brought up. ¡°I hope we do more of this after graduating.¡±


    ¡°If Wailing aren¡¯t an issue.¡± Wess mentioned, going in for a bite of the tarts. ¡°Heavens, that¡¯s good...¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. We¡¯ll be fine.¡± Sola ensured. ¡°Team Valiant are as strong as ever! To the forest!¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    After a few days, the pair of Wailing had fallen into a similar routine. They¡¯d check to see if the team were in any vulnerable areas, only to come up short due to the number of bystanders or sheer exposure to the public eye. They waited patiently for an opening that never came. Worse yet, if they jumped the gun, people might report them to any nearby Venators, meaning their whole operation would be mute.


    They took their time gnawing on a few animal carcasses, with one watching the team while the other watched their surroundings.


    And, suddenly, the Wailing watching the team spotted them heading for the Flash-Rail, as it grabbed the others attention.


    They both watched as the team entered the carriage, before it shot down the track and travelled closer to the forest, right past where they were hidden in the foliage.


    They both looked excitedly at each other.


    This was it.


    This was their best chance.


    They could finally kill Team Valiant.


    They could finally be free.

 Chapter 34: Countertop

    Connection is close


    Commitment is far, but life


    Is still protected


    ¡°...aybe we¡¯ll get to meet her clan members? If they¡¯re anything like her, I bet they¡¯r...¡±


    ¡°...ut they¡¯re so secretive. Nobody outside of the clan knows much about them, and the only member who¡¯s famous is the Vagabon...


    ¡°...e still know a member personally. She¡¯s informed us about their customs on numerous occas...¡±


    ¡°...guys, I think she can hear us.¡±


    The rest of Team Valiant, all huddled together, turned to Essex, quietly staring out the Flash-Rail window and thinking to herself, before turning to them and acknowledging she was in fact listening in.


    ¡°Are you curious to the clan¡¯s nature?¡± Essex asked.


    ¡°Yeah. Sorry, but the anticipation¡¯s getting to us.¡± Julia admitted.


    ¡°This discussion doesn¡¯t bother me.¡± Essex clarified, facing them properly. ¡°I...am excited to show you the clan that has saved my life.¡±


    Harley leaned into Julia to whisper. ¡°You hear that? Excited. Since when does she show so much emotion?¡±


    Julia smiled back at her, as Sola jumped over to Essex.


    ¡°You¡¯ve talked about them so much! I¡¯d never even heard about the Segaru Clan until I met you.¡± Sola exclaimed, jumping up and down. ¡°It¡¯ll explain so much!¡±


    Essex decided to look away again, as she hoped to focus her words. ¡°I-It is something very personal, and we do not broadcast our existence to be admired.¡±


    ¡°More of that classic Segaru humility.¡± Wess remarked, sitting on one of the armrests. ¡°You¡¯ll have to be careful if we ever make it big within the industry. I bet interviewers will have plenty of questions about where you came from.¡±


    Harley hopped to Essex¡¯ other side. ¡°Just flash that winning smile. That¡¯ll leave ¡®em speechless.¡±


    Essex tried to focus on what was outside the window. ¡°I-If it comes to that.¡±


    Julia happily watched Essex¡¯ embarrassment as the team surrounded her seat, just as the Flash-Rail started to slow down on the tracks.


    ¡°Oh, we¡¯re at Michiri.¡± Julia announced, grabbing her bags. ¡°Alright guys, let¡¯s get a move on.¡±


    The team hopped out into Michiri, the small stop just beside the highway cutting through the Aishanara Forest. They wheeled their bags off the platform, before looking around.


    ¡°Are the clan near here?¡± Julia asked, as Essex gave it a quick scan, before shaking her head.


    ¡°They would be situated further into the foliage. We are too close to civilisation.¡± Essex informed, leading the pack. ¡°I will help track them.¡±


    ¡°W-We actually have to go into the forest?¡± Sola shuddered. ¡°W-We haven¡¯t had great luck in them before.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Sola.¡± Julia smiled, slinging an arm around her. ¡°We¡¯ll be with a whole clan of warriors. If a Wailing tries anything, they¡¯ll be sorry.¡±


    Sola blinked, before the realisation hit her. ¡°Oh yeah! Well, we¡¯ll be fine then.¡±


    ¡°They are...not trained warriors.¡± Essex clarified. ¡°We carry scythes, but only a select few know of combat.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± Sola realised, reaching a sort of neutral state. ¡°...huh.¡±


    ¡°You could always summon storm clouds again.¡± Harley joked, as Essex pointed to a small path through the trees and indicated for the others to follow.


    ¡°But I can¡¯t do that.¡± Sola said, just as the team carried their bags through the foliage in search of the clan.


    This was it.


    They were out in the wild.


    They were unarmed.


    The Wailing knew the forest left and right.


    If this wasn¡¯t their chance, then they would never be free.


    The pair of Wailing cautiously crawled by the outskirts of Michiri, watching Team Valiant work their way into the forest interior proper. They swirled around each other, both hoping to get a clear idea of where they were headed.


    While killing them then would have been ideal, they quickly realised the team wouldn¡¯t be heading into a place like the Aishanara Forest without some sort of destination. Attacking now without information would be careless and leave them exposed. They could easily fall into a situation they couldn¡¯t predict.


    Even as they knew better, they each looked to the other¡¯s side, spotting the slightest scar running down the sides of their heads.


    Failure wasn¡¯t an option.


    They had to make sure of that.


    This had to be perfect.


    The Aishanara Forest was unique for...everything about it. Obviously, forests were situated all across Daysend, but none to the extent or wildness of this one. Trees nearly doubled in height and tripled in diameter. The ground was elevated at random, and the thick layer of leaves at the top meant almost no sunlight managed to hit the ground. It was as natural a maze as you could get, and its sheer size only added to this.


    As their forest walk crossed over into twenty minutes, the team started to get antsy, all while Essex did her best to search her clan out.


    ¡°Essex, are you sure they¡¯re gathered here?¡± Wess asked, nearly tripping over a giant root. ¡°Ow! Gods, I miss the tundra...¡±


    ¡°Dal.¡± Essex assured, climbing up the side of a few trees, before pointing out another. ¡°Vonodo. If you will look.¡±


    She indicated to a few noticeable scratch marks in the side of a couple trees, which clearly hadn¡¯t been made by animals or Wailing due to their cleanness.


    ¡°These are markers by the clan made not to get lost.¡± Essex explained, before stopping suddenly. ¡°...I hear them to the west.¡±


    She hopped back down and drag the others behind her, as they struggled to keep up with her while wheeling suitcases.


    After another few minutes of searching, the sound started to grow for the others as well, until they could make out the voices of other people.


    Eventually, they cleared a large mound, passing over a wildly spiralling set of roots and around a massive tree taking up most of a hill, before crossing over it to find them.


    The Segaru Clan.


    ¡°Aeleda Decalias.¡± Essex greeted, displaying her palm welcomingly. ¡°This is the clan.¡±


    It was difficult to tell where the clan ended and where nature began. Tents were set up wherever there was room, taking advantage of the relatively flat ground in this part of the forest, with all manner of craft and hobby taking up their interiors. Members walked around freely, each sporting heavy, black robes and a scythe on their back, though most worked away at improving the camp around them. It was a large departure for their previous destinations, but the team were still just as fascinated with where they¡¯d ended up.


    ¡°You weren¡¯t kidding when you called it a clan.¡± Julia muttered, stepping forward. ¡°It feels so rustic...¡±


    ¡°They really do all have scythes.¡± Wess remarked. ¡°I thought you were just making that up.¡±


    ¡°Why would I...?¡± Essex asked, just as a voice called out from behind her.


    ¡°Essex! Calias!¡±


    Essex turned and waved to the approaching clan member. ¡°Kent! Calias!¡±


    Essex met her in the middle, just as Kent gave her a quick onceover, before panicking.


    ¡°Where are your robes?¡± Kent frantically asked, grabbing Essex¡¯s suit. ¡°You know you shouldn¡¯t be seen without them.¡±


    ¡°There...was not enough room with packing.¡± Essex insisted.


    Kent eyed her up. ¡°So you couldn¡¯t wear it on the train?¡±


    Kent didn¡¯t expect an answer and quickly removed her robe. ¡°Here, take mine. We can give you a spare once we arrive at the tent.¡±


    Kent looked up to acknowledge the other people surrounding Essex. ¡°...I would assume these are just your friends, but considering there¡¯s four of you...¡±


    ¡°They are my Venator team.¡± Essex said, struggling to keep the robe tied up, as Kent nodded firmly to them.


    ¡°Aerlo Decali. My title is Kent.¡± Kent greeted, bowing to the team.


    Despite her natural authority, Kent didn¡¯t look too much older than Essex, maybe a bit over a decade. While it was hard to tell much about her with her robes on, after removing them, it was clear she was a well-trained athlete under her regular clothes, or at least had the physique of one. Julia briefly confused her for Essex¡¯s mother, but mentally corrected herself after giving them both another look.


    Kent stood back up. ¡°I hope Essex has been aiding in your training as Venators.¡±


    ¡°Definitely.¡± Harley grinned, just as Sola peeked around Kent.


    ¡°There¡¯s a lot of people here.¡± She remarked, just as Kent leaned down to block her view.


    ¡°Due to the upcoming Boncala Day, many members located around Daysend have returned for the celebration.¡± Kent clarified. ¡°Jesalo Mosori and all. Fortunately, we usually have a month to prepare.¡±


    ¡°I...do not wish to wear this.¡± Essex stated, as Kent folded her arms.


    ¡°Fine. Throw your scythe away.¡± Kent insisted, which gave Essex pause for thought. ¡°It¡¯s just for a few days. I¡¯m sure you can handle it.¡±


    Kent looked over the team and ushered them to follow. ¡°Come along.¡±


    ¡°S-Sorry, but is it alright if we aren¡¯t wearing robes?¡± Julia asked.


    ¡°They¡¯re only required for clan members. Don¡¯t worry.¡± Kent said, beckoning them again. ¡°This should be interesting. We don¡¯t get many visitors to Boncala Day.¡±


    ¡°Or in general, I¡¯d guess.¡± Harley mumbled under her breath, staring in fascination at the wild camp now surrounding them.


    Just as the team passed through each of the tents, they garnered a few looks from the members not focused on their work. Julia waved to them politely, but their attention fluttered to Essex, who was still struggling to keep the robe on.


    ¡°Here we are.¡± Kent said, stopping in front of a tent, before entering.


    The team slowly entered one by one, all except for Essex, who bowed outside the main entrance, waiting for confirmation from Kent.


    ¡°You are welcome, Essex.¡± Kent allowed. ¡°Your friend is too, of course.¡±


    Essex stood up in confusion, only to now notice Harley bowing beside her, waiting for the same confirmation, before getting up and smiling to Essex.


    ¡°It seemed like the polite thing to do.¡± Harley said, as Essex felt a blush creep in, just as the two entered the tent.


    The tent was sparsely decorated, mostly housing the basics, like a bed, small cooking area, various robes and basic clothes to wear underneath, as well as a few seats set up, most likely for members arriving back. A fair amount of sewing equipment was situated across the tent as well, with some robes half made and others being repaired.


    Almost immediately, Essex removed her robes, letting them fall to the floor, just as Kent sighed out and went to grab a smaller one for her.


    ¡°I¡¯m glad to see you got my correspondence. We will be celebrating member Tyrian¡¯s Boncala Day tomorrow.¡± Kent announced, retrieving the smaller robe, as the rest of the team tried to make themselves comfortable. ¡°I wasn¡¯t expecting you to bring company. Pelonos decu, of course, but it¡¯s still a surprise.¡±


    ¡°Well, we¡¯ve been travelling around Daysend for the last two weeks.¡± Julia explained. ¡°Admittedly, your letter was what spurred it on in the first place.¡±


    ¡°I am glad I could help.¡± Kent insisted, handing off Essex¡¯s robe, before noticing her scythe. ¡°Elia, what have you done to your scythe?¡±


    Essex blushed again, before grabbing it and showing it off to her. ¡°I have added modifications to aid in becoming a Ven-¡±


    ¡°Modifications?!¡± Kent cried, as she quickly grabbed it, before pressing the buttons on the handle, which changed out the metal in the blade. ¡°...Essex.¡±


    Essex turned away. ¡°I-I know it isn¡¯t encouraged, but it was necessary for me to become a proper warrior.¡±


    ¡°A clan member doesn¡¯t need these ¡®improvements.¡¯¡± Kent insisted. ¡°What if the other members see these changes?¡±


    Essex realised her fault and quickly bowed to the ground, facing Kent.


    ¡°Muerbetra. Relusa tinue.¡± Essex declared. ¡°This was a selfish action.¡±


    Kent begrudgingly handed her scythe back, as Essex readily took it, just as Kent silently tapped her foot on the ground in frustration.


    ¡°...unfortunately, I don¡¯t have bedding for all of you.¡± She said, acknowledging the rest of the team scattered around the tent. ¡°We¡¯ll need to gather them from Ross. He¡¯s a few tents away.¡±


    Kent opened up the tent flap again. ¡°However, Muer would insist that I show you where that is.¡±


    ¡°O-Oh. Thank you, Kent.¡± Julia insisted, getting up and joining her, before turning to the team. ¡°You guys get comfortable. I¡¯ll go get our bedding.¡±


    Kent led Julia out of the tent, as they walked across camp, leaving a bit of dead air between them.


    ¡°So, uhh, I¡¯ve got a...question.¡± Julia felt like asking. ¡°What¡¯s the Muer that you and Essex keep talking about?¡±


    ¡°Has she not told you?¡± Kent wondered. ¡°It¡¯s the central philosophy of the Segaru Clan. It states that life is meant to be spent helping those around you, not on needless distractions. Our members spread around Daysend and find ways to help those they meet on their travels.¡±


    Kent sighed out in relief. ¡°Only in death may we finally lay back and relax, as by then, we can no longer improve the world around us.¡±


    ¡°Wow.¡± Julia let out, feeling a bit awkward. ¡°Essex always mentioned helping people when she could, but I didn¡¯t think it had so much significance behind it.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s very important to us.¡± Kent clarified, turning to Julia. ¡°I imagine it¡¯s quite similar to Venators.¡±


    ¡°In a way.¡± Julia laughed. ¡°Probably not helping the Wailing...¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve received a couple letters from Essex detailing your team. I¡¯m guessing from her descriptions, you¡¯re...Sola?¡± Kent asked, as Julia facepalmed.


    ¡°Why does everyone...no, I¡¯m Julia, the leader.¡± She corrected, as Kent blushed a little.


    ¡°Oh. Relias.¡± She apologised. ¡°I¡¯m not great with faces. Or names.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s okay.¡± Julia excused, before quickly deciding to bow. ¡°Grela.¡±


    Kent found herself chuckling a little. ¡°You¡¯re using that slightly wrong, but the attempt is appreciated...leader.¡±


    The duo arrived at the tent in question, which seemed covered with spare bedding, almost like a market stall.


    ¡°Just a second.¡± Called out a voice, before an older man popped out of the tent. ¡°How can...oh. You were one of the visitors accompanying Essex.¡±


    ¡°Y-Yeah, that was...me. I¡¯m...Julia, her team leader.¡± She greeted, tentatively sticking out her hand, as he eventually shook it.


    ¡°Ross. So, you¡¯re with the Venator school too.¡± Ross acknowledged. ¡°Well, at least you¡¯re doing good work. We try to handle what Wailing we can, though we¡¯re not really trained for it.¡±


    ¡°Admittedly, Essex handled most of them for us when she was here.¡± Kent confessed, only to get a scoff from Ross, which she quickly glared at him for.


    ¡°How¡¯s she been handling herself?¡± Ross asked, as Julia felt a bit put on the spot.


    ¡°G-Great. She¡¯s been an awesome team member, and really good at taking out Wailing.¡± Julia clarified, before adding further. ¡°A-and super helpful with other class stuff.¡±


    Ross folded his arms. ¡°She¡¯s certainly built for one of those.¡± Ross remarked, as Kent stamped her foot, before heading around the table and dragging him off behind the tent.


    ¡°Just one second, Julia.¡± Kent insisted, leaving Julia by herself.


    Out of curiosity, mostly to see what they were saying about Essex, Julia peeked around the tent to catch their conversation.


    ¡°...eep it under control while her teammates are here, okay?¡±


    ¡°What should it matter what they think, Kent? I¡¯m assessing her as a member.¡±


    ¡°Yes, you¡¯ve been doing that since she joined.¡±


    ¡°And yet, you keep coddling her. You wouldn¡¯t do that for other members. The only reason she doesn¡¯t wear a robe is because you said it was oka-¡±


    ¡°I said it was okay for her. You knew she was struggling to fit in, so what, was I meant to force one on her like some kind of forseca?¡±


    ¡°...if she disrupts this Boncala Day...¡±


    ¡°She won¡¯t. That¡¯s not like her.¡±


    Julia could feel the conversation winding down and instinctively jumped back, trying to look like she hadn¡¯t been listening, just as Kent and Ross came back, still clearly miffed at each other.


    ¡°So, I¡¯m assuming your team needs something to sleep on?¡± Ross asked, going to grab some bedding to distract himself.


    ¡°Y-Yeah, any will do.¡± Julia replied, as Ross placed some down. ¡°Thanks. How many capitals is this?¡±


    ¡°We don¡¯t use capitals here. But wash them before returning them.¡± Ross said. ¡°You¡¯re lucky that we have plenty spare for Boncala Day. We¡¯d usually give our free ones to homeless shelters.¡±


    ¡°Grela, Ross.¡± Kent thanked, picking up a few and carrying them back with Julia, as Ross clicked his tongue.


    ¡°Oh, Essex...¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Essex...¡±


    ¡°I feel like we¡¯re actually camping!¡± Sola exclaimed. ¡°We should go camping for real! I¡¯ve never done that before!¡±


    ¡°Essex...?¡±


    ¡°How about we finish this trip before making other plans, ¡®kay?¡± Harley remarked, patting her head, as they chuckled to each other.


    ¡°Essex!¡±


    Essex jumped back suddenly, as Wess leaned out of her chair to get her attention.


    ¡°There we go. I was starting to think you were ignoring me.¡± Wess commented, sitting back properly. ¡°You seem awfully out of it.¡±


    Essex briefly shied away, as she struggled to think of an excuse. ¡°I-It¡¯s...that I have returned here after so long.¡±


    ¡°Oh, yes. I can imagine that¡¯s quite jarring.¡± Wess sympathised. ¡°There¡¯s certainly a culture shock for us too.¡±


    ¡°...we do not...show emotion in the clan.¡± Essex admitted, fiddling with her hands. ¡°While emotion cannot be avoided, we are trained to control it so that it doesn¡¯t control us. And, as such...¡±


    Essex sighed out. ¡°There are certain aspects of my life which I have yet to understand.¡±


    Wess stared at her in curiosity, before facing Harley and Sola. ¡°Not to critique the clan too harshly, but most of life''s greatest discoveries are fuelled by bouts of emotion. Just look at our two lovebirds over there.¡±


    Essex begrudgingly stared back at Harley and Sola, still doting on each other, as Wess continued. ¡°Suppressing that only means you experience less of your life. You¡¯ll miss chances you otherwise could have embraced.¡±


    ¡°...Eldava Monodo Del.¡± Essex muttered, catching Wess attention.


    ¡°What does that mean?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a clan saying. It translates to ¡®One who wears pockets, but does not use them.¡¯¡± Essex explained. ¡°It is meant to refer to someone who has means but only uses them for vanity, but I believe it applies to this too.¡±


    Wess found herself chuckling into her hand. ¡°I quite like that saying. Maybe the Clan does have a few good points.¡±


    ¡°...I will not take that comment personally.¡± Essex muttered, getting another laugh from Wess.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°This should be enough for your team?¡±


    ¡°Yeah. Harley and Sola can just share the big one.¡± Julia said, passing by the other tents, before another question came to mind. ¡°Umm...Kent. If you don¡¯t mind me asking...¡±


    ¡°Dal.¡± Kent encouraged.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with Essex upgrading her scythe?¡± Julia asked, as Kent jumped in place, before sighing out.


    ¡°You¡¯re very curious, aren¡¯t you?¡±


    ¡°Oh, s-sorry, I know I¡¯ve been asking a lot of questions.¡± Julia said. ¡°But I don¡¯t know when I¡¯ll get this opportunity again. I really want to know more about Essex and your customs.¡±


    Kent eyed up Julia, before folding her arms. ¡°The scythe is an important symbol to the clan.¡± Kent explained. ¡°It¡¯s a useful tool and an efficient weapon. It helps us to navigate the forest, defeat Wailing, and aids in plenty of other small ways.¡±


    Kent reached to her back and grabbed her own scythe. ¡°The handle represents our control over our lives, and the blade represents our death and its inevitability. If we¡¯re to give our scythe over to someone, it¡¯s the same as giving our lives.¡±


    Kent stared at the ground solemnly. ¡°But to ¡®upgrade¡¯ it is to miss the point. We do not need extremities in our lives, and neither do our scythes.¡±


    Kent placed her scythe back. ¡°If the other members saw...¡±


    Julia listened on as they kept walking, before turning her gaze to the side. ¡°I saw that you had sewing machines in your tent.¡±


    ¡°Yes, I¡¯m in charge of making and repairing the robes for the clan.¡± Kent clarified, while Julia scratched her cheek.


    ¡°Not to critique too much, but...that seems like an extremity to me.¡± Julia pointed out, as Kent went to argue.


    ¡°Well, no, it¡¯s necessary for reconstructing robes.¡± Kent replied. ¡°I am given so many robes that it¡¯s difficult to repair them without the proper equipment.¡±


    ¡°But you could just take a bit more time and sew it by hand.¡±


    ¡°Yes, I-¡± Kent said, before stopping herself. ¡°How does this relate to Essex¡¯s scythe?¡±


    Julia tried to avoid eye contact. ¡°If she didn¡¯t upgrade her scythe, she might have been killed by a Wailing. And then she couldn¡¯t act on Muer anyway...¡±


    Did you know this text is from a different site? Read the official version to support the creator.


    Kent folded her arms. ¡°So by betraying a tenant of Muer, she¡¯s actually acted on it?¡±


    ¡°...yeah.¡± Julia said.


    Kent pinched the brim of her nose, before turning back in the direction they were going. ¡°If you are not aware of our customs, don¡¯t criticise them as if you¡¯re a member.¡±


    ¡°O-Oh, right. Sorry.¡± Julia realised, feeling herself flush with embarrassment. ¡°I just...saw some of the looks she was getting from other members...it doesn¡¯t seem fair to judge her for something like this...¡±


    Kent kept walking, as she sighed to herself. ¡°...we value our customs. This isn¡¯t her first time going against them...¡±


    Julia tried to read her face, before drifting her gaze slightly lower and noticing a stain on Kent¡¯s robe.


    ¡°Uhh, Kent?¡± Julia said, indicating to it.


    Kent quickly noticed and realised it was mud. Some had also managed to get underneath and stain her clothes proper.


    ¡°Sorry. I think we might have carried that after our trek in the forest.¡± Julia apologised, as Kent shook her head.


    ¡°Elia, it¡¯s fine. I have replacements.¡± Kent assured, just as they arrived back at the tent, with the day starting to wind itself down, as the team had made themselves comfortable in the space.


    ¡°Cali. We¡¯ve returned with the bedding.¡± Kent announced, laying it out on the ground. ¡°I would imagine you¡¯re tired after your trip. Vonodo, I need to change.¡±


    The team started laying out the bedding in the space, as Kent went about removing her robes, studying the stain on them and her more proper clothes underneath.


    Before she got too far, she felt a tap on her shoulder and turned to find Essex, holding a folded shirt in front of her.


    Kent stared at it. ¡°Did you need something?¡±


    ¡°You looked to need a new shirt.¡± Essex said. ¡°We have packed a few spares if you require one.¡±


    Kent lowered Essex¡¯s hands. ¡°Grela, but I have enough. It¡¯s only a stain.¡±


    Essex took in her response and nodded back, before joining the others in setting up their beds, as Kent watched them work on managing the space and still giving Kent enough room to work.


    ...her first Boncala Day...please smile upon her, Whilit...


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°IT¡¯S TIME FOR CELEBRATION!!!¡±


    The team jumped up suddenly, all shooting out of their beds due to the piercing noise. They¡¯d gotten to bed pretty early, and considering the naturally dark interior of the Aishanara Forest, this was easy enough to manage. But even they could tell it was the dead of night when all this was happening.


    Kent was already up and peering out of the tent with a wide smile on her face, before noticing the team rustling themselves awake.


    ¡°Oh, good. I was just about to get you.¡± She said. ¡°Aeleda Decalias. Welcome to Boncala Day.¡±


    The team each took their time getting up, putting on some proper clothes and cleaning themselves up, though Harley and Essex seemed to handle it best out of all of them.


    ¡°I...wasn¡¯t expecting it to start at...¡± Julia said between yawns, before looking at her tablet. ¡°...midnight.¡±


    ¡°It lasts for a day. We must use all of it.¡± Kent insisted, waving for the team to join her. ¡°Come, come, you must see the festivities.¡±


    ¡°Festivities?¡± Wess asked, suddenly very interested. ¡°Considering the quiet clan we saw yesterday, what sort of festivities could you be referring to?¡±


    Kent didn¡¯t answer and insisted they join her, as each member made their way to her side, before being swept away with what they saw.


    The camp had been turned into a wild party. Gone was the quiet, well-mannered clan from before, and in was a loud, raucous shindig full of dancing, feasting, games, competitions, and any kind of excitement that the clan could manage. Bright, gorgeous lights glowed amongst the darkened night-time forest, and suddenly, the forest had colour and life.


    ¡°Where the hell are we?¡± Sola let out, trying to take it all in. ¡°Did we get dragged to some kinda fairground?¡±


    ¡°This is the clan, my companions.¡± Kent proudly stated, stepping out of the tent proper. ¡°Boncala Days are celebrated after a member passes. Since their soul still wanders Daysend, we make an effort to assure them that their contributions to the world helped to improve it.¡±


    Kent displayed her hand. ¡°So, we indulge in what we would otherwise abstain from, as proof of their efforts.¡±


    ¡°Now this is what I was hoping for.¡± Wess exclaimed, squeeing once she saw a passing food platter. ¡°And there¡¯s catering?!¡±


    ¡°Every member contributes to a large banquet, the younger members play games together, we share memories of our passed member.¡± Kent explained, sighing out in content. ¡°Helping others is its own reward, but a break is always appreciated.


    Essex stared in fascination at the festivities taking place around her. She¡¯d never seen the clan this...sociable, for lack of a better term. Even Ross looked happy in the middle of it.


    Kent noticed her confused expression. ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    ¡°This...is surprising. I am unsure how to participate.¡± Essex asked.


    ¡°There¡¯s no wrong way to celebrate Boncala Day.¡± Kent clarified. ¡°Play around, or indulge in as much food as you want.¡±


    Kent pointed to a few private tents off to the side. ¡°And if that¡¯s not to your liking, there¡¯s plenty of members engaging in sexual activities.¡±


    Harley immediately perked up. ¡°Seriously? There¡¯s a bunch of members in there going at it?¡±


    ¡°Of course.¡± Kent said, as Harley noticed one of the members just outside of the tent winking at her. ¡°We usually abstain from physical or emotional intimacy, as that would get in the way of our duties.¡±


    Harley ran in place frantically, before looking to Sola for confirmation, and getting an expected head nod from her.


    ¡°Woohoo!¡± Harley yelled out, rushing over to the tents in excitement, as Essex avoided looking in their direction.


    ¡°If you wish, Essex, you may store your scythe with the others for the time being.¡± Kent assured, pointing to another tent off to the side filled with the scythes of the members currently celebrating. ¡°And if that¡¯s not to your liking, there are small fighting tournaments taking place.¡±


    ¡°Ooo.¡± Julia let out, bumping Essex¡¯s arm. ¡°That sounds fun, right?¡±


    ¡°I...would suppose.¡± Essex let out, making an effort to smile at Julia. ¡°It will be good training for our academy tournament.¡±


    ¡°Well, if you¡¯re going off to that, I might as well sample what I can around here.¡± Wess suggested, before noticing a passing plate of finger foods. ¡°Don¡¯t mind if I do.¡±


    ¡°Hey! Those kids are playing tag!¡± Sola realised, watching as a bunch of the younger members chased each other around, before instinctively joining them without hesitation, leaving Julia and Essex on their own.


    ¡°Huh.¡± Julia remarked, before indicating to the fighting area. ¡°Shall we?¡±


    ¡°Dal.¡± Essex replied, as the duo started walking, before Kent grabbed Julia¡¯s shoulder.


    ¡°Hey...make sure she enjoys herself.¡± Kent asked. ¡°It¡¯s important to the celebration of Boncala Day.¡±


    Julia watched as Kent¡¯s eyes briefly darted back to Essex, before picking up on what she meant and nodding.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. This is her wheelhouse.¡± Julia assured, as Kent let her go, watching them both join the line of competitors in slight worry.


    While they were quiet enough on their own, fortunately, the noise of the celebration managed to drown out any other activity the Wailing were creating with their presence.


    They watched the clan in the middle of their festivities, spying from the cover of the surrounding forest, as they both kept their gazes fixed on each member of the team.


    They just had to wait for their chance.


    Just a little longer...


    Julia and Essex took their place in line, watching as a few members went head-to-head in a small arena, clashing scythes and a few Whils here and there.


    During their wait in line, Essex glanced around as the other members took her presence in as well, giving her slightly judgemental looks, reaffirming something she¡¯d been concerned with.


    ¡°This is gonna be so fun.¡± Julia hyped up, excited in her own right. ¡°Do I get loaned a scythe too?¡±


    ¡°No.¡± Essex flatly replied, before hearing a few members whispering to each other.


    ¡°Is Essex fighting with us?¡± One member mumbled to another.


    ¡°Won¡¯t she just win every fight? She¡¯s already going to that Venator school.¡± Another member muttered.


    ¡°We¡¯d have a better chance with a Wailing.¡± Added another member.


    Julia eventually noticed their misgivings and grabbed Essex¡¯s shoulder.


    ¡°Don¡¯t listen to them. Just have fun with it.¡± Julia assured. ¡°They aren¡¯t worth worryi-¡±


    Julia noticed Essex¡¯s gaze drifting off to the forest exterior, while she slowly wandered out of her grasp, as her attention was drawn to the markings on the nearby trees, pulling her away from the line.


    ¡°Essex?¡± Julia asked, watching as she wandered further into the woods, before finding Wess nearby, indulging on some delicate foods.


    Julia made a motion to call her over, before quickly spotting the markings on the tree Essex had stared at.


    ¡°Julia, you have to try th-¡± Wess insisted, before staring at it too in shock. ¡°My...those aren¡¯t Wailing markings, are they?¡±


    ¡°No, I don¡¯t think so.¡± Julia said, running her hand on it. ¡°The cut¡¯s too clean. But they look similar to the markings on the trees that lead us here.¡±


    ¡°So, they were made with a scythe?¡± Wess wondered, finishing off her plate. ¡°Well, it still looks a bit haphazard, like there was a struggle.¡±


    Julia could just catch the end of Essex¡¯s robe deep in the forest, as she decided to follow along. ¡°Come on. We¡¯ve got to catch up with her.¡±


    Wess quickly noticed what she was hinting at and went along with it, as they followed Essex¡¯s path through the forest as best they could.


    It took a few minutes, to the point where they could barely hear the noise of the clan celebrating anymore. They almost debated going back, before arriving at a small clearing in the forest, surrounded by a few broken trees and scratched up rocks. Natural growth had spread through a couple of the cracks, but it was clear a struggle had taken place some time ago.


    Essex was sitting in the middle, at the foot of a small rock, bowing her head in silence.


    ¡°Weird.¡± Julia let out quietly. ¡°I thought the clan hadn¡¯t been here before, but it looks like they had some big fight.¡±


    ¡°With a casualty, it would seem.¡± Wess said, indicating to the stone Essex was in front of, as they both slowly closed the distance to her.


    Essex stayed quiet the entire time, making an effort to ignore the slight noise coming in from the clan, before Julia spoke up.


    ¡°Hey...Essex.¡± Julia said. ¡°Sorry for sneaking up on you. We didn¡¯t know where you were going, so...¡±


    ¡°...it¡¯s fine.¡± She excused. ¡°This is a place for nature now.¡±


    ¡°I, uhh, thought the clan hadn¡¯t been here before.¡± Julia asked, as Essex focused on breathing.


    ¡°We are nomadic. We utilise the resources within a certain area, then move on to allow them to flourish once again.¡± Essex explained. ¡°The clan has visited this spot many times.¡±


    Julia felt like she¡¯d asked enough questions and decided to keep to herself, as Wess stepped down and made an effort to join Essex¡¯s side.


    ¡°May I?¡± Wess softly asked, pointing to the spot beside Essex, as she slowly nodded her head.


    Wess sat down, staring solemnly at the gravestone.


    ¡°How long did you know them?¡±


    ¡°¡­a few years.¡± Essex replied. ¡°We had met when I was trapped within the forest, though I had written him off as...a wild fox. Eventually, we helped each other survive, and he accompanied me to the clan.¡±


    Essex resettled herself. ¡°He died whilst we fought a Wailing off from the rest of the clan members.¡±


    Wess looked back at her, before bowing her head towards the grave and putting her hands together.


    ¡°Elevoi do so noemela.¡± Wess muttered, lifting her head back up.


    Essex stared at her. ¡°What does it mean?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s an old Northern saying, for those who passed on too soon.¡± Wess explained. ¡°It translates to ¡®you were a prince in this world, but a King in my eyes.¡¯¡±


    Essex opened her mouth to reply, but decided not to say anything, as they both gave the moment the silence it had earned. Julia looked back at them quietly, letting the silence breathe.


    It was a peaceful scene.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Sola chased after a couple of the younger members, playfully yelling she was going to catch them, before her eyes drifted to a very prominent scythe sticking out of the ground, surrounded by flowers and with freshly dug up land in front of it.


    She stared at it for a while, before noticing Kent in front of it and deciding to join her.


    ¡°Is...this his grave?¡± Sola asked, as Kent slowly stood up.


    ¡°Dal. We retrieve the body and scythe of the member and bury them with the clan to honour them. Then we surround the grave with Seishia flowers, which I¡¯m told represent the spirit.¡± Kent clarified. ¡°While we are trained to accept our death, it¡¯s still a difficult adjustment.¡±


    Sola joined her side and stared at the grave site.


    ¡°...I, uhh, never knew my...birth parents.¡± Sola admitted, hoping to relate. ¡°I don¡¯t even know if they¡¯ve...you know, but it kinda feels like this.¡±


    Kent looked up at the foliage of the Aishanara Forest. ¡°...does Essex have friends? At the academy?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, tons.¡± Sola said, counting on her fingers. ¡°Obviously, there¡¯s us, then there¡¯s Team Vanguard, Team Instinct are pretty cool, who could forget Dorothy, Cyr-¡±


    ¡°Okay, okay. That¡¯s all I needed.¡± Kent assured, displaying her hands. ¡°We don¡¯t use ¡®tablets¡¯ in the clan, so my only correspondence with her has been through letters. She talks about training, and your team, but not about anything else...¡±


    ¡°I thought that would be standard for the clan.¡± Sola pointed out, stunning Kent.


    Kent stayed silent on the point, as her face tried not to display too much emotion. Sola picked up on this pretty easily, but didn¡¯t want to push her too much.


    ¡°...it was hard.¡± Kent admitted. ¡°Letting Essex attend the academy. The other clan members...have not trusted her...for a while.¡±


    Sola could see Kent opening up a bit more, at least more than she had the previous day.


    ¡°...she tries.¡± Kent. ¡°She has done her best to live by the clan¡¯s philosophy. But...she has never matched up to those around her. The term Forseca gets thrown around a lot.¡±


    ¡°Forseca?¡± Sola asked.


    ¡°It means someone who¡¯s untrustworthy, or of poor character.¡± Kent explained, twiddling her fingers. ¡°Our goal is to help others, but Essex¡¯s goal first and foremost has been...hunting Wailing. She wishes to end the Wailing Conflict.¡±


    ¡°But isn¡¯t that...good?¡± Sola asked quite plainly, as Kent struggled to think of the words.


    ¡°We do not condone violence in the clan, especially for selfish reasons.¡± Kent said. ¡°While it is necessary in some cases, it¡¯s still frowned upon. Violence helps no one.¡±


    ¡°I thought Essex had fought off a bunch of Wailing from the clan before.¡± Sola asked, stunning Kent again. ¡°That seems pretty helpful to me.¡±


    Kent stayed silent, not wanting to double back on anything she¡¯d said, as Sola felt like lightening the mood.


    ¡°He-¡±


    CRRAAASSSSHHHHH!!!!!!


    Suddenly, a loud destructive sound rang out behind the duo, leaving them in shock as they now saw two Wailing, slithering around each other, tearing through the celebration with ease, slashing at clan members here and there. The clan did their best to avoid confronting them, as a few more proactive members went to grab their scythes in the tent they were stored in, only to be blocked off by one of the Wailing splitting off and closing them in.


    Harley quickly exited one of the tents after hearing the commotion, only to see the two Wailing, and for the Wailing to see her.


    The Wailing blocking off the weaponry went to strike at her, slithering close and swiping at her with its claws, while the other Wailing scanned over the rest of the celebration and spotted Sola, worriedly staring at Harley.


    ¡°Harley!¡± Sola cried, hurrying over to help her, only for the other Wailing to start attacking her, leaving both Harley and Sola to defend against each.


    A few clan members split off now that the scythe tent was free to help fight against the Wailing, only for the one attacking Harley to whip at them with its tail, tripping them up in an instant, as it went back to swinging at Harley.


    Harley did her best to dodge and block each attack, even if her lacking her Buster Knuckles meant plenty of the claw scrapes were slashing her arms. She tried to grab at its arms to gain some ground, but the Wailing kept slipping out from her grasp each time, leaving her to constantly back up into the forest.


    Meanwhile, Sola just booked it. She knew she had no chance against this thing one on one, and worse, if she tried to use her Whil here, she¡¯d probably take out most of the clan too. The Wailing effortlessly pursued, slithering on the ground and climbing over trees, before it went to pin her, only for Sola to just dodge out of the way, as it crashed into the ground.


    The Wailing fighting Harley reeled for a second, letting Harley grab onto one of its claws and pull it up and over, slamming it down into the ground behind her.


    She¡¯d managed to stun the Wailing, as she looked around her at the clan members, ready to attack.


    ¡°Go!¡± She yelled, shocking them suddenly. ¡°They¡¯re only attacking us! Don¡¯t risk getting hurt! Let us handle it!¡±


    ¡°We can¡¯t do that!¡± A clan member yelled. ¡°You need our assistance and we need yours!¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re with Essex, right?¡± Another member asked. ¡°Show us what to do! We can help!¡±


    ¡°Harley.¡± Kent said, quickly joining her side. ¡°We can hold it back, but unless Essex is here, there¡¯s no guarantee of defeating it. We¡¯re not all trained in combat like she is.¡±


    And she¡¯s the only one of us with her weapon. Harley acknowledged, realising Kent¡¯s point, before noticing the Wailing getting up again quickly. ¡°Alright, everyone grab a scythe and pin it down! Try to do some damage while I¡¯m off!¡±


    Harley quickly ran off in the direction of the other tents, letting the clan members fend it off, as she tried to find Kent¡¯s tent.


    ¡°I just need something to work with...¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°What was that noise?¡±


    Essex perked her head up, as the sound of frantic commotion rang out from the direction of the clan.


    ¡°Is that the fighting tournament?¡± Julia asked, as Essex shook her head.


    ¡°We must be sure.¡± Essex demanded, rushing back to see it for herself, her scythe at the ready, as Julia and Wess soon followed behind her.


    Before Essex could make it back to the clan, she heard Sola crying out in panic, followed by growling and crashes, only to see her running past, followed quickly by an aggressive Wailing in pursuit.


    Upon seeing Essex, Sola turned on the spot and hurried back to her, leaving the Wailing to crash into another tree, as she hid behind Essex.


    ¡°Essex!¡± She cried, trying to calm herself. ¡°Two Wailing showed up at the celebration! Harley¡¯s fighting the other one!¡±


    ¡°Wailing?¡± Essex repeated in disbelief, before turning to the one in pursuit and feeling her rage boil over, as she stepped forward. ¡°You continue to harass me...¡±


    She gripped her scythe tightly, as the Wailing acknowledged a second target of its now appearing, before feeling its attention draw to its partner still with the clan.


    Suddenly, it jerked to the side, almost like it had been hit, before needing a second to recover.


    ¡°It¡¯s been doing that since it started chasing me!¡± Sola exclaimed, just as Julia and Wess managed to catch up. ¡°I think it¡¯s got some telepathy thing going on with the other one!¡±


    ¡°A Wailing?¡± Wess let out, just as it rushed off back in the direction of the clan, seemingly losing focus on the team.


    ¡°You will not run!¡± Essex cried out, chasing after it with a renewed anger, leaving the rest of the team to play catch up with her heated pursuit.


    The Wailing searched around the forest interior for its partner, stopping briefly to find them, only for the force of Essex launching herself off of a nearby tree to come crashing behind its head, plummeting it to the ground.


    Essex tried to pin it as best she could, only for it to use its immense strength to wriggle free, slipping out from under her again.


    It was determined to find its partner once again, as it continued trailing on the ground, only for a black shroud to come up from under it and wrap around its head, throwing it off course and sliding it across the ground.


    Essex watched in curiosity, before Harley came up from the side, using the opportunity to grab at the fabric and hold the Wailing in place.


    ¡°Hey!¡± She yelled out, as Essex hurried over and quickly realised Harley had grabbed a robe from Kent¡¯s tent and used it trap the Wailing. ¡°Help!¡±


    Essex grabbed the fabric as well, trying her best to trap the Wailing, even as it flailed about violently, struggling to reach the robe with its claws.


    Essex then started to hear the sound of the clan just beyond the trees, seemingly attempting a similar strategy with the other Wailing.


    Harley and Essex were starting to lose their grip, only for the rest of Team Valiant to arrive, just in time for the Wailing to free itself of the fabric, only for its flailing to carry it past the tree line and back to the camp, crashing into the ground beside its partner, who stared at it in shock and worry.


    It was managing to hold off most of the Segaru members, struggling to do any real damage to them due to the added reach of their scythes, but as its partner landed beside them, everyone¡¯s attention was drawn.


    Team Valiant quickly emerged from behind them, analysing the scene as best they could.


    ¡°Get out of here!¡± Julia insisted to the clan members. ¡°There¡¯s only one now! We can take it from here!¡±


    The clan members decided to follow her advice, even as a few stuck around for a second, before eventually leaving themselves.


    ¡°Leave it to the Venators!¡± Kent exclaimed, ushering the clan further into the camp, before giving an understanding nod to Julia, as Team Valiant focused their efforts on the lone remaining Wailing.


    ¡°Do you think you can take it, Essex?¡± Julia asked, as Essex stared down at her scythe.


    ¡°It will not be enough to damage it permanently.¡± Essex acknowledged. ¡°If the clan could only hold it back, we will need something stronger.¡±


    Julia realised what they needed.


    ¡°Sola.¡± Julia said, turning to her. ¡°We¡¯re gonna need you to hit it.¡±


    ¡°B-But I don¡¯t have my arm-cannons.¡± Sola noted.


    ¡°We¡¯re just gonna have to make do, okay?¡± Julia said, before pointing to Essex. ¡°Hold it in place until Sola¡¯s ready to fire.¡±


    ¡°Understood.¡± Essex replied, hopping onto the nearby tree, which managed to break the Wailing out of its trance.


    ¡°Harley, Wess, keep an eye on the unconscious one. This could get one-sided again very quick.¡± Julia said, as they quickly hurried off to monitor it, all while the remaining Wailing swatted at Essex.


    Julia gave Sola a reassuring shoulder pat, before stepping out of the way, letting herself build up her Whil to its full potential. The remaining Wailing would have noticed if Essex wasn¡¯t taking every chance she could to draw its attention, swinging as she circled it. The Wailing tried its best to claw at her and the trees she was bouncing off of, but struggled to match her dexterity without its partner.


    Sola¡¯s lightning was starting to pick up small objects off the ground, as it formed into a more solid stream of static, giving Essex just enough time to step out of the way and let the Wailing take the full force of it.


    However, while Sola¡¯s Whil became as wild and all-consuming as it normally did, the Wailing still managed to slither off to the side, narrowly avoiding the electric barrage by a mere few millimetres.


    It watched as it sailed past, tearing through the trees surrounding them before finally slowing down, right as the Wailing stared at Sola, slowly getting her strength back after such a powerful attack.


    ¡°Sola, we¡¯re gonna need another shot!¡± Julia insisted, starting to panic now that the Wailing¡¯s attention was on them. ¡°Harley, Wess, hold it back with Essex! It needs to stay still!¡±


    Harley and Wess quickly went to work, grabbing rocks and sticks to throw at the Wailing, as Essex continued her attacks from before.


    The Wailing did its best to dodge, all while it watched Sola build up her Whil intently, as she struggled to regain her strength, especially now that more targets would be hit by her blast.


    The Wailing stared at her, waiting until she was just about ready, before managing to slip its way out between Harley and Wess, crawling back over to its partner, still unconscious on the ground. Essex managed to chase after it, as she continued violently swinging at the now unmoving Wailing.


    The team were briefly confused by the Wailing¡¯s actions, but fortunately for Sola, she didn¡¯t need to worry about hitting her team anymore, as she re-aimed herself toward it and started to build up more and more power, before firing out toward it with as much strength as she could muster.


    Before anyone could see what was going on, the Wailing put the remainder of its energy into picking up its unconscious partner and holding it up, as Sola¡¯s Whil sailed toward them, letting them both take the shock of the lightning together.


    Essex, still caught up in chasing after the Wailing, hadn¡¯t acknowledged Sola¡¯s change in direction, as she continued to swing in its direction wildly, only to be caught by the tail end of Sola¡¯s electricity hitting her scythe.


    The team stared as the Wailing pair pulsated with the full force of Sola¡¯s Whil, before noticing Essex was now part of the action, panicking them, as it started to die down, leaving the Wailing to stand there rigidly, smoking slightly.


    Essex hit the ground soon after, collapsing just beside the Wailing, as the team rushed over to check on her, led mostly by Harley carrying over an exhausted Sola.


    Essex quickly came to consciousness and stared at the Wailing beside her, before looking up and seeing Harley and Sola¡¯s faces in deep worry.


    ¡°Are you okay?¡± Harley said, frantically scanning over Essex, while being careful not to touch her.


    ¡°I¡¯m...so sorry!¡± Sola managed. ¡°I-I was...aiming...¡±


    Essex gave them another look, before shaking her head. ¡°I am unharmed. The lightning hit my scythe, but it is fortunately insulated. I wasn¡¯t hurt.¡±


    Sola reached out and grabbed her hand anyway. ¡°Still...we were really worried...¡±


    ¡°Let us know if you¡¯re gonna fight like that, okay?¡± Harley said, trying to hold back some emotion. ¡°It isn¡¯t fun watching that from the sidelines.¡±


    Essex tried everything she could to look away from them, even if their comfort was truly appreciated after what had just occurred, but she stood up and stepped away, feeling her sudden rush of emotions coming back.


    Again.


    And again.


    And...


    ¡°...I must assess the clan.¡± Essex excused, staring at the ground, before quickly heading off. ¡°Relias.¡±


    Essex hurried away in the direction of the camp, before Julia could call out to her.


    ¡°Essex! Where are...geez. That girl.¡± Julia remarked, as Wess inspected the Wailing. ¡°At least tell us if you¡¯re okay...¡±


    ¡°By Daysend, why did it pick up its companion?¡± Wess questioned openly, scratching her chin. ¡°They hardly worked as an effective shield...¡±


    ¡°You think it was shielding itself?¡± Julia asked, as Wess simply gave a non-committal shrug.


    ¡°Once again, Sola, your Whil has saved this team from yet another Wailing attack.¡± Wess commented, as the Wailing carrying the other slowly opened its eyes behind her. ¡°We have to start lifting our game, you gu-¡±


    Before Wess could even react, the remaining Wailing managed to lift itself up, gathering as much strength as it could to carry its still unconscious companion across the ground, further into the Aishanara Forest and out of sight. Right as they started moving, Harley did her best to chase them, before realising they were too far, too fast and too familiar with the terrain.


    ¡°Son of a...¡± She remarked, kicking the ground. ¡°Those bastards were playing possum.¡±


    ¡°So...it wasn¡¯t enough?¡± Sola asked. ¡°Maybe it did...shield itself with the other one?¡±


    ¡°But why would they just run?¡± Julia asked, turning to the others. ¡°They started the fight.¡±


    ¡°Perhaps we scared them off. The Aishanara Forest is known for its tough Wailing, so maybe they were being opportunistic.¡± Wess argued. ¡°They¡¯re used to taking out weaker Venators that come in here, but we just happened to hold them back.¡±


    ¡°Whatever. Let¡¯s make sure Essex and the clan are safe.¡± Harley suggested, picking Sola up, as they headed back to meet with the others.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    It had been pretty exhaustive.


    Rosalind didn¡¯t enjoy tracking the Wailing, but she wasn¡¯t about to have them wander off and screw up the mission if it meant her head. Plus, she wanted the personal satisfaction of watching Team Valiant getting killed herself.


    And she had to be there if they failed.


    Rosalind stared at her tablet, checking the icons representing the Wailing for any additional movement. She couldn¡¯t get a read on any of Team Valiant, but the Wailing had no choice in whether they died.


    If they pull anything... Rosalind thought, though she was pretty sure they knew better.


    Rosalind watched idly, drumming her fingers in need of stimulation, before the tracker on her tablet buzzed slightly, briefly disconnecting the icons indicating where the Wailing were, just to come back a second later.


    ¡°Weird...¡± She remarked, watching as they stood still, probably recovering from their last bout. ¡°These need cameras...I¡¯m bored as shit.¡±


    Rosalind kept her eye on the screen, giving it another minute or two, before the icons started to move again.


    ¡°There we go.¡± Rosalind said, as she saw the icons sailing off further into the forest, almost at shocking speeds. ¡°...wait.¡±


    Rosalind watched them again. They were headed in a straight line, and the speed they were going at clearly meant they weren¡¯t chasing after Team Valiant. Or anything, for that matter. They were just heading further into the forest.


    ¡°They¡¯re tryna...¡± She said, before gritting her teeth. ¡°...fine...fine. If you wanna try this...¡±


    Rosalind reached into her pocket and held her finger on her remote.


    ¡°...then this is what you get.¡±


    She pressed it.


    And...


    ¡­


    ¡­


    ¡­


    ...nothing.


    Their icons were still moving on the tablet, getting further and further away from herself and Team Valiant, as their connection started to cut out for good.


    ¡°What?!¡± Rosalind yelled, gripping at her tablet. ¡°You little...!¡±


    She pressed the remote over and over again, but nothing came of it.


    ¡°How the hell did you...?!¡± Rosalind cried, just as their icons slowly vanished deeper into the forest, before a message popped up onto the screen.


    Signal disconnected.


    ¡°Fuck!¡± Rosalind screamed. ¡°Fuck fuck FUCK! God fucking...!¡±


    She threw her tablet across the ground, cracking it violently, before slamming her foot into her car door, denting it.


    ¡°Why?! They¡¯re just one team! Why won¡¯t they die?!¡± Rosalind yelled. ¡°Fucking Wailing! Do your goddamn job!¡±


    Rosalind threw her car door open and slammed it shut, before banging her head on the wheel.


    ¡°...Wicker¡¯s gonna kill me...¡± Rosalind muttered. ¡°All because...¡±


    She kicked the car again. ¡°No! It was those fucking Wailing! I knew I should have handled it myself...¡±


    She slowly started up the car, before checking her tablet again, desperately hoping the icons had returned.


    No such luck.


    ¡°...they got away.¡± Rosalind said to herself. ¡°How was I meant to know they were defective? You designed them, and apparently, they¡¯re useless.¡±


    Rosalind ran her fingers over the wheel again. ¡°You know who suggested it? Jules. She¡¯s always tried to screw with me. Yeah, your precious little ¡®assistant¡¯ just lost you two Wailing...¡±


    Rosalind nodded to herself, before sighing deeply and resting her head on the wheel. ¡°...yeah, that¡¯ll work for now.¡±


    Rosalind lifted herself back up and stared out from her perch, nestled in the Aishanara Forest and just outside of Michiri, as she glared at the rest of the forest, vaguely in the direction of Team Valiant.


    ¡°...you know who let those Wailing loose in the first place? That Venator team.¡± Rosalind played out. ¡°Team Valiant. First they tried to attack me, and now they¡¯re interfering with your business again, Wicker.¡±


    Rosalind smirked to herself.


    ¡°Oh, but I guess I shouldn¡¯t interfere, right? I¡¯ll just let them keep on running amuck. You know what you¡¯re doing at that academy.¡±


    Rosalind banged her fist on the dashboard in joy.


    ¡°Take care of them? Me?...well, when do I start?¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Why were they even here?!¡±


    ¡°They didn¡¯t follow you from your academy, did they?¡±


    ¡°That would no-¡±


    ¡°Typical. A Venator team dragging a bunch of Wailing in from who knows where right to us. And on Tyrian¡¯s Boncala Day...¡±


    ¡°It wasn¡¯t ou-¡±


    ¡°You didn¡¯t provoke them, did you? It wouldn¡¯t be the first time.¡±


    ¡°Essex, you know this is Forseca behaviour.¡±


    Essex was out of breath, struggling to take in each complaint, as it was clear the clan around her were still panicked from the Wailing. She tried to assure them that she¡¯d taken care of them, but questions as to why that was even necessary immediately popped up.


    ¡°I can¡¯t believe this.¡± Ross said, finally speaking up. ¡°You know that your scythe holds personal responsibility, as a member and as a Venator. If you can¡¯t keep the Wailing from coming through this camp, then how are we supposed to continue our work?¡±


    Essex had no way to respond, staring at the bitter faces looking toward her, as she made the tough decision and held out her scythe, ready to drop it to the ground.


    However, before she could go through with it, Kent quickly joined her side and held her hand shut.


    ¡°I¡¯m disappointed.¡± Kent declared.


    She gave the scythe back to Essex proper, before standing in front of her.


    ¡°Once again, Essex has managed to hold off the Wailing from killing us. This was her time off, she was unprepared, but her and her team still pulled through.¡± Kent argued. ¡°Regardless of what you think, this is in no way her fault. She was acting as a member and doing the right thing at the right time. You¡¯re welcome.¡±


    Kent gave the clan a moment to breath, before looking back at Essex. ¡°The least she deserves is an apology.¡±


    Most of the clan stayed silent, save for a few ¡®sorry¡¯s¡¯ whispered here and there, as most of the members eyed up Essex, who was hating being the centre of attention.


    Kent eventually turned around proper and met Essex¡¯s height, before checking over her.


    ¡°You¡¯re not hurt, are you?¡± Kent asked, as Essex shook her head.


    ¡°Muer tinusa. Selamorta no. The body is a vessel.¡± Essex assured, as Kent sighed out.


    ¡°Come on. Let¡¯s check on your team.¡± Kent said, before realising the clan were still gathered. ¡°It¡¯s still Boncala Day. Peno Decu.¡±


    The other members snapped to attention, as they went about repairing what they could and getting back into the swing of things, before the rest of Team Valiant arrived over the hill, hurrying up to Essex.


    ¡°Essex! Are you okay? How¡¯s the clan?¡± Julia asked, as Kent stepped in.


    ¡°It¡¯s all be taken care of.¡± Kent clarified. ¡°Grela. Thank you for aiding us against the Wailing.¡±


    ¡°Admittedly, we didn¡¯t end up taking them out.¡± Harley confessed. ¡°But I don¡¯t think they¡¯ll bother you anymore. They seemed pretty adamant about leaving.¡±


    ¡°Regardless, we shouldn¡¯t stay for much longer.¡± Wess reasoned. ¡°It¡¯s clear we drew their attention, so we¡¯d only be endangering you longer.¡±


    ¡°I...believe it will be fine.¡± Essex said, stepping forward. ¡°At least to stay for the remainder of Boncala Day. If they return, we will be more prepared this time around.¡±


    ¡°I dunno. Is that okay, Kent?¡± Sola asked, as Kent looked down at the team, then to Essex.


    ¡°Yes. I trust her.¡± Kent said, before blushing and addressing the others. ¡°A-And you as well. Let¡¯s return to the tent and rest.¡±


    The team happily agreed and followed her back, before Essex tugged on the side of Kent¡¯s robe.


    Kent turned to face her, before noticing she was pointing down at her robe, which seemed to have been torn during the battle, as she looked down and clicked her tongue.


    ¡°That¡¯s a deep tear. I guess that¡¯s more repair work for me.¡± Kent remarked, before she noticed Essex removing her own robes and handing them to her.


    Kent stared down at the offer.


    ¡°Until we return.¡± Essex assured, holding them out, as Kent glanced at Essex without her robe on, contemplating how she should respond, before just taking them and changing out of her torn one.


    ¡°Grela.¡± Kent said, before they continued.


    Essex nodded back. ¡°I am a member. We are meant to help.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    While it was cutting their trip short, the team could only stay with the clan in good conscience for the rest of the day. As soon as dawn broke, they made a point to finally finish their trip, hop onto the nearest Flash-Rail and return to the academy.


    After a few more hours of travel, they managed to make it back in one piece, just barely opening their dorm door to let themselves in.


    ¡°Home sweet...¡± Julia mumbled, before landing on the team¡¯s couch. ¡°...ugh, I¡¯m so tired.¡±


    ¡°While the idea was solid, Harley, let¡¯s not cram nationwide travelling into two weeks ever again.¡± Wess argued, collapsing into the seat beside the couch, just as Harley came back through, helping Sola through the door.


    ¡°But it was still a good trip, right?¡± Harley said. ¡°I mean, outside of the Wailing. And...everything that happened in Mareau...¡±


    ¡°And my ¡®date¡¯ with Angie...¡± Essex added, dropping her scythe in her bedroom, before lying on the floor near the lounge, staring at the ceiling.


    ¡°Hey, Angie was nice.¡± Sola insisted, sitting on her bed, before curling up. ¡°Unlike those trains...¡±


    ¡°How about next year, we just stay in one place?¡± Julia offered up, getting a groan of agreement from everyone. ¡°That sounds good...¡±


    Breaking everyone from their trance, a loud knock came from the door with an energetic ring to it.


    ¡°I¡¯ll get it.¡± Harley offered since she was already up, as she opened it to see Joleicia, welcome and beaming.


    ¡°Hi guys! Glad to see you¡¯re back!¡± Joleicia grinned. ¡°And I hope you¡¯re ready for the mid-degree formal!¡±


    The team let out another groan, still refusing to get up, as Joleicia rolled her eyes.


    ¡°You guys didn¡¯t fight another Wailing, did you?¡±

 Chapter 35: Pale Moonlight

A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation.

 Chapter 36: Breathing Room

    Sent: 14th February, 5020


    To: Florey Faraday


    Cc: Marcus Marshall, Cassidy Andrews


    Subject: Regarding Start at EHM


    ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


    Dear Florey,


    I wanted to write to you personally before you officially joined us at Event Horizon Manufacturing. I¡¯m excited that you¡¯re finally starting with us after the (exhaustive) months of paperwork. I hope your new apartment is serving you well.


    First of all, I want to assure you that while I have high expectations for you, don¡¯t feel the need to push yourself too much. You¡¯re working as my apprentice, but I don¡¯t expect you to solve the Wailing Conflict in one night. You¡¯ll get to that kind of work soon enough.


    For your first day, you¡¯ll meet with Cassidy. She¡¯ll be the one you¡¯re answering to at work, since I won¡¯t be present most of the time. She¡¯ll show you around your workspace and get you acquainted with what¡¯s expected of you. Treat her well, she¡¯s a loyal worker.


    Lastly, I want to thank you. I don¡¯t know how much longer I¡¯ll be running this company, but knowing that you¡¯ll be perpetuating my work is a comfort. There¡¯s an untapped potential in you, one that we¡¯ll hopefully bring out. And hey, if it doesn¡¯t work out, we can always replace you.


    Kidding. You¡¯ll do good.


    Sincerely,


    Ryan Cecil


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°It¡¯s a beautiful day in Detu City, folks. The sun¡¯s gleaming off the Eldos mountains at just the right angle, and frankly, I couldn¡¯t be happier to see it. This stuffy radio station certainly feels a lot more like home with that view on the horizon. Speaking of horizon, we¡¯re starting off the day with a song by the band Horizon¡¯s Here called ¡®What I Wouldn¡¯t Do for Fame.¡¯ This is just one of the many ways to get you ready to take on your day...¡±


    Florey could still hardly believe it.


    It had been a few months since he¡¯d left the academy and settled into his new place. Mr Cecil was generous enough to pay for his apartment while he got comfortable, even if it only made Florey feel guilty for putting him out. He¡¯d also picked out a few work clothes for Florey, to, in his words:


    ¡°Lose the student look.¡±


    Florey chuckled at the memory, as he held his closet door open, staring at the clothes he¡¯d ironed a few weeks beforehand in preparation for work.


    He slowly lifted them, his excitement visible in his slightly shaky hands, before he went to turn off his radio and get ready proper. The sun was just rising over Detu City, as its inhabitants slowly woke up and began their day, ready for what lay ahead of them.


    Florey quickly finished his breakfast from earlier and started brushing his teeth, all while instinctively checking the clock to make sure he wasn¡¯t late.


    It¡¯s a twenty-minute walk, so I should have enough time to make a quick lunch. He reminded himself, whipping up a sandwich as he finished brushing his teeth.


    After packing his food, cleaning his teeth and getting dressed proper, he was ready to finally leave for his new job.


    The first step in his life.


    Despite morning¡¯s usually being pretty rough for Florey, he felt ready the moment he got up. He could feel the new days energy as he stepped out of his apartment building and into the streets of Detu City, fresh clothes on and backpack at the ready.


    The walk itself went by fairly quickly, but as he gradually made his way to the EHM building, the pressure of his position finally started to set in.


    ...come on, Florey. You¡¯re better than this. He insisted, shaking his head. New job, new you. It¡¯s not...


    Suddenly, the thought hit him.


    ...I¡¯ve never had a job before.


    He started to panic, as he realised the expectations of his position were completely foreign to him.


    D-Do I just go in? What do they want from me?


    The building started to come into view.


    W-What if my co-workers are jealous that I¡¯m so high up? No, that¡¯s stupid...or is it?


    He slowly reached the entrance.


    Can I bring a backpack in? Who brings a backpack to their job? Isn¡¯t that just a student thing? Oh boy...


    ¡°It''s beautiful, isn¡¯t it?¡±


    Florey spun around suddenly, as he realised Cecil was right beside him, staring up at the building alongside him.


    ¡°Sorry. I felt like greeting you at the entrance.¡± Cecil said. ¡°I know it can be intimidating, but trust me, you¡¯ll get used to it. It becomes a pattern eventually.¡±


    ¡°P-Pattern?¡± Florey let out, as Cecil walked him into the building entrance, throwing Florey off with the sheer open presence of the building¡¯s interior.


    ¡°I¡¯ve got some business to take care of today, but Cassidy can look after you.¡± Cecil said, heading toward the elevator, as Florey tried to get his attention.


    ¡°Wait! How am I meant to find her? Where is she?¡± Florey asked, as Cecil smirked and indicated to the front desk, just before the elevator doors closed on him. ¡°...right.¡±


    Florey slowly approached the front desk, tugging on his backpack and trying to look as natural as possible, even if his nerves were forcing him otherwise.


    The clerk turned their head. ¡°Yes?¡±


    ¡°H-Hi. I¡¯m...I¡¯m Florey.¡± He said, as the clerk looked around awkwardly.


    ¡°Okay. Hi, Florey.¡±


    Smoothly done, you dumbass. He mentally berated.


    ¡°S-Sorry, that¡¯s...I¡¯m starting work here today. I¡¯m meant to meet Ms Andrews.¡±


    The clerk¡¯s eyes lit up. ¡°Oh! You¡¯re Cecil¡¯s apprentice. Right, Florey.¡±


    ¡°Yeah...¡± Florey sighed, feeling his heart race, just as the clerk pointed to the elevator.


    ¡°Just take the elevator to the seventh floor. Down the hall to the left, just keep going and eventually, you¡¯ll see her.¡± The clerk explained, as Florey stared at the elevator.


    ¡°So...I can just use it?¡±


    The clerk nodded. ¡°Yeah. It¡¯s an elevator.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not, like...an employee-only elevator?¡±


    ¡°Well, you¡¯re working here, aren¡¯t you?¡±


    ¡°Y-Yeah, right, obviously.¡± Florey excused, avoiding eye contact, as he hurried over to the elevator to avoid embarrassing himself any further.


    He stuck his head out the door. ¡°Thanks!¡±


    The clerk waved back at him in confusion. ¡°That¡¯s...alright.¡±


    Just as the doors closed, Florey rested his hands on his face and breathed.


    ¡°That was so bad...what a way to start...¡± He let out, as the doors eventually opened on the seventh floor. ¡°I need to stop embarassing myself...¡±


    He tentatively stepped out onto the floor, looking around and spotting a few office spaces around him, some like cubicles and some as proper rooms.


    A few people rushed by with work in hand, as Florey tried to stay focused on what he needed to do and headed to the left.


    He got a few looks as he passed by the other workers, which he tried to ignore, even as his previous anxieties caught up to him.


    Don¡¯t be stupid, don¡¯t be stupid, you can¡¯t screw this up...


    Finally, he arrived at what looked to be a small office space, built out in the open at the intersection between three walkways, sitting against the office¡¯s exterior window. The desk was currently unoccupied, save for the numerous potted plants taking up space.


    Is this...? He wondered, looking around for any other desk that might be Cassidy¡¯s, before deciding to wait patiently as see for himself.


    There¡¯s a lot more people here than I thought there¡¯d be. Why¡¯d I think it would just by me and Cecil?


    Suddenly, he felt a presence behind him, stepping closer, as he nervously jumped back, terrified that he¡¯d somehow done something wrong.


    He turned to see a woman holding a few files, who pointed right at him.


    ¡°Florey?¡±


    Florey slowly and worriedly shook his head.


    ¡°I thought it was you.¡± She replied, sticking out her free hand. ¡°Cassidy Andrews. I run the floor.¡±


    ¡°O-Oh.¡± Florey realised, shaking her hand, as she eventually took her seat.


    ¡°It¡¯s about time we got you in here. So far, you¡¯ve just been a fancy name on some documents for me.¡± Cassidy remarked, getting comfortable, before idly checking one of the leaves on her plant. ¡°Ryan¡¯s new apprentice. The golden child himself.¡±


    ¡°I...wouldn¡¯t...¡± He said, before realising there was nowhere to sit. ¡°Uhh...¡±


    ¡°Oh, just ask someone for a seat.¡± Cassidy suggested, indicating to a nearby cubicle, as Florey reluctantly went and did so.


    ¡°Hey, can...¡± He started to ask, as occupant just waved at him to take the free seat, clearing more focussed on their important call. ¡°R=Right, sorry...¡±


    Florey dragged it over and sat down proper, trying to ignore his ever-increasing nerves, just as Cassidy turned to her computer and started typing, though with her attention still on Florey.


    ¡°Alright. Just a few more things to fill out here and we should be good.¡± Cassidy explained, still looking at the monitor. ¡°Is this your first time in the building?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, actually...Mr Cecil even greeted me coming in.¡± Florey said, as Cassidy laughed to herself.


    ¡°He does that to all the newbies. I think it¡¯s a scare tactic.¡± She suggested, still typing away, while Florey decided to occupy himself with his surroundings.


    He glanced around at the interior again, still surprised at just how open it was, before the elevator he¡¯d just left opened up again, letting a sullen figure pull themselves out and nearly lock eyes with Florey.


    Florey jumped back in surprise and quickly looked away, only to try and glance at him again, noticing his professional demeanour.


    ¡°Uhh, Ms Andrews?¡±


    ¡°Cassidy, please. I hate when people call me that.¡±


    ¡°Right. Who¡¯s that?¡±


    Cassidy lifted her head and looked where Florey was pointing.


    ¡°Oh, Marcus is checking up again.¡± Cassidy answered, tapping away on her keyboard. ¡°He¡¯s the co-CEO. Ryan must have told you about him at some point.¡±


    Florey turned back to her. ¡°You call him Ryan?¡±


    ¡°Oh, sorry. Mr Cecil.¡± Cassidy corrected, still focused on the screen. ¡°Since he¡¯s so busy with his research and position at the Venator Academy, Ryan doesn¡¯t spend much time here, so Marcus handles most of the administrative stuff while he¡¯s away.¡±


    Florey ignored her going back to saying Ryan and watched as Marcus dragged himself through the floor, ducking his head into each cubicle space and checking in on his employees, an unfortunate scowl ever-present on his face.


    ¡°He doesn¡¯t look very friendly.¡± Florey remarked, as Cassidy laughed to herself.


    ¡°You¡¯ve gotta get to know him. He only really opens up to those who¡¯ve earned his trust.¡± Cassidy said, before typing a couple more words in and turning to Florey. ¡°All done.¡±


    Florey blinked. ¡°R-Really? That¡¯s it?¡±


    ¡°What, you want fireworks?¡± Cassidy said, as she quickly got up, embarrassing Florey.


    ¡°I guess not. I mean, it¡¯s midday. And we¡¯re inside...¡± Florey rationalized, just as Cassidy tapped his shoulder.


    ¡°Let''s make this quick. If we¡¯re lucky, we can avoid Marcus¡¯ probing.¡± Cassidy suggested, as Florey blindly followed her to one of the empty office spaces. ¡°This, for all intents and purposes, is your office.¡±


    Florey did a double take at the sudden realisation, not expecting to have a space of his own. It wasn¡¯t large by any means, but the fact that this was his office...


    ¡°Is...this where I¡¯ll do my work?¡±


    ¡°Oh, no no, of course not. This is just for storing material and reporting back to me.¡± Cassidy explained. ¡°You¡¯ll come here most days and I¡¯ll hand off work to you from Ryan. He¡¯s got a few tasks you can chip away at in the next few days.¡±


    Cassidy noticed Marcus passing by them and turned Florey away to avoid looking at him, before sighing out once it seemed he¡¯d sulked past.


    ¡°Honestly, we don¡¯t need him breathing down our necks.¡± Cassidy insisted, checking that the coast was clear. ¡°I¡¯ll take you to your real workplace now.¡±


    Florey quickly celebrated in his mind, knowing he¡¯d look stupid for doing it in the open, as Cassidy led him to the elevator again, this time taking him to the top floor of the building.


    The doors opened to a plain hallway, seeming mostly for connecting executive offices and large meeting rooms, with a large framed painting of Cecil and Marcus hanging in the centre, presenting them as professional and powerful.


    ¡°Ignore that. Nobody likes that painting.¡± Cassidy said, quickly skipping over it, as Florey couldn¡¯t help but look at it, even if only for a second.


    Cassidy led him down another small hall, before they arrived at a set of doors that reminded Florey of the science department at the Venator Academy.


    ¡°Brace yourself.¡± Cassidy prefaced, before opening them out to a large laboratory, virtually untouched and pristinely kept. Desks were filled to the brim with testing equipment, all manner of expensive, complicated machinery captured Florey¡¯s imagination, and all in all, the fact that this was his blew his mind.


    ¡°I...how¡¯d you have this built? I only decided to work here a few months ago.¡± Florey asked, as Cassidy showed him around.


    ¡°Actually, this lab was meant for Ryan¡¯s personal use, but, as I''ve said before, he barely comes here.¡± Cassidy clarified. ¡°So, instead of letting it go to waste, we figured you¡¯d use your big brain and make somethi-¡±


    ¡°No way!¡± Florey let out, rushing over to another set of doors, before pressing his face on the glass. ¡°You guys have an autopsy room?!¡±


    ¡°Do you two want a room?¡± Cassidy remarked, as Florey went a bit red in the face. ¡°I¡¯ll leave you to it, if you want. Ryan¡¯s work is laid out on the desk, so take it at your own pace. Report back once you¡¯re done with it.¡±


    ¡°Y-Yes, ma¡¯am.¡± Florey replied, instantly regretting it.


    ¡°Ma¡¯am is just as bad as Ms Andrews.¡± Cassidy said, smiling back at Florey. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. You¡¯ll get it right someday.¡±


    She left soon after, letting Florey truly take in the majesty of the room in its entirety.


    He let out a deep, satisfied breath, leaning against the counters and acknowledging the skylight just above him for the first time.


    ¡°I¡¯m finally where I need to be...¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Sent: 29th July, 5020


    W. [When coming in today, join me in the meeting room. I have some work for you.]


    Jules clutched her tablet, standing just outside of the room in question, in two minds about going inside. The hallways around her were just as claustrophobic and stuffy as they always were.


    Never enough ventilation. Jules thought to herself, trying to distract her mind from eventually having to go in.


    She stood in silence, shuffling her feet, as the exhaustion from the past few weeks was really hitting her.


    He won¡¯t allow it... Jules conceded. There¡¯s no way he-


    ¡°Hey, pussy.¡±


    Jules jumped a little, as Rosalind rounded the corner, turning between her and the door.


    ¡°What, does the big man wanna chew you out again?¡± Rosalind remarked, as Jules just shook her head.


    She started signing to Rosalind, who just ignored her and groaned.


    ¡°You know I don¡¯t understand that shit.¡± Rosalind said, casually balancing her sword on the ground. ¡°Whatever. For once, you¡¯re not my biggest problem.¡±


    She chucked it up and balanced it on her hand instead. ¡°I just tried to get some very annoying, very slippery Venators killed, all for it to blow up in...¡±


    Rosalind accidentally dropped her sword, as it landed right in front of Jules¡¯ foot, almost cutting her.


    ¡°Oops.¡± Rosalind let out.


    Jules huffed out and stamped her foot, as Rosalind kept ignoring her and picked it back up.


    ¡°Whatever, just don¡¯t tell Wicker. You reckon I could get this on my nose?¡± Rosalind asked, only a second before actually trying it, as Jules accepted she¡¯d had enough.


    I can¡¯t stand her. She admitted, turning to the door again. ...just do it already.


    Jules slowly took out her ID card and scanned it, gradually opening the door to an average looking meeting room, save for the confined feeling the hallways carried and the lack of any and all windows.


    All that was in there was the large centre table, a computer, and Wicker.


    He sat across the table from Jules, working away at something on the computer, as she slowly made her way in.


    He lifted his head up to address her. ¡°Jules. Come in.¡±


    [H-Hi...] She signed, already feeling her nerves coming to her.


    ¡°I need some work done down at RC. Apparently, during some maintenance, one of th-¡± Wicker started, before noticing the tension in Jules¡¯ body. ¡°Is something bothering you?¡±


    Jules shook her head quickly, before berating herself and standing up straight.


    [Can...can I ask something?]


    ¡°Of course.¡± Wicker insisted, as Jules bit her lip slightly.


    Come on already...


    [...I was...I was hoping for some time off.]


    Wicker stared at her, as Jules felt prompted to explain further.


    [O-Only a couple of days. I''ve been doing a lot around here, a-and it¡¯s been really difficult. I just need a fe-]


    Wicker held up his hand and stopped her.


    He mulled it over quietly. ¡°Tell you what. After you''ve taken care of work today, we¡¯ll discuss it.¡±


    Jules felt her excitement take over her, as Wicker faced her fully. ¡°Anyway, a few of our packages have disappeared into the nearby parts of the Aishanara Forest. We don¡¯t know how many are still around, so you¡¯re needed to retrieve whatever¡¯s there. I¡¯ll provide you a few supplies.¡±


    [Yes, of course.] Jules replied, visibly more animated than before, as Wicker went to grab a suitcase for her, handing it off before grabbing her shoulders.


    ¡°Do me proud.¡± He assured.


    Jules nodded back to him and signed a quick ¡®thank you,¡¯ before heading out the door, only to be greeted by Rosalind again.


    She looked down at the suitcase and scoffed. ¡°What, are those your things? Where¡¯s your severance?¡±


    Jules glared at her and flipped her off, as Rosalind just laughed.


    ¡°Hello, my absolute favourite person!¡±


    Jules and Rosalind turned to the new voice coming down the hall, before Rosalind could feel her bile building up.


    ¡°Oh god. Why are you here today?¡± She asked, as the man made his approach.


    ¡°Wicker needed my business knowhow.¡± He replied, before turning to Jules. ¡°Sorry, I don¡¯t believe we¡¯ve been acquainted.¡±


    He made a small salute. ¡°Salaire. Are you lost perchance?¡±


    ¡°No, Jules is the boss¡¯ litt-¡± Rosalind let out, before Jules elbowed her side, building up her anger again. ¡°You piece of s-¡±


    ¡°Ladies, please. Let¡¯s keep our tempers.¡± Salaire insisted, displaying his palms, before giving his attention to Rosalind. ¡°I have an invitation to lunch meant for you.¡±


    Rosalind turned back to Salaire, before cocking her head. ¡°And?¡±


    ¡°I know this lovely place nearby on Round Street. I figured I¡¯d treat you since I¡¯m in.¡± Salaire encouraged, only for Rosalind to roll her eyes and face Jules.


    ¡°You see this? This fucker tryna invite me to some prissy little tea party playdate shit?¡± Rosalind spat. ¡°Yeah, it¡¯s some half-hearted attempt to get in my pants. Don¡¯t let him near ya.¡±


    ¡°My my, someone¡¯s in a-¡± Salaire tried, as Rosalind quickly took her sword and moved it close to his stomach. ¡°A-A-Alright! Alright! I get the idea!¡±


    Rosalind lowered it, as Salaire let out a breath before continuing. ¡°...the invitations still out there. Funnily enough, I¡¯m used to this sort of behaviour by now.¡±


    Rosalind scratched her head with the sword¡¯s handle, before shrugging. ¡°You said you¡¯d pay. And if you try anythin-¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ll gut me in some very creative way, I¡¯m sure.¡± Salaire encouraged, indicating the way to leave. ¡°I¡¯d hate to ruin a lovely lunch like that.¡±


    Salaire guided her out, before turning back to the still present Jules and waving. ¡°It was nice meeting you, Julie! I¡¯m sure we¡¯d get along swimmingly!¡±


    You barely talked to me. Jules noted, before taking her case and leaving the hall proper, heading out to take care of her work.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°...what a jam. Truly the best music can get. Just a bit of news before we move onto our next song. Apparently, the Senate is in talks about establishing a protective barrier around Detu City after the Wailing attacks on the Venator Academy last year. Internal talks had been happening for a while, but they¡¯ve only been made public recently now that the plans are being actualized. Personally, while those Wailing have been putting a heavy weight on my mind, I¡¯m gonna miss that view of the Eldos Mountains. It feels a shame to block that up...but I guess you¡¯ve got to do what¡¯s necessary...¡±


    ¡°...you¡¯re with me, and I¡¯m with you...something something do do do...¡±


    Florey casually sung to himself, adjusting the focus on his microscope, before getting a closer look at his petri dish.


    He grabbed a small vial of liquid, sizzling in its container, before pouring a slight drop in the dish, watching as it reacted with the flesh inside.


    ¡°...14...seconds...before complete dissipation...¡± Florey remarked, making note of the results, as he stood up and gave his eye a rest. ¡°A few seconds difference...¡±


    He finished up his notes, wiping his hands off on his lab coat, before storing the vials away in cold storage.


    ¡°That¡¯s one more done.¡± He said, stretching out his back. ¡°I swear, these are getting easier...¡±


    He grabbed what notes he had and headed for the elevator, before taking it the seventh floor and hurrying to his office, grabbing a couple other notebooks while he was there and heading to Cassidy¡¯s desk soon after.


    Cassidy slowly lifted her head. ¡°Florey, hey. How¡¯s the research?¡±


    If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it.


    ¡°Well, it turns out that Wailing hide reacts pretty strangely to acidic substances. Certain liquids corrode it in mere seconds, even though it¡¯s tougher than most huma...¡± Florey said, before studying Cassidy¡¯s expression. ¡°...good. It¡¯s going good.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s about time you pulled yourself from that lab.¡± Cassidy said, taking the notebooks from Florey and storing them away. ¡°I swear, I¡¯ve barely seen you in the last few months...¡±


    ¡°Sorry. I¡¯ve just been caught up in my work.¡± Florey excused, as Cassidy pointed right at him.


    ¡°You¡¯ve still got the lab coat on.¡± She pointed out, embarrassing Florey further.


    ¡°I-It was quicker to...¡± Florey started, before shaking his head. ¡°Anything new?¡±


    ¡°No, just more of the study work. You¡¯re through most of it already.¡± Cassidy noted. ¡°Just hand it off to me when it¡¯s mostly done. We¡¯ll let the guys in the Research Division take care of it.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m fine to keep working. It¡¯s no bother.¡± Florey insisted, before taking his leave.


    ¡°Hold on.¡± Cassidy said, grabbing his attention, before indicating to the break room near the elevator, showing off employees gathered together, celebrating amongst themselves. ¡°It¡¯s Ivan¡¯s birthday today. You should come celebrate.¡±


    Florey watched them singing to Ivan, only to shake his head again. ¡°I¡¯m good. I¡¯ve still got some flesh samples to look into a bit further. Wouldn¡¯t want to put those off.¡±


    Cassidy shrugged. ¡°Can¡¯t say I didn¡¯t try.¡±


    She watched as Florey headed back up the elevator, before letting out an unfortunate sigh and resting her head on her hand, staring down at a picture on her desk.


    ¡°Oh, Wendy...¡± She remarked, picking it up. ¡°I hope he¡¯s getting something from this...¡±


    Just as Florey arrived back on the lab¡¯s floor, he passed the ever-present painting of Cecil and Marcus hanging in the hallway, showing them sitting in matching armchairs with a certain level of refinement to them.


    Florey honed in on Cecil in the portrait, before taking a deep breath.


    ¡°I promise...I¡¯ll make you proud.¡± Florey said. ¡°Even in my own small ways. I¡¯ll be what you see in me. It¡¯s the least I can do with this chance I¡¯ve been given...¡±


    His attention drifted to Marcus, just as present in the painting, before a chill ran down his spine.


    ¡°Weirdo...¡± He remarked, before realising how much time he¡¯d spent talking to himself and deciding it was best to get back to his work.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°¡­a caf¨¦.¡±


    ¡°A good caf¨¦.¡±


    Rosalind stared up at the front door of a noticeably packed caf¨¦, labelled the Carry Away Caf¨¦, as Salaire held the door open for her. They both stepped in, as she nearly knocked her head against a hanging plant near the entrance.


    What looked to be the owners gave a wave to Salaire, before pointing to an empty table off to the side by the window. He hurried over and sat down, as Rosalind followed him, but insisted on still standing.


    Salaire pointed to the chair. ¡°Come on, sit down.¡±


    ¡°Pretty lucky that they had a table free.¡±


    ¡°Are you actually planning on sitting?¡±


    Rosalind rolled her eyes and obliged him, finally sitting. ¡°So this place is packed, and the owners just happen to have a table reserved for you?¡±


    ¡°They¡¯re friends of mine.¡± Salaire insisted, grabbing a glass of water, as Rosalind leaned back and folded her arms.


    ¡°That¡¯s not it.¡± She said, pushing her leg against the table. ¡°Sexual favours?¡±


    Salaire nearly choked on his drink. ¡°N-No, of course not. They¡¯ve got, like, thirty years on me.¡±


    Rosalind just shrugged, before staring at Salaire.


    ¡°Come on, I¡¯m not just gonna¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°...¡±


    ¡°...¡±


    ¡°¡­I help launder money with them.¡±


    ¡°There we go.¡± Rosalind said, laughing to herself, as one of said owners walked over with a friendly demeanour.


    ¡°Good morning, Salaire. Is this a friend of yours?¡±


    ¡°Yes, this is Rosa from work.¡± Salaire said, immediately drawing Rosalind¡¯s ire.


    The owner turned to Rosalind. ¡°Well, Rosa, can I get you anyth-¡°


    ¡°Rosalind, and an espresso.¡± She quickly replied, leaning back in her chair, as the owner laughed awkwardly.


    ¡°Okay. Do you want anything to eat?¡±


    ¡°Actually, make it two espressos.¡± Rosalind clarified, before digging around in her pocket, as Salaire leaned over.


    ¡°Just get the usual for me.¡± He said, getting a nod from the owner, before Rosalind pulled out a bag of lollipops from her pocket and tried to open it.


    ¡°We¡¯re at a caf¨¦. Order some food.¡± Salaire insisted, as Rosalind struggled with the bag.


    ¡°Food doesn¡¯t¡­¡± She said, grabbing the provided cutlery and stabbing at the bag. ¡°Food doesn¡¯t cut it.¡±


    She managed to get it open, before pulling out a cherry flavoured one and sucking on it. ¡°God, this one sucks¡­¡±


    ¡°Then why¡¯re you eating it?¡± Salaire asked, while Rosalind put the lollipop back into her mouth.


    ¡°I¡¯ve gotten too used to the other flavours.¡± Rosalind excused, before snapping her fingers. ¡°Actually, there was this pack of flavours a few years back. It was one of those limited time deals¡­¡±


    ¡°Yeah?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, it had, like, a sci-fi theme to it.¡± Rosalind expounded, waving her hands. ¡°I think there was stuff like...Techno Teriyaki, and Cyber Celery¡­¡±


    Salaire winced. ¡°They sound vile.¡±


    ¡°No, they were great!¡± Rosalind yelled, leaning over the table, while getting a few looks from the other patrons, before sitting back down. ¡°But they were discontinued, so¡­¡±


    ¡°Surprising no one.¡± Salaire laughed, before getting a glare from Rosalind. ¡°¡­sorry.¡±


    ¡°Tropical¡¯s good, though. Lemonade flavour works.¡± Rosalind added, staring off into the white noise of the caf¨¦. ¡°Not the¡­pineapple one. Something about the texture¡­¡±


    Salaire looked at Rosalind while she stared off, before the owner brought over Rosalind¡¯s espressos and Salaire¡¯s burger and chips, which he went right for. ¡°You know, my mother used to say that too much candy¡¯s gonna rot your soul.¡±


    ¡°And you¡¯ve never stood on your own two feet, so how good a mother was she?¡± Rosalind snapped back, throwing Salaire off his meal.


    ¡°W-What¡¯s that supposed to mean?¡±


    ¡°It means you¡¯re a spineless coward, Salaire. Dressing all fancy just to hide your rodent-like tendencies.¡± Rosalind pointed out, now leaning a bit over the table while downing her first espresso. ¡°You¡¯re like a sewer rat wearing a real nice suit and expensive cologne.¡±


    Salaire responded in kind by closing the distance and smiling. ¡°I like an opinionated woman.¡±


    ¡°Heh.¡± Rosalind let out, before sitting back down. ¡°I¡¯d cut your tongue out the first chance I got.¡±


    Salaire sat back down. ¡°Is that the only way you could stand me?¡±


    Rosalind shrugged. ¡°It¡¯s why I work with Jules.¡±


    Rosalind quickly finished off her second espresso and slammed the glass down, before yelling at the owners. ¡°Hey! Two more of these!¡±


    She propped her feet up on the table, before glancing at Salaire. ¡°You¡¯re still paying, right?¡±


    Salaire chuckled to himself. ¡°Yeah, I¡¯m paying.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Truth be told, Jules had never been to the outskirts of Heiamimi.


    RC had always been strictly off limits to her, so much so that she didn¡¯t even know what it stood for. She knew a few familiar faces from there, but they were as tight lipped as you¡¯d expect.


    However, they knew her. She was the one you got in when you needed a Wailing captured.


    Jules carefully skirted the edge of the Aishanara Forest, peering in as best she could. One of the drivers from RC was waiting for her nearby, as she scoped out the area, trying to hide her nerves from coming out.


    Come on, you¡¯ve got this... Jules assured herself. ...nothing to it...n-noth-


    Just then, she heard a branch snap and jumped suddenly, only to see a bird picking it off a tree and fly away with it. She sighed out and ran her finger over the vials Wicker had provided her in the case, hoping they were enough to keep her safe again.


    She made her way further into the forest, though still clearly near the edge. Nothing immediately jumped out to her, save for...


    Markings... She noticed, being drawn to scratch marks made on the trunks of nearby trees. They must be nearby.


    She looked around, desperate to find any other sign, before a subtle presence and quiet growling came out from behind her.


    Instinctively, she quickly dodged to the side, as one of the Wailing she was hunting leaped right past her, claws at the ready. It missed, only to drag against the ground and face her again, as Jules tried to collect herself.


    Jules grabbed for one of the vials and turned to the Wailing, ready for its next strike.


    Instead, the Wailing opened its mouth, slowly igniting something in its throat, as Jules panicked and huddled away, expecting a plume of flame to erupt from the Wailing¡¯s mouth.


    However, she turned and noticed the Wailing failing to burn anything, watching it slowly cough up smoke and try desperately to do what she feared it would. It slowly lost interest in her as it tried to throw any flame at all, only producing more smoke from its mouth.


    Jules watched it visibly struggle, almost with a look of shame across its face. She also finally noticed it was limping on one of its back legs


    Is it...?


    She placed the vial back in her belt and slowly approached the Wailing, as it quickly noticed and turned aggressive again.


    Jules gently displayed her hands, before looking around her and picking up a nearby dried leaf from the ground.


    She held it in her palm and focused, just as the leaf was gradually consumed and turned into smoke, coming out of her other hand.


    The Wailing recoiled slightly, watching her use her Whil so casually, before she stood back up.


    [I...don¡¯t know if you can understand this.] She started signing. [But please come with me. I need you to follow me back.]


    The Wailing tried to understand her hand movements, only to start growling toward her again, worrying Jules.


    [I don¡¯t know what¡¯s happened to you, but I¡¯m sure we can help. That¡¯s what we¡¯re here for.] Jules tried, reaching out again. [We want to help end the Conflict for good.]


    The Wailing refused to back down in response to Jules getting closer, as it began to circle her again. Jules¡¯ anxiety was starting to kick in, as it became clear the Wailing wasn¡¯t about to come back without force.


    She slowly lowered her hand to reach one of the vials, ready to use it against the Wailing, only for it to jump her suddenly, knocking her to the ground, before running off deeper into the forest, limping with each step.


    Jules took a second to come back up, before facing the direction the Wailing had run off to.


    Dammit...


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°...and that was another fantastic hit from the ever-popular Team Harmony. What a talent behind those folks...before heading onto the next song, I¡¯ve got a request from a frequent listener that goes by the name ¡®Rose Cantz,¡¯ for her ¡®dear and wonderful Liddy Stern.¡¯¡±


    ¡°Liddy, you mean so much to me. Hopefully forcing you to listen to this despite the fact that you hate listening to the radio worked. So, if you¡¯ll have me, like we always have each other, will you go to the formal with me?¡±


    ¡°What a lovely message between two sweethearts, barring the comment about not liking the radio. Hopefully that reached Liddy in time for a confirmation, and hey, for anyone else attending the Venator Academy formal in a weeks¡¯ time, best of luck to you. It¡¯s sure to be a wonderful event.¡±


    Florey lifted his head from his work and turned to the radio.


    ¡°Speaking of love, I have a little classic from the King¡¯s Landing to get you feeling just right about what you truly love. Take a second to relax and listen...¡±


    Florey turned down the radio, as he noticed his attention drifting from his work despite his best efforts. He stared dreamily at the ceiling, before jumping at the sudden sound of the lab doors opening behind him.


    Before Florey could properly react, Marcus was just by the entrance, knocking near the door.


    Florey realised this was the first time he¡¯d seen Marcus face to face, which was especially jarring considering he only now noticed the scar covering most of his nose.


    ¡°Routine inspection.¡± Marcus remarked, slinking his way in. ¡°You¡¯re getting audited.¡±


    ¡°I-I am?¡± Florey asked, trying to look natural, as Marcus sneered.


    ¡°No. I think I¡¯d have more to do in that case then you would.¡± Marcus pointed out, as Florey thought through it and realised the obvious. ¡°So, you¡¯re the Florey Faraday I¡¯ve heard about?¡±


    ¡°Y-Yes, sir.¡± Florey replied, holding out his hand as Marcus passed by, only for Marcus to look at it and wave his dismissively.


    ¡°Apologies for not meeting you sooner over the last few months. You were low on my priorities list.¡± Marcus blatantly stated, glancing around the lab thoroughly. ¡°But frankly, I¡¯d take that as a compliment since you¡¯ve yet to be a problem.¡±


    ¡°S-Sure, yeah.¡± Florey quickly replied, as Marcus noticed a few beakers left out, some having spilled slightly on the counter.


    ¡°This lab is a privilege.¡± He declared, holding up the beakers. ¡°Your job includes maintaining it.¡±


    ¡°I-I was going to get to that later. I usually clean after m...¡± Florey answered, just as Marcus ducked his head down under the counters, checking inside the cabinets. ¡°Are you looking for anything in particular?¡±


    ¡°No.¡± Marcus replied, standing back up before going to lean on one of the counters in Florey¡¯s direction.


    The pressure started to get to Florey, as he felt he had to do the same.


    ¡°Don¡¯t do that.¡± Marcus said, causing Florey to stand back up, now far more uncomfortable.


    Marcus looked behind Florey and noticed the radio still playing.


    ¡°Do you always listen to the radio when you work?¡± Marcus asked.


    ¡°N-No, it¡¯s been a...recent thing.¡± Florey said, turning it down completely. ¡°I didn¡¯t even start listening until working here.¡±


    ¡°Hmm.¡± Marcus let out, resettling on the counter, as Florey worried he might have upset him somehow.


    Marcus scratched at his nose. ¡°I¡¯ll get out of your hair after a few questions. Cecil has a lot of faith in you, but for all I know, you¡¯re a complete stranger that just happened to win his heart.¡±


    Marcus shrugged. ¡°And you¡¯ve yet to impress me. In case you forgot, I¡¯m in charge here too.¡±


    ¡°Y-Yeah, I know...¡± Florey replied, only to get another glare from Marcus, before clearing his throat.


    I¡¯ll just answer the questions. Florey thought. You think he¡¯d realise he¡¯s interrupting my work.


    ¡°How much biology experience do you have?¡± Marcus asked, leaving Florey on the spot.


    ¡°I mean, if we count the last half a year I¡¯ve spent here...¡±


    ¡°No...worthwhile...experience...¡± Marcus wrote down, as Florey realised he had a notepad with him.


    He¡¯s assessing me? Florey thought.


    ¡°Have you ever killed a Wailing before?¡± Marcus followed up with, throwing Florey off even more.


    ¡°N-No, I...¡± Florey answered, letting Marcus write even more. ¡°Is this a disguised employee review?¡±


    ¡°No.¡± Marcus said, before facing Florey again. ¡°Last question. Why did you leave your position at the Venator Academy?¡±


    Florey didn¡¯t expect something like this, especially since he thought Cecil would have told him by now. The room¡¯s silence bled in again, as Florey felt the push to answer.


    ¡°I...wasn¡¯t fulfilled.¡± Florey replied. ¡°I knew I couldn¡¯t be a Venator, at least not a...hunting one. That¡¯s not what I wanted.¡±


    Florey stared at the floor and started playing with his fingers. ¡°I-I...went to the academy against my will, even though I knew I wanted to go anywhere else. I¡¯m no warrior...¡±


    Florey smiled a little. ¡°And then when I really thought about it, I started to wonder if Venators really were helping people. Sure, they defeat Wailing all the time, but the Conflict¡¯s not over. It hasn¡¯t been for ages. And the Wailing are only getting stronger.¡±


    Florey waved his hands. ¡°They¡¯re too busy turning it into a business to be real heroes...so, I went somewhere where my skills could be useful. I went here.¡±


    Marcus stared at Florey while he spoke, as he casually spun a pen in his hands. ¡°Yeah, I picked up on that part.¡±


    Florey looked a bit offended, as Marcus stood back up from the counter.


    ¡°So, you decided to leave by yourself?¡±


    ¡°Y-Yeah...¡± Florey said.


    ¡°Venators work in teams. What happened to yours?¡±


    Florey avoided eye contact. ¡°I-I don¡¯t know. I haven¡¯t contacted them since leaving.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± Marcus replied, walking around the lab again, as Florey¡¯s frustration was boiling over.


    I swear, the nerve of this guy...


    ¡°You know how Cecil got to where he is now?¡± Marcus rhetorically asked. ¡°Good management. Of his work and himself.¡±


    Marcus reached into one of the draws under the counters and pulled out some paper towel, before half-heartedly swabbing at the mess near the beakers. After doing a good enough job, he quickly took himself back out of the lab, facing Florey as he walked past.


    ¡°Clean your messes.¡± He said, before leaving proper, closing the door suddenly behind him.


    Florey was left standing in his lab, unsure whether Marcus meant what he said or whether it was more belittling. Regardless, he tried to turn back to his work, raising the volume on the radio again to help him focus.


    ¡°...ell, seems like we¡¯ll have to earmark that next song. Until next time, I suppose. It¡¯s about time we wrap things up here, anyway. I¡¯m Godred Lovejoy, wishing you the best. Don¡¯t be a stranger.¡±


    Florey couldn¡¯t even start his work proper, as he idly tapped on the table, before getting up and leaving the lab himself, needing at least a bit of fresh air.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°I¡¯ve never asked why you¡¯re doing it.¡± Salaire questioned, swirling his straw in his drink.


    ¡°Doing what?¡± Rosalind remarked.


    ¡°This. Working with Wicker.¡± Salaire said, tapping the straw on the brim. ¡°Everyone¡¯s got a reason.¡±


    Rosalind leaned back in her chair, before laughing a little. ¡°I dunno, really. Scratches an itch.¡±


    ¡°A lethal one?¡±


    ¡°Not really, no.¡± She replied, flashing him a grin. ¡°I guess you¡¯re just here for the pay?¡±


    ¡°Investment, really.¡± Salaire clarified. ¡°Wicker lets me sell off his findings to whoever wants it. I get a cut for getting his info to my various contacts.¡±


    ¡°Ooo, an honest middleman.¡± Rosalind mocked. ¡°Still, I guess it¡¯s nobler than murder.¡±


    ¡°Not really, no.¡± He smirked, smiling back at her. ¡°It¡¯s not like I¡¯m donating to charities. Most of it just gets funneled into my condo and alimony payments.¡±


    Rosalind tapped her fingers against the table, mostly ignoring him again, as Salaire decided to finish his burger.


    ¡°Have you thought about investing your savings?¡± Salaire offered, wiping his mouth, as Rosalind bit her lip in anger. ¡°You¡¯re money¡¯s no good sitting it som-¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t give me money advice, Salaire.¡± Rosalind demanded.


    ¡°Well, what if you¡¯d like some in the future? You can¡¯t always predict your bank balance.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t need anything.¡± Rosalind said, as Salaire wagged his finger.


    ¡°It¡¯s not about need, it¡¯s about want.¡±


    ¡°I want you to shut up.¡± Rosalind said, crawling over the table. ¡°How much for that, fifty capitals?¡±


    ¡°Hey, hey. Who¡¯s gonna know more about money? Me or you?¡± Salaire encouraged, only to receive a violent glare from Rosalind, shutting him down. ¡°R-Redundant question...¡±


    Rosalind tried to distract herself with the surrounding caf¨¦, as Salaire went to grab his card to pay for the meal.


    ¡°I¡¯m just looking out for ya. It¡¯s always good to have someone in your corner. If you¡¯re not careful, Wicker¡¯s gonna take advantage of you, and I won¡¯t be there t-¡±


    Before he could continue, Rosalind jumped out of her seat and yanked on his tie, choking him with it. The caf¨¦ around them went dead silent, watching the action unfold, as the owners started to get antsy.


    ¡°Shut...the fuck up. Don¡¯t defend me like I¡¯m your good-for-nothing charity case.¡± Rosalind said, all while Salaire frantically waved his hands in apology. ¡°Clear?¡±


    Salaire nodded profusely, desperately clawing at his tie to try and free himself, only for Rosalind to let go and drop him into his chair, letting him recapture his breath.


    ¡°Moron. I¡¯m not about to kill you in public.¡± Rosalind insisted, folding her arms.


    Salaire struggled to recapture his breath, as the caf¨¦ around them continued to watch the action, with one of the owners rushing over right after.


    ¡°I-Is everything okay over here?¡± The owner asked, cautiously eyeing up Rosalind.


    ¡°Just fine. We were having a disagreement.¡± Salaire intervened, before leaning in. ¡°She gets touchy when I mention her waistline.¡±


    Rosalind winced at the comment, as the owner felt somewhat assured, despite still avoiding Rosalind.


    Salaire quickly paid for the meal and apologised before the owner left, as Rosalind lifted her head. ¡°My waistline?¡±


    ¡°You want to tell him the real reason?¡± Salaire shot back, trying to clean up his appearance as the rest of the caf¨¦ side-glanced them. ¡°Now we can¡¯t leave without drawing more attention...¡±


    Salaire noticed Rosalind covering her face. ¡°What?¡±


    Rosalind turned around and revealed she was laughing. ¡°Your face looks really stupid right now.¡±


    Salaire ignored the comment and double-checked his watch, just as Rosalind got a quick message on her tablet.


    ¡°...well, I¡¯ve gotta go.¡± Rosalind said, quickly getting up and pissing off Salaire.


    ¡°What did I just say?¡±


    ¡°Up yours.¡± Rosalind replied, before waving her tablet. ¡°And it¡¯s a request from the big man. No saying no to this one.¡±


    Rosalind took her leave, ignoring the stares coming from the other patrons, only for Salaire to scoff.


    ¡°Guess I was right. He really is taking advantage of you.¡± Salaire said, ending it there, as Rosalind grit her teeth, but refused to turn back around and dignify him, forcing her to leave then and there.


    The owner walked back over to Salaire right after Rosalind left. ¡°She¡¯s a piece of work, huh?¡±


    ¡°Yeah.¡± Salaire said. ¡°But that¡¯s okay.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    It was a little later, and fortunately for Jules, her hunt had been uneventful.


    She¡¯d made it further into the forest, but just close enough that she could still see the driver, as the forest¡¯s claustrophobia was becoming uncomfortably familiar.


    This is crazy... Jules thought. I shouldn¡¯t be out here...


    Jules stamped her foot in frustration.


    You¡¯re earning those days off! This is worth it! Noth-


    Just as she was lost in thought, she immediately tripped over a nearby branch and took a fall down a small dip in the forest floor. She rolled down painfully, before landing directly into a mud puddle and onto her arm, shooting pain right through it.


    She stamped her foot again to relieve some of the pain, rubbing her arm cautiously, only to be alerted by more rustling coming from the foliage nearby.


    She stood back up as best she could in the mud, wiping off some of it to the best of her ability, before catching what looked to be the silhouette of a Wailing high in the trees, staring down at her as she recovered, almost hesitating briefly.


    Right as Jules spotted it in the distance, it ran off to who knows where.


    Jules tried to reach out for it, only to notice more rustling behind her, as the initial Wailing she was hunting batted her to the side, knocking her to the ground again.


    She managed to turn and face it, as it started circling her again. Jules subtly grabbed for one of the vials, running it through her fingers, all while her head was telling her to attack.


    She prepared the vial, only to lock eyes with the Wailing and acknowledge something she hadn¡¯t noticed before.


    Fear.


    It was scared.


    While it looked to be circling her at first, it was actually heading closer to the denser parts of the forest. It was looking to escape.


    Even if it wanted to fight, its ever-present limp would only hold it back.


    Jules had all the power here.


    She started to hesitate, watching as it inched closer to the forest, just as she was ready to put back the vial.


    It just wants to go... Jules realised. It just...


    She shook her head. We can help it. That¡¯s what...


    It was nearly home free.


    ...that¡¯s what...


    Just...


    ...maybe it¡¯s right to let it g-


    ¡°Working hard or hardly working?¡±


    Jules jumped suddenly, as she noticed Rosalind standing right beside her, her sword rested on her shoulders.


    The Wailing stayed cautious, as Jules started signing frantically. [Why the hell are you here?!]


    ¡°How¡¯d I find you?¡± Rosalind assumed. ¡°The driver told me where you were. I just felt it out.¡±


    Rosalind held up her tablet. ¡°Wicker was curious since you hadn¡¯t reported back yet. It¡¯s been all day.¡±


    Jules tried to calm down, as Rosalind scratched her neck.


    ¡°Having trouble?¡± Rosalind asked, as Jules all but admitted it. ¡°I guess tha-¡±


    She turned to face the Wailing properly, before groaning. ¡°This scrawny fucker¡¯s giving you a hard time? Seriously?¡± Rosalind remarked, swinging her sword down. ¡°Alright. Guess I have to do everything again.¡±


    Before Jules could protest, Rosalind sprinted to the Wailing, jumping at it before it could try to get away, just as she landed on top of it, pinning it down with her sword near its neck.


    ¡°Hurry up. This thing¡¯s ugly as fuck.¡± Rosalind demanded, trying to hold the Wailing from bucking her off.


    Jules slowly got up and watched the Wailing trying to fight back, even as it clearly couldn¡¯t push her off with its sprained leg. She made her way over, going for one of the vials, just as the Wailing drew its attention to her, now whining at her instead of trying to escape.


    She tried to block out the noise, as she held the vial over her hand and realised a gel onto it. She gradually absorbed it with her Whil, before pointing her hand in the Wailing¡¯s face, looking away the entire time.


    Eventually, a thick mist came out from her hand, enveloping the Wailing¡¯s face, as it tried desperately to not to breath it in, thrashing about wildly as it did so.


    Rosalind held her breath too, before the Wailing couldn¡¯t fight it anymore and collapsed to the ground, its eyes having turned completely white.


    ¡°Well then.¡± Rosalind said, getting off of it. ¡°There we go. Not so hard, huh?¡±


    Jules could feel herself shaking, struggling to put the vial back, before accidentally dropping it on the ground.


    ¡°Oh, get over it already. I know this isn¡¯t your first capture. Don¡¯t try to get sympathy from me.¡± Rosalind said, before pulling out her tablet again. ¡°This is Rosalind. We¡¯ve got one for collection.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    It was a long drive for Jules.


    Rosalind insisted on taking her back in her ute. Jules couldn¡¯t really tell why, but she suspected it was something to do with further keeping an eye on her.


    She stared down at her clothes, still stained in the mud she¡¯d landed in. At this point, it had soaked in pretty thoroughly.


    But...at least she¡¯d get her break after today.


    After getting back to Detu City, Rosalind made a beeline for home base, parking in the provided carpark and locking her ute up.


    ¡°What a day.¡± Rosalind let out, stretching. ¡°Salaire better thank me for not choking him out.¡±


    Rosalind was ready to head inside, only to realise Jules wasn¡¯t following her and that she¡¯d walked to the exit of the carpark, staring out.


    ¡°Hey! Dipshit!¡± Rosalind called out. ¡°Work¡¯s this way!¡±


    Jules turned and started signing to Rosalind, only for her to groan in annoyance.


    ¡°Whatever. If you get lost, it¡¯s your head, not mine.¡± Rosalind complained, before scanning her ID and heading inside.


    Jules kept to herself and watched Rosalind, before leaving on her own. She quickly remembered the place Salaire had teased earlier and couldn¡¯t keep it out of her mind, as she tried her best to find it.


    Round Street... She repeated to herself, only to supposedly find it a few minutes later, still bustling with customers. Wow, this place is packed. No wonder he was recommending it...


    As she approached the busy caf¨¦, she started to worry she might not find a free table. Fortunately, a couple just managed to get up and leave soon after, opening one up for her just as she arrived, letting her sit down properly and take a breath.


    I really needed some air... She thought. No stuffy hallways...no Rosalind...no...


    She closed her eyes and let herself breathe for a moment, finally calming her heart after the rush it had received from everything that had transpired in the forest, before she felt the pull of someone¡¯s presence on the other end of her table.


    She opened an eye and found someone grabbing the opposite chair.


    ¡°Hey, is it alright if I sit here? There aren¡¯t any other free seats.¡±


    She looked over him cautiously, before slowly nodding, as he quickly took his place.


    ¡°Thanks...I¡¯m Florey, by the way.¡± Florey greeted, trying not to look awkward. ¡°But I guess you didn¡¯t ask...¡±


    Jules shook her head, assuring him it wasn¡¯t a worry, as Florey felt a bit more at ease.


    ¡°Right. Hey, you¡¯ve got some...¡±


    Florey pointed down as Jules¡¯ muddy clothes, as she just rolled her eyes and played it off.


    ¡°Whatever.¡± Florey agreed, clearing his throat before facing her again proper. ¡°Do you mind if I ask your name?¡±


    Jules debated the merits of spreading her name around so freely, especially to a complete stranger she¡¯d just met, but gave Florey another quick onceover and concluded it wouldn¡¯t be an issue.


    [Jules.] She signed to him, as Florey studied her gestures.


    ¡°...Jules.¡± He repeated allowed, as Jules noticed he was staring.


    [Is something wrong?]


    ¡°...no, no, sorry. You just...reminded me of someone...¡± Florey admitted, staring off into the caf¨¦, as Jules wondered what he was talking about.


    Florey noticed the line to order food, before looking to Jules and getting up again. ¡°I¡¯m gonna go order something. Do you want anything?¡±


    Jules waved her hands. [I couldn¡¯t have you buy me food. We just met.]


    Florey shrugged, before signing back to her. [You gave me the seat. The least I can do is pay you back. What do you want?]


    Jules stayed quiet for a second, before giving in and giving her order. [One of those strawberry tarts I saw coming in. A-And a lemonade.]


    Florey gave a thumbs up and waited in line, as Jules finally took in the silence again, feeling somewhat at ease with this person she just met.


    I wonder what his story is...


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°It¡¯s this whole new step for me.¡± Florey explained, taking a bite of his sandwich. ¡°All of a sudden, I¡¯m getting respect for the work I do. No parents, no shitty teachers, just me and my work.¡±


    [Has that been a problem before?] Jules asked, before going after her own food.


    ¡°Yeah. I had it pretty hard back where I used to study...¡± Florey confessed, taking a sip of his coffee. ¡°I...I let go of some people in my life. I needed to make a change, and...that meant leaving them behind.¡±


    Florey rubbed his arm in frustration. ¡°We were never that close...but I know I hurt them...and I know an apology would just feel belated at this point.¡±


    Florey showed his hands. ¡°But I don¡¯t know what to do! I feel like the bridge is burnt. There¡¯s no pointing trying to fix it, right?¡±


    Jules took a second to appreciate her finely crafted tart, truly taking in the depths of flavour, before staring at him and rolling her eyes. [You should still do it.]


    Florey blinked. ¡°W-What?¡±


    [Apologising for something is always worth doing. Even if you feel like you¡¯ve burnt that bridge.] Jules pointed out. [If the right thing¡¯s the hard thing to do, that probably means it¡¯s worth it.]


    ¡°...that¡¯s not always viable, though.¡± Florey added. ¡°I don¡¯t know how they¡¯ll react. What if I just make it worse for them? What if they¡¯ve moved on, and I just come in and open old wounds?¡±


    Jules shrugged. [Sounds like an excuse.]


    ¡°Wha-excuse? Excuse my ass...¡± Florey groaned, before reflecting on it more. ¡°...I know it¡¯s hard, but maybe that¡¯s a sign it¡¯s not worth it. My work feels so natural, and this doesn¡¯t...what¡¯s the point, you know?¡±


    Jules¡¯ eye twitched, before she slammed her hand down suddenly, freaking Florey out.


    [If you can act, do it! Some of us aren¡¯t so-]


    Jules stopped herself quickly and sat back down, as Florey reeled from the sudden outburst.


    ¡°Sounds like you¡¯ve had a fun day too.¡± Florey remarked, taking a needed drink.


    [...sorry.]


    [It¡¯s fine.] Florey replied. ¡°...but something¡¯s bothering you, huh?¡±


    Jules slowly nodded, as she huddled in her chair, trying not to look at him.


    She struggled to pull up her hands. [I¡¯ve...done some bad things.]


    Florey blinked, before taking another sip. ¡°Okay.¡±


    [...I know I shouldn¡¯t have done them, but there¡¯s nothing I could do.] Jules admitted. [And every time I try to act better, I never get the chance...]


    ¡°...that¡¯s some pretty heavy stuff.¡± Florey said, swirling his coffee. ¡°Sorry, I didn¡¯t want you to feel li-¡±


    [No, no, it¡¯s fine.] Jules assured. [I just wish...]


    Suddenly, Jules smiled to herself, as Florey tried to make out her expression. ¡°Jules?¡±


    [Sorry. I was just thinking...I met this team.] Jules signed, as Florey cocked his head.


    [Team?]


    [A Venator team.] Jules added. [There was a Wailing attack, and I was terrified something would happen to me. I hid away as best I could, and then one of their members found me and offered me shelter.]


    Jules smiled when recalling the memory. [No one¡¯s ever done something like that for me. I didn¡¯t ask for help, I wasn¡¯t even nice to them, but they gave it regardless. I was so lucky...]


    Jules snickered to herself. [And I was terrified out of my gourd.]


    ¡°They sound nice.¡± Florey admitted, as Jules nodded back.


    [They were.] She confessed.


    Florey chuckled to himself. ¡°I know what it¡¯s like, by the way. I uhh...¡±


    Florey tentatively pulled down his shirt collar a little to show the scar on his neck. ¡°I...got attacked by a Wailing when I was younger, and a Venator team came in and saved me. I don¡¯t remember who they were, but I still can¡¯t forget that day. For all their problems, Venators really can do some good...¡±


    Jules stared at Florey in confusion, as he quickly noticed her change in expression. ¡°What?¡±


    [...I¡¯m surprised.] Jules admitted. [I never thought people like Venators could help so much.]


    ¡°Why not?¡± Florey asked, taking another sip of his drink, as Jules suddenly went quiet.


    [My...boss...used to tell me that Venators were all violent thugs. Just hired guns who acted like glorified exterminators for the Wailing.] Jules pointed out. [But these ones I met were so nice. They cared about each other. I couldn¡¯t call them thugs, and they certainly didn¡¯t act like it...]


    ¡°Thug Venators?¡± Florey smirked. ¡°I mean...a few of them, maybe...¡±


    [But why would he say that if it¡¯s not true? I saw it with my own two eyes.] Jules admitted, as Florey finished up his coffee and stood up.


    ¡°Maybe he¡¯s ill-informed? He might...not have met a lot of good ones...¡± Florey said, now thinking to himself. ¡°Maybe it¡¯s not as simple as writing them all off...there¡¯s always another chance...¡±


    Florey stared down at his drink. ¡°Maybe meeting the good ones isn¡¯t something you should take for granted...¡±


    Jules stared down at her food quietly, before Florey tapped her shoulder and smiled.


    ¡°You could change his mind. If your boss is anywhere near as cool as mine, then I¡¯m sure he¡¯s worth it.¡± Florey grinned, stretching as he stood up. ¡°Thanks for the seat. I really needed a bit of air.¡±


    Florey turned away. ¡°And, uhh...I think I might take your advice. About apologising.¡±


    Jules watched him clearly struggle with the words. ¡°...it¡¯s the right thing to do, even if I¡¯m setting myself up to get hurt. However they react, I¡¯ll just take it in stride.¡±


    Florey quickly pulled out his tablet and checked the calendar. ¡°Actually, when¡¯s that formal? I could guarantee they¡¯d all be in one spot...¡±


    Jules smiled to herself and stood up as well, before sticking out her hand.


    Florey was distracted with his plans, before realising what she was doing and quickly shaking it. ¡°Sorry. Got distracted.¡±


    [Thanks for the chat.] Jules replied. [There¡¯s not a lot of people I can do this with, so it¡¯s appreciated.]


    Florey grinned, before checking his tablet and acknowledging the time. ¡°Is it six already? I¡¯ve gotta get back.¡±


    Florey grabbed his bag and hurried off, before waving back to Jules as he ran.


    ¡°Thank you!¡± He called out, before disappearing back into the white noise of Detu City.


    Jules took one last bite of her food and cleared her table, just as she headed back to report her work to Wicker.


    You don¡¯t come across people like that every day. Jules thought. I hope I get to see him again.


    She eventually made her way back, still feeling elated from her chat, just as she arrived at the entrance to the building again.


    She went to pull out her ID card to get in, only to reach into her pocket and find it soaked completely with mud.


    She did her best to scan what was left of the card, which only just managed to work, before she stared at the shriveled remains of the card.


    Geez. That puddle really did a number on it. She admitted, taking out the ID from its holder and idly chucking it to the floor. I guess it¡¯s not hard to print a new one.


    She headed inside proper and reacquainted herself with the cramped hallways, as they made themselves known again.


    She ignored it as best she could, still feeling buzzed from her pleasant chat at the caf¨¦, before she arrived at the meeting room again, the door slightly ajar.


    She grabbed the door handle, only to notice her hand slightly hesitating with opening it.


    ...you¡¯ve got this. Jules assured herself. It¡¯ll all be worth it.


    She slowly opened the door, as Wicker sat across from her at the table, looking over some work.


    He lifted his head. ¡°You¡¯re a bit late.¡±


    [The...Wailing put up a fight.] Jules signed, as Wicker waved his hand for her to come closer.


    ¡°So? How did the capture go?¡±


    Jules straightened her back. [We managed to capture a Wailing and bring it back to one of the drivers. Unfortunately...there were no others in the nearby area.]


    Jules elected not to mention the second Wailing she¡¯d spotted, as Wicker adjusted his seat.


    ¡°...okay.¡± Wicker said, giving her his full attention. ¡°We¡¯ll send out a few agents to see if they can track down anymore of the escapees. After that, you can go through and collect the rest.¡±


    [Of course.] Jules replied, as Wicker went back to his work, leaving Jules a bit on the spot.


    Wicker noticed her still standing there. ¡°Good job. You did well today.¡±


    Jules still felt unsatisfied, as she got his attention again. [So...about the days off...]


    Wicker stared at her, as she started to sweat.


    [The days off you sai-]


    ¡°What days off?¡±


    Jules stood in dumbfounded silence, as Wicker started to get up.


    Jules did her best to communicate with shaky hands. [T-The ones you said I could have if I took care o-]


    ¡°I don¡¯t remember us talking about days off.¡± Wicker insisted, shaking his head.


    Jules was struggling to hold her hands up, as Wicker rested himself by sitting against the table.


    ¡°I said we¡¯d discuss it after your work was done, but nothing was confirmed.¡± Wicker clarified, slowly standing up. ¡°And as far as I know, we¡¯ve yet to actually talk about it.¡±


    Jules watched as he slowly approached, making his presence in the room all the more encompassing.


    ¡°Tell you what. After you''ve taken care of your work in the next few weeks, we¡¯ll discuss it properly.¡± Wicker said, as Jules couldn¡¯t close her mouth in shock. ¡°There¡¯s still those other Wailing that need to be captured, after all.¡±


    Jules started to feel her legs give out, as Wicker studied her expression.


    ¡°Is that all?¡±


    Jules went to clench a fist, as Wicker stared at her intently.


    ¡°I said is that all?¡±


    Jules stared at the floor, desperate to hold back emotion, before signing in response.


    [Y-Yes...father...]


    ¡°Alright. Oh, and clean yourself off. I don¡¯t want mud getting tracked in here.¡± Wicker insisted, just as Jules did her best to leave the room as quickly as she could manage.


    Just as she rounded the corner, she fell against the wall and slid to the floor, crying to herself. The lack of any and all relief was crushing, as the claustrophobia of the halls flooded back in.


    She hoped no one would see her like this.


    She was ashamed of where she was.


    Of what she did.


    And that there was nothing she could do.


    And no one coming to save her.

 Chapter 37: The Tournament

    Essex took her time on the balcony.


    It was exciting to see the other teams practicing, especially since they had such a good reason to. The buzz was across the entire academy, and all the second-years were elated it was finally their turn.


    The annual academy tournament was approaching in only a week''s time. Teams from across campus and all over Daysend were participating, all ready to duel it out in spectacular combat for the masses. It was a big event for a reason.


    Essex would have joined the team''s early practice, but she wasn¡¯t in the best of spirits. Usually, she¡¯d be out on her morning training routine, and initially, that was the plan.


    But, considering what had happened the previous night at the formal...


    ¡­


    ¡­


    ¡­


    ...it was best for her to take this time for herself.


    Realising it was nearly midday, she quickly got up to grab herself lunch, only for the door to open in front of her, revealing Harley coming into the dorm.


    Harley briefly locked eyes with Essex, before shying away, keeping to herself, as Essex did much the same, making her best effort toward the kitchen in hopes of avoiding her.


    Harley sat herself down at the couch, trying to distract herself from Essex, which thankfully came in the form of the rest of the team coming in soon after.


    ¡°...eah, I think they¡¯re still setting up.¡± Julia said, cheerily hurrying through, before realising Harley and Essex were already there. ¡°Hey! You guys excited for the tournament?¡±


    Harley leaned over the couch. ¡°Who wouldn¡¯t be? How often do we get to spar against other teams?¡±


    ¡°Team Exemplary, Team Vanguard, Team Ferocity on numerous occasions...¡± Wess mentioned, coming in behind Julia. ¡°Shall I go on?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, but this is way better. We¡¯ll actually be on equal footing!¡± Sola cheered, coming in last. ¡°And there¡¯s an arena!¡±


    ¡°Actually, that¡¯s a great point, Sola.¡± Julia said, turning to face everyone. ¡°How about we head down to the tournament hall and see what¡¯s up? We might meet some of our competition early.¡±


    ¡°Hell yeah!¡± Harley exclaimed, jumping up from her seat, only to catch Essex in the corner of her eye. ¡°...yeah, that¡¯s a good idea.¡±


    ¡°I also heard the slight rumour that Team Daybreak might be making an appearance.¡± Wess mentioned, as Julia¡¯s eyes lit up.


    ¡°Seriously?! Here?!¡±


    ¡°Yes, apparently, they trained here not too long ago. Now they want to see who¡¯ll be following them up.¡± Wess elaborated, as Julia started dancing around and celebrating to herself.


    ¡°Who¡¯s Team Daybreak?¡± Harley asked, as Sola joined her side.


    ¡°They¡¯re this new up-and-coming team with this crazy good track record!¡± Julia exclaimed. ¡°Over the last three years, they¡¯ve already killed fifty-eight Wailing in total and not a single mission of theirs has gone over three hours. Some people are even saying they might be the new Team Spectrum.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s high praise coming from you.¡± Harley remarked.


    ¡°Whoa! She¡¯s smoking hot!¡± Sola exclaimed, pulling up a photo of the team on her tablet and reading aloud. ¡°Victoria Knox, proud leader of Team Daybreak. ¡®What doesn¡¯t kill you makes you stronger...¡¯¡±


    ¡°They sound very accomplished. I wish to meet them.¡± Essex added, joining the team conversation after getting her food. ¡°Perhaps they may have met some teams we¡¯re familiar with.¡±


    ¡°Probably. The Venator industry¡¯s surprisingly insular.¡± Julia added. ¡°Maybe we can have a chat? It might be nice to have a team like them know about us.¡±


    ¡°I doubt we¡¯d make much of an impression. What¡¯s to say they¡¯ll even give us the time of day?¡± Wess pointed out.


    ¡°Easy. They¡¯re Venators. Venators are good people.¡± Julia reasoned, smiling to the others. ¡°Regardless, whether they show up here or not, I still want to see the tournament hall getting set up.¡±


    ¡°Then what are we waiting for!¡± Sola exclaimed, hurrying to the door. ¡°Come on! Let¡¯s go already!¡±


    ¡°Alright, alright, calm down.¡± Harley said, nervously glancing in Essex¡¯s direction, before joining Sola. ¡°We can grab something to eat on the way.¡±


    Sola beckoned Essex to join them, which she soon did, as Julia and Wess were left in the dorm room alone.


    ¡°You guys go ahead. We¡¯ll catch up in a bit.¡± Julia excused, as Sola nodded back at her, before closing the door.


    The moment the door closed, Julia and Wess collapsed.


    ¡°Oh my god, that was so hard!¡± Julia yelled out, now lying on the floor. ¡°I¡¯m sweating so much!¡±


    ¡°Who knew keeping this from them would be so draining?¡± Wess bemoaned, leaning against the couch while she worked on the stress in her forehead. ¡°This is utterly painful...¡±


    ¡°I felt so bad pretending nothing happened.¡± Julia admitted, fanning out her flannel. ¡°Oh boy, it¡¯s hot in here...¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re telling me.¡± Wess agreed. ¡°But we can¡¯t let them know...¡±


    ¡°No, no, definitely not.¡± Julia assured, standing up again. ¡°...about what part?¡±


    Wess blinked. ¡°What part? The drinking, the sex, the...state we were in this morning. None of it.¡±


    ¡°Right, right...¡± Julia agreed, looking to the side. ¡°...but it wouldn¡¯t be terrible if we told them some of it, right?¡±


    Wess¡¯ eyes drooped, as she slowly folded her arms.


    Julia coughed. ¡°It¡¯s just, it would be a huge load off, and, you know, since we¡¯re going into the tournament...¡±


    ¡°So we stress them out instead?¡± Wess argued. ¡°You know the stigma around team members dating.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, but Harley and Sola are doing fine now.¡± Julia reasoned.


    ¡°Yes, but it can only be them.¡± Wess said, confusing Julia. ¡°One relationship in serviceable, but when potential agents, agencies, clients, anyone, see a team with multiple relationships in it, they start to panic. It¡¯s hard enough for five people to work together so frequently, but tying so much emotion to it means nine times out of ten, they¡¯re going to collapse in on themselves.¡±


    ¡°...and that would look really bad going into the tournament.¡± Julia realised, as Wess nodded along.


    ¡°...if we do...tell them, it should be after the tournament.¡± Wess reasoned. ¡°We can¡¯t risk it getting out and scaring off necessary clientele.¡±


    ¡°...okay.¡± Julia agreed, mostly looking at the floor. ¡°...I don¡¯t want to have to lie to them like that, though. Especially for the next few months...¡±


    Wess sighed out. ¡°I don¡¯t want to either. But...¡±


    Wess made a point to link hands with Julia. ¡°...it¡¯s better than ruining this.¡±


    Julia slowly smiled to Wess, as she shook her head. ¡°It just had to be now, huh?¡±


    ¡°Better late than never.¡± Wess remarked, as Julia wandered over to their bunk bed.


    ¡°We did a good job moving the bed back. I didn¡¯t even know the bunk bed could be separated like that.¡± Julia pointed out, barely recalling the previous night. ¡°I must¡¯ve moved it with my Whil, which is pretty impressive, considering I was drunk¡­¡±


    ¡°And we certainly gave it a workout.¡± Wess said, feeling a slight soreness in her back. ¡°I remember inviting you to talk, but I don¡¯t think we ended up doing much of that...¡±


    Julia grinned at her. ¡°This was better.¡±


    Wess rolled her eyes. ¡°You¡¯re taking to this quite well. I¡¯m starting to think you were hoping for this.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a compliment.¡± Julia said, running her hand on the bed-frame, as Wess watched her taking her time.


    ¡°...we should join up with the others.¡± Wess said. ¡°Best not make them curious.¡±


    ¡°Yeah.¡± Julia agreed, slowly joining her as they left, before turning to face her. ¡°Hey, Wess?¡±


    ¡°Yes?¡±


    ¡°How good was it?¡±


    Wess blushed immediately, as she avoided staring at Julia too much. ¡°U-Uhh...well, you were there too. You tell me.¡±


    Julia thought on it for a second, before bumping Wess¡¯ side. ¡°We could use practice.¡±


    ¡°...well, I thought as much.¡± Wess agreed, before hurrying ahead, ready to join up with the others.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Come on...come on...argghhh!!!¡±


    Rosalind slashed at the training post one last time, before scorch marks started to appear permanently on the seemingly impenetrable exterior. She smirked at her accomplishment, before tossing her sword in the air.


    ¡°Burn-proof, my ass.¡±


    Just as she was ready to continue, her pocket started to vibrate, as she pulled out her tablet.


    ¡°Yeah, what? I¡¯m training.¡±


    ¡°I just got a report from RC.¡±


    Rosalind heard Wicker¡¯s tone and stayed tight-lipped.


    ¡°Apparently, two of the packages I thought had disappeared during maintenance were taken out beforehand.¡±


    Rosalind tried to hold her nerves. ¡°Yeah...¡±


    Wicker stayed quiet for a second. ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°...it was that thing.¡± Rosalind said. ¡°You know the one who¡¯s been breaking them out? I tried to stop it, but it managed to get those two loose. I had to use your device to kill them in the end. It was just marked off as happening during maintenance by accident.¡±


    There was silence over the call.


    ¡°But you know who I saw helping it? That Venator Team from the academy.¡± Rosalind replied. ¡°Team Valiant. They were out on some vacation during their break and helped it out before scurrying away.¡±


    ¡°A Venator team?¡±


    ¡°Yeah. I think it was like some nursing a bird with a broken wing type of thing for them. Prissy little do-gooders...¡±


    The silence continued.


    ¡°...if this is your way of lying, it¡¯s well-rehearsed.¡±


    Rosalind could hear a seat reclining on the other end. ¡°...Team Valiant.¡±


    ¡°You know, their th-¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m well aware of them.¡±


    Rosalind started wandering around her room. ¡°They stopped me before. Back at the academy.¡± Rosalind answered. ¡°They¡¯re only going to keep getting in the way if we don¡¯t do anything.¡±


    Wicker pondered this.


    ¡°We know how to deal with Venators.¡±


    ¡°Rosalind?¡±


    ¡°Yeah?¡±


    ¡°...I have a job for you.¡± Wicker said. ¡°One to do with our good team.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    It was a pretty quiet walk to the academy¡¯s tournament hall, but that let the trio appreciate their surroundings as they approached. A massive crowd of excited onlookers were gathered around the tournament hall, a massive stadium reserved solely for the academy¡¯s yearly tournament, holding numerous rows of spectator stands surrounding its interior and a large central platform for the competitors.


    The crowd seemed to be made up of plenty of Venator students, spectators, representatives from agencies and about as much security as you¡¯d expect for a serious event like this.


    Out of the three, Sola was easily the most starstruck. Tournaments were often broadcast on TV, more so than Venators actually fighting Wailing, so seeing the beginnings of a tournament in front of her, one she¡¯d soon be competing in, was some of the most excitement she¡¯d had in her degree so far.


    Harley was somewhat feeling this to. The draw to fight in the tournament had been one of her personal desires for a while, and ideally, that¡¯s all she¡¯d be doing now. Frankly, it would work as a good distraction...


    Similarly, Essex was interested in the prospect as well. Though the promotional aspect of the tournament had no draw for her, the opportunity to fight other skilled combatants was always appreciated. And even if it didn¡¯t interest her, she¡¯d be happy to help the team get their name out to any potential future clients.


    Understandably, this wasn¡¯t what was on either of their minds, as they continued closer to the tournament hall in silence, only occasionally glancing in the other¡¯s direction, as Sola led the pack.


    ¡°Look! They''ve got stalls set up!¡± She let out, pointing frantically. ¡°And they¡¯re selling merch!¡±


    Harley was caught off guard by Sola grabbing her hands, before indicating to the stalls.


    ¡°I¡¯m gonna go off and buy some stuff. You can carry it for me, right?¡± Sola let out, as Harley found herself smiling.


    ¡°Yeah, no problem.¡± She agreed, as Sola ran off. ¡°Get something big! I wanna push myself!¡±


    Harley placed her hands on her hips, before realising she¡¯d been left alone with Essex, as she tried to make herself comfortable.


    Essex was staring at the commotion around them, before looking in Harley¡¯s direction, then to the arena for a distraction.


    ¡°...we shall be competing soon.¡± Essex said.


    ¡°...yeah, yeah, we will be.¡± Harley said.


    ¡°Are you excited to compete?¡± Essex asked.


    ¡°It¡¯s...yeah, I¡¯ve been hoping to.¡± Harley replied, still avoiding Essex¡¯s gaze, as Essex assessed her and sighed out, holding the base of her scythe.


    ¡°It is clear that being around you is making you uncomfortable.¡± Essex said, bowing to Harley. ¡°I will leave you alone while we¡¯re here.¡±


    ¡°No, Essex, wait.¡± Harley insisted. ¡°I...I¡¯m still...it only happened last night. I haven¡¯t really...thought it all through yet.¡±


    Essex nodded in agreement. ¡°I understand. However, I still don¡¯t believe me being here will help you figure anything out. Additionally...it would not help me understand it either. If you¡¯ll excuse me.¡±


    Essex quickly turned to leave, as Harley found herself lost for words, angry that she couldn¡¯t explain herself any better.


    ¡°Hey, where¡¯s Essex going?¡± Sola asked, just coming back with a giant stuffed elephant.


    ¡°...she just wanted to explore on her own.¡± Harley said, as Sola tried to look into her eyes.


    ¡°This is because of last night, isn¡¯t it?¡±


    ¡°Of course it is.¡± Harley confessed. ¡°We¡¯re...not on the same page, and that¡¯s weird. So it¡¯s gonna be weird for a bit.¡±


    Sola side-glanced Harley. ¡°And how long is a bit?¡±


    ¡°As long as it needs to be.¡± Harley said, huffing out, before deciding to walk off. ¡°I need some alone time...¡±


    Sola watched Harley leave on her own, as she could already feel the pressure of what had happened last night seeping into her day-to-day, leaving her alone to take care of the elephant.


    ¡°Those two better work this out.¡± Sola mumbled to herself. ¡°...maybe I should tell Julia and Wess...¡±


    Sola thought better of it and shook her head. ¡°No, we¡¯ll deal with it and then tell them. No need to stress them out before the tournament...¡±


    Sola sighed, before staring at the arena curiously. ¡°I wish I was back at the orphanage...they would so know what to do...¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    While it had been a while since she was last there, Rosalind felt weirdly comfortable arriving back at the academy. It helped that an army of Wailing weren¡¯t tearing it apart, and that her job here was far less labour intensive.


    However, that brought its own problems.


    ¡°Don¡¯t kill them...you can¡¯t go killing them...you¡¯ll just draw attention to bla bla bla...¡±


    Rosalind grabbed at her forehead, before kicking at the ground. ¡°Wicker, you cryptic, self-satisfying, egotistical...¡±


    She let out a breath, before turning her full attention to the Venator Academy tournament hall, a crowd of visitors and competitors all gathered outside, excited for the upcoming event.


    ¡°If I can¡¯t kill them, then why am I watching them?¡± Rosalind said to herself, heading over to the tournament hall. ¡°He wants me out of his hair. Why? Cause he¡¯s busy?¡±


    Rosalind waved her hands mockingly. ¡°Sorry, Rosalind, I¡¯m too busy sucking dick to give you real work. How ¡®bout you stare at this drying paint?¡±


    She pushed her way through a team grouped together, before arriving at the main building.


    ¡°Whatever...I¡¯ll fuck them over somehow...¡± She said, digging around for a lollipop, before turning to see a man next to her in a well-pressed suit.


    He looked back at her curiously, before Rosalind recognised who it was.


    That¡¯s pencil neck. Rosalind realised. I stole his car back at the attack.


    Coatsworth cocked his head, before pointing to the arena. ¡°Are you competing in the tournament?¡±


    Rosalind found her lollipop and started sucking on it. ¡°Nope. Just a curious party. I¡¯m looking out for some competitors.¡±


    She pulled another one out and handed it to him. ¡°Consider this an apology, whatever that¡¯s worth.¡±


    Coatsworth stared at it, before tentatively grabbing it, just as Rosalind picked herself up and left. ¡°Apology?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not explaining.¡± Rosalind said, saluting with a couple fingers. ¡°You¡¯d thank me for not doing so.¡±


    Coatsworth stared at her while she disappeared into the crowd, still holding the lollipop in his hand.


    ¡°...I rarely receive gifts.¡± He reflected, staring at it, before unwrapping it and putting it in his mouth. ¡°What could warrant such a selfless act?¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Harley did her best to calm herself down, as her walk did its best to clear her head. However, before she made much headway, she noticed Julia running up to her.


    ¡°Did you guys split off already?¡± Julia asked, as Harley nodded to her.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t Wess come with you?¡± Harley wondered, as Julia waved her hand.


    ¡°She wanted to get a bit of networking in. A bunch of representatives from agencies are here, so it¡¯s a great opportunity.¡± Julia said, noticing Harley¡¯s slightly sour demeanour. ¡°Is something on your mind?¡±


    ¡°No, it¡¯s...¡± Harley started, only to stop herself mid-sentence. ¡°...me and Essex...got into an argument during the formal.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± Julia let out. ¡°A serious one?¡±


    Harley nodded back. ¡°It¡¯s a bit tense between us, so...I¡¯m just letting you know in case we seem off.¡±


    ¡°Alright. If you need someone to talk to, I¡¯m here.¡± Julia said, bumping her shoulder. ¡°Can¡¯t have my teammates getting into fights with each other, can I?¡±


    Harley grinned back at her. ¡°Always thinking like a lead-¡±


    Harley was thrown off almost immediately by another person bumping her shoulder, making a point to barge right past her. She was thrown back into Julia, watching him pass by, before he gave her a cursory glance.


    ¡°Hey.¡± Harley let out, standing back up proper. ¡°Feel like apologising for that?¡±


    He turned back around and looked her over.


    ¡°Seems like it was your fault.¡± He insisted. ¡°People should clear out for the future winner of the tournament.¡±


    This tale has been unlawfully obtained from Royal Road. If you discover it on Amazon, kindly report it.


    He grinned and indicated to himself. ¡°Archer Parthos. The Western Wayside¡¯s pride.¡±


    Harley glared at him, as he continued walking off. ¡°I¡¯ll look out for the overly muscular blonde during my matches. Hopefully, you¡¯re a challenge worthy of matching my soon-to-be legacy.¡±


    Archer eventually folded into the crowd, leaving as suddenly as he arrived, before Julia looked back at Harley.


    ¡°Harley?¡±


    ¡°Yeah?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re making a fist.¡±


    Harley noticed how tense her hand was, as she quickly released it, feeling a bit of guilt.


    ¡°Sorry. Jerks like that really get to me...¡±


    Julia tried to make out her expression, even as her face was turned away.


    How bad was the fight between her and Essex? Julia wondered.


    ¡°No way! Look at you!¡±


    The duo turned around suddenly, before what seemed to be another competitor approached, though with a much better attitude about them.


    ¡°You¡¯re a goddamn unit!¡± They exclaimed, admiring Harley¡¯s physique. ¡°Please tell me you¡¯re competing this year.¡±


    ¡°...yeah, I am.¡± Harley answered, giving a slight salute. ¡°Harley Baroke.¡±


    They saluted back with their fingers and grinned. ¡°Taylor. I¡¯m fighting this year too.¡±


    ¡°Julia. I¡¯m part of her team.¡± Julia greeted, as Taylor saluted her as well. ¡°Are you from here? I don¡¯t remember seeing you on campus.¡±


    Taylor wiped their nose before answering. ¡°No, I¡¯m from the Western Wayside¡¯s most prestigious academy.¡± Taylor bragged, waving their hands. ¡°The VA Training Institute. If you want a cheap Venator license, there¡¯s no better place to get it.¡±


    Taylor indicated to the barely visibly Archer in the distance. ¡°I rode in with tall, dark and aggressive over there.¡±


    ¡°Aren¡¯t the VA Training Institute having their own tournament?¡± Harley asked, as Taylor shook their head.


    ¡°Too expensive to host one. But we get to compete in ones like these.¡± Taylor remarked, before glancing around the campus. ¡°So, this is the original Venator Academy. You hear stories about it, but...¡±


    Taylor¡¯s eyes drooped. ¡°Actually, it¡¯s pretty bland. Just kinda looks like any old campus.¡±


    ¡°Well, it was the first...¡± Julia muttered. ¡°Regardless, it¡¯s nice to meet you. I wonder if we¡¯ll be competing against each other.¡±


    Taylor leaned in and smiled. ¡°My weakness is my left kneecap. You get that one for free.¡±


    ¡°Taylor!¡±


    The trio turned to the sudden yelling coming from behind them, before spotting Donovan from Team Instinct trudging through the now parted crowd toward them.


    ¡°Well then.¡± Taylor said, raising their hand. ¡°I forgot you went to this shithole.¡±


    Julia and Harley looked back at Donovan, who got closer and closer, before reaching Taylor¡¯s face.


    Donovan smiled.


    ¡°You son of a bitch!¡± Donovan exclaimed, grabbing their hand in a lock, then bringing them in for a hug. ¡°Finally ditched the Western Wayside, huh?¡±


    ¡°Not quite, not quite.¡± Taylor replied, as they broke the hug, while still linking hands, before Donovan took the hint and started arm-wrestling them in mid-air.


    ¡°Uhh, hi Donovan.¡± Julia greeted, stepping in, as Donovan waved with their other hand.


    ¡°Good to see you.¡± They greeted.


    ¡°Are you friends with Taylor?¡± Julia asked, struggling to look away, as Taylor was starting to gain ground.


    ¡°Kinda. We went to the same high school together before I moved.¡± Taylor explained, smirking as Donovan started to struggle. ¡°And you could never keep up.¡±


    Donovan looked to be finished, before retightening their grip, straightening their back, and handily dominating Taylor in a matter of seconds, dragging their hand back down with minimal effort.


    Taylor was left stunned, as Donovan flexed their hand, then flipped Taylor off.


    ¡°I win.¡±


    ¡°How the hell did you do that?! You little...¡± Taylor complained, ready to go another round, as Julia felt the need to step in and hold them back.


    ¡°I developed a Whil after graduating. I can regulate the temperature in my body at will.¡± Donovan explained. ¡°We could do this for hours, and the outcome would still be the same.¡±


    Taylor flicked their tongue, before letting Julia off. ¡°Yeah, really skilful to get a Whil. Just wait until I prove you wrong in the tournament.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯d love to see it.¡± Donovan grinned, before walking off, only for Julia to hurry after them.


    ¡°I¡¯m gonna go catch up with Donovan. Be back in a bit.¡± Julia assured to Harley, who gave a thumbs up in response.


    Julia sure is excited about the tournament. Harley thought, before facing Taylor again. Might as well get to know the competition.


    Julia eventually caught up to Donovan, just a little out of breath.


    ¡°So that¡¯s your Whil?¡± Julia asked, as Donovan nodded.


    ¡°Haven¡¯t I shown it to you before?¡± Donovan rhetorically asked. ¡°I mostly use it to keep myself from overheating during training, or to keep training once the sun goes down. My team struggle to keep up, but that¡¯s their problem.¡±


    ¡°What a Whil.¡± Julia said. ¡°You should meet my friend, Chops. She¡¯d love to get a record of that.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m burning hot in bed, but still cool like the unused side of the pillow.¡± Donovan remarked, only to get little reaction from Julia.


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­that was a joke.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± Julia replied, still not really laughing, as Donovan sighed.


    ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter. So your team¡¯s competing too?¡± Donovan asked, as Julia nodded back.


    ¡°We¡¯ve been excited about it for ages.¡± Julia said. ¡°Harley and Essex especially.¡±


    ¡°Interesting.¡± Donovan said. ¡°I don¡¯t know many teams that would go out of their way to dress up for the formal, then follow up with a tournament.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s cause my team¡¯s great.¡± Julia admitted, as Donovan grinned back at her.


    ¡°That wasn¡¯t a compliment, Julia.¡± Donovan assured, now facing her properly. ¡°My team¡¯s been training for this our entire degree. Unlike you, we haven¡¯t split our time.¡±


    Donovan leaned in with a proud smirk. ¡°Don¡¯t get over confident. If we¡¯re matched up, you better hope it¡¯s an off day for Team Instinct. We¡¯re built to destroy.¡±


    Julia felt a real tingle go down her spine, as Donovan straightened back up, before leaving Julia on her own.


    ¡°Best of luck to your great team.¡± Donovan said, saluting like Taylor had, before leaving, as Julia was left stuck in a stunned state, only for Wess to approach right after.


    ¡°There you are. Where¡¯re the others?¡± Wess asked, before noticing Julia¡¯s demeanour. ¡°Julia?¡±


    ¡°Team Instinct¡¯s gonna wipe the floor with us...¡± Julia let out, visibly shaking.


    Wess rolled her eyes and wrapped an arm around Julia. ¡°This is what I get for leaving you alone...¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°But I¡¯m burning hot...like a fire that¡¯s ready to burst! Da da! Give me some love ton-¡±


    ¡°Miss?¡±


    ¡°-ight! Come on, baby! While the fire¡¯s still burning!¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re holding up the other contestants.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll be your blaze if you¡¯re my coal! Let¡¯s do this til we get old!¡±


    ¡°Miss!¡±


    ¡°Ugh, what?!¡± Adora demanded, taking off her headphones. ¡°I was nearly done. The song¡¯s got, like, two minutes left.¡±


    ¡°If you want to participate in the tournament, you need to submit your weapons.¡± The organizer explained, pointing to the other contestants stacked behind her waiting patiently, as well as the open office door she was standing in front of. ¡°In a timely manner.¡±


    Adora pouted, before pocketing her tablet. ¡°Fine. Jerk...¡±


    The organizer pretended not to hear that, before indicating to the room next to them. ¡°Just step in here and we¡¯ll sort it out.¡±


    Adora slinked inside, staring wide-eyed at the doorway as she came through, before spotting someone sitting across from her and another staff member stocking weaponry.


    The person sitting started signing to her. [I¡¯m Miss Jovie. I¡¯m head of the engineering department here.]


    ¡°You guys got a bathroom?¡± Adora asked. ¡°I don¡¯t need to use it. I just want to know.¡±


    Jovie blinked to herself, before dismissing the point and pulling out a clipboard.


    [We¡¯ll register you for the tou-]


    ¡°It¡¯s just, like, you guys are here all day. It¡¯s probably close by.¡± Adora added, sitting across from Jovie and drumming her hands on the desk. ¡°I¡¯m so excited to fight in the tournament.¡±


    Jovie raised an eyebrow, before tapping on the clipboard, as Adora realised her point.


    ¡°Oh yeah! Alright, sign me up.¡± Adora insisted, as Jovie rolled her eyes to herself.


    [Where¡¯s the rest of your team?]


    ¡°Oh, they signed up before me. I totally forgot this was even a thing until an hour ago.¡±


    Not gonna comment on that. Jovie thought to herself, before pointing to the empty team name on her sheet.


    ¡°...team name!¡± Adora realised, bouncing in her seat. ¡°Team...Hoodwink?...Team Hoodwink! That¡¯s it!¡±


    [...what are your personalised weapons?] Jovie asked.


    ¡°Daggers.¡± Adora replied, tapping the couple that were hanging from her waist.


    [How many?]


    ¡°Uhh...two.¡± Adora answered, giving Jovie pause, before she kept writing.


    [Any Whil?]


    ¡°Nope.¡± Adora replied, drumming her hands again. ¡°It¡¯s so small in here.¡±


    [Focus.] Jovie insisted, feeling stress starting to build up. [Academy of origin?]


    ¡°Defender¡¯s Guild! That one in the north.¡± Adora answered, before excitedly showing off her letterman jacket. ¡°It¡¯s actually totally crazy how I got in. There was an opening in one o-¡±


    Jovie snapped her fingers to shut Adora up, before pointing to the other staff worker in the room. [You need to hand over your weapons before participating.]


    ¡°W-What?! But I just registered them!¡± Adora yelled, standing up.


    [We need to safety proof them. This is a tournament meant for spectacle fights, not bloodshed.] Jovie said, indicating even harder, as Adora clicked her tongue and begrudgingly handed over her daggers. [You¡¯ll get them before each match and after the tournament¡¯s over. You can also request to train with them if it¡¯s within the arena perimeter.]


    ¡°Sure, whatever. Take them...¡± Adora moped, already heading back out the door, as Jovie tried to get her attention again, before giving up.


    ...honestly, some students.


    Adora left in the opposite direction to the other people coming in, as she hung her arms back behind her head, before rounding the corner and checking to see if anyone else was there.


    Once the coast was clear, she held out her hand and materialised a dagger from a puff of smoke, before playing with it casually and smiling.


    ¡°This is gonna be fun.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Seven Wailing?!¡± Taylor exclaimed, as Harley nodded back to them.


    ¡°Yeah, more or less. Though two of them were a pair, and then there was that army...¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s it?!¡± Taylor let out, stunning Harley.


    ¡°That¡¯s it? We¡¯re only second-years. Most of the other teams have only fought one or two.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no way.¡± Taylor muttered. ¡°I guess what they say about Central Point¡¯s true. You guys really are sheltered here.¡±


    ¡°Well, how many have you fought?¡± Harley insisted.


    ¡°How many? I can¡¯t even keep count.¡± Taylor bragged, holding out their finger. ¡°There was the giant tentacle one with acidic breath, the bird one that picked up one of my teammates whole, a worm one that I swear was a descendant of the Waygone Wailing...¡±


    ¡°Alright, I get it. That¡¯s a lot to fight in a year.¡± Harley said, as Taylor shook their head.


    ¡°Not a year. That was the last month.¡± Taylor admitted, shocking Harley. ¡°If you want a real challenge, come down to Aceoro. We¡¯ll push your limits for sure.¡±


    ¡°My limits are fine where they are.¡± Harley said, as Taylor shrugged in response.


    ¡°Alright. I mean, from your appearance, I assumed you wanted to get stronger...¡± Taylor said, turning around. ¡°...but if you want to stay playing second fiddle, who am I to judge?¡±


    Harley could feel her eye twitching, while desperately scanned for anyone other team members in the crowd of strangers.


    Dammit, guys, where are you?


    ¡°Seriously?! They¡¯re actually showing up?!¡±


    ¡°Yes, but from what I was told, only for a bit. We¡¯ll get a chance to see them, but that¡¯s probably all we¡¯ll have time for.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll take it!¡± Julia let out, nervously waiting in the opening hallway of the arena, surrounded by other excited onlookers.


    ¡°It¡¯s the shame the others split off so soon.¡± Wess said. ¡°They''ll just have to hear about Team Daybreak second-hand.¡±


    ¡°Oh boy, I¡¯m sweating...¡± Julia realised, checking her flannel again. ¡°It¡¯s not showing through the fabric, right?¡±


    Wess gave her a once over, before closing Julia¡¯s arms to her body. ¡°Just do your best to keep your nerve. We want to impress, remember?¡±


    ¡°Y-Yeah.¡± Julia said, only feeling her nerves coming back again, before she heard a few cheers coming from the onlookers closer to the entrance.


    ¡°Look! It¡¯s Lorne the Chaser!¡±


    ¡°Realm and Synth too! No way!¡±


    ¡°Th-They¡¯re already here?¡± Julia let out, pulling out her tablet to check her appearance, before even more rambunctious cheering erupted from the front.


    ¡°It¡¯s the Hammer of Justice herself! Victoria Knox!¡±


    ¡°I love you, Vic!¡±


    ¡°Knock ¡®em down!¡±


    ¡°Thank you, thank you!¡± Victoria let out, waving to the crowd, as the rest of her team joined her. ¡°We appreciate the warm welcome. I¡¯ve missed the academy.¡±


    She made her way through the lined-up fans, waving to each of them happily, before arriving at Julia, still trying to clean up her appearance.


    Julia eventually noticed Victoria standing in front of her and jumped back in shock, as Victoria rested her hands on her hips.


    ¡°Someone¡¯s pretty eager.¡±


    Julia stepped forward quickly. ¡°S-S-Sorry. I-I just really admire y-you guys...¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s our leader in Team Valiant. Often, she¡¯s a lot more composed, but her nerves just got the best of her.¡± Wess backed up, holding Julia¡¯s shoulders.


    ¡°I can tell. You look ready for the industry already.¡± Victoria remarked.


    ¡°The Wailing won¡¯t be a problem much longer!¡± Julia assured, trying to put on a confident face, as Victoria snickered to herself.


    ¡°You¡¯ll get by, kid. I hope we can work together someday.¡± Victoria insisted, before walking off into the arena proper, followed by the rest of Team Daybreak.


    She turned back and waved, giving Julia a wink as well, whose heart fluttered the moment it happened.


    Just as Team Daybreak left sight, Julia grabbed Wess by the shoulders suddenly. ¡°Did you see that?! They wanna work with us! Us!¡±


    Wess pulled her arms off and held them down, before breathing out. ¡°...don¡¯t do that, and yes, that¡¯s very exciting.¡±


    ¡°Now if I can meet Team Spectrum in person, I¡¯ll be set for life!¡± Julia cheered, as Wess sighed out.


    ¡°I really need to give you some lessons on how to represent the team...¡± Wess muttered, as Julia kept celebrating.


    ¡°I wanna tell the others so bad! They¡¯ll be so jealous!¡± Julia encouraged. ¡°I¡¯d hate to keep something like this fro...¡±


    Julia slowly stopped celebrating once she heard what she¡¯d said, just as Wess picked up on it as well.


    ¡°Julia...¡±


    ¡°...no, you¡¯re right. Sorry.¡± Julia said. ¡°This is different, obviously.¡±


    ¡°I know you want to tell them, but we just can¡¯t.¡± Wess said. ¡°And you can forget about working with Team Daybreak in the future if we do.¡±


    Julia took a deep breath, before turning to face Wess.


    ¡°Can we just tell them?¡±


    Wess cocked her head. ¡°You mean only the team?¡±


    ¡°...I know we can trust them.¡± Julia assured. ¡°If there¡¯s anyone I would want knowing this secret, it¡¯s our team. We¡¯ve been through so much together.¡±


    Julia tapped her chin. ¡°And maybe Team Vanguard, but just cause they¡¯re cool.¡±


    Wess sighed out, before leaning on the wall. ¡°It¡¯s not about trust. Of course I trust them to keep it a secret...¡±


    Wess started counting on her fingers. ¡°Harley¡¯s very extroverted, but she also knows when to hold back. Sola¡¯s surprisingly mature and would be the first to support us in this, and Essex, while not being the most socially conscious, is one of the most respectful people I¡¯ve met.¡±


    Wess tapped her foot. ¡°If this was the start of our degree, I¡¯d say that I don¡¯t trust them. Now, having gotten to know them as people, I¡¯m worried that we might be too close.¡±


    Wess stared at the floor. ¡°I...don¡¯t want to tell them because I¡¯m worried it would ruin our friendships. They¡¯d look at us very differently...and I¡¯ve just gotten used to being seen normally...¡±


    Julia rolled her eyes and joined Wess¡¯ side.


    ¡°Of course they will.¡± Julia pointed out. ¡°You just said it yourself. You look at them differently to how you used to. These kinds of changes happen all the time.¡±


    Julia leaned back on the wall with Wess. ¡°After they told us about them dating, we still treated Harley and Sola the same. Why wouldn¡¯t they do the same for us?¡±


    Wess stayed a bit quiet, as Julia bumped her side.


    ¡°How about we treat this like a test?¡± Julia proposed. ¡°If we¡¯re really that close, then this shouldn¡¯t affect us.¡±


    ¡°...so sort of an ultimatum?¡± Wess said.


    ¡°Yeah. We¡¯ll tell them about us...¡± Julia said, linking her hand with Wess¡¯. ¡°...together, and just take it how it comes.¡±


    ¡°...you have a lot of faith in them, don¡¯t you?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not faith.¡± Julia assured. ¡°I just know them well.¡±


    Wess sighed out, before pulling herself off the wall. ¡°...alright. We¡¯ll...let them know. Even if alarm bells are going off in my head...¡±


    ¡°Same, but that¡¯s probably from seeing Team Daybreak in person.¡± Julia admitted, getting a light chuckle from Wess. ¡°We should go sign up. I¡¯m sure the line¡¯s thinned out by now.¡±


    ¡°Good idea. Let¡¯s go find the others.¡± Wess suggested, deciding to make tracks, before Julia spoke up suddenly.


    ¡°Hey, Wess?¡±


    ¡°Yes?¡±


    ¡°I love you.¡± Julia let out, smiling back at her.


    Wess was a bit stunned by Julia¡¯s sudden affection, as she tried to recover as quickly as possible.


    ¡°Y-Yes, well...I love you too.¡± Wess managed, still looking a bit awkward, as Julia grinned to herself, before going off to join her.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Hey, Cam?¡±


    ¡°Yeah?¡±


    ¡°You think we can win this?¡±


    Cameron joined Cyrus in the spectator stands, as they watched a few of the event organisers preparing the arena. ¡°I think so. Team Salvation need to stand out a bit more.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I get that.¡± Cyrus said, tapping his foot. ¡°...you reckon someone¡¯s gonna steal me up?¡±


    Cameron stared at him. ¡°Like a burglar?¡±


    ¡°No, I mean some agency.¡± Cyrus clarified. ¡°A lot of them watch these matches, and you know I¡¯ve already gotten calls asking for me.¡±


    Cameron bumped his shoulder. ¡°That¡¯s why the team needs to stand out. You keep stealing all our thunder.¡±


    ¡°Not by choice.¡± Cyrus laughed, leaning back on the rail. ¡°Well, if I do get picked up, I¡¯ll put in a good word for you guys.¡±


    ¡°So, you¡¯re still planning on going solo?¡± Cameron asked.


    ¡°It¡¯s best for me. Nothing against you guys...¡± Cyrus said. ¡°...but after I leave, feel free to rename yourselves to Team Anchor.¡±


    Cameron lost it at the joke and was having trouble holding back laughter.


    ¡°Come on, it wasn¡¯t that good.¡± Cyrus played off, as Cameron recovered.


    ¡°Phew...I know, it just caught me off guard.¡± Cameron said, wiping his eye. ¡°Sweet Whilit, that was funny...¡±


    Cyrus stared back at him, before staring behind them and noticing there was a view of most of the other attendees, all gathered outside of the tournament hall.


    He recognised a few familiar faces, before smiling to himself.


    ¡°You miss her, huh?¡± Cameron asked, as he realised Cyrus was looking in Wess¡¯ direction.


    ¡°Shut up.¡± Cyrus replied, before dipping his head down. ¡°...yes, obviously.¡±


    ¡°Hey, maybe if you¡¯re lucky, your wicked sword skills can win her back?¡± Cameron suggested, cupping his hands together. ¡°Oh Cyrus, I was a fool to leave things like we did! I can¡¯t get enough of your big, impressive sword!¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re terrible.¡± Cyrus chuckled, trying not to laugh. ¡°That¡¯s it. No more waiting for graduation. I¡¯m leaving the team now.¡±


    ¡°Great. Good riddance.¡± Cameron insisted. ¡°Go start Team Douchebag all on your own.¡±


    ¡°I will. I¡¯ll be a better leader than you too.¡± Cyrus said, before the duo just laughed it off. ¡°We¡¯d better go register.¡±


    ¡°Yeah. Let¡¯s hope we run into your ex so I can rip into you more.¡± Cameron joked, as Cyrus tried to trip him on the stairs.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Essex found herself waiting again, just outside of Jovie¡¯s temporary office inside the arena.


    There hadn¡¯t been much to do after she split off from Harley and Sola, but if anything, she kind of preferred that. It wasn¡¯t often her emotions had such a hold on her, so alone time to think it over was greatly appreciated.


    Just then, Harley came from around the corner, noticing Essex and deciding to join up with her.


    ¡°Hey.¡± Harley said, staring at the office door. ¡°...where¡¯re the others?¡±


    ¡°Still arriving.¡± Essex said, just as the awkward silence between the two started to creep in again.


    Thankfully before it could get too long, Sola came down the hall, noticing the tension between the two and deciding to intercept it.


    ¡°Hey guys!¡± She called out, running up the them. ¡°We¡¯re actually getting signed up! It almost doesn¡¯t feel real.¡±


    Harley smirked back at her. ¡°I would¡¯ve thought you¡¯d be worried about hurting people with your Whil?¡±


    ¡°Well, yeah, but with my cannons and after our training, I can handle myself.¡± Sola assured, pretending to flex, which got a guilty laugh from Harley.


    Essex decided to keep to herself, even if she couldn¡¯t help but listen in on the couple¡¯s cute banter, before she was distracted by Julia and Wess coming down the hall.


    ¡°There we go. I told you it was down here, Wess.¡± Julia said, as Wess rolled her eyes.


    ¡°Yes, well all these halls look the same, so you can¡¯t blame me for getting lost.¡± Wess said.


    Julia went to speak, before noticing the others and indicating to Sola. ¡°Well, Sola made it here fine.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± Sola let out, just as the office door opened, with Jovie popping her head out.


    [Are you here to register?] She asked, as Julia nodded back.


    ¡°I hope we¡¯re not too late.¡± Julia asked.


    [Not at all. Come in.] Jovie signed, as the team started filling out the room.


    Jovie sat down at her desk, before grabbing out a few documents and handing them to Julia, who sat across from her.


    [Just sign these forms and you¡¯ll be registered.] Jovie explained, before pointing to the other person present. [We¡¯ll also need to gather your weapons from you. We¡¯ll be keeping them for the duration of the tournament.]


    ¡°Weapons?¡± Julia realised, lowering the forms. ¡°Why do you need our weapons?¡±


    [They have to be safety-proofed.] Jovie clarified, leaning back in her seat. [We can¡¯t have participants hurting each other too bad out there, or else we¡¯d have no Venators to fight the Wailing.]


    Jovie kicked her feet up casually. [Obviously, we can¡¯t do that for Whils or bludgeoning weapons, but what are you gonna do...]


    ¡°Oh yeah. Don¡¯t you guys have...uhh, what¡¯s it called?¡± Harley interjected, mid-handing off her Buster Knuckles to the attendee. ¡°Selfit? Dammit, what¡¯s the name?¡±


    ¡°Solfyst.¡± The attendee replied, before taking Harley¡¯s weapons off her.


    [It¡¯s a compound we apply to sharp weaponry to stop it from breaking the skin.] Jovie added, before sitting up. [Do any of you have a bladed weapon?]


    Wess went to hand off Belvedere, as Jovie took it, before reaching into a drawer and pulling out a small container of a clear liquid. She stuck a bit of it to her hands, then ran it over Belvedere¡¯s blade, giving it a second to solidify.


    Immediately, she ran it over her arm, briefly freaking out the team, only for them to realise she was unharmed.


    [You can still use it as a sword.] Jovie clarified, placing Belvedere down. [But now your opponent¡¯s not going to get disemboweled during a match.]


    She then reached into another drawer and pulled out a similar liquid with a slightly different colour, before running it over the blade where the Solfyst had been applied.


    [We need to be incredibly careful with application, so your weapons stay with us.] Jovie pointed out. [On top of that, we¡¯ll also keep your weapons in case a member of your team¡¯s unable to fight and needs to be replaced, meaning we need all your weaponry.]


    Jovie handed Belvedere back. [You can still train around the arena, but you¡¯ll only get them back after the tournament¡¯s over.]


    ¡°Wait, what about my rifle? I can¡¯t use bullets.¡± Julia asked.


    [We¡¯ll replace them with non-lethal rounds. They¡¯re like a polymer...compound thing.] Jovie explained, smiling a little. [They hurt like hell, but they don¡¯t break the skin either.]


    ¡°Really? They sound pretty useful.¡± Julia admitted, resting her hand on her chin. ¡°I might wanna get some of those once we graduate...¡±


    ¡°Miss-¡± Essex let out, pulling her scythe from the attendee¡¯s grip. ¡°Miss Jovie, I do not wish to relinquish my scythe. It is against my principles.¡±


    [Principles?] Jovie wondered, as Julia leaned over.


    ¡°Her scythe has a lot of cultural importance to her. Can we make an exception?¡± Julia asked, as Jovie shook her head in reply.


    [All weapons need to be registered. It¡¯s the only way the team can compete.] Jovie pointed out, as Essex looked to Julia.


    ¡°What did she say?¡± Essex asked.


    ¡°It needs to be safety-proofed if any of us are going to compete.¡± Julia explained.


    ¡°Couldn¡¯t she get a spare scythe?¡± Sola asked, as Jovie shook her head.


    [Those are reserved for Venators with damaged or missing weaponry. Scythes are rare, and we only have so many on hand.] Jovie explained, turning to Essex. [It¡¯s your call.]


    Though Essex couldn¡¯t understand her signing, she got the general gist of what Jovie was saying, as Harley felt like intervening.


    ¡°H-Hey, look, if Essex doesn¡¯t want to do it...then we don¡¯t have to compete, you know?¡± Harley suggested. ¡°There¡¯s always next year. A-And it¡¯s not a huge deal if w-¡±


    ¡°Thank you.¡± Said the attendee, as Harley realised Essex had handed off her scythe to them.


    Essex took a needed breath, before turning to address the others. ¡°In this moment, my most helpful action would be to allow us to compete. If this requires handing over my scythe, then I will do it.¡±


    Julia nodded back at her. ¡°Okay. If that¡¯s alright with you, Essex.¡±


    Essex gave a brief glance to Harley, just as she shied away, trying to ignore Essex¡¯s knowing gaze.


    [Well, that should be everything.] Jovie said, standing up from her desk. [Welcome to the tournament, Team Valiant.]


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°What a day...¡± Julia let out, heading back to the dorms with the rest of the team. ¡°I feel like we met so many new people.¡±


    ¡°I wonder how many we¡¯ll be versing?¡± Wess added, as Sola jumped in place.


    ¡°As many as we can find! We¡¯re so gonna win this!¡± Sola cheered, before jumping onto Harley playfully.


    Essex decided to keep her distance, mostly reeling from having to hand off her scythe, just as Julia hung back with Wess and bumped her shoulder.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. Once we get back, okay?¡± Julia assured, as Wess sighed and nodded.


    ¡°Right. This¡¯ll be a cake walk...¡± Wess remarked, hoping she wasn¡¯t lying to herself, just as the team arrived back at their dorm.


    Everyone made themselves comfortable, with Harley and Sola landing on Sola¡¯s bed and Essex sitting against the couch, before Julia and Wess came in and turned to face them.


    ¡°Okay, so...before we get ready for the tournament...¡± Julia prefaced.


    ¡°...Julia and I have something to confess.¡± Wess continued, surprising the others.


    ¡°Is this in regards to the tournament?¡± Essex asked.


    ¡°No, not really.¡± Wess said, giving an uncomfortable look to Julia. ¡°We¡¯ve...we¡¯ve been lying to you.¡±


    Julia nodded, as the realisation started to hit. ¡°Something...happened, and we thought...the best idea was to keep it from you...but then...¡±


    Julia started to sniffle. ¡°B-But then we realised it was wrong...a-and that we love you guys...and y-you¡¯re super cool...¡±


    ¡°Julia, are you al-¡±


    ¡°We did it!¡± Julia yelled, as her face slowly saddened. ¡°We totally did it!¡±


    She pointed frantically at their bed. ¡°There! That¡¯s where we did it!¡±


    Julia was having trouble holding back tears. ¡°W-We¡¯re so sorry! We didn¡¯t want to lie like that! I-It just kinda happened, and and an...!¡±


    ¡°Alright, she¡¯s starting to milk it.¡± Wess argued, stepping in front of Julia as she tried to calm herself down. ¡°What Julia attempted to say is...we...we spent the night...together.¡±


    The trio looked at them curiously, as Harley cocked her head. ¡°...on a trip?¡±


    ¡°No, not...¡± Wess tried, holding her forehead. ¡°Julia was upset during the formal, so we sequestered ourselves in the dorm and got drunk. One thing led to another...¡±


    ¡°...and you played a board game, right?¡± Sola replied. ¡°I¡¯ve never played a board game drunk. Actually, I don¡¯t think I¡¯ve ever gotten drunk...¡±


    ¡°Is that it? Was it a board game?¡± Essex asked, as Wess just sighed heavily.


    ¡°Oh my god...we had sex, okay? We...shacked up. Made love. Fornicated.¡± Wess insisted, as the trio finally reacted appropriately. ¡°Honestly, you three...¡±


    ¡°What the...¡± Harley said, as her head was spinning. ¡°What, last night?! And you didn¡¯t tell us?!¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re telling you now, aren¡¯t we?¡± Wess argued, as Julia had managed to regain some dignity.


    ¡°We didn¡¯t want to throw you guys off before the tournament. We¡¯re still...figuring out what it meant, s-¡±


    ¡°So it wasn¡¯t a board game!¡± Sola exclaimed. ¡°This is so big, you guys!¡±


    ¡°I-I...am shocked.¡± Essex admitted. ¡°How did this transpire?¡±


    ¡°...I think it was bound to happen.¡± Julia admitted, holding Wess¡¯ hand. ¡°But...neither of us regret it. We¡¯re sorry for lying...but we promise, it¡¯s not just going to be a one-time thing.¡±


    Sola blinked. ¡°Really?¡±


    Immediately, she turned to a smile. ¡°I¡¯m so happy for you guys!¡±


    She jumped up and grabbed their hands. ¡°You two deserve this! You¡¯re already some of my favourite people, so this is even better!¡±


    ¡°...this is the second love confession in one year. Forgive me for being surprised.¡± Essex excused, sitting up from the couch. ¡°This goes without saying, but we will support you in this endeavour.¡±


    ¡°You hear that, Wess? They¡¯re cool with it.¡± Julia remarked, as Wess just smiled and rolled her eyes.


    Harley was still reeling on the bed, as Wess decided to perk up. ¡°You know, a kind word about this wouldn¡¯t go amiss.¡±


    Harley turned to them. ¡°Oh, sorry, I was just dealing with the fact that you had the whole day and you¡¯re only bringing it up now that it¡¯s almost over.¡±


    ¡°I mean, I wanted...¡± Julia started, before Wess glared at her. ¡°Right, right. We¡¯re a couple now. No throwing you under the bus.¡±


    ¡°...I¡¯m happy for you guys, but you didn''t have to keep it from us.¡± Harley said. ¡°Me and Sola told you guys the moment we could.¡±


    ¡°But...you know, it wasn¡¯t an accident for us.¡± Sola added. ¡°It sounds like spending the night together wasn¡¯t really planned...¡±


    ¡°...just, if something like this happens in the future, let us know, okay? I don¡¯t want to be kept in the dark about these things.¡± Harley said, deliberately looking at everyone except Essex, who noted that as well.


    ¡°Of course. Frankly, I doubt something like this will come up later.¡± Wess pointed out, before remembering something important. ¡°However, we need to keep this from public. We can¡¯t have the tournament goers knowing about us dating.¡±


    ¡°Oh, right. This information doesn¡¯t leave this room.¡± Julia supported. ¡°We don¡¯t want to scare off future clients with relationship stuff.¡±


    ¡°Would that be harmful?¡± Essex asked very earnestly, getting a head nod from Wess.


    ¡°Any sign of emotional vulnerability or fragility are red flags for anyone wanting to hire us. Until the tournament is finished, we stay quiet on this.¡± Wess clarified.


    ¡°...I see.¡± Essex agreed, straightening her back. ¡°We shall avoid needless drama then. We will do our best to ignore it and act professional.¡±


    We? Julia thought, as Essex quickly bowed, before heading into her room.


    ¡°I shall prepare for the tournament. We will succeed in making the name Team Valiant well-known.¡± Essex assured, closing the door. ¡°Dovono.¡±


    The team was thrown off by just how sudden Essex¡¯s reaction was, as Wess shook her head.


    ¡°Poor girl. Another confession must have tuckered her out.¡± Wess remarked, before looking over to Julia. ¡°Well, now that we don¡¯t have to pretend, would you care for a celebratory glass of wine, Julia?¡±


    ¡°Ooo, dating already has its perks.¡± Julia joked, as they headed off to the kitchen, leaving Sola and Harley to head to the couch.


    ¡°Harley.¡± Sola said, as Harley grabbed the TV remote.


    ¡°Yeah?¡±


    ¡°...I think we need to be honest too.¡±


    Harley flipped through a few channels. ¡°About what?¡±


    Sola pouted. ¡°You know. You said it yourself; we told them the moment we became a thing. Shouldn¡¯t we tell them about Essex?¡± Sola pointed out.


    Harley sighed. ¡°What¡¯s there to tell? We¡¯re not dating.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, but she still confessed to us.¡± Sola added. ¡°That really mattered to her.¡±


    ¡°If Essex wants to tell them, then she can. Frankly, I think Julia and Wess were right. No more distractions before the tournament.¡± Harley insisted, leaving Sola a bit lost on what to do.


    ¡°...I guess so.¡± Sola replied, as Harley landed on a channel.


    ¡°...I¡¯m sorry, Sola, but things are gonna be weird for me and Essex.¡± Harley confessed, before reaching over and resting her hand on Sola¡¯s. ¡°We¡¯ll be okay. And don¡¯t...feel like you need to help me through it. I¡¯ve got some experience in this area.¡±


    Sola looked a touch dejected, but nodded back anyway, as Harley kept to herself and turned her attention to the TV, hoping for a bit of distraction.


    Meanwhile, Wess and Julia had headed out onto the balcony, where they each raised a glass to the fast-approaching sunset.


    ¡°To the tournament.¡± Wess cheered, as Julia clinked her glass to Wess¡¯.


    ¡°To Team Valiant¡¯s triumph!¡±

 Chapter 38: Instincts

    ¡°Watch out!¡±


    ¡°They¡¯re better than we thought!¡±


    ¡°Chops, Nathaniel, trip them up! Saxin and Lenin can draw their attention!¡±


    Just as Joleicia yelled out her command, Chops lay her foot down and froze the ground solid, tripping up the members of Team Ferocity, before Nathaniel added to the chaos by placing his hands on the ground, causing a low, sudden tremor to rupture the land beneath them.


    Baron and Duke managed to stand their ground, only to notice Saxin quickly approaching, spinning her belt of daggers around before throwing a few in their direction.


    Baron blocked a few, just as the ground beside him unsettled, which he wrote off as Duke using his Whil, until Lenin emerged from the ground, clawing at Baron¡¯s now vulnerable side.


    Before Saxin could pincer him, Edward just barely got up and used his Whil to throw Saxin¡¯s dagger belt, along with her, off to the side, just as he gave Baron a thumbs up and collapsed.


    Duke threw off Lenin from Baron now that he didn¡¯t have Saxin as backup, just as a bullet shot right past him. He noticed Joleicia off in the distance, lining up her sniper rifle for another shot, as Baron¡¯s attention was drawn to Chops, huddling by the arena¡¯s edge.


    With quick thinking, he used his Whil to create a small fire near Chops¡¯ foot, causing her to jump and fall out of the arena, before threatening to do the same with Nathaniel nearby.


    Nathaniel did his best not to give into the threat, before Duke finished him off by using his Whil to send him through the ground and out of the arena as well.


    Joleicia refrained from taking another shot and joined Lenin by the remnants of Chops¡¯ ice formations, as Baron and Duke huddled together in a makeshift defensive wall, standing off against what remained of the other team.


    ¡°I don¡¯t believe this! Six eliminations in the span of a couple minutes!¡±


    ¡°It seems the teams were out for blood in this match, that¡¯s for sure.¡±


    ¡°If you¡¯re just joining us over broadcast...¡± One of the announcers said. ¡°Hi! I¡¯m Rosetta, but call me Miss Spence!¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re...in the middle of a tournament match.¡± The other announcer added, butting in. ¡°I¡¯m Duncan. Call me Vent.¡±


    ¡°This is an all-out battle between Team Vanguard and Team Ferocity!¡± Spence announced, grabbing the mic fervently. ¡°Team Vanguard are currently the favourites to win, but Team Ferocity might pull it together with pure skill!¡±


    ¡°Currently, three members on each team have been eliminated.¡± Vent added, insisting on staying still. ¡°With two more eliminations, the match will be called.¡±


    Baron assessed Joleicia and Lenin, noticing that both still had a decent amount of energy to them, while Duke and himself were simply too overwhelmed.


    ¡°Any answers for this?¡± Baron asked.


    ¡°That short girl froze the ground underneath them, so my Whil won¡¯t work on it.¡± Duke explained, taking a heavy breath.


    ¡°And with only us left, they¡¯ve got the advantage of distance.¡± Baron said, staring at Joleicia¡¯s rifle. ¡°We can¡¯t both make it through.¡±


    Duke stared at Baron as he stepped forward. ¡°You got a plan?¡±


    ¡°Just follow.¡± Baron insisted, before rushing head forward.


    Joleicia and Lenin quickly noticed, as Lenin looked to Joleicia and did a little head nod, before she nodded back, lining up her next shot.


    Baron charged directly at Lenin, as Lenin prepared to dodge him by digging through the ground, only for Baron to run past, climbing up the ice formation that Joleicia was perched on.


    He lit his whip-sword on fire and sliced through it, collapsing Joleicia¡¯s perch, as Lenin tried to pivot and help her, only for Duke to launch his ball and chain over and wrap Lenin up.


    Joleicia quickly recovered and pulled out the katana stored in her rifle, ready for Baron to try and duel her, only for him to jump forward and grab her shoulders suddenly, pulling her to the ground just outside of the arena.


    Just as Lenin broke himself free, an alarm rang out across the arena, drawing his and Duke¡¯s attention.


    ¡°Baron and Joleicia have just been eliminated! Our victorious competitors are Duke de vil and Lenin Diggs!¡±


    Just as Joleicia came back to consciousness, she finally noticed the roaring crowd around them, cheering for the fight''s victors, and Baron, getting off her and wiping his arms of dust.


    ¡°What a vile strategy!¡± Joleicia yelled, as Baron barely looked at her.


    ¡°Tactic, and it worked. My team got through.¡± Baron insisted, pocketing his hands. ¡°I¡¯d rather not have my ex hand my ass to me in front of a crowd.¡±


    ¡°We would¡¯ve won if...¡± Joleicia grumbled, before folding her arms. ¡°At least Lenin made it through.¡±


    ¡°True.¡± Baron remarked, before walking out of the arena. ¡°Whatever it takes for victory.¡±


    Joleicia was having trouble holding back her frustration, just as Lenin hopped down from the arena platform excitedly, pumping his fists.


    ¡°I did it!¡±


    Joleicia drooped her eyes.


    Lenin pumped his fists again. ¡°We did it!¡±


    Joleicia couldn¡¯t help herself from laughing, as she patted his back. ¡°I guess we did.¡±


    Meanwhile, somewhat blown away in their seats surrounding the arena, Team Valiant stared at the carnage in front of them, finally getting a glimpse of an official tournament match in person, and all the chaos it held.


    ¡°That was insane...¡± Harley let out. ¡°Even without real bullets and stuff...¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know which is scarier. Wailing fighting or this...¡± Sola added.


    ¡°No need to let out nerves get to us.¡± Wess insisted, only to realise Julia had sunken into her seat, staring at the open sky in the arena. ¡°Right, Julia?¡±


    ¡°S-Sure...¡±


    ¡°We have successfully defeated multiple Wailing together.¡± Essex insisted, giving a thumbs up to the others. ¡°This will be just as easy.¡±


    ¡°I wish I had your confidence, Essex...¡± Julia admitted. ¡°I don¡¯t know how Joleicia even handled that...¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°I barely did!¡±


    Joleicia let out a hearty laugh, as Chops slapped her back.


    ¡°She¡¯s being modest. Joleicia¡¯s been prepping us with battle strategies all throughout training.¡± Chops admitted. ¡°We just defaulted to that once the fight started.¡±


    ¡°Wow...seriously?¡± Harley let out, taking a break from using her Buster Knuckles on her training post. ¡°I think we¡¯ve...mostly just winged it at this point.¡±


    ¡°Hey.¡± Julia said, letting down her rifle and joining them. ¡°We make an effort to plan. It¡¯s just most of the time, we can¡¯t see fights coming.¡±


    ¡°It would help if Wailing stopped landing on top of us.¡± Wess remarked, resting her head in her hands on the nearby spectator stands, watching as the two teams trained together just outside the arena.


    ¡°Still! You guys were so light on your feet!¡± Sola exclaimed, running up to Saxin. ¡°Especially Saxin! How¡¯d you avoid falling over during all that?!¡±


    Saxin rested a hand under her chest and smirked. ¡°It¡¯s my Whil. Certainly one of the more subtle ones.¡±


    To demonstrate, she balanced herself on one foot and leaned over. Despite leaning far enough to topple over, she stayed perfectly upright without a hint of swaying.


    ¡°Perfect Balance.¡± She said, before standing up proper. ¡°It¡¯s impossible for me to fall over. It pairs up wonderfully with Lenin¡¯s little digging skills...¡±


    ¡°Little.¡± Lenin repeated, as Saxin joined his side. ¡°She says little...¡±


    ¡°It also has a couple other benefits too, like the ease of standing up in the bath or no back pain from my otherwise well-endowed chest.¡± Saxin pointed out.


    ¡°Lucky...¡± Harley and Wess muttered in unison, as Julia cleared her throat.


    ¡°N-Nathaniel¡¯s Whil is pretty impressive too.¡± Julia said, turning to him. ¡°Who would¡¯ve guessed you could do so much damage?¡±


    ¡°Oh, I-I try not to.¡± Nathaniel insisted, staring at his hands. ¡°Making tremors feels weird, but it works pretty well with the rest of the team, so...¡±


    ¡°Vonodo.¡± Essex let out, sitting in the stands and pointing to the tablet in her hands. ¡°Our match is being announced.¡±


    The teams crowded around the tablet, as Spence and Vent appeared on screen in their arena booth.


    ¡°Hello, teams! With today¡¯s matches finally settled, it¡¯s time to announce tomorrow''s matches!¡±


    ¡°Out of the 32 teams competing, the four teams versing each other in this bracket will be...¡±


    Everyone waited with baited breath, as Vent cleared his throat.


    ¡°Team Exemplary VS Team Serpentine, and Team Instinct VS Team Valiant.¡±


    ¡°Instinct?¡± Harley let out.


    ¡°Donovan¡¯s team?¡± Julia realised, muttering to herself, as Spence slammed the table.


    ¡°What a matchup! I¡¯m excited all over again!¡±


    ¡°Yes. Very competent tea...¡± Vent said, before reading over the list of competitors again and smirking. ¡°...heh. She¡¯s actually competing. Go figure.¡±


    ¡°Oh, piss off Vent.¡± Harley complained. ¡°I¡¯ll show you what¡¯s what, you judgey little...¡±


    ¡°Hey, save that for our matches. Don¡¯t go beating up the announcers.¡± Sola insisted.


    ¡°Just him. Spence is fine.¡± Harley pointed out, as Julia stood up proper.


    ¡°We¡¯re versing Donovan so early?¡± She wondered, talking to herself, as she drew the others attention. ¡°Not only them, but their whole team...¡±


    Joleicia watched her planning and smiled, before turning to the rest of Team Valiant. ¡°We¡¯ll give you guys some space to strategise. Good luck against Team Instinct.¡±


    Team Vanguard took their leave and headed back to the dorms, as Julia was too in her head to notice.


    ¡°Only Donovan has a Whil...but they¡¯re all incredibly fit...how are...¡±


    ¡°Julia?¡±


    Julia turned back around to the rest of the team. ¡°Yeah?¡±


    ¡°Do you want to tell your team about your plans?¡± Wess said. ¡°May I remind you; you¡¯re not fighting them all by yourself.¡±


    Julia nodded. ¡°Right, right...¡±


    She sighed out, before facing the team proper. ¡°Sorry, I was just expecting us to fight...literally anyone else...hopefully people we didn¡¯t know personally...¡±


    ¡°This would have happened at some point.¡± Essex noted, hopping down from the stands and handing Julia her tablet back. ¡°Do not be syked out.¡±


    Julia chuckled a little. ¡°...I can¡¯t think straight. I don¡¯t think I¡¯ve eaten since the match...¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Julia could hardly let her eyes off the stove, just as night started to creep into the dorm.


    ¡°Harley, you really know how to make me happy.¡± Julia let out, waiting patiently at the kitchen table with the team, as Harley worked away at dinner.


    ¡°Oh, trust me. I¡¯m very good at making people happy.¡± Harley said, winking to Sola, who just giggled to herself.


    Essex did her best to ignore that, before speaking up. ¡°This will be our first tournament match. We should research our opponents and come up with a basic strategy. We can train for the rest of tomorrow and adjust as we go.¡±


    Julia blinked, before nodding. ¡°Yeah, we¡¯ll just...do what Essex said, really.¡±


    ¡°Do you have a better solution?¡± Essex wondered, as Julia fervently shook her head.


    ¡°Honestly, no. I¡¯m kinda lost here...¡± Julia admitted, briefly getting distracted by dinner again. ¡°My only example for this kinda stuff would be Team Spectrum, but they didn¡¯t really do tournament matches.¡±


    ¡°We could always watch some matches with the Dragon Tamer.¡± Wess offered, patting Julia¡¯s back. ¡°She¡¯s incredibly accomplished in her field.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, may...¡± Julia said, only for Harley to drop a bowl of chilli con carne in front of her. ¡°Already? Thanks Harley!¡±


    She started digging in immediately, as Wess shook her head. ¡°Well, as least you have your priorities...¡±


    Wess scratched her chin, as Harley passed off dinner to the rest of the team. ¡°Personally, I¡¯m curious about how we¡¯re going to investigate Faller during this time. Our schedule¡¯s very busy considering we have the entire tournament to worry about.¡±


    Julia took a break from eating to answer. ¡°How about whoever¡¯s eliminated works on investigating him? That way, whoever isn¡¯t can focus on their matches without the distraction.¡±


    ¡°If we¡¯re lucky enough to get through.¡± Wess pointed out. ¡°But it¡¯s a good idea.¡±


    ¡°And worst-case scenario, we¡¯re all eliminated and investigate together.¡± Harley pointed out, sitting down as well. ¡°Though let¡¯s not aim for that.¡±


    ¡°Match preparation, Faller...what else do we need to plan?¡± Essex wondered aloud, as Sola snapped her fingers.


    ¡°Ooo! What about that sponsorship?¡± Sola mentioned, turning to Wess. ¡°Didn¡¯t you say you got us one for the tournament?¡±


    Wess¡¯ eyes widened. ¡°Oh yes. I nearly forgot, actually.¡± Wess realised, taking out her tablet. ¡°Just a second.¡±


    She stood up and headed to the desk near her bed, before pulling out a business card. She dialled the number on the back, while wandering around the kitchen, waiting for a response.


    ¡°...Dennis, dear? This is Wess...yes, that Wess. I decided we should make good on that promise.¡±


    Wess started tapping her foot. ¡°Of course I didn¡¯t forget¡­well, that¡¯s your problem, isn¡¯t it?¡­I gave you plenty of warning, so you don¡¯t go complaining now. If you couldn¡¯t keep up your end of the deal...¡±


    The team watched her slowly grow more frustrated, as she massaged her forehead. ¡°¡­I still have the sword, by the way. Just beside my bed. I¡¯m looking at it right now.¡±


    Wess¡¯ eyes lit up. ¡°What¡¯s that? You¡¯re willing to deal? I¡¯m shocked.¡±


    Wess rolled her eyes at the team, who chuckled to themselves, before she nodded her head. ¡°Alright. See you soon enough.¡±


    Wess hung up, before sitting back down. ¡°What a pain. But it¡¯s done.¡±


    ¡°Great job, Wess.¡± Julia explained, hugging her side. ¡°Who¡¯s the sponsorship with?¡±


    ¡°Oh, Andro Manufacturing.¡± Wess said, before turning her tablet around and showing off their logo on the back. ¡°Pretty good find, huh?¡±


    ¡°Wait, they make our tablets.¡± Sola let out. ¡°How¡¯d you get a company like that?¡±


    ¡°Uhh...coercion, mostly.¡± Wess admitted. ¡°Harley can attest to that.¡±


    ¡°You should have seen her. It was pretty awesome.¡± Harley bragged, giving a thumbs up to Wess.


    ¡°We¡¯ll just shill out the brand a little bit. It should look good for investors in future promotions.¡± Wess casually muttered, thinking over a few things, as Essex put her cutlery down.


    ¡°Wess, is this sort of action necessary? Can we not promote ourselves with Wailing hunts?¡± Essex asked, as Wess glanced at her.


    ¡°Not if we want to make a decent wage. Hunting Venators are paid per hunt, so income¡¯s not stable.¡± Wess pointed out. ¡°We¡¯d be enjoying less of these dinners, that¡¯s for sure.¡±


    ¡°Sponsorships make it so we can work better as a team.¡± Julia reasoned, turning to Essex. ¡°You¡¯re here on a scholarship. That¡¯s the same thing, really.¡±


    Essex sighed out. ¡°I would suppose...but I will avoid ¡®shilling out¡¯ if I can.¡±


    ¡°Ooo! You¡¯ll be the cool, silent type who hates the cameras!¡± Sola suggested, jumping up from her seat. ¡°We¡¯ll be all smiling at the crowds, and you¡¯ll be in the back, brooding and stuff.¡±


    Essex blinked. ¡°Is that very different to my normal behaviour?¡±


    Sola blinked too. ¡°No...but now it¡¯ll be on purpose.¡±


    Essex thought on this, before turning and folding her arms, imagining herself in the scenario, as Wess pulled out her tablet.


    ¡°We¡¯d best get comfortable with shilling...¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Dennis lay back against the company van, just outside the entrance to the academy. He was nervously checking his watch, but more to get out some frustration than to actually check the time.


    ¡°Where did I go wrong in life? I¡¯m indebted to students at a Venator school. I¡¯m risking losing my job just to keep it. I¡¯m running around with merch I shouldn¡¯t have...¡±


    Before he went to check it again, he noticed Team Valiant emerging from the entrance in somewhat of a hurry, as Wess waved to him.


    ¡°Apologies.¡± She let out, panting a bit. ¡°Our training for today ran a touch late.¡±


    Dennis let out a heavy sigh. ¡°I don¡¯t really have anywhere to be. I¡¯m just making good on a promise.¡±


    ¡°Of course.¡± Wess said, as the team gathered near the van.


    ¡°...I¡¯m Julia, by the way.¡± Julia said, sticking out her hand, before Dennis stared down at it.


    ¡°That¡¯s really cool to hear. Now, strictly speaking, most of the higher-ups at Andro don¡¯t know about this, cause if they did, they¡¯d have a big problem with it.¡± Dennis clarified. ¡°However, if this goes really well and you guys do a good job, it might just benefit everyone.¡±


    ¡°...okay¡± Julia said, stepping forward. ¡°But if they don¡¯t know, then how¡¯s this a real sponsorship?¡±


    ¡°Cause you¡¯ll be promoting the brand.¡± Dennis pointed out. ¡°That¡¯s all it really needs. More exposure in the Venator Academy¡¯s annual tournament is bound to draw in more business with younger clients, especially if you guys do well. It¡¯s just about getting the word out there.¡±


    Dennis went and opened up the back of the van, before digging around a couple errant boxes for a few things. ¡°Now, quick note, if at any point you¡¯re interviewed for something, mention Andro wherever you can. Stuff like ¡®Andro really helped with our training¡¯ or ¡®I use my tablet all the time!¡¯ That kinda shit.¡±


    ¡°It didn¡¯t help our training, though.¡± Sola whispered to the others, as Dennis nearly dropped a box.


    ¡°Son of a...also, if I see any EHM branding on you guys, the deal¡¯s off.¡± Dennis said. ¡°No cross promotion, and no free promotion either.¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t that what we¡¯re doing anyway?¡± Harley remarked, getting a laugh from the others, just as Dennis found what he was looking for.


    ¡°There we go.¡± He said, pulling out a sword from one of the boxes. ¡°It¡¯s still in one piece.¡±


    He hurried over to Wess and presented it to her. ¡°Now, we¡¯ve just released these. They¡¯re the new C-1 model with improved grip, so no throwing this out a window. It¡¯s one-handed, since you seemed to struggle with the two-handed one last ti-¡±


    ¡°I''m sorry, what am I doing with this?¡± Wess asked.


    ¡°You¡¯re using it during your matches.¡± Dennis pointed out. ¡°I brought a few rifles models and oth-¡±


    ¡°Uhh, no, we¡¯re not using those.¡± Wess clarified. ¡°I¡¯m not replacing Belvedere.¡±


    Dennis held up the sword awkwardly. ¡°Replacing? We¡¯re sponsoring you by providing you weapons...since we make them.¡±


    ¡°But we already have weapons.¡± Sola pointed out. ¡°And they¡¯re already registered for the tournament.¡±


    Dennis blinked, before pulling out his tablet. ¡°Hold on...¡±


    Dennis scrolled through a couple news feeds while mumbling to himself. ¡°...as of 5013, students will now get to create their own weapons as part of their degree...sponsored weapons are beginning to be phased...out...¡±


    Dennis pocketed his tablet, just as he turned to his van and grabbed the top, before banging his foot into it out of frustration.


    ¡°No one told me...¡± Dennis started, before taking a heavy sigh and facing the team again. ¡°Alright, new idea.¡±


    This narrative has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. If you see it on Amazon, please report it.


    He grabbed a box and chucked some shirts at the team. ¡°Wear these during the match.¡±


    They held up the shirts awkwardly, each one a basic white t-shirt with a cheaply plastered Andro logo spread across them.


    ¡°Uhh, they don¡¯t look...amazing.¡± Julia admitted, as Dennis chucked the box back into his van.


    ¡°Of course they don¡¯t. We design weaponry, not clothes.¡± Dennis pointed out. ¡°And I can¡¯t just go stealing the company''s finest merch for you, in case you¡¯re curious.¡±


    ¡°I do not wish to wear this.¡± Essex insisted, holding it away from her. ¡°I am comfortable with my clothes as is.¡±


    Dennis folded his arms and pouted. ¡°Alright then.¡±


    He stomped over and grabbed each of the shirts off of them. ¡°Now, I¡¯m doing you a favour with this stuff, but if you don¡¯t want it, the-¡±


    ¡°No, wait. It¡¯s fine.¡± Julia said, just before Dennis took hers. ¡°We¡¯ll wear them. And promote Andro.¡±


    Dennis pursed his lip, before handing the shirts back. ¡°Geez...you¡¯re putting me through the ringer.¡±


    Julia sighed out, before giving the shirt another good once over. ¡°Can we at least get different colours?¡±


    ¡°Uhh, sure. We have ones in...grey?¡± Dennis suggested, digging around another box, just as the team looked at each other knowingly, worrying even more about their upcoming fight.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Julia grabbed at the shirt again, noticing how easily it folded just from being held.


    ¡°This is worth it, right Wess?¡± Julia asked, as Wess changed into her shirt, trying to carry some dignity while the team took their time in the tournament changing room.


    ¡°We¡¯ll be starting our careers very poorly without it.¡± Wess insisted. ¡°Ideally, if we do a good job presenting the brand, we¡¯ll get more sponsorships in next year''s tournament. And hopefully, they¡¯ll have more...production value, for lack of a better term.¡±


    ¡°Rather than being stuck with t-shirts.¡± Harley added, grabbing at hers. ¡°I shoulda asked for a bigger one. This thing¡¯s really tight on me.¡±


    ¡°And mine¡¯s too big.¡± Sola added, noticing just how much of it hung off of her. ¡°How¡¯s yours holding up, Essex?¡±


    Essex was noticeably uncomfortable, as the cheap fabric felt so much worse than her typical dress shirts. She tried to ignore the feeling as best she could, but it clearly wasn¡¯t easy.


    ¡°...I am doing this for the benefit of the team.¡± Essex clarified, her lip quivering slightly. ¡°If this were any other situation, I would burn this shirt and everything that surrounded it.¡±


    Julia closed the provided locker and stared at the overhead monitor, as a few images of Team Instinct and themselves flashed on screen, promoting the upcoming fight.


    ¡°Hey.¡± Wess said, joining her side. ¡°Do you feel ready?¡±


    Julia shook her head. ¡°I¡¯m just kinda worried. I know Donovan, and Team Instinc-¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ve done our research.¡± Wess reminded her, holding her hand. ¡°And we¡¯ve prepared. All you need to do is act in the moment. You¡¯re good at that.¡±


    Julia smiled a little. ¡°Stop buttering me up.¡±


    ¡°You love it.¡± Wess insisted, kissing her cheek. ¡°We should get ready. The match is about to start.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m getting tingles! This is gonna be so fun!¡± Sola cheered, hurrying out into the hall, as the rest of the team followed, heading to one of the waiting rooms surrounding the arena proper.


    Just as they arrived, they noticed Team Instinct were already there, casually waiting for the match to start as well.


    ¡°Oh.¡± Donovan let out, standing up. ¡°Of all the gin joints.¡±


    Before Julia could respond, Donovan walked up to her and stretched out their hand. ¡°It¡¯s an honour to have our first match with you.¡±


    Julia welcomingly shook it and found herself chuckling. ¡°Likewise. We¡¯ve successfully been intimidated.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re too modest.¡± Donovan insisted, before noticing the teams'' shirts. ¡°I see you got a sponsor.¡±


    ¡°Lucky.¡± Rayjon let out, kicking his feet up idly with the rest of Team Instinct. ¡°We did our best to get one...¡±


    ¡°And we¡¯ll win the match regardless.¡± Donovan declared, folding their arms. ¡°We can worry about sponsors next year.¡±


    ¡°Looks like someone¡¯s putting off the hard stuff.¡± Judy muttered, getting a laugh from the team, as Donovan turned to her suddenly.


    ¡°...apologies. I just realised our team hasn¡¯t been formally introduced, considering we skipped out on the introduction last year.¡± Donovan, encouraging their team to join them.


    They stood by Donovan¡¯s side, as Team Valiant waited for Donovan to go over each of them.


    Donovan settled themself.


    ¡°Rudy, Judy, Rayjon, Jordan.¡±


    The room went quiet.


    Donovan stayed silent, as Team Valiant were hoping for something a bit more detailed.


    ¡°...oh. Hi.¡± Julia said, waving to them. ¡°We¡¯ve...kinda already met.¡±


    ¡°Which one¡¯s Rudy and which one¡¯s Judy?¡± Sola asked, as Rudy and Judy looked at each other.


    ¡°I am.¡± They replied in unison, before realising the mistake.


    ¡°Sorry, we get that a lot. I¡¯m Judy.¡± Judy said, sporting a more dressed up appearance and feminine lean.


    ¡°Rudy, and I really don¡¯t get why.¡± Rudy added, looking far more tomboyish. ¡°We look nothing alike.¡±


    ¡°Same sense of humour, though. Rayjon.¡± Rayjon greeted, stepping in to shake Julia¡¯s hand manically. ¡°Excited for the match. We won¡¯t go easy on you just cause you¡¯re nice.¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t you train with us one time?¡± Jordan asked, standing toe-to-toe with Harley, as she nodded back.


    ¡°Yeah, once. Didn¡¯t really stick.¡± Harley admitted, as Jordan let out a hearty laugh.


    ¡°I thought you looked familiar!¡± He laughed, slapping her back. ¡°Who could forget a physique like that? You¡¯re a giant!¡±


    Look who¡¯s talking. Julia thought, as Donovan clicked their tongue.


    ¡°You could make a handy Dueling Venator.¡± Donovan offered, as Harley blushed a little.


    ¡°Oh, stop it...you think?¡±


    Sola cocked her head. ¡°But Harley¡¯s already becoming a Venator.¡± Sola pointed out, just as Donovan stared at her.


    ¡°No, Dueling Venator.¡±


    Sola blinked.


    Donovan was taken aback. ¡°How are you in second-year without knowing what different Venators are?¡±


    ¡°I dunno. It just didn¡¯t come up.¡± Sola replied, before Julia pulled her to the side.


    ¡°Sola, I thought you knew about this already.¡± Julia asked, as Sola pouted to herself.


    ¡°I guess not. I don¡¯t know about this industry stuff.¡± Sola admitted, as Julia sighed out.


    ¡°Well, most Venators are Hunting Venators. They¡¯re the ones who take care of Wailing, like us.¡± Julia explained. ¡°But there¡¯s also Scientific Venators, who focus on studying the Wailing, Relief Venators, who help manage against natural disasters and stuff...¡±


    Julia then indicated to Donovan. ¡°And Dueling Venators, like Team Instinct, who fight mainly in tournaments. Kinda like performers.¡±


    ¡°Athletes. We¡¯re kinda like athletes.¡± Donovan corrected, stepping forward. ¡°Wailing hunting¡¯s nice and all, but arena combat¡¯s closer to our interests. And the pay¡¯s steadier.¡±


    ¡°Plus, it¡¯s way more fun.¡± Rudy insisted. ¡°So much more chaos to the matches.¡±


    ¡°And there¡¯s no need to go and get ourselves killed if we don¡¯t have to.¡± Judy remarked, holding up her prosthetic arm proudly. ¡°We¡¯re perfect for this kinda combat.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t feel intimidated. This is still our first official match for a tournament.¡± Donovan excused, playfully batting Julia¡¯s arm. ¡°But I guess it¡¯s yours too, huh?¡±


    Julia gulped, just as a new visual graced the screen hanging up above the entrance to the arena.


    ¡°We¡¯re just a few minutes out from the match, so our teams should make their way to the arena!¡±


    ¡°Alright, Instinct, let¡¯s show them what we...¡± Donovan prefaced, before turning around and seeing their team chanting and hyping themselves up.


    They gave them a second to calm down, before indicating to the arena.


    Donovan tapped their foot. ¡°Treat this seriously. You can have fun after we win.¡±


    ¡°Yes, Donovan!¡± They replied, only to hype themselves up again running out onto the field, leaving Donovan sighing to themself.


    ¡°For Enprov¡¯s sake...I¡¯m never gonna understand them...¡± Donovan bemoaned, before turning and waving goodbye to Julia, who was frozen solid in front of the entrance.


    The rest of Team Valiant stared at her, before pointing to the screen again, which managed to shake her from her trance.


    ¡°O-Oh, r-right. Time t-to fight the...oh geez...¡± Julia stammered, only for Wess to push her forward.


    ¡°I sympathise, Julia, but we simply don¡¯t have time.¡± Wess insisted, dragging her with the rest of the team as they headed to the arena.


    The team opened out into a large, circular platform, raised in the centre of the tournament hall, with rows upon rows of seats circling it and rising up on the outside. Already, an enormous crowd had gathered for the match, as they murmured in their seats, waiting in anticipation for the match to start.


    ¡°This feels way more intimidating now that we¡¯re here...¡± Sola admitted, as Harley hugged her to her side.


    As they looked from side to side, they noticed a table laid out by the entrance with their weapons gathered. Essex immediately dove for her scythe, cradling it and inspecting its finish, as the team equipped their weapons too.


    Julia picked up the various types of ammo for her rifle and noticed its differing shape, before recalling Jovie¡¯s remarks about non-lethal bullet replacements.


    ¡°I suppose our weapons were properly safety-proofed.¡± Wess reasoned, running her hand over Belvedere¡¯s blade to test this out. ¡°I¡¯ll still allow you to fell great foes, Belvedere...¡±


    Right after grabbing their weapons, they headed up a set of stairs onto the platform itself, where they saw Team Instinct gathered on the opposite side, talking amongst themselves in anticipation.


    Just then, the speakers rang out with Spence and Vent¡¯s voices for the entire arena to hear.


    ¡°Once more, we¡¯ll go over the rules for our competitors!¡± Spence announced, just as the large monitors littering the tournament hall lit up with descriptions. ¡°Round one is team versus team! Participants are eliminated when knocked out of the designated arena or are unable to continue fighting, as judged by us!¡±


    Spence held up two fingers, despite the fact no one could see her. ¡°Our participants will keep fighting until only two people remain! That means any two participants, no matter what team!¡±


    ¡°Those two will then move onto the next round together, again, even if they¡¯re not on the same team.¡± Vent clarified. ¡°Reminder; extreme violence is not condoned. No severe damage, no going after downed opponents.¡±


    ¡°Your match will start in ten seconds!¡± Spence announced, as a timer appeared on the monitors. ¡°Get ready!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s it?!¡± Julia yelled out. ¡°W-We can¡¯t plan with that much time!¡±


    Julia could hear the sound of Vent grabbing for his microphone coming over the speakers.


    ¡°To the leader of Team Valiant who¡¯s freaking out right now, frankly, you should have planned more before coming into the arena. A professional Venator would¡¯ve, at least...¡±


    Almost immediately, the timer finished and an alarm echoed through the hall, as Spence grabbed for her microphone.


    ¡°Prep time is over! Start the match!¡±


    Julia tried to recover by shaking her head, before slapping her cheeks. ¡°Oh boy...okay, we¡¯ve got this. We¡¯ve got a plan. Harley, Essex, you¡¯re gonna do most of ou-¡±


    Just then, another loud alarm sound rang out from the arena, stopping everyone in their tracks, as Spence and Vent were a bit lost for words as to what just happened.


    ¡°Umm...¡± Spence let out. ¡°It appears one of our students has already been eliminated.¡±


    All eyes were on the field, as the teams both looked at each other, before noticing that in her attempt to get ready for the upcoming fight, Essex had stepped back to enter a combative stance, with one of her feet just outside the ring marking the arena¡¯s border.


    It took her a second to realise this as well, as the rest of Team Valiant stared at her, still with her scythe at the ready.


    She then looked down at her feet, making the connection, and quickly exited her stance, before trying to hide the awkwardness of it all.


    ¡°...that...was a mistake on my part.¡± Essex excused, turning to the rest of the team with flushed cheeks. ¡°Relias. I wish you luck with the rest of the match.¡±


    After bowing, she hurried out of the arena, avoiding the looks she was most definitely getting from the spectators.


    Julia called out to her. ¡°Sorry, Essex!¡±


    ¡°It is fine!¡± She called back, exiting the field, before Vent could be heard clearing his throat over the microphone.


    ¡°Oh, right!¡± Spence exclaimed. ¡°Uhh, resume the match, please!¡±


    ¡°O-Okay, our strategies already d-dead in the water, but w-¡± Julia stammered, right as a barrage of bullets flew past the team, dispersing them in a panic.


    Julia tried to gather everyone back, just as a chakram whizzed past her body, nearly tripping her up. She noticed Rayjon at a distance, recalling it to his person with a wire, before throwing another one excitedly, this one aimed at Julia¡¯s legs.


    She managed to dodge, as she fumbled for her rifle, trying to aim it at him, only for more bullets to come in her direction, this time more focused in their spread.


    She noticed Judy right near Rayjon, holding two submachine guns in her direction, making an effort to keep Julia light on her feet.


    Julia tried to fire back, only for Rayjon to throw another chakram, paired again with Judy¡¯s bullet fire.


    W-Why are two of them just on me? Julia thought, changing out her assault rifle for its sniper model. They must be trying to take me out first.


    Julia then noticed the others on the opposite side of the arena, fighting off Rudy, Jordan and Donovan all at once. They were noticeably uncoordinated compared to the very capable Team Instinct.


    If they eliminate me, then we can¡¯t strategise. Julia realised. Did Donovan plan fo-


    Julia was thrown off by more direct bullet fire, this time toward her arm, as a few shots grazed her bicep, cutting through the Andro shirt.


    ¡°Shit...¡± Julia let out, before managing to get up her rifle and land a lucky shot at Rayjon¡¯s hand, knocking one of his chakrams away.


    Judy went to cover for Rayjon, only to notice Julia now running in the rest of the team¡¯s direction, still avoiding the SMG fire.


    ¡°God dammit.¡± Judy let out, before cupping her hands. ¡°Donovan! Eagle!¡±


    Julia lifted her head in the direction of the chaos, just as she got a read of everything going on. Jordan was in the back with what looked to be a minigun, keeping Team Valiant at a safe distance, while Donovan wore them down with a bow staff and Rudy with a...club? It was hard to make out, especially as Julia was still running frantically.


    In the meantime, Wess was holding back Rudy with her shield and trying to push against her. Instead, Rudy managed to dart to the side, taking a swing at Wess, only for her to just barely block it with Belvedere.


    ¡°What the heck are you doing?!¡± Wess yelled out, pushing Rudy off. ¡°You¡¯re using it like a sword!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s cause it is one!¡± Rudy explained, showing it off proudly. ¡°I just didn¡¯t take the sheath off!¡±


    ¡°W-What?!¡± Wess let out, still breathing heavily, as Rudy swung it around.


    ¡°I can attach this reinforced sheath. That way, it works as a bludgeoning weapon too.¡± Rudy explained, showing the clasp near the handle. ¡°It can unattach it too, so I get both! Do you want me to undo it?¡±


    ¡°Rudy! Head in the clouds!¡± Donovan yelled out, holding off Harley, as Rudy snapped to attention.


    ¡°Y-Yes, Donovan! Sorry!¡± Rudy replied, before aiming at Wess again, as they exchanged a few more blows.


    Meanwhile, Donovan was striking a few delicate hits to Harley, who couldn¡¯t keep up no matter what she tried.


    Harley swung at them again, before missing entirely, as Donovan struck her arm with their bow staff.


    Harley reeled, as Donovan stayed light on their feet, hopping back and forth.


    ¡°I¡¯m sure you know about my Whil.¡± Donovan said. ¡°I also know you¡¯re bad with endurance.¡±


    Harley gritted her teeth, as Donovan noticed Julia approaching.


    ¡°Then again, I think I¡¯ve done enough damage for now.¡± Donovan assured, before yelling out to Jordan in the back. ¡°Rooster!¡±


    Jordan nodded, just as Donovan sprinted away, leaving Harley to her devices, just as she took an aimless swing in Donovan¡¯s direction.


    ¡°God...dammit, Donovan...¡± Harley let out, resting on her knees, only for Jordan to start firing his minigun in her direction, causing her to dash off in hopes of avoiding it.


    Finally, Julia managed to catch up with them, before yelling out to the rest of the team, with Judy, and now Rayjon, still hot on her trail.


    ¡°Guys! They¡¯re trying to split us up and pick us off!¡± Julia called out, getting everyone¡¯s attention. ¡°Bunch up! Don¡¯t let the-¡±


    Before she could finish her statement, Donovan leaped over to her, swinging with their bow staff, as Julia immediately backed off.


    ¡°Easier said than done!¡± Sola yelled back, charging another shot of her arm cannons at Jordan, who effortlessly dodged it and fired back at her, now with him taking on Harley and Sola at once.


    ¡°Man, this is fun!¡± He exclaimed, taking the time to reload. ¡°What a first match to have!¡±


    ¡°Sola!¡± Harley yelled out, trying to close the distance, only for a few of Jordan¡¯s shots to hit her leg, tripping her up badly.


    ¡°Oh! Looks like Harley¡¯s taken some serious damage!¡± Spence announced, just as Vent snickered to himself.


    Harley just managed to get back up, still struggling to stand a little, before Sola ran over to her.


    ¡°Are you okay?!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m gonna throw you!¡±


    Sola blinked frantically. ¡°What?!¡±


    ¡°Open your apertures!¡± Harley insisted, standing up and facing Jordan. ¡°We¡¯re closing the distance!¡±


    Sola took a second, before agreeing, just as Harley picked her up off the ground, holding her behind her head.


    Jordan squinted a little, trying to make out what he was seeing, only for it to be made very clear once Harley threw her across the arena, hurtling toward Jordan.


    Jordan freaked out trying to aim his minigun up at her, only for Sola to aim her cannons right at him and fire, consuming him in a blinding light, while managing to slow Sola¡¯s fall with the pushback.


    It took a second for Jordan to react, before he toppled over, collapsing to the ground while still singeing from the laser, as the crowd erupted in a joyous cheer.


    Another alarm sound rang out from the speakers, as Spence grabbed her microphone.


    ¡°That¡¯s it! Our fi...second elimination!¡± She exclaimed. ¡°Jordan Velevski has been knocked out of the game!¡±


    Just as she said this, a few helpers showed up around the arena, with one using their Whil to teleport Jordan off the field and out of harm''s way.


    Harley and Sola looked back at the action, now that Judy and Rayjon had caught up, just as it was clear Wess and Julia were being overwhelmed.


    With that said, Julia did her best to avoid fighting Donovan directly, even as they made that incredibly difficult. She took shots where she could, but Donovan simply dodged them and forced her further and further back.


    Eventually, Julia found her back to the edge of the arena, with Donovan trapping her in.


    ¡°Julia.¡± Donovan let out, holding their bow staff combatively. ¡°How fortuitous.¡±


    Oh no... Julia thought, stepping back subconsciously, before realising she couldn¡¯t anymore.


    Donovan scanned over Julia, before straightening up a little. ¡°I was worried you¡¯d be eliminated too soon. Admittedly, I wanted to verse you myself.¡±


    Julia gulped, as she watched the chaos of the rest of their teams fighting in the background, with Sola and Harley attempting to fight Judy and Rayjon off.


    ¡°You know, I can actually channel my body temperature into objects with my Whil.¡± Donovan remarked, spinning their bow staff. ¡°For instance, one end of my staff can be blisteringly cold...¡±


    Donovan spun it again. ¡°And one searingly hot.¡±


    Julia shakily changed out her rifle to its shotgun formation, reloading quickly, just as Donovan jabbed forward with their staff.


    Julia could feel some residual cold as it passed by, before she fired in Donovan¡¯s direction, knocking them back a bit.


    Donovan recovered quickly and ran toward her, trying to trip her up with some staff strikes, as Julia aimed her next shot at the staff, only for Donovan to bat the barrel away and knock Julia¡¯s rifle out of her hands.


    It fell just outside of the arena, tumbling to the ground below, as Julia crawled back on the ground, with Donovan standing over her victoriously.


    The crowd started the erupt into panicked murmuring, as even Vent had gotten out of his seat at this point.


    ¡°It seems the two team leaders are in a very one-sided match, with Team Valiant¡¯s leader crawling closer and closer to the arena¡¯s edge.¡±


    ¡°You put up a good fight, Julia.¡± Donovan insisted, backing her up further. ¡°You should be proud of that.¡±


    It was only a matter of seconds until Julia eventually crossed the arena threshold, as the blaring alarm rang out again, indicating her elimination.


    ¡°However, we¡¯ve still won in the end.¡± Donovan bragged, resting their staff over their shoulders. ¡°As expected of up-and-coming Dueling Venators. So sorry, Julia, but I have to say, you¡¯re-¡±


    Right as they were about to gloat, emerging from the chaos behind them, an errant shot from Sola¡¯s cannons fired across the arena, missing their intended target of Judy, and sailing toward Donovan¡¯s leg. It connected, tripping them up, before they stumbled forwards and landed just outside of the arena border, falling to the ground.


    Before they could react, the alarm rang out again, catching Donovan¡¯s attention.


    ¡°Julia Alpine and Donovan Fairlight have just been eliminated! Both teams have lost their leaders!¡±


    Julia managed to get herself up, still mostly on a high from the adrenaline pumping through her body, as she noticed Donovan still sitting on the ground, staring forward blankly.


    ¡°Uhh, Donovan?¡± Julia asked, reaching out a hand. ¡°Are you okay?¡±


    Donovan briefly blinked, before they started to form a smile. Eventually, they were full on laughing, grabbing for Julia¡¯s hand excitedly and standing back up.


    ¡°I¡¯m great.¡± Donovan insisted. ¡°That was fun.¡±


    Julia¡¯s eyes lit up. ¡°You had fun?¡±


    ¡°I know.¡± Donovan remarked, folding their arms and looking back at their teams. ¡°Let¡¯s leave them to take care of this.¡±


    Julia nodded and stepped out of the arena with them, just as the rest of the teams had thoroughly tired each other out.


    Judy lifted her SMG, aiming weakly in Wess¡¯ direction, only for her to be caught off guard by Sola¡¯s final cannon blast.


    Judy fell to the ground, just as Sola gave a victorious pump her cannons, before collapsing herself out of sheer exhaustion.


    All that was left was Harley and Wess, and Rudy and Rayjon, with the former struggling to keep up much more than the latter.


    ¡°You shoulda joined us for more training, Harley!¡± Rayjon bragged, spinning one of his chakrams around his finger. ¡°We¡¯ve still got plenty of energy!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll break through that shield at some point, Wess!¡± Rudy bragged, wiping a bit of sweat away, as Harley and Wess looked at each other.


    ¡°Sola¡¯s down. I think we¡¯re all that¡¯s left.¡± Harley mentioned, as Wess let out a heavy breath.


    ¡°It would appear so.¡± Wess said, staring down their opponents. ¡°Do you think we have any chance?¡±


    Harley panted, before shrugging. ¡°It¡¯s not over yet, is it?¡±


    ¡°Fair call.¡± Wess let out, just as Rudy and Rayjon rushed them, barely giving them a chance to recover.


    Wess did her best to hold Rudy¡¯s strikes back, as Rayjon started taking advantage of Donovan¡¯s damage on Harley with similar fast, nimble strikes.


    Harley was already struggling to fight against him, even more so as he snared one of her arms with the wire attached to his chakram, as Wess was finding it impossible to lift Belvedere with all of her strength going toward holding up her shield.


    Out of desperation, an idea came to Wess to turn the tide, before she looked to Harley.


    ¡°Harley!¡±


    Harley turned to her, still struggling to hold Rayjon back.


    ¡°Remember what Julia said!¡±


    It took her a second before her eyes lit up, as the idea connected for her, before she tried to wrestle away from Rayjon. She just barely pulled it off, before she started to back-up, blocking as much as she could with her Buster Knuckles.


    Wess dodged to the side, just as Rudy kept pushing her, as Wess started heading backward while taking each hit, slowing walking and keeping Rudy busy.


    Each duo eventually closed in on each other, as Team Instinct was too busy trying to finish off Team Valiant to notice, leaving Harley and Wess standing almost back-to-back.


    The moment they felt the other, they quickly pivoted away from their opponent, as Harley swung around and landed a heavy punch on Rudy, and Wess used all her energy to swing Belvedere and knock away Rayjon¡¯s chakrams.


    The crowd erupted into uproarious applause at the sudden action, as the fight very quickly turned in Team Valiant¡¯s favour.


    Harley started to overwhelm Rudy in sheer strength, as her sheathed sword stood no match against Harley¡¯s physique, and Wess could expertly block Rayjon¡¯s light strikes, while still hitting back hard with Belvedere.


    Eventually, Harley was able to get a grip on Rudy¡¯s sword, before chucking it away, leaving Rudy defenceless as Harley went in for one last strike, knocking Rudy to the ground for good.


    Similarly, Wess used Belvedere to trip up Rayjon as he tried to dodge her, before knocking him down with her shield, throwing him to the ground in a clean finishing move.


    It took the arena a second to realise what had been done, before a loud cheer bellowed from the spectators, announcing the victory of Harley and Wess in this match.


    ¡°What a turn! What a match! This is something else!¡± Spence cheered from the booth, excitedly jumping around. ¡°I just love tournament matches so much!¡±


    ¡°I, too, love them, as a professional.¡± Vent insisted, taking over the mic proper. ¡°Out of our ten participants, our victors are Wess Delacroix Nouvel and...Harley Baroke, of all people.¡±


    Wess was still caught up in the high of her fight, before she realised she was blushing from all the cheers coming from the crowd.


    She waved to them all politely, just as Harley picked her up suddenly, holding her on her shoulders.


    ¡°We did it!!! We so won that!!!¡±


    ¡°H-Harley, you animal! Put me down!¡±


    ¡°No way!!! I¡¯m too happy!!!¡± Harley insisted, parading her around, before Wess got down herself.


    ¡°I swear, if you do that again...¡± Wess threatened, before the rest of Team Valiant ran up onto the arena platform to join them.


    ¡°You did it! That was amazing!¡± Julia exclaimed, running up to Wess. ¡°I¡¯m so proud of you!¡±


    Julia nearly went in for a kiss, as Wess held her back, keeping a good distance.


    Julia blinked, before remembering their promise and looking a bit embarrassed. ¡°R-Right, right, yeah. Sorry, I was just excited for you.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s understandable.¡± Wess assured, bumping her side. ¡°And there¡¯s nothing saying we can¡¯t celebrate in the dorm.¡±


    ¡°Way to go, Harley!!!¡± Sola let out, jumping into her arms, as Harley nearly dropped her.


    Essex stood by the side, watching the couples enjoying themselves, before steeling her resolve and joining them.


    ¡°That was well fought. Reliasda Selo, I was not able to aid you as I wished.¡± Essex apologised, before Sola joined her side.


    ¡°Maybe you getting eliminated helped push us on?¡± Sola suggested, smiling back at her. ¡°Like, we had to avenge your honour in a way.¡±


    Essex blinked, before nodding in acceptance, just as Julia noticed Team Instinct passing by them to exit the arena.


    ¡°Hey, Donovan!¡± Julia called out, running up to them, as they turned to meet her.


    ¡°Impressive, Julia. Your team earned the victory.¡± Donovan said.


    Julia looked back at Team Instinct. ¡°Where are you guys headed?¡±


    ¡°Well, we lost. We¡¯re going to go over our strategy and work on our weak points.¡± Donovan insisted, folding their arms. ¡°The grind never stops.¡±


    ¡°It seemed like a good strategy to me. If we¡¯d planned better, we¡¯d try to eliminate the leader too.¡± Julia pointed out, as Donovan shook their head.


    ¡°Actually, they weren¡¯t trying to eliminate you. Judy and Rayjon were just keeping you busy.¡± Donovan admitted. ¡°Considering how close you guys are, I was hoping one of your teammates would see you getting overwhelmed and try to save you. Then we could pick them off really easily.¡±


    Julia laughed a bit, just to acknowledge how impressed she was. ¡°That¡¯s pretty cutthroat.¡±


    Donovan shrugged. ¡°I should¡¯ve given your team more credit. Even without a solid plan, you wiped the floor with us.¡±


    Donovan turned to leave and saluted. ¡°Good luck with the future matches. With that said, we¡¯ll be rooting for your opponents. Hopefully, we¡¯ll get some catharsis from that.¡±


    Julia waved them off. ¡°Challenge accepted!¡±


    Julia went to join her team, before realising they¡¯d headed into the surrounding building already, and that Dennis was now with them.


    ¡°Well? How was that?¡± Wess asked, as Dennis watched the monitor tentatively.


    ¡°Well, you won.¡± Dennis pointed out, stroking his chin. ¡°Already, that makes you look better than the other team.¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s a genius. I never would have realised that.¡± Wess remarked, getting a snicker from Harley.


    ¡°But nobody mentioned the shirts?¡± Dennis muttered.


    ¡°Team Instinct mentioned them.¡± Harley joked, as Dennis shook his head.


    ¡°You need to stand out in your next matches. Can you do something noteworthy with the shirts?¡± Dennis thought out loud.


    ¡°I could take mine off during the match.¡± Harley suggested, getting a laugh from Sola, before Wess shut her down.


    ¡°No, no, we¡¯re not doing that.¡± Wess insisted. ¡°Just let us keep winning matches. We¡¯ll be guaranteed an interview once we hit the higher brackets.¡±


    Dennis nodded to assure himself. ¡°Alright. Planting our roots and all that...¡±


    ¡°So, we¡¯re the ones investigating Faller?¡± Sola said, bringing Julia and Essex in.


    ¡°It would appear so.¡± Essex said, briefly glancing at Harley, before nodding to Julia and Sola. ¡°Let¡¯s do well.¡±


    ¡°We might finally get some answers about this...organisation or whatever.¡± Julia pointed out, sighing to herself. ¡°And whether Faller¡¯s this ¡®Wicker¡¯ person...¡±


    She stared at the monitor, as Harley and Wess portraits appeared, showing off their victory. ¡°Who knows? We might actually be able to do something about this.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Compared to the tournament match, the rest of the day was pretty calm for the team. Save for catching up on some classwork and taking care of dorm chores, it was pretty uneventful.


    The rest of the team had already headed back to the dorm, save for Essex, who had to make up for the training she¡¯d lost out on. After all, she couldn¡¯t really help out in the tournament further.


    Losing so early in the tournament was hard enough, but with her scythe in the tournament staff¡¯s custody, she could only take it out for training, though even that had a curfew to it.


    Naturally, Essex took out a bit of frustration on a training post, slashing a few times, before realising the sun was close to setting.


    She took another heavy breath, before striking the post again, doing her best to stay light on her feet.


    ¡°I kinda guessed you¡¯d be training this late.¡±


    Essex stopped swinging and turned to face a new person who¡¯d just walked up to her, as he rested his hands in his pockets, protecting his eyes with sunglasses.


    ¡°I could tell you were pretty raring to go.¡± He confessed, taking a hand out to wave it around. ¡°During the match, I mean.¡±


    Essex stood up straight and focused on breathing. ¡°You...were watching?¡±


    ¡°Lots of people were.¡± He remarked, pointing right at her. ¡°Pretty embarrassing way to get eliminated.¡±


    ¡°...it wasn¡¯t on purpose.¡± Essex said, getting a laugh out of the man.


    ¡°And a sense of humour too. You really were a find.¡± The man suggested, confusing Essex, as he just cleared his throat. ¡°Alright, that¡¯s enough buttering up.¡±


    He reached into his pocket and pulled out a business card, before handing it to her. ¡°I represent the Aurora Venator Agency in the Eastern Wayside. We wanted to offer you a temporary position.¡±


    Essex tentatively took the card, as she eyed him up. ¡°Who are you?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m...a representative of the Aurora Venator Agency, and I don¡¯t like giving out my name.¡± He remarked.


    He turned away from her and stared at the sun, wandering idly. ¡°I was hoping this would help redeem your failure at the tournament. Someone has to give you a fair shot, after all, and we¡¯re generous.¡±


    ¡°This...is confusing.¡± Essex pointed out. ¡°Why would you hire me for a position? I failed in my first tournament match.¡±


    He turned to her and shook his head. ¡°That¡¯s not why we¡¯re hiring you.¡±


    In response, he pulled out his tablet and started playing a video, showing it to Essex.


    She quickly realised it was news footage of the first Behemoth Wailing attack on the academy, depicting her in the middle of leaping onto the Wailing¡¯s arm, before climbing up and swinging into the air.


    ¡°This is you, right?¡± He asked, staring at her scythe just as the video arrived at her cutting open the Wailing¡¯s chest. ¡°That and the suit are a pretty dead giveaway.¡±


    ¡°...yes, that was me.¡± Essex answered, stepping away.


    ¡°I thought so. I saw the silhouette during the match and just knew it had to be you.¡± He admitted, grinning to himself. ¡°What a find.¡±


    Essex felt comfortable enough to face him proper, before handing the business card back. ¡°I will have you know I am currently part of a team, and that I don¡¯t plan to leave them anytime soon. If you¡¯re attempting to hire me, then I can¡¯t accept.¡±


    The man took the card and showed his palms. ¡°Totally get it. Loyalty is everything. However, it¡¯s just a temporary position.¡±


    He turned his back to her again. ¡°It¡¯s like an internship. Last I checked, third-year students start the year interning. So, it¡¯d basically fill that role.¡±


    He kept dictating with his hands. ¡°We¡¯d ship you over, you take care of some work for a few weeks, learn about the agency, meet Team Avalanche in the flesh.¡±


    Essex kept to herself, as the man waited for a reply, before deciding to walk away.


    ¡°It¡¯s your call. We think you¡¯d make a great asset for us.¡± He said, waving as he walked away. ¡°My people¡¯ll talk to your people. We¡¯ll leave the door open for you.¡±


    He snapped his fingers, before turning around. ¡°And get a coat. It gets chilly where we are.¡±


    He wandered off, adjusting his sunglasses, before waving to Essex one last time. ¡°Lo reme!¡± He exclaimed, before disappearing further into the campus.


    Essex was left standing there, still processing that interaction, before deciding to go back to training.


    Instead, she realised something was in her pocket, before pulling out his business card, which he¡¯d managed to slip back to her.


    She stared over it, flipping it in her hands and reading the number written on the back, before pocketing it again and continuing her training.


    ¡°...I have options.¡± Essex realised, slowing down in her strikes. ¡°It feels strange...¡±


    She stopped suddenly, before staring at the sky.


    ¡°...I am part of Team Valiant.¡± She assured herself. ¡°That will not change.¡±


    Before she could focus again, everything to do with Harley and Sola flooded back in, as she noticed her breath catch in her throat.


    ¡°...but I have options.¡± She admitted, continuing to strike. ¡°...if they are necessary...¡±

 Chapter 39: Competition

    Harley collapsed on the changing room bench, letting out a heavy breath as she rustled her hair, with sweat still clung to her body, just as Wess walked in as well, looking about as knackered as Harley.


    ¡°Well...my body¡¯s just about to give up. My swinging arm¡¯s starting to rebel.¡± Wess admitted, trudging over to her locker. ¡°Have you had time to read up on our opponents?¡±


    Harley waved her hand. ¡°I¡¯ll get to it...let me get oxygen first.¡±


    ¡°Frankly, I would¡¯ve done it beforehand...¡± Wess muttered, as Harley managed to catch it.


    ¡°Don¡¯t piss me off, Wess...we¡¯ve gotta fight together soon...¡± Harley said, palming at her face. ¡°I don¡¯t wanna be tempted to...leave you alone with our opponents...¡±


    ¡°Then it¡¯ll be a fair fight.¡± Wess remarked, showing off Belvedere and Artisan. ¡°I just worry about who we might have to fight. Lord knows I want to avoid Team Ferocity...¡±


    ¡°And that douche Archer...¡± Harley said, thinking back to the start of the tournament. ¡°I better not run into him again...¡±


    ¡°I heard even Cyrus is competing.¡± Wess pointed out, sighing to herself. ¡°Hopefully, he¡¯s yours to handle.¡±


    Harley looked back at Wess, before sitting up. ¡°You forget. I¡¯ve got plenty of exes too. Odds are I¡¯ll be matched with one sooner or later.¡±


    Wess scoffed at the joke. ¡°The odds haven¡¯t been in my favour for most of my life, Harley. Counting chickens and all that...¡±


    ¡°Well, if that happens, feign an injury.¡± Harley suggested, grinning at Wess with a thumbs up. ¡°I¡¯ll take your place.¡±


    Wess rolled her eyes and hid a smile. ¡°My hero.¡±


    Suddenly, a chime came out from the overhead TV, as footage of the recent fight aired.


    ¡°And just like that, Lenin Diggs has been left in the dust, as Duke de Vil and Archer Parthos claim the victory for themselves! Our two remaining competitors will split off and go into the solo rounds next week, so stay tuned! Oh, my heart¡¯s racing!¡±


    Harley and Wess stared up at the monitor, as Harley folded her arms. ¡°Poor Lenin. Must¡¯ve sucked getting paired up with Duke.¡±


    Just as she said that, Lenin pulled himself into the changing room, stretching out a few stiff muscles.


    ¡°That Archer guy, I swear...¡± Lenin let out, painfully readjusting his shoulder. ¡°I mean, Duke wasn¡¯t help either, but I don¡¯t think that guy knows how to hold back...¡±


    ¡°Sorry to hear about your loss. Those were quite unfair circumstances.¡± Wess remarked, as Lenin gave a well-meaning smile.


    ¡°I gave it a go. It¡¯s not like I¡¯m becoming a Dueling Venator anyway.¡± Lenin pointed out, stretching his back. ¡°Plus, Saxin said that if I lost, she¡¯d make it up to me.¡±


    Lenin gave a thumbs up before leaving, as Harley rested her head in her hands, right before another person came rushing into the changing rooms.


    ¡°Hey guys!¡± Sola greeted, before jumping into Harley. ¡°Wow, you smell bad.¡±


    ¡°Oh, hey.¡± Harley greeted, waving awkwardly. ¡°We just...finished training, so...¡±


    ¡°Oh man, you really forget the smell in here.¡± Julia said, pinching her nose, just as Essex followed behind her.


    ¡°It permeates.¡± Essex pointed out, looking around the changing room for somewhere less fragrant.


    ¡°How goes the research into Faller?¡± Wess asked, before Julia shrugged nonchalantly.


    ¡°It¡¯d be going better, but we haven¡¯t had much time recently. Assignments are ramping up, and...I¡¯ve got some plans that I need to get on top of.¡± Julia admitted.


    ¡°Plans?¡± Wess wondered.


    Sola nodded. ¡°Apparently, Julia¡¯s gotta do some stuff in Detu City, so me and Essex are gonna do some research by ourselves.¡± Sola said, getting up and slinging her arm around Essex, drawing Harley¡¯s eye.


    Sola noticed her looking. ¡°What?¡±


    Harley shook her head. ¡°Nothing.¡±


    Sola¡¯s eyes drooped. ¡°It¡¯s not nothing. I saw your face.¡±


    Harley folded her arms. ¡°My face can look different...¡±


    Sola pouted, before dragging Harley off into another part of the changing room, away from the team.


    ¡°What¡¯s that about?¡± Julia asked, as Essex tried to shy away, not wanting to stir up any more trouble.


    Sola pulled Harley behind a couple lockers. ¡°Come on, I know that look.¡± Sola let out.


    Harley folded her arms. ¡°...it just feels a bit weird having you two study alone.¡±


    Sola blinked. ¡°Are you jealous?¡±


    ¡°A little, yeah.¡± Harley said. ¡°And...it¡¯s like you¡¯re trying to make it up to her...for the formal stuff.¡±


    ¡°But we¡¯re teammates.¡± Sola pointed out. ¡°And we¡¯re the only ones with free time who can check out Faller¡¯s history.¡±


    Harley looked away. ¡°It¡¯s fine. I...I¡¯m not gonna stop you from doing that. It''s more important.¡±


    Sola nodded back, before turning away. ¡°Okay.¡±


    Sola went to join the others, before stopping suddenly and turning back. ¡°I wouldn¡¯t go behind your back, alright?¡±


    ¡°...I know.¡± Harley let out, before leaving with her and rustling her hair.


    They caught a few more people filtering into parts of the changing room, just as footage for the current match came across the TV.


    Julia stared excitedly at the screen. ¡°Oh, looks lik-¡±


    ¡°What the hell are you doing?! Defend! Defend!¡±


    The team all turned to face the other half of the changing rooms, as they peered in to see Taylor yelling at the other TV showing off the match.


    ¡°Come on! Stop choking!¡± Taylor demanded. ¡°Pick up th-oh, for...you guys suck!¡±


    ¡°Hi.¡± Sola greeted, stepping forward, as Taylor turned in frustration. ¡°Why¡¯re you yelling at the TV?¡±


    ¡°Cause they¡¯re failing horribly!¡± Taylor yelled at the screen, resting their hands on their hips. ¡°I get eliminated just to watch this shitshow?¡±


    Sola watched the screen for a bit, before nodding. ¡°Yeah, they suck like crazy.¡±


    ¡°Those are my teammates. They actually got into the next round, unlike me.¡± Taylor said, before pumping their fist. ¡°Team Cha-Chunk!¡±


    Sola cocked her head. ¡°Cha-Chunk?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, like the sound.¡± Taylor insisted, making a motion with their arms. ¡°Cha-Chunk! Like a shotgun!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s such a cool name!¡± Sola let out, turning to Julia and the others. ¡°We should change our name to something like that!¡±


    Julia and the others decided to join up with them. ¡°But I like Team Valiant.¡±


    ¡°I like your energy. Are you studying here?¡± Taylor asked, eyes on the screen, as Sola nodded happily.


    ¡°Yeah! It¡¯s been a fe...¡± Sola started, only to stare right up at them and recognise them. ¡°...wait a minute! I¡¯d know that awesome blonde hair anywhere!¡±


    Taylor suddenly turned to her with wide eyes. ¡°Sola?¡±


    ¡°Taylor!¡± Sola yelled out, jumping into them with a hug, as they swung her around joyously, surprising the rest of the team present.


    ¡°You guys know each other?¡± Harley asked, as Taylor let Sola down.


    ¡°We were friends back at my orphanage!¡± Sola said, struggling to keep her hands off them. ¡°We hung out all the time!¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s actually...¡± Taylor let out, before addressing the team present. ¡°We¡¯d spend hours together and run off into the forest a bunch. Sola kept getting lost and I¡¯d have to drag her back out.¡±


    ¡°I did! That happened!¡± Sola exclaimed, jumping around joyously. ¡°It¡¯s been ages! How are you?¡±


    ¡°Well, I got shipped off to Aceoro. Western Wayside didn¡¯t know what was coming.¡± Taylor bragged. ¡°I¡¯m basically the best Venator they¡¯ve ever had.¡±


    ¡°Lucky!¡± Sola let out. ¡°I knew you¡¯d land on your feet!¡±


    ¡°Speaking of, it¡¯s funny seeing you training to be a Venator.¡± Taylor remarked, eyeing Sola up. ¡°It looks like you¡¯re taking care of yourself now.¡±


    Sola nodded emphatically. ¡°I¡¯ve even got a Whil now!¡±


    ¡°No shit!¡± Taylor let out. ¡°You¡¯ve gotta show me some time!¡±


    Sola kept wriggling in place, before remembering the others were with her. ¡°Oh yeah! My team!¡±


    Sola jumped over and immediately dragged Harley over. ¡°This is my girlfriend, Harley.¡±


    Taylor recognised her from a few weeks prior and smirked. ¡°I¡¯ll be. What a small world.¡±


    Taylor stuck out their hand. ¡°Well, Sola¡¯s girlfriend, I¡¯m Sola¡¯s regular friend. Pleased to reacquaint.¡±


    Harley looked down at the hand, before shaking it. ¡°Likewise.¡±


    ¡°And we¡¯ve met already too.¡± Julia said, jumping in and quickly shaking their hand. ¡°Julia.¡±


    ¡°Now I recognise ya. Were you the one with the rifle during that match last week?¡± Taylor asked, with Julia nodding in response. ¡°I swear, you were the spitting image of Infra.¡±


    Julia stood up straight. ¡°You know Team Spectrum?¡± Julia let out, as Taylor nodded to her.


    ¡°I mean, you¡¯re talking to their number one super fan.¡± Taylor bragged, pointing to their chest. ¡°I own all their memorabilia, their documentaries, even that rare misprin-¡±


    ¡°-ted autobiography!¡± Julia finished. ¡°Finally, some who gets why they¡¯re so cool!¡±


    ¡°So cool, right?¡± Taylor let out, as Wess and Essex closed the distance to introduce themselves to Taylor, leaving Harley to back off a little.


    Harley saw Sola and Taylor wrapping their arms around each other again, before trying to take her eyes off of it.


    In the midst of their conversation, Taylor lifted their head toward Harley. ¡°Everything all good, Harls?¡±


    Harley ignored the nickname and waved back. ¡°All good.¡±


    ¡°Alright. Hey, you mind if I sit in on your training while I¡¯m here?¡± Taylor offered, pointing to the screen. ¡°Beats watching my teammates flail around like dead fish. And I can see you use your Whil!¡±


    Sola jumped up excitedly. ¡°Totally!¡±


    ...before Julia dragged her back down, reminding her of the obvious. ¡°Oh, right. I¡¯m not training right now.¡±


    It took Taylor a second, before they realised the obvious. ¡°Oh, right. You got eliminated. Why would you be training?¡±


    Sola was fortunate to avoid saying the real reason. ¡°...yeah, but I¡¯ll try to give a demonstration.¡±


    ¡°Greatly appreciated.¡± Taylor insisted, before being swept up in seeing Sola again and sweeping her up, grabbing her into a hug. ¡°It¡¯s wild seeing you again! Going here for the tournament was so the right decision!¡±


    Harley kept a careful eye on the two, just as Taylor put Sola back down and saluted.


    ¡°Well, watching my team¡¯s pissing me off, so I¡¯m gonna go do literally anything else. Lo reme.¡± Taylor said, leaving right after.


    ¡°What a curious character.¡± Wess pointed out, turning to Sola. ¡°I didn¡¯t know you kept such good company.¡±


    Sola smiled proudly, just as Harley came up from behind, before bringing her into another hug.


    ¡°Come on, I¡¯m sick of training! Let¡¯s go do something.¡± Harley insisted, as Sola couldn¡¯t help but laugh.


    ¡°At least take a shower first!¡± Sola exclaimed, as they started leaving the changing room.


    ¡°I don¡¯t see why that can¡¯t be what we do.¡± Harley offered, as the idea connected for Sola.


    ¡°Oh yeah! We can actually do that!¡± Sola realised, before dragging Harley a bit faster. ¡°See you guys later! We¡¯re gonna use the dorm for a bit!¡±


    Julia, Wess and Essex were left to their devices, as Wess started massaging her forehead.


    ¡°Harley was meant to study our opponents...¡± Wess pointed out. ¡°Once again, I¡¯m saving her...¡±


    ¡°I believe you¡¯re up against Team Exemplary.¡± Essex explained. ¡°Leandra and Roman, specifically.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± Wess said, before sitting down. ¡°Well, that actually saves me some trouble. They¡¯ll hardly be a challenge.¡±


    Wess looked back up at Julia. ¡°So, in regards to your plans...¡±


    ¡°O-Oh, right...¡± Julia let out.


    Wess cocked her head. ¡°Is it something serious?¡± Wess asked, just as Julia scratched her neck.


    ¡°Kinda...I¡¯m meeting up with Florey.¡± Julia explained, shocking them both.


    ¡°Meeting? When did he contact you?¡± Essex asked.


    Julia looked to the side. ¡°It¡¯s...back at the formal, he...showed up and said he¡¯d ¡®explain himself later,¡¯ then he gave me his number.¡±


    Julia took out her tablet and waved it around. ¡°I just got a text from him this morning saying he was free and to meet in a couple days, so I fig-¡±


    Just as she said that, her tablet went off again, spooking her enough to nearly drop it.


    She realised it was a call, as the name ¡®Madelyn¡¯ came on screen.


    ¡°Well, that was terrifying timing.¡± Wess commented. ¡°Do you need to take this?¡±


    Julia remembered the formal again and gripped her phone, before taking a breath.


    ¡°I should. I¡¯ll just be a minute.¡± Julia excused, before going off, right as Wess grabbed her hand and gave her a reassuring squeeze.


    Julia ducked out of the changing room, as she tried to lean comfortably on the wall. Immediately, it felt off, leading her to walk around idly instead.


    She called the number back, as she practiced her breathing.


    Please be nothing, mum...


    ¡°...Julia? Am I actually speaking to you now?¡±


    ¡°Y-Yeah, hi mum.¡± Julia said, brushing some hair aside. ¡°Did you need something?¡±


    There was a slight pause.


    ¡°Well, how do you do too? I get it, you don¡¯t want to talk to me...¡±


    ¡°No, mum, that¡¯s not it...¡± Julia assured, rubbing her forehead. ¡°Does this have to do with the call at the formal?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, actually.¡± Madelyn said. ¡°Since you didn¡¯t call back, I figured you were mad about something. Didn¡¯t want to push anything...¡±


    You¡¯re the one who called in the first place. Julia thought. ¡°So, what did you want?¡±


    ¡°Well, first, I wanted to hear about the rest of your trip.¡± Madelyn insisted. ¡°Also, after something like that, I figured you¡¯d want to borrow some extra money.¡±


    ¡°I-I¡¯m good, really.¡± Julia excused, shuffling her feet.


    ¡°On top of that, I wanted to know if you were competing in the tournament. I was planning on visiting the campus to check out what the fuss was all about.¡± Madelyn explained. ¡°But then I saw your team on TV and it answered it for me. I wasn¡¯t gonna waste my time otherwise. Driving kills my back.¡±


    ¡°Y-You could have just texted.¡± Julia replied.


    ¡°I wanted to hear your voice. I¡¯m your mother, sue me.¡± Madelyn said, as Julia was sure she was rolling her eyes. ¡°So? Any big changes on your end?¡±


    Julia realised just how much had happened recently that Madelyn didn¡¯t know about.


    ¡°No.¡±


    There was a pause.


    ¡°No?¡±


    ¡°N-Nothing big, really...just...n-normal Venator stuff.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re not even seeing anyone?¡±


    Julia started blushing. ¡°Mum, stop being nosy.¡±


    ¡°Would you tell me this stuff otherwise?¡±


    ¡°...probably not, no.¡± Julia admitted, as Madelyn sighed over the phone.


    ¡°Alright. But I¡¯ll be coming over at some point, so get something gossip worthy ready.¡± Madelyn insisted, before hanging up the call, finally letting Julia off the hook.


    She went back into the changing room just after, as Wess and Essex turned to her.


    ¡°Who was it?¡± Essex asked.


    Julia pocketed her tablet. ¡°Mum. She told me she¡¯ll be visiting soon.¡±


    Wess blinked. ¡°Your mother? Well, this should be interesting.¡±


    Julia sighed loudly. ¡°This and Florey all at once...thank goodness I¡¯m not competing in the tournament anymore...¡±


    ¡°If you wish, I can distract your mother when she arrives.¡± Essex said, giving a thumbs up. ¡°I will lead her astray.¡±


    ¡°Lovely offer, but at least let me meet her first.¡± Wess insisted, smiling back at Julia. ¡°I¡¯m curious about certain aspects of Julia¡¯s awkward teen years.¡±


    ¡°This is all too much...¡± Julia let out, as the weight of her commitments really started to sink in.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Ferris was struggling with another headache.


    She never liked waking up in the same house as Faller, but ever since finding that bug in his office, waking up there only became more uncomfortable, so much so that she was willing to put up with the tournament nonsense at the academy just to get away from him.


    Admittedly, the alcohol wasn¡¯t helping much with the headache, but the Academy Daiquiri Lounge was quiet, compared to most of the campus, anyway, and it¡¯s not like she wasn¡¯t going to drink.


    Lazily, she rested herself on the bar, staring up at the TV above her showing off the upcoming tournament matches.


    ¡°Hey, is this free?¡±


    Ferris slowly lifted her head and turned to see another woman pointing at the bar stool next to her, before shrugging.


    ¡°I don¡¯t own the bar.¡± Ferris remarked, as she took her seat.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t think you did.¡± The woman pointed out, turning to Ferris. ¡°Scrawny guy over there looks more like the type.¡±


    She pointed at Seears, idly cleaning some glasses to the side, which managed to get a laugh out of Ferris.


    The woman stuck out her hand, as Ferris bothered to shake it.


    Who the hell is she? Ferris wondered, sitting back. Not a lot of friendly types at the bar...


    ¡°You feel like a lollipop?¡± The woman asked, fishing around in her pocket, as Ferris sneered at her.


    ¡°What am I, five?¡± Ferris said, as the woman just gave a nonchalant shrug and stared at her.


    ...I shouldn¡¯t give her my name. Rosalind rationalised. Wicker would have a field day...


    Frustrated with the TV, Ferris cleaned out her bottle, then inspected it to see if there was any left.


    Ferris turned to Rosalind, before indicating to Seears. ¡°You want one?¡±


    Rosalind shook her head. ¡°I don¡¯t drink. I¡¯ll take a coke, though.¡±


    Ferris gave her a look, before shrugging. ¡°A drink¡¯s a drink. Hey, Seears! Get your dumbass over here!¡±


    Seears bit his tongue and headed over. ¡°And what can I get you¡­ladies¡­today?¡±


    ¡°Beer and a coke. And don¡¯t skimp out on the cheap shit.¡± Ferris demanded, as Seears rolled his eyes and went to make it.


    ¡°And if you¡¯ve got it, put some lemon in it!¡± Rosalind demanded too, slamming her hand on the counter.


    ¡°Of course I have it¡­¡± Seears grumbled, as the TV flashed images of Harley and Wess in preparation for the upcoming fight.


    ¡°I fucking hate those kids.¡± Rosalind groaned, resting her head on the table. ¡°Look at them, acting like they¡¯re the queens of the goddamn tournament¡­¡±


    ¡°Who thought these things up, anyway? Wailing don¡¯t fight in competitions.¡± Ferris pointed out, grabbing the beer out of Seears¡¯ hand, as Rosalind went for her drink too.


    ¡°Oh, god yes.¡± Rosalind exclaimed, grabbing her coke excitedly. ¡°About time staying here got some perks...¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s like, great, you can fight other students. What an accomplishment.¡± Ferris droned on, as Rosalind took out her lollipop and sucked on the provided lemon slice.


    ¡°Maybe it¡¯s some tradition crap.¡± Rosalind said.


    ¡°Doesn¡¯t mean it¡¯s smart. Moron Venators¡­¡± Ferris pointed out.


    Rosalind chortled. ¡°Finally, someone who gets it.¡±


    ¡°Preach to that.¡± Ferris said, holding up her bottle to Rosalind, who clinked it with her glass. ¡°I¡¯ve gotta teach those bastards all freaking day, waiting on hand and foot, working them through the dumbest mission basics.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t they still have that order of proceeding or whatever?¡± Rosalind pointed out, displaying her palms. ¡°Secure the area, protect local morons, ask the Wailing politely to leave and give dem a widdle kiss¡­¡±


    ¡°Oh, that should have been removed decades ago.¡± Ferris sympathised. ¡°It only gets them into a stupid routine before it all goes to shit and kills them.¡±


    ¡°You know, my father used to¡­¡± Rosalind started, before stopping herself. ¡°Well, he wasn¡¯t one, but he was studying to become one. Piece of shit got kicked out and wouldn¡¯t stop banging on about the opportunities he¡¯d missed. Forced me to learn how to fight just so he didn¡¯t feel his training was wasted.¡±


    ¡°Sounds like a dick.¡± Ferris stated bluntly.


    ¡°Damn right, he was.¡± Rosalind let out, taking a good swig of her drink. ¡°I left as soon as I could. Never missed him, never will.¡±


    The narrative has been taken without permission. Report any sightings.


    ¡°Douchebags like that are best left in the dust.¡± Ferris said, taking another swig, before stopping herself mid swallow. ¡°My boss is like that too.¡±


    ¡°Seriously?¡± Rosalind asked.


    ¡°Yeah, but he¡¯s the real analytical type. Keeps prattling on about the good of the academy and all its students¡­¡± Ferris said, dry heaving after. ¡°¡­then I have to save his ass every time a Wailing comes around cause he insists on seeing it in person. And THEN, I have to run about being his little errand bitch, all for his crackpot plans and theories.¡±


    Rosalind sat up and grinned. ¡°How the hell haven¡¯t we met since today? You just described my shitstack of a boss too.¡±


    Rosalind snickered to herself. ¡°Are you sure we don¡¯t work for the same guy?¡±


    Ferris stared back at her, before raising her bottle again and clinking it with Rosalind¡¯s glass, shaking her head. ¡°It¡¯s a small world.¡±


    Rosalind lay on the counter. ¡°But trust me, if you were in my line of work, you¡¯d want to kill your boss every single day.¡±


    ¡°I think we might be soulmates.¡± Ferris remarked, getting a laugh out of both of them, as they both really started to enjoy their drinks.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Harley glared at Taylor, as they flung their whip onto Belvedere¡¯s handle, trying to pry it from Wess¡¯ grasp, only for her to throw it off and back away.


    ¡°Use your shield more! You coulda blocked that!¡± Taylor encouraged, going for a similar manoeuvre, just as Wess batted it away with Artisan. ¡°Nice!¡±


    Wess let her weapons down, before taking a breather. ¡°Do you...want to take a break?¡±


    Taylor shook their head. ¡°Nah. Tell me when you¡¯re ready to go again. I could keep going for ages.¡±


    ¡°...I could keep going for ages...¡± Harley mumbled under her breath, as Taylor clapped their hands.


    ¡°Come on! Make like Hammerbrazen!¡± Taylor encouraged. ¡°Use that vitality Whil already!¡±


    ¡°Team Spectrum and Hammerbrazen? Someone¡¯s quite the fanatic.¡± Wess remarked, standing back up, as Taylor wiped their nose.


    ¡°Of course, I¡¯m very well read. And quite the history buff.¡± Taylor insisted. ¡°Ever been to Collrino?¡±


    ¡°No, but I¡¯ve always been keen.¡± Wess said. ¡°All those ancient pottery showcases keep popping up in Mareau...¡±


    ¡°I know. I helped get some of the exhibits.¡± Taylor added, shocking Wess.


    ¡°Get out.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s true. Technically, I wasn¡¯t allowed in some cases, but I had to preserve the work.¡± Taylor pointed out, just as Harley rolled her eyes off to the side.


    ¡°Well, you have my sincerest thanks for saving Daysend¡¯s culture.¡± Wess said, folding up Artisan and putting Belvedere back in its sheath. ¡°I¡¯d love for you to tell me more.¡±


    Taylor shrugged, before heading to the stands Harley was sitting on. ¡°Sure. Might as well brag about it to someone.¡±


    All you do is brag. Harley thought, just as Essex started walking in from the distance, heading up the stands with them.


    ¡°Hey.¡± Harley greeted. ¡°How¡¯s your research going?¡±


    ¡°Difficult. Information sources are light with details on Faller¡¯s history.¡± Essex clarified. ¡°Interviews, articles, personal remarks. All are surface level.¡±


    ¡°Doesn¡¯t surprise me.¡± Harley commented, as Essex took a seat. ¡°Thanks...for the effort.¡±


    ¡°Jesalo Mosori.¡± Essex replied, laying back comfortably, just as Taylor lifted their head from their conversation with Wess.


    They stared over Essex briefly, only for her to notice, as she looked back at them.


    ¡°Are you in need of something?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re not from the Segaru Clan, are you?¡± Taylor asked, surprising Essex.


    ¡°Dal. I am.¡± Essex assured.


    ¡°I thought so. Casually dropping the language like that.¡± Taylor said, pointing back at Essex. ¡°I didn¡¯t recognise you without the robes, but it does explain the scythe.¡±


    Essex stood up. ¡°You are aware of the clan?¡±


    Taylor nodded proudly. ¡°I should hope so. I went to great efforts to learn the language.¡±


    Oh, get out of here. Harley thought, trying not to pay attention.


    ¡°That would mean you would have needed to meet with them in person.¡± Essex realised.


    ¡°Yeah.¡± Taylor acknowledged, as Essex¡¯s excitement grew.


    ¡°Relias, I am...thrown off.¡± Essex said, as Taylor waved their hand.


    ¡°I get it. You guys are pretty secretive about this stuff. That wasn¡¯t about to stop me, though. Peno Decu and all.¡± Taylor excused, as Essex nodded along.


    ¡°Apologies. I assumed you were something similar to Eldava Monodo Del when we had first met.¡±


    ¡°At least I¡¯m not a forseca.¡±


    ¡°Of course. I would not assume something so scathing.¡±


    ¡°I mean, it wouldn¡¯t matter. Muer tinusa. Selamorta no.¡± Taylor remarked, getting a small laugh out of Essex.


    They made her laugh? Harley realised, growing more and more frustrated. Just great...this better not throw me off our next match...


    ¡°Hey, Harley! I like your team!¡± Taylor exclaimed. ¡°You feel like doing some training with me?¡±


    Harley ignored them and stared off into the distance, as Taylor shrugged nonchalantly. ¡°Guess she didn¡¯t hear me. Who wants to hear about my trip to the Ruins of Revs?¡±


    ...I guess they were Taylor-made to piss me off... Harley thought, before regretting it immediately. Come on, Harley, you¡¯re better than that...I¡¯m totally off my game...


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Leandra.


    She stood at the end of the hall.


    Staring directly out onto the arena.


    It was almost time.


    It wa-


    ¡°Okay, from the top!¡± Avalon announced, standing on one of the benches in the waiting area. ¡°We¡¯re what you¡¯d call the bes-¡±


    ¡°Literally no one wants to say that and we didn¡¯t even do it for our first match.¡± Acadia interrupted, annoying Avalon.


    ¡°Well, I did it.¡± Avalon proclaimed.


    ¡°And you were eliminated first.¡± Claudius pointed out, as Avalon glared at him too.


    ¡°How are we meant to intimidate our opponents if we aren¡¯t a united front?¡± Avalon encouraged. ¡°I suggest w-¡±


    ¡°Guys, shut up!¡± Leandra insisted, looking back at them. ¡°I can¡¯t think with all of you yammering.¡±


    ¡°Competitors! Make your way to the arena!¡±


    Roman pulled himself up from his bench and joined Leandra¡¯s side.


    ¡°You ready?¡± Roman asked.


    ¡°I will be.¡± Leandra assured. ¡°Once I¡¯m out of ear shot...¡±


    Leandra started walking out onto the arena proper, feeling her confidence slowly returning to her bit b-


    ¡°Remember, Leandra, you¡¯re representing the team! This is important for us!¡± Avalon insisted.


    ¡°Yes, thank you, Avalon!¡± Leandra yelled back.


    ¡°Do a good job today! We don¡¯t want to appear slacking after last match!¡±


    ¡°I get it!¡± She yelled again.


    ¡°And try to look regal! Maybe a curtsy at the beg-¡±


    ¡°Shut up already!!!¡± Leandra yelled, properly facing him this time, as Avalon let her leave.


    ¡°Well.¡± Avalon remarked. ¡°Seems her match has given her quite the temper.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s you.¡± Acadia insisted, dropping her head in her hands. ¡°It¡¯s always you...¡±


    After grabbing their weapons and heading up, the murmuring of the crowd and the openness of the arena started to sink in, as Roman rested a hand on Leandra¡¯s shoulder. ¡°Ignore him. We¡¯ve clearly got this.¡±


    ¡°I know that.¡± Leandra insisted. ¡°I¡¯m just sick of his voice...¡±


    ¡°Maybe if we lose badly enough, he¡¯ll shut up for good?¡± Roman offered, as Leandra readied herself.


    ¡°I¡¯m not losing to princess over there...¡± Leandra insisted, getting her shield ready. ¡°Time to get payback, Wess. I¡¯ll finally put this rivalry aside.¡±


    Meanwhile, Harley and Wess stared at Leandra and Roman on the other side of the field, as they cocked their heads in confusion.


    ¡°Who are they again?¡± Wess asked.


    ¡°Avalon¡¯s team.¡±


    ¡°Oh, right.¡± Wess said, unsheathing Belvedere. ¡°Team...something.¡±


    ¡°Exemplary. What¡¯s with the shield?¡± Harley asked, folding her arms. ¡°Leandra¡¯s only got a shield on her. Like, no sword or anything.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s certainly odd.¡± Wess remarked, looking to Roman. ¡°Does he only have a bag?¡±


    Harley just noticed that Roman didn¡¯t even have a weapon and was only carrying a drawstring bag over his shoulder.


    ¡°What the heck?¡± Harley let out. ¡°Who brings a bag to a tournament match?¡±


    ¡°Perhaps his weapon¡¯s inside?¡± Wess said, entering a combative stance. ¡°Regardless, we¡¯ll get answers soon enough.¡±


    Harley nodded back, before spotting Team Valiant in the crowd, waving to them both, joined of course by Taylor.


    Harley let out a huff, trying to focus on the upcoming match, which Wess noticed.


    ¡°Are you alright?¡±


    ¡°...yeah, I¡¯m good. No distractions.¡±


    ¡°If you aren¡¯t in the right head space, don¡¯t screw us both over.¡± Wess insisted, folding her arms. ¡°We work well together when we¡¯ve both got a clear head.¡±


    ¡°Hey, I said I¡¯m clear.¡± Harley encouraged, looking to Wess and getting her Buster Knuckles ready, just as Spence came over the speakers.


    ¡°Team Exemplary VS Team Valiant! Who¡¯s gonna come out on top? Who¡¯s gonna show their moxie?¡±


    ¡°Who¡¯s going to start this match?¡± Vent interrupted, before clearing his throat. ¡°Competitors, get ready.¡±


    ¡°At least let me do my intro...¡±


    Both duos entered combative stances, save for Roman.


    ¡°And...we¡¯re off!¡±


    ¡°They might have Whils, so we¡¯d best stay together until we get a read on their abilities.¡± Wess suggested, only for Harley to stare back at her.


    ¡°Wait, you didn¡¯t research them?¡±


    Wess looked offended. ¡°Well you didn¡¯t either! It¡¯s only Team Exemplary. It hardly seemed worth the effort.¡±


    ¡°...fair call.¡± Harley confessed, looking a bit sheepish. ¡°We¡¯ve been pretty busy lately.¡±


    ¡°HEY!!!¡±


    Harley and Wess shot back to Leandra.


    ¡°Focus on the fight!!! Stop chatting!!!¡± Leandra yelled, getting her shield ready.


    ¡°We could¡¯ve taken them off guard if you hadn¡¯t warned them.¡± Roman pointed out, getting ready to run.


    ¡°Yeah, that would¡¯ve looked real good for us.¡± Leandra said, indicating to the crowd. ¡°Starting with an underhanded move like that.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s their fault for getting distracted...¡± Roman remarked, only for Leandra to start running toward them, followed eventually by Roman.


    Harley and Wess went back to their defensive poses, before charging ahead as well.


    Wess started running at Leandra head on, Belvedere at the ready, waiting for her to pull out her own weapon, only for her to keep charging forward, before aiming her shield at Wess, causing her to block it with Artisan.


    Leandra slid off Wess¡¯ shield, before finding her footing and facing her again.


    Meanwhile, Wess was thrown off by the sound of Harley being thrown to the ground behind her, just as Roman joined Leandra¡¯s side again.


    ¡°What the hell was that?!¡± Harley yelled out, getting back up. ¡°You put bricks in your bag?!¡±


    ¡°Why¡¯s your shield bladed?!¡± Wess added, as Leandra stood proudly, holding out her shield.


    ¡°It¡¯s my battle shield!¡± Leandra proclaimed. ¡°And it¡¯s the goddamn best!¡±


    ¡°Also, no, I didn¡¯t.¡± Roman said, showing off their bag. ¡°Actually, it¡¯s only got a pillow in it.¡±


    ¡°Pillows don¡¯t hurt!¡± Harley yelled, getting her Buster Knuckles ready again. ¡°It¡¯s gotta be a Whil!¡±


    ¡°Wow, she still has all that know-how from first-year.¡± Roman remarked. ¡°Figured out how to use Activ ye-¡±


    Harley interrupted him with a flurry of punches, which Roman managed to block with his bag, as Leandra pointed her bladed shield at Wess.


    ¡°This is it! I¡¯ll finally get payback for you looking down on me!¡± Leandra declared, only confusing Wess again.


    ¡°I...truly don¡¯t remember doing that.¡± Wess said. ¡°Well, I did with Team Exemplary, but not you specifically...¡±


    Leandra¡¯s eye twitched.


    ¡°I¡¯m part of the team!!!¡± Leandra insisted. ¡°We¡¯re exemplary for a reason!!!¡±


    Leandra caught Avalon in the crowd, cheering and looking quite proud of himself, as she started to feel some embarrassment.


    ¡°R-Regardless, prepare to pay, princess!¡± Leandra proclaimed, before charging at Wess again, going for a shield bash.


    Wess quickly went to block it herself, right as Leandra collided with her, managing to just push her back and onto the ground.


    Wess did her best to stand back up, only for Leandra to overwhelm her again, knocking her over and trying to pry Artisan from her using her shield.


    While struggling to hold her back, Wess luckily slipped Belvedere behind Leandra¡¯s leg, pulling it out from under her, causing her to fall back, as Wess used the opportunity to get back up and ground herself.


    ¡°She¡¯s surprisingly good with it...¡± Wess realised, trying to get back her breath, as Leandra jumped to her feet. ¡°I just have to wear her out...¡±


    Right as she said that, Harley grunted beside her, as Roman had her pinned underneath his bag, with Harley trying desperately to hold it up.


    The ground was cracking beneath Harley, as the weight of the bag kept sinking her further and further.


    ¡°Well, now that I¡¯ve got the time.¡± Roman prefaced, casually leaning on top of the bag as it did most of the work. ¡°My Whil lets me change an object¡¯s weight. To everyone else, this bag is heavy as shit.¡±


    Roman sunk down to meet Harley¡¯s bitter gaze. ¡°To me, it¡¯s just my bag.¡±


    Harley grit her teeth, sinking further into the ground, before getting a good grip on it and putting all her weight into throwing it back at Roman, who just caught it normally.


    Harley pulled herself from the ground, severely exhausted, as Roman joined Leandra¡¯s side.


    ¡°That¡¯s what you get!¡± Leandra stated. ¡°That¡¯s for the disrespect!¡±


    Harley did her best to join Wess, as it was clear both were pretty out of it.


    ¡°She doesn¡¯t have a sword. Her shield¡¯s the weapon.¡± Wess said.


    ¡°His bag¡¯s heavy as shit, but only for us.¡± Harley added, as they both looked at each other with a gaze of understanding.


    ¡°We should have bothered with the research...¡± Wess admitted, slapping her forehead.


    ¡°Worry about hindsight later. I¡¯ve got an idea.¡± Harley said, only for Leandra to charge right at her.


    Harley held up her Knuckles to block it, only for Wess to sweep in and do so, before they both realised Roman was jumping over Leandra, swinging the bag down onto them.


    They both backed off, as the bag crashed into the ground, shattering a chunk of the arena beneath them.


    The crowd gasped at the damage, as cheers started erupting from them, hoping to see more action.


    ¡°I should probably hold back a bit more...¡± Roman realised, as Leandra blocked him off again.


    ¡°Take care of the big one. Wess¡¯ll be a sinch after that.¡± Leandra insisted.


    ¡°Well? What¡¯s your idea?¡± Wess asked, getting ready for another attack.


    ¡°Just a guess, but I think Roman¡¯s not very fit.¡± Harley pointed out. ¡°He looks pretty lazy, and he doesn¡¯t feel the bag¡¯s weight, so he¡¯s not lifting a bunch.¡±


    ¡°So we take out Leandra.¡± Wess realised. ¡°But if we can¡¯t get around the bag-¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll figure it out.¡± Harley said, charging forward, right as Leandra did the same.


    Just as Leandra pointed her shield¡¯s blade at Harley, she grabbed onto it with her Knuckles, holding both of them in place.


    Roman went in to swing overhead at Harley while she was stationary, just as Wess blocked him off, attempting to cut off the handle of his bag.


    Roman pulled it back and swung it at Wess now, as she dodged backwards, waiting for it to hit the ground.


    Once it did, Roman pulled it back up, hoping to hit Wess again, just as she jumped to the side, aiming Belvedere for the drawstring as it swung up. It just managed to cut, as the bag flew out of Roman¡¯s hands and towards Leandra.


    Leandra barely had a second to react, before it landed square in her chest, knocking her away with its sheer weight, as Roman briefly panicked.


    ¡°Oh shit...¡± Roman let out, just as Harley picked up Leandra¡¯s shield and chucked it at him, knocking him to the ground as well.


    After a few more seconds, the speakers came on again.


    ¡°And in just a few seconds, Team Valiant wins it! Leandra Brimmer and Roman Snowball are finished!¡±


    ¡°Despite all odds, Wess Delacroix Nouvel and...Harley Baroke won. What a surprise...¡±


    Harley let out a few heavy breaths, leaning on her legs, before giving a thumbs up to Wess. ¡°Nice...thinking...¡±


    ¡°You held her back.¡± Wess insisted, smiling and waving back at the crowd.


    ¡°Dammit...¡± Leandra muttered, just as the weight of Roman¡¯s bag returned to normal. ¡°Avalon¡¯s gonna be pissed...¡±


    She stared at Wess accepting the praise. ¡°My ire¡¯s only been invoked more, Wess...you just had to take this from me...¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Boo!!!¡± Rosalind yelled out, standing over the bar. ¡°Rigged! They rigged it!¡±


    ¡°Hey, get off there!¡± Seears complained, as Rosalind begrudgingly did so, only to flip him off when he wasn¡¯t looking.


    ¡°Little shits didn¡¯t deserve to win.¡± Rosalind insisted, getting heated again. ¡°I swear, if that were me...¡±


    ¡°...they¡¯re good fighters.¡± Ferris admitted, circling her bottle. ¡°Not great, but they¡¯re better than those chumps in Team Exemplary...¡±


    ¡°Good fighters...¡± Rosalind grumbled, pushing her legs against the bar and balancing on her stool. ¡°I still hate them...¡±


    Suddenly, Rosalind sat up proper and shook Ferris¡¯ shoulder.


    ¡°Hey. You know¡­shit, what¡¯s her name?¡± Rosalind said, snapping her fingers, before pointing to Ferris. ¡°Commander Major! That¡¯s it! From Team Ballistic!¡±


    Ferris sat up and took a swig of her drink. ¡°Yeah, I know of her.¡±


    Rosalind waved her hand. ¡°I really looked up to her when I was younger. She was one of the only Venators I could actually stand, and she seemed to hate the industry as much as I did¡­hearing about what happened to Team Ballistic in the end really fucked me up. She...was a good fighter.¡±


    Rosalind stared at the counter, before laughing slightly. ¡°To be honest, she¡¯s the reason I got good with my sword.¡±


    Ferris raised an eyebrow. ¡°You¡¯ve got a sword?¡±


    Rosalind nodded, getting up and running over to the side of the door where it was resting, before coming back and showing it off. ¡°I know she didn¡¯t use a katana, but this fit me better. Way more versatile.¡±


    Ferris took her time looking over it, noticing the strange triangular pattern running up its side, side-glancing Rosalind the whole time, before handing it back. ¡°Just from the wear and tear, I can tell you¡¯re pretty experienced with it.¡±


    Rosalind sneered. ¡°Fuck off. I¡¯m great with it.¡±


    ¡°What kinda line of work has you carrying around a sword?¡± Ferris wondered, sitting up a little, as Rosalind waved her hand.


    ¡°Bodyguard. And some freelance stuff.¡± Rosalind played off, before leaning into Ferris a bit more. ¡°You¡¯re not, like...undercover, are you?¡±


    ¡°God no.¡± Ferris said, as Rosalind felt a bit more at ease.


    ¡°Good.¡± Rosalind grinned.


    ¡°Still, who do you need to bodyguard here?¡± Ferris wondered, as Rosalind finished off her third coke.


    ¡°No one. I¡¯m doing surveillance.¡± Rosalind admitted. ¡°Gotta keep an eye on certain people.¡±


    Ferris raised an eyebrow. ¡°Dangerous people?¡±


    ¡°In a sense.¡± Rosalind said, drumming her fingers on the bar. ¡°Dangerous for my boss.¡±


    ¡°...no kidding.¡± Ferris said, leaning back again. ¡°Freelance, huh?¡±


    ¡°Yeah. Hard stuff.¡± Rosalind admitted, before facing Ferris again. ¡°It¡¯s basically whatever the boss wants from me. No two jobs are really the same, but that¡¯s just cause I¡¯m capable.¡±


    ¡°At least you¡¯re not babysitting all day.¡± Ferris joked, as Rosalind laughed again.


    ¡°If you hate it here, then why¡¯re you torturing yourself?¡± Rosalind wondered, leaving Ferris silent.


    ¡°...I don¡¯t really have a choice.¡± Ferris confessed, turning around and leaning backward on the bar. ¡°The world wouldn¡¯t want me anyway.¡±


    Rosalind gave her a side glance, before bumping her side. ¡°We¡¯re always hiring.¡±


    Ferris smirked, before turning back around. ¡°No, you¡¯ve got it good. I don¡¯t wanna stink up your work.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t have it good. I¡¯ve just made it work.¡± Rosalind confessed, staring up at the TV again.


    Ferris found her gaze drifting to Rosalind again, before she rested on the bar, trying to think of whatever else to say.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°I just don¡¯t know what I¡¯m gonna say.¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s the one who walked out. He should be the one to talk.¡±


    ¡°But I still don¡¯t know if I¡¯m the one who pushed him to leave.¡±


    ¡°If that were the case, he probably wouldn¡¯t want to talk to you at all.¡±


    Harley picked at her lunch, floating around her own thoughts, as Julia and Wess talked back and forth across the table from her.


    ¡°...I¡¯m allowed to be mad at him, right?¡±


    ¡°Of course you are.¡± Wess insisted. ¡°Don¡¯t let him off the hook just because you¡¯re friends.¡±


    Julia nodded comfortably, before linking hands with Wess. ¡°Thanks Wes-¡±


    ¡°Julia, please.¡± Wess insisted, separating them. ¡°Not in the study area.¡±


    ¡°O-Oh, sorry...¡±


    ¡°...I don¡¯t blame you.¡± Wess said, before leaning in. ¡°I¡¯m pretty irresistible.¡±


    Julia cracked a smile. ¡°You just had to compliment yourse-¡±


    ¡°Doesn¡¯t Taylor seem a bit weird to you guys?¡±


    Julia and Wess both looked at Harley, as she¡¯d just lifted her head.


    ¡°Taylor? How so?¡± Wess asked.


    ¡°You mean kinda like Sola?¡± Julia pointed out, as Harley scratched her forehead.


    ¡°No, just...it doesn¡¯t sit right with me.¡± Harley pointed out. ¡°Sola¡¯s best friend from childhood shows up out of nowhere after...how long? And now they¡¯re hanging out all the time.¡±


    Harley waved her hands frantically. ¡°And they just happen to have everything in common with the whole team? Sure is a coincidence.¡±


    ¡°Well, yeah. It probably is.¡± Julia said. ¡°Also, they haven¡¯t seen each other for ages, they¡¯ve gotta catch up. Actually, aren¡¯t they going around campus together?¡±


    ¡°I believe so. Taylor wanted to see the Spire in person.¡± Wess noted, as Harley¡¯s eye twitched.


    ¡°Wha-that¡¯s our date spot!¡± Harley exclaimed, folding her arms and pouting. ¡°Sola knows how much that means to us...¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s also the most notable landmark at the academy...¡± Wess muttered, as Julia reached across the table.


    ¡°There¡¯s no reason to be jealous. Sola wouldn¡¯t go behind your back.¡± Julia clarified. ¡°She¡¯s just excited to see an old friend. It¡¯s like you and Chops in first-year.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re exes. It¡¯s different.¡± Harley pointed out. ¡°And it doesn¡¯t change my mind about Taylor. There¡¯s something off about them...¡±


    Julia and Wess both looked at each other, before sighing out and continuing their previous conversation.


    I¡¯ve just gotta get them to confess to whatever they¡¯re doing. There¡¯s no way it¡¯s just friends catching up. Harley thought. They¡¯ve gotta be trying something...I just wish I knew what...


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Ferris slammed her drunken fist on the counter.


    ¡°Hey, Seears! More of this shit!¡± Ferris yelled out, as Seears swore under his breath.


    ¡°I hope you¡¯re going to pay for this.¡± He asked, as Ferris blew a raspberry.


    ¡°No! Charge that dicklick Faller. He never lets me touch his liquor cabinet¡­¡± Ferris complained, before crashing onto the bar counter. ¡°Oh god, it¡¯s all coming back¡­¡±


    ¡°You better not mean back up.¡± Rosalind said, backing away.


    ¡°No, just¡­all the ways I¡¯ve fucked up¡­¡± Ferris let out, rolling her face on the counter. ¡°I¡¯m a goddamn failure...everyone hates me...good for nothing...¡±


    ¡°Good for conversation.¡± Rosalind insisted while finishing her drink, only to realise the state Ferris was in.


    Rosalind bumped her side. ¡°Hey, don¡¯t you say that stuff.¡± Rosalind said, throwing her glass down. ¡°You don¡¯t let those people in. They don¡¯t matter.¡±


    ¡°Whadda you know?...I just met you today...¡± Ferris slurred, as Rosalind poked her arm.


    ¡°Beating yourself up does nothing. It just means they won. They got to you.¡± Rosalind insisted. ¡°You¡¯re always better than that, and better than them.¡±


    Rosalind started getting more heated up. ¡°Just cause they don¡¯t get you doesn¡¯t mean you¡¯re some...broken fucking thing that they need to put down to feel better! That shits for the birds!¡±


    Rosalind slammed her fist on the bar. ¡°Don¡¯t give anyone the time of day! You¡¯ve got nothing to fix!¡± Rosalind proclaimed. ¡°And anyone who says otherwise can fuck off!¡±


    Rosalind took a breath, before sitting back down, as Ferris slowly turned back to her.


    ¡°...why¡¯re you even bothering...?¡±


    ¡°Cause there¡¯s only two kinds of people I like.¡± Rosalind said, holding up her fingers. ¡°Me, and people who get it.¡±


    Rosalind poked her again. ¡°You get it.¡±


    Just as she said that, her tablet buzzed in her pocket, prompting her to get out of her seat and drawing Ferris¡¯ eye.


    ¡°Urgent business?¡±


    ¡°Actually, yeah.¡± Rosalind said, before taking out her wallet. ¡°Hey, piss boy.¡±


    Seears begrudgingly turned around, only for Rosalind to throw several hundred capitals on the bar, shocking Seears stiff.


    ¡°For my drinks, and whatever¡¯s on her tab.¡± Rosalind said, indicating to Ferris, before smirking to herself. ¡°Guess I found a use for it, Salaire...¡±


    Ferris could hardly believe it, as Rosalind took her sword and left, saluting on her way out, as Seears shared a glance with her.


    ¡°Who the hell was she?¡± Seears let out, quickly raking up the money.


    ¡°An angel.¡± Ferris let out, lying on the bar again. ¡°I shoulda married her on the spot...¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Julia rhythmically drummed her fingers, staring off into the white noise of Detu City. The caf¨¦ managed to provide enough distraction for her, even as she knew her drink was getting cold.


    The only thing that drew her attention was Florey across from her, taking a sip of his own drink, as it was clear he wanted to start up the conversation.


    ¡°...it¡¯s a nice caf¨¦.¡± Florey started.


    ¡°What?¡± Julia asked, looking at him.


    ¡°I said it¡¯s nice. The caf¨¦.¡± Florey clarified, putting the drink down.


    ¡°...yeah, it¡¯s good.¡± Julia replied, before looking away again.


    Florey started drumming his hands too. ¡°How¡¯s the tournament going?¡±


    Julia faced him again. ¡°Good. Harley and Wess are doing really well.¡±


    ¡°And the others?¡±


    ¡°They¡¯re good too.¡± Julia answered.


    Florey noticed the lull in the conversation again, before taking another sip of his drink.


    ¡°Alright, I¡¯m just gonna come clean.¡± Florey stated, leaning into the table. ¡°About what happened.¡±


    Julia finally turned to him.


    ¡°...during the end of the year, after I was...really struggling in a lot of my classes, I got a job offer. From Mr Cecil.¡± Florey said, surprising Julia. ¡°To work with him at Event Horizon Manufacturing.¡±


    ¡°You got a job at EHM?¡± Julia replied, as Florey nodded back.


    ¡°He offered, and...after our fight, I said yes.¡± Florey added. ¡°I started working there in...March? Around then.¡±


    Julia still had to take in the news. ¡°So why didn¡¯t you call? Or come over and explain where you went?¡±


    Julia leaned in a little. ¡°You could¡¯ve done that at any point.¡±


    Florey was a bit lost for words. ¡°I was...acting out. The last time we¡¯d talked, you were really angry, and then at the atta-¡±


    ¡°No, you were the angry one.¡± Julia pointed out, crossing her arms. ¡°I wanted to help and you started yelling at me. If you¡¯re apologising, don¡¯t pretend I was the one at fault.¡±


    Florey sighed out. ¡°...I was angry, and...didn¡¯t know if we were still friends.¡±


    Julia took a deep breath, before going for her drink, then putting it down. ¡°...I wouldn¡¯t stop being friends with you after one fight.¡±


    ¡°Right. Obviously...¡± Florey realised. ¡°I wasn¡¯t really thinking straight...¡±


    Florey settled into his seat more. ¡°But I don¡¯t regret leaving. Studying as a Venator in the first place was a mistake. I¡¯m much better off at EHM.¡±


    ¡°If you didn¡¯t want to become one, then why go through all the trouble of applying?¡± Julia wondered. ¡°You seemed content enough when we first arrived.¡±


    Florey fell silent for a moment, as he rested his hands on his cup. ¡°...I wanted to be a scientific Venator, not a hunting one.¡±


    Julia blinked. ¡°Then why¡¯d you go to VA? It¡¯s almost exclusively for hunting Venators.¡±


    Florey scoffed. ¡°Dad insisted.¡±


    Julia stopped talking.


    ¡°He said his son shouldn¡¯t be anything less than a ¡®real¡¯ Venator.¡± Florey recalled. ¡°My plan was to go to the Defender¡¯s Guild, but I didn¡¯t get a say.¡±


    Julia avoided eye contact, as Florey took a needed breath.


    ¡°But now I know that even then, I wouldn¡¯t be doing anything. Just perpetuating more research into wasting time.¡± Florey remarked, drawing Julia¡¯s attention.


    ¡°It¡¯s not a waste of time. Venators are ending the Wailing Conflict.¡± Julia pointed out. ¡°We¡¯re literally built to do that.¡±


    ¡°Then why the lessons on marketing? Why the job fairs and needless sparring matches over petty squabbles? The tournaments, for god''s sake.¡± Florey declared. ¡°Don¡¯t you think if Venators were saving the day, they would¡¯ve done it by now?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not gonna happen overnight, Florey.¡± Julia let out. ¡°The Wailing aren¡¯t rolling over. And they¡¯re only getting tougher.¡±


    ¡°But are Venators?¡± Florey said. ¡°What¡¯s taking so long? It¡¯s a centuries long fight that¡¯s never going to end at this rate.¡±


    Julia turned away from him again. ¡°I think it¡¯s pretty rich for you to leave after one year of your degree and act like you¡¯ve got it all figured out.¡±


    Julia showed her hands. ¡°If you¡¯ve got such a problem with it, then what¡¯s your solution? How do you plan to get rid of the Wailing?¡±


    Florey took a minute to think.


    ¡°I don¡¯t have one, but I¡¯ve got a better chance of finding it where I am now.¡± Florey said.


    ¡°Alright then. While you¡¯re working on that, I¡¯ll work on being a Venator.¡± Julia pointed out. ¡°We¡¯ll see who ends it first.¡±


    Florey scowled a little, before shaking his head and reaching out over the table. ¡°We¡¯re both going about it our own way. I don¡¯t look down on you for wanting to become a Venator. Heck, a year ago, I was in the same position.¡±


    Florey tried to look more approachable. ¡°And I don¡¯t want us to leave here on bad terms.¡±


    Julia stared at the ground again, as her face betrayed her frustrated exterior. ¡°...I don¡¯t want to either, but...I¡¯m not gonna instantly forgive you for leaving again, and without any warning this time.¡±


    Florey nodded solemnly. ¡°I can take that.¡±


    Julia turned to face him again, as Florey felt he could open up a little more.


    ¡°You wanna talk about some nicer things?¡± Florey asked, as Julia nodded back.


    ¡°How¡¯s work treating you?¡± Julia said, as Florey perked to life a little.


    ¡°Really well, actually. I¡¯m getting a great amount of work done.¡± Florey explained. ¡°And I¡¯ve got my own lab.¡±


    Julia double took. ¡°Really?¡±


    ¡°Yeah. I mean, technically, it¡¯s Cecil¡¯s, but he never uses it.¡± Florey said, raising his hand up. ¡°All the way on the top floor.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s some position.¡± Julia remarked. ¡°What¡¯d you have to do to get that?¡±


    Florey scratched his cheek. ¡°Uhh, just apply, actually...came with the job.¡±


    Julia begrudgingly smirked. ¡°I can see why you took the job now.¡±


    ¡°Well, I actually didn¡¯t know about the lab going in...¡± Florey admitted, getting more comfortable. ¡°But I¡¯ve got this boss, right, Cassidy, and she¡¯s been su...¡±


    Rosalind took her time watching over the conversation, before she noticed it picking up between the two of them. While it was clear there was still some tension, Julia was starting to look more engaged with Florey¡¯s talking points, if only a little. Even Florey felt comfortable enough to smile.


    Rosalind took down her binoculars and took a few notes, before clicking her tongue worriedly.


    ¡°Who would have guessed? Wicker was right...¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Despite the cold, Harley needed answers.


    It was already night time, and Harley was having trouble focusing on anything else during most of the day. Her suspicions kept coming up, and she knew the only way to take care of them was to tackle it at the source.


    By confronting Taylor.


    She huddled together in the coat she borrowed from Wess, waiting patiently outside the academy entrance for Taylor to arrive.


    This is it...some proper answers...


    Harley tapped her foot impatiently, watching her visible breath.


    After all, they¡¯re...they were...


    Harley grit her teeth a little.


    ...it doesn¡¯t matter. I know they¡¯re up to something with Sola.


    Harley kept waiting, as the cold bled into her coat even more, unsettling her further.


    Trying to get some warmth into her body and stave off boredom, she made an effort to wander around the entrance, huddling up as she walked, just as the academy Spire started to come into view from behind the main building.


    Harley stared at it for a second, as the night truly started to sink in for her.


    ...what am I thinking?


    Harley stopped moving for a second.


    This is just stupid...what would Taylor even be doing?


    Harley sank to the ground, as she sat on the curb of the main pathway.


    ...I¡¯m just mad that them and Sola were getting along. And...about Sola and Essex...and...


    Harley hung her head down, as she let out a frustrated breath.


    I¡¯m doing it again...


    She eventually stood back up, as she pulled out her tablet and checked the time again.


    ¡°I¡¯ve gotta text them and call it off.¡± Harley insisted, gripping her tablet tightly. ¡°Maybe I was wrong abou-¡±


    ¡°Hey, Harls!¡±


    Harley turned to see Taylor coming down to meet her, only to be hit by the sudden chill of the night.


    ¡°Wow, couldn¡¯t have picked a worse place to talk, huh?¡±


    ¡°...I just didn¡¯t want to be interrupted...¡± Harley admitted, sighing out, before facing Taylor. "Look, I¡¯ve gotta confess something, so...¡±


    Harley did her best to work up the nerve, as Taylor sat by, waiting patiently.


    ¡°...I...didn¡¯t like you.¡± Harley started, just as Taylor looked confused. ¡°Wait, I meant...I started not liking you when...¡±


    Harley took a breath before starting again. ¡°...I was jealous of you hanging out with Sola. She¡¯s my girlfriend and...when you were getting along so well, I felt left out.¡±


    Harley avoided looking Taylor directly in the eyes. ¡°A-And then you got along with the rest of the team, so...I thought...quite stupidly, I¡¯ll add...¡±


    Harley spun her fingers together. ¡°...that you had ulterior motives.¡±


    Taylor looked a little offended, before taking Harley¡¯s comment in properly.


    ¡°A-And obviously, that¡¯s not the case. Why would I even think that?¡± Harley added, turning her back to Taylor. ¡°You were just excited to see Sola, right? It¡¯s not like you were trying to replace me or anyt-¡±


    ¡°Harley.¡±


    Harley stopped briefly, as she spun back around to face Taylor.


    Taylor folded their arms, hoping to hold off some of the cold, before opening their mouth to speak.


    ¡°Alright. Thanks for telling me.¡±


    ¡°...¡±


    ¡°...¡±


    ¡°...?¡±


    Harley blinked.


    ...what?


    Harley looked around awkwardly, as if she were expecting something to happen, only for Taylor to follow along.


    Why didn¡¯t...


    Taylor kept trying to follow her gaze, before realising it was aimless. ¡°What is it?¡±


    So they really weren¡¯t...?


    Suddenly, Taylor realised what was happening.


    ¡°Oh my god. Were you expecting me to actually be a dick?¡±


    ¡°No, no, of course no-¡±


    ¡°Is that why you dragged me here?¡±


    ¡°W-Well, at first, ye-¡±


    ¡°So I could confess some evil plan about replacing you or whatever?¡±


    ¡°I mean, that didn¡¯t have to happe-¡±


    ¡°Just because I show up after a long time, suddenly, I¡¯m trying to take your friends away? Cause I¡¯m getting along with them? Hey, maybe I was just excited to see Sola after a decade of being apart.¡±


    ¡°Alright, I¡¯m sorry! I was scared, okay?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, well it¡¯s still shitty.¡± Taylor insisted, huffing out. ¡°Like, come on. Yeah, I got to know the team, because you¡¯re important to her. Heck, I figured her girlfriend would understand that...¡±


    Taylor waved their arms. ¡°Who does that? Who sneaks into a friend group just to fuck with them as some weird revenge thing? I¡¯m competing in the tournament. I don¡¯t have time for...social coercion and identity theft.¡±


    Taylor pointed back at Harley. ¡°I literally didn¡¯t know you three weeks ago!¡±


    ¡°Okay, now that you¡¯re laying it out, it really does feel stupid.¡± Harley defended. ¡°But...¡±


    Harley tried to hide her face. ¡°...I was angry, okay? You¡¯re really cool, and me and Sola are in a bit of a rough patch, so when I saw you making her and the team so happy...I dunno, I got defensive.¡±


    Harley patted her chest. ¡°I do that! I¡¯m the team''s wall! It¡¯s just normal for me!¡±


    ¡°If you¡¯re gonna apologise to me, you should apologise to your team as well.¡± Taylor pointed out, quieting Harley. ¡°If you guys are really close, some silver-tongued stranger coming in and befriending you shouldn¡¯t rip you apart, you know?¡±


    Harley bit her tongue, before staring at the ground. ¡°...do you think I¡¯ve been a bad partner to Sola?¡±


    Taylor folded their arms. ¡°My perspective¡¯s pretty biased right now. You may not want an answer to that.¡±


    ¡°Fair call...¡± Harley let out, as Taylor stared back at the academy.


    ¡°I¡¯m gonna head back to my dorms now, but you need to think some things over.¡± Taylor noted. ¡°I¡¯m not gonna be your scapegoat. Sola seems happy with you.¡±


    Taylor pointed back at her. ¡°So keep it that way.¡±


    Taylor promptly left, as Harley was left taking the brunt of most of the cold.


    Harley kicked the ground, before grabbing her head.


    ¡°Why do you do this, Harley?¡± She said to herself, smacking her forehead. ¡°Don¡¯t ruin a good thing...¡±


    Harley stared up at the night sky. ¡°But I can¡¯t just say yes to Essex...and I can¡¯t pretend everything¡¯s normal...Sola¡¯s too smart to fall for that...¡±


    He let out her breath again, as it gathered in a cloud in front of her. ¡°I don¡¯t know what to do...¡±


    She sunk to the ground again, ignoring the cold around her.


    ¡°Am I even good enough to be with her?¡±

 Chapter 40: Blood Sugar

    ¡°Harley?¡±


    ¡°...¡±


    ¡°...Harley? Babe?¡±


    ¡°...¡±


    ¡°Babelicious babe magnet?¡±


    ¡°...¡±


    ¡°Baby baby baby bab-¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    Sola stared back at Harley warmly. ¡°You good? You¡¯re acting a bit distant.¡±


    ¡°...yeah. Rough night sleep...¡± Harley excused, staring to the side, as Sola rested her head on her arm.


    ¡°Sorry I had to work late. I would¡¯ve cuddled with you, but Virgil was pretty swamped yesterday.¡± Sola explained. ¡°The tournament¡¯s bringing in some business from outside of the city, so it¡¯s all hands on deck.¡±


    Harley nodded back at her, bumping her side. ¡°That¡¯s good to hear.¡±


    ¡°Good form! Plenty of power behind your strikes!¡±


    Harley and Sola stared back at Essex and Taylor on the field below them, sparring lightly, as they traded blow after blow.


    ¡°You¡¯re really good at this stuff!¡± Taylor exclaimed, throwing their whip at Essex¡¯s side, just as she jumped over it. ¡°I¡¯m so disappointed you aren¡¯t competing anymore!¡±


    ¡°You...are not either.¡± Essex pointed out, as Taylor gave a good-natured laugh.


    ¡°True enough.¡± Taylor said, before pulling their whip back. ¡°Hey, quick question. Have you thought about creating your own terrain for fights?¡±


    Essex stared at them, stunned. ¡°How would I attempt that?¡±


    ¡°I mean you could use your scythe to unsettle parts of the ground before a hunt.¡± Taylor said, indicating to it. ¡°Or cut down tree trunks and move them to make platforms.¡±


    Taylor shrugged. ¡°It¡¯s clear your skillset¡¯s best suited for when you have a lot of mobility options. A flat plain¡¯s not very helpful to you.¡±


    ¡°That would be easier attempted with a hunt than a fight.¡± Essex reasoned. ¡°I would need time to set up areas to lead targets toward.¡±


    ¡°Right, but that¡¯s why you take your time and get it right, you know?¡± Taylor noted, pointing up at the stands. ¡°You could always get help from Harley. She¡¯s got plenty of muscle. She sets up the area, you utilise it.¡±


    Essex stared back at Harley briefly, as they locked eyes, before addressing Taylor again. ¡°...yes. That would be a valid point...¡±


    Taylor looked pretty proud of themselves, just as their tablet went off in their pocket, as they waved it around. ¡°Sorry to cut this short, but I¡¯ve got a sparring date to get to.¡±


    ¡°Ooo, who¡¯s it with?¡± Sola asked excitedly.


    ¡°Donovan.¡± Taylor answered. ¡°We both got eliminated pretty early, so we¡¯re gonna make up for not getting to fight in the tournament.¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t know you were friends with Donovan.¡± Sola let out, as she looked to Harley joyously, right as Taylor nodded back.


    ¡°Damn right, I am!¡± Taylor insisted. ¡°I¡¯m gonna go punch their face in!¡±


    Donovan saluted and left soon after, with a surprising spring in their step, just as a groan came out from below Harley and Sola.


    ¡°Oh, for the love of...¡± Wess exclaimed from lower down the stands, as she lowered her tablet from her hands.


    ¡°What is the issue?¡± Essex asked.


    ¡°It¡¯s my upcoming match-ups for the tournament.¡± Wess explained, as Sola jumped down the seats.


    ¡°Are you worried about fighting Team Ferocity? Those guys suck so hard.¡± Sola asked, as Wess groaned.


    ¡°No, they¡¯re the least of my concerns...¡± Wess said, before sighing and showing off her tablet. ¡°...Cyrus just won his match.¡±


    ¡°Oh, good on him.¡± Julia let out, just as she arrived on the scene with breakfast wraps for everyone. ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡±


    ¡°Wess has concerns with her tournament opponents.¡± Essex filled in, as Julia connected the dots.


    ¡°Is it Team Ferocity? I swear, this has to be the third time you¡¯ve fought Duke one on one.¡± Julia said, as Wess¡¯ eyes drooped.


    ¡°It¡¯s not that. It¡¯s Cyrus.¡± Wess explained, as Sola grabbed for her wrap. ¡°Since he won his match, that means if I win mine against Duke, I¡¯ll be versing him.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± Julia realised, as Essex took her wrap too. ¡°Is it cause you guys are exes?¡±


    ¡°...partly.¡± Wess admitted, grabbing one as well. ¡°No, my concern is that I¡¯ll lose thoroughly. Did you make these?¡±


    ¡°No, I got them from the campus caf¨¦.¡± Julia answered. ¡°Why¡¯re you gonna lose?¡±


    The rest of the team stared at her, as Harley made her way down the stands.


    ¡°Cause Cyrus is one of the best fighters in the academy.¡± Harley said, grabbing and taking a bite from her wrap. ¡°I¡¯d be terrified too.¡±


    ¡°And let¡¯s be perfectly honest, I¡¯m the weakest member of the team.¡± Wess admitted. ¡°Physically. There¡¯s plenty of other areas where I excel.¡±


    Julia nodded, before smirking. ¡°I dunno, Wess. I¡¯d say you¡¯re pretty good in a physical sen-¡±


    ¡°Stop that.¡± Wess insisted, shoving her wrap in Julia¡¯s face. ¡°No flirting.¡±


    Julia grinned. ¡°Sorry. But is it really that big a deal? We fought off Team Instinct, and you guys handled Team Exemplary really well.¡± Julia assured, as Wess made a point to stand up.


    ¡°It is.¡± Wess said, looking something up on her tablet. ¡°And it seems you need some convincing.¡±


    ¡°The convincing better not cut into our research time.¡± Sola pointed out, grabbing into Julia¡¯s side, as Essex snapped to attention.


    ¡°Yes. It would be beneficial if Julia was with us.¡± Essex added. ¡°We¡¯ve discovered a few websites relating to Faller¡¯s accomplishments and having three sets of eyes would speed up efficiency.¡±


    Sola noticed Harley still acting distant and grabbed her hand. ¡°Do you wanna join too?¡± Sola asked, as Harley looked away.


    ¡°I-I should prepare for my next match. Now that me and Wess are in the solo rounds, I¡¯ve gotta put some more work in.¡± Harley reasoned, as Sola nodded and hugged her side.


    ¡°Alright. You keep winning for us.¡± Sola let out, feeling some slight disappointment, as Harley at least appreciated the company.


    ¡°Alright. It seems this lines up pretty well.¡± Wess said, putting her tablet away. ¡°Convincing shouldn¡¯t take too long after all.¡±


    ¡°Ooo. I¡¯m curious now.¡± Julia exclaimed. ¡°Seems we¡¯ve got plenty to do. Lots of challenges, lots of potential to grow.¡±


    The rest of the team nodded back at her, all in strict confidence, even as Harley wanted to be anywhere else.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Oh! OH! Look at that! How did...I¡¯m just dumbstruck with th-¡±


    ¡°Oh, for Whilit¡¯s sake, not again...¡±


    ¡°And then she hands it to her and wham! It¡¯s like watching twins fight...or something.¡±


    ¡°Adora!¡±


    Adora lifted her head. ¡°Uh huh?¡±


    ¡°Coulda just pay attention for, like, two seconds? There¡¯s literally a match going on right in front of you.¡±


    Adora stared at the surrounding area, as the two students she didn¡¯t know were busy fighting it out, with one maybe winning and the other retaliating or something...


    Adora looked confused. ¡°What, Sandra, did I miss something important?¡±


    Sandra grabbed the brim of her nose, before taking a breath. ¡°...you¡¯re the only member of our team that¡¯s made it through, so, yeah, winning it pretty important.¡±


    Sandra noticed Adora staring back at her tablet again, before snapping her fingers.


    ¡°Geez.¡± Sandra let out. ¡°What are you even watching?¡±


    ¡°Team Valiant¡¯s last match. Harley and Wess did an awesome job!¡± Adora let out, just as the crowd around them cheered at the fight in front of them.


    ¡°You know their names?¡± Sandra let out, before shaking her head. ¡°Whatever, you¡¯re...researching for when you fight that Harley girl, I guess. Just stop fawning over the opponent.¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t help it! Look, look look!¡± Adora insisted, bringing Sandra over and showing her tablet off, playing a recording of the fight. ¡°They¡¯re in such sync with each other!¡±


    ¡°Right, and I need you to be in sync with me.¡± Sandra stated. ¡°Team Hoodwink isn¡¯t going to get anywhere unless we place at least in the top eight. Harley seems like a tough opponent, so if you aren¡¯t ready to win this...¡±


    Sandra could tell Adora wasn¡¯t really listening again, as she turned back to the fight.


    ¡°Alright, just...do what you can to win.¡± Sandra muttered, as Adora gave a half-assed wave, before focusing on the footage again.


    ¡°I finally get to meet her in person...¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°So, what are we gonna go do?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ll see.¡±


    ¡°So mysterious...you didn¡¯t get us another sponsor, did you?!¡±


    ¡°Julia, I¡¯m a very gifted speaker, but I couldn¡¯t pull that off at such short notice.¡±


    ¡°...yeah, good call. Hold up.¡±


    Julia finally realised they were walking to another part of the training area surrounding the arena, as Cyrus came into view, along with a couple other students standing on a sparring court.


    Julia started waving once Cyrus was in view. ¡°Hi Cyrus!¡± Julia greeted, as he lifted his head.


    ¡°Julia. And Wess.¡± He realised, getting up. ¡°I got your text. Did you come to see my raw prowess?¡±


    ¡°Somewhat. I¡¯m proving a point to Julia.¡± Wess clarified, as Cyrus shrugged.


    ¡°I aim to please.¡± Cyrus remarked, as Julia glanced over at the other side of the field and noticed Team Ferocity.


    ¡°What¡¯s Team Ferocity doing here?¡± Julia asked.


    ¡°Oh, they challenged me to a practice match.¡± Cyrus admitted, indicating to Duke on the other side and Ferris half asleep, waiting to officiate. ¡°Depending on how Wess¡¯ next match goes, I might be versing Duke, so they wanted a run-through with me.¡±


    ¡°Cyrus! We¡¯re ready!¡± Baron yelled out, as Cyrus waved his hand.


    ¡°Give me a second!¡± Cyrus called back, before turning to Julia and Wess. ¡°Well, feel free to watch. I don¡¯t love showing off, but I guess you¡¯re asking for it.¡±


    ¡°No need for theatrics. Just do what you normally do.¡± Wess encouraged, as Cyrus gave a thumbs up, before jogging to his place on the field.


    ¡°I¡¯m glad you guys are still friends.¡± Julia noted. ¡°So, why''s his fighting so impressive?¡±


    ¡°Several reasons. I managed to catch some of his training when we first met. Admittedly...that was back when I was hoping to transfer to his team.¡± Wess confessed, shying away. ¡°Y-You know, when I...¡±


    ¡°I get it.¡± Julia said, reaching out and holding her hand.


    ¡°...anyway, you¡¯ll see why that was the case.¡± Wess pointed out, just as Ferris pulled herself out of her seat.


    ¡°Alright, you know the rules, bla bla don¡¯t die, first to hit the ground three times loses. Go.¡± Ferris insisted, just as Duke got his ball and chain ready, itching to take Cyrus out here and now.


    Meanwhile, Cyrus placed a hand in his jacket pocket, before flicking his other hand, just as a massive claymore sword leaped out from the spectator stands, floating seamlessly in the air above him, its height almost as tall as Cyrus himself.


    Julia was left speechless by the effortless motion, as Duke swung his ball and chain forward, using his Whil to send it hurtling through the ground toward Cyrus.


    Right as it was about to reach Cyrus, he spun a finger around, causing his claymore to sharply pierce the ground, stopping the spiked ball dead in its tracks.


    Before Duke could recover, Cyrus flicked another finger, as the claymore batted the ball right back to Duke, before Cyrus sent the sword flying directly toward him.


    Duke tried to block it with his chain, only for Cyrus to counter by spinning his fingers, causing the claymore to wrap the chain around itself as it passed, before using it to trip up Duke instantly.


    Duke did his best to get back up, only for the claymore to easily trip him again, readying itself to keep going.


    Just as Duke looked like he was going to stand up, he submerged himself in the ground with his Whil, before disappearing from the field.


    After a few more seconds, he appeared right in front of Cyrus, ready to throw a sharp right hook, only for Cyrus to cause the claymore to come shooting back, knocking out one of Duke¡¯s feet, before the handle hooked onto Duke¡¯s shirt, lifting him into the air, and suddenly dropping him flat on the ground.


    Duke lay their motionless, struggling to even get up, as Ferris quickly remembered she was meant to be judging.


    ¡°U-Uhh...3-0, Cyrus.¡± Ferris confessed, still trying to rationalise what she saw. ¡°Holy shit...¡±


    Cyrus lowered his hand, before resting the sword handle on Duke¡¯s head.


    ¡°I told you this¡¯d be disappointing. You shoulda just saved it for the tournament.¡± Cyrus pointed out, before moving his claymore back to the stands, as Julia¡¯s mouth hung open in shock.


    ¡°Well?¡± Wess asked, folding her arms.


    ¡°H-H-He barely lifted a finger...¡±


    ¡°Oh yes.¡±


    ¡°L-L-Like, literally, his hand didn¡¯t even move...¡±


    ¡°Whil¡¯s are an incredible thing.¡±


    ¡°A-A-And he did all that...¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s considered a prodigy for a reason.¡± Wess said, sighing out. ¡°Now you can see why I¡¯m so worried. I¡¯m already at a disadvantage against opponents with Whils, but he¡¯s even above that.¡±


    ¡°W-Wow...¡± Julia let out, still staring at the field. ¡°I-I can see why you wanted to join his team.¡±


    Wess rolled her eyes, as Cyrus came over, calling out to them. ¡°Was that good?¡±


    ¡°Yes, I think it did the job.¡± Wess said, before deciding to take Julia away. ¡°Thanks for your help.¡±


    ¡°No problem. Knowing I had an audience made this match a bit more fun.¡± Cyrus admitted.


    Wess smiled back at him before leaving, as Cyrus waved back at her.


    ¡°Hope to see you in the tournament! It¡¯ll be a worthy fight for sure!¡± Cyrus called out, before remembering Duke was there and grinning. ¡°And don¡¯t let this chump slow you down! You¡¯ve got this in the bag!¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    The rest of the day was shaping up to be fairly standard. With Harley¡¯s match against Adora in a day¡¯s time, and Wess¡¯ match with Duke right after, the two were busy preparing in whatever way they could.


    And while watching from the sidelines was nice and all, the rest of Team Valiant had something important to look into.


    Important, but not exciting.


    ¡°...I know we¡¯re just sifting through biographies and all, but...¡± Julia started, as she slumped onto her desk. ¡°...this is really starting to bore.¡±


    ¡°I know.¡± Sola admitted, scanning her computer screen. ¡°It¡¯s so basic.¡±


    Essex was busy struggling to use her mouse, as she accidentally pressed the scroll button and started auto-scrolling by mistake.


    She let go of it suddenly, looking like she¡¯d made a mistake, before staring at the other two. ¡°I am having difficulties with the computer.¡±


    ¡°Page after page after...¡± Julia muttered, before giving up and wandering around their spot in the library. ¡°There¡¯s barely anything on Faller here.¡±


    ¡°I guess he ran the engineering department a few years ago.¡± Sola noted, reading her screen. ¡°Bla bla bla, worked with Jovie, bla bla bla...very qualified...¡±


    ¡°Any interviews?¡± Julia asked, as Sola shook her head.


    ¡°Maybe there is something physical? Perhaps a document relating to past years of the academy?¡± Essex offered, as Julia leaned on her seat.


    ¡°Good idea, Essex. The library¡¯s bound to have old yearbooks.¡± Julia pointed out, looking around. ¡°Somewhere...¡±


    ¡°Oh wait, I know where they are!¡± Sola admitted, getting up suddenly. ¡°I had to find some history textbooks with Harley, and they were right next to each other.¡±


    ¡°Great!¡± Julia let out, as she followed Sola. ¡°Sit tight, Essex.¡±


    Essex stared at her computer, as the screen faded to black due to inactive use. ¡°...okay.¡±


    Sola dashed into one of the aisles, almost getting overwhelmed now that she was in it, before Julia spotted the books for her and pulled a couple out.


    ¡°5016. This was right before Faller was principal.¡± Julia admitted, sitting down and flipping through it. ¡°Maybe he left a quote, or some kind of bio...¡±


    As Julia was flipping through pages, Sola tried to keep herself busy, as she thought about looking through the yearbooks, only to find the thought immediately boring her as well.


    She looked around idly, hoping for some kind of stimulation, as she ducked her head out of the aisle and noticed Essex, still fiddling with her computer.


    Essex quickly spotted Sola and waved to her politely, as Sola felt obliged to wave back, before realising it was just her and Julia.


    ¡°...hey, Julia?¡±


    ¡°Mmmhmm?¡±


    ¡°...I know we¡¯re in the middle of something right now, but can I...talk about something?¡± Sola let out, as Julia noticed her tone and lifted her head from the book.


    ¡°Uhh, yeah, sure. What¡¯s up?¡±


    Sola felt she¡¯d be more comfortable sitting down, as she joined Julia¡¯s side. ¡°I don¡¯t know if you¡¯ve noticed, but Harley, Essex and me have been a bit weird around each other.¡±


    Julia looked to the side awkwardly, as she scratched her cheek. ¡°Kinda. Harley mentioned that she got in an argument with Essex during the formal, but I didn¡¯t really follow up on it...¡±


    ¡°Well, you were probably distracted by the tournament. And dating Wess. And meeting up with Florey.¡± Sola pointed out. ¡°We¡¯ve been busy lately.¡±


    Sola started playing with her fingers idly. ¡°But there¡¯s a reason for it.¡±


    Sola looked down at the floor, as Julia skooched to her side.


    ¡°...during the formal...¡± Sola started. ¡°...Essex took me and Harley aside and...confessed to us...about wanting us three to date.¡±


    Julia¡¯s eyes widened a bit, before she refocused on Sola as best she could. ¡°...okay.¡±


    ¡°I kinda liked the idea, so I said yes, but...Harley said she didn¡¯t feel ready.¡± Sola admitted, stammering her words a little. ¡°And then Essex left...and that¡¯s kinda it.¡±


    Sola spun her fingers around. ¡°And now things are really awkward with us, and...I feel like I have to make things better for both of them, but they just want to forget it ever happened.¡±


    Julia gave herself a moment to let that all sink in, before sitting up proper.


    ¡°It sounds like you¡¯ve had a tough few weeks.¡±


    Sola quietly nodded, as Julia reached over and offered a hug, which Sola gratefully accepted.


    ¡°I...kinda get it.¡± Julia said, breaking the hug. ¡°When me and Wess got together...I was really terrified. I thought I¡¯d screwed something up so bad, and that Wess was...gonna try to leave the team again...¡±


    ¡°She wouldn''t do that.¡± Sola insisted.


    ¡°Well, yeah, obviously.¡± Julia remarked. ¡°But my rational brain wasn¡¯t working, was it?¡±


    Julia shrugged. ¡°But just as I was about to back out, she...made sure I didn¡¯t.¡±


    Julia looked back on it and smiled subtly. ¡°...she made sure I didn¡¯t actually screw up. Looking back, if I kept pulling away, it would¡¯ve been the worst mistake of my life.¡±


    Sola stared at the floor solemnly. ¡°Did I pull away?¡±


    ¡°No, no, of course not.¡± Julia assured, grabbing her hand. ¡°You¡¯re the one who reached out. I¡¯m sure Essex really appreciated that.¡±


    Sola stared bitterly at the floor. ¡°Harley said that this was Essex¡¯s thing to deal with.¡± Sola pointed out. ¡°But that¡¯s just stupid. Why can¡¯t they make up? They were friends before, it should be easy.¡±


    Julia looked to the side. ¡°It¡¯s not easy, though. I wish it could be.¡±


    Julia started circling her finger. ¡°Harley¡¯s probably acting defensive. Relationships were hard for her in the past, and I think with you, she¡¯s found a really stable one. Adding Essex into the mix would just complicate things.¡±


    ¡°...I know it¡¯s okay for Harley to say no.¡± Sola admitted. ¡°But she shouldn¡¯t be mad at Essex. Holding a grudge is just dumb.¡±


    Sola stood up suddenly. ¡°And if they¡¯re both gonna struggle with this, then I¡¯m gonna have to fix it, even though I don¡¯t know how, and neither of them are talking...¡±


    Sola started hitting her head. ¡°Come on, brain. Work already...¡±


    ¡°Sola.¡± Julia let out, holding her hand. ¡°Alright, I¡¯ve got an idea.¡±


    Stolen novel; please report.


    Julia resettled in her sitting position. ¡°Just sit like this and breathe.¡±


    Sola did so, as she closed her eyes and focused on breathing.


    ¡°Just focus on that.¡±


    ¡°...¡±


    ¡°Clear your head.¡±


    ¡°...¡±


    ¡°...okay.¡± Julia said, as Sola opened her eyes. ¡°What do you want to do?¡±


    Sola breathed out. ¡°I love them both and want them to get along again.¡±


    Julia nodded in assurance. ¡°Okay. What can you do about that?¡±


    ¡°Get them back on track.¡± Sola assured, getting a smile from Julia.


    ¡°You¡¯re a lot smarter than people give you credit for.¡± Julia complimented, as Sola blushed to herself.


    ¡°Thanks...¡± Sola let out, trying to hide her face. ¡°You¡¯re also really smart. And pretty.¡±


    Julia waved her hand awkwardly. ¡°Y-You don¡¯t mean that...¡±


    ¡°I so do!¡± Sola let out. ¡°You¡¯re crazy pretty! Wess is a lucky lady!¡±


    Julia grinned. ¡°I¡¯m the lucky one.¡±


    Sola hopped around a bit, before shying away a little. ¡°...thank you for...talking with me. I don¡¯t really know anyone else I could chat with like this...¡±


    Julai rubbed her neck. ¡°Same here. And...thanks for letting me know about everything.¡±


    An idea popped into Julia¡¯s head. ¡°Is it okay if I tell Wess? Just so we¡¯re all on the same page?¡±


    Sola nodded. ¡°I think it¡¯d be weird otherwise.¡±


    Julia lent her head back on the wall, before laughing a little. ¡°Relationships are fun, huh?¡±


    ¡°Yeah.¡± Sola agreed, laughing as well. ¡°But they¡¯re really worth it.¡±


    Julia grinned, before picking up the yearbook and a couple previous volumes. ¡°Let¡¯s take these back to Essex. She can help read through them.¡±


    Julia went to head back to the computers with Essex, before stopping herself.


    ¡°Hey, weird...question. Do you wanna make this a regular thing?¡± Julia asked, kicking her foot. ¡°It¡¯d be kinda nice to talk about this stuff with someone else.¡±


    ¡°Like a check in?¡± Sola asked, as Julia nodded, a bit embarrassed.


    ¡°Yeah, when we need it.¡± Julia offered, as Sola nodded happily to her.


    ¡°It sounds pretty fun. Do we have to sit and talk each time?¡± Sola asked, as Julia laughed to herself.


    ¡°No, we can change it up.¡± Julia said, as her and Sola joined back up with Essex to continue their efforts toward their search.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Excuse me, is this the ¡®Birth of Fire¡¯ exhibition that¡¯s supposed to be going on?¡±


    ¡°Yes, it is. Did you want a guide for the works?¡±


    ¡°No, I¡¯ll be fine to wander. Thank you.¡±


    While she didn¡¯t want to admit to it, the agitation of Wess¡¯ upcoming matches was starting to get to her. Fortunately, the academy was having another pop-up gallery alongside the tournament, which gave Wess a wonderful excuse to focus on something other than combat before her match with Duke.


    She stopped on a particularly gorgeous piece, showing off some kind of large structure consumed in flame, as the shadows it formed resembled people, sombrely sifting through the remains of what was left for them.


    ¡°Truly haunting...¡±


    ¡°Hey.¡±


    Unbeknownst to her, Wess¡¯ visit had been subtly interrupted, as standing beside her was Baron, sharing his glance with the painting.


    Wess didn¡¯t say a word, as Baron leaned over a little.


    ¡°Are you a fan of Hardison?¡±


    ¡°¡­mostly for his earlier works.¡± Wess indulged. ¡°His technique started to get a bit sloppy as time went on.¡±


    Baron scratched his head. ¡°Couldn¡¯t agree more. There¡¯s a reason everyone remembers ¡®Voyager¡¯ and not ¡®When Time Knows Nothing.¡¯¡±


    Wess scoffed in agreement, before acknowledging it was still Baron beside her and turning to him. ¡°How¡¯re things with Joleicia?¡±


    Baron winced, before turning slowly to Wess. ¡°I would¡¯ve thought she told you about the breakup.¡±


    ¡°Oh, she did.¡± Wess clarified. ¡°I just had some extra salt on hand I figured I¡¯d rub into the wound.¡±


    Wess turned back to the painting. ¡°So, what¡¯s with this visit?¡±


    ¡°I was looking for inspiration. My work¡¯s been stale recently.¡± Baron admitted. ¡°And I wanted to clarify something before your match with Duke.¡±


    Of course. Wess thought. No doubt some dismissive remark just to whittl-


    ¡°Don¡¯t beat him too badly tomorrow.¡±


    Wess blinked suddenly, before trying to face Baron, despite his attention still being on the painting.


    Wess tried to compose herself. ¡°W-What, have you no faith in him? I should hope you¡¯d trust your teammate a lot more than that.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t really know if he can beat you.¡± Baron confessed, stretching his neck. ¡°After all, he¡¯s won both of your previous matches together, but you¡¯ve also gotten a lot stronger. And he¡¯s been slipping recently, a little like our friend Hardison¡­¡±


    Baron waved his hand. ¡°But regardless of the outcome, don¡¯t do too much damage to him. Our team¡¯s got an internship in a few weeks in the Western Wayside, and I want him in top shape.¡±


    Wess scoffed openly. ¡°I shouldn¡¯t need to hold myself back just for your benefit. Since when do you think I¡¯d disgrace myself just for your team?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a simple request.¡± Baron shrugged off, now facing her. ¡°I¡¯d take the compliment, considering I¡¯m saying you could win while still holding back.¡±


    Baron gave the painting one last once-over, before turning to leave properly. ¡°Whatever you choose is fine. Just figured I¡¯d give you a heads up.¡±


    Baron left as suddenly as he arrived, just as Wess was left to try and decipher what Baron was playing at.


    It¡¯s always a mind game with him. Wess thought, her attention drifting from the painting. Or was he being serious this time? There¡¯s...


    Wess shook her head, before forcing her gaze on Hardison¡¯s work again.


    No distractions. This is your chance to stand out and help Team Valiant...let¡¯s just hope Harley can do the same...


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°This is it, folks! The biggest of the big! A true clash of the academies! VA versus DG! Who¡¯s gonna come out o-¡±


    ¡°The upcoming match between Harley Baroke and Adora Triever is about to start.¡± Vent interrupted, giving Spence a knowing look. ¡°Personally, I have a very solid idea of who¡¯s going to win, but I think we can all pretend it¡¯ll be a fair fight.¡±


    ¡°Hey.¡± Spence complained, covering her microphone. ¡°Whose side are you on?¡±


    ¡°Just keeping things expedient.¡± Vent clarified, covering his. ¡°We know the fights people are really here for.¡±


    ¡°Come on, let¡¯s give the other students a chance. They might surprise us.¡± Spence insisted, as Vent gave a dry laugh.


    ¡°Last I checked, Cyrus Vesper and Archer Parthos aren¡¯t in this match.¡± Vent pointed out, leaning back over to Spence. ¡°So?¡±


    Spence closed her mouth and pouted, turning back to her mic.


    ¡°The match will start in a few minutes, so get ready, competitors!¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t wait! Harley¡¯s gonna crush it!¡± Sola cheered, getting out of her seat already. ¡°KNOCK ¡®EM DEAD, BABE!!!¡±


    ¡°Sola, the fight hasn¡¯t started yet.¡± Julia said, pulling her back down.


    ¡°Harley insisted I get amped no matter what!¡± Sola insisted. ¡°I¡¯m pre-cheering!¡±


    ¡°Apologies for my late arrival. My gallery visit ran a touch late.¡± Wess said, quickly arriving and taking up a free seat. ¡°Hopefully, this match garners some attention. I¡¯m worried it might sink into the white noise of the rest of the tournament.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re in the later rounds. Perhaps the sponsorship will garner more attention now?¡± Essex suggested, as Wess laughed sarcastically.


    ¡°Short of The Dragon Tamer arriving and suddenly joining the fight, I think this will continue to go unnoticed.¡± Wess pointed out. ¡°Once we hit the top eight, then more eyes will be on us, including Andro themselves.¡±


    ¡°ROCK THIS FIGHT!!!¡± Sola continued, just as Harley walked out onto the pitch, finally getting a good look at her next opponent face on.


    Adora excitedly skipped forward, trying desperately to hold back her excitement, as she struggled to contain it once she got in handshaking distance of Harley.


    ¡°Hey, nice to meetcha. Let¡¯s have a good match.¡± Harley insisted, as Adora shook her hand welcomingly.


    ¡°Y-You¡¯re Harley, right? From Team Valiant?¡± Adora managed, as Harley looked a bit surprised.


    ¡°Uhh, yeah. Are we famous?¡± Harley asked, breaking the handshake, as Adora let out a nervous giggle.


    ¡°I was just really interested in your matches. You¡¯re really good fighters.¡± Adora insisted, swinging her arms back and forth. ¡°Hearing that we¡¯d matched up was pretty exciting for me.¡±


    Harley struck a casual pose and smiled. ¡°Hey, glad to hear we¡¯ve already got a fa-¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s just so cool how you and Wess are the only members without Whils, and yet you still managed to beat out Team Instinct and Team Exemplary!¡± Adora added, giggling again. ¡°I mean, it explains why you guys did so well against so many Wailing.¡±


    Harley cocked her head. ¡°How do you know about that stuff?¡±


    ¡°Well, it¡¯s not hard to find out.¡± Adora pointed out, rocking on her feet. ¡°Like, I asked around a lot, and you guys seem pretty prolific.¡±


    Adora rocked back and forth again. ¡°It¡¯s like meeting Team Spectrum while they were still training...I feel like a trend setter...¡±


    Adora kept giggling, almost looking eager to please, as Harley started to be thrown off by her demeanour.


    ¡°Y-Yeah, great. Glad you¡¯re...¡± Harley started, before just giving up on the sentence, as she noticed the timer on the monitors about to hit zero and went back to her side of the field.


    She got her Buster Knuckles ready, double-checking the jet boosters, just as Adora pulled her daggers from her hip, spinning them idly, before finally noticing the counter.


    ¡°Ooo, it¡¯s almost time!¡± She cheered, hopping on her feet. ¡°I¡¯m gonna fight her for real!¡±


    She turned to the crowd joyously and projected her voice.


    ¡°I¡¯ll give a fair fight! Just watch!¡± Adora let out, jumping around excitedly, before grabbing her jacket and showing it off to the spectators. ¡°And this one¡¯s for the Defender¡¯s Guild!¡±


    At least she¡¯s excited... Harley noted, just as the alarm blared, causing her instincts to kick in. Let¡¯s get my mind off everything for a bit...


    Harley started charging at Adora, taking advantage of her distraction, just as Adora noticed the fight had started, before turning back around and smiling.


    Right as Harley tried to punch her out of the arena in one hit, Adora ducked suddenly, slipping around Harley¡¯s form, before hooking her dagger around Harley¡¯s leg and trying to trip her up.


    Harley¡¯s momentum nearly pulled her off the arena instantly, before she readjusted the direction of her jet boosters, turning them backwards and using their propulsion to force herself back onto the platform.


    The crowd was immediately engaged, having sprung to life due to the one of the contestants nearly getting eliminated within the first minute of the match.


    ¡°Quick reflexes from Adora, but will it be enough to counteract Harley¡¯s overwhelming bulk?¡± Spence announced, sitting forward in her seat, as Vent pulled out his tablet distractedly.


    ¡°You know it will!¡± Adora yelled back, despite most of the crowd not hearing her, as she turned her attention to Harley. ¡°This is so cool!¡±


    Of course she¡¯s speedy. Harley realised, giving her Knuckles a once over. I can¡¯t get caught off guard. Just overwhelm her an-


    ¡°Careful!¡± Adora exclaimed, running up to her and slashing, as Harley quickly dodged, falling to the side.


    Adora threw one of her daggers at Harley, distracting her as she swatted it out of the way, before Adora jumped over and jabbed her right arm with the dagger, sending a jolt of pain running through it.


    Harley swung with her other fist, just nearly grabbing Adora, before she hopped back, giving Harley an opening to get back up.


    ¡°Just a few more of those and your arms are gonna betray you. Your muscles are gonna be so mad!¡± Adora giggled, throwing her dagger up and down. ¡°It¡¯s a shame these can¡¯t actually stab. That¡¯d so much more effective.¡±


    Harley glared at her, before deciding to wait for Adora to attack her again instead of charging at her aimlessly.


    However, Adora stayed motionless, chucking her dagger idly, confusing the crowd as to why the fighting had stopped, before Harley suddenly felt the pain of another dagger hit her on the head, having come from seemingly nowhere.


    Harley reeled in pain, grabbing at her head and getting some distance from Adora, before Adora rushed over and scooped up her other dagger.


    ¡°Careful! I¡¯m a slippery one!¡± Adora insisted, dancing around. ¡°Did you even see where the other one went?¡±


    Harley¡¯s frustration started to build, as she took another swing at Adora, which she obviously dodged, before Adora jabbed her arms with her daggers again.


    Harley pulled back, running her hands over her pained muscles, before her eye was drawn to the crowd.


    She noticed Sola jumping up and down, seemingly cheering her on, as Harley was happy to see she was still getting support from her.


    However, once she looked a bit longer, she realised Sola was making a motion with her hands, throwing them behind herself.


    Harley didn¡¯t quite get it, just as Adora came in with another flurry of stabs, ducking and weaving around every punch Harley threw, even with the help of her jet boosters.


    Suddenly, the idea clicked for her, as she pulled herself away from Adora¡¯s reach, giving them some distance, before she got her jet boosters ready and threw her arms behind herself.


    Adora was slightly caught off guard, trying to figure out what Harley was even attempting, before she saw Harley shoot right toward her, propelling herself with the jet boosters bursting out from behind her.


    Adora panicked and dodged to the side, as Harley stumbled a bit using her Buster Knuckles this way. She jumped as she propelled herself, before aiming an arm off to the side, swinging around in a circle and coming back to where Adora was.


    Before Adora could react, Harley managed to get a powerful right hook in, connecting with Adora¡¯s face and launching her back across the arena.


    Harley slowed herself as best she could, checking that she still had fuel in her boosters, as Adora shakily got back up, before running a hand on her face, feeling the redness that Harley had left behind.


    ¡°WOO!!! That¡¯s my girlfriend!¡± Sola yelled out, cheering along with the rest of the crowd, before looking back at the others. ¡°She used my technique! Like when I shoot myself forward with my cannons!¡±


    ¡°You got this, Harley! Don¡¯t get tilted!¡± Julia added, hoping she could be heard.


    The crowd was audibly excited, as it seemed the fight was starting to pick up, just as Adora scratched her face with her nails, feeling the slight tinge of blood running down her cheek, before grabbing for her daggers again.


    ¡°Alright then...I guess we¡¯re playing for keeps, Harley...¡±


    Right before Harley readied herself to try the booster manoeuvre again, Adora ran directly at her, daggers at the ready.


    Just as she reached Harley, Adora pivoted to the side, trying to catch Harley off guard again, as she went to stab at her legs.


    Harley couldn¡¯t keep up and took a few jabs, knocking her down a little, before getting back up and taking a swing at Adora now that she was a bit more distracted.


    Adora jolted over to the other side, making a motion to go for Harley¡¯s left leg, despite not having a dagger in her hand.


    Harley went to block, before realising Adora was unequipped and deciding to dodge instead.


    However, right as Adora was swinging, a puff of smoke came out of her hand, just as another dagger appeared in it, catching a glint on sunlight off its blade.


    Before Harley could react, Adora connected with the dagger, which instead of jabbing at her leg, broke the skin, stabbing Harley all the way through.


    It took Harley a second for the pain to reach her senses, before she finally noticed the line of blood running from the wound, as she fell to the ground, clutching at her leg in pain.


    ¡°ARRGGHHHHH!!!¡±


    ¡°YES!!! I did it!¡± Adora cheered, jumping around joyously, as the crowd finally took in what had happened. ¡°I took her down! No problem for me!¡±


    ¡°I-I-I don¡¯t know what I¡¯m seeing, but it seems one of our competitors snuck an u-unregulated weapon into the arena and...¡± Spence announced, visibly shaking. ¡°M-Medical?¡±


    ¡°Harley!¡± Julia yelled out, as the rest of the team got to their feet as well.


    ¡°S-She¡¯s not...¡± Wess managed, holding her hand to her mouth. ¡°My goodness, what happened?¡±


    ¡°What the?!...How dare you!!! I¡¯m gonna mess you up!!!¡± Sola yelled, ready to climb over the stands, as Essex struggled to hold her back. ¡°What¡¯s wrong with you?!¡±


    Harley kept writhing in pain, just as Adora kept celebrating to herself.


    ¡°I diiid it! I diiid it!¡± Adora continued, as the crowd started catching on to what had happened and began booing.


    Right in the middle of her dance, Adora was teleported off the arena by one of the staff helpers, before a few security guards grabbed her and began dragging her away.


    ¡°Hey, what¡¯s the big idea guys? I won the fight.¡± Adora insisted, trying to break free from their grasp. ¡°Why are you taking me away?! I totally won that! I should be ap...¡±


    Just as Adora was taken away, Harley was teleported off the arena and onto a stretcher, whisking her away to the infirmary as soon as possible.


    ¡°Apologies to our viewers. We¡¯ll have to cut this match short.¡± Vent assured, grabbing his microphone. ¡°Once we¡¯ve determined that the contestant responsible has been taken care of, we¡¯ll resume our matches as normal.¡±


    Vent quickly turned to Spence, as she struggled to get a grip.


    ¡°Well, you wanted attention on the match. Here you go...¡±


    ¡°Harley?!¡± Julia yelled out, rushing down the tournament halls, followed by the rest of the team, before arriving right at the infirmary.


    ¡°Please be okay. Har-¡± Sola let out, before they tried to head in, only to be stopped by Pather.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I can¡¯t let you in yet.¡± Pather assured, as Sola stepped forward.


    ¡°Is she alright? Please tell me she¡¯s alright.¡± Sola begged, as Pather held her shoulder.


    ¡°She¡¯s with our medical staff now. Don¡¯t worry, we¡¯ve got this handled.¡± Pather assured. ¡°Do you guys know anything about her opponent? It might help us figure out how this could have happened.¡±


    Julia shook her head. ¡°Sorry. Today was the first time we¡¯ve seen her.¡±


    Pather nodded back. ¡°Alright. You¡¯ll get to see her once she¡¯s in good condition. I¡¯ll let you know as soon as that¡¯s possible.¡±


    ¡°...okay. Thanks.¡± Julia said, as Pather indicated to the seats set up outside the infirmary.


    ¡°Trust me, plenty of Venators have come in with worse. We¡¯re lucky this was in the arena and not out on a mission.¡± Pather noted, before closing the doors to them, as the team took their seats, save for Sola, who kept walking around nervously.


    A few solid hours passed with nothing of note, which only stressed the team out more, right before they were interrupted by a news reporter rushing into the infirmary ahead of them with camera crew in tow.


    The team decided to get up and follow them in, as they approached the bed with Harley in it, clearly pretty out of it.


    ¡°Harley!¡± Sola let out, immediately hugging her, as Harley tried to stretch her arm around Sola. ¡°How are you feeling?¡±


    ¡°Uhh, numb. And hurt.¡± Harley admitted, just as the others poured in, including the interviewer.


    ¡°Dana Montgomery, CPNN. A shocking turn of events for this recent match.¡± Dana said, holding out the microphone. ¡°Could you give us a comment?¡±


    ¡°...I hope whoever stabbed me...got eliminated...¡± Harley insisted, as Dana nodded along.


    ¡°And what about the rest of the match?¡±


    ¡°Well...the match was something else.¡± Harley managed, clearly still in a lot of pain. ¡°...but fortunately, without the help of Andro Manufacturing, I might not even be here...¡±


    ¡°I-I¡¯m sorry, Andro?¡± Dana asked, confused.


    ¡°Yeah, they...really...helped with my training.¡± Harley got out, readjusting in her bed to ¡®subtly¡¯ show off her Andro-branded shirt. ¡°Without their equipment, I would¡¯ve been unprepared...and this could¡¯ve been ten times worse...¡±


    ¡°No kidding...¡± Dana let out, before turning back to the camera. ¡°Well, you heard it here first. In the recent altercation at the Venator Academy tournament, Harley Baroke attributes her survival to Andro Manufacturing, and I think it¡¯s fair to say...¡±


    Dana stepped away to continue the story, as the team finally had room to breathe.


    ¡°Marvellously done, Harley.¡± Wess admitted. ¡°You managed to get the sponsorship some national notice, despite what I''m assuming is horrific pain.¡±


    ¡°Correct assumption...¡± Harley groaned, moving to face her. ¡°I mean, I had to lie a little, but it was for th...oh god, it hurts...¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t force yourself to talk.¡± Julia assured. ¡°You did incredible out there. We¡¯re really proud of you.¡±


    ¡°...thanks.¡± Harley let out, just as Essex came into view.


    ¡°If you need one of us to replace you in your next match, I will not hesitate. It would be an honour to fight after this display.¡± Essex assured, reaching out to grab her hand, just as Harley subtly pulled away.


    ¡°Y-Yeah. I¡¯ll...see how recovery goes...thanks...¡± Harley said, facing the whole team. ¡°Don¡¯t let me hold you up...I¡¯m sure you guys are busy.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t be silly.¡± Sola insisted, sitting on the end of the bed. ¡°I¡¯m gonna stay here and make sure you¡¯re okay.¡±


    ¡°...I mean, the doctors can do that.¡± Harley mentioned, before reaching out to Sola. ¡°Really, you guys have gotta find out what¡¯s going on with Faller, and Wess is fighting Duke in, like, a day. I don¡¯t want to hold you up from the important stuff.¡±


    Sola went to speak, only to close her mouth and get back up, before making tracks out of the infirmary, as the rest of the team followed.


    ¡°We¡¯ll check up on you. Text if you need anything from us.¡± Julia assured, as Harley nodded back, before laying down flatter on her bed, staring at the ceiling.


    Right as they left, she let out a heavy breath, as her head sunk under the covers.


    ¡°...I can¡¯t believe I let them down again...¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    It was only a few hours until Wess¡¯ fight with Duke. Harley was still recovering in the infirmary, and frankly, she was appreciating the time alone to clear her head and be alone with her thoughts.


    Wess, however, was still stuck in her head. Harley¡¯s recent bout meant that almost no one was focused on any of the other matches, and for someone like Wess, knowing her efforts weren¡¯t being appreciated was...


    ¡°Alright...this is it...not long now...¡±


    Wess stared up at the changing room monitor, just as it cut to the arena, prepping for her upcoming fight in a less than ten minutes time.


    ¡°Hey.¡± Julia said, walking in to join her. ¡°Sola and Essex are still studying, but I figured I¡¯d come to cheer you on. How¡¯re you holding up?¡±


    ¡°Somewhat fine. Somewhat...¡± She said, just as a picture of Cyrus¡¯ recent victory flashed up on screen, freezing her stiff.


    ¡°Well, if it makes you feel better, you can always cover for Harley if you don¡¯t win.¡± Julia suggested.


    ¡°I suppose.¡± Wess replied, before taking a breath and getting ready. ¡°This is it now...¡±


    ¡°Good luck.¡± Julia said, wrapping herself around Wess playfully, as Wess pulled herself back.


    ¡°Julia, you know we can¡¯t...¡± Wess started, before grabbing her forehead. ¡°We can¡¯t do this right now, especially if I win. Save it for the dorm.¡±


    Julia backed away, before feeling a bit of shame. ¡°Sorry. I didn¡¯t mean to sike you out.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine.¡± Wess said, as she stepped out of the changing rooms. ¡°Just be patient. I¡¯m getting in the top eight, no matter what.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ve got this.¡± Julia assured, watching Wess leave her side, as she caressed her own arm slowly. ¡°...dear...¡±


    Wess carried on down the hall, ending up at the entrance to the arena, just as she realised Duke was waiting as well, leaning back on a bench and tapping his foot anxiously.


    It took him a second to register that Wess was in the room as well, before he noticed and stood up.


    ¡°Who could¡¯ve seen this coming?¡± He remarked, dipping his hands into his pockets. ¡°What is this, the third time?¡±


    ¡°Who¡¯s keeping count?¡± Wess added, before facing the direction of the arena.


    ¡°Just caught what happened with Harley.¡± Duke mentioned, as Wess gave him the side-eye.


    A silence passed between them, as Duke cleared the air.


    ¡°I heard whoever¡¯s fighting Cyrus is gonna have their fight moved up, since your teammate got stabbed.¡± Duke explained, scratching his neck. ¡°Ripping off the bandage early, huh?¡±


    ¡°I suppose.¡± Wess said, just as the announcement calling them to the field rang out. ¡°Let¡¯s settle this.¡±


    Before she made too much headway, Duke cleared his throat. ¡°Hey, uhh...can I ask something?¡±


    Wess looked a bit miffed. ¡°Yes?¡±


    ¡°...could ya go easy on me?¡±


    Wess was trying to hide her confusion, as she stopped in place. ¡°...why would I do that?¡±


    ¡°...I¡¯ve just...well, my girlfriend broke up with me recently...¡± Duke admitted, shying away. ¡°And my training with the team...I mean, I don¡¯t think I¡¯m keeping up and...yeah...it¡¯s been a lot this tournament...¡±


    Wess took a second for herself, before sighing out of annoyance. ¡°Forgive me if I don¡¯t feel much empathy, or feel the need to pity you. Your team¡¯s implored similar tactics in the past to throw off my team, and doing this before a fight makes it all the more suspicious.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m no-¡±


    Wess held up her hand. ¡°However, out of respect for your abilities, I¡¯ll allow you to give it your all. This tournament¡¯s about promotion, so if you''re going to phone it in, then I won¡¯t debase myself by coming off as weaker.¡±


    Wess started heading for the arena proper. ¡°I know no one¡¯s clamouring to see us, but we¡¯re both going out there to give the audience a good show, alright?¡±


    Duke was left on his own, as Wess disappeared into the arena, before he felt he could follow her through, hoping to give what he could to the fight, even if it was barely going to amount to much.


    Wess arrived to her side of the arena and grabbed her weapons, before heading up the platform to properly face Duke.


    ¡°Both competitors are in place and ready to show us what they¡¯ve got!¡± Spence announced, before realising Vent was clearly more focused on his tablet.


    She bumped his side, before he jumped to attention. ¡°Oh, start the match.¡±


    ¡°Vent, it¡¯s too early!¡±


    ¡°They¡¯re both there, aren¡¯t they?¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ve gotta preamble a bit!¡±


    ¡°You really think you have to explain that to the PR teacher?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s for their benefit, you dolt! Stop giving this not...¡±


    Wess just shook her head and turned to Duke, as he checked the weight of his ball and chain, before facing her again.


    She nodded back to him, as he reluctantly did so too, before throwing out the ball and sinking it into the ground using his Whil.


    He took a needed breath, before using his Whil to send the ball through the ground hurtling toward Wess, as he dragged behind it holding onto the chain.


    Wess immediately dodged to the side, holding up her shield as she expected him to turn around to attack her again, before he missed her completely and slowed himself down, taking a fair amount of time to recentre himself.


    The crowd was visibly checked out of the fight, as most of the people present were either doing something else or still talking about wat had happened during Harley¡¯s fight.


    Wess watched as Duke threw out his ball again, trying to same manoeuvre, which for Wess was where she drew the line.


    Instead of dodging, she simply side-stepped to avoid the attack, before Duke came hurtling by, letting her knock him over with Belvedere.


    Duke slid across the ground, still being carried by the momentum of his weapon, before slowly getting up.


    ¡°Honestly...¡± Wess let out, just as the crowd was starting to pay attention. ¡°Where the hell is your drive?¡±


    ¡°H-Huh?¡± Duke let out, trying to collect himself.


    ¡°Just because everyone else has written off this fight doesn¡¯t mean you have to as well!¡± Wess yelled, slamming her foot. ¡°Where¡¯s the future Venator that successfully took me down twice?!¡±


    Duke repositioned himself, as the crowd started murmuring, speculating on what could be going down on the arena below, even as it was clear Wess was making a point.


    ¡°Are you just done?! Are you expecting me to roll over and hand you your match with Cyrus?!¡±


    Duke stopped trying to get up and just took in Wess¡¯ words, as she held out Belvedere to him.


    ¡°You will earn that match, just like I will!¡± Wess demanded. ¡°So what are you fighting for, Duke?!¡±


    Duke thought over Wess¡¯ proposal, as the guilt in his chest started to ring true. It¡¯s not like he liked her very much or was looking for wisdom, but...


    ...at the very least, she was right.


    Duke stayed on the ground, thinking back to what drove him to becoming a Venator, why he still stuck around even as he seemed stuck in this holding pattern. He wasn¡¯t fighting just for the title...


    ...I¡¯m fighting for me.


    Suddenly, Duke stood back up, before using his Whil to pull his ball and chain back to him, only to unsettle the ground around him and spin the ball through it, creating a cloud of dust around him.


    The crowd started getting more invested, as Wess finally entered her defensive pose, just as the cloud began to reach her.


    Immediately, Duke came flying at her like last time, but with no hesitation, as Wess did her best to block the attack, only for Duke to barge into her, knocking her off course.


    Wess recovered quickly and tried to find him again, only for him to come back around and crash into her side, knocking her down again and making it harder to stand back up.


    She hurried out of the dust cloud, hoping to escape his range, only for the ball and chain to emerge from the ground, shooting out of it right in front of her, as Duke appeared from the cloud to grab it again.


    Before Duke could try another move, Wess rushed in with a few slashes, hoping to catch him off guard, as she knocked the chain from his hands with a well-placed strike.


    Duke reeled in pain, before unsettling the ground below her feet and tripping Wess up, while hurriedly grabbing his weapon again.


    Just as Wess got back up, she managed to spot Duke smiling, visibly enjoying their match, even if he¡¯d yet to get a solid hit on her. It was a far departure from earlier in the fight, or even his last few matches, especially now that both hands were out of his pockets.


    The crowd was starting to cheer, just as it looked like Duke was going to set up another move, which Wess was well-prepared for.


    He sunk the ball into the ground, directly in the middle of the arena, before grabbing the chain and circling it in a radius, spinning even faster than when he¡¯d done this before.


    Wess was expecting this attack at some point, but knew better than to rush into it and assume it would be the same as last time. She gave herself a moment to think through her options, as Duke established the centre of the arena for himself.


    Finally, once Wess thought over a plan, she rushed into the middle of the radius, aiming Belvedere for the chain just as it was coming around.


    In response, Duke sunk the ball further and closed in on Wess, ready to ram into her again, only to realise Wess wasn¡¯t stabbing into the chain. Instead, she¡¯d jumped out of the way only holding Belvedere, before Duke realised she¡¯d dropped her shield right in front of his path, creating a small makeshift ramp once he reached it, launching him right into the air with an impressive amount of height, before he came crashing down, landing directly into the ground with a painful thud.


    It was solid ten seconds before he even tried to get up, which hardly amounted to much, all while the crowd held their breath, waiting to see if this was the end of the match.


    Just then, the speakers turned on again.


    ¡°It would appear...¡± Spence prefaced. ¡°...that Duke de Vil is no longer able to fight...which means the winner of this match is Wess Delacroix Nouvel!¡±


    Wess let go of her breath, just as the cheering from the crowd started to bleed in, letting her feel some comfort in her skills.


    Right after retrieving Artisan, she walked over to Duke, who¡¯d managed to roll onto his back, before she reached out a hand to help him up.


    Duke gave it a second, before deciding to take it, as he tried his best to stand up on his own.


    After making sure he was okay, she decided to leave the field and work out some of the stress she¡¯d built up, right before Duke cleared his throat again.


    Wess turned to face him, before noticing he was sticking out his hand to her.


    ¡°Good match.¡±


    Wess needed a moment to take in what she was seeing, before she walked back to him and shook it firmly. ¡°Likewise.¡±


    ¡°...I appreciated the pep talk.¡± Duke admitted, taking his hand back. ¡°You know, not that I needed it...¡±


    ¡°Your Whil is one of the most impressive I¡¯ve seen, and your use of it in combination with your weapon is nothing short of genius.¡± Wess confessed. ¡°I wouldn¡¯t go wasting something like that if I were you.¡±


    Wess made her definitive exit after that, as Duke was left standing on the area, quietly admitting to himself that he had more respect for Wess than he thought he did.


    Right as the broadcast cut away, Harley dropped her head back the bed, as she smiled proudly.


    ¡°Good one, Wess...¡± Harley muttered, before rolling back over, trying her best to fall asleep.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Way to go, Wess!¡± Julia cheered, watching her tablet intently. ¡°That¡¯s my girl!¡±


    ¡°She won?¡± Sola asked, as Julia held out her tablet. ¡°Thanks.¡±


    ¡°Anything noteworthy, Essex?¡± Julia asked, just as she closed her yearbook.


    ¡°It would appear not. There is only one volume left regarding him as a teacher.¡± Essex admitted, as Julia took it from her.


    ¡°Let¡¯s hope this one¡¯s...¡± Julia started, before quietly reading over the page with Faller¡¯s bio, taking in the words one at a time.


    ¡°Julia?¡± Essex asked, as Sola lifted her head from the tablet.


    ¡°What? Is it something good?¡± Sola wondered, just as Julia nodded her head, her gaze still fixed to the book.


    ¡°He used to train as a Venator here.¡± Julia explained, showing off the page to Sola.


    ¡°At this academy?¡± Essex asked.


    ¡°What do you mean used to? Did he stop?¡± Sola asked, as Julia nodded back.


    ¡°He didn¡¯t complete his degree for some reason.¡± Julia said, looking through the other year books again. ¡°Maybe he was kicked out?¡±


    ¡°If he was expelled, then he would not be practicing as the principal.¡± Essex pointed out, leaning over to read the page as well.


    Immediately, Sola jumped to attention and started typing on her keyboard, trying to see her sudden thought through.


    ¡°What¡¯s up, Sola?¡± Julia asked, as she turned to screen to them.


    ¡°Who else got kicked out of the Venator Academy around that time?¡± She said, indicating to the screen, as Julia and Essex reeled back in shock.


    ¡°That¡¯s...¡± Julia stammered, before swallowing. ¡°Gamma?¡±


    ¡°Was he not the member of Team Spectrum who was expelled for killing a teammate?¡± Essex clarified, as Julia moved her monitor closer to Sola¡¯s.


    ¡°That would explain why he¡¯s got a grudge against the academy.¡± Julia reasoned. ¡°And why he¡¯d hate Venators as well. It even lines up for when Spectrum were studying here...¡±


    ¡°He got kicked out of one of the biggest Venator teams ever. Anyone would be mad about that.¡± Sola pointed out, indicating to the photo of Gamma and holding Faller¡¯s next to it.


    ¡°...they look very similar.¡± Essex pointed out, leaning back in her seat. ¡°However, I am still not completely convinced.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m with Essex. If we knew Faller and Gamma were related somehow, then we¡¯d be onto something.¡± Julia noted. ¡°Is there any way to find out?¡±


    ¡°Could we ask Team Spectrum?¡± Essex suggested, as Julia shook her head.


    ¡°They¡¯ve been really reclusive since they retired. Plus, everything with Gamma happened decades ago for them. I doubt they¡¯d recognise him these days.¡± Julia clarified. ¡°But if this is the case, then that¡¯s wild...¡±


    ¡°We just have to find out if Faller¡¯s actually Gamma in disguise.¡± Sola said, jumping up from her seat. ¡°Did Gamma have a Whil? Or a funny walk or something?¡±


    ¡°...let¡¯s tell Harley and Wess first.¡± Julia said. ¡°I want everyone¡¯s opinion before we act.¡±


    ¡°Good idea! I¡¯m gonna go borrow these yearbooks!¡± Sola said, before running off to do so.


    ¡°Is this possible?¡± Essex asked. ¡°That all of this could be connected?¡±


    ¡°Maybe...¡± Julia admitted, before turning back around to Essex assuredly. ¡°But I think we can finally do something about it.¡±

 Chapter 41: Wunderkind

    ¡°So...Essex said...¡±


    ¡°Yeah.¡±


    ¡°And then Sola told you...¡±


    ¡°Uh huh.¡±


    ¡°And now...Harley¡¯s in a bit of a state.¡±


    ¡°Pretty much.¡± Julia agreed, tapping her fingers together. ¡°It¡¯s hard to believe this was happening under our noses.¡±


    Wess waved her hand. ¡°To be fair, that¡¯s when we were spending the night together.¡±


    ¡°Well, yeah, but still.¡± Julia said, muttering. ¡°This must have been how Joleicia felt when Florey left...¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry?¡±


    ¡°Nothing.¡± Julia assured, sighing out and checking her tablet. ¡°She should be here soon.¡±


    Wess joined Julia¡¯s side. ¡°Does she know about...us?¡±


    Julia shook her head.


    ¡°Good. The less people know, the better.¡± Wess insisted, as Julia frustratedly stared down at her tablet. ¡°...something the matter?¡±


    ¡°...yeah.¡± Julia let out, facing Wess. ¡°I haven¡¯t told my mum about us.¡±


    ¡°Yes, I know that. What¡¯s the problem?¡± Wess said.


    ¡°I know we¡¯ve gotta keep our relationship to us, and the team...but can¡¯t we let up a little?¡± Julia asked. ¡°The tournament¡¯s gonna end soon.¡±


    ¡°And we can make it public then, permitting.¡± Wess clarified.


    ¡°But when do we stop?¡± Julia asked. ¡°What if you get an internship after winning? Or a client wants to give us some work? Are we still gonna keep the secret?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s...Julia, it depends.¡± Wess explained, holding her hand. ¡°We need work. If any of us are going to become Venators in the future, clients have to see us as reliable; stable. As much as I love you, we can¡¯t afford to waste two years of an entire teams worth of degrees on some PDA.¡±


    Julia breathed out. ¡°...it¡¯s more than PDA.¡±


    Wess rested her hand on Julia¡¯s, looking down at them locked together. ¡°I know...it¡¯s just for a little longer.¡±


    Julia and Wess stayed silent for a moment, just as a car horn caused them both to jump, as they very quickly separated, acting like they weren¡¯t doing what they were just doing.


    Julia looked down the road and noticed her mum¡¯s car pulling up, before she stepped out, taking her sunglasses off.


    ¡°You would not believe the traffic.¡± Madelyn insisted, taking herself to Julia and Wess. ¡°I think everyone in Detu City has a grudge against me.¡±


    ¡°I-It¡¯s probably just busy cause of the tournament...¡± Julia mentioned, before pointing to Wess. ¡°Mum...this is Wess.¡±


    Madelyn looked her over, before going back to Julia. ¡°What? The rest of the team couldn¡¯t be bothered?¡±


    Julia wasn¡¯t ready to reply, as Wess stepped in. ¡°They¡¯re all quite busy at the moment. I¡¯m sure you saw what happened to Harley on TV.¡±


    ¡°Oh, yeah. Poor girl...¡± Madelyn said, just as Wess held out a hand.


    ¡°For the record, I don¡¯t have a grudge against you.¡± Wess remarked, as Madelyn raised an eyebrow.


    ¡°Well, aren¡¯t I lucky?¡± Madelyn joked, shaking her hand, before looking to Julia and giving a thumbs up. ¡°So you¡¯re the rich girl I¡¯ve heard about?¡±


    ¡°Well, my parents are, but I¡¯m...¡± Wess started, before sighing out. ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Nice, nice. I guess my Julia¡¯s in good company.¡± Madelyn said, before putting her sunglasses back on. ¡°No more handouts from me, huh?¡±


    Julia pouted to herself, as Wess hurried up to Madelyn excitedly.


    ¡°So...is it alright to call you Madelyn?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s my name.¡± She insisted, looking back at Wess. ¡°So yeah.¡±


    ¡°Right.¡± Wess muttered. ¡°I¡¯ve been curious. What was Julia like before coming he-¡±


    Before Wess could continue, Julia pulled her by the arm, clearly miffed at her, as Madelyn chuckled a little.


    ¡°Basically like this, but way worse.¡± Madelyn remarked, taking off her sunglasses again just to wave them around. ¡°I didn¡¯t see her much during high school, but she was a menace.¡±


    ¡°Mum!¡± Julia complained, as Madelyn scoffed.


    ¡°Oh, what, am I wrong? Most of the time when I heard about you, it¡¯s cause you¡¯d punch a kids lights out for picking on you.¡± Madelyn mentioned, as Wess slowly turned to Julia.


    ¡°Did she now?¡± Wess asked, trying to hold back her excitable smile, as Julia desperately spun around to hide her blush.


    ¡°Well, from what I heard, the kids were assholes.¡± Madelyn brought up, before sighing out. ¡°But you seemed to mellow out after you an...¡±


    Julia quickly stepped forward and took Madelyn aside, as Wess tried to catch what they were saying.


    ¡°...don¡¯t ment...¡±


    ¡°...come on alre...¡±


    ¡°...I do...it¡¯s no...¡±


    ¡°...kay, if you s...¡±


    They came back over, as Madelyn rolled her eyes.


    ¡°Sorry, can¡¯t mention that.¡± Madelyn groaned, looking back down at Julia. ¡°Yada yada, something about respect.¡±


    Julia showed some sort of relief, as Madelyn turned her attention back to the academy. ¡°Alright, show me to the arena. Any more walking and I¡¯m gonna force you to drag me.¡±


    Julia pointed Madelyn in the right direction, as she led the trio, with Wess pulling Julia back to have an aside.


    ¡°It seems someone¡¯s keeping their secrets.¡± Wess insisted, as Julia hid a bit behind her hair.


    ¡°Sorry. There¡¯s a reason I never mention what it was like before coming here...¡± Julia clarified, just as Wess reached out to hold her hand, comforting Julia slightly, only for Madelyn to look around them, causing Wess to move her hand to a far less inconspicuous pat on the back.


    Julia pouted again and tried to distract herself as they walked, as the only thing she really wanted was to keep holding Wess¡¯ hand.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Harley¡¯s eyes fluttered awake, registering the infirmary interior and familiar sting throughout her leg.


    It had only been a few days, and already, it was starting to get frustrating. It was hard to recall what had happened by the end of her last match, since most of what she remembered was an indescribable pain, and the samey walls and lack of stimulation wasn¡¯t helping much either.


    Cautiously, she pulled up her sheet to inspect the state of her leg. A fresh wrap had been placed around it with a couple bloodstains standing out, but it was otherwise intact. She could barely move it, and frankly didn¡¯t want to.


    She dropped her head back down on the bed, trying to get comfortable again, as her eyes slowly closed.


    ¡°...¡±


    ¡°...¡±


    ¡°Heeey.¡±


    Harley carefully opened one eye, before finding a hand waving in front of her face.


    ¡°Just checking up. How¡¯s the leg?¡± Asked a girl, sitting on the other side of Harley¡¯s bed with her legs crossed.


    Harley sat up to address her a little. ¡°...well, it¡¯s been stabbed.¡±


    ¡°Really? Huh. You think as a doctor, I¡¯d know that.¡± She joked, scribbling something down on her clipboard. ¡°Well, trainee.¡±


    ¡°Where¡¯s Miss Pather?¡± Harley asked, as the girl just shrugged.


    ¡°Taking the day off? The tournament¡¯s slowed down a bit, so you¡¯re the only case we¡¯ve had recently.¡± The girl admitted, pointing to the numerous empty beds. ¡°I get to look over you.¡±


    Harley did her best to lean over her bed and read the girl¡¯s name tag, which looked to say ¡®Kitty.¡¯


    ¡°Hmm hmm hmm...man, this is fun!¡± Kitty beamed, standing up. ¡°I wanna get used to this feeling. Empty beds, healthy patients. That¡¯s what I say.¡±


    Harley watched her bounce around, almost briming with too much energy, before she rested her head again. ¡°Could ya keep it down? This shit hurts.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, sorry about that. The painkillers are only so effective.¡± Kitty assured, taking a seat next to Harley. ¡°So, who was that girl you fought?¡±


    ¡°How should I know? I¡¯ve never met her before. First, we¡¯re fighting like normal, then she pulls a knife literally out of nowhere and ends it immediately.¡± Harley remarked, feeling her leg sting again. ¡°Ow...¡±


    ¡°Yeah, crazy stuff. Apparently, she had a Whil which let her hide away objects and just didn¡¯t tell anyone. Not even her own team knew.¡± Kitty replied, resting her head in her hands. ¡°If it helps, you won by default.¡±


    ¡°Yay...¡± Harley weakly celebrated, as Kitty giggled to herself.


    ¡°You¡¯re fun.¡± Kitty grinned, before noting Harley¡¯s sour demeanour. ¡°Is it the leg?¡±


    Kitty started wiggling her fingers. ¡°I would use my magic powers to heal it, but it¡¯d just be a waste. And we wouldn¡¯t get to have this conversation.¡±


    ¡°Why are we having a conversation?¡± Harley insisted, as Kitty leaned in further.


    ¡°Because I see someone who¡¯s bothered by more than just a stab wound.¡± Kitty guessed, throwing Harley off. ¡°Even during the match, you weren¡¯t having fun.¡±


    Kitty pointed to the ceiling. ¡°And just looking at you, I can tell you usually get a kick out of that sort of thing.¡±


    Of course I do. I¡¯m training as a Venator. Harley thought, staring back at Kitty, who just looked more invested in Harley¡¯s problems.


    Harley sighed. ¡°...if I tell you, can I sleep?¡±


    ¡°Probably not. I¡¯m very talkative.¡±


    Harley ignored her and spoke anyway. ¡°...I¡¯m having trouble with my girlfriend, okay?¡±


    ¡°No!¡± Kitty let out, slapping Harley¡¯s leg. ¡°That was so my g-!¡±


    ¡°Fuck!¡± Harley let out, grabbing at her wound, as Kitty realised she was hitting the wrong leg.


    ¡°Oh, sorry.¡± Kitty said, getting up quickly. ¡°You know, we have some stronger pain killers for more severe cases.¡±


    Harley glared at her, as Kitty coughed awkwardly.


    ¡°I¡¯ll just get some.¡±


    Kitty hurried over to one of the cabinets, as she started rummaging around. ¡°So? What¡¯s the problem? Hate her cooking? Bad sex?¡±


    Kitty brought over a pill bottle and took a few out. ¡°Boring dates? Unwinnable argument? Another woman?¡±


    Harley jerked a bit at that last one, as Kitty smiled at her handy work.


    ¡°Bang on the money.¡± Kitty said, handing Harley the pain killers. ¡°Now, just take you-¡±


    Harley downed them in one gulp, leaning back in ecstasy, as Kitty just kept to herself.


    ¡°Sorry about that.¡± Kitty said, leaning over Harley¡¯s bed again. ¡°I just get so fascinated in people, you know?¡±


    Kitty sat up properly. ¡°I could give you some advice. Unless you want to save that for when you¡¯re back with your team.¡±


    Harley grimaced. ¡°Well...she¡¯s in my team.¡±


    ¡°Oh, get out. That¡¯s perfect.¡± Kitty grinned. ¡°Come on, let me help. I could really use the distraction.¡±


    What¡¯s with this girl? Harley thought, giving her another once over. Pather¡¯s nowhere near this nosy...but I could use the distraction...and someone to talk too...


    ¡°Why do you wanna help me?¡± Harley asked, as Kitty shrugged.


    ¡°Cause I¡¯m a lover.¡± Kitty insisted. ¡°And also, while your leg might be the one damaged...it seems the real pain is in your heart.¡±


    Harley sunk her head into her hands, as Kitty just laughed it off. ¡°Come on. I had to say it.¡±


    Harley gave herself a moment, before sighing out. ¡°...so, her name¡¯s Sola...¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Do do do...do do do...¡±


    ¡°Sola?¡±


    ¡°Yeah?¡±


    ¡°Could you please refrain from humming?¡±


    ¡°Oh, oops.¡± Sola said, rubbing her neck awkwardly. ¡°Sorry. Reading these yearbooks is really boring.¡±


    Essex got up from her seat and sat on the floor with Sola, trying to find space in the decently cramped dorm room study. ¡°Have you found anything on Gamma yet?¡±


    ¡°Nope.¡± Sola admitted, flipping through another one. ¡°He didn¡¯t complete first-year, so he¡¯s not even listed.¡±


    ¡°I see.¡± Essex said, looking over the book too. ¡°Apologies. I wish I could help more, but I hate the library computers.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine. You¡¯ve gotta be in fighting shape in case Harley can¡¯t compete.¡± Sola excused, sitting up. ¡°Hey, you wanna do something today?¡±


    ¡°Besides this?¡± Essex wondered, as Sola nodded back.


    ¡°Wess¡¯ match with Cyrus is tomorrow, but we¡¯ve got time to kill before then.¡± Sola said, before getting an idea and sitting up. ¡°You wanna go to Detu City and play laser tag?!¡±


    Essex looked confused. ¡°Uhh...¡±


    ¡°You get these plastic guns and you shoot people and then their jacket lights up and there¡¯s points!¡± Sola exclaimed, making the motions herself. ¡°I thought it could help me with aiming my cannons.¡±


    Essex watched Sola miming out the actions, as she just sat back and enjoyed how happy Sola looked, almost considering that they go their alone, before realising what she was doing and standing back up.


    ¡°I-I am sorry, but I don¡¯t think we should...¡± Essex started, as Sola looked surprised.


    ¡°Why? It¡¯s just laser tag. I can invite Julia too.¡±


    ¡°That...isn¡¯t the problem.¡± Essex admitted, looking somewhat naked without her scythe. ¡°I don¡¯t trust myself when it¡¯s...the two of us.¡±


    Sola realised what she meant, as she led Essex to sit back down.


    ¡°But...even if we¡¯re not that, we can still be friends.¡± Sola insisted, grabbing her hands. ¡°There¡¯s no way that¡¯s gonna stop.¡±


    ¡°...I can¡¯t do that.¡± Essex confessed, grabbing Sola¡¯s hands back. ¡°...there will always be this longing.¡±


    Essex found her face severely blushing, before she blurted out her words. ¡°Y-You are very sweet, and I think you¡¯re pretty! I¡¯m envious of how creative you are, a-and you impress me every day!¡±


    Essex didn¡¯t notice she was breathing heavy, before she faced the floor again, realising just how much she let out.


    ¡°I-It wouldn¡¯t be fair on either of us...¡±


    Sola slowly let go of her hands, as she settled onto the floor.


    ¡°...Essex...I love the idea.¡± Sola admitted, before taking a heavy sigh and sitting back. ¡°But I also love Harley. And if she¡¯s not comfortable with it, the-¡±


    ¡°But was she not open with you?¡± Essex insisted, throwing off Sola. ¡°In Denilee. She stated that you two were not ¡®exclusive.¡¯¡±


    ¡°...that...was mostly on her end...¡± Sola admitted. ¡°I-I didn¡¯t real-¡±


    ¡°But you wish to now.¡± Essex pointed out. ¡°Why is it different now?¡±


    Essex focused her breathing. ¡°It does not seem fair that she is give this freedom while you¡¯re not able.¡±


    Sola hung her head in thought, trying to think of any good reason to justify Harley¡¯s actions.


    ¡°...it¡¯s different.¡± Sola insisted, facing Essex again. ¡°Because it¡¯s you.¡±


    Sola wiped her nose. ¡°...you¡¯re our teammate. It doesn¡¯t matter if it¡¯s all three of us, or just me dating both of you. The relationship still affects the team.¡±


    ¡°...I worried as much.¡± Essex admitted, turning her back to Sola. ¡°This...is why I didn¡¯t want to confess...I knew it was forseca behaviour and...¡±


    Essex took a heavy breath. ¡°I refuse to go behind her back and make things harder for you, but if this continues to be an issue...¡± Essex stated, standing up and gripping her hands tightly. ¡°I may have to leave the team.¡±


    Sola¡¯s eyes widened, as she jumped and grabbed Essex¡¯s arm. ¡°What?!¡±


    ¡°It...I was already planning to work solo after graduation.¡± Essex explained, pulling Sola off. ¡°If we can no longer be in the same environment, then I will not torture you with guilt. Work will worsen, and you bo-¡±


    ¡°I-It¡¯s not torture, really. It¡¯s just awkward.¡± Sola encouraged, reaching out for Essex again. ¡°Please...don¡¯t go...I couldn¡¯t imagine Team Valiant without you.¡±


    ¡°...it isn¡¯t my first option either.¡± Essex reasoned. ¡°But it wouldn¡¯t be right otherwise. Relias.¡±


    Just as Essex turned around, she noticed Sola¡¯s eyes were welling up.


    Essex held her breath, just as Sola reached for Essex¡¯s hand again.


    ¡°W-We can fix it...¡± Sola assured. ¡°Please...¡±


    Essex slipped her hand out. ¡°...only if I know that Harley will be okay.¡± Essex said. ¡°If she is comfortable working beside me after this confession, then I will rethink my option.¡±


    Sola sniffed her nose, before beaming at Essex. ¡°G-Great! We¡¯ll just get you guys on the same page again!¡±


    Sola grabbed up the yearbooks and hurried out of the study, before popping her head back in. ¡°I wanna plan some things for when Harley leaves the infirmary! Don¡¯t worry, I know how to fix this!¡±


    Essex was left standing in the study, reaching out for the scythe that wasn¡¯t there, before reflecting on her actions these last few months.


    ¡°...forseca...¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Wess struck her training post over and over, changing her angle of attack each time, before stepping back and running up to it to add some momentum.


    The post showed little give, as designed, right as Wess took a second to breath.


    ¡°Hey, uhh...rich one! The one with the dress!¡±


    Wess turned around and noticed Madelyn approaching, as she held Belvedere by her side. ¡°Wess. Did you need something?¡±


    ¡°Nah, just bored of the campus already.¡± Madelyn admitted. ¡°I¡¯m staying in the temporary dorms overnight to watch tomorrow¡¯s match. What¡¯s the training for?¡±


    Wess turned back to the post to keep practicing. ¡°I¡¯m fighting my ex-boyfriend tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°In an official capacity?¡± Madelyn asked.


    ¡°Yes. He¡¯s my opponent in the tournament.¡± Wess explained, as Madelyn connected the dots.


    ¡°Oh shit, it¡¯s your match. I swear, if you don¡¯t tell me something at least five times, I¡¯ll forget.¡± Madelyn complained, as Wess focused on her sword slashes. ¡°Are you worried you won¡¯t be on good terms after the match?¡±


    ¡°No, I think we¡¯re both too mature for that.¡± Wess reasoned, putting another heavy slash into the post. ¡°Truth be told...I¡¯m worried about him wiping the floor with me...¡±


    ¡°Heh, yeah.¡± Madelyn snickered. ¡°I¡¯ve seen the kid fight. He¡¯s got the skill to match his talent, and worst of all, he doesn¡¯t seem to care much about winning.¡±


    ¡°Exactly...¡± Wess muttered, really digging into the post, as the weight of her upcoming match really lay into her. ¡°Our team needs this win right now...¡±


    Madelyn scratched her nose, as she kicked the ground a little. ¡°So, uhh...how¡¯s Julia doing here?¡±


    Wess went to strike, before being distracted by the question. ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°How¡¯s she holding up? When I¡¯m not around?¡± Madelyn asked, as Wess decided to sheath Belvedere and face her proper.


    ¡°Fine. She¡¯s a very capable leader.¡± Wess said, folding her arms. ¡°As memory recalls, Milo asked a very similar question.¡±


    Madelyn¡¯s eyebrows raised. ¡°Did he now?¡±


    ¡°I think you¡¯re both allowed to be concerned about her.¡± Wess argued.


    ¡°Yeah, you¡¯d think.¡± Madelyn complained, waving her hands. ¡°But apparently, I¡¯m not allowed to worry, or be curious. Just ungrateful...¡±


    I think Julia would appreciate me not getting in the middle of this. Wess thought, before folding up Artisan and deciding to leave. ¡°Apologies, but I have some studies I ne-¡±


    ¡°Hold on.¡± Madelyn said, grabbing Wess¡¯ shoulder, as she jumped back. ¡°I still wanna ask something.¡±


    ¡°...yes?¡± Wess asked, calming herself.


    ¡°I¡¯ve got a theory...¡± Madelyn admitted, leaning into Wess.


    ¡°A good one?¡± Wess asked, as Madelyn raised an eyebrow.


    This story has been unlawfully obtained without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon.


    ¡°I think...Julia¡¯s secretly dating someone.¡± Madelyn said, folding her arms in pride.


    Wess tried to hide her panic, as she held herself back from looking too obvious. ¡°O-Oh.¡±


    ¡°This is classic high school behaviour. She¡¯s always been cagey about this kinda stuff.¡± Madelyn added, standing back up. ¡°So if you see anything suspicious, just...¡±


    Madelyn tapped her nose, winking back to Wess, as Wess just agreed with her.


    ¡°R-Right. Mum¡¯s the wo-¡± Wess started, before blushing and leaving proper. ¡°I-I-I really must be going!¡±


    ¡°Alright! Say hi to Julia for me!¡± Madelyn called out, as Wess left on an awkward thumbs up, with Madelyn folding her arms and groaning. ¡°Relationship drama, I swear.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Holy shit, that¡¯s a lot.¡±


    ¡°Yeah.¡±


    ¡°In the last two months?¡±


    ¡°I know.¡±


    ¡°This Essex...¡± Kitty said, kicking her legs. ¡°She sounds like an interesting character.¡±


    Harley glanced down at her bed fondly. ¡°Yeah, she really is...she...¡±


    Harley realised what she was doing and shot her head back up. ¡°B-But you can see why it¡¯s so hard to deal with.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll say. I can¡¯t imagine what you¡¯ve gone through.¡± Kitty noted. ¡°Dealing with a confession out of nowhere, from a friend no less, and then having to reject her right then and there. You¡¯ve got more chutzpah than me, that¡¯s for sure.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, exactly! Finally, someone who agrees with me!¡± Harley let out, flopping onto her bed, as Kitty chuckled lightly.


    ¡°With that said, you don¡¯t talk to a stranger about this kinda stuff if it isn¡¯t important to you.¡± Kitty reasoned, leaning on the bed casually. ¡°If this is supposedly Essex¡¯s problem, like you said.¡±


    Kitty shrugged. ¡°And you wouldn¡¯t need the tournament as a distraction, would you?¡±


    Harley furrowed her brow and looked away, as Kitty poked her side again.


    ¡°So, what are you really worried about?¡± Kitty insisted, only making Harley even more uncomfortable.


    Harley didn¡¯t want to speak, even if she knew she had no other option. Keeping quiet meant sitting with it longer, but admitting it...


    Harley let out a sharp breath.


    ¡°What if Sola thinks...she¡¯s better than me?¡±


    Kitty stayed quiet, as Harley¡¯s voice started to waver.


    ¡°I-It wouldn¡¯t be the first time. Every break up¡¯s been a decision...¡± Harley admitted, a few tears forming. ¡°Me or something else, and it¡¯s n-never me...¡±


    Harley wiped her nose, as Kitty grabbed her a few tissues. ¡°I-It¡¯s always so easy for them to move on, but it¡¯s not for me.¡± Harley let out, sniffling again. ¡°I-I put a lot into these relationships...even if it doesn¡¯t always show...¡±


    Harley rubbed her eyes, as she let out more tears. ¡°I love Sola so much...a-and I can¡¯t lose her...but I¡¯ve been a dick to Essex, even though I-I know she doesn¡¯t deserve it...why wouldn¡¯t they leave me? I-I-I''m the one causing problems!¡±


    Harley let herself cry into her hands, taking numerous tissues from Kitty, as she leaned over and rubbed Harley¡¯s back.


    ¡°...you p-probably think I¡¯m just some jerk complaining for no reason...¡± Harley let out, trying her best to recover.


    ¡°No, that¡¯s actually a really valid concern.¡± Kitty assured, surprising Harley. ¡°Jealousy¡¯s really common among poly relationships, after all. I¡¯d be worried about that too.¡±


    ¡°Y-Yeah. Yeah, right...¡± Harley added, still surprised to be getting support.


    ¡°However, from what you¡¯ve told me of Sola, that would be pretty out of character for her.¡± Kitty pointed out. ¡°And for Essex, too. No way they¡¯re going to steal themselves away from you.¡±


    ¡°I-It¡¯s not rational.¡± Harley admitted, staring down at her bed. ¡°...but, this kinda shit always backfire on me. I can¡¯t just...turn off that part of my brain that¡¯s kicking me and telling me I¡¯m stupid for even trying.¡±


    Kitty tapped her chin. ¡°You could kick it back.¡±


    ¡°Come on...¡± Harley let out, rolling over, as Kitty worried a little.


    ¡°Alright, bad time for a joke. Sorry.¡± Kitty confessed, before poking Harley¡¯s side. ¡°Okay, here¡¯s a thought. What would need to happen for you to be okay with the arrangement? If all three of you are gonna be a part of this, what needs to happen?¡±


    Harley looked over her shoulder, before turning over again. ¡°...to know that they value me, and that I¡¯m just as important to them as...they¡¯d be to me. No taking anything for granted.¡±


    Kitty blew a raspberry. ¡°I think it¡¯s pretty obvious they do, dingus.¡±


    ¡°I mean they have to show it.¡± Harley exclaimed. ¡°I can¡¯t just have them say it. If they can¡¯t make that clear, then I¡¯m not...¡±


    Harley sighed out. ¡°...I¡¯m not doing that to myself again.¡±


    Kitty stared at Harley, before cocking her head. ¡°Fair enough call. You gotta stick up for yourself.¡±


    Kitty playfully punched Harley¡¯s arm, as Harley let out a weak laugh.


    ¡°...I think you¡¯re the first person I¡¯ve felt comfortable talking about this with.¡± Harley admitted, as Kitty smiled proudly.


    ¡°I have that effect on people. It¡¯s probably why I¡¯m so lovable.¡± Kitty remarked, before a few images flashed on screen, showing off portraits of Wess and Cyrus for their upcoming match. ¡°That¡¯s looking to be fun.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s my teammate, actually.¡± Harley admitted. ¡°The grouchy one, not the blonde one.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not Sola, is it?¡± Kitty asked, as Harley laughed again.


    ¡°No, her name¡¯s Wess. We both got into the tournament this year.¡± Harley explained, staring back down at her bed and acknowledging her leg again. ¡°...I hope she¡¯s doing okay.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    While walking around the tournament arena at night wasn¡¯t strictly allowed, since most of the security was still taking care of the main campus, this wasn¡¯t really enforced. Fortunately, this meant Wess had some space to clear her head, as she walked out into the spectator stands, intimidated by the size of the place, even without the roaring crowds.


    Wess let out a deep sigh, staring up at the tournament arena¡¯s interior while holding herself gently, bracing slightly against the breeze coming through.


    ¡°Oh, hey there.¡±


    A voice called out to Wess, as she quickly realised she wasn¡¯t alone, and that Cyrus was just a few rows down the spectator stands, waving to her.


    ¡°¡­well.¡± Wess said, heading down the stairs. ¡°I wasn¡¯t expecting to see you here until tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°I guess we both had the same idea.¡± Cyrus remarked, as Wess sidled over and sat beside him. ¡°I was, uhh¡­having a little trouble sleeping.¡±


    ¡°Yes¡­I¡¯m not exactly looking forward to our match either.¡± Wess admitted.


    Cyrus nodded to her, before spinning his fingers together. ¡°Talk about a bad matchup. How many other participants are versing their ex?¡±


    ¡°None who would want to admit it openly.¡± Wess pointed out.


    ¡°Fair point.¡± Cyrus said, looking off into the distance, before giggling to himself. ¡°If you want, I can give you the ex-girlfriend discount.¡±


    Wess chuckled a little. ¡°And what might that entail?¡±


    ¡°I go easier on you in the fight, but I get to brag more when I win.¡± Cyrus joked, getting a laugh from Wess.


    ¡°What a fair deal.¡± Wess remarked, as Cyrus leaned back in his seat.


    ¡°I¡¯ll admit, I¡¯m pretty nervous.¡± Cyrus said. ¡°Apparently, my sister¡¯s gonna be watching this match too.¡±


    ¡°Did she feel like supporting you?¡± Wess asked, as Cyrus scoffed.


    ¡°Nope. Actually, she¡¯s watching for you.¡± Cyrus said, confusing Wess. ¡°I kinda talked about you and the rest of Team Valiant a lot whenever I came home. I mean, out of our year, you guys have easily gone through the most.¡±


    Cyrus sat back up. ¡°Like, seriously, what other second-year team have taken on, what, five Wailing?¡±


    ¡°Actually¡­the number recently went up again.¡± Wess admitted, as Cyrus chuckled to himself.


    ¡°Of course it did.¡± Cyrus said, standing back up. ¡°My point still stands. I think you guys are gonna make it big.¡±


    Wess crossed her arms. ¡°Of course, we are. I¡¯m part of the team, after all.¡±


    Cyrus hid another chuckle. ¡°How familiar¡­¡±


    Wess cocked her head, as Cyrus waved dismissively. ¡°Don¡¯t worry about it.¡±


    Cyrus stretched his back, before rubbing his neck. ¡°Anyway, the real problems the sponsors.¡±


    Wess cocked her head. ¡°Are you worried about not impressing them?¡± Wess asked, as Cyrus happily shook his head.


    ¡°No, just the opposite. I¡¯m like a commodity to them.¡± Cyrus remarked. ¡°Ever since I got admitted, everyone¡¯s agreed I¡¯m already at the top of my game. Now that the tournament¡¯s here, offers just keep coming in.¡±


    ¡°Oh, it must be terrible getting so much work.¡± Wess commented, as Cyrus glared at her.


    ¡°Yeah, I get it, I¡¯m fortunate, but I hate feeling like this.¡± Cyrus said. ¡°My future¡¯s been planned by everyone around me, and I¡¯m just going through the motions.¡±


    Wess tapped her foot silently. ¡°I suppose the best thing for it is to win the tournament and decide from there.¡± Wess suggested, glancing over Cyrus¡¯ lazy posture. ¡°Though, judging by your attitude, that doesn¡¯t seem very appealing, does it?¡±


    ¡°Yeah. You saw me during my matches. I¡¯m bored as shit.¡± Cyrus admitted, stretching out over the seats. ¡°Think you can do better?¡±


    ¡°¡­I¡¯ll try.¡± Wess muttered, before standing up herself. ¡°Anyway, I should attempt to get at least some rest tonight. Best of luck.¡±


    Wess got up to leave, just reaching the stairs, before stopping.


    ¡°Can I¡­ask for a favour?¡±


    Cyrus blinked. ¡°Do you want me to throw the match?¡±


    Wess shook her head. ¡°No, no, just¡­when we meet on the field, can you play it up a little?¡±


    ¡°Play it...?¡± Cyrus wondered, as Wess waved her hands.


    ¡°You know, make it theatrical. Build up the rivalry. I promise it¡¯s for both of our benefits.¡± Wess insisted, as Cyrus shrugged happily.


    ¡°Consider it done.¡± Cyrus said, watching as Wess went to leave the arena stands. ¡°And uhh, good luck. I won¡¯t hold back, so be ready.¡±


    Wess scoffed, before ducking her head back from the exit. ¡°Those were my intentions as well.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Fight time, folks! What a fun fight to be kicking off this week!¡± Spence announced, as the crowd started to pack into the spectator stands. ¡°We¡¯ve got an exciting match with the ever-popular Cyrus Vesper today, as well as a bright, young up-and-comer Wess Delacroix Nouvel!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t hype her up so much. People are here for Cyrus.¡± Vent insisted beside her, scrolling on his tablet.


    ¡°I want to make it a fair match, Vent.¡± Spence encouraged, as Vent sighed out.


    ¡°Against him?¡± Vent said. ¡°If you want that, then don¡¯t give him a weapon. Actually, he could still throw her off the arena. Nevermind.¡±


    Vent settled himself in his seat, getting comfortable. ¡°Now, just a reminder that the competitors are gonna be miced from here on out, so no incidental chatting over them, okay?¡±


    Spence grimaced at him, before turning her attention to the arena with a pleading desperation. ¡°Please, do your best, both of you.¡±


    Wess paced around the arena entrance, trying her best not to stare at the monitor counting down to her match, despite her still counting down in her head.


    ¡°...but if I pivot...weight contention...can I out manoeuvre him? His Whil won¡¯t allow it...¡±


    She ran her hands through her hair, before leaning against a wall, then sinking to the ground.


    ¡°...I must prepare myself for losing...¡± Wess assured. ¡°Even with my best efforts, there¡¯s no way of guaranteeing success...even if I¡¯m letting my team dow...¡±


    Wess finally heard what she was saying to herself and stopped talking, before staring up at the ceiling in hopes of regaining some sort of composure.


    ¡°...this may be a minor setback, but not a crippling one.¡± Wess said, doing her best to stand back up and dust herself off. ¡°Even if I lose, there¡¯s plenty of ways to recover. We¡¯ll always have next year, and Harley might have a miraculous recovery...we¡¯ve got options...¡±


    Wess let a breath out, before proudly facing the counter again, waiting for the announcement to head out.


    ¡°Go Wess, you¡¯re the best! Cyrus is fine, but put him to rest!¡± Sola cheered happily, jumping up from her seat, as Essex stayed firmly sitting in hers.


    ¡°Hey, is she out on the field yet?¡± Julia asked, stepping into her seat, as Sola shook her head back.


    ¡°Not yet. Aren¡¯t you gonna join her?¡± Sola asked, as Julia waved her hand.


    ¡°I don¡¯t wanna distract her too much. I¡¯ll meet with her after.¡± Julia insisted, before noticing Essex acting silent next to them. ¡°Is she okay?¡±


    Sola looked back at Essex and went to whisper to Julia, before the announcement letting the contestants in and the noise of the crowd started to bleed in. ¡°She can explain later.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡± Julia said, before noticing Wess entering the arena and immediately standing up from her seat and shouting.


    ¡°You¡¯ve got this, Wess!!! You¡¯re gonna destroy him!!!¡±


    The crowd around her started to give her stares, as she immediately sunk back into her seat. ¡°S-Sorry, sorry...¡±


    Wess quickly went and grabbed Belvedere, casually spinning it in her hand, before picking up Artisan as well, noticing the sunlight gleaming off its finish as she faced the arena.


    She started to make her way up to the arena, getting whiplash from the juxtaposition of the night before, before reaching the top and locking eyes with Cyrus on the other end, casually using his Whil to flip his claymore back and forth behind him.


    Wess repressed her concern and kept walking, before they both reached their marks, waiting for the timer¡¯s countdown to finish.


    The crowd was already buzzing excitedly once Cyrus entered the stand, as he rolled his eyes to himself, before remembering his promise to Wess.


    He gave Wess a little nod as heads up, before shoving his hands in his pockets.


    ¡°So, you decided to fight me!¡± He announced, as the crowd was caught off guard from finally hearing the competitors for the first time. ¡°I¡¯m surprised!¡±


    Wess immediately caught on, as Cyrus threw out his hand and pointed with his claymore, dictating his point.


    ¡°You really think you can best the greatest fighter in the academy?¡±


    Right as he finished, Wess held out Belvedere just the same. ¡°I only hope you¡¯ll take your soon-to-be defeat with grace! No holding back!¡±


    The crowd erupted into an uproarious cheer, as Cyrus slowly grew a smile, before throwing his hands up.


    ¡°Alright then!¡± He played up, entering a combative pose. ¡°Let¡¯s make this a match for the ages!¡±


    ¡°Ooo, don¡¯t you love seeing both participants really getting into it?¡± Spence insisted, as Vent leaned into his seat.


    ¡°Finally, some good theatrics.¡± Vent said, before turning to the mic. ¡°This is shaping up to be the fight to remember! The wunderkind Cyrus Vesper versus the determined unknown Wess Delacroix Nouvel! Will Cyrus handle this with ease, or will Wess managed to pull out a vic-¡±


    ¡°Will Wess truly excel and live up to her potential?¡± Spence interrupted, giving Vent a knowing look. ¡°Competitors, get ready!¡±


    The timer was almost at zero, as Wess did her best to prepare, even against the insurmountable odds. She had far less talent and skill, comparatively poorer technique, not to mention having no Whil, but...


    ...at least she had people cheering her on.


    Wess gave one last look to Team Valiant in the crowd, just as the timer hit zero, finally starting the match for real.


    It was go time.


    Wess entered a defensive stance, ready for Cyrus to come rushing at her, only to realise he was standing in place, goading her to come and confront him directly.


    Wess gave it a second, before letting up on her stance and slowly wandering around the arena¡¯s diameter, testing the waters.


    Cyrus did the same, matching her walk step for step, still goading her, as the crowd waited for the shoe to drop; for either of them to take a swing at the other.


    Eventually, after enough testing, Wess¡¯ walk turned into a sprint, as she ran toward Cyrus in an arc, running her sword across the ground, as Cyrus flicked his finger in her direction.


    Soon after, his claymore came rushing toward her, ready to cut her off, before she expertly blocked it with Artisan, charging faster at Cyrus, only for him to spin his fingers around again.


    Before she could reach him, his claymore came back around, now aiming for her back, forcing her to dodge to the side instead of blocking.


    She struggled with her footing, before properly grounding herself, right as the claymore swung back at her, clashing with Belvedere.


    ¡°Whoa! I swear, I heard them colliding from up here in the booth!¡± Spence exclaimed, jumping around, as Vent pulled his head up to catch the action.


    Wess gripped Belvedere tightly, holding back the claymore with all her might, as Cyrus admitted to himself just how impressed he was with how much she¡¯d improved.


    Despite her desperate efforts, Cyrus¡¯ strength won out, throwing Wess back, nearly hitting the edge of the arena.


    In a panic, Wess quickly got back up and tried to get her bearings, before finding Cyrus again and deciding to charge back at him.


    Cyrus simply shook his head, before lifting his fingers up, only for his claymore to emerge from the ground and shoot out in front of her.


    Out of frustration, Wess reached out and grabbed its handle, catching Cyrus off guard, as she pulled it to the ground, stood on top of it, and stabbed Belvedere into the hole the claymore had left, hooking the claymore to the ground with Belvedere¡¯s handle.


    Wess continued charging at Cyrus with Artisan out in front of her, as Cyrus did his best to pull his claymore out, even pulling his other hand from his pocket and using it to flick Belvedere off.


    Wess readied herself for a shield bash, only for the claymore to come rushing back and block her attempt, but not before she made a retreat, grabbing up Belvedere as she ran back.


    Both participants took a second to collect themselves, going back to circling each other, with Cyrus thinking through his actions a bit more, and Wess trying to get some stamina back.


    ¡°She¡¯s so outclassed...¡± Julia muttered, before standing back up again. ¡°B-But you¡¯ve still got this! We¡¯ll be proud of you no matter what!!!¡±


    ¡°Beat the odds, Wess!¡± Sola added, cheering beside her, as Essex quietly cheered to herself, on the edge of her seat.


    Having gotten back enough energy, Wess charged at Cyrus again, trying to interrupt before he could retaliate properly, as Cyrus was suddenly working harder to keep up.


    Wess held Belvedere out, coaxing Cyrus to strike at her chest, as he fell for it and sent his claymore to do just that. However, just as it was about to reach her, Wess slid underneath it, keeping her momentum and forcing Cyrus to scramble.


    Cyrus spun his finger in a circle to try and bring the claymore back around, only for Wess to reach him before it could, finally about to land a strike on him.


    With Belvedere outstretched, she went to land a body blow, only for a desperate Cyrus to move his entire hand right in front of Wess, before she was shot back across the field, tumbling across the ground and landing painfully at the edge of the arena again.


    Struggling to recover from the whiplash, Wess pulled herself back up, as she noticed Cyrus¡¯s demeanour start to get more serious; more focused on the match and Wess as an opponent.


    ¡°What a show of force! Cyrus truly is a talent all on his ow...¡± Spence started to say, only to get a knowing look from Vent, causing her to pout. ¡°...b-but Wess is putting in her all as well. How will this clash between titans continue?¡±


    While Wess was still letting herself recover, Cyrus¡¯ panic was slowly getting replaced with his typical lackadaisical attitude, as he realised the situation he was in.


    Brandishing a cocky smile, he grabbed at his jacket and threw it off of his body, before using his Whil to casually roll up the sleeves on his dress shirt.


    So be it, Wess. Cyrus thought, finding his smile getting more natural. No holding back, like we promised.


    Suddenly seeing the difference in his approach, Wess readied herself for the oncoming match, almost like it was only really starting now, as she held up Artisan and readied Belvedere.


    Cyrus lifted up his hand, with his claymore following, before he pointed out both hands and separated them, as Wess watched the claymore split in half down the middle, one for each hand.


    As she realised just what she was up against, Cyrus launched both half-swords toward her, ready to catch her off guard, while she did her best to keep the distance she¡¯d made earlier in the match.


    She managed to leap over the first before it swept her legs, right as the second flew toward her head, forcing her to duck suddenly.


    Now with his swords much lighter, Cyrus whipped them back around and kept up the manoeuvres, as Wess became too focused on holding back each blow of the swords to give Cyrus any attention.


    Right as she had her back to him, Cyrus moved a finger down and shifted the ground underneath Wess¡¯ feet, nearly tripping her up, only for Cyrus to continue pointing, as the ground segmented and slowly formed into a ramp leading all the way outside of the arena.


    Due to the steep angle, Wess started sliding down, almost hitting the edge, before stabbing Belvedere into the ground and holding herself up, as Cyrus stood on the edge, giving her a look of confidence, almost hoping she would overcome this.


    Wess reached up and managed to get a grip on the edge of the ramp, before she pulled herself up, taking a breath right as she charged at Cyrus again.


    Cyrus retaliated by pulling a chunk of the ground up as a wall, blocking her off, as she tried to head around it, only for him to keep doing the same.


    However, after a few times doing this, Cyrus went to surround himself completely, only to spot Wess prying apart two of the chunks with Artisan, before pulling herself through and slashing at Cyrus, finally landing a solid hit on him.


    Cyrus fell back on his walls, which all crashed and sunk back into the ground, as the crowd gasped at the sudden turn in the fight. He tried to recover by bringing his swords back, only for Wess to retrieve Artisan and run past him, blocking them off from returning, before she turned around and pointed Belvedere right at him.


    Cyrus held up his hands, backing up slowly, as Wess started pushing him to the edge of the arena, just as he cracked a smile.


    ¡°Wow...I thought I could take more than that...¡± Cyrus confessed, panting heavily. ¡°You know I could...just throw you off with my Whil, right?¡±


    ¡°But you...wouldn¡¯t do that. You don¡¯t actually...want to hurt me.¡± Wess reasoned, as they both got closer to the border.


    ¡°True...and it would...suck out the fun...tell you what.¡± Cyrus prefaced, right as his two half-swords came whizzing by Wess¡¯ head, before re-joining in front of him. ¡°Let¡¯s end this...in a proper way.¡±


    He reached out and grabbed the oversized claymore, while resting his finger on the handle and using his Whil to help him hold it. ¡°A proper duel. One good strike from both of us.¡±


    Wess considered the option, even as her victory was right in front of her.


    It would be so easy to win right now.


    But where would be the fun in that?


    Wess lowered Belvedere and nodded, before making some distance between her and Cyrus, giving him a second to adjust to using the weapon this way.


    The spectators stayed silent, all holding their breath for the upcoming end of the duel. Even Spence and Vent couldn¡¯t bring themselves to interrupt the action with commentary.


    Julia was nervously biting her nails, as Sola was out of her seat, trying to catch everything that was going on.


    Only one noise managed to break the silence.


    ¡°Y-You¡¯ve got this, Wess!!! Make this a valiant victory!!!¡±


    The crowd all turned to Essex, as she realised how many eyes were on her and sunk back into her chair, not expecting so much attention.


    Wess held Belvedere to her side, ready to strike Cyrus down where he stood, just as Cyrus adjusted to the size of the claymore, preparing to do just the same.


    Wess prepared her footing, stepping back, with Cyrus following along, until both were ready to charge at the other.


    ¡­


    ¡­


    ...and go.


    Wess started sprinting toward him, Belvedere shining proudly, as Cyrus ran straight toward her, spinning the claymore in the air to act more like a drill.


    Wess held up Artisan to prepare for the joust, before the two suddenly collided in the middle, running past each other after exchanging blows, both panting and slightly hunched over.


    After only a few seconds, and as Artisan collapsed to the ground, Wess could feel her grip on Belvedere slipping, only for her exhaustion to be interrupted by the sound of Cyrus hitting the ground, barely sustaining the heavy wound Wess had left on him.


    And just like that, he landed on the ground with a thud.


    The arena was left silent, expecting Cyrus to lift himself up and keep fighting, or some kind of epic turn in the fight that wasn¡¯t happening.


    Finally, a few cheers started to build in the crowd, before the entire stadium was applauding Wess¡¯ victory.


    ¡°She won!!! She actually won!!!¡± Sola screamed, shaking Essex wildly, as Essex tried to clap along with the others, just as Sola realised Julia wasn¡¯t with them. ¡°Hey, where¡¯d Julia go?¡±


    ¡°And an amazing victory for the underdog, Wess Delacroix Nouvel! Not only did she meet the challeng-¡± Spence started, only for Vent to take the mic from her.


    ¡°But she kept a level head and astounded everyone with her quick thinking and proficient technique. We knew you could do it, kid.¡± Vent finished, handing it back to Spence, who just pouted back at him.


    Wess found herself getting back up and waving to the crowd, watching as Cyrus was escorted to the infirmary to be treated, only to realise Julia was running out from the arena entrance and up toward her.


    ¡°Wess!¡± Julia exclaimed, jumping up the join her. ¡°You did it!¡±


    ¡°I suppose I did...¡± Wess let out, still a bit out of breath, as Julia leaped into a hug with her.


    ¡°I¡¯m so proud of you! You¡¯ve come so far!¡± Julia let out, hugging Wess, before Wess rested her hand behind Julia¡¯s back and suddenly dipped her.


    Julia panicked for a second, only to look up at Wess and see her smiling. ¡°W-Wess?¡±


    ¡°Come here.¡± Wess beaconed, before leaning down and kissing Julia, as Julia¡¯s eyes lit up, letting her melt into the kiss.


    The crowd¡¯s cheering turned to hollering, now far more raucous in their celebration, as Wess took her sweet time with their moment.


    ¡°My goodness! What a passionate display! I¡¯m just...¡± Spence let out, wiping a tear from her eye.


    They eventually broke the kiss, as Julia took a second for her heart to stop racing, before standing back up on her own.


    ¡°B-But Wess, won¡¯t the sponsors...?¡± Julia asked, as Wess held her hand again.


    ¡°I don¡¯t care.¡± Wess smiled. ¡°I love you.¡±


    Wess gave her another quick kiss, as Julia realised a few tears were rolling down her cheeks, which Wess happily wiped away, before addressing the crowd again, bathing in her well-earned victory.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Kitty lifted her head from her work, as she watched Harley happily staring at the TV monitor with the results of the last match.


    ¡°How¡¯d your teammate go?¡±


    Harley lay back and sighed. ¡°She won.¡±


    ¡°Against that Cyrus guy? Wow.¡± Kitty let out, heading over to Harley¡¯s bed. ¡°Must be a fun day for her.¡±


    Just as she sat, Kitty¡¯s watch went off, as she clapped her hands and stood up. ¡°Ooo, it¡¯s time! You should be ready to walk now.¡±


    ¡°Oh, great.¡± Harley said, sitting up.


    ¡°In a few days, you can make a judgement call about whether you still wanna fight in the tournament.¡± Kitty advised. ¡°Personally, I don¡¯t see any shame in wanting to leave, especially since you¡¯ll be up against that Archer guy next.¡±


    He¡¯s my next opponent? Harley realised, remembering her previous poor interactions with him.


    ¡°Also, and this is just me butting in, but I think...¡± Kitty said, resting her hand on Harley¡¯s. ¡°...it would be best to focus on Sola and Essex. You need to take care of that at some point, and sooner would be better. I¡¯m the doctor too, so you have to listen to me.¡±


    Harley forced a reluctant smile, as she started to get out of her bed with Kitty¡¯s help. ¡°Yeah, I¡¯ll...see...¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. We all improve with time.¡± Kitty noted, wrapping her arm around Harley to support her. ¡°I mean, I¡¯m perfect, but still.¡±


    Harley let out a cheap laugh, as Kitty moved her to a separate room to clean up her wound, just as Cyrus was wheeled in from the fight, followed shortly by Wess¡¯ arrival.


    ¡°Agh!!! It hurts! Everywhere, it hurts!¡± Cyrus cried, fidgeting on his bed, just as Wess came in. ¡°Wess! It¡¯s you! You bathe in the glory of victory, then...come to finish the job, huh?¡±


    ¡°By Whilit, what are you on about?¡± Wess asked, right as Cyrus faked a cough.


    ¡°Your...your skills killed me! I¡¯m fading away...¡± Cyrus managed, as the nurse assessing his wounds rolled her eyes.


    ¡°Oh. Well, I always knew it would come to this. What a shame.¡± Wess remarked, laughing slightly.


    ¡°Oh god, Wess¡­I¡¯m¡­dying...I¡¯m so cold¡­¡± Cyrus played up, clawing at the sky. ¡°It¡¯s going white¡­Wess? Are you still there?¡±


    ¡°Unfortunately.¡± Wess said, as Cyrus feigned gasping for air.


    ¡°I have¡­so much unfinished business! Wess, before I go, I need to know¡­¡± Cyrus asked, reaching out to her. ¡°Julia¡­is she¡­better in bed than me?¡±


    ¡°Yes, without question.¡± Wess replied immediately, Cyrus grasping at his chest.


    ¡°Oh! Such¡­brutal honesty! It¡¯s only killing me quicker!¡± Cyrus pleaded, before collapsing onto the bed with his tongue out, definitely dead.


    ¡°Oh no, however will we replace him?¡± Wess joked, just as Cyrus couldn¡¯t help but laugh, as he sat up to face her.


    ¡°Look at you. You actually showed up before my team did.¡± Cyrus remarked, settling in. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, the Solfyst stopped any slicing and dicing.¡±


    ¡°I know. I just wanted to check on you.¡± Wess said, sitting by his bed. ¡°And thank you for such a good match.¡±


    ¡°Hey, the pleasure was all mine...¡± Cyrus let out, before shying away awkwardly. ¡°I¡¯ll...be perfectly honest...I kinda had a second goal for the match...¡±


    ¡°To make me look good?¡± Wess suggested, as Cyrus shook his head.


    ¡°You didn¡¯t need help there. Actually...I was kinda hoping to win you back.¡±


    Wess¡¯ eyebrows raised. ¡°Oh.¡±


    ¡°Not, like, in a patronising way. Just wanted to impress you with my fighting skills...¡± Cyrus admitted. ¡°But then when they were helping me off, I saw...¡±


    Cyrus pointed to the monitor, as Wess realised it was playing a highlight of the kiss between her and Julia.


    ¡°...I see.¡± Wess said, as Cyrus settled into his bed.


    ¡°I figured you would¡¯ve moved on by this point. Part of me was just hoping, you know?¡± Cyrus confessed. ¡°Ow...¡±


    ¡°Oh, I didn¡¯t break your heart, did I?¡±


    ¡°No, that was actually the wound. I think you bruised a rib.¡± Cyrus guessed, as the nurse left them alone. ¡°So...Julia, huh?¡±


    ¡°Yes, Julia.¡± Wess repeated, sighing out, as Cyrus chuckled.


    ¡°I can¡¯t compete. She has it all.¡± Cyrus said. ¡°Brown hair. No jacket. A leadery...position.¡±


    ¡°Alright, Mister Casanova.¡±


    ¡°Breasts. I don¡¯t have those.¡±


    ¡°Stop...¡± Wess said, finding herself laughing, as Cyrus looked proud of himself.


    ¡°...to be honest, I think you¡¯ll be happier with her.¡± Cyrus admitted, glancing down at his bed. ¡°I¡¯m fun and all, but...¡±


    ¡°Come on, no need to throw yourself under the bus.¡± Wess insisted, leaning over and resting a hand on his arm. ¡°And you''re allowed to be mad. Considering how you must be feeling, you¡¯re taking this very well.¡±


    ¡°...yeah. I punched a wall before coming in here.¡± Cyrus pointed out, showing off his scratched-up hand. ¡°The bruised rib was a lie.¡±


    Letting out a laugh, he shook his head. ¡°It¡¯s fine. I¡¯m not really that jealous.¡±


    Cyrus smiled back at her and rested his hand on hers.


    ¡°As long as you¡¯re happy. That¡¯s all that matters.¡±


    Wess smiled back at him, just as Julia made her way in, looking around for Harley.


    Before she could, however, she noticed Madelyn sitting on one of the beds, scrolling on her tablet.


    ¡°M-Mum. What are you doing here?¡± Julia asked worriedly, as Madelyn took a breath and stood up.


    ¡°I figured you¡¯d be down here. Wess mentioned she was friends with that boy...¡± Madelyn reasoned, stretching out her back. ¡°...also, Harley was recovering here, so I wanted more gossip about you.¡±


    ¡°Of course...¡± Julia let out, before suddenly pulling her to the side. ¡°B-But, before anything, I-I just want to explain what happened on th-¡±


    ¡°You know I saw you two holding hands when I drove here, right?¡± Madelyn admitted, folding her arms.


    Julia stayed silent, as Madelyn sighed loudly.


    ¡°Geez...I don¡¯t know why you¡¯re so cagey about these things. I¡¯m not gonna scare them away or anything.¡± Madelyn assured, as Julia was overwhelmed with relief.


    ¡°So you¡¯re cool with it?¡±


    Madelyn raised an eyebrow. ¡°You¡¯re a grown up. Date whoever you want. I just wanna know about these things.¡±


    Madelyn scratched her nose. ¡°Though, judging by the crowd¡¯s reaction, I was just as in the dark as everyone else.¡±


    Julia rubbed the back of her neck. ¡°Yeah, sorry. It¡¯s a...work thing.¡±


    ¡°Wow. Wasn¡¯t expecting to reach the point where I started hearing things like that coming from you.¡± Madelyn said, sighing and smiling to herself. ¡°It¡¯s a work thing...what a leader.¡±


    ¡°M-Mum...¡± Julia let out, as Madelyn snickered to herself, before jabbing Julia¡¯s arm.


    ¡°Kidding, kidding. Hey, if you hate it so much, go complain to your girlfriend about it.¡± Madelyn insisted, just as Wess walked over to join them. ¡°I think I¡¯ll leave you both to it. And wait for me to leave before you start making out.¡±


    Madelyn started making mocking kissing motions, as Julia¡¯s blush stained her face.


    ¡°Y-You¡¯re so gross!¡± Julia cried, right as Madelyn left, before Wess joined her side.


    ¡°Another fun conversation, I¡¯m sure.¡± Wess let out. ¡°Hey, do you know where Harley is?¡±


    Jullia turned to face her. ¡°I just assumed she was still lying down. Isn¡¯t she in her bed?¡±


    Wess looked around again, just as Harley emerged from the side room by herself, limping slightly as she walked. ¡°There we go.¡±


    ¡°Hey, Harley!¡± Julia called out, running up to her to try and help her walk, only for Harley to refuse it.


    ¡°It¡¯s alright. I got it.¡± Harley excused, wincing a little as she stepped. ¡°I should be good on my own.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll have to thank Pather in person.¡± Julia admitted. ¡°How are you feeling? You want me to get Sola?¡±


    ¡°Nah, I just wanna fall back onto our couch.¡± Harley admitted, as Wess rolled her eyes.


    ¡°It¡¯s like you were never stabbed.¡± Wess remarked, as they started heading back to the dorm.


    ¡°At least you can take it easy while you recover. Wess just qualified for the top four.¡± Julia bragged, as Wess tried to look humble.


    ¡°No, actually, I¡¯m thinking I¡¯ll still fight my next match.¡± Harley insisted, shocking the duo stiff in the hall.


    ¡°With your leg still recovering?¡± Julia exclaimed.


    ¡°And against that brute Archer?¡± Wess added, with Harley nodding.


    ¡°I¡¯m cleared to keep fighting, if I want. And I¡¯ve got to redeem myself from my last fight, right?¡± Harley suggested, as Julia and Wess looked to each other.


    ¡°But you really don¡¯t need to. Wess can take it from here.¡± Julia assured. ¡°We should just take a break and focus on the team.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, this is for the team.¡± Harley promised. ¡°And if I can¡¯t do it after this one, you guys can still cover for my matches.¡±


    ¡°...yeah, I guess.¡± Julia said. ¡°I think it¡¯s only fair you ask Essex if that¡¯s okay, though. If anyone would want to cover for you, it-¡±


    ¡°Guys, come on. We¡¯ll cross the bridge when we get to it, okay?¡± Harley said, attempting to make a confident stride through the hall. ¡°Now I¡¯ve gotta figure out how to train like this.¡±


    Julia and Wess attempted to watch Harley make some distance, before giving each other an uncomfortable glance, certain of what was gonna come of this.


    ¡°She¡¯s not over it yet, is she?¡± Wess asked, as Julia shook her head.


    ¡°Should we let her? I mean...¡± Julia suggested, before Wess began taking her through the hall.


    ¡°No. I think it¡¯s about time we got everything out into the open.¡±

 Chapter 42: Stolen Victories

    ¡°And just like that, Wess Delacroix Nouvel walks off with another victory, this time against the formidable Cyrus Vesper. The victory was hard-fought, all while apparently representing the Andro Manufacturing brand, but despite the odds being stacked against he-¡±


    ¡°She fucking won.¡± Rosalind groaned, staring bitterly at the monitor again. ¡°Despite not deserving it, she won. Isn¡¯t she precious?¡±


    Rosalind gaged, leaning against the inside of one of the tournament hall corridors, just as her tablet buzzed in her hand.


    ¡°What the hell do you want?¡±


    ¡°An update.¡±


    Rosalind glanced at the monitor again. ¡°You got my last report.¡±


    ¡°I want an update.¡±


    Rosalind pinched her nose. ¡°They¡¯ve stayed on campus. Apart from that one instance, they¡¯ve just been here, competing.¡±


    ¡°Any outside calls?¡±


    ¡°Calls? How would I know? They¡¯re not bugged.¡± Rosalind insisted, absently wandering as she talked. ¡°What, you want me to follow them every time they take a shit?¡±


    ¡°Rosalind, do your job. We have far too valuable an asset on our hands.¡± Wicker stated.


    ¡°I¡¯m great at doing my job. You¡¯re the one forcing me to stay here, watching them win over an-¡± Rosalind complained, only for the call to hang up mid-sentence, only frustrating her more.


    She slammed her foot into the wall, before grabbing for her sword, only to put it back after thinking her actions through.


    ¡°I¡¯ll find some way to take care of them...you¡¯ll see...¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Harley? Are you sure you wanna compete?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re not gonna convince me otherwise. This is my decision.¡±


    ¡°Unless your injury decides for you.¡±


    ¡°They said it was fine. And look, I¡¯m walking.¡±


    ¡°Slightly limping, more accurately.¡± Wess remarked, as the trio made their way back to the team¡¯s dorm.


    ¡°Yeah, like that¡¯ll hold me back.¡± Harley bragged, just as they reached their door. ¡°I¡¯m gonna mess that Archer guy u-¡±


    ¡°Happy recovery day, babe!¡±


    Harley was thrown back by Sola cheering, just as she opened the door to find Sola, a silent Essex, and a very crudely made banner in the main room.


    Sola blew on her party whistle. ¡°I was gonna walk you back, but I had to set this up!¡±


    ¡°No kidding.¡± Harley let out, as she warmed to the sight. ¡°Anything special about this in particular?¡±


    ¡°Well, since you probably won¡¯t be competing, I thought we needed a fun day out on the town!¡± Sola cheered, jumping around excitedly. ¡°So, we¡¯re gonna go to laser tag!¡±


    ¡°Laser tag?¡± Harley let out, just as Julia and Wess filtered in, with Sola nodding emphatically.


    ¡°Yeah! We¡¯ll get into teams and duke it out! It¡¯ll still be like fighting in the tournament, but way less intense.¡± Sola encouraged, before Julia raised her hand slightly.


    ¡°Won¡¯t the teams be uneven?¡± Julia asked, as Sola gave a thumbs up.


    ¡°That¡¯s why I asked Lenin to join! He loves laser tag!¡± Sola assured, before hurrying over to a very caught off guard Harley and Essex. ¡°So, you and Wess can team up with him, and then all three of us can work together on a team.¡±


    ¡°Uhh...¡± Harley said, backing off a little. ¡°That¡¯s...a fun idea...¡±


    ¡°Sola.¡± Essex said, before pulling herself away. ¡°Is this your ploy that you were discussing?¡±


    Sola froze up, as Harley took notice.


    ¡°Wait, ploy?¡± Harley realised, trying to piece it together, before noticing Sola¡¯s nervous expression. ¡°Hold on...¡±


    Harley showed her hands. ¡°First off, that¡¯s a no go. I¡¯m still doing my next match. Second, what does she mean by ploy?¡±


    ¡°W-Well, I th-¡±


    ¡°This is her attempt to help us ¡®get along¡¯ again.¡± Essex answered, interrupting Sola, as Harley rested her arms on her hips.


    ¡°Sola.¡±


    Sola looked the side, before visibly sinking. ¡°...I mean, I wanted to do it anyway...¡±


    Sola regained her energy and faced Harley again. ¡°But I¡¯m sick of you two not getting along! Just forgive Essex already! She didn¡¯t do anything wrong!¡±


    Harley went to complain, before remembering Julia and Wess were still there and silencing herself, just as Julia sighed out in frustration.


    ¡°Harley, we know what happened.¡± Julia admitted, as Wess rested her hand on Julia¡¯s shoulder. ¡°Sola told me already.¡±


    Harley turned to them, visibly offended. ¡°You guys knew?¡±


    ¡°Well, you weren¡¯t exactly subtle about it.¡± Wess pointed out, indicating to Essex. ¡°Poor Essex has been a wreck these last few weeks all because you couldn¡¯t accept a simple confession.¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t believe...¡± Harley muttered. ¡°You don¡¯t tell us about you guys dating, now you held this from me too...¡±


    Harley stamped her foot, trying to let out some of her frustration. ¡°...whatever. Whatever. It doesn¡¯t even matter. This isn¡¯t a team thing. This is a me and Sola thing.¡±


    ¡°What about Essex?¡± Sola insisted, as Harley let out a breath.


    ¡°What about her?¡± Harley let out, shocking the team around her, as she threw up her hands. ¡°Guys! This isn¡¯t...¡±


    Harley grabbed at her nose. ¡°Yeah, she confessed and...I...like the idea...but I just can¡¯t do it.¡±


    ¡°Why not?¡± Essex asked, stepping forward. ¡°What is stopping this from happening?¡±


    Harley looked back at her with the corner of her eye, before facing away again.


    ¡°No, you guys don¡¯t get to gang up on me a-and act like I fucked up. I made a decision.¡± Harley insisted, a few tears welling. ¡°It was tough, I hated it, but I did it! I know it hurt people, but I couldn¡¯t do that to myself again! Not again!¡±


    Struggling to keep her emotions in check, Harley headed for the dorm door, wincing through the pain in her leg. ¡°I¡¯m still fighting my match. You can come watch, but don¡¯t bother me. I don¡¯t want any distractions...¡±


    She slammed the door behind her, as the others were left quiet, unsure how to proceed, only for Essex to break it with a pained sigh.


    ¡°This was a mistake...¡± Essex bemoaned. ¡°I let my emotions control me again...of course this is where it led...¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s her hang-up? I thought Harley was fine with these sorts of things.¡± Wess said, as Sola threw her hands down.


    ¡°That¡¯s what I¡¯m saying!¡± Sola let out. ¡°She won¡¯t tell me what¡¯s up! Again!¡±


    ¡°Maybe it¡¯s really personal...¡± Julia suggested, drawing the team¡¯s attention. ¡°We know she¡¯s had some bad break ups in the past. It was probably for something similar...¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s no excuse for treating Essex this poorly.¡± Wess said, turning to Essex. ¡°I¡¯m sorry to hear that Harley¡¯s tantrum¡¯s been affecting you so much.¡±


    ¡°So, you two were aware of this?¡± Essex asked, as Julia nodded quietly.


    ¡°Only since last week. Sola was nervous and wanted to tell me about it.¡± Julia said. ¡°Then I told Wess so we were all on the same page.¡±


    ¡°Admittedly, we didn¡¯t want to let on in case this all became too much.¡± Wess said, sighing loudly. ¡°But I guess we walked into that one.¡±


    ¡°A-And I only told Julia so that she could help!¡± Sola insisted, running up to Essex. ¡°I didn¡¯t know what to do, cause I¡¯d never dealt with this before, so I thought she might know bet-¡±


    Essex rested a finger on Sola¡¯s lips to quiet her, before steadying herself.


    ¡°I¡¯m not upset. I just wish you had told me.¡± Essex admitted. ¡°With that said, I think it only fair I let Julia and Wess know of my plans.¡±


    Julia and Wess looked at each other worriedly, as Essex cleared her throat.


    ¡°I have decided...that if this issue with Harley cannot be resolved, then I will leave Team Valiant.¡± Essex said, shocking Julia and Wess. ¡°Our relationship will only lead to infighting and an unprofessional quality of work in the future.¡±


    ¡°W-What?¡± Julia let out, struggling to take the news, as she found herself leaning on the couch.


    ¡°Essex, this isn¡¯t a fight worth leaving for.¡± Wess insisted, stepping toward her. ¡°What you and Harley are going through is sure to resolve itself with time. Pain is temporary, remember?¡±


    Essex was thrown by Wess¡¯ use of the phrase, before she shook her head. ¡°While I understand that, this is a decision meant to aid you. I do not wish to drag this team down in our argument. You have all worked hard for your degrees, and taking them from you would be selfish.¡±


    Essex held her hand to her chest. ¡°Relias. I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    Essex decided to head into the study, closing the door behind her, as the trio was left behind, taking in the news.


    ¡°...Essex...¡± Julia let out, as Wess locked hands with her.


    ¡°She didn¡¯t mean it. We¡¯re all a little tense right now.¡± Wess said, before turning to Sola and taking her hand as well. ¡°The best we can do is look out for each other.¡±


    Sola grabbed it back and nodded. ¡°And that includes Harley.¡±


    ¡°...we should make sure she¡¯s okay.¡± Julia said. ¡°For the match. Even if she doesn¡¯t want the help.¡±


    ¡°Of course.¡± Wess remarked, smiling back at her. ¡°Always thinking about helping others, huh?¡±


    Julia proudly faced Sola. ¡°We¡¯ll keep being a team, no matter what. I promise.¡±


    Sola sighed out, even as the stress of their whole day really started to sink in.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Harley dragged herself back into the changing room, still feeling the lingering heat of midday on her back, making her sweat profusely.


    I took out too much aggression in training... She admitted, sighing heavily. I swear, I-


    ¡°Harley?¡±


    Harley swung her head around, before ducking behind a locker, just as Julia walked by.


    ¡°Harley?...I guess she¡¯s still training.¡± Julia said. ¡°She didn¡¯t come back last night...¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. We¡¯ll find her before the match.¡± Wess assured. ¡°She¡¯s not exactly the stealthy type.¡±


    ¡°When are Sola and Essex finishing?¡±


    ¡°Soon enough. They said they were looking into that Archer fellow, but they¡¯d be here for most of the mat...¡± Wess explained, before disappearing from ear shot.


    Harley gave it a few seconds, before re-emerging and letting go of her breath.


    ¡°I told them not to bother me...¡± Harley let out, slamming her fist into the locker. ¡°...come on, focus.¡±


    Harley lifted her head and tried to distract herself by staring up at the monitor, doing her best to focus on the upcoming match, as her and Archer¡¯s names flashed on screen, hyping up their fight in less than an hours'' time.


    ¡°There you are!¡±


    Harley swung her head around, only to let out a relieved sigh when it was just Dennis.


    ¡°I swear, you girls duck off so inconveniently.¡± Dennis remarked, just as Harley turned to address him coming from the hallway.


    ¡°We had to have a talk.¡± Harley excused, as Dennis crossed his arms.


    ¡°Whatever. Listen...we¡¯re in a really good spot now.¡± Dennis assured. ¡°Everyone¡¯s talking about you. You¡¯re the next big thing competing. After Cyrus got taken down, your little redemption narrative is all that¡¯s on people''s lips.¡±


    ¡°But I got stabbed in the leg.¡± Harley pointed out.


    ¡°No, no, you¡¯re the one who came back after getting stabbed in the leg.¡± Dennis clarified, handing her the shirt. ¡°Wearing an Andro Manufacturing shirt.¡±


    ¡°...right.¡± Harley said, accepting the shirt.


    ¡°Come on, work with me here. I¡¯ve gotten no less than twenty calls from...¡± Dennis said, before pulling out his tablet and turning it off. ¡°...twenty-one calls from the higher ups about where I am and what you¡¯re doing with unreleased merch. I can¡¯t lose out on this.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry about me. I¡¯m planning on winning.¡± Harley remarked, as Dennis sneered.


    ¡°Haha.¡± He let out, grabbing his forehead. ¡°The things I¡¯ll do for a raise...¡±


    Dennis wandered off to work on his own plans, just as Harley decided to keep prepping for the upcoming match.


    She started heading back to the training area, before hearing a knock on the wall behind her, just as she turned to find Archer standing in the hall, almost like he was waiting for her.


    ¡°Funny running into you before the match.¡± Archer remarked, as Harley rested her hands on her hips.


    ¡°I was gonna say that.¡± Harley said, just as Archer shrugged and walked over, leaning against the wall across from Harley.


    ¡°I just realised we haven¡¯t really talked.¡± Archer pointed out. ¡°I like to get to know opponents before breaking them.¡±


    Harley rolled her eyes and laughed. ¡°The high school tough guy act is really trite, you know? I¡¯ve met plenty of your kind, and trust me, you won¡¯t be the first I''ve knocked some sense into.¡±


    Archer raised an eyebrow. ¡°I¡¯m clich¨¦ now, am I? Anything I can do to change that image?¡±


    ¡°Cry. Say you like puppies or something.¡± Harley offered. ¡°Sing a song from a musical. You¡¯ve got options.¡±


    Archer got a bit more comfortable, before dictating with his hand. ¡°Alright, how¡¯s this? I¡¯ll tell you about my plans for winning.¡±


    Archer laid his hands out. ¡°First, I¡¯ll use the status to raise my standing at the VA Training Institute. After that, agencies and clients will be clamouring for me, as they should be.¡±


    He held out two fingers. ¡°Second, I¡¯ll graduate and become the top of my field. The next Hammerbrazen, or Dragon Tamer, whichever gets me richer. Wailing hunts should be a chore by this point, and I¡¯ll just let newer teams take care of them while I take the credit by ¡®shadowing¡¯ them.¡±


    Harley started to glare, as Archer shrugged noncommittally. ¡°Then I¡¯ll get a hot wife or something. It¡¯s sort of up to me at that point.¡±


    ¡°All this from one victory?¡± Harley remarked.


    ¡°If I¡¯m smart enough, yes.¡± Archer noted. ¡°Which should mean I¡¯m not just the typical bully you think I am.¡±


    Archer smiled. ¡°I¡¯m worse.¡±


    Feeling like he¡¯d gotten his fill, Archer waved and left, heading for the changing rooms himself. ¡°It¡¯s a dog-eat-dog world, Harley. I¡¯m just staying on top of the pile.¡±


    He turned back around and flexed. ¡°And enjoying myself while doing it!¡±


    Harley grit her teeth as he disappeared from sight, feeling her frustration start to build again, only for training to feel less and less viable.


    ¡°...I need a drink...¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Hey, you don¡¯t happen to know those girls competing, do you?¡±


    Seears finished up wiping his shot glasses. ¡°Can you be more specific?¡±


    Rosalind tapped her side. ¡°Team Valiant.¡± She said. ¡°Harley, Wess. The ones in the tournament.¡±


    ¡°Oh yeah, them.¡± Seears said, leaning on his bar. ¡°Harley comes in here sometimes, and I¡¯ve heard Wess has been doing great with her PR classes. She¡¯s quite the prodigy, actually.¡±


    ¡°Location.¡± Rosalind insisted, leaning on the bar as well. ¡°Be more specific.¡±


    Seears glared at her a bit. ¡°They live on campus, like most of the student body. They haven¡¯t come around here since the start of the tournament.¡±


    Rosalind bit her lip, before leaving in a huff, as Seears was left in a bit of disbelief.


    ¡°Everyone thinks they can treat my bar like it¡¯s theirs...¡± Seears let out, only to notice someone else leaning on the bar. ¡°Hey. Keep the leaning to a minimum.¡±


    ¡°Oh, sorry.¡± Saxin let out, apologetically waving to him, before turning back to Lenin. ¡°Go on, it¡¯ll be fun.¡±


    ¡°Saxi, you¡¯ve got more experience with this than I do.¡± Lenin admitted.


    ¡°It sounds like someone needs practice.¡± Saxin insisted, taking the cherry off her martini. ¡°Also, you lost the bet, so no complaining.¡±


    Lenin groaned, just as Harley came into the Academy Daiquiri Lounge, walking straight to the bar, before noticing Saxin and Lenin and beelining for them.


    ¡°Hey guys.¡± Harley greeted, just as Saxin turned around joyously.


    ¡°Harley, dear! Come, sit.¡± Saxin insisted, patting the seat next to her.


    Harley noticed Lenin¡¯s apprehension. ¡°What¡¯s up, Lenin?¡±


    ¡°Saxin¡¯s forcing me to see out a bet.¡± Lenin admitted, pointing across the bar. ¡°She wants me to get that guys number for us.¡±


    Harley leaned back and eyed the guy up, before whistling. ¡°Wow.¡±


    ¡°Exactly.¡± Saxin said, before pushing Lenin forward. ¡°Leni, you know you have to.¡±


    ¡°...yeah, I do.¡± Lenin admitted, before forcing himself to get up. ¡°You better get me a drink while I¡¯m gone.¡±


    ¡°No promises!¡± Saxin teased, before turning back around to Harley. ¡°Shouldn¡¯t you be preparing for your match?¡±


    ¡°I was...kinda in my head about some stuff...¡± Harley said, leaning on the bar. ¡°...me and the rest of the team got into a fight...¡±


    ¡°Oh...¡± Saxin let out, reaching out to pat her on the back, as Seears quickly came over.


    ¡°Hey, get off the b-¡± He started, only to notice it was Harley. ¡°Oh hey, it¡¯s you.¡±


    ¡°Yeah...hi, Seears.¡± Harley greeted, slightly confused.


    ¡°A woman came in asking for you.¡± Seears said, as Harley looked surprised. ¡°And your team. I don¡¯t know what her deal was, but just a heads up.¡±


    ¡°A woman?¡± Harley wondered, giving Harley pause for thought, as Saxin cleared her throat.


    ¡°So, about your fight...¡± Saxin said. ¡°This wouldn¡¯t happen to do with Essex¡¯s confession, would it?¡±


    A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation.


    Harley reeled a bit, as she backed up on her stool. ¡°How do you know about that?¡±


    ¡°Well...admittedly, I encouraged her on the night.¡± Saxin confessed, resting her hand on her cheek. ¡°But considering how she left in tears, I assumed the worst.¡±


    ¡°...yeah.¡± Harley said, before Seears brought her a glass of water. ¡°She wanted me and Sola to...well, you know...and I said I didn¡¯t want to...¡±


    ¡°Right...¡± Saxin said, just as she took a moment to sip her martini.


    Harley let a moment of silence pass between them, as Saxin cleared her throat.


    ¡°Harley, there¡¯s nothing wrong with a little independence.¡± Saxin pointed. ¡°However, there is something wrong with shutting people out.¡±


    Harley eyed her. ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°How does Essex feel about this?¡±


    ¡°...I wouldn¡¯t know. We haven¡¯t talked much...¡± Harley admitted, as Saxin looked back in Lenin¡¯s direction.


    ¡°You know, recently, Lenin and I had a conversation with the rest of our team.¡± Saxin prefaced, taking another sip of her drink. ¡°We wanted to experiment with a little music outside of the team¡¯s band. Something more connected to our northern roots.¡±


    Saxin smiled back in Lenin¡¯s direction. ¡°There was a bit of arguing with the others at first, but eventually, we saw eye to eye. Chops was in favour of it, and the rest just fell into place.¡±


    Harley looked away a bit, as Saxin swirled her glass in her hand. ¡°It¡¯s important to trust the people you want to trust you. It¡¯s a two-way street, of course.¡±


    Saxin turned back around to Harley and kept up her smile. ¡°We still perform with them every now and then, but we also reached an understanding. You¡¯re perfectly in the right if you don¡¯t want this...¡±


    Saxin reached out and lay her hand on Harley¡¯s. ¡°...but not if you drag Essex with you.¡±


    Harley left her hand there, not feeling much like pulling it away, just as Lenin made his way back over.


    ¡°So? How was your little meet cute?¡± Saxin teasingly asked.


    ¡°You know, he was actually really nice.¡± Lenin insisted, before waving a slip of paper. ¡°Also, yeah, I got it.¡±


    ¡°Ooo, goodie!¡± Saxin let out, before leaning over and kissing Lenin¡¯s cheek. ¡°You stud.¡±


    ¡°Charisma for days.¡± Lenin bragged, just as he noticed Harley getting up and heading out of the bar in a huff. ¡°Where¡¯s she going?¡±


    Saxin only just noticed and turned to find Harley¡¯s stool empty, before she sighed out. ¡°I gave some advice, but it might not be to her taste...¡±


    ¡°Bummer. It better not affect her tournament performance.¡± Lenin said, before staring up at the TV above the bar, getting ready for the upcoming fight.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Who even is this Archer guy?¡± Sola asked, lying on the desk next to the library computers. ¡°Just some stupid jerk, no doubt...¡±


    ¡°Apparently...¡± Essex started, scrolling her mouse wheel as she scanned her screen. ¡°He is very prolific in the Western Wayside, and regarded as a ¡®local hero.¡¯¡±


    Essex kept reading, as Sola joined her side. ¡°His parents were Venators...and he took down his first Wailing at age five.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s the dumbest lie ever.¡± Sola let out, leaning forward a little. ¡°He sounds like someone Harley would¡¯ve beat up back in school.¡±


    ¡°Understandably.¡± Essex added, before hitting the bottom of the page. ¡°The wheel won¡¯t scroll anymore.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s it?¡± Sola realised, before taking the mouse herself and scanning the website again. ¡°They¡¯ve only got an interview after he reached the top eight, but that¡¯s all there is on him.¡±


    ¡°This is frustrating...¡± Essex let out, sitting up. ¡°There must be something we can do...please...¡±


    Sola noticed Essex¡¯s annoyance and quickly held her hand, as Essex stared back at her.


    ¡°S-Sola...¡±


    ¡°We can get through this.¡± Sola assured, with a look of determination. ¡°Sola and Essex dream team.¡±


    ¡°Dream...?¡± Essex wondered, before taking in Sola¡¯s positive energy and pumping her fist. ¡°Dream team, yes.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s gotta be more here.¡± Sola pointed out, before opening a few more tabs. ¡°What about previous matches? They mig-¡±


    Sola stopped talking as she managed to find another bio relating to him on Activ, as Essex took notice and stood up. ¡°Sola? Are you okay?¡±


    ¡°Uhh...¡± Sola managed, pointing at a particular detail in the bio, as Essex read it aloud.


    ¡°...Whil: Old Wound. This allows him to...¡± Essex said, before silencing herself as she read it, checking it again to be completely sure. ¡°This...¡±


    ¡°His Whil lets him open up old wounds.¡± Sola confirmed, as Essex slowly fell back into her seat. ¡°If it¡¯s still healing, he can use that to his advantage and weaken his opponent...¡±


    Essex took a second, before sitting forward again. ¡°W-Would that include Harley¡¯s leg?¡±


    Sola shook her head fervently. ¡°The tournament staff have to know about this! They probably said he couldn¡¯t use it without being eliminated.¡±


    ¡°B-But...considering how Harley is feeling right now...¡± Essex reasoned, trying to recentre herself. ¡°She may push him...and he may use it regardless...¡±


    Sola eyes widened, as she immediately pulled out her tablet and started typing. ¡°Julia and Wess are still with her, right?¡±


    ¡°They should be.¡± Essex said, watching nervously as Sola typed out the message. ¡°T-Tell them it is an emergency, and that Harley needs to be safe, and that we need t-¡±


    ¡°Essex, it¡¯ll be okay.¡± Sola said, before finishing up her text. ¡°They¡¯ve got this.¡±


    ¡°...they¡¯ve got this.¡± Essex repeated, before getting out her seat. ¡°We won¡¯t reach the tournament hall in time, but...¡±


    ¡°Already on it!¡± Sola yelled, running out of the library, as Essex followed swiftly behind her.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Harley dragged herself back into the tournament hall, nervously checking her tablet for the time over and over, just as she came up on the changing rooms again. However, before she could get a moment¡¯s res-


    ¡°Harley! There you are.¡± Julia let out, running up to her. ¡°We wanted to come find you.¡±


    Harley charged past her. ¡°I said I didn¡¯t want any distractions.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re minutes from the match. It¡¯s a bit late for that.¡± Wess remarked.


    ¡°We just wanted to make sure you were ready for the match.¡± Julia said, touching her fingers together. ¡°Archer¡¯s a pretty brutal guy apparently...¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I¡¯m ready.¡± Harley assured, grabbing out some shoes from her locker and putting them on. ¡°I¡¯ve been training all day.¡±


    ¡°Do you...need help with anything?¡± Julia wondered, as Harley sighed out, before standing back up.


    ¡°Guys, just...go do something else, okay?¡± Harley let out, turning back around to them. ¡°You can watch or whatever, just...don¡¯t get in my head.¡±


    ¡°Competitors! Now¡¯s your time to get to the arena! Move yourselves!¡±


    Harley got up to leave, heading for the arena entryway, as Julia pumped her fist.


    ¡°You¡¯ve got this! Archer¡¯s toast.¡± Julia encouraged, just as Harley kept walking, determined to have her match.


    ¡°She¡¯s in a state.¡± Wess pointed out.


    ¡°...she¡¯s kinda like you were last year.¡± Julia joked, as Wess side-eyed her.


    ¡°Oh, hardy har har. You¡¯re quite the comedian.¡± Wess stated, just as Julia¡¯s tablet buzzed in her pocket, drawing her attention.


    She took it out and opened it up, just before her pupils shrank reading over Sola¡¯s text.


    Wess quickly noticed and reached out to her. ¡°Julia? What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    ¡°We need to get to Harley.¡± Julia insisted, frantically looking around her, before finding the exit and running out, straight down the hall.


    Wess followed after, worrying what the concern might be, just as they reached the entryway to the tournament.


    Julia scanned the room, before spotting Harley already in the arena proper.


    ¡°Harley! Harley! Archer¡¯s got a Whil! He...¡± Julia tried, only for Harley to disappear up the arena stairs, as the gate to the arena closed in front of her. ¡°Dammit!¡±


    ¡°Julia, what¡¯s the problem?¡± Wess demanded, as Julia went to bite her nails.


    ¡°A-Archer¡¯s got a Whil that lets him open old wounds.¡± Julia admitted, shocking Wess. ¡°A-And he might use it on Harley if she pushes him too far...¡±


    ¡°Harley!¡± Wess tried, yelling through the gate, only for her voice to blend in with the excited cheers and murmurs of the spectators surrounding the upcoming fight. ¡°She¡¯s too far at this point.¡±


    ¡°Th-The staff probably know about his Whil, so we can¡¯t get them to pull Harley out.¡± Julia reasoned, spinning in circles. ¡°A-And Harley would still want to keep fighting if we dragged her out against her will...¡±


    ¡°Come on.¡± Wess assured, grabbing Julia¡¯s hand. ¡°We¡¯ll find another way around. If we can tell her in time, she may be able to avoid it.¡±


    Julia calmed herself a little, before nodding back, as she followed Wess down the hall.


    Harley did her best to keep her calm as she stepped onto the arena. The match wasn¡¯t really what was on her mind, but it was where her attention was. Hopefully taking out Archer would distract from...


    ...everything.


    Archer slowly stepped up to the field, taking a few heavy steps, as the giant axe he was resting on his shoulder came into view.


    Harley checked her Buster Knuckles again, toggling the fire button on her jet boosters, before knocking her fists together, right as Spence¡¯s voice rang out.


    ¡°We¡¯re gearing up for another great match today! The unstoppable Harley Baroke versus the terrifying Archer Parthos! Two incredibly tough, formidable opponents going head-to-head!¡±


    ¡°Will Harley¡¯s recent injury hold her up, or will Archer¡¯s ruthlessness come out on top?¡± Vent added, just as Spence covered her mic.


    ¡°Vent, both those options suggest Harley los-¡±


    ¡°Competitors, you have ten seconds.¡± Vent announced. ¡°Get ready.¡±


    Harley grounded herself, holding her fists at the ready, as Archer did just the same, swinging his axe down to grip it in both hands.


    Both patiently waited as the timer ticked down, staring right at each other, just as the counter reached...


    3...


    2...


    ...1


    Harley immediately charged forward, using her jet boosters to gain some extra distance, as Archer anticipated and held his ground, waiting for her to strike.


    Harley aimed a right hook at him, only for him to duck and swing around her, knocking her to the side with the weight of his axe.


    Harley slid across the ground for a bit, only to get up right after, dusting herself off.


    Just then, she realised how close both of them were to the edge of the arena, before she went to rush him again, right as he went for a downward swing.


    She dodged it just before, heading to his left and landing a blow into his side, throwing him back a little, only for him to regain ground and charge at her with a shocking amount of endurance.


    Instead of knocking her out of the arena, he swung his axe and threw her back into the centre, leaving her vulnerable to being outmanoeuvred again.


    ¡°We¡¯re not ending it that quickly, Harley.¡± Archer insisted, closing the distance, as Harley tried her best to get back up.


    Archer used his advantage to swing his axe overhead again, aiming for Harley¡¯s injured leg, before she managed to pull herself away just in time.


    She tried to stand back up, just as her left leg started to sting, slowing her down badly.


    ¡°I bet the wounds getting to you, huh?¡± Archer remarked, chuckling to himself. ¡°Where¡¯s that fighting spirit? Why aren¡¯t yo-¡±


    Before Archer could keep speaking, Harley clocked him in the jaw, launching him back a fair way, as she did her best to stay standing, shaking off the slight pain in her hand.


    ¡°Shut up...¡± Harley let out, breathing heavily and straightening out her back. ¡°You¡¯re not good enough...to get that from me...¡±


    Archer gripped at his face, before getting back on his feet and feeling the sting Harley had left running through his body.


    ¡°...heh.¡± He let out, before tightening his grip on his axe handle. ¡°Still not good enough for you, huh? We¡¯ll see who¡¯s laughing soon...¡±


    ¡°The...other entrance is locked...too...¡± Wess managed, resting her hands on her knees, just as Julia joined up with her. ¡°She¡¯s...still too far...¡±


    ¡°And we...can¡¯t yell to her from the crowd...¡± Julia noted, before an idea popped in her head. ¡°Aren¡¯t there...staff...that come in to take away the injured fighters?¡±


    Wess perked up. ¡°They come in...from the infirmary. There must be an entrance there.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s see if it¡¯s open.¡± Julia said, as they both ran back out into the hall, determined to find a way in.


    They arrived quickly at the infirmary, luckily with no medical staff there to catch them.


    They both looked around, until Julia spotted a set of doors further into the room, before they both realised the doors were locked.


    ¡°No, come on!¡± Julia let out, peering into the glass. ¡°I can see a hallway, but I don¡¯t know if it¡¯s the right entrance. Are there any keys around?¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no time. Step aside.¡± Wess insisted, as she stepped back to get a run up, before Julia realised she was doing.


    ¡°Wess!¡± Julia said, grabbing onto her. ¡°We can¡¯t break the door down!¡±


    ¡°How else are we going to get to her?¡± Wess asked, as Julia shook her head.


    ¡°We¡¯ll find another way in.¡± Julia insisted. ¡°We can''t go breaking in there. If we get in troub-¡±


    ¡°Julia, we don¡¯t have any other option.¡± Wess pointed out, shaking Julia off. ¡°This is the only way we can get to her in time.¡±


    ¡°Not if we¡¯re breaking academy property. She might not even be through there, Wess.¡±


    ¡°But she might be.¡± Wess declared. ¡°And that¡¯s worth the risk.¡±


    Julia paused for a second, as the image of Harley in danger flashed before her again, before she slowly backed off, bowing her head and stepping out of the way.


    Wess readied herself and charged at it with her shoulder, before she busted through the door, throwing it open violently.


    She grabbed at her arm, wincing in pain, before Julia helped her up and kept running down the hall with her.


    After a couple turns, they arrived near the exit, with a gate that opened out into the arena just down the end of the hall.


    Before they could continue, however, Julia spotted a guard by the entrance and stopped herself, pulling Wess back behind the corner.


    ¡°Wess, there¡¯s a guard!¡± Julia let out, as Wess took another peek at him.


    ¡°It looks like we¡¯re on the right track.¡± Wess remarked.


    Julia took a few needed breaths. ¡°We can¡¯t just sneak past...the hallway¡¯s too narrow...¡±


    Wess scratched her chin in thought. ¡°You¡¯re right. How are we meant t-¡±


    Just as she said that, Julia charged right past her and immediately drew the guards attention.


    The guard stepped forward with his hand out. ¡°Hey, you can¡¯t be back here. This is a restricte-¡±


    ¡°Sorry!¡± Julia exclaimed, before holding up her hands at the approaching guard and slowing him down using her Whil, minimising his velocity to near nothing.


    Julia turned back to Wess and nodded, as she emerged from the corner and ran forward, sprinting past the irate guard and to the gate, just as she caught a glimpse of Harley and Archer, locked in fierce combat.


    ¡°Harley!¡± Wess tried to call out, attempting to pull herself through the gate to no avail.


    She quickly looked back at the guard and noticed the ring of keys on his belt, before taking them off of him, just as Julia was starting to sweat.


    ¡°Hurry up, Wess! I-I can¡¯t...¡± Julia managed, wincing as the guard started to speed himself up.


    Wess hurriedly found the key she was looking for, before opening up the gate, as she ran out into the surrounding area, just outside of the arena.


    ¡°Harley!¡± Wess called out, getting to the edge of the arena. ¡°Harley!¡±


    Archer swung his axe again, as Harley nimbly dodged, just as she spotted Wess in her periphery and stopped.


    ¡°Wess?!¡± Harley yelled out.


    ¡°What the...?¡± Spence let out, just as the crowd noticed Wess down on the field. ¡°Is that...?¡±


    ¡°It appears one of Harley Baroke¡¯s teammates has arrived on the field for unknown reasons.¡± Vent announced, turning the mic away. ¡°We have security on this, right?¡±


    ¡°Wess, what are yo-¡±


    ¡°Archer has a Whil!¡± Wess interrupted, pointing back at him. ¡°It lets him open up wounds! He¡¯s gonna use it on you-¡±


    Before Wess could continue, the guard from earlier tackled her to the ground, having freed himself from a now exhausted Julia, as Harley turned her attention back to the fight.


    Archer has a... Harley thought, only to turn around and notice Archer¡¯s hand glowing a subtle red, pointing down at her leg while she was distracted by Wess.


    She jumped out of the way, just as she felt the effects of his Whil starting to kick in, only for Archer to grit his teeth at the missed opportunity.


    Just as Archer went to continue their match, a loud, piercing alarm blared out across the tournament hall, as security flooded into the arena, holding Julia and Wess back from causing any further interruptions.


    ¡°Apologies, viewers, but it seems one of our competitors'' teammates was attempting to manipulate the fight.¡± Vent announced, as Spence decided to stay silent. ¡°This match will be postponed until the intentions of the parties involved is made clear. Until then...¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°...¡±


    ¡°...¡±


    ¡°...¡±


    ¡°...I don¡¯t know what to say.¡±


    Faller tapped his finger in frustration, as Julia, Wess and Harley sat across from him in his office, waiting for some kind of reprimand.


    ¡°...I just...¡± Faller let out, spinning around in his chair. ¡°Out of all the teams to disrupt this tournament...¡±


    ¡°S-Sir, we ju-¡± Julia said, only for Faller to raise his hand and face them again.


    ¡°I¡¯m not done.¡± Faller stated. ¡°...I want some reasoning.¡±


    ¡°Well, w-¡± Wess attempted, just as Faller raised his hand again, before pointing to the fairly dejected Harley, lost in thought.


    ¡°From her.¡± Faller said, as Harley quickly noticed. ¡°Why did your teammates feel the need to bypass security and break the tournament¡¯s rules?¡±


    Harley sat up, before sharing a look between Julia and Wess, as they were visibly panicked.


    ¡°...well.¡± Harley started, taking a breath. ¡°We¡¯d...recently gotten into a fight. Before the match. So...I went off to train and ignored my teammates help. They tried to warn me about my opponent, but I didn¡¯t listen...¡±


    Harley gave a brief glance to the duo, before going back to the floor. ¡°...and, in order to make sure I was safe, they...did what they had to, even when I didn¡¯t ask for it...and even if they¡¯d get in trouble for it...¡±


    ¡°So, this was a team effort?¡± Faller asked, as Julia shook her head vehemently.


    ¡°N-No, sir, it was my idea. I dragged Wess along and slowed the guard down.¡± Julia admitted, holding onto Wess¡¯ hand just as she was about to protest. ¡°Sola and Essex let us know, but I¡¯m the one who insisted we interrupt.¡±


    Faller tried to make out her expression, just as his eyes lowered to her hand locked with Wess¡¯, before sighing out.


    ¡°You know I saw your stunt after your most recent match, Miss Nouvel.¡± Faller admitted, causing Wess to blush. ¡°Whatever your relationship, a leader acting as the scapegoat is all too typical.¡±


    Faller leaned back in his chair. ¡°Even outside of that, I¡¯m sure someone as capable as Wess would¡¯ve been able to pull herself away if she was truly against this.¡±


    Faller waved his hand casually. ¡°I understand where you¡¯re coming from. You were worried for your teammate''s safety, so you took what action you could, save for more direct cheating or messing with your opponent.¡±


    He then stood up, before circling his desk. ¡°But this is a competition, and you broke its rules. As punishment, Miss Nouvel, you¡¯re suspended from competing in the tournament any further.¡±


    Wess went to protest, before deciding to stay silent and nod along, just as Faller turned his attention to Harley.


    ¡°Additionally, as you seem to agree with your team''s behaviour, you¡¯ll be suspended from the tournament as well.¡± Faller pointed out. ¡°Unless...you feel that they were actually in the wrong here.¡±


    Faller leaned back on his desk, as he gave Harley a trusting look. ¡°Do you support your teams'' actions?¡±


    Harley looked back at the duo, and without hesitation, nodded assuredly.


    ¡°Yeah, I do.¡±


    Faller¡¯s stern demeanour gave way a little, as he showed his hand. ¡°Unfortunately, I¡¯m going to have to suspend you as well. As of now, Team Valiant are no longer competing in the tournament.¡±


    Julia face sunk a little, as Wess reached out to hold her hand too, just as Faller pulled out a few papers from his drawer.


    ¡°You¡¯ll be able to collect your weapons early, and can resume the rest of these semester¡¯s studies as usual.¡± Faller said, handing off the forms to Julia. ¡°Try not to disrupt the tournament further. The academy needs this right now.¡±


    Julia nodded silently, before getting up with the others and heading off to leave, just as Faller called out.


    ¡°And, Harley...¡±


    Harley turned back around.


    ¡°Rest your leg. You don¡¯t want to put much more strain on it.¡±


    ¡°Yeah...right...¡± Harley let out, just as the trio left the office, feeling the uncomfortable air coming in from everything that had transpired.


    ¡°...well then.¡± Wess said. ¡°That wasn¡¯t the most uncomfortable meeting I¡¯ve had with him...¡±


    ¡°Y-You guys got eliminated...¡± Julia realised, just as Wess rested herself on Julia¡¯s side.


    ¡°Knowingly. It was worth it.¡± Wess assured, sharing a smile with Julia, just as Harley felt the need to speak up.


    ¡°...I¡¯m sorry...¡±


    Julia and Wess turned to Harley, as she kicked the ground.


    ¡°I fucked up so much...if I¡¯d just listened and...and you wouldn¡¯t have needed to...¡± Harley attempted, just as Julia reached out.


    ¡°Come on, we¡¯re the ones who broke the rules. You were upset.¡± Julia reasoned, as Wess nodded beside her.


    ¡°We knew the consequences going in.¡± Wess assured, as Harley sunk her head into her hands.


    ¡°...I don¡¯t...I don¡¯t just mean the match...¡± Harley admitted, as Julia led her over to the seats outside of Faller¡¯s office. ¡°...if we didn¡¯t have that f-fight...gods, I¡¯m a mess...¡±


    ¡°Hey, it¡¯s alright.¡± Julia smiled, rubbing Harley¡¯s back. ¡°Just let it out.¡±


    ¡°Are you worried you hurt Essex?¡± Wess asked, as Harley nodded her head in her hands.


    ¡°...I didn¡¯t want to...it¡¯s...it¡¯s not that I don¡¯t like her...¡± Harley let out, still covering her face. ¡°Or that us...being more isn¡¯t something I want...¡±


    Harley finally lifted her face, as she wiped her nose with her arm. ¡°...I was just so scared...of losing Sola...or Sola leaving me for her...or...¡±


    Harley shook her head, as she did her best not to cry. ¡°...and why wouldn¡¯t she? All I¡¯ve done is screw up...they¡¯re both too good for me...¡±


    ¡°Harley...that¡¯s not true.¡± Julia assured, holding both her sides. ¡°You¡¯ve had it rough for a while, but you can bounce back. You¡¯re the toughest out of all of us.¡±


    Julia reached up to wipe a tear from her eye. ¡°If you tell Sola and Essex about this, I¡¯m sure you¡¯ll work something out. Sola¡¯s a great listener, and Essex would feel a lot better knowing you had a reason for acting the way you did.¡±


    ¡°...I don¡¯t know...¡± Harley groaned, as Wess reached over too.


    ¡°Come on. Really think about it.¡± Wess insisted. ¡°If you just hold this all back, it¡¯ll only get worse. And if there¡¯s anyone you can tell...¡±


    Wess stared back up at Julia and smiled.


    ¡°...it¡¯s the people you love.¡±


    Harley let her think for a second, as the duo gave her a needed moment to be at peace with herself.


    ¡°...¡±


    ¡°...¡±


    ¡°...¡±


    ¡°...we should head back. Sola and Essex probably want an update.¡± Julia said, helping Harley get up.


    ¡°Yeah...hey, can...¡± Harley started, visibly embarrassed. ¡°Just...when we get back, can I get some alone time with them? I think we should talk some things out.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s a great idea, Harley.¡± Julia encouraged. ¡°Me and Wess can plan out the rest of our semester, now that the tournament¡¯s not an option.¡±


    ¡°That sounds lovely.¡± Wess said, as she noticed Harley¡¯s lack of energy. ¡°This will work itself out. I was in a similar state after breaking up with Cyrus.¡±


    Harley nodded silently, clearly still in her own head about all of this.


    ¡°And you¡¯re very charismatic. I¡¯m sure you can smooth things over.¡± Wess assured. ¡°After all, you¡¯ve got a very large chest.¡±


    Harley admittedly snickered at the comment, as her mood picked up a little, just as Julia slowed down a little while walking, reading over the papers Faller had handed her.


    ¡°It seems like we have to pick up our weapons by the end of the day.¡± Julia realised, scratching her head. ¡°They really didn¡¯t make it easy for us, huh?¡±


    ¡°Oh great. Now they¡¯re being held at ransom.¡± Wess remarked, just as Harley perked her head up.


    Just as Julia was lost in thought, Harley reached out and took the sheet for herself.


    ¡°I can take care of this.¡± Harley insisted, putting on a smile.


    ¡°Really?¡± Julia asked, as Harley nodded back.


    ¡°It¡¯s the least I can do to make it up to you guys.¡± Harley assured, giving a thumbs up. ¡°You¡¯ve done enough, really. Get back and take it easy.¡±


    ¡°...alright.¡± Julia said, waving to her, before heading off with Wess. ¡°Tell us if you need any help.¡±


    Harley waved back, before taking a breath once they rounded the corner.


    ¡°...you¡¯ve got this, Harley.¡± She assured herself, heading in the direction of the tournament hall.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°...maybe a dinner? No, that¡¯s too obvious...and Essex hates dining.¡± Harley thought over, tapping the papers to her head. ¡°What would Essex like? Probably something combat related...¡±


    Harley arrived at one of the spare storage rooms in the tournament hall, filled with large lockers used to store each team¡¯s set of weapons.


    ¡°She likes ska music, maybe I can make that work...I should probably do something for Sola too...¡± Harley suggested, as she scanned over the lockers for the word ¡®Valiant.¡¯ ¡°I could take up their offer of laser tag.¡±


    Harley eventually found it, before putting in the combination for the locker, as she opened it to find everyone¡¯s weapons present.


    ¡°...there¡¯s no big thing I could do to make it up to them.¡± Harley admitted, gripping the locker door. ¡°It¡¯ll just come off as...¡±


    Before Harley could continue, she was distracted by spotting Dennis passing by in the hall, muttering something to himself.


    Getting an idea, Harley quickly went to close the locker, before running down the hall after him.


    ¡°Hey! Dennis!¡±


    He turned around suddenly, only for his mood to immediately sour. ¡°Oh great. Look who wants to chat.¡±


    He folded his arms as Harley ran over. ¡°Thanks to your team¡¯s stunt, Andro¡¯s now associated with the team that ¡®disrupted¡¯ the tournament and tried to cheat.¡±


    Harley caught up, as Dennis started counting on his fingers. ¡°On top of that, my bosses caught wind of our tactic and want a word with me. Apparently, there¡¯s some big deals in the works, so this kinda PR screw up is not what we need right now.¡±


    ¡°Yeah...I get that.¡± Harley admitted, catching her breath. ¡°But please, don¡¯t drag my team¡¯s name through the mud...¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t see why I shouldn¡¯t. I was a passive player in this, you guys did most of the work.¡± Dennis reasoned.


    ¡°It...was my idea.¡± Harley ¡®confessed.¡¯ ¡°I thought a big spectacle like that would drum up attention, but it just went wrong.¡±


    ¡°Wait, you planned that?¡± Dennis asked, folding his arms. ¡°And you didn¡¯t feel like advising me ahead of time?¡±


    ¡°...it was a surprise...for everyone?¡± Harley said, as Dennis just groaned.


    ¡°So what, you were the mastermind?¡± Dennis wondered, as Harley nodded back.


    ¡°Just don¡¯t let the others get dragged down.¡± Harley insisted, before snapping her fingers. ¡°How about I talk to your bosses for you? I can vouch for it, smooth things over...¡±


    Dennis looked unimpressed.


    ¡°...talk up how well you did your job.¡±


    Dennis admittedly thought this over, before pulling out his tablet and heading further down the hall. ¡°Fine. If you feel like being some martyr, be my guest.¡±


    ¡°Great. Thank you.¡± Harley said, as she stared back at the locker room, before following Dennis to a more appropriate place to take the call.


    She¡¯d had enough.


    Win after win after win, against her, against the Wailing, against whoever...


    It was enough to make her blood boil ten times over, and she wasn¡¯t going to sit by while they soaked up praise and admiration for their victories.


    Not while she could do something about it.


    Rosalind trudged down the tournament halls, having left the infirmary in hopes of finding one of them weakened and recovering after their recent matches. No such luck, as she pushed through anyone that manage to pass her.


    ¡°Screw you, Wicker...¡± She muttered, resting her hand on her sword handle. ¡°I¡¯m done with this shit. You want them to stop being a problem? So do I.¡±


    She hurried down the hall, ready to head to the student dorms out of desperation, only to notice a large swath of blonde hair turning the corner up ahead.


    ¡°That¡¯s blondie...¡± Rosalind let out, as her anger was renewed. ¡°I bet the others are with her. Finally, some proper fucking payback...¡±


    Rosalind was dead set on her goal, ready to take her victory for herself, only to pass by the locker room holding the tournament¡¯s weaponry.


    Nothing noteworthy there, save for one of the lockers opened slightly ajar, with Essex¡¯s very recognisable scythe just peeking through the crack.


    Rosalind stopped right by the entrance and stared in awe, before approaching the locker, careful not to alert anyone to her presence.


    She slowly opened the locker and stepped back as all of Team Valiant¡¯s weapons were on display, right in front of her.


    Slowly, a wicked smile grew across her face.


    Harley hurried back through the hallway, deliberately trying to run as she made her way back to the lockers. The call had taken longer than she would¡¯ve liked, but at least she knew Team Valiant¡¯s name was somewhat safe.


    She turned a corner, before running back to the locker room, just as she let out a sigh of relief.


    ¡°This¡¯ll take a couple trips, but it¡¯ll be worth it.¡± Harley assured herself, feeling some confidence slowly return to her. ¡°Alright, let¡¯s do this.¡±


    Harley jogged over to the locker, putting in the combination again, only to open it up and find it was empty.


    Curious, she looked around the locker, finding nothing, before trying out the combination on the other lockers next to it, all to no avail.


    ¡°Did the others come and get them...?¡± Harley wondered, before realising she was the only one with the combination.


    Starting to panic, she left the room, just as a tournament staff member was passing by, idly checking some work.


    ¡°Hey, hold up.¡± Harley said, getting their attention. ¡°Do you know where my team¡¯s weapons went?¡±


    ¡°Weapons?¡± They asked, looking back into the room. ¡°Were you here to collect them?¡±


    ¡°Yeah. Team Valiant.¡± Harley admitted, as the staff recognised her. ¡°Did you guys take them back early or something?¡±


    ¡°No, we wouldn¡¯t have done that for a few more hours.¡± The staff member admitted, as Harley was starting to sweat. ¡°Perhaps your team collected them ahead of time?¡±


    ¡°...yeah, yeah, that¡¯s probably what happened.¡± Harley assured, running off down the hallway, leaving the staff member on their own.


    Harley headed outside of the tournament hall, hoping to head back to the engineering department to find Jovie, as she pulled out her tablet to ask the team if they had their weapons...


    ...only to notice a ute parked just by the hall, with the back covered in a tarp, obscuring everything, except the top of Essex¡¯s scythe.


    Harley dropped her tablet, just as the car started to drive off down the road, letting Harley lock eyes with the driver, with Rosalind giving back a proud grin, before driving off to who knows where, leaving Harley in a state of utter shock.


    She struggled to come to grips with everything that had gone down, while the car disappeared into the middle distance, only for her tablet to buzz on the ground with a new message.


    Julia [Harley? Did something happen?]

 Chapter 43: Break In

    Florey excitedly drove up to the EHM building, humming to himself as he tapped his hands on the wheel. It had been a long time coming, and the fruits of his labour were already paying off.


    Florey looked around for the employee parking lot, before coming across it and struggling to find a space. He drove through the entire lot, only to come up empty, as he settled for driving back to a spot a block away.


    Right as he got out of his car, he heard an impressed whistle coming from behind.


    ¡°Wow. Look at Mister Paycheck.¡± Cassidy remarked, holding a sandwich and coffee. ¡°Finally saved up enough for it, huh?¡±


    ¡°Yeah. The walk was nice and all, but it was starting to wear me out.¡± Florey admitted. ¡°Cecil wanted to get me one, but I felt like earning it myself.¡±


    ¡°I can respect that. My first one was easily the worst car I¡¯ve ever owned, but I loved it to death.¡± Cassidy admitted, joining Florey on his walk to the building. ¡°Nearly crashed me into the first floor one time.¡±


    ¡°No kidding.¡± Florey remarked.


    Cassidy nodded back, before looking up at the sky. ¡°You know, you could probably ask Ryan for a reserved spot. Since you¡¯re his apprentice and all.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Florey wondered, scratching his cheek. ¡°It wouldn¡¯t be an imposition?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re an employee. You¡¯re allowed to park closer to the building.¡± Cassidy reasoned. ¡°If I hadn¡¯t parked in mine earlier, I would¡¯ve offered my spot to you.¡±


    Cassidy took another bite of her sandwich. ¡°But just for today.¡±


    Cassidy waited for a response, only to turn and find Florey with his tablet out, calling up Cecil, as she shook her head understandingly and kept walking. ¡°I¡¯ll meet you inside.¡±


    Florey¡¯s full attention was on the call, as he waited patiently for a response, right as the call went through.


    ¡°Hello?¡±


    ¡°H-Hi, Mr Cecil...it¡¯s Florey.¡±


    ¡°Oh, Florey. How are you?¡±


    ¡°Good, good.¡± Florey replied, kicking his foot idly. ¡°I was, uhh...I was talking with Cassidy, and she said I should ask about getting a reserved parking spot.¡±


    ¡°Does that mean you managed to save up for the Ranger?¡±


    ¡°Yes, I did actually.¡± Florey said, glancing back at it parked further down the street. ¡°It¡¯s parked about a block away from EHM, so I fig-¡±


    ¡°A reserved parking spot, you said?¡±


    ¡°Y-Yeah, that¡¯s...just so I can...well, you know...¡±


    ¡°...tell you what. We actually have a separate parking facility.¡± Cecil admitted. ¡°It¡¯s reserved for another department, but you can use it for now. After that, I¡¯ll see about getting you a personal space.¡±


    ¡°Y-Yes, sir, thank you.¡± Florey said, feeling his voice catch at the generous offer. ¡°I won¡¯t get in their way, will I?¡±


    ¡°No, of course not. Admittedly, you may even be transferred there in the future.¡± Cecil suggested. ¡°Go ahead and use it. It¡¯s the west exit off of Idis Street, just down a level. All the best, Florey.¡±


    ¡°You...as well.¡± Florey tried, before hanging up and smacking his forehead. Putting his tablet away, he headed back to his car to change over parking spots, as his excitement started to overwhelm him.


    ¡°My own spot...¡± Florey grinned, celebrating as he walked. ¡°Everything¡¯s really working out for me...¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Harley sprinted down the hall, charging past other students causally talking, as she beelined for the dorms, heading straight for Team Valiant¡¯s dorm.


    She was doing her best to control her breathing, but it was all she could do not to freeze up in panic.


    ¡°So Harley got eliminated?¡±


    Julia nodded sadly. ¡°Yeah. Her and Wess aren¡¯t allowed to compete after what we did.¡±


    ¡°And is she okay?¡± Essex insisted.


    ¡°She¡¯s fine. A little frazzled, but...¡± Wess said, turning to Julia. ¡°...it seems she¡¯s reflected a little on her actions.¡±


    Essex let out a sigh of relief, as Sola hugged Essex unprompted.


    ¡°Thank goodness. If that jerk Archer had done anything...¡± Sola admitted, just as Essex realised she was being hugged, though didn¡¯t do anything to stop it. ¡°Is she getting back so-¡±


    The door burst open, as the team turned to address Harley, only to realise she was sweating and panting, with visible panic in her eyes.


    ¡°Harley, what¡¯s wrong?¡± Julia asked, as Harley tried to breathe. ¡°I saw you tried to text earlier.¡±


    ¡°Are they refusing to hand back our weapons?¡± Wess suggested, only for Harley to shake her head.


    ¡°...they...¡± Harley got out, before catching her breath. ¡°...they got stolen...¡±


    The team reeled in shock, as the weight of Harley¡¯s news sunk in for everyone.


    ¡°S-Stolen?¡± Essex asked, as Sola helped Harley over to the couch, before hurrying to get her some water.


    ¡°W-What do you mean stolen? That¡¯s...¡± Julia asked, as Harley quickly downed the glass. ¡°Harley, don¡¯t kid arou-¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not kidding!¡± Harley yelled out, still panting. ¡°I went to grab them...and then I got distracted...and when I got back...¡±


    Harley slammed her fist on the coffee table. ¡°...they¡¯re gone. I lost them...¡±


    ¡°S-Surely that can¡¯t be true.¡± Wess insisted, just as the team joined Harley in the seating area. ¡°T-There have to be security measures in place. They¡¯re stored in locke-¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t...close it properly or something.¡± Harley admitted, slamming her foot down and grabbing her head. ¡°I just wanted to get them for us and I fucked up all over again...¡±


    ¡°Hey.¡± Sola said, sitting next to her and resting her arm on Harley¡¯s back. ¡°Don¡¯t beat yourself up. You¡¯ve been through a lot lately.¡±


    ¡°...but they¡¯re gone.¡± Harley reiterated, sitting back up. ¡°All of them. My Buster Knuckles, Belvedere, Essex¡¯s scythe...¡±


    ¡°Harley.¡± Essex said, sitting across from her on the coffee table. ¡°This may be all of our weapons, but they can be recovered. This is not your burden alone. If you need our help, we¡¯ll be there to aid you.¡±


    Harley looked Essex in the eyes and stayed silent, quietly taking in her intentions, as Julia reached over the couch and rested a hand on Harley.


    ¡°...Essex is right. They¡¯ve got to be somewhere.¡± Julia stated. ¡°Do you have any idea who could have taken them?¡±


    ¡°Most likely an opportunistic burglar.¡± Wess proposed. ¡°Venator weapons sell for qui-¡±


    ¡°Actually...I think I know who.¡± Harley said, silencing the room and rubbing her hands together. ¡°...I saw her right after it happened. She was driving off...and I saw Essex¡¯s scythe in the back of her car.¡±


    Harley took a desperate breath. ¡°...it had to be Rosalind Castello. I¡¯m sure of it.¡±


    ¡°Rosalind?¡± Sola repeated in shock.


    ¡°¡®Wicker¡¯ Rosalind?¡± Julia asked, as Harley nodded back.


    ¡°She must have...I dunno, been spying on us.¡± Harley suggested. ¡°I went to the Daiquiri Lounge before the fight, and Seears said there was a woman in there asking about us and where we were.¡±


    ¡°Was she tryna sneak away with the weapons while we were somewhere else?¡± Sola guessed, as Julia scratched her chin.


    ¡°Maybe. At least we know who...probably has them.¡± Julia admitted. ¡°Except we don¡¯t know where she is...¡±


    ¡°She would be with Wicker, correct?¡± Essex noted, only for Wess to raise a finger.


    ¡°Who we also don¡¯t know the location of.¡± Wess pointed out. ¡°They¡¯re both an enigma at this point.¡±


    ¡°But she was on campus! Maybe there¡¯s security footage of her taking them.¡± Sola suggested, sitting up. ¡°If we show that to campus security, they¡¯d have to help us out!¡±


    Harley shrugged. ¡°May-¡±


    ¡°We can¡¯t do that.¡±


    Everyone turned to Julia, as she shook her head in protest.


    ¡°...we can¡¯t go to security.¡± Julia reiterated. ¡°Not while there¡¯s still a chance Faller is Wicker. If Rosalind did take them, then we can¡¯t risk going to him for help.¡±


    ¡°But we can ask Dulce for help, right?¡± Harley asked.


    ¡°...no, no, Julia¡¯s right. If we let anyone else in on this, word will undoubtedly get to Faller about the recently eliminated team whose weapons were stolen.¡± Wess begrudgingly admitted. ¡°And if ¡®Wicker¡¯ finds out that we know about Rosalind...¡±


    Sola started shuddering, as Harley instinctively wrapped an arm around her for comfort.


    ¡°...we should attempt to locate possible hideouts for Rosalind.¡± Essex suggested. ¡°Ones where she could hide weaponry without it being considered suspicious. After that, we should plan out an attack in case we¡¯re to confront her and Wicker.¡±


    ¡°Good idea. You guys get onto mapping that out, and I¡¯ll get us some proper dinner.¡± Julia said, sighing out and staring at the setting sun. ¡°This is gonna be a long night...¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Rosalind excitedly pulled into her empty spot, as the high she was riding all the way from the academy was still hitting her. She nestled her ute into her space, before getting out and whistling happily, just as the door to the main structure opened up.


    ¡°Hey, there¡¯s the main man.¡± Rosalind remarked, just as Wicker made his way in, followed slowly by Salaire. ¡°Oh, and he¡¯s here.¡±


    ¡°Evening, Rosalind.¡± Salaire greeted, as she flipped him off.


    ¡°Rosalind. Is there any reason you texted me?¡± Wicker asked, only for Rosalind to kick the side of her ute.


    ¡°You tell me.¡± She said, indicating to the cloth covering the back of it, as Wicker raised an eyebrow, before tentatively checking under the sheet.


    It took him a second to realise what it was, just as he lowered it again.


    ¡°Good move, right?¡± Rosalind let out, just as Wicker closed in on her with fury in his eyes.


    ¡°What the hell is this, Rosalind?¡± Wicker demanded, as Rosalind backed up slightly.


    ¡°I got their weapons.¡± She bragged, standing up a little more. ¡°Team Valiant. They were dumb enough t-¡±


    Wicker slammed his hand on the back of the ute, as Salaire visibly flinched.


    ¡°You took their weapons without informing me?¡±


    Rosalind glared at him. ¡°I had a limited window.¡±


    ¡°And you brought them here?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, so wha-¡±


    ¡°Are you in your right mind?¡± Wicker demanded. ¡°Do you refuse to admit your actions have consequences?¡±


    Rosalind grit her teeth, as Wicker tightened his grip.


    ¡°What if they placed a tracking device in the handles? What if their Whils let them locate objects?¡± Wicker insisted, stepping forward. ¡°You didn¡¯t think, did you? You just rushed in on instinct alone and almost led them here.¡±


    ¡°Hey, I did my fucking job. You said I couldn¡¯t kill them. This is the next best thing.¡± Rosalind insisted. ¡°If they¡¯re dumb enough to wander into here, we know how to dispatch of them, which should be ten times easier now that they¡¯re limping around without weapons.¡±


    Wicker banged his fist on the car, as Rosalind shrank down slightly.


    ¡°You don¡¯t make these calls.¡±


    Rosalind snarled up at him, before slipping out of Wicker¡¯s range. ¡°Mission complete, boss. You¡¯re welcome.¡±


    She left into the main building in a violent huff, before Salaire wandered to Wicker¡¯s side and breathed in through his teeth. ¡°That could have been smoother.¡±


    ¡°We need to return the weapons without making a fuss.¡± Wicker said. ¡°Let¡¯s say one of our drivers came across her car and found the stolen weapons suspicious. We can return them while distancing ourselves from being responsible.¡±


    ¡°Easily done. I¡¯ll find a driver who can cover for us.¡± Salaire agreed, pulling out his tablet. ¡°We should also hold off returning them for a few days to add to the authenticity.¡±


    Wicker stared at Salaire, as he briefly broke a sweat.


    ¡°U-Unless you don¡¯t think that¡¯s a good idea?¡±


    ¡°...we¡¯ll transport them to a separate facility in the morning.¡± Wicker decided. ¡°Somewhere a bit expendable in case they¡¯re discovered. For now, we¡¯ll have them moved inside.¡±


    ¡°R-Right, of course. Having them on site is...¡± Salaire said, only for Wicker to stare at him again. ¡°...I¡¯ll stop talking, sir.¡±


    ¡°Thank you.¡± Wicker let out, wandering back into the facility. ¡°Rosalind¡¯s already lit a fire under my ass. I¡¯d rather not have the flame fanned with such an important deal coming up...¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Out of everywhere in Detu City, there¡¯s only so many places where a potential facility could be built.¡± Wess reasoned, as she spread out a map of the city over the coffee table. ¡°The city¡¯s seen a large revival in its infrastructure in recent years, so there¡¯s hardly any abandoned buildings or warehouses to scope.¡±


    ¡°Plus, it¡¯s all pretty centralised.¡± Harley noted, pointing at the circular structure of the city. ¡°Everything builds up in Detu Central, while the surrounding area¡¯s either residential or the academy.¡±


    ¡°...the central forest is fairly unmapped.¡± Essex remarked, noting the edge of the city where the forest started to bleed in. ¡°If it were to be built there, it would mostly be ignored.¡±


    ¡°Actually, you can¡¯t build there.¡± Julia called out from the kitchen, as everyone lifted their heads. ¡°It¡¯s considered ¡®essential environment,¡¯ so development¡¯s not allowed to touch it. That¡¯s why the academy hasn¡¯t cut down the surrounding forests.¡±


    ¡°Right, but if this is being run by Wicker, they wouldn¡¯t care about that sort of thing.¡± Wess clarified, sitting back. ¡°Then again, how could they build something out there without drawing attention...?¡±


    ¡°Alright, that probably means it¡¯s not there.¡± Harley said, crossing out the spot with a marker.


    ¡°Ooo, the HyperMall¡¯s pretty big! What if it¡¯s there?¡± Sola suggested, just as she got looks from the others.


    ¡°...¡±


    ¡°...¡±


    ¡°...we¡¯ll keep looking.¡± Wess said, just as Sola pouted and leaned back on the couch, before turning to Julia.


    ¡°Hey. Is dinner ready yet?¡±


    ¡°Almost done!¡± Julia called out, going back to working on her rissoles, just as her mind started to wander to Rosalind and their weapons, what she was doing with them, what they would do without them...


    ...would we have to get new ones? Julia wondered, slowing down on her cooking. Would I have to take responsibility?...how are we meant the finish the rest of semester?


    Her mind kept drifting, as the panic set in.


    What if we get in trouble for losing them?...w-what if we get expelled?


    Julia suddenly dropped her tongs, as they clattered to the floor, surprising the others.


    ¡°Sorry, sorry...¡± Julia excused, picking them up again, before continuing on dinner. ¡°...please, something come through...¡±


    ¡°Skibbidy ba ba...skibby da...¡± Florey sung to himself, as he headed for the parking facility, appreciating the orange glow over Detu City as the evening slowly turned to night. He spun his keys around in his hand, as the satisfaction of a good day''s work was settling in.


    ¡°I should thank Cecil for the park...¡± Florey wondered, making his way down. ¡°What would he like as a gift?¡±


    Florey thought on this, as he went across the line of cars, looking around for his.


    ¡°Maybe a trip? Something for him and Marcus...¡± Florey muttered, before rethinking it. ¡°...then again, Marcus creeps me out...I probably shouldn¡¯t say that out loud. For all I know, he¡¯s around the corner.¡±


    Just then, he managed to find his car, as he clicked the keys and chucked his bag inside, ready to drive off back home, just as he passed his side-view mirror with something in the reflection catching his eye.


    As his curiosity started to get the better of him, he spun around and noticed a car across from him, with a cover over the back and something reflecting off the overhead light coming from the inside, just as he made his way over, slowly visualising what was underneath.


    Once he got closer, the items came into view, as a pentagon-shaped jewel attached to a sword stood out immediately, giving him pause for thought.


    ¡°Belvedere?¡± Florey remarked to himself, before he pulled back the sheet, just as all the weaponry made itself clear to him, with it all belonging to Team Valiant.


    Florey stepped back in surprise, taking a second to understand what he was seeing, before his hand started to lower on the sheet.


    ¡°What are their weapons doing here?¡± Florey wondered, thinking to himself. ¡°And why are they...?¡±


    Florey looked at them again. ¡°Maybe they¡¯re being modified? Or...something. Something like that...¡±


    Florey¡¯s instincts started to tell him to lower the sheet, as he did so and headed back to his car, only for a nagging feeling to tug at him to turn back around.


    ¡°...no, there¡¯s a good reason for this. Just...one I don¡¯t know.¡± Florey reasoned, only to realise he was standing still, still looking back at the car curiously.


    Taking a deep breath, he stepped back over and pulled up the sheet again, before taking out his tablet.


    ¡°They wouldn¡¯t be hiding at the bowling alley!¡±


    ¡°But it¡¯s loud there!¡± Sola defended, folding her arms. ¡°No one could...hear them scheming.¡±


    ¡°They wouldn¡¯t be able to hear themselves.¡± Wess remarked, crossing it off the map. ¡°Are we any closer to narrowing this down?¡±


    ¡°...perhaps there are quieter bowling places?¡± Essex offered, only to get judging looks from the others.


    Just then, as Julia was finishing plating up everyone¡¯s dinner, she felt her tablet vibrate in her pocket, as she went to grab it, right as the team found another potential spot.


    ¡°We haven¡¯t even considered outside of Detu City.¡± Harley noted, pulling up a map of Central Point on her tablet. ¡°What about Yue Wai? There¡¯s barely anything up there. If I was running some evil organisation, I¡¯d want to be as far away from people as possible.¡±


    ¡°Harley, we have to be realistic with our search.¡± Wess pointed out. ¡°Technically, Rosalind could be anywhere in Daysend. If we start thinking that large, we¡¯ll never find them.¡±


    ¡°Alright, well where¡¯s your brilliant suggestion?¡± Harley argued. ¡°We¡¯re no closer to finding them anyway, are we?¡±


    ¡°Now don¡¯t you start arguing with me. I¡¯m not the reas-¡±


    ¡°Guys, wait.¡±


    The team turned to Julia in the kitchen, as she stared down at her tablet.


    ¡°...I think I know where they are.¡±


    ¡°Really?!¡± Sola let out, jumping over the couch, just as the others followed.


    ¡°I just got a text...from Florey.¡± Julia said, showing off the tablet to them, as an image of their weapons stuffed into the back of a ute came up on screen.


    The tale has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.


    ¡°No shit! That¡¯s it!¡± Harley yelled, pointing at the screen. ¡°That¡¯s the car that drove off earlier!¡±


    ¡°That is...¡± Essex muttered, as Harley hugged her surprisingly, causing her to blush all over again.


    ¡°You said Florey sent you this?¡± Wess asked, just as Sola took the tablet from her.


    Julia nodded. ¡°He just came across them...I don¡¯t know how he found them, but he gave us directions.¡±


    ¡°Way to go, Florey!¡± Sola cheered, handing the tablet back. ¡°Let¡¯s go get them!¡±


    ¡°Hold on. We still don¡¯t know what we¡¯re getting into.¡± Wess reasoned, folding her arms. ¡°Just because Florey found them doesn¡¯t mean it¡¯s safe to take them back.¡±


    ¡°Good call. Rosalind could still be watching over them.¡± Julia said, before scratching her chin. ¡°...however, we should still try to get them as soon as possible. Since Rosalind took them from Harley when she did, they probably didn¡¯t plan this out much, right?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, it seemed like a moment of opportunity sort of thing.¡± Harley reasoned.


    ¡°Right, so let¡¯s hit them hard before they can get the advantage with their resources. Then we¡¯ll be out before they can retaliate.¡± Julia suggested, proudly staring at the others. ¡°What do you think?¡±


    The rest of the team looked at each other, before smiling back at Julia.


    ¡°You really sounded like a leader just then.¡± Harley complimented, as Julia¡¯s face turned a noticeable crimson.


    ¡°Oh, c-come on, it wasn¡¯t that impressive...¡± Julia downplayed, trying to hide her embarrassment, just as Sola headed into the study.


    ¡°I¡¯ll get some coats! It¡¯s gonna be cold when we get there!¡± She noted, as Julia nodded and clapped her hands.


    ¡°Alright, everyone get ready. This is...gonna be a lot...¡± Julia admitted. ¡°Let¡¯s do what we can to prepare.¡±


    The team split up and went to do their own thing, just as Harley took the moment to grab Essex¡¯s arm before she could head into the study.


    ¡°Hey, just...while we have a moment.¡± Harley said, loosening her grip. ¡°Sorry. I wanted to talk earlier, but...we kinda got caught up in all of this...¡±


    Harley noticed Essex staring at her, before her nerves got the better of her. ¡°B-But I promise we¡¯ll get your scythe back. I know it¡¯s really important to you and the clan...¡±


    Essex nodded back, before taking a deep breath. ¡°...these last few months have been...difficult. However, I hope that after tonight, we can return to some kind of normalcy.¡±


    Essex bowed to her. ¡°My apologies for having put you through so much. If I hadn¡¯t burdened you with my emotions, you would not have been in distress when all of this had transpired.¡±


    ¡°...burden...?¡± Harley muttered, as Essex lifted her head back up.


    ¡°In some way, I feel responsible for what has transpired tonight...so in turn, I will make it up to both of us.¡± Essex assured. ¡°Relias.¡±


    Harley went to talk, just as Essex headed into the study to grab some text books, leaving her alone.


    ¡°...it¡¯s not a burden...¡±


    Harley was left standing in middle of the room, while Wess stood up and grabbed the sword mounted near her bed.


    ¡°If we¡¯re heading out there, we¡¯d best have some kind of protection.¡± She muttered, just as Sola noticed from the study and grabbed a large bag to hold it in.


    Wess looked around for Julia and noticed her by the calendar, as she joined her side. ¡°Planning something out?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m just making sure we don¡¯t have any assignments due in the next few days.¡± Julia assured, hiding her face a little, as Wess went to reach out and grab her hand.


    ¡°We¡¯ll get through this.¡± Wess insisted. ¡°It¡¯s a simple operation.¡±


    ¡°...hey. If you don¡¯t think I¡¯m...fit to handle this, at any point...¡± Julia prefaced, before turning to her. ¡°Just let me know. I have no idea what¡¯s gonna happen when we get there, and...¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t imagine anyone else handling this as well as you will.¡± Wess smiled, as Julia found herself blushing again. ¡°You¡¯ve got this. You¡¯re the leader for a reason.¡±


    ¡°...yeah.¡± Julia said, pulling her hand up excitedly. ¡°We¡¯ve got this.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    The Flash-Rail ride was brief.


    The compartment itself was fairly quiet, since night had just hit and the only occupants were Team Valiant themselves. They sat across from each other in silence, mostly readying themselves for what they might have to face once they arrived.


    Sola was resting against Harley¡¯s side, as Harley¡¯s mind was jumping between recovering the weapons and Essex¡¯s emotional state. Across from them, Wess sat cradling the bag their spare sword was in, as Essex stared out the window assuredly, and Julia tapped her hands on her lap.


    Julia looked around the team, before noticing a few text books piled up on Essex¡¯s lap.


    ¡°What are those for?¡± Julia asked, as Essex turned to her.


    ¡°Defensive measures.¡± Essex said, holding one up. ¡°They¡¯re large and heavy, and work well as improvised weapons.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± Julia let out, before turning her attention to the floor, just as the Flash-Rail pulled into the station to Detu Central.


    The team hopped out and pulled on their coats, before Julia pointed them in the direction of where Florey said the weapons were taken.


    ¡°So, why did Florey come across them in the first place?¡± Wess asked, as the team headed down the night-stained street of Detu City. ¡°Surely, he¡¯s not connected to Wicker, is he?¡±


    ¡°Well, they¡¯re in a car.¡± Sola pointed out. ¡°Maybe Rosalind¡¯s taking a break somewhere and just parked for a bit?¡±


    ¡°Are we approaching the location soon?¡± Essex asked, just as Julia pointed ahead.


    ¡°Should be...he wasn¡¯t too specific, but once we...¡± Julia started, just as they rounded the corner, only to come across the massive monolith that stood solidly amongst the various skyscrapers of Detu City¡¯s cluttered business centre...


    EHM.


    ¡°No, no no.¡± Harley let out, stepping forward. ¡°That¡¯s...Florey works there, right?¡±


    ¡°Y-Yeah...¡± Julia let out.


    ¡°That explains why he was there.¡± Wess added, just as Julia looked back down at her phone.


    ¡°...th-this is the place.¡± Julia admitted ¡°There¡¯s an exit off of Idis Street.¡±


    ¡°I-I guess we¡¯re going in there...¡± Sola let out, just as Essex helped her forward, following the rest of the team down toward the entrance.


    Just as they headed downward, they came across a lengthy carpark, lined with a few cars under poor lighting.


    ¡°O-Okay. If the car¡¯s gonna be anywhere, it¡¯s here.¡± Julia managed, taking a breath before continuing.


    The team scanned their way through the car park, thoroughly analysing every vehicle they came across, just a-


    ¡°I found it!¡± Sola exclaimed, jumping around and pointing at it, as the others hurried over to the ute.


    Essex immediately pulled up the sheet on the back, only to find that the back of the ute was completely empty.


    ¡°They¡¯re gone?!¡± Harley exclaimed, just as Essex frustratedly pulled the sheet back down.


    ¡°W-We were too late...?¡± Julia struggled, only for Wess to tap on her shoulder.


    ¡°I¡¯ll give you two guesses as to where they would be.¡± Wess remarked, pointing at the nearby door that seemed the lead down into the building.


    ¡°If they¡¯re intent on keeping them, they would be hidden within the building.¡± Essex pointed out, just as the team ran up to the door.


    Sola pushed on the door to no avail. ¡°They locked it.¡±


    ¡°Of course they locked it. It¡¯s a business.¡± Wess argued.


    ¡°There¡¯s gotta be some way to get in.¡± Harley said, as Julia started to look around for something to unlock it. ¡°You reckon you could short the door out, Sola?¡±


    ¡°No way. My Whil¡¯s way too powerful without my cannons. And even then, I¡¯d just blow a hole in the wall.¡± Sola pointed out.


    ¡°Perhaps Harley and I could pry it open?¡± Essex offered, using her Whil on the door to change her hand to iron.


    ¡°Alright then.¡± Harley said, cracking her knuckles. ¡°Expect a rush of security after this, guys. If we can-¡±


    ¡°Hey, wait.¡± Julia said, crouched down to the ground, before she picked up a scrap of paper covered in a dried layer of mud.


    She hurried over to the others with it. ¡°It kinda looks like an ID card. It¡¯s falling apart, but...¡±


    As she said that, Julia held up the card to the scanner next to the door, before getting it to line up just right. A chime came out of the scanner, just as the door opened up to them.


    ¡°Alright.¡± Harley let out, bumping Julia¡¯s arm. ¡°Someone¡¯s looking out for us, huh?¡±


    ¡°I guess so.¡± Julia said, holding her breath, just as the door opened out to a claustrophobic hallway, filled to the brim with stale air and an uncomfortable energy.


    ¡°Is this part of the main building?¡± Essex asked, as Julia looked around and slowly shook her head.


    ¡°I saw the inside of the first floor when I visited Florey. This is really different...¡± Julia admitted, continuing down the solitary hallway, before coming across a fork in the road, with their only real direction being an open room emanating a still light.


    The team snuck their way in, trying their best to stay silent, as they noticed two people across the room, sitting at a desk in front of several monitors, casually chatting.


    ¡°...lright, who do you think would win? Victoria Knox, or X-Ray in his prime?¡± One asked the other, with their feet propped up on the desk.


    ¡°Why are you even asking? Everyone knows Vector was the strongest member of Team Spectrum.¡± The other replied, annoying the first.


    ¡°Okay, fine, who would win? Victoria or Vector?¡±


    ¡°Victoria, easy.¡±


    ¡°Wha-why¡¯d you change it if you were just gonna pick Victoria anyway?¡±


    ¡°Cause I wanted it to be a fair question. Vector¡¯s got that deflecting Whil, and Ray just had that Whil that projected light.¡±


    ¡°You know what bothered me about that? That¡¯s not an X-Ray thing. X-Ray''s don¡¯t do that.¡±


    ¡°I think they just wanted to call him that since his name¡¯s Ray.¡±


    ¡°Right, but outside of the theme, at least have it make sense. It¡¯s like back with Team Ballistic. We¡¯ve got this army theme going on with Commander Major, Arty the Artillery, Semi ¡®Automatic,¡¯ and Collin ¡®Colonel,¡¯ then their leader Jack comes in with the nickname ¡®All Trades.¡¯ That¡¯s nothing.¡±


    ¡°Again, they were matching that with his name.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, but his last name was already Sergeant.¡±


    ¡°...I mean, he was the leader. Maybe they didn¡¯t want the other members to outrank him.¡±


    ¡°Outrank him? It¡¯s a made-up theme. They¡¯re not the real army.¡±


    ¡°Well, if it¡¯s made up, then why¡¯re you getting so mad about it?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not having this argument again.¡±


    Before the guards could continue, Harley snuck up and grabbed both of their heads, smashing them together and knocking them out cold.


    They sank into their chairs, as the rest of the team breathed in through their teeth.


    ¡°Hey, Harley?¡± Julia asked, checking over the guards. ¡°Can you do it a bit softer next time?¡±


    ¡°We coulda just tied them up.¡± Sola offered, sitting on the table.


    ¡°Hey, they work with Rosalind. I doubt they¡¯re innocent in all this.¡± Harley pointed out. ¡°And what if their buddies find them? We¡¯d still have to deal with them later down the line.¡±


    Julia sighed. ¡°Alright, but that¡¯s it. This place is terrifying enough, and we don¡¯t want to start a fight we can¡¯t win. We get our weapons, and leave immediately after.¡±


    ¡°It is difficult to make out detail in these.¡± Essex pointed out, looking over the video feeds from the surveillance cameras. ¡°There appears to be one main floor connected by halls, with multiple rooms which could possess our weapons.¡±


    ¡°Is there somewhere that looks like a vault? Or a storage room?¡± Julia asked, as Essex pointed to a few rooms possessing cages.


    ¡°Possibly.¡± Essex said. ¡°I will investigate those more thoroughly.¡±


    ¡°What about some sort of manufacturing room?¡± Wess asked, laying one of the guards on the ground and taking his seat. ¡°This place is so industrial; it would make sense to have one.¡±


    ¡°That kinda looks like one.¡± Sola reasoned, pointing to a monitor. ¡°Wait! Those look like weapons!¡±


    Sola pointed frantically at what looked to be living quarters, or possibly a break room. ¡°That¡¯s gotta be it!¡±


    ¡°It might not be. Considering people like Rosalind work here, they may not necessarily be ours.¡± Wess said, staring at it intently. ¡°But it¡¯s a start...¡±


    ¡°Alright. I¡¯ll go check out that manufacturing room.¡± Julia offered. ¡°Sola, do you wanna take the living quarters?¡±


    ¡°Yes, ma¡¯am!¡± Sola saluted happily, as Harley patted her head.


    ¡°I¡¯ll look around as well. We may just stumble onto them if we¡¯re lucky.¡± Harley offered, as Julia nodded in confirmation.


    ¡°I¡¯ll stay behind here and watch over the cameras. If any guards are coming, I¡¯ll text you as soon as I can.¡± Wess said, as Essex stared at the cameras again.


    ¡°We should return here with the weapons, or if in danger.¡± Essex said, scanning to find some sort of resistance waiting for them. ¡°We will need to be quick. It won¡¯t take too long for them to realise we¡¯ve broken in.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s do this!¡± Harley cheered.


    ¡°Stick it to ¡®em!¡± Sola added, as the two high-fived, ready to leave, only for Julia to hold them up.


    ¡°Wait, wait. Before we do anything...¡±


    Julia took a steady breath.


    ¡°Don¡¯t...don¡¯t do anything reckless, okay?¡± Julia said. ¡°This isn¡¯t like dealing with the Wailing. We might have to fight actual people, and ones who might want t-to...please don¡¯t get hurt.¡±


    Harley smirked, before giving a hug to Julia. ¡°We¡¯ll be okay. We¡¯ve gotten out of tougher.¡±


    She hurried out of the room, just as Sola went to hug Julia too. ¡°And don¡¯t you worry. No one¡¯s tougher than me.¡±


    She left soon after, just as Essex left her post at the camera feeds.


    ¡°We will make it out of this, Julia.¡± Essex assured, smiling to her. ¡°Our weapons mean nothing if we are not there to use them. Peno Decu.¡±


    Essex took charge and split off, just as Julia called out to her. ¡°Good luck!¡±


    Julia realised it was her turn to leave, as she started hyping herself up. ¡°You got this. You¡¯re a badass who won¡¯t let anyone get in your way...y-you¡¯ve got this...¡±


    Just before Julia went to leave, Wess leaned out of her seat and kissed her, smiling back at her.


    ¡°One for the road.¡±


    Julia smiled back and gave an overconfident thumbs up, before heading out proper, ready to take on whatever she might find.


    Wess closed the door behind them, before getting comfortable in her seat, ready to survey.


    ¡°Where are you, Belvedere...¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Julia found her way down one of the numerous halls, taking her time to find any signs that might indicate direction or purpose. Unfortunately, the walls were mostly barren, save for the occasional locked door to break it up, as she trudged her way through in hopes of finding something.


    Does Florey know about this...? Julia wondered, doing her best to distract from her debilitating nerves. He didn¡¯t mention it when we met up...


    She ducked her head around a corner cautiously, as the coast seemed to be clear. Then again, he probably wouldn¡¯t be allowed to mention a place like this...


    She turned her head back and rested on the wall. ...there¡¯s no way he would. It¡¯s just not like him...


    She shook her head in frustration and continued on, just as an open door caught her eye.


    But I don¡¯t even know what they do here... Julia admitted, before checking that the coast was clear inside. EHM¡¯s a manufacturing company, but that¡¯s pretty broad...


    Once she got in, she noticed the room was set up like a small workshop, including welding supplies, spare material, what looked to be an advanced computer meant for testing out technology. The whole place looked pretty haphazard, save for the clean workspace in the centre.


    Julia¡¯s eyes were immediately drawn to the blueprints in the centre, as she checked around her, before hurrying over to inspect them.


    Most seemed like miscellaneous weaponry, with a few containment units here and there, but the one that caught her eye was buried in-between most of them, with the title ¡®B-C-U'' labelled at the top.


    She pulled it out and inspected it, though it was unclear what it actually was, save for its square-ish shape and chip-like design.


    This one¡¯s different... Julia realised, laying it out on the workspace, before an idea came to mind. Maybe this is part of what Wicker¡¯s doing?


    She went and pulled out her tablet, holding it over the blueprint to take a picture, just as it vibrated in her hand, causing her to drop it in a panic.


    She suddenly realised it was a text from Wess about some approaching guards, right as a few voices approached the room.


    ¡°...ear that?¡±


    ¡°Did something get knocked over?¡±


    Julia panicked and grabbed her tablet, before ducking under the desk and holding her head, trying to keep her breathing still.


    ¡°I swear, I heard something here.¡± One of the guards mentioned, slowly coming in from where Julia had entered.


    Julia realised she was started to breathe heavy, as she clasped her mouth shut, desperate to find a way out.


    ¡°Yeah, of course you did. It¡¯s a mess.¡± The other guard mentioned. ¡°You know Wicker never cleans this place.¡±


    ¡°Well, he was just here. I figured he would¡¯ve put some stuff away, at least.¡± The first guard brought up, stepping back through the door.


    ¡°Uh huh. How long have you been working here?¡± The second guard joked, as the first guard punched their arm.


    ¡°I still get more hours than you. With an attitude like tha...¡± The first guard said, before trailing off, as Julia finally let her breath go and headed out from the second entrance, running down the hall.


    Once she found a safe spot, she started taking heavy breaths, just as her phone buzzed in her hand again.


    Wess [Are you alright?]


    Julia managed to catch her breath, before typing out a message back.


    Julia [I love you so much.]


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Who the hell builds a place like this?¡± Harley remarked to herself, staring at the continuous, featureless walls. A few rooms stuck out to her, but most amounted to generic office spaces or places for storing computer banks. For a large complex, it seemed awfully empty.


    ¡°So, if Rosalind¡¯s here...¡± Harley thought through. ¡°Then does that mean Wicker comes here too?¡±


    Harley looked into another room. ¡°Maybe...¡±


    She moved on, before feeling a buzz from her tablet and seeing it was a warning from Wess about a few approaching guards.


    Harley noticed them coming in the opposite direction, before quickly ducking into one of the side rooms, waiting for them to pass.


    It¡¯s almost like a compound. Harley thought. So, Wicker¡¯s got enough to money to build this place and run it...


    She sighed out and stared at the ceiling. And we¡¯ve made enemies with them.


    She rested her head on the wall, as the image of Rosalind grinning while making off with their weapons played in her mind.


    How am I gonna make it up to the others? Harley mulled over. I was so shitty to them...all because...


    She dropped her head back down. ...how am I gonna make it up to Essex? She won¡¯t even hear me out...


    After giving it some more thought, she quickly remembered where she was and got back up, checking the halls again for any more guards.


    Noticing the coast was clear, she continued on her path, waiting to find anything of interest. Fortunately, she stumbled across what looked to be a break room, though only in the most basic sense.


    She glanced inside, before spotting a couple employees about to leave and hiding quickly, letting them pass.


    ¡°...ight, but a wall¡¯s completely needless. We¡¯ve already got the Eldos Mountains.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, but they¡¯re not close enough to Detu City. Wailing can stil...¡±


    Harley watched them disappear around the corner, before going in herself, digging around for anything of note.


    ¡°They wouldn¡¯t hide weapons in the break room...¡± Harley rationalised to herself. ¡°But if they did, I¡¯m gonna feel real stupid for not checking...¡±


    She dug through a few more drawers and cabinets, being mindful to check for more approaching guards, only to miss someone about to come inside, before spotting her and hiding behind the entrance, peering in cautiously.


    Who the hell is that? Salaire thought to himself, trying to slow his breathing. I nearly ran into a complete stranger without thinking.


    He did his best to glance around the corner, thankful that she had her back to him.


    She doesn¡¯t look like she works here... Salaire wondered. She¡¯s incredibly muscular. Maybe a Venator? Perhaps she¡¯s collecting some weaponry...


    Salaire realised the obvious and hid himself a bit better. It can¡¯t be...is she looking for those weapons Rosalind took?


    Salaire watched as Harley dug around a couple of the higher cabinets. She¡¯s certainly young enough to be a student. And she¡¯s clearly not familiar with the space.


    Just as Harley finished up searching, ready to head out the other way, Salaire quickly noticed her approaching and immediately sprung to action.


    ¡°One of those Venators students, I presume?¡± Salaire greeted, stepping into the doorway, as Harley immediately entered a combative stance.


    ¡°Who the hell¡¯s asking?¡± She said, fists at the ready, before Salaire collapsed to his knees.


    ¡°Please, you¡¯ve gotta help me! These people are crazy!¡± He demanded, grabbing at Harley¡¯s arms. ¡°They said if I didn¡¯t help with what they were doing, they¡¯d kill me! You¡¯ve gotta get me out of here!¡±


    ¡°H-Huh?¡± Harley let out, backing off, just as Salaire started crying.


    ¡°Y-You¡¯re my only chance of escaping! I heard this Venator team were running around and I just knew they could help!¡± Salaire insisted, clasping his hands together.


    They already know about us breaking in? Harley realised, breaking a sweat. Shit. We need our weapons fast.


    ¡°Please let me come with you!¡± Salaire begged. ¡°I-I know about money! All sorts! Clean and dirty!¡±


    Harley¡¯s suspicion started to wash away, as she showed her hands. ¡°A-Alright, just calm down. I¡¯ll...see what we can do.¡±


    Harley glanced around them. ¡°We can¡¯t do much without our weapons, so if you can help me find them, we¡¯ll help you out of here.¡±


    ¡°R-Really?¡± Salaire replied, stars in his eyes. ¡°Oh, thank you! You have no idea how grateful I am.¡±


    No, I have a pretty good idea. Harley admitted, pulling out her tablet. ¡°Hold on. I¡¯ll ask my team whether they¡¯ve found them ye-¡±


    ¡°Thank you!¡± Salaire said, getting up and grabbing Harley¡¯s tablet, before running out of the break room in a sprint. ¡°And so long!¡±


    ¡°Wha-¡± Harley let out, before gritting her teeth and chasing after him, her fists once again at the ready.


    ¡°What a chump! Alright...¡± Salaire read aloud, looking over Harley¡¯s contacts while he ran. ¡°Julia, Wess...Sola and Essex. That¡¯s five...she said we...so they¡¯re probably...all here too...¡±


    He started to get winded and ducked into one of the side rooms, waiting for Harley to pass.


    ¡°I can hand this off to Wicker...¡± Salaire wondered. ¡°Then again, he already knows about them, so it¡¯ll only be so useful.¡±


    Salaire smirked to himself. ¡°Rosalind might get a kick out of it. I¡¯m sure she could come up with some pranks to pull using it.¡±


    Salaire failed to notice the lack of running coming from the halls. ¡°I¡¯ll just do the classic. Bank details, personal information an-¡±


    Before he could continue, Harley clocked him in the face, sending him flying across the room and into the wall, sliding down to the floor. She walked over and picked up her tablet, before forcefully closing the door behind her.


    She hurried back to the break room and grabbed one of the spare chairs, then went back to the door and propped it under the doorknob, locking Salaire inside.


    ¡°Sorry, Julia, but he had it coming.¡± Harley said to herself, checking her tablet to make sure he hadn¡¯t messed with anything. ¡°Was he lying about knowing we¡¯re here?¡±


    Harley sighed in relief, before pocketing it again. ¡°There¡¯s no alarm going off, and the guards didn¡¯t look like they were hunting us down.¡±


    Harley tapped her chin. ¡°But he knew we were Venators...that¡¯s not a lucky guess...¡±


    Harley pulled out her tablet again and wrote out a group text for the team. ¡°Better let the others know.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Jules could hear footsteps coming from the hall.


    Compared to the usually quiet soundscape of the facility, she didn¡¯t know what to expect. Having spent so much time in close proximity to her co-workers, it was easy to recognise whoever was walking down the hall, and with her solitude, there wasn¡¯t much else to focus on.


    But these steps were more frantic, and a bit bouncier. Nothing like Salaire, nowhere near Rosalind...


    ...so I have to do my job.


    Jules prepared herself, hiding just inside her personal living quarters, waiting for the steps to get closer, as she grabbed for her combat knife.


    The moment the steps reached her doorway, she pounced, pining whoever it was to the ground with the knife to their throat.


    Jules grabbed their collar with her other free hand and stared angrily into their eyes, before recognising who it was. Sola was cowering on the floor, quickly adjusting from her previous obliviousness to shock to panic, then to crying, as she had no idea what to do. She could feel Jules pulling on her collar, worsening her pain with each second.


    She closed her eyes tightly, hoping to hide away, just as Jules let her go and stood up, reeling from the realisation of who she was so suddenly attacking.


    Sola took a second to register that she¡¯d been freed, before she opened her eyes again to find Jules standing over her, still holding the knife.


    Sola backed away carefully, only for Jules to drop the knife on the ground, displaying her palms peacefully. Sola stopped moving back, but still kept her distance, as she noticed the pain present in Jules¡¯ face.


    [I¡¯m so sorry.] Jules signed back to her. [I...I heard footsteps.]


    ¡°W-What are you doing here?¡± Sola asked, standing up as best she could.


    Jules went to answer, but thought better of it. [What do you mean? What are you doing here?]


    Sola wiped her nose. ¡°Some mean jerk named Rosalind stole our weapons! We¡¯re taking them back!¡±


    Jules blinked.


    They know Rosalind? Jules thought. Is this the team she kept complaining about?


    [Is your team¡¯s name Team Valiant?] Jules asked, as Sola hid her face.


    ¡°...yeah.¡± Sola said, touching her fingers together. ¡°But I don¡¯t think I should tell you that...¡±


    Sola stared at the floor. ¡°Last time we were together, you...joined up with her and ran away...¡±


    Jules couldn¡¯t help but relive the moment, as she tried to push it down.


    [It wasn¡¯t my choice.] Jules sighed. [I was forced to go there...]


    Sola looked back down at the ground, still visibly dejected, before Jules grabbed her attention again.


    [Where are your weapons stored?] Jules said. [I can help you find them.]


    Sola¡¯s eyes lit up. ¡°R-Really?¡±


    Jules nodded back, as Sola immediately sprung to life. ¡°Great! That¡¯ll be so much easier!¡±


    Sola pointed to the individual living quarters littering the sides of the hall. ¡°They might be somewhere here. If not, then they might be in a storage room.¡±


    Storage room? Jules wondered, following behind Sola as she searched each room. Does she mean those ones? We wouldn¡¯t keep weapons there...


    The duo walked in silence, checking each open doorway for a sign of the weapons, as Sola felt the need to fill the silence.


    ¡°So, you and Rosalind were together during the attack...¡± Sola clarified. ¡°And Rosalind works for Wicker, apparently.¡±


    Sola turned to her. ¡°Does that mean you work for Wicker too?¡±


    Jules slowly nodded in reply.


    ¡°Can you tell me who they are?¡± Sola asked.


    Jules gave a firm headshake in response.


    ¡°Alright. At least we know where they¡¯re working.¡± Sola pointed out.


    Sola ducked into another room, before coming up empty again. ¡°Lotta spare rooms here. Are you friends with Florey?¡± Sola wondered, as Jules¡¯ jumped at the word.


    She turned to Sola. [You know Florey?]


    ¡°Yeah. He¡¯s Julia¡¯s friend. I¡¯ve told you about Julia.¡± Sola pointed out. ¡°But that was a while ago...¡±


    Sola ducked into another room, before becoming briefly distracted by it.


    ¡°Is this your room?¡± She asked, staring at the near featureless, basic living arrangement that Jules had jumped out of, no larger than the team¡¯s dorm room kitchen.


    [...yeah.] Jules admitted. [How¡¯d you guess?]


    ¡°Well, you don¡¯t seem very happy, and there¡¯s barely anything here.¡± Sola reasoned. ¡°If you did feel comfortable here, you probably would¡¯ve decorated more.¡±


    Jules couldn¡¯t argue with her logic, but still insisted they leave her room, at least to speed up finding the weapons.


    ¡°This is Rosalind¡¯s room, huh?¡± Sola said, ducking into the next room, as Jules just nodded back to her.


    The place was a mess, which was only made worse by the cramped size. The fridge was packed, and clothes were lain about without any care. The only thing that looked clean was the seemingly brand-new TV, and a spare sword laying on the wall.


    Sola immediately recognised the pattern running down the blade and recalled when Julia¡¯s life had been threatened during the attack.


    She scowled at it, before knocking the sword over for some catharsis, only to find a sheet hidden underneath it, propped up against the wall.


    Followed by Jules, Sola lifted up the sheet and gasped, pulling it back completely.


    ¡°There they are!¡± Sola cheered, lifting up her arm-cannons. ¡°I missed you guys!¡±


    Jules noticed the rest of the weapons piled together, as Sola did her best to grab her cannons and Harley¡¯s Buster Knuckles.


    ¡°Come on! Let¡¯s get these back to the team!¡± Sola encouraged, ready to head back, only for Jules to stop her suddenly.


    Jules¡¯ hands were noticeably shaky. [I-I can¡¯t take these back with you. If he...if W-Wicker ever found out what I was...I can¡¯t do this again...]


    Sola blinked, before pumping her fists. ¡°Who cares what he thinks! Fuck that guy!¡±


    Jules held a hand over her mouth and stared back at the hallway, just as Sola grabbed her shoulders.


    ¡°You hate it here! It¡¯s plain as day! This has gotta be torture for you!¡± Sola pointed out.


    Jules didn¡¯t argue back, as she could feel her eyes welling up a bit.


    ¡°If you don¡¯t want to be here, then you¡¯ve gotta leave!¡± Sola insisted, huffing out. ¡°It¡¯s not fair to yourself to stay.¡±


    Jules shook her head again, more frantically. [It¡¯s not that simple. You can¡¯t just leave. I can never...]


    Sola watched Jules try to hold back a few tears, before grabbing her hand. ¡°Then do it now.¡±


    Jules stared at her in disbelief.


    ¡°We¡¯re leaving here tonight. And we¡¯ve got our weapons now!¡± Sola said, showing them off. ¡°We can protect you. Then you won¡¯t have to worry about Wicker anymore.¡±


    Jules waved her hands again. [I-I''ll just be a b-burden...]


    ¡°Nu uh!¡± Sola insisted. ¡°You so won¡¯t!¡±


    Sola picked up Essex¡¯s scythe and lay it in Jules¡¯ hands. ¡°Especially if you help carry these.¡±


    Jules rested the handle against her palms, accidentally letting a few tears land against it, before she tightened her grip and nodded back, exciting Sola again.


    ¡°Alright, no more time to waste!¡± Sola insisted, pointing back down the hall. ¡°Show me where to go, cause I forgot how I got here!¡±


    Jules grabbed up Julia¡¯s rifle and Wess¡¯ sword and shield, before noticing Rosalind¡¯s spare sword and taking it as well, just as she caught up with Sola, ready to feel the fresh air once again.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Essex was finding the halls harder and harder to navigate. The lack of any landmarks or clear direction was frustrating enough, but unlike the academy, there weren¡¯t even any windows to orient yourself.


    Essex constantly checked her surroundings, her textbooks at the ready just in case she was being followed, even as she desperately wished for her scythe back.


    ...we will make it out of this. Essex assured herself. I cannot burden the team any further. I will not be a forseca for them.


    Fortunately, Essex seemed to find what she was looking for, as one of the hallways looked to be leading to a storage room of some kind.


    She hurried over, before finding herself walking across a railing, with the rest of the large room filled with empty cages, decrepit from lack of use.


    She slowly made her way down the stairs to the floor proper, scanning the room for any sign of repurposed weapon storage, only to come up empty.


    Suddenly, the door closed.


    ¡°I had a suspicion.¡±


    Essex turned frantically, as she noticed Rosalind standing proudly on the railing Essex had just come down from, with her hand planted firmly on the door.


    ¡°Of all the dumbass moves your team could have pulled, you came into here, somehow, and started wandering around.¡± Rosalind mocked, as Essex did her best to chuck one of the textbooks at Rosalind¡¯s head.


    Rosalind just dodged it, smirking back at her, right as a loud, blaring alarm rang out through the room, accompanied by a flashing red light near the door.


    ¡°Guess your break-in¡¯s not so secret now.¡± Rosalind mocked, climbing over the railing, before hopping down to Essex¡¯s level.


    Rosalind lay her hand over her sword, as Essex found herself backing up, realising just how unmatched she truly was without her scythe.


    ¡°It¡¯s about time we address our unfinished business.¡± Rosalind insisted. ¡°Finally, the revenge I so deserve. So...¡±


    Rosalind grinned.


    ¡°...feel like making an enemy?¡±

 Chapter 44: Break Out

The narrative has been taken without permission. Report any sightings.

 Another Update from C.

    Hello, dear readers! Just letting you know about the sketches chapter that was promised.


    It''s currently up on a new companion to this narrative, Day-to-Day Wayside! It''ll act as a collection for all the miscellaneous chapters that don''t quite fit within the main story. So, behind the scenes works, April Fools chapters, side stories from others within Daysend? Who can say?


    This tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report.


    I can! It''s currently up on both RoyalRoad and ArchiveofOurOwn for your viewing pleasure.


    With that said, this is also a reminder that Day-to-Day Kindred is still on hiatus. This was mostly a bonus chapter to conclude second-year more than anything, but I promise, third-year will be well worth the wait.


    Let''s build our kindred kindling and grow warm by the fire''s side in preparation.


    See you when I see you.


    -C

 Very cool new chatper avaliaibe!!!!!

The story has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.

 Chapter 45: Breaking Down

    Faller tapped his foot in anticipation, as he waited patiently in his office, staring down the five students across from him.


    It was all he could do not to jump over the desk and demand questions from them, but as he liked to make clear about himself, he was patient.


    Even stranger was the fact that Ferris seemed onboard with this, considering her and Faller¡¯s previous misgivings with each other. Any other day, she¡¯d be half asleep or drunk, or swearing at Faller for keeping her there after hours, or any combination of the three.


    Even she understood the gravitas of this.


    Meanwhile, Team Valiant tried their best not to panic, or make wild accusations, or...well, provoke a response, really.


    Julia¡¯s anxiety was getting the better of her, as she looked back and forth at her team frequently, ready to take the fall for them, or cover up what they¡¯d done. She still hadn¡¯t told them what she¡¯d found out, but she knew they didn¡¯t deserve any kind of punishment.


    Harley was in the same boat, as she¡¯d been the one to suggest the break-in earlier that day, and subsequently dragged the others there. The wound in her leg was still hurting but she was ready to defend the team, no matter what she¡¯d have to do.


    Wess, admittedly, was working on a script in her head for how to justify what they¡¯d been up to. At the very least, she could step in if the others were struggling and finish off any arguments Faller might bring up. She wasn¡¯t about to watch the others go down without fighting back herself.


    Sola couldn¡¯t help but think about how the rest of the team was feeling, and whether she could even step in at all. She wasn¡¯t much for debate, but hopefully, she could convince Faller that their hearts were in the right place when all was said and done. It¡¯s the least she could do.


    And Essex had already counted the number of exits, potential weapons in the room, and possible ways to take out Faller and Ferris, if necessary. Faller confronting them just as they escaped the hideout of the enigmatic Wicker was far too convenient, and with all the other evidence they managed to gather about it being potentially him, it was the best way to keep everyone safe.


    Julia finally leaned forward, as she looked to the others before speaking. ¡°...a-are...we going to be p-punished for this?¡±


    Faller kept waiting, arms folded in his office chair, before looking up at her. ¡°...depends.¡±


    ¡°Depends?¡± Wess repeated, as he sat up a little more.


    ¡°If what I was told was true.¡± Faller clarified, Ferris still firmly by his side. ¡°Did you five break into the EHM building tonight?¡±


    Julia started to panic, sweat building up on her forehead, as Wess leaned in front and shook her head to the others, insisting they don¡¯t speak up.


    ¡°...alright.¡± Faller said, getting up out his chair. ¡°I figured convincing would be needed, so I-¡±


    Just then, a knock came from his door, as he made his way over. ¡°That should be him.¡±


    Faller quickly opened the door, as the team spun around and noticed Cecil coming into the room, fairly dressed up and visibly frustrated.


    Team Valiant were all pretty concerned, but only Julia was feeling faint.


    She was the only one who knew.


    Who saw...


    ...w-what had gone down.


    Who he truly was.


    Who was standing right in front of them.


    Faller led him over to the side of his desk, as Cecil straightened out his appearance, before facing the rest of the team properly.


    ¡°I got a call earlier tonight, right before you came back in that apparently stolen car.¡± Faller clarified, pointing back to Cecil. ¡°For whatever reason, you broke into a private business, assaulted its employees, and stole equipment for...honestly, I can¡¯t think of a good reason. I¡¯m struggling to eve-¡±


    Before Faller could spiral anymore, Cecil raised his hand to stop him, before resting it on his chest and breathing.


    ¡°...I want to hear your reasoning.¡± Cecil prefaced. ¡°I¡¯m not planning on pressing charges, as long as I know why you did what you did. You¡¯re all reasonable adults, you wouldn¡¯t act out of turn like this for nothing.¡±


    Team Valiant looked at each other curiously, as Cecil leaned forward. ¡°I just want to get this matter settled.¡±


    Julia stayed silent in her seat, avoiding direct eye contact with Cecil, before Harley decided she should speak up.


    ¡°W-We had no choice.¡± Harley insisted, resettling herself. ¡°W-We¡¯d...just been kicked out of the tournament, and...I offered to go and get our weapons from the locker, b-but...¡±


    ¡°Someone stole them!¡± Sola yelled, sitting forward. ¡°Rosalind! This crazy lady that¡¯s got a grudge against us!¡±


    Ferris¡¯ expression loosened a little, before she mouthed the word ¡®Rosalind¡¯ in shock, right as Wess sat forward as well. ¡°W-We believed she was working for...these...people. We¡¯d seen her during the last attack on the academy, and Harley had noticed her driving off with our weapons.¡±


    ¡°So we wanted to go find them.¡± Harley added, backing Wess up. ¡°And...well, we didn¡¯t want to...shit, how do we say this...¡±


    Faller waved his hand. ¡°Yes?¡±


    Harley took a moment, before speaking. ¡°We-¡±


    ¡°We thought you worked with her.¡± Julia intervened, cutting Harley off, as all eyes were on her. ¡°We...had a c-couple suspicions earlier in the year that you were her boss.¡±


    Julia gave the others a trusting look and continued. ¡°F-Fortunately...we¡¯d placed tracking devices in our weapons handles, so we knew where they had ended up.¡±


    She kept avoiding looking at Cecil as she spoke, instead choosing to focus on Faller. ¡°A-And we followed them to the EHM building. We realised that must be where Rosalind was working out of, so...¡±


    Julia touched her fingers together. ¡°...we found a way in.¡±


    Faller¡¯s disappointment was palpable, as Julia sat forward again. ¡°B-But we only went in to find our weapons! That¡¯s it. We split up, came across them, and tried to escape before security caught us.¡±


    ¡°I received this from Rosalind.¡± Essex chimed in, showing her partially burnt arm and clothing, as Faller looked unimpressed. ¡°This was before she attempted to run us over with a car.¡±


    ¡°Run you...?¡± Cecil let out, showing visible shock, as Faller rested on his desk.


    ¡°So you didn¡¯t do anything else?¡±


    ¡°I mean...I knocked a couple guys out.¡± Harley mentioned, before nodding. ¡°Not that hard or anything¡­¡±


    Faller decided to settle into his chair, as he spun around, contemplating how best to act in this scenario.


    After an uncomfortable amount of time, he made himself known again and rubbed his face, trying to work out some stress.


    ¡°...well.¡± Cecil said, drawing attention to himself. ¡°If I may give a couple words.¡±


    Before saying anything, Cecil bowed in front of the team, surprising everyone there, especially Julia, Faller and Ferris.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry that one of my employees put you out in this way.¡± Cecil insisted. ¡°This is a grievous error on my companies'' part. I¡¯m also sorry you felt your only option was to break into the facility. Please, contact me in the future if something like this transpires again.¡±


    Cecil rested his hand on his chest again. ¡°You must¡¯ve been under a lot of stress after the recent tournament. I¡¯m sure Miss Baroke¡¯s injury didn¡¯t help matters much.¡±


    Harley looked to the side, trying to forget about her actions in the tournament and the still present pain in her leg, as Cecil nodded back to the team as a whole.


    ¡°I¡¯ll take full responsibility for everything that happened tonight.¡± Cecil assured, surprising everyone again. ¡°Losing your weaponry would¡¯ve only hindered your progress as Venators, and I¡¯d hate to do the same back.¡±


    The team let out a collective breath, finally feeling comfortable enough to smile again, only for Faller to raise his hand.


    ¡°While that may be Mr Cecil¡¯s assessment of the situation, you¡¯re still students of this academy.¡± Faller reiterated. ¡°And your actions tonight were...shocking, to say the least.¡±


    Faller straightened out his back. ¡°While I won¡¯t suspend your education as Venators, you¡¯re hereby excluded from next year¡¯s annual tournament...completely.¡±


    The team¡¯s faces sunk as they heard the news, only for Faller to continue. ¡°On top of that, you can forget about your third-year internships, or any class excursions outside of the academy without the direct supervision of Miss Dulce.¡±


    Ferris eyed up the team again, as Faller forced himself to lean forward. ¡°I expect nothing of this calibre over the course of the rest of your education, understand?¡±


    The team slowly nodded their heads in response, as Faller sat back in his seat. ¡°And to think the attacks were my biggest problem...¡±


    ¡°Are we finished here, Faller?¡± Cecil asked, as Faller slowly nodded.


    ¡°Yes, I''d say we are.¡± Faller added, before indicating the team to the office door. ¡°If you¡¯ll excuse yourselves.¡±


    Not wanting to cause any more trouble, the team got up and made their way over to the door, joined by Cecil, right as Faller raised his voice.


    ¡°Hold on.¡± He said, as they turned around. ¡°If you could stay behind, Julia. I think we need to have a talk about leadership.¡±


    Julia felt herself freeze stiff, as the rest of the team worriedly stared at her, before giving her reassuring looks and continuing to leave, while Julia made her way back over to Faller¡¯s desk.


    Julia shrunk herself in the seat, waiting for the verbal lecture she knew was coming, only for the door to close behind her, and for Faller to get out of his seat and lean over the desk.


    ¡°Tell me everything you saw.¡±


    Julia slowly lifted her head, as she realised Faller¡¯s full attention was on her, just as her anxiety came back in. ¡°P-Pardon?¡±


    ¡°At EHM. What did you see?¡± Faller asked desperately, looking far less composed than he normally did.


    Julia took a second to register the request, as she sat up in her seat more. ¡°S-Sir, what is th-¡±


    ¡°Julia, we don¡¯t have much time. I need to know.¡± Faller insisted, as Ferris sat on the desk. ¡°Was it Wicker? Did you find them there? Did you find out what they were doing?¡±


    Julia shook her head, ready to speak up if only to end the interaction quicker, only for the stress of the night to build up, letting her lash out at him. ¡°N-No, wait a minute! I...I want some answers first!¡±


    Faller was taken a back, as Julia stood out of her seat. ¡°I¡¯m not giving you anything until I know what¡¯s going on!¡±


    Faller blinked, before settling into his seat again. ¡°Okay. Ask away.¡±


    Julia felt a bit thrown off, before continuing. ¡°Alright...f-first...are you Gamma?¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Ferris chimed in, as Julia pointed at Faller.


    ¡°Answer.¡± Julia demanded. ¡°I...I just want to know if you¡¯re him.¡±


    Faller stared at Julia, before scoffing loudly.


    ¡°Of course I¡¯m not Gamma.¡± Faller insisted. ¡°I hated that guy.¡±


    Julia did a double take. ¡°Huh?¡±


    Faller waved a hand freely, as he reached into his drawer. ¡°Back when I was studying here, as brief as that was, Gamma was in my year. Then he got kicked out for...you know, and I eventually dropped out not too soon after. Biggest prick on campus.¡±


    ¡°D-Dropped out?¡± Julia asked.


    ¡°You studied here?¡± Ferris added, as Faller glared at her.


    ¡°Since when were we all asking questions?¡± Faller complained, before sighing and handing Julia an old photo of him back when he was a student. ¡°It wasn¡¯t suited for me. I¡¯m far better with administration, not the combat part.¡±


    Julia felt a bit of confidence dropping away. ¡°...b-but you had a talk with Wess. You said some weird stuff about the industry, and seeing an end to this conflict no matter the cost.¡±


    Faller waited for more, before talking. ¡°Yeah. I¡¯m the principal. Of course I was talking about the industry. And I stand by what I say. If that came off as suspicious to you, then I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    Faller pulled his chair back to get more comfortable. ¡°And while the declaration was strong, I truly want to see the end of this conflict. It can¡¯t keep going on forever, and I¡¯m worried that it might if the industry doesn¡¯t change soon. I plan to leave this position better off than when I found it.¡±


    ¡°It may be hard to believe, Julia, but we don¡¯t like fighting.¡± Ferris added, locking eyes with her, as Julia quickly looked away.


    ¡°Does that clear everything up?¡± Faller asked, only for Julia to shake her head.


    ¡°T-That doesn¡¯t explain how you guys know about Wicker, or your...weird relationship. Or why Ferris is even here.¡± Julia noted, pointing back at them. ¡°I know it¡¯s not to be a teacher! She sucks at it!¡±


    Julia slammed her foot down. ¡°What are you really up to?!¡±


    Faller waited a moment for the dust to settle, before speaking up.


    ¡°...to make a long story short, I started to notice suspicious behaviour within the Wailing Conflict. Wailing attacks that didn¡¯t make sense and a few too many coincidences in certain areas. While I was up for the position of principal...¡±


    ¡°...he hired me.¡± Ferris answered, folding her arms. ¡°To protect him. And to look out for these things while he was working.¡±


    ¡°I needed this position to give me access to high-level information and contacts, but that only gave me so much free time to investigate what I needed.¡± Faller clarified, as Julia felt the need to sit back down. ¡°So Ferris runs errands, with the cover of working here as a teacher, and reports back to me.¡±


    ¡°Mostly at night or when Faller feels like punishing me...¡± Ferris complained, just as Faller breathed out and kept to himself.


    ¡°Through a bit of research, the name ¡®Wicker¡¯ started floating around, and we realised that they might be someone who¡¯s manipulating the Wailing Conflict on a large scale.¡± Faller explained. ¡°Then we found a connection with Rosalind Castello¡­¡±


    ¡°And we¡¯ve been spending a good few years trying to track them down.¡± Ferris concluded. ¡°We concluded someone here must be connected, and due to your actions tonight...¡±


    Julia realised what was being implied and kept to herself, shrinking into the seat again, as Faller got closer to grab her attention.


    ¡°It¡¯s Cecil, isn¡¯t it?¡±


    Julia twitched in her seat.


    ¡°What did you see, Julia?¡±


    Julia played with her hands to get out some anxiety, as her voice wobbled when she spoke. ¡°...i-it wasn¡¯t clear...and the situation was...a lot, so I could only make out so much.¡±


    Julia sighed out, before sitting up proper. ¡°I...saw a room. With three people in it. One of them said Wicker, and then they shook hands. I didn¡¯t see who said it...but...he was in the room.¡±


    ¡°...so, Cecil¡¯s either Wicker, or knows the guy.¡± Ferris deduced, just as Faller stroked his chin.


    ¡°You didn¡¯t see anything else?¡±


    Julia shook her head slowly.


    ¡°Was that it?¡±


    Julia suddenly perked up. ¡°Th-There was a workshop with blueprints. A bunch for containment stuff, and one for a device.¡±


    Faller leaned in. ¡°What kind?¡±


    ¡°I...couldn¡¯t make it out. I tried to take a photo, but the security nearly caught me...sorry...¡± Julia confessed, just as Faller sat back.


    ¡°...well, that confirms it for me.¡± Ferris concluded, grabbing her sword by her waist. ¡°Want me to bring Cecil back here?¡±


    Julia started panicking, before Faller raised his hand. ¡°Ferris, don¡¯t jump the gun. This is hardly evidence.¡±


    Faller lowered himself into his seat. ¡°...thank you for your time and trust, Julia. You¡¯ve gone above and beyond as a student here.¡±


    ¡°I-It wasn¡¯t on purpose.¡± Julia admitted, as Faller chuckled a little, before sitting back up and facing her again.


    ¡°With that said...you need to stop.¡± Faller implored. ¡°After tonight, Wicker knows that you¡¯re after them, or at least know about them. If you dig any further, you and your team are in great danger, and I don¡¯t know that we can protect you.¡±


    Julia silently nodded back, as Faller closed the distance a little.


    ¡°Julia, I mean it. I understand why you did what you did, but your priority now should be on graduating and making sure your team¡¯s okay. Events like this can shake people up.¡± Faller said. ¡°And take care of yourself too. You¡¯re no help to anyone if you can¡¯t help yourself. We know what we¡¯re doing here.¡±


    Faller leaned back in his chair. ¡°The security will keep an eye on you as well. We¡¯ve heard Rosalind has a temper, so we¡¯re not taking chances with your safety.¡±


    Julia took in what Faller was saying, before feeling like she could get up from her seat and start to leave.


    Right as she reached the door, she turned back around suddenly.


    ¡°W-We can trust you with this, right?¡± Julia asked, as Faller lifted his head.


    Faller efficiently nodded back, just as Julia left proper, leaving Faller and Ferris alone together.


    Ferris cleared her throat.


    ¡°So...¡± She started, sitting back on his desk. ¡°...you really aren¡¯t Wicker then?¡±


    Faller stared at Ferris, before cleaning up his desk. ¡°You¡¯re here to help find Wicker. Why would I have you here if I was him?¡±


    Ferris shrugged. ¡°Draws potential suspicion away from you. Then you can lead it somewhere else.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s a dumb idea.¡± Faller reasoned. ¡°Am I really that untrustworthy to you?¡±


    Ferris took a beat, before pulling out one of Faller¡¯s draws and grabbing the listening device stored in the back.


    ¡°I found this.¡± Ferris asked, as Faller took the metal bug back from her. ¡°Care to give a good reason?¡±


    Faller put it back on the desk. ¡°...I was trying to reverse engineer it. Trace it back to its creator. And the reason I didn¡¯t tell you is becau-"


    ¡°I¡¯m untrustworthy?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m an engineer.¡± Faller said, putting it back into the drawer. ¡°And knowing your paranoia, you would¡¯ve smashed it the moment you saw me tinkering with it.¡±


    Ferris admitted he was right in her head, as Faller got up from his desk, leaning over it.


    ¡°...it¡¯s not about trust, sir, really.¡± Ferris noted, turning to him. ¡°I just hate you.¡±


    You could be reading stolen content. Head to the original site for the genuine story.


    ¡°...fair call.¡± Faller admitted. ¡°It seems like we¡¯ve got a good lead. Team Valiant seem to clean up pretty well.¡±


    ¡°One of them called me a bitch.¡± Ferris admitted, just as Faller gave her an unimpressed glare. ¡°Just saying.¡±


    ¡°I hate to put them out like this, but we¡¯re desperate...they just keep putting themselves in danger¡­¡± Faller let out, sighing as he stared out the window. ¡°They¡¯re just second-years...¡±


    ¡°...if you want my take...¡± Ferris said, before standing up proper. ¡°They wouldn¡¯t have gotten involved if they weren¡¯t capable. They¡¯re the reason we stopped suspecting Coatsworth, and they managed to hold off Rosalind Castello with only a few scratches. And now we¡¯ve got a lead to Wicker.¡±


    Faller turned back around. ¡°You reckon they¡¯re what this conflict needs?¡±


    Ferris took a beat, before nodding. ¡°Yeah.¡±


    Julia closed the door to Faller¡¯s office, before letting out an unexpectedly loud sigh.


    ¡°What have we gotten into...?¡±


    ¡°Ahem.¡±


    Julia jumped back, as she realised Cecil was still hanging around outside the office, waiting for her to finish up.


    ¡°Sorry. I didn¡¯t mean to startle.¡± Cecil apologised, as Julia let herself recover. ¡°I just wanted to clear the air a little.¡±


    ¡°C-Clear the air?¡± Julia let out, as Cecil resettled himself.


    ¡°In regards to what happened tonight.¡± Cecil said, straightening out. ¡°I¡¯d hate to think I¡¯m some suspicious individual in anyone¡¯s eyes, let alone a student. That just wouldn¡¯t sit right with me.¡±


    Julia made an effort to pay attention, as Cecil waved his hand. ¡°For the record, the floors you entered were part of the original foundation. We rarely use them nowadays, save for the occasional meeting, but we can¡¯t really get rid of it, so we keep it for storage and make sure no Wailing slip in through the tunnel underneath.¡±


    Cecil pointed up. ¡°And I don¡¯t make it public knowledge because a tunnel stretching to the Central Forest would set off alarm bells in a lot of areas, especially with plans for the city barrier going into place.¡±


    Cecil tapped his chin, as Julia waited there patiently. ¡°...and for what it¡¯s worth, I think you may be right.¡± Cecil reasoned. ¡°About suspicious parties, that is.¡±


    Cecil let out a breath. ¡°...I¡¯ve...had my suspicions about my business partner, Marcus.¡±


    Julia raised an eyebrow, as Cecil waved his hand. ¡°We¡¯ve worked together for a while, but...truth be told, I don¡¯t know much about him personally. On top of that, Rosalind was his hire, and I¡¯ve always been cautious of just who she might be.¡±


    ¡°M-Marcus, you said?¡± Julia let out, as Cecil nodded back.


    ¡°Just...if you were curious. I¡¯ve heard that Faller had asked students about gathering certain information, and I want to help where I can.¡± Cecil said, smiling back at Julia. ¡°And if you have any questions for me, feel free to ask. I try to be an open book.¡±


    Julia went to open her mouth, before she closed it again and nodded back to him.


    ¡°Anyway, sorry for holding you up. I¡¯m sure you¡¯re worried about your team.¡± Cecil said, pointing down the hallway. ¡°They mentioned heading back to the dorms. Good luck with the rest of your studies.¡±


    ¡°...th-thank you.¡± Julia managed, waving him goodbye, just as she watched him disappear into the rest of the building, before making her way back to the dorm proper.


    Even as she went to leave, she couldn¡¯t help but look back at him as he walked away, still catching the faint hint of the silhouette hidden behind that door back at EHM.


    ...Wicker...


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    It took Julia a bit to get back to Team Valiant¡¯s dorm, mostly to figure out how to explain what she¡¯d seen at EHM in any way that made sense. She felt a bit of apprehension as she rested her hand on the door handle, only for it to open for her, as Harley¡¯s inviting face greeted her.


    ¡°Hey. Faller didn¡¯t grill you too hard, did he?¡± Harley asked, as Julia slowly shook her head, before coming into the room proper.


    ¡°Did he want to punish us more?¡± Sola asked tentatively, just as Julia found her way onto the couch, with the others sitting around her.


    ¡°...no, actually...¡± Julia mentioned, rubbing her face. ¡°...he wanted to hear about what we¡¯d seen. And about Wicker.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Wess let out, getting confident looks from the others.


    ¡°Did he suspect we were catching onto him?¡± Essex asked, just as Julia shook her head.


    ¡°No, I...I think we were wrong.¡± Julia pointed out. ¡°After talking with him...Faller isn¡¯t Wicker. I¡¯m sure of it.¡±


    ¡°Huh.¡± Sola asked, scratching her head. ¡°Is he Gamma at least?¡±


    ¡°No, that was another dead end.¡± Julia admitted, as Wess patted her back. ¡°They were in the same year when he was studying here...¡±


    ¡°Well...shit.¡± Harley let out, scratching her head. ¡°We¡¯re back at square one, then. Wicker¡¯s still an enigma.¡±


    Julia jolted slightly in her seat, bundling up a little, as Wess immediately took notice.


    ¡°Julia? Is there something you¡¯re not saying?¡± Wess asked, just as Essex rested a hand on her shoulder.


    ¡°Is this to do with the break in?¡± Essex followed up, before Julia slowly nodded her head.


    ¡°...I-I saw him...¡±


    The team backed off.


    ¡°...r-right before we joined up again...¡± Julia admitted. ¡°...Cecil was in a room with two other people, a-and one of them referred to the other as Wicker...¡±


    ¡°No way...¡± Sola let out, falling onto the couch, as Harley covered her mouth.


    ¡°Get the fuck out...¡± Harley let out. ¡°Get the fuck out!¡±


    ¡°Wait, Julia.¡± Wess interrupted. ¡°There were three people?¡±


    Julia nodded, as Wess folded her arms. ¡°...so there¡¯s no guarantee it¡¯s him.¡±


    ¡°But he knows Wicker! That means he¡¯s met him at least!¡± Sola pointed out.


    ¡°Is Cecil a threat?¡± Essex asked insistently, just as Julia backed up into the couch.


    ¡°I-I-I don¡¯t know...I...I think it¡¯s him...¡± Julia said, shaking her head. ¡°...but Faller also told me we should butt out of this. If we dig any deeper...we could end up getting into real trouble.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a bit late for that.¡± Harley pointed out. ¡°I think we crossed that line once we broke into EHM and stole Rosalind¡¯s car.¡±


    ¡°Or when we fought her during the attack on the academy.¡± Sola noted, as Harley shrugged in agreement.


    Wess noticed Julia sinking into the couch herself, before reaching out her hand again. ¡°What do you think we should do now, Julia?¡±


    Julia looked back at her gently, before fiddling with her hands for a second, just to sigh out.


    ¡°...I think Faller¡¯s right.¡± Julia pointed out. ¡°Wicker knows our faces. Whoever they are, we¡¯ve been a thorn in their side for a while. I don¡¯t want to push things any more than we have...and I don¡¯t know if we can keep each other safe...¡±


    Julia immediately lay down on top of Wess¡¯ lap. ¡°We just got our weapons back, and I just wanna finish the semester without anymore nonsense...¡±


    Harley let out a breath, before leaning over the couch and rubbing Julia¡¯s arm. ¡°Easily done. I¡¯m with ya.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ve had enough excitement for one year.¡± Sola admitted, sinking into the couch. ¡°I¡¯m pooped!¡±


    ¡°...if you say Faller can be trusted...then I will allow him to take this over for now.¡± Essex reasoned. ¡°Our top priority should be our safety and our degrees.¡±


    ¡°And training, of course.¡± Wess offered up, patting Julia¡¯s head. ¡°We just got our weapons back, after all.¡±


    Julia lay there comfortably, staring up at the ceiling, just as an idea popped into her head. ¡°Actually, there¡¯s one thing we should do before focusing on studying...¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    After what had ended up being a fairly long and detailed explanation, Joleicia was left tapping her foot anxiously while huddled in her chair, staring back at the frankly fairly tense Julia, just as the other members of Team Vanguard each took the news in their own way.


    ¡°Wow...¡± Chops let out, scratching the back of her neck. ¡°Like, holy shit, Julia.¡±


    ¡°I...know it¡¯s a lot.¡± Julia admitted, staring at the floor. ¡°But I figured you guys should know about what¡¯s been going on. Just...in case we need your help at some point, or...if you guys might be in danger too...¡±


    ¡°U-Uhh...¡± Nathaniel let out, grabbing his head. ¡°I-I don¡¯t think I quite got all that...¡±


    ¡°Yes, I¡¯m struggling to retain it all myself.¡± Saxin admitted, massaging her forehead. ¡°So...is Cecil someone to be worried about?¡±


    Julia went to speak, before shrugging. ¡°I can¡¯t say. He¡¯s suspicious, but that may just be it.¡±


    ¡°I guess that explains what Faller was talking about.¡± Joleicia spoke up, drawing the room¡¯s attention. ¡°Back in first-year, he mentioned something about being vigilant and looking out for any suspicious behaviour during our study.¡±


    Joleicia showed her hands. ¡°I thought he was just giving good advice. You know, like ¡®be wary of these things. Always be vigilant¡¯ or something. Boy, I read that wrong...¡±


    ¡°Y-Yeah! That¡¯s something.¡±


    All eyes were on Lenin, as his voiced peaked a little as he spoke.


    "Th-This is surprising for all of us. I¡¯m shocked, really.¡± Lenin tried, shifting his eyes a little. ¡°Wicker, what a name. Who names their kid that?¡±


    Lenin started to sweat a bit, as Saxin started glaring at him.


    ¡°Lenin...¡±


    ¡°...alright.¡± Lenin said, avoiding looking at the others. ¡°...Wess told me about Wicker earlier this year. But I promised to keep it to myself, just so you guys didn¡¯t worry, or...you know, safety reasons.¡±


    Lenin glanced back at Saxin. ¡°Plus, I¡¯d already admitted to bei-¡±


    Lenin stopped himself and cleared his throat. ¡°T-To other things...so I didn¡¯t want to overwhelm anyone in particular with too much all at once.¡±


    Saxin admittedly found herself smiling, as she reached over to pat his back. ¡°...of course your reason was genuine. You sweet man.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s me.¡± Lenin admitted, leaning into Saxin, just as Chops started heading to the kitchen.


    ¡°Sorry to hear that all of this was going on behind the scenes, Julia.¡± Chops admitted, looking through the fridge. ¡°I thought we had it tough with Florey leaving and all that, but at least we didn¡¯t have some lady with anger issues hunting us down.¡±


    Julia felt a pang of guilt as Florey¡¯s name was mentioned, before the same realisation hit Joleicia.


    ¡°Wait. Florey¡¯s working for EHM.¡± Joleicia admitted, as Julia nodded back to her. ¡°That¡¯s...¡±


    ¡°Oh my goodness.¡± Saxin let out, covering her mouth. ¡°Is he working for Wicker?¡±


    ¡°W-What?¡± Julia let out, as Nathaniel got out of his seat.


    ¡°H-He wouldn¡¯t do that on purpose. If he knew about Wicker, then he¡¯d probably stop, r-right?¡± Nathaniel suggested, as the others looked unsure.


    ¡°But that implies either Cecil or Marcus is Wicker...which we don¡¯t know.¡± Lenin noted. ¡°So...¡±


    ¡°No...no, Florey...he wouldn¡¯t...¡± Julia tried, getting out of her seat and walking around, as Team Vanguard watched. ¡°...he¡¯s working for EHM, not...Wicker. He didn¡¯t know about the lower floors.¡±


    ¡°Or why the weapons were there.¡± Joleicia added, sighing to herself. ¡°And he didn¡¯t mention anything off colour at the formal.¡±


    ¡°Or when we had lunch a couple weeks ago...¡± Julia said, assuring herself and nodding. ¡°Yeah. Yeah, he¡¯s okay. He¡¯s fine...¡±


    Chops watched Julia trying to calm herself, as she poked her head up from the fridge. ¡°You want us to check up on him?¡±


    ¡°O-Oh, no, you don¡¯t need to put yourself out.¡± Julia insisted. ¡°I just wanted everyone on the same page. You guys are really good friends, so if there¡¯s anyone we could confide in...¡±


    ¡°Man, my biology classes with Cecil are gonna be real awkward now.¡± Joleicia remarked, before smiling at Julia. ¡°But thanks. It¡¯s great to know we trust each other.¡±


    Joleicia recalled something, before snapping her fingers. ¡°And sorry about your elimination from the tournament. We were really routing for you guys.¡±


    Julia scratched her neck. ¡°It couldn¡¯t be helped. Harley was in danger...¡±


    Chops snickered from the kitchen, before grabbing her food and heading back. ¡°Uhuh. Did you hear who¡¯s left to compete?¡±


    Julia shook her head, as Chops sat back down. ¡°You have no idea who they¡¯re predicting to be the winner...¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°...nd after a climactic final match, Archer Parthos has come out on top as the winner of this year¡¯s tournament! Everyone give a big hand to the guy!¡± Spence announced, as Team Valiant stared down at Julia¡¯s tablet, watching the live video feed.


    ¡°There were plenty of highs and lows this year, but we hope you¡¯ll tune in for our next tournament in 5021. Tha-¡± Vent added, before Julia turned her tablet off and pocketed it.


    ¡°Go figure. I guess getting eliminated kinda handed him the win.¡± Harley admitted, rubbing her neck. ¡°What a douche.¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s so a douche! You totally deserved that win!¡± Sola insisted. ¡°It¡¯s not your fault you got stabbed!¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s my fault for competing.¡± Harley reasoned, waving her hand. ¡°Whatever. He can take the stupid win. I get the best team ever.¡±


    ¡°Obviously.¡± Wess added, before turning to Essex, standing beside the road with them. ¡°Any sign of them?¡±


    ¡°Not as of yet.¡± Essex said, only to spot someone running down the entrance to the academy dragging bags behind them.


    ¡°Hey! You guys showed up!¡±


    The team turned to Taylor, as they kept running excitedly, before jumping into a hug with Sola.


    ¡°You didn¡¯t have to send me off!¡± Taylor insisted, as Sola shook her head vehemently.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know when we¡¯ll see each other again, so we really do.¡± Sola pointed out.


    ¡°It was great to meet you, Taylor.¡± Julia added, sticking out her hand, before Taylor pulled her into a hug instead. ¡°O-Okay, that works too.¡±


    ¡°Hey, you guys come to the Western Wayside. When you make it big.¡± Taylor offered, batting Julia¡¯s arm. ¡°We¡¯ll pull out another Waygone Wailing just for you.¡±


    ¡°Would you?¡± Harley joked, getting a chuckle from Taylor, just as a van pulled up to the academy entrance.


    ¡°Taylor! You ready to go?¡±


    ¡°Just a sec!¡± Taylor called back, before saluting to the team. ¡°That¡¯s my team. We¡¯ve gotta long trip back to Aceoro, so I¡¯m gonna call it here.¡±


    Taylor saluted casually, before grabbing their bags and heading off, only for Harley to grab their attention and pull them to the side.


    ¡°Hey, uhh, before you go...thanks.¡± Harley said, rubbing her arm. ¡°For that wakeup call. It helped put some things into perspective.¡±


    ¡°You kinda needed it.¡± Taylor remarked, as Harley glared at them.


    ¡°Well...yeah...¡±


    ¡°If you want to make it up to me...¡± Taylor said, before subtly nodding to Sola. ¡°Do everything you can for her. The Venator industry¡¯s harsh, and she¡¯s a bright light, you know?¡±


    Harley smiled. ¡°I know.¡±


    Taylor grinned, before heading into the van as it drove off down the road, leaving Team Valiant on their own again.


    ¡°Man, they were way cooler than Archer.¡± Julia noted.


    ¡°And politer.¡± Wess added.


    ¡°You can¡¯t help but respect them.¡± Donovan chimed in, before everyone quickly realised they were standing right beside the team.


    Donovan turned back to them, before folding their arms. ¡°Sorry. I wanted to see them off, but I wasn¡¯t about to face them again.¡±


    ¡°Were you two not friends?¡± Essex asked, as Donovan shied away.


    ¡°They kicked my ass during our sparring match.¡± Donovan admitted. ¡°They don¡¯t deserve a goodbye.¡±


    Donovan quickly turned around, before heading back into the academy. ¡°Anyway, Harley, Wess, sorry about your eliminations. There¡¯s no dignity in that kind of defeat.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t I know it...¡± Wess let out, as Donovan waved and left. ¡°I know they¡¯re right, but having it pointed out is still rough.¡±


    ¡°We can make up for it.¡± Julia said, facing the team fully. ¡°We¡¯ve still got a third of the semester left, after all. Let¡¯s hit our nose to the grindstone and...grind up on...studying.¡±


    Julia gave it a second, before scratching her head. ¡°That sounded better in my head.¡±


    ¡°The intention made sense.¡± Essex said, as the team laughed to themselves pleasantly.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°...oh...¡±


    ¡°...oh, sorry, I didn¡¯t...¡±


    ¡°No, no, it¡¯s fine. You were reaching for it.¡±


    ¡°...right. Grela.¡±


    ¡°Totally. No problem.¡±


    Harley let out a nervous laugh, as she handed off the textbook to Essex, before they sat back down at the table with rest of the team, taking up the middle of the study area.


    ¡°Have you guys decided on your subjects for next year?¡± Sola asked, drumming her hands on the table, as Harley gave a thumbs up.


    ¡°Doubling down on history and weapon maintenance.¡± Harley announced. ¡°I¡¯m leaving third year with a bang!¡±


    ¡°Art and culture, plus some PR classes for flavour.¡± Wess added, as Julia perked up from her textbook.


    ¡°Oh! Uhh, group dynamics and leadership classes. And one on pop culture with Wess.¡± Julia said, smiling back at Wess. ¡°Plus the new Whil class ¡®A Principally Practical Guide to Whil Practices: Application, Principles and How they Apply to You.¡¯ I can¡¯t believe I said that all in one go¡­¡±


    ¡°Oh yeah. I forgot we were sharing that. Probably cause the name¡¯s so bad.¡± Sola noted, as Essex perked up.


    ¡°Should I...share a class with Harley?¡± She asked, before turning to Harley, just as her nervousness came back.


    ¡°If...you want?¡± Harley prefaced, right as Sola pulled her chair up to them both. ¡°I don¡¯t know if you¡¯d like any of my classes, though.¡±


    ¡°What about melee combat? Or the weapon maintenance one?¡± Sola suggested, as Harley looked back at Essex.


    ¡°You wanna...?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Essex replied, smiling slightly, before bowing. ¡°I would like that.¡±


    ¡°Okay then.¡± Harley remarked, laughing awkwardly again, right as Wess leaned over to Julia.


    ¡°How are things between those two?¡± Wess whispered. ¡°After...you know...¡±


    ¡°Well, Harley told me they said a few things during the break in, then had a small talk once we had some free time.¡± Julia clarified. ¡°Apparently, Harley¡¯s warmed up to the idea of her, Sola and Essex as an item. But...¡±


    Julia waved her hand. ¡°It¡¯s still a bit shaky. This is Essex¡¯s first relationship, and Harley still feels kinda bad about how she treated her.¡±


    ¡°I see.¡± Wess noted, before turning back to her textbook. ¡°I¡¯m sure they¡¯ll grow into it. Once we¡¯ve hit the semester break, the free time should smooth things over.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, hopefully...¡± Julia muttered, turning back to her work as well, just as Wess lifted her head again.


    ¡°...hey.¡±


    ¡°Yeah?¡±


    ¡°How¡¯re you holding up?


    ¡°...what do you mean?¡±


    ¡°Well, it¡¯s been a few weeks since the break in. And since Faller¡¯s little talk.¡± Wess pointed out. ¡°You haven¡¯t really spoken much about it since it happened.¡±


    Julia kept a bit quiet, before sighing to herself, just as she turned back to Wess.


    She went to speak, before catching the exit to the study area in her peripheral and indicating to it.


    Wess understood what she meant and turned to the others.


    ¡°We¡¯re just going to step out for a bit.¡± Wess called out, as Sola waved them off.


    ¡°Alright! See you later!¡± Sola let out, before grabbing Harley and Essex¡¯s hands. ¡°Now, about laser tag...¡±


    Julia led Wess out into the hallway, before finding a small spot away from the other students to talk. She sat against the window interior, as Wess leaned on the wall next to her.


    ¡°It sure is a lovely day.¡± Wess insisted, as Julia nodded slightly.


    ¡°...sorry.¡± Julia started. ¡°I know I shouldn¡¯t bottle these things up, but...it¡¯s kinda hard when I have to make the big decisions...¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s nothing wrong with being a burden to the people that care about you.¡± Wess declared, squeezing her hand. ¡°If they¡¯re worth it, they¡¯ll help you through. You know who taught me that?¡±


    ¡°...me?¡± Julia asked, as Wess nodded back to her.


    ¡°Go on. I can take it.¡± Wess promised, just as Julia made herself a bit more comfortable.


    ¡°...ever since the break in, I just keep thinking about what I saw.¡± Julia confessed. ¡°When we all went off on our own.¡±


    Julia started playing with her hands. ¡°...I can¡¯t shake the feeling that it¡¯s him.¡± Julia admitted. ¡°I know I saw him there. It was clear as day. Cecil was in that room¡­and I feel like he¡¯s Wicker.¡±


    Wess glanced back at her, as Julia shook her head, before noticing Wess¡¯ face and just making out her expression.


    ¡°You know I¡¯m telling the truth, right?¡±


    Wess let out a sigh. ¡°...do you know for certain?¡±


    Julia felt confused. ¡°Well...no, I guess not. But what else could it be, Wess?¡±


    ¡°...I¡¯m just saying we should extend some healthy scepticism.¡± Wess reasoned, running her hand over Julia¡¯s. ¡°We were in a very stressful, high-pressure situation.¡±


    ¡°Wess, I know what I sa-¡±


    ¡°I know, and I believe you.¡± Wess insisted. ¡°But this is one eyewitness account of a situation you could only half see. On top of that, there¡¯s always a plausible deniability since Cecil owns the company. As much as I want to back you up and fully agree with you, we¡¯re not in a position to do so.¡±


    Wess stared down at their hands linked. ¡°And remember, circumstantial evidence hasn¡¯t served us well in the past. Coatsworth and Faller were both dead ends.¡±


    ¡°...yeah.¡± Julia admitted, staring downward.


    Wess took herself off the wall and sat beside Julia. ¡°You said it yourself. We should let Faller handle this. He¡¯s in a far better position to do so, and at comparatively less risk with Ferris by his side.¡±


    ¡°...we don¡¯t even know what Wicker wants.¡± Julia reasoned, drawing Wess¡¯ attention. ¡°How¡¯re we meant to go back to studying when this...lunatic¡¯s going around doing Whilit-knows what to the Venator industry?¡±


    Julia sat up more. ¡°Essex saw cages, Wailing-sized cages at EHM. What the heck are those even for? And why do they need someone like Rosalind? Who hires an assassin to spy on a Venator team? And then Cecil mentions some guy named Marcus an-¡±


    ¡°Julia, hey.¡± Wess said, grabbing her arms. ¡°It¡¯s out of our hands. Please don¡¯t stress yourself.¡±


    Wess pulled Julia into a hug, as Julia hugged her back and nodded slowly.


    ¡°With that said, I swear that if anyone of them try to threaten us, I¡¯ll personally see to them never making that mistake again.¡± Wess declared.


    ¡°...right.¡± Julia replied, breaking the hug and smiling back at Wess. ¡°No one messes with Team Valiant and gets away with it.¡±


    Wess grinned and hopped back up, before Julia snickered a little.


    ¡°Someone¡¯s gotta defend that butt, after all.¡±


    Wess turned back around, before blushing back at her. ¡°J-Julia, don¡¯t say things like that.¡±


    ¡°But it¡¯s true.¡± Julia insisted, hopping up as well, as Wess turned to avoid showing her crimson face. ¡°I¡¯d say it¡¯s worth it.¡±


    ¡°...you say the strangest things when we¡¯re alone.¡± Wess pointed out, bumping Julia¡¯s side playfully as they walked back down the hall.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Oooooooohhh boy! I. Am. Ready. To collapse!¡± Harley exclaimed, bursting through the dorm, followed by a very excitable Sola.


    ¡°Hoooooooow ready are you?¡± Sola asked, right as Harley landed on the couch.


    ¡°This ready.¡± Harley replied, holding out her arms widely, just as Sola used the opportunity to land on top of her.


    ¡°You¡¯re getting way better at your pivoting.¡± Sola insisted, lying against her.


    ¡°I think that tournament injury reminded me of how valuable my legs are.¡± Harley said, looking down at them. ¡°Hopefully we don¡¯t get too many more bumps and bruises in the industry.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯d worry more about my hands.¡± Sola pointed out, holding them out. ¡°I can¡¯t shoot lightning without ¡®em.¡±


    ¡°Good call. You¡¯re our trump card, after all.¡± Harley admitted, as Sola pouted at her.


    ¡°Hey! I do way more than that!¡±


    ¡°I know.¡± Harley snickered, rubbing her back. ¡°Take it from the team wall.¡±


    Sola kept pouting, before resting her head on Harley¡¯s chest, just as her eyes drifted to Essex¡¯s room.


    ¡°You thinking about her?¡± Harley asked, as Sola nodded quietly.


    ¡°I¡¯ll be honest...it¡¯s super weird having two girlfriends.¡± Sola said, laughing a little. ¡°High school me would¡¯ve had a heart attack.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t I know it.¡± Harley said. ¡°I¡¯m still getting used to the whole thing. Like, we¡¯re kinda Essex¡¯s first real relationship.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Sola said, sitting up a bit. ¡°Huh. I guess I never put two and two together on that.¡±


    Harley smiled, before pulling Sola into an impromptu hug. ¡°Let¡¯s do our best to make it worth her while.¡±


    ¡°Can do!¡± Sola cheered, just as the dorm door opened up to Essex, dabbing at some sweat on her forehead.


    She quickly noticed the duo on the couch, before stopping herself. ¡°Oh. Cali.¡±


    ¡°Hi Essex.¡± Harley greeted, sitting up properly. ¡°Done with your run?¡±


    ¡°Dal. I¡¯ve been improving my time slowly over the last few weeks.¡± Essex said, taking off her dress shirt to reveal a singlet, before briefly pausing. ¡°Also, do not come into the study.¡±


    Essex held up a small gift bag from behind her back. ¡°I¡¯ve bought you Bestalow gifts and don¡¯t wish for them to be spoiled.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Harley exclaimed, as Sola at up.


    ¡°Gifts?! From you?!¡± Sola let out, as Essex nodded and hurried into the study.


    Harley blinked suddenly, before looking back at Sola. ¡°That¡¯s the first time I¡¯ve seen her without her shirt on.¡±


    Harley and Sola both looked at each other.


    ¡°She¡¯s so damn hot.¡± Harley let out.


    ¡°She¡¯s crazy jacked.¡± Sola said, grinning happily. ¡°We¡¯ve gotta see her abs.¡±


    ¡°Oh my god, yes! It¡¯s probably like a cheese grater down there.¡± Harley confessed, making a grating motion. ¡°If those biceps are anything to go off of...¡±


    Harley and Sola both daydreamed for a second, before falling back onto the couch.


    ¡°Third year¡¯s shaping up to be something...¡± Sola muttered.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Bye guys!¡± Joleicia let out, waving to Saxin and Lenin, as they stepped onto the Flash-Rail heading to the Northern Wayside. ¡°Have fun on your semester break!¡±


    ¡°Oh, we definitely plan to¡­¡± Saxin cooed, before tugging at Lenin¡¯s collar.


    ¡°Lots of fun and fun and fun and¡­¡± Lenin added, rubbing his nose against Saxin¡¯s playfully, before she pulled him further into the compartment. ¡°See you when we get back!¡±


    The doors closed, as the Flash-Rail shot off into the distance, leaving Chops and Joleicia in the station, along with Team Valiant.


    ¡°Those two are so damn horny.¡± Chops remarked, before cracking her knuckles. ¡°Ugh, I¡¯m jealous.¡±


    ¡°Well, how about we go out somewhere? I can be your wingwoman!¡± Joleicia cheered. ¡°We¡¯ll get you some good lovin¡¯.¡±


    ¡°Jojo, you¡¯re too good to me.¡± Chops said, just as they started heading out of the station, before Harley leaned over.


    ¡°You feel like rekindling things, Chops?¡± Harley joked, as Chops flipped her off.


    ¡°I¡¯m not that desperate.¡± Chops remarked, before playfully punching her arm. ¡°See you when I see you, Julia.¡±


    ¡°Later!¡± Julia called out, before putting her hands in her pockets. ¡°I¡¯m actually feeling homesick. I probably shouldn¡¯t tell my dad about the break in, huh?¡±


    ¡°Definitely not.¡± Sola insisted, before grabbing Harley and Essex¡¯s hands. ¡°Come on! Let¡¯s get our break started!¡±


    Julia and Wess turned to them curiously, as Julia spoke up. ¡°Aren¡¯t you guys going back home?¡±


    ¡°Uhh, not really, no.¡± Harley admitted, letting Sola attempt to pull her along. ¡°Since Essex was staying on campus anyway, we decided to stick around here for the break.¡±


    ¡°So that we may bond.¡± Essex said, giving a thumbs up as Sola tugged on her other hand. ¡°And do ¡®girlfriend stuff.¡¯¡±


    ¡°Davidson and William alrea¡­Sola, you¡¯re not gonna do it. I¡¯m too beefy.¡± Harley said.


    ¡°I wanna get started right away!¡± Sola let out. ¡°We¡¯ve got our movie date, then laser tag, then candlelit dinners, then our walk in t¡­¡±


    ¡°Great! You guys¡¯ll be in Detu City with me!¡± Julia exclaimed, letting Sola carry on. ¡°This¡¯ll be so much fun!¡±


    ¡°Umm¡­¡±


    Julia finally noticed Wess beside her, somewhat shying away, as Harley noticed the apprehension in her face and decided to let Sola pull her and Essex away to give them some space.


    ¡°What¡¯s up, Wess?¡± Julia asked, as Wess played with her hands.


    ¡°¡­w-well, I wanted to ask¡­something¡­¡± Wess prefaced, staring down at the floor. ¡°¡­you see, I¡­I can¡¯t go back to my home for¡­obvious reasons, so I wanted t-¡°


    ¡°Wess, of course you can stay with me.¡± Julia said, as Wess¡¯ eyes lit up.


    ¡°R-Really? Because I can s-stay on campus if I¡¯d be imposing.¡±


    Julia grinned back at her. ¡°You worrywart. It¡¯s hardly imposing.¡±


    Julia leaned in to kiss her, while Wess could feel her face reddening with every second.


    ¡°¡­y-yes, well¡­obviously, you would¡¯ve said yes¡­it¡¯s in your nature¡­¡±


    ¡°And cause I love you.¡± Julia smiled, as Wess laughed a little.


    ¡°Yes, that too.¡± Wess chuckled, as Julia hugged her side.


    ¡°It¡¯ll be good having the whole team around.¡± Julia assured, before her gaze started to focus. ¡°¡­also¡­I¡¯ve been thinking a bit.¡±


    Julia made a point to face Wess properly.


    ¡°¡­I¡­I don¡¯t want to leave this Wicker stuff alone.¡±


    Wess¡¯ eyes widened, as Julia went to hold her hand.


    ¡°It doesn¡¯t sit right for me to know something¡¯s going on and that we¡¯re choosing to ignore it.¡± Julia stated. ¡°I don¡¯t work like that. That¡¯s not the kind of Venator I want to be.¡±


    Julia gave Wess a proud, hopeful look. ¡°Venators are heroes. We stop the bad guys.¡± Julia insisted. ¡°Whether that¡¯s the Wailing, or whoever¡¯s working with them. We have a chance to do good, and I don¡¯t want us to throw that away.¡±


    ¡°¡­Julia, we might be getting in over our head.¡± Wess said, rubbing Julia¡¯s hand back. ¡°We don¡¯t know what this Wicker person¡¯s capable of.¡±


    ¡°And they don¡¯t know what we¡¯re capable of.¡± Julia assured. ¡°I¡¯m not saying we go out hunting them down. But next time we get the chance to do the right thing, we do it, regardless of the circumstances.¡±


    Wess needed a moment to take in everything Julia was promising, before locking eyes with her and smirking.


    ¡°With talk like that, we might just end the Wailing Conflict.¡±


    Julia found herself giggling. ¡°Yeah, if we get around to it.¡±


    ¡°We are pretty busy, after all.¡± Wess added, getting more laughter out of Julia. ¡°Sola seems pretty insistent on that laser tag.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, sorry Wailing, we¡¯ve got one more game, and then we¡¯ll get back to you.¡± Julia riffed, as Wess struggled to hold back laughter. ¡°If you could just take a ticket and wait in line.¡±


    ¡°One at a time, please! Have some dignity!¡± Wess joked, as the two stepped out of the station, happily joking amongst themselves while heading back to the dorm room, safe and sound in the comfort that they had each other¡¯s back.


    ~~~~~~


    On a completely unrelated note, Adam patiently kicked his legs on top of the main building of the academy, watching as Team Valiant headed inside to prepare for the semester break, all while humming something to himself and counting down on his fingers.


    ¡°Oh boy¡­¡±


    Adam turned to the camera.


    ¡°This one¡¯s gonna be a doozy.¡±

 INTERLUDE: Julia

    ¡°¡­ust like my love, ever long¡­ing. When the rhythm¡¯s on, you better belieeeve¡­¡± Julia sung to herself, making her way through the streets of Detu City, a bag of groceries slung over her shoulder. ¡°Still going on, going strong¡­¡±


    She passed by the Flash-Rail station, before noticing the lovely weather and deciding to walk home the long way.


    ¡°Might get some cardio in too.¡± Julia remarked to herself, before clapping her hands. ¡°Let¡¯s do this!¡±


    Almost immediately, her attention was caught by a glint on the ground in front of her.


    ¡°Whoa¡­¡± Julia let out, before reaching down and picking up a coin worth five capitals.


    She looked around curiously, checking to see if anyone had dropped it. No one seemed to be around, as she shrugged and pocketed it.


    ¡°Pretty lucky start to the day.¡± Julia admitted, continuing on her way. ¡°Not much you can get with it, but it¡¯s still nice to have.¡±


    She carried on for a little longer, happy to reach the more open parts of Detu City, as more people started making themselves known.


    She glanced around inquisitively, keeping herself busy as she walked, only t-


    ¡°WAAAHHHHH!!! WAAAAHHHHHHHH!!!¡±


    Julia suddenly spotted a baby being held by his mother in front of her, crying loudly for no particular reason.


    ¡°Timmy, please¡­¡± The mother insisted, patting his head as they walked, despite him still crying out.


    She held him over her shoulder, as he kept whining, before looking over at Julia with his sour expression.


    Julia realised she¡¯d captured his attention, before smiling and starting to raise her eyebrows over and over. Timmy kept staring, as she looked side to side, before puffing out her cheeks.


    She let out the air with a silly noise, as Timmy¡¯s expression turned much happier, letting Julia keep making funny faces. She started playing peekaboo as well, getting some laughter out of Timmy, before his mother started to take notice.


    ¡°Well, that¡¯s a lot better. What¡¯s gotten into you, little man?¡± She said, nuzzling his nose, before moving him back to the stroller, not even noticing Julia walking behind her.


    Julia rolled her eyes and kept walking, still thoroughly enjoying the lovely weather, as she grabbed a bottle of lemonade from her groceries and took a swig, before noticing something missing from the bag.


    ¡°Did I forget the dry oregano?¡± She commented, before digging around the bag. ¡°Dammit¡­alright, I¡¯ll grab some on th-¡°


    ¡°P-Please, what¡¯s the probl-¡°


    ¡°What¡¯s the problem?! I think you should know, you little fuck!¡±


    Julia¡¯s ears rang out, before she spotted two people in a nearby alleyway, one ready to beat the hell out of the other, pushing him against the wall threateningly.


    ¡°You¡¯re the reason! You¡¯re why she¡¯s acting out this way!¡± One of them yelled, as the other cowered away.


    ¡°I-I-I don¡¯t know what I-¡°


    ¡°Stop lying!¡± He yelled, getting ready to throw a punch, only to feel his body slow to a crawl, his punch barely making any progress in the air.


    This story has been taken without authorization. Report any sightings.


    He turned to see Julia holding out her hands, using her Whil to slow the velocity of his fist, as she walked closer to them.


    ¡°Alright, that¡¯s enough.¡± She insisted, feeling herself losing her grip, before stepping in front of the man against the wall. ¡°There¡¯s no reason to start fighting.¡±


    ¡°Yes¡­there is!¡± The other man cried, breaking free from Julia¡¯s Whil. ¡°After what he did to her!¡±


    ¡°W-Who?¡± The cowering man asked.


    ¡°Carolyn!¡±


    The cowering man lifted himself up in recognition. ¡°Wait, how do you know her?¡±


    The angered man raised his hand and showed off an engagement ring, as Julia put the pieces together.


    ¡°She was sneaking off, and I¡­didn¡¯t know where.¡± He muttered, breathing out. ¡°And then I saw you two out at a bar, before you took her home¡­¡±


    The scared man threw up his arms. ¡°H-Hold on, she never told me she was engaged to someone! It was just a c-casual thing!¡±


    ¡°You expected me t-!¡° He said, going to throw another punch, only for Julia to use her Whil to intervene again.


    ¡°Stop doing that and listen.¡± Julia insisted, letting go of him again. ¡°This is gonna go nowhere if your only reaction is to throw a punch. I wanna see you reach an understanding, so I¡¯m gonna stay here and make sure you two hear each other out, okay?¡±


    The two of them looked at each other in confusion, before sighing out.


    ¡°So, you weren¡¯t dating or anything?¡±


    ¡°No, of course not. I¡¯m not really in great headspace for dating right now, so I was just looking for casual hookups.¡± Thomas explained, sitting on the ground and leaning against the wall. ¡°Carolyn was interested in me, but she never told me she was seeing anyone. I never would¡¯ve gone any further if I knew that.¡±


    ¡°Shit¡­and she wasn¡¯t wearing her ring or anything?¡± Burnie asked, as Thomas shook his head.


    ¡°She must¡¯ve taken it off before arriving. I never saw her wearing it.¡±


    ¡°¡­and this whole time, she said she was prepping the wedding for us.¡± Burnie groaned, throwing his hands out. ¡°Like, it was nine at night! Who does prep that late in the day?¡±


    Thomas shrugged. ¡°I guess she ended up lying to both of us.¡±


    ¡°¡­yeah.¡± Burnie let out, tapping his foot anxiously. ¡°¡­sorry, for¡­¡±


    ¡°No, no, I get it. I looked like the asshole.¡± Thomas admitted, before turning to Julia. ¡°It¡¯s a good thing you came in when you did, or else I¡¯d be trying to talk with far less teeth.¡±


    ¡°I hate to agree, but yeah.¡± Julia admitted, before standing up with them. ¡°So? Cleared the air a little?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯d say so.¡± Burnie said, patting his jeans down. ¡°¡­man, I shoulda seen this coming. She did stuff like this when we started dating, but I hoped she¡¯d grown out of it.¡±


    ¡°Hey, you wanna grab something to bite?¡± Thomas asked, pointing out of the alleyway. ¡°I¡¯m stupid hungry right now.¡±


    ¡°Honestly, yeah. You¡¯re the only person I could talk about this with who¡¯d get it.¡± Burnie confessed, leaving with him, before turning back around to Julia. ¡°Hey, thanks lady, for cleaning us up!¡±


    Julia waved them off, before leaving the alleyway herself, as she only just noticed how much time had passed.


    ¡°I better start making tracks again.¡± She said, heading back in the right direction. ¡°Just like my love, ever long¡­ing¡­¡±


    On her way home, she passed by a couple storefronts lining the shopping district, including Virgil¡¯s, waving inside as he cleaned up for the day. Eventually, she passed a grocery store, before remembering she had to buy some dry oregano and quickly heading inside.


    She managed to find a bottle and paid for it right after, heading back out, only to catch the conversation of the person behind her in line.


    ¡°Are you gonna buy it or not?¡±


    ¡°U-Uhh, yeah, I¡¯ve got¡­I¡¯ve got the money¡­¡±


    The storeowner tapped his fingers on the counter, as a woman desperately searched in her bag for extra change.


    Julia noticed and stood off to the side, as the store owner sighed out.


    ¡°Listen, if you ca-¡°


    ¡°Please, just¡­I can pay for them, please¡­¡±


    ¡°Miss, you¡¯re four dollars off. I¡¯ve gotta make a living too.¡±


    Her searching got more frantic, as Julia felt a tinge of empathy for her, before quickly remembering the capital in her pocket.


    She pulled it out, before leaning down and rolling it across the floor, using her Whil to keep it rolling, right as it hit the woman¡¯s foot.


    It took her a second to notice, before she looked down and saw the coin by her feet. She looked around curiously, checking to see if anyone had dropped it, before grabbing it and holding it out to him.


    ¡°There we go.¡± The store owner let out, taking it from her, as she let out a relieved laugh, before happily taking her groceries with her.


    The woman took a second to look around the entrance, trying to spot who might have helped her, before chucking it up to fate and continuing on, as Julia casually stayed out of the way, waiting for her to pass, before continuing on her way.


    Not too long after, she managed to make it back to her home, being greeted by Wess in the lounge room, turning her head to look at her.


    ¡°Well, someone took their time.¡± Wess remarked, as Julia dropped the bag off in the kitchen.


    ¡°I decided to walk. The weather was too nice to waste.¡±


    Wess got up to help her unpack. ¡°So? Get up to anything special?¡±


    Julia grabbed out the bottle of dry oregano, before smiling to herself.


    ¡°Same old, same old.¡±

 INTERLUDE: Harley

    ¡°YEAH!!!¡± Harley exclaimed, before managing to throw Joleicia to the ground successfully. ¡°Easy does it!¡±


    Joleicia fell flat on her back, as she stumbled back up and tried to regain her composure.


    ¡°Jeez, I didn¡¯t even stand a chance¡­three rounds of failure¡­¡± Joleicia let out, still pretty dizzy. ¡°I thought my training was starting to pick up¡­oh boy¡­¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s cool. Most people can¡¯t compete with all this.¡± Harley bragged, flexing impressively, before pointing down at Joleicia¡¯s legs. ¡°Also, your footing was way off balance. Knocking you down shouldn¡¯t be that easy.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m a sniper. My arms are built, but my legs¡­they weak.¡± Joleicia insisted, before shaking her head and staring starry-eyed at Harley. ¡°Can we do this again sometime?! I¡¯ve already learned so much just from this bit of sparring!¡±


    ¡°Absolutely!¡± Harley grinned, only for Joleicia to try tripping her up in return, which Harley narrowly avoided. ¡°And nice try.¡±


    ¡°Another sniper trait. I love surprise attacks.¡± Joleicia assured, just as her tablet buzzed in her pocket. ¡°Oh, team time! I gotta get going!¡±


    Joleicia held up her fist, as Harley fist bumped her back, before waving her off as she headed back into the dorms happily, leaving Harley on the training grounds by herself.


    ¡°She¡¯s so fun.¡±


    Suddenly, Harley felt the presence of someone looming, as she looked around in search of who it was.


    ¡°Heh¡­not bad¡­¡±


    Hearing a voice from one of the dorm balconies, she looked up and noticed someone staring down at her, lying on the railing in a cocky pose, wearing red, needlessly lavish clothing and grinning.


    ¡°You might actually be an interesting fight¡­¡± He stated, as Harley rested her hands on her hips.


    ¡°¡­hi. My name¡¯s Harley.¡± She said, before indicating back to him. ¡°Now you go.¡±


    ¡°¡­Tigre.¡± He said, standing up on the railing, before flashing his red cloak. ¡°Also known as the leader of Team Tigre.¡±


    Harley blinked. ¡°You named it after yourself?¡±


    ¡°You know it. Now i-¡°


    ¡°And the rest of the team was cool with that?¡±


    ¡°Yes. Now it¡¯s time w-¡°


    ¡°Also, you should get off the railing, that¡¯s pretty dangerous. I know a fall wouldn¡¯t be deadly or anything, but still.¡±


    Tigre sneered, before flaring out his cloak and jumping down anyway, landing on the ground with a loud thud, as he held his menacing pose.


    Harley noticed him holding it for a little too long, however, as she cocked her head.


    ¡°It hurt, didn¡¯t it?¡±


    ¡°¡­perceptive, I see.¡± Tigre let out, trying to stand up, even as his legs shot out in pain. ¡°No matter. I just saw your match. It seems like you need a real opponent.¡±


    ¡°That was just a sparring match. I¡¯m actually friends with her.¡± Harley explained, dampening Tigre¡¯s spirits a bit. ¡°Like, we can have a match too. I¡¯m free at th-¡°


    ¡°Then prepare yourself, Harley!!! For the most powerful fight of your life!!!¡± Tigre declared, revving Harley up.


    ¡°Oh, hell yeah! Let¡¯s do it!¡± Harley let out, bashing her Buster Knuckles together, as Tigre held out his hands.


    ¡°Try to keep up, if you can handle even one of my attacks!¡± He cried, before holding out his hands, as cold light started to form in front of him, spinning into a deadly vortex.


    Harley braced herself for the oncoming attack, ready for whatever her opponent could dish out, only for the vortex to approach and, despite its epic buildup, only reach about her ankle.


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    It smacked into her over and over, not really doing much damage, as it spun around her, Tigre still holding out his hands while sweating profusely.


    Light continued to gather around him as his power charged up.


    ¡°Prepare yourself for¡­Tigre¡¯s Requiem!!!¡±


    Harley kinda just stood there, not really needing to fight back, as Tigre held on as best he could, looking like he was about to pass out from how intense the fight was on his end.


    ¡°Heh¡­you never should have challenged me¡­you may think you¡¯re the top dog around here, but this academy¡¯s my domain. Now submit to¡­Tigre¡¯s AGONY!!!¡±


    The vortex spun a little bit faster, as Harley could feel her legs getting kinda sore, letting Tigre smirk at his clear victory.


    ¡°Well then, had enough, Harley? Or is your rival just too tough for you?¡±


    Harley stared down at the vortex in disappointment, before rubbing her face.


    ¡°Really, dude?¡±


    Tigre broke a sweat, as he poured all his strength into maintaining his Whil. ¡°What? Too scared to fight such an intimidati-¡°


    ¡°I¡¯ve fought, like, seven Wailing already. That¡¯s clearly not what¡¯s happening here.¡± She said, staring down at the vortex again. ¡°Like, this is it? I thought you¡¯d at least be cool to fight.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re¡­not even scared?¡± Tigre managed through clenched teeth, before turning away from her. ¡°What¡¯s with this girl? Every other opponent usually gives in by now¡­could she actually match my skill?¡±


    ¡°Hey, I can hear everything you¡¯re sayi-¡°


    ¡°I¡¯ll have to up the ante to prove to her just how much I run this school.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve never even heard of you before.¡±


    ¡°¡­well then, it seems you¡¯re more powerful than I thought.¡± Tigre insisted, pulling his vortex away, before flicking his wrist, as shape of the vortex changed to be slightly bulkier. ¡°Let¡¯s see if you can handle¡­MARK II!!!¡±


    The vortex charged at Harley again, as Harley humoured him and braced for impact, only for the exact same thing to happen, except a bit slower due to the added bulk.


    ¡°As the wind current picks up around its shape, my strength added to its already spinning velocity increases its power tenfold. It was strong before, but with the structure of Mark II, it can withstand even more wind pressure, letting it build up further strength as its rotation increases with every hit.¡± Tigre explained, breathing heavily. ¡°Now¡­do you submit?!¡±


    Harley cocked her head, as she mouthed the word ¡®submit¡¯ to herself, before snapping her fingers.


    ¡°Oh my gods, that was the show!¡±


    Tigre looked confused again, still holding out his hands. ¡°What¡¯re you talking about?¡±


    ¡°¡®Now, do you submit?¡¯ That was from the villain in Top-Fighters: Revolution Revolution.¡± Harley confessed, as Tigre¡¯s concentration broke and his vortex completely disappeared. ¡°I loved that show as a kid.¡±


    ¡°¡­N-No! That¡¯s¡­that¡¯s a coincidence! My Venator catchphra-¡°


    ¡°And the vortex was like the spinning tops they used to fight!¡± Harley remembered. ¡°You even had the changing vortex like how they changed pieces of the tops!¡±


    ¡°Wait, you actually watched it?¡± Tigre realised, blushing a little, as he watched Harley have fun recalling this pleasant memory from her childhood, the entire notion of this being a sparring match between so called rivals completely gone by this point.


    ¡°I know how stupid the whole ¡®let¡¯s save with world with spinning tops¡¯ thing was, but I still liked it. The characters were fun at least.¡± Harley admitted.


    Tigre held his tongue, not wanting to admit to any of these connections more than he already had, just as footsteps came out from the dorm behind them.


    ¡°Hey, Tigre? Did you try jumping out of the balcony again? You gotta stop doing that.¡± A guy behind him said, notably much more built and well put together compared to Tigre.


    ¡°W-Winston, please. Not right now, I¡¯m in the middle of a very important match.¡± Tigre insisted, right as Harley noticed Winston and had to do a double take, immediately straightening her back and making her was over.


    ¡°Winston, huh? Have I seen you around campus before?¡± Harley asked, quickly eyeing him up, as he patted Tigre¡¯s head.


    ¡°I¡¯m Tigre¡¯s teammate.¡± He answered, before eyeing Harley up. ¡°Forgive me, but you¡¯re absolutely stunning.¡±


    ¡°Appreciate it. You¡¯re not too bad yourself.¡± Harley said, punching his arm playfully. ¡°Feel like grabbing a drink at the campus bar?¡±


    Winston grinned back at her. ¡°I¡¯d be a moron not to. Opportunities to appreciate beautiful people shouldn¡¯t be wasted.¡±


    Feeling pretty left out, Tigre tried sticking his head up.


    ¡°U-Uhh¡­hey, can I join you guys?¡± Tigre asked, only for his legs to finally give out as his fell to his knees.


    ¡°You should really head to the infirmary and get those checked.¡± Winston insisted, slinging an arm around Harley.


    ¡°Could you at least walk me the-¡°


    ¡°You¡¯re the one who jumped.¡± Winston insisted, before pointing back at Harley. ¡°And¡­come on, man.¡±


    Harley and Winston started heading off, leaving Tigre to his devices, only for Harley to stop and turn back around, jogging over to him.


    ¡°Hey.¡± She called out, grabbing his attention, as she crouched down to him on the ground. ¡°You don¡¯t have to try so hard, you know?¡±


    ¡°H-Huh?¡± Tigre let out.


    ¡°I know you think the whole act is cool, but you¡¯re doing yourself a disservice with it.¡± Harley admitted, tilting her head, as Tigre admitted she was right in his head.


    Harley grabbed his shoulder. ¡°That Whil could really be something if you trained it right.¡± Harley suggested. ¡°I¡¯ve got some free time tomorrow if you wanna meet back up. I¡¯m not a Whil user, but plenty of my team are.¡±


    Tigre looked up at her in awe, as she smiled and stood back up, before jogging back over to Winston.


    ¡°Just a suggestion!¡± She called back, waving. ¡°We could also try more balcony jumping, if you want!¡±


    Tigre stood back up and stared at them leaving, before finding his heart racing in his chest, as he forced himself to pivot toward the infirmary and ignore the blush creeping across his face.


    ¡°You didn¡¯t have to massage his ego like that.¡± Winston pointed out, as Harley rested her hands behind her head and shrugged.


    ¡°He just needs some help.¡± Harley noted, before grinning. ¡°And I¡¯ve found encouragement from hot ladies usually goes a long way¡­¡±

 INTERLUDE: Wess

    ¡°¡­f I make it there in time, I might just get my hands on that sauvignon blanc before it sells out.¡± Wess muttered to herself, hurrying out of the Flash-Rail in the direction of the HyperMall, before lifting her gaze and daydreaming. ¡°Oh, cracking open that bottle with Julia would just be heavenly¡­¡±


    She happily stared up into the sky as she walked, before accidentally bumping into someone and nearly falling over.


    ¡°Oh, apologies.¡± Wess said, turning around to see a group of people taking up a good amount of space out on the street, playing obnoxiously loud music, before heading back in the direction of the mall.


    ¡°What¡¯s the rush, money bags?¡± One of them called out, lazily standing up. ¡°Rich daddy callin¡¯ you back to Mareau?¡±


    Wess felt her spine crawl, as him and his group started laughing to themselves.


    ¡°Honestly, clowns like this¡­¡± Wess groaned, grabbing for her forehead, as she begrudgingly turned back around.


    ¡°Hey, Miss Money¡¯s giving us attention.¡± He said, before shrugging back to her. ¡°Call me Top-D.¡±


    ¡°I shan¡¯t.¡± Wess quickly replied, just as they started turning up their music even louder, drawing the attention of plenty of people passing by, before Wess needed to cover her ears.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?!¡± Top-D smirked. ¡°I thought you Northerners liked the arts?!¡±


    They turned it back down, as Wess folded her arms while a crowd gathered.


    ¡°First, I¡¯ve yet to hear any, second, you¡¯re hardly worth my valuable, important time, so I¡¯ll be taking my leave.¡±


    Wess went to exit again, only for Top-D to step in front of her.


    ¡°Hold on. You don¡¯t challenge me like that.¡± Top-D replied, just as one of his friends pulled out a microphone for him. ¡°You wanna show me some art? Wanna prove something? Put your literal money where your mouth is.¡±


    His friend held out a microphone for Wess, as she stared down at it.


    Top-D, as well as most of the crowd, expected her to refuse it outright and keep walking away in shame, only for her to snatch it from his hand.


    ¡°It seems you need to be taught a lesson.¡± Wess said, folding her arms, before waiting. ¡°Go on, impress me.¡±


    Top-D shrugged his shoulders, before pointing back to his friend handling the boombox, as they switched to better music for a rap battle.


    Top-D cracked his knuckles, before waiting for the beat to kick in.


    -------


    ¡°¡­Look who¡¯s made herself known, it¡¯s the money home grown, a no go, Whilit knows you¡¯re a long way from home.¡±


    ¡°Dressed like a porcelain doll, sit you back on the shelf, like the royal family¡¯s keeping you all to themselves.¡±


    ¡°Diamonds are unbreakable? They¡¯re shakeable, you¡¯re shook. A socialite with her nose stuck in a fancy book.¡±


    ¡°I mean, just look, compared to you, I¡¯m the finest rapping crook. Stealing victories, and tons of admiration fuelled looks.¡±


    -------


    Light cheering rang out from the onlookers, with Top-D visibly proud of himself, as Wess stood motionless in response.


    ¡°Well, missie?¡±


    ¡°¡­I¡¯m sorry, you¡¯re finished?¡± Wess asked, as Top-D looked offended.


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    He tipped his head to the side. ¡°What, you think you can do better?¡±


    Wess responded by pointing back at the person controlling the music, as they obliged and changed the track, upping the tempo slightly.


    Wess nodded her head along to it, before taking up the mic.


    -------


    ¡°¡­Excuse me, D? May I ask a question? Okay, if not, let me give a suggestion.¡±


    ¡°I think you need help with your presentation, because at this point, there¡¯s no fixing this situation.¡±


    She took a beat.


    ¡°First thought, I¡¯m hardly rich, save for brains and brawn, I come from lavish, but it¡¯s tragic as you stumble like a newborn.¡±


    ¡°Second, this whole look. Wannabe gauche from this vantage. You¡¯re clearly well off too, so don¡¯t pretend you¡¯re disadvantaged.¡±


    ¡°Third critique, your rhymes are weak, shelf and selves is a miss, your voice has as much strength as when the wind carries piss.¡±


    ¡°Learn to dress to impress, and invest in some common sense. You¡¯re somewhat tense and need rest, when facing the obvious best.¡±


    ¡°But your only rest is in peace, as you persist with vocal cysts. I insist you listen to this, as your wardrobe needs a fix.¡±


    ¡°Are those clothes from your floor? No, the stains are too recent. The colour matching¡¯s decent, but not for an outfit malfeasance.¡±


    ¡°Oh goodie, another fault! A hoodie on an adult! Whose fault is this visual assault as crusty as asphalt?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s this asshole, bothering a Venator going about business. But I guess I¡¯ll just sit back, as you struggle to find disses.¡±


    -------


    The crowd rang out with applause, as Top-D¡¯s group stayed silent in shock, with a quiet acknowledgement for her skill washing over them, as well as a realisation that they might¡¯ve made a mistake.


    Top-D was at a loss for words, hardly expecting her to match him and his skill, only to grit his teeth and point to his friend again and kick up the music more.


    -------


    ¡°Alright, you¡¯ve got skills, I guess I¡¯ll give you that. Still doesn¡¯t change the fact that your lyrics are wack.¡±


    ¡°Said you¡¯re a Venator, right? From Team Hardly-Compete? They¡¯re known for showboating and finding words they can eat.¡±


    ¡°I guess they¡¯re eating their own, considering you¡¯re weighing them down. The princess clown for out of town with the painted-on frown.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong? I guess your parents had to go and cut you off. Let me guess, they didn¡¯t like their daughter trying to run off?¡±


    ¡°Join the circus, perhaps? Fight some Wailing on the side? Nevermind, we all know she¡¯d rather go run and hide.¡±


    ¡°Look deep inside, and tell me that¡¯s untrue, cause there¡¯s virtually no Venator material in you.¡±


    ¡°I may not have a team, but I¡¯ve a whole damn crew, and I know it¡¯s hard to admit when we¡¯re better than you.¡±


    ¡°Try counting to one two. Take a breath, take a seat, let¡¯s see if last round¡¯s something you can repeat.¡±


    -------


    Getting more cheering, he dropped his mic right after, only for his other friend to catch it to stop it from hitting the ground, as Top-D glared at him right before he ducked away.


    Wess kept her gaze focused throughout, before slowly lifting the mic to her lips, picking right up after him.


    -------


    ¡°It¡¯s Team Valiant, as one of many corrections, so witness this dissection, of poor pacing and inflection.¡±


    ¡°Your rhyming got worse, between the first and second verse, their use is gross and perverse, and should driving in a hearse.¡±


    ¡°If you ask me, you need a manager. Someone to manage that lip, and prevent anymore shit lyrics that might slip.¡±


    ¡°The clown analogy¡¯s finished, you¡¯ve used as much as you can, I think it¡¯s fair to say, we know you¡¯re not an educated man.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve the brains of a rocket scientist, with a pocket wine list. Meanwhile, you¡¯re on the cheap end of the whine list.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s whine with an ¡®h,¡¯ since I know you can¡¯t spell, oh well, it¡¯s a hard sell, knowing full well you won¡¯t own up to that smell.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s the reek of defeat, or perhaps your unwashed feet? Maybe the back end of that seat? It¡¯s the only thing of yours that¡¯s not weak.¡±


    ¡°Oh, is it time already? I caught believe it, silly me. You can stop talking. This battle¡¯s just become a soliloquy.¡±


    -------


    Giving everyone a moment to take it in, Wess politely handed her microphone back to the group, before facing Top-D again.


    She gave him a subtle smile, before taking her leave proper, leaving him slack-jawed in complete shock of just how badly he was played.


    The crowd cheered for her as she left, completely ignoring Top-D, as he stumbled back over to his friends, before one of them whistled while looking back at Wess.


    ¡°She fucking got you so bad.¡±


    ¡°Shut up¡­¡± Top-D groaned.


    ¡°Hey, Wess?¡± Julia called out, as Wess lifted her head from Julia¡¯s couch.


    ¡°Yes?¡±


    Julia stared down at her tablet. ¡°What¡¯s this about a¡­rap battle in Detu City?¡±


    Wess¡¯ face flushed, as Julia kept reading. ¡°I got a message on Activ from someone named ¡®Topher Dickens¡¯ asking for a¡­¡®rematch with the cranky noble girl.¡¯¡±


    ¡°¡­w-well, here¡¯s the thing¡­¡± Wess let out, before Julia lifted her tablet.


    ¡°This sounds so cool.¡± Julia admitted, smiling back at Wess. ¡°You want me to be your hype girl for the rematch?¡±


    Wess blinked, thinking for a second, before getting up and kissing Julia¡¯s cheek.


    ¡°You absolute angel.¡±

 INTERLUDE: Sola

    ¡°Bam! Bam bam bam bam bam! Take that, Wess!¡± Sola exclaimed, just as she ducked behind a piece of cover, holding her laser tag rifle to her chest, before hearing Wess groan in annoyance and leave the arena.


    It was down to just Julia and Essex versus Sola and Chops, navigating around the pitch black, neon-lit streets of an imagined cyberpunk future. Each team had already taken out the various targets around the arena, all that was left was eliminating the remainder of the enemy team.


    Sola glanced down at her jacket, glowing a bright blue, before spotting the movement of red lights coming down the stairs across the arena.


    She readied herself, just as she noticed Chops coming to join her, not making as much of an effort to hide.


    ¡°Chops! Over here!¡± Sola exclaimed.


    ¡°Hey, Sola, real quick.¡± Chops asked, crouching down next to her. ¡°Was my spot initially for Lenin?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, but he¡¯s in the Northern Wayside with Saxin, so he couldn¡¯t make it. Why?¡±


    ¡°Well, I don¡¯t think the booking was updated, so they gave me a guy¡¯s jacket.¡± Chops noted, as Sola turned around.


    ¡°Is it uncomfortable?¡±


    ¡°¡­no, that¡¯s the problem. It actually fits really well.¡± Chops admitted.


    Sola was visibly saddened. ¡°Oh, I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    ¡°No, no, it¡¯s fine. It¡¯s not your fault.¡± Chops waved off, getting back up. ¡°Just a casual bit of dysphoria, don¡¯t worry.¡±


    ¡°We can get you an uncomfortable one, if you want.¡± Sola insisted, only for lasers to start firing overhead, getting a hit on Chops, before she ducked back down.


    ¡°Shit!¡± She let out, before looking at the single remaining light on her jacket. ¡°You know what? I don¡¯t think it¡¯ll be an issue for much longer. That was Julia, wasn¡¯t it?¡±


    Sola popped her head up and caught the barrel of Julia¡¯s rifle disappearing behind cover.


    ¡°Yep.¡±


    ¡°You got a plan to deal with her?¡±


    Sola thought about it, before confidently shaking her head. ¡°No!¡±


    ¡°¡­well, fuck.¡± Chops let out, lying on the ground. ¡°I¡¯m just gonna let her get me.¡±


    ¡°¡­no, wait! I do have one!¡± Sola insisted, shaking Chops back up. ¡°You¡¯re bait!¡±


    ¡°Am I?¡±


    ¡°And I am too!¡±


    Chops blinked back at her. ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°Okay, I¡¯ve still got all my health.¡± Sola said, pointing back down at her jacket. ¡°And there¡¯s a cooldown for getting hit, right?¡±


    ¡°¡­yeah?¡± Chops agreed, trying to piece it together.


    ¡°Well, I¡¯ll go over and shoot her while she¡¯s hitting me.¡± Sola suggested, miming the plan out with her hands. ¡°Then you come in, get hits in while we¡¯re confusing her, and just whittle her down! She can¡¯t keep up with us both!¡±


    ¡°¡­huh.¡± Chops said, before lifting her hand up. ¡°I need to give you more credit.¡±


    ¡°Yeah you do!¡± Sola cheered, high-fiving her, before pointing to the side. ¡°I¡¯ll yell when it¡¯s time to strike!¡±


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    ¡°Is that different to the yelling now?¡± Chops asked, right as Sola nodded and ran off to confront Julia.


    She snuck around the neon pillars, keeping a vigilant eye out, before catching the glint of Julia¡¯s rifle waiting for her, as she jumped out of the way to avoid Julia¡¯s oncoming assault.


    She scrambled to get behind Julia, trying to outflank her, before Julia was caught off guard, letting Sola get in a free hit.


    ¡°Take that, Julia!¡± Sola yelled out, catching the slight movement of Chops in the distance, as Julia aimed her sights back on Sola and managed a clean hit too.


    Chops snuck her way around to Julia¡¯s position, just managing to spot the two ducking and weaving behind various bits of cover, only for a sudden presence to emerge from the dark and take her out.


    Looking down at her blinking jacket, she spotted her attacker, before yelling out.


    ¡°Sola!!! Ambush!!!¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± Sola let out, only for Essex to appear seemingly from nowhere and get shots in as well, overwhelming Sola, as she tried to make up the difference by hitting both Julia and Essex.


    Eventually, all of Sola¡¯s health was knocked out, as her jacket flashed red, followed by the entire arena, indicating Julia and Essex¡¯s victory.


    The lights brought Julia back to reality, as her happiness overwhelmed her.


    ¡°We did it!!! Hooray!!!¡±


    With the game won, Essex made herself known proper, only for Julia to pull her into a joyous hug.


    ¡°Your strategy worked perfectly!¡± Julia exclaimed, giving her a sweet kiss on the cheek. ¡°Our beautiful tactician, ladies and gents!¡±


    ¡°¡­th-thank you¡­¡± Essex managed, visibly flustered, as she pulled herself away and back to Sola. ¡°That was a well-played match¡­honey.¡±


    ¡°You used my idea!¡± Sola let out, confusing Essex. ¡°You ganged up on us!¡±


    Essex cocked her head. ¡°¡­yes. The jackets have a cooldown after getting hi-¡°


    ¡°I was so about to do that with Chops!¡± Sola insisted, before Essex realised she¡¯d intercepted and turned back to a miffed Chops.


    She moved her gaze between the two, assessing the situation, before making an idle shrug.


    ¡°¡­it¡¯s called winning¡­you should try it sometime.¡±


    Julia covered her mouth, as Chops started heading out. ¡°Alright, screw this, I¡¯m out.¡±


    ¡°Essex, I didn¡¯t know you had smack talk in you.¡± Julia said, visibly impressed.


    Sola¡¯s eyes lit up. ¡°I was mad about losing, but I¡¯m with Julia! That was a good burn!¡±


    ¡°It was?¡± Essex asked, before blushing again. ¡°¡­please do not compliment me in such quick succession.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re cute! You¡¯re sexy!¡± Sola blurted, following the others out of the arena. ¡°You¡¯ve got style for days! Your hair smells great! You¡¯re so good with you scy¡­¡±


    Meanwhile, Harley and Wess patiently sat on a bench, just outside of the arena, having taken their jackets off after getting eliminated so early on.


    After a solid silence, Wess decided to speak up.


    ¡°¡­this is just like the tournament.¡±


    Harley slapped her leg. ¡°Thank you! I was just thinking that! They didn¡¯t even have the dignity to go easy on us.¡±


    Wess nodded as well. ¡°We already faced quite a humiliating expulsion, but no, salt the wound, pour some lemon juice in for kicks.¡±


    ¡°And you know why? We¡¯re the melee members.¡± Harley pointed out, as Wess nodded emphatically. ¡°Of course expert marksman Julia and professional capacitor Sola are gonna wipe the floor with us.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s that fugue state Julia goes into whenever she¡¯s using a rifle.¡± Wess said, shuddering a little. ¡°Truly terrifying¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­but kinda hot, too.¡± Harley admitted, as Wess sighed out.


    ¡°¡­yes, it¡¯s also very hot.¡± Wess confessed, just as the others exited out of the arena, with Essex covering her ears.


    ¡°You wear a suit literally everyday and it never looks bad on you!¡± Sola added, as Chops ripped off her jacket.


    ¡°Sola, maybe lay off the compliments to Essex for a bit.¡± Julia suggested, as Sola turned around.


    ¡°Your hair¡¯s pretty too! You make flannel stylish! Uhh¡­boobs! Yours are nice!¡±


    Julia¡¯s face turned crimson, before she covered it. ¡°Th-This isn¡¯t¡­whatever¡­¡±


    ¡°So? Who won?¡± Wess asked, as Julia tentatively lifted a hand. ¡°Excellently done, dear.¡±


    ¡°¡­thank you¡­¡± She replied, before joining Essex on the bench with the others, as Sola stepped in front of them.


    ¡°Now that we finished that game, you know what it¡¯s time for, right?¡±


    Everyone silently begged for her not to suggest another game, before Sola called out to one of the employees.


    ¡°Hey! Plate of nachos for the party!¡± Sola suggested, as everyone immediately perked up at the idea.


    ¡°Oh, hell yeah.¡± Chops let out, sitting back up. ¡°Let me at those nachos.¡±


    ¡°I could fuck up some nachos right now.¡± Harley insisted, before Julia sat up.


    ¡°Oh! Extra guac!¡±


    ¡°Extra guac, got it!¡± Sola assured, before grabbing out some capitals. ¡°And don¡¯t worry, work pays well, so this one¡¯s on me!¡±


    She ran over to the servers, as the others stared at her as she left, smiling happily.


    ¡°¡­I could go for one more game.¡± Wess admitted.


    ¡°She would love if we did.¡± Essex pointed out, giving a thumbs up to Harley. ¡°Let¡¯s team up with her for this time.¡±


    ¡°Yeah! Girlfriend team!¡± Harley cheered, bringing her into a hug, before Sola came back over with the nachos.


    ¡°These babies are drowning in guac!¡± Sola let out, before dropping in front of everyone. ¡°Let¡¯s fuel up for game two!¡±


    Julia went to grab one happily. ¡°Thanks for suggesting this, Sola.¡±


    Sola beamed back at them. ¡°No worries!¡±

 INTERLUDE: Essex

    ¡°See you later, Essex! And good luck! You¡¯re gonna nail it!¡± Julia assured, waving at Essex as she headed out the dorm door, leaving Essex alone in the dorm, sighing out to herself.


    She stared down at the kitchen counter with the recipe Julia had written out for her, labelled ¡®Super Special Date Roast: From Julia, with love.¡¯ She poured over the instructions again, before putting it back down.


    ¡°I hope they will like this¡­¡± Essex remarked to herself, looking over at the calendar, with ¡®Harley + Sola + Essex dinner date¡¯ circled for that day. She regretted promising to make it by herself, but Julia offered to help her get ready and choose something manageable for her.


    Mentally preparing herself, she recalled a few words Julia had said to assure her.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. Even if it¡¯s not the best meal, they¡¯ll see the effort you put in. As long as they know you care, that¡¯s all that matters.¡±


    ¡°Right¡­¡± Essex let out, just as the clock hit five. ¡°For my loves.¡±


    She started by preheating the oven, before heading to the fridge, grabbing out every ingredient she could and laying them out on the counter, leaving the chicken to the side for now.


    She went about organising the ingredients, splaying out the vegetables and the pre-packaged stuffing Julia had bought for her.


    Quickly, she remembered she needed to grab the tray, only to realise she forgot what cabinet it was in. She checked in the bottom few, having no such luck, before checking the top couple and finding it on one of the higher shelves.


    As she went to try and grab it, she failed to notice one of the potatoes rolling off the counter and onto the floor, right under her foot, as she readjusted, tripping her over right as she grabbed onto the counter for balance.


    She managed to catch herself before she fell, getting the potato back and reaching for the tray again, before pulling it down, placing it over the empty stovetops.


    She then picked up the chicken and tore it out of its bag, placing it in the tray, before opening up the oven and placing it inside, putting ten minutes on the microwave for when the vegetables needed to be added.


    Looking over the recipe again, Essex decided to work on the vegetables next, doing her best to peel the potatoes despite not having much experience with it, before accidentally cutting her finger on the peeler.


    She ran her finger under the tap to slow the bleeding, only to realise the potatoes were rolling off the counter again, as she failed to reach them before they fell.


    She picked them up off the floor and carried them to the sink to clean them.


    ¡°This is fine¡­you can work with this¡­¡± Essex assured herself, before remembering Julia¡¯s encouraging words.


    ¡°Remember, how they feel about you depends on this. You don¡¯t want to disappoint them with something inedible.¡±


    As she went to clean them, she spotted the stuffing she¡¯d accidentally forgotten to put inside the chicken still sitting out.


    This novel is published on a different platform. Support the original author by finding the official source.


    She dropped the potatoes in the sink, forgetting to turn off the tap, before hastily grabbing the oven handle and burning her hand slightly.


    She reeled a bit, heading back to the sink to run it under the water again, right as the other vegetables started rolling to the floor as well.


    Thinking fast, she held up her leg to block them, stopping the zucchini from falling off, as Essex sighed in relief, only to notice the pumpkin starting to roll now that the other ingredients weren¡¯t holding it back.


    She jumped to grab it, landing on the floor with it on her chest, before the zucchini rolled off too, as she managed to catch each one before it fell.


    She stood back up, putting the vegetables onto the stovetop to hold them in place, as she went to grab the oven handle again, before stopping herself and getting an oven mitt first.


    ¡°I must be careful handling hot things in the future¡­¡± Essex remarked to herself, taking the tray and chicken back out, only to realise she¡¯d taken up the stovetops with the vegetables. She placed it next to the sink where there was space, before giving it a minute to cool and then filling it with stuffing.


    Unfortunately, she forgot to close the oven, accidentally letting all the heat out in that time, as she closed it back up and patiently waited for it to heat up again.


    As she was waiting, a large thud came from the sink, as she turned around to find the tray and chicken had fallen in, smushing the potatoes that had slowly been softening due the water still running from the tap.


    Essex clenched her fists, as she went to turn off the tap and pull the tray back out, before forgetting it was still hot and burning her hand again.


    She grabbed the stovetop out of frustration and used her Whil to turn her hand to metal, wrenching the tray back out in annoyance, as she tried to recall Julia¡¯s words.


    ¡°Don¡¯t fuck up now. If they can¡¯t stomach what you put in front of them, then say goodbye to their love.¡±


    ¡°Wait, Julia didn-¡° Essex realised, only for some of the smushed potato to drip off the bottom of the tray and onto the floor, tripping her up again.


    She reached out to grab something for balance, before gripping the pumpkin with her metal hand, crushing it, and slipping anyway, tumbling to the floor with her tray.


    The chicken started rolling across the floor toward the balcony, as Essex clamoured toward it, desperate to rectify her mistake, just as she caught it before it could fall off.


    She sighed in relief, ready to take it back over, only to spot the remains of the pumpkin, now lodged out of the stovetop, landing on the spilt potato on the floor and splattering everywhere.


    ¡°Oh¡­oh no¡­¡± Essex bemoaned, as she started to feel like dinner was nowhere close to done.


    ¡°I wonder how Essex¡¯s doing?¡± Harley remarked, holding her arms behind her head. ¡°It was pretty nice of her to offer to cook.¡±


    ¡°Yeah! Especially since out of us three, you¡¯re the only one who¡¯s good at it.¡± Sola pointed out, just as Harley grabbed her into a hug.


    ¡°Well, you¡¯re really good at eating all of it.¡± Harley playfully teased, as Sola tried to break out of it, laughing to herself the whole time, right as they reached the dorm.


    The moment they opened the door, they noticed the sink was on fire, as Essex whipped at it with a tea towel, while the kitchen, and a fair bit of the dorm room proper, was a visible mess of ingredients.


    They both stared in shock at the chaos, before Essex successfully fought back the fire and noticed they were there.


    She was panting heavily, still sweaty and agitated after everything she¡¯d gone through, before indicating to the mostly finished dinner sitting on the stovetop.


    She let out a breath.


    ¡°I have made chicken!¡± She exclaimed, still breathing a lot.


    Harley and Sola noticed the roast next to her, which, miraculously, seemed to have survived whatever had gone on while they were away, as Harley decided to speak up.


    ¡°That looks¡­really good, Essex.¡± Harley let out. ¡°Uhh¡­why didn¡¯t you put out the sink fire with the tap water?¡±


    Essex focused on breathing, before she stood up proper and cleaned up her appearance. ¡°¡­it was an electrical fire, so that would¡¯ve only made the issue worse. We will also need a new powerboard.¡±


    She fished the burnt out one from the sink, before Sola smelt the food proper.


    ¡°Is it good to eat?¡± She asked, before Essex nodded back, as Sola excitedly grabbed a plate and started serving herself. ¡°Great! Thanks, Essex!¡±


    Harley decided to grab a leg off and take a bite, before holding her hand to her mouth. ¡°Hory shid¡­that¡¯s a damn good chicken.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Essex asked, her eyes lighting up. ¡°I am glad you like it. Julia has made a good recipe.¡±


    ¡°You want some help next time you cook?¡± Sola asked, as the trio stared at the complete mess surrounding them, before Essex nodded frantically.


    ¡°Yes, please.¡±

 Chapter 46: Cycles

    ¡°¡­nd as you can see, the team system was only formed in¡­¡± Ferris said, before squinting at her board again. ¡°¡­4920, I guess. Initially, it was founded to help mitigate the stupid amount of lives lost during the previous two Wailing Wars, if that were to ever happen again, which it did, because obviously it did¡­¡±


    ¡°Julia?¡±


    Julia looked up from her notebook. ¡°Yeah?¡±


    ¡°Are you taking notes?¡± Sola asked, as Julia nodded back. ¡°Can I borrow them later? I hate listening to Ferris.¡±


    ¡°Hey, Julia? Can I do the same?¡± Harley asked, leaning over Julia¡¯s other side. ¡°You¡¯d really be helping us out.¡±


    ¡°I can take notes for you!¡±


    Harley turned up to Avalon in the seats above them, proudly holding out his notebook. ¡°I have very clean penmanship.¡±


    ¡°No one cares about your penmanship¡­¡± Acadia grumbled beside him, as Harley snickered a little.


    ¡°I have notes I can offer.¡± Essex piped up, handing a page over to Avalon, as he happily took them.


    ¡°See, that¡¯s what kindness looks like!¡± Avalon proclaimed. ¡°Thank you¡­uhh¡­¡±


    ¡°Essex.¡± Wess chimed in, keeping up the best with Ferris¡¯ lecture, as Leandra glared down at her.


    ¡°Oh, you would know that, wouldn¡¯t you?¡± Leandra complained, drawing the confused looks of most of the others in Team Exemplary.


    ¡°I heard someone was offering spare notes. I can¡¯t keep up with her yammering, so gimme.¡± Roman asked Team Valiant, as Julia was struggling to keep writing.


    ¡°Neither can I. Everyone won¡¯t stop talking.¡± Julia said, before giving up. ¡°Ugghhh¡­I¡¯ll copy off Wess later.¡±


    Ferris noticed the people talking further up the lecture hall, but couldn¡¯t be bothered to interrupt them.


    ¡°¡­and as you¡¯d expect, the Wailing eventually adapted, and then we adapted too¡­¡± Ferris said, tapping her fingers against her desk while getting a long look at the class she was failing to teach, all basically checked out and doing their own thing.


    Ferris kept drumming her fingers, before stumbling onto an idea and grabbing her sword from behind her desk, as she walked to the middle of the stage.


    A few students picked up on what she was doing, as she heaved it a few times, before throwing it directly into the air, shooting straight up, as she used her Whil to sharpen it and stick it directly into the ceiling with an audible thud.


    The class immediately perked up, all staring wide-eyed at the embedded sword, before Ferris tapped on her desk.


    ¡°Have I got your attention?¡± Ferris rhetorically asked.


    The class remained in a silent awe, as she pulled herself toward the board. ¡°Alright, I¡¯m changing the lesson plan. This is your first class after coming back from break, and frankly, I¡¯m sick of teaching this shit and you¡¯re not learning anything anyway¡­¡±


    ¡°She can do that?¡± Julia wondered, looking to the rest of the team in confusion, as Ferris started writing a few things up on the board.


    After a couple of minutes, she went back to her desk, before pointing at what she¡¯d written.


    ¡°I¡¯ve got one thing to teach you today.¡± Ferris stated, as the board showed a couple crude illustrations with numbers next to them. ¡°I¡¯m gonna give you a few scenarios. You¡¯re gonna tell me what the connection between them is.¡±


    Roman raised his hand, as Ferris groaned and pointed at him.


    ¡°Do we get anything for a correct answer?¡± Roman asked, as the class murmured a bit.


    ¡°Get anything?¡± Ferris repeated, scratching her chin. ¡°¡­sure. Whoever gets the answer right first gets a¡­¡±


    ¡°A trophy?¡± Harley called out, as Ferris glared at her.


    ¡°No, not a¡­¡± Ferris complained, massaging her eyes. ¡°¡­fuck it, you get a high-five or something. Or the accomplishment of learning stuff. Whichever you want.¡±


    ¡°She has to bribe us to learn?¡± Wess pointed out, leaning back in her seat, as Julia scratched her chin.


    ¡°¡­I¡¯d complain, but to be honest, I kinda want that high-five.¡± Julia admitted, as Sola nodded beside her.


    ¡°Let¡¯s do it for the high-five!¡±


    ¡°Alright, shut up! First story!¡± Ferris said, slamming the part of the board showing a scared person next to a pair of skis, with a giant number one beside them. ¡°Listen cause I hate repeating myself! Okay¡­¡±


    We focus on man, as he¡¯s about to open up a ski resort. Really fancy one too, in the mountains. Just for some perspective, let¡¯s say it¡¯s in the Northern Wayside.


    He¡¯s getting ready to open, wh-


    ¡°What¡¯s his name?¡±


    Ferris stared up at the stands, as all eyes were on Avalon.


    Ferris blinked. ¡°¡­the man¡¯s name?¡±


    ¡°Yes, obviously.¡± Avalon asked, as Claudius cleared his throat beside him.


    ¡°Nobody cares, Avalon.¡±


    ¡°Well, I do. Go on, Ferris.¡± Avalon goaded, proudly facing Ferris again, as she just took a second.


    ¡°His name¡­man¡­fred.¡± Ferris replied. ¡°Manfred. Now shut up.¡±


    Okay, Manfred was getting ready to open, but had yet to inspect the interior. So he started heading inside, only to come across weird noises and scratch marks he couldn¡¯t explain. Eventually, he was left fleeing the resort in shock after realising a Wailing was inside, before hiring a team to take care of it.


    ¡°¡­we all good? We¡¯re paying attention?¡± Ferris asked, before getting some half-decent nods from the class. ¡°Okay, story two.¡±


    She pointed to the board again, depicting another person walking through¡­snow? Along with a large V over their head and a number two next to them.


    ¡°We cut to a Venator¡­¡±


    She¡¯s trawling through the mountains, out on a hunt for a Wailing. She¡¯s been separated from her team due to a blizzard but figures she can make it back to camp alone. One thing leads to another, and she finds a shelter.


    However, the moment she finds it, she sees the Wailing she¡¯s hunting occupying it. Around it were her team¡¯s weapons, and in a fit of rage, she lashes out against it, chasing it off. Once she does, she notices her teammates coming out from the snow, as one of them manages to get a shot off on it as it runs away.


    ¡°Okay, story three.¡± Ferris prefaced, just as Wess raised a hand.


    ¡°Miss Ferris, if we could have a seco-¡°


    ¡°Nope, I¡¯m not slowing down. Learn to keep up.¡± Ferris argued, slamming the board again, this time on the part with a person wearing a hardhat next to a crude O2 symbol, with a giant number three. ¡°This one¡¯s in a mine¡­¡±


    We find a man trapped within a mine, slowly losing oxygen as he¡¯s hemmed in from every which way. The interior keeps shaking over and over, as rubble falls from the ceiling, causing his breathing to get more and more desperate.


    He sees other miners around him, terrified out of their gourd, all complaining about earthquakes and wanting to get home. He starts thinking about his family and figures he¡¯s had enough, as he starts clawing his way out through the rocks, before just managing to break free.


    ¡°Alright, that¡¯s all three.¡± Ferris concluded, sitting back against her desk. ¡°Now you¡¯ve gotta figure out what they all have in common. Go.¡±


    The class looked around confused, as Ferris rolled her eyes and folded her arms.


    ¡°I¡¯m letting you go. Roam about. Head to the library and learn some shit.¡± Ferris argued. ¡°You¡¯ve got the rest of the day to figure it out. If you don¡¯t feel like doing it, I don¡¯t care. Just have the courtesy to not hang around here and stare at me awkwardly.¡±


    The class took the initiative and started roaming about, some sticking around to work the problem, while others got up and left soon after, with excited murmuring going about all in favour of the new lesson plan.


    ¡°¡­alright. I¡¯ve written most of i-¡° Wess explained, only to notice the rest of the team staring at her doe-eyed. ¡°¡­yes, you can borrow my notes.¡±


    ¡°Hooray!¡± Sola cheered, jumping out of her seat. ¡°Let¡¯s head to the study area! We¡¯re so getting this first!¡±


    ¡°Race ya!¡± Harley added, only to immediately fall over the back of her chair and into Team Exemplary. ¡°Ow!¡±


    She accidentally looked up at a smug Avalon, before pointing angrily at him. ¡°If you make this into a ¡®falling for you¡¯ pun, you¡¯re mincemeat.¡±


    ¡°I wasn-¡° Avalon started, only for Harley to climb over him and continue her race with Sola. ¡°¡­see how she flirts with me?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s entirely not what she was doing.¡± Leandra groaned, as the rest of Team Valiant chased after Harley and Sola. ¡°We should hurry if we¡¯re gonna beat Wess at this.¡±


    Team Exemplary all got up to leave, just as Acadia was left sitting alone awkwardly.


    ¡°Wess isn¡¯t even the leader¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Meanwhile¡­


    Florey patiently waited in the elevator, holding a large number of jam-packed documents to his body, before the elevator eventually hit the seventh floor, opening up to him.


    He hurried out, quickly tracking down Cassidy¡¯s desk, before making his way over and dropping the documents off, just catching her attention as he did so.


    ¡°Oh, hey.¡± She greeted, spinning around in her chair, before picking them up. ¡°Wow, you¡¯re really clearing through these. I always worry with how much the bosses are sending you.¡±


    ¡°I can handle it. Helps keep me busy.¡± Florey insisted, resting his hands in his coat pockets. ¡°Anything else for me to work on?¡±


    ¡°Just more of the same, really. Been kind of a slow week.¡± Cassidy admitted, grabbing a spray bottle and giving her plants a spritz. ¡°We¡¯re ramping up for the planning stages of the barrier around Detu City, so Ryan and Marcus are a little busy with that.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, that makes sense.¡± Florey said, recalling the radio reports talking about it, before an idea crossed his mind. ¡°Hey¡­in the meantime, could I¡­suggest something to them?¡±


    Cassidy cocked her head. ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°Like, work for me to do.¡± Florey clarified. ¡°I¡¯ve been keeping up with their tasks for me, but¡­I was thinking I could do more of a personal project.¡±


    Cassidy scratched her chin, before shrugging. ¡°Go for it. I don¡¯t really know their journey-map for you, but there¡¯s no harm in floating the idea their way. What did you have in mind?¡±


    Florey chuckled awkwardly. ¡°It¡¯s actually an idea I had back at the Venator Academy. Cecil seemed to like it at the time, and now that I¡¯m here¡­¡±


    ¡°Gelatinous Wailing?¡±


    Florey stared at her and blinked. ¡°Yeah, how¡¯d you know?¡±


    ¡°You left a doodle on the back of some paperwork the other day.¡± Cassidy noted. ¡°Either that, or you¡¯re really bad at animals.¡±


    Florey laughed a little. ¡°Gelatinous, you got me.¡±


    ¡°Well, good luck. You might wanna try Marcus. Ryan¡¯s gonna be out for most of the week.¡± Cassidy noted, as Florey shuddered a little.


    Of course¡­it¡¯s always gotta be him¡­


    ¡°Let me know how it goes with them. He can be a little hard to reason with.¡± Cassidy remarked, before leaning in. ¡°We tried to get him a chocolate cake for his birthday, and he nearly threw it out since it ¡®wasn¡¯t the right kind of chocolate.¡¯¡±


    ¡°Yeah¡­that actually tracks.¡± Florey admitted, before making tracks himself. ¡°Thanks for the advice.¡±


    ¡°No worries, Florey.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Alright, who¡¯s got a good idea?¡±


    Julia looked to the rest of Team Valiant around their table in the study area, as Sola raised a hand.


    ¡°We should get a share plate from the caf¨¦!¡± Sola insisted, before the obvious hit her. ¡°Oh, for the thing. Nah, I¡¯m pretty stuck.¡±


    ¡°I have finished re-reading Wess¡¯ notes.¡± Essex declared, handing them back. ¡°It would seem events in the stories are connected, if only in minor ways.¡±


    ¡°Totally! I was thinking the same thing!¡± Harley agreed, winking back at Essex. ¡°Looking at you, using that sexy brain of yours.¡±


    Essex was a mix of confusion and embarrassment, as she turned to Julia for some level of comfort. ¡°D-Do you have any ideas?¡±


    Julia shook her head. ¡°I¡¯m drawing a blank. What do you think, Wess? You¡¯re better at analysing narrative and themes.¡±


    ¡°Thank you.¡± Wess said, cleaning up her notes. ¡°Well¡­there is a running theme of desperation and escape, most notably in escaping from the threat of death.¡±


    Wess stroked her chin in thought. ¡°Manfred escapes the Wailing, the Wailing escapes the Venators, and the miner escapes the mine. Fear of death, confinement, that sort of thing¡­but honestly, that¡¯s a bit flimsy. There¡¯s not much else to work with thematically. And knowing Ferris, she definitely means a literal connection.¡±


    ¡°Well in that case, I know our first clue.¡± Harley noted, drawing the table¡¯s attention. ¡°The Venators in the second story were the team called in the first, obviously. So the Wailing they¡¯re chasing must¡¯ve left the ski lodge and booked it into the mountains.¡±


    ¡°Oh yeah! That makes a ton of sense.¡± Sola agreed, jumping into Harley¡¯s lap. ¡°But how does the mine stuff fit into that?¡±


    Harley shrugged noncommittally, before getting distracted and patting Sola¡¯s head, as Julia stood up and wandered around a bit.


    ¡°Okay, so we know the first two are back-to-back¡­Manfred finds a Wailing in his ski lodge and hires Venators to hunt it down. One Venator comes across it and chases it off with her team.¡± Julia said, scratching her head. ¡°And then a miner shows up¡­for some reason.¡±


    ¡°Perhaps the miner¡¯s events are related in some way?¡± Essex suggested, idly staring at Harley and Sola¡¯s PDA. ¡°Such as the tremors being caused by the fight between the team and Wailing?¡±


    ¡°Or just the Wailing itself?¡± Wess added. ¡°The Wailing could have run off to the mine and is hunting down the miners, and the miners mistook that as a cave in.¡±


    ¡°I guess that makes sense.¡± Julia noted. ¡°The team didn¡¯t take care of it, so it ran off and terrorised a local mine. That sounds like a pretty typical Wailing story.¡±


    Julia thought on this, before tapping her head in thought and sitting back down.


    ¡°¡­it¡¯s pretty weird for a mine to open in the Northern Wayside.¡± Julia pointed out. ¡°Like, Central Point¡¯s where basically all of them are.¡±


    Wess patted her back. ¡°This is one of Ferris¡¯ narratives. Real world accuracy isn¡¯t a top priority for her.¡±


    ¡°Neither is politeness.¡± Essex added, as Harley turned her head to laugh.


    ¡°Great! We already did it! Let¡¯s go brag to Ferris!¡± Sola insisted, already getting out of her Harley¡¯s lap, only for Julia to read over the notes again.


    ¡°I dunno. We should probably refine the idea a li¡­¡± She suggested, only to look up and find everyone except Wess leaving the study area. ¡°¡­you know, right as I was saying it-¡°


    ¡°My thoughts exactly.¡± Wess chuckled, politely leading the way for her and Julia to head back to Ferris¡¯ class.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Leandra bounced her leg in annoyance, staring off into the middle distance, as the rest of Team Exemplary chatted amongst themselves around their table. The rest of the library was pretty empty, and Leandra was having none of it.


    ¡°Stupid Team Valiant running off to who knows where just so we couldn¡¯t snoop on them¡­probably just couldn¡¯t face us without running off scared¡­¡±


    ¡°Face us in what?¡± Roman asked, resting himself on the table.


    ¡°In¡­knowledge. Shut up.¡± Leandra groaned, sliding further into her chair. ¡°I bet they think they¡¯re the best team in the whole freakin¡¯ year, just cause they¡¯ve fought, like, four times as many Wailing as us.¡±


    ¡°And with how well they did during the tournament.¡± Claudius added. ¡°Wess ground-pounded Cyrus like it was nothing.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t bring her up!¡± Leandra yelled, shooting up from her seat, before sitting back down. ¡°We¡¯re getting that answer first, no doubt about it.¡±


    ¡°What a well-made hat!¡± Avalon exclaimed, pointing at a folded paper hat Acadia had made out of their notes.


    Leandra sank even lower into her seat. ¡°Oh boy¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°For the last time, no! It¡¯s not a metaphor for ¡®the innocence of man.¡¯ I don¡¯t even know what that means.¡± Ferris complained, leaning back and folding her arms.


    Efrem pouted, before heading back to the other members of Team Beefcake. ¡°Aww, you¡¯re no fun¡­¡±


    Ferris casually lay in her seat, taking a free moment to rest her eyes, casually watching her students bum around the class, all working away at their theories in their own time, right as Harley and Sola burst through the main door.


    ¡°We figured it out!¡± Sola cheered, as Ferris lifted her head and groaned.


    ¡°Of course it was her¡­¡±


    ¡°Better get that hand ready!¡± Harley bragged, just as Essex joined their side and raised her scythe.


    ¡°You¡¯re terrible at telling stories!¡± Essex tried, only for Harley and Sola to insist she pull back, as Essex stepped away. ¡°Relias!¡±


    This story originates from Royal Road. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.


    Ferris stared back at them, before bothering to get up. ¡°Okay then. What¡¯s the connection?¡±


    ¡°Easy!¡± Sola started, counting on her fingers. ¡°The first storie¡­¡±


    Right in the middle of Sola¡¯s explanation, Julia and Wess managed to join back up with the team, as Julia read over Wess¡¯ notes again.


    ¡°So? How does she look?¡± Wess asked.


    ¡°Mildly frustrated.¡± Essex explained. ¡°I would assume.¡±


    ¡°Well, I was hoping for something a bit more off-colour from her.¡± Wess clarified. ¡°Still, I bet sh-¡°


    ¡°Oh no¡­¡±


    Wess and Essex turned back to Julia, as she scrawled over the notes again.


    ¡°Is something the matter?¡±


    ¡°Uhuh. I just realised we¡¯re very wrong.¡± Julia said, right before noticing Sola proudly proclaiming to the class. ¡°Shit!¡±


    ¡°And furthermore, th-¡° Sola explained, only for Julia to cover her mouth, as Sola and Harley looking back at her in quiet confusion.


    ¡°Sorry! We didn¡¯t update our notes yet! Sola was working from our first draft!¡± Julia tried to save, before turning to Sola and shaking her head.


    Sola got the idea as Julia let her go, only for Ferris to audibly click her tongue.


    ¡°Yeah, nice save there, Julia.¡± Ferris said, before projecting to the class. ¡°Did everyone hear that? Okay! Just so everyone¡¯s on the same page, the stories are in fact in the same continuity! I¡¯m guessing that¡¯s a surprise to no one who even gave them a cursory glance!¡±


    Ferris turned back to Team Valiant. ¡°However, Team Valiant here were completely off base with their theory about how they¡¯re connected! Especially Sola!¡±


    Harley¡¯s eye twitched, as Julia stretched a hand over to instinctively hold both her and Sola back.


    ¡°Get a better theory and come back to me!¡± Ferris insisted. ¡°And just a reminder, I¡¯m tryna teach you shit, so expect the unexpected!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll teach her not to bad mouth¡­¡± Harley grumbled, as Julia directed them both to the door.


    ¡°Come on. I realised what we got wrong.¡± Julia admitted, right as Team Exemplary appeared at the entrance as well, with Avalon carrying a similar energy to what Sola had.


    ¡°Ferris! We¡¯ve figured out your puzzle!¡± Avalon declared.


    Avalon flourished his cape proudly.


    ¡°The stories all, in fact¡­take place in the same continuity!¡±


    The class lay silent, as Ferris sat back down in her seat with her head in her hands, groaning loudly.


    ¡°I hate my life¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Where the hell is he?¡± Florey let out, scanning around the top floor of EHM. ¡°I swear, those two are never in their offices¡­¡±


    Just as he headed back to the elevator, the doors opened right in front of him, revealing Marcus staring blankly down at him.


    ¡°Marcus!¡± Florey let out accidentally, backing away slightly. He realised how loud he was and shied away, as Marcus lazily turned his head.


    ¡°Florey!¡± Marcus replied, before walking to and leaning over him. ¡°What can I do for you?!¡±


    ¡°S-Sorry, I just¡­I needed to talk with you. I had a suggestion for something I could do.¡± Florey said, as Marcus raised an eyebrow. ¡°I¡¯ve been caught up on work for a while, and¡­well, I¡¯ve been here a year already, so I wanted to¡­try¡­something bigger.¡±


    Marcus gave him the same lazy glare, as Florey tried to look confident.


    ¡°¡­y-you see, back at the Venator Academy, I had this interest with the Gelatinous Wailing and wanted to try an autopsy.¡± Florey explained, his eyes darting to avoid looking at Marcus¡¯. ¡°And, well, now that I¡¯m here, I thought I could follow up on that and try studying one in a proper environment. It¡¯d be really useful data on their biological makeup and potential ways to dispatch with them way easier.¡±


    Marcus gave it a few more seconds, before scribbling a note down on his various papers and looking back at Florey.


    Florey waited a bit before speaking. ¡°¡­is it alright if I do that?¡±


    Marcus indicated back to Florey¡¯s lab. ¡°Tell you what¡­I¡¯ll mull it over. We¡¯ll see if that¡¯s something to work into your schedule. For now, just keep up the workload.¡±


    ¡°Oh. Oh! Okay!¡± Florey excitedly thanked, almost bowing to Marcus. ¡°Th-thank you, sir, I really appreciate it!¡±


    ¡°You look needy.¡± Marcus stated, as Florey suddenly stopped bowing, before Marcus left proper to head to his office.


    Once Marcus was out of eyeshot, Florey shook his head in annoyance, before looking back up at the painting of Marcus and Cecil and finding himself smiling, focused on Cecil¡¯s determined and prideful look.


    ¡°¡­don¡¯t worry, I¡¯m gonna make you proud.¡± Florey assured, happily heading back into his lab to continue his idle work.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°I was looking over the story again, and I noticed some things that didn¡¯t get explained.¡± Julia stated, as the team headed to the academy library. ¡°Ferris also said the stories were related, which makes me think she was telling them out of order.¡±


    ¡°But we figured it out, right?¡± Sola asked, jumping ahead. ¡°Manfred called the Venators.¡±


    ¡°We don¡¯t know that the Venators we see are the one¡¯s he called.¡± Julia pointed out, right as they arrived at the library entrance. ¡°Also, if they were hunting the Wailing at the ski lodge, why were they out in the snow during a blizzard?¡±


    ¡°Cause it¡­left.¡± Harley replied, before scratching her chin. ¡°Huh. I guess we just assumed it did that.¡±


    ¡°Where would that leave the first narrative?¡± Essex asked, before finding a free table, as the team took their space on it.


    ¡°It¡¯s sort of up in the air. I guess we can assume the Venators were out on a different hunt relating to this Wailing.¡± Wess suggested, sitting down in her seat. ¡°Ferris has created quite the brain teaser.¡±


    Just as the team started to get settled, Wess scratched her chin a bit. ¡°¡­why hadn¡¯t Manfred inspected the inside of the ski lodge yet?¡±


    The others turned to her curiously, as Julia nodded along.


    ¡°Hey, yeah. He was ready to open, but he hadn¡¯t even been inside his own resort?¡± Julia noted, as Sola nodded back.


    ¡°Hey, yeah! That¡¯s weird as shit!¡± Sola agreed, as Essex poured over the notes again.


    ¡°¡­I have a suggestion.¡±


    ¡°Ooo, Essex has another idea.¡± Harley hyped up, as Essex smiled a little.


    ¡°What if¡­he had an eversion to going inside?¡± Essex reasoned. ¡°Perhaps there was a reason for why he hadn¡¯t entered that Ferris has not told us.¡±


    Julia snapped her fingers, before pointing at Essex. ¡°Great point, Essex. Something might have been holding him back from doing so.¡±


    ¡°Way to go, babe!¡± Sola cheered, hugging Essex¡¯s side, as Essex instinctively pushed her away.


    ¡°I-I am happy to help, but please refrain from doing that so suddenly.¡± Essex insisted, as Sola blushed a little.


    ¡°Sorry. Got caught up in it.¡± Sola excused, as Essex shook her head.


    ¡°I will go and ask Ferris about this.¡± Essex said, getting up to head back to the class. ¡°Dovono.¡±


    ¡°Alright, while Essex is doing that, you wanna start brainstorming some new theories, Sola?¡± Julia asked, as Sola jumped out her seat.


    ¡°I was just about to ask if we could do that!¡±


    Julia smiled, as she tapped her fingers on the table in thought.


    ¡°Expect the unexpected¡­maybe we should look into things like real world events.¡± Julia suggested. ¡°Ferris might be pulling from actual situations as inspiration, especially since she came up with this on the fly. Even then, there can¡¯t be too many stories about mines in the Northern Wayside.¡±


    ¡°This is my forte, naturally.¡± Wess assured, as Harley bumped her side.


    ¡°And I¡¯m everyone¡¯s favourite sexy historian. We¡¯ve got this.¡± Harley added, as the duo got up to do so.


    ¡°We¡¯re making really good progress.¡± Julia admitted, finding her face getting redder. ¡°Team Valiant for the win.¡±


    ¡°Look at them over there.¡± Leandra muttered, hiding behind the bookshelves, despite the rest of Team Exemplary being out in the open. ¡°I bet they came to the library just to spy on our work, those scumbags.¡±


    ¡°Or to use the computers.¡± Roman noted, as Leandra swung her head around to him.


    ¡°Leandra, we¡¯re trying to brainstorm here.¡± Avalon insisted. ¡°Team brainstorm.¡±


    Leandra raised a finger. ¡°I¡¯m helping. I¡¯m gonna go steal answers from Team Valiant. Claudius.¡±


    Claudius sat up a little, looking around nervously. ¡°I¡¯m up. I was paying attention.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re gonna do recognisance.¡± Leandra insisted, as Avalon stood up in his seat.


    ¡°Now, hold on. It won¡¯t be fair if we go and copy answers from other teams.¡±


    Acadia sat up frustratedly. ¡°You literally offered them your notes, like, an hour ago.¡±


    ¡°Notes are different.¡± Avalon noted. ¡°We¡¯re doing this above-board, like Team Exemplary should. And I¡¯m the leader, so that means we all agree. Now, how does the miner fit into all of this?¡±


    Leandra gritted her teeth, before Roman tugged on her sleeve.


    ¡°Hey, I¡¯ve got this. Go do your thing.¡± Roman insisted, giving a thumbs up. ¡°I¡¯ll distract him for you.¡±


    Leandra found herself grinning, as she gave back an energetic thumbs up, before dragging Claudius along with her and shuffling over to Team Valiant¡¯s table.


    ¡°So¡­Avalon.¡± Roman started. ¡°Before we get stuck into this¡­who¡¯s your favourite Venator?¡±


    ¡°Who¡¯s my favourite?¡± Avalon exclaimed, before propping his feet up on their table. ¡°As if I could pick just one! We could always go for the classic, Team Alpha, but I¡¯ve personally always been more interested i¡­¡±


    ¡°Aww, Roman. He won¡¯t shut up now.¡± Acadia complained, before Roman pointed back at Leandra and Claudius sneaking away. ¡°¡­oh. I see. How long does she need?¡±


    ¡°About ten minutes. Try making another hat.¡± Roman suggested, as Acadia got to work, right as Leandra and Claudius worked their way through the bookshelves.


    ¡°Why am I helping in your spying efforts?¡± Claudius asked.


    ¡°Cause you¡¯re quiet.¡± Leandra whispered. ¡°Acadia and Avalon can¡¯t keep their mouths shut, and Roman would probably trip over something by accident.¡±


    Claudius raised an eyebrow. ¡°Has that happened before?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Leandra answered, just as they got close to Julia and Sola. ¡°If we can get to Ferris before they can, we¡¯ll¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­get a high-five?¡± Claudius answered.


    ¡°It¡¯s more than a high-five.¡± Leandra insisted, skulking around the bookcase. ¡°It¡¯s more than a high-five¡­¡±


    Claudius stared at her crouching, before chuckling to himself. ¡°You¡¯re a weird one.¡±


    ¡°You think they¡¯ve got something in common?¡±


    ¡°Yeah! Ferris mentioned the miner was thinking about his family.¡± Sola pointed out while climbing over the table. ¡°So what if he thought of his Venator team like a family?¡±


    Julia scratched her head. ¡°I dunno¡­it¡¯s kind of a stretch. Like, why couldn¡¯t he just be thinking abo¡­¡±


    Julia stopped herself, as just out of the corner of her eye, she spotted Leandra and Claudius hiding very badly behind a bookcase.


    She decided to ignore it, before giving it a closer look, as Sola noticed she was getting distracted, before spinning around and noticing them as well.


    ¡°Oh, hey Leandra!¡± Sola greeted, waving to her, as Leandra jumped pretty suddenly. ¡°How¡¯s your team been doing?¡±


    ¡°¡­decent.¡± She replied, still ¡®hiding.¡¯


    ¡°Is that Claudius behind you?¡± Julia asked.


    ¡°Yep.¡± Claudius replied, waving through the bookshelves.


    Julia and Sola both looked at each other and shrugged, before turning back to them. ¡°Hey, you guys wanna help us with something?¡±


    Leandra took a beat, before standing up and revealing herself, as she frustratedly walked over to their table, followed by a far less embarrassed Claudius.


    ¡°We¡¯re just trying to see if the miner¡¯s related to anyone else in the story.¡± Julia pointed out, showing off their ideas scattered around the table. ¡°Sola thinks he might¡¯ve been part of the Venator team in the second story.¡±


    ¡°And that when he¡¯s thinking of his family, he¡¯s thinking of the team!¡± Sola insisted, as Leandra folded her arms and looked away.


    ¡°¡­it¡¯s kind of a stretch.¡±


    Sola pouted, before Julia grabbed for a couple more papers. ¡°Did you guys come up with any good ideas?¡±


    ¡°Not really. Acadia keeps making these hat-¡° Claudius started, only for Leandra to immediately shut him down.


    ¡°Don¡¯t engage!¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re the one who wanted to come over here.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, stealthily! Behind a bookshelf!¡±


    ¡°Yeah, a bookshelf. It¡¯s full of gaps.¡± Claudius noted. ¡°Did you really think they wouldn¡¯t noti-¡°


    ¡°Shut up!¡± Leandra snapped, before giving her attention back to Julia and Sola. ¡°Short answer, no.¡±


    ¡°Oh. Bummer.¡± Julia let out. ¡°Man, Ferris came up with a good one here¡­¡±


    Julia and Sola poured over their notes again, as Leandra caught a glimpse of some of their work, before scratching her nose.


    ¡°¡­he could still be related.¡±


    Julia lifted her head. ¡°Did you say something?¡±


    Leandra kept avoiding looking at her. ¡°¡­the miner could still be related to the Venator team. Like, he wasn¡¯t a part of it, but the Venator we see is his sister or something¡­¡±


    Julia¡¯s eyes widened, as she nodded along and wrote a few things down. ¡°That¡¯s a really good point. Maybe that¡¯s why the Wailing¡¯s attacking the mine.¡±


    ¡°The Wailing¡¯s¡­?¡± Leandra let out, as Julia connected a few other ideas.


    ¡°Whoa! That makes way more sense!¡± Sola let out. ¡°Thanks, Leandra!¡±


    ¡°Yeah, thanks for that.¡± Julia smiled. ¡°You guys wanna borrow some of our work?¡±


    Leandra looked offended, before turning away and heading back to Team Exemplary¡¯s table in a huff. ¡°I-In your dreams! Like we need any of those! Come on, Claudius!¡±


    Leandra stormed off, only for Claudius to stick around and take a couple.


    ¡°Thanks.¡± He said, pointing back at her. ¡°Sorry about her. She¡¯s a lot.¡±


    ¡°I noticed.¡± Julia remarked, getting a laugh from Claudius. ¡°You can pretend you stole those from us.¡±


    ¡°Duly noted.¡± Claudius thanked, before heading off as well.


    Ferris had finally managed to get comfy at her desk, using the murmuring of her students as a comfortable white noise, before Essex burst through the main door, panting.


    ¡°Miss Ferris!¡±


    Ferris looked up. ¡°You don¡¯t have to yell.¡±


    ¡°Does Manfred have an eversion to enclosed spaces?!¡±


    Ferris blinked suddenly. ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°What is the reason Manfred hadn¡¯t entered the ski lodge until now?¡±


    Ferris kept blinking, before leaning back in her seat. ¡°I already told you.¡±


    Essex looked puzzled, before Ferris waved her hand. ¡°Look over your notes. It¡¯s in there.¡±


    Essex blinked as well, before nodding and taking her leave. ¡°Relias!¡±


    Ferris stared at her leaving. ¡°Okay¡­Relias you too.¡±


    ¡°Alright¡­that¡¯s starting to look pretty good.¡± Julia admitted, looking over their makeshift timeline. ¡°We just need Essex to come back an-¡°


    ¡°Julia, dear?¡±


    Julia turned her attention to Harley and Wess at the computers. ¡°You guys got something?¡±


    ¡°Probably.¡± Harley clarified, as Julia and Sola quickly joined them. ¡°There¡¯s only one recorded mine in the Northern Wayside, but it wasn¡¯t meant for anything mining related.¡±


    ¡°What does that mean?¡± Sola wondered, leaning over Harley¡¯s chair, as she pointed to the screen.


    ¡°Well¡­¡±


    Julia covered her mouth. ¡°Wait¡­is that really¡­?¡±


    ¡°The greatest tragedy within the Northern Wayside¡­¡± Wess clarified, leaning back in her chair. ¡°All taking place within our ¡®mineshaft.¡¯¡±


    Julia stared blankly at the screen, just as Essex reappeared by the library entrance, as Julia swallowed heavily.


    ¡°This just blew everything wide open¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Speaking of blowing things open¡­


    Very soon after Essex¡¯s re-entry into the classroom, and right after Ferris was starting to get settled in again, the doors burst open.


    She didn¡¯t even have to look up to tell who it was, as Julia announced their results.


    ¡°We figured it out.¡±


    Ferris glanced up and barely changed her expression, before slowly clapping. ¡°I¡¯m so proud of you. Look at you, all grown up.¡±


    ¡°Jokes on you, Ferris, we totally did!¡± Harley backed up, as the team filed down into the lecture hall proper.


    ¡°Oh, did you now?¡± Ferris asked, shoving her hands in her pockets and nodding towards Sola. ¡°Even her?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, actually!¡± Sola exclaimed back, as Julia walked up to the board.


    She grabbed the eraser and started clearing it, before realising what she was doing and turning back around to Ferris. ¡°U-Uhh, can I¡­?¡±


    ¡°Go nuts, kid. If you¡¯re convinced you¡¯ve got it, I wanna see you make a fool of yourself on as big a stage as possible.¡± Ferris encouraged, getting up and taking up a seat with the other students, who were now facing toward Julia taking up the main stage.


    Julia started to panic briefly as her anxiety kicked in, just as the rest of the team started making up the space, with Harley and Sola clearing the board and Essex displaying their work.


    ¡°A few things we¡¯d like to clarify before we start.¡± Wess declared over Ferris¡¯ own microphone, as she encouraged Julia to join her side.


    She pulled away from the mic. ¡°You want us to take it from here?¡±


    Julia thought on it for a moment, before shaking her head. ¡°You guys start¡­I¡¯ll join you after calming down a little.¡±


    ¡°Alright. No pressure.¡± Wess said, squeezing her hand, before facing the mic again. ¡°Ferris.¡±


    Ferris lifted her head.


    ¡°First, congratulations on quite the brain teaser. We didn¡¯t think you were capable of those, but by some freak accident, it happened.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re welcome, and up yours.¡± Ferris replied, getting a nice laugh from the rest of the class.


    Wess resettled herself. ¡°Easily the hardest part of this was figuring out how the miner fit into all of this. Despite the other two stories having an obvious connection, suddenly cutting to a c-plot out of nowhere put a hamper into any good theories.¡±


    ¡°Until Ferris admitted the stories weren¡¯t in order!¡± Harley added, slamming the board. ¡°Then it was super obvious!¡±


    ¡°Of course the mine story wasn¡¯t in the right place, and neither were the other two. They had been reversed as well.¡± Wess admitted, getting some murmuring from the audience. ¡°We believe the real order is¡­¡±


    ¡°Venators, miner, ski lodge!¡± Sola exclaimed, having used the chalk to whip-up a crude looking outline of their timeline on the board, along with their scrupulous notes.


    ¡°I¡¯ll let Essex explain this next part.¡± Wess declared, as Essex took over the mic.


    ¡°¡­we begin with a Venator team sent out to hunt a Wailing. We had assumed that Manfred had hired them to hunt the Wailing discovered in the ski lodge, however, this was realised as wrong once we discovered who the miner was.¡± Essex explained.


    Essex pointed back at the board. ¡°They were not sent to hunt this Wailing in particular, but rather¡­the Venator had confused it for their Wailing. Additionally, the Venator believed her team had been killed by it, before realising they were alive, leading to the Wailing in question being attacked wrongly.¡±


    ¡°This leads into the miner¡¯s story.¡± Wess followed up, taking back the mic. ¡°We should clarify that what the miners believe to be ¡®earthquakes¡¯ are actually the Wailing attacking the mine¡¯s exterior.¡±


    More murmuring came from the class, as Ferris started to sit up in her seat, paying a bit more attention to the board.


    ¡°For a while, we had a theory that the miner was one of the Venator¡¯s from the previous story. However, if the miner was a Venator, he would¡¯ve easily recognised that it was a Wailing attacking.¡± Wess pointed out, as Harley and Sola did their best to dictate her points. ¡°Additionally, the Order of Procedures mentions scouting the area and protecting citizens when in a dangerous position, which he didn¡¯t even attempt.¡±


    Wess raised a finger. ¡°However, you also mentioned a seemingly innocuous detail.¡±


    Wess went to speak, only for Julia to come join her side again, as Wess made a point to step aside and let her speak.


    Julia took a needed breath, before leaning into the mic


    ¡°¡­h-he thought about his family.¡±


    Julia pointed back at the board. ¡°Why would you mention that i-if it wasn¡¯t important? Clearly, his family had to be part of this. It couldn¡¯t be Manfred, for reasons we¡¯ll¡­get to, so who else?¡±


    Julia slammed her hands on Ferris¡¯ desk. ¡°He¡¯s related to one of the Venators. Specifically, the one that shot the Wailing as it got away.¡±


    Leandra shot out of her seat in an instant.


    ¡°That makes so much sense!¡±


    The rest of the class stared at her, as she realised she was causing a scene and sat back down. ¡°Whatever! I didn¡¯t say anything!¡±


    Julia took a beat, before speaking again. ¡°¡­and the reason the Wailing was attacking the mine was because it confused the miner for the Venator that shot it. They¡¯d look similar if they were related, after all.¡±


    Ferris kept nodding along, as they got to their last point.


    ¡°Lastly, the ski lodge¡­our introduction to Manfred.¡± Julia said, before stopping. ¡°Except, not really. Manfred showed up earlier, we just didn¡¯t realise.¡±


    Julia indicated to Essex, who didn¡¯t know what to do and simply bowed. ¡°And thanks to Essex¡¯s great suggestion, suddenly it made sense.¡±


    Julia offered the mic to Essex, who grabbed it immediately.


    ¡°¡­Manfred was the miner.¡±


    The class was abuzz with chatter, as Ferris was having trouble staying in her seat, before Julia resumed her explanation.


    ¡°We noticed Manfred hadn¡¯t gone into the ski lodge yet, despite the fact it was about to be opened.¡± Julia clarified. ¡°And after Essex wondered if he had a reason for it, we began to brainstorm.¡±


    Harley and Sola waved their arms in front of the board as Julia kept explaining. ¡°You said the ski lodge was in the mountains, but you meant it literally. Manfred was hollowing out the mountain to build it. But after getting trapped in there, he was probably traumatized. It¡¯s no wonder he wouldn¡¯t want to go back in.¡±


    Julia resettled herself. ¡°He goes through with construction and builds it, but inspects it, maybe to conquer his fears. Only then does he realise it was a Wailing harassing them, so he hires Venators to take care of it.¡±


    Julia let out a heavy breath, as Wess subtly grabbed her hand behind the desk, helping her to continue.


    ¡°¡­but that¡¯s not the end of the story.¡±


    Ferris raised an eyebrow.


    ¡°¡­we looked into any real-world inspirations that might clarify what you were trying to teach.¡± Julia explained. ¡°There¡¯s only one record of a mine opening up in the Northern Wayside, with this also being turned into a ski lodge. For a while, it was just that, but¡­¡±


    Julia gripped the desk tightly.


    ¡°¡­Ferris, is this abou-¡°


    ¡°The Tragedy of Team Ballistic.¡±


    The class was left in a dead silence, as Ferris got up from her seat to slowly walk up to Team Valiant.


    ¡°After their star was starting to rise, the beloved Team Ballistic gets called up to a ski lodge to take care of a Wailing inside, only for every member expect one to end up killed in the attempt, with the remaining member fucking off to wherever.¡± Ferris explained, facing the class. ¡°While not everything in this story was true, the gist of it was. Including the origins of the Wailing in the ski lodge.¡±


    Ferris pointed back at the board. ¡°But that wasn¡¯t the Wailing that arrived then.¡± Ferris clarified. ¡°Sure, it was the one holding up construction, but it wasn¡¯t the one that killed them.¡±


    Ferris let out a sigh, before grabbing for her microphone again. ¡°Even in all that, they couldn¡¯t escape it. Hunting and getting revenge, only for it to keep going around like that. Venator hunts Wailing for no good reason, Wailing hunts person for no good reason, person takes it out on Wailing¡­and the Wailing take it out on Venators.¡±


    Ferris turned to the team. ¡°So well done, Team Valiant. You now know the best lesson going into the Venator industry.¡±


    She grabbed the mic again.


    ¡°Don¡¯t get caught up in it.¡±


    She simply left it at that, as the class kept to themselves, mulling over Ferris¡¯ lesson, before Sola shot her hand up.


    Ferris turned back to her. ¡°Yeah?¡±


    ¡°Can we get our high-five now?¡±


    Ferris blinked, before groaning and pulling herself out of her seat. ¡°Sure¡­get over here.¡±


    Ferris lazily held up her hand, as Sola ran over to high-five her.


    Right as Sola hit her hand, the sword that Ferris had thrown into the ceiling at the start of the class suddenly loosened, before slipping out and spinning in the air, embedding itself into the floor right next to them.


    The class gasped, as Ferris and Sola stood in silence, only broken by Ferris letting out a held breath.


    ¡°Holy shit, I completely forgot that was there.¡± Ferris admitted, pulling her hand away from a stunned Sola.


    After regaining her breath, she slowly turned back to the rest of Team Valiant with her hand out.


    ¡°Do you guys¡­?¡±


    ¡°No, we¡¯re good.¡± Julia insisted, as the rest of the team thoroughly agreed, before going to sit back down at their seats, leaving Ferris up on stage.


    ¡°Okay¡­I think we¡¯re done.¡± Ferris let out, only for the class to stay still. ¡°Go! I¡¯ve taught you. You¡¯re dismissed. Go live your lives without me.¡±


    The class finally started making tracks, as Team Valiant all took a moment to let the lesson settle in.


    ¡°¡­huh.¡± Julia let out. ¡°¡­I guess Ferris can teach.¡±


    ¡°Sporadically.¡± Wess noted, scratching her chin. ¡°Don¡¯t get caught up in it¡­¡±


    ¡°I think we will have that handled.¡± Essex assured, standing up and stretching. ¡°With that said, I¡¯m surprisingly hungry.¡±


    ¡°Oh yeah, we forgot that share plate.¡± Sola admitted, before jumping out of her seat. ¡°Let¡¯s go get something in Detu City. Virgil recommended a place to me.¡±


    ¡°Ahem!¡±


    Just as the team were getting up to leave, in their path was Avalon, holding his hands behind his back, with the rest of Team Exemplary scattered around him.


    ¡°Well well we-¡°


    ¡°Don¡¯t start it.¡± Harley insisted, holding up her hand. ¡°Class is over and we¡¯re heading out. No dates. No pickup lines. No terrible attempts to flirt.¡±


    ¡°Harsh, but I just had one thing to say before you did.¡± Avalon said, as Harley folded her arms.


    Avalon lay a hand on his chest.


    ¡°I wanted to congratulate you.¡± Avalon insisted. ¡°You rightfully bested me.¡±


    Leandra jabbed his arm, as he rolled his eyes. ¡°Sorry, us.¡±


    ¡°¡­is that all?¡± Julia asked, as Avalon jumped a little.


    ¡°No, actually. Leandra wanted to thank you for the notes.¡± Avalon declared, only for Leandra to butt in.


    ¡°I wanted to do nothing of the sort!¡± Leandra complained, as Roman pulled up behind her.


    ¡°The rest of us did, though. It didn¡¯t help, but it was nice.¡± Roman pointed out.


    ¡°Oh. Well, glad we could offer you some help.¡± Julia smiled, before heading up the stairs with the team. ¡°Feel free to ask for them more directly next time.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t count on it!¡± Leandra yelled back, as Acadia facepalmed next to her.


    ¡°This is why no one likes us¡­¡±


    ¡°Well, we like each other!¡± Avalon insisted, watching the team leave, before Claudius stepped to his side.


    ¡°I just realised. You didn¡¯t actually ask Harley out again.¡± Claudius noticed.


    ¡°Claudius, first, she¡¯s taken.¡± Avalon pointed out, before sighing. ¡°Second¡­I don¡¯t know. Just didn¡¯t feel like it this time.¡±


    ¡°Ooo, someone¡¯s growing up.¡± Roman joked, getting a laugh from the rest of the team, as Avalon puffed out his cheeks.


    ¡°I¡¯m plenty grown up!¡± Avalon declared, as Acadia subtly placed another paper hat on his head. ¡°Tha¡­oh haha.¡±


    ¡°Well, there¡¯s nothing up there. I had to fill it with something.¡± Acadia remarked, as everyone except Avalon got the joke.


    Leandra patted his back. ¡°Come on, Av. Let¡¯s go grab something from the caf¨¦. Your treat.¡±


    ¡°¡­fine, but only because Team Valiant beat us.¡± Avalon muttered, hopping up the stairs, as the rest of Team Exemplary followed. ¡°I feel like¡­ice cream and milkshakes!¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Florey hummed to himself as he worked, dissecting what he could of a Wailing leg, before standing back up proper and wiping some sweat from his brow, making notes as he went to place the leg back into cold storage.


    Just as he was wrapping up, he spotted Marcus standing at the entrance to the lab, just outside the autopsy room, before he hurried himself up and went to meet up with him.


    ¡°Mar!¡­cus.¡± Florey let out, stopping himself from saying it too loud. ¡°I was just finishing up some studying into Wailing joint anatomy. Did you know unlike animals, their joints don¡¯t point in any particular direction based on subspecies, and can either point back or forward?¡±


    ¡°I knew that already.¡± Marcus answered, shutting Florey up, before he pulled out a few documents and laid them on Florey¡¯s counters.


    Florey gave them a glance, as Marcus cleared his throat.


    ¡°I¡¯ve decided to allow the autopsy. Once you¡¯re finished your current tasks, you can focus most of your time on it at your leisure.¡± Marcus explained, as Florey almost jumped for joy.


    ¡°I-I can really do it?!¡±


    ¡°However, you¡¯ll need to secure the Wailing yourself, as well as take out time to finish other menial work we give you.¡± Marcus clarified, shutting Florey down somewhat. ¡°Just the benefits of the position.¡±


    ¡°Oh. Right, that makes sense.¡±


    Marcus raised a finger. ¡°That being said, we¡¯ve also allocated one of our other staff to help you in this matter, since you¡¯ll be killed otherwise.¡±


    Almost on cue, the lab doors opened, as Florey peeked his head up to try and get a glance at who was coming through.


    Rosalind lazily walked through the lab doors, slinking her way into the room, looking around somewhat frustratedly.


    ¡°This is Rosalind. She specialises in Wailing handling and combat.¡± Marcus said. ¡°For the duration of your autopsy, she¡¯s gonna be at your beck and call.¡±


    Rosalind didn¡¯t exactly look thrilled, as Florey debated whether to step forward and offer a handshake.


    Rosalind noticed his worry immediately.


    ¡°¡­Marcus?¡± She asked, indicating to the side, as her and Marcus stepped just out of ear shot, still looking back at him on occasion.


    ¡°So this is the kid?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s him.¡± Marcus said, tilting his head to indicate back at Florey. ¡°He¡¯s got a gifted mind.¡±


    ¡°So I¡¯m babysitting?¡± Rosalind asked. ¡°Is this punishment fo-¡°


    ¡°This isn¡¯t that. He needs a watchful eye.¡± Marcus pointed out. ¡°And just a reminder that there might be a similar arrangement in the future.¡±


    ¡°¡­right.¡± Rosalind realised. ¡°¡­beck and call?¡±


    ¡°Within reason.¡± Marcus added, before deciding to take his leave. ¡°Don¡¯t let him push you around.¡±


    Marcus snapped his fingers, as Florey jumped to attention.


    ¡°I¡¯ll leave you in her care. Get to know each other.¡± Marcus called out, very quickly exiting the lab, as Rosalind walked further into the lab, hands in her pockets, and right in front of Florey.


    Florey decided now was the time to ask for the handshake, as he stuck it out.


    ¡°H-Hi the-¡°


    ¡°I don¡¯t shake hands.¡± Rosalind said, walking right past him, before idly knocking her fingers against some beakers. ¡°There. Now we know each other.¡±


    Florey could feel a pit developing in his stomach, as she bummed around the lab, clearly unhappy to be there.


    Oh boy¡­ Florey thought, watching as she failed to make herself comfortable. What have I gotten myself into?

 Chapter 47: Untimely Frost

    Julia sang a little song to herself as she made up some food in the kitchen, just as Wess exited the bathroom.


    ¡°Dear, can you keep the humming down?¡± Wess insisted, rubbing her eyes, only for Julia to keep singing at her.


    ¡°But Wess, I am, making a stew. For me, for them, but mostly for you.¡± Julia sang, as Wess rolled her eyes.


    ¡°I¡¯m only up this early to use the bathr-¡°


    ¡°You said, you¡¯d like, a stew sometime, so I, said hey, I¡¯ve got the time.¡± Julia exclaimed, nudging Wess¡¯ side, as she found herself cracking a smile.


    ¡°¡­you can¡¯t, rhyme time, with time that way. Although, that stew, looks good I¡¯ll say.¡± Wess added, as Julia leaned over to kiss her cheek.


    ¡°Alright, sleeping head. Go get your beauty sleep.¡± Julia teased, as Wess headed back to bed, right as Harley jumped out of her bed.


    ¡°Is she done?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, she jus-¡° Julia said, right as Harley rushed past into the bathroom.


    ¡°Great! Really need it!¡± She let out, before slamming the door, getting some stirring from Wess.


    Julia went back to cooking, right as the study door opened up to a visibly exhausted Essex, yawning a bit and holding Maxie to her chest.


    ¡°You¡¯re up later than usual. I mean, still earlier than most, but you¡¯re usually out training by now.¡± Julia remarked, as Essex left Maxie on Julia¡¯s bed. ¡°Rough night?¡±


    Essex nodded to her tiredly. ¡°Grela. I thank you for lending me Maxie again.¡± Essex said, as Julia smiled back happily.


    ¡°No worries. He¡¯s always helped me sleep at night.¡± Julia explained. ¡°You can keep him for a little longer, if you want.¡±


    ¡°I should be fine for the moment.¡± Essex said, before noticing Julia¡¯s cooking on the stove. ¡°Is that a stew?¡±


    ¡°Yeah! We had a few things to use up in the fridge, so I just sorta mixed them all together. Wess was complimenting my cookin-¡°


    ¡°I can hear you talking!¡± Wess yelled out, getting some stirring from Sola¡¯s bed, as Julia quieted herself.


    ¡°¡­I¡¯m just making some for lunch.¡± Julia said, grabbing the ladle and taking a small sip. ¡°Mmm¡­tell me what you think.¡±


    Julia held it out for Essex, who took a sip as well.


    ¡°¡­it needs a¡­fresher taste?¡± Essex attempted, as Julia nodded back to her.


    ¡°Exactly what I thought. Just need to find a good herb to add¡­¡±


    Essex found herself slightly proud at the deduction, only to notice a pair of eyes coming from the bathroom.


    ¡°Ooooo.¡± Harley let out, snickering to herself. ¡°You two totally had an indirect kiss.¡±


    Essex immediately blushed in shame, as Julia glared at Harley.


    Essex then bowed toward Harley right after. ¡°Relias. I apologise for having done that.¡±


    Harley stepped out and wrapped her arms around Essex. ¡°I don¡¯t really care. Hey, if I could kiss her too, I would.¡±


    ¡°¡­I-I¡¯m just gonna pretend I didn¡¯t hear that.¡± Julia muttered, trying to hide her own blush, as Harley started laughing again.


    ¡°Hey¡­who¡¯s kissing Essex?¡± Sola let out, having walked from her bed, still trailing her sheets behind her.


    ¡°Julia.¡± Harley bragged.


    ¡°I¡¯m not listening.¡± Julia declared, before feeling her tablet vibrate in her pocket, just as Essex tried to break out of Harley¡¯s hug.


    ¡°This physicality is restraining.¡± Essex stated, only for Harley to start pouting.


    ¡°Aww, but people love my big muscles.¡± Harley joked, just as Sola went to join the hug.


    ¡°Better get used to hugging, Essex! We both love it!¡± Sola insisted, as Julia read over her most recent messages from Activ.


    ¡°Oh, would you keep it down?! Some of us prefer to sleep in!¡± Wess called out, getting out of her bed. ¡°We¡¯re not all morning people like you trio of merry lovers!¡±


    ¡°Hey, I don¡¯t like waking up early! I just wanted to tease Essex!¡± Sola assured, hugging her even more, as Essex looked to Wess pleadingly.


    ¡°Help¡­¡±


    Wess raised a judgemental eyebrow, before drawing her attention to Julia, who was now covering her mouth as she stared at her tablet.


    ¡°Julia?¡± Wess let out. ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    Julia struggled to find the right words, as her hands began shaking slightly and her mouth quickly dried up.


    ¡°¡­g-guys¡­¡±


    The team stared at her in worry.


    ¡°¡­A-Avalon¡¯s dead.¡±


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    ..........the service was sudden.


    It was set up fairly quickly since the news had only recently hit the campus. Faller had already had an assembly in the courtyard to explain the matter to the rest of the third-year students. According to him and the rest of Team Exemplary, during a routine mission out near the town of Gebate, the team were tasked with taking out a Wailing stalking the area for new graduates coming from the academy.


    They were lucky to have been picked up for such a high-profile mission, so they headed out to take care of it. However, quickly after they started the mission, as everything was going routine, the Wailing blindsided them, and in a sudden act of violence¡­killed Avalon on the spot.


    There was no fanfare.


    He barely fought back.


    And it was over in a heartbeat.


    The rest of Team Exemplary were able to take out the Wailing, only to realise the damage it had caused and travel back to the academy in broken tears. News quickly spread across campus, as these things often do, so Faller and Seears took care of it.


    The academy had repurposed its assembly hall for his funeral. In attendance, of course, were Team Exemplary, Avalon¡¯s mother, brother and stepfather, as well as the rest of the third-year student body and teachers. His mother was visibly shaken, as she rested her head on her husband¡¯s shoulder, right as Faller walked up onto the stage with a few notes in his hand, taking his place at the podium in the centre.


    He organised himself, before taking a heavy breath and leaning into the microphone.


    ¡°¡­it¡¯s¡­never easy¡­for me to come up here.¡± Faller admitted, holding himself up on the podium. ¡°But¡­I never want it to be easy. Students come here every day, and I always worry what will become of them in the industry.¡±


    Faller nervously reorganised his notes. ¡°There¡¯s always the threat of death. Wailing are unforgiving, but¡­when this sort of tragedy occurs within this academy¡­to one of many incredible students¡­Avalon deserved better.¡±


    Faller cleared his throat as it dried up a bit, before struggling to get the next few words out.


    ¡°He was proud. He cared deeply for his team and was committed to becoming a great Venator.¡± Faller insisted, as his voice began to crack slightly. ¡°W-Whenever given a challenge, he would step up to it, boasting his team when they needed it. He was a reminder of the kind of passion that goes into this profession. It wasn¡¯t career that drove him¡­it was heart.¡±


    Faller could feel his hands starting to sweat, as his voice warbled. ¡°He was a-always so¡­he¡­¡±


    Right as he managed to get out those words, he started breaking down into tears, before pulling himself away from the mic.


    He struggled to regain his composure, just as Ferris quickly came up on stage and joined his side, before patting his shoulder and taking his place at the podium, letting him leave with a quiet dignity.


    Ferris inhaled.


    ¡°¡­Avalon¡­was not an easy person to get along with.¡± Ferris started, surprising most of the attendees with her bluntness. ¡°His team would agree that he was quite abrasive, and that for all his boasting, his skill rarely matched his words.¡±


    Ferris gave herself a second before continuing. ¡°¡­but he also knew what he was getting into. This is not a kind industry, and despite knowing that, he risked himself, even acting as his team¡¯s leader, just to fulfill that promise. Very few would try doing that, even fewer would give themselves to it as much as he did.¡±


    Ferris kept her cool, as the rest of the people present gave her their respect. ¡°His was a life worth living. Not for vain reasons, but for the potential that lies in everyone that comes into this academy. Whether he could act on that potential is unclear, but there was never a doubt in my mind when teaching him¡­that he could be great.¡±


    Ferris leaned into the mic.


    ¡°This was a tragedy. So may he rest with the other Venators who gave their lives for us to keep living.¡±


    Ferris indicated to his coffin behind her proudly.


    ¡°Avalon McAlister. What every Venator should strive to be.¡±


    Just as she finished, Avalon¡¯s mother could be heard bursting into tears, trying her best to hold herself together, as his brother comforted her. Ferris left the podium right after, as the rest of the hall heard from a few more speakers, before the service cleared out, leaving the attendees to talk amongst themselves.


    Condolences were extended towards his family, and to the remainder of Team Exemplary, as other third-year students tried their best to comfort them. Out of everyone in the team, Leandra was clearly taking it the hardest. Idle chatter had already suggested they were going to need a new member, but from the look on her face, that was the last thing on her mind.


    ¡°If you need anything at all, don¡¯t hesitate to let us know.¡± Joleicia insisted, her hand to her chest. ¡°We¡¯re all here for each other, and our dorm¡¯s just down the hall.¡±


    ¡°¡­yeah, thanks¡­¡± Leandra managed, staring mostly at the floor, as Roman rested an arm around her.


    ¡°We appreciate it. Avalon really admired you guys.¡± Roman insisted.


    ¡°It¡¯s never easy losing a teammate.¡± Chops added. ¡°Hopefully if you get a new member, they¡¯ll feel more like a companion than a replacement.¡±


    ¡°There was no replacing Av.¡± Acadia mentioned, sitting nearby, before weakly chuckling after.


    Lenin held Saxin to his chest, before she turned to Leandra with a look of compassion.


    ¡°You hold strong, okay?¡±


    Leandra bothered to look up at her, before nodding back, as Team Vanguard left soon after, meeting up with Nathaniel outside, leaving Team Valiant standing amongst the other grieving students, feeling somewhat out of place.


    ¡°Should we go over?¡± Essex asked, as Julia stared off at Team Exemplary.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know. We¡¯ve never really gotten along well.¡± Julia admitted. ¡°I feel like we¡¯re the last people Leandra wants to see¡­¡±


    ¡°Extending our condolences is still the right thing to do.¡± Wess noted. ¡°For better or worse, we do have a relationship with them.¡±


    ¡°I guess¡­¡± Harley let out, patting Sola¡¯s head. ¡°¡­I still can¡¯t believe it happened¡­¡±


    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t wanna leave without making sure they¡¯re okay.¡± Sola insisted, holding Harley¡¯s side for comfort. ¡°They¡¯re the first team in our year to have a member die¡­¡±


    Julia¡¯s eyes widened at the realisation, before she took a breath and started heading over with the rest of the team.


    They waited for a few more of the other attendees to clear out, before finding the right opening, as Julia gave Leandra a small wave.


    ¡°Hi.¡± She said, slowly approaching them. ¡°We just wanted to extend our condolences.¡±


    Leandra looked up and scoffed. ¡°Of course you did¡­¡±


    ¡°Thanks. Sorry for, uhh¡­well, just the general antagonism.¡± Claudius remarked, as Harley made a point to step forward.


    ¡°We just wanted to say sorry too.¡± Harley added, as Leandra looked up. ¡°It nev-¡°


    ¡°No no, don¡¯t¡­don¡¯t pretend you¡¯re sad.¡± Leandra groaned, wiping some tears with her palm, before pointing right at Harley. ¡°You two were at each other¡¯s throats whenever you got the chance, so don¡¯t act like you suddenly feel any sympathy for him. Like that makes up for it or some shit.¡±


    ¡°I ju-¡° Harley said, right as Leandra pushed past her, nearly knocking her over.


    ¡°Fuck off.¡±


    Harley stumbled a little bit, as the rest of Team Exemplary followed behind Leandra, trying to keep up with her.


    Essex helped her up, as Team Exemplary left the hall soon after, leaving Team Valiant right where they were.


    ¡°That¡¯s about what I expected.¡± Wess admitted, as Harley rubbed her neck.


    ¡°I was tryna bury the hatchet.¡± Harley insisted. ¡°Geez¡­¡±


    ¡°She doesn¡¯t want to talk right now.¡± Julia said, rubbing Harley¡¯s back. ¡°You can make your peace later.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, if she lets me.¡± Harley let out.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Julia opened up the room to the team¡¯s dorm, as they all filed back in, slowly getting comfortable and changing out of their funeral outfits. Julia took a seat on her bed, as Harley collapsed onto the couch, Wess went to change, Sola sat beside Harley, and Essex decided to stand out by the balcony, watching over the horizon.


    ¡°¡­it¡¯s still not hitting me¡­¡± Julia confessed, as Harley and Sola turned to her. ¡°¡­the whole thing was so sudden¡­like, we were talking to him just a few days ago in class.¡±


    Julia¡¯s arms fell to her side.


    ¡°Why did¡­¡±


    Julia left it there, not really knowing what else to say afterwards, before lying down on the bed and staring up at the top bunk, right as Sola sank deeper into the couch.


    Harley quickly noticed. ¡°You okay?¡±


    ¡°¡­I dunno¡­¡± Sola admitted, rubbing her arms. ¡°¡­I think I¡¯m with Julia. It hasn¡¯t hit me yet¡­¡±


    Harley sat back up and wrapped an arm around Sola, comforting her and kissing her head. ¡°It¡¯s alright. We¡¯ll get through it.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s quite the shock.¡± Wess admitted, stepping out of the team¡¯s study.


    Essex stayed quiet on the balcony, letting the wind pass over her as she remained motionless.


    Sola played with her hands nervously.


    ¡°¡­where do you reckon he¡¯s ended up?¡±


    Harley turned to face Sola. ¡°Avalon?¡±


    ¡°¡­do you reckon he¡¯s with the Old Gods? Somewhere up in heaven?¡± Sola asked, as Harley cocked her head.


    ¡°With them?¡±


    If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. Please report it.


    ¡°Yeah. If he was good in their eyes, they would¡¯ve welcomed him there. You think he¡¯s with them up there?¡± Sola clarified.


    Harley scratched her head. ¡°Well, they don¡¯t exist, so¡­no.¡± Harley said, offending Sola. ¡°Don¡¯t tell me you believe in that stuff.¡±


    ¡°Of course I believe in them. Don¡¯t you?¡±


    ¡°Well¡­not really, I just think the study of them¡¯s fascinating.¡± Harley said, before resettling and staring at Sola with disbelief. ¡°Do you really think the Old Gods are real?¡±


    ¡°Yes!¡± Sola exclaimed, standing up. ¡°What¡¯s wrong with thinking that?¡±


    ¡°No offense, Sola, but there¡¯s hardly any proof of their existence.¡± Wess attested, staring up at the ceiling. ¡°And as someone familiar with the texts written about them, the merits of those narratives are questionable at best¡­¡±


    ¡°Well, no one asked you!¡± Sola complained, as Julia got up from her bed. ¡°I never sa-¡°


    ¡°Hey, hey, let¡¯s calm down. We¡¯re all wound up from the funeral.¡± Julia said, holding Sola¡¯s shoulder. ¡°Sola¡¯s allowed to believe what she wants. Have your opinions on that but keep it to yourself.¡±


    Wess stared off to the side. ¡°¡­my apologies¡­I can carry on without thinking sometimes¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­yeah, sorry Sola.¡± Harley let out, getting up. ¡°That¡¯s really not for me to judge.¡±


    ¡°¡­I just want to be sure that Avalon ended up in a good place¡­¡± Sola muttered, as Harley and Julia went to hug her. ¡°¡­Whilit would be good about that¡­¡±


    Sola wiped her eyes a bit, before looking to the door.


    ¡°¡­I¡¯m gonna go for a walk.¡± Sola said, surprising Julia.


    ¡°Alright. Just by yourself?¡±


    Sola nodded back to her, before grabbing her bag and heading out, as the team stayed quiet with themselves, before Essex lifted her head and came back inside.


    ¡°I pissed her off, didn¡¯t I?¡± Harley let out, landing on the couch again. ¡°Come on, Harley¡­¡±


    ¡°This tension is natural.¡± Essex assured, reaching over and patting Harley¡¯s back. ¡°She is having trouble grieving. Death is a haunting concept.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to tell me¡­¡± Julia let out, sighing deeply, before turning to Essex. ¡°Hey¡­can you-¡°


    ¡°Check on her?¡± Essex finished.


    Julia closed her mouth, before smiling and rolling her eyes. ¡°Of course you were already gonna do that.¡±


    ¡°I will be a moment.¡± Essex said, before taking a second and turning to quickly give Harley a peck on the cheek. ¡°Dovono.¡±


    Essex left the dorm room right after, leaving Julia, Harley and Wess spread about the lounge area, each taking up a spot of their own.


    Harley gently touched her cheek, before turning back to the door.


    ¡°¡­have you guys¡­¡±


    Julia and Wess gave her their attention.


    ¡°¡­have you¡­lost anyone? Before?¡± Harley asked, as Wess went to take a seat on the armchair, while Julia sat against the coffee table.


    ¡°¡­not recently.¡± Julia admitted. ¡°My grandma passed away when I was five, but that was so long ago at this point. I barely even knew her.¡±


    ¡°Do relationships with your parents count?¡± Wess joked, getting a slight chuckle from Harley. ¡°No, not me either. I¡¯ve been quite fortunate in that regard.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, same here¡­¡± Harley admitted, running her hands together.


    Julia decided to speak up. ¡°I, uhh, I did have¡­a teacher¡­pass away¡­back in school.¡±


    Julia lowered her head as she recalled the event. ¡°A Wailing had killed him while he was out on a trip, and the entire school was in mourning. Except for me. I didn¡¯t know him very well, even though he was beloved by the entire student body.¡±


    Julia knocked her knees together in an attempt to get some tension out. ¡°This was right after Florey had left school, so I was in a bad spot at the time. I¡­came into school, and everyone was crying, saying how much they missed him. But stupidly, I asked¡­¡±


    Julia shrugged her shoulders. ¡°¡­who?¡±


    Julia shook her head in frustration. ¡°¡­the people I was talking to got really mad at me, but¡­I¡¯d never really felt what it was like to have someone die close to me. The closest thing I had was Florey leaving, but after they called me out, I spent the rest of the day chewing myself out for being so insensitive.¡±


    Julia sat back up, as Wess reached over and rubbed her shoulder. ¡°So, I¡¯d say that¡¯s my closest personal relationship with death.¡±


    ¡°¡­how should I make it up to Leandra then?¡± Harley asked, surprising Julia and Wess. ¡°You said it yourself. I can¡¯t pretend to understand what she¡¯s going through. I¡¯m torn up about Avalon, but it¡¯s not like I¡¯m grieving like her.¡±


    ¡°Well, that¡¯s the horrid thing about grief.¡± Wess stated. ¡°It¡¯s not this unending, ever-present torture that plagues you constantly. It¡¯s small. It barely feels real at first. And, eventually it cascades and slowly becomes normal. You¡¯re not sad forever, but you hold that sadness with you constantly.¡±


    ¡°¡­that¡¯s the thing.¡± Julia said. ¡°You might not get forgiveness from Leandra. That¡¯s up to her. You¡¯re just gonna have to accept her decision.¡±


    ¡°So I can¡¯t get us on good terms?¡±


    ¡°After this?¡± Julia let out, before shaking her head. ¡°I don¡¯t know.¡±


    Harley lay against the couch in defeat, before finding her gaze going up to the ceiling.


    ¡°¡­if Sola ends up being right, I just hope Avalon isn¡¯t holding a grudge against me¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Acadia tapped her foot in annoyance, trying to pay attention to the textbook in front of her, as she read over the same paragraph again and again. Her eyes kept glazing over the words, before she kicked her seat in frustration and stood up, walking around the team study.


    ¡°You¡¯re good at this¡­just read the freaking words¡­¡± She insisted to herself, before sitting back down. ¡°Ready, set¡­go.¡±


    After about thirty seconds, her mind drifted again, as she pulled herself out of the chair and ran her hands through her hair, leaving the study to find Claudius and Roman just entering their team¡¯s dorm, carrying a couple documents with them.


    ¡°I can¡¯t do it. I don¡¯t wanna read.¡± Acadia declared, as Claudius looked back at her. ¡°You know me. I actually like studying. That¡¯s not like me at all.¡±


    ¡°Your reading¡¯s very stop and start.¡± Claudius pointed out, as Roman landed on the couch and Acadia wandered to the kitchen.


    ¡°This isn¡¯t that. I¡¯m stuck in a stupid holding pattern.¡± Acadia said, grabbing a milk carton from the fridge and chugging it. ¡°Like I¡¯m in reading traffic.¡±


    Claudius let her finish the carton, before his eyes drifted to one of the bunk beds, then to Acadia.


    ¡°Is¡­?¡±


    Acadia crushed the carton, before solemnly nodding back to Claudius, as he sighed out and made his way over, before ducking his head under the bed to spot Leandra lying underneath it, her face toward the wall and still in yesterday¡¯s clothing.


    ¡°H-Hey¡­Le.¡± Claudius said, leaning down. ¡°Not to¡­pressure you or anything, but¡­the academy wants to know if we¡¯re gonna take a new member¡­and who¡¯s taking over as leader.¡±


    Leandra stayed silent, staring dead-eyed at the wall.


    Acadia joined his side, while Roman sat up from the couch to catch the action.


    ¡°They said we don¡¯t need a new fifth member since we¡¯re already in third year.¡± Claudius added, looking back at Roman and Acadia in desperation. ¡°It might help yo-¡°


    ¡°¡­it¡¯s been three days.¡±


    Leandra glared back at him.


    ¡°They can wait.¡±


    Claudius just stayed silent, as he nodded his head, before getting up letting out a breath for the other two.


    He walked away, before Acadia leaned down as well.


    ¡°Well, me and Claud have got to go to class, but¡­just let us know if you need anything.¡± Acadia insisted, getting no response, before feeling she should speak up. ¡°W-We¡­miss him too. You¡¯re not alone in this¡­okay?¡±


    Acadia left it at that, as she grabbed her bag and headed out with Claudius, leaving Roman and Leandra alone in the dorm.


    Feeling he should put his own mind at ease, Roman got up and headed to the bed, before getting onto the floor and squeezing under the bed with Leandra, lying right next to her.


    Leandra didn¡¯t acknowledge him and stayed silent, as Roman cleared his throat.


    ¡°Pretty stuffy under here.¡± Roman said. ¡°Sorta like a coffin.¡±


    No response.


    ¡°¡­you know¡­¡±


    Roman tried to get comfortable.


    ¡°¡­my dad died really early in life¡­¡± Roman admitted, resting his hands on his chest. ¡°I barely got to know him before he got ripped away from me. Mum didn¡¯t take it well, but I never blamed her for getting angry. She was trying her best and all, but neither of us knew how to take it.¡±


    Roman drummed his hands idly. ¡°Then after I realised I wasn¡¯t a girl, I had to go through it without a male role model in my life. The only men I could look up to were all the Venators on TV, like Team Spectrum, and so I wanted to be more like them, even though I knew it was the most dangerous profession anyone could subject themselves to.¡±


    Roman paused for a second, hoping Leandra would respond, before taking a breath and continuing.


    ¡°He didn¡¯t talk about it much, but Avalon didn¡¯t know his dad either.¡± Roman admitted, as Leandra turned from resting on her side to on her back. ¡°I was talking with his mum at the funeral, and she said he fucked off to who knows where soon after Avalon was born.¡±


    Leandra glanced over to Roman, as he turned to her. ¡°But Avalon didn¡¯t know any better, so to make it up to him, she told him his dad was secretly working for the royal family as their personal Venator.¡±


    Leandra breathed out steadily.


    ¡°And so he became obsessed with the northern royalty and wanted to become one, even after they disbanded.¡± Roman explained. ¡°Maybe to live up to his dad¡¯s legacy, maybe to see him again¡­regardless, after his mum remarried, he only got more insistent on it.¡±


    Leandra kept looking at Roman, as Roman reached over and held Leandra¡¯s hand to comfort her.


    ¡°Both of us became Venators to be closer to the dads we never knew¡­¡± Roman admitted. ¡°But we never got to share that¡­I missed my chance to share something with him¡­¡±


    Roman kept holding her hand, waiting for Leandra to rip hers away, which she almost immediately did. They both lay there in silence for the moment, as the air started getting a bit stale.


    ¡°¡­do you think he knew?¡±


    Roman turned to Leandra again, as she spoke up again.


    ¡°That his mum¡¯s story was a lie?¡± Leandra asked.


    Roman gave it a moment¡¯s thought, before resting his hands on his chest again and speaking.


    ¡°Does it matter?¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    It had taken a while for Essex to find Sola. It was a fifty-fifty whether Sola was just wandering or had a destination in mind, but Essex could hazard a guess as to where she might want to walk to.


    She first made a point to check the Central Forest, followed by the study area and the library. Just as her options were dwindling, she recalled the academy Spire and made her way to it, before scaling the stairs inside to the viewing platform on top.


    Right as she reached it, she found Sola sitting down, staring out at the slightly overcast midday sky, obscuring most of the sunlight trying to come through. Essex decided not to say anything, as she walked over to Sola and sat beside her, noticing Sola¡¯s sunken expression.


    Sola quickly noticed Essex next to her, before staring down again, trying to hide her face.


    ¡°¡­I made you worry, didn¡¯t I?¡± Sola let out.


    Essex simply nodded back to her, as Sola pulled her legs up and held them to her chest.


    ¡°¡­I¡¯m allowed to want to be alone¡­¡± Sola admitted.


    ¡°¡­this is something difficult to deal with.¡± Essex spoke. ¡°I simply didn¡¯t want you to work through it alone.¡±


    ¡°¡­I¡¯m just sad about it¡­¡± Sola said, throwing her hands out. ¡°Like, what am I meant to do? He was here. Just the other day.¡±


    Sola turned to Essex slowly. ¡°And he just¡­isn¡¯t anymore.¡±


    Sola huddled up to herself again. ¡°¡­I¡¯ve never had anyone close to me die before¡­and I barely even knew him that well¡­¡± Sola admitted.


    Essex stared out at the distance in front of them, watching as it was clearly overwhelming Sola, before she let out a breath.


    ¡°¡­I envy you.¡±


    Sola looked to Essex.


    ¡°I have been surrounded with the threat of death my entire life.¡± Essex admitted, taking her scythe off her back. ¡°Trapped in the Aishanara Forest, defending the clan against Wailing, losing my family¡­I¡¯m familiar with death, but that does not bring me comfort¡­¡±


    Sola unballed a little, before she started playing with her hands.


    ¡°¡­you¡¯re not alone in that, though.¡± Sola confessed. ¡°I don¡¯t know what happened to my birth parents either. They could¡­they could be gone too.¡±


    Sola inched a bit closer to Essex, before resting her head on Essex¡¯s side.


    ¡°¡­how do you feel about your family?¡±


    Essex turned to Sola. ¡°Before the clan?¡±


    Sola nodded. ¡°¡­do you know if they¡¯re still around?¡±


    ¡°¡­I don¡¯t believe they are.¡± Essex suggested. ¡°And even if they were, I would not see a point to a reunion as of right now.¡±


    Sola was visibly annoyed. ¡°Wha-but you can make up for lost time! Why wouldn¡¯t you want that?¡±


    Essex rested her scythe in front of them. ¡°I owe my life to the Segaru Clan.¡± Essex admitted. ¡°If my family was still alive, they why was I rescued by the clan? Why hadn¡¯t they found me within a year of being trapped in the Aishanara Forest?¡±


    Sola calmed down a little, before nestling her head into Essex a bit more.


    ¡°The truth is I never knew them, and that realistically, they¡¯ve passed on without me.¡± Essex continued, reaching out to hold Sola closer to her. ¡°I wish I had known them, but my life did not act out like that. And I have accepted that they may never be a part of it, and that the Wailing have taken that chance from me.¡±


    Sola just let herself be held, as she comforted herself with Essex¡¯s presence.


    ¡°We only hurt ourselves running back to what was. Wallowing is where the danger lies.¡± Essex explained, breathing steadily. ¡°There is time to mourn, and time to keep moving forward. We don¡¯t forget, we continue to live in spite of death.¡±


    Suddenly, Sola felt Essex pull her even closer, before looking up at her and seeing her smile.


    ¡°And while I may not have my family, I have my team.¡±


    Sola felt herself blushing, before she felt herself compelled to sit up and kiss Essex, surprising Essex, before she reciprocated, melting into it.


    Sola eventually broke the kiss, before falling into Essex¡¯s lap, holding onto her as worry started to stain her face again.


    ¡°¡­promise me you won¡¯t die.¡±


    Essex cautiously rested her hand on Sola¡¯s head, before starting to pat it. ¡°I couldn¡¯t do that.¡±


    ¡°¡­I know¡­¡± Sola let out, sinking into her.


    Essex kept patting her, before lifting her head up. ¡°I will promise, however, that I will not die for anything less than the best of life.¡±


    ¡°¡­how so?¡± Sola asked, sitting up a bit.


    ¡°I wish to die either nobly or peacefully.¡± Essex assured. ¡°It must mean something. I refuse to be taken out by a Wailing, or the likes of Rosalind and Wicker.¡±


    Sola felt a bit of energy return to her, as she sat up a bit.


    ¡°And there¡¯s no way they¡¯re getting to you.¡± Sola said, pumping her fists. ¡°They¡¯re gonna need to tear through me first. As long as I¡¯m around, you¡¯ve got a massive lightning wall ready to defend you no matter what.¡±


    Essex nodded back to her, before pulling Sola into a hug. ¡°Let us hope it doesn¡¯t come to that.¡±


    Sola felt herself tear up a little, before she slowly opened her mouth.


    ¡°¡­I really love you¡­¡±


    Essex noticed her heartbeat speeding up, as she held Sola a little tighter.


    ¡°¡­I¡­love you too¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    The team had been able to sit with the news for a few days now. The fervour around Avalon¡¯s passing had started to die down, even if the melancholy was still lingering, weighing most of the student body down with its presence.


    Team Valiant were spending most of the day inside, taking a needed day for themselves, as Julia, Harley and Sola watched a Team Spectrum documentary on TV, and Wess and Essex sat out on the balcony, enjoying a few glasses of wine together.


    ¡°¡­wasn¡¯t Avalon a big fan of Team Spectrum?¡± Sola brought up, looking back at Julia.


    ¡°Probably. It¡¯s hard to name any Venators these days who aren¡¯t fans of them.¡± Julia pointed out, as Harley played with Sola¡¯s hair.


    ¡°Still thinking about him?¡± Harley asked, as Sola nodded silently. ¡°Yeah, me too¡­¡±


    Suddenly, a hesitant knock came from the dorm door, as Julia popped her head up, before getting up to answer it and finding Claudius waiting outside.


    ¡°Claudius, hey. What¡¯s up?¡± Julia earnestly asked, as he pretended to be distracted by something in the distance.


    ¡°Hey, Julia. Yeah, I was just passing by.¡± He excused, shoving his hands in his pockets. ¡°I didn¡¯t get to thank you for showing up to the, uhh¡­¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s no problem.¡± Julia said, as the rest of Team Valiant started poking their heads to the door. ¡°How¡¯re you guys holding up? How¡¯s Leandra?¡±


    ¡°Uhh, well, she¡¯s¡­like, none of us are great at the moment, but she¡¯s still taking it really hard.¡± Claudius said, nervously moving his legs about. ¡°She hasn¡¯t left the dorm room for days now¡­¡±


    ¡°Geez¡­¡± Julia let out, as Harley stood behind Julia.


    ¡°Yeah, we, uhh¡­don¡¯t really know what to do about it. It¡¯s not in our wheelhouse to¡­¡± Claudius stated, before clearing his throat. ¡°Sorry, just¡­¡±


    He took his hands out again, before struggling to make himself look comfortable.


    ¡°I see you guys all the time in class, and you get along really well.¡± Claudius admitted, rubbing the back of his head. ¡°You¡¯re always helping each other out, and I¡­think¡­you¡¯d be able to handle this way better than we could.¡±


    Julia blinked, before squinting a little. ¡°You¡­reckon we could help?¡±


    ¡°To be honest, Claudius, I don¡¯t think Leandra¡¯d like us coming around.¡± Harley pointed out.


    ¡°Well, I don¡¯t think she¡¯s gonna get better anyway.¡± Claudius admitted. ¡°She already refused to see Pather, or the actual therapist Faller hired for us. Once classes start for us again, she¡¯s probably gonna stop giving a shit all together.¡±


    ¡°I mean¡­we could give it a try.¡± Julia said, looking back to the team for support. ¡°I¡¯m just worried we¡¯d make it worse.¡±


    Despite not really needing to, Essex raised her hand before speaking.


    ¡°I believe I may be able to aid her.¡±


    Claudius perked up, as Sola stared curiously at her.


    ¡°Really?¡± Sola asked, getting a confident nod from Essex.


    ¡°As long as she is willing to receive it.¡± Essex clarified, as Claudius gave a thumbs up.


    ¡°Yeah, whatever you got. Just let me know over Activ when you¡¯re ready.¡± Claudius said, waving his tablet. ¡°Thank you guys, really.¡±


    The team waved goodbye to Claudius, as he headed back down the hall, visibly exhausted from the interaction.


    ¡°So, what¡¯s your strategy, Essex?¡± Wess asked, as she went to grab her scythe from the study, before coming out with it.


    She held it out proudly.


    ¡°It will be a makeshift Boncala Day.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Are you sure you don¡¯t want me to make you something?¡±


    ¡°I said I¡¯m fine¡­¡±


    ¡°You haven¡¯t tried my grilled cheese yet.¡±


    ¡°Acadia, cool it with the babying already.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m no-¡°


    Leandra turned to face the wall again, frustrating Acadia, just as a knock came from the dorm door.


    Acadia waited for a second, before looking to Leandra and seeing her stay motionless under the bed.


    She sighed in annoyance. ¡°Fine, I¡¯ll get it¡­¡±


    She went to open the door, before surprising herself with the presence of Claudius and Team Valiant together.


    ¡°Valiant. What¡¯s up, you guys?¡± Acadia greeted, finally getting the attention of Leandra.


    She pulled herself out from under the bed, as Roman emerged from the study to catch the commotion.


    ¡°We just came to check up on you guys.¡± Julia assured, before looking behind Acadia and waving to Leandra.


    Leandra¡¯s face grew redder, as she stormed off to the kitchen, while the rest of Team Exemplary welcomed them in openly.


    ¡°This feels weird.¡± Roman admitted, as Team Valiant filled out the space. ¡°We don¡¯t really invite others here.¡±


    ¡°I insisted.¡± Claudius said, before nodding his head to Leandra, now sulking in the kitchen corner.


    ¡°Fair call.¡± Acadia admitted, as Essex stepped into the kitchen.


    Leandra avoided looking at her, as she rested her hand on the kitchen table.


    ¡°Leandra.¡±


    She flinched. ¡°¡­what are you doing here¡­¡±


    ¡°Your team was worried about your recent behaviour.¡± Essex opened, getting a snarl from Leandra.


    ¡°Oh, were they? Cause I¡¯m the only one mourning? Cause I¡¯m the one still carrying the fucking burden that Av left behind?¡± Leandra yelled, stepping forward. ¡°So now they called you for help?¡±


    ¡°You aren¡¯t the only one mourning, but you¡¯re the one hurting.¡± Essex insisted, reaching out. ¡°This is not to make you forget, it¡¯s to help you live.¡±


    Essex boldly grabbed Leandra¡¯s hand, as she felt herself fighting it for a second.


    ¡°Avalon wouldn¡¯t want you to suffer just so he can be remembered. There is no honour in self-torture.¡±


    Leandra could feel her eyes welling up again, as she stopped resisting Essex¡¯s grip.


    ¡°I have a method I wish for you to try.¡± Essex said, moving to show the two teams staring back at her. ¡°To aid in the grieving process. If you¡¯ll allow me.¡±


    Leandra stared down at their linked hands, before taking hers back and wiping her eyes, nodding back to Essex sheepishly.


    As they made their way back into the dorm, Leandra noticed that the others were drawing the blinds to the window, darkening the room, with a small table set up in front of it with Avalon¡¯s royal cape and a photo of him laid out on it, lit only by a few candles.


    The two teams were standing with their backs to the wall, as Wess poured out a small glass of wine and handed it off to Leandra, which she reluctantly took, before pouring glasses for everyone else.


    Essex held Leandra¡¯s shoulder, working her through the process. ¡°The Segaru Clan believes the soul doesn¡¯t leave this world fully, but stays behind and watches the world that it influences. This is a chance for you to speak with him without reluctance.¡±


    ¡°Speak with¡­?¡± Leandra let out, before turning to Essex.


    She could feel her words catching in her throat.


    ¡°¡­he pissed me off¡­so much...¡± Leandra said, just as tears broke from her eyes. ¡°...s-so why am I so sad that he¡¯s gone?¡±


    Roman almost stepped forward to comfort her, before Harley held him back, insisting he let Essex handle this.


    ¡°Do not hold yourself back. This is not a place for judgment, but for honesty.¡± Essex assured, stepping backwards, before also grabbing a glass. ¡°Say everything that needs to be said.¡±


    She stepped back with the others, leaving Leandra to face the cape and photo alone.


    ¡°Try to make your peace.¡±


    Leandra could feel the eyes on her, even as she did her best to ignore them. This whole thing seemed so ridiculous, but even still, she couldn¡¯t help but feel compelled to speak, at least to get it all off her chest.


    To let him rest.


    ¡°¡­Avalon.¡± Leandra stated, before holding up her glass proudly. ¡°You were a piece of shit. We rarely got along, and more often than not, you embarrassed Team Exemplary beyond belief. No one asked you to be the leader. You insisted, and nobody wanted to challenge that. We did almost all the work in class, assignments and missions, and most of what you did was run your mouth.¡±


    Leandra¡¯s hand started to shake, before she held the glass firmer and inhaled. ¡°¡­but you also encouraged me like no one else. You cheered me on at the tournament, you got me to open up to others, even if only a little, and you genuinely took the role of leader seriously and were the first to not laugh at my battle shield. Even Roman¡¯s cracked a few about it.¡±


    ¡°Guilty.¡± Roman admitted, stepping forward and resting his hand on Leandra¡¯s shoulder.


    ¡°And while you were being a prick¡­you still took the name Team Exemplary with pride. You always treated it like your team. Your team¡­¡± Leandra declared, before holding the cup higher. ¡°A-And¡­¡±


    Leandra¡¯s eyes couldn¡¯t help from welling up.


    ¡°¡­a-and I know it was you¡­y-you pushed me a-away from the Wailing on th-that mission¡­I didn¡¯t see it happen¡­but I knew you did it¡­¡±


    Leandra held her arm to her eyes, trying to wipe away her tears as best she could, as Acadia and Claudius joined her side as well.


    Just as she¡¯d regained her composure, Leandra faced the photo again.


    ¡°¡­to Avalon.¡± Leandra let out, as the team held their glasses together. ¡°¡­we¡¯ll do our best to be exemplary.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    After Leandra had made her peace, the teams made a point to open up the room and let the light back in, before spending the remainder of their time together chatting and enjoying the rest of the wine, discussing Avalon and the impact he¡¯d left on them, as the makeshift eulogy became more of a social gathering.


    Despite Leandra still not enjoying Team Valiant¡¯s company, she made a point to thank Essex for the ceremony, if begrudgingly so, while the rest of Team Exemplary took the opportunity to rib her for it and tease her for her attitude.


    After a couple hours had passed, Team Valiant decided to call it and let Exemplary spend the rest of the day with themselves, but not before helping clean up Avalon¡¯s shrine. Roman, Acadia and Claudius were incredibly gracious as they left, politely saying goodbye, before closing the door to their dorm.


    ¡°I¡¯ll be honest, I don¡¯t think we gave them a fair shake.¡± Roman admitted, as Claudius snapped his fingers.


    ¡°Right? They¡¯re so nice.¡± Claudius let out. ¡°I guess Avalon and Leandra¡¯s feuds just meant we never got the chance to, like, hang out or talk.¡±


    ¡°That Harley¡¯s a real party animal.¡± Acadia insisted, grabbing a couple of the empty wine glasses around the room. ¡°And, oh my god, did you see her and Sola flirting? Oh, my heart was just stop and start with those two¡­¡±


    ¡°Essex can put it away too. She drank, like, five glasses and wasn¡¯t even buzzed.¡± Roman bragged, before noticing Leandra on the couch, still sulking a bit. ¡°Didn¡¯t you like their company, Le?¡±


    ¡°¡­they¡¯re fine.¡± Leandra stated. ¡°Wess is a prude, but whatever¡­¡±


    ¡°Uhuh.¡± Roman let out, before rolling his eyes to the other two, as they all snickered to each other.


    Still thinking on the day they¡¯d had, Leandra¡¯s eyes idly glanced over the coffee table, before noticing the documents Claudius and Roman had brought in a bit ago.


    She picked them up and scanned them a bit, before realising something she¡¯d been thinking about and holding them to her chest, as she stood up and faced the others as they cleaned.


    ¡°¡­I¡­I wanna ask you guys something.¡± Leandra said, before holding out two fingers from her chest. ¡°Two things, actually! One!¡±


    Her faced betrayed her, as it stained crimson despite her serious expression.


    ¡°¡­I¡­don¡¯t think we should have a new member!¡±


    The other three looked at each other, before nodding in agreement.


    ¡°I was kinda thinking that too.¡± Claudius said.


    ¡°Yeah, I¡¯m good with just us for now.¡± Acadia admitted, before Leandra held out her other finger.


    ¡°Alright! Two!¡± Leandra declared, as she felt her tongue catching again.


    She worked through it as best she could, before reaffirming her confidence.


    ¡°I-If you¡¯ll have me¡­I¡­¡±


    She closed her eyes, before stamping her foot.


    ¡°¡­I want to be the new leader!¡±


    The room stayed silent for a second, as Leandra worried she¡¯d overstepped a little, before Roman slapped his forehead.


    ¡°It¡¯s about time you asked.¡± Roman confessed. ¡°We were all wondering when you¡¯d volunteer.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, you¡¯re clearly the best choice.¡± Acadia added. ¡°Your stubbornness is perfect leader material. I mean, I was saying this when Av was still the leader.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s true, I can vouch for her.¡± Claudius insisted. ¡°It should¡¯ve been you from the start.¡±


    Leandra was feeling a strange cocktail of emotions, all culminating in an overwhelming sense of pride welling up in her, causing her to start crying again, even as she did her best to keep a serious face.


    ¡°O-Okay! Y-You¡¯ve got a promise from me!¡± Leandra declared. ¡°I¡¯m gonna be the b-best team leader you¡¯ve ever seen! We¡¯re blowing every other team out of the water!¡±


    ¡°You got it, leader lady!¡± Roman cheered back, saluting teasingly, as Leandra found herself cracking a smile, before jumping over the couch to wrestle him. ¡°Hey!¡±


    ¡°Respect the new leader!¡± Leandra exclaimed, pinning Roman down, just as he tagged out to Claudius, who tackled Leandra out of the way.


    ¡°Oh no, we¡¯re already fighting each other!¡± Acadia joked. ¡°Quick, make me the leader instead!¡±


    The team carried on happily, enjoying each other¡¯s company, as Leandra found her previous attitudes melting away, elated by the comradery she wasn¡¯t expecting from the same team she¡¯d been with for years now.


    But now was her chance to make it right.


    To live up to its name.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Leandra found herself still awake.


    The rest of the team were asleep, and judging by the clock, it was a little past midnight by this point.


    She found she couldn¡¯t really go back to bed, as she decided to get up and grab herself a drink.


    Rummaging around the fridge, she found a leftover wine bottle from Team Valiant¡¯s visit, before saying fuck it and pouring herself a glass.


    She made her way over to the balcony, but not before reaching underneath her bed and pulling out a small chest. Opening it, she grabbed out Avalon¡¯s cape, before draping it over herself and stepping out, feeling the frigid air immediately hit her.


    Fortunately, the cape¡¯s absurd weight and bulk managed to keep her warm, as she rested on the banister, sipping her wine occasionally and staring out at the night sky.


    The cape gave her some level of comfort, as the wind stopped being a factor and she appreciated the stars, even at the distance they were. They managed to break up the void around them, as Leandra wondered to herself whether she¡¯d be lucky enough to consider herself among them.


    And whether they¡¯d accept her too.

 Chapter 48: Up To Code

    ¡°I¡¯m open! Chad!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve got you!¡±


    ¡°Shoot! Shoot it!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m also open, if anyone feels like passing!¡±


    ¡°No worries, Efrem!¡± Brad exclaimed, dribbling the basketball over to him, before Efrem attempted to catch it, only to fumble it upwards toward the hoop, before it hit the edge and bounced back off.


    ¡°Oh, darn.¡± Efrem let out, just as Brad caught it again.


    ¡°Hey, you nearly got it in this time.¡± Brad encouraged, as the rest of Team Beefcake circled around.


    ¡°Nicely done, buddy!¡± Thad added, patting Efrem on the back.


    ¡°You¡¯ve already made great improvement.¡± Lad pointed out, giving him a thumbs up.


    ¡°I¡¯ll get it in there one day.¡± Efrem insisted, before turning back around. ¡°Back to our spirited game!¡±


    The team got back into their game, as Julia, Wess and Sola sat in the spectator stands somewhat nearby, all in a makeshift circle.


    ¡°Two pair!¡± Sola bragged, throwing down her hand, as Wess subtly smirked to herself.


    ¡°It sure is lovely today. You know, despite having a ton of board games, I¡¯ve actually barely used playing cards. Like, at all.¡± Julia admitted, fanning herself with her cards a little. ¡°Poker¡¯s a bit out of my wheelhouse.¡±


    ¡°Admittedly, that¡¯s true for me too. At least the gambling aspect¡­¡± Wess noted, before placing down each card one by one. ¡°However, the deduction elements have always fascinated me, as well as working with particularly good hands.¡±


    Right as she said this, Wess placed down her last card, as Sola gasped beside her.


    ¡°Whoa! Full house!¡± Sola exclaimed. ¡°Way to get lucky, Wess.¡±


    ¡°Ahh, it¡¯s all a game of understanding tells, Sola. True intentions often have a way of bubbling to the surface despite our own interests.¡± Wess insisted. ¡°For instance, Julia¡¯s is that her eyes dart between us when she has a good hand, which is how I know tha-¡°


    Wess was silenced once Julia placed down her hand sheepishly.


    ¡°¡­four of a kind.¡± Julia admitted, looking a bit embarrassed, as Wess struggled to form a sentence. ¡°But they¡¯re only twos, if that makes you feel better.¡±


    ¡°¡­but your eyes¡­¡± Wess managed.


    ¡°Yeah, I got distracted looking at Team Beefcake¡¯s game.¡± Julia confessed, laughing a little. ¡°Guess I¡¯m the one who got lucky.¡±


    ¡°Wowee. Colour me impressed.¡± Sola said, sliding over her money, as Wess begrudgingly did the same.


    ¡°This is why I don¡¯t like betting.¡± Wess let out, glancing off at the academy. ¡°So, where are our other vivacious team members this fine morning?¡±


    Sola stared at Wess blankly.


    Wess¡¯ eyes drooped. ¡°¡­where are Harley and Essex?¡±


    ¡°Oh! They¡¯re going on a date.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Julia asked, getting a nod from Sola. ¡°Huh. Is this their first one?¡±


    ¡°Kinda.¡± Sola admitted, picking up her new hand. ¡°All three of us went out on a walk about Detu City a few months back, and both of them went to that movie a bit ago, expect they both ended up hating it and left, like, twenty minutes in, which really sucked since the popcorn there is super overpriced¡­¡±


    Sola tapped her chin. ¡°¡­yeah, it just hasn¡¯t lined up yet.¡±


    ¡°Have you and Essex gone out yet?¡± Wess asked, as Sola nodded.


    ¡°I took her to another movie to make up for the last one!¡± Sola explained, accidentally dropping her cards, before forgetting them while getting caught up in her explanation. ¡°She hated this one too, but stuck it out so that I wouldn¡¯t feel bad. She only told me after, so I made it up to her with some private training, which she enjoyed way more.¡±


    ¡°I wonder what Essex is like on a date¡­¡± Julia said aloud, before getting looks from Wess and Sola. ¡°N-Not in a weird way. She just doesn¡¯t seem like the type to¡­do that.¡±


    ¡°Well, just between us, Harley¡¯s really been planning out this date fully.¡± Sola bragged. ¡°I gave her some pointers too. By the way, we should avoid the team dorm around three to four this afternoon.¡±


    Julia cocked her head. ¡°What do they need the dorm¡­?¡±


    Julia immediately answered her own question in her head and blushed, before shying away. ¡°G-Got it, privacy and all that.¡±


    Wess chuckled to herself. ¡°Considering our own little lover¡¯s trysts, Julia, we should probably organise a text chain clarifying when we each need the dorm room, just so we don¡¯t end up walking in on each other by accident.¡±


    ¡°Oh yeah! Essex already did that with me and Harley.¡± Sola admitted. ¡°So yeah, good idea.¡±


    ¡°Already on it.¡± Julia immediately replied, her tablet in her hands, as Wess and Sola looked to each other, before giggling slightly.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Harley looked out at the training grounds, resting her head on the banister of the team¡¯s balcony, as teams went about their days, helping each other to grow under the pleasant wash of sunlight.


    Just as she was lost in daydreaming, the dorm door opened behind her, letting Essex in holding the team¡¯s laundry.


    ¡°Essex!¡± Harley called out, running over to her. ¡°How¡¯s my super cool and very sexy girlfriend doing today?¡±


    Essex looked to the side, before smiling. ¡°¡­but Sola isn¡¯t here right now.¡±


    Harley laughed a little. ¡°I meant my other cool sexy girlfriend who has killer abs and a gorgeous smile.¡±


    ¡°Oh. She¡¯s doing very well.¡± Essex admitted, dropping the laundry off on the couch, as Harley chuckled again.


    ¡°Glad to hear it. You ready for our big ol¡¯ date?¡± Harley asked, shuffling her shoulders, as Essex quickly remembered and nodded.


    ¡°Yes. This¡­will be very fun.¡± Essex assured, mostly to herself. ¡°Will I need to change?¡±


    Harley gave Essex¡¯s suit a once over, before shrugging. ¡°It¡¯s up to you. You can keep your scythe, though.¡±


    ¡°¡­in truth, it would not be right for me to bring my scythe on¡­a date.¡± Essex pointed out. ¡°Dates are not¡­really encouraged in the Segaru Clan and don¡¯t serve our main purpose.¡±


    ¡°Oh, yeah. Yeah, that¡¯s¡­yeah¡­¡± Harley started, before her eyes drifted to the scythe again. ¡°¡­soooooo¡­are you just gonna leave it here?¡±


    Essex nodded, before turning to the study. ¡°One second.¡±


    She stepped inside, before laying her scythe at the base of her bed and bowing her head.


    ¡°Muerbetra. Relusa senae.¡± Essex muttered, before standing back up and catching Harley peeking in.


    ¡°Sorry, just curious.¡± Harley apologised. ¡°I recognised Muerbetra, but¡­¡±


    ¡°Harley?¡±


    ¡°Uhuh?¡±


    ¡°The date?¡±


    Harley slapped her forehead. ¡°Right, got it!¡± Harley let out, rushing over to the dorm door, before holding it open. ¡°Ahem¡­your chariot awaits down at the Flash-Rail station.¡±


    ¡°Is the chariot a Flash-Rail?¡± Essex asked, as Harley begrudgingly held her tongue while they headed off on their trip.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    It was a decently kept hallway, he thought.


    Not that he really cared much about the presentation of the Venator Academy, despite his reason for coming here. Frankly, how the halls looked was the least of his own priorities.


    A slight smudge on the window was bugging him, but it was also one of the few things to focus on while waiting for Faller to leave his office.


    Finally, the door behind him opened up.


    ¡°General Yarring.¡± Faller called out, as Yarring turned around, arms folded behind him.


    ¡°The newly promoted Principal Faller.¡± Yarring declared, before stretching out his hand. ¡°How have you been?¡±


    ¡°As well as I could be.¡± Faller replied, shaking Yarring¡¯s hand firmly. ¡°How goes the Daysend army?¡±


    ¡°¡­steady.¡± Yarring replied, getting a laugh out of Faller.


    ¡°I¡¯ll bet. Seems you¡¯ve gotten a pretty cushy position now.¡±


    Yarring focused his eyes. ¡°Cushy¡¯s a funny way of describing it.¡±


    Faller chuckled a little, as he patted Yarring¡¯s back. ¡°Don¡¯t act so glum. You¡¯re a fortunate guy.¡±


    ¡°I try to be.¡± Yarring remarked, sighing to himself, before waving his arm. ¡°So, when¡¯s your next Wailing attack supposed to happen?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re a riot. Come on, the sooner we start this, the quicker it''s over.¡± Faller let out, continuing with Yarring down the hall. ¡°You¡¯ve gotten a promotion since the last inspection as well.¡±


    ¡°Yes, the old guard finally gave in.¡± Yarring explained. ¡°Head of the Daysend Army feels a lot better than adjacent to Head of the Daysend Army.¡±


    ¡°And the inspection?¡±


    ¡°Ideally, it will be routine.¡± Yarring clarified. ¡°I don¡¯t know why they insist the army handle this, but being given anything to do is appreciated. That being said, I¡¯m taking it fairly seriously.¡±


    ¡°Naturally. Don¡¯t you worry, we¡¯ll do a lap of the campus, show off some recent improvements, and you can be on your way.¡± Faller assured, as Yarring sighed out.


    ¡°It¡¯s appreciated.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Yay! Another one!¡± Julia let out, grabbing up her winnings, only for Wess¡¯ attitude to continue to sour. ¡°¡­we can play something different.¡±


    ¡°Oh no, I¡¯m beating you at this before anything else. Your luck is inhuman.¡± Wess assured, as Sola stared back at Team Beefcake¡¯s game, kicking her legs in boredom.


    ¡°Chuck it here!¡±


    ¡°I got it! I g-dammit!¡±


    ¡°Where¡¯s it going?¡±


    ¡°Over there!¡±


    Efrem noticed it heading toward Team Valiant, as he waved his arms wildly at them.


    ¡°Team Valiant! Look out!¡±


    The trio lifted their heads curiously, right as the basketball smacked into the corner of the spectator stands, bouncing between some of the seats, before quicky launching itself onto the roof of the dorms, rolling down and getting stuck in the gutters.


    The trio all stared at its ascent, as Efrem snapped his fingers.


    ¡°Darn it. That¡¯s the second basketball we¡¯ve lost in however many games.¡± Efrem decried, only for Brad to pat his shoulders.


    ¡°Not to worry. I can grab this one.¡± Brad assured, before using his Whil to sprout angel wings and fly up to it, trying his best to grab it while passing by, only for it to slip out of his grasp, rolling down the gutter and into a narrow crevice between the buildings.


    Brad flew himself closer, before struggling to fit his massive arms inside the hole.


    ¡°Damn these¡­beefy arms!¡± He yelled out, before floating back down to the ground. ¡°It¡¯s stuck in there now.¡±


    ¡°The basketball?¡± Julia asked, stepping down from the stands with the others.


    ¡°Yeah. My jacked arms can¡¯t reach it.¡± Brad admitted. ¡°Thad, think you can float up there?¡±


    ¡°No can do. I¡¯m just as swole as you.¡± Thad pointed out, as Efrem put his hand up.


    ¡°I could try to use my Whil, Death Cannon, t-¡°


    ¡°No!¡± Everyone cried out, stopping even the suggestion of using his Whil, before Sola raised her hand instead.


    ¡°Brad! Fly me up there and I can grab it!¡± Sola insisted. ¡°I¡¯m way small!¡±


    ¡°¡­okay, but I don¡¯t carry people a lot.¡± Brad pointed out, holding out his arms. ¡°Keep yourself steady while I fly.¡±


    ¡°Careful up there, Sola.¡± Julia asked.


    ¡°We don¡¯t know what that basketball¡¯s capable of.¡± Wess joked, as Sola gave a thumbs up and flew up with Brad.


    They reached it again, as Brad held Sola out, letting her try to grab the ball out, even as it barely budged.


    She palmed at it a bit more, right as it loosened up, only for it to start rolling backwards down the other side of the building and out of sight in a sudden and thudding instant.


    ¡°Uhh¡­¡± Sola let out.


    ¡°What¡¯s up? Did you get it?¡±


    ¡°It rolled away.¡±


    ¡°Where?¡±


    ¡°¡­somewhere else?¡±


    Brad blinked in frustration, before getting them both back to the ground.


    ¡°Okay, new plan. The ball¡¯s gone AWOL.¡± Brad insisted. ¡°Chad, Lad, take the courtyard. Thad, Efrem, we¡¯re double-checking the roofs. Team Valiant, you inspect the main building, just in case it somehow ends up there.¡±


    Julia turned around. ¡°Huh?¡±


    ¡°Everyone got their roles?¡± Brad asked, holding out his hand, as the others rested theirs on his. ¡°One, two¡­¡±


    ¡°BEEFCAKE NOW AND BEEFCAKE PROUD!!!¡±


    ¡°Wait, we¡¯re splitting up?¡± Julia asked, as in a matter of seconds, all that was left was her, Wess and Sola, standing in the middle of the training grounds.


    Julia turned around frantically.


    ¡°It¡¯s just a basketball.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°So¡­these are the IF¡¯s.¡±


    ¡°Yes, they are.¡± Faller declared, indicating to the empty spaces in front of the academy. ¡°Unfortunately, we can¡¯t emerge them without a target, but we can show you the specs later.¡±


    ¡°Have you had the chance to use them yet?¡± Yarring asked, inspecting the hatches in the ground.


    ¡°Not formally. The Behemoth Wailing escaped before we could take it out.¡± Faller explained.


    ¡°I saw. Crafty thing.¡± Yarring said, getting a closer look at the space.


    Faller sat back and let him take his time, before quietly clearing his throat.


    ¡°¡­and how goes your end of the investigation?¡±


    Yarring chuckled briefly. ¡°Your mysterious third party? Nothing concrete, just murmurs about this and that.¡±


    Yarring straightened back up, before inspecting the main building itself. ¡°I have heard mention of particular attacks where Wailing were acting somewhat erratically. More than usual, and seemingly like they lacked logic in their actions.¡±


    Yarring faced him. ¡°This is a pretty informal conversation. You¡¯re usually fine with the typical updates.¡±


    ¡°¡­forgive me, I¡¯ve gotten a little more desperate in recent months.¡± Faller admitted, rubbing his forehead. ¡°There¡¯s been a lot on my m¡­¡±


    Yarring went back in scanning the main building while Faller trailed off, right as Team Valiant emerged from the side of the building, frantically looking around the area.


    ¡°You reckon it fell in the moat?¡± Julia wondered, scanning the walkway out of the academy.


    ¡°I hardly think it bounced that far, Julia.¡± Wess said, only giving cursory glances.


    ¡°Basketball! Where¡¯re you at?!¡± Sola called out, before a loud whistle came from their side.


    They turned around to Faller, tapping his foot in frustration, before beckoning them over.


    ¡°What¡¯re you doing?¡± He asked, as Sola stepped in front.


    ¡°Have you seen a basketball around here?¡±


    Faller stared at her.


    ¡°No.¡±


    He pointed back at Yarring. ¡°Do you know who he is?¡±


    Julia looked back at the man in the needlessly lavish uniform, before shaking her head. ¡°Doesn¡¯t¡­ring a bell.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s General Yarring.¡±


    Julia blinked.


    ¡°From the Daysend army.¡±


    Julia blinked.


    ¡°Head of the Daysend army.¡±


    ¡°¡­oh!¡± Julia let out, before looking back at him again.


    ¡°What¡¯s he doing here?¡± Wess wondered.


    ¡°Good question.¡± Faller replied. ¡°He¡¯s currently inspecting the academy, meaning if you¡¯re chasing¡­¡±


    He looked back to Sola.


    ¡°A basketball.¡±


    ¡°Right, a basketball¡­keep it away from him.¡± Faller insisted. ¡°We don¡¯t need the Daysend government coming in here, worried our student body isn¡¯t taking their education serio-¡°


    ¡°There it is!¡± Sola called out, pointing at the entrance to the academy, where someone was bouncing the ball into the building proper. ¡°Come on!¡±


    ¡°Wai-!¡± Faller tried, only for the trio to run off past him.


    ¡°Apologies, Faller! We¡¯ll stay out of your hair!¡± Wess called out, finally drawing the attention of Yarring.


    Yarring turned back to a stunned Faller.


    ¡°Should I be worried about that?¡±


    Faller grit his teeth. ¡°Truthfully, no. They¡¯re doing a training exercise.¡±


    ¡°¡­in the main building.¡±


    Faller gave a shrug. ¡°You never know when a Wailing¡¯s going to attack.¡±


    ¡°¡­I suppose so.¡± Yarring said, cracking his neck. ¡°Do you mind if we inspect the bar next?¡±


    ¡°Absolutely not.¡± Faller said, holding his hand out to insist Yarring take the lead.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Wow.¡±


    Essex stared up at the pretty swanky restaurant, impressed by its sheer effortless presentation, as Harley opened the door for her.


    ¡°I figured for our first good date, a romantic meal would be pretty choice.¡± Harley insisted, getting the waiter¡¯s attention. ¡°And like, even if it isn¡¯t, the food¡¯s damn good.¡±


    He showed them to their table, as Harley went to sit, before getting up quickly and remembering to pull out Essex¡¯s chair for her.


    ¡°Relias.¡± Essex let out, taking her seat. ¡°This effort is very appreciated.¡±


    ¡°Oh¡­thanks.¡± Harley said, blushing a bit. ¡°I, uhh, don¡¯t get a lot of compliments like that.¡±


    Essex pulled up her menu, as the waiter came over to take their orders.


    ¡°Uhh, prime steak, my good sir.¡± Harley tried, getting a light chuckle from the waiter, as he moved over to Essex.


    ¡°¡­calamari.¡± Essex said, getting a whistle from Harley.


    ¡°Exotic. Didn¡¯t know you liked squid.¡± Harley mentioned while the waiter headed off, as Essex looked confused.


    ¡°Calamari is squid?¡± Essex asked. ¡°This is my first time having it.¡±


    Unauthorized use: this story is on Amazon without permission from the author. Report any sightings.


    ¡°Well, let me know if you can¡¯t finish it. I¡¯ll happily clean off your plate.¡± Harley encouraged, as the waiter came back with some water.


    Harley waited from him to leave again, before pouring herself a drink.


    ¡°Hey¡­¡±


    Essex lifted her head.


    ¡°Can I start with a bit of a heavy question?¡±


    Essex thought for a second, before nodding.


    Harley took a sip of water. ¡°How do you feel about¡­us?¡±


    Essex cocked her head. ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    Harley scratched her neck. ¡°Do you like it? Is¡­I mean, are you¡­getting what you wanted from it?¡±


    Essex blinked in confusion, before shaking her head. ¡°I didn¡¯t have many desires beginning the relationship. All I wanted was what you and Sola had.¡±


    Harley swirled her drink around. ¡°And do you feel like you¡¯ve gotten that?¡±


    Essex shook her head again.


    ¡°¡­oh.¡± Harley let out.


    ¡°I¡¯m still figuring out what I¡­want from this.¡± Essex admitted. ¡°I followed instinct in confessing my feelings, but now that these relationships are real¡­¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t know what you¡¯re meant to do in them?¡±


    Essex nodded sheepishly, as Harley slowly smiled across from her.


    ¡°Well, first things first, there¡¯s no correct way to date.¡± Harley explained. ¡°There¡¯s not, like, a checklist you have to follow for a ¡®successful relationship.¡¯ A lot of it¡¯s trial and error.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Essex asked, as Harley nodded back.


    ¡°Oh yeah. I dated a ton before Sola, and I still screw things up with her.¡± Harley pointed out, before waving her hand at Essex. ¡°We weren¡¯t even dating at the time and I still fucked things up with you.¡±


    Essex leaned a bit over the table. ¡°So, what are some of the things you learned about dating? Perhaps I can use them.¡±


    ¡°Sure, yeah. Uhh, first rule, don¡¯t date the sibling of an ex. Learned that the hard way.¡± Harley noted, counting on her fingers. ¡°Second, try to break down barriers really quick. A lot of relationships get harder when you don¡¯t know what your partner wants and you¡¯re both too worried about the others reaction to do anything about it.¡±


    ¡°That¡­¡± Essex said, before an idea came to mind, as she quickly leaned herself over the table.


    ¡°Third, do-¡° Harley started, before being cut off by Essex kissing her on her lips and sitting back down soon after. ¡°¡­huh.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve broken that barrier with you.¡± Essex insisted, giving a thumbs up.


    ¡°You sure did¡­¡± Harley admitted, giggling a little. ¡°Uhh¡­sorry, I¡¯m a little flustered now. Third¡­get a good in-joke started early.¡±


    ¡°¡­in-joke.¡± Essex repeated.


    ¡°Yeah, like a really personal joke you two can share.¡± Harley explained, daydreaming a little. ¡°Sola and I have this one where whenever one of us is on a ledge or something, we¡¯ll pretend to fall off and get caught by the other, and make fun of each other as we do it.¡±


    Essex thought on this for a bit, before staring back at Harley.


    ¡°I looked into some pickups lines online to prepare for our date.¡± Essex admitted. ¡°I¡¯m going to try one of those.¡±


    Does she know they¡¯re meant to be used before a date? Harley wondered, before smiling and resting her head in her hand, giving Essex the okay, as she cleared her throat.


    She pointed across the table at Harley¡¯s chest.


    ¡°Is that a tank top from space?¡±


    Essex looked into Harley¡¯s confused eyes.


    ¡°Because those knockers are knocking me into the stratosphere.¡±


    Harley took a beat, waiting for anymore from her, before she slowly burst into laughter, struggling to breathe from how much she was laughing.


    ¡°Oh my god!...that line was so bad!¡± Harley managed to get out, slamming her hand on the table. ¡°I love it!¡±


    A few other patrons glanced over at the table, as Harley needed a second to catch her breath, before wiping away a few tears. ¡°...phew...you¡¯re really funny, Essex.¡±


    Essex cocked her head, before nodding. ¡°I¡¯m glad you enjoyed it.¡±


    Harley took a second to appreciate the restaurant atmosphere, before finding herself laughing again.


    ¡°...tank top from space...I think you might be a natural joke teller.¡±


    ¡°...that would be nice.¡± Essex said, just as the waiter brought over their food. ¡°¡­Harley?¡±


    ¡°Yes?¡±


    ¡°Thank you.¡± Essex said, smiling warmly to her. ¡°For everything.¡±


    Harley took a beat, before feeling herself well up a little, as she grabbed her drink to recover.


    ¡°N-No problem¡­¡± She said, taking a sip.


    She stared across the table again, before resting her head in her hands again.


    How the hell is she so damn cute?


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Where¡­was it?¡± Julia asked, panting a little, as they scanned around the building for the basketball.


    ¡°I think¡­Donovan had it.¡± Sola let out, before pointing frantically again. ¡°THERE THEY ARE!!!¡±


    ¡°Sola, don¡¯t yell.¡± Wess insisted, taking a breather too.


    ¡°Sorry! I¡¯m too amped up!¡± Sola confessed, as Julia waved over to Donovan.


    ¡°Hey!¡±


    Donovan spun around, before waving back. ¡°Alpine. Good to see you.¡±


    Julia ran over, before realising Donovan wasn¡¯t holding it anymore. ¡°Wait, where¡¯d the basketball go?¡±


    ¡°Basketball?¡± Donovan repeated, before putting two and two together. ¡°Sorry, was that yours? I just found it and started messing around. Athlete instincts.¡±


    ¡°Team Instinct.¡± Wess remarked, as Donovan noticed the pun and chuckled.


    ¡°I just left it he¡­¡± They said, before searching around them. ¡°¡­huh. Well, it was here.¡±


    ¡°Umm¡­¡± Wess let out, before indicating to the basketball slowly rolling down the hallway, before it was about to hit¡­


    ¡­the stairwell.


    ¡°Don¡¯t let it go!¡± Sola let out, running right after it, as the others followed behind in a sprint.


    ¡°I would¡¯ve¡­thought¡­you¡¯d be off training with¡­the team.¡± Julia admitted, panting as she ran, as Donovan smirked back at her.


    ¡°Actually, they are training. They kicked me out.¡±


    Julia¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°Kicked¡­out?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve been training all last week nonstop.¡±


    Julia¡¯s eyes went normal again. ¡°Oh.¡±


    ¡°They said I needed a break or I was gonna burn out.¡± Donovan remarked, gagging about the remark. ¡°Frankly, I think they¡¯re insane, but the decision was unanimous on their end.¡±


    ¡°You did start¡­dribbling¡­a basketball you found¡­completely unprompted.¡± Wess noted, as Donovan gave her a cursory glance, before the ball finally reached the steps.


    Just as Sola was about to reach it, it tumbled downward, careening down each step, before it was completely out of sight.


    Sola hurried over, before peaking down the stairwell.


    ¡°I¡­don¡¯t see it!¡± She exclaimed. ¡°I think it¡¯s¡­on a lower floor!¡±


    Julia and Wess caught up to her, before taking another breath, as Donovan started stretching.


    ¡°Well, if I¡¯d known it was your guy¡¯s ball, I would¡¯ve left it alone.¡± Donovan pointed out.


    ¡°It¡¯s not ours¡­it¡¯s Team Beefcake¡¯s.¡± Julia clarified.


    ¡°No way. Those guys rule.¡± Donovan said, as Wess fell to the floor.


    ¡°How¡­does it keep getting away?¡± She remarked. ¡°I¡¯m starting to think it¡¯s personal.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t give up, Wess! We¡¯re not gonna let the ball win!¡± Sola insisted, as Wess gave a weak pump of her fist.


    ¡°Hoorah. I wish I had your enthusiasm for this.¡± Wess said, just as Julia started making her way down the stairs.


    ¡°Come on, guys. If we leave it too long, it might roll away again.¡± Julia encouraged, hopping down the stairs, followed by Sola, as Wess sighed out and pulled herself up.


    ¡°The lengths I go to¡­¡± Wess let out, before turning back to Donovan. ¡°To our next fortuitous meeting, Donovan.¡±


    Donovan rolled their eyes, before running down the stairwell as well. ¡°Are you kidding? This is the next best thing to my regular training. Wait up!¡±


    Donovan disappeared from sight, as Wess rubbed her face in annoyance.


    ¡°Alright, I guess we¡¯re starting a convoy then¡­¡± Wess said, taking her time down the stairs, just as Julia and Sola reached the bottom floor.


    The moment they hit the floor, a ding ran out behind them, as they turned around to see Coatsworth in the elevator, looking back at them curiously, with the basketball nestled quietly in the corner.


    ¡°Hel-¡°


    ¡°Wait wait wait!!!¡± Julia let out, just as the doors closed, suddenly sending the elevator up and out of sight, as all Julia and Sola could do was stare in shock as the floor number readout went higher and higher.


    ¡°Don¡¯t tell me you guys caught it already.¡± Donovan exclaimed, jumping down the stairs to join the duo, before following their gaze. ¡°Why¡¯re you staring at the elevator?¡±


    Julia silently pointed at the floor number, as it ticked up more and more, before eventually stopping at¡­


    ¡°¡­floor 87.¡± Julia managed. ¡°That¡¯s where the basketball is.¡±


    Donovan took a second, before staring at Julia. ¡°¡­how did it get in the elevator?¡±


    ¡°¡­maybe Wess was right and it¡¯s personal?¡± Julia theorised.


    ¡°Do we have to go back up the stairs?¡± Sola groaned, holding out her hands. ¡°I don¡¯t have my arm-cannons with me, so I can¡¯t shoot my way up.¡±


    Donovan snapped their fingers. ¡°You guys wait for the elevator. I¡¯ve got this.¡±


    Donovan immediately went into a sprint back up the stairs, passing by a stunned Wess, who quickly joined up with Julia and Sola.


    ¡°What happened now?¡± Wess let out, before a defeated Julia pointed in front of her.


    ¡°Elevator¡­¡±


    ¡°Of course¡­¡± Wess sighed, before hugging Julia¡¯s side. ¡°Come here.¡±


    Sola pressed the button, as the elevator quickly came back down a minute later, before opening to reveal Coatsworth again, waiting patiently.


    ¡°Sorry, my greeting from earlier was cut off.¡± He said, waving. ¡°Hello, girls.¡±


    ¡°Where¡¯d it go?!¡± Sola cried, searching the elevator interior, before spotting something sitting behind Coatsworth¡¯s back.


    ¡°Borf!¡±


    ¡°A doggie!¡± Sola exclaimed, immediately getting distracted by it, as it wagged its tail and spun in a quick circle.


    ¡°Why did you ride back down?¡± Wess asked.


    ¡°And why¡¯s there a dog here?¡± Julia said, before spotting Sola playing with it. ¡°Aww¡­¡±


    ¡°This is Biscuit. I had mentioned my dog to Seears, so I was taking it to his office to show him.¡± Coatsworth explained. ¡°And I rode back down because you said to wait. Did you need something?¡±


    ¡°Basketball! Fess up!¡± Sola insisted, switching to interrogation, as Julia went to hold her back.


    Coatsworth instinctively held his hands up. ¡°B-Basketball?¡±


    ¡°Team Beefcake lost theirs, so we¡¯re trying to find it.¡± Wess clarified. ¡°Apparently, it just rode up with you.¡±


    ¡°Oh. I don¡¯t remember seeing it myself.¡± Coatsworth noted.


    ¡°Is there anyway it could¡¯ve gotten onto the elevator?¡± Julia asked.


    Everyone took a second, before staring back down at Biscuit, happily panting beside Coatsworth.


    ¡°Ruff ruff!¡±


    ¡°Bam!¡± Sola let out, mashing the button for the 87<sup>th</sup> floor, just as the elevator shot up the main building.


    It took a couple minutes, before it opened out onto the correct floor, just in time for the team to see the basketball on the other end of the hallway, seconds away from bouncing down the opposite stairwell.


    ¡°NO!!!¡± Julia cried, right as it bounced down, out of sight again. ¡°It¡¯s going down even more floors!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m gonna get it! Don¡¯t you worry!¡± Sola assured, grabbing Julia¡¯s shoulders, before hurrying down the stairs again, followed quickly by Biscuit, now excited by all the running and chasing the ball again.


    ¡°Biscuit! Don¡¯t run off please! You¡¯re technically not supposed to be here!¡± Coatsworth let out, chasing them both, leaving Julia and Wess alone.


    ¡°We¡¯re stuck in some kind of loop.¡± Wess pointed out, as Julia was struggling to form words.


    ¡°What¡¯s with this demonic basketball¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Chad, Lad, what¡¯s the situation?¡±


    ¡°Your instincts were right, Brad. The ball ended up in the main building.¡± Chad insisted.


    ¡°I received a text from Team Valiant as of a few minutes ago saying the ball was careening down to the 30<sup>th</sup> floor.¡± Efrem added, holding his tablet up.


    ¡°Alright! Let¡¯s go help them out!¡± Thad insisted, high-fiving Lad, before the team pumped their fists together.


    ¡°BEEFCAKE!!!¡±


    ¡°¡­ave to say, your recovery after the Behemoth Wailing attacks is quite remarkable. I¡¯m right in hearing that no students were killed in either attack?¡±


    ¡°¡­yes, fortunately. The fact the casualties were so minimal is¡­a borderline miracle.¡± Faller insisted. ¡°So please, don¡¯t credit me for that. I take no pride in being lucky.¡±


    ¡°Luck or not, it speaks well to your skill as the current principal.¡± Yarring encouraged. ¡°That Conrad Baxter was quite the piece of work.¡±


    ¡°Ah, see, I will take pride in not being like him.¡± Faller pointed out, getting a brief chuckle from Yarring. ¡°I¡¯ve attempted a more compassionate teaching style than his.¡±


    ¡°Oh?¡±


    ¡°The team system only works when teammates understand each other and work together. Five strangers can¡¯t do anything together if they¡¯re only in it for a paycheck.¡± Faller reasoned. ¡°That¡¯s why Team Spectrum was so successful, after all.¡±


    ¡°¡­in a certain light, yes.¡± Yarring noted, drawing Faller¡¯s eye.


    ¡°A certain light?¡±


    ¡°Well, they certainly dipped in quality as time went on.¡± Yarring suggested. ¡°The public noted their lack of enthusiasm in the later years. That sort of comradery is hard to maintain over an entire career.¡±


    ¡°They completed more Wailing hunts in their last year than any other.¡± Faller pointed out.


    ¡°And yet, none of them were as noteworthy as their previous bouts.¡± Yarring stated. ¡°All their best moments were behind them. Back when youth was their ally and the stars were still in their eyes.¡±


    ¡°So you¡¯re saying they should¡¯ve quit while they were ahead?¡±


    Yarring shook his head. ¡°They should have innovated. They were tired in their later years and their work refused to change. So, they clung to their former title of ¡®greatest Venator team of all time¡¯ like a bandage and quietly went off into the night. A Venator team should leave off with a bang, so to speak.¡±


    Faller kept walking alongside Yarring, staring straight forward. ¡°You can¡¯t just manufacture a spectacular Wailing encounter, General.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m aware.¡± He stated, staring forward as well.


    ¡°You almost sound disappointed.¡±


    Yarring turned straight to him. ¡°Wouldn¡¯t you want one last chance at a glorious bout, Faller?¡±


    Faller chose not to reply, as they turned a corner in the hallway. ¡°¡­regardless, I want the teams leaving this academy to truly care for each other. We can¡¯t guarantee their success out in the industry, but we can prepare them for what they might have to overcome. As corny as it sounds, teamwork really makes th¡­¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s getting away!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve got it this time!¡±


    Faller¡¯s pupils shrank.


    ¡°Oh no¡­¡± Faller let out, as Yarring started looking around.


    ¡°Faller, what¡¯s that yelling?¡±


    ¡°Nothing important. Let¡¯s keep moving.¡± Faller insisted, before catching movement in the corner of his eye.


    ¡°Watch out!¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s faster than we thought!¡±


    ¡°Wess, look out!¡±


    Wess jumped for the basketball, right as it came down from the top of the stairs, only for it to smack right into her face, sending her flying back, and launching the ball further down the hall, right past Faller and General Yarring.


    Before either of them could get a word out, Team Beefcake burst out of the stairwell, scanning around for the ball, before catching it in the distance.


    ¡°Ball found! Come on, Team V!¡± Brad encouraged, picking Wess up suddenly, before running down the hall with the trio.


    Faller and Yarring watched as Team Beefcake tore down the hallway after the basketball, with the members of Team Valiant in tow and Wess protesting being carried, only for Donovan to charge out of the stairwell and follow along behind them, right as Coatsworth appeared from their as well, running after the students, only to lock eyes with Faller and give a nervous wave as he passed, just as Biscuit hurried past them too, excitedly barking the entire time.


    All of this would¡¯ve been enough on its own, except that the basketball hit the wall and bounced backward, navigating its way through the hall again, as the group watched it swerve between their legs, roll right past them, and simply follow its own whims, causing them to hurry back around after it, passing by Faller and Yarring again in their wild, chaotic frenzy.


    Yarring stood perfectly motionless as he watched the chaos unfold in front of him, with Faller refusing to be the first one to speak up, even as Coatsworth waved at him a second time.


    Eventually, as the group disappeared further into the building, Yarring felt the need to break the silence, while he sighed out and faced toward Faller.


    ¡°This is some training exercise.¡±


    Faller broke a sweat, before clearing his throat a little too much. ¡°W-When it comes to their studies, nothing is off the table.¡±


    ¡°Including the involvement of the Vice-Principal?¡±


    ¡°¡­yes.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Aaaaaaaand¡­we¡¯re back here.¡± Harley greeted, opening up the dorm door. ¡°I figured we could spend the rest of our date at home. Julia texted me, and apparently, the rest of the team¡¯s out chasing something whatever bla bla bla, so we get the room to ourselves.¡±


    Essex looked around, before facing Harley again and giving a thumbs up. ¡°Cool.¡±


    Harley smirked, as she hurried into Essex¡¯s study, jumping right onto her bed.


    ¡°I guess I can kinda come in here whenever, huh?¡± Harley pointed out, as Essex quickly joined her. ¡°I keep treating it like it¡¯s your room, even though it¡¯s the team¡¯s study.¡±


    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t take up so much space.¡± Essex insisted. ¡°I have heard Julia describe me as a ¡®light-liver.¡¯¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s Julia for ya. Her love language is definitely earnest compliments.¡± Harley noted, before Essex stared at her, somewhat confused.


    ¡°¡­you¡¯ve used another term I¡¯m unfamiliar with.¡± Essex clarified.


    ¡°Love languages. It¡¯s kinda related to my point at lunch about breaking barriers.¡± Harley noted. ¡°Love languages are just how you express love. Like, me and Sola are really physical and love hugging each other, while Julia and Wess are more flirty and complimenty. That sorta thing.¡±


    Essex tapped her chin. ¡°What¡¯s my love language?¡±


    ¡°Well¡­I dunno. It¡¯s different for everyone.¡± Harley pointed out, sitting on Essex¡¯s bed. ¡°Do you like being more physical?¡±


    ¡°¡­possibly.¡± Essex let out. ¡°I wouldn¡¯t know. I haven¡¯t tried anything like that.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Harley asked, as Essex nodded to her. ¡°¡­I mean¡­¡±


    Harley took a second to spread herself out on the bed a little more.


    ¡°We could always see if that¡¯s something you¡¯re into.¡±


    She moved over a bit, before patting the side of the bed and nodding her head to it.


    ¡°Do you¡­¡±


    Essex stared at the spot, before connecting the dots and blushing profusely.


    ¡°I-I-I do not know if I¡¯m ready for this¡­¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I can take it slow.¡± Harley insisted. ¡°We¡¯ll only do as much as you¡¯re comfortable with. And if you don¡¯t like it, we¡¯ll stop.¡±


    Essex shook her head. ¡°B-But it would not be right if I did so. W-We don¡¯t allow this sort of thing outside of Boncala Day.¡±


    Harley blinked, before reeling back. ¡°Shit, sorry. I forgot. The Segaru Clan has rules about this.¡±


    ¡°My apologies.¡± Essex quickly replied, as Harley waved her hand.


    ¡°No, it was my fault. I was there, I should¡¯ve remembered.¡± Harley let out. ¡°I mean, I spent most of my time there doing the opposite, but¡­hang on¡­¡±


    Harley reached over Essex¡¯s bed and grabbed Maxie, before holding the plushie in her lap.


    ¡°Alright, what do you usually do with Maxie?¡±


    Essex was noticeably embarrassed but spoke up regardless.


    ¡°¡­I will lie down and caress him, often stroking his fur and sniffing him.¡± Essex replied, before realising what she¡¯d admitted to. ¡°Th-The sniffing part is¡­rare. Very rare¡­¡±


    ¡°Okay. Lucky Maxie.¡± Harley joked, before patting the bed again. ¡°How about just that? A bit of cuddling couldn¡¯t hurt.¡±


    Essex¡¯s face reddened again. ¡°¡­c-can we lie together first? I-I would feel more comfortable easing into this¡­¡±


    ¡°Yeah, totally.¡± Harley said, lying out on the bed and giving Essex enough space to spread out.


    Essex took her time getting into bed, kicking her shoes off and stepping over her scythe lying alongside the bed, before sliding in next to Harley, as Harley smiled proudly to Essex, turning onto her side.


    ¡°I think I know how you like to express love.¡±


    ¡°Vonodo?¡±


    ¡°Quietly and respectfully, just like you.¡± Harley grinned, turning to face her, as Essex started blushing.


    Once she realised she was, she turned away, before touching her fingers together.


    ¡°¡­I think I also know how you express it.¡±


    ¡°Oh yeah?¡±


    Essex nodded.


    ¡°Sex and bad jokes.¡±


    Harley immediately started chuckling, as she covered her mouth and struggled to talk. ¡°Yeah¡­that¡¯s pretty dang accurate.¡±


    Letting herself catch a breath, she reached over to Essex with one arm, caressing the side of her face.


    ¡°Let¡¯s just start with a bit of this.¡± Harley suggested, as Essex began leaning into it. ¡°I know it seems like I¡¯m all about sex, but honestly, I love this stuff too.¡±


    ¡°¡­this is very nice.¡± Essex admitted, as she briefly opened her eyes, staring somewhat into space.


    Harley noticed. ¡°You good?¡±


    Before saying anything more, Essex decided to get up from her side and crawl on top of Harley, Essex¡¯s face hanging above hers.


    ¡°Whoa¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­no¡­I am tired of not acting on this.¡± Essex insisted, her hair spilling out beside her. ¡°I¡­I want to feel this.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t want you to feel like you hav-¡°


    ¡°That isn¡¯t it.¡± Essex answered. ¡°I¡¯m helping you understand who I am.¡±


    Essex leaned in, smiling happily.


    ¡°And that this is¡­what I want from us¡­¡±


    Essex closed the distance.


    ¡°¡­this¡­is my passion¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Despite having barely spoken during most of the inspection, General Yarring was starting to feel the long trek around the campus. He¡¯d heard about its labyrinthian design, but didn¡¯t know whether that held any water until now.


    Speaking of holding water, he asked Faller if he could split off and grab a drink to satiate his thirst. Eventually, he found a drinking fountain and took a moment to grab a sip, just as the chaos from earlier rang out in the halls again.


    It passed by fairly quickly, before Yarring heard breathing behind him, as Julia was holding herself up against the wall, trying to catch her breath.


    ¡°Geez¡­we just¡­can¡¯t catch a break¡­¡± Julia let out, before noticing Yarring also there, his attention still on the fountain. ¡°G-General. Sorry, I didn¡¯t know you were here.¡±


    Yarring took a second, before grabbing another sip. ¡°Fountain¡¯s are communal.¡±


    ¡°Hey, sorry about all the commotion.¡± Julia admitted. ¡°There¡¯s this basketball that we¡¯re trying to¡­you know what, I probably shouldn¡¯t try to justify it. I just hope it hasn¡¯t interfered with your inspection.¡±


    Yarring stayed quiet as he took his drink, before turning it off suddenly.


    ¡°You Venators¡­¡± Yarring muttered, lifting himself back up and wiping his mouth, as Julia looked him over.


    ¡°General?¡±


    ¡°What did it take for you to get here?¡± Yarring asked, turning around suddenly. ¡°A tuition fee? A little interview?¡±


    Julia suddenly felt her anxiety flare up as Yarring¡¯s expression turned bitter.


    ¡°I spent my entire career getting to where I am.¡± Yarring continued, his back now to Julia. ¡°Working my way up the ranks, shining every shoe I could find, busting my goddamn ass, until I finally got what I¡¯d earned. Heh, I even turned down Cindy¡¯s invitation¡­¡±


    Julia didn¡¯t know if she was part of the conversation anymore, until General Yarring turned back at her sharply.


    ¡°And you know what happened next?¡±


    Julia decided to slowly shake her head.


    ¡°No one needed us anymore.¡± Yarring remarked. ¡°Just like that, we became obsolete. An army without a purpose¡­how about you tell me, are we allowed to kill Wailing?¡±


    Julia went to open her mouth but opted to shake her head instead.


    ¡°Exactly. We don¡¯t touch them. That¡¯s your department.¡± Yarring said, starting to wave his hand wildly. ¡°We¡¯re not equipped to handle Wailing skirmishes. Maybe if every Wailing looked like the Behemoth ones, sure, but you can¡¯t send an entire battalion out to take care of a single Wailing. You can¡¯t carpet bomb a small forest just because one might be in the area. We¡¯re only built for overkill¡­¡±


    Yarring laughed again. ¡°And then, who gets to take down the Behemoth Wailing attacking the Venator academy? You¡­you get to reap that victory again. We couldn¡¯t even prove ourselves in the one area we could handle.¡±


    Julia assured herself that his rant was starting to die down, before he kicked his foot into the drinking fountain.


    ¡°And yet, we¡¯re still around!¡± He yelled, flailing his arms. ¡°Why?! I don¡¯t get it! Who are we at war with?!¡±


    Julia started to back up, as Yarring chuckled a little. ¡°My father used to tell me stories about the war between the Western and Northern Wayside, but I never got to participate. I was off by a few decades. That¡­was the last true bout of the Daysend army.¡±


    He opened his arms widely. ¡°And I¡¯ve inherited a dinosaur.¡±


    Julia found her opening to leave him on his own, only for Yarring to quickly notice and intercept her exit, blocking her off before she could duck away.


    ¡°What¡¯s the point of using a gun if you don¡¯t have a target to shoot?¡± Yarring remarked, snickering to himself in frustration. ¡°Why load a bullet if you know you¡¯re not going to fire it? No one needs us anymore. They already have their army.¡±


    He slowly pointed back at Julia. ¡°And you¡¯re doing a bang-up job.¡±


    Julia couldn¡¯t help but feel her heart beating rapidly in her chest, as Yarring stared her down, trying to see if he had anymore vitriol left, before letting out a final sigh.


    ¡°I don¡¯t hate Venators.¡± He finally said. ¡°But I hate what you keep taking from me.¡±


    He left almost immediately after, carrying the same gravitas he usually did, leaving Julia to try and recover from his sudden rant.


    ¡°¡­Head of the Daysend army¡­¡± Julia repeated to herself, focusing on her breathing. ¡°¡­guess we¡¯re in overly cautious hands¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°It¡¯s heading back around here! Throw me, Wess!¡±


    ¡°Do I look like Harley to you?!¡±


    ¡°You could pull it off!¡±


    Julia took a necessary second leaving back into the hall, meaning it was a moment before she could register her surroundings, and the fact that Wess and Sola were now running back toward her.


    ¡°Julia, it¡¯s heading your way!¡±


    ¡°W-Wha?¡± Julia let out, right as the basketball bounced down the hallway to her.


    Instinctively, she held out her hands to slow it with her Whil, before it bounced right past her, continuing its crusade through the academy. In a desperate attempt to catch it, she threw her hands back toward it to slow it again, right as it was about to turn the corner.


    Luckily, she just managed to catch it, as she slowed it mid-air, finally letting out a breath. However, right as she was about to celebrate, she noticed it still moving and started to panic, before realising¡­


    ¡­it was moving up.


    Julia blinked a few times to try and make it out, before realising the ball wasn¡¯t slowly falling, or even staying perfectly still, but rather, it was floating back up, back the way it was bouncing.


    It started to pick up speed, before reversing its trip back down the hall, right toward Julia again, as Julia kept her hands up, shaking happily.


    ¡°Julia, did you manage to¡­¡± Wess asked, before noticing the ball coming their way. ¡°What on Daysend¡­¡±


    The ball came back toward them, before Julia stopped it right as it hit the ground.


    ¡°¡­I¡­¡±


    Julia pumped her fists in the air and started celebrating. ¡°I reversed it!!! I didn¡¯t know I could do that!!!¡±


    ¡°With your Whil?¡± Wess asked, before sweeping Julia up in a hug. ¡°Dear, I¡¯m so proud of you!¡±


    ¡°It just started moving backwards, and then I realised it was me!¡± Julia exclaimed, as Wess put her down. ¡°I reversed its momentum!¡±


    Julia kissed Wess happily, right as Sola pounced onto the ball, refusing to let it go.


    ¡°We got it!!! Mission accomplished!!!¡±


    ¡°There you guys are!¡± Brad let out, running down the hall with the rest of Team Beefcake. ¡°We thought the ball had finally beaten you.¡±


    ¡°We don¡¯t quit that easily!¡± Sola insisted, holding it tight to her chest. ¡°Team Valiant burn bright and hard!¡±


    ¡°You managed to catch it!¡± Efrem exclaimed, hurrying over to Sola. ¡°Excellently done!¡±


    ¡°You guys are real Beefcake material.¡± Thad insisted, giving Sola a thumbs up. ¡°Way to go!¡±


    ¡°It was nothing.¡± Julia insisted, just as Wess scoffed beside her.


    ¡°That stupid basketball was twice as tough as most of the Wailing we¡¯ve fought. I don¡¯t take that lightly, dear.¡± Wess assured. ¡°I¡¯m training overtime to make up for this.¡±


    ¡°We won¡¯t hold you up any longer then.¡± Brad assured, saluting to the team. ¡°Thanks for a fun day!¡±


    ¡°Same here!¡± Sola assured, waving to them as they left, only for Donovan to come charging around the corner in a frenzy.


    ¡°Where¡¯d it go?! I¡¯ve got it this time, I¡¯v-!¡°


    Donovan stopped, before spinning around and spotting the ball in Brad¡¯s hands, as they headed off down the hallway.


    ¡°¡­it¡¯s over already?¡± Donovan let out, catching their breath. ¡°That was the best¡­training regimen I¡¯ve ever done. And it¡¯s gone.¡±


    ¡°Biscuit!¡± Coatsworth called out, appearing behind Team Valiant, as he trailed behind Biscuit, still running after Team Beefcake and their ball. ¡°This¡­campus is too big¡­for you to go wandering!¡±


    ¡°Bork bork!¡±


    Donovan quickly eyed up Team Valiant, before heading after Biscuit.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Vice-Principal, I¡¯ve got him!¡±


    Just as the others cleared out, Julia¡¯s excitement built up again, as she started celebrating again now that they were alone.


    ¡°Today was¡­totally wild. But good.¡± Julia let out, feeling herself getting a little faint. ¡°Phew¡­I tell ya, there¡¯s not many feelings better than this.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Harley was left panting wildly, staring up at the ceiling in utter and profound shock.


    Essex lay right beside her, panting just as much, before Harley turned to her with a stunned expression.


    ¡°This was your first time?!¡±


    Essex nodded assuredly, as Harley held her hands to her face.


    ¡°How are you and Sola both so good at sex?!¡± Harley bemoaned, right as Essex¡¯s face lit up.


    ¡°Y-You liked it?¡±


    ¡°Of course I did! That was incredible! I don¡¯t think I¡¯ve ever had sex that good before!¡±


    In a bout of excitement, Essex jumped into a hug with Harley, careening herself into Harley¡¯s neck.


    ¡°I am so glad¡­I was worried you would think I was lacking¡­¡±


    ¡°Essex, I¡¯m lacking.¡± Harley assured, facing her properly. ¡°I can¡¯t compete. After that hand thing you did, I¡¯m a changed woman.¡±


    Essex got excited again. ¡°I didn¡¯t know if it would work, but I thought about it logistically, an-¡°


    ¡°It lets you do both.¡±


    ¡°Yes. Exactly.¡± Essex said, before finding herself chuckling a little, then chuckling a lot, then almost excessively so as she got caught up in her own enjoyment, starting to tear up from laughter.


    Harley stared back at her endearingly.


    ¡°I never see you laugh like that¡­¡± Harley let out, right as a loud knock came from the dorm door.


    ¡°Harley? Essex? We just finished our thing. Do you need a bit more time?¡±


    ¡°Oh shit, they¡¯re done already. Wha-!¡± Harley let out, before accidentally falling out of bed.


    ¡°Oh dear.¡± Essex let out, covering her mouth. ¡°The sex has rendered you immobile¡­¡±


    ¡°I got my foot caught in the sheets.¡± Harley insisted, before getting up and remembering how naked she was. ¡°Right, clothes¡­¡±


    Her and Essex quickly got changed, as Julia eventually opened the door to find both of them standing by the study, looking fairly haggard and sweaty.


    Julia awkwardly looked side to side, before pivoting to the kitchen, as Wess followed behind her, before rolling her eyes.


    ¡°Well, I can¡¯t say this is a surprise.¡± Wess remarked. ¡°I hope you enjoyed yourselves. And that you took care of her, Harley.¡±


    ¡°I should hope I would.¡± Harley assured, just as Wess smirked and went to join Julia, right as Sola came in last.


    ¡°Hey guys! How was the date?¡± She asked, before noticing how dishevelled they were. ¡°¡­wow, that was quick.¡±


    Essex hid her face in embarrassment, as Harley laughed uncomfortably. ¡°Yeah¡­¡±


    ¡°We really need to get that text chain going.¡± Sola remarked, just as Julia jumped in the kitchen.


    ¡°Dammit, I got distracted by the basketball and forgot. Hold on.¡± Julia assured, just as Harley leaned into Sola.


    ¡°By the by¡­so good.¡± Harley whispered.


    ¡°Really?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know where she was keeping it, but damn, it was borderline heaven.¡±


    ¡°Did you get to touch her abs?¡±


    ¡°Only for a bit, but it¡¯s like a freaking washboard down there.¡±


    ¡°Whoa! I wanna touch ¡®em now!¡±


    ¡°You totally should. Just ease her into it first. She¡¯s pretty gentle.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± Sola said, catching Essex laying by the couch, before turning to Harley again. ¡°I love you.¡±


    ¡°Aww, I love you too.¡± Harley said, kissing her forehead, before jumping on the couch to join Essex. ¡°So, one more round, hot stuff?¡±


    ¡°Uhh¡­¡± Essex let out, before shaking her head. ¡°I am¡­still reeling.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I have that effect on people.¡± Harley joked, before bumping Essex¡¯s side. ¡°You feeling a bit better about us?¡±


    Essex needed a moment to think, before bumping Harley¡¯s side as well.


    ¡°I¡¯d feel better with¡­those sweet knockers¡­on me.¡±


    Harley started laughing again, as Sola watched on the sidelines curiously.


    ¡°Knockers?¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°¡­nce again, Faller, the academy continues to function as usual. Congratulations on not destroying it.¡±


    ¡°The pleasures all mine. Have fun sitting on the sidelines while we handle the Wailing.¡±


    Yarring let out a sneer, before patting Faller on the back with a good amount of force. ¡°Don¡¯t joke about that.¡±


    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t worry. I heard the Senate¡¯s having talks about restructuring the Daysend army into something more practical.¡± Faller noted, as he and Yarring walked to the academy entrance.


    ¡°Of course, just as I¡¯m made in charge.¡± Yarring remarked, getting a laugh from Faller.


    ¡°Maybe you can make an appeal to them? Attack relief? Patrolling the north of the Eastern Wayside?¡±


    ¡°We both know Venators are better equipped for those.¡± Yarring assured, just as they arrived at the entrance. ¡°No, we¡¯ll find something we¡¯re built for.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sure you will. See you in however many years, Yarring. Hopefully next time, we can demonstrate the IF¡¯s for you properly.¡± Faller said, waving him off.


    Yarring waved back, before making his way down the academy walkway.


    ¡°Ideally, I¡¯ll be busy dealing with Wailing by then.¡± Yarring remarked to himself, before staring up at the sky. ¡°¡­General Yarring, Head of the Daysend army¡­¡±


    He snickered a little, as he headed toward Detu City.


    It was a decently kept industry, he thought.

 Chapter 49: Expertise

    ¡°Bye, Cyrus! Good luck at the Apollo Agency!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m gonna hate it!¡±


    ¡°We know, just have fun with it!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t forget us when you¡¯re famous!¡±


    The rest of Team Salvation waved Cyrus goodbye, as he hopped onto his Flash-Rail, heading off campus in the blink of an eye, as Wess chuckled to herself.


    ¡°He¡¯s going to hate it.¡± She remarked, just as Julia started jumping around.


    ¡°I can¡¯t believe it! Internships!¡± She let out, as Sola quickly joined her. ¡°Another chance to work with professionals!¡±


    ¡°We get to meet more Venators!¡± Sola added, locking hands with Julia.


    ¡°Maybe we can catch up with Team Swift again. Or Vivisect.¡± Harley posited, before bumping Julia¡¯s side. ¡°We could even head to Team Spectrum¡¯s old stomping ground.¡±


    Julia¡¯s excitement built up again, only for Essex to raise her hand.


    ¡°Did Faller not state we can¡¯t go t-¡°


    ¡°Essex is right.¡±


    The team turned around to find Ferris leaning against the wall, staring purposelessly at the ceiling of the Flash-Rail station.


    ¡°Faller made it clear. After your little stunt at EHM, no internships for you.¡± Ferris clarified, drawing Wess¡¯ ire.


    ¡°Of course¡­I was hoping he¡¯d forgotten about that by now.¡± Wess admitted, as Ferris felt around for her flask.


    ¡°Nope.¡± Ferris replied. ¡°Instead, you get to stay on campus.¡±


    Ferris failed to grab her flask over and over. ¡°But to keep things fair, Faller¡¯s letting you shadow a staff member of your choice for the next couple months. It¡¯s basically a discount internship.¡±


    ¡°Wait, really?¡± Harley asked, getting excited. ¡°That¡¯s actually not too bad.¡±


    ¡°Is that so Faller can keep an eye on us?¡± Julia asked, as Ferris bothered to face her.


    ¡°Well done, Julia. You figured it out.¡± Ferris said, finally finding her drink, before deciding to walk off now that her obligations were fulfilled. ¡°And don¡¯t even think about shadowing me! I don¡¯t want you, and you don¡¯t want me!¡±


    She quickly left the train station, leaving Team Valiant to their devices, as Sola pouted to Julia.


    ¡°I thought you said that Faller¡¯s punishment for breaking into EHM was for show?¡± Sola asked.


    ¡°Well, he still has to uphold it. It¡¯ll look suspicious if we suddenly get off scot-free, especially to Wicker.¡± Julia reasoned. ¡°And technically, he¡¯s still punishing us for disrupting the tournament.¡±


    ¡°Still, it sucks we couldn¡¯t even try for an internship. Everyone else gets to go, and now we¡¯re stuck behind here.¡± Harley complained. ¡°All this so I could keep my stupid leg¡­¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re welcome.¡± Wess replied, before noticing Essex staring off awkwardly. ¡°Essex? What¡¯s the matter?¡±


    Essex was suddenly thrown off by Wess talking to her, before making an effort to talk herself.


    ¡°¡­I did not know what to do with this.¡± Essex admitted. ¡°I¡­was offered an internship with the Aurora Venator Agency.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Sola let out. ¡°Good for you!¡±


    ¡°Aurora? Which one is that again?¡± Wess wondered, as Julia rested on her side.


    ¡°That¡¯s the same agency as Team Avalanche. They¡¯re based in the north of the Eastern Wayside.¡± Julia clarified, right as Harley breathed in through her teeth.


    ¡°On the border of Wailing territory, too.¡± Harley pointed out.


    ¡°When¡¯d you get that?¡± Sola asked, as Essex pulled out the business card she¡¯d received.


    ¡°During the tournament. A representative had found me and offered the position for this year, but now I¡¯m afraid I cannot attend.¡± Essex bemoaned, while Sola handed the card around. ¡°This would be a useful opportunity to experience an agency in person.¡±


    ¡°And you¡¯d get to meet another professional Venator team.¡± Julia noted. ¡°Man, I wish you could go.¡±


    ¡°Who cares what Faller says. Just go anyway.¡± Harley insisted, giving a thumbs up. ¡°If he asks questions, we¡¯ll just stuff some pillows in your bed and pretend you¡¯re asleep.¡±


    ¡°¡­for how long?¡± Essex questioned, immediately stumping Harley.


    ¡°¡­shit¡­¡±


    ¡°Aww, you guys came to see us off!¡±


    The team turned to spot Joleicia and Nathaniel heading onto the station platform, with Joleicia proudly leading the charge.


    ¡°How goes it, other Team V?¡± Joleicia asked, hugging Julia suddenly, as Julia quickly hugged back before breaking it.


    ¡°Not great¡­Faller won¡¯t let us take on an internship.¡± Julia explained, breathing to slow her heart.


    ¡°For what happened at the tournament.¡± Wess noted, as Joleicia rested her hands on her hips.


    ¡°Bummer. I know you were really excited about it, Wess.¡± Joleicia said. ¡°You were rescuing a teammate. That should count for something.¡±


    ¡°L-Like a friendship award?¡± Nathaniel suggested, as Harley chuckled a little.


    ¡°The trophy should be two hands shaking.¡± Sola added, only worsening Harley¡¯s laughing. ¡°Or, like, someone patting someone else¡¯s back.¡±


    Harley was basically keeling over, as Essex stepped in. ¡°If Harley could speak, I believe she would say ¡®I¡¯m here to tell the tale. That is where it counts.¡¯¡±


    ¡°Totally agree on that.¡± Joleicia grinned, as Wess cleared her throat.


    ¡°So speaking of internships, where did you manage to hitch your wagon to?¡±


    ¡°Energia Agency!¡± Joleicia called out, as Julia cocked her head.


    ¡°But that one¡¯s in Detu City. Why¡¯re you traveling there now?¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re checking the place out before we start there next week.¡± Nathaniel added. ¡°The others were busy, so I got roped along¡­¡±


    ¡°And don¡¯t worry, we¡¯re still staying on campus.¡± Joleicia assured, slinging an arm around Nathaniel. ¡°Your favourite friend team won¡¯t leave you behind for the agency glitz and glamour!¡±


    ¡°A-Actually, we literally have to right now.¡± Nathaniel pointed out, indicating to the Flash-Rail pulling in. ¡°Bye guys. Good luck with¡­stuff.¡±


    ¡°Thanks! Later guys!¡± Julia called back, as the duo hopped onto the train, with Joleicia waving back to Julia, before the Flash-Rail sped off into the city. ¡°Alright, we should get on top of who we¡¯re shadowing. Anyone got thoughts yet?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m asking the Chief of Security herself, Dulce.¡± Harley bragged, looking visibly proud of herself. ¡°Kindred spirits and all that.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll probably ask¡­Spence. I think she needs to hang out with more people.¡± Sola admitted, as Wess scratched her chin.


    ¡°I¡¯ve got someone in mind, but I¡¯ll have to see about his availability...¡± Wess muttered, before turning to Julia. ¡°Anyone on your mind, dear?¡±


    ¡°Not especially. Coatsworth might be fun.¡± Julia pointed out, before an idea quickly crossed her mind. ¡°¡­then again¡­Essex?¡±


    Essex faced her.


    Julia smiled. ¡°I think I can get you that internship.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°¡­Ferris?¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°Your tab is due.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re teaching a class.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re in your underwear. Everyone¡¯s laughing at you.¡±


    Ferris lifted her head off the bar, before flipping Seears off.


    ¡°I-¡°


    ¡°You were gonna make me do something¡­¡± Ferris groaned. ¡°Faller has me working non-stop, so don¡¯t start giving me orders too¡­¡±


    Seears made a subtle movement to wipe up some drool from beside her. ¡°At least don¡¯t fall asleep on the bar. I don¡¯t want people thinking I bore you.¡±


    ¡°No comment, poindexter.¡± Ferris replied, just as the front door opened, with Julia and Wess stepping into the Academy Daiquiri Lounge.


    ¡°You reckon she¡¯s here?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s the campus bar, darling. What do you think?¡±


    ¡°Okay, I just didn¡¯t wanna assume that.¡± Julia reasoned. ¡°She can¡¯t be here all the¡­¡±


    Julia immediately noticed Ferris at the bar, nursing a beer bottle, before stopping herself.


    ¡°¡­alright, she is. You know the plan?¡±


    ¡°Chat up Seears and pull him away so you and Ferris can talk.¡± Wess repeated, before kissing Julia¡¯s cheek. ¡°Watch in awe.¡±


    Julia happily did so, as Wess sashayed her way to the bar, before pulling up a seat.


    ¡°Seears.¡± She called out. ¡°Just the man I wanted to see.¡±


    Seears spun around, before spotting Wess resting by the bar. ¡°Uhh¡­Team Valiant, right?¡±


    ¡°Correct.¡± Wess replied, sitting up in her seat. ¡°I¡¯m sure you¡¯re aware of Faller¡¯s decision to have us shadowing staff.¡±


    ¡°Right. And you wanted recommendations.¡± Seears said, before leaning against the bar himself. ¡°First of all, avoid Vent, he¡¯s a stick in the mu-¡°


    ¡°No, I actually wanted to ask after you.¡± Wess posited. ¡°You¡¯re head of PR here, after all, and I already have plenty of teachers for combat.¡±


    ¡°¡­true.¡± Seears agreed, standing back up again. ¡°¡­well, it¡¯s not like I have nothing to teach you¡­¡±


    ¡°Then we¡¯re already halfway there.¡± Wess smiled, as Seears scoffed to himself.


    ¡°You know what, I¡¯ve been working on this pitch recently, and I¡¯ve needed the backing of a certain government official.¡± Seears said, holding his hand to his chest. ¡°I¡¯m very charming, but we don¡¯t seem to get along for whatever reason. How are you with schmoozing?¡±


    Wess smirked, before leaning back. ¡°How about I show you?¡±


    Seears grinned, just as he chucked his cloth across the bar. ¡°Fuck it, I like you. Come on.¡±


    ¡°What, already?¡± Wess asked, hopping up, as Seears allowed her behind the bar.


    ¡°You¡¯re not busy. And I run on my own clock.¡± Seears insisted, flipping up a sign saying ¡®Bar¡¯s Closed.¡¯ ¡°Let¡¯s get schmoozing.¡±


    Wess quickly followed him behind the bar, before giving Julia a sudden thumbs up, as Julia took her chance to hurry over and pull up a stool next to Ferris.


    ¡°Uhh¡­Miss Ferris?¡±


    ¡°I said don¡¯t shadow me.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not about that.¡± Julia said, as Ferris lifted up her head. ¡°Essex has an offer from the Aurora Venator Agency.¡±


    ¡°¡­Aurora?¡± Ferris asked, raising an eyebrow. ¡°They¡¯re pretty famous talent scouts. Impressive they even found her.¡±


    Ferris scratched her nose. ¡°Shame she can¡¯t go.¡±


    ¡°Right. Well, I¡¯ve got an offer I want you to float to Faller.¡± Julia suggested. ¡°Let Essex go to her internship, while we stay here and still shadow staff.¡±


    Ferris squinted her eyes. ¡°I¡¯m failing to see the benefit to him.¡±


    ¡°But¡­¡± Julia prefaced, taking in a breath. ¡°¡­I¡¯ll personally shadow Cecil for you.¡±


    Ferris raised her eyebrows in surprise.


    ¡°I can spend the next couple months with him, looking out for anything that might confirm he¡¯s Wicker. Meanwhile, that frees up time for you guys and your own investigation.¡± Julia said. ¡°I can get closer to him than you guys can, and he already thinks I¡¯m not suspicious of him.¡±


    ¡°¡­huh.¡± Ferris let out, stroking her chin. ¡°¡­I thought Faller told you to stay out of all this?¡±


    ¡°¡­I know the risks.¡± Julia admitted, leaning in. ¡°But I can¡¯t just sit by when I know I can do something about it.¡±


    ¡°¡­we couldn¡¯t guarantee your safety either¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m fine with that. That¡¯s why I¡¯ve got my team.¡± Julia said, as Ferris rolled her eyes.


    ¡°Uhuh¡­fuck it, I¡¯ll let Faller know.¡± Ferris said, exciting Julia. ¡°You¡¯re a clever girl, appealing to my need for more sleep like that.¡±


    ¡°Glad I could help.¡± Julia smiled, right as Ferris reached past the bar to grab another bottle. ¡°Ah-¡°


    ¡°Don¡¯t tell Seears.¡± Ferris insisted, as Julia let it be. ¡°To us clever bitches.¡±


    ¡°¡­sure.¡± Julia said, grabbing an empty bottle and clinking it.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Do you actually wanna go?¡±


    ¡°Of course. It would be beneficial to the team.¡±


    ¡°But like, do YOU wanna go?¡±


    ¡°Dal. I¡¯ll meet interesting people, I¡¯m familiar with the terrain, and I can experience more Wailing combat firsthand.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± Harley said, lying backwards on the couch, her head resting on Sola¡¯s lap. ¡°You want us to make you a little care package before you go?¡±


    ¡°OH! Can we? Can we can we can we?¡± Sola insisted, pumping her fists, as Essex sat against the coffee table, trying not to blush too heavily.


    ¡°B-But it has not been confirmed yet. Julia is still ou-¡°


    ¡°Guess who got you that internship?¡± Julia announced, bursting through the team¡¯s dorm door, before pointing to herself. ¡°This guy!¡±


    ¡°Already?¡± Harley let out, jumping off the couch. ¡°Damn, you work quick.¡±


    ¡°You did?¡± Essex exclaimed, standing up suddenly, before hurrying over to Julia. ¡°T-This fast?¡±


    Julia nodded back proudly.


    Essex could feel herself getting quickly overwhelmed. ¡°I-I am very grateful. You have gone out of your way, a-and I truly appreciate it.¡±


    Essex struggled to come up with more thanks, before just hugging Julia outright, as Julia could feel her heart racing and face flushing.


    She noticed Harley and Sola giving her a big thumbs up behind Essex, as Julia was grateful Essex broke the hug soon after.


    ¡°No problem, Essex. You totally deserve it.¡± Julia assured. ¡°You should probably plan out your trip, though. It¡¯s gonna be quite the trek out there.¡±


    Essex slowly turned back around to a very joyous Harley and Sola, before hiding her face somewhat.


    ¡°So?¡± Harley asked.


    ¡°Care package?¡± Sola added.


    ¡°¡­I would like that very much.¡±


    ¡°Hell yeah! Let¡¯s do it!¡± Harley insisted, before holding out her hand. ¡°Gimme your tablet. I¡¯ll make you a playlist for the ride over.¡±


    ¡°And I¡¯ve got a super cute jacket you¡¯ll like! Hold on!¡± Sola exclaimed, rushing into the study, leaving Essex standing in the middle of the room, still taking in the news.


    ¡°¡­I get to go¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Cecil took his time cleaning up the science department lab, inspecting every corner he could for grime, as he moved some chairs out of the way to reach lower onto the floor.


    He started crawling on his hands, grabbing a small brush and squeezing it between two tables, just as he heard the lab doors open up, with a small knock coming from the front.


    ¡°Just a-¡° He greeted, before standing up too quickly and banging his head on the counter. ¡°Ow.¡±


    ¡°Cecil? Are you alright?¡± Julia asked, coming into the lab proper.


    ¡°Yes, just went to say hi too suddenly.¡± Cecil insisted, before realising who it was. ¡°Julia. What brings you around?¡±


    Julia blinked. ¡°Didn¡¯t Faller tell you?¡±


    Cecil recalled what she meant and smacked his forehead. ¡°Right, the shadowing thing. Sorry. I was busy taking care of my monthly lab clean.¡±


    Julia glanced around the lab. ¡°Don¡¯t you have assistants to help you?¡±


    ¡°I like to look over things myself.¡± Cecil pointed out, leaning against one of the counters. ¡°So¡­you wanted to shadow me of all people.¡±


    ¡°O-Oh, yeah.¡± Julia managed, trying to find her confidence again. ¡°Sorry. I¡¯m probably pushing it since the¡­well¡­¡±


    ¡°The EHM break in?¡± Cecil remarked, ripping off the bandage. ¡°Water under the bridge. You know I don¡¯t hold your team responsible for what happened, or you personally.¡±


    I guess that means he probably didn¡¯t spot me spying in on his meeting¡­ Julia noted. Well, that¡¯s one less thing to worry about.


    Cecil resettled himself. ¡°With that said, I am curious why you chose me. You haven¡¯t taken many science-related units, and seem pretty content in being a hunting Venator. Surely there¡¯d be more value in any number of other teachers.¡±


    Julia found herself struggling for words a little, before coming up with a quick save for herself.


    ¡°¡­forgive me, but my reasons are kinda personal.¡±


    Julia leaned against one of the counters before continuing. ¡°Actually, last year, I was talking with my friend Florey...¡± Julia admitted, as Cecil¡¯s head perked up. ¡°He said he got a job with you guys, so...I wanted to learn about why he liked you as a boss.¡±


    ¡°Really? I didn¡¯t know you were friends with him.¡± Cecil noted.


    ¡°Well¡­before he went to join you, we got into a big fight¡­¡± Julia confessed. ¡°It was only recently that we¡¯ve sorta patched things up.¡±


    ¡°Ah. That explains it.¡± Cecil said, as Julia cocked her head. ¡°Oh, right. He came back to the academy during last year¡¯s formal, and I was curious as to why he did so.¡±


    Cecil waved his hand. ¡°He was patching things up.¡±


    Partly. Julia thought. Is that why Rosalind was spying on us? Could she have been keeping an eye on him?


    ¡°Yes, by the way.¡±


    Julia broke her train of thought. ¡°I-I¡¯m sorry?¡±


    ¡°To shadowing. I¡¯d appreciate the company.¡± Cecil insisted. ¡°Florey¡¯s been a remarkable apprentice, so I¡¯d love to get to know a friend of his.¡±


    Julia stood back up proper. ¡°Great! That¡¯s really great. I can help you out around the lab too.¡±


    ¡°Why not?¡± Cecil said, smirking a bit. ¡°You can pay off some of the damages from your trip to EHM.¡±


    Julia¡¯s pupils shrank and she started to sweat a bit, as Cecil chuckled lightly. ¡°I¡¯m kidding. You can start at ten next Monday. Bring an outfit that can afford to get dirty.¡±


    ¡°Alright¡­thank you, sir.¡± Julia said, deciding to leave right after to avoid any further complications, as Cecil watched her go on her way.


    ¡°What interesting company you keep, Florey.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Lawkins!¡±


    ¡°Present!¡±


    ¡°Jones!¡±


    ¡°Present!¡±


    ¡°Baroke!¡±


    ¡°Present and accounted for!¡± Harley replied, catching Dulce in a grin, as she grabbed Harley¡¯s shoulder.


    ¡°Look at you, don¡¯t even need to train ya!¡± Dulce exclaimed, before turning to the remaining security. ¡°You all know your standard duties! Hop to it!¡±


    The security staff all cleared out of the building, exiting the security department and spreading out over campus, leaving Dulce and Harley on their own.


    ¡°And you get to patrol with me today.¡± Dulce insisted, as Harley pumped her fist.


    ¡°Yes! Already in on the action!¡± Harley celebrated, as Dulce snickered.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know what action you¡¯re referring to. The last time the academy was under attack was a year and a half ago.¡± Dulce pointed out, cutting off Harley¡¯s excitement. ¡°Patrolling¡¯s as dull as it gets.¡±


    ¡°¡­oh, yeah.¡± Harley realised, rubbing her neck. ¡°¡­well, we get to hang out at least.¡±


    ¡°Now that¡¯s worth celebrating!¡± Dulce exclaimed, slinging her arm around Harley. ¡°So what¡¯s been up with you since we last spoke?¡±


    ¡°Uhh, I¡¯ve got two girlfriends now.¡± Harley noted, as Dulce¡¯s face looked a bit awkward.


    ¡°¡­do they know about each other?¡±


    Did you know this story is from Royal Road? Read the official version for free and support the author.


    ¡°Oh yeah, their dating too. It¡¯s like a polycule¡­thing.¡± Harley explained, as Dulce sighed out. ¡°Sola and Essex from my team, actually.¡±


    ¡°No shit. My husband was my team¡¯s manager back in the day.¡± Dulce bragged.


    ¡°You were a Venator?!¡± Harley let out, as Dulce proudly nodded. ¡°What team?¡±


    ¡°Team Bombard!¡± Dulce proclaimed, striking a pose. ¡°Patrollers of the Southern Wayside!¡±


    ¡°And you¡¯re from the Southern Wayside?¡± Harley gasped. ¡°You might be the coolest person I know! Save for Dorothy, obviously.¡±


    ¡°People credited us for singlehandedly stopping the Raski problem from spreading to the south.¡± Dulce said, cracking her knuckles. ¡°I mean, it was nice to get the credit.¡±


    ¡°So why¡¯re you working here now?¡± Harley asked, as Dulce stretched her arms behind her head.


    ¡°I got older. Couldn¡¯t keep up with all the new teams coming out.¡± Dulce explained. ¡°Patricia ain¡¯t what she used to be, save for where it counts.¡±


    Harley picked up on the joke and nudged her elbow into Dulce¡¯s side. ¡°Bet your husband gets most of the ¡®physical attention¡¯ these days.¡±


    ¡°Oh yeah.¡± Dulce insisted, slapping Harley¡¯s back. ¡°He¡¯s a lucky guy!¡±


    They both kept laughing to themselves, as they drew the attention of students around them, wondering if they were chatting or actually patrolling at all.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Alright, basic introductions. You go first.¡± Seears insisted, hurriedly walking through the main building with Wess.


    ¡°Wess Delacroix Nouvel, house of Delacroix. Only daughter.¡± Wess stated, keeping up pace.


    ¡°No kidding. My first name¡¯s Wesley.¡± Seears replied, surprising Wess.


    ¡°Really? What a small world.¡± Wess remarked, just as they rounded a corner. ¡°I¡¯m part of Team Valiant. I grew up among the elite of the Northern Wayside, training my social and business skills. After breaking the confines of my homelife in Mareau, I came here to study as a hunting Venator and claim my name in history.¡±


    Seears grinned back at her. ¡°I like ambition. It¡¯s good to see it so thoroughly planned.¡±


    Eventually, they made their way to Seears¡¯ office, as he held the door open for Wess before making himself comfortable in the space.


    ¡°Well, I was a middle child, born in Mokuddo to two beautiful mothers. Entering high school, I was head of debate team, before I slowly grew to despise it and all the little politics. Then I worked on the local paper.¡± Seears explained, pulling out a board from behind a bunch of disorganised boxes.


    ¡°Eventually, I moved to working with CWNN for a handful of years, helping improve the image of the news station, before a Wailing killed my mother and I moved my talents here.¡± Seears followed up, cleaning up the board a bit, while also shocking Wess with his bluntness.


    ¡°I-I¡¯m sorry?¡±


    Seears realised the confusion. ¡°Oh, right. While I was working on a pitch, my family home was attacked by a Wailing, before taking the life of one of my mothers. Before I could complete it, I quit and sunk into a spiral of self-hate and depression, almost giving up all together, before eventually finding Antonio. And my god, he was exactly what I needed¡­¡±


    Seears leaned over his desk to grab a photo frame and show it to her. ¡°He¡¯s a vet. A beautiful, sexy, abs like porcelain vet, with the purest smile and a heart of platinum. I¡¯m pretty sure his first line to me was ¡®I¡¯m used to saving injured puppies, so you shouldn¡¯t be much more difficult.¡¯¡±


    Seears laughed a little, before noticing the slight bit of distress in her face. ¡°Wess?¡±


    ¡°¡­s-sorry. It¡¯s just you¡¯ve had quite the difficult life¡­and you¡¯re very nonchalant about it¡­¡±


    Seears shrugged and sat on top of his desk. ¡°I know. But it¡¯s all good now, right? I got out of that spiral.¡±


    Seears kicked his legs back and forth. ¡°It¡¯s all thanks to Antonio. If he hadn¡¯t found me, I wouldn¡¯t have fixed my life or found my calling here. Now I¡¯ll spend as much time as I can paying him back for it.¡±


    ¡°¡­I¡¯m in a somewhat similar relationship at the moment.¡± Wess remarked. ¡°I keep finding myself wanting to pay her back for everything, but I don¡¯t know if it¡¯ll ever be enough.¡±


    ¡°Oh, love¡­what do you make us do?¡± Seears let out, before hopping off his desk. ¡°Anyway anyhow, here¡¯s the pitch.¡±


    Seears flipped the board around, showing off various diagrams and early drafts pinned up.


    ¡°You¡¯ve heard about the barrier going up around Detu City, right?¡± Seears asked, as Wess nodded back, taking a seat. ¡°Right. However, the current plan for it doesn¡¯t include covering the Venator Academy.¡±


    Wess blinked. ¡°Seriously?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s bullshit, right?¡± Seears let out, before grabbing a marker and making some crude notes. ¡°Our schmoozee is Senator Caren Carmichael. She¡¯s stood firmly on the point that ¡®after several attacks, it¡¯s clear we can defend ourselves,¡¯ so now they can cut costs on the project by shortening its reach.¡±


    Seears closed the marker. ¡°Faller already tried talking with her, but wasn¡¯t able to make any headway. Now he¡¯s employed my silver tongue. But¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­it didn¡¯t work as well?¡±


    Seears nodded in shame, before pointing to Wess with the marker. ¡°However, I¡¯ve got a plan to win her over, one that needs two people to work. You think you can handle it?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m still sitting here, aren¡¯t I?¡± Wess assured, leaning in, as Seears smirked and flipped the board back around, drawing up new plans.


    ¡°Okay, we¡¯ll start at a coffee shop¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°You ready?¡±


    ¡°You bet!¡±


    ¡°Alright, newbie, first things first! I need help organising the aisles.¡± Spence declared. ¡°Lots of third year students come in around this time of year, but they don¡¯t really put the books back correctly.¡±


    ¡°Oh yeah. I keep forgetting where they¡¯re meant to go.¡± Sola admitted, as Spence blinked awkwardly.


    ¡°Well, it¡¯s a very intricate system that I¡¯ll be happy to show you!¡± Spence insisted. ¡°First, each genre is broken up into a subgenre consisting o¡­¡±


    Sola stared at Spence as she carried on, taking her through the library and showing off each aisle in detail.


    ¡°Bla bla bla bla books bla bla bla decimals bla bla bla bla bla organise and synergise bla bla bla.¡±


    Spence took a quick breath, before facing Sola proudly.


    ¡°Did you get all that?¡±


    ¡°¡­I think so!¡± Sola cheered, as Spence gave her a thumbs up.


    ¡°That¡¯s the spirit! I¡¯ll hand you the history books¡­¡± Spence said, grabbing a large pile and dropping it off to Sola. ¡°And, even though I don¡¯t usually like to, I¡¯ll do the economics books for a¡­change.¡±


    Spence eyed Sola up, raising her eyebrows over and over, as Sola noticed her staring, before looking around in confusion.


    ¡°Get it?¡±


    ¡°Get what?¡±


    ¡°¡­change?¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°Like money?¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°They¡¯re economics boo-¡°


    ¡°Spence, these books are getting heavy.¡±


    Spence rolled her eyes and puffed out her chest. ¡°Okay! Sorting commence! Commence with Spence!¡±


    ¡°Oh! I got that one.¡± Sola admitted, heading further down the aisle, as Spence went about organising her shelves.


    After a few minutes, Spence¡¯s eyes wandered over to Sola¡¯s work, before she noticed Sola placing books in the wrong order by mistake.


    ¡°Sola, those are pre-monarchy Northern Wayside books.¡± Spence pointed out.


    Sola stopped for a second, as she cocked her head. ¡°Don¡¯t they go in the Northern Wayside section?¡±


    Spence shook her head. ¡°There¡¯s a sub-category for that. Then they go in alphabetical order within their subgenre, unless their subject is broad enough to go in general. Then they¡¯re sorted in order of letter, year, and publisher, unless it¡¯s in a subgenre, in where only letter and year matter. However, we have to leave room for borrowed books, since we need to register which books are coming out, meaning we shou-¡°


    ¡°But wouldn¡¯t it make more sense to just put them all in alphabetical order?¡± Sola suggested, as Spence pouted.


    ¡°Well, what if students want specific periods in history?¡± Spence insisted, waging her finger. ¡°We want to make this easy on them.¡±


    ¡°But I¡¯m a student, and it¡¯s not easy on me.¡± Sola noted.


    Spence¡¯s eyes drooped, before she sighed out and pointed to the front counter. ¡°How about you sort the returned books? You just need to scan them in and sort them by subject.¡±


    Sola looked back at it, before pumping her fists. ¡°I can do that!¡±


    She ran over to the table, as Spence picked up her books, before noticing Sola immediately struggling with the scanner.


    ¡°Oh boy¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Essex sat on top of her suitcase, struggling to keep everything inside while zipping it up. She played around with the zipper out of frustration, before standing up, letting the bag flop open with clothes and various knick knacks spilling out.


    ¡°Their care package may have been too generous¡­¡± Essex remarked, reaching in and pulling out several scented soaps and plenty of plush pillows. ¡°¡­but it would be difficult without these objects¡­¡±


    She scratched her head and sighed out. ¡°As Sola would say¡­oh boy.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯re you oh boy-ing about?¡± Julia asked, popping her head into the study, as Essex indicated to the suitcase.


    ¡°I am having trouble with packing. Harley and Sola insisted on these items.¡± Essex explained, as Julia rested on the door frame.


    ¡°Aww. I think they might be worried about you.¡± Julia grinned, as Essex tried to avoid looking embarrassed. ¡°It is a pretty long way to travel on your own.¡±


    ¡°I can handle this excursion.¡± Essex assured, as Julia rolled her eyes.


    ¡°Yeah, we know. But we can¡¯t help but be cautious.¡± Julia said, before Essex sat on the suitcase again. ¡°Let¡¯s be thankful you can carry your scythe with you.¡±


    Julia spun around and headed for the kitchen, before Essex spoke up suddenly.


    ¡°Speaking¡­of cautious.¡±


    Julia turned back around.


    ¡°Are you prepared for interning with Cecil?¡±


    Julia froze a little, before nodding back to Essex and chuckling.


    ¡°Yeah¡­yeah. Even if¡­you know, even if the worst is true, right now we¡¯re still science teacher and student.¡± Julia let out. ¡°There¡¯s no reason he¡¯d think otherwise.¡±


    ¡°Right. I can accompany.¡± Essex offered, getting up. ¡°If you¡¯d feel safer.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine, you¡¯re busy getting ready for your trip.¡± Julia noted. ¡°That¡¯s why I¡¯m doing this in the first place, after all. It¡¯s more important that you prepare.¡±


    Essex looked a bit sceptical, but nodded back to Julia regardless, as she pivoted from the kitchen and went and grabbed her bag, before taking a breath and heading out of the dorm.


    ¡°Uhh, sir, have you done these shelves yet?¡±


    ¡°¡­no, I don¡¯t think so. Just give them a dust anyway.¡±


    ¡°Right.¡± Julia replied, wiping away some more dust from the bookshelf, as Cecil worked away at the corner in his office, reorganising a couple books lying around.


    ¡°You know, I spend so much time in the lab, I rarely get the chance to clean my actual office.¡± Cecil pointed out. ¡°Or even use it, for that matter. I use the one in the science department way more.¡±


    ¡°I guess the fortieth floor of the main building¡¯s a bit out of the way¡­¡± Julia remarked, getting a titter of acknowledgement from Cecil.


    ¡°Especially for autopsies and studies. All my important materials are down several flights of stairs.¡± Cecil said, as Julia cleaned up a few more spaces, before noticing a picture frame next to the bookcase showing Cecil alongside several students in lab coats.


    She picked it up briefly, before Cecil noticed and went to join her side.


    ¡°We took that after dissecting the Behemoth Wailing.¡± He said, as Julia jumped a little at him suddenly piping up. ¡°Most of them were interning in third year as well, funnily enough.¡±


    ¡°For you?¡±


    ¡°Well, they were studying to be scientific Venators, and then the opportunity to study the Behemoth Wailing came along.¡± Cecil noted, sitting against his desk. ¡°A fair few are actually working at EHM now.¡±


    Just like Florey¡­ Julia thought, before putting the photo down and going back to cleaning, before needing to satiate a question she had.


    ¡°Umm, sir¡­out of curiosity¡­¡±


    ¡°Yes?¡±


    ¡°What do you think about the Wailing? Personally?¡±


    Cecil looked a bit puzzled at the question, before stroking his chin.


    ¡°I despise them.¡± Cecil stated, standing up properly. ¡°I don¡¯t know many people who¡¯d say otherwise.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, right¡­¡± Julia said, as Cecil tapped his fingers on his desk.


    ¡°¡­I mean¡­on some level, they¡¯re quite fascinating.¡± Cecil pointed out. ¡°Did you know it¡¯s been theorised that humans and Wailing might have a common ancestor?¡±


    Julia¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°Really?¡±


    Cecil nodded. ¡°Obviously, nothing recent. That¡¯s the leading theory as to why Whil¡¯s manifested in the first place. Anecdotally, there¡¯s always been this association between Wailing ¡®magic¡¯ and Whil¡¯s, but until that connection was made, they¡¯ve ostensibly been separate.¡±


    ¡°Yeah. I mean, I think I saw some news broadcasts about regulating Whil usage.¡± Julia mentioned. ¡°One of the Senators at the time was saying ¡®they¡¯re as destructive as a Wailing. We can¡¯t let Whil users walk around without guidelines.¡¯¡±


    Cecil audibly scoffed. ¡°The regulation is that people are using it. It¡¯s called common sense judgement.¡± Cecil argued. ¡°Venators have done far more good with their Whils than bad, I assure you.¡±


    ¡°Right, yeah. You don¡¯t have to tell me twice.¡± Julia said, scratching her head. ¡°It¡¯s not like we¡¯d use it on other people or anything.¡±


    Another question crossed Julia¡¯s mind. ¡°Going back to my previous point, where do you think the Gelatinous Wailing came from?¡±


    Cecil squinted, before leaning back on the wall and thinking. ¡°¡­unfortunately, we haven¡¯t come up with anything concrete. The best guess is that it¡¯s a latent genetic mutation that allows them to withstand conventional weaponry.¡±


    Julia nodded her head. ¡°I remember Florey told me he thought it was an illness in the Wailing.¡±


    Cecil smiled. ¡°Yes, I saw his notes on that. He¡¯s actually looking into that at the moment.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s been mentioning wanting to do an autopsy on a Gelatinous Wailing to see if that¡¯s true.¡± Cecil said, before chuckling a little. ¡°He¡¯s got a curious mind. I hope something comes of this latest project, at least to pay off his efforts.¡±


    Julia casually went back to wiping the bookshelves down again. ¡°Are you helping him with it?¡±


    ¡°No, unfortunately, I¡¯m far too busy at the moment. I¡¯m sure you¡¯ve read about EHM¡¯s upcoming merger with Andro Manufacturing.¡± Cecil posed, as Julia nodded back. ¡°My plates pretty full.¡±


    Julia thought about it for a second, before double-taking. ¡°He¡¯s not gonna have to catch the Wailing on his own, is he?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. We¡¯ve hired help for that.¡± Cecil assured. ¡°We¡¯re not really ¡®out of the pan, into the fire¡¯ kind of people.¡±


    So they¡¯re capable of Wailing capture? Julia wondered, before dismissing it. ¡­maybe that¡¯s a stretch.


    Cecil laughed to himself. ¡°He reminds me a lot of myself, actually, back when I was his age. All these theories buzzing around, waiting to be tested. I wasn¡¯t as lucky, though.¡±


    Julia nodded and went back to cleaning, as Cecil tapped his leg against his desk idly.


    ¡°¡­do you know about his homelife? Before he came here?¡±


    Julia stopped cleaning, before stiffly shaking her head. ¡°I-It wouldn¡¯t be right to talk about¡­¡±


    ¡°Right.¡± Cecil said, before sighing out. ¡°I can¡¯t imagine it was easy for him. Genius is rarely ever celebrated, or understood.¡±


    ¡°¡­but I¡¯m sure you get a lot of acclaim as the head of EHM.¡± Julia pointed out.


    ¡°On some level, yes.¡± Cecil noted. ¡°But¡­you know as well as I do, there¡¯s only so much one person can accomplish. We¡¯re only one company, and the Wailing Conflict¡¯s not exactly ending anytime soon.¡±


    ¡°Right, yeah. Florey was saying similar things.¡± Julia clarified, slowing down her cleaning. ¡°One of the reasons he left was cause he thought Venators weren¡¯t getting the job done.¡±


    Cecil looked back at Julia. ¡°Do you think they¡¯re getting the job done?¡±


    Julia shrugged. ¡°I¡¯m becoming one, aren¡¯t I?¡±


    Cecil tilted his head. ¡°Fair point. Still, with the emergence of Behemoth Wailing and Gelatinous Wailing, it seems they keep finding new tricks to throw us off over and over.¡±


    Julia reached a high spot of the bookshelf, before laughing a little. ¡°What next, a Gelatinous Behemoth Wailing?¡±


    ¡­


    Cecil stopped for a long second, before registering what Julia had said properly and laughing after. ¡°Exactly. Knowing them, most likely.¡±


    Julia noticed the pause but didn¡¯t feel like mentioning it, as she focused on her task again, letting the office settle into its typical silence.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Go long!¡±


    ¡°I am!¡±


    ¡°Go longer then!¡±


    ¡°Hold on, hold on, I got it!¡± Dulce let out, backing up quicker, as Harley idly spun the tree trunk in her hands.


    ¡°Come on, I can throw further than that!¡±


    Dulce started clearing more distance, preparing for whenever Harley was about to throw, just as a couple other security guards were passing by, catching them in the middle of the action.


    One stopped in their tracks, before bumping the other¡¯s shoulder. ¡°What¡¯re those two doing?¡±


    The other spotted the commotion and groaned. ¡°Oh, that¡¯s rich. Dulce pulls us up for slacking off, and now she¡¯s doing it herself.¡±


    ¡°Reckon we should call her out?¡± The first one suggested.


    The second one grinned. ¡°Absolutely.¡±


    They cupper their hands and yelled out. ¡°Yo, Dulce!¡±


    Dulce quickly spun around to address them, just as Harley threw the tree trunk, sending it flying toward her, before it collided right into her, sending her to the ground.


    ¡°Oh shit!¡± The guards called out, rushing over to her, as Harley join up as well.


    ¡°Dulce? You good?¡± Harley asked, helping her up.


    ¡°Nah, I¡¯m alright. Don¡¯t¡­ow¡­¡± Dulce let out, before turning to the guards. ¡°Why¡¯d you distract me?!¡±


    ¡°We-w-¡°


    ¡°You were slacking off!¡± One of the guards complained, pointing to Harley. ¡°With the newbie, no less!¡±


    Dulce¡¯s eyes widened, as she looked back at Harley.


    ¡°Oh.¡± She muttered, blushing a bit. ¡°Oh yeah¡­¡±


    She cleared her throat, before straightening her posture. ¡°¡­and you called me out on it, which was the test.¡±


    The guards looked at each other.


    ¡°It¡¯s important to question authority and call out injustice when you see it.¡± Dulce reasoned. ¡°Which was the lesson, so you¡­did a great job.¡±


    Dulce looked to Harley for backup, as Harley quickly picked up on the idea and gave a thumbs up.


    ¡°She was actually getting me to help teach the lesson as part of my induction.¡± Harley insisted. ¡°Well done, you two!¡±


    The guards kinda just stood there for a second, unsure what to make of the situation, before shrugging it off.


    ¡°¡­alright, I can appreciate that.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, if it was deliberate.¡± The other guards stated. ¡°Like obviously you wouldn¡¯t get distracted from patrolling and goof off, even when you¡¯ve called us out for t-¡°


    ¡°Speaking of which, shouldn¡¯t you get back to your route?¡± Dulce reminded them, as the guards noticed the obvious and started heading off.


    ¡°R-Right, sorry Dulce!¡± One called out. ¡°We¡¯ll get right on that!¡±


    Dulce rested her hands on her hips, before turning back to Harley. ¡°Rule one of success: bullshit till you make it.¡±


    Harley nodded back to her. ¡°Rule two of success: when others need help bullshitting, you have their back.¡±


    ¡°Ain¡¯t that the truth!¡± Dulce exclaimed, as the duo laughed together, before immediately forgetting to patrol again.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°¡­ow for a fact she loves this coffee shop and comes here every Wednesday. After all our planning, this should be a cakewalk.¡± Seears insisted, before turning back around to Wess in the car. ¡°You ready?¡±


    ¡°Stopping asking that, it makes you look desperate.¡± Wess stated, checking herself in the mirror, as Seears clapped excitedly.


    ¡°That¡¯s what I¡¯m talking about. Let¡¯s do it.¡± Seears hyped up, as they both got out of the car and headed inside the caf¨¦, Brewster¡¯s Brew.


    Almost immediately, they spotted the Senator near the back of the line, idly scrolling on her tablet, as Seears closed the distance.


    ¡°Caren Carmichael, as I live and breathe.¡± Seears greeted, as Caren begrudgingly lifted her head, before smiling.


    ¡°Wesley. How convenient that you¡¯re here.¡± Caren critiqued, just as the line moved up a bit. ¡°Here for another pitch?¡±


    ¡°How did you know?¡± Seears joked, rubbing his hands together, before stopping himself suddenly. ¡°Uhh¡­sorry, just a sec¡­¡±


    ¡°Problem?¡± Wess confusedly asked, as Seears pulled her away for a sec.


    He started muttering to her, before Wess started glaring at him, as he quickly headed out of line.


    ¡°So sorry, I¡¯ve just got to use the bathroom really quick. I¡¯ll be back to pitch, promise!¡± Seears insisted, speeding off before giving Wess a quick thumbs up.


    ¡°Honestly¡­¡± Wess let out, massaging her forehead, as Caren made a point to stick her hand out.


    ¡°Caren Carmichael.¡± She introduced, as Wess curiously shook her hand. ¡°Senator Carmichael.¡±


    ¡°Right! Senator. Apologies, I¡¯m a Northern Wayside native.¡± Wess excused.


    ¡°No apologies needed. Save for your representative, he¡¯s a prick.¡± Caren insisted, getting a chuckle from Wess. ¡°So, are you working with Seears?¡±


    ¡°Somewhat.¡± Wess said, before leaning in. ¡°Truthfully speaking, I¡¯m here to smooth things over between you two. Apparently, you¡¯re not a fan of his.¡±


    ¡°Not just him.¡± Caren assured. ¡°It¡¯s that academy he¡¯s working at, and the industry behind it.¡±


    Wess cocked her head. ¡°You¡¯re not big on Venators?¡±


    ¡°The privatised military force? Yeah, not my cup of tea.¡± Caren stated, tapping her foot. ¡°This freakin¡¯ line, I swear¡­you know the Wailing are the victims here, right? And yet we can¡¯t stop funding their slaughtering. Essential capitals, right there.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re starting to sound like WRNG.¡± Wess mentioned, before recalling something. ¡°Hold on, weren¡¯t they protesting against you this time last year?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not big on them either.¡± Caren admitted, just as the line moved up a bit. ¡°Even if we agree that the Wailing are being mistreated, I¡¯m not about to critique a privatised military and then go and support a militia.¡±


    Wess gave them a moment, before speaking up again. ¡°So despite supporting the Wailing, you¡¯re heading the protective barrier going into place around Detu City?¡±


    Caren sighed out, before massaging her forehead.


    ¡°¡­you saw the Behemoth Wailing attacking the Venator Academy. I can¡¯t not act on that. I can¡¯t have another Wailing army rushing into Daysend¡¯s capital on my watch and pretend like peace talks are our only option! Are you finished ordering yet?!¡±


    The people in front of the Senator jumped, before quickly wrapping up their order and leaving.


    ¡°And yet the barrier isn¡¯t going around the academy?¡±


    Caren went to order, before giving Wess the side-eye. ¡°So Seears told you?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Wess said. ¡°And I¡¯m starting to think it¡¯s personal bias.¡±


    ¡°Macchiato, and I don¡¯t act like that.¡± Caren assured, leaning down to meet Wess¡¯ height. ¡°Covering that much land is far too costly, and from what I¡¯ve seen, the academy can bounce back fine from one of those things. We already gave them funding for their big fancy IF¡¯s.¡±


    ¡°Fair call¡­but at what point does the blowback become too much?¡± Wess posited. ¡°You¡¯ve already got a fair amount of detractors who¡¯ll see this as nothing but a personal attack on the Venators you oh so despise.¡±


    ¡°They¡¯ll hate me regardless.¡±


    ¡°If you aren¡¯t protecting the academy that¡¯s already been attacked twice, you¡¯ll be making far more enemies than it¡¯s worth.¡± Wess added. ¡°Supporters of yours will see it as vindictive, your colleagues in the Senate might read it as petty a-¡°


    ¡°I¡¯m starting to think you knew more about me than you let on.¡± Caren said, grabbing her coffee.


    ¡°Regardless, I¡¯m saying including the academy might win back some support, and come off as a good faith move for future investments. It¡¯s good to be seen as the one protecting all of Detu City.¡± Wess reasoned. ¡°You catch more flies with hone-¡°


    ¡°I¡¯m familiar with fly fishing.¡± Caren assured, before taking a sip of her coffee, giving herself a moment to think. ¡°¡­huh.¡±


    She pointed back at Wess. ¡°¡­tell you what, I¡¯ll think on it. You¡¯ve actually given something to consider.¡±


    ¡°Thank you. You¡¯re fun to debate.¡± Wess joked, getting a laugh from Caren.


    ¡°I already like you lot more than Seea-¡°


    ¡°Did someone say my name?¡± Seears called out, leaving the bathroom, as Caren scoffed.


    ¡°There we are. I was starting to think you¡¯d fallen in.¡± Caren remarked. ¡°I just had a very interesting debate with your colleague, Miss¡­?¡±


    ¡°Wess Delacroix Nouvel.¡±


    ¡°Delacroix¡­I believe I¡¯ve met your father.¡± Caren said. ¡°I¡¯m starting to understand where you got your negotiating know-how.¡±


    ¡°Hold on, is THAT the time?¡± Seears sold, holding up his watch. ¡°So sorry, Caren, we¡¯ve gotta head out. I¡¯ll have to get to that pitch at a later date.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sure.¡± She replied, waving as Seears shoved Wess out of the store.


    Just as they turned to corner, Seears checked the coast was clear, before leaning in.


    ¡°So?¡±


    ¡°Went perfectly to plan.¡± Wess assured, as Seears pumped his fist.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t spook her with the ¡®sudden bathroom visit?¡¯¡±


    ¡°Nope. I just laid out my cards and joined her playing¡­field. I might be mixing metaphors there¡­¡± Wess noticed. ¡°I brought up WRNG, conveniently didn¡¯t mention I was a Venator, and caught her up in her own sound reasoning. She¡¯s considering the barrier extension again.¡±


    ¡°Great! Great call having you handle this.¡± Seears cheered. ¡°Alright, back to the academy. We¡¯re planning our next steps.¡±


    They both started heading to the car again, as Wess stared back at the academy in the distance as they walked.


    ¡°¡­and thanks to yourself.¡± Wess said, drawing Seears¡¯ attention.


    ¡°Sorry?¡±


    ¡°Regarding Antonio. He only would¡¯ve helped you out of your spiral if you let yourself be helped.¡±


    Seears watched Wess as she walked ahead, holding her hands behind her.


    ¡°Often times, accepting that help can be the hardest part.¡± Wess clarified. ¡°And while it takes the right people to get you out of that, you need to respond to it. I would be nothing without my team, but my team wouldn¡¯t have extended a branch if I was nothing.¡±


    ¡°¡­well damn.¡± Seears let out. ¡°I guess I never really looked at it like that.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t pay him back to make you even. Do it as a thank you for all he¡¯s done.¡± Wess clarified, as Seears rubbed his neck.


    ¡°¡­I hate how right you are.¡± Seears agreed, before leaning over and sighing out. ¡°That¡¯s it. I¡¯m gonna propose.¡±


    Wess did a double take. ¡°What?!¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s about time I did. I bought the ring ages ago but never felt like I was worth it to him.¡±


    ¡°That was on the table?!¡±


    ¡°Yeah, didn¡¯t I mention that before?¡±


    ¡°You certainly did not!¡±


    ¡°So you think I shouldn¡¯t?¡±


    ¡°Obviously not! You¡¯d be a moron not to bag that man as soon as possible!¡±


    Seears grabbed out the keys, before snickering to himself. ¡°Hey, Antonio, you have a student to thank for me proposing. No, I probably wouldn¡¯t have asked otherwise. Yes, she does sound very smart.¡±


    ¡°¡­alright, alright. That¡¯s enough compliments for one day.¡± Wess said, slinking into the passenger seat, as they drove back to the academy together.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°For the last time, no!¡±


    ¡°But it¡¯s way easier!¡±


    ¡°It doesn¡¯t work like that!¡± Spence complained. ¡°Returned books go in the return slot, then they get scanned, sorted, assessed for damage, reorganised and redistributed, and then they can be booked out!¡±


    ¡°But what if another teammate wants the textbook for themselves?¡±


    ¡°It still has to be scanned, sorte-¡°


    ¡°But we can just extend it!¡±


    ¡°It doesn¡¯t work like that! It¡¯s under a different name and it confuses the system!¡± Spence groaned, right as the clock hit five, finally giving her an excuse to disengage and start packing up her things. ¡°I don¡¯t make the rules, Sola! I just volunteer here!¡±


    ¡°Well find who does make the rules and make them make better rules!¡± Sola insisted, as Spence left the library the moment she could, beelining for the staff offices while grumbling to herself.


    ¡°Why doesn¡¯t she get it? I¡¯m not trying to be difficult. Just extend it, she says! Like I have the authority!¡±


    Spence stomped her way over to her desk, before landing in her seat and huffing, drawing the attention of Ferris a few desks over.


    Ferris peered over, catching a glimpse of Spence muttering to herself, before deciding to ignore her, only to give it a moment¡¯s thought and get up, wandering over to her desk.


    Spence kept arguing with herself, just as Ferris tapped on the wall behind her.


    ¡°What¡¯s got you in a tizzy?¡±


    Spence breathed loudly out of her nose. ¡°I don¡¯t wanna bother you with this.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Ferris asked, leaning down to meet her eye level. ¡°Cause you¡¯re never this worked up.¡±


    Spence spun her fingers in a circle, before throwing her hands down. ¡°That Sola is so hard to teach! I don¡¯t know what I¡¯m doing wrong!¡±


    Ferris took the opportunity to sit on Spence¡¯s desk, as she worked herself up again. ¡°I try to explain something, and it just bounces off of her! She refutes points, and then I try to explain it again, an-¡°


    ¡°She still doesn¡¯t get it?¡±


    Spence frantically pointed at Ferris in agreement, before sinking into her seat. ¡°¡­I don¡¯t want to speak badly on a student, but my head hurts so much¡­¡±


    Ferris gave a cautious look around the room, before leaning in. ¡°Truth be told, I¡¯ve had the exact same problem.¡±


    Spence shot up. ¡°Really?¡±


    ¡°You should see her during her Whil classes.¡± Ferris admitted. ¡°If you think getting her to organise books is hard, try getting her to control lightning.¡±


    ¡°I couldn¡¯t even imagine.¡± Spence agreed, as Ferris nodded to her.


    ¡°Oh yeah. I had to trap her in a forest with a Wailing just to teach her one lesson.¡± Ferris remarked, getting a chuckle out of Spence.


    ¡°Did you get the Wailing¡¯s cooperation?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, it was actually substituting for me.¡± Ferris joked, getting another laugh from Spence, as Ferris let out a subtle smile. ¡°I just handed it the lesson plan and it took care of the rest.¡±


    Spence kept chuckling, before a thought crossed her mind.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t tell you she was helping me at the library.¡±


    Ferris looked a bit surprised, before staring off to the side. ¡°Context clues.¡±


    Spence grinned. ¡°I¡¯m surprised you remembered I volunteer there when I¡¯m not teaching.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, so I can avoid it.¡± Ferris insisted, biting her tongue. ¡°Libraries are for stupid nerd kids and their taped-up glasses. They only go cause there¡¯s no lockers in there they can be pushed into.¡±


    Spence tried to lock eyes with Ferris again, before turning back around, still holding onto her smile. ¡°Well, thank you for cheering me up.¡±


    ¡°This won¡¯t be a regular thing.¡± Ferris pointed out, leaving her alone. ¡°And don¡¯t go stomping into here again! That¡¯s my job!¡±


    ¡°Sure thing!¡± Spence called out, before finding herself laughing again. ¡°You¡¯re a funny one, Lola¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    *bzzt* *bzzt*


    Julia felt around for her pocket, before pulling out her tablet.


    She suddenly went to grab her bag, as Cecil lifted up his head up from his work.


    ¡°Something the matter?¡±


    Julia pointed back at the wall clock, as Cecil quickly noticed it was already five.


    ¡°Oh, it¡¯s time for you to go. Apologies, I didn¡¯t even notice.¡± Cecil excused. ¡°Well, thank you for today. I know it¡¯s mostly busy work for now, but you¡¯ve still been a great help.¡±


    ¡°Glad I could.¡± Julia said, before heading out the door. ¡°See you later!¡±


    ¡°Bye.¡± Cecil waved, just as Julia closed the door behind her, letting out a heavy and solid breath.


    She rested on the wall briefly, massaging her forehead, as she stared at the ceiling in profound confusion.


    ¡­I can¡¯t get a read on him. Julia admitted to herself. He¡¯s so affable¡­or is that an act? Or was Florey right about him? Was I¡­?


    She stopped herself, before pulling out her tablet again, reading the reminder of Essex leaving for her trip, before heading to the elevator and down to the station.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°How was guard duty?¡±


    Harley punched the air. ¡°Dulce kicks so much ass and I love hanging out with her!¡±


    ¡°¡­that was not the question.¡± Essex replied, as Harley scratched her cheek.


    ¡°Oh, yeah, the guarding part was fine too. I got to chuck a tree again!¡±


    ¡°Lucky! I just got stuck sorting books.¡± Sola admitted.


    ¡°Any good ones?¡± Harley asked.


    ¡°No, just history and geography stuff.¡±


    ¡°Oh, absolute yawnsville, right Harley?¡± Wess remarked, smirking back at her, as Harley ¡®accidentally¡¯ flipped her off while scratching her face.


    ¡°Well, how was your glorified coffee run, Wess?¡± Harley said.


    ¡°Excellent. With how much I¡¯ve helped, I might as well be running the place.¡± Wess retorted, quieting Harley, as Essex quickly joined Harley¡¯s side.


    ¡°¡­at least¡­Harley looked good while doing it.¡± Essex said back, surprising Wess with the sudden dig.


    ¡°E-Excuse me?¡±


    ¡°Oh, get roasted, Wess!¡± Harley let out, jumping onto Essex. ¡°Get her ass!¡±


    ¡°Essex got you so good!¡± Sola added, as Essex attempted a smirk back at Wess.


    Wess¡¯ face started trembling, just as Julia arrived on time at the station, noticing Harley and Sola crowding around Essex and her luggage.


    As she approached, Wess turned around to her, on the verge of tears.


    ¡°Wess?¡±


    ¡°Th-they¡¯re making fun of me, Julia¡­¡±


    ¡°Alright, what¡¯d you guys say to Wess?¡± Julia huffed, holding her side comfortingly, as Harley split off from Essex.


    ¡°Essex got in a good dig. Wess just can¡¯t take what she gives.¡± Harley insisted. ¡°Can you, pillow princess?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t bring that one back!¡± Wess cried, swatting at her, just as the speakers to the station rang out.


    ¡°Next stop: Mykonori. Five minutes to departure.¡±


    ¡°That would be me.¡± Essex let out, before noticing some nervousness in her voice. ¡°It¡­has been a while since I¡¯ve been on my own¡­¡±


    ¡°No need to worry. You¡¯ve got us with you in spirit.¡± Harley insisted, giving a thumbs up. ¡°And a massive fuck off scythe.¡±


    ¡°And Team Avalanche.¡± Sola pointed out. ¡°No Wailing¡¯s touching you with them around!¡±


    Essex turned to Wess suddenly. ¡°A-And I will attempt to¡­network where I can.¡±


    Wess rolled her eyes, before closing the distance and hugging her. ¡°Enjoy yourself. That¡¯s your first priority.¡±


    Wess broke the hug, just as Julia went in for one of her own, before facing Essex proper.


    ¡°Text us if you need. I know you don¡¯t like using your tablet, but we¡¯d love to hear about your trip.¡± Julia insisted, hugging her again. ¡°Also¡­¡±


    Julia leaned in to whisper. ¡°I packed Maxie for you. He can be your good luck charm.¡±


    ¡°¡­thank you.¡± Essex said, before breaking the hug, as the Flash-Rail pulled into the station.


    Before she could even attempt to go on, Harley and Sola quickly and suddenly hugged her together, putting in a lot more energy in than Julia and Wess had.


    ¡°We¡¯re gonna miss you so bad!¡±


    ¡°Come back in one piece!¡±


    ¡°Yeah, don¡¯t come busting down the dorm door with a hook hand and an eyepatch!¡±


    ¡°Unless you wanna be a cool pirate!¡±


    Essex managed to wriggle out from them and get onto the Flash-Rail, before clearing her throat.


    ¡°Well, you two¡­had best¡­keep those butts tight¡­for when I¡¯m back.¡± Essex attempted, winking back at them. ¡°You¡­sexy people.¡±


    Luckily for her, the Flash-Rail doors closed immediately after, just as it went shooting down the tracks, leaving the remainder of Team Valiant behind to watch as it disappeared into the middle distance.


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­she¡¯s so cute¡­¡± Harley let out, starting to tear up.


    ¡°¡­I miss her already¡­¡± Sola agreed, grabbing Harley¡¯s side.


    ¡°It hasn¡¯t even been one minute.¡± Wess groaned, before turning to Julia. ¡°Dear?¡±


    ¡°¡­sh-she better be okay on her own¡­¡± Julia managed, tearing up as well. ¡°She¡¯ll make us worry otherwise¡­¡±


    Essex took her seat, wheeling her bags next to her as images of Daysend sped by in the windows, showing off the careening sunset accompanying her journey.


    She flipped the Aurora Venator Agency business card in her hand, thinking back on her time at the Venator Academy and everything that had led up to this.


    ¡°¡­I didn¡¯t even want to be a Venator¡­¡± She reflected, getting comfortable. ¡°And now I am interning in order to help my team¡­¡±


    Remembering what Julia had said, she reached over to one of her bags and unzipped it, before pulling out Maxie and holding it in front of her, smiling back at his button face.


    ¡°What do you say, Maxie? Do you think this was all worth it?¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­I think so too¡­¡±

 Chapter 50: Kindling

    Virgil took his time wiping down shelves, struggling to reach the higher ones slightly, as his shoulders started to act up a bit.


    ¡°I guess training caught up to me.¡± He remarked, stretching it out. ¡°I have been pushing myself a lot more since Sola started working here...I guess she¡¯s a good influence.¡±


    He got back down from the shelf, before the bell for the front of the store rang out, drawing his attention to the couple coming inside, worriedly glancing around.


    Virgil stepped over to greet them. ¡°Hi. Can I help you with something?¡± Virgil asked, as the woman stepped forward.


    ¡°Sorry to bother you. We were just looking for our daughter.¡± She said, gracefully pulling out a photo from her wallet. ¡°We got into an argument and she stormed out on us.¡±


    ¡°We wanna make things up to her.¡± The man added, holding the woman¡¯s shoulders. ¡°Has she been around here at all?¡±


    Virgil gave the photo another once over. ¡°Not that I¡¯ve seen. I could ask the other shops owners on the street if they¡¯ve seen her.¡±


    ¡°Could you? That¡¯d be greatly appreciated.¡± The woman insisted, nodding emphatically.


    ¡°We don¡¯t know what to do about her. It¡¯s just every little thing can set her off.¡± The man complained, as the woman batted his arm.


    ¡°Come on, dear. You know she¡¯s had a rough time at work.¡± The woman said, before Virgil handed back the photo.


    ¡°Could I get a name?¡± Virgil asked, as the woman playfully smacked her forehead.


    ¡°Oh, of course! Silly me.¡± She said. ¡°Her name is Jules. She¡¯s got brown hair and wears of a lot of plaid, just like her father.¡±


    The man rolled his eyes. ¡°She makes that joke all the time.¡±


    ¡°...right.¡± Virgil said. ¡°Leave your phone number and I¡¯ll call if I see anything.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re an absolute doll. Thank you, really.¡± The woman said, pulling out a slip of paper from her wallet, before turning to leave. ¡°Alright, we can mark the Abandonal Shop off our li...¡±


    The couple left soon after, as Virgil stared at the slip of paper before returning it to his counter, drumming his fingers on it.


    ¡°Well then...¡±


    The couple continued doting on each other, right before they managed to slip out of eyesight, moving themselves into a nearby alleyway.


    The woman straightened her back and pulled out a tablet.


    ¡°¡­how goes the search?¡±


    ¡°Solid. We¡¯ve inspected most of the stores in the business district, but she¡¯s yet to be located. We¡¯ll inspect the rest before moving onto the HyperMall.¡±


    ¡°Good. Report back frequently.¡±


    ¡°Understood.¡± The woman said, before hanging up and sighing out. ¡°We were gonna do that anyway.¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s being thorough.¡± The man remarked. ¡°Apparently, he was quite disappointed in his staff before us.¡±


    ¡°Guess it means we¡¯re being paid more.¡± The woman said, cracking her knuckles, before heading back out. ¡°She¡¯s bound to come up. Come on.¡±


    The couple left soon after, leaving the alleyway completely empty, only for Jules to let go of the breath she was holding onto, falling out from behind a dumpster and onto the ground after her legs had given out.


    She managed to pull herself back, only to hide away again, before realising they¡¯d already left, giving her a sense of limited relief.


    She carefully made her way back out of the alleyway, feeling the lack of food and consistent shelter getting to her, not to mention her reeking outfit she couldn¡¯t get washed.


    Her options were slowly dwindling. There were only so many places she could stay¡­


    ¡­if¡­


    ¡­if she wanted¡­


    ¡­


    Her attention was drawn to the outline of the Venator Academy, just behind the city skyscrapers, as her options slowly shrunk down to just one.


    ¡­I¡¯ve got no choice¡­


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Alright, I¡¯m gonna throw one again.¡±


    ¡°Okay!¡± Sola nodded, pumping her fists, as Julia threw a disc into the air and kept it motionless in the air with her Whil.


    Sola quickly pointed a finger at it, before shooting a small strand of lightning at it, blowing the disc up and scattering its pieces across their area in the training grounds.


    The lightning suddenly started to build, as Sola clasped her hand tight, stopping the flow.


    ¡°Nicely done! That disc is dunzo.¡± Julia supported, as Sola calmed herself down. ¡°You¡¯re getting a lot better.¡±


    ¡°I just wish I could stop it for good.¡± Sola insisted, resting her hands on her hips. ¡°It keeps building, even when I don¡¯t want it to.¡±


    ¡°Well, your cannons seem to keep it under control.¡± Julia pointed out, picking up another disc.


    ¡°Yeah, but that¡¯s not the only thing.¡± Sola noted, lifting her hands up. ¡°I swear my lightning¡¯s gotten bigger since last year.¡±


    Julia tilted her head. ¡°How can you tell?¡±


    ¡°I can tell.¡± Sola assured, pumping her fists. ¡°It¡¯s totally bigger.¡±


    Julia chucked the disc up and down casually. ¡°Maybe it¡¯s cause you¡¯re¡­¡±


    Suddenly, she chucked it. ¡°Getting better!¡±


    Sola zapped it immediately, before realising she didn¡¯t have to stop it building this time, as Julia held out her fist.


    Sola grinned and fist-bumped her, as Julia went for another disc.


    ¡°Come on, we¡¯ve got a good pace going. I¡¯m go-¡° Julia said, just as her tablet buzzed in her pocket.


    She pulled it out, before confusedly staring at the screen.


    ¡°Who¡¯s calling?¡± Sola asked, peering over at the screen.


    ¡°¡­Principal Faller.¡± Julia said, before gulping and taking the call. ¡°¡­hello?¡±


    ¡°Ah, Julia. Hope I¡¯m not catching you at a bad time.¡±


    ¡°¡­no, we¡¯re just doing some training. Did you need something?¡± Julia asked, before Sola indicated she wanted to listen in, as Julia crouched down so Sola could press her ear to the call.


    ¡°Actually, I have a small request for you.¡± Faller said. ¡°There¡¯s a woman here to see you. Her name¡¯s Jules.¡±


    Julia and Sola both turned to each other and mouthed the word ¡®Jules¡¯ in shock, before returning to the call. ¡°H-Here on campus?¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s in one of the spare offices at the moment. I didn¡¯t know if you knew her, so she¡¯s being watched by security.¡± Faller clarified. ¡°Out of curiosity, does this have to do with what happened at EHM?¡±


    Sola quickly shook her head and crossed her arms in protest, as Julia took her advice.


    ¡°Can I tell you in person?¡±


    Julia heard a slight chuckle from Faller. ¡°Good call. I¡¯ll see you up here.¡±


    Faller hung up, as Julia turned to Sola in surprise.


    ¡°She got out¡­¡± Julia managed, before Sola jumped into a hug with her.


    ¡°She got out!!!¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°She actually got out.¡± Harley remarked, staring into the office holding Jules, with her in clearly borrowed clothing and casually sipping a drink. ¡°Holy shit¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m surprised she managed that.¡± Wess added, stroking her chin. ¡°And that she came here of all places¡­¡±


    ¡°HEY!!! HOW¡¯S IT GOING???¡± Sola shouted out, waving to Jules, as Faller entered their room quickly after, followed behind by Julia.


    ¡°She can¡¯t hear or see you. It¡¯s a one-way mirror.¡± Faller explained, drawing the team¡¯s attention.


    ¡°Why do you have an office with a one-way mirror?¡± Wess asked, as Faller shrugged.


    ¡°For times like this.¡± Faller stated, folding his arms. ¡°We don¡¯t know much about her, but she asked for your team specifically, so I put two and two together.¡±


    Julia looked to the others for confirmation before speaking. ¡°She was at EHM when we broke in. She was working for Wicker and wanted to leave, but had to stay behind so we could get out.¡± Julia explained. ¡°We didn¡¯t know what had happened and kind of thought¡­¡±


    Julia left it there, as Faller leaned against a nearby table. ¡°Well, that clears that up.¡±


    He indicated back to her, as she kicked her legs casually. ¡°I tried to get her to talk, but she hasn¡¯t said much so far.¡±


    ¡°Cause she¡¯s mute.¡± Harley noted, as Faller rolled his eyes.


    ¡°Yes, I noticed. I meant figuratively talk.¡± Faller said. ¡°I don¡¯t think she knows if she can trust me.¡±


    ¡°Well, that¡¯s a good sign.¡± Julia noted, surprising Faller. ¡°If she didn¡¯t freak out at the sight of you, at least now we know for sure you¡¯re still not Wicker.¡±


    Faller looked a bit unimpressed, before indicating to the door. ¡°Do you guys mind if I talk with Julia for a second?¡±


    The trio looked at each other awkwardly.


    ¡°I¡­guess not?¡± Harley said, as they soon left the room, with Sola still waving to Jules.


    Julia¡¯s nerves started acting up. ¡°D-Did you not like the Wicker comment?¡±


    Faller shook his head. ¡°I wanted to propose an idea. For the team, but you get the most say.¡±


    Julia carefully nodded her head.


    ¡°¡­let Jules stay with you.¡±


    Julia looked a bit confused, as Faller resettled himself.


    ¡°Just until Essex gets back from her internship.¡± Faller said. ¡°I can¡¯t get anything out of her, and since she knows you, you¡¯re our best chance at learning more about Wicker and their operation.¡±


    Faller waved his hand. ¡°And I know you¡¯re already watching Cecil for us, but just in the likelihood that it¡¯s a dead end¡­we can¡¯t let this opportunity be wasted.¡±


    ¡°S-Sorry, why¡¯s she staying with us?¡± Julia asked.


    ¡°So you can gain her trust. She won¡¯t give up information this sensitive so lightly, especially when she¡¯s not sure who she can trust.¡± Faller pointed out. ¡°Take the next few weeks to befriend her, show her around, talk a little bi-¡°


    ¡°Gain her¡­? We don¡¯t have to be that sneaky. We can just show her photos of the staff and see if she recognises Cecil.¡± Julia pointed out.


    ¡°And if it is him, how do you think she¡¯ll react if she finds out Wicker¡¯s here?¡± Faller noted. ¡°She¡¯ll take the first chance she can to bolt.¡±


    Julia held her tongue, as she agreed to Faller¡¯s point.


    ¡°This is our only opportunity to get information about what¡¯s really going on in the Venator industry. If we want any chance of finding out what they¡¯re up to, we can¡¯t just go after someone we think is Wicker. They have resources, and an entire collective working with them. Getting the answer to one question now would be short-sighted.¡± Faller clarified.


    ¡°¡­yeah.¡± Julia let out.


    ¡°You know her already, right?¡± Faller asked, as Julia nodded back. ¡°Then she must have come here hoping you would help her. We can keep her safe and get the information we need.¡±


    Julia found herself shaking her head. ¡°Faller, I¡¯m¡­I¡¯m not gonna befriend her just to get information out of her.¡± Julia insisted. ¡°It wouldn¡¯t be fair to abuse her trust like that.¡±


    Faller went to raise a point, before massaging his forehead. ¡°¡­would you do it anyway?¡±


    ¡°Not without being transparent to her.¡± Julia declared. ¡°She saved our lives. It¡¯s the least we can do for her.¡±


    ¡°¡­consider it.¡± Faller asked. ¡°Please. I know it might feel wrong, but we don¡¯t get an opportunity like this all the time.¡±


    Julia nodded solemnly, as Faller got up to leave proper, letting Julia take a moment to look back into Jules¡¯ room, quietly enjoying herself.


    ¡­can we even trust you?


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Rosalind was having trouble balancing herself and her sword on top of Florey¡¯s counter, especially as he tried to get his work done around her. Admittedly, she was staying out of his way, but that didn¡¯t make it any less distracting for Florey.


    He tried to keep his gaze on a set of beakers, all with varying amounts of liquid in them, only to catch Rosalind in the corner of his eye, keeping herself busy.


    ¡°¡­so¡­¡± Florey started, worried about even starting a conversation with her. ¡°Not to¡­tell you how to do your job¡­¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Rosalind shot back, not looking at him. ¡°You complaining that I haven¡¯t gotten a Wailing yet?¡±


    ¡°¡­no, no, not really, uhh¡­¡± Florey muttered, turning himself back to her. ¡°Is there a reason, at least?¡±


    Rosalind focused on balancing her sword on the back of her hand. ¡°Gelatinous Wailing are stupidly rare, especially one¡¯s that are fully gelatinous like you want, apparently. I get to wait until a report comes in about one so that we can go and capture it.¡±


    ¡°¡­you don¡¯t¡­I mean, if you don¡¯t want to hang around here¡­¡± Florey suggested, right as Rosalind dropped her sword and gripped the handle. ¡°Like, if you¡¯ve got more important things to do than just sitting here, watching me work, I¡¯m not gonna force you to stay.¡±


    Rosalind sneered. ¡°Right now, you¡¯re my boss.¡±


    Rosalind pointed her katana right at Florey.


    ¡°I don¡¯t like it, but that¡¯s what¡¯s happening.¡±


    Rosalind stood up on the counter before walking off, just as Florey quickly went to wipe down where she¡¯d stepped.


    ¡°Uhh, Marcus doesn¡¯t like this place getting dirty.¡± Florey explained, as Rosalind lay against one of the counters.


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to tell me twice.¡± Rosalind admitted, staring around, before looking at the autopsy room curiously. ¡°Hey. Florey.¡±


    Florey raised his head. ¡°Uhuh?¡±


    ¡°What¡¯re you gonna do with it once you¡¯ve got it?¡±


    Florey¡¯s eyes lit up. ¡°Well, if I get the chance, I want to study its behaviour and some of the traits of its gelatinous nature, and after that, I want to perform a full autopsy on i-¡°


    ¡°An autopsy?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s the idea.¡±


    ¡°On a sentient water balloon?¡±


    Florey blinked. ¡°Yeah?¡±


    Rosalind scratched her nose. ¡°Gelatinous Wailing dissipate the moment they die.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I know that.¡± Florey admitted, going back to his work.


    ¡°So do you have a plan to help dissect it?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m¡­kinda working on one¡­¡± Florey admitted, a sheepishness in his voice, as Rosalind glared at him.


    This narrative has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. If you see it on Amazon, please report it.


    ¡°You told the bosses you could do this without even knowing if you could?¡±


    Florey deliberately kept his back to her, before laughing awkwardly.


    ¡°Yeah¡­but you said they¡¯re rare, so we¡¯ve got plenty of time until that comes up.¡± Florey pointed out, as Rosalind scoffed and went back to balancing her sword. ¡°You don¡¯t have to worry. I know Wailing biology, this¡¯ll be done in no time.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s how mental breakdowns start, kid.¡± Rosalind remarked, now wandering around the lab with her sword. ¡°Hey, feel like balancing this on your tongue?¡±


    Florey stared back at her, trying to make out her intentions.


    ¡°You¡¯re joking, right?¡±


    ¡°¡­sure.¡± Rosalind replied, sighing in frustration, before heading to the elevator. ¡°I¡¯m getting stuff from my car. If a Wailing¡¯s reported while I¡¯m gone, you handle it.¡±


    Rosalind left right before Florey could ask whether this was a joke as well, leaving him to anxiously debate whether he¡¯d actually have to do that or not.


    ¡­where the hell did she come from? Florey wondered, leaning on his own counter. What interesting company you keep, Cecil¡­


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°¡­so?¡±


    Julia stared at the other three expectantly, as they mulled over her question.


    ¡°¡­come on, nothing?¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re just thinking, dear.¡± Wess insisted. ¡°It¡¯s a lot to consider.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll say¡­¡± Harley agreed, as Sola nodded along.


    ¡°Yeah.¡± Sola added. ¡°I mean, she¡¯s obviously taking Essex¡¯s bed, but it¡¯ll be kinda awkward to get her out when we need to change.¡±


    Harley and Wess stared at her in confused silence, as Sola blinked.


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°You think we should take her in?¡± Julia asked, as Sola nodded emphatically.


    ¡°Yeah! Why not?¡± Sola insisted. ¡°She helped us escape from EHM! And she got us our weapons when the school was being attacked!¡±


    ¡°And she was working for Wicker.¡± Harley noted, only for Sola to shake her head.


    ¡°Nuh uh! She didn¡¯t like Wicker! She wanted to leave with us!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m kinda with Sola. Aside from the Wicker connection, there¡¯s not much to be suspicious about.¡± Julia pointed out, as Wess raised a finger.


    ¡°What are the odds that she broke out on her own? We saw first-hand how difficult it was to escape.¡± Wess noted. ¡°And I¡¯m sure someone like Wicker would¡¯ve hired some goons to take care of anyone who tried to leave their clutches, not to mention Rosalind.¡±


    ¡°Rosalind nearly ran us over, and Jules just wandered out one day, after we escaped?¡± Harley said, shaking her head. ¡°If you want my take, that¡¯s pretty suspicious.¡±


    ¡°But that doesn¡¯t mean we can¡¯t trust her. You and Essex wouldn¡¯t have gotten away if she didn¡¯t hold Rosalind up.¡± Julia noted. ¡°She saved your life.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, you¡¯re right, and if you say she¡¯s staying with us, I¡¯ll bite my tongue.¡± Harley insisted. ¡°But I¡¯m siding with big brain Wess on this one. It¡¯s too convenient for me.¡±


    ¡°¡­the nickname¡¯s unnecessary, but thank you Harley.¡± Wess said, leaning back into the couch.


    ¡°Well, I don¡¯t see why we should turn away someone in need.¡± Sola pouted, turning away. ¡°I wanna help her¡­¡±


    ¡°And I do too.¡± Julia said, before leaning down to Sola. ¡°But Harley and Wess have a point. If we start blindly trusting people, Wicker¡¯s gonna have a really easy time getting to us. I say we give it a day. Think on it, talk with her face-to-face and make a decision then.¡±


    ¡°¡­fine.¡± Sola let out, huffing out.


    ¡°So Faller wants us because we have a prior relationship with her?¡± Wess asked, as Julia nodded back. ¡°Well¡­that¡¯s somewhat gaudy. Frankly, I couldn¡¯t see us abusing anyone¡¯s trust like that.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s what I was saying!¡± Julia insisted, joining her on the couch.


    ¡°Maybe he really is Wicker.¡± Harley joked, getting a guilty laugh from Wess. ¡°I guess those¡¯re the tough calls someone like him¡¯s gotta make.¡±


    ¡°¡­he should still treat her like a person.¡± Sola reasoned, folding her arms. ¡°I thought he was nice¡­¡±


    Julia shared a sympathetic glance with Sola, before scratching her cheek. ¡°I think the real question here is should we tell Essex.¡±


    ¡°Ooh, best not.¡± Wess insisted. ¡°Knowing her, she¡¯ll come back here in an instant and take matters into her own hands faster than we can explain things.¡±


    ¡°And we don¡¯t want to stress her out while she¡¯s travelling alone.¡± Harley noted. ¡°¡­I still miss her.¡±


    ¡°It feels weird not having her around.¡± Sola admitted. ¡°Maybe Jules can fill that void for a bit?¡±


    Sola immediately got an idea and turned to Julia. ¡°Should we get her a suit?!¡±


    ¡°¡­no?¡± Julia replied, as Sola pouted again. ¡°You can buy her an actual gift, if you want. You¡¯ve been saving up a fair bit working at Virgil¡¯s place. It might be nice to get her a¡­congrats on escaping¡­gift.¡±


    ¡°Oh yeah! I forgot I¡¯ve got money now!¡± Sola confessed, before staring at the calendar and freaking out. ¡°Oh no! I forgot about my shift today! I got distracted by Jules!¡±


    ¡°Another point in the con column.¡± Harley remarked, before getting looks from everyone. ¡°What? Am I wrong?¡±


    Virgil stared down at his paperwork, running over a couple expense reports idly, all while the Abandonal Shop saw very little in terms of customers.


    This meant whenever the bell the front door rang, it usually warranted his attention, like when Sola came bursting in.


    ¡°Hey, Virgil!¡±


    Virgil lifted his head from his counter, as he spotted Sola coming into his store. ¡°Afternoon, Sola. Cutting it a bit close.¡±


    ¡°Sorry. Some personal stuff happened at the academy.¡± Sola explained, before nodding her head. ¡°But I won¡¯t talk about it cause it¡¯ll sound like I¡¯m bragging about going there.¡±


    Virgil let out a gentle smile. ¡°If you say so. Your uniform¡¯s in the back.¡±


    ¡°Thanks.¡± Sola replied, hopping over. ¡°Has it been busy today?¡±


    Virgil tapped his finger to his chin. ¡°Not especially. I used it as an excuse to finally clean up behind the back shelves.¡±


    ¡°Nice! Those shelves were so filthy.¡± Sola let out, walking into the back of the store, before spotting something on the store notice board by Virgil¡¯s head.


    She pulled off a photo of Jules, as Virgil noticed and turned around.


    ¡°Something the matter?¡±


    ¡°Where¡¯d you get the photo?¡± Sola asked, facing it back to him.


    ¡°Oh. A couple came in the other day saying they were looking for their daughter.¡± Virgil explained, leaning in as he spoke. ¡°She ran away from home, apparently. Do you know her?¡±


    Sola went to speak, before shaking her head. ¡°What¡¯d the couple look like?¡±


    Virgil thought back on it, before giving an earnest shrug. ¡°Non-descript?¡±


    ¡°¡­okay.¡± Sola said, pinning the photo back up, before getting an idea and taking out her tablet, snapping a quick photo.


    ¡°You seem pretty invested in the photo of a person you don¡¯t know.¡± Virgil pointed out, as Sola started to sweat, before he turned back around to the paperwork he was in the middle of. ¡°But that¡¯s hardly my business. Don¡¯t forget to unpack and ticket the new Team Daybreak merch.¡±


    ¡°¡­gotcha, boss.¡± Sola said, heading into the back, before sending a quick text to Julia with the photo and an explanation.


    It took a minute to get back a response.


    Julia [Thanks, Sola. This might¡¯ve just made our decision clearer.]


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Florey kept his gaze on his beakers, keeping an intense focus on whether any change came about from the mixing of liquids, ready for any reaction that might occur¡­


    ¡­meanwhile, Rosalind lay on top of one of the counters, staring at him in annoyance.


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­son of a¡­¡± Rosalind grumbled, before banging her fist down and freaking Florey out, getting up right after. ¡°Fuck me, this is boring¡­¡±


    Florey noticed the beakers shaking and grabbed them to keep them still, before Rosalind jumped up from the table.


    ¡°I¡¯m losing it. This is the most mind-numbing¡­¡± She groaned, before grabbing her sword and pointing to Florey. ¡°You. Come on.¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m hungry. We¡¯re grabbing food.¡± Rosalind announced, heading for the door, as Florey watched her leave. ¡°I need a change of scenery, and you¡¯re technically in charge. Hurry up.¡±


    Florey¡¯s pupils shrank, as he debated with himself whether he should stay or try and wrangle Rosalind back, before giving into his fear instead and deciding to follow her.


    ¡°¡­you know the worst part of cafes? No candy.¡± Rosalind noted, grabbing a bag of lollipops from the grocery store shelf. ¡°Everyone insists on going there for chats, but they¡¯ve only got those fancy little desserts and finger sandwiches.¡±


    Florey was desperately trying to keep his cool, as she held the bag up and inspected the packaging.


    ¡°¡­guacamole and salsa flavour.¡± Rosalind read aloud, scratching her chin. ¡°Huh.¡±


    ¡°H-Hey, Rosalind?¡± Florey started, nervously glancing around their shared aisle. ¡°Shouldn¡¯t we have told Marcus or Cecil we w-were gonna leave in the middle of work?¡±


    ¡°No.¡± Rosalind argued, immediately ripping into the bag and briefly freaking Florey out.


    ¡°Uhh, you haven¡¯t¡­paid for those.¡± Florey muttered, as Rosalind worked at the lollipop wrapping.


    ¡°Yeah, I¡¯ll pay for them later, you nark.¡± Rosalind complained, sticking one in her mouth. ¡°We¡¯ve gotta go past the counter to leave, right?¡±


    Immediately she took it back out, before staring at it.


    ¡°What the fuck, why is this good?¡± Rosalind exclaimed, putting it back in, as Florey tried to distract himself with the food in the aisle.


    Aren¡¯t I in charge of her? Shouldn¡¯t I pull rank? Florey wondered, before glancing back at Rosalind¡¯s intimidating presence again. Wouldn¡¯t she kill me for that?


    ¡°God, I wanna fuck this bag of lollipops. Why does is taste so fucking good?¡± Rosalind let out, before spotting the register and grabbing several more bags. ¡°Come on, I¡¯m getting these.¡±


    She started wandering off on her own again, excitedly waving the bags of lollipops around, as Florey thought about following right after her, before deciding to speak up instead.


    ¡°H-Hey.¡± He let out, as she turned around, before he held out another bag of his own. ¡°I¡­I might as well get one too. While I¡¯m here.¡±


    Rosalind stared at him blankly, before indicating to the register. ¡°Cool. I¡¯m not paying for yours.¡±


    ¡°I¡­yeah, I wasn¡¯t gonna¡­¡± Florey let out, following behind her, as they approached the counter together.


    Rosalind got her bags rung up, as Florey went to do so too, all while Rosalind scanned over the perpetually worried expression on Florey¡¯s face, nervously glancing back at her every chance he could get.


    ¡°¡­so¡­what¡¯s that theory you got about the Wailing?¡± Rosalind asked, crossing her arms. ¡°The gelatinous ones.¡±


    ¡°O-Oh¡­¡± Florey let out, facing her again. ¡°You actually¡­?¡±


    ¡°I might as well know. I¡¯m working with you for the foreseeable future.¡± Rosalind stated, as Florey¡¯s face immediately lit up right as he began to speak.


    ¡°Right! Well, Gelatinous Wailing are a recent phenomenon, but we know virtually no reason as to why they¡¯ve appeared. However, I¡¯ve got a hypothesis.¡± Florey prefaced, before grabbing his bag. ¡°Gelatinous Wailing are a mutation caused by a disease in the Wailing.¡±


    Rosalind kept staring at him, not really seeing what he was seeing, before Florey felt he should keep talking.


    ¡°Y-You see, Gelatinous Wailing aren¡¯t their own thing. Some Wailing are only partially gelatinous, meaning it¡¯s something a regular Wailing can become. There¡¯s also some kind of correlation with Gelatinous Wailing and ¡®magic,¡¯ since all the ones reported seemed to have possessed it, but only in small quantities.¡± Florey explained, as they left the grocery store and started heading back to the EHM building. ¡°So why is it that Gelatinous Wailing all seem to have at least some ¡®magic?¡¯¡±


    Rosalind rummaged around her already opened bag for the other flavour, before popping it into her mouth alongside the other one. ¡°Don¡¯t all Wailing have magic though?¡±


    Florey wagged his finger. ¡°That¡¯s not always the case. Some Wailing just don¡¯t have it.¡± Florey reasoned, grabbing a lollipop of his own. ¡°Remember that Wailing that attacked the HyperMall a few years back? Apparently, that didn¡¯t have magic of any kind.¡±


    ¡°...oh...yeah. I forgot about that one.¡± Rosalind said, scratching her nose awkwardly. ¡°Guess it isn¡¯t that weird...¡±


    Florey nodded back to her, before trying the lollipop and immediately gagging at the flavour, as Rosalind noticed.


    He tried to hide his disdain for it, before she stuck out her hand to him.


    ¡°I¡¯ll take ¡®em.¡± She offered, as he handed over the bag, before she grabbed her sunglasses once they were out of the shade. ¡°Don¡¯t Gelatinous Wailing act all weird with Whils and stuff too?¡±


    Florey nodded. ¡°For some reason, they¡¯re really sensitive to them and it¡¯s one of the only things that can kill them for sure.¡±


    Rosalind clicked her tongue. ¡°Guess it makes sense. Whils and ¡®magic¡¯ are real similar.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s actually a common misconception.¡± Florey corrected, as they reached the EHM carpark. ¡°While they do act similar, they have very different properties.¡±


    Florey started counting on his fingers. ¡°¡®Magic¡¯ generates heat, which is why the visible veins on the Wailing glow, and is separate to their cardiovascular system.¡± Florey reasoned, having reached the main entrance to EHM. ¡°Meanwhile, Whilvin, the substance that lets people use Whils, acts as a companion to our blood, sorta...flowing through it. And, obviously, it doesn¡¯t generate heat.¡±


    Florey lifted a finger. ¡°In reality, humans and Wailing are very complex creatures, so we most likely have a common ancestor. And as the Wailing Conflict¡¯s progressed, we started to rediscover these abilities as an evolutionary advantage to keep up with the Wailing¡¯s strength. Kinda like how some moths have snake patterns on their wings.¡±


    Florey waved his hand around once they reached the elevator, as he was visibly proud of himself. ¡°That¡¯s probably where Behemoth Wailing came from as well. As the Venator industry started to grow, Wailing had to get stronger to keep up with Venator teams, and then our Whils got stronger to combat them, and so on.¡±


    ¡°Then Gelatinous Wailing started popping up more?¡± Rosalind reasoned, as Florey pointed back at her.


    ¡°Exactly.¡± Florey remarked. ¡°It¡¯s just an evolutionary arms race.¡±


    The elevator opened up, as they both got on and rode it to the top floor, letting Rosalind grab another lollipop.


    ¡°I see why Cecil likes you now.¡± Rosalind remarked, turning back around to him. ¡°You both love talking a lot. You¡¯re like a walking encyclopedia.¡±


    ¡°¡­w-well¡­I wanna be a biologist¡­¡± Florey defended, trying to get his confidence back up. ¡°It makes sense I should know about this stuff.¡±


    ¡°Is that why you don¡¯t have friends to talk to?¡± Rosalind commented, offending Florey.


    ¡°I¡­do. I just¡­whatever¡­¡± He ended, backing down, as they arrived back at the lab. ¡°Let¡¯s get back to work already.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°¡­I still don¡¯t know about this.¡± Wess chimed in, pursing her lips. ¡°We know so little about her¡­¡±


    ¡°But we know her ¡®parents¡¯ are fake.¡± Julia insisted. ¡°We saw her at EHM. There¡¯s no way to explain that away.¡±


    ¡°Maybe she¡¯s just real good at deception.¡± Harley pointed out, before tapping her nose. ¡°Kinda like a certain Wicker we know.¡±


    ¡°Come on, Harley. Look at her.¡± Sola bemoaned, indicating into the office holding Jules through the one-way mirror. ¡°She¡¯s so not evil. Wicker¡¯s people are looking for her.¡±


    ¡°¡­we might as well start the interrogation.¡± Wess said, before resting her hand on Julia¡¯s shoulder. ¡°Ready, dear?¡±


    ¡°¡­I think so.¡± Julia muttered, as she headed to the door. ¡°If I start flailing about, you can assume Wicker¡¯s given her poison or something.¡±


    ¡°No way she¡¯s trying anything.¡± Harley declared, flexing to Julia. ¡°You got that?¡±


    Julia nodded, grabbing the door handle. Just as she opened the door, Jules immediately perked up and got out of her seat, before hugging Julia warmly.


    Julia took a second to take it in, before Jules broke the hug and started signing.


    [You¡¯re okay. I was worried that you hadn¡¯t gotten out.] Jules admitted. [How¡¯ve you been?]


    ¡°Uhh, pretty good.¡± Julia remarked. ¡°You know, considering everything¡­Essex got an internship.¡±


    Jules smiled. [Good for her. Did her arm heal up after you got out?]


    ¡°Yeah, yeah it did. How¡¯d you make it out?¡± Julia asked, as Jules¡¯ demeanour changed very quickly.


    [¡­I don¡¯t¡­I don¡¯t really want to talk about it¡­] Jules confessed. [It was hard enough to put myself through once¡­]


    ¡°Right. Sola¡­found out that some people might be looking for you.¡± Julia said, as Jules nodded back knowingly.


    [They¡¯re working for Wicker.] Jules confessed. [They¡¯re the reason I came here. It was the only place I could think of that Wicker wouldn¡¯t think to look.]


    [Good idea.] Julia signed back, before leaning in. ¡°Do you know if you were followed?¡±


    Jules nodded proudly. [I managed to shake them off. I¡¯m kind of a ghost at the moment.]


    Julia found herself smiling a little, before speaking again. ¡°I wish I could say we¡¯re all happy to see you, but¡­Harley and Wess don¡¯t know whether to trust you or not. They think you could still be working for Wicker.¡±


    Jules went to protest, before quieting herself and shrugging. [I don¡¯t blame them. My word¡¯s only so good.]


    Having prepared her, Julia resettled in her seat. ¡°¡­Principal Faller also gave us an option to help you. He asked if you could stay with us for a bit so that we could learn about Wicker.¡±


    Jules¡¯ pleasant expression started to dissipate.


    ¡°But I didn¡¯t want to do it without your permission.¡± Julia insisted. ¡°While we do wanna know more about them, your safety¡¯s more important right now. Essex is in the Eastern Wayside, so we have the space for you.¡±


    [¡­if I give up the information¡­]


    Julia shook her head. ¡°That was Faller¡¯s idea. But if you need it, we¡¯ll let you stay in our room until we find a more permanent living arrangement. And hopefully, we¡¯ll find some way to shake Wicker for good.¡±


    Jules¡¯ eyes lit up at the suggestion.


    [¡­so¡­can I still stay with you e-even if I don¡¯t say anything?] Jules asked, as Julia nodded back firmly. [But I-I don¡¯t want to take advantage of your kindness.]


    ¡°Who¡¯s taking advantage?¡± Julia said, smiling back to her. [We¡¯re happy to help.]


    Jules started smiling awkwardly, before scratching her head. [¡­I don¡¯t really have a choice, huh? I saved you guys, so it¡¯s only fair you pay me back.]


    Julia grinned back at her, heading up to leave, before Jules grabbed her shoulder suddenly.


    [H-Hey¡­] Jules started. [¡­just, before anything else¡­]


    Julia turned to give her attention.


    [¡­can you¡­can you call me Percy¡­f-from now on?]


    Julia stared at her a bit confusedly, before giving a happy thumbs up.


    ¡°Whatever you need¡­Percy.¡±


    Julia stepped out of the office and right into the rest of Team Valiant, all staring expectantly at her.


    ¡°What did she seem like?¡±


    ¡°You reckon she¡¯s bad news?¡±


    ¡°Did she get out okay?¡±


    Julia blinked, before pointing back at the door. ¡°You can ask her yourself.¡±


    The trio blinked too, before readying themselves to head inside.


    ¡°Oh, and¡­she wants to be called Percy.¡± Julia added. ¡°Just so you know.¡±


    Taking in the news, they all slowly stepped inside, right as Harley and Wess were nearly toppled by Sola running past and hugging her.


    ¡°You made it out! Way to go, you!¡± Sola cheered, as Percy happily accepted the hug.


    [I couldn¡¯t just stay. We promised to leave together.] Percy insisted, as Sola smiled up at her.


    ¡°Wicker can suck a fat one! You sure showed ¡®em!¡± Sola exclaimed, before Harley pulled her back somewhat.


    ¡°Or did you?¡± Harley asked, deflating Percy¡¯s enjoyment. ¡°Admit it, you¡¯re spying for Wicker.¡±


    Percy¡¯s eyes drooped, before she signed again.


    [No.]


    ¡°So you won¡¯t admit it then?¡±


    [I¡¯m not spying for Wicker.]


    ¡°¡­not even a bit?¡±


    [What do you think?]


    ¡°¡­I think there¡¯s no good reason to believe you.¡± Harley insisted. ¡°Other than the fact Sola likes you. And Julia. And that you saved me and Essex from Rosalind¡­¡±


    Harley stopped herself briefly, before reaffirming her frustration. ¡°As a perfect cover.¡±


    ¡°Babe¡­¡± Sola let out, pulling her aside, as Wess stepped forward.


    ¡°Forgive me, it¡¯s nothing personal.¡± Wess said, sticking out her hand. ¡°But I plan to stay tight-lipped around you.¡±


    Percy reached out and shook it, before pulling her hand back and grinning.


    [Same here.] Percy joked.


    ¡°¡­well then.¡± Wess remarked. ¡°Hopefully, we find you¡¯re one worth trusting.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll say.¡± Julia added, prodding Wess¡¯ side, just as Percy got a glimpse of the team together, all playing off of each other, before finding herself giggling silently.


    Julia noticed and tilted her head. ¡°What¡¯s so funny?¡±


    Percy wiped a small tear away.


    [It¡¯s good to see you all so happy¡­]


    She kept laughing, lying against the table, as it was clear she was truly happy to be where she was, even if only for a little bit.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°¡­okay.¡± Rosalind let out, holding both flavours of lollipop out in front of her. ¡°Salsa¡¯s the better one, but the guacamole helps reset the palette so it¡¯s not too spicy. The trick¡¯s to start with salsa and periodically move over to guac in order to get the best of both.¡±


    Rosalind stared at Florey, now back to analysing his beakers of fluid, before smacking his arm. ¡°Looks like you¡¯re not the only scientist here, huh?


    Florey lazily glanced at her. ¡°You want me to write down your results?¡±


    Rosalind mockingly laughed back at him, before putting the lollipops back in her mouth, kicking her legs on top of the counter and staring out of the skylight.


    ¡°You still didn¡¯t tell me your theory.¡± She mentioned, catching Florey¡¯s attention. ¡°You mentioned a disease, but you didn¡¯t elaborate.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± Florey let out, sticking his head back up. ¡°I¡­was worried it would come off as too technical.¡±


    Rosalind sat up to look at him. ¡°You sayin¡¯ I¡¯m stupid?¡±


    ¡°N-No, definitely not that.¡± Florey let out, starting to sweat. ¡°J-Just that it would be boring, and I¡¯ve already talked a lot of theory today. You know, walking encyclopedia¡­¡±


    Rosalind grabbed her sword, before poking Florey¡¯s chest with the handle. ¡°Try me, I¡¯ll take it.¡±


    Florey looked put on the spot, as he felt the need to speak. ¡°O-Okay, sure. Uhh, disease, right¡­¡±


    He took a second to collect himself. ¡°Well, like I said earlier, Gelatinous Wailing didn¡¯t come from nowhere, they¡¯re a mutation of Wailing, one¡¯s with far lower constitution. Their bodies can¡¯t hold shape, so limbs and organs change on a whim.¡±


    Florey suddenly recalled something and went to grab out a notebook from a pile of them near one of the storage cabinets. ¡°If the Wailing¡¯s physicality dissipates over time, and it¡¯s spread throughout their bodies, wouldn¡¯t it make sense for it to be a disease that takes advantage of low constitutions and weak ¡®magic?¡¯ One that only affects Wailing?¡±


    ¡°¡­cause otherwise we¡¯d have it too?¡± Rosalind suggested, as Florey snapped his fingers.


    ¡°Right¡­and I think it¡¯s tied to their ¡®magic.¡¯ What if it¡¯s a pathogen that¡¯s only present in their streams of ¡®magic,¡¯ and it can¡¯t affect us since we don¡¯t have it?¡± Florey pointed out, pulling up a couple images of Gelatinous Wailing surrounded by scribbled notes. ¡°Better yet, what if we could find a way to use this to our benefit?¡±


    Rosalind raised an eyebrow. ¡°You suggesting biological warfare?¡±


    Florey looked visibly upset by the idea and shook his head. ¡°No, of course not. Nothing that severe. But if we knew what it was and how to use it, it might let us depower the Wailing and stop them from being so destructive. We wouldn¡¯t need to fight them anymore, and the conflict could end without any more bloodshed.¡±


    Rosalind tapped her foot against the counter, mulling over Florey¡¯s words.


    ¡°¡­weirdly noble goal for an autopsy.¡± She remarked, before pointing to her neck. ¡°I¡¯m surprised you want a peaceful solution considering that baby there.¡±


    Florey realised she was indicating to the large scar running up his neck, as she leaned back. ¡°Got it from a Wailing, didn¡¯t you? Figured you¡¯d want payback for something like that.¡±


    ¡°¡­I-I¡¯ve never been one for fighting.¡± Florey admitted, touching his fingers together. ¡°Ideally, I just want the Wailing to leave us alone, stop being a threat all together. Of course, there¡¯s no reasoning with them¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­uhuh.¡± Rosalind let out, hopping off the counter, before stretching out. ¡°I¡¯d find the thing responsible and gut them, but that¡¯s just me.¡±


    ¡°¡­that¡¯s just you.¡± Florey reiterated, right as Rosalind started leaving for the exit, not even giving a reason for ditching this time.


    As she was heading out, she turned back to Florey, her face still mostly expressionless.


    ¡°Hey Florey.¡±


    He snapped back to look at her, as she spoke up.


    ¡°You¡¯re a nerd.¡±


    She left right after, as Florey tried to make out the intention behind such a weird exit.


    What the heck did she mean by that? He wondered, letting himself take a break while staring out the skylight. ¡­maybe that was just it.


    Out of curiosity, he stared at the counter she was lying on, before cautiously checking around and climbing onto it himself, as he lay down where she was.


    I may not know if she likes me or not¡­ Florey thought. ¡­but it¡¯s still nice to have some kind of friend.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°This is it. Your temporary home.¡± Julia greeted, opening the dorm door for her and Percy. ¡°I was gonna say don¡¯t get too comfortable, but honestly, it¡¯s up to you.¡±


    Percy glanced around the room excitedly, taking everything in again, as Julia stood in the middle of the room.


    ¡°Kitchen and bathroom¡¯s to the left, and we¡¯ve got a balcony view of the training grounds.¡± Julia said. ¡°Do you need any food? I can whip something up.¡±


    [Do you have any meringue?] Percy asked immediately, throwing Julia off.


    ¡°Uhh¡­I can check?¡± Julia pondered, watching her wander around. ¡°You haven¡¯t been here before, right?¡±


    Percy shook her head. [It¡¯s been over a year, though. The last time I was here, the academy was under attack.] Percy pointed out, as Julia blushed awkwardly.


    ¡°I guess that would make things a bit weird. Fortunately, we haven¡¯t had one for a while.¡± Julia said, just as Percy pressed her hand to the couch.


    [I can just sleep on the couch if you want.] Percy insisted, as Julia opened the door to the study.


    ¡°No way, Essex¡¯s bed is free. Go ahead.¡± Julia insisted. ¡°And tell me if it gets too hot. We can adjust the heating for you.¡±


    Percy went to claim the space, before stopping herself and finding her face heating up slightly.


    Julia quickly noticed, before resting a hand on Percy¡¯s shoulder in comfort, as Percy took a second to compose herself and wipe a tear away.


    [Thank you¡­]


    Julia smiled back.


    [You¡¯re welcome.]

 Chapter 51: Hearth

    ¡°I¡¯m a pancake lady¡­making them cakes¡­I give the batter a stir¡­and the bowl a shake¡­do dodo do¡­¡±


    Julia kept singing to herself, as she worked on her pancake batter, just as the sun was making itself more known in the dorm.


    ¡°Then we add blueberries¡­everyone likes that¡­I pour it in the pan¡­and the batter goes splat!¡±


    ¡°Woah! Pancakes!¡± Sola exclaimed, jumping right out of bed as the smell hit her. ¡°Gimme gimme gimme!¡±


    ¡°Wait.¡± Julia said, holding up a finger, before laying it out on a plate. ¡°There you go.¡±


    ¡°Thank you!¡± Sola let out, hopping over to the table, before scanning around the room. ¡°Where¡¯s Harley and Wess?¡±


    ¡°They needed some help with their weapons before your guys mission, so they went to see Jovie.¡± Julia explained, laying a few more out on some other plates. ¡°Harley¡¯s Buster Knuckles are on the fritz.¡±


    ¡°No surprises there.¡± Sola said, taking a huge bite out of her pancakes, right as she spotted the door to the study open up.


    Out stepped Percy, visibly disoriented from the light and wearing what looked to be Julia¡¯s pyjamas, before spotting Sola waving to her from across the room.


    ¡°Ri roomir!¡± Sola exclaimed, before swallowing. ¡°How was your first night?¡±


    Percy hesitated a bit, before signing back to her. [Kinda stuffy¡­]


    ¡°Hey, guess what I¡¯ve cooked up?¡± Julia bragged, before showing off breakfast to her. ¡°I figured you¡¯d want a welcome meal.¡±


    Percy¡¯s eyes lit up, as she rushed over to grab the plate from Julia, only to stop herself.


    Julia smiled, before handing it to her fully, as she went to grab the other plate.


    ¡°I¡¯m gonna go see if Vanguard want some too. Be back in a sec!¡± Julia called out, as Percy went to join Sola at the table, only to stand awkwardly in the kitchen and lean on the counter instead.


    Sola noticed and pulled out a chair for her, which Percy awkwardly stared at for a second, before taking.


    Sola indicated to the pancakes, then to Julia heading out the door. ¡°Pretty good wake up, huh?¡±


    Percy nodded a bit nervously, taking slow bites of her breakfast, as Sola rested her head in her hands.


    ¡°She¡¯s a real one in a million¡­I didn¡¯t even ask her to make any, and she just did it.¡± Sola let out, smiling to herself. ¡°Man, I¡¯m lucky.¡±


    Percy couldn¡¯t help but agree in her head, as she focused on eating and trying not to cry from how good it tasted after so long without good food.


    Julia stepped over the hallway to Vanguard¡¯s door, knocking on it rhythmically.


    ¡°Hold on! I¡¯m coming!¡±


    A second later, Joleicia opened up the door and lit up once she saw Julia. ¡°Hey, Julia!¡±


    ¡°Hey, Joleicia. I was jus¡­¡± Julia started, only to notice Joleicia¡¯s apron, as well as the plate of pancakes in her hand.


    Joleicia noticed Julia¡¯s plate as well, before grinning.


    ¡°Oh my god!¡±


    ¡°Were you¡­?¡±


    ¡°I was totally about to come over and offer some! Is that¡­?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s what I¡¯m doing right now.¡±


    ¡°Wha-is it National Pancake Day? Did I forget?¡±


    Julia started laughing. ¡°I don¡¯t think that¡¯s real.¡±


    ¡°Well, it is now. What¡¯s the date?¡± Joleicia said, pulling out her tablet, as Julia couldn¡¯t hold it together, almost dropping the pancakes.


    Joleicia noticed and helped hold her up, before spotting Sola and Percy wandering past the doorway and out onto the balcony, as Joleicia briefly locked eyes with Percy.


    ¡°Whoa.¡± Joleicia let out, as Julia followed her gaze and turned around. ¡°Who¡¯s she? Wait, let me guess¡­a special guest of Harley¡¯s?¡±


    ¡°Uhh, good guess.¡± Julia replied, before mentally running through how to explain everything and facing Joleicia again. ¡°She¡¯s¡­staying with us. For the time being.¡±


    ¡°Is she a student?¡± Joleicia asked, as Julia shook her head.


    ¡°No, it¡¯s¡­Wicker related.¡± Julia admitted. ¡°We¡¯re keeping her safe from them. She might have info on who they are, so Faller wanted us to take care of her.¡±


    Joleicia noticed Percy glancing back at her occasionally, visibly nervous in her eyes, before resting a hand on her hip. ¡°She looks pretty jumpy.¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s not super comfortable at the moment. We¡¯re trying to be accommodating, but it still feels like we¡¯re¡­¡± Julia started, before shrugging her shoulders. ¡°¡­probing her for information?¡±


    Joleicia looked down at the pancakes, before getting an idea and hopping on her feet. ¡°Oh, oh! Let¡¯s do a bit of cooking for her!¡±


    ¡°Cooking?¡±


    ¡°Yeah! It¡¯s a great way to get to know people, and we¡¯re both, like, really good cooks. If that¡¯s not gonna win her over, then¡­well, we tried at least.¡± Joleicia suggested, before calling out into her dorm. ¡°Hey, Lenin! Feel like a bit of cooking?¡±


    ¡°You should know the answer by now.¡± Lenin called back, popping his head out of the kitchen with his own apron, before noticing Julia. ¡°¡­hi Julia.¡±


    Julia waved to him, before handing off the pancakes. ¡°Alright, that¡¯s a plan. You butter the pan, I¡¯ll butter up Percy.¡±


    ¡°You butter believe it!¡± Joleicia added, getting a hearty laugh from Julia and an eyeroll from Lenin.


    ¡°And that¡¯s the forest where I fried a Wailing!¡± Sola pointed out, as Percy stared curiously across the training grounds. ¡°And waaaaay in the distance, you can see Shanlin. I mean, not well, but it¡¯s there.¡±


    ¡°Hey, Sola? Shouldn¡¯t you be meeting up with Harley and Wess soon?¡± Julia pointed out, causing Sola to freak out and run back inside.


    ¡°I almost totally forgot! Gotta go, Percy!¡± Sola let out, rushing into the study to grab her bag and arm-cannons, before heading out the door and waving to Julia. ¡°Those pancakes were magic! Bye!¡±


    Julia felt her cheeks flush at the compliment, before turning her attention to Percy. ¡°Sola didn¡¯t scare you with too many Wailing stories, did she?¡±


    Percy shook her head and smiled, before stepping back inside, as Julia rocked on her feet.


    ¡°Cool, cool cool¡­so anyway, I was just talking with our lovely, wonderful neighbours across the hallway¡­¡± Julia prefaced. ¡°¡­and they suggested we cook something together.¡±


    Percy blinked a bit. [Including me?]


    Julia nodded. ¡°I figured we can finish the pancakes, then we¡¯ll cook something you want. Our treat.¡±


    Percy felt a touch overwhelmed by how nice the offer was, before shaking her hands.


    [Y-You don¡¯t have to go out of your way.]


    ¡°Well actually, my day¡¯s free anyway.¡± Julia noted. ¡°And for all the times we¡¯ve met, I still don¡¯t know Percy very well.¡±


    Percy hid her smile, before signing back. [¡­to be fair, I don¡¯t know her very well either.]


    Julia grinned, before slinging an arm around her. ¡°Well let¡¯s find out together!¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°¡­it¡¯s still dragging. I don¡¯t know what it is.¡± Harley remarked, taking a few practice jabs in the air. ¡°Every punch¡­is pulling me to¡­the left! Just a bit!¡±


    ¡°Perhaps that¡¯s an arm problem?¡± Wess noted, as Harley stuck her tongue out, right as Sola started coming into view of the helicopter platform they were waiting by.


    ¡°Hey! Did you get the things fixed?¡± Sola called out, as Wess waved Artisan around.


    ¡°Fortunately. Artisan¡¯s folding up like usual now.¡± Wess replied, just as Sola got closer, letting Harley pull her into a hug.


    ¡°Hey, babe. I¡¯m not as lucky.¡± Harley let out, pouting at her Buster Knuckles. ¡°Even Jovie¡¯s magic touch couldn¡¯t fix the stupid goddamn dragging it always freakin¡¯ does every few months like clockwork¡­¡±


    ¡°You can borrow my cannons!¡± Sola insisted, waving her arm-cannons about. ¡°I don¡¯t know how hard they¡¯ll hit, but I don¡¯t have much trouble with ¡®em.¡±


    ¡°Aww, I don¡¯t wanna bust up your cannons.¡± Harley insisted, kissing Sola¡¯s cheek over and over. ¡°You look so cute in them¡­¡±


    ¡°Haha, stop! Stop it!¡± Sola giggled, trying to get out, just as Wess watched their display, snickering to herself slightly.


    Needless to say, once Ferris came into the picture and bore witness to all of this, her stomach turned.


    ¡°Oh, for¡­keep the PDA to a minimum, you two. No one wants to see that, and my hangover¡¯s bad enough¡­¡± Ferris complained, appearing out from behind them, before spotting Wess. ¡°That goes for you too.¡±


    Wess scoffed. ¡°I hardly think that¡¯ll be a problem on my end.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know, Wess, I¡¯m pretty alluring. You think you can avoid temptation?¡± Harley teased, trying to pose sexily, as Wess raised an eyebrow.


    ¡°The pose is doing you no favours.¡± She stated, cutting Harley pretty deep, as Sola started following Ferris onto the helicopter.


    ¡°So what¡¯s this lesson you got for us?¡± Sola asked, struggling to get onto the helicopter with her cannons covering her hands, as Harley helped her up.


    ¡°Standard class stuff. Since you¡¯re not doing internships, Faller wanted you to keep a semi-regular education for you guys outside of the teacher shadowing you¡¯re doing.¡± Ferris explained, as the helicopter was starting up. ¡°We¡¯re heading out to Yue Wai to take care of a Raski nest that¡¯s started to form.¡±


    ¡°No Wailing? Come on, Ferris, bring on the Wailing! We can take it!¡± Harley bragged, sitting down along with Wess.


    Ferris just shook her head in annoyance, as she grabbed out her flask. ¡°Last I checked, Venator¡¯s take what work they can. Bit early to start getting picky.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s at least wait until we¡¯ve graduated to turn our nose up at these things.¡± Wess suggested, getting a laugh out of Harley and Sola and a glare from Ferris. ¡°I¡¯m kidding, miss.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, good joke.¡± Ferris said, right as the helicopter took off, heading somewhat in the direction of Shanlin. ¡°¡­of course, that¡¯s not the whole truth.¡±


    Ferris tapped her foot. ¡°¡­I¡¯m gonna be using this trip as an opportunity to investigate a few things on Faller¡¯s behalf, as usual. I¡¯m only telling you this so you can keep the Raski off my ass while I¡¯m getting work done, and so you stay out of my way too.¡±


    ¡°Wait, is it still a lesson, or just an excuse to have us help you?¡± Sola asked, sitting in Harley¡¯s lap.


    ¡°A little of column A, a little of column B.¡± Ferris admitted, scratching her nose. ¡°You guys really want a lesson from me?¡±


    ¡°Fair call.¡± Harley admitted, wrapping her arms around Sola. ¡°We¡¯ll probably have our hands full with the Raski anyway.¡±


    ¡°They¡¯ll hardly be a problem. They aren¡¯t exactly a Wailing-sized threat, after all.¡± Wess remarked, as Sola sat up to face her.


    ¡°Not that they¡¯ve been a problem either!¡± Sola bragged, pumping her cannons proudly. ¡°We could take on a Behemoth one!¡±


    ¡°Yeah, but then we¡¯ll be stuck trying to one up that. You reckon they get any bigger?¡± Harley remarked, as the team laughed to themselves.


    Despite her initial intentions, Ferris couldn¡¯t help observing them as they joked to themselves, feeling her hand slightly tense up at the seemingly idle comments they were making.


    Frankly, it didn¡¯t feel right to just sit there and watch it happen.


    ¡°We¡¯ll certainly give Team Spectrum a run for their money.¡± Wess chortled, right as Ferris¡¯ foot hit the floor of the helicopter.


    ¡°¡­you know what?¡± Ferris said, before standing up and finishing off her flask. ¡°¡­I actually do have a lesson for you.¡±


    Ferris pointed at them, before crossing her arms over.


    ¡°Swap weapons.¡±


    The trio looked at her confused, as Wess cocked her head. ¡°I¡¯m sorry?¡±


    ¡°Harley, give your punchy things to Wess, Wess, hand yours to Sola, and Harley gets Sola¡¯s cannons.¡±


    ¡°¡­for the whole trip?¡± Harley let out, getting up. ¡°I can¡¯t even use them! They only work when they¡¯re powered by Sola¡¯s Whil.¡±


    ¡°Get creative.¡± Ferris insisted, before encouraging them further. ¡°Go on. Teacher says.¡±


    Harley sat back down and begrudgingly handed off her Buster Knuckles to Wess, refusing to break eye contact with Ferris, before Sola passed her cannons to her, doing her best to fit them around Harley¡¯s much wider arms.


    ¡°Is that good?¡± Sola asked, as Harley stood up and tried waving them around.


    ¡°Kinda? Feels like I¡¯m a videogame character.¡± She remarked, before squatting into an action pose. ¡°Charge shot!¡±


    ¡°Uhh, Harley¡­am I wearing these correctly?¡± Wess asked, showing off the loosely fitting gloves underneath the gauntlets.


    ¡°Oh, right. You can adjust the straps¡­¡± Harley explained, as Wess quickly figured out how. ¡°Yeah, there you go.¡±


    ¡°This feels so alien¡­¡± Wess commented, before sharing a glance with Ferris again. ¡°I don¡¯t know how you expect us to keep the Raski away with this holding us back.¡±


    Ferris cocked her head. ¡°I thought you were ready to take on a Wailing. Don¡¯t tell me you don¡¯t know how to throw a good punch.¡±


    ¡°Are you suggesting a demonstration?¡± Wess dryly offered, before catching Sola eyeing up Belvedere and Artisan, nervous about taking them.


    Wess silently joined her side and picked them up, before struggling to make eye contact.


    ¡°¡­I don¡¯t need to use them if you don¡¯t want.¡± Sola insisted, as Ferris scoffed behind them.


    ¡°It¡¯s just a swo-¡°


    ¡°Belvedere¡¯s more than that!¡± Sola defended, as Wess finally looked back at her.


    ¡°¡­right.¡± Wess started, still looking somewhat cautious. ¡°Sola, it¡¯s not that I don¡¯t trust you. Just¡­please be careful with them.¡±


    Wess tentatively handed them off to her, as Sola went to grab them, before immediately being thrown off by their weight and nearly dropping them.


    ¡°I got it, I got it!¡± Sola assured, holding them up as best she could, as Wess forced herself not to reach out for them.


    ¡°Can¡¯t I take them?¡± Harley offered, as Wess let out a loud scoff.


    ¡°Absolutely not.¡± Wess insisted.


    ¡°What, you don¡¯t trust me with them?¡± Harley asked, failing to rest her cannon against her hip.


    ¡°I trust Sola to be careful. I trust you to hit hard.¡± Wess clarified. ¡°You might just shatter them if you picked them up.¡±


    ¡°¡­you saying I¡¯m buff?¡±


    ¡°The buffest.¡± Wess agreed, as Harley tried to hide a little smirk, right as Ferris clapped her hands.


    ¡°Okay! Enough powwow! We¡¯ll be at Yue Wai in a bit, so get yourselves ready.¡± Ferris declared, before turning to the window and muttering to herself. ¡°It¡¯s about time you get humbled¡­¡±


    ¡ª-¡ª<u>TEAM VALIANT MISSION</u>¡ª-¡ª


    ¡ª-¡ª<u>TAKE OUT THE RASKI NEST GROWING NEAR YUE WAI</u>¡ª-¡ª


    ¡ª-¡ª<u>OPTIONAL OBJECTIVE: SWAP WEAPONS WITH THE TEAM</u>¡ª-¡ª


    ~~~/\~~~/\~~~/\~~~


    It had been a fairly long trip for Essex.


    Not on the Flash-Rail, mind you. That part was as expedient as ever. However, as she¡¯d been warned before leaving to the Eastern Wayside, most of the journey was outside of the carriage.


    Even as Essex had seen it before, Sola still emphasised just how undeveloped the Eastern Wayside was compared to the rest of Daysend before she left. Even the Western Wayside was more built up, but due to the massive presence of the Aishanara Forest and the large chunk of the north of the state was occupied entirely by Wailing, it made sense why development wasn¡¯t a top priority.


    This, unfortunately, meant that reaching fairly important places like, say, the Aurora Venator Agency, meant trekking through massive amounts of terrain, varying between plains, forests, tundra and crag, all on foot.


    Luckily, this was one of many areas in where Essex excelled. Traversing rough terrain was her bread and butter, and the Aishanara Forest was something she was unfortunately very familiar with. This didn¡¯t make the way there any less convoluted, however, or her constant choice of wearing a suit less of a hindrance.


    Having arrived at Mykonori¡¯s Flash-Rail station, she took a break to relax and refuel before carrying herself to a nearby car rental, asking them to take her part of the way to Distance Town.


    Getting in, she was driven down one of the only roads leading out of Mykonori, running along the coastline nearby, stretching all the way to a nearby peninsula where Distance Town lay nestled.


    This wasn¡¯t her destination, though, as the driver dropped her off about halfway down its road, before pointing through the thicket of trees.


    ¡°Trace should be through that way. Just head to where you see a small cabin. He¡¯ll point you in the right direction.¡± The driver said, before heading back to Mykonori, leaving Essex by herself.


    Just as she began to break off from the main road, she spotted a notable splattering of colour staining the side of it, as she made her way closer and found it was a pile of flowers, all arranged around a makeshift sign hanging from a nearby tree.


    Estelle + Chris


    Taken too soon, their love still remains.


    Essex stared at the sign, before glancing at the lines of trees leading to the forest.


    No doubt taken by a Wailing¡­ She thought, as she took a second to crouch down and pay her respects, before properly making tracks toward the cabin.


    After a short walk through, she managed to come across the cabin in question sitting on a nearby hill, as presumably Trace sat outside of it on his chair, stroking his beard and casually reading a novel.


    It took him a second to notice Essex, before he popped his head up and waved to her.


    ¡°Sorry! Nearly missed ya!¡± He called out, as he hurriedly went down to meet her. ¡°Trace!¡±


    Essex bowed. ¡°Aerlo Decali. My title is Essex.¡±


    ¡°Oh, my apologies. I thought you were looking for passage.¡± Trace admitted, scratching his head. ¡°What¡¯s the clan doing out by these parts?¡±


    Essex glanced up at her scythe, before shaking her head. ¡°I am not here on Segaru Clan business. I was looking to travel to the Aurora Venator Agency.¡±


    ¡°So, you were here for that. Well don¡¯t I look like a dumbass.¡± Trace groaned, as he pointed out at the vast mountainous tundra in the distance. ¡°Alright, I¡¯ve got some advice for you, but first, how good are you with that scythe?¡±


    ¡°I am training as a Venator.¡± Essex declared, as he cocked his head.


    ¡°What year?¡±


    ¡°Third.¡±


    ¡°¡­and you¡¯re here without your team?¡±


    ¡°Dal.¡±


    Trace stroked his beard again. ¡°¡­I¡¯m usually meant to turn away anyone who¡¯s not a full-fledged Venator, or at least as capable as one.¡±


    He gave Essex a once over, before shrugging. ¡°But I can¡¯t really stop ya, now can I?¡±


    He grabbed Essex¡¯s shoulder, before pulling her in and splaying his arm out. ¡°Be warned! You¡¯re dangerously close to Wailing territory. Even one step out of turn, and they¡¯ll have your head!¡±


    Essex debated whether to pull herself away, as he indicated to the wide, open space running beside the Aishanara Forest. ¡°If you want the easier to navigate route, head straight and hug the side of the forest until you come across the agency however many kilometres away it is. Just a heads up, though, the route takes several days to traverse for most people. Not for the faint of heart.¡±


    He then pointed back at the forest. ¡°However, you could also make your way through the forest itself. It¡¯ll cut your trip down by a few days, but you¡¯re also more prone to getting lost, not to mention vulnerable to any Wailing lurking inside.¡±


    He let go of her, as Essex cleaned herself off. ¡°You¡¯re vulnerable to Wailing no matter which path you take, but the choice is yours. Just don¡¯t splinter off toward the coast, unless you wanna add several more days to your trip and get eaten by the Cassifer Devil. If you need any supplies, I¡¯ve got some handy back in the cabin. I always say, pack more food and clothes then you think you¡¯ll need.¡±


    ¡°Grela, but I am already packed.¡± Essex thanked, showing off her hefty hiking bag, her scythe strapped behind it, and her suitcase. ¡°I was warned of this trip ahead of time.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll bet. You Venators really stick your necks out for each other.¡± Trace stated, as Essex mulled over her options.


    Despite how much she knew the Aishanara Forest and that her trip would¡¯ve been shortened significantly, Essex found herself leaning toward the more open path hugging the forest edge. Call it the year she was trapped in the forest, but if she had to choose, avoiding it was always the best option.


    ¡°The open path.¡± Essex declared, before turning back to Trace and bowing. ¡°I thank you for the advice.¡±


    Trace started chuckling. ¡°You won¡¯t be so thankful if you come back missing a limb. Just don¡¯t say I didn¡¯t warn ya.¡±


    Essex started making her way along the forest line, ready for her journey to start proper, as Trace waved back to her. ¡°And say hi to Team Avalanche for me!¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Hmmhmhmmmm¡­hmhmmhm¡­there we go¡­¡±


    Julia felt a tap on her shoulder, before turning around and finding Percy staring at her expectantly.


    ¡°What¡¯s up?¡± Julia asked, before Percy indicated to the cleaning products in her hand. ¡°Oh, don¡¯t worry, I¡¯m just cleaning up before Joleicia and Lenin come over.¡±


    Percy looked a bit embarrassed. [Should I¡­help?]


    Julia looked embarrassed too. ¡°If you¡­want?¡±


    There was an awkward pause between them, as Julia stepped out of the way, letting Percy step forward and grab a spray bottle.


    ¡°Sorry, I usually clean around the dorm¡­I don¡¯t really train as much as the rest of the team, so when they¡¯re out, I just wipe away at stuff, except since they¡¯re really nice, they tend to offer to help when they can, even if Wess is¡­well, I don¡¯t want to say bad at it or anything, but inexperienced? Let¡¯s go with inexperienced. Just more than the rest of us¡­she didn¡¯t grow up in a grea¡­¡±


    This tale has been unlawfully obtained from Royal Road. If you discover it on Amazon, kindly report it.


    Julia only just locked eyes with Percy, who was just staring at her completely baffled, before she turned away. ¡°R-Right, sorry, I was rambling¡­I talk about the team when I¡¯m nervous¡­¡±


    Percy scanned Julia¡¯s face before replying. [You really think about them a lot, don¡¯t you?]


    ¡°¡­I have to, I¡¯m the leader.¡± Julia answered. ¡°And¡­I mean, they mean a lot to me¡­I don¡¯t know where I¡¯d be without them in my life¡­¡±


    Julia felt herself drifting off again, before remembering the point of their cleaning and readjusting. ¡°N-Nope, I¡¯m talking too much about myself. What¡¯s¡­what¡¯s with you? What¡¯s going on?¡±


    Percy¡¯s took a second to take in her phrasing, before finding herself cracking up, as she let out a hearty, silent laugh, surprising Julia once she realised what she said and facepalmed.


    ¡°¡­I said that weird. Alright¡­¡± Julia said, shaking her head. ¡°¡­okay, soft ball question. What kind of food do you like?¡±


    Percy took a second to wipe some tears away, breathing in a bit, before signing back. [I didn¡¯t really get much variety back with Wicker. Most of the food at the Organisation was¡­] Percy started before pausing a bit. [¡­I dunno, ration¡­adjacent? Like bomb shelter food.]


    Julia nodded along, as she parsed Percy¡¯s signing. ¡°Organisation? Shouldn¡¯t we call it Wicker¡¯s evil lair or something?¡±


    Percy looked confused, before shaking her head. [No, it¡¯s called the Organisation.]


    Julia blinked, before leaning back. ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    [That¡¯s the name of Wicker¡¯s operation. The Organisation. That¡¯s what he called it too.] Percy clarified, as Julia sat against the kitchen counter.


    ¡°Just that? Nothing special, just the Organisation?¡± Julia questioned.


    [I never asked him why he did. I just assumed it was for a good reason.] Percy replied, before turning back to Julia. [It really is a stupid name, isn¡¯t it?]


    Julia giggled a little, before spotting the clock and suddenly getting back up. ¡°Right, sorry, I got distracted. We were talking about food you liked.¡±


    Percy nodded. [Right. Favourite food¡­]


    Percy thought on it for a second, before snapping her fingers. [Desserts.]


    ¡°Okay, respectable taste.¡± Julia encouraged, now looking through the fridge. ¡°Any in particular?¡±


    Percy immediately perked up in preparation to answer.


    [¡­tarts, pastries, cakes, pies, ice cream, crepes, chocolate¡­]


    Julia was struggling to keep up with most of the hand movements.


    [¡­donuts, danishes, lollies, candies, sweets, smoothies, spiders, you know when they put ice cream in soft drink? I love those¡­]


    Julia¡¯s eyes were starting to hurt from staring.


    [¡­cr¨¨me brulee, brownies, vanilla slices, tiramisu, cookies, sorbet, of course, and¡­sandwiches. I could usually go for one of them.]


    Julia was thankful Percy was finally done, as she blinked a few times, before shaking her head.


    ¡°I¡¯ll be honest¡­I got about five of those.¡± Julia admitted, before looking back in the fridge again. ¡°But we could totally make tarts, if you want. Luckily, we¡¯ve got most of the ingredients, so we can just whip them up real quick.¡±


    [Tarts sound good.] Percy agreed, ready to join Julia¡¯s side, before a cheerful knock came from the door.


    ¡°Oh, there they are!¡± Julia exclaimed, grabbing the door, as Joleicia popped through, making herself known.


    ¡°Who¡¯s ready for some good cookin¡¯ from this good lookin¡¯ lady?¡± Joleicia remarked, dancing her way in, before noticing Percy in the kitchen. ¡°Hi! Joleicia, leader of Team Vanguard! You saw me in the doorway earlier.¡±


    Percy was slightly huddled in the kitchen, before giving a nervous wave, as Joleicia stepped forward and stuck her hand out.


    ¡°I know literally nothing about you, but your friends with Julia, so that bodes well!¡± Joleicia greeted, as Percy shook her hand fairly tentatively, before Lenin came in as well.


    ¡°You guys are so much cleaner with your dorm.¡± Lenin commented to Julia, before spotting Percy. ¡°Oh, Joleicia told me about her.¡±


    ¡°Go easy on her. She¡¯s a bit shy.¡± Julia asked, as Lenin gave a thumbs up.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯m a people pleaser.¡± Lenin said, before saluting to Percy once Joleicia was done. ¡°Yo.¡±


    Percy just kind of looked at him, not really sure whether she should respond with a salute as well, before Joleicia made a space for herself at the counter.


    ¡°So, what¡¯s the game plan?¡±


    ¡°Tarts. Percy¡¯s a big dessert buff.¡± Julia said, as Joleicia¡¯s eyes lit up.


    ¡°We¡¯ve already got something in common! I¡¯ll start getting some of the toppings ready.¡± Joleicia insisted, grabbing stuff out of the fruit bowl, as Lenin rummaged around the fridge.


    ¡°I think you¡¯re out of milk. I¡¯ll go grab some of ours.¡± Lenin insisted, before Julia went to look inside again.


    ¡°How¡¯d I miss that?¡± She remarked, getting a few more ingredients out, before feeling a tug on her sleeve.


    Percy found herself clinging to Julia¡¯s side a bit, right as Julia noticed and found the worried expression on her face.


    ¡°Are you alright?¡±


    Percy nodded a bit, trying not to glance at Joleicia too much, as Julia leaned in.


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to worry, they¡¯re good friends. Joleicia wouldn¡¯t¡­¡± Julia said, before stopping herself. ¡°¡­I was gonna say she wouldn¡¯t hurt a fly, but she¡¯s training to be a Venator, so that doesn¡¯t really work. She¡¯s really nice, though. A damn good sniper too.¡±


    Percy mostly nodded along to placate Julia, as Julia could still see her hesitation and decided to move herself between Percy and Joleicia.


    ¡°Just stick with me. I¡¯m sure you¡¯ll open up a bit.¡± Julia assured, letting Percy stay close to her. ¡°You focus on laying out the puff pastry, I¡¯ll mix the filling.¡±


    Percy went about doing so, still very much keeping to herself, as Julia made sure to keep close to her, just to assure that she was there for her.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°SOLA!!!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m com-¡° Sola replied, only to trip over and fall onto the ground. ¡°OW!!!¡±


    ¡°Okay¡­you¡¯ve got this¡­¡± Wess muttered, watching as a few Raski surrounded Harley, dancing between her legs. ¡°Just a few good punches¡­¡±


    Wess tentatively tested the jet boosters on Harley¡¯s Buster Knuckles, as they pulled her forward suddenly, giving her a good idea of how useful they were.


    ¡°Alright¡­that hurt, but I can use this.¡± Wess said, steeling herself and running over to the Raski, before throwing an overhand punch down onto one of them, taking it out cleanly.


    ¡°Haha! Take that, varmint!¡± Wess celebrated, right as one of them bit directly into her leg. ¡°¡­bear with it, Wess¡­bear the pain¡­¡±


    ¡°Come here!¡± Harley let out, scooping it up in one of the cannons, before dropping it and punting it into the distance with her now free leg. ¡°That¡¯s what you get for biting her!¡±


    ¡°¡­phew¡­my thanks, Harley.¡± Wess said, just as she noticed Sola rushing over, before falling onto the remaining Raski with Artisan, using all her weight to compensate for her lack of strength to take it out.


    ¡°Yeah! I got one!¡± Sola celebrated, standing back up. ¡°Not as many as with my cannons, but still.¡±


    ¡°Sola, please refrain from falling onto my weaponry in the future.¡± Wess pleaded. ¡°That¡¯s the easiest way to break them, or for you to lose an eye.¡±


    ¡°Man, why couldn¡¯t Ferris give Harley Belvedere? At least she¡¯d be good with it.¡± Sola pouted, as Harley waved the cannons around.


    ¡°I dunno. I¡¯m kinda getting used to these.¡± Harley said, staring at them again. ¡°Even if they¡¯re missing the cool lasers.¡±


    Harley got an idea, before slinging an arm around Sola. ¡°How ¡®bout you charge it up when Ferris isn¡¯t looking?¡±


    ¡°I think she¡¯ll notice that.¡± Sola noted, pointing to Ferris standing at the base of a few of the Eldos Mountains, Yue Wai being just a couple minutes away from them now.


    She was visibly deep in thought, as Team Valiant slowly approached behind her, trying to meet where her gaze.


    ¡°Yo teach, what¡¯s with the mountain watching?¡± Harley asked, trying to pose comfortably with the cannons.


    ¡°One of the locals mentioned rumours about Wailing calling these mountains their home and establishing bases around them.¡± Ferris admitted, turning back to them. ¡°There¡¯s also apparently legends of mountains that could control Wailing behaviour.¡±


    She turned back around to them and scratched her chin. ¡°I¡¯m curious whether this might be something Wicker has access to¡­¡±


    ¡°Mind controlling mountains?¡± Wess asked, folding her arms and raising an eyebrow.


    ¡°Roll your eyes all you want, but this kinda stuff usually ends up possessing a lot more validity than you¡¯d expect.¡± Ferris noted, before pulling her head back. ¡°How¡¯re the Raski¡¯s?¡±


    ¡°Dealt with!¡± Sola insisted, as Harley tried to pick her up.


    ¡°They¡¯d be dealt with a lot quicker if you let us use our own weapons.¡± Wess stated.


    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t have to hear complaining if I¡¯d brought muzzles.¡± Ferris remarked, facing Wess again. ¡°I guess we¡¯re all making compromises.¡±


    Wess refused to break eye contact, just as a few Raski wandered out of the bushes, trying to grab Harley and Sola while they were distracted.


    Sola instinctively aimed as if she had her cannons, before groaning and letting Harley take care of them with more punting.


    ¡°This is so annoying!¡± Sola let out, stamping her foot. ¡°This doesn¡¯t even work that well! My cannons are useless without me!¡±


    ¡°I mean, they look cool.¡± Harley said, before lighting up a bit. ¡°Oh, I got an idea. Maybe we should ask Jovie to make some battery packs.¡±


    Sola cocked her head. ¡°Battery packs?¡±


    ¡°Yeah. They could store electricity in case one of us needs to use your cannons for you.¡± Harley suggested, scratching her head with a cannon. ¡°Or so you could still use them if you got too tired.¡±


    Harley pointed back at her. ¡°You could wear them like a backpack!¡±


    ¡°OH!¡± Sola let out, nodding her head. ¡°I like that!¡±


    ¡°While we¡¯re at it, let¡¯s ask her for some robotic fists.¡± Wess added, getting a giggle from Sola. ¡°They can use your gloves for you.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s cut out the middleman and just ask for a full ass robot.¡± Harley joked, as Sola kept laughing up a storm, before Harley just watched her enjoy herself.


    Subtly, Ferris was also watching, having been distracted from her mountain gazing, as she couldn¡¯t help staring at Team Valiant, casually joking to themselves, as if they weren¡¯t entering the deadliest profession there was in Daysend.


    ¡­they still make the same mistakes¡­ Ferris thought over. Of all this conflict¡¯s ploys, this is easily the most vile¡­


    ~~~/\~~~/\~~~/\~~~


    It had been about two days of travel for Essex, as she made her way around the Aishanara Forest. She¡¯d gotten past most of the rolling plains by now and was pushing herself through the tundra. Sola¡¯s coat was already coming in handy, but that didn¡¯t temper her worries too much.


    Despite her usual confidence in handling them, being so close to ¡®Wailing territory¡¯ was a constant point on her mind. She hadn¡¯t seen any yet, fortunately, and was only hoping to see them once she was with Team Avalanche, but that didn¡¯t mean the chance of one showing up was zero.


    Especially with Mt Eldaros looming in the distance¡­


    Mt Eldaros, colloquially referred to as the older sibling of the Eldos Mountains, lay smack dab in the middle of the tundra, far past what anyone would consider safe. Remains of safety barriers lay about what could be assumed as the border of the Wailing¡¯s territory, which they clearly hadn¡¯t taken a liking to. Outside of Team Avalanche¡¯s patrolling, the borders weren¡¯t officially recognised or anything, but it at least gave a marker to any passersby who was dumb enough to wander here about where they could expect to be killed.


    After a thorough bit of walking, Essex decided to take a break for lunch, finding a mostly pleasant patch of grass to set up on, before grabbing out some snacks and pulling out her tablet to listen to Harley¡¯s playlist.


    Harley had set up a surprisingly good playlist for her, consisting of a lot of obscure ska bands Essex had never even heard of, as well as a couple favourites of Harley herself. She deliberately left one earbud out as she ate, however. Even for a second, she refused to completely let her guard down, her scythe comfortably by her side.


    She stared back at Mt Eldaros as she ate, recalling the few stories she heard from townsfolk while travelling with the Segaru Clan.


    Remarks about how it was really a beacon to the Wailing, drawing them in from all over Daysend.


    Or that it was meant to house the Old Gods whenever they projected themselves into the living world.


    People even said they¡¯d heard the mountain letting out breath.


    ¡­of course it was nonsense, but Essex couldn¡¯t help but find those stories fascinating. At least, as fascinating as a story could be to a Segaru Clan member.


    Perhaps these theories exist due to the mountain¡¯s distance? Essex pondered, taking a bite of her muesli bar. If it were more accessible to people, these sorts of lies would be easily dismissed¡­


    Just as she found herself getting lost in thought, she found herself swinging back to the forest, staring inside at the empty darkness consuming the inside, no light, no life, not even a breeze¡­


    She could swear she saw something.


    ¡­or maybe she just thought she did.


    ¡­


    ¡­I have stayed here long enough. She admitted, getting up and packing her things, before making tracks toward the agency once again.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°And if you lay it out like that¡­¡± Julia said, before laying out a couple slices of peach. ¡°¡­you don¡¯t have to worry about the toppings making it soggy.¡±


    Percy mouthed the word ¡®wow¡¯ as she crouched down and stared at the finished, and delicious looking tarts, before noticing Joleicia crouching as well.


    ¡°These look incredible!¡± Joleicia exclaimed, standing back up. ¡°You¡¯re a real talent, Julia!¡±


    ¡°Hey, last I checked, there¡¯s four people in the kitchen.¡± Julia insisted, visibly embarrassed, as Lenin went to grab his.


    ¡°Mmm¡­oh my god¡­¡± He let out. ¡°These are so good¡­even better than the ones at the pala¡­¡±


    He stopped himself and cleared his throat, before taking another bite. ¡°¡­at the place I grew up, which was Mareau, known for its delicious food.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll say. I¡¯ve never been, but everything I¡¯ve had from there is wonderful.¡± Joleicia agreed, grabbing hers and taking a bite as well, before noticing Percy hesitantly standing back. ¡°Go aread¡­dig in! Enjoy the spoils of your labour.¡±


    Percy jumped a bit, before quickly going to do so, as she took a bite and nearly melted at how great it tasted, only to remember Joleicia and Lenin were with her and downplaying her enjoyment.


    Lenin noticed her shift in demeanour while Joleicia was eating, before glancing over at Julia and indicating to Percy, then to the door.


    Julia picked up on what he was saying, as he grabbed Joleicia¡¯s sleeve. ¡°Come on, let¡¯s go enjoy these back at the dorm. I¡¯m thinking we should probably clean too.¡±


    ¡°Aww, we¡¯re leaving already?¡± Joleicia moped, letting Lenin drag her, before waving back to Julia and Percy. ¡°Bye guys, this was really fun.¡±


    ¡°Later!¡± Julia called back, watching them disappear, before turning back around and watching Percy go in for a second tart.


    She barely held back her enjoyment, savouring every single bite while still making her way through it at a steady pace.


    Julia sat back and watched her enjoy herself, treating the food so preciously, almost like she¡¯d never get a meal like this again.


    Cleaning off her fingers, Percy suddenly noticed Julia looking at her, before feeling like she should apologise and bowing.


    [S-Sorry¡­] Percy signed, only for Julia to throw up her hands.


    ¡°It¡¯s fine. I just haven¡¯t seen you that happy before.¡± Julia admitted, smiling. ¡°It was really nice.¡±


    Percy was visibly hesitant, as she signed back to Julia. [No one¡¯s¡­no one¡¯s been this nice to me¡­well, he was, back when¡­]


    Percy stopped for a second, trying to work up the nerve, as she glanced up at Julia¡¯s curious face and only saw trust.


    [Wicker¡­] Percy signed, before feeling her hands start to shake. [He¡­]


    [¡­he¡¯s my father.]


    Julia¡¯s eyes widened, as she stepped back a bit, before really taking in what Percy was admitting to.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t¡­¡± Julia started, before regaining some composure. ¡°I¡­thought you just worked for him.¡±


    [He adopted me a few years back.] Percy admitted, sighing out. [I was living in Cima Dela without a home, jumping from place to place, just living off scraps. Then, when he was on a trip to the Western Wayside, he found me¡­and my abilities.]


    After saying that, Percy went and turned the tap on and ran a bit of water over her hand, as Julia watched it absorb into her body, before coming out of her other hand as a puff of steam.


    [My Whil lets me turn things into gases. I place it in one hand and project it with the other.] Percy clarified, before she noticed Julia staring more intently at her hands.


    Julia realised she was staring, before laughing awkwardly. ¡°Sorry. That¡¯s a really cool Whil you¡¯ve got.¡±


    Percy clicked her tongue. [Wicker thought so too. He offered me a place to stay and a job, if I was willing to move to Central Point and help him with¡­]


    Percy tightened her hands.


    [¡­Wailing capture.]


    Julia paused for a second, before cocking her head. ¡°Wailing capture?¡±


    Percy nodded. [I¡¯d never had a family before, or a say in anything, and now I could choose what I wanted to do. But¡­]


    Percy wandered out of the kitchen, before sitting against the couch, dipping her head slightly. [Obviously, it was too good to be true. And after the break in¡­well¡­]


    ¡­xplain yourself.


    They broke in, I tried to run them over. What¡¯s so hard to understand?


    You think we can justify that?! A whole Venator team with tire marks over their dead bodies?!


    They could be Wailing markings with enough convincing.


    Can I sugg-


    Butt out, Salaire. You were floundering the entire time from a single punch to the face.


    Well¡­those security staff he hired were of no help! Incompetence, all throughout this building! I was doing what I could to take advantage of th-


    Salaire¡­stop talking for two seconds.


    You heard the man.


    Don¡¯t think you¡¯re off the hook, Rosalind. You let them get away. This is on you.


    ¡­you don¡¯t have to worry. I¡¯ll get them next tim-


    Next time? You¡¯ve had enough next times with those students. From now on, you stay away from that team without my direct involvement. One more failure from yo-


    Five against one and you¡¯re blaming me for losing? Actually, make that six! Six against one.


    There was another student?


    ¡­nope. Your perfect little ¡®daughter,¡¯ get this, was helping them escape. I don¡¯t know what was going through her feeble little mind, bu-


    Jules?


    Yes, Jules. She grabbed some of the tranquiliser and shoved it down my throat to hold me back. My mouth¡¯s still a bit teal, if you want a look.


    I can vouch for that. Rosalind came complaining down the hallway after it had happened. She was dragging her leg while chasing after the Venator team.


    Still more helpful than tubby over here¡­


    ¡­where is she right now?


    I threw her against the wall, but she¡¯d left when I checked it next. Knowing her, sh¡­


    [¡­I couldn¡¯t stay.] Percy insisted. [I really couldn¡¯t stay after hearing that¡­but I still had nowhere to go¡­]


    In a fit of joy, Percy smiled to herself, before jumping up from the couch. [Then I remembered Sola¡¯s promise back when the academy was under attack. She said I could come back here whenever I needed.]


    Percy ran up to Julia excitedly. [She spoke so kindly about all of you. Wicker always spoke about how Venators were vile thugs, only good for killing Wailing and following orders. But I should¡¯ve realised he was wrong sooner. About everything¡­]


    Julia reached out and held her hands. ¡°Well, don¡¯t blame yourself. It¡¯s not like you could¡¯ve figured it out anywhere else.¡±


    Percy grinned back at her, before taking her hands back. [Part of me wishes I was lucky enough to join a Venator team. You all seem so happy together.]


    ¡°I hate to admit it, but I think we¡¯re kinda the exception.¡± Julia laughed, rubbing her neck. ¡°Most teams aren¡¯t as close as us. Especially since we¡¯re all dating at least one other member.¡±


    Julia only just noticed that Percy had hopped over to the tarts again, thoroughly enjoying the spread, before deciding to join her and grabbing another one herself.


    She held out her tart, as Percy noticed and jokingly made a toast with her tart too, getting a laugh from the both of them.


    It was sweet.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°You get a good look?¡±


    ¡°Somewhat. I don¡¯t really know what I¡¯m looking for.¡±


    ¡°You see a big pile of sticks?¡±


    ¡°Yes?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s what you¡¯re looking for.¡±


    ¡°Oh. Well, I¡¯ve found it.¡±


    Harley made a point to peer through the bushes as well, getting a good look at the Raski nest, as several skittered out and hurried in, a network of rodents passing food and supplies between each other under a covering of brush down a small clearing.


    ¡°So, in actuality, the nest is real big underneath.¡± Harley emphasised, coming back out to talk with Wess and Sola. ¡°The top part we can see is for storing food while they build and breed underneath.¡±


    ¡°Ew¡­¡± Sola let out, as Wess stuck her head back through.


    ¡°However, they also take a while to adjust to sunlight after going underground, so if we can take out the covering, their food¡¯ll be exposed, and the remaining Raski will scatter off and die out without the support of the nest.¡± Harley clarified, as Sola stared up at her in fascination.


    ¡°You¡¯re so smart, babe!¡±


    ¡°Perks of growing up on a farm.¡± Harley bragged, looking visibly proud of herself. ¡°These little buggers are all but gone in the Southern Wayside, and we¡¯ve made damn sure they¡¯re not popping up again.¡±


    ¡°The nest is completely surrounded, though.¡± Wess noted, watching the Raski basically patrol around it. ¡°I don¡¯t see how we make it through without being swarmed.¡±


    As the trio thought on this, Sola stared down at Belvedere and Artisan, catching a slight glint of sunlight, before quickly getting an idea.


    ¡°Wait! I got it!¡± Sola said, pointing back at Wess. ¡°Do the Buster Knuckles still have fuel in them?¡±


    ¡°Yes, there¡¯s still a good amount.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± Sola said, now poking her head through the bushes. ¡°So what if I reflect light off of Artisan and point it at one end of the nest to create a small fire?¡±


    Sola dictated with her hands. ¡°Then Wess can come in from the other end and use the Knuckles¡¯ jets to create an even bigger flame to burn the cover away.¡±


    ¡°Then I can come in and smash things up?¡± Harley offered, as Sola shook her head.


    ¡°Then I can jump on your back and power the cannons so you can blast through the exposed nest!¡± Sola clarified, as Harley nodded along.


    ¡°Nevermind, that¡¯s way better.¡± Harley said, before getting up. ¡°Let¡¯s get in place, Wess.¡±


    ¡°Naturally.¡± Wess replied, as they hurried around to the other side of the clearing, letting Ferris observe Sola on her own, surprised by just how much she was rising to the challenge.


    She was mostly hanging back at a safe distance, letting everything play out and trying not to interfere. She kept assuring herself the team were only dealing with Raski, but her instincts couldn¡¯t help getting the better of her.


    Once Sola spotted the duo on the other side, she propped up the shield, aiming a beam of light at a part of the dried-out sticks making up the covering, before a small line of smoke emerged from it.


    The Raski¡¯s took notice and hurried over, attempting to frantically pat it down with their tails, as Wess and Harley used the opportunity to hurry over, with Wess turning the jets around as she ran.


    ¡°So just hold the button and get ready for the pushback.¡± Harley assured, as Wess quickly did so, lighting the covering much faster, while Harley held her in place with the cannons.


    Having dealt with the smaller fire, the Raski¡¯s turned to find the much larger one enveloping the nest, before rushing over to attack their intruders.


    Wess had managed to burn a good amount, as she started taking swings at the Raski jumping up at her, before calling out to Sola.


    ¡°NOW!!!¡±


    Sola quickly sprinted into the clearing, weaving through most of the Raski, before climbing onto the nest and jumping onto Harley¡¯s back, as she aimed the cannons down at the mostly destroyed covering.


    She slapped her hands onto the sides of the cannons, as light built around their barrels, before blasting light into every hole making up the nest, blinding the surrounding area with white for a second, right as a rumbling came from the ground.


    All of a sudden, countless Raski emerged from underground, scattering out and smacking into each other from the blinding light, before all scattering further into the woods, slowly dissipating until nothing remained of them except for the ashes of their nest.


    ¡°Phew¡­like clockwork, ay Wess?¡± Harley called out, as Wess got down from her tiptoes.


    ¡°¡­ugghh. Disgusting things¡­¡± Wess shuddered. ¡°Mission accomplished, at least.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯d say so!¡± Sola exclaimed, before high-fiving Harley¡¯s cannon, right as Ferris came down to join them.


    ¡°Wow, amazing, you totally did it. No one saw that coming.¡± Ferris let out, giving them a slow clap, as Wess gave her the side-eye.


    ¡°You¡¯re welcome. How did your investigation pan out?¡± Wess asked, as Ferris stroked her chin.


    ¡°I¡¯ll need a more thorough look into it. But now that the nest is gone, that should be a lot easier to do in my own time.¡± Ferris said.


    ¡°So what was the point of the lesson?¡± Harley asked, still holding Sola up.


    ¡°¡­teamwork. Ingenuity. Out of the box¡­stuff.¡± Ferris admitted, scratching her neck. ¡°Nothing specific, really. Just good core values when you¡¯re out for yourselves.¡±


    She turned around without much more elaboration. ¡°About time we head back.¡±


    ¡ª-¡ª<u>TEAM VALIANT MISSION</u>¡ª-¡ª


    ¡ª-¡ª<u>TAKE OUT THE RASKI NEST GROWING NEAR YUE WAI</u>¡ª-¡ª


    ¡ª-¡ª<u>OPTIONAL OBJECTIVE: SWAP WEAPONS WITH THE TEAM</u>¡ª-¡ª


    ¡ª-¡ª<u>COMPLETED</u>¡ª-¡ª


    ¡°Don¡¯t wake me, Wess. I¡¯m just getting some quick shut eye.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m doing the exact same thing. How could I wake you?¡±


    ¡°A princely kiss maybe?¡±


    ¡°¡­you¡¯re intolerable.¡±


    The duo quieted down after, lying on their respective seats, as the helicopter took off and headed back for the Venator Academy.


    Ferris stared at Sola across from her. ¡°Don¡¯t feel like joining your friends?¡±


    ¡°I have too much energy for afternoon naps.¡± Sola admitted, grabbing out a bag of butterscotch, as Ferris rolled her eyes.


    ¡°Figures¡­¡±


    The low drum of the helicopter did little to block out the thoughts drumming in Ferris¡¯ head, as she cautiously looked back at Sola, idly minding her own business.


    ¡°¡­Sola.¡±


    Sola popped her head up.


    ¡°¡­do you think I¡¯m a good teacher?¡±


    Sola thought on it for a second.


    ¡°Not at all.¡±


    ¡°¡­I deserve that.¡± Ferris admitted, scratching her head, as Sola kicked her legs.


    ¡°Well, you can be. It really depends though.¡± Sola clarified. ¡°You teach well when you care about what you¡¯re saying, and when you think you¡¯ve got something important to teach.¡±


    Sola sat up properly to face her. ¡°You don¡¯t teach me well at all.¡±


    ¡°I think we¡¯ve both realised that at this point.¡± Ferris agreed, tapping her foot. ¡°I can¡¯t help it. Faller wanted me to pretend to be a teacher, but I never acknowledged I¡¯d have t-¡°


    ¡°Teach?¡±


    ¡°Be an example.¡± Ferris corrected. ¡°What the fuck am I meant to educate you on? How to hate yourself? How much the Venator industry sucks? You¡¯re not gonna listen, I¡¯m everyone¡¯s least favourite teacher. I¡¯m either drunk or asleep most of the time, and that kind of thing gives you a reputation. That didn¡¯t matter at first, but then I got used to this¡­¡±


    Ferris shook her head in frustration, before throwing her head back.


    ¡°¡­you kids scare me.¡± Ferris confessed, staring up at the helicopter interior. ¡°You¡¯re all jumping at the chance to get killed by the Wailing, and I just have to watch you go off and do so.¡±


    Ferris sighed out heavily, as she sank into her seat more. ¡°I don¡¯t know how I¡¯m meant to be comfortable with that¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­maybe it¡¯s a good thing you¡¯re not comfortable with that?¡± Sola posited, as Ferris scoffed to herself.


    ¡°Thanks for the cold comfort.¡± Ferris stated, facing away from Sola. ¡°But don¡¯t waste your energy on me¡­it¡¯s better spent on them.¡±


    Even without indicating, Sola knew what she meant, as she watched over Harley and Wess rest, gently breathing.


    ¡°You remember how lucky you are.¡± Ferris demanded. ¡°Venators breed like Raski, but good people in your life don¡¯t always stick around. They have a tendency of disappearing on you when you really don¡¯t want them to.¡±


    Sola lifted her head. ¡°¡­is that from experience?¡±


    Ferris kept her mouth shut, as the remainder of the helicopter ride was entirely silent on both ends, before they eventually landed back the academy.


    ¡°Good job. Passing grade. You guys really knocked it out of the park.¡± Ferris let out, waving to the trio before she quickly headed off, only to feel Sola tap her shoulder.


    She spun around to see Sola holding out a butterscotch.


    ¡°You know, you don¡¯t have to totally shut yourself off.¡± Sola said, handing it to her. ¡°Just because good people leave doesn¡¯t mean new people don¡¯t come along.¡±


    Sola smiled back at her.


    ¡°They¡¯ll find you.¡±


    Ferris watched as Sola joined back up with the slightly groggy Harley and Wess, doing her best to help them back to the dorm, before she felt a small tear form in her eye.


    Quickly noticing and wiping it away, she suddenly jumped at the sound of footsteps behind her.


    ¡°Ferris.¡±


    Fortunately, it was only Coatsworth approaching, as Ferris tried to calm herself. ¡°Geez, announce yourself. You checking up on me?¡±


    ¡°Faller was curious how well it went. How was the excursion?¡± Coatsworth asked, as Ferris gave a noncommittal shrug.


    ¡°You can tell him it was paint by numbers. Nothing to report.¡± Ferris said, turning to watch Team Valiant head back home.


    She turned back to Coatsworth, still staring at her curiously, before she looked down at the butterscotch.


    ¡°Hey.¡±


    Ferris cracked her neck. ¡°I heard about this, like, edible wood place from Faller in Detu City. I think I might hate it, but you feel like taking an excursion of our own?¡±


    Coatsworth blinked in confusion. ¡°¡­this¡­is¡­very out of the blue.¡±


    He thought on it for a second, before squinting at Ferris. ¡°Edible wood?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m probably paraphrasing. I tend to tune him out most days.¡± Ferris admitted, before indicating in the direction of the Flash-Rail station. ¡°I¡¯ve got the evening free¡­figured we could use the chance to talk about stuff.¡±


    Coatsworth was clearly running through responses in his head, trying to find the most appropriate one for the situation, eventually landing on¡­


    ¡°¡­.that sounds nice.¡± Coatsworth nodded. ¡°Can my dog come along?¡±


    ¡°¡­sure, bring ¡®em.¡±


    ¡°What about Seears?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s pushing it.¡±


    ¡°Can he wait with my dog?¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s gonna ruin my appetite, and I¡¯m already in two minds about this place.¡±


    ¡°So-¡°


    ¡°Hard no.¡±


    ¡°¡­that¡¯s fine.¡± Coatsworth agreed, walking with Ferris to the station. ¡°We can work up to that.¡±


    ¡°¡­we¡¯re getting beer on the way.¡± Ferris added, now walking a bit faster than him.


    ~~~/\~~~/\~~~/\~~~


    The weather had turned sour over Essex¡¯s journey. She was fortunate to get mostly clear skies during her travels, making a majority of the trek a breeze for her, but as she closed in on her last day, the tundra-turned-arctic slowly built up with snowfall, before a massive blizzard swept through and made itself home.


    Essex had mostly prepared for this, as much as one could prepare for a blizzard, but still had to resort to travelling through some of the Aishanara Forest in order to avoid the worst of it, despite her best wishes.


    Eventually, after her numerous days of travel, she managed to spot the orange glow of lights out in the arctic and through the blizzard. She quickly pivoted toward it, trudging through the snow as best she could, even using her scythe as a makeshift shovel to help make her way toward it.


    Luckily, the blizzard was starting to die down as she approached, right as a familiar voice rang out from the direction of the lights.


    ¡°Hey! You made it!¡±


    Essex lifted her head and noticed the man who¡¯d approached her during the tournament with the internship offer, as he waved to her from the front of the agency building.


    ¡°I knew you would. Wailing should hardly be a problem for you.¡± He remarked, grinning proudly, before taking off his sunglasses. ¡°Nice weather, huh?¡±


    ¡°No, it is not.¡± Essex replied, finally making it under proper cover, as he cracked up again.


    ¡°There¡¯s that brutal honesty.¡± He joked, before turning to the building. ¡°Welcome to our slice of paradise. It¡¯s cold as shit here.¡±


    He waited a beat while Essex delayered herself, before speaking up again. ¡°Riley, if you were curious.¡±


    Essex turned to him. ¡°¡­I thought you had said you don¡¯t like giving out your name.¡±


    ¡°To strangers, but you took the initiative and made it here.¡± Riley answered, opening up the main door. ¡°And now you know what to call out if you need me.¡±


    Right as he opened it, Essex made a point to lay on the ground in front of the door, before Riley noticed and faced her.


    ¡°Were you that hungry?¡±


    She lay out her scythe in front of her, before it clicked for Riley as he massaged his forehead. ¡°Right, right, I was told about this, the Segaru thing¡­we give you permission to stay here.¡±


    ¡°Grelo.¡± Essex thanked, standing back up. ¡°Trace says hi, by the way.¡±


    ¡°Does he now? That old softy.¡± Riley remarked, before waving his hand out. ¡°The Aurora Venator Agency, in all its glory.¡±


    Despite not having been in many, Essex noticed the interior¡¯s similarity to a lodge, made almost entirely of wood and decorated with everything you¡¯d expect. The main room resembled a lobby, with a communal area covered in memorabilia and mounted Wailing heads, and even what looked to be a reception desk. A few doors and a staircase hinted toward the building¡¯s actual size, with one even labelled ¡®Head Office.¡¯


    ¡°I know, it¡¯s nothing fancy.¡± Riley excused, waving his hand. ¡°But I don¡¯t care, so keep your opinions to yourself.¡±


    ¡°Even if I believed that, I would not have said it.¡± Essex pointed out, looking around herself. ¡°Where are Team Avalanche?¡±


    ¡°Oh, I see, keen to meet the talent, huh?¡± Riley joked, turning around. ¡°They¡¯re out patrolling at the moment due to the freak blizzard. You can meet them properly in the morning. We¡¯ll also get you a meeting with the boss, but since you just got here, we¡¯ll let you settle in.¡±


    He waved his hand to the staircase, as Essex took herself up there, heading down the hallway before finding the door labelled ¡®Guest.¡¯


    It opened out to a small little living area, no bigger than the study back at the academy, fitted with bedding, a closet, even a small bathroom.


    ¡°The kitchen and laundry are further down the hall. If you need anything extra, I¡¯m usually hanging out in the main lobby, or I¡¯m out running errands.¡± Riley mentioned, as Essex sat down on her bed. ¡°Cozy? Need tea or something?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll be fine.¡± Essex assured, as Riley stepped out.


    ¡°Alright, have fun.¡± He said, ducking off back down the hall, as Essex took off her coat, before splaying out on the bed and pulling out her tablet.


    Essex [I have arrived at the Aurora Venator Agency.]


    Julia [I saw reports of a blizzard, did you make it through alright?]


    Sola [Whats the agency like? Did u meet Team Avalanche already?!?!]


    Essex [I made it through fine. Its died down.]


    Essex [They¡¯re out patrolling at the moment. I will have to wait until the morning.]


    Harley [SEND US PICS!!! WE WANNA SEE YOU IN YOUR COAT!!!]


    Sola [PLEASE PLEASE PLESE PLEASE PLEASE!!!!!1!!!]


    Harley [Wess is trying to take my tablet away! SEND THEM QUICK!!!]


    Wess [Ignore them, Essex, and just enjoy yourself. I¡¯m sure the trip there was harrowing enough, and you deserved a solid rest. -Wess]


    Julia [What Wess said. Get some well-earned slep.]


    Julia [*sleep]


    Essex smiled at her tablet, before resting it on her chest, as she stared up at the wooden ceiling, curious about everything her time away could entail, and whether it was something she was ready for.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°We can do this again, if you feel like. I¡¯m usually cooking for the team anyway.¡±


    Percy happily nodded along, enjoying their second batch of tarts even more than the first, just as the dorm opened to Wess rubbing her eyes and Sola dragging Harley in.


    ¡°Whoa. Did Ferris put you through the ringer?¡± Julia asked.


    ¡°Somewhat. We were stuck swapping weaponry.¡± Wess explained, waving her hand. ¡°Using Harley¡¯s gloves exhausted me.¡±


    ¡°Buster Knuckles¡­¡± Harley let out, collapsing onto her bed. ¡°Sola¡­cuddles¡­¡±


    Sola was very tempted to do so, only to spot the fresh tarts in the kitchen and immediately be torn about which the take.


    ¡°Good to know Essex made it okay.¡± Julia stated, as Percy found herself subtly hiding behind her again.


    ¡°She¡¯s a trooper, that Essex. No blizzard was holding her back.¡± Wess noted, taking a bite of a tart, before holding her hand to her mouth. ¡°Oh my¡­Percy, did you make these?¡±


    Noticing her hands shaking a bit, Percy opted to just point between her and Julia.


    ¡°Well, seems we have two excellent cooks in this dorm.¡± Wess complimented.


    ¡°The secret ingredient¡¯s friendship.¡± Julia joked, as Percy found herself snickering, before Sola dived in to get one herself.


    ¡°Traitor!¡± Harley called out from the bed, as Sola grabbed a few.


    ¡°Sorry, babe! I¡¯ll get you some too!¡± Sola called back, before taking a bite and turning to Percy. ¡°Whoa! These tarts are magic! Thanks!¡±


    Percy felt her cheeks flush, as she gripped Julia¡¯s sleeve again, hiding a nervous smile, before Julia laughed to herself.


    ¡°She says thanks too.¡±

 Chapter 52: Reignite

    Percy stared into the mirror opposite her.


    She¡¯d just woken up, having spent another night in Essex¡¯s bed in the study, before quickly getting changed into what she was used to and finding the outfit somewhat tight on her.


    She tried loosening it where possible, inspecting where the problem areas might be, only to redefine it in her head as restricting, not tight.


    Not what she really wanted anymore.


    With a resigned sigh, she stepped out of the study, expecting to see most of the team up and about, getting ready for the day, only to realise it was already eleven and that she¡¯d slept through most of the morning.


    I¡¯m still not used to that bed¡­ Percy thought. Maybe I need Rosalind swearing next to me to sooth me to sleep?


    Fortunately, the dorm wasn¡¯t entirely empty, as Wess stepped out of the bathroom, having just dolled herself up with quite the lovely dress.


    ¡°Oh, Percy. Good¡­¡± Wess quickly went to check the clock. ¡°Morning.¡±


    [Are you heading out somewhere?] Percy asked, as Wess went to grab her purse.


    ¡°I¡¯m heading out to Detu City with Saxin and Nathaniel.¡± Wess explained. ¡°Seears is pretty light on work at the moment, and Saxin and I have been meaning to go clothes shopping. We¡¯re dragging Nathaniel along in hopes of improving his wardrobe.¡±


    Percy¡¯s eyes lit up at the mention of clothes shopping, as she went to move her hands, only to stop herself suddenly, shying away from Wess.


    Wess easily noticed, before sitting against the couch.


    ¡°Something the matter?¡±


    Percy quietly shook her head, as Wess leaned forward.


    ¡°Would you like to come with us?¡±


    Percy immediately started waving her hands, insisting she stay behind, as Wess rested her hands on her hips.


    ¡°You know, it might be smart to get a change of clothes. Wicker¡¯s bound to recognise you if you¡¯re wearing the same duds you did working under them.¡±


    Percy froze stiff, finding no way to argue out of that, as Wess went for the door.


    ¡°It¡¯s up to you. You¡¯d hardly be an imposition, and it would be a good chance for us to get to know each other.¡± Wess suggested. ¡°And seeing me unclothed is usually only a privilege Julia gets to enjoy, so you might want to take that chance while you have it.¡±


    Percy¡¯s embarrassment only furthered, as she closed into herself, leaving Wess somewhat disappointed as she exited, heading out into the hall to go and knock on Team Vanguard¡¯s door.


    ¡°Coming! Coming!¡± Saxin cried out, before the door burst open to her. ¡°Apologies. I misplaced my hairbrush and had the worst bundle of knots in my life, but don¡¯t worry, it¡¯s all been sorted.¡±


    ¡°Where was it hiding?¡± Wess asked, as Saxin quickly grabbed her bag.


    ¡°With Lenin¡¯s things, next to out bed draw.¡± Saxin explained, as Wess cocked her head.


    ¡°¡­oh. I see.¡± Wess let out, as Saxin giggled to herself.


    ¡°You can get so caught up in the heat of the moment. Nathaniel? Are you ready?¡± Saxin called out, before he tentatively stepped out of the bathroom.


    ¡°H-Here I am, ready to be dressed.¡± He let out, trying to put on a brave face, as Saxin pressed her hands to his cheeks.


    ¡°No need to be nervous, dear. We¡¯re all getting something, and updating one¡¯s wardrobe can really change your outlook on life.¡± Saxin suggested, spinning back around, before staring past Wess. ¡°Is she going to be joining us?¡±


    Wess was briefly confused what she meant, only to meet her gaze and find Percy behind her, still fairly nervous, but with a reusable bag from the kitchen slung over her shoulder.


    ¡°¡­I suppose so.¡± Wess let out, facing Percy. ¡°Feel like a little excursion?¡±


    Percy simply nodded, scanning over Saxin and Nathaniel quickly as a precaution, before the group all left in the direction of the Flash-Rail station.


    ¡°Are any more of your delightful team planning on accompanying as well?¡± Saxin asked, as Wess shook her head.


    ¡°No, Harley and Sola are caught up on some personal business, and Julia¡¯s interning with Cecil again.¡± Wess explained, as Saxin gave her a knowing look, before leaning closer so Percy couldn¡¯t hear.


    ¡°Is she making much¡­progress?¡±


    ¡°¡­somewhat. Nothing definitive.¡± Wess clarified, pulling back out. ¡°The fact she¡¯s even doing this is still baffling. But that¡¯s Julia. She sets her mind to things and sees them through to the end¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°¡­this book is so boring.¡±


    Julia finally dropped it, giving her eyes a rest and stretching her arms.


    ¡°They could really afford to spice up these pre-Wailing war history books. Too many words.¡± Julia remarked, rubbing her eyes, before opening it back up. ¡°Back to the grind.¡±


    Julia kept her hand rested on the library table, tapping her pen on her notepad as she read, before the sound of running in the hall nearly drew her attention away.


    ¡°Julia! Julia Julia!¡±


    Julia heard Harley calling out to her, right as she ran inside, bolting up to her table, followed quickly by Sola.


    ¡°Julia, it¡¯s bad!¡± Sola added, slamming her hands down. ¡°It¡¯s really bad!¡±


    ¡°Sola¡¯s right, it¡¯s so bad!¡± Harley agreed.


    ¡°So bad!¡±


    ¡°Stop saying it¡¯s bad!¡± Julia insisted, standing up. ¡°What happened?¡±


    Harley touched her fingers together. ¡°Well, you know that meeting Faller wanted regarding Percy¡¯s stay¡­¡±


    Harley stopped herself briefly. ¡°¡­that we weren¡¯t having?¡±


    Julia nodded, as Sola grabbed her arms. ¡°Someone might¡¯ve caught us not having it.¡±


    Julia¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°What? Who?¡±


    ¡°We didn¡¯t get a good look. We saw them leave once we got out.¡± Sola admitted. ¡°But they might¡¯ve been listening at Faller¡¯s door.¡±


    ¡°His assistant was on break, so that¡¯s super likely.¡± Harley backed up, nodding.


    ¡°Okay.¡± Julia let out, stepping back. ¡°And how¡­incriminating was the conversation?¡±


    ¡°I said Wicker¡¯s name, like, five times.¡± Harley confessed, before hitting her head. ¡°Six now.¡±


    ¡°Julia, we have to track them down!¡± Sola demanded, grabbing her arms again. ¡°Bring them to justice! Faller can interrogate them for us!¡±


    ¡°Sola, relax.¡± Julia said, crouching down to meet her eye level. ¡°Let¡¯s think about this, alright?¡±


    Julia scratched her chin. ¡°If any normal person overhead a conversation like that, they probably wouldn¡¯t be able to make much of it, would they? Like realistically, the name Wicker wouldn¡¯t mean anything.¡±


    ¡°¡­true.¡± Harley said. ¡°You need some context.¡±


    ¡°Right, so let¡¯s think about who the worst people to overhear this would be and whittle it down from there.¡± Julia suggested, raising a finger. ¡°Obvious first one; Cecil.¡±


    Harley breathed in through her teeth. ¡°Oh yeah, that¡¯d be bad news.¡±


    ¡°But you can check him later today when you¡¯re interning with him.¡± Sola noted, as Julia gave a thumbs up.


    ¡°We probably don¡¯t have to worry about many other staff, or any first or second-year students. Most of the teams in our year are also out on their internships right now.¡± Julia thought through, lifting her head. ¡°Which teams are on campus right now?¡±


    ¡°Well, there¡¯s us and Vanguard.¡± Harley noted. ¡°I think a couple members of Team Salvation¡­Team Exemplary, and¡­¡±


    Harley¡¯s gaze fixed for a moment, as a realisation hit. ¡°Oh wait, I just remembered¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Wait, you saw what?¡±


    ¡°Nothing specific. But I¡¯m curious.¡±


    Baron wandered about Team Ferocity¡¯s dorm, thinking to himself. ¡°There was only so much I could hear through the door, but I think they were saying someone¡¯s name a lot. Perkins and Wikstrom or something?¡±


    Baron ran his thumb over his soul patch. ¡°Something¡¯s up with them.¡± Baron noted. ¡°I¡¯ve seen them enter Faller¡¯s office way more than any other team recently. That, and they¡¯re spending a lot of time with Ferris when they really don¡¯t need to.¡±


    ¡°Who?¡± Duke asked from the couch.


    Baron stared at him from the kitchen. ¡°Team Valiant. Who else?¡±


    Duke started to check out, going back to the TV, as Edward got up from his bed.


    ¡°Of course it¡¯s them. What a bunch of¡­man, they suck.¡± Edward backed up, kicking his legs out. ¡°Not surprised they¡¯re acting like teachers pets now too.¡±


    ¡°It feels like it¡¯s more than that.¡± Baron suggested, as Duke lifted his head up.


    ¡°Are you gonna go harass them again?¡±


    Baron glared back at Duke. ¡°Harass?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, give it a rest already.¡± Duke insisted, as Baron leaned against the kitchen counter.


    ¡°I don¡¯t care that Wess was nice to you during the tournament. If they¡¯re up to something, I wanna know.¡± Baron insisted, as Duke stood up to head to the kitchen.


    ¡°Why do you even care?¡± Duke asked, pushing past Baron.


    ¡°Goodie two shoes like them don¡¯t try shit like this. If they¡¯re sneaking off to do things, then it must be something personal and worth knowing.¡± Baron pointed out, moving to lean on the couch casually. ¡°We already caught Julia skulking around in first year. What do they have that¡¯s worth hiding?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, yeah! Probably, like¡­fucking¡­tea parties or something.¡± Edward attempted, only to get a lazy glare down from Baron.


    Duke scoffed and grabbed a carton of milk from the fridge. ¡°You just want blackmail for when you fight them next¡­¡±


    ¡°That¡¯d be ideal too.¡± Baron admitted. ¡°I can be multifaceted.¡±


    ¡°Says the guy wanting to fight them for like the fifth time¡­¡± Duke muttered, as Baron mostly just caught the tone of the statement and rolled his eyes.


    ¡°Oh! Can we do a stakeout, Baron? Catch ¡®em in the act? Find out about who this Perkins person is?¡± Edward encouraged, sitting up from his bed, as Baron looked over to him for only a second.


    ¡°Sure. I don¡¯t know what ¡®act¡¯ you think will happen, but we can attempt it.¡± Baron noted, grabbing his jacket. ¡°You coming, Duke?¡±


    Duke didn¡¯t respond, instead choosing to walk back to the couch and turn the TV back up, as Baron waited a second, before leaning directly next to him ear.


    ¡°YOU COMING, DUKE?!¡±


    ¡°NO!¡± Duke yelled back, shoving him away. ¡°I¡¯m not¡­I¡¯m not your tag along for your weird fixation.¡±


    Baron shrugged. ¡°Alright. Just wanted a reply.¡±


    Edward happily hopped up from the bed, flipping off Duke as he excitedly left with Baron, leaving Duke alone in the dorm with his thoughts, a dangerous prospect indeed.


    ¡°¡­when¡¯d Baron turn into such a dick?¡± Duke exclaimed aloud, only to think about it for more than five seconds. ¡°¡­oh¡­right¡­nothing¡¯s changed¡­¡±


    Duke lowered his head.


    ¡°¡­nothing¡­¡±


    ~~~/\~~~/\~~~/\~~~


    Essex found herself tossing and turning, struggling to keep still.


    Her new bunking arrangements at the Aurora Venator agency were hard to get used to, especially without the rest of the team with her. In all this time, she¡¯d never actually noticed how much she relied on Sola¡¯s light snoring coming through the wall to help her nod off.


    Maxie helped out somewhat, letting her cuddle up to something familiar and soft, as its slight scent lingered in the air, reminding her of the comforts of her makeshift home, and of¡­


    ¡­Julia¡­


    As the strange realisation hit her, she shot up from her bed quickly, still a bit delirious from her lack of much sleep, before a sharp knock rang out from her door, as Riley¡¯s voice called out from the hallway.


    ¡°Mornin¡¯ Essex! Hope you slept well!¡± He let out. ¡°Just a quick heads up, I¡¯ll be heading out to run some errands for a while! You¡¯ll wanna see Charles in his office to start your internship proper! Best of luck!¡±


    Essex took a second to let her ears unblock as Riley¡¯s footsteps headed out from the hallway. She eventually got up and changed into her suit, chucking off her Team Vivisect shirt, before grabbing her scythe and heading downstairs.


    She was greeted by the agency entranceway again, before spotting the head office off to the side and beelining for it, gently knocking on the door.


    ¡°Come in.¡±


    Essex opened it to find a fairly cozy office, filled to the brim with personal memorabilia and proud accomplishments lining the walls, and a fairly built man sitting at his desk, smoking a cigar while looking over some newspapers.


    He lifted his eyes up for a second to see who it was, before realising it was Essex and giving her his attention. ¡°You¡¯re the intern student.¡±


    ¡°Aerlo Decali. My title is Essex.¡± Essex said, bowing, as Charles stood up and walked over to her, sticking his hand out.


    ¡°Charles Orother.¡± He greeted, as Essex firmly gripped his hand back. ¡°I¡¯m head of the agency here, but you know that already.¡±


    He went to sit back down, before grabbing up his newspapers again, skimming the headlines. ¡°You¡¯re the one we scouted from VA, right?¡±


    ¡°The Venator Academy, yes.¡± Essex replied, as Charles pointed at her scythe.


    ¡°The one who sliced that Behemoth thing in half?¡±


    Essex blinked. ¡°Down the middle, not in half.¡±


    Charles flexed out his newspaper. ¡°You should tell people it was in half. That¡¯s your first tip.¡±


    Essex realised she¡¯d forgotten her notepad in her room, but also realised she couldn¡¯t really leave mid-conversation, as she stood awkwardly, hoping to retain as much as she could from memory alone.


    ¡°I was very impressed by your performance, especially since that was your orientation day. I did have one question, though.¡± Charles said, before pointing back at Essex. ¡°What¡¯s with the suit?¡±


    Essex looked down at it, then back up at him. ¡°Personal choice.¡±


    Charles cracked a smile, before returning his attention to the headlines. ¡°You probably noticed the blizzard on your trip here. Once Tea-¡°


    Charles was thrown off by a sharp chill that carried through the room, before a knock came from his door, despite it already being open.


    ¡°Charlie? Is it cool to come in?¡± A man asked, draped in a massive, patterned coat.


    ¡°You¡¯re fine. I was just catching up our intern on business here.¡± Charles explained, as the man and two women came inside, all just as rugged up as each other with similarly themed coats. ¡°Essex, this is Nevando and Glace of Team Avalanche.¡±


    Essex went to turn and face them, only to nearly trip over as she realised several huskies were running underneath her feet, shaking off snow and making themselves comfortable.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, they¡¯re ours. They help us scout things out during blizzards.¡± Nevando said, before proudly sticking out his hand. ¡°You a fan of Team Avalanche?¡±


    Essex didn¡¯t know how to reply and simply blinked back at him, before he couldn¡¯t help himself from laughing.


    ¡°I¡¯m joshing. I don¡¯t really care.¡± Nevando excused, pressing his thumb into his chest. ¡°You probably know me though, right? I¡¯m the one they always write about in the papers!¡±


    ¡°They write about all of us.¡± Glace intervened, stepping forward. ¡°Nev, can you treat her normally? No doubt she¡¯s exhausted from her trip here.¡±


    ¡°Come now, she¡¯s a Venator. Nothing we can¡¯t handle, right?¡± Nevando teased, nudging Essex¡¯s side, before stepping over to Charles¡¯ desk. ¡°Alright, let¡¯s talk shop.¡±


    Essex stepped aside, letting them carry out their seemingly important chat, before noticing the huskies now staring at her, a few sniffing her hands and trying to jump up on her. The second, much younger woman that had come in giggled watching her, as Essex felt a bit put on the spot.


    ¡°Sillik and Hail are still scouting the border, while Veve¡¯s assessing damage to the forest. No Wailing sighted as of yet, but the weather still hasn¡¯t fully cleared up.¡± Nevando reported, his hands on the desk, as Charles leaned back into his chair.


    ¡°Any sight of the Slush Skulker?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s hard to find anything concrete out there, but we¡¯ll head out over the next few days and place a couple traps. It¡¯s not touching this place.¡±


    ¡°I should hope not.¡± Charles replied, getting comfortable. ¡°Why don¡¯t you bring out the rookie with you?¡±


    Nevando spun around to face Essex and brief her on the situation, only to find Essex in the midst of playing with the huskies, expertly drawing their attention to a crumpled-up paper they¡¯d confused for a ball, before chucking it out into the hall and watching them barrel out after it.


    Waiting for them to bring it back, she only then realised the others were staring at her, as she found herself quickly getting embarrassed.


    The second younger woman kept laughing, visibly enjoying herself, as Glace rolled her eyes and beckoned her out.


    ¡°Lev, come on, let¡¯s leave the poor girl alone.¡± Glace stated, as Lev started following behind.


    ¡°Alright. No point dwelling.¡± She said, before waving to Essex. ¡°May Whilit brighten your day.¡±


    Once again, Essex found herself out of her element, just as Nevando suddenly rested a hand on her shoulder.


    ¡°Hey¡­feel like setting up some traps?¡± Nevando insisted, as Essex thought on it for a second, before nodding.


    ¡°That would be a rewarding learning experience.¡± Essex replied, as Nevando rested his other hand down.


    ¡°Great. Just great.¡± He assured, before stepping out as well. ¡°Grab some breakfast. We¡¯ll be heading out in about an hour, once most of the snow¡¯s been taken care of by our pal, the sun.¡±


    Nevando waited for a response, as Essex looked awkwardly to the side, unsure what to say.


    ¡°¡­thank you, sun.¡±


    ¡°Thank you indeed.¡± Nevando said, hopping out, as Charles got comfortable again.


    Essex found herself awkwardly standing again, secretly hoping the huskies would come back, before turning to Charles reading in his chair.


    ¡°¡­may I a-¡°


    ¡°The kitchen¡¯s behind the stairs. Just on the right.¡±


    Essex nodded back to him. ¡°Grela.¡± She left soon after, fortunate to have at least this brief moment to herself without so many new people.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Percy stared slack jawed at just how pretty Detu City looked whizzing by in the Flash-Rail. She hadn¡¯t ridden many, often preferring to drive, but the new perspective certainly made her appreciate it more.


    Once the Flash-Rail pulled into Detu Central, Saxin hopped out, dragging Nathaniel behind her and searching for the clothing shop.


    ¡°Come on, Nath, it¡¯s just down this street.¡± Saxin beckoned, rising her eyebrows. ¡°Time for your makeover.¡±


    ¡°¡­y-you actually scare me a lot.¡± Nathaniel admitted, only for his cries to fall on deaf ears, as Saxin pulled him into the massive crowd of people lining the streets.


    ¡°She truly carries on all by herself.¡± Wess noted, resting her hands on her hips, as Percy stepped out of the train to join her. ¡°Ready to join them?¡±


    Wess turned to find Percy nervously glancing around them, as the massive crowd of people started to surround them.


    [I¡¯m¡­pretty nervous coming back into the city.] Percy admitted, as Wess eyed her up.


    She sympathised with Percy¡¯s sheltered demeanour, before holding out her hand and closing the distance between them.


    ¡°Just stick close to me.¡± Wess encouraged, as Percy took a second to take in the gesture, before grabbing the hand and following behind Wess. ¡°I¡¯ll keep an eye out for you.¡±


    Percy wanted to thank her, but since Wess was helping her through the massive crowd, she couldn¡¯t find an appropriate time. Instead, she just allowed Wess to help her through, following closely behind Saxin and Nathaniel, before they arrived at a fairly large department store in Detu Central.


    ¡°We¡¯re not going high fashion today, just a little cheaper.¡± Saxin explained, turning back to Wess and Percy. ¡°Still quality, but cheaper.¡±


    ¡°A quality sentiment, Saxin.¡± Wess complimented, as Saxin waved her hand.


    ¡°Oh, stop it you.¡± Saxin cooed, before grabbing Nathaniel¡¯s hand. ¡°What¡¯s say we get you out of that hoodie and into something nice?¡±


    ¡°C-Can we no-¡± Nathaniel let out, only to be whisked away by Saxin again, leaving Wess and Percy alone.


    Percy followed Wess inside, watching as she effortlessly navigated past the main entrance and through the lines and lines of clothing.


    ¡°Did you have a particular style in mind?¡± Wess asked, looking back at Percy again. ¡°Are we hoping for more along the lines of¡­¡±


    She took a second to really take in Percy¡¯s outfit.


    ¡°¡­chimney sweep, I suppose?¡±


    Percy glared at her, before taking off her flat cap and scanning around the store.


    This story originates from a different website. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.


    ¡°I can show you some styles I think you might like.¡± Wess said. ¡°And hopefully, they¡¯ll make it so you¡¯re harder to spot for Wicker¡¯s little goons. Just tell me if¡­¡±


    Wess turned back to face Percy, before realising she wasn¡¯t there anymore, as she looked around curiously.


    ¡°Percy?¡± Wess called out. ¡°She shouldn¡¯t be wandering off¡­¡±


    Wess¡¯ eye was drawn to a waving hand a few aisles down, before she noticed Percy perusing the¡­


    ¡°¡­oh.¡± Wess realised, stepping forward. ¡°Oh¡­¡±


    [I really like the look of these.] Percy noted, holding up a tropical shirt, which Wess noted was from the bargain bin.


    ¡°Do you?¡±


    Percy nodded happily, holding the shirt to her. [It¡¯s kinda fun, but breezy.]


    ¡°¡­right.¡± Wess said, going to pick up another. ¡°I mean, I¡¯ve never been a real fan of Welland fashion myself¡­¡±


    Wess noticed Percy¡¯s attention on herself in the mirror, checking herself out in each look.


    ¡°¡­but I¡¯ve always made the point about style over fashion.¡± Wess clarified, joining Percy¡¯s side behind her.


    Percy looked back to Wess, before pulling the shirt back down. [¡­I can go buy proper clothes, if you want. If these are too tacky.]


    Wess noticed Percy¡¯s expression and smiled. ¡°Tacky¡¯s a state of mind. It¡¯s up to you, truly.¡±


    Percy happily cheered, before grabbing a handful of shirts and hurrying over to the changing rooms, as Wess rolled her eyes and followed behind, chuckling at Percy¡¯s endearing excitement.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°So you think there¡¯s someone looking into us?¡±


    ¡°Maybe¡­we¡¯ve just gotta be more careful from now on.¡± Julia explained, carrying on through the walkway surrounding the academy Spire, as Ferris nodded along. ¡°I¡¯m checking in on Cecil during my internship.¡±


    ¡°Good call¡­look at us.¡± Ferris remarked, bumping her side. ¡°I guess we¡¯re really working together at this point. You¡¯re looking into Cecil and taking care of Percy, I¡¯m out following up on Faller¡¯s leads, we¡¯re all running around looking for the big W¡¯s operation.¡±


    ¡°O-Oh¡­¡± Julia realised, blushing slightly. ¡°I guess so¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­if you want out, just say so.¡± Ferris noted, leaning into her. ¡°I don¡¯t want you cramping my style.¡±


    ¡°I¡­I think if we wanted out, we would¡¯ve just¡­taken Faller¡¯s advice last year.¡± Julia admitted, turning to her. ¡°Let¡¯s be honest, I kind of invited this.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, fair.¡± Ferris said, rubbing her neck. ¡°Makes it a little less lonely¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry?¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t say anything.¡± Ferris muttered, as they continued their walk and talk, oblivious to the sets of eyes watching them carry on from the distance.


    ¡°See? That¡¯s weird as shit.¡± Baron insisted, slapping Edward¡¯s arm. ¡°What do they have to talk about?¡±


    ¡°Uhh¡­I mean, Ferris is a teacher.¡± Edward suggested, awkwardly shrugging. ¡°Maybe Julia¡¯s talking with her about class work?¡±


    Baron lowered his eyes. ¡°¡­this is Ferris we¡¯re talking about.¡±


    Edward forced a smile. ¡°Ah, fair, fair. When you¡¯re right¡­¡±


    Baron started to get up. ¡°Come on, let¡¯s get clo-¡°


    ¡°Boo, I¡¯m a scary ghost!¡±


    Edward jumped back immediately, holding out his hands in fear, as Baron slowly turned around to see Harley staring back at them, arms folded.


    ¡°Oh, blondie. I forgot you were still on campus.¡± Baron let out, leaning against the wall.


    Harley nodded to Baron. ¡°What¡¯s up with you, dark and brooding? I thought you¡¯d be doing an internship.¡±


    ¡°We decided to hang back. Didn¡¯t really feel like it.¡± Baron said, cracking his neck. ¡°We¡¯ve already done plenty in our own time, so¡­¡±


    ¡°Nice humble brag.¡± Harley remarked, before looking to Edward. ¡°So, why¡¯re you snooping on Julia?¡±


    ¡°W-What? H-How do you know if th-that¡¯s what we were doing?¡± Edward spat out, hurriedly standing back up and trying to lean on the wall too, before slipping. ¡°Seems like¡­you were snooping on us!¡±


    ¡°I just got here.¡± Harley said, pursing her lips. ¡°Well, we think someone¡¯s been spying on our team, and I was just checking that it wasn¡¯t you.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not in the business of stalking.¡± Baron replied. ¡°And even if I was, what would you have that¡¯s worth listening in on?¡±


    Harley squinted her eyes. ¡°I don¡¯t like your tone.¡±


    ¡°Ditto.¡± Baron stated, pointing to the training grounds. ¡°Feel like settling this properly?¡±


    ¡°¡­gods, you¡¯re desperate.¡± Harley let out, before grinning and walking away. ¡°Nice try, but I¡¯d rather keep my winning streak! Cause I won last time!¡±


    Baron tried to hide his resentment, subtly clenching his fist.


    ¡°Oh yeah, and I forgot Essex kicked your ass too!¡± Harley added, turning back around. ¡°Get good, scrub!¡±


    Harley smugly left, leaving Baron to seethe, as Edward whistled out.


    ¡°Geez, real piece of work, that one.¡± Edward attempted. ¡°Don¡¯t listen to her, we both know who really won that fight, no matter what anyone sa-¡°


    ¡°Edward, shut up for two seconds.¡± Baron demanded, quickly getting his wish, before storming off. ¡°Stakeout over. We need some hard proof.¡±


    ~~~/\~~~/\~~~/\~~~


    Essex tightened her legs around the base of the tree, wrapping bits of string around various branches, before testing their tensity.


    As she finished tying up a few, she heard a sharp whistle below her, before spotting Nevando at the base of the tree.


    ¡°You gettin¡¯ the hang of it?¡± He called out, as she grabbed her scythe and scaled back down.


    ¡°This is relatively simple.¡± Essex reasoned, landing on the ground, while Nevando grabbed his chest.


    ¡°Youch. Don¡¯t say that, this is the hardest part of the job!¡± Nevando joked, before staring off back at the tundra. ¡°Well, we can¡¯t be fighting Wailing all the time. Gotta find ways to keep busy.¡±


    He pumped his fist proudly. ¡°That¡¯s why working with Aurora¡¯s so useful. There¡¯s plenty to do that¡¯s not fighting around here. Most of our work¡¯s prevention.¡±


    Essex nodded in agreement, before Nevando started elbowing her arm.


    ¡°Did I sell you on the agency yet?¡± He insisted, as Essex backed away slightly.


    ¡°¡­keep¡­trying.¡± Essex played along, as Nevando smirked back to her.


    ¡°Gotcha. Gotta sweeten the deal more.¡± He stated, staring back at Glace in the trees too, tightening her own strings. ¡°Glace! Tell Essex how interesting our work is!¡±


    ¡°No!¡± Glace quickly yelled back.


    ¡°See? She didn¡¯t deny it.¡± Nevando said, before Essex stared out into the outstretched tundra as well.


    ¡°So these are to alert us if Wailing approach?¡± Essex asked.


    Nevando nodded. ¡°We usually don¡¯t have to move them this far into the forest, but there¡¯s been a problem Wailing recently. The Slush Skulker.¡±


    Nevando moved his arm around Essex¡¯s head and started wiggling his fingers in front of her face. ¡°It¡¯s this terrifying beast that uses the snow like its own private swimming pool. Blizzards draw it out, giving it a path directly to our agency. If it¡¯s hiding in the Aishanara Forest, we wanna know before it¡¯s too late.¡±


    Essex backed away again, as Nevando spread his hands out. ¡°We¡¯ll be covering the ground with snares in the coming days to help in capturing it. Since you¡¯re a Team Avalanche super fan, you probably know I¡¯m the only member with a Whil.¡±


    ¡°¡­oh.¡± Essex replied, as Nevando nodded proudly.


    ¡°And it¡¯s not a very useful one for combat.¡± Nevando admitted, pulling down his sleeve and showing a yellow glow on his skin. ¡°Temperate Control. Stops me from feeling most of the cold around here. The coat¡¯s mostly for branding at this point.¡±


    ¡°You feel like helping out, Nev?! Or are you just fine yukking it up with the intern?!¡± Glace yelled out, as Nevando jumped a bit.


    ¡°I¡¯m buttering her up! You want her working here or not?¡± Nevando admitted, jumping up the trees himself to join her, as Essex decided she should get back to doing the same.


    Before she could do so, she turned around to find the younger woman from earlier staring at her excitedly, sitting on a log and kicking her legs, a flower in her hair.


    Essex froze on the spot, as she chuckled and stood up.


    ¡°You didn¡¯t see me arrive, did you?¡±


    Essex shook her head in agreement, as the woman placed a hand on her chest.


    ¡°This one is Lev.¡± She introduced. ¡°I¡¯m not part of Team Avalanche, if you were curious.¡±


    She pointed up to Glace, frustratedly pulling Nevando up the tree. ¡°Glace is my mother. It¡¯s her week with me.¡±


    Lev sighed out and lay back on the log. ¡°But, as is usually the case, she¡¯s busy. With work. Again.¡±


    She turned over to face Essex again and smiled. ¡°Whilit wouldn¡¯t wallow though, so neither will I.¡±


    Lev noticed Essex staring at the flower in her hair, before pulling it out and holding it. ¡°Are you interested in it?¡±


    Essex shook herself free. ¡°¡­it is the Seishia flower.¡±


    ¡°Yes! As a clan member, I had a feeling you would recognise this. They¡¯re used in Boncala Day celebrations, after all.¡± Lev explained. ¡°It¡¯s good to find someone else spiritually connected with the Old Gods!¡±


    Lev leaned forward excitedly, her eyes lighting up. ¡°So which is your chosen god of being? Mine is the ever-curious wandering Enprov!¡±


    Essex showed her hands, before sitting down on a log across from her. ¡°M-My apologies, I am not a practicer of the faith. I merely recognised the flower.¡±


    ¡°¡­oh.¡± Lev let out, losing some energy. ¡°Of course¡­I was hoping since a lot of Segaru members are¡­¡±


    Essex nodded. ¡°I believe the Segaru Clan has its roots within Old Gods Worship. However, I do not personally believe in them.¡± Essex clarified. ¡°My partner Sola does¡­and I still believe in acting morally just.¡±


    ¡°¡­well, that¡¯s all anyone can ask for.¡± Lev pointed out, as she waved her hand. ¡°As long as you embody their teachings, then there¡¯s hardly an issue. Good virtues are universal, even if the entities behind them change.¡±


    Lev thought for a second, before snickering. ¡°I was about to make a joke about saving your soul, but I¡¯m worried you would take it seriously.¡±


    ¡°¡­that is an accurate worry.¡± Essex remarked, getting another laugh from Lev.


    ¡°I want to encourage others to believe, but I¡¯m not about to push my beliefs onto those who don¡¯t want it.¡± Lev stated, nodding her head. ¡°Whilit wouldn¡¯t do that, so why should I?¡±


    ¡°I suppose.¡± Essex commented. ¡°¡­if you would be willing, we can still talk, once I¡¯m not working. If you would appreciate the companionship.¡±


    Lev tilted her head. ¡°Are you not enjoying Team Avalanche¡¯s company?¡±


    Essex shook her head, before looking back at them. ¡°¡­I find it difficult to relate with most people, and they¡¯re a great example of why.¡±


    Lev chuckled. ¡°I understand. I¡¯ll try not to talk your ear off about the Old Gods, okay?¡±


    ¡°¡­and I will not bog you down with Venator talk.¡± Essex replied, getting a heartier laugh from Lev.


    ¡°That¡¯s greatly appreciated, Essex.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Feel different?¡±


    ¡°¡­I¡¯m sorry?¡±


    ¡°Does it feel different?¡± Cecil asked, nodding to the lab around them. ¡°We¡¯re usually busy in my office, so moving to the science department¡¯s somewhat strange.¡±


    ¡°Oh, yeah, a little.¡± Julia admitted, as Cecil noticed the tone in her voice.


    ¡°Are you distracted by something?¡±


    ¡°¡­oh, no, not really.¡± Julia said, cleaning a few messy beakers in the lab sinks. ¡°It¡¯s just¡­I think someone¡¯s been spying on my team recently.¡±


    Cecil blinked. ¡°Spying? What for?¡±


    Julia shrugged. ¡°I dunno. It¡¯s not like we¡¯re doing anything weird. We had to talk with Faller about some stuff, but I think they were listening at the door.¡±


    Julia cautiously kept her eye on Cecil, reading his expression, as he scratched his chin.


    ¡°You think people would know better, especially after Faller found those listening devices over campus. You do something like that, you¡¯re incriminating yourself.¡±


    ¡°¡­right, yeah.¡± Julia acknowledged, lowering her head again. ¡°It¡¯d be pretty dumb.¡±


    ¡­I guess he wouldn¡¯t be that stupid. Julia admitted. He¡¯d probably be caught on a security camera as well¡­


    ¡°If¡­you do find that person¡­¡± Cecil started, putting down his cleaning products. ¡°I know a good method for dealing with problem people.¡±


    Julia turned to face him, as Cecil laughed a little, circling his finger on the table. ¡°I¡¯ve found the best thing you can do is learn everything you can about them.¡±


    Julia slightly froze at this comment despite herself, before Cecil noticed and panicked for a second.


    ¡°Not in a sinister way. Just¡­if someone¡¯s being difficult, you have to assess their character.¡± Cecil clarified. ¡°For example, we¡¯ve had a lot of corporate spies trying to worm into EHM over the years to take specific design documents and earnings reports¡­it got exhausting dealing with them every time they cropped up. So, we came up with two methods.¡±


    Cecil lifted a finger. ¡°One. We leave them fake documents to find that give them exactly what they¡¯re looking for. Our ¡®top secret information,¡¯ if you will. If they end up using them, then we¡¯ll know who¡¯s spying on us and can better avoid them in the future.¡±


    Cecil lifted another and smiled. ¡°And two. If they found the fake documents and realised they were easy bait, that¡¯s when they¡¯ve earned our respect. Instead of trying to trick them any further, we would invite them to meet with me and strike a deal.¡±


    Julia blinked a few times as she took this in. ¡°A deal?¡±


    ¡°Well, they saw through our ploy, so we give them a deal that benefits both parties. Often exchanging one trade secret for another.¡± Cecil confessed, visibly proud of himself. ¡°Julia, the best way to deal with difficult people is to understand them. Assess the situation, come up with strategy and use what would be most effective. Trick the morons, indulge the worthy.¡±


    Cecil settled himself, before snapping his fingers. ¡°Like the Order of Proceeding for Venators. You don¡¯t deal with every Wailing by punching them in the face. Each one takes a new approach.¡±


    Julia nodded. ¡°Right. Some methods are more¡­effective¡­¡±


    He¡¯s being really careful with his language¡­ Julia noticed, as Cecil went back to wiping down his counters. If he wants to seem innocuous, he¡¯s doing a remarkable job.


    Once he had his back to her, Julia turned to look at him properly.


    ¡­maybe I should take his advice. Assess things, try to play him¡­


    He hummed a little tune to himself, focused entirely on maintaining his clean lab.


    ¡­this might be my chance¡­let¡¯s try what Percy mentioned.


    Julia pretended to get back to work. ¡°I don¡¯t know how you clean this place by yourself. I bet everyone in the science department considers you head of the Organisation around here.¡±


    Julia waited for a reaction, hoping to catch him with her wording, as Cecil kept his gaze on his cleaning, before waving his hand to acknowledge Julia¡¯s comment.


    ¡°I¡¯m sure their descriptions wouldn¡¯t be that flattering. Let¡¯s be honest, pencil-neck¡¯s probably more likely.¡± Cecil remarked, chuckling a little, as Julia was ironically thrown off by his lack of being thrown off.


    ¡°Still, you could probably do things a lot q-Wicker with some more help.¡±


    Julia watched as he turned his head up.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry?¡±


    ¡°Quicker. You could be quicker.¡±


    ¡°¡­I have a very particular way of taking care of things. I think more cooks in the kitchen would just get in the way.¡± Cecil confessed, giving a good-natured laugh. ¡°How would you feel if another Venator team butted into one of your hunts?¡±


    Despite struggling to interpret his expression, Julia found herself not wanting to push too hard. ¡°Good call. I guess our work¡¯s more similar than I realised.¡±


    ¡°In a lot of ways.¡± Cecil added, leaving Julia without much of a conclusion, just as she got a text on her tablet.


    Harley [It¡¯s definitely Team Ferocity. Caught them spying on you. Want me to rough them up?]


    Julia thought for a second, before staring back at Cecil and responding.


    Julia [I know how to deal with them. We¡¯ll need Faller and Ferris¡¯ help.]


    Harley [Gotcha]


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Wess, Saxin and Nathaniel were left a bit speechless.


    ¡°Umm¡­¡±


    Percy posed a bit after exiting the changing room.


    [Thoughts?]


    ¡°¡­the shirt¡¯s fine, and it seems we¡¯ve changed out the hat¡­¡± Wess noted, massaging her forehead. ¡°¡­I¡¯m sorry, where did you get those pants?¡±


    Percy stared down at her checkered pants, completely mismatching her shirt. [The sleepwear section.]


    ¡­against all my better judgement¡­ Wess thought, staring back at her. ¡­I hate to say it, but she¡¯s really pulling that look off.


    ¡°And this is your¡­first choice?¡± Saxin asked for clarity, getting a nod from Percy. ¡°You¡¯re sure you don¡¯t want to try anything else?¡±


    ¡°I-I kinda liked it with the hat.¡± Nathaniel offered, as Wess and Saxin flailed their arms in protest toward him, while Percy stared down at the hat.


    She turned around and pulled it back on, her outfit mismatching even more now, before spinning back to them.


    [Good call, Nath! It¡¯s better with that pop of brown.] Percy agreed, as Wess and Saxin sunk into their seats in frustration.


    Percy obviously noticed, before signing to Wess.


    [Do you not like the hat?] Percy asked a bit tentatively, as Wess sat back up casually and looked to Saxin briefly.


    ¡°¡­do you like it?¡±


    Percy nodded happily.


    ¡°Then who cares what I think?¡± Wess said, as Percy let out a small sigh of relief, confusing Wess slightly.


    ¡°Talk about a rollercoaster¡­¡± Saxin let out, standing back up. ¡°It¡¯s about time I do some retail therapy of my own. Nath, since Lenin isn¡¯t here, you get to carry bags for me.¡±


    ¡°G-Get to?¡± Nathaniel let out, as Saxin clapped her hands.


    ¡°Da doy! Let¡¯s pretend it¡¯s a team exercise.¡± Saxin joked, slinging her arm around him and waving back. ¡°I¡¯ll be back to give you girls a show!¡±


    Wess chuckled to herself. ¡°How giving.¡±


    Wess turned back to find Percy checking her outfit again the mirror, a worried expression on her face, before seeing Wess in the reflection and jumping a little.


    ¡°You¡¯re a very odd one, Percy.¡±


    Percy stared back at Wess.


    ¡°You¡¯re awfully opinionated, but you don¡¯t like to disappoint people.¡± Wess noted. ¡°It¡¯s a unique and conflicting set of standards you¡¯ve got there.¡±


    Percy found herself blushing, as she gripped a few of the shirts she was planning to buy.


    [¡­I didn¡¯t get much of a say back with Wicker. He made sure of that¡­] Percy explained, joining Wess by sitting on the floor near her. [And I don¡¯t know you, Team Valiant, or Vanguard very well either.]


    Wess leaned down slightly. ¡°I think Jules is the one who didn¡¯t get much of a say. Percy, however, can finally be herself, whoever that may be.¡±


    Wess let out a breath, before staring at the ceiling. ¡°I was very much the same after coming to the academy. In Mareau, I was argumentative and frustrated, trying to do what I felt right even with resistance from every end. But after coming here¡­well, I was still that for a while.¡±


    Percy silently laughed a little, as Wess rested her head on her hand. ¡°But then the rest of the team really helped me come out of my shell. I wasn¡¯t argumentative, I was opinionated, and proud of it. I could finally speak my mind without worrying that every word I said would have horrible repercussions.¡±


    [¡­I wonder who Percy¡¯s going to end up being.] Percy pondered, as Wess smiled, before casually touching her cheek.


    ¡°You know¡­¡± Wess started, staring off into the ceiling. ¡°Back when I was a child, I heard this story of a great hero known as ¡®Percival the Merciful.¡¯¡±


    Right as she said that, Percy began to sweat, as Wess kicked her legs. ¡°She would defend those she could and made a point to fight off evil, but only if she ever had to. Often times, she¡¯d avoid conflict all together, and most would berate her and call her a coward. ¡®You¡¯re just lazy!,¡¯ they would cry. ¡®Only wimps would run from a fight!¡¯¡±


    Wess leaned on the wall. ¡°But Percival insisted that sometimes running from a fight was the best option, and that not every fight was worth shedding blood over. In all her bouts of glory, she would still take time to relax and be at peace with herself.¡±


    Wess got up a little, as Percy tried to avoid looking at her.


    ¡°Now, it could be complete coincidence that you named yourself after her, and I could just be looking into things too much.¡± Wess played off. ¡°And honestly, it¡¯s none of my business if you knew that story before. But it certainly is an interesting connection¡­¡±


    Wess grabbed a handful of the shirts, before pointing Percy in the direction of the register. ¡°If you¡¯re set on these, we might as well grab them now. Ideally, we should be heading back to the academy soon anyway. Shouldn¡¯t risk keeping you out for too long.¡±


    As Wess walked off, Percy instinctively reached for her pocket, grabbing some of the few capitals she managed to keep on her person, as Wess noticed and stopped her.


    ¡°Darling, please. I can cover this.¡± Wess insisted. ¡°I¡¯m treating you today.¡±


    Percy went to shake her head, as Wess rolled her eyes and dragged her along to the register. ¡°Nope, I¡¯m not taking no for an answer. You¡¯re letting me pay for this.¡±


    Percy let herself be dragged, before finding her thoughts drifting back to their conversation.


    She was right about being opinionated. Percy realised, grinning to herself. I think we¡¯re gonna get along really well.


    ~~~/\~~~/\~~~/\~~~


    It had been a few days since arriving, and Essex had already fallen into the routine of setting up traps with the rest of Team Avalanche. She rarely saw the other members outside of Nevando and Glace, but Lev still managed to keep her company.


    Essex did her best to wrap up snares, trying to hide them in the snow cover that¡¯d formed over the last week or so. Lev did her best to find this interesting, but couldn¡¯t help trying to distract herself.


    ¡°Dum dum dum¡­dum dum dudum¡­you¡¯re very natural when setting up those traps.¡± Lev remarked, wiggling her fingers. ¡°Scarily natural.¡±


    ¡°¡­I have had to set these up before.¡± Essex clarified.


    ¡°As a clan member?¡± Lev asked, as Essex shook her head.


    ¡°¡­this was before the clan.¡± Essex admitted, wiping some sweat away. ¡°Back when I was trapped within this forest.¡±


    Lev tilted her head, as Essex kept her mind busy with trap setting.


    ¡°From what I remember¡­I was travelling with my family. We were traversing the forest, and as we did so, a storm started to form overhead.¡± Essex explained, tightening some more knots. ¡°On top of that, we started to hear the noises of a Wailing approaching. In the rush to escape, I was left behind.¡±


    Essex pulled herself up and stretched her back, as Lev silently watched her as she spoke. ¡°I could not find my way out of the forest, so I was forced to take up shelter and learn to survive. Hunting, trapping and defending, all at the age of nine. It was only after a year of surviving that I was found by the Segaru Clan and was made a member.¡±


    Lev briefly found herself lost for words. ¡°¡­my deepest sympathies. I could never have assumed your history was so tragic.¡±


    ¡°¡­it is what it is.¡± Essex stated, facing her again. ¡°We all improve and change with time.¡±


    Lev smiled back at her. ¡°You¡¯re almost like a modern day Enprov yourself.¡±


    Lev caught herself, before wagging her finger. ¡°Oh, I promised not to talk your ear off.¡±


    Essex raised her hand. ¡°I will allow it¡­this time.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m very grateful.¡± Lev joked, before resettling. ¡°Well, to not bore you with the details, but Enprov was the Old God blessed with humanities gift of growth, and with that growth came curiosity. It would wander Daysend endlessly, in search of things it didn¡¯t know in order to better itself. Eventually¡­¡±


    Lev splayed her hands out proudly. ¡°It stumbled upon the Aishanara Forest, and captured by its endless beauty, it would wander around, enjoying the endless nature it held within. Some say it¡¯s what allowed the forest to grow as massive as it is today.¡±


    As Lev finished her story, she started to blush, before covering her mouth. ¡°I¡¯m sorry. Now that I¡¯ve said the story out loud, I realised it¡¯s not similar to your journey at all. Whoops, I really did talk your ear off.¡±


    Essex sighed out. ¡°No, I understand. Both of us grew due to our time in the forest.¡±


    Essex thought on it a bit longer, before deliberately mimicking Wess by scratching her chin. ¡°¡­and that¡­through dedication, we both found where we belonged. Enprov wanders the forest, I belong with my team.¡±


    Lev kept blushing, as she covered her cheeks. ¡°What a sweet sentiment. They must have really saved you.¡±


    Essex kept to herself, hiding a sheepish smile, before hearing Nevando¡¯s voice in the distance.


    ¡°ESSEX?! HOW GOES THOSE TRAPS?!¡±


    Essex cupped her hand to speak.


    ¡°THEY¡­GOES GOOD!¡±


    ¡°GREAT! MEET BACK AT THE AGENCY FOR DINNER!¡±


    Lev shook her head. ¡°He has a walkie talkie. I swear, he¡¯s choosing not to use it.¡±


    Essex grabbed her scythe and double checked a couple of the traps, before looking back at Lev. ¡°Thank you for accompanying me these past few days.¡±


    Lev waved her hand. ¡°I was mostly distracting myself. Though your company has also been very nice.¡±


    Essex noticed the long walk back to the agency and turned to Lev somewhat sheepishly.


    ¡°¡­if you wish¡­since there¡¯s a large distance to cover¡­¡± Essex started. ¡°¡­you can tell me more about the Old Gods.¡±


    Lev¡¯s eyes lit up. ¡°Of course I will! It would be my complete pleasure! I might as well give you a rundown of their origin, at least the one understood in most transla¡­¡±


    ¡­well. Essex thought. This is my bed. I will lie in it.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Would you hurry it up, Duke? I can see you dragging your feet.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t wanna be here.¡±


    ¡°Wet blanket! Wet blanket alert!¡± Edward hollered, turning back to Duke. ¡°Where¡¯s your sense of curiosity?¡±


    Duke flipped him off, as the trio wandered in the direction of the east support tower, Baron visibly leading the charge.


    ¡°So? What¡¯re you hoping to find?¡± Edward asked Baron, hopping beside him.


    ¡°I don¡¯t really know. I just saw them huddling themselves near one of the spares rooms down here earlier today.¡± Baron explained. ¡°But it could be something useful. Next time I fight Harley and Essex, I can hold it agai-¡°


    ¡°Next time?¡±


    Baron and Edward turned back to a flabbergasted Duke, motionless in the hall, taking in what he¡¯d heard.


    ¡°Baron, you lost to them. Get a new mode.¡± Duke insisted. ¡°I don¡¯t give a shit about Valiant, but it¡¯s all you ever talk about these days. Stop dragging the rest of us into your personal beef.¡±


    ¡°Hey, what¡¯s your malfunction?¡± Edward complained, attempting to step to him. ¡°These guys kicked our asses. We want payback.¡±


    ¡°What about that person at the attack?¡± Duke mentioned, folding his arms, as Edward recoiled. ¡°The one who gave you that scar.¡±


    Edward stared down at the massive scar running over his chest, as Duke turned his attention to Baron.


    ¡°If payback¡¯s so important, why didn¡¯t we go find them?¡± Duke reasoned, causing Baron to wince. ¡°They destroyed all three of us at the same time. Let¡¯s go catch them and make it even.¡±


    ¡°¡­bold words.¡± Baron let out, waving his hand down the hall. ¡°You still coming?¡±


    Duke scoffed. ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Or do you know you couldn¡¯t win in a fair fi-¡°


    Baron quickly snapped his fingers, creating a small flame in front of Duke¡¯s face, before snuffing it out and stepping forward.


    ¡°Listen, the attitude was fun, but you¡¯re cutting it out.¡± Baron demanded. ¡°We¡¯re marching to that room to get whatever dirt we can. Feel free¡­to fuck off.¡±


    Baron shoved his hands in his pockets and marched off, immediately followed by a fragile Edward, as Duke debated using this out, or sticking around and making sure Baron didn¡¯t ruin their team¡¯s chance at graduating by calling out Faller on something completely unfounded.


    Despite his own wants, he followed quietly behind the duo, as they reached the room, a crudely made ¡®do not disturb¡¯ sign scribbled onto the front of the door.


    Baron nodded his head to the knob, as Edward looked down and used his Whil to rearrange the insides of the lock, unlocking the door for them.


    ¡°Get ready for something juicy.¡± Edward exclaimed, as Baron pressed his ear to the door, trying to get a read on the conversation inside and mostly hearing idle murmuring, until he heard part of that word again.


    ¡°¡­icke¡­¡±


    In an instant, he slammed the door open, ready to confront whatever was on the other side, only to be completely shocked at what he was seeing.


    Team Valiant and Faller were all rugged up in blankets, huddled around a TV with controllers in their hands and snacks laid out around them, having built a little cushioned area for themselves.


    As the door slammed open, Julia shot up from her seat excitedly, only to start panicking once she saw who it was.


    ¡°Oh no, you found us!¡± She let out, pressing her hands to her head. ¡°We¡¯re totally busted!¡±


    ¡°No! We were hiding it so well!¡± Faller backed up, slamming his hand down. ¡°Dammit!¡±


    Baron stood motionless, his mouth slightly open, as Edward burst in beside him. ¡°That¡¯s right! We know alllll about your¡­¡±


    Edward finally got a good look at the room, as his energy slowly evaporated. ¡°¡­wait, what¡¯s going on?¡±


    ¡°Julia, don¡¯t tell them about game night!¡± Harley demanded, before clamping her hands over her mouth. ¡°Shit.¡±


    ¡°Hey, I grabbed the popcorn! Have we hit the Terminal Swamps yet?¡± Ferris called out, stepping past Baron and Edward and coming into the room, as Duke started peeking in as well. ¡°And who invited Ferocity over?¡±


    ¡°U-Uhh¡­¡± Julia stammered, before giving up. ¡°Alright fine, we¡¯ll come clean.¡±


    Julia sighed. ¡°We¡¯ve been having private game nights together. We took up Faller¡¯s office and these unused rooms to hang out and eat snacks.¡±


    ¡°And play stuff! We¡¯re working through some classic RPG¡¯s at the moment!¡± Sola admitted, popping up from the blanket fort.


    ¡°Classic¡­?¡± Baron muttered, as Duke scoffed and finally left, feeling he¡¯d seen enough.


    ¡°Even you two?¡± Edward asked, pointing to Faller and Ferris, as Faller pulled himself up.


    ¡°Oh, yes. I love¡­gaming. And games.¡± Faller said, before subtly looking down at the box art. ¡°¡­we¡¯re currently playing Rune Raiders 6: Treasures Untold¡­remastered. Classic indeed.¡±


    ¡°I still think the older textures had more charm.¡± Ferris added, turning back to the remaining members of Ferocity. ¡°Rune Raider¡¯s has a pretty infamous level curve, so we¡¯re all teaming up to take on the grindier parts of the game.¡±


    Baron kept staring, unsure how he should even react to what he was hearing, as Edward scratched his head.


    Giving it a bit more thought, even looking back to see if Duke was still there, Edward leaned into Baron.


    ¡°H-Hey, Baron¡­? I-I¡¯m just gonna head back to the dorm. I-If that¡¯s¡­¡± Edward started, before realising Baron wasn¡¯t acknowledging him and deciding to leave anyway.


    ¡°Yo Julia, chuck those barbeque chips my way!¡± Harley called out, as Julia easily did so, with most of the group getting back into their game, leaving Baron to awkwardly stand in the doorway, before folding his arms.


    ¡°¡­no¡­¡±


    They all turned to him.


    ¡°I¡¯m not buying this.¡±


    Julia jolted in her seat, before patting the spot next to her. ¡°Y-You can join us, if you really want. W-We don¡¯t mind a bit of compan-¡°


    ¡°And for the record, Miss Ferris, the level curve is in Rune Raiders 5. 6 is actually known as the notoriously easy black sheep of the series.¡± Baron pointed out, stunning everyone present, as Ferris facepalmed.


    ¡°¡­alright fine, video games aren¡¯t my strong suit. The research was a bit haphazard.¡± Ferris confessed.


    ¡°What¡¯re you lying about?¡± Baron asked, refusing to budge, as everyone shared glances, before Julia stood back up and walked to the side of the room, beckoning Baron over.


    ¡°Okay, fine. I¡¯ll tell you. The real truth is¡­¡± Julia prefaced, before scanning around them. ¡°¡­we¡¯ve¡­got someone staying with us. In our dorm.¡±


    Julia touched her fingers together. ¡°And we didn¡¯t want to tell anyone since she¡¯s not studying to be a Venator.¡±


    Julia sighed out.


    ¡°¡­she¡¯s my cousin, Percy.¡±


    Baron raised an eyebrow, as he leaned back casually on the wall.


    ¡°¡­huh.¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s from the Western Wayside, and she just got out of a tough situation.¡± Julia explained, dictating with her hands. ¡°She was in with a really bad crowd, and we were worried she might be in danger.¡±


    Julia subtly looked back at Faller and Ferris. ¡°So Faller allowed her to stay with us so we could get her back on her feet. And¡­so I could make sure she stays out of trouble.¡±


    Baron gave Julia a onceover, trying to read her body language as best he could.


    ¡°She¡¯s really not a bad person, she just got mixed up with some messed up people.¡± Julia implored, getting closer. ¡°There¡¯s this thug called Slicker that¡¯s had it out for her f-¡°


    ¡°Slicker?¡± Baron asked, tilting his head, as Julia nodded.


    ¡°Yeah, really scary guy. Faller heard he might¡¯ve come over from the west and wanted to let us know.¡± Julia clarified, before getting closer. ¡°You won¡¯t tell anyone, will you? I don¡¯t want her getting in danger again.¡±


    Baron stared down at her, almost trying to sike her out as a last ditch effort, before scratching his neck.


    He sighed deeply, almost like he was in pain.


    ¡°¡­yeah, sure. Couldn¡¯t really care less now.¡± Baron noted.


    Julia sighed out. ¡°Thank you. We¡¯re really grateful. I just want her to fix things up an-¡°


    ¡°Alright, I get it. You can cool it with the guilt fest.¡± Baron groaned, stepping back to the group. ¡°I already said I didn¡¯t care.¡±


    Once he stepped away, Julia let out a real sigh, before joining up with the others again, just as Baron started speaking.


    ¡°Okay, Julia explained what was really up.¡± Baron prefaced, drawing worried expressions from the others. ¡°And I could not give less of a damn.¡±


    Relief washed over the room, as Baron rolled his eyes and turned to leave.


    ¡°Get better at sneaking. There¡¯s bigger assholes out there with more prying eyes than me.¡± Baron advised, opening the door. ¡°And keep better secrets.¡±


    He closed the door behind him, as the group took a minute, before all turning to each other with sly grins and celebrating.


    ¡°Julia, it worked!¡± Harley exclaimed, sweeping her up into a hug. ¡°Hook, line and sinker!¡±


    ¡°I-I¡¯m just surprised he fell for it.¡± Julia let out, before Harley let her down. ¡°Geez¡­I¡¯m not a very good liar.¡±


    ¡°She said after lying perfectly!¡± Sola added, grabbing Julia in a hug as well. ¡°That was clean!¡±


    ¡°Nicely done. One less problem element to worry about.¡± Ferris said, folding her arms.


    ¡°I never thought the student body could be an obstacle¡­¡± Faller admitted, shaking his head. ¡°Regardless, thank you for bringing this to my attention. As long as you keep up appearances around him, he shouldn¡¯t falter in his conclusion.¡±


    ¡°How¡¯d you come up with the two-pronged lie idea?¡± Harley asked, as Julia scratched her cheek.


    ¡°W-Well, it¡¯s a good way to deal with problem people. Trick the morons, indulge the worthy.¡± Julia confessed, grinning cautiously. ¡°He thought he was being indulged, but it was all still a trick.¡±


    Harley grinned and slapped her back happily, as Julia found herself shying away while the others revelled in their successful plan. The words Cecil had told her still played in her mind, giving her pause for thought on whether he was trying any of that on her.


    Does Cecil think I¡¯m a moron? Julia wondered, biting her lip. Does he think Florey¡¯s one too? I guess a lie¡¯s not so easily defined when you¡¯re in his line of work. He must look at everyone as lesser¡­


    Julia stared around at the others.


    ¡­maybe the next step is to finally earn Wicker¡¯s respect.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°I¡¯m impressed Faller wanted to go along with it. Part of me thought he¡¯d turn his nose up at the idea.¡± Harley admitted, opening up the dorm door, only to find Wess huddled by the closed study door, tapping her foot.


    Before they could say anything, Wess noticed them and threw her arms up, insisting they stay in place.


    ¡°Wait wait wait, hold on just a second. Percy! They¡¯re here!¡± Wess called out, as a bit of shuffling came from the study.


    ¡°Did you have fun o-¡° Julia asked, only to get shushed by Wess, right as the study door opened to Percy, dressed in her fresh clothing, a couple price tags still dangling off.


    She was still visibly sheepish, trying to pose in a way that wasn¡¯t embarrassing, as Julia and Sola immediately took to the new look.


    ¡°WHOA!!! YOU LOOK SO GOOD!!!¡± Sola exclaimed, pumping her fists and dancing.


    ¡°Wow, you¡¯re really pulling that off.¡± Julia insisted, giving a thumbs up. ¡°Must feel nice to get out of those old clothes.¡±


    [You have no idea.] Percy replied, smiling as Sola started spinning her around, drawing Harley¡¯s cautious eye.


    ¡°Okay¡­I¡¯ll admit, the clothes look cool.¡± Harley stated, before pointing at Percy. ¡°The rest of the team may like you, but I¡¯m still watching you. I ain¡¯t letting my guard down for a second.¡±


    Sola pouted at her, as Percy¡¯s eye drooped, visibly unimpressed with Harley¡¯s attitude, as Julia took the chance to walk up to Wess.


    ¡°So she went with you to the city? How was she?¡± Julia quietly asked.


    Wess stared back at Percy and thought for a moment, before nodding.


    ¡°She was Percy.¡±

 Chapter 53: Trailblazer

    ¡°Alright, I¡¯m thin-¡°


    ¡°Traffic cone.¡±


    ¡°¡­Julia, you¡¯ve guessed that before.¡±


    ¡°Was I right?¡±


    ¡°No. I¡¯m thinking of something better.¡±


    ¡°Is it¡­round?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°And also orange?¡±


    ¡°¡­ye-¡°


    ¡°Basketball.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­god dammit¡­¡± Wess muttered, folding her arms. ¡°Why do you always know my thoughts?¡±


    Julia shrugged. ¡°Because you¡¯re always so interesting. I like hearing what¡¯s going on up there.¡±


    Wess started to blush, hiding her face from Julia to still seem upset, as Julia started chuckling at the cute attempt.


    ¡°Heyo!¡± Sola called out, popping her head out from the bathroom to Julia and Wess in the kitchen, sitting across from each other. ¡°When¡¯re you guys heading out on your date?¡±


    ¡°Uhh¡­ten minutes.¡± Julia answered, checking her tablet. ¡°Do you want us out of the dorm that bad?¡±


    ¡°No no. I just wanted to spend some time with Percy.¡± Sola admitted, pressing her fingers together. ¡°See how she¡¯s going¡­¡±


    ¡°She certainly seems a lot more chipper these days.¡± Wess pointed out, lifting her head from the table. ¡°And she¡¯s quite the crack up. I wasn¡¯t expecting a sense of humour from her.¡±


    Sola nodded slowly, as Julia started studying Sola¡¯s demeanour, taking a second to analyse her slight apprehension and nervous movement, then thinking and reaching a conclusion.


    ¡°¡­are you hoping you can get her and Harley on the same page?¡±


    Sola¡¯s eyes widened, as Julia got stares from both her and Wess.


    ¡°Very good guess, dear.¡± Wess let out.


    ¡°How¡¯d you guess that¡¯s what I was doing?!¡± Sola exclaimed.


    Julia threw up her hands in surrender. ¡°I-It¡¯s not a superpower, guys. I-I just noticed Sola¡¯s slight nervousness.¡±


    Julia pushed her hair from her face. ¡°I know you wouldn¡¯t be nervous about talking to her since you¡¯re never nervous talking to anyone, so it meant you had to be worried on someone else¡¯s behalf, i.e. Percy¡¯s.¡±


    Julia shrugged. ¡°Harley¡¯s had a hard time trusting her, and cause you¡¯re really close with both of them, it makes sense you¡¯d wanna fix that. But you didn¡¯t want us involved cause you think we might look down on Harley for being judgey, or that she might repeat what happened during the tournament.¡±


    Sole blinked profusely, before nodding frantically back at Julia. ¡°I was literally up all night going over those exact thoughts. Holy shit, Julia.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m starting to see where you get your mind reading abilities from.¡± Wess remarked, laughing slightly and embarrassing Julia.


    ¡°¡­o-oh, Wess.¡± Julia said, before pulling up her tablet. ¡°We should get going. The Flash-Rai-¡°


    ¡°Alright, alright.¡± Wess sighed, rolling her eyes and getting up from the table. ¡°You just want us to stop complimenting you.¡±


    Julia kept her mouth shut, not wanting to confirm Wess¡¯ point either way, before following her out the door and waving to Sola. ¡°Bye, Sola! Good luck!¡±


    ¡°Thanks!¡± Sola called back, briefly leaving her to herself, right as the door opened up again.


    ¡°Hey, just passed Julia and Wess.¡± Harley greeted, stretching out her arms. ¡°Looks like¡­they¡¯re gonna have¡­fun on their date!¡±


    Harley¡¯s arm made an audible popping sound, briefly surprising her. ¡°Whoa. That one kinda carried. Just gonna go freshen up before heading out again.¡±


    Harley went to kiss Sola¡¯s cheek, right before darting off to the bathroom, as Sola ducked her head in. ¡°Wait, where¡¯re you going?¡±


    Harley pulled her hair back and faced her. ¡°Oh, sorry, it was kinda last minute. My Buster Knuckles were squeaking yesterday, so I¡¯ve gotta get some maintenance stuff for them. I¡¯d usually go with Essex, but I invited Chops instead.¡±


    Harley gave her armpits a sniff and reeled. ¡°Oh gods, training stank¡­Chops is a real maintenance buff, so she practically begged me.¡±


    Sola¡¯s eyes lit up as the perfect opportunity arose. ¡°Can me and Percy come along?¡±


    Harley¡¯s squinted back at her. ¡°I¡­I guess. Does she need to?¡±


    ¡°Nope!¡± Sola replied, annoying Harley.


    ¡°Sola¡­I know you like her.¡± Harley said, before heading to the shower. ¡°But we have no idea if she¡¯s still working with Wicker or not. Doesn¡¯t having her slip into our friend circle to kill us feel like some machiavellian scheme they would cook up?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t even know what that word means, so I¡¯m gonna say no.¡± Sola insisted, pumping her fists. ¡°And if that really is her plan, she¡¯s taking her sweet time to do it!¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s probably waiting till Essex gets back.¡± Harley suggested, turning the shower on and sighing out. ¡°¡­she can come along with us, but I¡¯m keeping an eye on her. I trust her about as far as I could throw her.¡±


    Sola went to speak, before Harley quieted her. ¡°And I know I¡¯m good at throwing people, but that wasn¡¯t an invitation to correct me.¡±


    Sola pouted and closed the door, before she hurried over to the closed study door and knocked on it, waiting for a response.


    After a bit, Percy opened it up, still rubbing her eyes and tugging on her oversized shirt.


    [What¡¯s up?] Percy signed.


    ¡°Nooooooot much.¡± Sola trailed, darting her eyes around while trying to look casual. ¡°Feel like taking a trip into the city?¡±


    Percy thought about it, before shrugging in agreement. [Any special reason?]


    Sola considered keeping her plan a secret, before leaning into Percy and whispering.


    ¡°I¡¯m gonna use it to convince Harley you¡¯re cool.¡± Sola said, giving a thumbs up.


    Percy looked a bit incredulous. [You really don¡¯t have to. I don¡¯t know how much longer I¡¯m going to stay with you guys, but I don¡¯t need to befriend everyone.]


    Sola pouted again, before stamping her foot. ¡°Why doesn¡¯t anyone wanna be friends?!¡±


    Sola spun around and folded her arms. ¡°Whatever! I¡¯m still gonna do it and get you two to like each other!¡±


    Percy silently snickered a little. [I already like her enough, so that¡¯s a start.]


    Sola kept up her frustrated act, as she waited patiently for Harley.


    ¡°This¡¯ll be totally worth it and we¡¯re all gonna be friends¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­so¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­seen any¡­movies¡­lately?¡±


    Rosalind glared back at Florey, biting her tongue with just how bored she was of watching him, as Florey quickly turned back to his work.


    ¡°¡­forget I said anything.¡± He let out, just as Rosalind groaned and jumped up from the counter.


    She stepped in front of him.


    ¡°Come on, throw a punch at me.¡±


    Florey blinked. ¡°Wha?¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re gonna go find a Wailing soon, so I want you to be able to hold your own.¡± Rosalind said, leaning down and pointing to her cheek. ¡°Really lay it into me.¡±


    Florey stepped back. ¡°I don¡¯t¡­really feel comfortable doing that.¡±


    Rosalind bared her teeth. ¡°It¡¯s either that or a Wailing fucking eats you. Which is it?¡±


    Florey looked side to side. ¡°Can I pick neither?¡±


    ¡°Boring, dead people pick neither. They just die later without having lived.¡± Rosalind insisted, right as her tablet went off. ¡°Fine. Be a bitch, just don¡¯t slow me down later.¡±


    Right as she said that, she eyes widened at the screen, before she let out a relieved, gruelling sigh.


    ¡°Oh shit, here we go.¡± Rosalind announced, before proudly waving her tablet in Florey¡¯s face. ¡°Ding ding ding, Gelatinous Wailing spotted!¡±


    ¡°R-Really?¡± Florey let out, as Rosalind grabbed his shoulders.


    ¡°Pull the lead out, pussy, we¡¯re gonna fuckin¡¯ do something!¡± Rosalind exclaimed, running to the elevator. ¡°Grab your science shit! We¡¯re heading out in five!¡±


    ¡°Five?¡± Florey let out. ¡°Five what?!¡±


    No response, as Florey hurriedly reached for several notebooks, as well as a camera, some jars and his spare jacket by the entrance, trading out his lab coat.


    After locking up the lab, he hurried to the elevator as well, riding it down to the lower parking lot in the building and hopping out, before accidentally almost bumping into Cassidy on her way in.


    ¡°Whoa, Florey! Where¡¯s the fire?¡± Cassidy remarked, just as Florey rushed past.


    ¡°Sorry! We just got word on a Wailing!¡± Florey admitted, waving to her. ¡°We¡¯ll be back soon!¡±


    Cassidy smirked a bit, before waving back. ¡°Alright, have fun! And remember sunscreen!¡±


    Florey quickly scanned around for Rosalind¡¯s car, only to realise he had no idea what it even looked like.


    ¡°Hey!¡±


    Florey spun around and found Rosalind leaning on top of a red sports car casually, before putting two and two together and pointing at it.


    ¡°I-Is that yours?¡±


    Rosalind tilted her head. ¡°Yeah.¡±


    ¡°I thought you said you owned a ute.¡±


    ¡°Past tense. That one got bodied.¡± Rosalind insisted, before slapping the hood on her new car. ¡°I didn¡¯t wanna get one again, so this¡¯ll do.¡±


    Florey stared wide-eyed in shock, as Rosalind hopped in the driver¡¯s seat. ¡°Uhh¡­hey, question. How¡¯re we meant to transport the Wailing with this?¡±


    Rosalind grabbed a lollipop from the glove compartment and turned her head back. ¡°We¡¯re gonna go pick something up in Heiamimi for that.¡±


    Florey looked even more confused. ¡°Isn¡¯t that place basically just a bus lot and a few gas stations?¡±


    ¡°Basically.¡± Rosalind replied, before slamming her hand on the passenger seat. ¡°Get in already! I wanna keep this momentum going!¡±


    ¡°R-Right, sorry!¡± Florey blurted out, dropping his stuff off in the back seat and hurrying to the front, right as Rosalind started pulling out and leaving the carpark.


    The moment she hit the road, the power behind the car was immediately evident, pushing every speed limit it could as it traversed Detu City¡¯s streets, making Florey nervously grip his seatbelt with each turn.


    Rosalind chucked her shades on as they left the city limits, speeding through the surrounding suburbs and heading in the direction of Gebate, leaving the top down as they drove.


    Florey could see Rosalind grinning with excitement, occasionally drumming her hands on the wheel when a good song came onto the radio, even sticking her head out of the car once and yelling excitedly at a passing car.


    Meanwhile, the wind was ruining Florey¡¯s hair, and making it near impossible for him the hear the radio or pay attention to Rosalind the few times she spoke over their twenty-minute drive.


    During her drumming, Rosalind noticed Florey indicating to lift the top, visibly uncomfortable with the speed of the wind, as Rosalind side-glanced him and rolled her eyes, lifting the top back over the car.


    ¡°There, crybaby. What, is wind too much for you? Can¡¯t handle a breeze?¡± Rosalind complained, as Florey tried getting comfortable again.


    ¡°I like the wind. I don¡¯t like when it feels like it¡¯s hurting me.¡± Florey admitted, as Rosalind could see Gebate in the distance.


    ¡°Boo hoo, my colleague let me hang out in her sweet new fucking car, but I¡¯m too much of a wuss for the top to be down, boo hoo.¡± Rosalind mocked, rubbing her eyes teasingly.


    Florey didn¡¯t feel like replying, as he leaned against the window and stared out at the surrounding area of Central Point passing him by, leaving Rosalind to focus on driving.


    Making her way through Gebate, she pivoted up north to Heiamimi, taking about another twenty minutes to reach it in the impressively speedy car, before pulling into one of the gas stations.


    True to Florey¡¯s suspicions, Heiamimi was barely even a town. From what he¡¯d heard about it over some radio broadcasts, it was meant to be a connecting point between Yue Wai and Gebate but saw its development perpetually delayed, stuck in a kind of status. There were always promises from the Central Government that it would be finished someday, but anyone paying attention could see it probably never would be.


    After a couple minutes of waiting, a passing truck coming down the road pulled into the station as well, before Rosalind hopped out of the car and opened up the truck¡¯s back, letting her and the truck driver slowly lower a trailer out of it and onto the ground.


    Florey decided to just passively observe, as Rosalind came back to the car, before driving it over to the trailer, letting the truck driver hook the trailer onto the back, giving Florey a better look at what he could see was some kind of containment device.


    ¡°You¡¯re all set!¡± The truck driver declared, giving Rosalind the go ahead, as she pulled out of the station, heading back down in the direction of Gebate. The truck eventually pulled out as well, disappearing to wherever it came from, leaving Florey with a lot of pressing questions.


    ¡°¡­who was that guy?¡± Florey asked, as Rosalind rested her head on the windowsill.


    ¡°A fellow employee.¡± Rosalind admitted, while Florey leaned behind his seat, staring at the trailer.


    ¡°Did Cecil design that to store Gelatinous Wailing?¡± Florey followed up.


    ¡°¡­R&D did, but yeah.¡± Rosalind said. ¡°We can¡¯t use the typical method since it¡¯ll just seep through any cracks in the interior, so this one¡¯s sealed up real tight.¡±


    ¡°Typical method?¡± Florey repeated, leaving Rosalind at a loss for words.


    ¡°¡­yeah. For transporting Wailing.¡± Rosalind confessed. ¡°For research stuff.¡±


    ¡°¡­right. Research stuff.¡± Florey let out, still leaning back, as Rosalind sped down the road, before pulling Florey in excitedly.


    ¡°You ready to see a Wailing up close, kid?¡±


    Florey found himself blushing out of fear, before nodding back to her. ¡°W-Who wouldn¡¯t?¡±


    ~~~/\~~~/\~~~/\~~~


    After another fairly difficult morning waking up in the Aurora Venator Agency, Essex found herself comfortably moving into the kitchen. She was never really a coffee person, but whoever had used the machine last brewed something utterly divine smelling, tempting her to make one herself, before remembering she didn¡¯t know how.


    That¡¯s right. Julia usually makes one for me. Essex remembered, deciding to glance into the fridge instead. I wonder if I take her for granted¡­


    Essex popped her head up.


    ¡°I should do something for her. And the team.¡± Essex decided, scratching her chin. ¡°But I am not sure what¡­¡±


    ¡°Thinking about your teammates?¡±


    Essex lifted her head and turned to the person next to her, holding a mug of coffee with a scarf wrapped around most of their head, and staring at her standing in front of the open fridge.


    ¡°¡­admittedly, yes.¡± Essex said, before closing it and bowing to them. ¡°Aerlo Decali. My title is Essex.¡±


    ¡°¡­the intern.¡± They muttered, taking a sip. ¡°Sillik. We haven¡¯t crossed each other much.¡±


    Essex nodded. ¡°I have met with the other members of Team Avalanche already.¡±


    ¡°¡­right.¡± Sillik stated, before indicating to the machine. ¡°Want me to make you one?¡±


    Essex threw her hands up. ¡°I do not wish to impos-¡°


    ¡°I¡¯m offering.¡± Sillik said, before heading to the machine. ¡°You¡¯re our guest. We have to be nice to you.¡±


    Essex wanted to refute the point but decided against arguing unnecessarily, as she waited patiently for Sillik to finish.


    Once she sat down, she started to notice a piece of string hanging from the kitchen ceiling tugging and bouncing, almost like it was being pulled.


    ¡°You a snob about how much foam you want?¡±


    ¡°¡­no. Sillik.¡± Essex said, as they turned around, before she pointed to the string. ¡°What is that indicating?¡±


    Sillik¡¯s eyes widened, as they quickly abandoned the coffee machine and headed out the door, with Essex deciding to follow them into Charles¡¯ office.


    Once they got there, they found Nevando next to another piece of the connected string, this one heading directly out the window with the same tugging motion.


    ¡°Nev, it¡¯s here.¡± Sillik announced, as he raised a finger.


    ¡°I know. Just saw the warning.¡± He said, turning around, before finding Essex with them. ¡°Hey, Essex. You¡¯ve met Sillik.¡±


    ¡°Is this the Wailing?¡± Essex quickly asked, as Nevando¡¯s expression turned more serious.


    ¡°The Slush Skulker. Looks like it¡¯s tripped one of the wires we set up.¡± Nevando stated, before staring down at the string again. ¡°¡­but there¡¯s something weird about the movement. Sillik?¡±


    Sillik stepped forward and glanced at the string too, before blinking a few times.


    ¡°It¡¯s testing it. It hasn¡¯t tripped one, it¡¯s just found one.¡± Sillik explained. ¡°It¡¯s either playing with it or it¡¯s trying to draw us out.¡±


    ¡°¡­well, we were doing the same.¡± Nevando said, grabbing Sillik¡¯s shoulder. ¡°Alert the others. We¡¯re heading out before it tries to hide away again.¡±


    Sillik nodded and swung up the main stairs in the lobby, as Essex stood ready and firm, waiting for Nevando to speak.


    ¡°¡­oh, right.¡± Nevando let out, caught up in his own head. ¡°Essex, I want you to hang with Sillik. I know you probably had hopes of taking out a Wailing on your trip here, and Charlie¡¯s probably encouraged you to do so, but we don¡¯t know how dangerous this thing really is.¡±


    Nevando grabbed a bowstaff from the entryway, while taking off his coat. ¡°Sillik¡¯s our scout and usually hangs in the back. They¡¯ll cover you, but if you have to get involved, don¡¯t be an idiot.¡±


    ¡°Understood.¡± Essex replied, running up the stairs to meet up with them, as Nevando started stretching out, his skin glowing a subtle yellow.


    ¡°Alright Skulker, it¡¯s show time¡­¡±


    ¡ª-¡ª<u>TEAM AVALANCHE MISSION</u>¡ª-¡ª


    ¡ª-¡ª<u>HUNT DOWN THE SLUSH SKULKER</u>¡ª-¡ª


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Jessie! How¡¯ve you been?...that¡¯s so wonderful. Guess what?¡± Spence exclaimed, happily skipping along the walkway to the academy, her tablet to her ear. ¡°You know those ¡®fun little investments¡¯ you kept telling me were a waste of money? Well¡­¡±


    She reached into her pocket, before pulling out a winning lottery ticket and waving it around mostly for herself.


    ¡°I won the jackpot! Three diamonds!!!¡± Spence cheered, as Jessie excitedly murmured over the call. ¡°And I know what you¡¯re going to say next, and yes, I¡¯ve put most of it aside as savings¡­¡±


    Right after, Spence reached into her pocket, before pulling out and spinning a pair of car keys, and coming up on a very nice, very flashing luxury car parked by the side of the walkway.


    ¡°But I couldn¡¯t resist!¡± Spence let out, before tapping away on her tablet. ¡°Just a sec, I¡¯m sending you a picture of my latest purchase.¡±


    A couple seconds after she sent it, Jessie could be heard visibly annoyed over the call.


    ¡°Oh, grow up. I¡¯m allowed to have nice things. None of the other teachers have cars this nice.¡± Spence insisted, unlocking the car. ¡°And don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll happily take you on a drive too. Alright, later!¡±


    She hung up, before chucking her bag into the back seat. ¡°What does she know? They wouldn¡¯t advertise nice cars like this if you weren¡¯t meant to buy them.¡±


    She jumped into the driver¡¯s seat and settled in. ¡°¡­I wonder if I should invite Lola on a drive. It¡¯d be good for her to get out of the academy more.¡±


    Stolen content warning: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.


    She started chuckling to herself. ¡°I probably shouldn¡¯t let her behind the wheel though.¡±


    Just then, the sun started to crack through the clouds, reflecting off the hood, as Spence covered her eyes, before reaching back for her bag.


    ¡°Where¡¯re my sunnies? This midday sun¡­¡± She muttered, climbing out of her seat to grab them.


    Meanwhile, just off the side of the walkway, a guy casually whistling a tune caught sight of the gorgeous car, before quickly panicking and ducking behind a pillar.


    ¡°Holy shit, look at that¡­¡± He let out, popping his head out. ¡°That¡¯s a hundred thousand capitals at least! What¡¯s a nice car like that doing around the Venator Academy?¡±


    He subconsciously licked his lips, catching the luxury finish off the hood. ¡°O-Oh man¡­whoever owns that thing must be loaded. They¡¯ve probably stuffed the glove boxes to bursting with capitals¡­¡±


    Suddenly, he saw Spence¡¯s legs flailing about, ducked behind the driver¡¯s seat, while noticing that the front door wasn¡¯t completely closed.


    ¡°No way¡­¡± He muttered, before shaking his head. ¡°¡­no, come on Derek, you¡¯re on parole for the exact thing you¡¯re thinking of. Don¡¯t be¡­¡±


    He stared back at it.


    ¡°¡­stupid¡­¡±


    He noticed he was sweating a bit.


    ¡°¡­and waste¡­a good chance¡­¡±


    Quietly, he stepped forward.


    ¡°What¡¯re you thinking of buying?¡± Chops asked, walking backwards down the academy walkway, as Harley stretched her arms.


    ¡°I wanna try some new oil brands for my Buster Knuckles. They¡¯ve got this real annoying squeak at the moment and my go-to¡¯s not really pulling its weight.¡± Harley noted, as Chops snapped her fingers.


    ¡°Nice. I¡¯ve got some recommendations.¡± Chops added, before turning her head back to Sola and Percy trailing behind them. ¡°Hey, new girl! What kinda weapons you rockin¡¯?¡±


    Percy¡¯s eyes darted around in confusion, before Chops slapped her forehead. ¡°Right, sorry, forgot you¡¯re not a Venator.¡±


    Sola looked back at Percy, finding her still shying away.


    ¡°Sorry. I forgot you don¡¯t really know Chops either.¡±


    Percy threw up her hands. [It¡¯s fine. She seems pretty outgoing. I doubt we¡¯d have much to bond over.]


    Sola nodded solemnly, before jumping and getting an idea.


    ¡°She¡¯s got a cool Whil though!¡± Sola called out, grabbing Chops¡¯ attention.


    Harley turned around to the duo, right as Chops rushed past her, almost running into them out of excitement.


    ¡°No shit! You shoulda said something! Hold on, I¡¯ve got a notebook here¡­¡± Chops said, grabbing for her backpack, as Percy now looked to Sola for some kind of help.


    ¡°Talk of the town¡­¡± Harley groaned, muttering to herself. ¡°I think we¡¯re forgetting who she¡¯s probably working for¡­¡±


    ¡°H-Help! Somebody!!!¡±


    Harley spun her head around, scanning the walkway for trouble, only to notice Miss Spence getting shoved out of her car by some guy.


    The others quickly noticed too, following after Harley as she nearly caught up to the trouble, only for the guy to close the door and start up the engine, tearing off in the matter of seconds.


    ¡°Shit!¡± Harley let out, watching the car speed off, before addressing Spence. ¡°You okay?¡±


    ¡°Yes, but that¡­so-and-so just stole my new car!¡± Spence cried, wiping some tears away. ¡°I-I thought Wailing were scary, but that guy takes the cake.¡±


    Harley swung her head around to see how far the Flash-Rail station was, before concluding getting there and waiting for a carriage wouldn¡¯t be fast enough to catch up with him.


    ¡°Harley! What happened?¡± Sola let out, running up to her with the others.


    ¡°Some dickhead just stole Spence¡¯s car.¡± Harley groaned, as Chops started looking around. ¡°He¡¯s long gone by now.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll call law enforcement.¡± Chops said, pulling out her tablet and watching the car in the distance. ¡°They¡¯ll be on that guys case in no ti¡­¡±


    Chops turned around and stopped herself, as she spotted Percy by the side of another car on the road, running her hand over the side of the door.


    Harley, Sola and Spence noticed too, right as she reached her hand into a nearby puddle, before pressing her other hand to the door¡¯s lock and pushing steam into the lock, quickly rusting it.


    With a quick tug, she forced the door open, snapping the lock and causing Harley to panic.


    ¡°Wha-Percy! What, you¡¯ve caught the stealing bug too?!¡± Harley complained, as Percy ignored her and started hotwiring the car. ¡°I can¡¯t believe tha-¡°


    The engine whirred to life, as Percy jumped into the driver¡¯s seat and started signing through the window, a look of sheer determination on her face.


    [Come on! We won¡¯t catch him if we wait around!]


    The trio hesitated briefly, thinking through their options, as Sola and Chops ended up jumping in, leaving Harley standing out awkwardly.


    ¡°¡­I swear to¡­¡± Harley grumbled, before forcing herself to join them in the car. ¡°We¡¯re putting this back right after.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Spence! We¡¯ve got this covered!¡± Sola called out from the window, as Spence gave a nervous thumbs up.


    ¡°O-Okay¡­don¡¯t crash please.¡± Spence insisted, as everyone got comfortable in their seats and Percy familiarised herself with the car.


    ¡°Alright, super on board with this.¡± Chops remarked, watching Percy from the passenger seat. ¡°You know what you¡¯re doing, ri-¡°


    In a second, Percy immediately tore off, going almost as fast as the thief, as the group headed into Detu City in hot pursuit.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°¡­aaaaand¡­we¡¯re here.¡±


    Having taken the long route into the Eastern Wayside and driven off the main road through a clearer part of the Aishanara Forest, Rosalind parked the car, before hopping out and stretching.


    ¡°You¡¯re welcome.¡± Rosalind stated, as Florey stuck his head out.


    ¡°So¡­the plan is-¡°


    ¡°Lure it back here and trick it into the containment device.¡± Rosalind said, before noticing Florey staying put in the car. ¡°You coming or what?¡±


    ¡°I, uhh¡­I¡¯m not really equipped to¡­handle a Wailing¡­you said it yourself, it¡¯ll probably eat me¡­¡± Florey admitted, as Rosalind shrugged casually.


    ¡°Alright. It¡¯s coming back here anyway, so you¡¯d be safer not sticking around.¡± Rosalind remarked, wandering off into the forest, as Florey briefly panicked, before hopping out and running after her.


    Making her way in, Rosalind slid down a small muddy incline, grabbing out her sword to help stabilise her as she slid, leaving Florey to tentatively attempt to follow, almost slipping and falling onto his face, before tripping and falling onto his ass instead.


    He slid down slowly, as Rosalind spotted his pathetic descent and started cracking up, gripping her stomach in pain as Florey tried pulling his face up from the mud.


    With a wet plop, he just managed to, before looking up to find Rosalind almost falling over with laughter.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t feel like helping?¡± Florey grumbled, standing back up, as Rosalind happily shook her head in response.


    ¡°Oh man¡­fuck me, that was funny.¡± Rosalind let out, getting up herself. ¡°You¡¯re already way better company than my old partner. She couldn¡¯t crack a joke for shit.¡±


    Rosalind spun around and kept walking further into the foliage, before Florey trotted alongside her.


    ¡°Old partner?¡± Florey asked.


    ¡°Yeah. We hated each other, but we worked well together. I fought ¡®em, she stunned ¡®em.¡± Rosalind explained, before displaying her hands. ¡°But then she¡¯d get all mopey about the Wailing and insisted I not be so rough, like that wasn¡¯t my job or something. Now she¡¯s fucked off to who knows where¡­¡±


    ¡°She just ditched?¡± Florey remarked, before feeling some regret and shrinking into himself. ¡°That¡¯s¡­¡±


    ¡°Whatever. Good riddance. She was only good for the stunning part anyway.¡± Rosalind muttered, as they passed by a partially frozen stream. ¡°We had this formula meant for knocking out the Wailing, but it was only effective when vaporised. It was mostly a gel, but it couldn¡¯t get through their hide or anything. Then it turned out my old partner¡¯s Whil let her turn things into gasses, so now she could direct it right at the Wailing.¡±


    Rosalind shook her head. ¡°She coulda been useful if she wasn¡¯t such a turncoat¡­¡±


    She only now noticed Florey wasn¡¯t still behind her, as she spun around and saw him staring into the stream, ducking his head down.


    ¡°Drowning yourself already?¡± Rosalind joked, as Florey scanned cautiously.


    ¡°¡­I¡¯m checking for loose parts of the Wailing.¡± Florey explained. ¡°If there¡¯s a water source near a Gelatinous Wailing¡¯s location, bits of their flesh can come off when they try to bathe.¡±


    Rosalind rested a hand on her hip. ¡°Okay, brainiac, you¡¯ve got some skills. See anything?¡±


    ¡°Nothing yet. There¡¯s no guara¡­¡± Florey said, only to shut himself up and point further up the stream, as Rosalind noticed a small chunk of flesh hanging off of a rock.


    ¡°Well, I¡¯ll be.¡± Rosalind grinned, slapping Florey¡¯s back. ¡°You know your shit. I was just gonna wander around ¡®till we came across it.¡±


    ¡°I figured I¡¯d save us some time.¡± Florey muttered, before hurrying over to the rock and grabbing out a camera and a jar from his bag, taking a couple pictures of the flesh.


    Rosalind wandered up to him, as he scraped it off into the jar carefully.


    ¡°Gross.¡±


    Florey sealed the jar up. ¡°I want to see if there¡¯s any lingering elements of the disease on the separated skin.¡±


    ¡°Okay, weirdo. What you do with that stuff¡¯s no business of mine.¡± Rosalind let out, following along the stream, as Florey realised what was she was implying and followed behind.


    ¡°W-What do you think it¡¯s for¡­?¡±


    ¡°You spend all your time in the lab. You get lonely.¡± Rosalind mentioned. ¡°Putting two and two together.¡±


    Florey shook his head. ¡°I think you¡¯re the gross one here¡­¡±


    ~~~/\~~~/\~~~/\~~~


    ¡°Stick behind me. Our job is locating it and securing the surrounding area. Once the others engage it, that¡¯s when we can step in.¡±


    ¡°Understood.¡±


    ¡°And keep your voice down. If a Wailing finds you, it¡¯s usually by sound.¡±


    Essex simply nodded, as she hopped around the top of the tree cover in the Aishanara Forest, closely trailing behind Sillik.


    Sillik hurried along the top branches, wielding a large bow and firing arrows connected with rope across any large gaps. Essex managed to keep up beat for beat, before Sillik stopped suddenly, holding their hand out.


    They rested a finger on their lips, as the duo waited, before a quiet shuffling noise emanated from the forest floor.


    They patiently sat, scanning around for any sign of the Wailing, before Essex spotted a grey blob shifting through the flora, clearing a path through the layers of built-up snow.


    She pointed down, as Sillik followed her gaze and watched it traverse effortlessly through, almost like it was swimming. Once it was out of sight, Sillik indicated to head down, as both scaled down to the ground, landing in the path it¡¯d created.


    ¡°That¡¯s definitely it.¡± Sillik admitted, as Essex got her scythe ready.


    ¡°Do we engage?¡±


    Sillik glared at her. ¡°I told you, we scout and wait. For the¡­¡±


    Glancing over the path the Wailing had left, Sillik just noticed a small chunk of flesh hanging off one of the bushes it¡¯d passed by, sticking to the leaves and clearly gelatinous.


    ¡°Wait.¡± Sillik let out, before getting a closer look, taking a few sniffs of the flesh. ¡°¡­son of a¡­¡±


    Sillik shook their head. ¡°The Wailing¡¯s gelatinous. Completely gelatinous, judging by the texture.¡±


    Before Essex could comment, Sillik pulled up their walkie talkie.


    ¡°Nev, it¡¯s Sillik. The Slush Skulker¡¯s a Gelatinous Wailing.¡± Sillik reported. ¡°Request to pull back?¡±


    ¡°¡­agreed. We¡¯ll call for back up. Should take about a week to arrive.¡± Nevando decided over the call, as Essex was visibly shocked.


    ¡°Pull back?¡± Essex repeated, stepping forward. ¡°Are we not engaging?¡±


    ¡°We can¡¯t. Those Wailing don¡¯t get hurt by weapons, only Whils.¡± Sillik explained, holding up their bow. ¡°Nev¡¯s the only one with a Whil, and it¡¯s a noncombative one.¡±


    Essex eyes widened, as she gripped her scythe handle and turned her skin to metal. ¡°I possess a Whil, and I have slain several Gelatinous Wailing before. We can still pursue it.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re one person. And still a student.¡± Sillik noted, resting against a tree. ¡°Point still stands, we need a team of Whil users. Nev¡¯s gonna call th-¡°


    ¡°B-But if we leave it alone, it may return to the north again, or travel further south toward towns.¡± Essex insisted. ¡°We cannot allow a Wailing to escape and eventually wreak havo-¡°


    Sillik stamped down their foot, before massaging their forehead.


    ¡°¡­this is why students piss me off.¡± Sillik bemoaned. ¡°I get it, you wanna take out every Wailing that crosses your path and bring ¡®em to justice. That¡¯s what the training says. And nine times out of ten, that¡¯s what happens.¡±


    As they spoke, Sillik stood back up and started heading in the direction of the agency. ¡°But then the tenth time, the Wailing disappears, or it gets the upper hand, or you just plain lose track of it, and you have to pull out. And you know what? That¡¯s the job. Some Wailing get away, and you lick your wounds.¡±


    Essex gripped her scythe, as she stared down the path the Wailing had made. ¡°The job is to stop trying?¡±


    ¡°The job is to know when to try.¡± Sillik demanded, tapping the side of their head. ¡°And when to call for backup.¡±


    Sillik carried on, starting to head back up to the tree cover. ¡°We¡¯re heading back to the agency to hunker down. We still have to secure the area in case the Wailing slips away before the other team arrives.¡±


    Essex waited for a second, before begrudgingly following behind them, biting her tongue at the idea of letting a Wailing run loose. Even as she climbed back up, she could feel her instincts pulling her back down to not lose the trail.


    If we leave this¡­ Essex wondered, hopping up onto the top branch. I know I could handle it¡­a week is an egregious amount of time to let it escape¡­where could it travel if we leave it unattended¡­


    Essex could feel herself slowing down, as Sillik fortunately seemed to be paying more attention to returning to the agency and not on where Essex was.


    I refuse to sit by and let it run free.


    Sillik continued their traversal, having an easier time heading back since they¡¯d created a path earlier, only to notice that not much noise was following behind them.


    ¡°If you¡¯re getting tired, we can take a bre¡­¡± They started, only to turn around and not find Essex there. ¡°Essex?¡±


    They gave a quick search of the area, only to find Essex¡¯s tracks hadn¡¯t even been following them for a while now, as they put two and two together and stamped their foot again.


    ¡°¡­fucking students¡­¡± Sillik muttered, pulling out their walkie talkie. ¡°Report. Essex split off. She¡¯s taking on the Wailing alone.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Just¡­gotta¡­clear the city¡­¡± Derek muttered, frantically racing around in Spence¡¯s stolen car, wiping a bit of sweat away. ¡°I¡¯ll just head for Coola and figure things out from there¡­¡±


    He tore through several of Detu City¡¯s streets, trying his best not to draw the attention of the police while still hurriedly making a break for it.


    He quickly hit a busy roundabout, giving him a moment to catch his breath as cars passed by. He noticed a couple people on the street eyeing up his nice car, feeling somewhat proud of himself for such a successful grift, before spotting something in the sideview mirror.


    Turning back, he spotted a car tearing down the street about as recklessly as he had been just a minute ago, one that was clearly heading right toward him.


    In a panic, he floored it, charging over the middle of the roundabout and nearly colliding with several cars. They broke just in time as he drove past, giving Percy and the others just enough room to follow, threading the needle between the other angry drivers.


    Percy¡¯s focus was entirely on the car, keeping her gaze on the back of it with every movement, going way past the speed limit in an effort to not lose it.


    Harley desperately gripped the cars handles for stability, as Sola jumped around excitedly and Chops started hollering.


    ¡°This is so fucking cool!!!¡± Chops yelled out. ¡°Go! Go! Go! Get that crapsack!¡±


    ¡°Percy, you wanna slow down a bit?!¡± Harley complained, nearly falling out of her seat.


    Percy refused the respond, only darting her eyes around the road, making sure not to endanger any other cars present.


    Her attention was briefly thrown off by Sola grabbing her shoulders over the seat, shaking her happily.


    ¡°You¡¯re the coolest!!! Rip this guy a new one!!!¡± Sola insisted, only motivating Percy more, as the stolen car swerved into another street.


    Percy quickly followed, expertly shifting gears with each corner, before noticing the car heading down another corner in the other direction.


    Percy suddenly adjusted, turning the wheel hard to the right and throwing the others around the car, as she drifted perfectly into the new street, now much closer to the other car.


    Derek almost immediately noticed them behind him, slowly catching up, right as the city limits around him gave way to the surrounding suburbs. He scanned around for the nearest exit out, before finding a road in the distance and booking it.


    ¡°Bingo!¡± He shouted, happily drumming his hands on the wheel, right as Percy¡¯s car came into view again.


    As they both approached the exit, Percy got right behind the car, matching it for its speed, as she just followed behind, waiting for her opportunity.


    ¡°What are you waiting for? Ram it already!¡± Chops insisted.


    ¡°We¡¯re not gonna ram it! We need to get it back to Spence!¡± Sola pointed out.


    Not yet¡­ Percy thought, keeping her grip tight on the wheel.


    Harley noticed the flex and kept a subtle eye on Percy as she drove, waiting to see just how she¡¯d get this guy to pull over.


    After a short while, they both cleared the suburbs, heading out of the city and onto the road to the Southern Wayside. The greenery started to build up as the wilderness made itself known, finally giving Percy the opportunity to act.


    In a swift move, she changed lanes and pushed the car further, speeding ahead of the stolen car a good distance.


    Then, she turned around.


    She kept the car in place, right in Derek¡¯s path, waiting for him to eventually collide with her.


    ¡°What¡¯re you doing?!¡± Chops cried, grabbing Percy¡¯s shirt. ¡°Drive us away!!!¡±


    Percy kept staring steely eyed at the other car, watching as the car started to waver, shaking a little from Derek¡¯s nervous hand movements.


    ¡°What¡¯re they doing?!¡± Derek cried, feeling his sweat run onto his hands. ¡°Don¡¯t they want the car back?!¡±


    ¡°Fuck this!¡± Chops yelled out, jumping out of the car, as Sola and Harley did so too, leaving Percy at the driver¡¯s wheel.


    She waited, firm in her conviction.


    The stolen car shuddered.


    Derek¡¯s felt himself caught between decisions.


    In a matter of seconds¡­


    Percy watched as the stolen car swerved, slowing down somewhat, before rearing off road, tumbling down a hill and landing in a massive pile of bushes, letting Percy release a solitary sigh of relief.


    Eventually, she hopped out of the car and started heading over, before getting stopped by Sola and Chops dogpiling her.


    ¡°Nevermind, that was awesome!¡± Chops let out.


    ¡°That was insane!!! What a wild child!¡± Sola exclaimed, sitting on top of her. ¡°Where¡¯d you learn to do that?!¡±


    Percy sat back up enough to free her arms to sign.


    [Back when I was working with Wicker, he insisted I learn how to stunt drive.] Percy confessed. [It was standard training. Our line of work meant I might need to escape from pursuing Wailing, so I took my classes very seriously. Also, I was really good at it.]


    As Percy started to feel uncomfortable, she noticed Harley reaching out a hand, before she looked up and willingly took it.


    ¡°That doesn¡¯t explain why you nearly got us killed.¡± Harley noted, as Percy stood back up and started heading for the other car.


    She turned around to answer.


    [Good drivers¡¯ brake. Idiots swerve.]


    She headed for the car again, hopping down to assess the damage, leave the others behind in shock.


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°Is she single?¡± Chops earnestly asked, looking back at Harley and Sola. ¡°¡­asking for¡­Joleicia¡­¡±


    Percy slid down the car¡¯s front, before finding Derek knocked unconscious behind the wheel. Fortunately, the damage to the car was almost non-existent.


    ¡°How¡¯s it looking?¡± Harley called out, as Percy started heading back up.


    [It¡¯ll need a lift. We¡¯ll have to push it out of the ditch. I¡¯ll drive it back to the academy while you guys can take the other car.] Percy mentioned, before hearing the sound of sirens closing in from the distance. [We can leave this guy for them.]


    Harley nodded, before snapping her fingers. ¡°And I know a fun way we can cover our tracks.¡±


    Derek started to flutter to consciousness, as he registered the gag in his mouth and the approaching police sirens. As the cars pulled up, he could already see his parole officer stepping out of one of them, before walking up to him and shaking his head.


    ¡°You just make things harder on yourself, Derek.¡± He bemoaned, before spotting a note pinned to Derek¡¯s chest.


    Don¡¯t worry, the car¡¯s been returned to its rightful owner. All in the name of justice.


    Sincerely, the Blacklock Bandit


    ¡°The Blacklock Bandit?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a local legend. They apparently protected Detu City from criminals a decade back.¡± Harley clarified, driving down the academy¡¯s walkway. ¡°Julia told me about it.¡±


    ¡°I think I heard Virgil mention them once or twice too. They seemed pretty cool.¡± Sola noted, kicking her legs. ¡°Think the police¡¯ll chase us down?¡±


    ¡°What for? We¡¯re giving the cars back.¡± Chops chimed in, just as they passed Spence and Percy to the side.


    ¡°Oh, thank you so much! I¡¯m indebted to you, truly!¡± Spence insisted, hugging Percy suddenly, as Percy felt the need to break it immediately.


    Fortunately, Spence pulled back, before assessing the state of the car. ¡°What team are you a part of? I¡¯ll put in a good word with Faller.¡±


    Percy shifted her eyes for a second, before throwing her hands up to try and distract from the awkwardness of the situation, only to come up with a better solution.


    [¡­Team Valiant.] Percy replied, as Spence nodded along, before reading the signing aloud.


    ¡°Team Valiant? Wait¡­¡± Spence said, muttering to herself and counting on her fingers, only to spot Coatsworth standing by the walkway holding his bags, staring at the empty space on the road.


    He blinked a few times.


    ¡°Where is my car?¡±


    He got his answer right as Harley pulled up beside Spence¡¯s and quickly realised whose car they borrowed.


    ¡°Mr Coatsworth?¡± She called out from the window, before hopping out. ¡°We¡¯re so sorry. There was this guy-¡°


    ¡°This dickhead stole a car!¡± Chops added. ¡°Not your car, Spence¡¯s one, but-¡°


    ¡°We had to chase him down! And it got really intense!¡± Sola followed up. ¡°So we had to use a car to find him-¡°


    Right as she said that, Percy appeared from the side, before frantically bowing to Coatsworth in apology.


    [I¡¯m sorry sir, but I couldn¡¯t sit by when I knew I could catch that criminal.] Percy insisted. [I can pay for the damages myself.]


    Coatsworth thought on this for a second, before tilting his head.


    ¡°Who are you?¡±


    Percy panicked for a second, realising they were both strangers to each other, before Harley went to wrap an arm around her.


    ¡°She¡¯s a friend of ours. She¡¯s the reason Spence got her car back.¡± Harley explained, watching Spence happily grab her sunglasses from the back of her car.


    Coatsworth turned to face Percy, before signing himself. [Then what¡¯s there to apologise for?]


    Percy¡¯s found her face turning flush, as Harley and Sola started dragging her back in the direction of the dorms.


    ¡°Sorry again!¡± Sola called back.


    ¡°We¡¯ll be more careful next time!¡± Harley added, as Chops stared at her.


    ¡°Next time?¡±


    Harley realised what she said and facepalmed. ¡°You know what I meant.¡±


    ~~~/\~~~/\~~~/\~~~


    Essex sprinted across the forest floor, expertly ducking and weaving around and trees and swinging from branches, trying to keep pace with the still lingering path of the Wailing.


    The snow was starting to peter out as she got further into the forest, making the trail harder to navigate, giving Essex little hope of finding the Wailing after all.


    I cannot return empty handed now. Essex insisted, taking a second to recover and investigate the surrounding area.


    Not much was coming up, as she saw no markings on any nearby trees, or lingering parts of its flesh.


    All hope of finding it seemed lost, as she found her way into a small clearing, until Essex remembered Sillik¡¯s earlier remark about drawing out Wailing with sound.


    She decided to cup her hands around her mouth, before pulling off an impressive bird call and jumping out of the way, scaling up a nearby tree and hiding until the Wailing arrived.


    I had never thought I would be deliberately drawing a Wailing toward me¡­ Essex thought, just as a small bit of activity caught her eye in the distance.


    Eventually, it slowly built up, shifting around the surrounding plant life with each movement, before the Wailing in question emerged from the bushes, wandering into the clearing as best it could without legs.


    Unlike most of the Wailing Essex had encountered, this one seemed at least semi-aquatic. What could be made out of its body looked to be in the shape of flippers and a tail fin, but sharpened for some kind of protection, with a singular eye that navigated around its face, moving to whichever side it needed to. A small spout of water also seemed to be constantly spraying from its back, which Essex lichened to it having sprung a leak.


    Its eye shifted around, trying to get a good look at the area, ideally finding some kind of easy food, as Essex took a second to get into the ideal position to ambush it.


    It skulked around, looking like it was feeling for vibrations in the air, only for a branch to snap suddenly behind it and spook it.


    Its head lifted up in an instant, right as Essex hit the ground and it bolted, rushing back into the forest again now that two people were surrounding it on each end.


    Essex almost went to chase it and not lose it again, before she found the other reason why it escaped, as Rosalind stared at her across the clearing, her sword at the ready and a curious smile on her face from now having noticed Essex.


    Essex quickly registered who it was and after a second of confusion readied herself in a combative stance, as Rosalind slowly did the same.


    They both wandered into the clearing, still keeping their distance as they started to circle each other, sizing the other up. Essex was fully ready to pivot away from the Wailing hunt, especially if it meant finally dealing with¡­


    ¡°Well, I¡¯ll be.¡± Rosalind let out. ¡°Lucky day for me. Where¡¯re the others?¡±


    Essex stayed silent, still looking for a chance to take her out, as Rosalind figured out the answer.


    ¡°¡­huh. Just us then.¡± Rosalind insisted, clearly enjoying herself. ¡°Of all the gin joints¡­looks like we get our real fight after all.¡±


    Essex started gritting her teeth, as Rosalind prepared to run.


    ¡°Finally, no holding ba-¡°


    ¡°Rosalind? Where¡¯d you head off to?¡±


    Rosalind¡¯s ears perked up, as Essex turned in the direction of the voice.


    ¡°I think I might be lost. Did you manage to catch up to it?¡±


    Suddenly, Essex recognised who the voice was, before getting an idea and exiting her stance.


    Rosalind noticed her change in expression and raised her sword.


    ¡°Don¡¯t yo-¡°


    ¡°Florey?!¡± Essex called out, as Rosalind stamped her foot.


    ¡°God fuckin-!¡±


    ¡°¡­Essex?¡±


    ¡°You little shit!¡± Rosalind grumbled, holding herself back so much. ¡°You got so fucking lucky this time, remember that.¡±


    Rosalind quickly ducked away, leaving the clearing right as Florey found his way in, his eyes widening as he saw Essex.


    ¡°Uhh, hey? What¡¯re you doing out here?¡± Florey asked, somewhat in disbelief.


    ¡°¡­I am interning. With Aurora.¡± Essex explained, as Florey snapped his fingers.


    ¡°Right, they¡¯re right around here.¡± Florey remembered. ¡°Well, small world. Didn¡¯t know we¡¯d both be wandering through the forest today.¡±


    Essex looked back to where Rosalind had disappeared to. ¡°¡­why are you here today?¡±


    ¡°Oh, Wailing research. I, uhh, can¡¯t really go into more detail.¡± Florey excused, rubbing his neck. ¡°Hey, have you seen a woman around here? Her name¡¯s Rosalind, she¡¯s helping me out with work.¡±


    Essex stepped back a bit, shocked at how brazen his admittance to that was, as Florey dictated with his hands.


    ¡°Attitude problem? Has a sword? No?¡± Florey asked. ¡°It¡¯s fine. Hey, how¡¯re things on your end?¡±


    ¡°¡­good.¡± Essex said, before pointing to the forest. ¡°I need t-¡°


    ¡°How¡¯s Julia doing? You guys are in third-year now, right?¡± Florey insisted, excitement in his eyes. ¡°What¡¯s it like? Spare no details.¡±


    ¡­oh dear¡­ Essex realised.


    ¡°I fucking hate that little bitch so much. I wanna strangle her to near death and watch her beg me for air¡­¡± Rosalind muttered, slashing her heated up sword through tree after tree. ¡°How dare she rob me a damn good fight¡­AGAIN¡­¡±


    Rosalind did her best to follow in the direction the Wailing had been heading in, even if her heart wasn¡¯t in it anyone.


    ¡°¡­fucking Florey¡­¡± Rosalind let out. ¡°He should know better than to hold me ba¡­¡±


    Just as she managed to get past most of the trees, and luckily stumble upon her car again, Rosalind ducked back into the bushes, as she spotted the Wailing in question curiously inspecting her car.


    It pushed itself against the side, shoving its head into the drivers seat and jostling the car around, as Rosalind used the distraction to swiftly run up to the car and duck behind the containment device.


    ¡°Perfect¡­alright, now to get it in there¡­¡± Rosalind muttered, chucking her sword in her hand in preparation for a fight, before spotting the Wailing lifting up its head and dropping a few loose lollipops from the glove compartment into its body.


    It looked to dissolve them, as Rosalind put down her sword, before getting an idea and reaching into her pocket, pulling out a few more lollipops she had on hand.


    Quickly, she chucked them into the containment device, rattling against the side loudly, as it drew the Wailing¡¯s attention. Rosalind sidled around the car, watching as the Wailing gazed around, before finding the food in the container.


    It sniffed inquisitively, before ducking in to try and grab them, only for its disproportionate head to pull it in, as it dropped in the device headfirst.


    Rosalind bolted for the controls on the device, mashing the close button, as the lid slammed down and locked in place, only for the Wailing to realise what had happened and glare at Rosalind.


    ¡°Yes! That¡¯s what you get, dipshit!¡± Rosalind celebrated, right as more rustling came from the bush, just as Florey emerged out, tripping over a couple branches.


    ¡°Rosalind! There you are. Sorry, got caught up talking with a f¡­¡± Florey muttered, only to notice the Wailing filling the containment device. ¡°¡­wha¡­¡±


    Florey blinked, before getting closer. ¡°You got it?!¡±


    ¡°I always get it!¡± Rosalind cheered, pumping her fists. ¡°Stupid thing just wandered in like i-¡°


    Suddenly, the container shook violently, thrashing around as the Wailing inside was visibly vitriolic. Florey and Rosalind stepped back, just as it died down, with the Wailing starting to exhaust itself.


    ¡°¡­hah, what¡¯d I say? Dumb as shit.¡± Rosalind grinned, kicking the side of the device. ¡°Alright, let¡¯s get this thing back to base.¡±


    ¡°¡­r-right.¡± Florey let out, holding his chest, as he tried to let his anxiety wash away.


    Just as he went for the passenger seat, his heart started to race again, as he thought on everything that¡¯d come from this.


    I finally get to make a name for myself¡­ Florey realised. The first step in my research¡­and more discoveries to come¡­


    ¡°I cannot lose them.¡± Essex muttered, angrily following in the direction of Rosalind and the Wailing. ¡°This will be a disgrace if I let this happen.¡±


    She stormed through the forest, scythe at the ready, as she was just about to pass through the bush blocking the view of Rosalind¡¯s car before it drove off¡­


    ¡­only for a hand to land on her shoulder.


    She swung around immediately, pushing her scythe to the person¡¯s neck, as Nevando stepped back.


    ¡°Okay, bad idea on my part.¡± Nevando admitted, before taking on a much more serious tone.


    Essex pulled her scythe away, as she noticed Sillik behind him, folding their arms.


    ¡°You disobeyed Sillik, didn¡¯t you?¡±


    Essex stared back at Nevando, as she tried not to let her emotions grip her.


    ¡°W-We had located the Wailing, but Sillik had decided to leave it to a later date. I could not sit by while a Wailing was allowed to wander around when I could have done something about it.¡± Essex explained, almost tearing up.


    Nevando noticed and made a point to kneel down, resting a hand on her shoulder. ¡°¡­I¡¯ll give you a pass for now since no one got hurt. I¡¯m not in the business of telling people what¡¯s right or wrong, I just hunt Wailing. And it seems you¡¯ve got your own code figured out.¡±


    Nevando stood back up.


    ¡°But you¡¯re still working with us. Show us respect, and we¡¯ll respect you.¡±


    Essex kept quiet, debating whether to make another apology for betraying Muer again.


    ¡°And Sillik, give the kid a break.¡± Nevando insisted, turning around, as Sillik tried to keep their composure. ¡°We¡¯re heading back to the agency and continuing with Sillik¡¯s plan. Once the other team gets here, then we can go out hunting.¡±


    Sillik shared a bitter glance with Essex as they followed behind Nevando, leaving Essex to quietly follow them back, still thinking about Rosalind and Florey and why they were here.


    ¡­the others need to know.


    ¡ª-¡ª<u>TEAM AVALANCHE MISSION</u>¡ª-¡ª


    ¡ª-¡ª<u>HUNT DOWN THE SLUSH SKULKER</u>¡ª-¡ª


    ¡ª-¡ª<u>POSTPONED</u>¡ª-¡ª


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°¡­h dear, that was one of the loveliest outings I¡¯ve ever been on.¡± Wess cooed, her arms wrapped around Julia¡¯s as they came back into their dorm.


    ¡°I know. Any time with you is special to me.¡± Julia added, pushing herself closer. ¡°I really liked the part with all the kissing and hugging and¡­you know¡­¡±


    Wess rolled her eyes as she opened the door. ¡°Uhuh. How am I not surprised?¡±


    ¡°Cause you liked it to?¡± Julia suggested, right as both of them realised what was happening in the middle of the dorm.


    ¡°Per-cy! Per-cy!¡± Harley, Sola and Chops cheered, throwing Percy into the air, as Percy wavered between excited embarrassment and embarrassed excitement.


    Wess turned to Julia. ¡°What happened while we were away?¡±


    ¡°Percy turned out to be badass, that¡¯s what happened!¡± Harley cheered. ¡°I take back everything I said, Percy¡¯s cool as shit!¡±


    ¡°Julia, you missed a sweet car chase!¡± Chops clarified, as Julia looked disappointed.


    ¡°There was another one? Aww¡­¡± Julia let out, as Harley picked up Sola.


    ¡°I was right! Friendship rules!¡± Sola cheered, being thrown up as well. ¡°Yay friendship! Yay friendship!¡±


    Percy¡¯s found herself laughing, before pumping her fists as well, cheering along with the others in her own way, as a few tears of happiness rolled down her cheeks.


    The first time she¡¯s cried in a while.


    And this time, it was for a good reason.

 Chapter 54: Up In Smoke

    ¡°So? How do you think the whole thing went?¡±


    ¡°¡­I¡­found it beneficial. And a good learning opportunity.¡±


    ¡°I guess that¡¯s all we can hope for. And that you consider us for employment after graduation.¡±


    ¡°¡­yes, you will be considered.¡±


    Charles showed a toothy grin. ¡°You sound like I have a gun to your head. Relax, we won¡¯t be offended if you don¡¯t.¡±


    ¡°Dal.¡± Essex agreed, before briefly side glancing Nevando and averting her eyes, focusing back on Charles at his desk.


    ¡°And hey, do us a favour.¡± Charles prefaced, before reaching into his desk drawer and pulling out a card. Essex grabbed it and noticed it was a business card.


    Essex stared back at him, as he stood up. ¡°I heard you might know that Cyrus kid personally.¡± Charles explained, as Essex pocketed the card. ¡°Figured if you pass the offer, you could show that to him. As a favour.¡±


    Essex nodded back, as Charles stuck his hand out and Essex quickly shook it. ¡°Well, I wish you the best of luck heading home, and with the rest of your studies.¡±


    ¡°Thank you. Grelo Sevali.¡± Essex let out, bowing to him, before leaving the office into the main entrance, with Nevando trailing behind.


    ¡°Hey, there¡¯s the star. Ready for the trek back?¡± Riley asked, leaning on the front counter, as Essex went to grab her bags by the door.


    ¡°Dal. I appreciate your hospitality in these last few weeks.¡± Essex replied, grabbing her bags, before going to leave.


    ¡°Hey, wait up!¡± Riley called out, as Essex turned around and found him spinning his keys on his finger. ¡°I was offering a ride back. You trudged through the tundra the first time, it¡¯d be cruel to do it to you again.¡±


    Essex was a bit surprised by the offer, before taking it in and giving a placid thumbs up, as Riley hopped up and headed outside too.


    Essex found herself making eye contact with Nevando again, before averting her gaze, as Nevando massaged his forehead.


    ¡°¡­Essex.¡± He started, as she finally faced him.


    He leaned down. ¡°I just wanna give some advice, cause I can see where this is heading.¡± Nevando said, trying to look warm. ¡°I know we aren¡¯t your team, but you can¡¯t just rely on your own personal compass, okay?¡±


    Nevando put a hand to his chest. ¡°We¡¯re pretty forgiving. But you pull that shit with your own team, that¡¯s when trust starts to crumble, right?¡±


    Essex quietly nodded, still berating herself in her head, as Nevando rubbed his neck and looked away.


    ¡°I don¡¯t¡­talk about it a lot, but Avalanche wasn¡¯t my first team.¡± Nevando admitted, before resting his hands on his hips. ¡°But they have been my most reliable. And that¡¯s only cause I was reliable to them.¡±


    ¡°¡­I¡­will do my best to practice that.¡± Essex insisted, quickly going to head out the door, as Nevando grabbed her shoulder.


    ¡°Essex, I mean it. Going off on your own and thinking you can handle whatever tries to kill you is a great way for a Venator to die.¡± Nevando insisted, as he tightened his grip. ¡°If you care about your team, you won¡¯t risk yourself like that. Be smart, pick your battles.¡±


    Nevando stood back up, before stretching out his back. ¡°Geez, I shouldn¡¯t do that at my age.¡±


    He shook it off, as he headed to the kitchen and waved. ¡°Hope to see ya again, you scamp!¡±


    ¡°¡­ditto!¡± Essex called back, unsure if she used that right, before closing the door behind her and walking to Riley¡¯s car, still stuck in her own head.


    ¡°Alright, before we go, what¡¯s the first thing you wanna do when you get home?¡± Riley asked, as he hopped into the driver¡¯s seat.


    ¡°¡­hug my girlfriends.¡± Essex admitted, as Riley let out a laugh.


    ¡°Oh, you¡¯re a lucky one.¡± He remarked, before driving back in the direction of Mykonori. ¡°Don¡¯t forget that.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Do do dodo¡­bada bow¡­¡± Rosalind sung to herself, drumming her hands on the wheel, as she looked back at Florey, then the Gelatinous Wailing behind them, crammed inside the containment device that had now been filled to the brim with water, due to the Wailing¡¯s ever-leaking spout on its back.


    Idly noticing Florey¡¯s apprehension, she hit his arm. ¡°Hey, smile. We got your guinea pig.¡±


    ¡°¡­a-are we taking this right into Detu City?¡± Florey asked, as Rosalind was about to hit the city limits. ¡°Don¡¯t we h-have a research facility that¡¯s¡­NOT¡­here?¡±


    ¡°What do you mean? EHM¡¯s got all your lab shit.¡± Rosalind pointed out, before heading onto a side road and circling around the city suburbs.


    ¡°Rosalind, I-I don¡¯t feel comfortable bringing a Wailing into Detu City.¡± Florey complained, constantly adjusting in his seat. ¡°We¡¯re also responsible for building the barrier around the city to keep them out. This feels like a conflict of interest.¡±


    Rosalind mostly ignored him and focused on driving, before she came to a realisation. ¡°Oh, that¡¯s right. You don¡¯t know about it, do you?¡±


    Florey just stared at her with a mix of annoyance and anguish, as she made her way around the circumference of Detu City, before splitting off down a road to the Central Forest, heading offroad to a secluded part of the woods.


    Before Florey had much time to question where they were going, they came across the entrance to a tunnel, as Rosalind started driving down.


    Florey¡¯s jaw dropped as he tried to register the fact a massive tunnel led all the way from the Central Forest into Detu City, staring around them as they drove down the massive, featureless underground passage.


    After a good solid while, they hit a gate leading into the lower level of the EHM carpark, as Rosalind hopped out of the car and pressed a button to the side of it to open it up. She jumped back in and kept driving, wordlessly showing Florey everything he needed to know.


    She drove up to the next level, before pulling the car over to the side of the wall, hooking up the containment device to a port built into it.


    She waited about a minute, before a large vacuum sound emanated from the device, as Florey turned to find the Wailing had been sucked away somewhere.


    ¡°What the¡­¡± Florey let out, as Rosalind kept driving up to the next level, before she entered the part of the carpark Florey was more familiar with, parking back in her usual spot.


    ¡°Come on. I might as well be the first to show you.¡± Rosalind offered, getting out of the car and heading to the entryway beside the elevator up into EHM proper. Florey cautiously followed behind, as she scanned her ID card to open it up.


    Rosalind efficiently took a step in, with Florey copying her, only to notice she stopped.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know how much you¡¯re allowed to know, so for now, stick to me, don¡¯t split off, and don¡¯t wander.¡± Rosalind stated, before staring right into his face. ¡°Just don¡¯t be stupid.¡±


    ¡°¡­I think I can manage that.¡± Florey replied, as Rosalind started walking again, giving Florey a great view of the series of hallways and offices running underneath the building, with very little lighting or ventilation. ¡°So¡­what¡¯s this floor for?¡±


    ¡°Stuff.¡± Rosalind said, swinging her head back. ¡°Stuff that¡¯s not on the main floors.¡±


    ¡°Like?¡± Florey followed up, as Rosalind grabbed her nose.


    ¡°Spare shit, what we¡¯re doing. Stop being so nosy.¡± Rosalind insisted, as they rounded a corner, before Rosalind ducked into a smaller room off to the side.


    Once Florey followed her in there, he was greeted to a mostly empty, but still pretty cramped room that was about as dingy as the rest of the floor, with the sole point of difference being the Gelatinous Wailing taking up half of it, held behind a sheet of reinforced glass in what looked to be a holding cell.


    ¡°This is how we keep it on site without causing a fuss.¡± Rosalind explained, indicating to the Wailing, as it pushed desperately against its confines, shaking the walls. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, there¡¯s no way it¡¯s getting out.¡±


    The Wailing kept putting up an effort, as Florey noticed a small drain in the corner of the cell, which the Wailing¡¯s waterspout was leaking into.


    ¡°We¡¯re lucky the drain was already there. I don¡¯t feel like getting blamed for flooding this place.¡± Rosalind said, resting her hands on her hips, as Florey took a look around the space.


    ¡°¡­so this was just sitting here, waiting to be used?¡±


    Rosalind scratched her cheek. ¡°Apparently, the boss man built this so he could study Gelatinous Wailing. But he hasn¡¯t done much of that yet, so now we get to use it.¡±


    Rosalind pointed to a desk in the corner. ¡°You can bring your research shit down here.¡±


    Florey looked around awkwardly. ¡°Does that mean you¡¯re no longe-¡°


    ¡°No, now I get the privilege of making sure you don¡¯t lose this thing.¡± Rosalind said, before pulling up a chair and placing it in front of the cell. ¡°Cause that could still happen.¡±


    ¡°¡­thanks for having faith in me.¡± Florey let out, as he stared back at the Wailing, unsure of its new environment, before it looked back at him.


    ¡­alright, Florey, time to prove yourself¡­


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡­alright, Harley, time to prove yourself¡­


    Harley held the controller up, already sweating on it a bit, as Percy held hers too, both taking up couch space while surrounded by the others.


    ¡°Harley, are you sur-¡°


    ¡°Yep, I¡¯m winning this time!¡± Harley insisted, as Julia backed off.


    ¡°¡­you wanna pick someone other than Scor-¡°


    ¡°Scorch is fucking cool!¡± Harley declared, as Sola backed her up.


    ¡°Yeah! He shoots fire out of his hands, and he hits like a truck!¡± Sola insisted, as Harley kissed her cheek.


    ¡°Hell yeah, Scorch!¡±


    Julia looked to Percy, who was noticeably less fired up. ¡°You good with Teletron?¡±


    Percy rolled her eyes, before giving a very slow and very confident nod back to Julia.


    ¡°You lot have fun with your game.¡± Wess remarked, casually reading while lying in the armchair. ¡°Just keep the noise down.¡±


    ¡°No promises, Wess! We¡¯ve got a balcony for a reason!¡± Harley stated, as Wess glared back at her, before properly sitting up in her chair.


    ¡°Percy, win again.¡± Wess demanded, as Percy put down the controller to sign.


    [That was already the plan.] She insisted, as the timer started counting down on the screen.


    The moment it hit zero, Harley and Percy hunched over before spamming button presses, watching their characters fling each other around the screen.


    Harley was putting in precision combos, focused entirely on the game.


    Meanwhile, Percy smugly stared at Harley as she mashed buttons aimlessly, with Harley¡¯s frustration growing at how even the match still was.


    ¡°Come on, babe, you¡¯ve got this!¡± Sola cheered, right as Harley¡¯s moves started getting more frantic.


    ¡°Do the freakin¡­do the combo!!!¡± Harley yelled, only for Percy to get in a lucky hit. ¡°For gods sake, Scorch, hit the fucking thing!!!¡±


    Percy kept knocking her health down, right as it all ended with a cinematic showing Teletron throwing Scorch off their building-top area, before he sailed down and crashed into the ground, with Teletron reigning supreme.


    ¡°COME ON!!!¡± Harley let out, throwing the controller down.


    Percy started pumping her fists, before getting up and deliberately dancing in Harley¡¯s face.


    Harley crossed her arms. ¡°You were just mashing buttons! How¡¯s that a fair strategy?!¡±


    [Try sucking less.] Percy replied, as Wess started cackling and Julia choked on her drink.


    ¡°Percy!¡± Julia let out, smiling despite herself. ¡°Come on, she was nice enough to verse you again.¡±


    Percy just shrugged while dancing, as Wess struggled to catch her breath.


    ¡°Oh my god¡­that was golden¡­¡± Wess let out, as Percy found herself grinning, before sitting back down and facing Harley again.


    Percy stared at her.


    Harley stared back.


    Percy smiled. [Another round?]


    ¡°¡­oh, you¡¯re so on.¡± Harley let out, picking the controller back up, as Sola pulled on her arm.


    ¡°Babe, aren¡¯t you gonna give it a break?¡± Sola asked, as Harley selected Scorch again. ¡°Or at least pick someone differ-¡°


    ¡°No way! I¡¯m winning with him!¡± Harley demanded, as Sola stood up.


    ¡°Teletron¡¯s a hard counter for him and you know it!¡±


    ¡°I know that, but I wanna anyway!¡± Harley admitted, right as Julia stood up and pulled her tablet out of her pocket.


    ¡°Guess what?¡± Julia prefaced, before showing off her alarm going off. ¡°Essex is about to hit the academy.¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s back already?¡± Wess asked, sitting up, as Harley and Sola got excited.


    ¡°I¡¯m running to the station right away!¡± Sola declared, jumping out of her seat, only for Harley to run right after.


    ¡°You¡¯re not kissing her before I do!¡± Harley insisted, leaving Julia, Wess and Percy alone.


    ¡°¡­children.¡± Wess groaned, before heading out as well. ¡°Let¡¯s walk like adults.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll be a second.¡± Julia said once Wess left, before turning back to address Percy. ¡°You wanna come with us?¡±


    [¡­I¡¯m fine to wait here.] Percy decided, before facing Julia properly. [Does she know I¡¯m staying here?]


    ¡°Not yet. We don¡¯t really know how she¡¯s gonna react.¡± Julia admitted, scratching her head. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, she¡¯s really awesome. You¡¯re gonna love her once you get to know her.¡±


    Julia grabbed her bag and went to head out. ¡°We¡¯ll let her know on the way back, though you might have to move to the couch for the time being.¡±


    [So it goes.] Percy remarked, getting a chuckle from Julia, before she left, leaving Percy to stare at the ceiling.


    ¡­I wonder how much longer they¡¯ll let me stay¡­


    ¡°Come on, come on, come on. It should be here¡­¡± Harley muttered, as Sola jumped around restlessly.


    ¡°Show up already!¡± Sola let out, just as Julia and Wess arrived.


    ¡°Guys, relax. She¡¯s already showing up earlier than int-¡° Julia explained, right as a Flash-Rail came into view in the distance. ¡°Oh, that should be her.¡±


    Wess let out a relieved sigh, as it hurried down the rail toward them. ¡°It¡¯s good to have the whole team back.¡±


    Julia nodded in the direction of the dorms. ¡°Plus one.¡±


    ¡°I suppose. For the time being.¡± Wess insisted, as Harley and Sola almost scrabbled over themselves once the Flash-Rail pulled in.


    Right as the doors opened, the team were surprised to find Essex wasn¡¯t there, before Julia noticed her standing the next door down and running up to her.


    ¡°You¡¯re back!¡± Julia exclaimed, hugging her immediately. ¡°How was the trip?¡±


    ¡°¡­eventful?¡± Essex said, only for Harley and Sola to push Julia out of the way.


    ¡°Dammit, Julia beat us!¡± Harley complained, picking Essex up in a hug, as Sola joined in as well.


    ¡°We¡¯ll hug you ten times as good to make up for it!¡± Sola insisted, as Essex found herself smiling, before hugging them back as well.


    ¡°¡­I have really missed you.¡± Essex admitted, as they broke the hug, before Harley eyed Essex up.


    ¡°Aaand?¡±


    Essex looked confused, until Harley started pushing her chest out, clearing things up.


    ¡°¡­and those¡­sweet knockers of yours.¡±


    ¡°Hehehe¡­¡± Harley let out with a proud smirk, as Wess popped her head up behind them.


    ¡°No hugs from me, but we dearly missed you, darling.¡± Wess said, reaching her hand over as a consolation, as Essex squeezed it, before stepping off the Flash-Rail properly.


    Suddenly, Essex¡¯s eyes lit up, as she faced Wess again.


    ¡°I¡­I marketed!¡±


    Wess looked a bit caught off guard. ¡°Really?¡±


    ¡°With Avalanche! I attempted networking.¡± Essex admitted, nodding emphatically, as Harley wrapped her arm around her.


    ¡°Way to go. Thanks for putting yourself out of the way like that.¡± Harley said, kissing her cheek.


    ¡°Did you get a contact with them?¡± Julia popped in, joining Wess¡¯ side.


    ¡°¡­somewhat. I¡­may have¡­been reckless.¡± Essex stated, darting her eyes around. ¡°In a less than pleasing way.¡±


    ¡°Is that the polite way of saying they didn¡¯t quite gel with you?¡± Wess asked, as Essex nodded.


    ¡°They were loud and impulsive.¡± Essex confessed, getting chuckles from Harley and Sola. ¡°¡­it is very nice to be home.¡±


    Julia found herself welling up a little, before waving her hand and shying away.


    ¡°C-Come on, let¡¯s go back already! Essex is probably exhausted!¡± Julia insisted, trying not to explode from happiness, as the team started making their way up to the dorms.


    ¡°So, what have¡­I missed¡­during¡­my trip?¡± Essex asked through Harley and Sola¡¯s numerous kisses.


    ¡°Baron nearly found out about Wicker!¡± Sola exclaimed, only to remember they were in public. ¡°Dammit!¡±


    ¡°Luckily¡­¡± Wess said, holding her hands out to calm Sola. ¡°These three took care of that.¡±


    ¡°Also, there¡¯s¡­the big one.¡± Julia prefaced, as Essex tilted her head. ¡°¡­there¡¯s¡­been a new roommate staying with us.¡±


    Essex blinked a few times as she took that in. ¡°¡­who?¡±


    ¡°Percy.¡± Harley answered, as they closed in on the dorms. ¡°Oh, wait, that¡¯s her new nam-¡°


    ¡°It¡¯s Jules, from EHM!¡± Sola followed up, as Essex¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°She got out after w-¡°


    In a swift movement, Essex bolted ahead, leaving her bags and the others behind, as she sprinted directly to the dorms.


    The team immediately followed after her, Harley grabbing the bags, as Essex closed in on the team¡¯s dorm and scanned her card, bursting into the room.


    She found Percy sitting on the couch, patiently waiting, before lifting her head and spotting a furious Essex, getting her scythe ready.


    Before Essex could act, the others flooded into the room, holding Essex back, as Percy realised her intentions and jumped up in fear.


    ¡°Essex, stop! She¡¯s with us!¡± Julia demanded, putting herself in between them. ¡°She escaped from Wicker. He was controlling her. She didn¡¯t want to be there.¡±


    Harley had grabbed onto Essex¡¯s arm, slowly lowering it, as Essex let out a steady breath, refusing to break eye contact with Percy.


    ¡°¡­why is she here?¡± Essex let out, being very careful with her words.


    ¡°She didn¡¯t feel safe anywhere else.¡± Wess filled in, comforting Percy.


    ¡°Wicker¡¯s goons were hunting her down, so she¡¯s laying low here!¡± Sola insisted, grabbing Essex¡¯s other arm.


    Essex breathed in again, as Percy went to sign to Wess.


    Essex stared in confusion. ¡°What is she saying?¡±


    Wess nodded to Percy, before turning to Essex. ¡°That you scare her.¡±


    Essex felt a pang of guilt, as she finally let go of her scythe and stepped back, even as she still showed caution toward Percy.


    Awkwardly, she quickly darted into the kitchen, insisting the others follow behind, as everyone expect Percy went to join her, leaving Percy standing in the lounge area, trying to calm her heart.


    Great, she¡¯s worse than Rosalind¡­ Percy thought, before quickly going back on that. No, that¡¯s too harsh¡­so much for getting along with the whole team¡­


    ¡°Essex, what the hell was that?¡± Harley complained, resting her hands on her hips. ¡°You can¡¯t just do that.¡±


    ¡°¡­relias.¡± Essex quickly apologised, before making sure they were all huddled. ¡°But I do not trust her.¡±


    If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.


    Julia pouted. ¡°You haven¡¯t gotten to know her yet.¡±


    ¡°That is not the issue.¡± Essex insisted, sighing out. ¡°¡­during my internship, I came across Rosalind again.¡±


    Wess blinked. ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°At Aurora?¡± Sola asked, as Essex nodded back.


    ¡°In the Aishanara Forest. She¡­¡± Essex started, before quickly sharing a glance with Julia. ¡°¡­she was accompanying Florey on a trip there.¡±


    Julia felt her breath catch, as Harley held her up, giving her a second to take it in.


    ¡°They were working together?¡± Sola suggested, as Wess shook her head.


    ¡°Now hold on. We know Rosalind¡¯s working for Wicker, but that still doesn¡¯t mean Florey¡¯s in on their ploy. Rosalind could¡¯ve lied to him about her intentions, or this is a second job for her. We don¡¯t know the context.¡± Wess posited, before resting her hand on Julia¡¯s back. ¡°Alright?¡±


    Julia nodded weakly, as Harley leaned into Wess. ¡°That¡¯s another EHM connection, though.¡±


    ¡°¡­why were they out in the forest?¡± Julia asked, as all eyes were on her, before moving to Essex.


    ¡°¡­I believe Rosalind was there to eliminate me.¡± Essex stated, before pointing back in Percy¡¯s direction. ¡°And Jules must have led her to me.¡±


    ¡°Percy.¡± Sola corrected, as Essex glanced at her.


    ¡°Regardless, how else would she have located me is not with¡­Percy¡¯s aid? No one was aware that I was at the agency aside from us, Faller and Ferris.¡± Essex reasoned. ¡°She knew I would be alone, far from the academy without backup, and was bragging about getting a chance to ¡®fight properly.¡¯ How often did you discuss my trip?¡±


    ¡°¡­all the time.¡± Julia admitted, rubbing her neck. ¡°We meant it when we said we missed you¡­¡±


    ¡°I guess she could also avoid witnesses too.¡± Harley agreed, scratching her chin. ¡°Save for Team Avalanche.¡±


    ¡°Maybe they were doing research for EHM?¡± Sola suggested. ¡°It¡¯s pretty far from Detu City, so it might¡¯ve been accidental.¡±


    ¡°If Rosalind is out there trying to kill me, I would not want to take that risk.¡± Essex reasoned.


    ¡°So you¡¯re sure they were there to kill you?¡± Wess said. ¡°Then why was Florey there? Just to accompany?¡±


    Essex shrugged. ¡°Experience?¡±


    ¡°I-I-I¡¯m sorry, I-I can¡¯t¡­¡± Julia stuttered, leaving the huddle while rubbing her arms nervously, as Wess and Sola quickly went to her sides. ¡°¡­th-that¡¯s not the reason why.¡±


    In a huff, Essex closed in again. ¡°If Percy truly wished to aid us, Rosalind would not be around anymore.¡± Essex argued, clenching her fist. ¡°Delaying a conflict is not the same as ending it¡­¡±


    Percy could tell the tension over the other side of the room was boiling, as she silently stood back up from the couch, getting another glare from Essex as she got up.


    She thought about ducking into the study, only for Essex to move herself into there, closing the door behind her, leaving Percy awkwardly standing in the lounge area, unsure how to act.


    As Wess and Sola comforted Julia, Harley stepped forward to try and fill the air.


    ¡°Uhh¡­¡± Harley started, before putting her fist to her chest. [Sorry.]


    [¡­why is she upset with me?] Percy asked, as Harley breathed in through her teeth.


    ¡°Apparently, when she was out on her trip, Rosalind managed to find her.¡±


    Percy¡¯s eyes widened, as she looked to the study again.


    ¡°She thinks you might¡¯ve tipped Rosalind off to her whereabouts.¡± Harley posited, kicking her leg. ¡°Look, I know I said you weren¡¯t trustworthy when you showed up here, but you wouldn¡¯t do that.¡±


    ¡°Essex just needs some time.¡± Wess insisted, as Julia got her composure back. ¡°She¡¯s got walls.¡±


    ¡°Big walls.¡± Sola agreed. ¡°But she¡¯s so sweet once you break them down!¡±


    ¡°¡­don¡¯t worry, we¡¯ll keep looking after you.¡± Julia assured, stepping forward and resting her hands on Percy¡¯s shoulder. ¡°With that said, I think you¡¯re sleeping on the couch now.¡±


    Percy sighed out, as Julia handed Percy her tablet.


    ¡°Essex doesn¡¯t know sign language, so if you two are alone, you can just use the notes app to write things out.¡± Julia offered. ¡°Or you can text one of us and we¡¯ll bail you out of there.¡±


    Percy smiled a bit, before signing again.


    [Thank you.]


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Cassidy! Hey!¡±


    Cassidy lifted her head, as she idly spritzed some of her potted plants. ¡°Florey, what¡¯s up?¡±


    Florey ran up to her desk, before taking a second to breathe. ¡°¡­you can tell Cecil¡­that we got our Wailing for study.¡±


    Cassidy was visibly impressed. ¡°Really? Well, good job! That must¡¯ve been a nightmare to wrangle.¡±


    ¡°Well, not really.¡± Florey admitted, looking sheepish. ¡°It sorta just¡­jumped into the container of its own volition.¡±


    Cassidy blinked. ¡°Gods, I wish all work was that easy.¡±


    Florey laughed as well, as Cassidy typed out a few things on her computer. ¡°So, when¡¯s the autopsy taking place?¡±


    Florey froze stiff, before trying to stumble onto an answer. ¡°¡­a-any¡­any day now, I just¡­¡±


    Suddenly, he came up with an idea. ¡°The autopsy room! It¡­still needs to be prepped. Dissecting something like this could end up very messy if I don¡¯t plan properly. I also want to study its behaviour and a couple theories of mine while it¡¯s still alive, so it¡­actually might be a while.¡±


    ¡°Okay. Let me know if you need anything else for prep.¡± Cassidy offered, giving Florey some relief. ¡°Ryan and Marcus are pretty busy, so best not to bother them directly.¡±


    ¡°R-Right, makes sense.¡± Florey said, before ducking away into his personal office. ¡°Thanks again!¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re welcome!¡± Cassidy called back, before getting her spritz bottle again. ¡°Aww, you guys are looking so neglected. Are you not getting enough sun?¡±


    Florey quickly grabbed a couple personal journals and studies from his office, raking up as much as he could, before heading straight to the elevator with it. He rode it down to the carpark level, before heading off to the side, using Rosalind¡¯s ID card to swipe in and beelining for the storage room, checking a small note he made with the directions.


    ¡°A couple signs wouldn¡¯t hurt¡­¡± He mumbled, right before coming across it, as he stepped inside to find Rosalind sitting on the floor, sword at the ready and her gaze focused on the Wailing behind the glass.


    ¡°Any difference in behaviour?¡± Florey asked, dumping his material onto the nearby desk, along with the stuff he already grabbed from his lab.


    ¡°Nope. It¡¯s just sittin¡¯ there.¡± Rosalind let out. ¡°Not much of a performer.¡±


    ¡°Alright. Let me know if there¡¯s anything worth observing.¡± Florey said, before sitting down and pouring over his journals, only for Rosalind to turn around to him.


    ¡°So¡­remind me, what¡¯s the plan again?¡±


    Florey stopped and spun in his chair. ¡°Well, we¡¯ve got the Wailing. Now I just need to finish my formula that allows me to perform an autopsy without it dissipating after it dies, and one that doesn¡¯t interfere with my research results. And I¡¯ve got to do it down here so I can keep an eye on the Wailing, and cause no one knows I haven¡¯t done it yet.¡±


    Florey focused on his work again. ¡°And I was just reminded that I need to prep the autopsy room too.¡±


    ¡°Okay, gotcha.¡± Rosalind said, facing the Wailing again. ¡°And I just make sure this thing doesn¡¯t try anything fishy?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s the idea.¡± Florey replied, before looking to her again. ¡°Sorry for the boring job.¡±


    ¡°Kid, I¡¯ve truly got nothing better to do.¡± Rosalind confessed, holding her sword out at the Wailing. ¡°And if this thing wants to give me the excuse, I¡¯ll happily dispose of it.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s¡­avoid that, if we can.¡± Florey insisted, as the Wailing tried stretching out, only to keep hitting the walls of the cell, frustrating it.


    It tried pushing on the glass, only to slip on its own water trail and fall ¡®face¡¯ first into it, as Rosalind started cackling with laughter.


    ¡°It¡¯s like a clown! Nevermind, this is good.¡± Rosalind exclaimed, as Florey started tinkering with his lab equipment, quietly sweating bullets.


    ¡°You¡¯ve still got time, Florey¡­you know the science, you¡¯ve just gotta use it¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡­


    ¡­Percy was having trouble sleeping.


    Which was pretty normal, but usually, she didn¡¯t have an audience.


    Essex had decided to sit across from her makeshift bed on the couch, perched on a seat, watching over her as she attempted to sleep.


    Percy stared forward, trying to ignore she was there, before shifting her gaze to Essex.


    Out of annoyance, she reached for Julia¡¯s tablet on the coffee table, as Essex cautiously sat up, before Percy pulled up the notes app and started typing.


    She turned it around to Essex.


    [Do you have to watch me sleep?]


    ¡°¡­yes.¡± Essex replied immediately, as Percy started typing again.


    [Do you really not trust me?]


    ¡°Yes.¡± Essex also replied, folding her arms. ¡°I have no good reason to.¡±


    Percy breathed out, before typing more frantically.


    [The rest of the team trust me]


    Essex leaned forward to read it easier.


    ¡°¡­they are more forgiving than me.¡± Essex admitted, sitting back up. ¡°And they are why I¡¯m giving you the benefit of doubt. I do not forget previous transgressions.¡±


    Before Percy could type again, Essex leaned forward once more.


    ¡°I do not forget that you worked for who was responsible for the attacks on the academy. Or that you accompanied Rosalind while escaping campus grounds.¡± Essex explained. ¡°I do not forget the danger my team was put through at the hands of your accomplices, or the Wailing you sent here. You may have convinced them to let you stay, but now you know our living residence, our routines, personal information, and where Wicker could potentially attack next.¡±


    Essex got in closer.


    ¡°I do not care that you saved Harley and I once, it will take more than one kind deed to begin trusting you. Rosalind pressed a sword to Julia¡¯s neck. I cannot let my team be put through that danger again.¡±


    Percy stared wide-eyed at Essex as she got comfortable again, still determined to sit there all night, leaving Percy to hold Julia¡¯s tablet.


    Finally, she went to type one last message, before placing the tablet back on the coffee table and turning to face the back of the couch in hopes of forgetting Essex was there.


    Essex glanced down at the message.


    [I¡¯ll make you trust me]


    Percy quietly ate her breakfast, not really taking the time to appreciate the flavours or texture, as all she could focus on was Essex across the room, still keeping tabs on her as she prepared for her day.


    Percy rubbed at her eyes, still feeling her sleep deprivation, as Julia stepped out of the bathroom, before noticing the tension between the two and grimacing.


    She stepped over to Percy and joined her at the kitchen table. ¡°Sorry about her.¡±


    [Does she blink?] Percy asked, as Julia let out a guilty laugh.


    She quieted herself, before looking back at Essex, who was now cleaning up her scythe¡¯s blade.


    ¡°Ayo, we got study stuff!¡± Harley announced, walking into the dorm alongside Sola, before dropping the books on the couch. ¡°We need breakfast.¡±


    ¡°Breakfast!¡± Sola called out, jumping to the fridge, as Wess emerged from the study, fluffing up her hair.


    ¡°Sola, could you throw me something? I¡¯ve a class in twenty minutes.¡± Wess asked, as Sola chucked her a container of shepherd¡¯s pie. ¡°Thank you, dear.¡±


    Briefly locking eyes with Julia, Wess also noticed the tension between Percy and Essex, before making a subtle indication to the door.


    Julia gave a positive nod, as Wess grabbed her handbag.


    ¡°Essex, would you mind accompanying me to my class? I want to hear more about your trip.¡± Wess offered, as Essex nodded back politely.


    ¡°Of course.¡± Essex replied, joining her as she left, finally giving Percy some form of relief.


    She let out a breath, as Harley and Sola joined her at the table too. [She didn¡¯t stop watching me all night.]


    ¡°Geez¡­¡± Harley let out, leaning back in her seat. ¡°Stamina machine, that one.¡±


    ¡°We can try talking to her again.¡± Sola offered, nervously scratching her neck. ¡°I don¡¯t think it¡¯ll do much, though.¡±


    ¡°Essex has her mind made up. There¡¯s not much that¡¯ll convince her you¡¯re worth trusting.¡± Julia admitted, as the others privately agreed with her, only for Percy to duck her head.


    It was clear she was biting her tongue, as she went to raise her hands, before stopping, before going back to raising them.


    [¡­that¡¯s not true. I¡¯ve been staying here for a while, with the intention that I would give you information on Wicker.] Percy noted, finishing swallowing her food. [And I¡¯ve yet to really do that. I wish to rectify that. If I need to leave soon to avoid causing anymore tension¡­then it¡¯s only fair I answer your questions.]


    Percy sat up.


    [What do you want to know?]


    The trio blinked suddenly, as the out of nowhere generous offer threw them off guard, before Sola jumped forward.


    ¡°WHO¡¯S WICKER?!¡± Sola started with, as Percy was thrown off a bit, before sitting back down.


    [¡­I don¡¯t know his real identity, unfortunately.] Percy admitted, deflating the room. [That information was reserved for his close inner circle, like Rosalind and Salaire. I tried looking into it myself a few times, but¡­]


    Percy started wincing at the memory, before shaking her head. [I know he works out of EHM¡¯s building, but I couldn¡¯t even tell you what his position was there.]


    Percy crossed her legs. [I was kept out of most of that and only knew about parts of the Organisation. I mean it when I say I worked for Wicker and Wicker alone.]


    Suddenly, Harley got an idea, grabbing out her tablet, before thinking twice and leaning over to whisper to Julia.


    ¡°Hey, Julia?¡±


    ¡°Yeah?¡±


    ¡°You reckon I should show her a picture of Cecil? She might recognise his face.¡± Harley whispered.


    ¡°¡­let¡¯s save that for later¡­if he really is Wicker, Percy might disappear again if she knows he¡¯s working here.¡± Julia confessed. ¡°Remember what Faller said, it¡¯s not just about getting him, but his whole operation.¡±


    ¡°¡­alright.¡± Harley said, sitting back in her chair, before snapping her fingers. ¡°Oh, here¡¯s an easy one. How¡¯d you get out of there after we left?¡±


    Percy ducked her head, before sighing.


    [¡­the same way you guys did.] Percy stated. [I heard you guys drove out of that transport tunnel, and since every other way was locked¡­I ran.]


    Sola gasped. ¡°The whole way?!¡±


    ¡°That tunnel stretches all the way to the Central Forest.¡± Julia realised, before resting her arm on Percy tenderly. ¡°You would¡¯ve been running for hours.¡±


    [¡­it was almost a whole day until I got back to Detu City.] Percy confessed. [After that, I had nowhere else to go¡­part of me was still hoping Wicker would forgive me, even after I attacked Rosalind. So I stayed in the city for the next few months, just barely scraping by¡­]


    ¡°You poor thing¡­¡± Julia let out, rubbing her arm, as Harley leaned forward.


    ¡°Okay, that clears that up¡­¡± Harley noted. ¡°But we still don¡¯t know the big one. What¡¯s Wicker¡¯s plan? What¡¯s he tryna do?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, how¡¯s he messing with the Wailing Conflict? We know he did the attacks, but we don¡¯t know why.¡± Sola followed up, as Percy twiddled her fingers.


    [¡­it¡¯s hard to describe.] Percy clarified. [Again, his real intentions were never made clear, but everyone at the Organisation had one stated goal we were working towards¡­]


    The trio leaned in.


    [¡­to end the Wailing Conflict, once and for all.]


    Silence washed over the room, as Harley and Sola couldn¡¯t process what that meant, and Julia blinked profusely.


    ¡°Wait, that¡¯s Wicker¡¯s plan?¡± Harley let out, now leaning on the table. ¡°What the fuck¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m with you, what the fuck?¡± Sola agreed.


    ¡°Th-That¡­doesn¡¯t make any sense.¡± Julia pointed out, getting closer to Percy. ¡°End it how? What¡¯s the process behind that?¡±


    Percy shrugged. [¡­from what I saw, it didn¡¯t make much sense to me either. My job was to stun Wailing alongside Rosalind and bring them to a place called RC. Then we would get tasked to send those Wailing back out to places to attack them periodically, without much rhyme or reason.]


    Percy shook her hands a bit. [Signing everything really strains the fingers¡­]


    ¡°So you were causing Wailing to attack places?¡± Harley asked, as Percy threw her hands up.


    [I-I didn¡¯t want to. I got dragged along in case they acted up too much.] Percy confessed. [That wasn¡¯t my department, so my involvement was rare.]


    Cautiously, Percy reached into her pocket, before pulling out a slightly empty vial of teal gel and putting it on the table.


    [I stole some of the tranquiliser to hold Rosalind off when you guys left.] Percy admitted. [And then kept it for¡­you know, protection.]


    ¡°And evidence!¡± Sola said, before going to pick it up. ¡°Boom! One more piece of the puzzle!¡±


    ¡°¡­were you behind the Wailing that attacked the HyperMall?¡± Julia asked, as Percy briefly freaked out.


    [H-How¡¯d you figure that out?]


    ¡°¡­that one always felt pretty weird to me.¡± Julia pointed out. ¡°No Wailing¡¯s ever made it that far into Detu City, and this one came in with no detection at all.¡±


    ¡°So Wicker wanted us to fight it?¡± Harley wondered, before standing up to wander. ¡°Or he wanted it to attack the mall for some reason?¡±


    ¡°If he¡¯s working for EHM, maybe he wanted to help reconstruct the mall and get them more business.¡± Sola noted while handing Percy back the tranquiliser, only for Julia to shake her head.


    ¡°¡­or maybe he needed a reason to have EHM build a barrier around the city.¡± Julia pointed out, right as Sola freaked out and Harley jumped onto her.


    ¡°That¡¯s the¡­that¡¯s the thing! The barrier!¡± Harley exclaimed. ¡°EHM¡¯s building it! They did it for business!¡±


    [I never made that connection.] Percy admitted, looking a bit terrified. [That¡¯s why he did it.]


    ¡°Maybe they¡¯re attacking places deliberately so Wailing tear them up, and then they get to come in and ¡®fix¡¯ everything for a price.¡± Julia elaborated, as Harley hugged her side. ¡°Is it really just for money?¡±


    ¡°Julia, you¡¯re a beautiful genius!¡± Harley cheered, kissing her cheek, as Julia started to get embarrassed.


    ¡°O-Okay, okay, one of us was gonna reach that conclusion anyway¡­¡± Julia insisted, backing off. ¡°¡­this is really good stuff, Percy. Thank you.¡±


    [¡­if you want, I can tell you some embarrassing stuff about Rosalind.] Percy offered, as Harley beelined for her seat again.


    ¡°Absolutely.¡± Harley said, as Julia stood up to think.


    ¡°Does she have a weird birthmark?¡± Sola asked, as Percy shook her head.


    [She has a scar in the shape of a banana though.] Percy noted, as Harley and Sola chuckled.


    ¡°We¡¯ve gotta point that out to her next time we see her.¡± Harley insisted, while Julia muttered to herself.


    ¡­this confirms it¡¯s Cecil, right? Julia wondered, stroking her chin. Or that Marcus guy¡­then again, it could be anyone from EHM¡­


    Julia shook her head. You don¡¯t get away with an operation this massive without the boss knowing, especially with a company like EHM. They have to be involved.


    Julia looked back at Percy enjoying herself with Harley and Sola, all laughing it up now that the malaise of the morning had lifted.


    ¡­we get Essex on her side, then we show her Cecil¡¯s picture. Julia reasoned. If Essex scares her off and she doesn¡¯t think we can protect her from Wicker, then I can¡¯t trust her to stay.


    Julia sighed out. When did life get so complicated?


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°¡­oh¡­oh god, stay open, you stupid eyes.¡±


    Rosalind grabbed her eye lids, trying to keep herself awake, before a loud yawn took over her body.


    Florey glanced over from his work, before checking the time. ¡°How long have you been awake?¡±


    ¡°¡­uhh, since¡­five in the morning, I think.¡± Rosalind guessed.


    ¡°It¡¯s eleven pm.¡± Florey pointed out, as Rosalind swung around to him.


    ¡°Really? Fuck me.¡± Rosalind let out, getting up and stretching her back. ¡°There¡¯s no¡­window¡¯s down here! I can¡¯t tell what time it is.¡±


    Rosalind tried shaking herself awake again, slapping herself in the face, as Florey took a break from his experiments and leaned back.


    ¡°I can take watch of it, if you need to rest up.¡±


    Rosalind stared at him, before nodding. ¡°Uhuh.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ve been awake for twenty hours. You might as well be intoxicated.¡± Florey explained, as Rosalind raised an eyebrow.


    ¡°That¡¯s not a thing.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a thing.¡± Florey insisted, before nodding to the door. ¡°Come on, bosses orders.¡±


    Rosalind scoffed and repeated what he said under her breath as she went to leave, before popping her head back in. ¡°You¡¯re startin¡¯ to get real comfortable in those big boy pants, aren¡¯t ya?¡±


    Florey didn¡¯t say anything as she left again, leaving him alone in the room with the Wailing, with it lying back against the wall in an attempt to get some sleep.


    The virtually non-existent lighting in the room and lack of any noise, save for the Wailing¡¯s waterspout trickling into the drain, made Florey feel like he was in some kind of sensory deprivation chamber, as he turned his attention to the Wailing, who popped its head up and moved its eye to follow Florey.


    Florey pulled down his desk clock, keeping it beside him as he sat on the floor, staring intently at the Wailing in an effort to emulate Rosalind¡¯s role.


    Only a minute in, he started to feel his legs get restless, as he tried to keep them still, before readjusting in his seat.


    The Wailing merely watched as it looked like Florey was trying to get comfortable as well, with about as much success.


    Finally, Florey found a position he was somewhat content with, before staring at the clock again and getting frustrated at how little time had passed.


    He sighed, bobbing his legs again, before looking off to the side.


    ¡°¡­you know¡­¡±


    The Wailing shifted its eye to him again.


    ¡°¡­you¡­terrify me.¡± Florey admitted, his leg still shaking. ¡°My whole life¡­I¡¯ve been afraid of you. Everyone tells me I¡¯m afraid of you, and I¡¯ve yet to find a reason not to be.¡±


    Florey refused to make eye contact with it, before he pulled down his shirt collar and showed off the large scar running down his neck.


    ¡°¡­when I was a kid¡­my parents took me to an amusement park, just outside Gebate. It was like the first time it had come through to Central Point, so it was a big deal when it did.¡± Florey explained. ¡°I was having the time of my life. Me and mum went on a bunch of rides, but dad didn¡¯t really want to join. He was fine waiting outside with a churro. Then, a Wailing showed up and started to tear the place apart.¡±


    Florey threw his hands up. ¡°Me and mum were still on the teacups, so we had to wait for the ride to slow down before we could leave. Mum bolted the moment she could, but I noticed someone next to us whose belt wasn¡¯t unbuckling. So I quickly undid mine and climbed over to help them with theirs.¡±


    The Wailing got closer to the glass. ¡°Mum eventually noticed I wasn¡¯t behind her and ran to try and grab me, just as the Wailing was starting the get closer. The person got out and instead of following my mum, I¡­tried to throw a punch at it.¡±


    Florey let out a weak laugh. ¡°I don¡¯t know what got into me. I always saw myself as flight, not fight, but¡­maybe part of me was just trying to make sure the person got away with enough time. Or I wanted to finally show this thing what was what. After years of terror, all I could think to do was finally make it pay¡­¡±


    Florey shifted around in his seat again. ¡°Anyway, it didn¡¯t work out, and it¡­managed to claw right into my neck. I got thrown off to the side, but the adrenaline still pumping through my body made sure I didn¡¯t pass out. Fortunately, there was a Venator team stationed nearby that happened to be going to the park as well, and right after I was thrown away, they came in and swiftly took care of it.¡±


    The Wailing lowered itself to the floor, almost looking like it was listening. ¡°Mum and dad found me right after and went to check if I was alright. I lied and said I was okay, while making sure to cover up my neck so they wouldn¡¯t worry about me¡­only¡­for the Venator team to come over.¡±


    Florey pressed his hands to his chest. ¡°I wanted to thank them for saving us¡­but then the team leader got in my face and yelled at me. She called me out for trying to fight the Wailing and nearly getting myself killed, said I shouldn¡¯t endanger people like my mum by doing that.¡±


    Florey laughed again. ¡°I was gonna tell her about the person I¡¯d helped, but right after that, dad joined in and started yelling at me too, telling me I had no chance of taking on a Wailing and that someone as weak as me shouldn¡¯t have even tried. Mum didn¡¯t say anything, and I just stood there trying not to cry, even as my neck kept bleeding out.¡±


    Florey waved his hand. ¡°The Venator team left after that, and my parents went to take me home. On the way to the car, though, I caught the team doing interviews and promoting their merch on the news, not even acknowledging all the people they¡¯d saved that day. They probably left out the part where they yelled at a kid, too.¡±


    Florey lay out his hands flat, as the Wailing followed his action with its gaze. ¡°And right in the middle of the parking lot, I finally passed out from blood loss. My parents took me to the hospital while I got better, but dad didn¡¯t talk to me much after that happened. He just sat there, looking disappointed¡­¡±


    Florey left a moment of silence, even letting himself take in his own story, right as the Wailing pulled itself back up.


    ¡°¡­it was always his dream to become a Venator.¡± Florey admitted. ¡°He couldn¡¯t do it cause he had a bad knee, but after the whole fiasco, he insisted I become one in his stead. And¡­¡±


    Florey rubbed his neck, looking almost ashamed.


    ¡°¡­I kind of agreed. After that Venator team yelled at me, I¡­yeah, I saw what they meant. I was weak, I couldn¡¯t do anything in that situation. The Wailing nearly killed me because I couldn¡¯t fight back.¡±


    Florey smiled a bit as he spoke. ¡°And then I found out about Scientific Venators. I¡¯d always been interested in biology, and here was a type of Venator that did that. They weren¡¯t those pushy hunting jerks, they were people like me. But of course, dad said I wouldn¡¯t be anything less than a ¡®real Venator¡¯ and the conversation stopped soon after that. I worked really hard to get into the Venator Academy, just like he wanted, and wouldn¡¯t you know it¡­I dropped out a year later.¡±


    Florey held his hands out. ¡°And¡­now I¡¯m here. Doing what I actually wanted. I¡¯m not that weak little kid that got pushed around by everyone, I¡¯m actually¡­doing shit!¡±


    Florey stood up, before slapping his chest. ¡°Cecil¡¯s proud of me! He wants me to help people! He wants me to help end the Wailing Conflict! Not through brawn, through brains. Through a strategy that¡¯ll actually work instead of throwing Venator after Venator at the problem.¡±


    Florey stepped forward, as the Wailing lifted up too. ¡°I don¡¯t have to be scared of you anymore. I can fight back, in my own way.¡±


    Florey grinned. ¡°You¡¯re stuck behind some glass! Just look at that, outthought, and outmanoeuv-¡°


    Right as Florey said that, the Wailing reared its back up, using as much room as it could take in its cramped cell, before shaping its head into a massive spike and driving itself forward, swinging right into the glass.


    The glass shuddered, as Florey fell back onto the ground, breathing heavily as he prepared for the glass to shatter, only¡­


    ¡­for it to stay shuddering, remaining unbroken, as the Wailing reformed its body, still staring down Florey intently, knowing full well it managed to threaten him.


    Once he realised he was safe, Florey quickly scrambled to his feet again, before slowing his breathing and pointing back at the Wailing.


    ¡°W-What did I say? You¡¯re not getting through that!¡± Florey insisted, hyping himself up again. ¡°Outthought and outmanoeuvred! Maybe let me finish next time!¡±


    The Wailing gazed directly into his eyes, unblinking, making its intent perfectly clear, as Florey kept teasing it, before sitting back down for work.


    ¡°You better get comfortable. Because you¡­¡± Florey said, before happily pointing back at the Wailing. ¡°¡­are my meal ticket for a great scientific discovery.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°¡­wait, end it? How¡­how does that make any sense?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s what I¡¯m saying.¡± Julia clarified, as Wess and Essex stared back at her, all standing around each other in the kitchen. ¡°Why would he attack the academy if not to make the barrier seem more necessary?¡±


    ¡°And to get headlines.¡± Wess reasoned, throwing her hands up. ¡°Wailing attacks academy on orientation day: is this the beginning of a trend?¡±


    ¡°¡­do we know who Wicker is now?¡± Essex asked, as Julia started shaking her head.


    ¡°¡­we know they¡¯re a higherup in EHM. Cecil¡¯s our best guess, but it could be his business partner Marcus too.¡± Julia reasoned, before shrugging. ¡°Or it¡¯s both of them, or it¡¯s someone else. We won¡¯t know until we confront him.¡±


    ¡°Has she not told you?¡± Essex followed up, glancing back at Harley, Sola and Percy at the couch together, setting up Percy¡¯s bed.


    ¡°¡­she couldn¡¯t confirm it. She only knows him as Wicker.¡± Julia pointed out, keeping her voice down.


    ¡°Could we not ask her if it¡¯s Cecil?¡± Essex argued.


    ¡°Well, she might disappear if it turns out Wicker¡¯s on campus.¡± Wess explained. ¡°And we couldn¡¯t guarantee her safety then.¡±


    ¡°If we know who he is, then we can better guarantee it.¡± Essex stated. ¡°She is being deliberately evasive with her information for a reason.¡±


    Julia looked annoyed. ¡°We¡¯re lucky she gave us even this much. It¡¯s clearly pretty traumatic for her to recall. She came to us for help, I¡¯m not putting conditions on that.¡±


    ¡°Julia, I know you trust her¡­¡± Essex said, before leaning in. ¡°¡­but putting your faith in a stranger like her is a great way to die.¡±


    ¡°Essex!¡± Wess complained, stepping forward. ¡°We¡¯ve all come to this conclusion of our own volition! Harley had her doubts, so did I, and even Julia to an extent, but you¡¯re pushing it with this attitude.¡±


    ¡°She worked for Wicker! She is dangerous!¡± Essex declared, not even trying to be quiet anymore while drawing the room¡¯s attention. ¡°She has only given up information when under pressure! She¡¯s worried about being found out for her ruse!¡±


    ¡°She gave that information up so we could trust her!¡± Wess argued. ¡°What does she need to do?! Personally kill Wicker and bring us his head?!¡±


    ¡°It would be a start!¡± Essex demanded, as Harley and Sola put down their sheets, and Percy felt her lip quivering.


    ¡°P-Please, stop fighting you two!¡± Julia demanded, pushing them away from each other. ¡°We don¡¯t fight like this, okay?! That¡¯s not what we do!¡±


    Essex huffed out, before turning to stare daggers at Percy and storming into the study again, angrily slamming the door behind her.


    Harley sat there in silence, unsure who to console first, as Sola went to grab Percy¡¯s hand and make sure she was okay.


    Before she could, however, Percy pulled away and headed for the door, ignoring everyone as she left.


    Wess wrapped her arms around Julia to comfort her, only for Julia to leave them once she saw Percy heading out.


    ¡°Percy!¡± Julia called out, following her out into the hall, as she found Percy pacing.


    Percy grabbed at her head, before signing back to Julia.


    [What do I have to do? She¡¯s never going to trust me.] Percy let out, stamping her foot, as Julia shook her head.


    [¡­she¡¯s really protective, and she won¡¯t let this go.] Julia signed back. [We can tr-]


    [I know!] Percy slammed, glaring at Julia. [I know she¡¯s protective! Stop saying that!]


    Percy quickly turned and trudged down the hall, desperate to get some air, as Julia tried to follow her.


    ¡°Percy! Wait up! I¡¯m sorry, okay? I don¡¯t want to fight!¡± Julia called out, as Percy shook her head. ¡°She just got back! She was scared about what might have happened to us!¡±


    [I¡¯m scared too!] Percy spun around to reply, before hurrying her pace, as Julia debated whether to just give her the space she needed.


    Once Percy had made some distance, she let herself breathe, before resting her head on the wall, ignoring the passing students.


    Why can¡¯t she see I¡¯m doing my best¡­I¡¯m not the bad guy here¡­


    Percy was struggling to calm herself down.


    ¡­it¡¯s not her fault¡­I put them all in danger again and again¡­


    Percy shook her head, trying not to get mad.


    I¡¯m the one who helped Wicker. And it¡¯s the only reason they even took me in¡­


    Percy kept charging through the academy halls without much purpose, doing her best to ignore Julia, who she knew was still trailing behind her.


    I¡¯ve already taken up so much space¡­I¡¯m just being selfish at this point¡­


    She continued hurrying without looking, still mostly in her own head, before almost running directly into someone just exiting a classroom.


    Finally taking shelter from her own thoughts, she looked up to apologise to who she might¡¯ve hit, as Cecil stared down at her, his pupils shrinking suddenly at her presence.


    Percy backed up, and despite his own instincts, his mouth started to move.


    ¡°Ju¡­¡±


    Right as he said that, Julia rounded the corner, as Cecil quickly switched his attention.


    ¡°¡­Julia.¡± Cecil said, turning to address her. ¡°Apologies, I nearly ran into your friend here. More accurately, she nearly ran into me.¡±


    Julia took in what he said, before quickly registering what the situation meant and what bad timing this all was.


    ¡°You really must be careful. These hallways aren¡¯t meant for running around.¡± Cecil remarked, as Julia¡¯s attention kept shifting between them.


    She turned back to Percy, only to watch her face turn to abject horror, as she subconsciously stepped back, not even registering Julia was there.


    Before Julia could check in with her, Percy ran off, bolting back down the hall again, seemingly like she had before, leaving Julia and Cecil alone.


    ¡°¡­is she alright?¡± Cecil asked, as Julia glanced back at him. ¡°You should check up on her. Make sure she¡¯s doing okay.¡±


    Julia struggled to make eye contact, her suspicion of Cecil¡¯s intentions immediately becoming evident, as she couldn¡¯t really hide it anymore. Cecil seemed to notice but refused to waver in his demeanour.


    Despite not wanting to leave him to his own devices, Julia reasoned it was better to find Percy and turning to leave, as Cecil grabbed out his tablet.


    ¡°Hold on, I nearly forgot something.¡± Cecil said, dialling in a number, before turning to Julia. ¡°You really should keep an eye on her.¡±


    Julia felt the need to run, quickly following the direction Percy had bolted off into, as Cecil casually went about his call, wandering in the hall.


    ¡°Hello, dear? I just had an idea for a dessert we could try¡­I¡¯m at the academy¡­later today, ideally. Could you bring the ingredients with you?...apricot pie, I was thinking. Maybe¡­three apricots? Something like that¡­we might also need some more hands in the kitchen. Ask the kids if they want to come help us¡­I say we let them have their fun this time¡­that¡¯d be lovely, thank you¡­¡±


    Julia¡¯s anxiety started to grip her. Alarm bells blared in her mind, as her search for Percy became frantic and disorganised. Her breathing got heavier, as she had to sit against the wall to calm herself, gripping her head and focusing her breath.


    As she gave herself a moment to think, her attention shifted from aimlessly searching for Percy to heading back to the team.


    If what she feared was true¡­


    ¡­if what she worried might happen¡­


    ¡­then no one was safe.

 Chapter 55: Fireside

    Julia sprinted in the direction of the dorms, drawing curious glances from the student body around her. Her mind was clouded with anxiety, as she purely focused on what she knew she could do in this moment.


    Lead.


    She made it back to Team Valiant¡¯s dorm, taking a moment to catch her breath, before coming back into the room and catching Harley and Sola right as they were about to leave.


    ¡°Julia, hey. We were just about to come find you. Did you get Percy t-¡° Harley asked, only for Julia to raise her finger, still panting excessively.


    ¡°Why were you running?¡± Sola questioned, as Julia let herself breath again.


    ¡°¡­P-Percy¡¯s gone.¡± Julia stammered, just as Wess popped her head up from the couch.


    ¡°What?¡± Wess let out, joining them.


    ¡°Gone where?¡± Sola asked, helping Julia over to the couch.


    ¡°¡­I-I fucked up¡­¡± Julia confessed, hitting her forehead. ¡°I fucked up so ba-¡°


    Wess held her arm to stop her, before linking hands with her and giving her a reassuring smile.


    ¡°Just tell us from the start.¡± Harley insisted, right as the study door opened, with Essex coming out of the study to collective concerned stares.


    Julia looked back at her, before finding her voice. ¡°¡­Percy was mad, so she ran away from me¡­and then she ran into Cecil.¡±


    Sola gasped, as Julia threw her hands out. ¡°She started freaking out and then bolted, then Cecil said some weird stuff¡­there¡¯s no doubt in my mind¡­¡±


    Julia nodded.


    ¡°¡­it¡¯s him.¡±


    Everyone reeled at the information, all too stunned to respond straight away, as Essex decided to join them in the lounge area.


    ¡°¡­so¡­¡± Wess started, rubbing her arms. ¡°¡­what do we do about this?¡±


    Julia lowered her head, playing with her thumbs.


    ¡°¡­I need you guys to go out and look for Percy.¡± Julia reasoned. ¡°She couldn¡¯t have gotten far, but I¡¯m worried she won¡¯t come back here right now. Split up and ask for help if you need to. We¡¯re not letting Wicker get to her.¡±


    ¡°Okay. Should we¡­?¡± Sola started, before Julia raised her head again.


    ¡°Just take her to Faller¡¯s office. Or Dulce. Someone who can look after her.¡± Julia pointed out, before standing back up. ¡°And bring your weapons. I don¡¯t¡­I don¡¯t know¡­¡±


    ¡°Alright, dear, easy enough.¡± Wess assured, linking arms with her, as the team started getting ready to leave.


    ¡°You joining us?¡± Harley asked, as Julia shook her head.


    ¡°I have to let Faller and Ferris know about this.¡± Julia pointed out, facing the team properly. ¡°¡­I don¡¯t know how much this is gonna balloon, so the sooner they know, the better.¡±


    The team collectively agreed, before going to head out the door, only to realise Essex was joining them.


    ¡°Are you coming, Essex?¡± Harley asked, as Essex nodded back.


    ¡°¡­I am still concerned about how trustworthy Percy is.¡± Essex confessed, before resting a hand on Julia¡¯s shoulder. ¡°But Cecil takes priority. I will put aside my concerns for the good of the Wailing Conflict.¡±


    Julia gave back a reluctant nod. ¡°Alright. You guys know what to do. Text me to keep me updated.¡±


    The team started to split off, with Julia heading in the direction of Faller¡¯s office, only for Wess to stop her in the middle of the hallway.


    ¡°Julia, hold on.¡± She prefaced, before leaning into her. ¡°¡­I need to know. Are you planning on confronting Cecil?¡±


    Julia found herself speechless, before deciding to shake her head. ¡°¡­if we¡¯re lucky, I won¡¯t need to.¡±


    Wess nodded back, before kissing Julia¡¯s cheek. ¡°Just¡­don¡¯t¡­don¡¯t do what I think you will. Look after yourself, please.¡±


    Julia sighed out, before somewhat hurriedly kissing Wess¡¯ cheek as well and leaving. ¡°I¡¯ll come find you as soon as I can, okay?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s a promise!¡± Wess called out, before joining back up with the rest of the team, ready to go find Percy.


    ¡°¡­god, this morning has not been kind to me¡­¡± Ferris groaned, leaving in the middle of her class and staring out the walkway window, before reaching into her pocket. ¡°Teach this, search that, teach this, search that, tap dance while you¡¯re at it¡­fucking Faller¡­¡±


    Right before she could grab out her flask, Julia came rushing down the hall, almost running right past her, before realising who it was and stopping.


    ¡°Ferris! Ferris, I need to talk!¡± Julia exclaimed, as Ferris raised her hand.


    ¡°Julia, my head¡¯s killing me and I¡¯ve got a class. Knock it down about five notch-¡° Ferris complained, before registering her breathlessness and the seriousness on Julia¡¯s face. ¡°¡­what¡¯s up?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s¡­Percy. She just¡­I think she just confirmed it¡¯s Cecil.¡± Julia hurriedly let out, as Ferris took on the same serious demeanour.


    ¡°¡­who else knows?¡±


    ¡°Just the team right now. Cecil might be onto it too, I don¡¯t know.¡± Julia reasoned, as Ferris nodded solemnly.


    ¡°¡­alright, we¡¯re heading straight to Faller¡¯s office. Stay close to me.¡± Ferris stated, before leaning her head into her classroom. ¡°Hey, fuck off! Class is over!¡±


    All the students present looked around in confusion, as she rested her hand on her sword handle, before running down the hall, Julia quickly following behind.


    ¡°Alright, what¡¯s the best strategy?¡± Wess asked, as the team started to leave the dorms.


    ¡°Well, where¡¯s she most likely to be?¡± Harley wondered, as Sola started counting on her fingers.


    ¡°Our room, library¡­study area? She didn¡¯t leave the dorm much, so I don¡¯t know her hang out spots.¡± Sola admitted, before counting another finger. ¡°With Faller¡­maybe.¡±


    ¡°If she is truly worried about being in danger, she would only look for somewhere safe to hide.¡± Essex reasoned. ¡°Meaning she would avoid the forest or anywhere outside in case of Cecil sending a Wailing. She would also avoid staying with Faller directly since it would be too obvious to Cecil.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s¡­a good point too.¡± Harley admitted, before stroking her chin. ¡°But that just means she could be literally anywhere else on campus¡­¡±


    The team gave the points a think, right as Wess noticed Team Vanguard wandering down the hall in their direction, weapons by their sides.


    ¡°Oh, Joleicia!¡± Wess called out, waving to her, as she stopped talking with Chops and waved back.


    ¡°Hey Wess! Hey there, guys! What¡¯s with the powwow? You wanna join our training sesh?¡± Joleicia beamed, before jogging over, right as Sola grabbed her shirt.


    ¡°Percy¡¯s run away, and we need to find her fast!¡±


    ¡°Wait, what? Run where?¡± Saxin asked, stepping forward, as Nathaniel hid behind her.


    ¡°We don¡¯t know, but it was recent, so she¡¯s definitely still on campus.¡± Harley explained, as Chops joined her side. ¡°It¡¯s pretty serious.¡±


    ¡°It is Wicker related.¡± Essex admitted, as grave looks crossed everyone¡¯s faces.


    ¡°Fuck me.¡± Chops let out. ¡°Okay, we can put off training to help. Percy¡¯s a real one.¡±


    ¡°U-Uhh, does that mean¡­Wailing are gonna be involved?¡± Nathaniel rightfully asked, as Harley patted his shoulder.


    ¡°¡­just keep your weapon on hand.¡± She insisted, as Joleicia stepped ahead again.


    ¡°Alright, Saxin and Lenin, you each take a support tower. Chops, science department, Nathaniel, security department. Team Valiant, each of you check a quarter of the main building, I¡¯ll check the rest. We¡¯ll meet up at the courtyard in an hour to report. Okay?¡± Joleicia ordered, as Lenin quickly saluted her.


    ¡°I just love how you do that.¡± He insisted, before grabbing Saxin¡¯s hand. ¡°Ready, dear?¡±


    ¡°Aren¡¯t I always?¡± Saxin agreed, before running off with him. ¡°Bye, darlings!¡±


    ¡°Come on, Nath! Pull the lead out!¡± Chops said, running down the hall, as Nathaniel tried his best to keep up.


    ¡°W-What lead? I don¡¯t know that saying!¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll catch you up before splitting off.¡± Wess offered to Joleicia, as she nodded back.


    ¡°Things are getting real, I guess.¡± Joleicia admitted, before looking over Valiant. ¡°Is Julia already searching? What¡¯s she up to?¡±


    ¡°¡­ank you, Senator Carmichael. I know we¡¯re not your favourite institution, but this will go a long way to helping us in the future.¡± Faller stated, as Caren waved over the video call.


    ¡°Well, I was given some sound reasoning. I might recommend that strategy in the future.¡±


    ¡°Naturally.¡± Faller said, chuckling to himself. ¡°Don¡¯t be a stranger.¡±


    Faller turned the call off, taking a second to be at peace and lean back in his chair, right as Ferris burst into his office with Julia right behind her.


    ¡°¡­Ferris, please knock.¡± Faller asked, as Ferris trudged up to his desk.


    ¡°No time. Julia just confirmed it¡¯s Cecil.¡± Ferris declared, panting to herself, as Faller sat up in his seat.


    Faller mouthed the words out of shock. ¡°¡­is this true?¡±


    Julia slowly nodded. ¡°¡­Percy ran into him before disappearing. My team¡¯s looking for her, but the way she looked at him before she left¡­¡±


    Faller consistently nodded in agreement, before pulling out his tablet and making a quick call.


    ¡°¡­Dulce? I need you in my office¡­right now, 42B.¡± Faller stated, before hanging up, as Julia went to sit in one of Faller¡¯s chairs.


    ¡°42B?¡± Julia asked.


    ¡°It¡¯s a code for ¡®high stakes emergency.¡¯ How much does Cecil know?¡± Faller questioned, as Ferris butted in.


    ¡°He may suspect something since he saw Percy, but whether he thinks Julia¡¯s involved is still in question.¡± Ferris reasoned, before heading to Faller¡¯s liquor cabinet.


    ¡°H-He remarked that she was my friend, but again¡­¡± Julia added, as Faller tapped his pen on his desk.


    ¡°¡­okay¡­so there¡¯s still a chance Cecil doesn¡¯t think you¡¯re onto him.¡± Faller pointed out, as he reached into one of his desk drawers, before pulling out one of the listening devices from the second attack.


    He stood up, before going to place it in Julia¡¯s hand. ¡°I want you to try to get a confession from him.¡±


    Julia¡¯s pupils shrank. ¡°M-Me? I-I don¡¯t know if-¡°


    ¡°If me or Ferris showed up so soon after he learned Percy was on campus, he¡¯d know something was up.¡± Faller reasoned. ¡°We have to act fast or he¡¯ll start making plans. Just pretend you¡¯re there with questions about your work with him. Something to get him talking before you mention Percy and whether he knows her. Dulce can accompany you once she gets here.¡±


    Julia looked down at the bug, as Faller went to resting on his desk. ¡°I redirected it so it¡¯ll transfer audio back to me. We¡¯ve also got security cameras in his office, in case he finds the bug. He won¡¯t openly admit to anything, but we can catch him on a technicality and start making moves from there.¡±


    Julia gripped it in her hand, before lowering her gaze to the floor. ¡°¡­Faller, are you sure I can do this?¡±


    ¡°¡­truthfully, no.¡± Faller confessed, as Julia gazed up at him. ¡°But you¡¯ve got a chance and a prior relationship with him, and that¡¯s better than any of us do.¡±


    The narrative has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.


    Julia felt her conflicting priorities battling it out in her head, each vying for space, right as a polite knock came from the door.


    Ferris grabbed it as Dulce came in, giving a quick salute to Faller.


    ¡°Sir.¡± She greeted, before noticing Julia dejected in her seat. ¡°¡­so, what¡¯s the emergency?¡±


    ¡°Come here.¡± Faller beckoned, taking her over to the corner of his office, before he leaned in and started whispering.


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­ecil?¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­hat do you mean isn¡¯t who h¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­o now I¡¯ve got t¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­that lying little-¡° Dulce grunted, before slamming her foot. ¡°So he¡¯s actually some criminal guy, right?¡±


    ¡°Most likely a criminal mastermind known as Wicker.¡± Faller confirmed, as Dulce grit her teeth.


    ¡°Geez¡­you think you know people.¡± Dulce let out, clicking her tongue, before looking to Ferris. ¡°Could you imagine lying about who you are for years?¡±


    ¡°¡­I could take a guess at what that looks like.¡± Ferris argued, taking a gulp of her drink, right as Faller leaned down to meet Julia¡¯s height.


    ¡°¡­Julia.¡±


    ¡°¡­Hmm?¡± Julia let out, only now breaking her concentration.


    ¡°¡­I know I¡¯m asking a lot of you.¡± Faller confessed, resting his hand on her arm. ¡°I just want you to know this a great service you¡¯re doing. Daysend will be better off after we know exactly who we¡¯re dealing with.¡±


    Julia gave a tepid nod back to him, before standing back up, right as Dulce joined her side.


    ¡°I¡¯ve got your back. He tries anything, I knock him on his ass.¡± Dulce assured, slapping Julia¡¯s side, as Julia breathed out.


    ¡°¡­right.¡± Julia let out, assuring herself, as she slipped the bug into her pocket. ¡°¡­let¡¯s get the son of a bitch.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Long day¡­¡±


    Cecil opened up his office door, before making his way to his desk, subtly checking his watch on the way.


    ¡°¡­longer day still.¡± He remarked, heading to take a seat, right as a knock came from his open door.


    He lifted his head to see Julia standing in the doorway.


    ¡°Julia, come in. I was just grabbing some things.¡± Cecil offered, reaching behind his desk, as Julia cautiously took a few steps into his office, refusing to break her poker face.


    ¡­keep it under control, Julia. Don¡¯t screw up.


    ¡°¡­hello, sir.¡± Julia replied, dropping her bag to the side of the door while trying to hide her rifle inside, as Cecil got back up from his desk.


    ¡°Did you need anything from me?¡± Cecil asked, wandering up to a bookshelf and pulling off a book.


    ¡°¡­I, uhh, just had some questions about the next lab cleaning.¡± Julia started, trying to regain some composure, even as the sight of Cecil was putting her off.


    Cecil looked back at her. ¡°You could¡¯ve just asked me during the cleaning.¡±


    ¡°I know, I just¡­think I screwed something up last time and wanted to rectify it.¡± Julia admitted, looking embarrassed, as Cecil glanced back at her, before putting the book back and wandering again, quickly checking his watch.


    ¡°Well, it couldn¡¯t have been too bad. I didn¡¯t notice anything.¡± He said, stepping to the door and resting his palm on the handle.


    Julia caught the subtle sound of it closing behind her, as she tried not to freak out and blow her cover.


    Before she could slyly get away, she heard the lock being turned, causing her to stiffen up, then turn around and face Cecil again.


    His expression remained neutral as he stepped away, right as Dulce started to pull on the door.


    ¡°Julia? Is everything alright in there?¡±


    ¡°Everything¡¯s fine, Dulce. No need to worry.¡± Cecil called back, as he wandered back to his desk and sat against it.


    Dulce pulled on the handle a few more times, before heavy banging rang out from Dulce slamming against it, tensing Julia up every time it hit.


    ¡°¡­i-it¡¯s just¡­¡± Julia stammered, doing everything she could to keep her cool. ¡°¡­F-Florey mentioned that you have a certain way yo-¡°


    ¡°Julia, I¡¯m gonna stop treating you like you¡¯re dumber than you actually are.¡± Cecil let out, as Julia nervously looked back at him.


    ¡°C-Cecil?¡±


    Cecil tapped his fingers on the desk.


    ¡°You could¡¯ve played this a lot smarter, you know. In terms of hiding your intentions.¡±


    In a fit of panic, her nerves getting the better of her, Julia¡¯s eyes very briefly darted over to her bag in the corner, then right down to her pocket, as Cecil followed her gaze, before noticing the slight bump in her pocket.


    He got back up and took a step forward, as Julia began backing up, only to immediately hit the door behind her and fall to the floor, before he crouched down and reached in, grabbing out the bug from her pocket and holding it up.


    ¡°Using my own listening device against me¡­¡± He said, before effortlessly taking it from a terrified Julia. ¡°I bet Faller put you up to this, huh?¡±


    Cecil brought the ¡®bug¡¯ to his mouth.


    ¡°I hope I¡¯ve been giving you a good show.¡±


    He then violently threw it against the wall, before stretching his hand a little.


    ¡°The least he could do was make his own.¡± Cecil stated, before staring back at Julia. ¡°It¡¯s almost a joke he¡¯s playing against me. Can¡¯t even be bothered to make his own, and yet he has the honour of being principal.¡±


    Cecil sat back down, before letting out a weighty sigh.


    ¡°It¡¯s about time you got some answers.¡± Cecil prefaced, as Julia tried getting back onto her feet. ¡°Yes, I¡¯m Wicker. Yes, I¡¯m responsible for the attacks on the academy, and yes¡­you broke into my facility.¡±


    Julia could feel the blood drain from her face at the realisation she didn¡¯t want to admit was true. Alarm bells were going off constantly in her frazzled mind, as the situation only got worse.


    ¡°Julia, just stay put! I¡¯ll be back, don¡¯t worry!¡± Dulce called out from the door, panicking Julia even more.


    He shook his head in frustration. ¡°At this point, I don¡¯t care who knows. I could tell you¡¯ve been giving me the run around for a while, and after seeing you with Jules, it only cemented my suspicions.¡±


    Julia could feel her body betraying her, as she felt her hand reach for the door to leave, her eyes still locked on Wicker, before turning away to try and unlock it, only for a massive gust of wind to appear from seemingly nowhere and close it shut again.


    Julia tried to pry it open, before facing Wicker again and seeing his hand stretched out, a slight gust a wind still emanating from what Julia was quickly realising was his Whil.


    ¡°Was this your plan to confront me?¡± Wicker asked, putting his hand back in his pocket. ¡°I was hoping for something better conceived¡­I guess you were strapped for time.¡±


    ¡°¡­w-why¡­why d-did you lie to all of us?¡± Julia managed, subtly trying to make her way over to her bag.


    Cecil found himself pausing, before resting his hands again and sighing out.


    ¡°¡­tell me, Julia, who¡¯s your enemy?¡±


    Julia was lost for words again, as she shook her head in desperation.


    ¡°I¡¯ll tell you who my enemy is.¡± Wicker stated, before picking up one of the photos from his shelves depicting him alongside the other staff of the academy, all in a group photo. ¡°Whoever needs to be.¡±


    He put it back down, before lightly wandering around his office. ¡°The Wailing are my enemy, the Venators are my enemy, the Central Government are my enemy, Faller and his lap dog Ferris are my enemy, and most recently¡­you¡¯ve become my enemy too. Faller insists on sticking his nose where it shouldn¡¯t be, The Central Government refuses to make things easy, the Venators aren¡¯t doing their job well enough, and the Wailing¡­refuse to die.¡± Wicker bemoaned, holding his head in his hand. ¡°And then you and your team break into my labs, intervene in my plans and distract Rosalind, and steal away one of my most valuable assets¡­not to mention stay in contact with and influence my prodigy.¡±


    Julia sidled against the wall, doing her best to use her terrified state to avoid looking too suspicious, as Wicker leaned over and pointed to himself.


    ¡°Jules was mine until you arrived.¡± Wicker declared, before standing back up. ¡°I gave her a home and as much affection as I could spare, and she helped in my operations in a way no one else could.¡±


    ¡°¡­you used her, you scumbag.¡± Julia quickly replied, now in front of the bag, as she tried to regain some confidence.


    ¡°Okay, now that¡¯s motivation.¡± Wicker stated, before tapping the side of his head and leaning on his bookshelf. ¡°Is that the reason you do what you do? To help other people? Is that why you¡¯re opposed to the Wailing?¡±


    Julia took a second, still pressed against the shelves.


    ¡°Is that why you¡¯re opposed to me? But Venators help people, and I¡¯m helping Venators.¡± Wicker reasoned, scratching his chin. ¡°So I ask you again, who¡¯s your enemy?¡±


    Julia gave an expression looking like she was deep in thought, as she lowered her guard briefly, before tripping over her own feet and falling forward, landing on the ground in a less than dignified way.


    Wicker found himself chuckling. ¡°I didn¡¯t think I¡¯d dumbfounded you that muc-¡°


    To Wicker¡¯s surprise, Julia¡¯s fall was actually premeditated, as she jumped for her bag, now on the same level as her, before grabbing out her rifle and aiming it at Wicker¡¯s head.


    Wicker just stood there, hardly reacting.


    ¡°Are you really prepared to take another person¡¯s life?¡± Wicker said, as Julia found herself hesitating. ¡°I might be your enemy, but I¡¯m not like the Wailing. I can be reasoned with. I make deals, remember? Dead bodies are bad for business.¡±


    Julia felt her finger graze the trigger, shaking with each movement, as sweat started to stain her brow, only making her hesitation worse.


    ¡°Julia, please. I¡¯m no petty criminal.¡± Wicker pointed out, mockingly holding his hands up. ¡°Just put the gun down, and we can talk this out. Okay?¡±


    To Julia¡¯s credit, she managed to get back up on her feet, as she refused to lower the barrel.


    ¡°You¡¯ve been lying for years. I¡¯m not gonna keep falling for that.¡± Julia argued, still keeping her distance, as Wicker shrugged back.


    ¡°Respectable move. Alright.¡± Wicker said, still with his hands up. ¡°So now that you have me, what¡¯re you going to do?¡±


    Julia started to panic again, as she realised there wasn¡¯t much of a long-term plan from here, before shaking her head and just focusing on now.


    ¡°H-How¡¯d you do the attacks? On the academy?¡± Julia asked, as Wicker leaned back on his bookcase.


    ¡°Listening devices in the academy let me know the security department¡¯s movements and strategies. I found weak points in each and moved the Wailing through them accordingly. After the devices were discovered, though, I couldn¡¯t guarantee more successful attacks.¡± Wicker explained, as Julia kept her sights lined on him.


    ¡°Okay¡­how¡¯d you get the Wailing to do what you wanted?¡±


    ¡°Ah, that¡¯s a trade secret. Even with a gun to my head, I still need to protect my business.¡± Wicker pointed out.


    Julia found herself running out of questions. ¡°¡­why¡¯d the listening bugs look like insects?¡±


    ¡°A pun on my end. Also, most people don¡¯t go around picking up random bugs.¡± Wicker clarified, slightly wiggling his fingers. ¡°Can I lower these now? They¡¯re starting to sting.¡±


    Julia reluctantly nodded, as Wicker lowered his hands, before making an undetectable movement with his fingers, creating a slight gust behind one of the photo frames on his shelf.


    It slid off and landed on Julia¡¯s head, jamming the corner of the frame into her, as she reeled in pain, giving Wicker the chance to kick her in the chest and grab her rifle.


    She fell back into the shelves, collapsing them, as Wicker grabbed the bullets out of the gun and chucked the rifle to the side.


    ¡°Decent attempt, but your good nature hindered you this time.¡± Wicker reasoned, smiling as he chucked the ammo behind his desk too. ¡°I¡¯m done playing coy. You¡¯ve annoyed me enough for the time being.¡±


    As Julia attempted to get her bearings, Wicker stepped forward, leaning down to get in her face.


    Julia found herself backing away, now in too much pain to get much strength back, as Wicker scoffed.


    ¡°Trick the morons, indulge the worthy.¡± Wicker reiterated. ¡°What does it say that I managed to trick this entire academy for years?¡±


    Wicker turned back around, before grabbing his forehead. ¡°I always suspected Faller was looking into me. After Ferris borrowed those files a few years ago, that pretty much cemented it¡­but fortunately, they weren¡¯t very proactive with the information. Granted, in my earlier years as Wicker, I wasn¡¯t as sharp as I am now. I left a paper trail here and there.¡±


    Wicker shrugged. ¡°Heck, even my recent staff weren¡¯t able to capture you, five students. But that¡¯s the beauty of my work; constantly reiterative.¡±


    Wicker faced Julia again, as she struggled to find anymore angles.


    ¡°So make a good decision, Julia. Who¡¯s your enemy?¡±


    Wicker smiled.


    ¡°Because it shouldn¡¯t be me.¡±


    Wicker proudly started getting in her face again. ¡°I¡¯m a public figure, a pillar of industry, Daysend¡¯s future hero. I¡¯ll do what centuries worth of Venators before me couldn¡¯t handle. I¡¯ll be the one responsible for the permanent eradication of the Wailing and everything the Conflict holds.¡± Wicker declared, before staring down at Julia, as she huddled against wreckage of the shelves, too terrified to respond back in kind.


    Wicker¡¯s expression turned serious. ¡°What¡¯ll people remember you for? Folding when the chips were down?¡±


    Julia¡¯s pupils shrank.


    ¡°Some noble fucking legacy.¡±


    Wicker took a moment, before getting up and turning back around, as Julia flinched in fear, right as he went to check his watch again.


    ¡°And that seems to have run out the clock.¡± Wicker admitted, before pulling out his tablet. ¡°Appreciate it, Julia.¡±


    Before Julia could make out his meaning behind that, a pained roar called out from the Central Forest, shuddering the windows with its violence.


    Wicker smirked. ¡°Now it begins.¡±


    ¡°¡­low down! You saw what in the forest?¡± Dulce yelled over her tablet, as she swung her baton in her hand over and over, letting it build up momentum over and over. ¡°How much, Lawkins? I need more information. You¡¯re talking a mile a minute.¡±


    She kept storing it in her body, preparing herself to use her Whil against the door to Cecil¡¯s office and blow it off its hinges, only for the pained roar from the forest to ring out through the halls, shaking the building interior, as Dulce¡¯s attention brought her to the window.


    ¡°That¡¯s a Wailing.¡± She quickly realised, only to notice the intensity of the cry still echoing in the hall. ¡°Wait¡­that¡¯s¡­¡±


    In a panic, she bolted down the hall, heading to the nearest stairwell, before pulling her tablet to her mouth.


    ¡°Lawkins, sound the alarm and get the student body to safety, now! Multiple Wailing on campus! I repeat, multiple Wailing on campus!¡±


    ¡°Oh boy¡­back at the old stomping ground¡­¡±


    Rosalind playfully swung her sword around, sneaking her way onto campus through the front parking lot, as she avoided several of the guards heading in the direction of the reported Wailing.


    She waited for them to pass by, ducking behind a car, before finding her way up into the student dorms, heading in the direction of the main building.


    Alarms were blaring now, with massive crowds making an exodus from the dorms.


    ¡°Let¡¯s get out of here!¡±


    ¡°Wait, we can¡¯t fight these ones?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t think about it, just run!¡±


    Rosalind smugly walked through them, as teams of students all ran past her toward the academy arena.


    Rosalind smirked. ¡°Like cockroaches. Big, stupid, cockroaches.¡±


    Suddenly, she stopped, before staring up at into the main building proudly.


    ¡°Now¡­where are you, Jules?¡±


    ¡°Hey! Any sign of her?¡± Harley called out, out of breath and standing at the part of the courtyard connected to the road, as Saxin and Lenin joined up with her and shook their heads.


    ¡°No luck. She¡¯s an elusive one.¡± Saxin reasoned, right as the rest of Team Valiant came down to join them.


    ¡°We couldn¡¯t find her in any of the classrooms!¡± Sola clarified, splaying her arms out. ¡°It¡¯s like she doesn¡¯t want to be found!¡±


    ¡°Hey, guys!¡± Chops called out, waving and dragging Nathaniel along behind her. ¡°Did you hear the alarm? I think something might be going down!¡±


    ¡°Is Wicker acting?¡± Essex reasoned, as Lenin clicked his tongue.


    ¡°Let¡¯s hope it¡¯s a random, non-Wicker-related Wailing.¡± Lenin suggested, before spotting Joleicia on the balcony running around the courtyard.


    ¡°Hey! I couldn¡¯t find Percy!¡± Joleicia explained. ¡°Did you hear the alarms?!¡±


    ¡°We just caught them! Come down here!¡± Wess yelled back, right as Nathaniel yelped, before pointing back at the security department.


    ¡°U-Umm¡­¡± Nathaniel let out. ¡°I-I-I think I know where the Wailing is¡­¡±


    The group turned their attention to the security department, off the main campus building and bordering the Central Forest, as what looked to be a massive Wailing was ripping the building apart, tearing into it with ease.


    The security had gathered around it, as Team Valiant and Vanguard all ran up to see what was going on, right as Joleicia emerged from the building to join them, before getting a better vantage of the action.


    ¡°Wait, stop! It¡¯s not just one!¡± Joleicia cried out, as Valiant and Vanguard only now realised it wasn¡¯t just one huddled over Wailing, but three massive Wailing each destroying the building one by one, before they acknowledged the massive security and student presence building up around them as they made quick work of the department.


    The security suddenly noticed the teams behind them, as the makeshift leader started calling out declarations.


    ¡°Keep the students protected! We can worry about the building later!¡± They called out, as the Wailing started to turn their attention to them.


    Once Joleicia was down too, she finally saw just what devastation they were capable of, having killed several security already, and having torn half the building down in a few minutes alone.


    ¡°Okay¡­this is the worst-case scenario¡­¡±


    Julia stared out the window, watching as the Wailing¡¯s presence consumed the slowly growing atmosphere of the evening that enveloped the academy, horrified at just what all this had come to.


    ¡°¡­Now, Julia.¡± Wicker declared, looking back at her, as she finally found the will to clamour back up to her feet. ¡°You¡¯ve got two options here.¡±


    He indicated to the door. ¡°You make a run for it in an attempt to rectify the situation.¡±


    He indicated to her scattered gun across the room. ¡°Or you try to take my life again. What¡¯s it going to be?¡±


    Almost immediately, Julia booked it out the door, not even giving him a chance to sway her decision, as Wicker shook his head and smirked.


    ¡°Of course¡­¡± He let out, before leaving his office to try and make tracks himself. ¡°We¡¯re both fairly busy right now, after all.¡±


    Julia tried her best to think, to come up with some genius counter or strategy to make Wicker pay, to help everyone she cared about stay safe, to find Percy, to keep her safe again. She thought about dealing with the Wailing, or finding her team, or letting Faller know what she learned, or finding Wicker again.


    Tears streaked down her eyes as all the options overwhelmed her, barely giving her a chance to do what she could in this situation.


    She was living in a nightmare.


    Now it was up to her to wake up.

 Chapter 56: Fireside Part 2

    ¡°¡­I can¡¯t explain, but I¡­wanna try¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­there¡¯s this image of¡­you and I¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­and it goes dancing by¡­in the morning and in the night time¡­¡±


    Adam casually swung his legs over the edge of the main building, staring out at the academy below him.


    The alarms warning of a Wailing on campus blared loudly, stirring life out of the sleeping school.


    ¡°¡­there¡¯s all these secrets that¡­I can¡¯t keep¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­like in my heart there¡¯s that¡­hotel suite¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­and you lived there so long¡­it¡¯s kinda strange, now you¡¯re gone¡­¡±


    He caught a glimpse of Julia and the rest of Team Valiant separated from across the academy, before grinning and casually floating in the air.


    ¡°I¡¯m not sure if I should¡­show you what I¡¯ve found¡­has it gone for good¡­or is it coming back around?¡±


    He noticed Wicker leaving his office, before storming through the main building with determination to find Percy.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t it hard to make up your mind¡­when you¡¯re losing¡­and your fuse is¡­¡±


    He proudly turned to you.


    ¡°¡­Fireside?¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Run.


    That was Julia¡¯s plan right now. Run. Find her team. Or Faller. Or Percy. Or shelter.


    She aimlessly sprinted through the academy, attempting to make sense of any of her priorities, tears still streaking down her face. She left her rifle back in Ce¡­Wicker. In Wicker¡¯s office. She couldn¡¯t go back and grab it, but if she ran into any of the Wailing on campus¡­


    She hurried down to a lower level, trying to get back to the main building entrance. Right before turning a corner, however, she could hear a voice behind her, as her spine shuddered in response.


    ¡°Juliaaa? Is that you?¡±


    Julia jumped suddenly, before spinning on the spot and finding Rosalind across the hall from her, tapping her sword to the floor.


    ¡°It¡¯s been a hot minute.¡± Rosalind grinned. ¡°How¡¯s your team doing?¡±


    ¡°W-Why are y-you-¡°


    ¡°Use your brain, fuckwit. I¡¯m here for Jules.¡± Rosalind replied, before holding out her katana. ¡°You wanna just give her up and make this easy on both of us?¡±


    Julia could feel her body telling her to run, before she forced herself to turn back around and glare Rosalind down.


    ¡°¡­l-like I¡¯d ever do that. Bite me.¡±


    Rosalind sneered, before getting into a more combative stance, only to catch a figure appearing right behind her and jumping out of the way, just as Ferris came charging past her, slashing at Rosalind with her sword, running past and standing proudly in front of Julia.


    Ferris held her sword out.


    ¡°Back off.¡±


    ¡°F-Ferris?¡± Julia let out, as Ferris stared back at her.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, kid. She¡¯s not getting to you.¡± Ferris assured, just as Rosalind managed to recover.


    ¡°¡­alright then. Guess I should¡¯ve expected back up from a Venator sch¡­¡± Rosalind started, before getting a better look at Julia¡¯s defender and smiling. ¡°¡­well, I¡¯ll be. Drinking buddy.¡±


    ¡°Ferris.¡± Ferris clarified, as Rosalind got caught in a laughing fit.


    ¡°Man¡­I feel stupid now¡­¡± Rosalind admitted, still laughing. ¡°I was drinking with one of the teachers here and I didn¡¯t even realise. You¡¯re the one Wicker complains about a lot.¡±


    ¡°And you¡¯re Rosalind Castello.¡± Ferris stated, still holding her sword out, as Rosalind smirked.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t realise I had a fan.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t.¡± Ferris said, pointing her sword back at Julia. ¡°What¡¯s your beef with her?¡±


    ¡°Very personal. I threatened her neck a little while ago, but she wouldn¡¯t indulge me.¡± Rosalind replied, walking in a circle as she spoke. ¡°You wouldn¡¯t happen to know where Jules is, would you?¡±


    ¡°Not on campus.¡± Ferris insisted, slowly approaching Rosalind. ¡°We got the warning you were coming in, so she¡¯s long gone by now. Probably out of the state.¡±


    Rosalind rolled her eyes, as she swung her sword around a bit. ¡°¡­I thought you hated Venators.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t try to win me over.¡± Ferris declared, before holding out her broadsword proudly. ¡°Feel like trying shit?¡±


    Rosalind found herself grinning, before waving her hand. ¡°Not at the moment.¡±


    And just like that, the floor melted out from under her, as she¡¯d used her Whil as she walked to heat up the floor enough to give in. Ferris tried to jump her before she could disappear to the lower floor, only missing her by a hair, as Rosalind braced for the landing, looked up and flipped Ferris off, before running further into the building.


    ¡°Shit.¡± Ferris let out, standing back up. ¡°Fucking shit ass fuck! Okay¡­so she¡¯s still a problem¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­I-I keep forgetting you can fight¡­¡± Julia admitted, before shaking her head and hurrying to Ferris¡¯ side. ¡°I-I¡¯m sorry, I should¡¯ve done more to help catch he-¡±


    ¡°Julia, hey.¡± Ferris said, meeting her height. ¡°She¡¯s an assassin. I don¡¯t blame you for not wanting to get involved.¡±


    ¡°¡­right.¡± Julia said, before remembering her panic. ¡°Wait! There¡¯s Wailing on campus, and I don¡¯t know where m-¡°


    ¡°I saw Team Valiant with the security team. They¡¯re fine.¡± Rosalind said, as she grabbed Julia¡¯s arm. ¡°We¡¯re getting to Faller. He¡¯s still a sitting duck in his office.¡±


    ¡°H-How much of the broadcast did he hear? Does he know Cecil admitted to it?¡± Julia pleaded, as Ferris stared out a nearby window.


    ¡°I think he has a good idea of that¡­¡± Ferris said, before ushering Julia to follow her. ¡°Come on. We¡¯ve got work to do.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    The night air was starting to cover the campus, as the evening slowly turned to an uncomfortable, cold and windy climate, enveloping everyone present with a constant sense of unease.


    This was only aided by the three Wailing staring down Team Valiant, Team Vanguard and the campus security, having just turned their attention from making quick work of most of the security department building.


    The security fanned out in front of Valiant and Vanguard, with several holding out shields like a wall, as Harley had placed herself in front of both teams, locking eyes with the Wailing as they sized up their opponents.


    ¡°Jojo, what¡¯s the plan here?¡± Chops insisted.


    ¡°¡­the moment we can, we book it out of here and let the security handle this.¡± Joleicia stated. ¡°We grab Julia and Percy and head to the arena.¡±


    ¡°We still don¡¯t know where Percy is.¡± Harley reiterated, as the security team waited for the opportune moment to act.


    ¡°She is with Wicker. She was aware we had discovered his plot and has ratted us to him, sending Wailing to distract as she disappears.¡± Essex growled, gripping her scythe furiously. ¡°I will see that she regrets this¡­¡±


    The air stagnated as the security tried to stay still. A few of them started to get visibly nervous, as, even with none of the Wailing being Behemoth¡¯s, their presence was something else entirely.


    Before anything could go too far, Dulce burst out of the main building, hurriedly sprinting to the groups, drawing the slight attention of a few of the security, giving the Wailing just enough to act on.


    Out of the three, the first to act slithered in front, displaying its multiple coiling heads, each draped with fangs protruding vicious poison from their maws, as it swiped and tried wrapping up several of the security.


    As the security focused their attention on it, the other one baring massive horns focused on the now unprotected group behind the security, wielding what looked to be a massive makeshift axe behind its back. It ground its hoof into the ground, before starting to charge fast toward Valiant and Vanguard.


    Meanwhile, the lone Gelatinous Wailing continued tearing into the security department, pulling at random bits and pieces, as its form was visibly larger than the other two present, or most Wailing in general. Its body almost looked like it was in conflict, pulling away from itself as it failed to form faces with its enormous mass, while still causing havoc on the building.


    Before the Horned Wailing managed to reach the students, Dulce stepped in before anyone else could and grabbed the Wailing¡¯s horns, using her Whil to absorb its momentum and stop it dead in its tracks, before redirecting it back into the Wailing¡¯s own body and launching it back into the forest.


    ¡°Keep formation! Make quick work of the fanged one! Whil users, we need that Gelatinous taken care of!¡± Dulce shouted out, heading to join up with the security team, as the gunners took shots at the Fanged Wailing, only for it to block each shot with its numerous heads, focusing on squeezing the life out of the few guards it had managed to coil.


    A few security split off to try and work at the Viscous Wailing, just as the Horned Wailing pulled itself back up, shaking its head, before redirecting its attention back at the teams, trying to find an opportunity in the chaos to escape.


    Chops quickly noticed the Wailing and immediately responded by creating a giant ice wall to block its path, giving the others a second to prepare for a fight.


    Once it inevitably smashed through, it spotted Sola pointing her cannons directly at its face, as her charged shot blasted out, knocking it back another fair way, only for Joleicia to respond in kind with a sniper shot to its head.


    Unfortunately, it managed to shake off both attacks easily, with the bullet not even piercing its hide and only seeming to make it angrier. It swung its axe down in turn, cracking the ground in half and throwing the teams in different directions, before it lifted it back up and took a swing at the security.


    Harley, Wess, Saxin and Lenin all got their melee weapons ready, now prepared to whittle down the Wailing as much as it took, as Essex found her anger building, preparing herself for a full-out attack when she had room to manoeuvre and strike, leaving Nathaniel to be the sole observer, watching everything go out of control, finally witnessing an infamous Wailing attack for the first time.


    The security guards crying out in pain¡­


    Team Valiant ready to stop the Wailing at whatever cost¡­


    His own team gearing up for a fight they weren¡¯t prepared for¡­


    His breathing got heavy, as he felt his own pupils shrink and heart beating faster, shaking his head in protest.


    ¡°¡­stop i-it¡­¡±


    In a panic, he fell to his knees.


    ¡°¡­I-I-I don¡¯t want th-this¡­¡±


    He gripped at his head, before screaming out.


    ¡°S-STOP FIGHTING ALREADY!!!!!¡±


    Nathaniel placed his hands on the ground and used his Whil, as it began to shake out of control, throwing everyone present off their balance, save for Saxin. Even the Wailing started stumbling, with the Viscous Wailing¡¯s body vibrating and sputtering around.


    Nathaniel closed his eyes and kept using his Whil non-stop, refusing to open them despite the noise, before he felt a reassuring hand on his shoulder and eventually turned up to see Saxin, unaffected due to her own Whil and smiling down at him.


    Fortunately, her calmness managed to calm him down somewhat, as he lifted his hands up.


    While this should¡¯ve been reassuring, this only meant the three Wailing he had briefly stunned were now staring him down directly, having turned their attention fully toward the originator of the minor earthquake.


    As was to be expected, Nathaniel saw the anger in all of their eyes, before booking it for the main building, hurrying through the courtyard, the Horned Wailing following directly behind him in a blind rage. Team Vanguard quickly chased after them, trying to draw the Wailing¡¯s attention away and take shots where they could.


    Meanwhile, the Fanged Wailing was ready to keep working at the security team while they shot at the Viscous Wailing, only for an errant laser shot to graze the top of one of its heads, as it spun to face Team Valiant.


    Sola lowered her cannons, waiting for it to respond in kind with an attack, only for one of its heads to twitch violently, before its attention was suddenly drawn to the main building as well, looking ready to cause some chaos.


    It started slithering toward it, batting at Team Valiant as it passed, as Dulce yelled out to them.


    ¡°Dammit! They¡¯re splitting off!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Dulce, we¡¯ve got this one!¡± Sola insisted, running after it, followed quickly by the others, only for Essex to get held up suddenly, right as a figure passed by one of the windows near the right side of the campus building.


    Rosalind.


    Essex¡¯s eyes widened, as her attention immediately switched to focusing on her, before sprinting away from the team in pursuit of her.


    Wess and Sola kept up their pursuit, as Harley immediately noticed Essex leaving.


    ¡°Essex!!! Where are you going?!¡± Harley yelled out.


    ¡°To make her pay!!!¡± Essex yelled back, refusing to elaborate, as Harley blinked a few times, before shaking her head and returning her attention to the Wailing now making their way to campus.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Faller frantically tapped away on his tablet, huddled underneath his desk, just as the Wailing attacking the security department made themselves known in his window.


    He made his call, as he held a hand over his head in worry.


    ¡°¡­Faller?! What is it?!¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s the situation down there, Dulce?!¡±


    ¡°Three Wailing, two have split off toward the main building! Teams Valiant and Vanguard are handling them, and Ferris is on her way to grab you!¡±


    Faller nodded. ¡°Alright, now listen! Cecil is Wicker! We¡¯ve be-¡°


    ¡°What?!¡±


    ¡°Just listen! I¡¯ll give you the details later but watch out for him! We don¡¯t know what he¡¯s capable of at the moment, so if you find him, don¡¯t let him go!¡±


    Faller heard her gasp through the call.


    ¡°I left Julia with him.¡±


    ¡°You what?!¡± Faller cried, just as a heavy, rhythmic knock came from his door.


    Ferris immediately burst through, as Faller crawled out from under his desk and felt a sudden wash of relief spotting Julia trailing behind her.


    ¡°Faller?! What was that?!¡±


    ¡°Ferris arrived. She¡¯s got Julia with her, don¡¯t worry.¡± Faller replied. ¡°You take care of those Wailing. I¡¯m gonna meet up with everyone at the arena.¡±


    ¡°¡­okay. Stay safe up there!¡± Dulce replied, before hanging up, right as Julia ran up to Faller in a hurry, only to catch a pungent smell coming from beside the desk.


    She reeled a bit, as Faller noticed.


    ¡°Sorry, I threw up a bit earlier.¡± Faller admitted, breathing heavily. ¡°What happened in there?¡±


    Julia steeled herself before continuing. ¡°¡­w-we were right, he¡¯s¡­he¡¯s Wicker, Cecil¡¯s Wicker, he told me and I don¡¯t k-know how much you heard, but it¡¯s true.¡± Julia managed to get out, just as Faller lay on one knee and rested his hand on her shoulder.


    ¡°I caught bits of it, but unfortunately nothing incriminating. It cut out right after he destroyed the bug.¡± Faller admitted. ¡°But don¡¯t worry. We should have security footage of your talk. As long as he didn¡¯t tamper with the cameras, it sho-¡°


    ¡°Faller.¡± Ferris interrupted, as Faller forced himself to stop.


    ¡°Yes, what?¡±


    ¡°The footage from those cameras is stored at the security department.¡± Ferris admitted, pointing out the window, as the carnage around the building continued to spiral. ¡°Some of the guards told me about how it works.¡±


    Faller¡¯s eyes widened, as he smashed his hand against his desk.


    ¡°Fucking Cecil must¡¯ve¡­¡± He let out, before grabbing out his tablet again, as Julia tried to get his attention.


    ¡°F-Faller, si-¡°


    ¡°One second!¡± He yelled, as Dulce picked up the call. ¡°Dulce! Pull the Wailing away from the security department now!¡±


    ¡°Already tryna do that!¡±


    ¡°Cecil¡¯s trying to destroy the security footage of his office! We can¡¯t let him do that!¡±


    ¡°Got it! Let me handle this!¡±


    Faller hung up, before turning to Julia again. ¡°Alright, what is it?¡±


    Julia felt a bit put on the spot. ¡°¡­I-I-I don¡¯t know where my team is right now. I was h-hoping I could go find them and regroup, to make sure they¡¯re okay¡­Wicker could¡­¡±


    Faller noticed her worried expression, before sighing out and noticing Ferris indicating to the door.


    ¡°¡­that¡¯s fine.¡± Faller assured, patting her shoulder. ¡°Ferris can take care of me from here. You¡¯ve done all you needed to. If you see Wicker, don¡¯t confront him. We don¡¯t know what he¡¯s got up his sleeve. Dulce mentioned your team was down with her, so get them to safet-¡°


    Right as he was about to reach the door, the room started to shake violently, throwing a couple books off shelves and knocking portraits off the wall. Faller held himself over Julia to protect her, until the room started to quiet down, save for an errant voice hurrying past outside.


    ¡°¡­h shit, oh shit, oh shit, oh shit, oh sh¡­¡±


    Julia blinked. ¡°Was that Nathaniel?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t care. We¡¯re leaving right now.¡± Ferris insisted, slowly pulling the door open, as she scanned the hallway, only to notice a massive presence rupturing down the other end of the building, tearing through the building with enough force to crumble it on its own.


    The Horned Wailing was charging directly toward them, causing as much destruction as it possibly could, bashing its horns against the sides of classrooms and offices and using its magic to increase their strength five times over, as Ferris instinctively pulled Faller and Julia out of their room and down into the closest stairwell.


    Unfortunately, the Wailing managed to catch this just at the end of its view, before charging again, now with a new and proper target.


    Ferris ushered Faller and Julia down, trying to get them out of sight, while she readied herself by the nearby corner, waiting for it to get into range of her sword. A white glow started to envelop the blade, as she used her Whil to sharpen it tenfold, ready for its arrival.


    However, as Julia caught the Wailing approaching, she spotted it starting to turn, readying itself for the corner, and envisioned Ferris failing to hit the mark, before pulling herself out of the stairs and stepping forward, right in the path of the Wailing.


    ¡°Wait, stop!!!¡± Faller called out, trying to grab her, right as she ran past Ferris.


    ¡°Julia!!! What the fuck?!¡± Ferris yelled, right as Julia lifted her arms and directed her Whil toward the Wailing, staring it dead on as it approached.


    It took a few seconds to activate, before it started to slow down as it approached, its velocity shrinking with each second, as Ferris realised what she was doing.


    ¡°N-Now!¡± Julia yelled out, struggling to hold onto it, as she clenched her teeth, watching as it stared down at her, rage bleeding from its eyes.


    Ferris wasted no time in running up to it and taking swings, dealing as much damage as she could and getting several good slices in, only for Julia¡¯s Whil to start to wane, and for the Wailing to turn toward the human who had managed to pierce its hide.


    Julia could feel her body giving out, as Faller could see her about to collapse, right as he left the stairwell to run and catch her, just as the Wailing regained control and swung its axe down toward Ferris.


    She just managed to dodge as the floor gave in, while Faller carried Julia away as she recovered, trying to get some distance while Ferris distracted it.


    ¡°¡­s-sorry¡­¡± Julia let out, attempting to regain some composure. ¡°¡­I¡¯ve never slowed down anything that big before¡­¡±


    ¡°Julia, you might¡¯ve just saved our lives.¡± Faller assured, only to feel himself getting winded as well. Despite this, he kept pushing himself, running through the ruined halls of the academy and trying to keep a level head while surrounded by so much destruction.


    He reached the opposite stairwell, as Julia managed to stand up on her own.


    ¡°Get to your team.¡± Faller insisted, before sharing a look of recognition with Julia. ¡°And please get to safety. If Ferris and I don¡¯t make i-¡°


    ¡°Sir-¡°


    ¡°If Ferris and I are killed, you and Dulce need to let people know about Wicker.¡± Faller declared, staring her down. ¡°He¡¯s up to something big, and if we don¡¯t intervene, he could take control of the entire Wailing Conflict.¡±


    Julia¡¯s eyes widened, as the true severity of the bigger picture dawned on her, before she made a firm nod back to him.


    ¡°¡­got it. We¡¯ll make sure it gets done.¡± Julia assured, before heading back down the building, as Faller watched her leave with a subtle hint of pride in his eyes.


    ¡°There¡¯s no doubt in my mind¡­¡±


    ¡°FALLER!!!¡± Ferris yelled out, running back down the hall in Faller¡¯s direction, with the Wailing lumbering behind her. ¡°ARENA!!! NOW!!!¡±


    Faller nodded back, following as she sprinted down the other hall, leading the Wailing away from the stairwell, as Julia hurried to the lower floors, pulling out her tablet to text the rest of the team.


    ¡°D-Don¡¯t worry¡­I can do this¡­no pressure¡­no pressure¡­you¡¯re okay, there¡¯s n-no pressure¡­breathe¡­¡­¡­just breathe¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Juuules? Where are you, rat?!¡± Rosalind called out, spinning her sword in her right hand, as she pulled herself through the campus, sculking through the halls. ¡°We¡¯ve got a score to settle!¡±


    Her search through the main building hadn¡¯t yielded any results, as she pivoted to the dorms, expecting her to be cowering away, hidden away by some goody two-shoed little¡­


    ¡°Make this easier on both of us! I wanna pay you back for last time!¡±


    No response came out, as the dorms had been all but abandoned by the student body at this point, letting Rosalind take her time inspecting them.


    ¡°Wicker¡¯s given me free reign! Don¡¯t think you¡¯re getting out with only a paper cut!¡± Rosalind yelled, gripping her sword even tighter, just as she passed a few more of the rooms, before spotting an interesting one in her periphery.


    She turned around to spot the dorm room labelled ¡®Team Valiant,¡¯ and stopped herself.


    Turning her head slightly, she looked to the door handle, before noticing a card reader next to it.


    In a swift movement, she jimmied her sword in between the door and the wall, before using her Whil to heat up its tip and slice through the lock, opening the door up to her, as she took a second to step inside.


    To her surprise, the room was exactly how she pictured it. Everything a dorm room would be, all layered with hints of Team Valiant throughout, calendars showing all their fun little outings together, a showy sword mounted on the wall, a broken fish tank near one of the beds for whatever reason¡­


    Rosalind hated it.


    With every fibre of her being.


    It reeked of them and everything they stood for.


    Out of frustration, she grabbed her sword and sliced cleanly through the entire fridge, as half of it slid down and collapsed to the floor, spilling the contents out everywhere.


    She did the same with their TV, stabbing it the same way she¡¯d done to her own over and over again, before noticing the drapes by the balcony, and quietly walking up to them.


    Resting her hand against one of them, she slowly activated her Whil, as the fabric touching her started to glow a subtle orange, before creating a small flame, right as Rosalind dropped it from her hand, letting the fire crawl up the fabric as she sat by and watched.


    ¡°Oh, Valiant¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Following in the Horned Wailing¡¯s footsteps, the Fanged Wailing made sweet work of the main building¡¯s interior, running its body into the sides of classrooms, seemingly with no regard to its own wellbeing, even ramming several heads against them.


    Team Valiant tried to catch up, as Sola took what opportunities she could to blast it with her cannons, leaving Harley and Wess with catch up.


    ¡°Sola, draw it back to us! We can¡¯t do much if it¡¯s not close!¡± Harley called out, as Sola lined up another shot.


    ¡°It¡¯s just wrecking stuff! I can¡¯t get its attention!¡± Sola said, firing a few more shots, only for one to connect with one of its heads, causing it to rotate around and face the trio head on.


    ¡°Nicely done, Sola. Harley and I will keep it at bay, while Essex ca-¡° Wess suggested, only to turn around and notice her absence. ¡°Where¡¯s Essex?!¡±


    ¡°Personal shit! She didn¡¯t clarify!¡± Harley explained, only to spot the Wailing again and brace herself. ¡°Get ready!¡±


    The Fanged Wailing started slithering back toward them, tearing through the halls even more, as Harley ran over to Sola and picked her up, carrying her around a corner, as Wess nimbly dodged out of the way as it crashed through.


    Sola kept charging her cannons as she was carried, as the Wailing made itself known to them, letting her get another clean shot at it.


    However, it instead moved a few heads to block the one Sola was aiming at, seemingly doing no damage to it, before a few heads swiped down at the duo, nearly catching Sola and letting Harley duck underneath them and get some solid punches into its body.


    Before it could retaliate, a sharp stabbing pain rang out from behind it, as it turned to find Wess taking clean slices at its tail, pulling its attention between its opponents.


    As they kept getting in hits, the Wailing swung a few of its heads at Wess first, nearly catching her with its multiple fangs, before going back to Harley and throwing a few down onto her, causing her to jump out of way, only for it to take its freed tail and spin it back around, wrapping Harley up and squeezing the life out of her.


    ¡°Harley!¡± Sola let out, charging up her cannons, as Wess took more stabs at the Wailing¡¯s hide, which it either didn¡¯t notice or chose not to focus on, instead focusing on strangling Harley, staring her down as it did so.


    Harley struggled as much as she could, trying to pry herself free, only as the Wailing kept its gaze on her, choosing to watch her slowly get killed, right as Sola managed another clean hit into the face focused on Harley, causing it to throw its head back and drop Harley.


    The Wailing reeled in pain, too stunned to keep attacking, as Wess quickly went to grab Harley, almost struggling with the weight of her body, before putting her back down while Sola ran over.


    ¡°Are you good? Tell me you¡¯re good.¡± Sola begged, just as Harley pulled herself up, sputtering a little.


    ¡°I¡¯ll¡­be good once I¡­get a clean hit in.¡± She insisted, taking a moment to stand back up. ¡°Fucker got me good¡­¡±


    ¡°I feel like we¡¯ve barely done any damage. This thing is really good at taking hits.¡± Wess insisted, only for Sola to shake her head while it pulled itself back up.


    ¡°That¡¯s not it! I figured out its weakness!¡± Sola exclaimed. ¡°The other heads are all fakes! Look!¡±


    Only now that Sola was pointing it out, Wess started to realise what she meant. Only one of the heads was particularly detailed, as the others seemed a lot more lifeless in comparison. Their eyes weren¡¯t blinking, and their movements all seemed to tie around protecting the centre one.


    ¡°The middle one¡¯s the only real one. The rest are just there to trick us.¡± Sola clarified.


    ¡°¡­Sola, you¡¯re a beautiful genius.¡± Wess said, right as the Wailing had regained some composure, ready to start attacking again.


    Harley let out a groan, just as Sola went to pull her back up, giving the Wailing the perfect opportunity to swing at them with one of its ¡®heads.¡¯


    With only Wess defending with Artisan, the trio was thrown to the side, launched into a corner of the hallway, giving the Wailing a perfect shot to strike at them, as its veins started glowing an errant, purple-ish hue in preparation for an attack.


    Meanwhile, just on the other side of the hall, Coatsworth hurried down the stairwell, dragging a couple students behind him, before leading them to the building exit.


    ¡°Quickly. The main building is no longer safe.¡± Coatsworth insisted, ushering a few straggler students in the direction of the arena, before nearly stumbling over from the destruction rupturing around him.


    He managed to get his footing again, only to notice the ruin surrounding him, even as high as the tenth floor.


    ¡°What has been brought about?¡± He bemoaned to himself, right as he noticed more action out of the corner of his eye, catching one of the Wailing he¡¯d been warned had snuck its way onto campus, and a few students he recognised to be Team Valiant.


    His first instinct to run was immediately replaced once he saw the desperate situation they were in, with Wess proudly holding out Belvedere and Artisan in defence of Harley, struggling to get back up again, and Sola, desperately trying to get her back up.


    He quickly analysed the situation, hoping to find someway to intervene meaningfully, before noticing the Fanged Wailing¡¯s tail trailing behind it, punctured with several stab wounds.


    While its attention was still on the team, Coatsworth hurried over, readying his foot, before jamming his heel into one of the wounds, sending a shot of pain throughout the Wailing¡¯s body.


    He proceeded to pick the tail up and try to pull on it, getting the Wailing even more annoyed, right as Team Valiant noticed what he was doing.


    ¡°Coatsworth?!¡± Wess remarked, as he waved his arm while it slowly faced him.


    ¡°Leave! While it¡¯s distracted!¡± He insisted, glaring back at the Wailing, just as Harley forced herself to her feet again.


    Before the point could be contested, the Wailing took no hesitation in swinging at him, slashing at his chest with one set of its fangs and digging in deep, throwing him back with the attack it had prepared for the team.


    The wounds glowed with a vibrant purple, as Wess felt herself wanting to run out and help him, only for Harley to pull her and Sola away.


    ¡°Come on! We need to recuperate! He gave us a window, now we¡¯ll use it!¡± Harley assured, running alongside them. ¡°We¡¯ll draw it back outside! We can¡¯t do much in these cramped halls!¡±


    Wess and Sola found themselves agreeing, as the Wailing stared down at Coatsworth convulsing on the ground, before spinning around and finding its previous prey making an exit, one it surely wasn¡¯t going to allow.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    She had locked the door.


    She was huddled in the corner.


    She had her last container of tranquiliser still on her.


    She was hoping to just stick it out.


    She couldn¡¯t do that.


    Not after the foundation of the building started to shudder.


    Percy held her hands above her head, staring around at the office Faller had kept her in when she first arrived. The singular entrance in or out made it easy to defend, but the one-way mirror looking in worried her like no other. Anyone could be on the other side of that, staring directly down at her.


    Another shudder rang through the building, shaking the hanging light and glass mirror with each tremor.


    She remembered the arena the others had mentioned in case of an emergency. She wanted to avoid it in case Wicker was scoping it out, but at this point, staying here alone would be so much more dangerous.


    Despite her instincts telling her otherwise, she closed in on the door, holding her breath as she opened it¡­


    The tale has been illicitly lifted; should you spot it on Amazon, report the violation.


    ¡­and found no one else on the other side, relieving her for the moment.


    She let out a breath, before heading out, keeping one hand on the tranquiliser and the other in front of her. No doubt Wicker would¡¯ve sent a few deadly Wailing, as well as Rosalind, to seek her out.


    Maybe I should text the others¡­ Percy thought, before shaking her head. What if Wicker or Rosalind has their tablets? They¡¯ll know I¡¯m still here¡­


    Percy stuck her head around a corner, watching out for anyone else. I¡¯ll find them in person and assure them then. They¡¯re definitely at the arena with everyone else. I can¡¯t risk this opportu-


    ¡°Jules?¡±


    Percy froze stiff, paralysed by utter fear, before turning around on the spot to face who she knew was behind her, with a disgustingly concerned face.


    She found Cecil standing behind her, having come up from behind while she was caught up in her thoughts.


    ¡°There you are. We were so worried.¡± Cecil assured, resting his hand on his chest. ¡°I came to find you after those Wailing started to attack.¡±


    Cecil let out a sigh. ¡°After I saw you the other day, I could tell you were still worried about what might happen to you.¡±


    Percy glared at him, trying to read his intentions, even as she knew that¡¯s what he wanted her to do.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t want to force you to come back, but now that the academy¡¯s no longer safe, I had to ask Faller if he knew where you were. Lucky for us, you were just waiting near his office.¡±


    Percy found herself slowly backing up, gradually losing wall behind her, as Cecil tried to gently approach.


    ¡°I know¡­it seemed like I was mad. And¡­I¡¯m sorry for that.¡± Cecil insisted, reaching out. ¡°Rosalind was talking about you helping some Venators escape, but I knew¡­not my daughter. She wouldn¡¯t stoop so low.¡±


    Percy felt a strong pang of guilt in her chest, slowing her down somewhat, as Cecil¡¯s expression turned mournful.


    ¡°Please, come back dear. You¡¯ve had your fun, but we need you at the Organisation. I¡­I need you.¡± Cecil said, tearing up slightly. ¡°I love you so much¡­¡±


    Percy couldn¡¯t help getting emotional at watching him cry, briefly second-guessing herself, as she almost reached out to take his hand just to comfort him.


    ¡°That¡¯s it¡­we¡¯ll be together again¡­¡± He let out. ¡°Away from these Venators¡­you¡¯ll be safe with me¡­¡±


    Just as he said that, she felt herself stop, holding her hand in place.


    Safe?


    She quickly pulled it back, stopping herself from falling for his sympathies, before using the opportunity to gain some of her composure, pull her leg back, and kick him in the chin, causing him to reel in pain.


    Before he could retaliate, she stood right over him, before signing aggressively.


    [There is nothing safe about you.]


    Right after, she sprinted off in the other direction, running desperately down the hall with tears streaming from her eyes, as Wicker pulled himself back up, ready to chase her down.


    ¡°JULES!!! YOU GET BACK HERE!!!¡±


    She had to leave.


    She had to find the others.


    Now.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°She must¡­be there¡­¡±


    Essex ran down the empty halls, searching wildly with her scythe in hand, for anywhere that Percy or Rosalind might¡¯ve stashed themselves. She knew Percy hadn¡¯t had much time to explore the campus, meaning there were only so many places she could be.


    Having checked almost every common area, the only place she could think of left was the team¡¯s dorm room.


    Percy said she was here to hide¡­but Rosalind was heading in this direction¡­ Essex thought to herself. ¡­if she was being truthful¡­


    Essex hurried to the dorm rooms, sprinting as fast as she could to their room, only to notice the door to the dorm was open.


    Her instincts flaring up, she slowed herself down as she approached, carefully stepping forward, right as she spotted a red glow emanating from inside.


    And once she opened it¡­


    The room¡­


    ¡­was engulfed in flames.


    Essex stared in unfiltered shock as the entire dorm was surrounded with fire, consuming everything inside of it, as it glowed with a violent red. The only thing standing out was Rosalind, directly in the middle of the room, reaching onto Julia¡¯s bed, before noticing Essex in the doorway.


    ¡°Well, look who¡¯s here.¡± Rosalind let out, grinning to herself, as she rested a hand on her hip. ¡°Just the woman I wanted to see.¡±


    Essex felt her bile hatred flaring up, right as Rosalind went for Julia¡¯s bed again, before grabbing Maxie in her hands.


    ¡°And who¡¯s this cute little fella?¡± Rosalind asked, holding him out, as Essex¡¯s pupils shrank. ¡°It¡¯s so pwecious. Tell me it¡¯s got a name.¡±


    Essex stayed tight-lipped, just about ready to reach out and take him from her, only for Rosalind to grip both sides of Maxie and tear him apart, ripping him in two.


    ¡°Whoops.¡± Rosalind said, chucking the pieces aside. ¡°Guess it doesn¡¯t matter.¡±


    Essex felt her eye twitch, as the fires around them only got more and more intense.


    ¡°It¡¯s just you and me right now¡­¡± Rosalind assured, holding her arms out. ¡°Feel like finishing what we started?¡±


    Despite her best intentions and everything in her head telling her to run, one voice rang out clear in Essex¡¯s head, insisting she step forward. Essex found herself growling, as she left the safety of the dorm room exit and stepped further into the room, closing in on Rosalind.


    ¡°That¡¯s it¡­¡± Rosalind let out, beckoning Essex forward. ¡°You ready t-¡°


    Essex shut her up by swinging her scythe directly at Rosalind¡¯s head, which she just managed to duck, as it embedded into the wall. As Essex tried pulling it out, Rosalind threw her into Julia and Wess¡¯ bunk bed, as her back hit the metal frame, right as Rosalind went to stab her.


    Essex quickly grabbed the bedframe and used her Whil to change her other hand to steel, before grabbing the sword mid-air and holding it in place, only for Rosalind to start heating the blade up with her Whil.


    Essex managed to pull herself out and get back up, trying to pry her scythe free again, as Rosalind swung at her, slashing a deep wound into her side.


    Essex reeled back in pain, before she jumped forward and finally got her scythe out, only for Rosalind to kick her backwards, sending her into the corner of the wall as her scythe fell into the fire, becoming unreachable as the flames got more intense.


    ¡°It¡¯s about time I got to fight you for real¡­¡± Rosalind stated, leaning down to meet Essex¡¯s eyes. ¡°I always felt like you were holding bac-¡°


    Essex kicked out her legs, as Rosalind¡¯s chin landed against the floor. Reeling for a moment, Rosalind pulled herself back up, only to spot Essex behind her, grabbing the broken fish tank from the side of the bed, before swinging it around and bashing Rosalind in the side of the head, as it shattered to pieces and sent her flying out onto the balcony.


    Rosalind flew into the railing, landing against it hard, while watching as her sword slide across the floor, further into the dorm room and next to the fire, as it continued to make itself more and more known. Essex took a second to breathe, having used a lot of strength on the fish tank, as she leaned against one of the few safe bits of the wall and clutched at her wound, trying to stop the bleeding.


    Rosalind, out of pure spite, pulled herself back up, noticing the inside of her mouth bleeding, before pulling out a shard of glass embedded in her cheek and throwing it to the side, as her anger slowly built along with the fire, fuelling her rage-induced charge at Essex, pulling herself through the flame-engulfed exit to the balcony.


    ¡°Okay, girly¡­you feel like fighting?¡± Rosalind panted, before running over to the sword mounted on the wall. ¡°Well, here¡¯s what you wanted!¡±


    Rosalind swung at the winded Essex, just narrowly avoiding her chin, as she adjusted to the weight of a two-handed sword. Essex tried to get her footing again, before she quickly realised she was unarmed, and that the fire was truly starting to get out of control.


    In a desperate bid, she jumped for her scythe, reaching into the fire to grab its handle, only for the flames to burn her arm, as she had to pull her hand back out immediately. Rosalind used the chance to take another swing, barely avoiding her head.


    Rosalind wasted no time in swinging wildly at her again, throwing all strategy to the side in an effort to overwhelm her opponent, as Essex, still reeling from the pain in her wound, went to block it with her arm, right as¡­


    ¡­right as¡­


    ¡­


    ¡­right as Rosalind finally landed a hit¡­running the sword¡­


    ¡­right through¡­


    ¡­as Essex¡¯s right hand was severed from her body¡­


    ¡­falling off and landing on the ground¡­


    ¡­as Essex sat there in horror, watching as the view of her hand was slowly replaced with Rosalind¡¯s proud smile, gratified by finally getting in a hit.


    Rosalind dropped the sword onto the ground, before finding herself laughing a little, as Essex tried and failed to take in what she was seeing.


    ¡°¡­ahahaa¡­there we fucking go. That¡¯s some real damage there¡­¡± Rosalind let out, smiling to herself, all while sweating profusely. ¡°We had enough pussyfooting, don¡¯t you reckon?¡±


    Essex¡¯s breathing got out of control, as flashbacks to every Wailing encounter she¡¯d ever had flew past her vision, still leading back to Rosalind¡¯s proud grin, as she picked up the sword again and raised it.


    ¡°Let¡¯s say we finish this!!!¡± Rosalind cried, now going for Essex¡¯s neck, as in a panic, Essex rolled to the side, just edging the fire where their weapons were held.


    As the smoke and heat of the room built, Rosalind could feel her body fighting against her, as she struggled to pull the sword back up, coughing over and over.


    Essex held her fresher wound to her chest, trying not to look at the damage Rosalind had caused, as she desperately reached for her scythe again, only to notice the glow coming off of Rosalind¡¯s sword and making a pivot, reaching into the fire despite all the pain.


    Rosalind managed to pull the sword back up, getting ready to swing it back down onto Essex, as Essex, in a pure fit of rage, swung Rosalind¡¯s heated up sword toward her.


    It took Rosalind a second to even realise Essex had swung at her, due to the exhaustion and the building smoke, before she heard a thud beside her and accidentally dropped the sword behind her.


    Except, that the thud wasn¡¯t from the sword¡­


    ¡­it was from what Essex had hit.


    ¡°Alright, Essex, way t¡­¡± Rosalind started, before looking down and noticing her own sword next to her face, having cleanly sliced through her shoulder, all the way up, severing her entire left arm from her body.


    Rosalind could feel her blood boiling, as the very rare emotion of panic ran through her body, staring down at her limb now lying on the ground beside her, all as Essex stared back at her with her bright eyes, clear determination in her action through all the chaos that had unfolded.


    ¡°¡­it¡­only seemed fair¡­¡± Essex managed, holding out the sword as a perfect threat.


    Rosalind stumbled back, clutching at the wound, before looking back at Essex.


    ¡°Y-You¡­fucking bitch!!!¡± Rosalind yelled, staring back at Essex with as much hate as she could muster. ¡°You¡¯re¡­you¡¯re dead¡­by my hand, you¡¯re dead¡­don¡¯t think I won¡¯t pay this back tenfold¡­and not just you, your fucking team, that bitch Jules, all of you, will burn in he-¡°


    Right as she said that, sparks started to fly from the flame-engulfed TV beside them, before parts of it exploded out, spreading fire across the room even further, as Rosalind fell back to avoid getting burned, separating her and Essex by the now giant wall of fire.


    Even as both considered it, neither saw themselves getting out of this if they stayed, as Rosalind saw a way out from the balcony, deciding it was best to retreat for now, but not before grabbing the two-handed sword again.


    She went out onto the balcony, looking down at the height from the ground and trying to make a judgement call, just as the fire sparked up again, collapsing part of the roof right above her and sending her over the railing, hitting the ground hard along with her sword.


    Now with Rosalind out of the picture, Essex could finally drop her sword, before using the opportunity to wrap her remaining hand in her suit jacket and reach into the fire to pull out her scythe.


    Just barely making out the entrance to the dorm through the hazy smoke and blood loss, Essex pulled herself across the ground toward it, narrowly avoiding the fire while dragging her scythe along with her, as she navigated her way into the hallway, crawling to a far enough spot from the fire.


    She leaned up against the wall, still breathing heavily, as she finally pulled her arm from her suit, staring down and still bearing witness to the complete lack of her hand, now bleeding far worse than it had before.


    At the same time, Rosalind had just managed to get back up from the ground, now limping and using the sword as a crutch, as she cleared some distance from the dorm room, watching as the fire completely consumed it in the night sky.


    She propped herself up against a tree, collapsing to the ground again, just as her adrenaline high wore off and the pain from her dismemberment rang through her body.


    Needing to act fast, Essex pulled her scythe closer to her with her jacket, before taking her severed arm and lining it up with the still burning hot blade of her scythe, right as Rosalind started to use her Whil to heat up her hand, holding it just over her wound.


    Both of them pressed down, screaming out in pain, as their bodies fought back against the pain, as Essex could feel her body weakening with each push.


    Eventually, they both pulled it away, having cauterised their wounds, as Rosalind kept breathing heavily, feeling some relief from the bleeding, almost ready to pass out¡­


    ¡­only to be pulled out by a new text on her tablet from Wicker.


    [Return to the courtyard. I¡¯ll return with Jules.]


    Rosalind glanced down at the screen, still breathing heavily, before pulling herself back up, grunting while limping away, now slowly heading in the direction of the courtyard, cursing under her breath the whole time.


    Essex, however, stared down at the stabilised wound, ready to take care of the other one in her side, only to feel herself start to pass out due to the exhaustion and severe blood loss, as she collapsed by the side of her scythe, all as Team Valiant¡¯s dorm room fell apart, consumed by the fire and destruction that their rivalry had wrought.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    It was not a good time for Julia to be getting turned around.


    Her panic and anxiety were already wracking through her body, only coupled with the fear of what Wicker had unleashed onto the academy. She¡¯d sent a hurried text to the rest of Team Valiant asking what was happening on their end, but as to be expected, she got no response.


    If they¡¯re down there, they must be helping fight off the Wailing¡­ Julia wondered, sprinting down another set of stairs. Okay, don¡¯t panic. Just find them, tell them what happened¡­don¡¯t panic¡­


    As she was running, Julia slightly tripped on the bottom step of the stairs, hitting the ground suddenly, before shaking her head and pulling herself back up.


    ¡°Don¡¯t panic¡­you¡¯ll be fine, we¡¯ll all be fine¡­don¡¯t panic¡­¡± Julia muttered, leaning up against the nearby wall, before rubbing her face with her hands. ¡°It¡¯s okay¡­it¡¯s okay¡­you¡¯re the leader¡­you¡¯re in control¡­you have to be in control¡­¡±


    An explosion ruptured nearby, sending a jolt of panic up Julia¡¯s body, as she noticed her hand shaking, only to grip it tightly with her other one and hurry down the stairs again, before eventually finding the exit to the building leading to the west carpark where she¡¯d heard the explosion.


    Julia looked around quickly, before doing another scan right after.


    ¡°Where¡­?¡± She let out, before finally spotting the Viscous Wailing and the majority of the security taking up the carpark, with the Wailing grabbing several nearby cars in its mouths and hurling them at the security.


    It threw another one down fairly close to Julia, exploding on impact, as Julia huddled to the ground, waiting for the noise to deafen.


    Once it did, she pulled herself up, before beelining for Dulce, who was ahead of the security in the direction of the academy entrance.


    ¡°Hurry it up already!!! The longer we stay here, the more damage it does!!!¡± Dulce declared, ushering them over, as the Wailing picked up another car. ¡°For the love of¡­¡±


    Despite being laser-focused on her duties, spotting Julia pulled Dulce out of her trance, as she blinked profusely.


    ¡°Julia?!¡± She let out. ¡°What the hell?! You should be at the aren-¡°


    ¡°Where¡¯s the rest of Valiant? Faller said they were with you!¡± Julia blurted out, still looking around.


    ¡°They split off with the other Wailing! Back to the main building!¡± Dulce yelled, as the Wailing chucked another car her way.


    She grabbed Julia to her, before dodge rolling out of the way, just narrowly avoiding the burning debris from the car¡¯s hull.


    Once it was safe, she let Julia go. ¡°Team Vanguard left with them too.¡±


    ¡°O-Okay¡­¡± Julia managed, standing back up on shaky feet. ¡°D-Did you see if they came back out?¡±


    Dulce shook her head. ¡°Sorry, kid. We¡¯ve been busy wrangling this thing. None of our weaponry¡¯s good enough, so¡­¡±


    Dulce indicated to the front of the academy. ¡°We¡¯ll see how it likes a blast out of one of the IF¡¯s, assuming we ever get it there.¡±


    Julia kept nodding, her attention almost entirely on the main building, as Dulce noticed her hand shaking.


    ¡°You alright?¡± Dulce asked, causing Julia to jump. ¡°Once we¡¯re done here, we ca-¡°


    ¡°I¡¯m fine, I¡¯m fine!¡± Julia insisted, gripping her hand again. ¡°Just¡­do your job and take care of the Wailing, okay?¡±


    Dulce blinked, before shaking her head. ¡°¡­alright. There¡¯s a good chance they¡¯re already at the arena.¡±


    If Wicker and the Wailing are still a problem, I guarantee they¡¯re not. Julia noted, turning her attention to the main building again, before deciding to hurry there as fast as possible.


    ¡°You don¡¯t need to be a hero! You¡¯re still a student, don¡¯t forget that!¡± Dulce yelled out, as the Wailing let out a vicious roar, before grabbing a few security in its mass. ¡°And if you see Wicker, don¡¯t engage! We don¡¯t know what else he has up his sleeve!¡±


    Even if I find Valiant and Vanguard, Percy¡¯s still nowhere to be found. Julia wondered, as she glanced around the hallways to her sides. Just keep them safe, that¡¯s all you¡¯ve gotta do¡­


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Where¡¯d he go?! Did any of you see?!¡±


    ¡°He went to one of the higher floors! I think he was hoping the Wailing wouldn¡¯t follow him!¡±


    ¡°Well, it clearly did! It¡¯s nowhere to be found!¡±


    ¡°Hey! Guys, wait up!¡± Lenin called out, before stopping near the stairwell and pointing to the massive indentures made into its sides.


    The rest of Team Vanguard, sans Nathaniel, joined his side.


    ¡°Oh¡­okay, they went up there.¡± Joleicia admitted, acknowledging the destruction running up its interior. ¡°¡­what¡¯re the chances he¡¯s run back down?¡±


    ¡°Severely unlikely.¡± Chops noted, taking a cursory check of the inside. ¡°¡­yeah, I can hear them still up there.¡±


    ¡°Nathaniel! We¡¯re coming to get you!¡± Saxin called out, before turning to the others. ¡°Do we have any solid plans for dealing with it?¡±


    ¡°Well, my Whil¡¯s not really gonna come in handy.¡± Lenin admitted, pointing to the wrecked interior. ¡°And we can¡¯t go wrecking this place anymore than it¡¯s already been.¡±


    In an instant, Joleicia snapped her fingers, before banging her fist into her hand.


    ¡°I say we use the building¡¯s height to our advantage!¡±


    Before she could even elaborate, she was running up the stairwell in a sprint, followed quickly by the remaining members of Vanguard, as they made their way up several floors as quickly as they could.


    They eventually found the floor housing the most destruction, with visible horn and axe damage across the walls, floor and ceiling. Almost on cue, Nathaniel appeared from around the corner, muttering to himself, before noticing his team and stopping dead in his tracks.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I¡¯m sorry, I¡¯m sorry for running off!!!¡± He insisted, still hopping up and down on his feet. ¡°I-I thought I could lose it, and then I did for a bit, and then it found me agai-¡°


    ¡°Nath, relax. Where is it now?¡± Joleicia asked, resting a hand on his shoulder, as he shakily pointed behind him.


    Almost on another cue, heavy stomping and groaning could be heard charging down the hall, trudging heavily with each step, scraping metal and concrete with each smash of its horns.


    Swiftly, Joleicia looked around, before noticing one of the massive windows to the building on the other end of the hall, as she pointed back at Chops.


    ¡°Chops, freeze the ground over all the way to the window there.¡± Joleicia said, spinning back to Saxin and Lenin. ¡°You two wait around those corners and slash at the Wailing¡¯s legs once it comes around.¡±


    Joleicia landed both hands on Nathaniel¡¯s shoulders. ¡°Nath, I need you to help Chops with knocking it over. Can you use your Whil enough to topple it down but not enough to collapse this part of the building?¡±


    Nathaniel held his tongue for a second, before sharing in Joleicia¡¯s confident gaze and saluting. ¡°Sure!¡±


    ¡°Okay! Everyone¡¯s got their roles!¡± Joleicia declared, as the team split off, with Chops freezing over the floor with a thick sheet of ice.


    Joleicia quickly ran to the entrance the Wailing was about to charge out of, her sniper rifle at the ready, as Nathaniel waited beside Saxin, with Lenin opposite of her.


    Lenin gave a confident thumbs up, as Saxin pulled Nathaniel to her side.


    ¡°It¡¯s very impressive you kept it at bay for so long.¡± Saxin assured, as Nathaniel tried to hide some embarrassment.


    ¡°I-It¡¯s not that impressive¡­I¡¯m just good at running and getting out of things¡­¡±


    ¡°Here it comes!¡± Joleicia warned, as the shaking through the entire building could be felt more and more with each step it took, closing in.


    Crashing through in a blind rage, the Wailing burst through the entryway, struggling to slow itself down and colliding with the wall, before effortlessly pulling itself out and furiously looking around for its previous target, only to spot an empty hall and Joleicia, lining up her sights with its forehead.


    With a few clicks of the trigger, she rapid fired shot after shot into its head, barely making a dent in its thick hide, but pushing it back, causing it to fall backward and land onto Chops¡¯ ice.


    The shots momentum pushed it along, now sliding on its back down the ice, as it saw the giant window it was now quickly approaching and made a desperate attempt to slow down and get back up.


    Before it could, Saxin and Lenin aimed for its legs as it passed, digging in deep with their weapons and slowing it down, right as Nathaniel placed his hands on the ground, shaking the hallway interior and throwing the Wailing off even more.


    It tried clawing into the walls to grab onto something and hold it in place, but its previous rampage through it meant there was virtually nothing solid enough it could hold, as walls crumbled away at its touch.


    With one final shot, Joleicia aimed her sights at the window, before firing and shattering it right as the Wailing approached, now sliding off and falling down most of the main building¡¯s height.


    It sailed through the air, clawing at the windows it was passing to find anything to hold onto, only to get no purchase and continue falling¡­


    ¡­falling¡­


    ¡­ever faster¡­


    ¡­falling¡­


    ¡­allllllllll¡­


    ¡­the way¡­


    CRAAASSSHHH!!!!!


    With a thunderous crack, it collided with the ground, sending out a shockwave with the sheer mass of its impact.


    An enormous crater lay at the base of the main building, the Wailing¡¯s impression having been left there, leaving one last final act of destruction in its wake.


    Despite all this, it used the last moments of its strength to pull itself back up, ready to immediately collapse again and stumble to the ground.


    In a groggy act of defiance, it forced itself back in the direction of the security department, holding itself up on the main building, passing the massive posters promoting the academy and pulling itself along.


    As it rounded the corner and saw the security coming back into sight, it felt itself giving way, feeling no more fight left to give in its body, as it finally gave in and collapsed, stumbling over with a massive thud.


    Almost to signify its defeat, the traffic cone stuck on top of one of the nearby trees was lodged loose, before landing squarely onto one of its horns, as it lay motionless, now for good.


    ¡°Okay, we took care of that one, but we¡¯re not done yet.¡± Joleicia insisted, pumping her fist. ¡°The security can handle the other two, so we need to fin¡­¡±


    During her speech, Joleicia was suddenly distracted by a flashing light coming from outside the opposite window in the hall. She ran over and gave it a closer look, before noticing a helicopter close to their floor, circling overhead the courtyard.


    ¡°What the heck?¡± She let out, trying to get a good look, before Chops stepped in.


    ¡°Oh dang, the academy must have splurged on rescue copters to pick up the straggler students.¡± Chops reasoned. ¡°Reckon we should hitch a ride?¡±


    Joleicia gave the helicopter another glance, before shaking her head. ¡°No, we need to find Team Valiant, especially Julia. She went to confront Cecil, and I¡¯m willing to bet all this destruction¡¯s been a result of that.¡±


    ¡°Should we check the dorms? Julia might¡¯ve returned there to wait this out.¡± Saxin noted, as Lenin nodded his head.


    ¡°She might¡¯ve hoped Percy would come back there too.¡± Lenin added.


    Joleicia nodded in agreement. ¡°Okay, you guys go check the dorms for them. If they¡¯re not there, meet up with security and head to the arena. We¡¯ll do a body count when we¡¯re there and split if they haven¡¯t joined us.¡±


    ¡°A-Aren¡¯t you coming along?¡± Nathaniel asked, as Joleicia shook her head and peered out the window.


    ¡°¡­I¡¯m gonna go check this out. Something¡¯s telling me that¡¯s not meant for us.¡± Joleicia insisted, staring back at the helicopter, before facing them again. ¡°Meet back up with you later.¡±


    ¡°Alright. Don¡¯t go doing something stupid, okay?¡± Saxin said, giving her a quick hug, before they ran off to the stairwell again.


    ¡°Hey. Text us if you need us.¡± Chops reminded her, before splitting as well. ¡°I mean it! Don¡¯t be afraid to pull rank!¡±


    Joleicia gave a subtle thumbs up, before heading in the direction of the other stairwell.


    ¡°Is this your doing, Wicker?¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Wicker checked his tablet again, expecting a text back from Rosalind, confirming his order, only to get no response.


    He grumbled under his breath, as he hurried down the hallways again, closing in on where Percy was hiding herself.


    She nervously glanced around the corner, acknowledging he was too close for her to sprint to the stairwell. She grabbed the tranquiliser and readied herself as he started to approach.


    ¡°This academy, I swear¡­labyrinth is hardly strong enough to define it¡­¡± Wicker muttered, before just catching a hint of Percy¡¯s clothing from behind the upcoming corner and slowing himself.


    Trying to keep her breathing to a minimum and avoid inhaling the tranquiliser, Percy covered her mouth with her shirt and waited until the footsteps quieted down, before jumping out from behind the wall and spraying it into Wicker¡¯s face, only for Wicker to anticipate this and use his Whil to blast a gale of wind out of his palm and dissipate the mist.


    Before Percy could respond, Wicker closed his fist around her hand, gripping it tightly, as Percy fought all she could to take it back.


    As he stared daggers at her, she managed to free herself, before sprinting off into the opposite direction to try and find another advantage, only for Wicker to use his Whil to blast her with wind and throw her violently into the wall.


    Percy collapsed and fell unconscious, hitting the ground hard, as Wicker gradually made his way over and picked her up, chucking her onto his back, before sending a quick text back to Rosalind.


    [Package secure. Start pulling out.]


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Hey, ugly! Come and get it!¡±


    Harley kept yelling out, drawing the Wailing¡¯s attention further down the academy hallway, as she hurried to the building exit with the others, heading out into the training grounds.


    ¡°Is it still following?¡± Wess asked, as Harley caught her breath.


    ¡°Yeah¡­it¡¯s really mad now.¡± Harley admitted, as Sola pumped her fists.


    ¡°Have we got a plan to beat it?¡±


    Harley scratched her head. ¡°Uhh¡­no, not really. Essex is usually better at this stuff.¡± Harley admitted. ¡°I say we keep hitting it until it stops moving.¡±


    ¡°Personally, I think we should drag it into the forest.¡± Wess suggested, indicating to the close-by woods bordering the training grounds. ¡°We might be able to catch its multiple limbs between the trees and trap it in place.¡±


    ¡°Oh, I love that!¡± Harley insisted, joining Wess¡¯ gaze and slapping her butt, before running toward them. ¡°You guys get it closer!¡±


    ¡°Honestly, Harley¡­¡± Wess groaned, rubbing her backside, as Sola pointed her cannons down the hall.


    ¡°Get over here, snakey!¡± Sola called out, firing a few shots in its direction, as it barrelled down the hall toward them, baring its fangs, ready to make them pay for the damage they¡¯d already down to it.


    The duo went to join Harley, as the Wailing burst out of the building, creating a massive hole out of the side, before finding the team heading into the woods and charging after them.


    ¡°Get ready, guys¡­¡±


    The Fanged Wailing slithered its way in, glancing around for them in the borderline pitch black of night. A gentle rustle of wind cast through the foliage, as it scouted across the forest floor, only to noticed one of the tree trunks moving on its own.


    Before it could react, the trunk came crashing down, landing directly onto its head and laying into it, as Harley let go of the trunk and pumped her fist.


    ¡°Easy does it!¡± She celebrated, just as one of the ¡®heads¡¯ shot out at her immediately, forcing her to fall back to the ground to dodge it.


    She crawled back as it started flailing to pull itself back up, throwing the trunk away, just as Wess and Sola danced around it in separate directions, causing it to try reaching out to both of them in anger and jam itself between the massive number of trees.


    The trio did their best to twist it around, getting each of its limbs trapped between several trunks, looping in and around each other, before it had pretzeled itself into knots, struggling to pull itself apart.


    ¡°Alright guys, now¡¯s our best chance t-¡° Harley prefaced, only to suddenly notice a couple of the trees twisting and bending, even snapping at certain points.


    Instead of trying to untangle itself, the Wailing simply used its immense strength to choke out the trees it was trapped in, breaking them around its limbs, as they started to fall over and crash around it.


    Team Valiant tried backing away, but the sheer number of trees coming down overwhelmed them, right as Sola noticed one coming down directly on top of Harley.


    ¡°HARLEY!!!¡± Sola called out, jumping to push her out of the way, and just managing to catch her before it landed, only for it to land directly on top of Sola¡¯s leg.


    Harley took a second to take in everything that had just happened, before noticing Sola¡¯s leg trapped underneath the tree trunk and running over in a panic, putting all her strength into lifting it off of her.


    As the Wailing successfully freed itself, even as it¡¯d used most of its strength to do so, Harley used the opportunity to take the trunk off of Sola and chuck it right as the Wailing¡¯s main head, knocking it back down again for the time being.


    Her attention immediately went back to Sola, as she tried to get back up, only for a shooting pain to run up her leg.


    ¡°Ow, ow ow ow ow¡­¡± Sola let out, struggling to stand on it. ¡°Ow¡­it really hurts¡­¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, we¡¯ll get you to the arena, okay? Where¡¯s Wess?¡± Harley asked, looking around, before spotting Wess about ten metres away, just having missed the barrage of collapsing trees herself and letting out a breath.


    In a renewed fury, the Wailing cried out in violent pain, throwing itself back up, before spinning again to face Harley and Sola, its veins glowing as it finally opened up its mouth fully to show its rows of glowing fangs.


    Harley instinctively stood in front of Sola, as the Fanged Wailing¡¯s previous attack had now cleared a path for it directly to the duo, letting it charge right at them with fangs bared.


    Wess immediately saw what it was going for, with it ready to tear into them, as she readied Belvedere and Artisan and sprinted to intercept, dragging Belvedere across the ground and using one of the trunks as elevation to jump toward it.


    As Harley readied her Buster Knuckles, Wess sailed in front of the crazed Wailing, holding out Artisan to block its fangs from connecting with Harley, before catching Belvedere across the Wailing¡¯s neck and digging in deep.


    However¡­


    Even with Artisan taking most of the damage, the Wailing¡¯s main fangs still connected with Wess, glowing that same vibrant purple, before running across her face while she attacked. Wess screamed out in pain as she held, determined to take this thing out for good, even as it used its momentum to slash her further.


    Having done all she could, Wess could barely hold the strength to land safely, as her body tumbled to the ground and rolled off to the side, Belvedere and Artisan having landed beside her¡­


    ¡­the Wailing, on the other hand, could now only just feel the deep gash that Wess had managed to carve into its neck with her attack, cleanly slicing it open, giving Harley the perfect opportunity to wind up her Buster Knuckle, activating the jet boosters, before throwing a punch hard enough that the Wailing¡¯s head was sent flying back, snapping at the neck, and causing it to collapse to the ground in a huddle, its remaining heads falling to the ground limp with its defeat.


    It felt like an eternity until Harley was comfortable enough to get back up, fully acknowledging the Wailing¡¯s demise with her final, devastating hit.


    She turned back around to make sure Sola was still okay, before realising Wess still hadn¡¯t gotten up and running over to her, as Sola slowly limped over with her one good leg.


    ¡°Wess?! Wess, get up!!!¡± Harley insisted, trying to shake her up, as Sola pulled her away.


    ¡°Don¡¯t shake her! She might be in shock!¡± Sola insisted, hobbling over to Wess¡¯ other side, before noticing some movement. ¡°Wess?¡±


    Wess¡¯ eyes were visibly darting around, except¡­well, one of them was, as she grabbed at the other side of the face that the Wailing had struck and started hyperventilating.


    ¡°Wess? It¡¯s okay, just breath with me.¡± Sola assured, miming simple breathing patterns to Wess, as Wess tried to work through her shock and focus on Sola, copying what she was doing.


    She did her best to stand up, still pawing at her face, as Harley tentatively wrapped an arm around her shoulders.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. You got the Wailing real good.¡± Harley said. ¡°You¡¯re gonna be okay, Wess. We¡¯ll find Julia and Essex and we¡¯ll get out of here¡­¡±


    Harley used her other arm to wrap around Sola, holding her up to ease the pain on her leg.


    ¡°Harle-¡°


    ¡°I can carry you, it¡¯s fine¡­you two got hurt saving me, it¡¯s only fair I do this.¡± Harley insisted, just as her vision was drawn to the skyline of the main campus, with the bizarre presence of a helicopter landing down.


    It wasn¡¯t anywhere near the academy¡¯s helicopter platforms, and it didn¡¯t look like one of the academy¡¯s own. From where she could see, it looked to be landing near the academy courtyard.


    ¡°What the¡­¡± Harley let out, just as Sola caught it as well.


    ¡°A helicopter?¡± Sola let out, turning to her. ¡°Who¡¯s it for?¡±


    ¡°¡­something feels weird about that.¡± Harley admitted, as she started carrying Wess and Sola toward it. ¡°If we¡¯re lucky, Julia and Essex might¡¯ve had the same idea¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°They couldn¡¯t be that far. Julia was talking with Cecil, and Essex ran off to somewhere.¡± Saxin bemoaned, hurrying down the halls with the other members of Vanguard in tow. ¡°Oh Whilit, I hope they¡¯re alright¡­¡±


    ¡°Come on. Even if they¡¯re not here, Percy might¡¯ve come back to their room.¡± Lenin assured, comforting Saxin, only to notice Nathaniel ahead of them, nervously staring into the dorm hallway, emanating a glowing red. ¡°Nath? What¡¯s going on?¡±


    ¡°U-Uhhh¡­¡± He let out, shakily pointing to Team Valiant¡¯s room. ¡°I-I think the W-Wailing reached here already¡­¡±


    He hurriedly stepped aside, revealing the roaring fire consuming Team Valiant¡¯s room, starting to spread out into the hallway, as the trio stared slack-jawed at the destruction in front of them, before Chops rushed forward.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ve got this!¡± She insisted, using her Whil to freeze the fire and keep it back, dulling it down slightly. ¡°How the hell did they get here already? I thought we handled the-¡°


    ¡°ESSEX!!!¡± Saxin cried, running out of Lenin¡¯s arms, as the others now noticed her huddled over further into the hall, a pool of blood forming around her hunched over form. ¡°Essex?! Please be okay...can you hear me?!¡±


    No response, as Lenin quickly noticed the wound on her side, nearly causing Nathaniel to throw up. Lenin crouched down and took his cape off, before tearing it and wrapping up the wound to slow the bleeding.


    He turned back to Chops. ¡°Chops! We need you over here!¡±


    ¡°Kinda busy!!!¡± Chops yelled back, trying her best to make some headway into the burning room. ¡°Bring her over!!!¡±


    Saxin and Lenin carefully picked her up, as her arm fell away from her jacket, revealing her missing hand, causing Saxin to audibly gasp and nearly drop her by accident.


    Fortunately, Nathaniel went to quickly hold Essex up before she could drop, as Saxin regained her composure and grabbed her again.


    ¡°I-I¡¯m sorry, I¡¯m sorry. She¡­¡± Saxin let out, before grabbing Lenin¡¯s shoulder. ¡°¡­s-she¡¯s lost her hand.¡±


    Lenin looked back and finally noticed the injury, as he forced himself to steel his nerves and keeping walking her to Chops, as Nathaniel gave Saxin a reassuring pat on the back.


    Freezing as much of the room as she could, while still fighting through the overwhelming heat inside, Chops turned and used a free hand to chill Essex¡¯s wound, slowing down the bleeding somewhat, before going back to trying to save the dorm.


    ¡°I¡¯m¡­I¡¯m gonna be here a while¡­¡± Chops let out, feeling the exhaustion get to her, as she froze over another fire sprouting up. ¡°¡­take her to get help¡­the arena¡­¡±


    ¡°Got it. We¡¯ll come back once she¡¯s safe. Just hold on.¡± Lenin assured, as Chops gave a brief thumbs up, before continuing her work.


    The trio quickly pivoted in the direction of the arena, carefully carrying Essex back into the main building, making sure not to disturb her wounds any further. Saxin was visibly torn up, as she constantly watched over Essex as they walked, scanning for any signs of life, all while Lenin felt himself taking charge, leading them through the halls.


    ¡°D-Don¡¯t worry, guys.¡± Nathaniel assured, readjusting as he helped carry Essex. ¡°¡­w-we¡¯re here to save people. That¡¯s what we¡¯re good at.¡±


    Saxin and Lenin shared a small gaze, just as they felt a slight bit of movement coming from Essex.


    ¡°Essex?!¡± Saxin exclaimed, as her eye opened up. ¡°Oh, dear! We were so worried!¡±


    They propped her up by a windowsill nearby, just as Saxin went in for a hug, before pulling herself away to let Essex get up properly.


    ¡°¡­where¡­¡± Essex managed, before groggily staring up at Team Vanguard. ¡°¡­Rosalind¡­¡±


    ¡°Rosalind?¡± Lenin let out, leaning in.


    ¡°She¡¯s here?!¡± Saxin gasped, before Essex went to inspect her arm again. ¡°Was that¡­?¡±


    ¡°¡­her doing.¡± Essex replied, just as she tried to stand up. ¡°Team¡­Valiant. Whe-¡°


    ¡°Whoa, hold on.¡± Lenin said, helping hold her up. ¡°You¡¯re still injured. We need to get y-¡°


    ¡°Julia¡­went to confront Wicker¡­¡± Essex admitted, standing back up again, despite the pain. ¡°And I refuse¡­to stand by¡­¡±


    She tried walking again, as her wound gave in, causing her to keel over, as Saxin went to help her.


    ¡°We can find them.¡± Saxin assured, wrapping an arm around her. ¡°Joleicia went to the courtyard. We¡¯ll meet up with her and find them together.¡±


    ¡°B-But we¡¯re getting you help right after.¡± Nathaniel insisted, holding up her other side. ¡°Leaving a cut that big i-is¡­oh geez, I looked at it again¡­¡±


    ¡°Alright, let¡¯s make tracks.¡± Lenin declared, reaching to his waist and equipping his claws. ¡°If we come across Rosalind, leave her to me. That goes for all of you.¡±


    ¡°Martyrs aren¡¯t attractive, dear.¡± Saxin said.


    ¡°I mean it. We keep her safe.¡± Lenin stated, pointing back at Essex. ¡°You focus on her.¡±


    With that, they started heading off to the courtyard, as Essex did her best to carry herself, even as she could feel how weak her body was.


    Looking down, she noticed her wound accidentally bleeding onto Saxin¡¯s dress, before gazing up at her.


    ¡°¡­sorry¡­¡±


    Saxin kept looking forward, before shaking her head. ¡°It¡¯s alright, dear. We wouldn¡¯t do this if you weren¡¯t worth it.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°LINE IT UP!!! WE¡¯VE ONLY GOT A FEW SHOTS!!!¡±


    Dulce kept yelling out commands, as the few security members with Whils did their best to hold the Viscous Wailing in place, just in front of one of the IF cannons at the front of the academy.


    The railgun started building light in its main compartment, glowing fervently against the dark of night, as the Wailing fought against the guards as best it could, thrashing about and changing shape madly to keep up with their movements. Every time one of their Whils touched it, it reeled back, trying to form around it to compensate.


    Just as they got a good grip on it, it threw everyone back, almost pulling itself apart in anger and crying out in pain. It tore up the academy entrance, now trampling around, picking up what it could to throw around.


    The security stayed out of its way, as too few of their numbers remained to do much to slow it down, and none of them wanted to get caught in the way of the IF.


    Dulce, meanwhile, could see that if it kept thrashing and pulling itself around, the IF wouldn¡¯t hit it at all.


    ¡°Shit¡­¡± Dulce muttered, preparing to run, before sprinting toward the Viscous Wailing. It quickly noticed and charged at her, picking up a car from the driveway and chucking it at her, as she dodged to the side, still running.


    The Wailing reached down, snapping at her with each of its heads, which she narrowing avoided one by one, getting as close as she could to its body, even as it threw itself here and there.


    ¡°You got this, Dulce!¡± One of the security yelled, as a few others cheered her on.


    ¡°Just a few seconds!¡± Another yelled, as the IF focused in.


    Dulce just managed to reach its main body, before pressing her hand to it and using her Whil to slow its momentum, holding it in place as the IF built up more light.


    As the cannon slowly came to life, the Wailing finally realised it was there and stared down the barrel of it, connecting with the light for a brief moment. Dulce ducked down, falling to the ground, right before the shot fired out, ringing through the dead of night with one solid, vibrant beam, tearing through the Wailing¡¯s entire being in an instant and rupturing its body.


    It only took another second for it to completely dissipate, collapsing to the ground in a massive puddle that slowly drifted to the academy moat, still creating the occasional form like a belated death-rattle, pulling itself apart, then briefly back together again, before becoming nothing quickly after.


    Dulce finally let out a held breath, before stretching out her back.


    ¡°¡­honest show of hands, who thought that wouldn¡¯t work?¡±


    Around half of the security put their hands up, as Dulce nodded in agreement and cracked her knuckles.


    ¡°Yep, same here. Alright, first priority is the status of the other two Wailing. Two groups of five inspect the east and north of the academy and report back.¡± Dulce declared, as a few of the guards quickly did so. ¡°Your first priority is evacuating any students that¡¯ve yet to leave!¡±


    Dulce pointed her fingers to the skyline. ¡°I also want to know about that helicopter we saw. It had no business being that close to campus, let alone hovering around the courtyard. Does anyone know if that¡¯s one of ours?¡±


    The rest of the security shook their heads, as Dulce bit her lip and stared back at the two IF¡¯s.


    ¡°¡­keep the other one on standby.¡± Dulce declared. ¡°I don¡¯t have a great feeling about this¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Julia.


    She still fervently searched for the others, running back and forth through the main building.


    No Wailing in sight.


    No teammates.


    Nothing.


    Just the hum of the destruction that had plagued the academy all that night.


    Billowing smoke from the dorms.


    Destroyed hallways and stairwells.


    And something out the window.


    Someone.


    She finally saw her.


    Percy.


    Being taken by Wicker to a helicopter.


    In the middle of the courtyard.


    Only a few floors down.


    Only a few¡­


    Wicker made his way into the courtyard, emerging out of the main campus building, and lifting his gaze to spot his helicopter sitting right in the middle, its blades spinning and drumming up dust from the ground around it.


    Just as he approached, the window to the pilot¡¯s seat opened up, before Salaire popped his head through, waving his arm.


    ¡°Hey, come on already!!! We¡¯re sitting ducks here!!! Drop her in and let¡¯s go!!!¡±


    Still carrying Percy on his back, Wicker dragged himself over to the back, feeling her weight starting to give in, before approaching the helicopter and noticing Rosalind sitting inside, waiting patiently.


    ¡°And where were you?¡± Wicker asked, setting Percy down.


    ¡°¡­why the fuck should that matter?¡± Rosalind groaned, glaring at Wicker and sneering. ¡°Mission accomplished, right?¡±


    Wicker held his tongue, before grabbing his coat from the back and heading to the front to join Salaire.


    As Rosalind started to get as comfortable as she could manage, hoping to nod off on the way back to EHM, a bit of stirring came from Percy¡¯s direction.


    She lifted her head and noticed Percy lifting hers, as she groggily scanned around her, before spotting Rosalind, who simply smiled back at her.


    ¡°Welcome back, Jules.¡±


    Percy¡¯s pupils shrank, as she immediately bolted off the helicopter, right as Rosalind went to grab her and nearly fell due to the lack of her arm holding her up.


    Percy¡¯s head still stung from earlier, slowing her down a little, only for Wicker to notice her as he was entering and starting to seethe again.


    Before she could get any further, Wicker used his Whil to flatten her against the ground with a gale of wind, shaking the helicopter and holding her perfectly in place, as he grabbed her wrist violently and started dragging her across the ground back to the helicopter.


    ¡°You¡­are not going anywhere!!!¡± Wicker yelled out, pulling her even harder. ¡°I am sick of this little defiant streak of yours!!! Understood?!?!¡±


    Only making a bad situation worse, this was around the time Julia managed to reach the ground floor, heading out to the courtyard too, before catching everything Wicker was doing.


    ¡°YOU¡­do NOT get special treatment anymore!!! You have lost that right!!!¡± Wicker declared, before pulling Percy up by her wrist, tears streaming down her face as she tried to pull herself free. ¡°Is that understood?!?!¡±


    Percy wasn¡¯t even taking in what he was saying, as she was starting to lose feeling in her hand.


    ¡°How DARE you act out like this!!! Say goodbye to those caf¨¦ trips you loved so much!!!¡± Wicker insisted, throwing her into the back of the helicopter, as Rosalind took her new sword and held it to Percy¡¯s throat. ¡°You will EARN back that privilege!!! ONE¡­YEAR¡­AT A TIME. One for each week you spent in this vile academy, hiding in plain sight!!!¡±


    Before Percy could try anything again, Wicker stood up inside of the helicopter, towering over her in the confined space.


    ¡°Is that¡­understood, Jules?¡±


    Percy¡¯s fear entirely gripped her, only letting out the tiniest nod, as Wicker gave it a second to rest, before stepping back down and heading back to the front.


    After the day he¡¯d had, he was ready to head back to something comfortable and get some work done, outside of all the distractions here at the academy, as he felt his breath catch slightly from the evening chill.


    As he continued, however, he felt his breath catching even more, failing to even draw, as he gasped for air.


    A feeling of discomfort turned to a feeling of concern due to this unforeseen circumstance.


    But it was all too clear what was happening.


    Julia.


    Having witnessed everything that¡¯d transpired.


    The fear throughout the academy.


    The disgusting treatment of Percy.


    The attempts made on her team¡¯s lives.


    This night.


    This night, she had her hand stretched out.


    Pointing directly at Wicker, as vitriol scowled her face.


    An unbridled hatred for this person who¡¯d been lying to everyone for so long.


    Her hand outstretched.


    Taking control.


    After everything he¡¯d put them through, it was all Julia could do to raise her hand toward him, gradually using her Whil in order to slow the beating of his heart to virtually nothing.


    Wicker grasped at his chest, desperately clawing at the pain permeating the inside of him, before locking eyes with Julia, staring as she breathed out heavily, her hand resembling a claw, her eyes glowing in the dead of night, still shaking from the fear that¡¯d yet to go away.


    ¡°Wicker?¡± Rosalind let out, taking a moment, before jumping out of the back of the helicopter to pick him up, only to feel the presence of someone behind her, as Harley punched her square in the jaw and threw her back across the ground, looking inside with Sola beside her, before finding Percy and offering her a hand.


    Julia kept her gaze on Wicker, not letting up for a second, as she could feel her hand straining from the intensity of her action, and feeling no remorse f-


    ¡°Julia?¡±


    She could hear Wess¡¯ voice, but it hardly distracted her, not until Wess stood in front of her and rested her hands on Julia¡¯s cheeks.


    ¡°Julia, hey, it¡¯s alright. You don¡¯t need to worry, okay? We¡¯re here.¡± Wess assured, as Julia¡¯s gaze was still locked to Wicker. ¡°Julia, please stop.¡±


    She refused to listen, tears leaking from her eyes, as Wicker continued to writhe, only for Harley and Sola to join Wess, Harley grabbing Julia¡¯s arms and Sola grabbing Julia in a hug.


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to do this. You can¡¯t.¡± Harley insisted, as Julia fought back.


    ¡°It¡¯s not you¡­¡± Sola cried, trying to pull her arm down as well.


    Julia could feel Percy¡¯s hand resting on her arm, calming her down somewhat, only to feel Essex¡¯s too, as she finally looked directly at the others.


    ¡°Please, Julia¡­you can never go back from this¡­¡± Essex weakly said.


    Julia could feel her breathing slowing, as she finally saw the slash across Wess¡¯ face, blood dripping down from her closed eye, before she eventually lowered her tight hand, feeling herself shrink back and truly take in what had just happened.


    She looked around at the others, as they slowly went in for a hug, embracing her and letting her know they were okay. Julia¡¯s tears kept flowing, as she suddenly started to shake again, before gradually hugging the rest of them back, resting her head against theirs for balance.


    ¡°It¡¯s alright¡­we¡¯ll get through this¡­¡± Wess insisted, crying alongside her. ¡°L-Like we always do¡­¡±


    The team held each other like that for as long as they could manage, only being taken out once the sound of the helicopter started to pick up again.


    The team turned around, as they saw Rosalind using all the strength remaining in her one arm to pull Wicker back onto the helicopter as it began to take off. Wicker was seemingly still conscious, regaining some level of assuredness to at least stand back up and try to play off what Julia had done to him.


    Julia only just noticed Saxin, Lenin and Nathaniel off to the side, having seemingly accompanied Essex here, before noticing the rest of her team ready to stop him from getting away.


    Before anyone had enough time to retaliate, however, a gunshot rang out loud and clear across the courtyard, echoing across the campus and heading straight toward Wicker.


    As the helicopter kept taking off, the bullet flew straight into Wicker¡¯s back, as he cried out in pain before collapsing inside, out of sight from anyone on the ground, leaving only the panicked and furious glare from Rosalind to stick with everyone present.


    Having picked up on what direction the bullet had been fired, Julia¡¯s attention drifted to her other side, before spotting Joleicia perched up on a nearby step, her sniper rifle¡¯s barrel still smoking as she stared down her sights in the direction of Wicker.


    Before Julia could say anything, Joleicia took her eye away from the scope and turned to Julia, before breathing out and giving a proud and rigid thumbs up to her.


    Julia didn¡¯t really know how to take that, before finding Dulce was right behind them all, gripping her tablet.


    ¡°FIRE!!!¡±


    Julia jumped at her yelling, before the sound of one of the IF¡¯s firing in the distance was heard, right as a beam of light passed by the helicopter, clipping its rotor and causing it to smoke up a bit, though not stopping it fully, as it swiftly headed back toward Detu City under the cover of night.


    ¡°Yeah, and fuck you too!¡± Dulce yelled out, flipping off the helicopter as it flew away, before resting her hands on her hips. ¡°Lying bastard¡­¡±


    As the noise of everything was starting to die down with Wicker once again disappearing, and curious murmuring permeated the lips of everyone present, the only one silent was Julia, as she stared blankly into the night sky, glancing up at the stars, feeling their distance from her more than ever.


    As her energy left her body, she started to fall unconscious, collapsing to the ground, before the last thing she heard was her team crying out her name in an effort to catch her.


    ¡°JUlia¡­¡±

 Chapter 57: Embers

    ¡°¡­f you¡¯re just tuning in, our top story is the recent Wailing attack at the Venator Academy, the third one in three years. After the academy was attacked by what was later dubbed a ¡®Behemoth Wailing¡¯ on 5019¡¯s orientation day, and was attacked again at the end of that same year, the academy has seen a relative calm. Unfortunately, as of yesterday, the Venator Academy fell victim to the hands of three more Wailing, tearing up many of the campus¡¯ facilities, as well as large chunks of the main building. For further reporting, we have Dana Montgomery on the scene.¡±


    ¡°Thanks, Tim. I¡¯m standing in one of the numerous ruined classrooms in the central building of the Venator Academy. As you can see, despite the previous two attacks being much larger in scale, neither compare to the damage done in this one night alone. The dorms have also suffered a great amount of damage due to what look to be a fire, mostly likely caused by one of the Wailing.¡±


    ¡°As principal, I want to temper people¡¯s expectations. The damage is severe, but the students are okay. We¡¯ve rebuilt before, and will most likely have to again, but I believe it¡¯s a testament to our academy¡¯s readiness to handle these threats and only come out with infrastructural damage. With that said, we¡¯ve recently been in talks with Senator Carmichael about the barrier being built around Detu City and extending it to our campus as well.¡±


    ¡°As security, our job, first and foremost, is protecting students. We¡¯re not as well equipped as most Venator teams, but we get by and make sure they get to safety while we take those Wailing down. I also used to be a Venator, so I know how Wailing think. If you ask me, these attacks aren¡¯t natural.¡±


    ¡°The Wailing were fortunately dispatched with by the security team and several other students, but it raises questions as to the campus¡¯ readiness for any more attacks. Two¡¯s a coincidence, three¡¯s a pattern, so can we expect any future Wailing to take advantage of the campus¡¯ currently weakened state? Back to you, Tim.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Dana, for that report. While the infrastructural damage is the easiest to point to, the damage to morale has certainly taken its toll as well. Following this latest attack, the Head Scientist at the academy and Co-CEO of Event Horizon Manufacturing, Ryan Cecil, has stepped down from his position within the academy, with an official statement from EHM, ¡®the seemingly endless attacks have made him question his safety,¡¯ and that ¡®it would be better for his health to avoid working in such a stressful environment.¡¯ No official statement has come from Cecil himself following this news.¡±


    ¡°Later on in the show, we¡¯ll be interviewing Senator Baxter on his thoughts in regards to the attack, and whether we¡¯re doing enough to protect our future Venators from these new breeds of Wailing. Stay tune-¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s such bullshit.¡± Burnie complained, muting the TV, before resting his head on the bar. ¡°A third attack?¡±


    ¡°They shouldn¡¯t have built it so close to the forest.¡± Thomas noted, taking a sip of his beer, before adjusting his glasses.


    ¡°The forest wasn¡¯t there when they built it!¡± Burnie noted, slamming his hand down. ¡°And you can¡¯t blame the place for what the Wailing did to it. If a Wailing¡¯s bloodthirsty enough, it¡¯ll just charge in wherever and start killing.¡±


    Thomas finished his drink and put the bottle down. ¡°Mmm¡­I¡¯m wondering why it took so long for a school full of Venators to take care of three Wailing. They did that much damage in one night?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, it¡¯s still a Wailing. Some of them¡¯ll thrash about while dying just to break more shit.¡± Burnie explained. ¡°What, you don¡¯t think the Venators did a good job?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t think they¡¯re doing very well in general, and this is merely a symptom.¡± Thomas clarified. ¡°Look at the conflict as a whole. I feel like we¡¯ve barely made a dent in the Wailing. Most Venators seem more like glory hogs than anything.¡±


    ¡°Hey, they¡¯re doing some good work out there.¡± Burnie defended, grabbing his beer. ¡°So what, you think they¡¯re too vain to do the job right?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t be reductive. That¡¯s some of them, but¡­¡± Thomas pointed out, as Burnie started tapping his fingers on the bar.


    ¡°What? Stupidness? Ineptitude?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s¡­laziness! Laziness seen throughout the conflict!¡± Thomas argued, spinning around on his stool. ¡°Venators have been around for centuries, why are the Wailing still a problem?¡±


    Burnie raised five fingers. ¡°Hey brainiac, it takes five people to match the strength of one Wailing. You can¡¯t count the time before the team system was formed.¡±


    ¡°Alright, it¡¯s still been a century then.¡± Thomas pointed out, pointing his bottle at Burnie. ¡°Where¡¯s all this progress Venators seem to be making? There¡¯s not been a reduction in Wailing attacks.¡±


    ¡°Okay, you can¡¯t expect them to handle everything though. What about the Behemoth one?¡± Burnie clarified. ¡°It took the whole academy to take that thing down! You can¡¯t just whip that many people up in an afternoon, that would have to be¡­like, planned or something. Like as a demonstration.¡±


    Burnie snapped his fingers. ¡°And the Gelatinous Wailing. Some Venators can¡¯t even take them out if they don¡¯t have Whils.¡±


    ¡°Then make it so Venator teams are required to have at least one Whil user.¡± Thomas noted, before grabbing the bartender¡¯s attention. ¡°I¡¯m feeling frisky. Raspberry daiquiri, please.¡±


    ¡°You can¡¯t just restructure the Venator system overnight. There¡¯s always gonna be some new kinda Wailing that shows up outta nowhere. Ones that are bigger, ones that are¡­I dunno, fucking¡­armoured¡­or something.¡± Burnie let out, before spotting someone across from them at the bar, quietly drinking to himself. ¡°Hey, guy, how well do you think Venators are doing right now?¡±


    ¡°¡­huh?¡± He let out, clearly not expecting to be talked to, before facing him. ¡°Uhh¡­fine? Seems like they¡¯re keeping the ship steady.¡±


    ¡°But shouldn¡¯t they be making an effort to end the Wailing Conflict quicker?¡± Thomas butted in, leaning over Burnie.


    ¡°¡­well, yeah, I guess. It¡¯s not like they¡¯re bad at their job, right?¡± The guy mentioned, sitting up more. ¡°Outside of the academy, Detu City¡¯s barely been touched.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, then two years ago, we get three attacks outta nowhere. So what¡¯s changed?¡± Burnie reasoned, as Thomas quietly grabbed his new drink.


    The guy chuckled to himself. ¡°If they¡¯re getting the job done, why change anything? I say let them keep at it.¡±


    ¡°Keep at it¡­¡± Thomas muttered, falling back to the bar and ignoring the guy. ¡°Keeping at it¡¯s what¡¯s kept the industry in a standstill for so long¡­¡±


    ¡°Standstill, schmand¡­schmill¡­¡± Burnie tried, before leaning down to meet his gaze. ¡°What they need is more firepower. Something to deal with the Wailing quicker, more consistently.¡±


    ¡°¡­there¡¯s been a few reports about an increase in Whil potency.¡± Thomas noted, lifting himself back up. ¡°Some more recent Whil users have been getting stronger and stronger Whils, like some latent genetic¡­activation, I¡¯d guess.¡±


    ¡°Ah, there we go! That¡¯s Whilit smiling down on us!¡± Burnie cheered, wrapping his arm around Thomas¡¯ neck. ¡°Hey, somebody¡¯s got our backs. Finally giving us the tools to deal with the conflict head on.¡±


    Thomas just shook his head, as he went for his drink again. ¡°¡­I feel sorry for the new generation of Venators. They¡¯re coming in at history¡¯s most dangerous point.¡±


    ¡°¡­yeah, those poor kids.¡± Burnie agreed, rubbing his neck. ¡°You know what you¡¯re getting into to a certain extent, but¡­¡±


    ¡°Hey, cheers.¡± Thomas offered, lifting his glass. ¡°Hopefully they¡¯ll see the end of the conflict without too much more bloodshed. At least at some point in their lifetimes.¡±


    ¡°And ours too.¡± Burnie said, clinking his bottle. ¡°Cheers.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°If you¡­want to call me baby, just tell me now though. And if you¡­want to by my lady, just tell me now though. And if you¡­wanna bear your soul, just tell me now though. And if you¡­wanna take a stroll, just tell me now though¡­¡±


    Dulce kept singing to herself, stepping out of the Flash-Rail station, before it sped off back toward Detu City proper. She was carrying a small bag over her shoulder, as she started heading down the street in the direction of 22 Sunset Street.


    The road was fairly quiet, virtually no activity down it, as she arrived at the front and started heading up to the front door.


    ¡°Hey.¡±


    Lifting her head, she found Harley waving to her, sitting in front of the door with less casual gear on then she normally wore.


    ¡°Hey. How¡¯re you holding up?¡± Dulce asked, as Harley started to stand up.


    ¡°Some days are better.¡± Harley admitted, resting her hands on her hips. ¡°How¡¯re things on your end?¡±


    ¡°Good. I¡¯ve got some news for you guys, if you¡¯re in the mood.¡± Dulce prefaced, as Harley went to open to door for her.


    ¡°Yeah, just check with the others. We¡¯re all a bit¡­scattered.¡± Harley confessed, following her, as Dulce went inside, before finding Sola and Percy on the couch together, turning to face her.


    ¡°Hi Dulce.¡± Sola greeted, with Percy waving beside her, as Dulce placed her bag down by the entrance.


    ¡°What¡¯s the situation on the leg?¡± Dulce asked, as Sola did her best to stand up with Percy¡¯s help, before grabbing crouches laying on the couch.


    ¡°Okay. Should be a little over a month before it¡¯s better.¡± Sola replied, getting up and hopping over, now with a much more practical jacket on, with Percy guiding her as she walked.


    ¡°Aww, babe¡­¡± Harley let out, kissing her head and pulling her over, as Dulce glanced around them.


    ¡°¡­is Julia here a-¡°


    Just as Dulce said that, Julia¡¯s door opened up, as she slowly walked out of her bedroom with a dressing gown lazily draped over her shoulders, her hands covered with washing gloves.


    ¡°Dulce, hey.¡± Julia let out, resting her hand on the door frame. ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡±


    ¡°Oh, uh¡­well, I was hoping to tell the whole team at once.¡± Dulce admitted, rubbing her neck. ¡°We¡¯ve, uh, secured your room¡­your dorm room. It¡¯s safe to come back to, if you want to retrieve anything.¡±


    A wash of silence came from the team, as Dulce felt the need to fill it.


    She hid her face a bit. ¡°There¡¯s not much to recover, but¡­it might be a good thing to do¡­¡±


    Julia quietly nodded, taking the news in, as she looked back at Harley, Sola and Percy. ¡°What do you guys think?¡±


    Harley shrugged. ¡°Might be good closure.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s gotta be some stuff, right?¡± Sola suggested, as Dulce breathed in through her teeth.


    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t get your hopes up. Your room took the brunt of the fire damage.¡± Dulce admitted, before snapping her fingers. ¡°And Faller wanted a talk, at some point.¡±


    Before Julia could speak up, Harley stepped directly in front of her and folded her arms.


    ¡°He can wait.¡±


    Dulce threw her hands up. ¡°No skin off my nose. I¡¯m just the messenger here.¡±


    Julia rested her hand on Harley¡¯s arm, letting her know she was okay, before heading down the hall, passing by the laundry to the doorway of the repurposed study.


    The lights were all off, with only a small crack of it coming through behind Julia.


    ¡°Hey¡­Wess¡­¡± Julia started, trying to be gentle with her voice. ¡°¡­Dulce just came to tell us we can go visit the dorm room, if we want.¡±


    The room remained silent, save for a gentle bit of breathing and rising bedsheets.


    ¡°¡­alright¡­¡± Wess muttered, a small bit of stirring coming from the bed, with her staring forward at nothing in particular.


    Julia breathed out a little, before making a small pivot back to the laundry, subtly knocking on the door.


    ¡°Essex? Are you up? We can come back to the dorm room.¡± Julia called out, getting no response. ¡°We¡¯re gonna leave in a bit. It¡¯s fine if you don¡¯t wanna come.¡±


    Julia gave it a few more seconds, still getting nothing back, before leaving the door behind.


    Silently, Percy raised her hand, as the team gave her their attention.


    [¡­if it¡¯s okay, I might not join you.] Percy stated. [It doesn¡¯t feel right for me to go back there right now. Sorry¡­]


    ¡°Don¡¯t feel bad. You didn¡¯t spend three years there like¡­¡± Sola started, only for the statement to hit, as she got a little emotional.


    ¡°Come here¡­¡± Harley said, hugging her to her chest, right as the front door opened again, with Milo coming in holding several bags of groceries.


    ¡°Harley? Don¡¯t worry, it¡¯s just me.¡± Milo announced, before realising everyone had congregated in the lounge room. ¡°Oh, the whole party¡¯s here.¡±


    ¡°Sir.¡± Dulce greeted, nodding to him, as Julia stepped forward.


    ¡°Dulce was just telling us the dorm room¡¯s safe to come back to.¡± Julia explained. ¡°Once Wess is ready, we¡¯ll head out for a bit.¡±


    ¡°Okay. Did you need me to come along?¡± Milo offered, as Julia slowly raised her hands.


    ¡°I-It¡¯s fine, you don¡¯t have to.¡± Julia stated, as Milo sighed out and headed to the kitchen.


    ¡°Alright. Just be home before six.¡± Milo stated, dragging the bags with him, right as Wess stepped out of her room, her hands lying by her sides.


    On top of being far less put together than normal, she¡¯d draped herself in Graham¡¯s coat, with her scowl coming off a lot genuine than it normally did. All this was to distract from the fact that a large scar ran over where her left eye should¡¯ve been, incredibly visible on her face, with no real effort to hide it.


    ¡°Shall we then?¡± Wess asked, clearly still a bit delirious from having just gotten out of bed, as Julia led the charge to the Flash-Rail station, Dulce accompanying them on the way back.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    The ride there was silent, for the most part. A few other passengers on the Flash-Rail chatted idly, but the group didn¡¯t speak much. Sola had her head in Harley¡¯s lap, while Dulce nervously tapped her foot against the floor.


    They eventually arrived back at the academy, the hazard tape over the entrance to the main building still just as jarring as when they left. A few students were crowding around the massive indent the Horned Wailing had left in the ground after it fell out of the building, while the group passed by them on their way to the dorms.


    ¡°Geez¡­were these ones bigger too?¡± One student asked.


    ¡°I mean, judging by the size, I¡¯d say do. Didn¡¯t they say that third-year team took this one out?¡± Another remarked, folding their arms.


    ¡°Yeah, Vanguard. And the Gelatinous one got bodied by one of the IF¡¯s.¡± A third commented. ¡°Man, I wish I coulda seen it up and running. Bet it was awesome.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m just annoyed we didn¡¯t get a piece of the action.¡± The second said, bumping their elbow into the third, as the group looked on and started making their way into the dorms.


    It was immediately apparent which room was theirs once they arrived, with more hazard tape and burn marks running up the walls and ceiling. Fortunately, they already got to thank Chops for quelling the fire on the night. Dulce had found her nearby, coughing up smoke after putting out most of it, before she was taken to the infirmary where Team Valiant was before getting moved to Julia¡¯s house. Her recovery was quicker, of course.


    Harley was the first to step inside, lifting the tape up for the others, as they filtered in and took in the damage to the place. Everything was charred black and was near impossible to make anything out. The room had held together, but the beds, lounge area and kitchen were all non-existent at this point.


    There were still signs of Essex and Rosalind¡¯s scrap too, with large cuts in the wall and the sliced-in-half fridge. Wess noticed pieces of the broken fish tank scattered across the floor in the direction of the balcony. She already knew it wouldn¡¯t survive the fire, but there was part of her hoping it still could¡¯ve.


    Sola was out on the balcony, next to the plant pot that had held their audrey ficus she¡¯d mistakenly named Aubrey. Gone, obviously, as she lifted up an ashy leaf, before it crumbled to her touch.


    Sola could feel herself starting to cry, as she did her best to hurry back over to Harley for comfort, as Harley immediately reciprocated with a hug.


    ¡°Hey, it¡¯s okay.¡± Harley assured, watching as Julia slowly approached what remained of her bed.


    The sheets had burned.


    All the Team Spectrum posters she¡¯d brought from home were gone.


    The remains of¡­Maxie¡­could be barely made out on the floor.


    Julia tried her best to hold strong, wanting to put on a brave face for the others, before she felt a hand rest on her back, as Wess joined her side and rested her head on her.


    That was enough for Julia to burst into tears, as she couldn¡¯t hold back her sadness anymore. She turned to embrace Wess deeply, as Wess found herself welling up as well, her scar stinging as tears fell onto Julia.


    Harley and Sola quickly came over and embraced her as well, as they took that moment for themselves, just to remind each other of what they still had. Dulce stood outside the room as they did, shedding a tear as well, and insuring they wouldn¡¯t be interrupted.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Percy clicked her tongue.


    ¡°Something up, Percy?¡± Milo asked, sipping his hot chocolate.


    Percy shook her head, before signing. [This isn¡¯t right. I shouldn¡¯t even be here.]


    ¡°Hey, come on now.¡± Milo replied, leaning over the kitchen counter. [Don¡¯t say it. You¡¯re hardly an imposition.]


    [I¡¯m still taking up a bed.] Percy admitted, occasionally stirring her hot chocolate. [I¡¯m not a member of the team, and you didn¡¯t even know me until a week ago.]


    Milo tilted his head. ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll be honest¡­a lot of what was explained to me didn¡¯t make sense.¡± Milo confessed. ¡°Julia did her best, but all the¡­Wicker and Cecil and EHM and Organisation¡­I thought she was just doing her regular studies¡­but from everything she said, what I got was that you were anything but a problem.¡±


    Percy stood up in anguish. [I¡¯m the reason the academy got attacked! If I wasn¡¯t there, Wicker wouldn¡¯t have found me, he wouldn¡¯t have sent the Wailing, and they wouldn¡¯t have gotten hurt! I was just a beacon for all this terrible shit!]


    Percy started crying, as her hands began shaking, before Milo got up in response.


    ¡°Alright, come here.¡± Milo said, opening up his arms, before bringing Percy into a hug. ¡°You can¡¯t put that all on yourself. You¡¯re not the reason Wicker¡¯s a bad person.¡±


    Percy kept sniffing, trying to stop herself from crying. ¡°And for what it¡¯s worth, he sounds pretty gung-ho with those Wailing attacks. My guess is that was gonna happen regardless of whether you were there or not.¡±


    Percy took a few more moments to just appreciate the hug, before breaking it and wiping her tears away.


    [Thank you¡­] She let out. [¡­I still feel like it¡¯s my fault though. I didn¡¯t have to take shelter with them.]


    Milo grimaced a bit, before sitting back down. ¡°Well hey, as long as you need to stay here, you¡¯re welcome to. Julia may complain I¡¯m stretching myself thin, but don¡¯t believe her. For what you guys have done for her, I don¡¯t think I¡¯ll ever be able to pay you back.¡±


    Percy threw her hands up in embarrassment. [Y-You should save that for the others. I¡¯ve barely done anything¡­]


    Right as she finished signing, the front door opened up, with Julia and the others stepping through, visibly exhausted from their trip back.


    Milo went to ask about it, before registering the mood and realising he probably shouldn¡¯t, right as Julia passed by the kitchen.


    ¡°Hey. You feeling alright?¡± Milo asked, as Julia lifted her head. ¡°If you need to talk about anything, just let me know.¡±


    Julia raised her hand. ¡°Thanks, dad.¡±


    She walked off again, heading straight back into her bedroom, leaving Milo to groan and shake his head.


    ¡°Of course¡­¡± He muttered, as Percy got up to make sure Sola was comfortable on the couch. ¡°¡­just let me in¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    MEANWHILE, ON THE NIGHT OF FIRESIDE¡­


    ¡°¡­et him in the infirmary! He¡¯s lost a lot of blood already!¡±


    ¡°Boss? You¡¯re still with us, right? Come on, that wasn¡¯t enough to getya!¡± Salaire encouraged, slapping the side of Wicker¡¯s face as they reached the elevator.


    ¡°Stop hitting him, fuckstick. I¡¯m only holding him with one arm¡­you drop him, you¡¯re dragging him.¡± Rosalind argued, as they rode the elevator down to one of the lower levels of EHM, immediately being greeted by Marcus and a few grunts the moment the doors opened.


    ¡°What happened?¡±


    ¡°One of those Valiant bitches nearly killed him. Stopped his heart¡­¡± Rosalind explained, as Marcus and the grunts helped to carry him, taking him off to the infirmary, leaving Salaire to fall to the ground and Rosalind to fall back onto the wall.


    Having caught a lot of the commotion in the hallways outside his room, Florey left his Wailing for a second and spotted Marcus running down the hall, holding Wicker in his arms.


    ¡°Cecil?¡± Florey let out, running up to check on him, only for Marcus to shove him away.


    ¡°Kid, what¡¯re you doing?! You shouldn¡¯t be here!¡± Marcus yelled, as Florey struggled to give an answer.


    ¡°I-I¡¯m¡­the Wailing a-autop-¡°


    ¡°Back to the upper floors NOW. Don¡¯t make me repeat myself.¡± Marcus demanded, before continuing back in the direction of the infirmary, as Florey stumbled back to his feet, right as Rosalind dragged herself to Florey¡¯s side


    ¡°He can be such a prick¡­¡± She let out, before staring down at Florey and resting her arm on her hip. ¡°I¡¯ll keep an eye on the Wailing. You better avoided coming back down here for now.¡±


    If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. Please report it.


    ¡°I-Is Cec¡­¡± Florey started, only to now realise Rosalind was keeling over, and that her left arm was missing. ¡°W-Wait, w-what happened to your arm?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not talking about it¡­¡± Rosalind insisted, visibly sweating, before checking her wound and noticing the bleeding starting up again. ¡°Shit¡­¡±


    Rosalind forced herself to follow Marcus toward the infirmary, as Florey could feel his stress levels rising and his breathing getting heavy, before talking a second to breathe, focus¡­and eventually head in the direction of the elevator.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡­Florey worked diligently in his lab, putting every second he could into perfectly his formula for the Wailing autopsy. Still no breakthroughs, but one of the good things about the commotion around Cecil¡¯s condition meant no one was really keeping tabs on him.


    Just as he was about to retrieve some samples from the autopsy room, he heard a hearty knock at the entrance to the lab, before a well-dressed bearded man with a corny smile made his way in, attempting to look amicable.


    ¡°Florey, hi. How¡¯re you holding up?¡± Salaire asked.


    Florey eyed him up curiously, unsure what he was doing or how to address him, as Salaire slapped his forehead.


    ¡°Right, you probably don¡¯t know me.¡± He realised, before taking his hand out of his pocket to wave. ¡°Salaire. I¡¯m in the accounting department, so we haven¡¯t had a chance to meet.¡±


    ¡°O-Oh, right.¡± Florey let out, before sticking his hand out, as Salaire gave a single, efficient shake.


    ¡°I work pretty closely with Cecil, so I wan-¡°


    ¡°Do you know what happened to him?¡± Florey interrupted, getting close to him. ¡°I-I saw you with him when he came back. Did he get hurt?¡±


    Salaire raised his hands to surrender. ¡°That¡¯s why I¡¯m here. I got asked to inform you on what happened.¡±


    Salaire indicated for Florey to take a seat on a nearby stool, as Florey quickly sat down and paid attention.


    ¡°I¡¯m sure you saw on the news that the Venator Academy was attacked again by Wailing last week.¡± Salaire said, as Florey nodded. ¡°Basically, Cecil got caught in the crossfire and was hurt. He¡¯s been in a coma recovering ever since.¡±


    Florey nearly fell back on his stool, before gripping it and moving back forward.


    ¡°¡­o-okay¡­why was I kept out of the loop until now?¡±


    ¡°Well¡­truth be told, this isn¡¯t public knowledge.¡± Salaire admitted, rolling on his ankles. ¡°We had to get the story straight on our end a-¡°


    ¡°Can¡¯t you just tell people he was attacked by the Wailing?¡± Florey questioned, catching Salaire a bit off guard.


    ¡°R-Right, it¡¯s¡­just we have to keep up a public image for investors.¡± Salaire clarified, spinning his hand. ¡°It wouldn¡¯t look good if the person responsible for the barrier around Detu City was attacked by the things he¡¯s meant to hold off. Comes off as careless, or weak.¡±


    ¡°¡­that makes sense.¡± Florey let out, still processing everything in his mind. ¡°Can I see him now? Just¡­put my mind at ease a little?¡±


    Salaire nodded politely, before holding his hand out to the door. ¡°Right this way.¡±


    ¡°¡­there he is.¡± Salaire stated, the duo looking through an open window to an infirmary, having made their way down to the lower floors. ¡°No movement yet.¡±


    Florey stared in shock at Cecil laying in the bed, several tubes coming out of him and a heart monitor beside his bed. He lightly breathed under his blanket, but other than that, there was almost no life to him.


    ¡°Yeeeah¡­not great to be the money guy at the moment.¡± Salaire joked, before immediately getting a disapproving glare from Florey. ¡°¡­sorry, tryna lighten the mood.¡±


    ¡°How long have they said?¡± Florey asked, as Salaire stretched his neck.


    ¡°A few more weeks? If¡­you know, if he recovers.¡± Salaire admitted, closing his fingers together. ¡°There¡¯s¡­still that slim chance he might not make it.¡±


    Florey covered his mouth with his hand, before spinning back around to Salaire. ¡°A-And how¡¯s Rosalind? Is she fine too?¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s okay, don¡¯t worry. She¡¯s come back from worse.¡± Salaire posited, before pointing to his arms. ¡°You¡¯ve seen the scars across her body.¡±


    ¡°I-Is she recovering too?¡±


    Salaire scoffed. ¡°Barely. She¡¯s keeping her promise and looking over your Wailing. She just stole some pain killers from the infirmary and took up shop in your makeshift office.¡±


    Glancing around them, Salaire made the effort to get down on one knee to address Florey. ¡°For the record, Marcus still hasn¡¯t said you can come down here yet, so keep this between us, alright? We¡¯ll wait for Cecil to get better, then he can vouch for you.¡±


    Florey nodded in understanding, before staring back through the window, as Salaire rested a hand on his back.


    ¡°Hey, cheer up buddy. I¡¯m sure he wouldn¡¯t want you worrying about him.¡± Salaire admitted. ¡°He told me about your little Wailing project. That sounds pretty cool.¡±


    Florey nodded silently, before splitting off with no warning and heading back down the hallway, leaving Salaire to his own devices.


    ¡°¡­geez, Wicker. Coulda picked a more social one.¡± Salaire grumbled.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°¡­pretty nice day out, hey?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, not too bad. Best weather we¡¯ve had this week.¡±


    ¡°Has it been quiet out here?¡±


    ¡°Not really. Cars are actually pretty loud down this street.¡±


    Dulce nodded along, as she took a bite of her sandwich. ¡°Sorry, by the way¡­for not coming earlier.¡±


    Harley waved her hand. ¡°Don¡¯t sweat it.¡±


    ¡°I meant to show up a week ago when you guys got here, but I needed to secure the academy.¡± Dulce clarified, waving her sandwich around. ¡°Who knew if Wicker had any more Wailing kicking around, waiting in the wings.¡±


    Harley leaned back on the front door. ¡°It¡¯s good, actually. It feels good knowing I get to guard the place.¡±


    ¡°So you¡¯ve just been sitting out here all week?¡±


    ¡°Pretty much. I duck in for food, or to sleep every few days.¡± Harley clarified, folding her arms. ¡°Someone¡¯s gotta be on the lookout for Rosalind, or whatever else Wicker¡¯s gonna throw at us.¡±


    Dulce grinned. ¡°Well, at least you get some time off now. I¡¯ll be posted here for the foreseeable future. Get some good bed rest.¡±


    Harley smirked, before shaking her head and snickering.


    ¡°¡­no thanks.¡± Harley noted, as Dulce stopped mid-bite. ¡°I can¡¯t do that.¡±


    Dulce squinted in confusion, as Harley turned to face her. ¡°I have to protect them, because I can. That¡¯s my job.¡±


    Harley started pointing to herself. ¡°I¡¯m the only one who didn¡¯t get hurt during that whole shitshow. I¡¯m the tank. I¡¯m meant to take the hits the team can¡¯t. And I couldn¡¯t do that.¡±


    Harley pointed right back at the house. ¡°Wess got hurt protecting me. Sola got hurt protecting me. I wasn¡¯t with Julia, Essex or Percy when they needed my help. That shit doesn¡¯t sit well with me.¡±


    Harley breathed out, before going to lean back on the door, folding her arms again. ¡°I know it¡¯ll be different when we¡¯re out in the industry, but for now, I need to have their backs, even if it means I¡¯m getting the scars.¡±


    Dulce made a point to finish her sandwich, before skooching back so she could sit next to Harley.


    ¡°¡­you know, being your team¡¯s martyr really sounds like an attractive idea, but it¡¯s rarely a good one in practice.¡± Dulce insisted, slapping her chest. ¡°Hell, look at me. I did the same thing when I was a Venator, and¡­¡±


    Dulce leaned over, before rolling up her pant leg, showing off a massive, gnarled scar running across her whole leg. ¡°¡­it nearly cost me my leg.¡±


    Harley stared blankly down at the leg, as Dulce sat up. ¡°And it wouldn¡¯t have been the better outcome for me to get hurt instead of them, cause one of us still would¡¯ve been maimed at the end of the day.¡±


    Dulce pointed at the house as well. ¡°They made the decision. Wess didn¡¯t lose her eye cause you failed at your job, she fought a Wailing to save you and Sola. Whether she looks at that wound as a point of pride is up to her, but you don¡¯t get to whine that you¡¯re the one who got out unscathed. You get to thank her for that.¡±


    ¡°But why was I the only one?¡± Harley insisted, as Dulce threw her hands up.


    ¡°Life¡¯s cruel, I dunno!¡± Dulce insisted. ¡°But wishing to get hurt like that is selfish! And it leads to reckless behaviour in the future where you throw yourself into danger cause you¡¯re scared your team can¡¯t handle themselves.¡±


    Harley bit her tongue, trying to think of a decent response, before just throwing her head back in frustration.


    ¡°¡­I hate seeing them hurt.¡±


    ¡°They¡¯d hate seeing you hurt too.¡± Dulce pointed out, shrugging. ¡°No one¡¯s invincible, so stop pretending you can be.¡±


    Harley breathed out, before standing back up to pace.


    ¡°¡­still, next time I see Wicker, I¡¯m knocking his lights out.¡± Harley declared, punching her hands together. ¡°Throat punch to shut him up, couple in his ankles to make sure he can¡¯t get away.¡±


    Dulce snapped her fingers. ¡°Better yet, go for the balls. Twist ¡®em up real good, he¡¯ll be begging for mercy quick after that.¡±


    Harley smiled. ¡°That¡¯s way better. Just a clean jab right into ¡®em. Won¡¯t be walking much too.¡±


    Feeling slightly better, Harley¡¯s attention drifted to the house again, admiring the nice weather again, right as Julia entered the kitchen inside and started work on a light lunch for herself and the others.


    She headed for the fridge to grab last night¡¯s salad from dinner, taking the bowl out and grabbing some pieces of bread as well.


    Quietly, she reached for the utensil draw and pulled out a spoon for the salad, taking a scoop of the salad and placing it on one of the slices. Still a bit in her own head, she went for another, before missing the spoon slightly and banging it against the bowl, accidentally dropping it.


    Julia instinctively reached out her hand to use her Whil and slow it down, before realising what she was doing, panicking and yelping out, pulling her hand right back and over her mouth, as the spoon clattered to the floor.


    Having fallen back onto the counter, she started breathing heavily, holding herself up and failing to calm her heart, as she stared down at her hand in worry.


    ¡°Julia! What¡¯s wrong?¡± Sola called out, rushing in on her crouches from outside, as Julia attempted to indicate what had happened.


    ¡°It¡­I was¡­I dropped it, a-and¡­¡± Julia tried, showing off her hands, as Sola put two-and-two together and wrapped her hands around Julia¡¯s.


    ¡°It¡¯s alright. No one got hurt.¡± Sola assured, smiling up at her. ¡°That¡¯s why you¡¯ve got the gloves, remember?¡±


    Julia started nodding, trying to reassure herself now, as Sola did her best to help her back onto her feet.


    ¡°Just take a quick breath.¡± Sola suggested, moving Julia over to a nearby stool. ¡°You know, I can help you get used to your Whil again. You did the same for me when we first met, it only seems fair.¡±


    Julia shook her head frantically, before standing back up and going back to the sandwiches. ¡°N-No, no, thank you, Sola, but not right now. I¡­I need to focus on getting better first, my Whil can wait.¡±


    Julia grabbed another spoon out, before whipping up a couple more sandwiches, deliberately avoiding facing Sola, as Sola waited, before sighing out, taking up the stool herself and letting Julia work at her own pace.


    Once Julia finished a couple, she hurried over to the bedrooms and left one outside of Essex¡¯s room, before pivoting over to Wess¡¯ room.


    Right as she was about to leave it by the open door, Wess emerged out from the room¡¯s darkness, surprising Julia suddenly.


    ¡°Wess! S-Sorry, didn¡¯t see you.¡± Julia let out, laughing a bit, before holding up the plate. ¡°I made lunch. I didn¡¯t know if you¡¯d eaten or not.¡±


    Wess looked down at the sandwich, before carefully reaching out to grab the plate.


    ¡°¡­thank you.¡± Wess let out, not really looking at Julia, before swivelling back into her room, leaving Julia without much fanfare.


    Wess went straight back to her bed, laying the sandwich down at the foot of it, before wrapping herself back up in her blankets and staring out, still not comfortable enough to sleep.


    She tossed around for a bit, only to end up on her back, staring directly up at the ceiling, before throwing the covers off again.


    She splayed out, focusing on her breathing, as her vision failed to focus on the featureless ceiling, leaving her to keep staring at nothing.


    Julia waited a second to see if Wess would say anything else, before spinning back around. ¡°A-Alright. You can come eat with us if y-¡°


    Julia was cut off by Essex¡¯s door closing behind her, the sandwich now missing, as Julia stood in stunned silence, before lamenting the fact she¡¯d missed Essex again.


    Should I¡­? Julia wondered, almost reaching for her door, before convincing herself otherwise and walking back to the kitchen. ¡­some other time.


    Essex worked her way through the slightly cluttered laundry, before finding her bed again and sitting down, staring across at the washer and dryer.


    She took a few quick bites of the sandwich, almost feeling bad for enjoying the taste, before taking a second and putting it back down. She sat over the bed¡¯s edge, as her scythe lay against the window, the curtains drawn.


    Bracing herself, she looked back down at her right arm, still reeling from the fact her hand just¡­wasn¡¯t there. Missing. She¡¯d lost it.


    The wound was still bandaged, but the image was just as visceral to Essex herself.


    Her eyes, naturally, started to drift to her other hand, and the pair of teeth marks that ran around it, almost lining up with the end of her right arm.


    She lay back down on the bed, having let her hair down, even as she felt the burnt patches of it under her back.


    She breathed out quietly, trying to steel her mind.


    Nothing was going to change, she worried.


    ¡°¡­t¡¯s not all it¡¯s cracked up to be.¡± Dulce confessed. ¡°I know I make it look easy, but leading security¡¯s stressful. I¡¯ve become pretty fast friends with Pather after I started taking counselling with her.¡±


    ¡°Pather¡¯s good. She does good work.¡± Harley agreed, right as one of the cars passing their street started pulling up to the front of the house, slowing down in front of them.


    Harley¡¯s immediately sprung to action, grabbing her Buster Knuckles out of a nearby bush and gearing up, only for Faller to emerge from the car, with Ferris jumping out of the driver¡¯s seat.


    Harley slowed down, putting her gauntlets back in, but her good mood didn¡¯t return.


    ¡°You¡¯ve gotta lot of nerve showing up.¡± Harley insisted, as Faller lifted his head and started walking up.


    He turned to Dulce. ¡°Did you let them know I was coming?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, but they weren¡¯t happy about it.¡± Dulce explained, resting her hands on her hips. ¡°You wanna save it for a few weeks from now?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m just keeping everyone in the loop.¡± Faller excused, as Harley kept blocking him off. ¡°¡­is Julia doing better?¡±


    ¡°¡­hard to say.¡± Harley admitted, folding her arms. ¡°You know, if you hadn¡¯t roped her into all thi-¡°


    ¡°I know, I¡­I know, trust me.¡± Faller confided, genuine remorse in his eyes. ¡°I just want to catch her up on what we¡¯re doing. It¡¯s the least I owe her, and it might put her mind at ease.¡±


    Harley gave it a moment to consider, before sighing heavily and stepping out of the way of the door.


    ¡°Thank you.¡± Faller let out, stepping inside and finding Julia and Sola in the kitchen, visibly surprised at his sudden appearance.


    ¡°F-Faller.¡± Julia got out, as he bowed his head. ¡°¡­what are you doing here?¡±


    ¡°¡­have you seen the recent news reports?¡± Faller asked, as Sola got up and moved to Julia¡¯s side.


    ¡°Julia finds them stressful. I¡¯ve been watching them instead.¡± Sola admitted, resting her hand on Julia. ¡°Even though they¡¯re super boring.¡±


    ¡°Okay¡­¡± Faller muttered, right as the back door opened, with Percy coming inside.


    She stared at the three of them in curiosity, before Faller lifted his head.


    ¡°¡­Julia, do you mind if we have a chat in private?¡± Faller asked, as Julia briefly panicked, before Sola calmed her somewhat.


    ¡°I-I do-¡°


    ¡°Why?¡± Sola asked, leaning on her crouches and folding her arms to imitate Harley, as Faller found himself grasping at straws.


    ¡°Look, she¡¯s done more to help find Wicker than anyone else, I just want to let her know where we¡¯re at right now.¡± Faller insisted, facing Julia in a sort of desperate panic. ¡°I¡¯m not asking you to do anything, and I¡¯ll be out before I overstay my welcome.¡±


    Taking in the information, Julia rested her hand back on Sola, before nodding and stepping forward, indicating to her bedroom.


    ¡°¡­alright. Just a quick chat.¡± Julia stated, as Faller quietly followed her in, with Percy joining Sola¡¯s side once they left.


    Percy looked to Sola. [Was Faller trying to avoid me?]


    Sola shrugged. ¡°He¡¯s hard to read. He could just be uncomfortable here.¡±


    Percy silently nodded, looking back to Julia¡¯s room, before feeling that pang of guilt run through her body again.


    Julia closed the door, as Faller ended up sitting on the edge of Harley¡¯s bed.


    ¡°Have you been doing well?¡± Faller quickly asked, facing her again, as Julia found herself caught off guard again.


    ¡°¡­relatively.¡± Julia admitted.


    ¡°Okay. We¡¯ve hired a therapist, just to let you know. I explained it to your team when they were in the infirmary, but¡­we only had the money for one of you to receive sessions. Your team insisted you should have it, if¡­¡± Faller explained, only now noticing the gloves. ¡°Were you cleaning?¡±


    Julia shook her head. ¡°¡­my Whil¡­I don¡¯t trust it right now¡­¡± Julia confessed, taking a seat on her bed. ¡°The gloves make it so I can¡¯t use it, even by accident.¡±


    Faller nodded quietly, before resettling to address Julia proper.


    ¡°¡­right¡­¡± Faller started. ¡°I¡¯ll¡­keep it simple. Wicker managed to get away and return to EHM. We don¡¯t know what his condition is at the moment, but the company¡¯s made a statement saying he¡¯s quit his position at the academy due to stress from the attacks.¡±


    Julia rubbed her hands together, as Faller continued. ¡°Since we don¡¯t have a recorded confession, and the security footage was destroyed on the night, there¡¯s nothing to accuse him with, so¡­we¡¯re at the impasse. We know who Wicker is now, at least, and have thrown some suspicion towards the attacks on the academy, but that¡¯s all we can really do for the moment, unless we want a proxy war with EHM.¡±


    Faller finished it there, expecting a response from Julia, as she simply sat and processed it.


    ¡°¡­okay.¡± Julia let out. ¡°Is that all?¡±


    ¡°¡­well, I¡¯ll see what information I can spread to my contacts, but¡­yeah.¡± Faller admitted.


    ¡°¡­easy enough.¡± Julia said, standing back up. ¡°Thanks for keeping me in the loop.¡±


    She indicated to the door, as Faller was surprised at her dictating the situation, before getting up to respect her wishes and do so.


    Right as he reached the door, he gripped the handle, before turning around suddenly.


    ¡°¡­it¡­wouldn¡¯t have done anything.¡± Faller stated, facing Julia again. ¡°Killing Wicker.¡±


    Julia¡¯s pupils shrank.


    ¡°He¡¯s got an entire¡­organisation behind him, and the strength of EHM. Even if you did manage to kill him, someone else would just take his place, or he¡¯d have a successor to take over. He¡¯s not the first Wicker, just the latest.¡± Faller informed. ¡°Make of that what you will. I know you hate me right now, and you¡¯re completely justified for that. But I promise not to bother you with this again.¡±


    Faller left out the door, as Julia sat in place, running through the numerous thoughts in her mind, none of them calming her down or making things any easier.


    ¡­he just had to go and make things complicated again¡­


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Percy sighed deeply.


    She didn¡¯t want to do this. No part of her really wanted to make this decision. Once again, even without his involvement, Wicker was forcing her hand.


    She¡¯d done her best to keep it secret, reasoning ¡®we¡¯ll find a new place soon, so there¡¯s no need for me to unpack my bags,¡¯ keeping her suitcase at the base of her bed in Milo¡¯s room, still packed and ready to go.


    Once it was clear, she could finally stop being a burden to them. They wouldn¡¯t have to worry about her anymore.


    ¡°Knock knock knock.¡± Joleicia rang out, knocking on the open front door, as Julia popped her head up from across the room and Sola got up from the couch. ¡°How¡¯s my second favourite team doing?¡±


    ¡°Jojo! Hey!¡± Sola let out, attempting to hug her quickly, before falling back onto her crouches. ¡°Ow, I really shouldn¡¯t do that.¡±


    ¡°I dunno, I liked it.¡± Joleicia chimed, as she realised Julia was knocking on the laundry door, leaving a plate of tonight¡¯s dinner outside of it.


    ¡°¡­it¡¯s fine if you don¡¯t wanna see anyone.¡± Julia muttered through the door. ¡°I get¡­not really trusting yourself to do anything right. I won¡¯t say something trite like ¡®everything¡¯s going to be okay,¡¯ cause I don¡¯t know if it will be.¡±


    Julia took a moment, before resting her head against the door.


    ¡°¡­but we¡¯d really like to know how you¡¯re doing.¡±


    Still getting no response, Julia left the food there again, as Essex lifted her head off the other side of the door, wiping away a few tears that had formed while Julia was talking.


    Lying back onto it, she started to realise just how cramped she was in the room, lacking any of the personal touches of their old study.


    That wasn¡¯t something she could take back, but the least she could do was keep herself from the others. It was dangerous for her to be around them, and frankly, she didn¡¯t deserve any pity.


    It would be better if she just stayed away.


    Again.


    ¡°¡­¡±


    Julia pivoted to go greet Joleicia, who had politely been talking with Sola to avoid overhearing Julia¡¯s plea to Essex.


    ¡°The rest of Vanguard wanted to come too, but they¡¯re really ramping up assignments this time of year. So I just brought some cookies as an excuse to check up on you.¡± Joleicia admitted, showing off a box of them, right as Sola happily took one.


    Julia smiled, before taking them from her and leaving them in the kitchen. ¡°Thanks. I still don¡¯t think I¡¯ve thanked you enough for everything.¡±


    Joleicia waved her hands nonchalantly. ¡°We¡¯re friends. That¡¯s enough of a reason.¡±


    Julia grinned a little, before subtly feeling her gaze sink to the floor again, as Joleicia quickly noticed and leaned down to Sola.


    ¡°Hey, just a heads up¡­I brought two batches.¡± Joleicia confessed, before nodding to the cookies in the kitchen. ¡°So if you wanna finish those of-¡°


    ¡°You did?! I love you!¡± Sola exclaimed, before running to the kitchen to do just that, as Joleicia chuckled a little and turned to Julia.


    ¡°Hey Julia?¡± Joleicia asked, as Julia jumped a little. ¡°You feel like a little private talk?¡±


    Julia was caught off guard, but was at least more willing to chat with her than Faller. She nodded and headed to her room again, as Joleicia took a second to inspect the place.


    ¡°Is there anything you wanted to discuss?¡± Julia asked, sitting on her bed, as Joleicia wandered around.


    ¡°Well¡­to me, it seemed like you wanted to get something off your chest.¡± Joleicia admitted, as Julia found she couldn¡¯t deny that. ¡°It might¡¯ve been awkward with the others, but you¡¯re fine to talk with me. Leader to leader.¡±


    Julia found she was at a loss for words, as she rubbed her neck. ¡°¡­I¡­I don¡¯t really know what you want me to say. I feel like we¡¯ve all gone through a lo-¡°


    ¡°I didn¡¯t ask about the others, I asked about you.¡± Joleicia insisted, stepping forward, before wrapping her hands around Julia¡¯s gloves. ¡°Don¡¯t think I didn¡¯t notice these coming in. You weren¡¯t wearing gloves when you left the academy.¡±


    Julia quickly pulled her hands away, before rubbing them slightly, as Joleicia sighed out and sat down at the other end of the bed.


    ¡°¡­to be honest, I¡¯ve been spending the last week worried sick about you.¡± Joleicia let out. ¡°Faller says it¡¯s not safe for you to stay on campus, and you offer up your house to the others. Like, that¡¯s a lot of pressure you¡¯re putting on yourself.¡±


    ¡°¡­I would¡¯ve done that regardless.¡± Julia admitted, as Joleicia shrugged.


    ¡°Still¡­it was so stressful to have to drag you to the infirmary¡­¡± Joleicia admitted, rubbing her arms uncomfortably. ¡°You just passed out, and we didn¡¯t know¡­¡±


    Joleicia shook her head and faced Julia again, before nervously laughing. ¡°Then I realised what had happened with Wess and Essex¡­it seems like you guys got out with all the scars.¡±


    ¡°¡­we¡¯re Venators.¡± Julia let out, lowering her head. ¡°That¡¯s the job, right?¡±


    Joleicia bit her tongue. ¡°It didn¡¯t look like that on our end¡­¡±


    Surprising Julia again, Joleicia rested her hand on her leg. ¡°But what I noticed most was that once you were up and running, you put all your energy into taking care of everyone else. Wess needs water, Sola¡¯s cast is itchy, Percy¡¯s having trouble sleeping.¡±


    ¡°I-I¡­can¡¯t help it if I care about them.¡± Julia insisted, looking somewhat impassioned. ¡°That makes me feel better, knowing they¡¯re better.¡±


    ¡°But where was the time for you?¡± Joleicia declared. ¡°I¡¯m worried you spent all your energy on the others. You look like a small breeze could knock you over.¡±


    Julia didn¡¯t want to admit she was right, as she shook her head and pushed it into her lap, trying to block her out.


    Joleicia left her to think, giving Julia the space she needed to realise what she was ignoring, as Julia¡¯s frazzled state slowed down.


    ¡°¡­I¡­I-I need to¡­ask you something¡­about that night.¡±


    Joleicia went to skooch closer to Julia on the bed.


    Julia tightly gripped her hands together, clearly attempting to work some stress out.


    ¡°¡­were¡­¡± Julia started, right as she locked eyes with Joleicia. ¡°¡­were you ready?¡±


    Joleicia blinked in confusion.


    ¡°¡­to take Wicker¡¯s life?¡±


    Joleicia inhaled and went to talk, before stopping herself and resettling, trying to get into the right headspace to answer properly.


    ¡°¡­in all honesty, yes.¡± Joleicia replied, facing Julia confidently.


    ¡°Wha¡­h-how¡­?¡± Julia started, only to end the statement there, as Joleicia rubbed her head.


    ¡°¡­during that moment, when¡­I came in to find him abusing Percy, with you terrified and exhausted after everything you¡¯d gone through¡­the fact he¡¯d lied to us for years, using the Wailing against us like that¡­¡± Joleicia explained, gripping her arm, before confidently facing Julia again. ¡°I knew what I was doing. To me, he was no worse than any Wailing we¡¯d hunted before.¡±


    Julia tried to agree, nodding along in order to fool herself, before finding herself stopping, as her hands shook again.


    ¡°¡­th-then¡­¡±


    She faced Joleicia with tears streaming down her face.


    ¡°¡­w-why do I hate myself¡­? F-For¡­¡±


    Julia broke down into tears again, as Joleicia brought her in for a hug, comforting her as Julia cried over her shoulder, weeping at this point.


    ¡°W-Where did this hate come f-from...?¡± Julia struggled, shrinking into herself. ¡°How c-could I ever do that...? I-I-I nearly killed him¡­I w-would¡¯ve if they didn¡¯t¡­¡±


    ¡°Hey, hey, it¡¯s okay. It¡¯s okay¡­¡± Joleicia comforted, rubbing her hair. ¡°We were all under a lot of pressure. I took the shot, remember? I¡¯m just as much to blame.¡±


    ¡°¡­b-but I never knew¡­¡± Julia said, breaking the hug, before splaying out her hands. ¡°My Whil could kill someone! I could kill someone if I l-lose control again! I-I never knew I could even d-do that¡­¡±


    Joleicia met her eye level, before bringing her in for an embrace again.


    ¡°You¡¯re right.¡± Joleicia agreed. ¡°For a profession like ours, we hold a lot of power, and it¡¯s up to us how we exercise that power. But it¡¯s something you have to figure out on your own.¡±


    Joleicia rested her hand on Julia¡¯s shoulder. ¡°I know where my line is. And I¡¯ve come to terms with that. It may change in the future, but I¡¯m confident in it now.¡±


    Joleicia linked her other hand with one of Julia¡¯s. ¡°If you need to wear those gloves to feel in control, then that¡¯s okay. There¡¯s nothing wrong with that. Just make sure you aren¡¯t wearing them cause you can¡¯t face not wearing them, make sure it¡¯s cause you chose to keep them on. Don¡¯t be scared of it, learn to use it well and exercise restraint.¡±


    Joleicia smiled back at her. ¡°Guns have a safety trigger for a reason.¡±


    Julia found herself in awe, before wiping her nose with her glove and leaving it snotty, as she recoiled a little, before Joleicia laughed again.


    ¡°I¡¯ll get a tissue.¡± She offered, reaching beside the bed. ¡°Feel better?¡±


    ¡°¡­kinda.¡± Julia admitted, cleaning her glove while looking back up at her. ¡°Crying actually helped a lot.¡±


    ¡°It usually does. People don¡¯t really cry for bad reasons.¡± Joleicia pointed out, before standing back up. ¡°Okay, that¡¯s the hour. I¡¯ll send you my bill before our next session.¡±


    Julia laughed a bit, as Joleicia offered her a hand to get up.


    ¡°Now, I know what we just talked about, but I do wanna check on the others too.¡± Joleicia said, resting her hands on her waist. ¡°Actually, where¡¯s Percy at?¡±


    ¡­this is it¡­ Percy realised, glancing outside of her room. I¡¯ll get past Sola, then sneak out the back. Harley should come in for dinner soon, that¡¯s when I leave.


    Percy quickly went to retrieve her suitcase, gripping the handle, as she found herself hesitating again, finding no will to move.


    She shook her head in frustration, before berating herself.


    You idiot. Just leave already¡­


    Still paralysed with fear, Percy¡¯s felt a jolt go through her spine as a small knock came from the open door.


    ¡°You good in here?¡±


    Percy turned to find Harley leaning on the doorframe, watching as she struggled with the suitcase, as Harley¡¯s expression clearly read that she knew what Percy was up to.


    ¡°¡­I was kinda worried you¡¯d do this.¡± Harley admitted, somewhat blocking the way out, as Percy¡¯s arms fell to her side. ¡°You know the attack wasn¡¯t your fault, right?¡±


    [I know!] Percy insisted. [People keep telling me that, and I don¡¯t believe them! Wicker sent the Wailing to distract security and take me. I-I¡¯m why Wess lost her eye!]


    Harley kept her serious expression, unmoving. ¡°¡­no, Wess lost her eye because she chose to be a Venator. Venators fight Wailing, and Venators get hurt fighting Wailing.¡±


    Percy grit her teeth, as she avoided looking at Harley.


    ¡°¡­look, it¡¯s okay to feel guilty.¡± Harley reasoned, surprising Percy. ¡°I do too. I keep blaming myself for the others getting hurt as well.¡±


    Harley threw her hands up. ¡°But that wallowing isn¡¯t gonna help anyone. You¡¯re not a burden. In the end, we chose to have you stay with us, you didn¡¯t force our hand.¡±


    [¡­I still gave you the option.] Percy admitted, as Harley scoffed.


    ¡°Okay, and? It¡¯s not like you had much choice on your end.¡± Harley reasoned, before stepping out of the way.


    Percy was a bit caught off guard, as Harley nodded her head.


    ¡°If you¡¯re really set on leaving, I won¡¯t stop you. We¡¯re not gonna force you to stay.¡± Harley clarified. ¡°But we think you¡¯re really cool, so even if you¡¯re not staying with us, we¡¯re gonna worry about you.¡±


    Worry? Percy reiterated in her head, as she found herself hesitating again, standing still with her hand off the bag.


    Harley noticed and started to smile. ¡°Don¡¯t really want to leave, huh?¡±


    Percy started to get embarrassed and hid her face, as Harley threw her hands up and started walking away. ¡°Remember, Wicker¡¯s not here to force you to do anything. It¡¯s up to you now.¡±


    Percy let those words sink in, as she stood in the room alone, registering the empty space and just how warm it looked outside of it.


    ¡­maybe I¡­do deserve this¡­


    ¡°Still nothing? Poor girl¡­¡± Joleicia muttered, staring down the hall, as she and Julia left Julia¡¯s room. ¡°Is she recovering, at least?¡±


    ¡°I wish I could say.¡± Julia admitted, before pointing to the open door to Wess¡¯ room. ¡°Wess isn¡¯t much better, but we can at least see her.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s good.¡± Joleicia said, heading off to Wess¡¯ room, only for Sola to ring out.


    ¡°Hey! I just had an idea!¡± Sola suggested, waving to the duo. ¡°Let¡¯s have dinner together! I wanna repay Jojo for the cookies, and I¡¯m sick of only eating with Harley.¡±


    Julia found herself smiling and nodding back. ¡°That¡¯s a lovely idea, Sola. What about you, Joleicia?¡±


    Joleicia gave an energetic thumbs up. ¡°Why not? I¡¯ll stick around for good food!¡±


    ¡°Cool! I¡¯ll set up the table!¡± Sola offered, grabbing plates and attempting to use her crouches at the same time, as Julia quickly intervened.


    ¡°U-Uhh, I¡¯ll¡­help with that.¡± Julia corrected, grabbing a few of the plates too, as Joleicia smiled and hopped off to Wess¡¯ room.


    She knocked on the door. ¡°Hey, Wess. How¡¯re you holding up?¡±


    ¡°¡­I¡¯ve¡­been better.¡± Wess admitted, rubbing her eye after having just woken up. ¡°¡­Joleicia?¡±


    ¡°Yep, it¡¯s me.¡± Joleicia said. ¡°Well, we¡¯re having dinner, if you wanna join.¡±


    ¡°¡­I¡¯ll see how I am.¡± Wess stated, as Joleicia gave another thumbs up and left right after, as Wess found herself falling back to the bed.


    Right as Sola went to grab the utensils, she found Harley coming out of Milo and Percy¡¯s room. ¡°Hey babe! You wanna join us for dinner?¡±


    ¡°Us?¡± Harley asked, before peering down to the table and seeing Julia and Joleicia setting the table. ¡°Uh, yeah, that sounds great.¡±


    Right as she said that, Percy followed right behind her, taking a second to steel herself, before seeing the dinner prep and looking back at Sola.


    ¡°You want some pasta bake?¡± Sola offered, holding up a plate of it. ¡°Let Julia¡¯s magic cooking hypnotise your tastebuds¡­razmataz!¡±


    ¡°You little goober.¡± Harley let out, patting her head as he walked by, as Percy blinked a few times, before stepping forward and grabbing the plate, almost crying again just from touching it.


    She quickly stopped herself and pivoted to the table to join the others, as they sat down and started spooning out dinner.


    ¡°It¡¯s been a bit since we¡¯ve done this.¡± Julia realised, before bringing over another seat. ¡°I¡¯ll leave one spare for Wess.¡±


    Right as she went to sit down, she noticed someone standing at the other end of the kitchen, as Essex shied away somewhat, not looking anyone in the eye.


    Just as the others noticed, she held up the bowl Julia had already gotten her.


    ¡°W-Would I¡­be an imposition?¡±


    They stared at her standing, before Julia quickly shook her head. ¡°N-No, of course not. I¡¯ll grab you a seat.¡±


    Essex bowed slightly, before heading over and taking the seat Julia offered, as Harley and Sola skooched over to her.


    ¡°You doing alright?¡± Harley asked, as Essex hid herself.


    ¡°¡­for now.¡± Essex confessed, as Sola grabbed her free hand.


    ¡°You can sleep on the couch, if you want.¡± Sola offered, before getting looks from them both. ¡°Oh, s-sorry, I meant since I¡¯m on the couch too¡­that sounded weirdly rude.¡±


    ¡°¡­can I visit the dorm?¡± Essex asked, as they both nodded, before hugging her sides.


    ¡°Of course you can. We¡¯ll come with, too.¡± Harley offered, as Essex let herself be held, while Julia and Joleicia served themselves.


    ¡°More pasta, m¡¯lady?¡± Joleicia offered, as Julia chuckled into her hand.


    ¡°At once, peasant! Spoon it to me!¡± Julia joked, while Joleicia played it up, right as she noticed Wess standing by where Essex was a second ago, still rubbing her eye. ¡°Wess, hey.¡±


    The others turned to her happily, as she gave an incidental wave.


    ¡°Apologies. I heard the commotion and didn¡¯t want to be left out.¡± Wess admitted, making her way over, before nearly running into Percy¡¯s chair. ¡°Shit.¡±


    Joleicia quickly got up and led her to her seat. ¡°It¡¯s cool. I can help.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Joleicia.¡± Wess said, only to notice Essex out of her room and share a glance with her. ¡°¡­dear, it¡¯s been a minute.¡±


    ¡°That it has.¡± Essex agreed, right as Percy decided to raise her glass and clink her fork to it.


    She held it out in the middle of the table, as the others quickly realised what she wanted and raised theirs as well, clinking it to hers.


    The only one left was Julia, simply caught up in her own head, before registering everyone staring at her.


    ¡°O-Oh, oops.¡± She let out, getting a few laughs, as she grabbed her glass, before staring around at the others, finding them all in surprisingly good spirits.


    Once again, despite everything, they were okay.


    Things may have gotten worse, and would never be the same again, but they were okay, and that¡¯s what mattered.


    Julia found herself smiling.


    ¡°Cheers.¡±


    Milo stared in from the front door, only just peeking through as he arrived back from his late shift at work.


    He¡¯d caught them mid-conversation, all laughing up a storm and enjoying each other¡¯s company, before deciding to close the door and leave them to their business, sitting against it and staring up at the stars.


    ¡°¡­maybe it¡¯s just not me¡­¡± Milo admitted, sighing out as he felt sorry for himself. ¡°¡­she looks so much more open with them¡­¡±


    Shaking his head, he leaned back, before smiling. ¡°I guess that¡¯s all anyone really needs. Good people.¡±


    The night sent a small chill to him, as he started to get comfortable.


    ¡°That¡¯s what love is, huh?¡±

 Chapter 58: Adjusting

    ¡°¡­kay, we¡¯re just gonna do a little reflex test. It¡¯ll sting for a bit, but we should be done with most of the prodding after it.¡±


    ¡°Understood.¡± Essex replied, readying herself properly.


    Pather leaned down to her arm, before pushing several spots across its length a few times, as Essex winced with each press, trying to keep her arm still.


    ¡°¡­okay, good reaction.¡± Pather assessed, grabbing her clipboard. ¡°Pain receptors are still all there¡­and that¡¯s most of it. Essex, say hello to your new hand.¡±


    Essex stared down at her arm, before lifting up the prosthetic hand Pather had so painstakingly installed over the better half of a few days. A metal connector had been fused to her arm, still stinging a fair bit from the surgery, with the full prosthetic, almost robotic hand attached onto it, barely moving as Essex tried to lift a finger.


    Pather gave a small wave through the window out of the academy infirmary, as the others started to file in now that the tests were done, with Julia leading the charge.


    ¡°So it¡¯s all finished?¡± Julia asked, as Pather nodded back. ¡°That¡¯s incredible. I didn¡¯t know prosthetics had gotten this quick.¡±


    ¡°Kinda had to with how the Conflict¡¯s going.¡± Pather pointed out, as Julia found herself blushing in embarrassment.


    ¡°O-Oh, yeah, that makes sense¡­¡± Julia muttered, as Harley and Sola quickly checked on Essex, with Sola still using her crouches for her broken leg.


    ¡°Did the surgery hurt?¡± Sola asked, grabbing Essex¡¯s other hand, while Essex put on a brave face.


    ¡°¡­Dal.¡± Essex admitted, lowering her hand again. ¡°But that was expected.¡±


    ¡°Kinda looks like when you use your Whil.¡± Harley pointed out, going to touch it, before stopping herself. ¡°Oh, uhh, can I¡­?¡±


    ¡°It should be fine.¡± Essex said, as Harley went to lift it up, before stunning herself with the intricacy of the technology, as Percy hopped up on a nearby bed and Wess joined Julia¡¯s side.


    ¡°Our sincerest gratitude, Pather.¡± Wess wished, as Julia turned back to Pather too.


    ¡°Yeah, thank you so much. I know this is a lot for anyone to have to do so suddenly.¡± Julia added, as Pather leaned back on the wall.


    ¡°¡­speaking as someone who represents the academy, it¡¯s the least we can do after what happened during that Wailing attack.¡± Pather said. ¡°A whole team battered and bruised after fighting off Wailing, but still holding strong and keeping yourselves together¡­then I learned Essex cauterised her own fucking wound while escaping a fire¡­you guys are baller.¡±


    ¡°Naturally.¡± Wess remarked, as Percy silently snickered off to the side.


    ¡°You¡¯re just lucky the academy¡¯s covering the cost too. These can get expensive.¡± Pather noted, studying Essex¡¯s uncomfortable expression.


    Pather gave Harley and Sola a couple more seconds, before stepping in and facing Essex.


    ¡°Okay, I¡¯m gonna give you the spiel I usually give for prosthetics.¡± Pather prefaced, squatting down to stay eye level with Essex. ¡°First of all, this isn¡¯t a one-for-one replacement. The technology¡¯s good, but it¡¯s not magic. You¡¯ll have to maintain it and make sure not to do anything dumb with it once you¡¯re out of here.¡±


    Essex simply nodded, as Pather started miming with her hand. ¡°Now, since they¡¯re so advanced, it¡¯ll take a lot of time for your body to adjust to a replacement limb. You won¡¯t get much or any movement at the start, but after a couple months, it should start to feel a bit easier to do. However, don¡¯t wear it all the time. Ease your body into it.¡±


    Pather raised a finger. ¡°My recommendation is to start wearing it for one hour a day, only taking it off if it starts to hurt, and remembering to take it off before bed. Also¡­¡±


    Pather raised Essex¡¯s other hand for her. ¡°You¡¯re in a very lucky position with your Whil. Since you can change your body to metal you¡¯re touching, it should mean your body gets used to it a lot quicker than most.¡±


    ¡°How much quicker?¡± Harley asked, as Pather took a second to stand back up.


    ¡°¡­most people with prosthetics say they only really start feeling comfortable with it after several years of use.¡± Pather clarified, stroking her chin. ¡°It¡¯s just an estimation, but I¡¯d reckon only a few for Essex.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s great!¡± Julia let out, looking back at Essex. ¡°Well there you go, that¡¯s some good news.¡±


    Essex nodded back to Julia, still not feeling comfortable enough to casually chat much, as Pather smiled and squatted back down.


    ¡°Couple other nitty gritty things. Like I said, it¡¯s a machine, it needs maintenance. If you feel like doing it yourself, again, don¡¯t be stupid, but see about a doctor, preferably one who specialises in Venators. Phantom pain is also a common issue.¡±


    ¡°Phantom pain?¡± Essex asked, as Pather slowly lifted up Essex¡¯s prosthetic hand.


    ¡°It¡¯s a recurring effect after losing a limb. It¡¯s basically the brain having a little episode and causing pain in the limb that isn¡¯t there anymore.¡± Pather explained. ¡°It tends to vary a lot in length and severity, but if it does come up, I¡¯ve got a good trick.¡±


    Pather pushed a small button on the top of the hand, before lifting, twisting it, and lifting it again to take the hand off, while wrapping her hand around the connector. ¡°Just hold your hand over the connector and repeat the phrase ¡®it¡¯s not there.¡¯ Ground yourself and remind your brain of what¡¯s real.¡±


    ¡°That¡­is my wheelhouse.¡± Essex admitted, as Harley and Sola laughed beside her.


    ¡°Good. That¡¯s most of it¡­¡± Pather said, before throwing her head back and massaging her forehead. ¡°¡­wait, one more point. Wash the space between the connector and stump regularly. Pus and bacteria can build up in there if you neglect it, or it can start to bleed randomly. You know, bad stuff.¡±


    ¡°Eww.¡± Sola let out, wincing, as Pather scanned around her.


    ¡°Now where¡¯d I¡­?¡± Pather muttered, before looking to Percy. ¡°That¡¯s it. Sorry, do you mind getting up?¡±


    Percy looked a bit confused, before realising she accidentally sat on Pather¡¯s clipboard and standing up immediately.


    [Sorry.] Percy signed, as Pather grabbed it, before holding it under her arm.


    [Not a problem.] She signed back. [I didn¡¯t get your name.]


    [Percy.] Percy replied, as Pather snapped her fingers.


    [Faller mentioned you. You¡¯re staying with them.] Pather realised, before staring at Percy again.


    Percy noticed and looked around curiously, as Pather tapped her foot. [Out of curiosity, are you deaf or mute?]


    [¡­mute.] Percy replied, before Pather stepped forward and scanned her.


    ¡°Uhh, Pather¡­?¡± Julia wondered, right as she stood back up straight.


    ¡°¡­and where are you from originally?¡±


    [The Western Wayside. Cima Dela.] Percy answered, before Pather wrote a couple things down.


    After a couple more moments, with Percy almost leaning over to read the clipboard herself, Pather sighed out.


    ¡°¡­if you want¡­¡± Pather started, facing her again. ¡°And this is totally up to you¡­there¡¯s a quick procedure we can do that¡¯ll replace your voice box with a synthetic one. Once you¡¯ve gotten used to it, well¡­it¡¯ll allow you to speak.¡±


    Percy¡¯s eyes widened as she took in the news, her jaw hanging open, before stepping back in shock, falling to the bed again.


    ¡°Wait, did you not know?¡± Harley asked, as Percy shook her head, before double taking.


    [Did you?!]


    ¡°It¡¯s pretty common, actually. They had the breakthrough a couple decades ago, right?¡± Wess clarified, as Pather nodded. ¡°Apologies. I just assumed you knew about it and had chosen otherwise.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s why I asked where she¡¯s from. The west hasn¡¯t had access to a lot of this stuff yet.¡± Pather explained, before crouching to Percy like she had with Essex. ¡°Again, this is your call. It¡¯s a small procedure, virtually no risk, easy enough to do on the academy¡¯s watch. Just figured I¡¯d let you know about the option.¡±


    Percy could feel her mouth drying up, as she quickly signed a thank you to Pather, before Sola pulled herself over and sat next to her.


    ¡°Sorry. We really thought you knew.¡± Sola insisted, rubbing her back, as Percy faced her again.


    [Wicker never told me about it.] Percy admitted, before falling backwards onto the bed. [He couldn¡¯t even stand the thought of me arguing back, could he?]


    [What a douche.] Sola agreed, as Percy took a second, before finding herself smiling back at Sola, right as Pather made her way over to Wess.


    ¡°With Essex¡¯s transplant concluded, we can move onto the business of Wess¡¯ replacement eye.¡± Pather started, facing Wess, as she flashed a smile.


    ¡°Pather, you¡¯re an angel.¡± Wess said, only for Pather to let out a weak scoff and avoid eye contact.


    ¡°Don¡¯t thank me so soon¡­we got the results back for your scan.¡± Pather prefaced, as Wess folded her arms.


    ¡°¡­your tone sounds negative.¡±


    ¡°It usually does, but it¡¯s more justified now.¡± Pather clarified, before taking a moment and stepping out of the way. ¡°Actually, it¡¯ll be better if I show it.¡±


    Pather walked over to a small display on the wall, with a scan of Wess¡¯ head pinned up, showing a side profile of the inside of her eye, as the others, save for Essex, came over to see as well.


    ¡°You remember the Wailing you were fighting, right?¡± Pather asked, as Wess nodded efficiently, now feverishly moving her eye between the scan and Pather. ¡°Well, you might not have noticed during the bout, but the Wailing possessed a form of magic. It seemed that from its fangs and tail, it secreted an acidic concoction that¡¯s intent is to weaken prey by forcing wounds to stay open.¡±


    Pather took a heavy breath, before pointing to the scan. ¡°It appears that when you went in to strike it, it was using its magic while it struck you back¡­and that some of that substance still remains in the retina.¡±


    Pather showed a small blob of the purple, fluorescent substance the Wailing was producing clung to the back part of the retina, as Wess leaned in, studying the image.


    ¡°It¡¯s currently blocking off access to the optic nerve and seems to have seeped into it too. We haven¡¯t encountered this kind of Wailing or magic much at all, so the chance of removing it is¡­slim.¡±


    ¡°How slim?¡± Wess quickly asked, her attention completely on the scan.


    ¡°¡­removing it might cause irreparable damage that would make installing a replacement eye impossible.¡± Pather admitted, shoving her hands in her pockets. ¡°Just to put some numbers to it, the chances of a successful removal would be around six percent.¡±


    Wess felt her breath catch, as Julia rested her arms around Wess comfortingly, before turning to Pather. ¡°Is there a way around the blockage?¡±


    Pather shook her head. ¡°Eyes are delicate, the replacement even more so. It needs to be in a near perfect spot to act like it should, or else it might roll the wrong way, or worsen Wess¡¯ vision more. So many things can fuck up with this, it would be irresponsible for me to install it without removing that substance.¡±


    With everyone giving Wess her space, she stood up straight again, not really focusing on anything right now, before stepping backward.


    ¡°¡­I need a minute.¡±


    Right then, she stormed off out of the infirmary leaving without another word, as Julia followed directly after her, leaving the others and Pather in an awkward spot.


    ¡°¡­she handled that well.¡± Pather admitted, throwing her head back. ¡°Most students just yell at me¡­¡±


    ¡°Poor Wess¡­¡± Sola let out, as Harley hugged her side, right as Essex hopped up from her bed, before joining them and giving the scans a closer look.


    Percy stepped over to the window and caught Julia and Wess in a heated discussion, as Wess was visibly furious and upset, and Julia was doing everything she could to calm her down. As they spoke, Wess started to break down into tears, before Julia reached out and held her, letting her work through it.


    ¡­so much has happened in such a short amount of time. She realised, as the other three idly talked about the situation behind her. This must¡¯ve really pushed it for her. Add onto it that nothing can be done¡­


    ¡°¡­he research isn¡¯t even close. Most Venators who suffer the effects of Wailing magic die immediately from it, so we can¡¯t learn anything.¡± Pather confessed, as Harley, Sola and Essex listened on. ¡°Or it¡¯s not helpful. Like, a Wailing shoots fire at you, there¡¯s not much to learn from that.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, people aren¡¯t fireproof. Thanks, science.¡± Harley remarked, readjusting her footing, before spotting Julia and Wess in the window, now accompanied by another person.


    They eventually made their way back in, with Wess trying to make herself look like she hadn¡¯t been crying, as Coatsworth followed behind them, though much slower with the addition of his new cane.


    ¡°Coatsworth!¡± Harley let out, running up to him. ¡°You¡¯re back from the hospital.¡±


    ¡°Yes. It was a good few weeks.¡± Coatsworth remarked, staring up at the ceiling quietly. ¡°And a little nostalgic, in a strange way¡­I¡¯m glad to be back though.¡±


    ¡°Looks like they did a good job on ya.¡± Pather commented, coming forward, before indicating to the cane. ¡°And that you¡¯ll be stuck with desk work.¡±


    ¡°I suppose so. They were only able to remove so much of the Wailing¡¯s acid, and it appears some of it made its way to my spine.¡± Coatsworth clarified, sighing out. ¡°But I have no regrets. I would do it again in a heartbeat.¡±


    ¡°We still didn¡¯t get to thank you!¡± Sola added, jumping in front of him. ¡°So thank you! Thank you so much!¡±


    ¡°You took the hit like a champ. Eternally grateful.¡± Harley followed up, hugging Sola from behind.


    ¡°Of course. My only shame is that the Wailing still managed to leave more lasting damage.¡± Coatsworth said, turning to a slightly ashamed Wess. ¡°My dearest apologies.¡±


    ¡°¡­there was hardly much any of us could do about that.¡± Wess stated, as Julia went to hug her side. ¡°Thank you, truly. Yours were the actions of a hero.¡±


    Coatsworth found himself charmed, as he tried to remain looking humble. ¡°¡­when you see the chance, you take it. That was all there was to it.¡±


    Still so much humility. Percy realised, as she watched the team still fawning over him. I guess we really should be grateful it didn¡¯t end up worse¡­


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­poor Cecil.¡±


    Florey stared worriedly into the infirmary, with Cecil still in the same position he¡¯d been in for weeks. He hadn¡¯t been permitted inside yet, so he was just left to stare in from the outside.


    ¡°¡­h-haven¡¯t the Wailing done enough to us?¡± Florey complained, starting to feel himself well up.


    ¡°HEY!¡±


    Florey jumped suddenly, recognising the voice behind him and wiping his tears quickly, before turning to face Marcus.


    ¡°I said you couldn¡¯t come down to the lower floors.¡± Marcus insisted, deliberately leaning over Florey to freak him out, as Florey backed away.


    ¡°I-I-I needed to. M-My Wailing p-project and Rosalind a-and¡­I needed to know i-if he was oka-¡°


    Marcus raised his hand to shut him up, before his gaze sunk.


    ¡°¡­you¡¯re just gonna keep coming down here until he¡¯s better, huh?¡± Marcus reasoned, as he sighed out and marched forward. ¡°You delay your work, I keep having to drag you back up¡­¡±


    Florey wanted to speak up, only for Marcus to drag his foot and walk to the infirmary entrance, opening it up.


    ¡°¡­until you complete your project, you¡¯re permitted to come down here. Check on Cecil if you need, but don¡¯t let it affect your work.¡± Marcus declared, nodding his head inside, as Florey wasted no time heading inside and up to Cecil¡¯s bedside.


    Even up close, he looked no different. Just as stiff and motionless as outside. However, Florey at the very least was happy to see his breath rising slightly, showing a minimal amount of life.


    ¡°¡­so.¡±


    Florey pulled his attention back to Marcus, still hovering over him.


    ¡°How IS your project?¡± Marcus asked, as Florey started to sweat. ¡°Rosalind said you retrieved the Wailing, so all that¡¯s left is the autopsy, right?¡±


    Marcus¡¯ scowl was left unbroken, as Florey started to stammer a reason, only for yelling to come out from the hallways and distract them both.


    ¡°Fuck off, you nosy little fucker! I don¡¯t need your laced hippie love-in tea!¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s herbal, and it helps with nerves and sleep.¡± Salaire insisted, following after Rosalind. ¡°You haven¡¯t been sleeping much since you los-¡°


    Rosalind yanked out her sword and pushed it against Salaire¡¯s stomach, as he stepped back in panic and held his hands up.


    ¡°I-I-I take it back! You¡¯re fine, b-better than fine! The bags under your eyes m-make you look way hotter!¡± Salaire blurted out, nearly falling backward, as Rosalind held the sword there until he did.


    As Salaire pulled himself up, Rosalind spotted Marcus and rushed into the infirmary.


    ¡°Marcus, fire him.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not doing that.¡± Marcus stated, folding his arms, as Salaire wandered in, only for Rosalind to brandish her sword again.


    ¡°Then let me kill him already.¡±


    ¡°Really funny joke, Rosalind.¡± Marcus said, subtly indicating to Florey, as Rosalind only just acknowledged he was here.


    Florey stared at her in confusion, unsure whether to take her threat to Salaire literally, as she put her sword away.


    ¡°I¡¯ve been meaning to speak with you.¡± Marcus said, as Rosalind raised an eyebrow. ¡°We have your replacement arm ready for installation.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Rosalind let out, as Florey found himself subconsciously staring at where her left arm used to be, now covered with a makeshift cloak he guessed was from the bedsheets she was using in the Wailing storage room.


    ¡°We need you at peak efficiency. You¡¯re only half as effective without it.¡± Marcus stated, as Rosalind got in his face.


    ¡°I¡¯m not a fucking machine.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re still an employee though. His and my employee.¡± Marcus said, indicating to Cecil in the bed. ¡°And he¡¯d say the same thing. You went off on your own, lost a limb, and now we¡¯re replacing it. You¡¯re welcome.¡±


    ¡°You of all¡­¡± Rosalind started, gritting her teeth. ¡°How bout you kiss him already and wake him up from his slumber, your majesty?¡±


    ¡°Rosalind, I let your tone slide.¡± Marcus reminded her, before taking a step forward. ¡°But we¡¯re talking about work. And once again, you owe me.¡±


    Rosalind could feel her blood boiling, as she felt the need to pull out her sword, before turning around and storming out instead, grabbing her keys from her pocket.


    ¡°¡­when he wakes up, you tell that cunt he can take that arm and shove it up his comatose ass!¡±


    Salaire blinked in shock at the harsh language, as Marcus scoffed, watching Rosalind storm off in the direction of the parking lot.


    Florey needed a moment to detox from that, not really knowing if it was his place to comment on anything, before stepping to Marcus¡¯ side. ¡°U-Uhh¡­sir? Shouldn¡¯t¡­you make sure she doesn¡¯t leave?¡± Florey asked, his mind thinking back to the unattended Wailing. ¡°I¡­really need her help going forward.¡±


    ¡°She¡¯ll be back.¡± Marcus assured, pulling up a chair next to Cecil.


    ¡°A-Are you sure?¡± Florey reiterated, looking back to Salaire for help.


    ¡°She always comes back.¡± Marcus answered, lifting one of Cecil¡¯s hands and holding it. ¡°This isn¡¯t the first time. She can¡¯t fight her nature like that.¡±


    Without much else to go off of, Florey gave Cecil another once-over, before heading back to the Wailing storage room to cover for Rosalind as she disappeared out of the building, as Salaire let out a worried breath.


    ¡°Quite the unruly bunch we are¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°Come on!¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­for the¡­argh!¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­son of a bitch! This is hopeless!¡±


    Percy stared down at the ground, lost in her own head on the back porch of Julia¡¯s house, only being pulled out of it when Wess threw Belvedere to the ground in frustration, crouching down with her hands balled up.


    ¡°Wess?¡± Harley asked, looking over from her training post, as Wess shook her head in annoyance.


    Harley quickly jogged over, before resting her hand on Wess¡¯ back.


    ¡°Hey, hey, it¡¯s all good.¡± Harley interjected, as Wess tried standing back up. ¡°You won¡¯t get it straight away.¡±


    Wess sharply breathed out, before picking up Belvedere again. ¡°It¡¯s stationary, and I can¡¯t even hit the goddamn thing. My depth perception¡¯s still betraying me. We finally get to train outside of the academy and¡­¡±


    Harley rested her hands on her side, as Wess glared back at the post.


    ¡°¡­fuck this.¡± She let out, dropping Belvedere again and heading inside, passing by Percy and almost hitting the door frame as she went in.


    Julia caught this right as she was heading outside, only for Wess to groan and charge right past her.


    ¡°We-¡±


    ¡°Not now!¡± Wess yelled, heading back into her room, as Julia kept her eye on her, before meeting back up with Harley and Percy.


    ¡°Hey, what¡¯s all the yelling?¡± Dulce cried out, bursting in through the front door, as Harley stepped in.


    A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation.


    ¡°It¡¯s all good, Dulce! Wess is just having a tough time!¡± Harley explained, as Dulce gave a quick nod, before stepping back outside.


    Julia looked up at Harley. ¡°Did she get hurt?¡±


    Harley shook her head. ¡°She¡¯s struggling to train. Her depth perception¡¯s totally off. It¡¯s not really something we can fix for her¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­Pather said as much. I wish there was anything we could do¡­¡± Julia admitted, before catching Percy staring off into space again and deciding to distract herself.


    She sat behind her. ¡°Still thinking about Pather¡¯s offer?¡±


    Percy noticed Julia there and nodded, as Julia handed a sandwich over.


    ¡°It¡¯s a pretty big life decision. Sorry we can¡¯t¡­give more feedback, I guess.¡± Julia admitted, as Percy shook her head.


    [I get it. It¡¯s very personal to me.] Percy agreed, before taking a bite.


    ¡°¡­you know, the head of the engineering department back at the academy¡¯s also mute. Jovie.¡± Julia explained, as Percy¡¯s eyes lit up. ¡°You could ask her about it. She¡¯d have a more first-hand understanding.¡±


    [Really?]


    ¡°Yeah. You probably never met her since you¡¯re not a student. She¡¯s pretty busy.¡± Julia clarified, before standing back up. ¡°It¡¯s worth a shot, at least.¡±


    ¡°She¡¯d be more helpful than us.¡± Harley admitted, shrugging, as Percy finished off her sandwich, before grabbing another one, right as Julia started heading back inside.


    ¡°Let me know when my dad and Sola get back with the groceries. I¡¯ll leave some food for them.¡± Julia offered, as Harley gave her a thumbs up, right as she went to Essex¡¯s door.


    Essex was mostly following after Percy in terms of getting trapped in her own head. She¡¯d spent most of the time after coming back from the academy feeling sorry for herself, with the weight of her prosthetic only making things more difficult.


    Fortunately, a gentle knock came to her door.


    ¡°You¡¯re welcome.¡± Essex said, as Julia opened up it up.


    ¡°Hey. Just dropping off some food, and I wanted to check up on you. Is the prosthetic still¡­chugging along?¡± Julia asked, before feeling embarrassed. ¡°¡­I-I mean, do you need help with it at all?¡±


    Essex slowly shook her head, before turning her gaze away from Julia.


    ¡°Okay¡­is it a bit weird?¡± Julia questioned, drawing Essex¡¯s attention again. ¡°I had a friend in high school whose dad got a prosthetic leg, and he said he felt like a cyborg pirate walking around with it.¡±


    ¡°¡­did he own a boat?¡± Essex asked, as Julia tilted her head.


    ¡°¡­no, no I think he just had a long beard.¡± Julia recalled, before spotting Essex¡¯s sunken gaze again.


    ¡°¡­it¡­is not the hand.¡± Essex admitted, hiding her face, as Julia approached the side of her bed.


    ¡°Okay. You wanna talk about it?¡± Julia said, as Essex didn¡¯t really give a yes or no.


    ¡°¡­I have lost many things in my life.¡± Essex stated, looking to her scythe. ¡°But within the confines of my life, they have not mattered. According the Muer, one does not bask in the extremities of life, so by this principal, regret is obsolete. These feelings are impermanent and selfish.¡±


    Essex slowly lifted her hand, as Julia sat down on the edge of Essex¡¯s bed. ¡°By extension, the body is the same. Muer tinusa. Selamorta no. The body is a vessel. Pain is temporary.¡±


    Julia could see Essex trying to force a fist out of her hand, only for it to refuse to do so.


    ¡°¡­so w-why do I care? This body will not last.¡± Essex let out, lifting it up vitriolically. ¡°This should not be i-important, but it has kept we awake at night with anxious worries.¡±


    Julia wrapped her gloved hand around Essex¡¯s arm and slowly lowered it. ¡°Well¡­regardless of the philosophy, it¡¯s still part of you that you lost from doing the right thing. You sacrificed it protecting our dorm and fighting off Rosalind. Wess is feeling that too. It¡¯s not fair, and that feeling really sucks.¡±


    Suddenly, Julia found Essex locking eyes with her, before pulling back suddenly.


    ¡°No.¡± Essex refused, shaking her head. ¡°I refuse that.¡±


    Essex stood up and looked down to Julia.


    ¡°I did not sacrifice this to protect anyone. I was not concerned with the dorm, all I wanted was to fight and kill Rosalind.¡± Essex confessed, solid in her resolve. ¡°This was not lost in a noble effort.¡±


    ¡°W-What do you mean?¡± Julia asked, as Essex slammed her foot down.


    ¡°¡­I knew that no one was at risk in the dorm and that you were all dealing with Wicker and the Wailing. I needlessly risked my life against Rosalind so that I could fulfill a selfish desire to enact justice.¡± Essex declared, speaking far more emotionally than Julia was used to. ¡°¡­Wess saved Harley and Sola¡­I did nothing. I fucked up.¡±


    Julia watched on in surprise, as Essex poured her heart out. ¡°I¡­have never been a good member of the clan.¡± Essex confessed, tears starting to stream from her eyes, even as she tried to hold them back. ¡°¡­and I have p-pushed against my nature in order to be, but it has a-always been a wasted effort.¡±


    She glared at her prosthetic again. ¡°The c-clan would be disgusted with me for this.¡±


    Essex was just crying at this point, trying to hide herself from looking down at the connector, as Julia took a second to take it all in, before standing up as well and guiding Essex back down to the bed.


    ¡°¡­okay.¡± Julia said, looking back at her. ¡°¡­I wasn¡¯t there, so I can¡¯t say whether what you did was right or wrong.¡±


    Julia slid her hand underneath Essex¡¯s prosthetic one, before lifting it and locking their fingers together. ¡°So, if you could change your behaviour, what would you do differently next time?¡±


    Essex felt a bit put on the spot, still reeling from her emotional outburst, as she wiped at her eyes again.


    ¡°¡­I must choose which fights are worth having.¡± Essex decided. ¡°And¡­I do not believe all of the Segaru Clan¡¯s teachings have been aiding me¡­I will need to reassess my values¡­¡±


    Julia smiled. ¡°That sounds like a good start.¡±


    Feeling her breathing return to normal, Essex suddenly felt Julia¡¯s head lower onto her shoulder, as Julia lay on Essex¡¯s side and closed her eyes.


    ¡°¡­I can safely say, we¡¯re just glad you¡¯re still here¡­¡± Julia confessed, as Essex felt her heart flutter, right as the setting sun started coming through the window, basking themselves in the few remaining rays of the day.


    Essex left herself there, letting Julia start to fall asleep on her, as they both finally got some much needed rest.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°¡­ey, hey! You know my drink! Come on, barkeep! Get your ass in high gear!¡±


    ¡°R-Right, so sorry Ripper!¡± He warbled, quickly going to grab his drink, as Ripper sat down at the bar, along with the rest of his team.


    ¡°I think Team Wyld deserves a bit more respect!¡± Another member insisted, slamming his hand down on the bar. ¡°Maybe we can refuel our bikes for free?¡±


    ¡°F-Free?!¡± The barkeep worried, the team now getting looks from the rest of the bargoers, before Ripper slapped his arm.


    ¡°Hey, come on. We can¡¯t dry him up completely.¡± Ripper insisted, lying back onto the bar and stretching out. ¡°Once we get this Wailing bastard tomorrow, we¡¯ll be swimmin¡¯ in luxury. We¡¯ll never need to pay for fuel again after tonight!¡±


    ¡°Will it cover the booze though?¡± Another member insisted, getting laughs from the rest of the team, right as the front door to the bar slammed open, with Rosalind dragging herself in, visibly sunken with her sheets trailing behind her.


    She pocketed her car keys and briefly drew the attention away from Team Wyld, still getting looks as she approached the bar, walking up to Ripper.


    She glanced down at the stool.


    ¡°You checkin¡¯ out the goods?¡± Ripper asked, as Rosalind stared him in the eyes.


    ¡°You¡¯re in my seat.¡±


    ¡°¡­tch.¡± Ripper let out, leaning forward. ¡°I got here first. This is usually where I sit.¡±


    ¡°You lookin¡¯ to scrap?¡± Another member insisted, getting in Rosalind¡¯s face, as Ripper held her back.


    ¡°Hey, let¡¯s not ruin the vibe here. You want a drink?¡± Ripper offered, as Rosalind checked over the rest of the team.


    ¡°I don¡¯t drink.¡± Rosalind insisted, getting a laugh from Ripper.


    ¡°Then why¡¯d you want my seat? And what¡¯s with the bedsheets?¡± Ripper remarked, before standing up to address her. ¡°Geez, you¡¯re a weird one. Do you know who you¡¯re talking to?¡±


    ¡°I drove here aimlessly, so no.¡± Rosalind asked, as Ripper sneered.


    ¡°We¡¯re Team Wyld, the one and only biker Venator gang. We usually only fuck up Wailing, but we don¡¯t like getting played around with.¡± Ripper stated, running his finger under Rosalind¡¯s chin. ¡°Capiche?¡±


    Instead of answering, Rosalind took a few more glances, before heading to the entrance of the bar again.


    ¡°¡­that¡¯s what I thought.¡± Ripper let out, getting nods of approval from his team. ¡°Smarter than she looks.¡±


    Just as he was about to get his drink, Rosalind stuck her head back inside.


    ¡°These your bikes outside?¡±


    Ripper smirked. ¡°Yeah, wh-¡°


    Rosalind ducked out again, as Ripper took a second, before realising the obvious and hurrying outside, only to find Rosalind slicing through the bikes with her katana, hitting the gas tank on a couple and blowing them up.


    ¡°What the fuck?!¡± Ripper yelled out, as Rosalind lazily looked back at him.


    ¡°You lookin¡¯ to scrap?¡± Rosalind asked, taking a few more jabs at the closest bike again, as Ripper grit his teeth and charged at her, followed by the rest of Team Wyld.


    The fight wasn¡¯t even fair.


    Rosalind made quick work of the entire team, killing Ripper almost instantly and slowly witling down the other members. A couple of the ones with Whils got in a few good hits, but Rosalind was barely phased, making a point to take out whoever had just hit her last. Her expression remained motionless throughout, finding that ironically, even with only one arm, it didn¡¯t hold her back as much as she thought it would. One of the perks of being ambidextrous, she guessed.


    As the last member¡¯s body fell to the ground, Rosalind let out a breath before surveying the situation. Her attention was drawn to the glowing light by one of the bodies, with their tablet having fallen out of their pocket.


    Rosalind reached down to grab it and found a listing for a hunt the team were apparently in the middle of, showing a Wailing fairly close to the area.


    Rosalind glanced at her surroundings and acknowledged it was the dead of night, only to retrieve her sword from one of the bodies and head into the woods.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Jovie, as usual, was busy tinkering away.


    Admittedly, it was on training equipment, which was at least a good change of pace to student weaponry. A student had finally managed to get a decent dent in the seemingly indestructible training posts. In truth, they weren¡¯t that at all, but it was a catchy name and made Jovie feel good to think people thought she was capable of that.


    As she banged out the side of the post with a large hammer, it was only when she stopped briefly that she heard the incredibly loud knocking coming from the door, as Percy looked a bit sheepish.


    [Sorry.] Percy signed. [I was trying to get your attention.]


    Jovie dismissively waved her hand, before rolling her chair out. [Alright, how¡¯d you break it?]


    Percy looked a bit confused, before shaking her head. [I¡¯m¡­not here for a weapon repair.]


    [First-year?] Jovie asked. [Want me to look over your blueprints?]


    Percy kept shaking her head. [I¡¯m not a student. I came to ask a personal question.]


    Jovie squinted a bit, before standing up and thinking things over while signing. [¡­I¡­don¡¯t know you personally. This is ki-]


    [I¡¯m friends with Team Valiant.] Percy admitted, as Jovie started to piece things together. [We were with Pather and she was telling me about surgery to get a voice box replacement. But I¡¯m kind of in two minds about it.]


    Jovie finally nodded, getting the idea, before spinning her chair to her desk and pulling out a box of weaponry.


    [Right, that makes sense actually. You already use sign language more than most.] Jovie confessed, smiling. [I should¡¯ve put two and two together.]


    Percy looked around for somewhere to sit and propped herself up on a table, as Jovie took out a few pistols from the box and started tinkering with them.


    She grimaced a little, before looking back to Percy. [Sorry. I¡¯m paying attention.]


    Percy jumped slightly and sat forward. [Julia told me, but I wanna be sure. You¡¯re also mute, right?]


    Jovie chuckled a little and nodded, as she put the pistols down. [Most people assume I¡¯m deaf since I work with such loud equipment.] Jovie explained, before moving to put her goggles on proper. [But it means people don¡¯t bother talking to me, which means more work gets done.]


    Jovie pointed back at Percy. [That, I do like.]


    [And people just don¡¯t check?] Percy wondered, as Jovie shrugged.


    [Why would they? It¡¯s mostly students coming in for repairs. They¡¯re not staying to chat.] Jovie explained. [I prefer signing though. I¡¯ve always liked working with my hands.]


    She took the opportunity to assess the pistols again, before pulling out another box and chucking them in there, then turning her attention back to Percy.


    Percy gave her a once over. [Am I interrupting?]


    [Yes.] Jovie confessed. [But everyone always is, so I¡¯m not taking it personally.]


    Percy found herself smirking, before remembering why she was here. [Did you get the chance to have the surgery?]


    Jovie nodded, before mockingly making a gun motion with her fingers and shooting herself.


    [Hard pass.] Jovie admitted. [Already not a fan of surgery. I like prodding, I don¡¯t like when people prod me. No disrespect to Pather though, that woman is a saint.]


    Jovie pointed to her chest. [For me, I just didn¡¯t see a point in it.] Jovie admitted. [Frankly, if I could talk, it¡¯d just mean Faller would make me interact with more students and teach more classes. I¡¯m comfortable with how I am now.]


    Percy drooped her eyes. [You¡¯re saying what I think you¡¯re saying, right?]


    [Yep. It¡¯s your choice.] Jovie replied, as Percy sighed out. [¡­you¡¯re not used to having that, are you?]


    Percy found herself looking a little guilty, as Jovie grinned.


    [Talk, don¡¯t talk, who gives a shit.] Jovie remarked, before leaning forward. [Ask yourself this. Would it be a net positive to be able to speak in your life? Cause the answer for most people is yes.]


    Percy found herself a bit stunned, as she found herself agreeing.


    [¡­communication is an invaluable tool.] Jovie insisted, lifting up another weapon. [I put personal touches all throughout these weapons. I may not want to chat with most students, but this is my way of talking to them. Their ideas, my designs, back and forth collaboration. It¡¯s like a conversation we¡¯re having.]


    Percy started to nod along, smiling subtly to herself, before standing back up.


    She slapped her own forehead mockingly. [I think I knew from the start.]


    [You usually do. That¡¯s intuition.] Jovie confessed, tapping the side of her head. [That¡¯s what happens when people shut up for two seconds, they start to think.]


    Percy silently chuckled at the remark, as Jovie returned to tinkering with the box of weapons, only to notice Percy not leaving.


    [If that¡¯s everything, I really am busy, now more so with the chatting. Maybe I liked chatting with you since you¡¯re not technically a student?] Jovie questioned, only to notice Percy sidling up behind her and tapping her shoulder.


    [If it¡¯s alright¡­] Percy started. [I¡¯m kinda interested in some of your work here.]


    Jovie lowered her gaze. [It¡¯s mostly repair work. You¡¯d just be sitting there while I handle things.]


    Percy grinned. [Maybe we could try one of those silent conversations you like having.]


    Jovie admittedly found herself charmed by Percy¡¯s proposition, before shaking her head and motion for her to pull up a chair and join her.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Fuck me, why won¡¯t this headache go away¡­I¡¯m a doctor, drugs should be my friend¡­¡±


    Pather leaned back in her chair, almost falling over, as she downed a couple more pills to handle her headache, washing them down right after.


    She scanned around the empty infirmary and reached into one of her drawers, before pulling out a small joint she¡¯d yet to roll.


    ¡°Might as well step out and self-medicat-¡°


    ¡°Doctor Pather?¡±


    Pather slammed the drawer shut and faced the door, as Wess stepped inside, folding her arms.


    ¡°Don¡¯t call me Doctor Pather, it feels wrong.¡± Pather insisted, rolling her chair over. ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Pain in the scar? Did the pain killer wear off?¡±


    ¡°No, fortunately, that¡¯s been quite mild so far.¡± Wess admitted, sighing out.


    ¡°¡­okay. Just felt like visiting?¡±


    Wess locked her gaze with her. ¡°I wanted to ask what the chances were of getting surgery.¡±


    Pather lifted her head, before turning around in her chair. ¡°Wess, I already told you we can¡¯t make it happen.¡±


    ¡°I know. I just want to be reminded of the numbers instead of bitching and moaning aimlessly like I have been.¡± Wess insisted, breathing out heavily. ¡°Six percent, right?¡±


    Pather could see the pain on Wess¡¯ face, as she pulled out another chair and patted it, encouraging Wess to join her.


    Wess slowly sat down soon after, as Pather pulled her attention to her.


    ¡°¡­this is bullshit.¡± Pather let out, showing her hands.


    Wess squinted. ¡°I know that.¡±


    ¡°I mean it. This is unfair.¡± Pather sympathised. ¡°You fend off a Wailing for the academy, and you lose your eye. Where¡¯s the justice in that?¡±


    ¡°¡­that¡¯s typical for a lot of Venators though, isn¡¯t it?¡± Wess agreed, as Pather nodded.


    ¡°Of course it is. We reward our heroes by having them get maimed. It¡¯s a vicious cycle.¡± Pather admitted, staring off at the fortunately empty infirmary beds.


    ¡°Yes, well¡­¡± Wess muttered, still visibly bitter, as Pather side-glanced her.


    ¡°¡­I¡¯m only bringing this up because it¡¯s pertinent to our discussion, but I¡¯m reminded of Avalon.¡± Pather started, as Wess looked back at her in surprise.


    ¡°How so?¡±


    ¡°A lot of people don¡¯t know that I was tasked with performing surgery once he got back.¡± Pather confessed, as Wess¡¯ eye widened. ¡°His team insisted there was still a bit of life in him, but¡­¡±


    Pather shook her head, letting out a groan of annoyance. ¡°¡­look, this whole job is unfair. Name another profession where people die this much.¡±


    Wess found herself lost for words, as Pather sat up, almost holding herself up. ¡°But¡­and I know this isn¡¯t what you want to hear¡­it could¡¯ve been worse.¡±


    Wess started to see what she was saying, even if it barely helped her situation.


    ¡°It could always be worse. It¡¯s a miracle those Wailing didn¡¯t kill more people.¡± Pather stated. ¡°But there¡¯s people who lose entire functions in their body after a Wailing attack. Or vital organs. Or just die.¡±


    ¡°¡­I know what you¡¯re saying, but a tragedy is just that. There¡¯s no reason to compare it on some sort of scale just to devalue what I¡¯m going through.¡± Wess declared, as Pather shook her head.


    ¡°No, that¡¯s fair. Pain is pain.¡± Pather agreed. ¡°But you saved people. You saved your teammates from getting killed.¡±


    Pather pointed back at Wess¡¯ scar. ¡°You lost your eye, yes, but Harley and Sola are still alive because of what you did.¡±


    Wess subconsciously ran a finger over the scar, recalling the memory of Harley and Sola huddled together, bracing for the Wailing to attack.


    ¡°¡­right.¡±


    ¡°Be mad all you want. It¡¯s not fair¡­but you also didn¡¯t have to become a Venator.¡± Pather pointed out, leaning backward. ¡°You take risks in this job, but you also save lives. That¡¯s the balance.¡±


    Pather tapped her fingers on her chair, watching as a wave of emotions rolled over Wess¡¯ face, trying her best to internalise the advice.


    ¡°¡­balance.¡± Wess remarked, scoffing a little, before getting up. ¡°I guess life just likes dealing me a bad hand¡­¡±


    She headed out right after, trudging somewhat, as Pather took a second, before throwing her head back, trying to ignore her headache.


    ¡°Impromptu counselling¡­quite the chaser for a day like today¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    It had been another sleepless night.


    They hadn¡¯t been getting much better. A cold sweat brought on by flashbacks of the night, the illusion of the smell of smoke drifting into her nose, as her hand started to sting, pulling her up out of bed.


    Except it wasn¡¯t her hand, that wasn¡¯t there anymore.


    It still stung, crying out in pain even without anything there to be hurt.


    Not wanting to disturb anyone else¡¯s sleep, Essex tried to quiet her breathing, feeling her body tense at the pain, before she remembered to wrap her other hand around it.


    ¡°¡­i-it is not there¡­¡±


    The pain stuck around.


    ¡°¡­it is not there¡­¡±


    ¡­


    ¡°¡­it is not there anymore¡­¡±


    ¡­the pain subsided.


    Letting out a content breath, Essex tried to lie back down and sleep, only for her sweat drenched body to make it even more uncomfortable than it already was.


    She dragged herself out of bed, rubbing her face in frustration, before catching her reflection in the laundry window and staring at it.


    Her Team Vivisect shirt, despite its cheap material, still held strong. One of the few things that actually survived the fire, unlike a majority of her suits and dress shirts.


    She pulled it off and threw it to the bed, before grabbing a towel from one of the baskets lying around and wiping her body down.


    As she did, she started to notice all the small scuffs and scars across her body, spotting them in the reflection too, basically anywhere there was space. Bite marks, slashes, stab wounds, punctures, all in her efforts to protect herself and the Segaru Clan.


    Her attention drifted to her ponytail, almost meeting her full height with just how long it was. It had actually been burned during the fight, with the ends of it still crisp and hardened, but her shame meant she hadn¡¯t really told anyone about it, and her clan teaching discouraged cutting it any shorter unless it actively impeded her ability to act on Muer.


    Before joining, she cut her hair fairly regularly. Surviving in the woods, hair was one of the things most likely to get caught in branches, or be grabbed by wild animals and Wailing. Once she had to grow it out, she found herself accidentally chopping at it here and there during combat, but to her, that was just an occupational hazard.


    Before she knew it, she was almost caressing the burnt ends with her metal connector, only to realise what she was doing and pull it away.


    It felt strange thinking about what it was like when she acted on her own. She had to, that¡¯s how she was alive now. But she owed the clan, they saved her. And then she saved them, over and over¡­without a thank you.


    ¡­not that she needed a thank you.


    Even if it wasn¡¯t what woke her up, these thoughts were definitely what was keeping her up.


    ¡°¡­am I¡­holding them back?¡± Essex wondered, pressing her hand to the glass. ¡°¡­or¡­¡±


    Essex looked back at the door out into the lounge room, thinking about just how much the others had opened her up to parts of herself she¡¯d never thought about before. Harley and Sola showed her a love she used to think she didn¡¯t need, Julia encouraged her to find out new things about herself and who she could be, and Wess helped her see and analyse the world in ways she never tried to before.


    And the clan¡­


    ¡­had saved her once.


    ¡°¡­¡±


    Essex found herself lingering on thoughts she pretended hadn¡¯t been there for a while now, as she looked back at the ponytail again, feeling just how weighty it really was, how much the burnt ends really bothered her.


    ¡°¡­¡±


    In her honest opinion, it would¡¯ve looked better if it wasn¡¯t hanging behind her all the time.


    ¡°¡­¡±


    Finally letting it drop, she looked around the laundry, before finding a few drawers and opening them, digging around.


    Eventually, she found a pair of scissors, as she went and sat back on her bed, taking her ponytail again.


    She caressed it for a moment, almost like she was thanking it, preparing herself for what she was about to do, while breathing and silently raising the scissors to the top of her ponytail.


    Just like before, she started to breathe heavily, feeling herself wanting to back out, as she closed her eyes.


    ¡°¡­i-i-it is n-not there¡­¡± She repeated in hopes to calm herself down. ¡°I-It¡­is not there¡­¡±


    Feeling her hand shake, she forced herself to open her eyes, before looking down at the connector again, lying in her lap, as she reminded herself why she was doing this.


    ¡°¡­it is not there¡­¡± She stated again, feeling her heart calm. ¡°¡­and¡­that is okay¡­¡±


    Finally, she started to cut.


    It took a few good slices to get through since there was so much of it, but by the time she was done, it fell back behind her, the weight off her shoulders, as she looked back.


    It was splayed out on the bed, the few white streaks breaking up the black sheet of hair, as she let go of her breath and put the scissors down.


    Feeling her body start to give in a little, she grabbed as much hair as she could and dumped it in an empty basket, before heading back to bed, feeling so much stranger without the massive swath of hair she usually lay on top of.


    ¡°¡­maybe¡­¡± Essex started, only to shake her head and sigh. ¡°¡­no¡­I do not regret this¡­¡±


    She found herself sinking into the bed, drifting back to sleep.


    ¡°¡­it¡¯s time I start living for me¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    The Wailing trundled through the crevice, dragging itself along on its injured legs, trailing streaks of blood across the ground, as it scanned around itself, keeping a cautious eye out for whatever was hunting it down.


    It could barely see anything due to the dead of night, before the heated claw that tried to dig into it earlier swung by its side, nearly slashing it again.


    It took a quick turn at an upcoming corner, slamming against the crevice interior, only to come face to face with a dead-end, too massive to climb, and now blocked off by the thing hunting it.


    Rosalind stood there, watching as it panicked, her sword the only thing producing light with its heat, as she held it by her side, letting the Wailing squirm.


    Realising it had no other alternative, the Wailing cautiously opened its mouth, clearly starting to use whatever form of magic it had to defend itself, only for Rosalind to run up to it and slice down its throat, twisting and turning, before finishing the job, as the Wailing¡¯s body collapsed on the ground in a heap.


    The cold air rushed over Rosalind, as her hair stood up and a rush ran over her body, looking down at her bloodied sword with a wild stare.


    And¡­


    ¡­


    ¡­


    ¡­nothing.


    ¡­


    It was nothing again.


    Just as quickly as it arrived, it disappeared. That feeling failed to last.


    Despite the effort.


    ¡­


    ¡­Rosalind could feel herself breathing now, as she looked up at the night sky, admitting to herself she knew this would happen.


    It always did whenever she felt like this.


    ¡­


    In a bid of desperation, she reached into her pocket, before pulling out her car keys again, looking up from the crevice, as she gripped them tightly in an effort to draw out blood.


    ¡°¡­why is it never e-enough¡­?¡±


    It was a slow drive back. By the time she¡¯d returned, it was already morning, with all the employees of EHM filing back into the building. Rosalind pivoted to the car park, noticing just how empty it was in comparison.


    ¡°¡­well, it¡¯s about as dead as I thought it¡¯d be.¡±


    Rosalind dragged herself through the car park and into the lower floors of EHM, feeling the same stuffiness she¡¯d become accustomed to at this point. She meant to head straight back to the Wailing storage room to avoid running into Marcus, but she was still taking her time.


    ¡°At least no one¡¯s here to say I told you so or whatever¡­half expecting a welcome party¡­¡±


    ¡°Rosalind! You¡¯re back!¡±


    Rosalind turned to face Florey, who was running right past her. ¡°Florey, hey.¡±


    ¡°Come on! There¡¯s been some movement! Cecil¡¯s finally starting to get up!¡± Florey exclaimed, running right for the infirmary, as Rosalind found herself following along, though not nearly at the same excited pace.


    Once she arrived, she found everyone she expected gathered around him, with Salaire stepping aside to give Florey some room to see.


    ¡°Don¡¯t crowd him.¡± Marcus insisted, as the doctor tried to step in.


    ¡°What¡­he said. It¡¯ll still take some time for him to recover, so we should let him work at his own pace.¡± The doctor assured.


    ¡°He doesn¡¯t let us do that.¡± Rosalind chimed in, walking up to join them.


    ¡°Hey, there you are. Have a fun little vacation?¡± Salaire asked, as Rosalind mockingly grinned at him, before flipping him off.


    ¡°I¡¯m kinda wishing you were there¡­¡± Rosalind insisted, as Marcus shooshed everyone, right as Cecil¡¯s eyes started to flutter open.


    ¡°¡­wh¡­¡±


    ¡°Ryan?¡± Marcus asked, as Florey noticed a concern he¡¯d never seen on Marcus¡¯ face before.


    Cecil slowly sat up, wincing in sheer pain, as he looked at everyone there, only half registering what was going on.


    ¡°¡­where¡­¡±


    He blinked a few times.


    ¡°Where¡¯s...your arm?¡±


    Acknowledging what he said, everyone present looked to Rosalind, parting slightly so Cecil could get a better look at her.


    ¡°I lost it while we were at the academy.¡± Rosalind answered, only for Wicker to start sitting up in his bed, propping himself up on his arms.


    ¡°I mean...the prosthetic Marcus would have given you. Where is it?¡± Cecil said, as the doctor rushed to his side.


    ¡°Sir, you shoul-¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t need it.¡± Rosalind replied, just as Wicker scowled.


    ¡°That¡¯s...nothing...¡± Wicker insisted, struggling with the words. ¡°What...good are you if you can¡¯t do your job?¡±


    ¡°I can still use my sw-¡± Rosalind went to argue, before Wicker slammed his fist into the bed.


    ¡°Put it on.¡±


    Rosalind stood back instinctually, debating whether to argue or keep to herself.


    ¡°Wear the fucking arm...¡± He let out, slowly falling back onto the bed. ¡°You don¡¯t get a say in this.¡±


    Cecil drifted off to sleep, as Florey started to panic and reached out.


    ¡°C-Cecil?¡± Florey worried, as the doctor held him back.


    ¡°He¡¯s just sleeping, don¡¯t worry. He expelled too much energy just now.¡± The doctor explained, sighing out. ¡°I was lenient before, but I¡¯ll need everyone out while I run a couple tests on him.¡±


    He looked back at Rosalind, still reeling a bit. ¡°And to get you fitted, of course.¡±


    ¡°¡­fucking bastard¡­¡± Rosalind grumbled, clenching her fist, as Salaire noticed her attitude and took Florey by the shoulders.


    ¡°We should probably clear out.¡± Salaire insisted, as Florey couldn¡¯t help looking back at the scene in the infirmary, his attention on Cecil and Marcus still by his side, before changing to Rosalind, visibly furious and swearing under her breath.


    All in all¡­nothing had changed.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°¡­kay, how¡¯s that feeling?¡±


    Percy gave a quick thumbs up, as Pather took her hands off the bandages around Percy¡¯s neck.


    ¡°That was so quick.¡± Julia remarked, as Sola sat by Percy¡¯s side, with Harley and Wess standing nearby. ¡°It¡¯s done already?¡±


    ¡°The surgery part.¡± Pather explained, turning back to Percy. ¡°The advice it gonna sound similar to what I told Essex, but it¡¯ll take time to adjust. Not as long as hers, but you¡¯ll need to train yourself to learn how to talk. It¡¯s a muscle, so exercise it regularly.¡±


    Percy nodded along, taking a nervous breath in, before trying to say something and wincing.


    ¡°Wait, too early!¡± Pather insisted, throwing her hands up. ¡°Geez, slow your roll. Give it a few minutes to settle in.¡±


    Percy opened her eyes back up, as Sola held her hand and smiled back up at her.


    ¡°This is so cool.¡± Sola exclaimed, as Percy smiled through the pain.


    ¡°Also, just a heads up. The voice box is partly synthetic.¡± Pather explained, rolling her hand. ¡°It¡¯s mechanical. If it¡¯s damaged, it won¡¯t bleed, it¡¯ll break. But you¡¯re not a Venator, so as long as you¡¯re not fighting any constricting snakes, or suck at wearing ties, this shouldn¡¯t be a problem.¡±


    ¡°Is the tie one a joke or real?¡± Harley asked, as Pather stood back up.


    ¡°No, that actually happened.¡± Pather admitted, scratching her head. ¡°You get some weird shit coming in with my line of work.¡±


    As Harley went to join the others in checking on Percy, Pather used the opportunity to hang back with Wess and lean next to her.


    ¡°How¡¯re you holding up?¡± Pather asked, as Wess sighed out, before facing her.


    ¡°¡­I¡¯ve been better.¡± Wess confessed, before watching the others excitedly gathering around Percy. ¡°¡­thinking back on what you said, there¡¯re parts of my life that have been very lucky, and very unlucky. This is just the latter.¡±


    Harley tried picking up Percy to celebrate, only to get resistance from Julia and Sola. Percy, to compensate, stood up on the bed herself, as Harley cheered for her and Julia and Sola tried pulling her back down.


    ¡°But, it¡¯s also a reminder of what I did to protect the former.¡± Wess insisted. ¡°For what it¡¯s worth, I¡¯ll wear it as my badge of honour for as long as they continue to make me happy.¡±


    Pather found herself taken aback by Wess¡¯ attitude, almost feeling a sense of pride welling up in her, before fortunately having her attention drawn to the main doors of the infirmary, with Essex making her way inside.


    It took Wess a second to notice anything different, as she acknowledged Essex coming in, then noticed her hair much shorter than usual and her lack of a suit jacket.


    ¡°Essex.¡± She let out, her mouth agape. ¡°Did you cut your ponytail?¡±


    The rest of the others turned to face her as well, each reacting to Essex¡¯s change in their own time, as Sola ran up to her curiously.


    ¡°Whoa. Hottie alert.¡± Harley let out. ¡°Hey babe. We were gonna bring you with us, but Julia knocked on your door and got no response. Figured you were still asleep.¡±


    ¡°That was a fair assessment.¡± Essex replied, as Sola scanned all around her.


    ¡°You look so different!¡± Sola exclaimed, bobbing Essex¡¯s hair up and down with her hands. ¡°Why¡¯d you cut it?¡±


    ¡°¡­I am taking my life into my own hands.¡± Essex declared, proudly holding out her scythe. ¡°I am no longer restricting myself. I wish to embrace what life has given me and find my own path.¡±


    ¡°W-Wow¡­¡± Julia let out, almost despite herself, before blushing and looking away. ¡°Well¡­we¡¯ll be happy to help you in your¡­journey of self-discovery, I guess.¡±


    ¡°Are you stepping away from the clan?¡± Wess asked, coming over as well, as Essex shook her head.


    ¡°¡­I don¡¯t believe all their teachings have been beneficial to me.¡± Essex confessed. ¡°But I still own them a great debt, so I will do my best to respect their wishes and respect myself.¡±


    Wess found herself amused, before chuckling slightly. ¡°You continue to impress me, dear.¡±


    ¡°Well, what do you wanna do now?¡± Sola asked, hopping in front of Essex. ¡°You¡¯ve got a new lease on life, so what¡¯s your first big thing?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, let yourself indulge. What¡¯s something you wouldn¡¯t normally do?¡± Harley asked, coming over and leaning on Sola¡¯s head.


    Essex scratched her chin.


    ¡°¡­demand something?¡±


    Harley shrugged. ¡°Okay, what¡¯s your declaration?¡±


    Essex thought a bit more, before coming up with an idea and reaching out to Sola, grabbing her shoulders suddenly.


    ¡°Sola, let¡¯s have sex!¡±


    ¡°Wha?!¡± Sola let out, as the others freaked out. ¡°Right now?!¡±


    ¡°No, later!¡± Essex insisted, smiling back at her. ¡°But I love you, so let¡¯s do that! And with Harley too!¡±


    Harley was leaning on Sola, as a laughing fit took her over, tears coming from her eyes at how hard she was laughing.


    ¡°G-Geez. Lease on life Essex is a horndog.¡± Julia let out, as Harley kept cackling wildly.


    ¡°Essex, maybe don¡¯t comment on that in public.¡± Wess advised, indicating to Pather, whose attention was on the inside of Percy¡¯s mouth.


    ¡°I checked out a while ago.¡± Pather admitted, putting her flashlight away, before giving Percy the go ahead.


    Percy took a nervous breath, before pushing herself to try it.


    ¡°¡­h-h¡­¡± Percy managed, still feeling a lot of strain on her neck, as the others all turned back to her, waiting in anticipation.


    Sola¡¯s embarrassment was replaced with excitement, as she jumped over, giving Percy a double thumbs up.


    ¡°You got this! Just believe in yourself!¡± Sola declared, as Percy readied herself.


    Staring back at everyone, she started to feel her apprehension replaced with hope, as something she¡¯d wanted for so long was finally hers. Wicker¡¯s influence was disappearing by the day, and she couldn¡¯t be happier.


    With a smile on her face, she said her first word.


    ¡°¡­h-hello¡­¡±

 Chapter 59: Playful

    =====


    ¡°----------------------------------------------------------nd what¡¯s that been like?¡±


    ¡°¡­well, we¡¯re not doing much these days¡­Faller allowed us to take some time off from our studies to recover.¡±


    ¡°And do you feel the time has helped you?¡±


    ¡°¡­a little.¡± Julia admitted, leaning over her seat while not really facing Ms Winters. ¡°¡­I, uhh¡­still¡­need the gloves on¡­¡±


    Winters watched as Julia struggled to make herself comfortable. ¡°You can lie down on the couch, if you want. I can tell you¡¯re still a bit nervous.¡±


    ¡°O-Oh.¡± Julia let out, jumping up a little and looking back, before facing Winters. ¡°¡­i-if it¡¯s alright, I might just stay like this.¡±


    Winters nodded. ¡°Okay. How¡¯s your team been doing?¡±


    ¡°¡­good. Good.¡± Julia replied, rolling her hands around. ¡°I think it¡¯s a slow process, but they¡¯re getting better. Essex has her prosthetic now, so she can at least train a little. Back to her routine, which is good. Keeps her out of her own head.¡±


    Julia sat up a little. ¡°Wess still needs time. It¡¯s been the opposite with training on her end, but as she likes to state, she¡¯s been through harder. I think she¡¯s putting on a brave face for the rest of us. The few nights we¡¯ve spent together, she¡¯s been pretty pent u-¡°


    ¡°Julia?¡±


    Julia blinked. ¡°Yeah?¡±


    ¡°Did you notice you talked about your team¡¯s recovery more than your own?¡±


    Julia blinked again, before dipping her head down quietly and nervously running her gloves together. ¡°¡­n-not really.¡±


    Winters smiled a bit, before sitting forward. ¡°You like taking care of others. This is a good thing, especially in your field, but on the flipside, that also sounds like you tend to reject help whenever it¡¯s offered to you. Is this a fair assessment?¡±


    ¡°¡­I¡­think so, yeah.¡± Julia admitted, still running her gloves together.


    ¡°Are you worried about feeling like you¡¯re a burden to the rest of your team?¡± Winters asked, as Julia¡¯s eyes darted to the side.


    ¡°¡­p-part of me¡­yeah, that¡¯s also true.¡± Julia agreed. ¡°¡­I feel like if I put¡­p-pressure or¡­expectations on them, they¡¯re more likely to¡­stop liking me, or not w-want anything to do with me.¡±


    Winters wrote something down quickly. ¡°Do you feel like this stems from worries you had growing up in a separated home?¡±


    Julia finally lifted her head again to face Winters. ¡°W-What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°Well, we¡¯ve discussed how a lot of important people in your life, like your mother and sister, rarely saw you after the divorce. Perhaps part you is still blaming yourself and assessing your own behaviour so that ¡®whatever you did to make them leave¡¯ won¡¯t happen again.¡± Winters explained.


    Julia took a moment to process that. ¡°¡­so I¡¯m¡­governing myself?¡±


    Winters laughed a little. ¡°More like parenting yourself. Your mother wasn¡¯t around for a lot of your formative years, and as you¡¯ve mentioned, you found your father to be very haphazard, so in a way, you had to step up and become your own parent.¡±


    ¡°¡­w-wow¡­¡± Julia let out, running her gloves across her neck. ¡°¡­I guess part of me kinda knew that but was¡­I dunno¡­pretending I didn¡¯t?¡±


    Winters smiled, as she glanced back at the clock again. ¡°Well, I¡¯ll give you some advice for now. Until our next session, if someone who cares about you offers to help you, you say yes, regardless of what it is. If it¡¯s something too big or personal, don¡¯t force yourself, but if you feel that impulse to say no, take a second, breathe, and go against your instincts. Trust is a two-way street, and right now, you¡¯re not trusting the people close to you to know how to help you.¡±


    Winters tapped her pen. ¡°And from how much you talk about them, we both know they¡¯re more than capable of that.¡±


    Despite her rapid heartbeat at the suggestion, Julia found herself smiling a little, as Winters got up, before moving over to another chair.


    ¡°Alright. Now we¡¯re going to do a little association game. What I want you to d-------------------¡±


    =====


    ¡°Oooooooooooooooohhhhhhh¡­that¡¯s so gooooooood¡­¡±


    Sola let out a sigh of relief as Harley helped her lie down on the couch, stretching out of her recently healed up leg.


    ¡°I¡¯m getting Pather a Bestalow gift¡­having that cast off is so nice¡­¡± Sola muttered, as Harley kissed her forehead.


    ¡°You¡¯ve got too much energy to have one leg outta commission.¡± Harley insisted, tickling her playfully and getting a great laugh out, before heading to the kitchen. ¡°You good with tacos tonight?¡±


    ¡°Tacos sound awesome!¡± Sola assured, getting comfortable, right as the front door opened up, with Julia slowly making her way in.


    Sola¡¯s relaxation was replaced with excitement, as she shot up from the couch. ¡°Hey! How was it?¡±


    ¡°Uhh¡­good?¡± Julia stated, visibly exhausted. ¡°She made a lot of good points, but I feel like garbage now¡­it just took so much outta me¡­¡±


    ¡°Oh. Well, get some rest. Harley¡¯s making tacos if you feel up to it.¡± Sola offered, as Julia gave a weak thumbs up, before making a beeline straight for her room, right as Milo was exiting with a large box, nearly colliding with her.


    ¡°Sorry, sorry!¡± He let out, spinning around Julia, as she stumbled back. ¡°Hold on!¡±


    He dropped the box down, before happily facing Julia. ¡°How was your first session? What¡¯d you talk about?¡±


    ¡°¡­a lot.¡± Julia admitted, before peeking into her room and finding Percy coming out with more boxes. ¡°What¡¯re you guys doing?¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re clearing some space. Since you guys are training a bit more now, Harley and Dulce borrowed some more equipment from your academy so you don¡¯t have to leave home so much.¡± Milo explained, resting his hands on his hips. ¡°Feels good making space like that.¡±


    Percy came out right after, before noticing Julia and attempting to wave without dropping the box.


    She let it down soon after and faced Julia again.


    ¡°¡­h-hi¡­¡± She managed, noticeable strain in her speech, as Julia found herself smiling again.


    ¡°So, did you talk about me at all?¡± Milo remarked, grinning proudly, as Julia started blushing, before quickly heading to her room. ¡°What? What did I say?¡±


    ¡°Can you guys move the rest later? I just need some time after that session.¡± Julia asked, as Milo took on a more serious demeanour.


    ¡°Yeah, that¡¯s fine. Rest up.¡± Milo said, as Julia closed the door behind her, while he rubbed his neck. ¡°Is that a typical result of therapy?¡±


    ¡°I think so.¡± Sola suggested. ¡°You get out a lot of heavy personal stuff, so you¡¯d be pretty drained after it.¡±


    ¡°I just hope it helps her get back to her old chipper self.¡± Milo let out, clearly holding back a little sadness. ¡°I hate seeing her skulk around¡­it¡¯s like high school all over again¡­¡±


    Milo sighed out, before heading to the kitchen to join in Harley¡¯s cooking, as Sola watched him leave, then turned her attention back to Julia¡¯s room, right as Percy started milling around in the storage boxes.


    ¡°She¡¯s still so bummed.¡± Sola let out, sitting down with Percy and resting her head in her hands. ¡°Like, I get it, but I wish there was something to make her happy again¡­being that sad all the time isn¡¯t good for you¡­¡±


    Percy pulled out a few plastic weapons and put them aside, before grabbing out some old photo albums and deciding to flip through them, silently chuckling to herself.


    With no other ideas, Sola looked over to Percy and caught a glance of the photo album, specifically a photo of Julia and her sister Bell when they were younger. Bell was wearing a dress far too large for her and looked to be performing some kind of play, while Julia was laughing up a storm in the audience.


    Suddenly, Sola¡¯s eyes lit up, with a bit of electricity coming out of her hands, before she jumped up.


    ¡°That¡¯s it!¡± She exclaimed, as Percy stared at her. ¡°That¡¯ll cheer her up! We can put on a kickass play full of all her friends with a bunch of stuff she likes! That¡¯d cheer anyone up!¡±


    Percy tilted her head. [Uhh¡­that¡¯s a lot of effort to go to for something she liked when she was¡­]


    She looked back down at the photo.


    [¡­seven?] Percy pointed out, only for Sola to point right at her.


    ¡°I guarantee she¡¯ll still like it! Humans are just built like that!¡± Sola insisted, before going to knock on Julia¡¯s door and waiting.


    After a solid thirty seconds, the door opened up, as Julia rubbed her eyes.


    ¡°What it is, Sola?¡±


    ¡°I wanna do something really nice and elaborate to cheer you up, but I can¡¯t tell you what it is since it¡¯s a secret!¡± Sola explained, miming a shooshing motion. ¡°So get ready for something big a few nights from now!¡±


    Julia could already hear alarm bells going off in her head, as she felt the need to step in. ¡°Sola, you don¡­¡±


    Suddenly, Ms Winters advice rang out to her, as she shut herself up.


    ¡°¡­umm¡­¡± Julia let out, before awkwardly pressing her fingers together. ¡°¡­th-that would be¡­very nice, Sola. Yes.¡±


    ¡°Awesome! Okay, I¡¯ll let you get back to some you-time.¡± Sola insisted, running back to Percy, as Julia closed the door behind her, before sinking down to the floor and letting out a nervous breath.


    ¡°¡­okay¡­that was¡­easy¡­super easy¡­¡± Julia let out, before letting out a weighty breath and grabbing her head. ¡°¡­why was that so hard?¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    It was quite the production.


    Over the next few days, Sola put every amount of free time she could into building the infrastructure of the play, deliberately cordoning off parts of the lounge room and hiding things away in the shed to do so. And, with very willing help of Harley, Percy and Milo, and the less enthusiastic help of Wess and Essex, as well as a few personal calls, she made it happen, and on time too.


    Julia had been instructed to stay in her room until seven when everything was ready. She still had no idea what Sola was putting together, which was admittedly stressing her out. She knew Sola at this point and trusted her deeply, but it still felt so alien to let this kind of thing happen.


    She should¡¯ve told me what it was. I could¡¯ve helped her put it together. Julia worried, checking her tablet again for the time. Especially with the others helping her too. I don¡¯t think she meant for me to feel left out.


    Suddenly, a knock came through the door.


    ¡°We¡¯re all set! Come on in!¡±


    Julia stood up and let out a nervous breath, as she gripped the handle, before opening up to a very dressed-up darkened lounge room, with a few occupied chairs set out the front of a makeshift stage. The curtains were currently drawn, with slight movement seen behind them. She also spotted Nathaniel at the back of the room, holding what looked to be a flashlight, as he gave a nervous wave back to Julia.


    Julia took a moment to take it all in, shocked at just how different this felt, right as Milo made his way over, before posing as an usher and indicating to the one empty seat.


    ¡°This way, my dear.¡± He played up, holding out his arm, as Julia jokingly took it, before heading to her seat.


    ¡°The show will begin shortly.¡± Sola announced from behind the curtain, peeking out slightly from behind it, as she watched Julia sit down.


    Looking to her side, Julia noticed Dulce sitting beside her, as Dulce nodded to her.


    ¡°This is so wild. I¡¯ve never been to a play before.¡± Dulce insisted, rubbing her hands together. ¡°You ready?¡±


    ¡°M-Maybe.¡± Julia let out, before looking to her other side and being surprised to find Donovan sitting next to her. ¡°Donovan?¡±


    ¡°Hey there, Alpine. How¡¯re you holding up?¡± Donovan greeted, giving a small salute.


    ¡°U-Uhh, alright. What are you doing here?¡± Julia asked, as Donovan sunk into their seat.


    ¡°Sola said you needed some cheering up. I don¡¯t know why she invited me for that, but I figured I¡¯d come anyway. I¡¯ve been meaning to come check on you when I had the free time, but you know me, I don¡¯t really do free time.¡± Donovan clarified, before bumping Julia¡¯s arm. ¡°Does she usually go this all out?¡±


    Julia found herself smiling. ¡°Only when it counts.¡±


    ¡°The show¡¯s starting now, so be quiet!¡± Sola announced, rushing behind the curtain again, as the audience got themselves ready, with Julia now noticing Milo beside the stage with a laptop and a couple props.


    He pressed a few buttons, as a stock royal horn sound effect played. Suddenly, a spotlight from Nathaniel¡¯s flashlight came on and pointed to the other side of the stage, where Joleicia stood behind a small podium with a script in her hand. She looked incredibly dignified and professional, only to break her demeanour near immediately to wave to Julia.


    ¡°Hi Julia!¡± She whispered, before snapping back to her attitude and reading from her script.


    ¡°¡­what makes a hero? Is it courage? Determination? Saving those in need? All of these things?¡± Joleicia read aloud. ¡°Or perhaps¡­it¡¯s as simple as luck.¡±


    The curtains were pulled, revealing Sola in the middle of the stage, staring dramatically into the distance.


    ¡°This is Billie. Just your run-of-the-mill, nothing special kinda person. They¡¯re not very strong, or fast, or even that smart, but they¡¯ve got one thing that really makes them stand out¡­¡±


    Out of nowhere, ¡®Billie¡¯ started waving their arms, before falling face first onto the ground.


    ¡°¡­they have the worst luck imaginable.¡±


    Despite starting to get invested, seeing Sola fall over nearly made Julia get out of her seat to help her up, only for Sola to jump back up a second later and dust herself off.


    Julia took a second to register she was fine, before sitting back down and insisting to herself she stop worrying.


    ¡°However, something even more unlucky was about to plague the world as we know it.¡±


    Right above the stage, cackling could be heard from the distance, as the spotlight moved up to Harley, dressed in a massive robe with cardboard flames emerging from the back.


    ¡°Batharax, Lord of Woes, saw fit to terrorise the land which had only ever seen peace until now.¡±


    ¡°Pathetic insects!¡± ¡®Batharax¡¯ cackled. ¡°I¡¯ve cursed this land with bad vibes, and now you must all suffer in your misery! Hu hu hu! Come challenge me, if you can even be bothered!¡±


    ¡®Batharax¡¯ quickly hid away, as ¡®Billie¡¯ pumped their fist defiantly.


    ¡°Hearing such a decree, Billie couldn¡¯t just sit by and let that happen. They had to do something about this menace. But what could they do?¡±


    ¡®Billie¡¯ looked deep in thought, before snapping their fingers.


    ¡°I may not be able to do much, but the least I can do is help!¡± ¡®Billie¡¯ decreed, pulling a sword from their side. ¡°I¡¯m coming for you, Batharax!¡±


    Almost immediately after saying that, ¡®Billie¡¯ tripped over again, before dropping their sword, as Milo played a falling sound effect from the laptop, indicating it had dropped off a nearby cliff.


    ¡°Not again!¡± ¡®Billie¡¯ complained.


    Julia chuckled at this, right as Dulce came back from the kitchen with some popcorn, handing some off to Julia.


    ¡°How long did it take Sola to write this?¡± Donovan questioned, as Julia simply shrugged, before turning her attention back to the stage.


    ¡°Billie knew they couldn¡¯t do this alone. They needed help, especially if they wanted to stand a chance against Batharax and his minions.¡±


    ¡®Billie¡¯ started walking off to the right, looking around for any help at all, only to come up empty handed, before a loud voice boomed from off stage.


    ¡°HALT!¡±


    ¡®Billie¡¯ stopped dead in their tracks, as Wess marched onto stage, with Belvedere at her side, paired with a cheap approximation of armour.


    Julia admittedly clapped when Wess come out, as Wess tried not to get distracted, even as she found herself blushing.


    ¡°I-I didn¡¯t do anything!¡± ¡®Billie¡¯ cried.


    ¡°Who are you? What business do you have down these roads?¡± Wess asked, coming off as very serious and stout. ¡°There¡¯s been a strict decree to stay indoors. That villainous Batharax is going to catch you if you¡¯re not careful.¡±


    ¡®Billie¡¯ turned around. ¡°Then why are you out here?¡±


    Wess straightened out, before holding out Belvedere.


    ¡°My name is Evangeline. I¡¯m a royal knight that¡¯s been sent on a quest to rid the land of Batharax before he can cause anymore harm.¡± ¡®Evangeline¡¯ explained. ¡°Everyone of the royal family is too depressed to pass any decrees, and so the kingdom has grinded to a standstill. So I must set out to end this malaise.¡±


    ¡°But why aren¡¯t you depressed too?¡± ¡®Billie¡¯ asked, looking over ¡®Evangeline.¡¯


    ¡°Justice refuses to make me depressed!¡± ¡®Evangeline¡¯ declared. ¡°If there is evil in the world, then I won¡¯t stop until it¡¯s vanquished!¡±


    ¡°Well said!¡± ¡®Billie¡¯ agreed, putting their hands on their hips. ¡°Well, I¡¯m Billie, and I¡¯m on the same quest as you!¡±


    ¡®Evangeline¡¯ looked over ¡®Billie¡¯ curiously, circling around them.


    ¡°¡­you don¡¯t seem very exceptional.¡± ¡®Evangeline¡¯ deduced. ¡°What makes you think you stand a chance against Batharax?¡±


    ¡°Because I have to!¡± ¡®Billie¡¯ insisted.


    ¡®Evangeline¡¯ folded her arms and gave a disapproving smirk.


    ¡°Well, we¡¯ll just have to see how well that holds up.¡± ¡®Evangeline¡¯ stated, only to turn her head suddenly, staring off to the side.


    Large stomping sounds came from the laptop, as ¡®Billie¡¯ and ¡®Evangeline¡¯ stepped back, before a massive leg made of ice came crashing down, shaking the ground with its stomp.


    ¡°WHAT¡­DO WE HAVE HERE?¡± Came a booming voice.


    In came Chops, encased in a large block of ice in the shape of a monster, with very limited articulation, as ¡®Evangeline¡¯ grabbed her sword.


    ¡°I¡­AM THE ICE GOLEM. I HEARD YOU WERE CHALLENGING¡­BATHARAX.¡± It boomed, before lifting up a large arm. ¡°IF YOU WISH¡­TO CHALLENGE HIM, YOU MUST GET PAST¡­ME!!!¡±


    The ¡®Golem¡¯ slammed its arm down, as ¡®Evangeline¡¯ dodged out of the way, while ¡®Billie¡¯ hid away, cowering with their hands over their head. ¡®Evangeline¡¯ went in to strike, only for the sword to bounce off of the ice harmlessly.


    ¡°My attacks aren¡¯t doing anything! The ice is too thick!¡± ¡®Evangeline¡¯ cried, as the ¡®Golem¡¯ laughed.


    ¡®Billie¡¯ glanced over at the golem again, before shooting up from the ground.


    ¡°Wait, Evangeline! Hold your sword up to the sun!¡± ¡®Billie¡¯ said, as Milo rushed behind the stage and held up a painted sun in the background.


    ¡®Evangeline¡¯ went along with it and held it up, before Milo added some sunrays coming off of the sword, as the ¡®Golem¡¯ began to melt.


    ¡°WHAT? MY DEFENCES!¡± The ¡®Golem¡¯ cried, with ¡®Evangeline¡¯ now landing a blow once most of the ice melted. ¡°HOW¡­WAS I BESTED?!¡±


    The ¡®Golem¡¯ slowly melted to a pile of mush, as Chops quickly hurried off stage, and ¡®Evangeline¡¯ let out a relieved sigh.


    ¡°That was some quick thinking, Billie.¡± She stated, helping ¡®Billie¡¯ up. ¡°How did you think of that so fast?¡±


    ¡®Billie¡¯ rested their hands on their hips, before leaning into ¡®Evangeline.¡¯ ¡°Ice melts. Everyone knows that!¡±


    Julia laughed again, as Sola ¡®subtly¡¯ looked over to see if she was enjoying herself, smiling as she saw positive results.


    ¡°Ha ha ha! It seems we have¡­some competition!¡±


    ¡®Billie¡¯ and ¡®Evangeline¡¯ turned to the sky, as Saxin came down on a broomstick, dressed in robes and holding a crystal ball.


    ¡°My poor ice golem¡­you two¡­are responsible for slaying it!¡± Saxin decreed, as Julia immediately picked up on her¡­well, lacklustre acting abilities. ¡°This is NOT the last of my creations, I assure you! I am¡­Batharax¡¯s top minion! Trixis the Witch!¡±


    ¡°Stand down, Trixis!¡± ¡®Evangeline¡¯ exclaimed. ¡°We defeated your golem with ease. I highly doub-¡°


    ¡°You DOUBT¡­ME?!¡± ¡®Trixis¡¯ hammed up, stepping over Wess¡¯ line a little. ¡°Well, knight¡­let¡¯s see how you fair without¡­your companion!¡±


    Suddenly, ¡®Billie¡¯ started spinning around in place, before getting whisked off the stage, with the same falling sound effect from earlier playing.


    ¡°Billie!¡± ¡®Evangeline¡¯ cried, before turning to Trixis again. ¡°Damned witch! You shall rue this!¡±


    ¡°Oh, SHALL I? Well, Batharax sends his regards! Ha ha HA!¡± ¡®Trixis¡¯ laughed, before flying off, leaving ¡®Evangeline¡¯ all alone.


    ¡°Wherever you are, Billie, I shall save you! Count on it!¡± ¡®Evangeline¡¯ declared.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    With our protagonists quickly whisked off backstage, Harley and Saxin went out on stage for a classic villain duologue. Sola fumbled into the backstage, quickly changing out of her outfit, before meeting up with Percy.


    ¡°How¡¯s she liking it?¡± Sola let out, almost tripping over herself.


    Percy gave two big thumbs up, as Sola peeked out of the curtain, watching Julia¡¯s visibly happy face, following the action in front of her.


    ¡°¡­w-well¡­?¡± Percy managed, feeling some strain, as Sola put her foot down.


    ¡°That¡¯s not overjoyed Julia, that¡¯s okay Julia!¡± Sola insisted, as Percy stared at her in confusion.


    [Isn¡¯t okay Julia okay?]


    Sola shook her head excessively. ¡°I¡¯ve gotta get her out of her funk with this play! And she¡¯ll only do that if she¡¯s howling with laughter, crying with honesty, and applauding with completeness!¡±


    Sola slapped her hands together. ¡°And if it¡¯s got a bunch of things she likes!¡±


    ¡°Sola, I have some notes.¡± Wess interjected, changing her outfit as well, right as Sola grabbed a copy of the script and started scribbling. ¡°First off, I feel the structures fairly deriva-¡°


    ¡°Not now! I¡¯ve gotta make some changes!¡± Sola stated, as Wess pursed her lip, before turning to Percy.


    ¡°The director label¡¯s certainly given her some attitude.¡± Wess remarked, as Percy smirked.


    [Are you suggesting mutiny?] Percy joked, as Wess found herself chuckling.


    ¡°Umm¡­Sola?¡±


    If you come across this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it.


    Wess and Percy turned to Essex in the corner, nervously reading over her script again and again.


    ¡°¡­you know I¡¯m not a good actor.¡± Essex explained, before getting up and walking over to Sola. ¡°And I don¡¯t believe I will do this character justice.¡±


    Sola stopped, before facing her. ¡°I thought you wanted to experience more of life and break out of your comfort zone?¡±


    Essex paused for a second, considering the point, before Sola handed her another copy of the script.


    ¡°Well, don¡¯t even worry! Forget the old character, I just whipped up a new one Julia¡¯s gonna love!¡± Sola assured, only freaking out Essex more.


    ¡°W-Wha¡­h-how long until I am on stage?¡±


    ¡°A few minutes! I love you!¡± Sola insisted, as Essex was immediately flustered silent, before jumping into her new script, with Sola handing one to Wess.


    ¡°¡­Sola, this has no cohesion. It¡¯s just events, one after the other.¡± Wess complained, only for Sola to grab Wess¡¯ hands.


    ¡°Wess. Truly, does Julia care about good plot?¡±


    Wess hid her face away. ¡°¡­I wish she did more.¡±


    ¡°Then we¡¯ll be fine!¡± Sola stated, only to hesitate handing a copy off to Percy. ¡°¡­sorry, just a sec.¡±


    Sola quickly pulled Wess aside out of earshot of Percy, as Percy elected not to remind them she could read lips.


    ¡°What is it?¡±


    ¡°Umm¡­¡± Sola let out. ¡°Okay, I had an idea for a character, but everyone else has roles, so the only one who could play him is Percy.¡±


    Wess blinked. ¡°And?¡±


    ¡°And¡­he¡¯s a funny mime who works for the royal family.¡± Sola explained, shrugging her shoulders. ¡°I didn¡¯t know if it was offensive or not, or if it was actually cool since who else would play the mim-¡°


    Wess rested her hand on Sola¡¯s back. ¡°I think you¡¯re overthinking this.¡±


    ¡°Am I?¡±


    ¡°You are. Here¡¯s an idea.¡± Wess offered, moving Sola back to Percy. ¡°How about asking her.¡±


    Sola stood awkwardly in front of Percy, before sheepishly handing her a copy of the script.


    ¡°U-Uhh¡­so I thought of a funny character, but I didn¡¯t know if it¡¯d be cool to pitch to you¡­¡± Sola admitted. ¡°He¡¯s a mime, and he¡¯s working for the royals. Since you¡¯re really funny, I tho-¡°


    Percy quickly held up a hand, shutting Sola up and making her think she crossed a line, only for Percy to raise her other hand, then move them to the sides, as she mimed an invisible box closing in around her.


    She pantomimed slipping over as the box closed in, only to burst out from one side and roll out, before standing up and bowing.


    [Of course I¡¯ll play the mime! Who else would do it?] Percy assured, rustling Sola¡¯s hair, as Sola started laughing.


    ¡°You¡¯re right, I¡¯ll shut up.¡± Sola said, only to catch the end of Harley and Saxin¡¯s scene, before remembering she was still half-dressed. ¡°We¡¯re nearly up! Percy, I need you to run this script over to Nathaniel! I made a lot of changes to his stuff!¡±


    Percy gave a quick salute, as Sola started getting dressed again.


    ¡°Places, people!¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Do we actually know why Batharax is spreading bad vibes?¡± Donovan wondered, as Julia waved her hand.


    ¡°It¡¯ll get explained later. Knowing Sola, she¡¯ll think of something good.¡± Julia asked, as Donovan leaned back in their seat.


    ¡°But shouldn¡¯t the bad vibes be effecting Billie a-¡°


    ¡°Shoosh!¡± Julia got out, right as Sola wandered back onto stage, holding a torch in one hand.


    ¡°H-Hello?¡± ¡®Billie¡¯ let out. ¡°Where¡¯d that witch knock me down to? I can¡¯t see anything.¡±


    ¡®Billie¡¯ wandered around for a while, struggling to make out their surroundings, before resting their hand on their forehead.


    ¡°Wait, is that a light ahead?¡±


    No light appeared, as Sola waited in place, looking to Nathaniel, who was feverishly reading the new copy of the script, now with far more for him to do.


    Sola waited a second. ¡°Wait, is that a LIGHT ahead?¡±


    Nathaniel shook his head in disbelief.


    ¡°What the fuck is all this¡­?¡± He quietly let out, only for Sola to loudly clear her throat.


    ¡°WAIT, IS THAT A LIGHT AHEAD?¡±


    Nathaniel slightly lifted his head, before realising everyone was staring right at him and panicking, grabbing the flashlight and pointing it.


    He kept subtly reading the script with his free hand, as ¡®Billie¡¯ made their way across the stage, before emerging from the cave they were trapped in.


    ¡°Finally! I¡¯m out!¡± ¡®Billie¡¯ declared, before staring around them. ¡°But now I¡¯m in the middle of nowhere! Evangeline¡¯s nowhere to be seen!¡±


    Before they could plan out their next move, some noises came from the cave behind them, only for Essex to emerge soon after.


    ¡°Th-Th-Thank you for¡­showing me the way out. I-I was trapped in there¡­for so l-long. I¡­¡± Essex started, only to realise Sola hadn¡¯t given her character a new name. She pleadingly looked to Sola, who just raised her hands, insisting she go on. ¡°¡­m-my name is¡­¡±


    Essex tried her best.


    ¡°¡­Dessex.¡±


    Essex took a brief glance at Julia, only to find Julia¡¯s sympathetic gaze, as she gave a quick thumbs up, giving Essex a much-needed boost in confidence.


    Essex took a beat, before raising her frying pan. ¡°¡­I am a chef¡­who fights with cooking!¡±


    Julia audibly gasped from the audience, before clapping in excitement.


    ¡°So cool!¡± She let out, as Donovan kept their comments to themself.


    ¡°A combat chef? Hell yeah.¡± Dulce remarked, grabbing a handful of popcorn, as Sola stepped forward.


    ¡°Wow, a chef!¡± ¡®Billie¡¯ let out, tapping their foot. ¡°That¡¯s certainly cool and all, and I¡¯m glad you got out of there, but it doesn¡¯t help me find my friend.¡±


    ¡°Your friend?¡± ¡®Dessex¡¯ asked, as ¡®Billie¡¯ nodded.


    ¡°We were separated by an evil witch, and now I don¡¯t know where she is.¡± ¡®Billie¡¯ let out, before sighing. ¡°But that¡¯s typical for me. My luck¡¯s the worst there is.¡±


    ¡®Dessex¡¯ stroked her chin, before snapping her fingers. ¡°I may have an idea. One second.¡±


    ¡®Billie¡¯ watched as ¡®Dessex¡¯ went to work, grabbing her frying pan and walking off stage, as Milo scrambled to suddenly pull up various cooking sound effects from the laptop.


    She walked back onto stage with a massive mound of cheese in hand.


    ¡°The smell of this limburger cheese should find its way to her.¡± ¡®Dessex¡¯ said, wafting the smell away. ¡°And I make it in such a way that¡¯s it¡¯s irresistible.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s some quick thinking, Dessex!¡± ¡®Billie¡¯ cheered on, as some rustling noises came from the nearby bushes, only for ¡®Evangeline¡¯ to emerge soon after. ¡°Evangeline!¡±


    ¡°Billie! There you are.¡± ¡®Evangeline¡¯ said, looking around. ¡°I was drawn here by this strange scent of cheese.¡±


    ¡°That was from my new friend, Dessex!¡± ¡®Billie¡¯ announced, as Essex gave a somewhat out of character wave. ¡°She¡¯s a battle chef!¡±


    ¡°Dessex? Is that a family name?¡± Wess improvised, getting a lovely giggle from Julia in the audience, as Wess looked visibly proud of herself.


    ¡°Oh ho ho! L-Look who we have here!¡±


    The trio looked off into the distance, right as Nathaniel jumped out onto stage, dressed in a massive robe covered in stars.


    ¡°This m-must be those adventurers that T-Trixis¡­warned me about!¡± Nathaniel managed, hiding his copy of the script inside the robe¡¯s sleeve, before pointing at them. ¡°What a m-motley crew! Or should I say¡­a not-ley¡­pee yew!¡±


    Nathaniel snapped his fingers a few times, before Milo dropped some giant game pieces in the background, as Julia leaned forward in her seat excitedly.


    ¡°¡­okay, Nath, just a bit more¡­OH HO HO!¡± He bellowed, throwing his hands out. ¡°I¡¯m Rolos, Batharax¡¯s th-third in command! And now¡­I have trapped you in my t-torturous board game! If you don¡¯t make it out i-in time¡­you¡¯ll be turned into my new pieces!!! Phew¡­okay¡­¡±


    ¡°Ha! Jokes on you, I love board games!¡± ¡®Billie¡¯ announced, as Julia let out a little audible cheer.


    ¡°Oh¡­¡± ¡®Rolos¡¯ said, before losing his page and flipping through it again in a panic. ¡°¡­really?¡±


    Milo handed ¡®Rolos¡¯ a massive dice from offstage.


    ¡°W-Whoever touches the board becomes part of the game and must roll t-to¡­to live!¡± ¡®Rolos¡¯ got out, holding up the dice. ¡°But be careful! If you roll below a four, y-you¡¯ll go backwards instead! Oh ho ho!¡±


    The trio all zipped to their places, stuck perfectly still, as ¡®Rolos¡¯ chucked the dice up and down.


    ¡°H-However, since I don¡¯t want the fun to end straight away, I-I¡¯ll allow you to move one space ahead.¡± ¡®Rolos¡¯ declared, as they suddenly did so. ¡°Now, let¡¯s have some fun!...wait, there¡¯s still more?¡±


    ¡°Billie, this isn¡¯t good. No doubt he¡¯s rigged the game in his favour.¡± ¡®Evangeline¡¯ insisted, as ¡®Rolos¡¯ wagged his finger.


    ¡°I¡­assure you, this is all very fair!¡± ¡®Rolos¡¯ advised, his eyes fully on the script now before throwing the dice to ¡®Dessex.¡¯ ¡°No tricks! I play by the rules!¡±


    Letting out a sigh, Dessex threw the dice, only for it to come up with a one.


    ¡°Oh, tough¡­luck! Looks l-like moving you ahead wasn¡¯t that helpful! And j-just a reminder, if you leave the board backwards, that¡­counts as losing!¡± ¡®Rolos¡¯ teased, as ¡®Dessex¡¯ waved her frying pan at him.


    ¡°I can¡¯t do a thing here. There are no ingredients on the board for me to use.¡± ¡®Dessex¡¯ explained, as ¡®Evangeline¡¯ threw the dice as well.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t she make cheese out of thin air earlier?¡± Donovan questioned, only for Julia to shoosh them again, her attention fully on the play, as ¡®Evangeline¡¯ rolled another one.


    ¡°Wow, what a string of b-bad rolls! Sucks¡­to be you!¡± ¡®Rolos¡¯ said, as Nathaniel could feel himself sweating under the robes. ¡°Just a bit more¡­¡±


    ¡°Bad rolls?¡± ¡®Billie¡¯ said, as they grabbed the dice. ¡°¡­wait!¡±


    ¡®Billie¡¯ turned around, announcing to the others. ¡°My bad luck! It¡¯s effecting the dice! No matter what, it¡¯s gonna roll a one!¡±


    ¡°Then there¡¯s no way to win!¡± ¡®Evangeline¡¯ cried, gripping her sword handle. ¡°This cannot be how our journey ends.¡±


    ¡°Is there any other option?¡± ¡®Dessex¡¯ asked, as ¡®Rolos¡¯ started laughing again.


    ¡°Oh ho ho! What a shame! That¡¯s the game! Oh ho ho!¡±


    ¡®Billie¡¯ gripped the dice worriedly, before an idea popped in their mind.


    ¡°Wait, Rolos. You said whoever touches the board becomes part of the game, right?¡±


    ¡®Rolos¡¯ tilted his head. ¡°Yeah?¡±


    ¡°And that you follow the rules no matter what?¡±


    ¡°Y-Yeah?¡±


    ¡°Well, you¡¯re touching the board right now!¡± ¡®Billie¡¯ declared, as ¡®Rolos¡¯ looked down at his feet, only to suddenly get whisked over to the first spot along with ¡®Evangeline¡¯ and ¡®Dessex.¡¯


    ¡°W-What?!¡± ¡®Rolos¡¯ let out, as ¡®Billie¡¯ chucked the dice and rolled a one, before handing it off to him. ¡°B-But I only allowed YOU to move ahead! I¡¯m starting from the first space!¡±


    ¡°Then I guess the dice will decide.¡± ¡®Evangeline¡¯ insisted, as ¡®Rolos¡¯ closed his eyes and rolled it, before it came up with a one again, throwing him back off the board and spinning away offstage.


    The board pieces slowly disappeared, as Nathaniel silently slipped back behind the audience, sighing in relief as he no longer had to act.


    ¡°Leave it to Sola to give me such a meaty roll¡­¡± He muttered under his breath.


    As the stage returned to normal, the adventurers realised they¡¯d been sent to the outside of a dungeon in the middle of nowhere.


    ¡°Where are we now?¡± ¡®Dessex¡¯ remarked, as ¡®Billie¡¯ threw their hands up.


    ¡°Dammit! We must¡¯ve been sent to Rolos¡¯ lair after winning! Now we have no idea where the castle is and can¡¯t find the royals!¡± ¡®Billie¡¯ complained, before some rustling came from behind a few rocks.


    The trio turned, as outjumped Percy, dressed in black and white striped clothes and shaking off some ropes, before bowing to them energetically and politely.


    ¡°Rambit! What are you doing here?¡± ¡®Evangeline¡¯ stated, as ¡®Billie¡¯ looked up at her.


    ¡°You know him?¡±


    ¡®Evangeline¡¯ joined ¡®Rambit¡¯s¡¯ side. ¡°He¡¯s the royal mime. He¡¯s usually performing for them, but was captured by Batharax shortly before I left.¡±


    ¡®Rambit¡¯ rubbed his eyes comically, pretending to weep, as Julia started cracking up in the audience. Percy ran with this and started acting out a detailed rendition of how ¡®Rambit¡¯ was captured, despite it not being in the script.


    ¡°Wait!¡± ¡®Billie¡¯ exclaimed, as ¡®Rambit¡¯ held perfectly still. ¡°If you were dragged straight here, do you know the way to the royal palace?¡±


    ¡®Rambit¡¯ gave a big thumbs up, as ¡®Billie¡¯ pumped their fist. ¡°Great! Let¡¯s go to the castle and make our appeal!¡±


    ¡°With all the kingdom¡¯s strength united on our side, Batharax won¡¯t stand a chance.¡± ¡®Evangeline¡¯ reasoned, holding up her sword. ¡°Onward!¡±


    ¡°Let us set course! Several courses, in fact!¡± ¡®Dessex¡¯ added, holding up her frying pan.


    ¡®Rambit¡¯ looked around in confusion, before pulling out a rubber chicken to hold up, only to throw it away and high-five ¡®Billie¡¯ instead.


    The adventurers started heading off, trekking the road down to the castle, before ¡®Dessex¡¯ started turning her head.


    ¡°Dessex¡­you¡¯re quite the turncoat, aren¡¯t you?¡±


    ¡®Dessex¡¯ glanced around in a panic, as the others kept walking ahead. ¡°Who is that?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t you remember your old bosses voice?¡± ¡®Batharax¡¯ cackled, before jumping out onto stage, accompanied by billowing smoke from backstage, creating a dreamlike haze. ¡°It¡¯s been some time since you were my personal chef.¡±


    ¡°I have left that past behind. I am acting on my own now.¡± ¡®Dessex¡¯ insisted, as Batharax started laughing again.


    ¡°And yet, you still cook. So who¡¯s to say you¡¯ve really changed?¡± Batharax declared, giving ¡®Dessex¡¯ pause for thought, as Sola frantically paced around backstage.


    ¡°Sola?¡± Wess said, coming back to join her, as Sola picked up the script again.


    ¡°It¡¯s not there yet!¡± Sola insisted, waving it around. ¡°This is good, but it can be better!¡±


    Wess folded her arms. ¡°Are you finally willing to take some of my writing advice?¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Sola let out. ¡°No, I mean we should add more things in that Julia likes.¡±


    ¡°¡­oh.¡± Wess muttered, massaging her forehead. ¡°You know there¡¯s no harm in sticking to the existing script, right? Adding in surface level things for her to notice won¡¯t chan¡­¡±


    Wess trailed off once she noticed Sola was scribbling notes down again, before shaking her head.


    ¡°¡­I should stop pretending I¡¯m too good for this.¡± Wess remarked, before Saxin and Lenin came out from Wess¡¯ bedroom in different outfits, before looking like they¡¯d been caught.


    ¡°Oh! You two are¡­¡± Saxin let out, before getting glares from Wess. ¡°¡­r-right, we¡¯re about to go on¡­¡±


    ¡°We were practicing lines.¡± Lenin excused, trying to hide the hickey on his neck. ¡°With each other.¡±


    Wess refused to say a word, as Sola noticed them excitedly.


    ¡°Great, you guys are here! What are more things Julia loves?¡± Sola asked, as Lenin scratched his chin.


    ¡°Uhh¡­good question.¡± Lenin thought over. ¡°I¡¯ve heard her mention that soap opera she likes a lot.¡±


    ¡°And musicals. She¡¯s quite the fan of singing.¡± Saxin added, before her eyes lit up. ¡°Wait, Sola! Can I have a solo? Please?¡±


    ¡°Uhuh¡­¡± Sola absentmindedly agreed, as Saxin cheered. ¡°Now who¡¯re gonna be the royals¡­¡±


    Despite being behind her, Saxin raised her hand frantically, as Sola took a moment to turn around and notice.


    ¡°Oh! Oh! Can I be the princess too?¡± Saxin excitedly asked.


    ¡°Yeah, why not.¡± Sola assured, as Saxin started celebrating. ¡°But you¡¯re already playing Trixis, who¡¯s trying to take the thrown for herself.¡±


    Saxin was thrown off a bit, before coming up with an idea. ¡°Can I be Trixis disguised as the princess, but I eventually turn good for the sake of love?¡±


    Sola¡¯s eyes widened, as she passed out her updated scripts. ¡°Yes! Do that! That¡¯s great!¡±


    The couple gave them a read over, with Saxin dictating to herself as she read, only for Lenin¡¯s face to go flush.


    ¡°¡­S-Sola.¡± Lenin let out, holding up his script.


    ¡°Yeah?¡±


    ¡°W-Why am I playing the prince?¡± Lenin managed, sweating a little, as Sola shrugged.


    ¡°I dunno. You look kinda princely.¡± Sola reasoned, before squinting her eyes, as Lenin hid his face away.


    ¡°Sola, I implore you, I will play literally anyone else. There has to be a character that¡¯s not covered yet.¡± Lenin asked. ¡°A jester? Is the jester a character?¡±


    ¡°No, the royals have a mime.¡± Sola said, shaking her head.


    Lenin looked ever more stumped, before Saxin locked their arms together.


    ¡°Aww, but Leni dear, wouldn¡¯t it be wonderful for us to play the prince and princess together? It wouldn¡¯t be right otherwise.¡± Saxin insisted, leaning into him.


    ¡°You¡¯re not helping¡­¡± Lenin muttered, before locking eyes with her sultry gaze and sighing out. ¡°¡­can I at least be a marquess instead?¡±


    Sola thought about it, before giving a thumbs up. ¡°Yeah, that¡¯s cool. And Saxin can be the¡­uhh¡­¡±


    ¡°Marchioness.¡± Lenin answered, only for Saxin to start pouting at him.


    ¡°That¡¯s not nearly as fun as a princess¡­¡± Saxin bemoaned, before throwing her head back. ¡°Oh well, I guess a thespian such as myself should take on any new challenge.¡±


    ¡°Like giving yourself a musical number?¡± Wess retorted, as Lenin admittedly laughed, before stopping himself after getting a glare from Saxin.


    ¡°¡­at the end of the day, you¡¯ll always be one of my vassals. You can either reject that, or come home and remember where your allegiances truly lie. It¡¯s up to you, Dessex.¡± ¡®Batharax¡¯ declared, before disappearing into the smoke, leaving ¡®Dessex¡¯ in a very conflicted state.


    ¡°Dessex? Are you coming?¡± ¡®Billie¡¯ called out from offstage.


    ¡°¡­right behind you!¡± ¡®Dessex¡¯ replied, before quickly following in the direction of the palace.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Oh, the simple life of a doorman¡­I see so many come and go, only in my life for the briefest of moments, and yet, I¡¯m not in theirs. A doorman. That¡¯s all I am, all I can be, all I can aspire to. Who holds the door for me? What god declared it that the Marquess and Marchioness may indulge in the pleasures of life, waited on hand and foot, while we¡¯re left to fend for the scraps? Who¡¯s that waiting on them but me, and allies of a similar ilk? All stepping stones, unseen servants, for being unseen is our right, our duty¡­our simple lives¡­¡±


    Slowly, Bell lifted her head, before acknowledging how much of the stage she was taking up and embarrassingly locking eyes with Julia, as she stepped back and cleared her throat.


    ¡°B-But you¡¯re requesting passage?¡± She continued, as ¡®Billie¡¯ jumped forward.


    ¡°You bet! The Marquess and Marchioness have to hear us out so that we can stop Batharax!¡±


    ¡°¡­very well. Since you¡¯re accompanied by knight Evangeline and the royal mime, you¡¯ll be allowed to pass.¡± Bell quickly finished up, as the adventurers passed by. Julia started clapping in the audience as Bell exited the stage, right as Saxin and Lenin appeared on highchairs, donning lavish coats and crowns.


    The stage was filled with all the previous ¡®actors¡¯ from the play now in fancy gowns and holding champagne flutes, gathered around them and murmuring amongst themselves, with Saxin and Lenin lazily lying about their thrones.


    ¡°Oh, my beaUTIful husband, I just can not¡­go on!¡± ¡®The Marchioness¡¯ bemoaned, throwing her hands out. ¡°Will this malaise ever end?¡±


    ¡°Who cares¡­it won¡¯t change anything anyway¡­¡± ¡®The Marquess¡¯ complained, as the party goers below them were in a similar state of mind. ¡°We hardly have the energy to rule¡­why put ourselves out like that?¡±


    ¡°Leadership has lost ALL of its lustre.¡± ¡®The Marchioness¡¯ agreed, as the adventurers parsed their way through the crowd.


    ¡°This party isn¡¯t very exciting.¡± ¡®Dessex¡¯ pointed out. ¡°The entire room is drained of all energy.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll say.¡± ¡®Billie¡¯ stated, before turning to ¡®Evangeline¡¯ behind them. ¡°Hey, Eva? When we get a chance, can I tell you something¡­important?¡±


    ¡®Evangeline¡¯ stopped, as Sola was starting to go off script, which she theorised was some of her ¡®soap opera edits¡¯ coming through.


    She glanced to Julia for a brief second. ¡°Perhaps¡­this can wait until we¡¯ve dealt with Batharax. Come on.¡±


    ¡®Evangeline¡¯ charged forward, cutting through the crowd, as ¡®Billie¡¯ hung behind.


    ¡°But it¡¯s really important!¡±


    ¡°So important it can¡¯t wait?¡±


    ¡°It probably shouldn¡¯t wait!¡±


    ¡°Now¡¯s not th-¡°


    ¡°Evangeline!¡±


    ¡°What?!¡± Wess yelled, before ¡®Billie¡¯ jumped back.


    ¡°Eva, you¡¯re actually¡­¡± ¡®Billie¡¯ said, before facing the audience. ¡°¡­my secret sister???¡±


    The crowd around them gasped in shock, with ¡®Rambit¡¯ falling backward and pretending to faint at the news. Even Wess was thrown off, as having read the script ahead, she knew this wouldn¡¯t play into anything.


    Julia¡¯s mouth hung open at the twist, lost for words at the shock of it.


    ¡°No way!¡± She let out, just a little too loud, eyes glued to the stage, as Donovan sunk into their seat, keeping their mouth shut.


    ¡°¡­well, at least she¡¯s happy with it.¡± Donovan reasoned, just as Wess got her bearings back.


    ¡°¡­w-what?¡± She let out, before ¡®The Marchioness¡¯ spotted the adventurers amongst the now dispersed partygoers.


    ¡°Look, dear! Down there! It¡¯s Evangeline and Billie!¡± She insisted.


    ¡®The Marquess¡¯ glanced down. ¡°Evangeline! You¡¯ve returned! Have you slain that vile Batharax yet?¡±


    ¡°¡­n-not yet, your lordship. We came in hopes of gathering the palaces resources to launch an all-out attack on his lands.¡± ¡®Evangeline¡¯ explained, trying to get back into character, as ¡®The Marquess¡¯ stroked his chin.


    ¡°A fair plan¡­one I simply couldn¡¯t orchestrate.¡± ¡®The Marquess¡¯ admitted, falling back into his seat. ¡°Can you do it for me? I feel no desire to get up and do things¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­of course, my lord.¡± ¡®Evangeline¡¯ obliged, only for ¡®Billie¡¯ to step forward suddenly, before pointing at ¡®The Marchioness.¡¯


    ¡°Wait! How did you know my name?¡±


    She froze in place and waved her hand. ¡°Y-You introduced yourself when you arrived. I r-remember greeting you enthusiastically.¡±


    ¡®Dessex¡¯ stepped forward too. ¡°But you¡¯re in a malaise! How could you do anything enthusiastically?¡±


    ¡®The Marchioness¡¯ started to sweat, as Julia excitedly clapped her hands.


    She turned to Donovan beside her. ¡°I knew there was a reason Saxin was playing two roles.¡±


    ¡°Fair catch.¡± Donovan noted, admittedly finding themselves enjoying it a little more, before realising they¡¯d run out of popcorn. ¡°Hey Dulce?¡±


    ¡°Already on it.¡± Dulce offered, jumping up and heading to the kitchen to grab some, right as ¡®The Marchioness¡¯ stepped down from her throne, before cackling wildly.


    ¡°¡­oh, and I was SO close to taking this throne for myself!¡± ¡®The Marchioness¡¯ gleefully laughed, before ¡®The Marquess¡¯ stepped down too.


    ¡°D-Dear? What¡¯s the meaning of this? W-Why are you acting so strangely?¡±


    ¡®The Marchioness¡¯ turned back and smiled as a puff of smoke consumed her, before she performed a quick costume change into ¡®Trixis.¡¯


    ¡°Ha ha ha! You¡­fools!¡± ¡®Trixis¡¯ cried, as the partygoers started to panic. ¡°I¡¯ve been sneaking MY¡­WAY into the royal family, all under Batharax¡¯s nose! Now it¡¯s my time¡­to shine!¡±


    ¡®Rambit¡¯ slapped his hands on his cheeks with an audible pop, as ¡®Evangeline¡¯ drew out her sword.


    ¡°So working with Batharax was just to get to a position of power?¡±


    ¡°Yes! And to guarantee¡­I¡­wouldn¡¯t be affected by the bad vibes! I can rule this WHOLE kingdom and kill that poor excuse of a wizard! Ha HA ha HA!¡± ¡®Trixis¡¯ let out.


    ¡°W-Wait, you were¡­never my wife?¡± ¡®The Marquess¡¯ let out, welling up with tears. ¡°You were just using me?¡±


    ¡®Trixis¡¯ turned back to him.


    ¡°¡­no¡­unfortunately, there was¡­a part of the plan¡­I never considered.¡± ¡®Trixis¡¯ admitted, as ¡®The Marquess¡¯ shook his head.


    ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t you see? I HAVE fallen for you. Who I was may have been a lie¡­but my feelings weren¡¯t.¡±


    Suddenly, ¡®Trixis¡¯ walked to the front of the stage, hands to her chest, before letting out a quiet breath.


    ¡°I¡­was just a poor girl, watching from afar¡­oh, how much I envy, where the royals are¡­I tried to fit amongst them, but my guise was never strong¡­so all that I had left, was a saddened, sombre song¡­¡±


    As Saxin took her place up on stage, clearly ready to sing as long as she wanted, Sola took the opportunity to slip off stage, before looking over at Julia and studying her expression.


    She seemed really happy, her attention still on the play, before Sola spotted Dulce¡¯s empty seat next to her.


    Letting out an uneasy breath, Sola snuck over to the seat, silently sitting down, before Julia noticed she was there and turned her attention to her.


    ¡°Hey!¡± Julia let out, smiling proudly. ¡°Did you do all this?¡±


    ¡°Uhh¡­yeah, pretty much.¡± Sola admitted, rubbing her neck. ¡°I got help from everyone else, though. They really made it come together. Do you like it?¡±


    ¡°I love it!¡± Julia exclaimed, leaning closer to Sola. ¡°This is so sweet of you.¡±


    Sola blushed pretty hard, struggling to reply, as she huddled in with Julia, trying to keep their voices down. ¡°W-Well¡­after the attack, we were all so bummed out, and even though the rest of us were kinda getting back into the swing of things, you were still so sad.¡±


    Julia¡¯s positive glow started to dissipate, as Sola played with her fingers.


    ¡°I¡­feel like a lot of the time, you don¡¯t¡­want people helping you.¡± Sola admitted, as Julia¡¯s face sunk a little. ¡°It kinda surprised me when you said I could do this for you¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­that¡¯s fair.¡± Julia confessed, nodding her head. ¡°¡­I¡­I¡¯ve been trying to be better about that. I like giving, but not really receiving, and¡­that¡¯s not always gonna be a good option.¡±


    Julia leaned back onto her chair a little, as Sola did the same. ¡°¡­and¡­yeah, I¡¯m still really¡­struggling with everything that went down. I keep trying to move on from it, but¡­then I look down at my gloves, and it all floods back¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­do you wanna try that Whil training I offered?¡± Sola asked, as Julia¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°I learned a lot from you and Essex about controlling Whils. I¡¯m way better about using my Whil now, so I should do it for you in return.¡±


    Julia felt shame starting to build up, and her natural impulse pushing against the offer, before taking a deep breathe and closing her eyes.


    ¡°¡­y-yes.¡± Julia let out, opening them back up. ¡°Yeah, that¡¯s a really good idea, Sola. Thank you.¡±


    Julia dipped her head down, as Sola tried to follow her gaze. ¡°And¡­sorry¡­for being so miserable these last few weeks. I can be a real pessimist at the worst of times¡­and that¡¯s something else I¡¯m still working on.¡±


    Julia stared off into the distance, as Sola got comfortable again. ¡°I used to be so unhappy back in high school. Nothing was working out, and the world just felt so horrible¡­but once I came to the academy, I really turned things around. You guys reminded me why I should be happy.¡±


    Julia smiled a little.


    ¡°¡­I don¡¯t try to be happy to ignore all the horrible things happening in the world. I¡¯m happy in spite of them.¡± Julia admitted. ¡°I know I can¡¯t really fix the world, so the best I can do is make sure my world¡¯s okay, and that the people that make it up are happy too.¡±


    Julia quietly chuckled. ¡°And I guess that means I can forget myself along the way. Oops.¡±


    Sola laughed too. ¡°Then I¡¯ll just remind you when you forget. This part of your world really cares about you.¡±


    Julia could feel her heart skip a beat, as Sola was flushed with embarrassment and avoided eye contact.


    As they let the moment linger, their attention slowly drifted back to the play, as Saxin looked to be wrapping up her ballad. Julia then felt the sudden squeeze of Sola¡¯s arms wrapping around her and cuddling up to her, pushing their chairs together.


    Julia simply let it happen, leaning down to rest her head on Sola, as they held each other quietly, appreciating each other¡¯s warmth, only to be snapped from their trance once Harley jumped back onto stage.


    ¡°SO¡­my most loyal minion, huh? Quite the betrayal!¡± ¡®Batharax¡¯ cackled, as smoke billowed in. ¡°Hu hu hu! Pathetic insects, all of you!¡±


    Sola¡¯s eyes shot open, as she jumped out of her seat. ¡°Wait, I¡¯m up!¡±


    ¡°Break a leg!¡± Julia wished, as Sola gave a thumbs up, before running backstage and sidling up next to Wess.


    ¡°B-Batharax?!¡± ¡®Trixis¡¯ cried, huddling up to ¡®The Marquess.¡¯ ¡°What are you DOING here?¡±


    ¡°Simple! I got sick and tired of waiting for the kingdom to collapse, so I¡¯m gonna do things the old-fashioned way!¡± ¡®Batharax¡¯ clarified, as Milo washed the back of the stage with an orange light. ¡°Fire and destruction! Hu hu hu!¡±


    ¡°Not so fast, Batharax!¡± ¡®Billie¡¯ cried, as ¡®Batharax¡¯ cackled again.


    ¡°Oh, you¡¯re that little welp that¡¯s been tagging along while your friends do everything! Isn¡¯t that right?¡± ¡®Batharax¡¯ mocked.


    ¡®Billie¡¯ stayed quiet, remembering just how much their bad luck had really hindered them this whole journey, before ¡®Evangeline¡¯ stepped forward.


    ¡°It certainly isn¡¯t! Without Billie¡¯s creativity, that ice golem would¡¯ve ended our journey, then and there!¡± She implored.


    Clenching her fists, ¡®Dessex¡¯ stepped forward as well. ¡°And we wouldn¡¯t have defeated Rolos, or figured out Trixis¡¯ ploy!¡±


    ¡®Rambit¡¯ stepped forward too, before flipping ¡®Batharax¡¯ off, as ¡®Batharax¡¯ just laughed again.


    ¡°But your luck! It¡¯s only ever been a burden to you!¡±


    ¡°¡­maybe so.¡± ¡®Billie¡¯ started, before stepping forward. ¡°But that doesn¡¯t mean I can¡¯t get better! My friends taught me that!¡±


    ¡®Batharax¡¯s¡¯ smile disappeared, before he hurled a fireball at ¡®Billie.¡¯ ¡®Evangeline¡¯ just managed to swipe it away with her sword, before charging at ¡®Batharax.¡¯


    ¡°Wait, no!¡± ¡®Billie¡¯ cried out.


    Before ¡®Evangeline¡¯ even got there, she tripped over one of the partygoers, who landed into another, and another, before knocking ¡®Dessex¡¯ over, dropping her frying pan, which landed on the ground in front of ¡®Rambit.¡¯


    He stepped forward onto it, slipping and sliding around, before eventually falling forward and landing into a conveniently placed custard pie on the ground.


    The room was dead silent in shock, before a booming and howling laughter came from ¡®Batharax,¡¯ who was having trouble standing while he gripped his stomach.


    ¡°That!...that was brilliant!¡­what comedic brilliance! I haven¡¯t laughed like that in ages!¡± ¡®Batharax¡¯ admitted, wiping tears away.


    ¡°My bad luck!¡± ¡®Billie¡¯ let out, celebrating. ¡°It finally did something kinda right!¡±


    As ¡®Batharax¡¯ calmed down, now out of breath, ¡®Billie¡¯ scratched their chin.


    ¡°Wait¡­that laugh didn¡¯t sound like your normal one.¡± ¡®Billie¡¯ pointed out.


    ¡°¡­well, no¡­it wouldn¡¯t.¡± ¡®Batharax¡¯ said. ¡°That was never my real laugh, I just pretended it was.¡±


    ¡®Batharax¡¯ looked down at the ground, as the fire in the background slowly died down.


    ¡°¡­I made up this laugh to hide how I was really feeling. I thought if people didn¡¯t know how I was feeling, they wouldn¡¯t worry about me.¡±


    ¡°Is that why you wanted to spread bad vibes around?¡± ¡®Billie¡¯ asked, as ¡®Batharax¡¯ nodded.


    ¡°I thought if I focused my attention on everyone else, I could stop thinking about myself and how bad I felt.¡± ¡®Batharax¡¯ admitted. ¡°And Rolos and Trixis wouldn¡¯t have to worry about me all the time¡­¡±


    ¡°Well¡­that¡¯s the thing. If you¡¯ve got people in your life that care about you¡­they¡¯re gonna worry no matter what.¡± Sola said, quietly looking over to Julia. ¡°And you don¡¯t really get to say no to that. But distracting yourself only means the problems don¡¯t go away.¡±


    She rested a hand on ¡®Batharax¡¯s shoulder.


    ¡°Instead of making the world a worse place, try making your world a better one.¡±


    Julia was starting to tear up in the audience, still smiling widely, as the fires on stage completely died out.


    ¡°¡­wow, you¡¯ve given me a lot to think about.¡± ¡®Batharax¡¯ admitted, before turning to the crowd. ¡°¡­because of these inspiring words, I¡¯m calling off the war! I shall no longer torture this world anymore!¡±


    ¡°R-Really?¡± ¡®The Marquess¡¯ asked, before ¡®Trixis¡¯ stepped forward.


    ¡°Are you¡­still upset with me?¡±


    ¡®Batharax¡¯ smiled. ¡°Do you truly love him?¡±


    ¡®Trixis¡¯ eye¡¯s lit up. ¡°More THAN anything!¡±


    ¡°Then why should I stand in the way of that?¡± ¡®Batharax¡¯ insisted, as ¡®Trixis¡¯ leaped into ¡®The Marquess¡¯ arms.¡±


    ¡°Trixis is hereby pardoned of her crimes! She¡¯ll simply have to settle for being my wife.¡± ¡®The Marquess¡¯ offered, as Saxin quickly took the chance to kiss him passionately, as their characters slipped away with each second.


    ¡°Hey, this mime¡¯s incredible!¡± The partygoer played by Chops remarked, as ¡®Rambit¡¯ started dancing out of nowhere. ¡°These bad vibes are just lifting away like they were nothing!¡±


    ¡°¡­ait¡­wait, dear, please, there¡¯s still¡­¡± Lenin managed to get out, before jumping up to face ¡®Evangeline,¡¯ trying to clean himself up as Saxin ducked away. ¡°E-Evangeline, you¡¯ve gone above and beyond in your journey. What¡¯s say you take up the position of Knight of One?¡±


    ¡°I would be honoured, my lord.¡± ¡®Evangeline¡¯ replied, kneeling down to him, before he turned to ¡®Dessex.¡¯


    ¡°And we¡¯ve been needing a royal chef for a long time.¡± ¡®The Marquess¡¯ offered. ¡°If you feel up to it.¡±


    ¡®Dessex¡¯ quickly turned around and looked to ¡®Batharax,¡¯ who simply shrugged, as she smiled and nodded back to him.


    ¡°That just leaves Billie.¡± ¡®The Marquess¡¯ started, as ¡®Billie¡¯ stepped forward. ¡°I think you¡¯d make a great royal adv-¡°


    ¡°No thanks.¡±


    ¡®The Marquess¡¯ blinked. ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯d rather go back to my simple little life.¡± ¡®Billie¡¯ said. ¡°I never meant to change the world, but I guess I did anyway. And right now, that¡¯s good enough for me.¡±


    ¡°¡­well, I can¡¯t argue with that.¡± ¡®The Marquess¡¯ admitted. ¡°I guess if that¡¯s everything, tha-¡°


    ¡°Wait.¡± ¡®Dessex¡¯ interrupted, before turning to ¡®Billie.¡¯ ¡°I¡­have never asked¡­what is your last name?¡±


    Sola was a bit confused at the sudden offer, before putting two and two together and nodding happily. ¡°My last name¡­well, it¡¯s Ke-¡°


    ¡°Kessex?¡± ¡®Dessex¡¯ finished, as ¡®Billie¡¯ stepped back, before slapping their cheeks.


    ¡°Wait, does that mean I have¡­¡±


    They turned to the audience.


    ¡°Two secret sisters?????¡±


    The curtains were drawn right there, as Joleicia stepped out behind the podium again, her copy of the script covered in Sola¡¯s rewrites and edits.


    ¡°¡­what makes a hero? Is it courage? Determination? Saving those in need? All of these things?¡± Joleicia read aloud. ¡°Or perhaps¡­it¡¯s just how one perceives themselves. Maybe a hero¡¯s only as good as their world is. Or maybe¡­they can hope to make it better.¡±


    The spotlight flicked off, as Donovan leaned back in their seat, having mostly been paying attention for the last act.


    ¡°Okay¡­that was a lot better than it had any right to be.¡± Donovan admitted, smirking to themself. ¡°I¡¯m impressed I enjoyed it.¡±


    ¡°Wait, did I miss the end?!¡± Dulce let out, running out of the kitchen with a burnt bowl of popcorn. ¡°Dammit! Alright, someone recorded that, right?¡±


    As one last hurrah, the curtains opened up again, as the cast stood out on stage, before taking a bow.


    Julia stood up and clapped, tears still trailing down her face with a permanent smile that refused to move.


    Donovan and Dulce joined along, with Sola taking centre stage and sharing another glance with Julia, both very happy with themselves.


    Julia clapped again and again, waiting until the play finally came to a conclusion, and happy to stand on the sidelines and let herself be helped.

 Chapter 60: What Could Have Been

    ¡°Boom chikachika¡­boom ch boom¡­¡±


    ¡°You ready, guys?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, just a second!¡± Julia called out, glancing back at Harley shoving her face into the closet. ¡°You found them yet?¡±


    ¡°Hold on¡­¡± Harley muttered, before leaping back out with her Buster Knuckles in hand. ¡°There we go! I put ¡®em away for two seconds after the play, but no, they go and disappear on me.¡±


    ¡°Maybe they got sick of you?¡± Julia joked, as Harley stuck her tongue out.


    ¡°Maybe they didn¡¯t like your attitude. Did you think of that?¡±


    ¡°No, cause everyone likes me.¡± Julia added, grinning after, as Harley sighed out.


    ¡°¡­at least you¡¯re feeling better. I can usually tell once you get all sassy.¡± Harley noted, as Julia tilted her head.


    ¡°Really?¡±


    ¡°Uhuh. You can be a real troll sometimes.¡± Harley pointed out, as Julia hid her face.


    ¡°I have no idea what yo-¡°


    ¡°We were meant to leave ten minutes ago! Hurry it up already!¡±


    Julia panicked briefly, before heading out of her room. ¡°S-Sorry!¡±


    Harley followed behind, as they met up with the rest of the team in the lounge room, waiting patiently with their weapons.


    ¡°Took you long enough.¡± Sola insisted. ¡°Didn¡¯t you remember our plans?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, Julia was busy teasing me.¡± Harley explained, before showing her Knuckles off. ¡°And I had to find these.¡±


    ¡°Are you feeling better already?¡± Wess asked, as Julia looked a bit embarrassed.


    ¡°I-Is that my tell?¡± Julia pondered, before looking to Essex. ¡°I don¡¯t tease that much, do I?¡±


    Essex looked to the side. ¡°¡­should I answer honestly?¡±


    ¡°¡­you don¡¯t need to.¡± Julia confessed, visibly deflated, as Wess went to join her side. ¡°Alright, we should be good to go.¡±


    Julia turned to Percy, still finishing breakfast at the kitchen table. ¡°You sure you don¡¯t want to come to the academy with us?¡±


    Percy put her bowl down, before shaking her head.


    ¡°¡­n-no¡­thanks¡­¡± She managed, rubbing her neck, before signing. [I don¡¯t really wanna go back yet.]


    ¡°Alright. Well, have a fun day home! Dad¡¯ll be back soon!¡± Julia called out, as they headed out the door, with the sun impressively shining down on them.


    ¡°Wow, look at that.¡± Harley let out, whistling at the good weather. ¡°I know Faller gave us that pass to bring our weapons on the Flash-Rail, but this weather¡¯s too nice to waste.¡±


    ¡°Oh! Let¡¯s walk there instead! It¡¯s not that far anyway!¡± Sola suggested, as Julia nodded happily.


    ¡°Why not? It¡¯s the perfect day for it.¡± Julia beamed, turning to Wess and Essex. ¡°You up for it?¡±


    ¡°This¡­sounds fun.¡± Essex agreed, smiling. ¡°Real fun.¡±


    ¡°¡­sure.¡± Wess added, as they started their walk back to the academy, with Julia keeping a close eye on Wess.


    ¡°While we could have continued training at home, changing the environment to something more familiar will be to our benefit.¡± Essex noted.


    ¡°And I think this¡¯ll do us some good. I¡¯ve been missing campus.¡± Julia reasoned, jumping ahead and turning back around to everyone. ¡°We haven¡¯t gotten to hang out with our friends for a while.¡±


    ¡°But we hung out with Team Vanguard last week for the play.¡± Sola pointed out.


    ¡°They were cheering me up. I wanna be on equal terms this time.¡± Julia clarified. ¡°When¡¯s the last time you hung out with Cyrus, Wess?¡±


    ¡°¡­a while.¡± She admitted, massaging her face. ¡°It certainly sounds like a¡­return to form.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, that¡¯s a good way to put it!¡± Julia agreed, as she let Harley, Sola and Essex pull ahead for a little bit, leaving her and Wess alone. ¡°¡­hey, how¡¯re you holding up?¡±


    ¡°¡­somewhat better?¡± Wess answered honestly, waving her hand over her scar. ¡°I don¡¯t love the notion of training in public while my depth perception¡¯s still betraying me.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. If anyone teases you, we¡¯ll beat ¡®em up and take their lunch money.¡± Julia joked, getting a chuckle from Wess.


    ¡°If only all of life¡¯s problems were that simple.¡± Wess remarked, before locking hands with Julia. ¡°I¡¯m fine, dear. I was just hoping I would keep up with everyone in terms of recovery.¡±


    They looked ahead to the trio, as Sola had clearly just finished a bad joke, which Harley was losing it over, only for Essex to follow up with a worse one, before Harley fell into her, struggling to breathe. Sola jumped into Essex as well, before all three of them fell over, and they all collectively lost it.


    ¡°As a team, we¡¯re all in good spirits, but I¡¯m still getting used to it all¡­¡± Wess confessed, sighing out. ¡°Oh well. I¡¯ve come back from worse. As long as I¡¯ve got good people in my life, recovery shouldn¡¯t be a burden for much longer.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°That¡¯s it¡­next step.¡±


    ¡°¡­c-come on¡­come on¡­¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t force it. You¡¯re doing good.¡±


    ¡°¡­Am I?¡± Wicker replied, looking over at Marcus holding him up. ¡°The bullet only grazed my spine, so there¡¯s no reason I shouldn¡¯t be walking.¡±


    Marcus clicked his tongue. ¡°As someone with a degree, I disagree profusely. You know the spine¡¯s more than just the bone, right?¡±


    Wicker pushed him away, still barely holding himself up on the walking rails.


    ¡°I don¡¯t need you looking over me¡­¡± Wicker let out, as Marcus smacked his arm.


    ¡°You need somebody, so I¡¯m your best bet.¡± Marcus said. ¡°You already scared the doctor out. We¡¯re going again.¡±


    Wicker groaned, as Marcus helped him up again, right as Florey caught a glance of this outside of the infirmary off-room they were in.


    He¡¯s making progress, at least. Florey acknowledged. Even if it doesn¡¯t feel like it¡­


    He nearly locked glaring eyes with Marcus, before expertly ducking away and quickly heading to his makeshift lab in the Wailing storage room.


    Unlike me. Florey admitted, thinking back to his recent stint of dead ends. Still no closer to that autopsy¡­hopefully Cecil¡¯s recovery keep¡¯s them busy long enough for me to have a breakthrough and keep up with my work¡­


    He made his way inside, with the Wailing staring at him through its glass cell, the sound of water pouring into the cell¡¯s drain being all too familiar to Florey at this point.


    It watched as he sat down, looking over the spot in front of the cell reserved for Rosalind, which was currently unoccupied.


    ¡°Hope Rosalind¡¯s alright after that surgery¡­¡± Florey muttered. ¡°She¡¯d probably dropkick me for worrying about her¡­feels weird talking to myself now¡­¡±


    Florey shook his head, before focusing back on his work.


    It was all but a few minutes until he threw his hands up and slammed them on the table.


    ¡°DAMMIT!¡± He yelled, running her head through his hands. ¡°Nothing works! I can¡¯t make a solid-liquid-autopsy fucking¡­god dammit!¡±


    He threw some material across the table into the glass holding the Wailing back, as it flinched a little, before staring at Florey having his small tantrum.


    ¡°¡­Cecil¡¯s counting on me¡­¡± Florey assured. ¡°I made a promise and I¡¯m gonna stick to it. If I get this right, this could be the key to ending the Conflict¡­I have to do it¡­¡±


    Florey stuck his head down, his nerves still wracking his body as he scribbled down notes in an attempt to force a breakthrough, as the Wailing watched him work, noticing just how in his own head he was.


    As the room started to quiet down, the Wailing¡¯s attention was drawn to the only sound emanating from the room, being the small drain in the corner of its cell that allowed the constant water leaking from its back to not flood the room.


    With eyes finally off of it, the Wailing slid itself over, prodding quietly at the entrance, making sure not to draw Florey¡¯s attention over. Curiously, it looked inside the pipe, before breaking open the cover and pushing itself through just a little, seeing how much it could manage to get inside. To its surprise, there was a good amount of room within the pipes.


    ¡­enough to just barely fit inside.


    The realisation spooked the Wailing, as it stood back up and tried to look innocent, going over whether this might be a deliberate trap placed here to trick it.


    Then again, the people holding it seemed to be flying by the seat of their pants.


    And it didn¡¯t have any other options.


    So¡­


    ¡°¡­come on¡­why doesn¡¯t the¡­why¡¯s the math so fucking¡­¡± Florey grumbled, scrunching up some paper. ¡°ARGH! I can¡¯t work like this!¡±


    He pushed his chair out, closing his eyes and spinning around a few times to try and destress, as he rubbed his face and let the spinning slow down.


    By the time he did, the chair stopped right in front of the cell, just as the Wailing was squeezing itself right into the pipe, contorting all of its body to fit.


    As the visual finally sunk in for Florey, he stood up in shock, watching as the Wailing slowly disappeared with each passing second, before it was completely gone, a massive hole in the floor being the only thing it left behind.


    ¡°¡­oh dear god no¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­oh dear god no¡­¡±


    Rosalind groaned in pain, as her infirmary bed creaked at her constant turning.


    ¡°¡­relax¡­relax my ass. I don¡¯t relax. Stupid doctor should know that¡­¡± Rosalind muttered, trying to roll over without touching her new connector, still aching from the work that¡¯d been done on her. ¡°¡­at least with Wicker outta commission, I¡¯m not getting bossed aro-¡°


    ¡°Rosalind! Rosalind, it¡¯s bad!¡±


    Florey came bursting into the infirmary, as Rosalind groaned loudly at the irony.


    He ran right up to her bed, with her taking her sweet time to roll over to face him.


    ¡°I-I know we didn¡¯t establish a code system or anything, but this is code red. Code¡­the worst. The worst cod-¡°


    ¡°Florey, Florey, Flor-¡°


    ¡°This is so my fault. I really screwed up, Ros-¡°


    ¡°FLOREY, SHUT THE FUCK UP!!!¡± Rosalind yelled, as Florey finally obliged. ¡°¡­Florey, these pain killers are only so effective¡­you whining in my fucking ear is helping no one¡­¡±


    Taking a second to collect herself, Rosalind sighed out and pinched her nose. ¡°¡­what happened with the Wailing?¡±


    ¡°It got out.¡±


    Rosalind nodded, before double-taking and blinking. ¡°¡­it got out?¡±


    ¡°Just now. It slipped into the drain in its holding cell and managed to pull itself through the plumbing.¡± Florey explained, panic still running over his face. ¡°It¡¯s gonna pop out right into the middle of Detu City.¡±


    Rosalind¡¯s eyes widened, as she slowly got to her feet, stroking her chin, before turning to slap Florey in the face.


    ¡°What the fuck, man?!¡± Rosalind yelled out, grabbing her face. ¡°You¡¯re the smart one! There wasn¡¯t a backup security thing in place?!¡±


    Florey rubbed his cheek, as his voice started to shrink.


    ¡°I-I¡­didn¡¯t check¡­and I didn¡¯t think we n-needed it. The room was already built to house it, I though-¡°


    ¡°Well, think harder next time, brainiac! And don¡¯t come yelling to me with every little problem you have!¡± Rosalind complained, before grabbing her sword and heading out.


    ¡°W-Where are you going¡­?¡±


    Rosalind looked pissed. ¡°I¡¯m getting the fucking Wailing! You want Marcus to come in here and lynch us for letting a Wailing out in the middle of a city?!¡±


    The sound of loud crashing rang out from above them, as Rosalind bit her lip and kept walking, right as Florey started following behind.


    Rosalind noticed and held her tongue, as Florey tried to hold back his frustration from getting slapped.


    ¡°If you¡¯re following, you¡¯re not weighing me down.¡±


    ¡°¡­I don¡¯t plan to.¡± Florey stated, before running ahead of her, only frustrating her further.


    ¡°It¡¯s like a fucking daycare¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Training, is so much fun!¡±


    ¡°With my cannons, and Julia¡¯s gun!¡±


    Harley and Sola turned to Essex excitedly, staring wide-eyed in expectation, as Essex legitimately froze for a second.


    ¡°¡­one¡­two three¡­three two one¡­¡± Essex followed up, as Harley and Sola took a second, before nodding to each other.


    ¡°That works. That¡¯s pretty good.¡± Harley assured, as Essex let out a relieved breath as they rounded the corner to the academy, before her ears perked up suddenly.


    ¡°Countdown¡¯s complete, now here comes the sun! We¡¯re almost there, guys!¡± Julia happily followed up, jumping ahead, only to notice Essex getting distracted. ¡°Hey, what¡¯s up?¡±


    Before Essex could explain, screaming and smashing started emanating in the direction of Detu Central, with people running in the opposite direction.


    ¡°Is that what I think it is?¡± Harley asked, stepping forward, as Essex turned to face them.


    ¡°There¡¯s a Wailing in the middle of the city.¡± She announced, with Wess already scrolling on Activ for any new alerts.


    Once she found one, she handed off her tablet to Julia.


    ¡°It says it just¡­showed up about twenty minutes ago? Like, that¡¯s it. It just appeared. Evacuation notice¡­looks like the Central Government just put out a hunt on the Wailing.¡± Julia explained, before stopping for a second. ¡°Actually, wait¡­it¡¯s a Bounty Hunt.¡±


    Sola adverted her eyes, trying to hide the fact that she didn¡¯t actually remember what the difference was, as Essex noticed her embarrassment and went to raise her hand.


    ¡°Julia, remind me what a Bounty Hunt is again. I¡¯ve forgotten.¡± Essex asked, as Sola shared a sweet glance with her.


    ¡°Oh, right. Well, it¡¯s just like a normal hunt, expect instead of one team taking it on, any team can participate in the hunt.¡± Julia explained, showing off her tablet. ¡°And whoever gets the kill at the end gets the pay.¡±


    She clicked her tongue. ¡°Man, I wish we could take this one on. Just a few months away from graduating and we¡¯d finally have our degrees¡­¡±


    ¡°Uhh, Julia?¡± Harley asked, before showing her tablet off too. ¡°I think you missed something. This hunt¡¯s open to everyone.¡±


    Julia looked a bit confused, before scrolling through the listing again and gasping. ¡°No way¡­¡®because Detu City¡¯s Venator presence is very limited compared to most cities, this hunt is open to any Venators, including students from the nearby Venator Academy.¡¯ Holy shit¡­¡±


    ¡°We can do the hunt?¡± Sola asked, as Julia slowly nodded.


    ¡°Seems like it. They really want this thing taken care of.¡± Julia clarified, looking back to Wess. ¡°That¡¯s some good news, right?¡±


    ¡°¡­guess we can forgo our training for now.¡± Wess remarked, before looking over Julia¡¯s shoulder at the listing. ¡°And fortunately, we already have our weapons on us.¡±


    ¡°A classic Wailing hunt to get back into the swing of things!¡± Harley cheered, pounding her fists together. ¡°And we¡¯ve got the homefield advantage!¡±


    ¡°This is an excellent idea.¡± Essex agreed, scanning the streets around them. ¡°We should start tracking the Wailing if we want a chance at defeating it first.¡±


    ¡°WOO!!! Let¡¯s save Detu City!¡± Sola cheered, jumping on Harley¡¯s back, as the three of them started running off, leaving Julia behind with Wess.


    ¡°Ready?¡± Julia asked, as Wess let out a resigned sigh.


    ¡°I should be.¡± Wess agreed, as they started running to catch up, before an idea crossed Wess¡¯ mind. ¡°¡­the listing mentioned any students could participate, right?¡±


    ¡°Yeah?¡± Julia agreed, failing to see the point, before stopping dead in the street and turning around, as the rest of Team Valiant followed suite, realising the point at the same time.


    ¡°Let¡¯s do it, guys! We gotta keep Detu City safe!¡± Joleicia cheered out, running through the street, with the rest of Team Vanguard in tow, before passing right by Valiant. ¡°Hi guys! Did you see the listing?¡±


    ¡°U-Uhh¡­¡± Julia managed, waving back, before more hooping and hollering echoed down the street.


    ¡°BEEFCAKE NOW AND BEEFCAKE PROUD!!! BEEFCAKE NOW AND BEEFCAKE PROUD!!!¡± Team Beefcake cheered, charging ahead as well, only lagging behind slightly to keep up with Efrem.


    ¡°Alright, first mission as the new Team Exemplary! We¡¯re here to impress, so no getting distra¡­¡± Leandra declared, running down the street, before catching a glance of Wess as she passed and feeling her anger boil over, only for the rest of Exemplary to drag her along.


    ¡°We¡¯re heading straight for the Wailing! Nothing too fancy guys!¡± Baron announced, as an excited Edward, dejected Duke, and happy to be there Henry and George followed behind in hot pursuit.


    ¡°This is it! Team Rose and Liddy!¡± Rose declared, running directly past Team Valiant, as Liddy looked a bit caught up.


    ¡°Dear, we¡¯re on separate teams!¡±


    ¡°Not after we graduate! We gotta get the name out there now!¡± Rose insisted, holding her hands to her hips. ¡°Never fear, Rose and Liddy are here!¡±


    ¡°¡­this is on us.¡± Julia confessed, visibly exacerbated. ¡°We should have seen this coming¡­¡±


    ¡°Hey, Alpine.¡± Donovan greeted, as Julia turned to find Team Instinct lagging behind the rest. ¡°You going after that Wailing?¡±


    ¡°You guys are here too?¡± Harley asked, as Donovan shrugged.


    ¡°We missed out on the last Wailing attacking Detu City. Seems like a smart way to get our names out there since this year¡¯s tournament was delayed after the attack.¡± Donovan pointed out, before turning to their team. ¡°We wait till it¡¯s weakened, then go in for the kill! We don¡¯t have as much experience with Wailing like the other teams, so we¡¯ve gotta be smart!¡±


    ¡°Then why¡¯re you leading us?¡± Ruddy joked, as the rest of the team cracked up, with Donovan simply rolling their eyes, before smiling a little too.


    ¡°Alright, Ruddy¡¯s bait today. Any objections?¡± Donovan asked, as the team shook their heads.


    ¡°Wha-¡° Ruddy let out, before sighing. ¡°¡­tyrant.¡±


    ¡°With an iron fist. Move it already!!!¡± Donovan yelled, as the team kicked themselves into high gear and started heading out, with Donovan not too far behind. ¡°Forgive me, but if we need to, we¡¯re gonna steal the kill from you.¡±


    ¡°¡­you can try?¡± Julia clapped back, as Harley stood behind her and hyped her up.


    ¡°¡­okay then.¡± Donovan remarked, smiling and smacking Julia¡¯s arm. ¡°Someone¡¯s lit a fire under your ass. May the better team win.¡±


    Donovan sprinted off, as Harley waited for Julia to respond, before calling out herself.


    ¡°We will!!!¡± Harley replied, before turning to Julia. ¡°Why didn¡¯t you say it? It was right there.¡±


    ¡°Ow¡­¡± Julia let out, rubbing her arm. ¡°They really laid into me with that slap.¡±


    ¡°Everyone! I apologise for yelling, but we must hurry now to beat the other teams!¡± Essex declared, rearing to go, as the rest of the team quickly started to pick up the pace.


    ¡°Right, sorry Essex!¡± Julia apologised, before pumping her fists. ¡°Let¡¯s do this!¡±


    ¡ª-¡ª<u>BOUNTY HUNT</u>¡ª-¡ª


    ¡ª-¡ª<u>HUNT DOWN THE WAILING DESTROYING DETU CITY</u>¡ª-¡ª


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°ONE TWO! ONE TWO! KEEP UP THE PACE!¡± Donovan demanded, with the rest of Team Instinct following their command. ¡°WE WON¡¯T CATCH UP IF WE AREN¡¯T TRYING HARD ENOUGH!¡±


    ¡°Donovan, hold up!¡± Jordan called from the back, as the team stopped where they were, all taking the chance to catch their breath.


    ¡°Jordan, have we reached the Wailing yet?¡± Donovan asked.


    Jordan shook his head. ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°Then why¡¯re you holding the team up?¡±


    ¡°Cause they released more information on the Wailing.¡± He clarified, showing off his tablet. ¡°It¡¯s a gelatinous one. Completely gelatinous. We can¡¯t touch it.¡±


    Donovan took a second, looking back over the team and recalling they were the only member with a Whil, and a fairly tame one at that.


    ¡°¡­shit.¡± Donovan let out, shaking their head. ¡°¡­alright, back to the academy, everyone.¡±


    The team let out a collective disappointed sigh, as they slowly wandered back to campus, feeling pretty deflated.


    ¡°We got so hyped and everything¡­¡± Judy let out.


    ¡°It just had to be a gelatinous one. And not just a little, all of it.¡± Rayjon added, as Donovan whistled out.


    ¡°HEY!¡±


    The team all turned back to them.


    ¡°ONE TWO, ONE TWO! KEEP UP THE PACE!¡±


    The team snapped into action, as they started running back to campus, apologising profusely to Donovan as they ran, while they sighed to themself in the back.


    ¡°¡­it feels like I¡¯m the only one with my eye on the ball¡­¡±


    ¡ª-¡ª<u>BOUNTY HUNT UPDATE</u>¡ª-¡ª


    ¡ª-¡ª<u>HUNT DOWN THE GELATINOUS WAILING DESTROYING DETU CITY</u>¡ª-¡ª


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Where to go?


    What to do?


    How to do it?


    Priorities¡­


    Leaving¡­leaving now.


    Leaving¡­


    ¡­food.


    Starving¡­trapped for so long¡­


    Food now¡­leave later¡­


    Venators¡­threat?


    ¡­can¡¯t¡­think¡­food now¡­


    ¡­have¡­to leave¡­


    The Wailing, having burst out directly from EHM¡¯s pipes, tore right through Detu City¡¯s streets. The urban environment and mass of people felt so alien, so¡­dense, for lack of a better term. Denser than home, at least¡­


    ¡­food. Something sweet. Something it wanted.


    Crowds of people fled as it smashed its head into a nearby caf¨¦, pushing chairs and tables away with its amorphous body, before pushing into the pastries on display and absorbing them, feeling the slightest relief to its hunger.


    It headed for the bags of sugar next to the coffee machine next, only to be hit with a flying bottle from behind, which simply travelled through its body and landed harmlessly on the ground.


    ¡°Yeah! That¡¯s what you get, you freak!¡± A passerby yelled, grabbing up another one, before the Wailing turned to him and simply looked him in the eye, causing him to freak out. ¡°U-Uhh¡­shit, nevermind! Team Swift, help!!!¡±


    Stolen from its rightful author, this tale is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.


    The Wailing simply ignored him and went back to digging around, as chaos unfolded in the ruined streets it had already passed through.


    Out of one of the apartments it had previously smashed its head into, Rosalind and Florey hid behind the now massive hole in the building, watching as the Wailing moved on further down the street.


    ¡°It¡¯s already this far¡­¡± Rosalind realised, before facing Florey again. ¡°It¡¯s hanging around the city, so it¡¯s probably looking for something to eat since we weren¡¯t feeding it much. Once it¡¯s full, there¡¯s a good chance it¡¯s out of here.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± Florey acknowledged, nodding along. ¡°So we¡¯ve only got so much time to grab it.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s not forget the¡­¡± Rosalind started, only to notice Team Valiant in the reflection of a window a few streets down, clearly searching for the Wailing. ¡°¡­of fucking course¡­¡±


    Feeling her anger seethe, her Whil started to flare up on its own, before she breathed in through her teeth and violently punched the wall next to her.


    Unflinching, she pulled her fist away, as Florey backed up at the sudden action.


    ¡°¡­there¡¯s Venators out there too, and they¡¯re hungry for blood.¡± Rosalind noted, shaking her arm and distracting herself with the pain ringing through it. ¡°If we get spotted, there¡¯s gonna be questions about why we¡¯re getting involved.¡±


    ¡°¡­so don¡¯t get caught.¡± Florey muttered, trying not to upset her in case the punch was because of him.


    Rosalind propped her foot up on a ruined bit of wall. ¡°I¡¯m gonna run ahead and steer it back to EHM. I can handle myself around Venators better than you can.¡±


    ¡°¡­should I prepare myself¡­¡± Florey asked quietly, as Rosalind turned to him. ¡°¡­in case we end up having to kill it?¡±


    ¡°NO.¡± Rosalind insisted, leaning down and poking Florey¡¯s chest. ¡°We¡¯re not killing it, okay? We¡¯re dragging it back and watching those Venators shit themselves in anger cause they missed their chance. Any less is a failure.¡±


    Rosalind went to jump out again, as Florey raised his voice this time.


    ¡°W-Wait! Just, before you go¡­when you caught it last time, you mentioned it was drawn to something.¡± Florey stated, as Rosalind scratched her nose.


    ¡°It liked some of my lollipops. Shoved its head in my glove compartment.¡± Rosalind explained, before properly leaving. ¡°If you¡¯re getting any bright ideas, stay outta my business with them.¡±


    Rosalind jumped into the street in the direction of the Wailing, as Florey thought on what she said and started to formulate a plan, piecing a few things together.


    Quickly, he reached into his pocket, before pulling out his car keys and his company card.


    ¡°¡­I can do this.¡± He muttered to himself, as he headed back in the direction of EHM, swinging his keys on his finger. ¡°I can make this right¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Where¡¯d everyone go?! We can¡¯t have lost it already!¡±


    ¡°WAILING?! WHERE¡¯RE YOU AT?!¡± Roman yelled out, as Leandra slapped his arm.


    ¡°Don¡¯t yell for it! What if it hears us?¡±


    ¡°But it¡¯ll come running, right?¡± Roman posited. ¡°Don¡¯t we want that?¡±


    Leandra blinked a few times, before cupping her hands and joining in.


    ¡°OH, WE¡¯RE JUST SO TASTY!!! PERFECTLY EDIBLE AND SNACKSIZE!!!¡± Leandra added, only for Acadia to whistle loudly and grab their attention.


    ¡°Guys, stop, stop! I know where it is!¡± Acadia suggested, standing in the middle of the street. ¡°I bet¡­it¡¯s ducked away now that a bunch of Venators showed up.¡±


    ¡°Ducked where?¡± Claudius asked, folding his arms, as Leandra and Roman joined them.


    ¡°Well it¡¯s made of slime, right?¡± Acadia said. ¡°So it¡¯s probably hiding itself in the sewers to blend in!¡±


    Everyone stared at Acadia in befuddlement, as she indicated to a manhole cover right next to her, clearly eager to dive in.


    ¡°¡­yeah, but it¡¯s still the sewers.¡± Roman pointed out. ¡°Even a Wailing would find it too disgusting. It¡¯s gross as literal shit down there.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, and I don¡¯t wanna go into the sewers.¡± Claudius reasoned. ¡°I would happily sit here, just waiting for it to come back out more than going down there.¡±


    ¡°¡­Acadia, I¡¯m just gonna veto the sewer plan.¡± Leandra stated, deflating Acadia¡¯s energy. ¡°We¡¯ll keep it as a¡­very last minute backup, but fo¡­¡±


    Leandra¡¯s attention drifted as, among other things, Team Valiant ran down a parallel street, with Wess visibly lagging behind the others.


    ¡°I can¡¯t believe it¡­¡± Leandra muttered, showing her hands. ¡°What, too good to run fast like the rest of us?¡±


    ¡°Okay, you gotta cut this out.¡± Roman insisted, grabbing her arms, before spinning her around. ¡°Are you gonna do this every time we see them?¡±


    ¡°No.¡± Leandra assured, before pointing back at them. ¡°Just with Wess.¡±


    ¡°¡­wait, I just saw it!¡± Roman lied, pointing in the opposite direction of Team Valiant. ¡°The Wailing slinked right past!¡±


    ¡°Really?!¡± Leandra let out, before stopping suddenly. ¡°Then why were they runni-¡°


    ¡°Idiots didn¡¯t even notice it was right behind them.¡± Acadia backed up, bumping Roman¡¯s arm, before running ahead. ¡°Let¡¯s go already!¡±


    Leandra shook her head. ¡°No complaints from me, let¡¯s catch this thing!¡±


    The only one left standing there was Claudius, who rubbed his forehead quietly.


    ¡°¡­okay, I guess we¡¯re not getting this one¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°I can hear it!¡± Essex exclaimed, brandishing her scythe. ¡°We are getting close!¡±


    Team Valiant charged ahead, passing onto a new street, before spotting the Wailing with its head inside of a nearby servo, downing bottles of soft drink.


    ¡°Gottem! Sola!¡± Julia yelled out.


    ¡°On it!¡± Sola cheered, jumping ahead and firing her cannons, as the Wailing quickly took notice and curved its body out of the way of her laser blasts. A few beams of light hit the windows of the store and reflected off, smashing a few more holes into the sides of nearby buildings.


    ¡°Oh no!¡± Sola let out, right as Harley charged ahead of her, clearing the way for Essex to come in after.


    The Wailing swiped at Harley, who blocked most of the hit with her Buster Knuckles, as Essex used the distraction to jump ahead, climb over the rubble, and change her hand to steel with her Whil, aiming to get a solid punch on the Wailing.


    Only once Essex was close to it did the Wailing even register her presence, before getting smacked across the servo with her fist, sending it flying into the refrigerated section.


    As Essex was just about to land, her foot slightly caught on one of the empty bottles, before she tripped over and landed hard onto the ground, taking a moment to get back up, right as Julia made her way inside toward the dazed Wailing, still visibly disoriented from the sudden fighting.


    Julia knew it was about to come back up and slip away, and knew that she could keep it¡­


    ¡­keep it in place¡­


    ¡­


    ¡­Julia stared down at her gloves, still right there, as she went to pull one of them off, shaking as she did so. The rubber was loose in her hand, struggling to follow her grip, as she prepared herself to use her Whil again¡­


    To just¡­hold it¡­


    ¡­


    ¡­Julia started shaking her head and closing her eyes, as she let go of the glove and felt her breathing pick up.


    ¡°No¡­no, I-I¡­not yet¡­¡± Julia assured to herself, trying to calm down as the Wailing got back up. ¡°¡­Wess? You alright back there?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m doing what I can.¡± Wess stated, hanging in the back to make sure no other teams interrupted them. ¡°Is the Wailing dealt with?¡±


    Before Julia could answer, the two of them were blindsided as it slipped right past them, almost becoming formless and snaking around, as Wess tried desperately to slash at it, even once, only to completely miss it while it passed by.


    Harley tried jumping on it to hold it down, which obviously didn¡¯t work very well, as it slipped back further down the street.


    ¡°Shit. Those things are so hard to catch.¡± Harley remarked, turning to the others. ¡°Did Essex get the hit in?¡±


    ¡°¡­dal.¡± Essex replied, stumbling out of the servo and holding her head. ¡°But my footing was not perfect.¡±


    ¡°And I did more damage to this place!¡± Sola worried. ¡°I¡¯m as bad as the Wailing!¡±


    ¡°Sola, we¡¯re still a bit rusty.¡± Julia assured, taking a solid breath. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, we¡¯ll get the hang of it again.¡±


    ¡°I hope so. I couldn¡¯t even hit the thing¡­¡± Wess grumbled, before the team¡¯s attention was drawn to the Wailing further down the street, now climbing up the side of a couple buildings to avoid any further fighting.


    As it clung to the side of an apartment complex, getting ready to jump to the buildings across the street, a streak of white light passed over a couple roofs, shooting right for the Wailing, before slashing across it and leaving a decently sized gash in its body.


    The Wailing struggled to reform its shape, as the light careened through the air in a beautiful arc, before landing on the buildings across the street. The light climbed down their length, clinging to the side, before eventually hitting the ground and stopping in front of Team Valiant, all with shocked expressions on their faces.


    ¡°Hey, look who¡¯s here!¡± Renee exclaimed, taking off her goggles. ¡°Long time no see, Team Valiant! How¡¯re your studies?¡±


    ¡°U-Uhh, good?¡± Julia let out, as Sola jumped forward.


    ¡°Team Swift are here!!! No way!!! Where¡¯s the rest of you?¡± Sola asked, scanning around, before noises started to ring out near the now reformed Wailing.


    Off to the side, a few glowing orbs arced their way into the Wailing, taking space inside its body, before detonating and causing massive explosions inside the Wailing¡¯s body. The Wailing ballooned and inflated with each one, misshaping it more and more, before it couldn¡¯t cling to the building anymore, falling right back to the street with a crash.


    Despite how brutal the explosives looked, the Wailing seemed virtually unharmed by them, as it slithered away right after landing, finally making some distance between it and its adversaries.


    ¡°RENEE! DID YOU SEE THAT?!¡±


    ¡°Sure did!¡± Renee yelled back up the roof, giving a thumbs up, before disappearing into light again, trailing back up the building, then down again, as she reappeared with another person, excitedly shaking her grenade launcher around.


    ¡°I wrecked that thing! It looked like one of those stress toys with the bulgy eyes!¡± She cheered, dancing around. ¡°Shasha for the win!¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll have to give her a bit.¡± Renee assured Team Valiant, as she slipped her dagger away. ¡°To answer your question, it¡¯s only Shasha and me in the city. The rest of Team Swift are on their way.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t have a Whil, and Renee¡¯s isn¡¯t combative, so we¡¯re just gonna capture it and wait for our team to finish it off!¡± Shasha explained, jumping onto Renee. ¡°If we even need them! Also, who are you guys?¡±


    Julia went to introduce the team, before Renee stepped in.


    ¡°They shadowed me and Gates a couple years back.¡± Renee explained, giving Shasha enough information, before turning to Julia again. ¡°Nice getup.¡±


    Julia forced herself not to look down at her gloves, as Harley and Essex were trying to keep an eye on where the Wailing was heading. ¡°So you guys are hunting this thing too?¡±


    Renee nodded. ¡°We¡¯re part of the Energia Agency, so we¡¯re some of the only professional Venators even close to Detu City.¡±


    ¡°This thing¡¯s practically ours! Team Swift! Team Swift!¡± Shasha cheered, before running off toward the Wailing again, surprising Harley and Essex with her brazenness.


    ¡°That¡¯s my cue. Feel free to sit this one out! It¡¯s a lovely day, after all!¡± Renee insisted, running after Shasha, leaving Team Valiant as suddenly as they arrived.


    ¡°¡­huh.¡± Julia let out. ¡°Well then¡­¡±


    Another moment passed, as she looked to the rest of the team.


    ¡°¡­well, the professional Venators are here.¡± Julia posited, shrugging her shoulders. ¡°And¡­they look to have it handled a lot more than we do. We could ju-¡±


    ¡°Absolutely not!¡±


    Wess stepped forward, right in front of Julia, as the team stepped back at her sudden burst in energy.


    ¡°How dare you. We¡¯re not rolling over because they told us to. In case you forgot, we¡¯re only a few months off graduating.¡± Wess declared. ¡°We may not be in top form, but if they want to be glory hogs, they can earn it like the rest of us. We¡¯re getting that bounty and that¡¯s that.¡±


    Harley found herself cracking a smile. ¡°Hell yeah, we are.¡±


    ¡°No rolling over!¡± Sola cheered, before facing Julia. ¡°No rolling over!¡±


    ¡°No rolling over.¡± Essex added, pumping her fists slightly, as Julia felt put on the spot.


    ¡°N-No, sorry, you¡¯re right¡­we have just as much of a right to this¡­¡± Julia decided, before getting stares from the others. ¡°¡­no rolling over!¡±


    ¡°Woof woof, mother fuckers!¡± Harley exclaimed, picking up Sola, before charging forward. ¡°Back to it!¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Percy and Milo shovelled more popcorn into their mouths, watching the news coverage as it skirted around Detu City, doing its best to keep up with the out-of-nowhere Wailing attack.


    Percy had already emptied a few bowls watching a movie before Milo got back, but once she flipped to the news, they were both hooked.


    ¡°We¡¯ve just received word that Team Swift are now on the scene, having arrived from the Energia Agency. The Wailing is still tearing up the streets of Detu City as we speak. What¡¯s the story there, Dana?¡±


    ¡°Very hopeful, Tim. While most of the population have evacuated to a safe distance, there¡¯s a lot of vocal support for the Venators from citizens insisting they stay in the city.¡± Dana explained, panning to a shot of a massive crowd holding up signs and cheering behind barricades, before stepping closer. ¡°Excuse me sir, aren¡¯t you worried about staying in the city?¡±


    ¡°Not with Team Swift on the scene!¡± He exclaimed, grabbing the mic. ¡°Central Point represent! They fucking rule!¡±


    ¡°Cut that. Cut it.¡± Dana quickly said, before moving over to some other supports. ¡°What about you two? Most of the Venators fighting are only students, after all.¡±


    ¡°Only students?¡± One of them said, as the other jumped in.


    ¡°That¡¯s Team Valiant over there! They¡¯re the ones that dealt those blows to the Behemoth Wailing!¡± They said, as Percy¡¯s eyes lit up in excitement hearing them mentioned, before the first supporter popped in again.


    ¡°We¡¯ve been fans since the tournament. You go, girls! Keep Detu City safe!¡± They cheered, holding up their homemade sign, as Dana addressed the camera again.


    ¡°Looks like there¡¯s not much else to say from out here. Back to you, Tim.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Dana, for the covera-¡°


    ¡°There you go! They¡¯re getting¡¯ their name out there!¡± Milo cheered, muting the TV. ¡°Hold on, I¡¯m recording this.¡±


    Percy pulled out her new tablet and excitedly sent a text to the others about their new fans, only to realise they wouldn¡¯t see it since they were in the middle of a hunt, before just sending it anyway.


    They¡¯re actually getting attention. Percy realised, smiling to herself. This is so cool¡­


    Once she sent it off, she noticed Team Valiant flashed onto the TV while Milo was fiddling with the remote. She jumped for it to unmute it, with the broadcast cutting to live footage of them in the middle of fighting the Wailing, as Sola fired at it and Essex trying to slash into it while Harley and Wess corralled it in place.


    ¡°Oh shit, this is the real deal!¡± Milo insisted, as Julia appeared briefly on screen. ¡°YOU MESS THAT THING UP, HONEY!¡±


    Percy started cheering them on with him, jumping up and down on the couch and miming their actions, as she fully got caught up in the excitement and nearly knocked over her popcorn.


    ¡°¡­g-go!...g-g-go!¡± She let out, feeling the strain on her voice coming quickly, before the broadcast cut away again, giving her an excuse to jump back down and calm herself.


    ¡°Man¡­do they do this all the time?¡± Milo asked Percy, as she silently snickered beside him, before she sent off another text.


    I can¡¯t wait to hear all about it¡­


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Florey.


    Tearing down the street, he pulled up in front of another grocery store, one of the few still open, and jumped out of his car, before heading straight to the sweets aisle.


    He grabbed as much as he could and stumbled over to the self-checkout, paying as quickly as he could for the items, and dragging them back to his car.


    ¡°¡­okay¡­that¡­should be enough¡­¡± He panted, stretching his back out, before slapping himself conscious. ¡°You got this! Just a bit more.¡±


    He hurried back into the driver¡¯s seat and tore off down the street again, now ready to put his plan into motion.


    ¡°Body, we¡¯ve got a deal. You agree with me. Take your fucking medicine and stay awake long enough to clean up this shitshow¡­¡±


    Rosalind fell against another wall, running her hand over her forehead, as sweat ran down her face. She downed a few more painkillers from her stash, before catching the Wailing passing by the alleyway she was hiding in.


    Behind it were Team Beefcake chasing after and taking pot shots at it, with Brad attempting to lift it into the sky, as the Wailing managed to slip from the team¡¯s grasp, only to fall right in front of Team Ferocity, with Baron walling it off with his flaming whip sword.


    ¡°You¡¯re staying here, got that?¡± Baron declared, as Edward readied an attack with his Whil, before the Wailing saw an opportunity and charged right through Edward, knocking him flat onto the ground.


    As it ran through the streets, trying to avoid the constant hounding of the Venators hunting it, the Wailing found itself running into Team Valiant again, clearly not expecting it to come this way.


    ¡°There!¡± Julia yelled out, before noticing Wess was the only one even close to it, and that it looked to be charging at her like it had Edward. ¡°Wess! Watch out!¡±


    Wess took notice and caught the Wailing heading her way, seeing it refusing to move out of the way, before she forced herself to do the same.


    Taking a moment to breath, instead of stepping out of the way, she held her sword out, bracing for when it hit, as it charged right into her, before getting sliced in half as it passed, narrowly avoiding her.


    It reformed after clearing her, with the sword slash having done nothing to it damage wise, before it carried on, still trying to make distance. Wess, however, found herself pleasantly surprised, as she held Belvedere out proudly.


    ¡°¡­I did it¡­¡± She remarked, before distant explosions rang out behind her, with Shasha cackling happily as she hemmed the Wailing into another locked intersection.


    Rubble was blocking it on every end, with Renee now skirting around it, encircling it to get in a few clean hits to wear it down.


    Before she could though, the Wailing pushed itself into one of the rubble piles, squeezing its body through, even as it was clear this was a last resort from its immense exhaustion.


    It cleared some distance again, though it felt no safer in this labyrinth of assailants. One of its earlier ideas of climbing into the sewers to hide came up again, as it stared down at a nearby manhole.


    Just as the Wailing was about to hide away, it caught it.


    The scent.


    A waft across the wind, drowning in sweetness.


    Finally. Enough¡­


    Enough to fill¡­


    Enough to leave¡­


    Enough to be rid of this.


    There it was.


    Further down the street was a mountain of sweets, all piled into the back of Florey¡¯s car, with his foot on the accelerator, waiting for the Wailing to catch the bait.


    Florey¡¯s hands were sweating, as his eyes were glued to the rearview mirror.


    ¡°Come on¡­please notice it¡­¡±


    The Wailing took another glance, feeling the presence of the people chasing it getting closer, before its vast hunger made the decision for it and it leaped for the car, slithering down the street right towards the massive food horde.


    Florey floored it, driving as fast as he could down the street, far away from any of the Venator action, with the Wailing in hot pursuit.


    The Wailing started to catch up and clipped the back of the car a few times, nearly tripping Florey up, until he started turning a few corners, throwing the Wailing off.


    It scrambled to follow Florey with each turn, keeping its attention on the small bits of food falling out the back, before Florey pulled himself onto a nearby bridge hanging over a stretch of road, parking with the front of his car facing the edge.


    He quickly got out and started dumping the sweets onto the road behind the car, piling as much as he could before the Wailing caught up. Eventually, it found its way back to him, as he jumped back into the car and ducked himself down, waiting patiently for the Wailing to arrive.


    Spotting the mass of sweets laid out for it, it ignored the seemingly abandoned car entirely and started gorging itself, consuming as much of it as it could.


    This was it.


    This was enough to get its fill.


    And with it, it could finally¡­


    ¡­could finally¡­


    ¡­huh?


    With its attention entirely on the food, the fact the car was revving its engine hadn¡¯t even registered, as Florey very quickly and suddenly reversed the car back, right into the Wailing.


    The Wailing, thrown off guard, was pushed back, falling right off the edge of the bridge, as Florey jumped out of the driver¡¯s seat, having lost control of the car at this point.


    As the Wailing fell, it predicted it would land without much harm and make a break for the wild, only to realise as it fell that there was something waiting for it below the bridge.


    The containment unit.


    It started to panic, flailing to no avail as it fell, before landing right into the tank, as the force of its landing shuddered the lid closed on top of it, trapping it back inside.


    Just a second later, Florey¡¯s car followed suite and crashed into the road nearby, exploding into a large fireball. Once he felt it was safe, Florey popped his head over the edge, saddened by the smouldering remains of his car, but ecstatic by what he¡¯d done.


    He caught the Wailing again.


    ¡°¡­I¡­¡±


    And it was all by himself.


    ¡°¡­I did this¡­¡±


    Florey pumped his fists, a massive smile plastered over his face.


    ¡°I DID IT!!!¡±


    Florey started dancing in the street, hyping himself up excitedly, as the Wailing aimlessly and weakly tried breaking out again.


    He quickly hurried down to the street below, texting Rosalind on the way.


    Florey [I caught the Wailing! Come to Finish Street with your car!]


    Rosalind [r u fukin prankin me?]


    Instead of replying, Florey just sent her a photo of the captured Wailing, before getting a quick response.


    Rosalind [oh shit nvm]


    Florey¡¯s grin only grew, as he caught up to the containment unit and the seething Wailing inside, staring daggers at Florey.


    ¡°This¡­is¡­AAHHH!!! I didn¡¯t think I could do it! I mean, I didn¡¯t plan on my car getting totalled, but it was worth it!¡± Florey exclaimed, pointing right in the Wailing¡¯s face. ¡°Who¡¯s laughing now, bigshot?! That¡¯s right, Florey is!¡±¡±


    ¡°HEY!¡±


    Florey quickly spun his head around, as he started to notice the Venators tracking the Wailing coming down the street, only now registering what Florey had done.


    In the back, he spotted Team Valiant and Julia, as she spotted him too with genuine surprise.


    Once he¡¯d taken this in, he only now noticed the ones yelling at him getting closer, being Renee and Shasha from Team Swift.


    ¡°Are you a Venator?¡±


    Florey looked around awkwardly. ¡°Uhh¡­no, but, look at this! I caught i-¡°


    ¡°That wasn¡¯t my question. What¡¯re you doing getting involved with a Wailing as a non-Venator?¡± Renee insisted, getting in his face, with Shasha nodding beside her. ¡°You could¡¯ve gotten yourself killed trying to fight that thing!¡±


    ¡°¡­but I didn-¡°


    ¡°Don¡¯t backchat me! You don¡¯t know what you¡¯re doing!¡± Renee insisted, pointing to the flaming remains of Florey¡¯s car. ¡°Look at that! What if that hit a bystander? You wanna be responsible for something like that?!¡±


    ¡°¡­th-the¡­the city evacuated, I¡­¡± Florey tried, before he felt the gears in his head turning, with Renee only getting angrier.


    ¡°I can¡¯t believe this! Civilians always think they know what they¡¯re doing and start throwing punches without a care in the world!¡±


    Florey started to piece things together, recalling Renee¡¯s face and voice from somewhere before.


    ¡°If you¡¯re not qualified, then do everyone a favour and get out of our way, you got it?!¡±


    ¡°U-Uhh, Renee?¡± Julia started, raising her hand a little. ¡°I-It doesn¡¯t look like he tried to fight i-¡°


    ¡°Julia, not now! This behaviour¡¯s dangerous and needs to be discouraged!¡± Renee called back, quieting Julia, as she stepped forward again. ¡°How do you even know this thing works?! It could break out and any se¡­¡±


    ¡­wait¡­


    As Florey disassociated, the distinct memory of carnival music and the taste of churro stuck in his mind, as he finally remembered where she was from.


    ¡­this was them¡­


    Florey looked back at Renee.


    After that Wailing attacked me as a kid¡­Team Swift were the team that yelled in my face for fighting back¡­


    Renee kept calling out his behaviour, as he just sat there.


    ¡­and nothing¡¯s changed.


    Amidst the yelling, the only thing to draw Florey back out was the appearance of another person appearing behind the Venators. Not Rosalind, but rather¡­


    ¡°Well, that¡¯s where it went.¡±


    A majority of the Venators turned to the new presence, as Marcus started pushing past people and some of the rubble. He kept his gaze fixed on the Wailing and Florey, who was only now sweating bullets.


    ¡°Who¡¯s that guy?¡± Sola quietly asked the team, as Julia analysed Florey¡¯s reaction.


    ¡°¡­a friend of Florey¡¯s, I think.¡±


    ¡°Our containment device goes missing, and then there¡¯s news of a Wailing tearing up Detu City.¡± Marcus posited, approaching the device. ¡°Seems I missed out on the action.¡±


    ¡°This is your device, Marcus?¡± Renee asked, as Florey looked genuinely shocked.


    ¡°Y-You know him?¡±


    ¡°Team Swift are sponsored by EHM.¡± Marcus answered, turning to face Florey, before switching to Renee. ¡°If it¡¯s alright with you, we¡¯ll take it from here. We weren¡¯t meant to test the containment unit on live subjects yet, so it¡¯d be better if we dispose of the Wailing ourselves to avoid any trouble with the technology.¡±


    Renee¡¯s body lost its tension, as she nodded back. ¡°Of course, go right ahead. The rest of Swift won¡¯t be arriving for a few more hours, so if you can take care of it-¡°


    ¡°Won¡¯t even be a hassle.¡± Marcus offered, before looking down at Florey again. ¡°Do you have a plan to return this to EHM?¡±


    Just as he said that, Rosalind¡¯s car pulled up nearby, as Florey solemnly nodded back to Marcus, trying not to dig his own grave any deeper.


    ¡°¡­okay.¡± Marcus replied. ¡°Guess you¡¯ve got some work when you return, huh?¡±


    Marcus nodded to Team Swift and left soon after, as the scene took on a more casual tone now that the Wailing had been apprehended. A few teams cleared out or assessed damages, as Rosalind walked over to Florey, admiring the handiwork.


    ¡°Holy fucking shit, Florey. You actually did something.¡± Rosalind remarked, as Florey didn¡¯t feel like arguing.


    Her attention drifted to Team Valiant, now chatting with Team Vanguard a distance away, before they spotted her too and locked eyes, both sizing each other up.


    Rosalind felt her hand resting on her sword handle, as Team Valiant started to square up, before both parties acknowledged how many people were still around them, both to witness and be bystanders, and just how pointless fighting at this point would have been.


    Despite her anger telling her otherwise, Rosalind lifted her hand off her sword, before heading to lock the containment unit to the back of her car, as Team Valiant decided to let sleeping dogs lie for now and start to clear out.


    As they were leaving, Julia turned back to Florey, wondering if it was right for her to head over to him and chat, as he was clearly still in his own head.


    ¡°Well.¡±


    Florey looked back up at Renee, pulling out her tablet to check Activ.


    ¡°I hope this was a good reminder of what to do in a situation like this in the future.¡± Renee posited, with Shasha nodding beside her, as Florey felt genuine shock at the statement. ¡°Just let us do our job, and there won¡¯t be any problems, okay?¡±


    Florey knew just how much he disagreed with what she said, as Rosalind popped her head up from her car to see him clenching his fist.


    As Renee went to walk away, Florey finally spoke up.


    ¡°Fuck you.¡±


    Renee¡¯s eyes widened, as she and Shasha spun around, only to find Florey walking to Rosalind¡¯s car, sharing another brief glare with Julia, before disappearing from eyeshot, as Julia found herself standing in profound shock, before taking a moment¡­


    ¡­and following the rest of Team Valiant away from the scene.


    As Florey wordlessly joined Rosalind in the passenger seat, Rosalind turned back to face Team Swift, before flipping them off and driving in the direction of EHM, once again with the Wailing in tow.


    ¡°¡­good job sticking up for yourself.¡± Rosalind admitted, as Florey was clearly still pissed.


    ¡°¡­I¡¯m gonna make it so we don¡¯t need Venators in the future.¡± Florey declared, his arms folded. ¡°I¡¯ll make it so they¡¯re obsolete.¡±


    Rosalind found herself quietly proud of him, before spotting some of the destruction the Wailing had left behind in the buildings around them.


    ¡°Uhh, Florey?¡±


    ¡°Yeah?¡±


    She pointed up at an apartment building off to the side, now with a huge chunk taken out of it after the Wailing had shoved itself inside, before Florey realised how familiar it was, and that the chunk was the part of the building that should¡¯ve contained his own apartment.


    Florey stared wordlessly at the damage, lifting himself out of his seat, before laughing nervously and falling back into his seat, lying down from the sheer stress of today.


    ¡°I guess life just likes dealing me a bad hand¡­¡±


    ¡ª-¡ª<u>BOUNTY HUNT</u>¡ª-¡ª


    ¡ª-¡ª<u>HUNT DOWN THE GELATINOUS WAILING DESTROYING DETU CITY</u>¡ª-¡ª


    ¡ª-¡ª<u>COMPLETED BY: TEAM SWIFT</u>¡ª-¡ª


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Hey, Liddy?¡±


    ¡°Yeah?¡±


    ¡°Where¡¯d everyone go?¡±


    Rose and Liddy stood there in the middle of an empty street, devoid of any people, other Venators, or the Wailing in question.


    ¡°Did we miss out on it?¡± Liddy asked, pulling out her tablet, as Rose threw her hands out.


    ¡°It¡¯s been, like, an hour! That was so quick!¡± Rose complained, while Liddy held up her tablet.


    ¡°It says on Activ Team Swift took it out already and claimed the bounty. We didn¡¯t even get a chance¡­¡± Liddy moped, as Rose saw her getting upset and cuddled her.


    ¡°Hey, it¡¯s alright, babe. We won¡¯t let this get us down. We¡¯ll get the next one that comes along!¡±


    Liddy looked up to her through pleading eyes. ¡°But aren¡¯t they putting up that barrier soon?¡±


    The realisation hit Rose too, as her chipper attitude started to give way, before her emotions took over.


    ¡°¡­we didn¡¯t even get a chance¡­¡± Rose moped, as Liddy saw her getting upset and cuddled her.


    ¡°¡­Team Swift were too swift¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­don¡¯t try to make me laugh right now¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°What a day¡­¡± Julia let out, rubbing her gloves over her face. ¡°I don¡¯t know whether that was a good idea anymore¡­¡±


    ¡°Kinda.¡± Harley replied, stretching out as they headed up to Julia¡¯s front door. ¡°It¡¯s been a while since we hunted a Wailing proper.¡±


    ¡°Fun day?¡± Dulce asked, giving a quick salute to the team as Julia opened up the door to her house, before Percy and Milo excitedly jumped out.


    ¡°There¡¯s the heroes of the day!¡± Milo exclaimed, sweeping Julia up in a big hug. ¡°No surprise my girl kicked ass! The Wailing were left wailing, right?¡±


    Julia tried to free herself of the hug, before Milo put her down. ¡°¡­dad, it¡¯s been a long day.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s why dinner¡¯s covered.¡± Milo assured, giving a thumbs up and heading to the kitchen. ¡°Get comfortable. You need a good meal after that.¡±


    [How was it?] Percy asked, only for the team to trundle past her, half collapsing on the couch and the others heading straight for the kitchen.


    ¡°Mixed results.¡± Julia said, before tiredly showing off her tablet. ¡°Thanks for the text, though. If I wasn¡¯t half-asleep, I¡¯d be over the moon.¡±


    Percy let out a sweet smile, before heading to the kitchen with the others, as Sola caught Wess dropping onto the couch.


    ¡°Hey, uhh¡­Wess?¡±


    Wess lifted her head to Sola. ¡°Yes?¡±


    ¡°Not to¡­tell you your business¡­¡± Sola started, playing with her fingers, before waiting until the others were out of earshot. ¡°¡­but I think I know why you¡¯ve been having trouble recently.¡±


    Wess blinked slowly. ¡°Is this a conversation that needs to happen now?¡±


    Sola nodded. ¡°It probably should. I think¡­maybe the reason you¡¯re lagging behind is cause you¡¯ve got a lot of baggage right now.¡±


    Wess sat up a bit more, before massaging her forehead. ¡°You¡¯ll have to be more specific. I usually have a lot of baggage.¡±


    ¡°I mean stuff you haven¡¯t dealt with.¡± Sola explained, as Wess cocked her head. ¡°And it¡¯s all been piling up in the background. Your parents, getting kicked out of Mareau, then the tournament, and¡­then your eye.¡±


    Wess sighed out. ¡°You¡¯re saying I need to destress?¡±


    Sola nodded a ton. ¡°Yeah, basically. When¡¯s the last time you talked to Graham?¡±


    Wess was caught off guard, as she scratched her neck awkwardly. ¡°¡­the night we left Mareau. I knew my parents would be monitoring calls to him, so¡­¡±


    ¡°And they won¡¯t let you go back either, even though you love that place.¡± Sola pointed out, as Wess was starting to see what she meant. ¡°That¡¯s so stressful! I¡¯d be all jittery and stuff if that was weighing me down. No wonder training¡¯s been a bust.¡±


    Wess quietly nodded, taking in everything Sola had said, as Sola closed the distance a little.


    ¡°¡­do they know about your eye?¡±


    ¡°That would require us to have talked, so no.¡± Wess simply stated, facing her again. ¡°¡­I¡¯m not going to forgive them.¡±


    ¡°No duh. They suck.¡± Sola let out, getting a pleasant laugh from Wess. ¡°But¡­it might be good to clear the air. Finally get all that stuff off your mind.¡±


    Wess thought to herself, a few ideas now crossing her mind that she hadn¡¯t considered yet, as she rested her fingers to her chin.


    ¡°¡­I think you¡¯re right, Sola.¡± Wess agreed, smiling back to her with a surprising contentment. ¡°It¡¯s about time I set things straight. Clear the air and all that¡­¡±


    Sola gave a happy thumbs up.


    ¡°Cool!¡± Sola beamed. ¡°Let me know if you need some help. This is good for you, but you¡¯re probably gonna be a stress volcano after it anyway.¡±


    ¡°I¡­don¡¯t think I quite will be.¡± Wess replied with a smirk while standing up, as Sola looked a bit puzzled. ¡°¡­where¡¯s Julia?¡±


    Wess sat inside her room, with Milo¡¯s laptop opened up in front of her, waiting patiently.


    ¡°You feel ready?¡± Julia asked, standing beside her, with Wess quietly breathing.


    ¡°Yes. I texted mother about video calling and she seemed receptive to it. Whether they¡¯ll be civil is another matter.¡± Wess remarked, as Julia leaned down to squeeze her hand.


    ¡°Alright. I¡¯ll wait by the door so you have some privacy, but if they wanna try shit, grab me, and I¡¯ll come onto that call and give them a piece of my mind.¡±


    Wess found herself smiling. ¡°God, you¡¯re so wonderful.¡±


    She leaned over and kissed Julia quickly, before the call icon came up on the laptop, with Julia quickly leaving with two thumbs up.


    Wess did her best to stay calm, as she rested her hand on the trackpad, with a video coming up of Delta, staring blankly toward the screen.


    Before Wess could get a word in, Delta sighed out.


    ¡°¡­as suspected. Your dream profession caught up to you.¡±


    Wess ignored the comment about her missing eye to continue. ¡°Will mother be joining?¡±


    ¡°She didn¡¯t feel the need to.¡± Delta responded.


    ¡°What about Graham? Or Valerie?¡±


    ¡°¡­I was under the impression you wanted to talk with us.¡± Delta stated. ¡°So, what? Are you apologising for your behaviour finally? Is it not the glitz and glamour you hoped it would be?¡±


    Wess clicked her tongue, as she tried to keep her composure. ¡°¡­no, I simply wished to clear the air. There¡¯s been a lot on my mind, and I wanted to¡­relieve that, as it were.¡±


    ¡°¡­I see.¡± Delta replied, looking away. ¡°I suppose you¡¯re too good for apologies.¡±


    ¡°That wa¡­¡± Wess started, only to stop herself and remember her breathing. ¡°¡­I apologise where necessary. I take back nothing I said that night. I stand by it completely.¡±


    ¡°As do I.¡± Delta answered, as Wess could spot a slight change in his demeanour, even over the call.


    He clasped his hands together.


    ¡°Iota and I have decided.¡±


    Wess couldn¡¯t read his expression properly, as he opened his mouth.


    ¡°¡­We¡¯re disowning you.¡±


    Wess¡¯ face sunk, as a wash of pain, betrayal and jealousy crawled across her face, all trying to take up room.


    ¡°¡­w-wha¡­¡± Wess managed to let out.


    ¡°As of this moment, you are no longer a part of the house of Delacroix, or anything that title might entail. You will be stripped of that title, as well as your room in the manor and any access to the manor¡¯s waitstaff or family vehicles. Any attempt made to go against these wishes will be punished accordingly as theft or invasion of private propert-¡°


    ¡°N-No. N¡­No.¡± Wess forced out, gripping the table to stop her hands from shaking. ¡°Y-You¡¯re¡­you¡¯re not doing this. You¡¯re not the one who gets to p-pull this. I wa-¡°


    ¡°Wess, stop making this difficult.¡± Delta stated. ¡°With this, you are not longer a part of Northern Nobility and no longer have any reason to return to Mareau. And you get exactly what you wanted.¡±


    He shut the video feed off then and there, leaving Wess to blink painfully, before sitting back, staring at the ceiling in abject shock.


    Julia waited patiently, worried about why it was taking so long, before the door opened up and Wess stepped out with an eery silence.


    ¡°Wess?¡± Julia asked, reaching for her arm. ¡°What happened? How are you feeling?¡±


    In a sudden burst of emotion, Wess stood up straight and faced Julia, as she gradually took her moment.


    ¡°You know w-what? I feel great! I¡¯m amazing right now!¡± She yelled through gritted teeth. ¡°This is everything I e-ever wanted! Honestly, it¡¯s about time those monsters ripped the bandage off and let me live my life!¡±


    ¡°Wess, y-¡°


    ¡°What does it matter that they spent two decades neglecting me?! ¡®Raising me¡¯ according to their standards?!¡±


    ¡°Wess, it¡¯s o-¡°


    ¡°And yet that entire time, not once did they ever care for me! Not once did they look at me as a person and think about my needs or w-why I was hurting so much!¡±


    ¡°Wess, just lis-¡°


    ¡°NO!!!¡± She yelled into Julia¡¯s face. ¡°I¡¯m not listening anymore!!! I¡¯m the one making noise!!!¡±


    Wess started pacing around the lounge room, before stopping suddenly, then pacing again, before climbing onto the couch and running her fingers through her hair.


    ¡°You know, when they held me back from coming here, it wasn¡¯t just for classes on ¡®being a Venator.¡¯ They¡¯d try to convince me throughout that Venators were low-level scum, just guns for hire that the media praised for no reason. That my dream was to become the equivalent of the town drunk stepping on rats for praise, hoping onlookers would throw coins at my feet! Some¡­fucking parents they were!¡±


    She climbed back off the couch and resumed her pacing, before facing a petrified Julia just trying not to push Wess any further.


    ¡°They did everything in their ever-present power to convince me I didn¡¯t want something I knew I did! And only ever for me! I was surrounded by people who wanted everything and got it, and all I wanted was one thing, and I could never have it!!!¡± Wess yelled, a crack of emotion breaking up her voice midway. ¡°One thing! M-My dream! All I ever wanted¡­was¡­¡±


    Wess sunk to her knees out of weakness, now sobbing loudly into her palms, as Julia immediately crouched down to embrace her, hugging her with a warmth Wess hadn¡¯t felt for a while.


    ¡°W-Why¡­why d-didn¡¯t they love me?¡± Wess quavered between sobbing, as Julia cradled her head.


    ¡°I-It¡¯s alright¡­it¡¯s okay¡­¡± Julia whispered in a calming voice, doing her best to calm them both down. ¡°I¡¯m here for you¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­it¡¯s n-not okay.¡± Wess bemoaned, pushing Julia away. ¡°They¡­threw me away, like some¡­misbehaving dog they kicked out onto the street¡­! Was I¡­?¡±


    Wess¡¯ face broke down.


    ¡°¡­w-was I ever anything to them?¡±


    Wess collapsed into tears again, as Julia held her gently, stroking her hair and whispering into her ear.


    ¡°You¡¯re something, Wess¡­you¡¯re something to everything who loves you¡­you¡¯ll always be something to me¡­¡±

 Chapter 61: Stitches

    ¡°¡­hey¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­yes dear?¡±


    ¡°¡­how¡¯re you holding up?¡±


    ¡°¡­that¡¯s a loaded question. Don¡¯t ask me that.¡±


    ¡°¡­okay.¡±


    Julia lay quietly next to Wess, watching as she tried to shield herself under the sheets of their shared bed. There wasn¡¯t really enough room for both of them, but after what had gone down last night, she didn¡¯t want to leave her alone.


    After Wess¡¯ video call and subsequent freak out, she very quickly headed to bed. The rest of the team only caught the tail end of it, coming in from a small barbeque outside with Milo and Dulce. Julia made a point to explain what happened, appropriately shocking everyone, before joining Wess in her room for the night.


    It was already morning, as Julia started to get up, subtly eyeing Wess to check on her as much as possible.


    ¡°¡­I don¡¯t have anything on today, if you want me to stay with you.¡± Julia offered, as Wess slowly turned over to face her.


    ¡°¡­worrying about me will just make me feel bad.¡± Wess admitted, sighing out. ¡°It won¡¯t undo what happened, after all.¡±


    ¡°We-¡°


    ¡°Vile leeches. Finally got their fill, I suppose.¡± Wess remarked, laughing nervously. ¡°Well, good riddance! I suppose it¡¯s time for a¡­reinvention! This is a celebration, after all!¡±


    Instead of speaking, Julia just wandered back over to Wess, as she kept trying to cheer herself up.


    ¡°What¡¯s more, I can¡¯t even keep my last name!¡± Wess noted, visibly baffled. ¡°I guess Essex manages. Maybe that¡¯s my team persona, the cool loner wh-¡°


    ¡°Wess.¡± Julia said, grabbing her hand. ¡°You¡¯re allowed to admit it hurts.¡±


    Wess locked eyes with her, as the energy left hers, letting her sink back into the bed and run her hands over her face, subtly covering her eye.


    ¡°¡­they were sick of me.¡± Wess admitted, facing Julia again. ¡°And I was sick of them. What¡¯s there to ruminate on?¡±


    She fell back down, staring blankly at the ceiling. ¡°¡­why does it hurt? Why do I have to feel it?¡±


    Julia decided to lay beside her, before making somewhat of a bold declaration.


    ¡°¡­I don¡¯t want you alone today. I want you to stay with at least one of us while you¡¯re healing.¡± Julia stated, slowly getting up.


    Wess realised what she was insinuating and sat up too. ¡°Julia, I¡¯m not going to relapse.¡±


    ¡°I know.¡± Julia assured, squeezing her hand comfortingly. ¡°I just have to be sure.¡±


    ¡°¡­I can manage cravings fine.¡± Wess declared, standing up, before going to head out of the room and muttering under her breath. ¡°Honestly¡­it¡¯s not my first tragedy¡­¡±


    Julia tried not to take it personally, as she went to follow her, and was greeted by the rest of the team, waiting outside of Wess¡¯ room.


    ¡°Hey. We heard what happened.¡± Harley started. ¡°Wess, I¡¯m so sorr-¡°


    ¡°I¡¯m not in the mood for sympathises. Move.¡± Wess insisted, as they took a confused second to part, letting her head for the kitchen.


    Julia shared awkward glances with everyone, as they went after her, with Sola jumping ahead.


    ¡°Wess, I¡¯m so so so sorry!¡± Sola insisted, as Wess stopped grabbing breakfast. ¡°It was my idea. I didn-I thought you¡¯d want t-¡°


    ¡°Sola, it¡¯s fine.¡± Wess insisted, turning to address her despite her current mood. ¡°You were trying to help in your own way.¡±


    ¡°But it didn¡¯t! And you got hurt because of it!¡± Sola cried, hanging her head and trying to hide the tears that just ended up staining the floor. ¡°And I said it¡­a-and then you and your parents¡­¡±


    Wess breathed out, before joining Sola and taking her into her arms, letting her cry on Wess¡¯ shoulder. ¡°They would have done it sooner or later. Don¡¯t blame yourself.¡±


    Wess let go so she could properly face Sola. ¡°You actually care about my wellbeing. That will always be more than they¡¯ve ever done.¡±


    Sola quietly nodded, wiping some snot away, as Harley came up to Wess, before offering a hug, as Wess obliged, more to get it over with than anything.


    ¡°Wess.¡± Essex stated, now feeling comfortable enough to step forward. ¡°I have an offer for you.¡±


    Wess¡¯ interest was piqued. ¡°An offer?¡±


    ¡°¡­I am starting a new class today. One I¡¯m unfamiliar with, that you would be well suited for.¡± Essex said, as Julia¡¯s eyes darted between Wess and Essex. ¡°It might help you keep your mind off current matters.¡±


    Wess could see Julia¡¯s eyes light up at the suggestion, as Julia looked to Wess, pleading that she take it. Wess did her best to not let this influence her, but this was Julia after all.


    ¡°¡­if you think it would be a good distraction.¡± Wess regarded, now not looking at Julia, as Essex went to grab her scythe, before indicating to the main door.


    ¡°Have fun you two. And Wess.¡± Harley stated, heading to the kitchen, before pointing right at her. ¡°Literally anything. No request too much, you got it?¡±


    ¡°Yes yes, you¡¯ve made that painfully clear.¡± Wess replied, closing the door, as Julia and Harley shared a small glance, breathing in through their teeth.


    ¡°¡­it¡¯s like when we first met he-¡°


    ¡°I was just about to say that!¡± Harley agreed, slamming her hand on the counter and pivoting to the kitchen table. ¡°It¡¯s like she¡¯s regressed.¡±


    Julia dragged herself over to the table to join Harley, as Sola watched Wess and Essex leave, right as Percy stepped out of her room after all the commotion.


    She locked eyes with Sola, who stepped out of eyeshot of the others and beckoned her over.


    Percy looked around awkwardly before joining her. [Hey, what¡¯s up? Is Wess doing alright?]


    [She¡¯s okay, she¡¯s with Essex. I need help with something and Harley looks busy.] Sola asked, as Percy leaned in. [I¡¯m gonna buy Wess a Bestalow gift out in Detu City and bring it back here to surprise her.]


    Percy tilted her head. [Why do you need my help?]


    [Cause it¡¯s heavy.]


    Percy blinked, before looking up slightly and nodding to Sola.


    ¡°¡­s-sounds¡­cool¡­¡± Percy got out, giving a thumbs up, as Sola replied with one too, before dragging them both to the front door.


    ¡°Hey, we¡¯re going shopping and won¡¯t be back for most of the day so don¡¯t wait up for us!¡±


    ¡°Have fun!¡± Harley yelled out, blowing Sola a kiss, as Julia waved to them too.


    ¡°Bye!¡± Julia just managed to get out before the door closed.


    She sighed out heavily, as she pushed her chair out, rubbing her hands over her temples, with Harley watching her attempt to manage her stress.


    As Julia worked at it, Harley came up from behind and wrapped her in a hug.


    ¡°You good, Julia?¡±


    ¡°¡­yeah.¡± She let out, as Harley let her go. ¡°I¡¯m just so worried about Wess right now¡­¡±


    Harley nodded. ¡°I feel ya. I¡¯m worried this¡¯ll push up all those walls we managed to break down¡­¡±


    Harley raised her finger. ¡°On the plus side though, good riddance. Delta and Iota fucking sucked.¡±


    Julia silently agreed, as her demeanour reminded Harley of how she was after the attack.


    Doing all that emotional heavy lifting¡­seeing Florey again must¡¯ve done a number on her too¡­ Harley realised. Poor girl¡­she needs a break.


    Noticing Julia starting to get in her own head again, Harley wrapped her arm around her and grinned.


    ¡°Alright, clearly you need a good distraction. You¡¯ve been a stress sponge since the attack, so I¡¯ve got an idea to help wring you out.¡±


    Harley pulled out her tablet and showed an advertisement for the Hammerbrazen Cocktail Lounge.


    ¡°It¡¯s been literal ages since I went to a club, and I¡¯m floating the invite your way to help you unwind.¡± Harley offered, as Julia eyes darted around nervously. ¡°Super fun place, and there¡¯s booze.¡±


    ¡°H-Harley, that¡¯s not really my scene¡­¡± Julia admitted, as Harley grabbed her shoulders.


    ¡°I know, but I think trying something new¡¯s gonna freshen you right up. And I¡¯ll be right beside ya the whole time, so you don¡¯t even have to worry.¡± Harley suggested, smiling widely. ¡°Come on, let me help you out here.¡±


    Julia could feel her instincts pushing against the offer, despite how nice an offer it was. She was almost about to say no, before quickly and suddenly remembering her promise and¡­


    ¡°¡­o-okay. That sounds¡­really fun.¡±


    Harley nodded cheerily, only to take a beat and actually take in what Julia said a second later.


    ¡°Wait¡­you¡¯re actually saying yes?¡±


    ¡°U-Uhuh.¡±


    Harley¡¯s face grew flush. ¡°Wait, for real?! You wanna come along?!¡±


    ¡°Y-Yes! I already said I would!¡±


    ¡°WHAT?!¡± Harley let out, picking Julia up from her seat and spinning her around. ¡°I thought you were gonna say no for sure!¡±


    ¡°I-I-I usually would, but I¡¯ve been trying not to do that recently¡­also p-please put me down.¡± Julia insisted, as Harley plopped her on the kitchen counter.


    ¡°This is so cool! It¡¯s like Bestalow came early! I¡¯m gonna take your club virginity!¡± Harley cheered, as Julia threw her hands up.


    ¡°P-Please don¡¯t phrase it like that, this is already way out of my comfort zone¡­¡± Julia confessed, covering her face, as Harley started to worry.


    ¡°Okay, sorry.¡± Harley apologised, before jabbing Julia¡¯s arm. ¡°But this is a big step for you. I¡¯m really proud of you.¡±


    Harley¡¯s face perked up, as an idea crossed her mind. ¡°And you¡¯ll get to flirt with so many hotties. They¡¯re gonna love you, trust me.¡±


    ¡°Harley, I-¡° Julia went to argue, only for Harley to raise her eyebrows a bunch. ¡°Harley, stop moving your eyebrows.¡±


    ¡°They can¡¯t stop. They¡¯re already in motion.¡± Harley teased, raising them more and more, as Julia face sunk into her hands again.


    ¡°¡­I feel like I made a mistake¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°¡­now, I know a lot of people may ask, ¡®what does textiles have to do with being a Venator? Don¡¯t you just fight Wailing?¡¯ and they¡¯d be wrong! It¡¯s a very underrated skill in the industry, and can cost you a small fortune if you don¡¯t know the tricks of the trade.¡±


    Spence clapped her hands together. ¡°Most Venators actually sew their own clothing, whether they decide to make ¡®uniforms,¡¯ or work in their typical getups. Repairs are also pretty frequent, so the more you can handle on your own, the better!¡±


    Spence waved her hand sheepishly to the class. ¡°But enough gabbing from me. Just for today, we¡¯ll be getting used to fabric and needles with some basic stitching. Now¡­¡±


    She scanned over the class, looking at the mostly first-year students present, before spotting Essex.


    ¡°Essex. I believe this is your first textiles class, right?¡±


    ¡°Dal.¡± Essex replied, as Spence waited for a follow-up.


    ¡°¡­is that a yes?¡±


    Essex nodded, as Spence gave a thumbs up. ¡°Great! Learning is timeless, so I appreciate the interest, even this late into your degree!¡±


    Her eyes glanced over to Wess, dejectedly sitting next to Essex.


    ¡°And are you part of this class, Wess?¡±


    ¡°She isn¡¯t.¡± Essex answered. ¡°She will be accompanying me.¡±


    Spence shrugged and raised a finger to her lips. ¡°Good thing I don¡¯t mind sit-ins. We¡¯ll just keep your attendance here our secret. Alright, get started everyone! I¡¯m here if you need any help!¡±


    The class split off to familiarise themselves with their fabric, as Essex went straight to work, with Wess beside her going at her own pace.


    ¡°¡­I¡¯m surprised Saxin isn¡¯t here.¡± Wess quietly remarked.


    ¡°She is taking more advanced classes. This is only a beginner one.¡± Essex replied, as Wess nodded in acknowledgment.


    ¡°Makes sense.¡± Wess replied, mostly focused on her needle, as Essex and her started working on their sewing privately.


    After a few silent minutes, Wess had managed a couple decent looking patterns, before glancing over at Essex.


    ¡°¡­how¡¯re you handling it?¡±


    ¡°¡­my prosthetic is¡­¡± Essex grunted, before dropping her needle again. ¡°¡­it is fighting against me.¡±


    Wess watched her pick it back up, now gripping the wrist of her prosthetic tightly with her other hand to try and move it, struggling to direct it.


    She waited to see if Essex would figure it out, before deciding to put down her own needle and pull her chair out.


    ¡°Essex.¡±


    Essex angrily tried clamping down on the needle again, before turning to Wess, as she patted her lap.


    Essex looked a bit confused, as Wess stared at her, nodding her head over, before Essex decided to get up and follow.


    She sat in between Wess¡¯ legs, nestling in, as Wess reached her arms around to accompany Essex¡¯s arms.


    ¡°Alright, now match me.¡± Wess stated, slowly taking her needle again, gently picking it up. ¡°Go at whatever pace is most comfortable.¡±


    Essex tried reaching over to the table again, before her prosthetic started to shake.


    ¡°Th-This is-¡°


    ¡°Just breathe, take your time.¡± Wess instructed, before resting her hand on Essex¡¯s, helping her calm it. ¡°You don¡¯t need to fight it.¡±


    Wess slowly guided Essex¡¯s hand over, helping her pick up the needle again, before pulling it back over.


    ¡°You¡¯re a practical thinker, Essex.¡± Wess explained, taking her needle in the proper grip. ¡°So it¡¯ll be easier with a demonstration. Now grip it like I am.¡±


    Essex took a second, breathing like Wess had suggested, before slowly moving the fingers to match hers.


    Essex let go of her breath, as Wess let out a smile.


    ¡°That was much smoother.¡± Wess complimented.


    ¡°¡­thank you.¡± Essex let out. ¡°This is still an adjustment for me.¡±


    Wess playfully scoffed. ¡°With only one eye, this is about as much as I can manage at the moment. It¡¯s taking all my concentration not to prick my fingers constantly.¡±


    ¡°¡­I suppose it would be safer than sword wielding as of right now.¡± Essex reasoned.


    ¡°Unfortunately¡­until I get back to¡­¡¯semi-competent,¡¯ I wouldn¡¯t be very useful if I couldn¡¯t help in these matters.¡± Wess let out, as Essex turned back to face her.


    ¡°You should not put yourself down like that.¡±


    ¡°¡­we all know I¡¯m the weakest member of the team.¡± Wess admitted, sitting back. ¡°No Whil, and hardly as much natural muscle as you or Harley. I scrape by on most fights, relying on the fact I have a sharp object that does the work for me.¡±


    ¡°A Venator who relies on a weapon is a knowledgeable Venator.¡± Essex added. ¡°You have grown your skill through determination and effort. This is a setback, not the end of your growth.¡±


    Wess kept quiet, silently ignoring the compliment, before deciding to speak up.


    ¡°¡­why did you want to take this class?¡±


    Essex turned around fully, before sitting back on her own seat opposite Wess.


    ¡°¡­I learned it would be very useful to have someone who can sew within the team. It was a role no one else was covering, and it¡­wasn¡¯t combat-related. I decided I needed something like that.¡± Essex admitted, shying away. ¡°But¡­as of recent¡­I had an additional desire¡­¡±


    Essex sighed out and closed her eyes before confessing.


    ¡°¡­I¡­wanted to make everyone some outfits.¡± Essex let out, surprising Wess. ¡°Venator outfits, for when we¡¯re out on hunts and¡­meeting fans, perhaps.¡±


    ¡°You?¡± Wess openly asked, as Essex nodded.


    ¡°I do not have great aesthetic sensibilities, but¡­in a way, this is my growth. It¡¯s difficult, but a necessary skill, and something the rest of the team can aid me in. I¡­understand how important aesthetics are to you, so I want to do well.¡±


    Wess found herself lost for words, as her respect for Essex had drastically jumped even higher than it already was, leaving her in a profound state of shock.


    ¡°¡­I¡­¡±


    Wess stopped herself before continuing.


    ¡°¡­I don¡¯t think I¡¯ve been very fair to you.¡±


    Stolen from Royal Road, this story should be reported if encountered on Amazon.


    Wess rested her fabric on the table, before trying to present herself properly.


    ¡°¡­you have gone out of your way to attempt to understand what¡¯s important to me and parse subjects you¡¯re unfamiliar with. I, on the other hand, have not extended the same curtesy.¡± Wess admitted, sighing out. ¡°Even when I had the rare privilege of meeting with the Segaru Clan, I merely indulged in the festivities of Boncala Day instead of learning why they mattered so much to you.¡±


    Essex stopped herself from refuting the point, as the shame on Wess¡¯ face was enough to prove how much this meant to her.


    ¡°While¡­I¡¯m not in the best of spirits right now¡­I will do what I can to help in your growth.¡± Wess assured, sharing a glance with Essex. ¡°And in the future, I shall give you, and the things you value, the respect they deserve.¡±


    ¡°¡­I am¡­still learning what those are¡­¡± Essex confessed, before smiling back to Wess. ¡°But I will be happy to let you know when I¡¯ve found them.¡±


    ¡­perhaps this will distract my mind¡­ Wess wondered, staring back at Essex again. ¡­she truly is fascinating¡­


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Harley?¡±


    ¡°Yuh huh?¡±


    ¡°Umm¡­¡± Julia prefaced, as they stood in the line out the front of the Hammerbrazen Cocktail Lounge. ¡°I¡¯m gonna sound stupid for asking this, but can nightclubs be open in the middle of the day?¡±


    ¡°The cool ones can.¡± Harley assured, looking down at Julia. ¡°And they¡¯re just clubs at that point.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± Julia let out. ¡°Cause I thought it was a little weird¡­¡±


    ¡°Yeah, cause you¡¯re not used to it.¡± Harley insisted, leaning down to wrap her arm around Julia¡¯s neck, as they moved to the front of the line. ¡°Come on, who¡¯s got your back?¡±


    ¡°You do?¡±


    ¡°And who¡¯s gonna make sure you have fun?¡±


    ¡°You?¡±


    ¡°And who¡¯s super sexy?¡±


    ¡°¡­I-I mean¡­do I have to say it?¡±


    Harley grinned. ¡°Just knowing you¡¯re thinking it¡¯s enough for me.¡±


    Before Julia could attempt to refute it, Harley got a small wave from the bouncer, before being ushered in, as she beckoned Julia to follow her inside.


    You couldn¡¯t tell from the outside, but the atmosphere was loud. Bright lights, blaring trap music, less clothes and way more colours than Julia would¡¯ve liked to see. It was a lot to take in for anybody, and by Julia¡¯s metric, it hardly matched the very inappropriate name of Cocktail Lounge.


    It took her ears a few moments to adjust, only now registering that Harley was a few steps ahead in a large crowd, and that a random guy had wandered up to her, shaking a bag of¡­stuff?


    ¡°-sen up?¡±


    ¡°¡­H-Huh?¡± Julia managed, now properly hearing him.


    ¡°Wanna get loosened up?¡± He insisted. ¡°Forty for your first dose. Only way to party.¡±


    As Julia tried to come up with a response somewhere between ¡®no¡¯ and ¡®piss off,¡¯ Harley realised Julia wasn¡¯t following, before pivoting to intercept.


    ¡°She¡¯s not interested.¡± Harley assured, grabbing Julia¡¯s hand, before leading her through the crowd of people.


    They found two recently vacated stools at the bar, as Harley went to squeeze Julia¡¯s arm.


    ¡°Sorry, should¡¯ve kept a better eye on you.¡± Harley said, pointing back to the guy. ¡°They always try to push Ascent on the newbies.¡±


    Julia took a second, slapping her cheeks to bring herself back into the moment. ¡°¡­isn¡¯t that a party drug?¡±


    ¡°Yep.¡± Harley replied, splaying her arms out. ¡°Never touched the stuff, but it fucks you up.¡±


    ¡°Got it. Don¡¯t touch it.¡± Julia reiterated, before glancing around them. ¡°¡­sooo¡­what do we do now?¡±


    Harley could see Julia was a little taken a back, before spotting the dancefloor behind her and getting a quick idea.


    ¡°You feel like dancing?¡± Harley asked, getting up quickly and pulling Julia up too. ¡°I¡¯ll lead.¡±


    ¡°U-U-Uhh-¡° Julia managed, letting herself be dragged, as her nervousness going into a large crowd was only balanced out by her trust in Harley.


    The moment they arrived, Harley started tearing it up, feeling out the music and swaying her body with the crowd around them, entirely in her element.


    Before Julia could even attempt to get into her element, she was immediately thrown off by Harley getting closer to her, still dancing quite provocatively, before pushing against her fully, borderline grinding on her.


    ¡°H-Harley?!¡± Julia said, staring back at her.


    ¡°I¡¯m just dancing, Julia! Don¡¯t tell me you¡¯re not enjoying it!¡± Harley insisted, throwing her back out, as the music got more intense around them.


    Julia was having trouble not looking, still trying to avert her eyes, before Harley turned around and kept pressing up to her.


    ¡°This is what clubs are like! You better get used to it!¡± Harley encouraged, moving along with the music. ¡°You can always sit back down, if you want!¡±


    Harley spun back around, giving Julia a great view of her¡­well, needless to say, Julia could feel her heartbeat quickening with each passing second.


    Despite her misgivings and previous apprehension, in an attempt to get out of her comfort zone, she slowly reached over to Harley, before resting her hands on her hips, trying to sway along to the music with her.


    Feeling Julia¡¯s hands on her, Harley found herself smiling at Julia taking a chance, as just from the movement alone, it was clear Julia was starting to get into it.


    After a good long while of dancing together, they eventually pulled themselves back to the bar, with Julia immediately going to order.


    ¡°Julia, you were so feeling it.¡± Harley assured, visibly proud.


    ¡°Was I?¡± Julia let out, breathing a little heavy. ¡°I feel like¡­I was probably the weakest dancer out there¡­¡±


    Harley snickered. ¡°It¡¯s not a competition.¡±


    Julia shook her head. ¡°¡­I¡¯m worried I just looked like your awkward plus one.¡±


    Harley sat down next to her and grabbed her shoulders. ¡°Are you kidding? I guarantee there¡¯s plenty of people in here who¡¯re crazy envious of you right now.¡±


    ¡°R-Really?¡± Julia let out, scanning around her nervously, as Harley nodded proudly.


    ¡°Oh yeah. The fact you¡¯re with me, the hottest piece of ass in this place, means they¡¯re probably seething right now.¡± Harley bragged, before spotting a few people further down the bar, visibly eyeing her up. ¡°Then again, it seems we might have some competition for hottest¡­¡±


    The bartender slid Julia¡¯s cocktail down to her, as she went to grab it, before quietly sipping on it.


    ¡­even if it¡¯s not entirely my thing¡­ Julia thought, before looking to an elated Harley. ¡­if it helps me know Harley better, then that¡¯s fine by me¡­


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Get it while it¡¯s hot! Team Swift in their daring bout against the Detu Dismantler! Now a package deal with the HyperMall Thrasher! Two of Detu City¡¯s most infamous Wailing! Come and get ¡®em!¡±


    Having made their way all the way to Detu Central and into the HyperMall, Sola and Percy¡¯s attention was briefly drawn to the Venator memorabilia store as they passed by, now handing out merch for the recent Wailing attack in Detu City.


    Sola briefly spotted the owner outside of the store with a megaphone, before he spotted her too and waved happily.


    ¡°¡­d-do¡­¡± Percy tried, before feeling her throat hurt a little and switching to signing. [Do you know him?]


    ¡°Yeah! Since we helped beat the Wailing that attacked the mall a few years back, he gave us free stuff and discounts!¡± Sola exclaimed, pumping her fists. ¡°Julia loves using it! She¡¯s a huge nerd for this stuff!¡±


    Percy nodded curiously, as her glance drifted to some of the merchandise, while Sola walked ahead.


    ¡°We better get a move on! It¡¯s gonna be a long trip back!¡±


    Sola stopped once she noticed Percy wasn¡¯t following. She looked back and saw Percy with her face pressed to the glass, staring at the artists rendition of the ¡®HyperMall Thrasher¡¯ Wailing plastered on a shirt, fighting off Team Vivisect.


    Sola noticed her crestfallen expression and joined her side. ¡°What¡¯s up?¡±


    [¡­I helped bring that Wailing here.] Percy clarified. [It wouldn¡¯t have attacked if¡­]


    Percy noticed Sola looking worried and lifted herself up, before bowing slightly.


    [Sorry, I know.] Percy apologised. [It wasn¡¯t my fault. I had no choice.]


    Sola quietly pointed in the direction of the J Store, as Percy remembered their plans and quickly followed behind her.


    ¡°¡­S¡­So¡­¡± Percy said to get Sola¡¯s attention. [What¡¯s the gift we¡¯re getting Wess?]


    Sola averted her eyes slightly and touched her fingers together.


    ¡°It¡¯s, uhh¡­a fishtank.¡±


    Percy blinked a few times, before walking ahead of Sola. [But she doesn¡¯t have a fish.]


    ¡°Yeah, I know¡­there¡¯s more behind it.¡± Sola admitted. ¡°We got her one a few years back, but it was destroyed in the fire.¡±


    Sola stopped herself. ¡°Technically it was already broken before that, but then it got more broken until it wasn¡¯t anything anymore.¡±


    [¡­so we¡¯re getting her a broken fish tank?]


    ¡°Well, I kinda wanna get her a fixed one now. Just as a¡­we care about you Bestalow gift. And that¡­things can get better, cause they don¡¯t seem better right now.¡± Sola confessed, as Percy could feel just how much this seemingly innocuous gift really meant.


    Noticing Sola¡¯s slightly lowered mood, Percy decided to take a page out her book and run forward.


    ¡°¡­R-Race¡­you!¡± She yelled out, her throat kinda burning, as Sola saw the challenge and lit up.


    ¡°Yeah! You¡¯re on!¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­shit.¡±


    Wess shook her hand, before sucking on one of her fingers, as Essex looked up from her sewing.


    ¡°¡­ineptitude.¡± Wess remarked under her breath. ¡°Still pricking my finger like a moron¡­¡±


    Essex took a second to move her chair in front of Wess, before taking Wess¡¯ finger in her prosthetic hand and gently pushing on the wound with the metal, cooling it down somewhat.


    ¡°Essex, you needn¡¯t coddle me.¡± Wess insisted. ¡°It¡¯s fine, I¡¯ve felt much worse.¡±


    Essex slowly reached out with her other hand, before holding Wess¡¯ free hand gently.


    ¡°You¡¯re allowed to admit when you¡¯re hurt.¡±


    Wess held her finger out, just as she found herself welling up a little at Essex¡¯s statement.


    ¡°¡­very clever.¡± Wess let out, pulling her hand away. ¡°This isn¡¯t about me being disowned. I¡¯ve already come to terms with that.¡±


    ¡°¡­that may be true¡­¡± Essex started, sitting back down. ¡°But I think there¡¯s still a lot unresolved in you.¡±


    ¡°Oh what, you¡¯re my therapist now? Doctor Essex, is it?¡± Wess clapped back, as Essex look unperturbed.


    ¡°¡­you¡¯ve offered me advice when I¡¯ve needed it. I was merely extending the same curtesy.¡± Essex clarified. ¡°¡­but you cannot help someone who doesn¡¯t want to be helped themselves.¡±


    Wess stayed silent, still focused on holding her finger.


    ¡°¡­may I¡­offer an opinion?¡± Essex asked, as Wess bit her tongue.


    ¡°¡­if you feel the need to do so.¡±


    ¡°¡­it took me a while to accept that people could care about me. Losing my family, the only people I thought could care for me, I assumed I would never find people like that again.¡± Essex declared, her hand on her chest. ¡°And then Kent took me in, and¡­in her way¡­cared for me. Stood up for me when I needed it.¡±


    Essex laid her hand out. ¡°And then¡­I found you¡­and the rest of the team. I could be cared for. Family wasn¡¯t blood, it was understanding.¡±


    Essex rested her hand on Wess¡¯ thigh. ¡°¡­Delta and Iota never understood you. They never tried to, and they refused to learn what you needed.¡±


    ¡°¡­it wasn¡¯t in their nature.¡± Wess confessed. ¡°I accepted that a long time ago¡­¡±


    ¡°But someone did make that effort. He took the time to know you.¡± Essex insisted, as Wess immediately knew who she meant and raised her finger.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you dare bring up Graham again. I know, alright? I understand. He cared for me.¡±


    ¡°¡­but it was more than that.¡± Essex continued. ¡°When we first met him¡­I saw in him the love I should¡¯ve seen from Delta and Iota.¡±


    Wess¡¯ face started to tremble, as she scowled while her eye welled up.


    ¡°¡­d-don¡¯t you think I don¡¯t know that already?¡± Wess sputtered, doing her best to keep her composure, as she gripped at her coat. ¡°I haven¡¯t seen him for over a year¡­despite those vampires finally ripping their fangs from me, I¡¯m still not welcome back in Mareau to see him¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­you have talked about your love for Mareau and the Northern Wayside numerous times, but I¡­believe that part of you is missing right now.¡± Essex pointed out, as Wess shook her head.


    ¡°I¡¯m a northerner at heart. That much hasn¡¯t changed¡­but I don¡¯t know if I was ever welcome there.¡± Wess explained, looking back up at Essex. ¡°Look at me. Do I scream high society to you? Aren¡¯t I a disappointment to everything I¡¯m from?¡±


    Essex vehemently shook her head. ¡°In all of the time I¡¯ve known you, you¡¯ve never been a disappointment. You are a Venator. Julia¡¯s partner. Very wise and¡­branding oriented. I have been curious about many things, and you¡¯ve always been there to guide me with respect and patience. That¡¯s¡­who you are.¡±


    Essex admittedly bowed right there, before sitting back up to face Wess.


    ¡°So¡­thank you for being you.¡±


    It took all of Wess¡¯ remaining strength to not break down into tears immediately, only for her body to give out anyway, as she started weeping at the beautiful comment.


    The rest of the class took notice, as Wess cried out loudly, with Essex bringing herself over to comfort her as best she could.


    ¡°¡­th-thank you¡­thank you¡­¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s okay, Wess¡­there is no one in this world who doesn¡¯t deserve love¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°¡­so?¡±


    ¡°So what?¡±


    ¡°Anyone catch your eye?¡±


    Julia¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°Harley, I¡¯m dating Wess.¡±


    Harley rolled her eyes. ¡°I know. I¡¯m saying to flirt with.¡±


    Julia started leaning on the bar. ¡°Why would I flirt if I¡¯m already in a relationship?¡±


    ¡°For fun!¡± Harley insisted, getting up. ¡°Just to do it! There¡¯re too many beautiful people in this world for you to keep the appreciation to one.¡±


    Harley snapped her fingers. ¡°And it¡¯s practice for Wess. Wess loves her social games, so why not do a little research and show off for her?¡±


    After suddenly standing up, Harley felt some discomfort and quickly scoped out the bathroom.


    ¡°Whoa, those drinks went through me. Alright¡­¡± Harley prefaced, clapping her hands together. ¡°I¡¯m gonna head to the bathroom, and I want you to chat someone up here at the bar.¡±


    ¡°W-Wha?¡± Julia let out, throwing her hands up. ¡°Harley, I-¡°


    ¡°Julia, you¡¯re a complete smokeshow, super lovely and a future Venator.¡± Harley assured, as Julia almost felt paralysed by the compliments. ¡°If there¡¯s anyone who can charm the pants off these people, it¡¯s you.¡±


    Harley dashed off right after, leaving Julia nervous at the bar, before she called back to Harley.


    ¡°B-But not literally, right?!¡±


    Harley made a beeline for the bathroom, ducking and weaving through the crowd, and occasionally sharing a brief word with a charming passerby, before hitting her destination, only to be blocked off right before entering.


    ¡°Hey there.¡± A woman said, chewing gum loudly, even over the music. ¡°You look like fun.¡±


    Harley¡¯s eyes sunk, as she noticed the small group of Ascent dealers hanging right outside the bathroom, a few visibly high out of their gourd.


    ¡°You could always have more fun though.¡± She offered, as Harley glared at her, before trying to pass.


    ¡°No thanks, I don¡¯t take that shit.¡± Harley stated, only for the dealer to get in her way again.


    ¡°What, too good for it?¡±


    ¡°No, I¡¯ve just had friends who tried it and had some really bad trips.¡± Harley explained, leaning down to her. ¡°And I don¡¯t need you preying near the bathroom, looking for easy marks.¡±


    The dealer eyed Harley up, still chewing her gum. ¡°Oh yeah? You a¡­what, fuckin¡¯ local hero type? Cleaning up the streets?¡±


    Harley noticed the other dealers getting a little antsy in their seats, as she assessed her best option, as well as what she wanted to do to these guys.


    ¡°¡­is she gonna be disappointed if I just sit here?¡± Julia wondered aloud, trying to look at other people, before immediately averting her gaze when she locked eyes with someone. ¡°She knows I¡¯m anxious. When¡¯s she getting back?¡±


    She lifted her head up, and right as Julia caught a glimpse of Harley, she could see her held up outside of the bathroom, as Julia tried her best to get a read of the situation.


    ¡°Is she flirty w-¡°


    ¡°Hey there, hot stuff.¡±


    Julia turned around worriedly at the sudden new voice, before finding an absurdly attractive woman leaning on the bar, visibly eyeing her up with no subtly.


    ¡°You look a bit lost. Mind if I grab you a drink?¡± She offered, as Julia could feel her body starting to burn up.


    ¡°U-U-Uhh, no th-thank you, I alread-¡°


    ¡°Can I be honest, I find you so good looking. Not a lot of cuties like you wander into a place like this. Careful, a couple lionesses might just eat you up.¡± She remarked, giggling after, as Julia could feel her heart beating rapidly.


    Oh my gods, she¡¯s so hot. Julia couldn¡¯t help thinking, looking back to where Harley was. Don¡¯t get distracted, don¡¯t get nervo-


    ¡°I saw you and your friend earlier. Seems I¡¯ve got some competition.¡± She joked, laughing a little, as Julia laughed far too awkwardly in response, before forcing herself to turn her attention back to Harley.


    ¡°Y-Yeah, she¡¯s a real¡­u-uhh¡­she¡­is¡­competitive.¡± Julia got out, as she started to register the unfriendly faces of the people around Harley, who were beginning to close in on her.


    Oh no. Julia started to realise, as the woman leaned forward.


    ¡°Honey, am I not enough for you? Is that friend of yours just too alluring?¡±


    Julia turned back to her and gave an admittedly unnerving smile. ¡°Y-Yeah, well, I¡­uhh, yes! Yes! She¡¯s, uhh¡­party animal. I have to reign her in, or else she gets¡­out of control. Like a¡­wild horse. A party¡­h-horse¡­party brumby. In a horse club.¡±


    Julia was ready to leave to avoid any further embarrassment, only for the woman to grab her attention.


    ¡°Hold on, dear.¡± She said, as Julia quickly turned back to her, before she took out a small slip of paper and slipped it in between Julia¡¯s cleavage. ¡°If you or your friend ever get a little lonely.¡±


    Julia¡¯s blush couldn¡¯t contain itself, as she avoided eye contact and swiftly made her exit, with the woman giggling at how cute she was. Julia tried to keep a cool head as she entered into whatever Harley was a part of, while grabbing the slip of paper and pocketing it.


    Of all the times to be flirted with¡­my gay heart can¡¯t take that kind of attention¡­ Julia confessed, shaking her head and slowing her breathing. Just grab Harley and leave¡­this place is too much for me¡­


    As she wormed her way through the crowd, the scene was made much clearer, as what Julia surmised as more drug dealers were getting in Harley¡¯s face, with Harley holding back from lashing out at them.


    ¡°It¡¯s just for having a good fucking time! What¡¯s your problem?!¡± A dealer yelled, as Harley held her tongue. ¡°You hate people enjoying themselves?¡±


    ¡°I know what you mix in that shit.¡± Harley spat, leaning down so he could see just how bulky she was. ¡°You make me sick, you know that?¡±


    Julia was already on edge, but the moment she saw the flash of a gun in one of the dealer¡¯s pockets, she stepped in by grabbing Harley¡¯s arm and pulling her away, waving the dealers off.


    ¡°So sorry about her, long day of training¡¯s got her real agitated!¡± Julia exhausted, taking Harley into an aside out of earshot.


    She pulled her down. ¡°Harley, context.¡±


    Harley huffed out and folded her arms. ¡°¡­they tried to sell me shit, and I was just making my feelings about them clear. I know, I know, don¡¯t start figh-¡°


    Julia raised a finger to quiet her, before subtly pointing her attention to the armed dealer.


    ¡°Now¡¯s not the time. Realistically, if you were to start fighting them, what¡¯re the chances of getting out of this?¡± Julia stated, as Harley was a bit thrown off, scratching her chin.


    ¡°¡­uhh, forty percent, if they¡¯re pulling their punches.¡± Harley admitted, before locking eyes with Julia and sighing. ¡°Come on, Julia, you know they deserve it.¡±


    Julia kept her gaze focused on Harley, still staring with determination, as Harley broke eye contact.


    ¡°Alright, alright, deescalate¡­¡± Harley muttered, before facing the dealers again, only for them to clearly not be on speaking terms.


    ¡°Seems we¡¯ve got a little superhero ready to defend the poor partygoers.¡± The dealer teased, before Julia kept pulling her and Harley away.


    ¡°We didn¡¯t mean to upset you, we¡¯ll just be on our way.¡± Julia assured, only to turn around and run into a few more behind them.


    ¡°We¡¯re not stupid.¡± The dealer insisted, only for Harley to grab the dealers blocking them and bash their heads in, before making a sprint with Julia. ¡°HEY!¡±


    The duo burst through the crowd, heading right for the main entrance, as a couple of the more agitated dealers chased after them.


    Once they hit the entrance, Julia and Harley tried to make distance, clearing as much space between them and the cocktail lounge, before one of the dealers emerged from the building and pulled out his pistol.


    Before he could get a shot off, the bouncer intercepted and tackled him to the ground, giving Julia and Harley enough time to disappear, heading back in the direction of Julia¡¯s house.


    After a few more minutes of running, they took a second to catch their breath, clearly still wound up by everything that went down.


    The first one to speak was Julia, who let out a massive held breath.


    ¡°Hoo nelly!¡± Julia let out, throwing her arms out, before falling to the ground. ¡°That¡­was a lot¡­¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re telling me.¡± Harley said, sitting next to her, before smacking her arms. ¡°Thanks for the heads up. That was some crazy composure you had back there.¡±


    Julia looked at Harley. ¡°Really?¡±


    ¡°Yeah. You were just, like, laser focused on getting out safe and quick.¡± Harley said, standing back up, before pulling Julia to her feet. ¡°I don¡¯t think I¡¯ve ever seen you so¡­tranquil¡¯s not the right word, but you know what I mean.¡±


    ¡°¡­huh. I guess I was¡­¡± Julia said, only now realising it herself, before acknowledging it was basically the evening now. ¡°How long were we in there?¡±


    ¡°Uhh, good question. It¡¯s pretty easy to lose track of time in clubs like that.¡± Harley said, pointing in front of them. ¡°Let¡¯s head back. It¡¯s been a big day.¡±


    As they started walking, Julia stopped Harley for a second, before reaching into her pocket.


    She pulled the small slip of paper out. ¡°¡­I¡¯m only bringing this up because it¡¯ll make you happy, but a really hot lady flirted with me and gave me her number¡­¡±


    Julia stopped briefly, blushing overtly, as she pointed down her shirt.


    ¡°¡­by putting it in between¡­this place¡­¡±


    ¡°What?!¡± Harley cried. ¡°She slipped it in your tits?!¡±


    ¡°H-Harley! Don¡¯t call them tits!¡± Julia let out, clearly embarrassed.


    ¡°That¡¯s what they are!¡± Harley insisted, before grabbing up Julia excitedly. ¡°What did I tell ya? Certified babe magnet!¡±


    ¡°¡­o-okay, whatever.¡± Julia said, before handing the slip to Harley. ¡°She said she was interested in you too, and since it¡¯s not really my bag¡­¡±


    ¡°Yoink!¡± Harley let out. ¡°Julia, you¡¯re the best and I love you. I¡¯m taking you out every time I go clubbing.¡±


    Please no. Julia wished, as Harley¡¯s grin grew, before she thought back on the club and toned herself down.


    ¡°¡­hey, I¡¯m¡­sorry for being pushy today.¡± Harley let out, rubbing her neck. ¡°I only just kinda hit how much that all would¡¯ve been for you.¡±


    Harley shook her head. ¡°None of the others really fit this vibe either, so it¡¯s not like I can invite people out much. I might¡¯ve been tryna force you to be¡­I dunno, more outgoing?¡±


    ¡°¡­that¡¯s a¡­good thing to force me to be.¡± Julia posited, as they kept walking. ¡°It was certainly different. I don¡¯t know if I¡¯ll do it again, but it was nice hanging out with you in a place you¡¯re really into.¡±


    Julia giggled a little. ¡°And you nearly beat up a bunch of drug dealers.¡±


    Harley laughed too. ¡°I think I would¡¯ve come out of that looking pretty pathetic¡­¡±


    ¡°Well, I don¡¯t think that¡¯s possible.¡± Julia insisted, grinning. ¡°You might think I¡¯m a smokeshow, but you¡¯re the whole package.¡±


    Harley could feel herself cracking a smile, trying her best not to come off too awkwardly to Julia.


    ¡°Come on now¡­¡±


    ¡°I mean it. If you¡¯re gonna layer compliments on me, I¡¯m gonna do the same to you. Hot, funny, smart¡­s-sexy, bold and outgoing, c-¡°


    ¡°Okay, okay¡­¡± Harley let out.


    Harley wasn¡¯t even making an effort to pretend she was hiding her blushing, as she turned away from Julia fully, getting a laugh out of her.


    As they kept walking back, Harley finally let herself calm down, staring back at Julia, sweetly walking beside her, just minding her own business and glancing around the city streets as they headed back.


    It was all she could do not to start smiling again as Julia¡¯s pleasant demeanour was on full display.


    As Harley saw her opportunity, she leaned down to Julia¡¯s face, before pressing her lips to Julia¡¯s and kissing her, separating soon after.


    ¡°Wha-¡° Julia stammered, touching her lips.


    Harley replied by grinning back at her, before continuing to walk, as Julia¡¯s face started flushing.


    ¡°Harley!¡± Julia blurted out. ¡°Y-You can¡¯t just do that out of nowhere!¡±


    ¡°Why not?¡± Harley teased, happily skipping.


    ¡°Tha-we¡¯re both¡­why¡¯d you do that?!¡± Julia tried, only for Harley to keep skipping, still avoiding her questions. ¡°Harley! Answer me! Why¡¯d yo¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    Essex lay quietly, gently sleeping on Julia¡¯s couch with subtle breaths.


    Wess, also, had found herself on the couch, pinned underneath Essex as she rested on top of her.


    After their fairly heavy class at the academy, they both decided a rest was very much needed once they got home and ended up lying on the couch together.


    At this point, it had been about twenty minutes since Wess realised Essex was asleep and decided not to disrupt her rest, even if her legs were starting to cramp. Admittedly, the closeness was appreciated, and something she hadn¡¯t really shared with anyone aside from Julia.


    Wess softly parted some hair from Essex¡¯s face, as the front door suddenly opened up, with Sola and Percy trying to sneak inside, only to find Wess staring right up at her.


    ¡°Wess! Wha-¡°


    Wess raised a finger, before indicating down to Essex, as Sola peered over the couch and put two and two together.


    ¡°When did you get back?¡± Sola quietly asked, as Percy started pulling the fishtank inside, only to notice Wess and immediately push it back out.


    ¡°Not too long ago. We¡­were a touch emotional during class, so we headed back home.¡± Wess explained, as Percy started explaining to Dulce outside that they didn¡¯t need help pushing it inside. ¡°Where were you and Percy off to?¡±


    ¡°U-Uhh¡­Bestalow¡­shopping.¡± Sola admitted, as Dulce pushed ahead of Percy, insisting it was fine if she took care of it. ¡°So no peeki-¡°


    ¡°Hey, just leaving this here. Ol¡¯ humble Percy didn¡¯t want any help!¡± Dulce remarked, leaving the fishtank right out in the open, before folding her arms. ¡°Like we haven¡¯t heard that story before.¡±


    Dulce gave a quick salute and headed back out, as Percy avoided eye contact coming inside and closing the door.


    Wess stared in surprise, as Sola did her best to cover it up.


    ¡°Sola?¡±


    ¡°Wai-!¡± Sola started, only for Essex to stir from her sleep. ¡°¡­you weren¡¯t¡­¡±


    Sola gave up and stepped aside, showing it off.


    Wess took a second to take it in, before trying to get up and get a better look. Doing her best to not wake Essex up, she slid herself out from the couch, before walking over to the gift and joining Sola¡¯s side.


    ¡°Did you spend your day getting this gift for me?¡± Wess openly asked, as Sola tried to avoid direct eye contact.


    ¡°¡­well, you were so bummed recently, and your old one got destroyed¡­¡± Sola explained. ¡°¡­so I wanted to replace it and give you one as a Bestalow gift¡­but¡­well, you¡¯ve already seen it, so you can just have it now¡­¡±


    Wess walked around the admittedly sizeable tank, about as big as the old one, bringing back memories of why she even kept it in the first place despite its ruinous nature.


    Clearly thinking through some things, she headed over to the couch and grabbed the TV remote.


    As Sola tried to figure out what she was doing, Wess lined up the remote with the side of the glass and smashed through the side of it, glass falling to the floor.


    Like a bullet, Essex shot up from the couch after the smash, still dazed and blinking awkwardly, before scanning her surroundings and sinking back down to keep sleeping.


    Wess took a second, as she put the remote back and stood next to Sola again.


    ¡°Thank you, Sola. This is a beautifully honest gift.¡± Wess said, welling up a little, as Percy on the sidelines admittedly started to tear up too.


    As Wess and Sola started moving it to Wess¡¯ room, Percy rested on top of the couch, now fully getting this strange little interaction.


    ¡­I guess you can¡¯t put broken glass back together, huh? Percy realised, staring down at Essex sleeping. ¡­looks like we¡¯ve got that in common¡­

 Chapter 62: Ballistic

    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­Jack?¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s sleeping with his eyes open again.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not, I¡¯m just ignoring you.¡±


    ¡°Were you really that offended?¡±


    ¡°¡­no.¡±


    ¡°Okay, hotshot.¡± Amanda teased, prodding Jack¡¯s side. ¡°Someone¡¯s a widdle upset.¡±


    Jack rolled his eyes, before yanking Amanda into a playful noogie. ¡°You¡¯re the stubborn jerk who won¡¯t learn to use a gun already!¡±


    ¡°Jack, stop, she¡¯s had enough!¡± Semi teased, as Collin found himself caught in a laughing fit.


    ¡°I¡¯m the leader! I¡¯m disciplining a teammate!¡± Jack insisted, as Amanda scrambled out of his arms.


    ¡°Boo! Bad leader!¡± Amanda complained, as Arti joined her side.


    ¡°I¡¯m with Amanda. Bad leader!¡± Arti agreed, before leaning on top of Amanda¡¯s head. ¡°But you¡¯re still weird for using a sword.¡±


    ¡°I think she¡¯s scared of using a gun.¡± Collin interjected, lying against Semi¡¯s lap. ¡°Cause she¡¯ll suck at it.¡±


    ¡°Hey. First of all, fuck you.¡± Amanda replied. ¡°Second, I don¡¯t need to use a gun. We need a melee user anyway.¡±


    ¡°But a sword isn¡¯t military, Amanda! That¡¯s not on brand!¡± Semi joked, prodding her side. ¡°We¡¯re about brand integrity here.¡±


    ¡°Oh geez, don¡¯t remind me¡­¡± Arti let out, getting a laugh from the team. ¡°What a douche.¡±


    ¡°We needed an agent.¡± Collin noted, as Amanda rolled her eyes.


    ¡°Yeah, but his personality still sucks. And the nicknames were overkill.¡± Amanda insisted, folding her arms. ¡°And Jack¡¯s doesn¡¯t make any sense, especially for brand-whatever-the-fuck.¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t pick it.¡± Jack pointed out, pointing back at her. ¡°I don¡¯t know why you¡¯re complaining. Commander Major¡¯s the best one.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s cause she can¡¯t use a gu-¡° Collin interrupted, only for Amanda to throw her shoe at his head, as Semi and Arti burst out laughing.


    ¡°How ¡®bout focusing on the mission, numbnuts?¡± Amanda sneered, only for Jack to pat her back.


    ¡°Amanda¡¯s right. We¡¯re nearly there, so keep your wits about you.¡± Jack said, indicating to higher up the mountain, as their cable car rocked a little in the air.


    ¡°Oh no, everyone, Amanda¡¯s right. The world¡¯s coming to an en-¡± Semi added, only for Amanda¡¯s other shoe to hit her as well.


    ¡°Fortunately, she¡¯s out of shoes now.¡± Arti added, only for Amanda to glare at him. ¡°¡­but I¡¯ll keep to myself.¡±


    Amanda grabbed her shoes back and lay against her seat, just as Jack sat beside her, staring up at the ski lodge.


    ¡°You doing okay?¡± Jack asked, as Amanda chuckled.


    ¡°You know hunts make me nervous.¡± Amanda pointed out, as Jack patted her shoulder and smiled.


    ¡°I get it. We¡¯ve never really been the major players out there.¡± Jack confessed. ¡°And who would¡¯ve guessed that we¡¯d get to take on the ¡®Lodge Lurker Wailing?¡¯ We¡¯re gonna give Team Spectrum a run for their money after this one.¡±


    ¡°¡­I preferred the smaller hunts.¡± Amanda admitted, shying away. ¡°All those news cameras in my face before we got on here made me feel sick¡­¡±


    Jack grinned at her. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ll mug to camera while you hang back in the van and sleep.¡±


    ¡°¡­can you make sure Collin keeps his distance?¡± Amanda asked, just as Jack chuckled to himself and playfully shook her about.


    ¡°This is why the cameras love you! You¡¯re so relatable!¡± Jack cheered, just as Amanda wormed away again.


    ¡°If you quote that son-of-a-bitch so-and-so again, I¡¯m jumping off this thing.¡± Amanda declared, as Jack quickly surrendered.


    ¡°Fair. I may not like our new agent, but he¡¯s right about one thing.¡± Jack said, staring wide-eyed at the mountain. ¡°This¡¯ll be the hunt that makes Team Ballistic big¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°You want a what?¡±


    ¡°Something charming.¡±


    ¡°Charming?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t really have a preference or anything, just¡­nice!¡± Spence insisted, drumming her hands on her desk, as Coatsworth scratched his chin.


    ¡°¡­alright. And before you leave, right?¡± Coatsworth asked, with Spence nodding back.


    ¡°There¡¯s plenty of time tomorrow. I wanted to give the other staff some time too.¡± Spence clarified, before leaning into Coatsworth. ¡°We¡¯re both a lot more on top of it than the others.¡±


    Coatsworth resettled himself in his seat, before tugging on his suit sleeve. ¡°It feels strange celebrating Bestalow after that harrowing attack.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s exactly why we¡¯re doing it! It¡¯s good for everyone!¡± Spence assured, only to get a very vocal scoff from Ferris over the divider in their staff room desks.


    Spence started to whisper. ¡°Even if some of us want to be grouchy about it. Do you know if Faller¡¯s participating in the staff gift-swap?¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s fairly busy at the moment. I think gifts are the last thing on his mind.¡± Coatsworth explained, before hushing his voice as well. ¡°¡­how about Ferris?¡±


    Spence rolled her eyes. ¡°Like I could get a solid answer from her. It¡¯s almost definitely n-¡°


    ¡°No.¡±


    Coatsworth and Spence turned up to Ferris, now standing over them, her arms folded to compliment her scowl.


    ¡°I¡¯m not celebrating it and you can¡¯t tell me I have to.¡± Ferris insisted. ¡°I get enough joy overload from the rest of the year, I don¡¯t need the saccharine injection that comes with the holidays too.¡±


    Ferris dragged herself out of the staff room to avoid more of their conversation, as Spence found herself sighing once she left.


    ¡°I can¡¯t say I¡¯m surprised. In all the years I¡¯ve known her, she¡¯s never struck me as the¡­celebrating type.¡± Spence admitted, resting her head in her hands. ¡°I wish we could change her mind¡­¡±


    ¡°Short of a holiday miracle, I think that won¡¯t happen.¡± Coatsworth noted.


    ¡°Knock knock, sir.¡±


    Ferris stood patiently by Faller¡¯s open door, as Faller desperately poured over recent news headlines, his eyes glued to his computer monitor, before turning them to Ferris. ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°¡­you wanted my report on the EHM ¡®visit.¡¯¡±


    ¡°Ferris, I¡¯m busy. Very, very busy¡­¡± Faller let out, turning back to the screen, as Ferris stood there motionless.


    ¡°You know, you used to be fun.¡±


    ¡°Haha. Why don¡¯t you take Bestalow off? We could both use the break.¡± Faller suggested, as Ferris scoffed.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know what you think I¡¯d do with two days to myself. Frankly, a work distraction would be preferable.¡± Ferris asked, only to get no reply from the still very distracted Faller.


    She waited for a few seconds, before clicking her tongue.


    ¡°¡­fine. Fucking jerk¡­¡±


    Faller pretended not to hear that, as a reminder on his calendar popped up again, before he quickly closed it, hoping to forget it was even happening.


    ¡°¡­just another Bestalow¡­one more year down the drain¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    A man.


    Wrapped in chains, tugging at his throat, pulling him into a writhing mass of flashing lights and noise.


    ¡°NO!¡±


    His chest opened up, a hole growing in his heart, light pouring through.


    ¡°STOP, HE¡¯S HAD ENOUGH!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t pity me! You¡¯re the one who should be pitied!¡±


    The lights turned to her.


    ¡°I pity you! Pathetic, pathetic, pathetic!¡±


    ¡°P-Pathetic?¡±


    ¡°Long for death all you want, but I refuse that you mourn mine!¡±


    The chains tightened, dancing him around like a puppet, before lines of red streak down his cheeks.


    ¡°YOU! I PITY YOU!!!¡±


    ¡°Ferris?¡±


    ¡°¡­rmmnr¡­¡±


    ¡°Ferris, are you ok-¡°


    Ferris jumped up from her seat, suddenly pinning Coatsworth¡¯s arm to her desk in panic, before realising it was only him and letting go, taking a second to register her surroundings.


    ¡°¡­sorry, sorry.¡± She let out, wiping her face, as he pulled himself back up. ¡°Fucking hell¡­¡±


    ¡°Truthfully¡­that might have been on me.¡± Coatsworth admitted, going to grab his cane again. ¡°I saw you were having a nightmare.¡±


    ¡°¡­yeah, that¡¯s kinda normal.¡± Ferris said, still bleary eyed, before scanning the office again. ¡°What time is it?¡±


    ¡°Almost nine.¡± Coatsworth said, checking his watch. ¡°I was working late and noticed the lights still on in here. I was going to offer you a ride home.¡±


    ¡°¡­oh.¡± Ferris let out, stretching her arms. ¡°Faller left already?¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s still in his office, but he said he would be staying overnight.¡± Coatsworth added, as Ferris rolled her eyes.


    ¡°Typical¡­¡± She muttered, as Coatsworth patiently waited for her. ¡°¡­I can just take the Flash-Rail.¡±


    Coatsworth cocked his head. ¡°You don¡¯t live anywhere near the station. It wouldn¡¯t feel right letting you wander through the dark this late at night.¡±


    ¡°I can handle myself.¡± Ferris pointed out, tapping the side of her sword. ¡°Don¡¯t need your good samaritan act.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s hardly an act, more just an offer.¡± Coatsworth insisted. ¡°I like doing helpful things for people.¡±


    Ferris¡¯ eyes drooped, as she went to massage her forehead. ¡°¡­fine, whatever. It¡¯s better than me getting mugged.¡±


    ¡°¡­that¡¯s appreciated.¡± Coatsworth said, before indicating to the door, as Ferris followed behind.


    They both headed to the elevator, right down to the main entrance, before heading out onto the walkway where Coatsworth¡¯s car was parked.


    Coatsworth took a minute to get comfortable in his seat, pushing his cane into the back.


    Ferris stood by the passenger door. ¡°Can you drive?¡±


    ¡°I can still use my legs, I¡¯ll just be a bit slower.¡± Coatsworth explained, fastening his seatbelt, as Ferris pulled herself into her seat and closed the door, only to notice some rust running up the side of it.


    ¡°Hey, there¡¯s some damage here.¡± Ferris pointed out, as Coatsworth sighed.


    ¡°I know. It¡¯s been paid for.¡± Coatsworth explained, turning the headlights on and pulling out.


    There was a noticeable silence in the car as they left the academy grounds, with Coatsworth not expecting much from Ferris and focusing his attention on driving. Ferris, meanwhile¡­


    ¡°¡­thanks.¡± Ferris admitted, leaning her head back. ¡°¡­I¡¯m putting you out of your way. You didn¡¯t need to drive me, but you still did it¡­¡±


    Ferris started pushing the seat down. ¡°You¡¯re a standup act, for whatever that¡¯s worth.¡±


    ¡°¡­thank you, Ferris.¡± Coatsworth commented. ¡°It¡¯s rare to hear a compliment from you.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I don¡¯t feel like giving them out that often.¡± Ferris admitted. ¡°Plus you make me jealous, so¡­¡±


    ¡°Jealous?¡± Coatsworth reiterated, as Ferris realised she kinda stepped in it.


    ¡°¡­alright, whatever. I¡¯m not gonna get into it, mostly cause I shouldn¡¯t¡­¡± Ferris prefaced, as Coatsworth did his best to pay attention. ¡°¡­I got to thinking about it when you mentioned your late wife last year. I¡¯ve had some fucked up things happen to me too, but compared to my misery, you¡¯re the only one who¡¯s flourishing after it.¡±


    ¡°¡­now I am.¡± Coatsworth clarified, turning to her. ¡°There were nights with plenty of crying. There still are, but I¡¯ve¡­moved on, at least. Crying is healthy, it gets a lot of feelings out.¡±


    Ferris scoffed. ¡°I kinda wanna keep those in, thanks.¡±


    She tapped her foot a few times, with Coatsworth¡¯s attention still mostly on the road.


    ¡°¡­people have died in my life. Good people. Fun people.¡± Ferris admitted, surprising Coatsworth. ¡°People I thought I¡¯d get to keep seeing¡­¡±


    Ferris sighed. ¡°So¡­when you mentioned your wife¡­yeah, I got where you were coming from. I won¡¯t lie, there were some moments where¡­¡±


    Ferris stopped herself, before shaking her head. ¡°No, I¡¯m not getting that personal.¡±


    ¡°¡­do they have something to do with your current occupation?¡± Coatsworth asked.


    Ferris turned to him, as he indicated to her sword. ¡°And your skill with that?¡±


    ¡°¡­huh. You¡¯re sharper than people give you credit for.¡± Ferris confessed, as she sunk into her seat and propped her feet up on the dashboard. ¡°There¡¯s a reason I hate working at this place.¡±


    ¡°Unfortunate reminder.¡± Coatsworth replied, trying to get comfortable. ¡°Do you at least have some good memories of them?¡±


    ¡°¡­plenty.¡± Ferris smirked, closing her eyes. ¡°We all grew up in the same town, Hayfith. Nice little area, not a lot for kids to do though. I didn¡¯t really get along with anyone. This may surprise you, but I used to have a bit of an attitude.¡±


    Coatsworth stared her blank in the eyes, as Ferris didn¡¯t know how to respond.


    ¡°¡­anyway, I wanted to hang out with the other kids, even when I chased them away, but they never let me¡­¡± Ferris recalled, finding herself subtly smiling. ¡°¡­until one of the bigger kids started picking on me, and they came to my defence. After that, I did everything I could to stay in their click, and we just kept hanging out.¡±


    Ferris waved her hand mockingly. ¡°And the rest is history.¡±


    ¡°¡­right.¡± Coatsworth replied, not wanting to prod too much further. ¡°¡­and they¡¯re not around, but you still are.¡±


    ¡°Yeah.¡± Ferris said, before glancing back at Coatsworth, giving him just the right amount of information.


    ¡°¡­it must make Bestalow lonely.¡± Coatsworth added, as Ferris screwed her face up.


    ¡°Who gives a shit about Bestalow? I¡¯ve got no one to celebrate it with anyway, why put too much stock in that?¡± Ferris complained, as Coatsworth turned onto Ferris¡¯ street.


    ¡°You have the rest of the staff, and Faller.¡± Coatsworth offered, before registering the disgusted look on Ferris¡¯ face. ¡°Holidays should be a light time.¡±


    ¡°I suck at holidays.¡± Ferris complained, before pointing right as Coatsworth. ¡°And don¡¯t give me that ¡®holidays are actually about family¡¯ crap, cause I don¡¯t have one of those either.¡±


    Coatsworth could feel himself kinda losing her, right as they reached the front door of Ferris and Faller¡¯s place.


    ¡°Well, again, thanks. This was nicer than you needed to be.¡± Ferris admitted, stepping out of the car immediately to leave, right as Coatsworth rolled his window down to catch her before she disappeared inside.


    ¡°Ferris?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, what?¡±


    ¡°I want something funny.¡±


    Ferris squinted her eyes. ¡°Huh?¡±


    ¡°If you felt like celebrating Bestalow, I¡¯ve asked for something funny as my gift.¡± Coatsworth offered. ¡°You don¡¯t have to get me something, but it might keep your mind off things.¡±


    ¡°¡­I¡¯ll think it over.¡± Ferris said, waving him off, before Coatsworth spoke up again.


    ¡°Did you want anything for Bestalow?¡±


    Ferris looked stumped, as for a brief second, she actually considered the question in all sincerity, before shutting herself down and grabbing the front door handle.


    ¡°Yeah, for people to stop asking me about it¡­¡± Ferris muttered, before heading right inside, leaving Coatsworth out in the cold, ready to head off now that his duty had been fulfilled.


    ¡°¡­I wonder if this is an improvement¡­¡± Coatsworth remarked to himself. ¡°¡­loss makes us do such horrid things to ourselves¡­¡±


    It was a long night for a lot of people.


    Faller ran his fingers through his hair, nodding along to the voices on his computer, before finding an opportunity where he could finally butt into their arguing.


    ¡°Look, look, I know¡­I know it looks bad, but there¡¯s only so much I can do. The academy hasn¡¯t been attacked this much since its founding; we¡¯ve gotten complacent. But we¡¯ve still fended off each o-¡°


    ¡°Fended off? Three Wailing, three, left the main building and the security department in utter shambles.¡±


    ¡°Not to mention several students were caught up in the chaos. The evacuation plans need to be updated for more modern Wailing attacks.¡±


    ¡°And we¡¯re improving them, but this takes time. We¡¯d only just recovered from the previous attack when this one came through.¡± Faller defended, wiping off some sweat. ¡°Look, we¡¯ve convinced Senator Carmich-¡°


    ¡°The attacks are hardly the issue here, Aaron. The education of your student body has been sorely lacking for your entire tenure, not to mention your seeming disinterest in the future of the industry.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s n-¡°


    ¡°And you can¡¯t keep mentioning this ¡®rogue element¡¯ in the Venator industry without any solid proof! You¡¯ve been banging that drum for years now, and have yet to produce a crumb of evidence!¡±


    ¡°Running the academy has been my priority! I¡¯m trying to improve the standards for students above guns for hire! Not just teaching combat, but survivability, how to take care of themsel-¡°


    ¡°And nobody¡¯s been asking you to do that! Venators have been working fine for years, and we represent the pinnacle of Venator education. We can¡¯t have you coming in with some ¡®radical ideas¡¯ and changing things on a whim because you want happy Venators.¡±


    ¡°Do you really want to have this conversation right now?¡± Faller threatened, leaning forward in his seat. ¡°Cause we can have this conversat-¡°


    ¡°FALLER.¡±


    Despite where he wanted to take this, Faller found himself going quiet.


    ¡°¡­we¡¯re reviewing your tenure for the next year. We understand you¡¯ve been under a lot of pressure, but between your¡­unorthodox teaching methods and hunt for the latest ¡®Wicker,¡¯ despite that old rumour never being confirmed in the first place, it¡¯s hard to see what you offer to the position and to the Venators you teach. You¡¯ve spread yourself very thin, and that¡¯s not a good look for a leader.¡±


    ¡°¡­right.¡± Faller replied, feeling himself needing to shut up.


    ¡°The vote takes place in a couple months. We¡¯ll keep you informed.¡±


    The video call closed out, as Faller finally fell back into his chair, before running his hands over his face, feeling tension all throughout.


    He was too tired to even get that mad, as he glanced over at his liquor cabinet and realised just how long his night would keep being.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°¡­f you¡¯re just joining us, our top story is the latest tragedy to have hit the Venator industry, as four members of the beloved Team Ballistic were killed during a hunt in the Northern Wayside. After being contracted to take on the ¡®Lodge Lurker¡¯ Wailing inside of the recently opened Rabbit Lodge, the team seemed to be quickly ambushed, with Amanda Major as the only survivor. As of right now, Amanda has refused any and all interviews, and has yet to comment on the situation.¡±


    ¡°This has raised several questions as to the validity of the current Venator structure and whether we need to reevaluate how Venators are taught to hunt Wailing. With me to discuss is Caren Carmichael, the Senator of Central Point, and Conrad Baxter, the Senator of the Southern Wayside. Thank you for joining me.¡±


    ¡°Thank you for having us, Tim.¡±


    ¡°A pleasure.¡±


    ¡°Conrad, I think it only appropriate we start with you, since Team Ballistic were from your home state. How do you think the recent tragedy reflects on the industry as a whole?¡±


    ¡°Tim, I think Venators are more important now than ever. With all the new breeds of Wailing running around, we need to keep them under our thumb. Team Ballistic were a great team, but, and I understand the wound is fresh¡­this is a common occurrence. Teams lose members all the time, but rarely to this scale and to this publicity.¡±


    ¡°Caren, do you have any thoughts on the matter?¡±


    ¡°Shockingly, I find myself agreeing, but not for the right reasons. Yes, this happens all the time, but that shouldn¡¯t be a norm we¡¯re comfortable with. Team Ballistic¡¯s passing should be a reminder of the needless bloodshed that¡¯s plagued the Wailing Conflict for as long as it¡¯s lasted. It should be a wake-up call for serious reform to stop this happening in the future.¡±


    ¡°¡­the reform drum¡­geez¡­¡±


    ¡°Peace with the Wailing is possible, but the more we funnel into the Venator industry, the less likely that¡¯s gonna happen.¡±


    ¡°So what¡¯s your brilliant suggestion, Caren? How would you stop this from happening again?¡±


    ¡°Well, Conrad, it wouldn¡¯t have even gotten to this point in the first place. Sending a single team into a confined, unfamiliar space with a Wailing was ju-¡°


    ¡°I don¡¯t think we¡¯re asking the right question here. Can we really blame the conditions when a Venator should be accustomed to that?¡±


    ¡°Alright, where does the blame go then?¡±


    ¡°¡­well, there was a survivor.¡±


    ¡°Conrad, you can¡¯t be serious.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m levying appropriate caution. There were no security cameras, no witnesses, and only one person who made it out, who¡¯s refusing to comment. We don¡¯t know what went down in the-¡°


    ¡°Are you suggesting Amanda killed the rest of her team?¡±


    Reading on this site? This novel is published elsewhere. Support the author by seeking out the original.


    ¡°Tch¡­killed them, no. Did she get the rest of the team killed somehow?...well, we can¡¯t say.¡±


    ¡°I think you¡¯re saying plenty right now, yo-¡°


    ¡°Caren, if we can keep this civil. Conrad, are you suggesting heavier scrutiny on keeping Venators accountable for their actions?¡±


    ¡°¡­look, there¡¯s always gonna be bad apples. Not everyone¡¯s strong enough to take on a Wailing, and some of us are better at scurrying away if need be. I think it¡¯s on the teams to hold themselves accountable and pick the right members.¡±


    ¡°Tim, if I may interject. The Venator industry has always had famously bad accountability. You can¡¯t hand five trigger happy people weapons and tell them to keep each other in check. It¡¯s not an appropriate substitute for punishment.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯d say keeping the Wailing at bay in punishment enough.¡±


    ¡°Okay, just cause you used to be a Venator, don¡¯t laud it over u-¡°


    ¡°You think it¡¯s easy? You think most Venators want a war? You think Team Ballistic wanted t-¡°


    ¡°Okay, okay, that¡¯s enough. I think we¡¯ve heard plenty from both sides here. Caren, Conrad, thank you for your time.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Ferris?¡±


    ¡°¡­wha?¡±


    ¡°Stop drooling on my bar.¡±


    ¡°¡­oh.¡± Ferris let out, slowly lifting her head up. ¡°¡­stop making your bar easy to drool on, nerd.¡±


    ¡°Good one.¡± One of the security complimented, bumping Ferris¡¯ side. ¡°Hey, if Ferris wants to sleep here, let her.¡±


    ¡°Then she can bring a night cap and little candle next time.¡± Seears stated, as Ferris stood up, stumbling to her feet. ¡°There¡¯s no classes today, so I don¡¯t expect you to hang around here for all of Bestalow.¡±


    ¡°So? It¡¯s not like you¡¯ve got anywhere to go¡­¡± Ferris groaned, grabbing her forehead.


    ¡°I¡¯m closing early and celebrating Bestalow with my fianc¨¦.¡± Seears clarified, as a few of the security guards let out cheers and hollering. ¡°So I¡¯d rather the bar be empty when I leave.¡±


    Ferris drunkenly flipped him off, before pulling herself to the door, as the guards waved her off.


    ¡°Later, Ferris! Keep working those sass muscles!¡± Another called out, getting a few chuckles from the others, as the light of midday started to blind Ferris, making her drunken/hungover state even worse.


    ¡°¡­this time of year hates me¡­¡±


    ¡°Someone¡¯s got quite the grouchy attitude for Bestalow.¡±


    Ferris turned to Spence just beside her, making her way into the Daiquiri Lounge, as Ferris tried to straighten out her back.


    ¡°Spence? What¡¯re you doing at the bar?¡±


    Spence excitedly held up a box. ¡°I¡¯m heading home to spend Bestalow with my mother, so I¡¯m dropping off my presents now. Seears wanted magazines he hasn¡¯t read yet.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± Ferris let out, turning her attention away, as Spence gave her a once over, freaking Ferris out. ¡°What? Why¡¯re you staring?¡±


    ¡°Hey, how¡¯re you feeling today?¡±


    Ferris avoided looking at her. ¡°Loaded question.¡±


    ¡°I know you¡¯re not a big fan of Bestalow, but I was at least hoping you weren¡¯t planning on day drinking. Every new day is something to be celebrated, after all.¡± Spence suggested, as Ferris actually looked a little guilty.


    ¡°¡­right. Uhh¡­¡± Ferris muttered, rubbing her face. ¡°There¡¯s just days when I can¡¯t help it, you know?¡±


    Spence looked a little saddened, right as some raucous laughter echoed out from the Daiquiri Lounge, drawing the duos attention.


    Spence was willing to leave it alone, only for Ferris to stick her head into the door to listen in.


    ¡°¡­an I guess?¡±


    ¡°Okay, everyone gets three questions and one guess as to who I¡¯m thinking of, alright?¡± Seears suggested, mixing a couple drinks for the security. ¡°Lawkins.¡±


    ¡°Easy. First question.¡± Lawkins started, scratching his chin. ¡°Are they¡­famous?¡±


    ¡°In a way.¡± Seears replied.


    ¡°So infamous?¡±


    ¡°Very. That¡¯s two questions.¡±


    ¡°¡­dammit. Okay¡­are they¡­a Venator?¡±


    ¡°Nope, you lost it.¡± Seears answered, before waving his finger around. ¡°Who might get it? Who¡¯s it gonna be?¡±


    He noticed a guard excitedly waving her hand, as he pointed to her. ¡°Jones.¡±


    ¡°Okay, I got it. Are they¡­ill-tempered?¡±


    ¡°¡­I think you¡¯re catching on.¡± Seears stated, as she continued.


    ¡°Unpleasant to be around, and just in general?¡±


    ¡°Correct.¡±


    ¡°Okay¡­¡± Jones stated, pushing two fingers to her lips. ¡°¡­hates life and herself?¡±


    ¡°Bring it home.¡±


    ¡°Is it Ferris?¡± Lawkins butted in, as Jones shoved his arm.


    ¡°Oh! Lawkins sweeping in for the steal!¡± Seears cheered, as the security started cackling to themselves. ¡°Free drinks for Lawkins on the expert guess! Okay, who¡¯s ready t¡­¡±


    Ferris finally pulled her head back out, after they¡¯d given her a pretty good show.


    After a few more seconds, she just stood there, slowly shaking her head, as Spence could see the distress on her face.


    She quickly dropped off her gift near the door and started dragging Ferris away.


    ¡°¡­I knew I was hated, but hearing it articulated behind my back stung a lot more.¡± Ferris admitted, as Spence sighed out.


    ¡°Don¡¯t listen to them. They¡¯re just a bunch of Negative Nancy¡¯s who feel like putting other people down.¡± Spence assured, before walking in front of Ferris. ¡°And you¡¯re not hated. You can¡­just be difficult to get along with.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to massage my ego, I know I¡¯m a fucking downer.¡± Ferris confessed, sighing out. ¡°They don¡¯t need me stinking up their Bestalow¡­¡±


    Spence pouted her lips, before clapping her hands loudly in Ferris¡¯ face, as she stumbled back.


    ¡°¡­I have a hangover, you jerk.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t care. Stop pretending you have nothing to offer.¡± Spence insisted, resting her hands on her hips. ¡°¡­if you don¡¯t have anywhere you want to go, you can come join me in the library. I¡¯ve got to finish up a few things there before I leave anyway.¡±


    Ferris could see Spence was putting herself out, almost looking at her with pity, as the guilt from before grew a bit bigger.


    ¡°¡­sure. I¡¯ll, uhh¡­stay out of your hair.¡± Ferris remarked, as Spence turned back around and marched to the library, followed by Ferris doing her best to keep her distance.


    Once they arrived, Ferris was ready to head in, only to find Spence hanging by the entrance in silence, poking her head in.


    Ferris took a second to reach her side, before peeking around as well and finding Harley and Sola in the library, putting some textbooks away.


    ¡°They¡¯re back on camp¡­?¡± Ferris muttered, only for Spence to shoosh her, as Harley turned to Sola.


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    ¡°Huh? Huh what?¡±


    ¡°Huh, as in ¡®did I hear you correctly?¡¯ You got a gift for Ferris?¡± Harley questioned, as Ferris shut herself up now.


    ¡°Yeah, I figured why not.¡± Sola insisted, pressing her finger to her lips. ¡°But don¡¯t say it too loud. Someone might hear.¡±


    ¡°Right, but¡­like, why though?¡± Harley asked, genuinely confused. ¡°Why even bother? She¡¯s gonna hate whatever you give her. Plus I don¡¯t think she even likes Bestalow.¡±


    Sola looked a bit dejected, as she put her own textbook back.


    ¡°¡­I know that, but she¡¯s been making some real improvements recently.¡± Sola pointed out. ¡°She¡¯s actually teaching some classes, and she saved Julia from Rosalind during the attack.¡±


    Sola jumped forward. ¡°And she made us do that weapon swapping trip! That was fun!¡±


    Sola subtly reached into her back pocket, before pulling out a couple vouchers.


    ¡°¡­she seems like she¡¯s really hurting, so I wanted her to know the effort was appreciated.¡± Sola nodded. ¡°I got her a spa trip to help relax and get her mind out of the academy. She¡¯s probably gonna say no to it, but the offers still there.¡±


    Harley smiled, before reaching over and kissing Sola¡¯s head sweetly. ¡°You¡¯re just so kind. I get what you¡¯re saying, but I still think it¡¯s a lot to give her, especially since you two don¡¯t get along. And she left you in that forest.¡±


    ¡°¡­I can put that aside, at least for Bestalow.¡± Sola assured, just as Ferris sighed out.


    She pulled herself back, before falling onto the wall.


    ¡°¡­Harley has a point. Why even bother?¡± Ferris muttered, as Spence stepped to the side.


    ¡°You know, you don¡¯t get to decide whether people like you or not.¡± Spence noted, smiling back at Ferris. ¡°It¡¯s a double-edged axe, sure, bu-¡°


    ¡°Double-edged sword.¡± Ferris corrected.


    ¡°¡­okay, it¡¯s a double-edged sword, but that just means some people will only hate you if you¡¯re the one chasing them off.¡± Spence reasoned, before bumping Ferris¡¯ arm. ¡°So leave Ferris alone and stop doing that to yourself, you dill.¡±


    Despite the teasing nature of the comment, Spence saw Ferris take it very seriously, as her pupils shrank a little in fear.


    ¡°S-Sorry, I didn¡¯t mean to touch a nerve.¡± Spence stated, as Ferris shook her head.


    ¡°¡­that¡¯s¡­¡± Ferris managed, struggling with her words, as she looked around her nervously.


    Before Spence could ask what she was doing, Ferris felt around for her keys in her pocket and started to headed off down the hall.


    ¡°Ferri-¡°


    ¡°I need to go somewhere. I may be gone a while.¡± Ferris replied, not even looking back at Spence, as Spence debated chasing after her, at least to make sure she wasn¡¯t about to do anything reckless.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°¡­s that rea¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­did you he¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­how coul¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­deserves it¡­¡±


    Amanda tried her best to block out the murmuring of the caf¨¦ around her. She couldn¡¯t quite make out what they were saying, but she knew what they were talking about. She knew it was about her.


    And why wouldn¡¯t it be?


    Once she took her attention off the chatter, she noticed a waitress waiting by her table, tapping her pen to the menu.


    ¡°Done daydreaming?¡± She remarked, as Amanda took the menu off of her. ¡°What do you want?¡±


    Amanda could barely make out the words on the menu, before she threw it to the table in frustration. ¡°Just get me a danish¡­¡±


    The waitress pouted and walked off, right as Amanda could feel a constant pain growing behind her eye.


    As her headache started to worsen, she went and grabbed for her flask, before it slipped out of her pocket accidentally. She tried to pick it back up, only for a passing couple to kick it across the floor and out of reach, staring back at her bitterly.


    She decided not to risk getting up to grab it, as she turned back around and saw the waitress chuck her danish onto the table lazily, spilling a bit of it onto Amanda¡¯s hands.


    Amanda groaned and went to grab some napkins to wipe it off, before the waitress sneered at her.


    ¡°I guess cream¡¯s easier to wipe off than blood.¡±


    ¡°Fuck off.¡± Amanda replied, before shaking her cup. ¡°And get me a refill.¡±


    The waitress grabbed it and wandered off to do so, as Amanda inspected her danish.


    What¡¯re the chances someone¡¯s spit in this? Amanda wondered, before grabbing her fork. I¡¯ll risk it.


    Right as Amanda took a bite, the bell to the caf¨¦ rang out, failing to draw her attention. She kept eating peacefully, only for a man to slowly come over to her table, before placing his hand on the seat across from her.


    ¡°Is this taken?¡±


    Amanda stared at him, before going back to her food, as he took up the seat regardless and dropped his suitcase nearby. He went to talk, only for the waitress to come back over, almost pouring Amanda¡¯s coffee onto her.


    ¡°Anything else, Teamkiller?¡± The waitress replied, before noticing the man across from her. ¡°Oh. Are you friends with her? What do you want?¡±


    ¡°Less attitude.¡± The man replied, as the waitress held her tongue. ¡°And a latte, prepared better than hers.¡±


    The waitress kept quiet, before tentatively going off to do so, as Amanda lifted her head out of curiosity.


    ¡°What? You here to defend my honour?¡± She asked, taking apart her food.


    ¡°I know you don¡¯t need that.¡± He replied, as Amanda kept eating.


    ¡°If you feel like trying shit, I¡¯m still a Venator.¡± Amanda pointed out. ¡°I may be unarmed, but I can kick your ass easily.¡±


    ¡°No, I¡¯m¡­¡± The man said, before resettling in his seat. ¡°You¡¯re Amanda Major, right? From Team Ballistic?¡±


    Amanda paused, before picking at her danish. ¡°The former Team Ballistic, in case you didn¡¯t hear the news.¡±


    ¡°No, I heard it. I just don¡¯t think they have the full story.¡± The man explained. ¡°A whole Venator team goes in to take down a Wailing, and only one member makes it out, all while refusing to take interviews. No one¡¯s gotten your side, and yet you¡¯re the only person who was there.¡±


    ¡°Jack was there.¡± Amanda muttered, stabbing at her food more aggressively.


    The man breathed out, just as the waitress came back with his coffee. ¡°I want to hear what actually happened.¡±


    Amanda stayed silent, as the man sat patiently, waiting for a response.


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­I¡¯m not leaving until I know.¡±


    ¡°Then you¡¯re gonna sit there for a while.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    Amanda jabbed at her danish again, before throwing her fork across the room.


    ¡°Fine, you nosy fucking¡­¡± Amanda let out, grabbing at her head. ¡°¡­we got up there. Everything was routine, we were joking about shit, complaining about the press, and then the moment we go in, it drops on top of us.¡±


    Amanda avoided looking at him. ¡°Next thing I know, three of us are dead, and Jack¡¯s pinned under the thing. My sword got knocked away in the scuffle, but his rifle slid over to me. So I pick it up, and even though I don¡¯t know how to use the thing¡­I fire.¡±


    Amanda went back to her food, not even eating it at this point.


    ¡°I killed them both in the crossfire.¡±


    There was a dead silence between the two, as the man took in what she¡¯d admitted to.


    ¡°And now nobody¡¯s hiring me cause they think I got the team killed¡­¡± Amanda muttered.


    The man had forgotten his coffee was even there, as he reached over the table. ¡°You shouldn¡¯t blame yourself for that. In a situation like th-¡°


    ¡°You still haven¡¯t told me why you¡¯re here.¡± Amanda replied, grabbing the rest of the danish and stomaching it. ¡°¡­start talking.¡±


    The man sighed out, before reaching down to grab something from his suitcase.


    ¡°I have a job offer.¡±


    Amanda immediately scoffed and got up to leave, only for the man to grab her sleeve.


    ¡°Just¡­hear me out. It¡¯s for your benefit too.¡± He said.


    Amanda glared at him, before cautiously taking up her seat again and leaning on its back legs. ¡°I¡¯m not joining Nova.¡±


    ¡°This isn¡¯t¡­it¡¯s not that.¡± He said, pulling out some files. ¡°I need a bodyguard. One who can help me get information and make sure I don¡¯t die in the process.¡±


    ¡°A bodyguard?¡± Amanda scoffed, as the man started displaying charts and photos over the table.


    ¡°Something¡¯s not adding up.¡± He confessed. ¡°There¡¯s been reports of Wailing attacks that make no sense. Look, Meda Manufacturing¡¯s headquarters were attacked a few months ago, despite it being up in the Eldos Mountains, far from where any Wailing should be. Quas Transporters were hit too, but no footage was found of the Wailing arriving, just the attack.¡±


    ¡°Wailing are crafty. Thirty seconds.¡± Amanda stated, as the man looked confused, before continuing.


    ¡°There¡¯s more. Attacks that don¡¯t make sense, Venators that might be benefiting from it¡­and I think someone might be behind it.¡± He insisted. ¡°But I can¡¯t look into this myself. Whoever we¡¯re dealing with might have¡­access to Wailing, whatever that might entail, so I need someone who can at least hold their own against on-¡°


    ¡°A Venator, okay.¡± Amanda said, picking up one of the photos. ¡°And what, I was desperate enough?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± He admitted, offending Amanda. ¡°And, considering your current reputation, leaving the spotlight would make a lot of sense from an outside perspective. You¡¯re the perfect candidate for this.¡±


    Amanda gave the photos another once over, before the man pulled out a few more documents from his briefcase.


    ¡°I¡¯ve just gotten a promotion to principal of the Venator Academy, and I want you to moonlight as a teacher there. You can update m-¡°


    ¡°What did you say?¡±


    The man looked at her puzzled.


    ¡°You want me to teach?¡± She groaned. ¡°I¡¯m meant to spend my days around the next generation of those fuckers? The ones who left me to rot after all this shit went down?! Just so you can run after your crackpot theories?!¡±


    ¡°Tha-¡°


    ¡°No, no, screw you and your shitty deal! Find someone more desperate to be your bitch!¡±


    Amanda stood up to leave, making a fairly big scene of the caf¨¦, only for the man to stand up as well, hiding some shame on his face.


    ¡°You don¡¯t¡­get to make that decision.¡±


    ¡°Like hell, I don¡¯t! Fuck off!¡±


    The man clenched his fist.


    ¡°¡­what if something happens to me?¡±


    Amanda slowed down briefly, before turning back to him.


    ¡°If I die¡­and you could¡¯ve prevented that¡­¡±


    Amanda¡¯s eyes widened, as the man was visibly ashamed of himself.


    ¡°You really want another life on your conscience?¡±


    Despite her better judgement, and her rapidly building anger, Amanda stormed back over to the table, sitting down in frustration as she stared daggers right into the man.


    ¡°I hate you.¡±


    ¡°I can live with that.¡± He admitted, handing her the documents. ¡°I¡¯ve gotten a cover ready for you, just to avoid drawing any attention. Name change, history, general appearan-¡±


    ¡°Good riddance.¡± Amanda said, before sighing out and picking up the documents he handed over.


    ¡°¡­Lola Ferris.¡±


    Amanda¡¯s eye drooped, before staring at him again. ¡°Couldn¡¯t have picked a better name?¡±


    ¡°¡­no.¡± The man lied, as Amanda scoffed and balanced on her chair again.


    ¡°Guess it makes sense, now that I¡¯m your errand bitch.¡± Amanda complained. ¡°So what, should I start calling you sir now?¡±


    ¡°You could start by calling me Aaron Faller.¡± He replied, finally sipping his coffee. ¡°And don¡¯t look so glum about this. If all goes to plan, we¡¯ll do something great.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    A slight chill was rushing over the academy, as the afternoon of Bestalow started to settle in. The campus, for the most part, was empty, with plenty of students off campus and only a couple staff still hanging around instead of heading home.


    Faller was one of them.


    While he didn¡¯t like to admit it, he didn¡¯t actually have much to go back to himself, and hated the idea of adding Ferris to the mix of his already frustrating few days.


    Wess, on the other hand, was only here briefly, and was planning to be off of campus again soon, before getting caught off guard by a few noises coming from down one of the academy halls.


    She didn¡¯t want to investigate them, but felt she should, as she turned to find Faller resting somewhat near his office, lying against the wall, a few bottles laying about him. His head was leaning back, staring right up at the ceiling.


    Wess sighed out, before starting to approach.


    ¡°Quite the undignified state to find you in.¡±


    Faller turned over to the voice. ¡°¡­Wess?...why¡¯re you on campus?¡±


    ¡°I was dropping off some gifts for friends.¡± Wess explained, as she noticed Faller¡¯s bloodshot eyes. ¡°¡­are you drunk?¡±


    ¡°¡­maybe.¡± Faller let out, shaking his head. ¡°Or sleep deprived, I dunno which¡­¡±


    Frankly, Wess didn¡¯t have the patience to deal with this, as she went to take her leave, before Faller spoke up.


    ¡°¡­hey.¡±


    She begrudgingly turned around.


    ¡°¡­do you think I¡¯ve been a good principal?¡±


    Wess stared right at him, truly considering the question.


    ¡°¡­depends what day you ask me.¡± Wess replied. ¡°On orientation day, of course. As of recent, there¡¯s certainly bias hindering my opinion.¡±


    Faller thought on it for a second, before hitting a realisation. ¡°¡­right, with Julia¡­¡±


    Wess scowled, as she continued to stand near him. ¡°Wicker¡¯s to blame for that night, but you did Julia no favours putting her in that position. And if we¡¯re looking clinically at your position as principal, you failed that night.¡±


    Faller threw his head back again, before letting out a weak laugh.


    ¡°I can¡¯t even disagree with you¡­¡± He admitted, as Wess, despite her want to leave, went to sit beside him. ¡°¡­I keep pretending I¡¯m making hard decisions, even when I¡¯m just forcing other people to make them for me¡­breaking apart teams with my carelessness, the one thing I swore I wouldn¡¯t do¡­¡±


    He laughed a bit more earnestly now. ¡°I¡¯ve been a shit principal, but it¡¯s not like it¡¯s been easy. It¡¯s not like anyone else could¡¯ve done better with the hand I was dealt¡­I really tried my best¡­¡±


    He looked back at Wess solemnly. ¡°¡­did I ever tell you why I became principal?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t believe I asked.¡±


    ¡°¡­well, after I got my engineering degree, I tried my hand at becoming a Venator. To no one¡¯s surprise, it wasn¡¯t really for me. I wanted to change the world for the better, but that wasn¡¯t how I was gonna do it.¡± Faller explained, trying his best to seem composed. ¡°Then I found a job offer with Venator Standards and Practices to look into potential corruption in the industry, and took it on a whim. Administration¡¯s more my game.¡±


    Faller tried his best to paint a picture. ¡°After that, I started to notice some patterns in the industry, which I later found out was Wicker making moves. Now here was something I could work on.¡±


    Wess found herself weirdly captivated, as he weaved his tale. ¡°I took what information I could and used my degree to get the head engineer position here in hopes of becoming principal. Then I could sway the new generation of Venators to look out for this corruption, as well as use the position to get easier access to information on Wicker. And it¡­mostly worked¡­but it just reminded me of what I couldn¡¯t do too¡­¡±


    Wess watched him dip his head down, as he accidentally knocked over an empty bottle.


    ¡°¡­since working with Standards and Practices, I¡¯ve seen so many Venator teams fall apart, disassemble, get killed, due to infighting and arguments in the team. Some of the best teams in history ended their careers hating each other, and all riddled with disorders they had no idea how to treat and trauma they were just stuck with.¡± Faller noted, looking so much less dignified than Wess had ever seen. ¡°Frankly, that kinda thing is deadlier than any Wailing attack.¡±


    He threw his hands up. ¡°And I tried to curtail that from happening here, but there¡¯s only so much I can do. I¡¯ve inherited a warrior school, we¡¯re not exactly a mental health program.¡± Faller admitted. ¡°Pather has to double up as a councillor, and we can¡¯t even afford a full-time therapist with all the repairs and maintenance from the attacks. We just hire them out when they¡¯re needed, which is still not enough for most of the students here. Hell, only Julia got one for your whole team. That¡¯s bullshit.¡±


    He shook his head frantically, rocking about as he spoke. ¡°I wanted to take care of everyone here, and better the standards of Venators, and keep everyone safe, and end the Wailing Conflict. I spread myself too thin. In the end, I could only do so much¡­¡±


    Faller slowly sat back down, feeling himself sink into his depression, as Wess watched his expression change, before folding her arms.


    ¡°¡­well, as some advice, you could try not being so hypocritical.¡±


    Faller turned back to her, as Wess faced him properly.


    ¡°For such an advocate of mental health, someone in your life is suffering greatly and needlessly. And frankly, you¡¯re not doing much about it.¡± Wess pointed out, as Faller threw his hands up and looked away.


    ¡°If this is about Ferris, I¡¯ve tried to help where I c-¡°


    ¡°Then once again, you¡¯re doing a shit job.¡± Wess argued, annoying Faller.


    ¡°There¡¯s only so much I can do! She has to be here, for my safety and to help pin down Wicker! I can¡¯t help that she¡¯s surrounde¡­!¡±


    Faller trailed off, stopping himself from admitting too much, as Wess lay her head back.


    ¡°¡­I have no idea what¡¯s happened in Ferris¡¯ life, and I understand that, to some extent, she needs to be here.¡± Wess pointed out. ¡°But it¡¯s clear to me she¡¯s in pain, and your workload has meant she¡¯s fallen deeply down the priority list. And you don¡¯t look at those people and roll your eyes, you help them where you can. It is fair on no one that we¡¯re stuck with a teacher who despises the very school she teaches at and can only get through the day with a pocket flask in her jacket.¡±


    Wess stared at the ceiling, as she nestled into her coat. ¡°You cannot help those around you without helping yourself.¡±


    She then stared Faller dead in the eyes. ¡°But how¡¯re you meant to help others if you don¡¯t know how?¡±


    Faller was left silent, given plenty to chew on, as Wess stayed where she was, watching as he considered her opinion.


    ¡°¡­I know that¡­but I¡¯m worried about what¡¯ll happen to her if she leaves here.¡± Faller admitted. ¡°She was in a terrible spot before coming here anyway. There¡¯s no way she¡¯s gonna bounce back from that. The least I¡¯ve been able to do is watch her and make sure she doesn¡¯t try anything.¡±


    Wess raised an eyebrow. ¡°So help is completely off the table?¡±


    ¡°¡­I¡¯ve tried in the past.¡± Faller confessed, huddled over. ¡°And she¡¯s never been receptive to it.¡±


    ¡°Perhaps that¡¯s the problem.¡± Wess suggested, sitting back up. ¡°Ease her into it. Take a few drastic measures at first, then get her a therapist off-campus who she can vent to about you and her problems.¡±


    Wess decided to stand back up, before dusting off her coat. ¡°If you want my take, she teaches best when she¡¯s invested in the topic herself. And sober.¡±


    Faller smirked a little. ¡°Don¡¯t we all?¡±


    ¡°She has the potential to give some damn good advice, and I wouldn¡¯t waste that in your position.¡± Wess noted, finally leaving like she intended. ¡°At the moment, I can¡¯t respect you. So if you want to make this position count, pull back and work on something you know you can do and stop constantly gunning for the bigger picture. I might just find myself revoking that opinion if you¡¯re successful.¡±


    Wess disappeared back down the hall, as Faller found himself pulling back up to his feet, still leaning on the wall for support.


    He admitted that the role reversal of her giving him advice felt strange, but it was something he needed to hear. Or be reminded of.


    ¡°¡­¡±


    After perking himself up, he took a few minutes to clean up the mess he¡¯d made around him, taking the empty bottles back to his office, before his now drained liquor cabinet gave him an idea of somewhere to start.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡­despite wanting to finish it, Ferris poured the rest of her beer out onto the ground, covering the grass as much as she could and letting out a pained sigh.


    A gentle breeze ran over the graveyard, as the sunset started to take up the sky. A bit of it glinted off of Ferris¡¯ car, parked close by.


    She stared at the few graves in front of her, boarding the Southern Wayside coast, a place she was already pretty familiar with at this point.


    Though she hadn¡¯t been here yet.


    ¡°¡­are you the shadows of things that may be¡­?¡± Ferris muttered allowed, glancing over the line of graves. ¡°¡­or are you shadows of things that will be¡­?¡±


    She reached into her pocket and pulled out her flask, getting the last few drops from it, before spotting a perch on the coastline and leaving the graves of Team Ballistic behind.


    She drunkenly wandered up, nearly tripping back down the hill a few times, before making it to the top, sitting out and watching the sunset descend.


    She gave herself a few seconds to catch her breath, still pretty delirious. In a moment of weakness, she caught herself looking over the cliff, watching where the waves hit the rocks, before rolling back out and coming back in, rolling out¡­


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­am I interrupting something?¡±


    Blinking profusely, Ferris took a second to register the other voice, before turning around and finding a woman in sunglasses and a trench coat standing behind her, hands in her pockets.


    ¡°¡­not really.¡± Ferris admitted, as the woman nodded, before looking out over the cliff as well.


    Ferris tried scanning over her, right as she caught the distinctive claw marks running up her face, quickly recognising her.


    ¡°¡­you¡¯re Ryuko. The Dragon Tamer.¡± Ferris noted, as Ryuko didn¡¯t make eye contact.


    ¡°In the flesh.¡± She replied. ¡°Are you a fan?¡±


    ¡°I just know you¡­¡± Ferris admitted, leaning her head down. ¡°We met a while ago, but you wouldn¡¯t remember me¡­¡±


    Ryuko raised an eyebrow, before looking down at Ferris. ¡°I¡¯m pretty good with faces¡­but yours looks pretty battered. Can¡¯t say I recognise you.¡±


    ¡°Join the club¡­¡± Ferris groaned, falling backwards, as Ryuko took the chance to sit down too, her attention mostly still on the skyline.


    Ryuko took a second to look back at the graveyard. ¡°¡­so, who did I meet back then?¡±


    ¡°¡­someone. Anyone.¡± Ferris let out. ¡°A person that can¡¯t exist anymore¡­I¡¯m not the woman I was¡­¡±


    Ferris slowly sat back up, only to rest her head in her lap. ¡°But I can¡¯t move on either¡­always thinking about what used to be¡­I¡¯m like a fucking ghost now¡­¡±


    Ryuko smiled, as she leaned back, letting the sun wash over her.


    ¡°¡­you know that¡¯s a good thing, right?¡± Ryuko posited, as Ferris glared at her in confusion.


    ¡°No it isn¡¯t.¡±


    ¡°Hear me out. Did you like the old you?¡±


    ¡°¡­to a point.¡± Ferris admitted, as Ryuko smiled.


    ¡°Exactly. And is there any good reason to go back to her?¡±


    ¡°¡­she could be happy.¡± Ferris added.


    ¡°Well, good for her. But she¡¯s not around anymore.¡± Ryuko pointed out, indicating behind her. ¡°You said it yourself, she¡¯s dead and buried, just like everyone back there.¡±


    Ryuko pressed her finger into Ferris¡¯ chest. ¡°You¡¯ve got another chance.¡± Ryuko stated. ¡°Whatever was weighing you down before doesn¡¯t have to shackle you. That was the old¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­Amanda.¡±


    ¡°¡­Amanda.¡± Ryuko repeated. ¡°Now you can be who you need to be. You don¡¯t have to forget, but let it go. Don¡¯t torture the new you.¡±


    Ryuko rested her hand on Ferris¡¯ back.


    ¡°Be someone who deserves to be alive.¡±


    Ferris could feel herself pushing against the sentiment, as she pulled away slightly, before starting to speak.


    ¡°¡­I don¡¯t deserve anything¡­¡± Ferris muttered, balling herself up, as her voice started to break. ¡°¡­I¡¯m a f-fucking failure¡­¡±


    Immediately, she started weeping loudly, closing up into herself and letting it take over her body, as Ryuko let her have her moment, giving her the space she needed.


    After a few minutes, Ferris rested her head on the ground, slamming her fist down a few times, before finally letting up, as her breathing returned to normal, even with her face still streaked with tears.


    Ryuko leaned back. ¡°Feel a bit better?¡±


    Ferris took a few more seconds, angrily wiping her face clean. ¡°¡­I-I-I¡¯ve already wasted my new chance.¡± Ferris admitted, looking pleadingly at Ryuko. ¡°I m-made everyone hate me a-again. That¡¯s all I thought I deserved.¡±


    Ryuko smirked. ¡°Oh, come on. You¡¯re not that stupid, are you?¡±


    Ferris blinked.


    Ryuko grinned happily. ¡°You haven¡¯t wasted anything. You¡¯re still here.¡±


    The realisation hit Ferris hard, as she immediately stood up, before shaking her head and slapping herself hard in the face.


    ¡°What time is it?!¡± Ferris demanded, as Ryuko pulled out her tablet.


    ¡°Seven. Bestalow¡¯s almost over.¡± Ryuko explained, before Ferris started running back down the hill in the direction of her car.


    Right as she was about to drive off, she stuck her head out of the window and waved.


    ¡°THANK YOU!!!¡±


    The car tore off, as Ryuko smirked to herself, before going back to admiring the sunset.


    ¡°Seize the day, Amanda.¡±


    Ferris was back in Detu City at record time, even with her drunkenness slowing her down, but even with her newfound energy, basically everywhere was closed at this point.


    ¡°Fuckin¡¯ of course¡­¡± Ferris groaned, catching a glimpse of a few open stores further into Detu Central. She checked her watch again, right as it hit ten thirty. ¡°This is worth it. It¡¯s the thought that counts.¡±


    She went sprinting down the street, desperately scanning for any shops with lights still on, before spotting a small kid dressed in rags across the road.


    She stopped suddenly and called out.


    ¡°HEY! KID! STREET URCHIN!¡±


    The kid lifted his head, before taking his hat off. ¡°Who, me miss?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, you! Take this!¡± Ferris yelled, throwing some capitals his way.


    The kids¡¯ eyes lit up. ¡°Gee Miss, you¡¯re givin¡¯ this all to me?¡±


    ¡°No! You¡¯re¡­fuck it, if there¡¯s change left over, you can keep it!¡± Ferris clarified. ¡°Just find an open store and buy me a rubber chicken!¡±


    ¡°Anythin¡¯ for a lady as generous as you, Miss!¡± The kid replied, donning his hat and tipping it to her before heading off, as Ferris turned around and headed into the nearby shop.


    ¡°Weird fucking kid¡­¡± She said, making her way into the Abandonal Shop, before being greeted by Virgil just by the door, clearly about to start closing up.


    ¡°Wait, I need to buy shit!¡± Ferris insisted, grabbing his shoulders. ¡°Stay open!¡±


    Virgil was visibly thrown off after being shaken, before taking in Ferris¡¯ haggard appearance.


    ¡°¡­well, I¡¯m in no real place to argue. Business is business.¡± He said, stepping out of the way, as Ferris rushed over to a few of the gift aisles, which had mostly been cleared out at this point.


    Immediately, her eye was drawn to a mug on the shelf that read ¡®Coffee¡¯s fine, but liquor¡¯s more my cup of tea.¡¯


    She grabbed it and shoved it to Virgil. ¡°Is this mug for sale?!¡±


    He stared down at it.


    ¡°There¡¯s a price tag on it, so yes.¡± Virgil replied, heading to ring it up, right as Ferris searched for a few more gifts, before picking one out and heading to the counter, scrambling for her wallet.


    She waited for Virgil to count up the cash, as he found himself slightly amused.


    ¡°You know, from your appearance, you reminded me of someone my coworker talks about a lot.¡± Virgil insisted, handing her the items. ¡°But the way she described her, she¡¯s not the type to buy last minute Bestalow gifts.¡±


    Ferris blinked.


    ¡°¡­yeah, I didn¡¯t think so either.¡± Ferris agreed, heading back out of the store, right as the street urchin came up to her, holding a massive rubber chicken in his hands.


    ¡°Holy shit, kid.¡± Ferris let out, as he put it on the ground, took his hat off and bowed.


    ¡°I couldn¡¯ help myself, frankly! The Bestalow spirit gets the best of us!¡± He cheered, as Ferris grabbed up the chicken, before chucking him some more money.


    ¡°Okay, I¡¯m paying you to leave me alone. If you see me again, don¡¯t bother me.¡± Ferris insisted, heading back to her car, as the urchin waved her off.


    ¡°Gods bless you, lady!¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Come on¡­it¡¯s actually too big¡­I definitely¡­overpaid that urchin¡­¡±


    Ferris dragged the chicken behind her, pulling it through the academy halls over to Coatsworth¡¯s office, still conscious of the time with each drag.


    She eventually reached the door, checking inside to find it empty, as she dragged the chicken over to leave it by the door.


    ¡°Ferris.¡±


    Ferris jumped suddenly, nearly falling over and dropping the other gifts, before landing on the rubber chicken, as it let out a long, pathetic honk while she sunk into it.


    She pulled herself back up, noticing Coatsworth standing outside the office, before she cleared her throat and indicated to the bird.


    ¡°There! Something funny. You¡­you deserve it.¡± Ferris let out, clearly embarrassed. ¡°I¡¯m not gonna elaborate on why I¡¯m doing this, just¡­know that your company over this last year was¡­appreciated.¡±


    Coatsworth took a second, before heading over to the chicken to inspect it.


    He turned to Ferris.


    ¡°I guess we could say it¡¯s¡­comedically¡­oversized.¡±


    ¡­there was an appropriate pause for such a terrible pun, as Coatsworth went to sit down, with Ferris getting up to leave.


    ¡°Alright, if that¡¯s all do-¡°


    ¡°Thank you.¡±


    Ferris turned to Coatsworth.


    ¡°I really appreciate the gift.¡± Coatsworth assured. ¡°And Biscuit will too.¡±


    Ferris could feel her embarrassment returning, as she left as quick as she could to avoid showing it. ¡°O-Okay, get over yourself nerd. You¡¯ve probably gotten a ton already.¡±


    Ferris made a beeline for the staff offices, heading right past her desk and over to Spence¡¯s, as she reached into her jacket to grab out her gift.


    On the shelves at the Abandonal Shop, she¡¯d found these bookmarks littering the shelves, clearly not selling very well, which she was initially going to overlook. However, as she inspected them, she noticed all of them had little crabs on them with reading glasses, saying ¡®Reading is my crab-solute favourite!,¡¯ with one exception. One of them was misprinted, instead saying ¡®Reading is my crap-solute favourite!¡¯


    Going out on a limb, Ferris left it on Spence¡¯s desk, before adding a note next to it.


    This got a laugh out of me. Hopefully it does for you too. Thank you for everything.


    - Lola


    Before leaving, she stared over the gift again, before rearranging it slightly, trying to present it in the best light. She moved it around again, biting her lip, before she started to feel satisfied with how it looked.


    ¡°She better like it¡­¡± Ferris muttered, before leaving and heading back to her car.


    It was pretty faint, but during the middle of night, Sola caught a subtle knock on Julia¡¯s front door. She got up from the couch, rubbing her eyes as she walked over to it, right as the sound of a car driving off echoed through the door.


    She opened it up, finding Dulce dead asleep by the entrance, with a small mug placed in front of the door.


    She managed to catch a small glimpse of Ferris¡¯ car disappearing into the distance, before she excitedly looked down at the mug and read over it, cracking up soon after.


    Smiling to herself, she headed back inside, still chuckling a little at the gift.


    It was past midnight by the time Ferris got back home. Her eyes were stinging and her legs wouldn¡¯t stop hurting from the near constant running and driving. She¡¯d gotten everything she wanted done, but her body wasn¡¯t about to thank her for it.


    Right as she headed inside and turned the lights on, she found Faller on the couch, pretty much dozing off himself, only for him to wince at the light overhead.


    ¡°Morning.¡± Ferris joked, heading right for the kitchen, as Faller pulled himself up.


    ¡°¡­morn¡­oh, you¡¯re joking¡­where¡¯d you disappear off to with the car?¡±


    ¡°Somewhere important.¡± Ferris stated, opening up the fridge in hopes of grabbing a beer, only to find it completely empty. ¡°¡­did you drink the place dry?¡±


    Faller stood back up and stretched. ¡°No, I threw it out.¡±


    Ferris slowly turned to him. ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve been letting you suffer without intervening, and that stops today¡­¡± Faller admitted, still leaning on the couch. ¡°I did you wrong. In so many ways.¡±


    Faller placed his hand on his chest. ¡°So let me do you right.¡±


    ¡°Faller, where¡¯s the booze?¡± Ferris insisted, as Faller shook his head.


    ¡°There¡¯s no more alcohol in the house. You¡¯re going cold turkey.¡± Faller explained, as Ferris could feel a migraine developing. ¡°But to make things fair, I am too. I also got rid of my liquor cabinet, and we¡¯re both banned from drinking at the Daiquiri Lounge.¡±


    Ferris ran her hands over her face, as her anger at him was only being tempered by her complete exhaustion from such a heavy night.


    ¡°¡­I hate you even more now.¡±


    ¡°I can live with that.¡± Faller agreed, before admittedly finding himself smiling. ¡°If you can too.¡±

 Chapter 63: Eiswein

    ¡°¡­hey?¡±


    ¡°Yes?¡±


    ¡°Do you feel like going out?¡±


    Wess brushed some hair out of Julia¡¯s face. ¡°With the others, or just us?¡±


    ¡°Either works.¡± Julia said, staring back at Wess lying across from her, the sheets pulled up high. ¡°Are you feeling cold?¡±


    ¡°No, just comfortable.¡± Wess admitted. ¡°Admittedly, it¡¯s a touch hot, but I¡¯m used to colder climates.¡±


    ¡°We should probably steer clear of the Southern Wayside after graduating then. You¡¯d probably melt.¡± Julia remarked, as Wess rolled her eyes, before leaning over to kiss her.


    ¡°That wouldn¡¯t be very fair to Harley, now would it?¡± Wess replied, a tinge of resentment in her voice, as she stood up to get dressed.


    Julia sat up too, stretching and watching Wess prepare her outfit, gussying herself up a little in the mirror.


    Seeing a good opportunity, Julia started making easily noticeable noises from the bed, trying to draw Wess¡¯ attention.


    It took Wess a second, before she turned around, as Julia clapped her hands together.


    ¡°Okay. I¡¯m gonna pitch something.¡±


    Wess lifted her head, as Julia clasped her hands together and pointed them at Wess.


    ¡°How about we go to the Northern Wayside for a trip?¡±


    ¡°¡­Julia, I¡¯m not allowed in Mareau.¡± Wess noted, as Julia raised a finger.


    ¡°I know, there¡¯s still a whole state outside of that.¡± Julia clarified, quickly pulling out her tablet. ¡°We could just go elsewhere, like¡­¡±


    Julia took a little too long to scroll to the relevant information, as Wess watched struggle with it.


    ¡°¡­wait, hold on¡­¡± She muttered, before finding it and handing it to Wess. ¡°Like here!¡±


    Julia showed off an ad for a small resort getaway that¡¯d just opened up on the border of the Northern Wayside and Central Point, boasting a ¡®luxury experience at an affordable price.¡¯


    ¡°¡­Julia, I don¡¯t know if a trip is go¡­¡± She started, before reading the ad more and picking up the tablet. ¡°Wait, they have an inhouse bakery? Interesting¡­¡±


    Julia smiled proudly to herself. ¡°You haven¡¯t been there for so long, so a night spent over there felt like a good way to ¡®recharged your cultured soul.¡¯¡±


    Wess lifted her attention up and chuckled at Julia¡¯s use of the term, before handing the tablet back. ¡°¡­alright, you¡¯ve got quite the silver tongue, dear. If the others are interested, we can go. It¡¯ll be nice to leave the house for a bit.¡±


    ¡°Yes!¡± Julia exclaimed, running in place before leaving the room and calling out to the rest of the house. ¡°She said yes, guys! We¡¯re good to go!¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re already packed, just say when!¡±


    ¡°I believe when is now.¡±


    ¡°When is so now! Percy, get your butt in gear!¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    Wess blinked and let out a content sigh, barely even surprised at this point, as she pulled out her spare luggage from under her bed and filled it quickly with a few things.


    ¡°I love them, but they¡¯ll be the death of me¡­¡± She muttered, leaving her room, as most of the team were already out the door, visibly excited about the trip.


    She was already prepared to head out the door, but stopped and pivoted to the kitchen inside, grabbing a bottle of wine she¡¯d tucked away, before nodding to herself and slipping it into her luggage.


    Right as the team was about to leave, Milo stepped out of his room, stretching his arms and yawning, before noticing his daughter and her team leaving without even a goodbye.


    ¡°Wha-hold up, Julia?¡± Milo called out, as she popped her head back in, looking a bit embarrassed.


    ¡°O-Oh, sorry dad. Bit of an impromptu trip.¡± Julia explained, as Milo rested his hands on his hips.


    ¡°Yeah, I can see that! Where¡¯re you going?¡± Milo asked, clearly miffed, as the rest of the team waited by the door.


    ¡°Just a resort on the north border. Don¡¯t worry, we¡¯ll be back by tomorrow.¡± Julia assured, pulling her bag out. ¡°And I made leftovers, so you don¡¯t have to cook either.¡±


    ¡°¡­well, bye then!¡± Milo let out, waving them off, as Dulce waved to them too, blinking in confusion, before turning back to Milo in the doorway.


    ¡°Did you know about this?¡±


    Milo threw his hands up, now caressing his face, as the house started feeling shockingly empty very quickly once Dulce closed the door.


    ¡°¡­gods sake, Julia¡­¡± He let out, feeling noticeably frustrated, before thinking over his day plan.


    A thought came to mind, but whether it was a good idea or not was still up for debate, as he went back into the lounge room, now flicking on the TV.


    He turned it off a minute later, as he looked at his bag thrown onto the other side of the couch, breathing to himself, before heading over and getting his keys out.


    ¡°¡­I need anyone to talk to¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Whoa¡­look at the size of this place¡­¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s SO big¡­kinda like¡­?¡±


    Harley and Sola looked to Essex expectantly, as Essex stood in the middle of their room, trying to think of a response.


    ¡°¡­Harley¡¯s breasts?¡±


    ¡°YEAH!¡± Harley and Sola cheered in unison, going in to kiss her, as Julia, Wess and Percy took their time exploring the main room of their resort stay, made up of a very cozy, swanky lounge room and impressively stocked kitchen, paired with a small dining area and three bedrooms splintering off to the side.


    ¡°Luxury indeed¡­this place looks so good.¡± Julia let out, putting her bags down. ¡°I¡¯m impressed I got a booking on the ride over.¡±


    ¡°That was a lot of faith to put into this place having a room available.¡± Wess noted, as Percy started digging around the fridge, before gasping and pointing inside to get Julia¡¯s attention.


    ¡°¡­J-Julia! Cake makings!¡± She exclaimed, as Julia¡¯s eyes lit up.


    ¡°Wait, really?¡± Julia let out, heading over to join her. ¡°Oh shit, you¡¯re right. This place is awesome!¡±


    Percy went to grab Wess¡¯ attention, who was still scouting it out. She took a second to prepare her throat before speaking, while signing the first part of the sentence.


    [Would you like me to make¡­] Percy started. ¡°¡­a L-Louileon cake for you¡­?¡±


    Wess was a bit surprised at the request, before nodding politely. ¡°That sounds lovely, Percy. If it¡¯s not too much hassle.¡±


    Percy rolled her eyes and gave a thumbs up, before pulling out some ingredients, as Harley called out from the dining room.


    ¡°Hey, they left us some gifts!¡±


    Julia and Wess ducked their heads in, as Sola was already sampling the food left out, and Harley picked up a small note left with it.


    ¡°¡­enjoy our complimentary ¡®Oyster Bar¡¯ for you and your fellow guests, a fine delicacy of the north. Oysters are best shared, after all, and we want you to feel welcome.¡± Harley read aloud, before putting it back down. ¡°Looks like Sola¡¯s already digging in.¡±


    Sola lifted her head, her mouth already full. ¡°¡­wav I nod meand doo?¡±


    ¡°Oysters?¡± Wess perked up, hurrying over to grab some. ¡°This resort has cash to splash. It¡¯s been ages¡­¡±


    ¡°Are these a delicacy?¡± Julia asked, joining them.


    ¡°Very much so. Here.¡± Wess said, holding one out for Julia, who happily ate it, taking a second to appreciate the flavours.


    ¡°¡­wow.¡± Julia let out, swallowing. ¡°I¡¯m not a big seafood person, but damn that¡¯s good.¡±


    ¡°Attention.¡± Essex called out, standing by one of the large windows, as the others turned to her. ¡°The snow appears to be ¡®picking up.¡¯¡±


    ¡°Attention?¡± Julia wondered, as Wess went over to join Essex, staring out the window as the weather intensified.


    She rested her hand against the glass, momentarily feeling the chill from outside, a shot of nostalgia hitting her, as there was brief moment of reprise for her.


    Julia noticed Wess¡¯ attention on the outside, as she smiled, before beckoning Essex over, insisting they give Wess a moment to herself.


    ¡°Whatcha cookin¡¯ in here, Percy?¡± Harley asked, as her and Sola filtered in.


    ¡°¡­c-cake¡­¡± Percy replied, grabbing out a few bags of flour, with Sola diving into the fridge for a drink.


    ¡°Cool. Let me know if you need any help.¡± Harley insisted, as Percy gave a quick thumbs up, before Harley saw Sola grab a glass of lemonade. ¡°They¡¯ve got lemonade too?¡±


    ¡°They¡¯ve got everything! Want one?¡± Sola offered, as Harley leaned on the counter.


    ¡°Babe, you know me so well.¡± Harley teased, as Sola giggled, before grabbing Harley a glass, as Julia and Essex came in right then.


    ¡°I see, this is where the party is.¡± Julia joked, as Harley bumped her with her hip.


    ¡°Now that you¡¯re here. Wanna check out the bedrooms?¡± Harley offered, as Julia shrugged, with Sola not too far behind.


    As Julia turned to leave, Essex faced the kitchen again, before realising everyone else had left and it was just her and Percy.


    They both locked eyes for a second, only to look away right after, trying to avoid the awkwardness both of them were feeling, with Essex squeezing past her to get to the fridge and grab a lemonade herself.


    Percy stayed standing in the kitchen, resting on the counter and watching Essex grab her drink, recalling the last proper conversation they¡¯d had.


    The night of the attack, when Essex called her a plant for Wicker and forced her to leave the dorm room out of fear.


    Essex went about getting her drink, subtly looking behind her to try and assess Percy¡¯s behaviour, thinking back on how she¡¯d treated her.


    Immediately distrusting her, angrily searching for her during the attack, and even threatening her life when she first arrived.


    Percy was noticeably keeping her distance, staying to the other side of the kitchen, as Essex could feel the shame she hadn¡¯t confronted yet washing over her, without even knowing how to broach an apology.


    Once she closed the fridge, she turned around slowly, noticing Percy tense up as she did, before grabbing her scythe off her back and propping it up out of arms reach.


    Percy could already see her gentle demeanour coming through. While it hadn¡¯t been shared with her much, she at least knew of the growth Essex had gone through since the attack.


    Essex could also see how much more confident Percy was with herself, and just how much more¡­Percy she looked¡­compared to before the attack, that is.


    ¡°¡­I wish to begin¡­¡± Essex started, still avoiding eye contact. ¡°¡­with an apology¡­for my behaviour.¡±


    A silence washed over the room as Percy didn¡¯t reply, and Essex quickly remembered she still didn¡¯t know sign language, recalling why they hadn¡¯t had this conversation sooner.


    Percy mostly kept to herself, her arms still wrapped around her torso, as Essex rested her glass on the counter.


    ¡°¡­I know words aren¡¯t enough to make up for my actions¡­¡± Essex continued, as Percy pursed her lips, nodding along to at least register she was listening. ¡°¡­but it has become clear that you and the rest of the team are very close. And I don¡¯t wish for my poor actions to¡­ruin a potential relationship in the future.¡±


    Percy could see what she was saying, still nodding along, before looking away again.


    ¡°¡­I-I¡­don¡¯t know¡­¡± Percy started, trying to say more, before her voice box gave out, as she just ended up sighing and giving a shrug afterwards.


    ¡°¡­right.¡± Essex replied, nodding awkwardly, as they shared another look, before Essex grabbed her scythe and drink, leaving right after.


    Percy let out a small held breath, watching Essex leave with a clear look of shame across her face, feeling slightly bad for her, before remembering what she was in here for and pulling up the recipe on her tablet.


    ¡­the others like you¡­isn¡¯t that enough?


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    It wasn¡¯t a drive Milo loved taking, but at least he was familiar with the way. Visiting Bell was always a great excuse, even though he really didn¡¯t need one.


    Circling the suburbs, Milo made his way to the other side of Detu City, careening through the streets on a relatively peaceful day, catching in the windows the destruction caused by the recent Wailing attack on his left, which contrasted wonderfully with the basic framework of the barrier being built on his right.


    ¡°Lot more activity these days¡­¡± He remarked, as the house in question came into view.


    He pulled up onto the street, electing not to use the driveway, before walking up to the front door and ringing the doorbell.


    It took a bit before it opened up, as he was greeted by Madelyn in the entrance, taking him in.


    ¡°What do we have here? Someone left a Milo on the front porch.¡± She remarked, as he rubbed the back of his neck.


    ¡°Hey Madelyn. How¡¯s things?¡± Milo asked, as she shrugged nonchalantly.


    ¡°Can¡¯t complain.¡± She said, stepping to the side to let him in. ¡°Bell! Your father¡¯s here!¡±


    Very quickly, Bell¡¯s bedroom door opened up, as she trotted over to greet him.


    ¡°Dad, hi. What brings y-¡°


    ¡°Uhh, Bell?¡± Milo asked, before pointing to his face, indicating something was on hers, as she remembered she was covered in white face paint.


    ¡°O-Oh, right, sorry, forgot to tell you. I¡¯ve¡­got a gig.¡± She explained, taking a red nose out of her back pocket. ¡°Kids birthday. They needed a clown last minute.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s great, you love kids!¡± Milo cheered, bringing her in for a hug, before pushing her back right after. ¡°Sorry. I didn¡¯t smear it, did I?¡±


    ¡°¡­I was gonna reapply anyway.¡± Bell excused, ignoring the paint smug running up Milo¡¯s neck. ¡°I¡¯ll be a minute.¡±


    She ducked back into her room, with Madelyn openly chuckling beside him, as he took a second to realise and groaned.


    ¡°You¡¯re not gonna offer a towel?¡± Milo asked, as Madelyn sneered.


    ¡°I¡¯m not ruining a towel just to clean you.¡± She said, heading to the kitchen to grab some paper towels instead. ¡°So? Just here to check in?¡±


    ¡°¡­kinda.¡± Milo admitted, running his hands together, as Madelyn leaned over the counter.


    ¡°No, don¡¯t do that.¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°The vagueness. You want me to guess so you don¡¯t have to admit what¡¯s eating you.¡± Madelyn surmised, as Milo threw his hands out.


    ¡°You know me, I¡¯m an open book! I don¡¯t hide things.¡± Milo said, as Madelyn rolled her eyes.


    ¡°Nobody in our ¡®family¡¯s¡¯ an open book.¡± Madelyn stated, folding her arms. ¡°¡­it¡¯s Julia, isn¡¯t it?¡±


    ¡°¡­yeah, what else is new¡­¡± Milo admitted, resting on the countertop, as Madelyn grabbed a bit of paper towel and started wiping it down.


    ¡°¡­so, stranger, yer havin¡¯ trouble with your daughter?¡± Madelyn asked, miming a bartender, as Milo admittedly smiled. ¡°You wan¡¯ me to fix ya a drink?¡±


    ¡°¡­something stiff.¡± Milo played on, as Madelyn went to grab a mid-price bottle of wine. ¡°Hey, some of the good stuff. I¡¯m ready to dish.¡±


    Madelyn glanced back at him, before reaching further into the cupboard to grab the more expense wine. ¡°Alright, Mr Good Stuff. I hope what you¡¯ve got is worth it.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    The chill had become comfortable.


    Wess sat quietly by the window, almost dozing off as the snow outside started to pile up a bit. They weren¡¯t even that far into the Northern Wayside, but already, the comforts of home felt truly familiar.


    She lay back in her chair, her legs thrown over the armrest, as she lackadaisically glanced back at the others in the lounge room, more or less enjoying some peace and quiet.


    Wess could feel her desire to join them growing, before remembering her little gift she¡¯d brought with her, as she got up and quickly ducked into her and Julia¡¯s room to grab it.


    ¡°¡­hey.¡± Harley muttered to Julia. ¡°You ever notice how Wess sits in chairs weirdly?¡±


    ¡°Not especially.¡± Julia replied, before Wess emerged from her room, clearly her throat to grab attention.


    ¡°Ahem. If¡­I may be so bold.¡± Wess said, before taking out the bottle of wine from behind her back. ¡°As a fun pass time, I thought we could share in a lovely blend I bought recently.¡±


    ¡°Whoa, Wess brought the goods!¡± Sola cheered, as Harley leaned over to inspect the bottle.


    ¡°Ooo, big spender.¡± Harley teased, as Wess rolled her eyes and went to retrieve some glasses from the kitchen. ¡°What kinda blend?¡±


    ¡°A 5014 Eiswein blend from a vineyard within Louileon. Very hard to come by.¡± Wess explained, as Essex sat up.


    ¡°Ice wine?¡±


    Wess cocked her head to the side, as she ducked into the kitchen, before grabbing and handing out glasses. ¡°That is where the name comes from. The grapes are frozen before it¡¯s made, allowing the flavours to be better realised as it¡¯s processed. The Northern Wayside specialises in it, naturally.¡±


    Wess handed the last glass to Julia, before going to grab the bottle.


    ¡°Fortunately for you Julia, Eiswein is especially sweet.¡± Wess posited, walking over to pour her a glass. ¡°Much like yourself.¡±


    Julia immediately blushed. ¡°Oh, s-stop it¡­¡±


    Wess giggled into her hand, before pouring her some and heading around to everyone else.


    ¡°¡­t-thank you¡­Wess¡­¡± Percy got out, as Wess poured it for her, before she put her glass down for a second. [Let¡¯s see how well my voice box likes it.]


    ¡°It¡¯s a quality blend. They should get along just fine.¡± Wess remarked, before finishing the bottle off with Essex. ¡°There we are. Just enough for everyone.¡±


    Once Wess sat down back with Julia, they all took a second, before taking their first sip together. Everyone took it at their own pace, before Sola scrunched her face up.


    ¡°Too sweet! Too sweet for me!¡± Sola let out, shaking her head, as Harley started cracking up.


    ¡°¡­this is quality.¡± Essex agreed, turning to Wess. ¡°Thank you.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re very welcome, dear.¡± Wess said, as Julia nudged her side.


    ¡°Much like yourself, huh?¡±


    ¡°Oh, stop it you.¡± Wess chuckled, as Julia lay against her, before Wess noticed just how much Percy was emoting taking in the flavour, her face a real mix of reactions. ¡°Not to your liking, Percy?¡±


    Percy finished swallowing, before shaking her head. [I¡¯m used to bitter wines. This really threw me off at first.]


    ¡°Wess does like her rich tannins.¡± Julia joked, as Wess looked down at her, before skooching to the side, letting Julia fall down without her support.


    ¡°Apologies, Percy. That¡¯s an inside joke.¡± Wess noted, as Percy simply shrugged, before hearing the oven timer go off and standing up.


    ¡°¡­I-I¡¯ll¡­be a bit¡­¡± She suggested, as Julia giving her a thumbs up.


    ¡°Just reach out if you need help!¡± Julia called back, before Harley picked up the now empty wine bottle.


    ¡°Well, I can see why you and Julia have stayed together so long.¡± Harley started, as Wess looked confused.


    ¡°¡­why?¡±


    ¡°Very refined tongue.¡±


    Sola started cracking up, with Essex finding herself laughing too. Harley was visibly proud of herself, Wess was visibly unamused, and Julia was visibly blushing.


    Julia started to stammer. ¡°U-Uhh¡­w-well, you s-¡°


    ¡°Julia, you really needn¡¯t comment.¡± Wess insisted, as Julia let out a sigh of relief. ¡°Can I assume a similar situation for you, Sola and Essex?¡±


    Harley winked back at Wess. ¡°You wanna find out?¡±


    Wess rolled her eyes. ¡°One glass of wine and you¡¯re a horny mess.¡±


    ¡°Hey, I¡¯m a horny mess most of the time!¡± Harley defended, as Sola jumped in front of her.


    ¡°Yeah! She works hard for that!¡± Sola insisted, as Essex popped in too.


    ¡°¡­I can concur. She has earned that title.¡± Essex agreed, as Wess shook her head in disapproval.


    ¡°¡­Wess, I¡¯ve gotta agree. That¡¯s just Harley.¡± Julia added on, before Wess found herself in a losing battle, and getting comfortable in their makeshift circle.


    ¡°¡­fine. Harley?¡±


    ¡°Yeah?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re the biggest slut I know.¡±


    ¡°Thank you. Finally, some recognition.¡± Harley added, admittedly cracking a smile, as she locked eyes with Wess, who was hiding one of her own.


    She then looked back down at the bottle in her hands, before a smirk started to cross her face.


    ¡°Heeeeeeeyyy~¡±


    ¡°Oh gods, what?¡± Wess let out, as Harley shrugged.


    ¡°I was just gonna suggest a fun game to pass the time, little miss attitude.¡± Harley said, before waving the bottle in front of everyone. ¡°Spin the bottle! Who¡¯s up for it?¡±


    ¡°YES!¡± Sola cheered, high fiving Harley.


    ¡°H-Huh?¡± Julia let out, flushing immediately, as she put her face into her hands. ¡°¡­uuuuuuuuuhhh¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­I goaded you on. This is my fault.¡± Wess admitted, shaking her head. ¡°What, are you going to suggest a sexy pillow fight afterwards?¡±


    ¡°D-Don¡¯t give her more ideas.¡± Julia insisted, as Essex sat forward.


    ¡°Vonodo, but what is spin the bottle?¡±


    ¡°You spin the bottle and kiss who it lands on!¡± Sola let out, clearly hyping herself up as she jumped into Essex, who nodded back.


    ¡°Dal. I am fully in support of this idea.¡± Essex stated, giving a thumbs up. ¡°Yay.¡±


    ¡°Should we get Percy in?¡± Harley excitedly asked, getting ready to stand up, as Wess raised her finger.


    ¡°You leave that poor girl alone.¡± Wess insisted, huffing out, before noticing Sola staring at her and Julia. ¡°What?¡±


    Sola pumped her fists. ¡°Are you in or out?¡±


    Wess scrunched up her face, as Julia shook her head in her hands.


    She let out a weighty sigh, still hiding her face, as she joined back into the circle.


    ¡°¡­in.¡±


    ¡°What?!¡± Wess let out, grabbing her arm. ¡°United front, Julia!¡±


    ¡°I-I don¡¯t wanna be a party pooper!¡± Julia insisted, before waving her hands in front of everyone. ¡°Two against three! And maybe Percy!¡±


    ¡°You can do cheek kisses if you want.¡± Sola assured, as Harley lay against her.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know why you¡¯re so hesitant, Julia. We¡¯ve already kissed.¡± Harley said, before everyone stared at them in shock.


    ¡°Wha?!¡± Sola cried. ¡°You did?!¡±


    ¡°When?¡± Wess let out, staring wide-eyed at Julia, who threw her hands up.


    ¡°A-A couple weeks ago¡­and she¡¯s the one who kissed me!¡± Julia insisted, before Essex went to raise her hand.


    ¡°I have also shared an ¡®indirect kiss¡¯ with Julia.¡± Essex reminded her, before giving her a thumbs up, which hardly reassured Julia at all.


    ¡°Julia!¡± Sola cried, standing up. ¡°We have to kiss now to make things even!¡±


    Julia looked faint and fell back into Wess, caught up in a daze, before Essex sat forward and tapped Harley¡¯s shoulder, indicating to put the bottle down.


    ¡°Right, we should get started.¡± Harley prefaced, placing the bottle down, before looking to Wess. ¡°You can bow out, if you want¡­you know¡­if you¡¯re a big ol¡¯ chicken.¡±


    Wess saw Harley going to make the appropriate motion, before sneering and sitting forward, joining the circle. ¡°I was already thinking about it. Your goading did nothing.¡±


    ¡°Uh huh.¡± Harley teased, before finally spinning the bottle, as it spun around a few times and slowed down on Sola.


    ¡°Yay! Easy start!¡± Sola cheered, before leaning in to give Harley a very familiar kiss, which Harley almost elongated. ¡°My go!¡±


    Sola spun it around, watching it rotate, before it comfortably landed on Julia.


    Julia had only just recovered from her fainting spell, before noticing the bottle pointed at her, with Sola grinning across from it.


    ¡°U-U-Uhh¡­¡± She let out, before shaking her face. ¡°Alright, this is cool¡­this is super cool¡­everybody¡¯s cool¡­¡±


    Julia kept failing to hype herself up, as she started to lean in in preparation. Sola could see how nervous she was and decided to aim for Julia¡¯s cheek to make her feel less uncomfortable, only for Julia to come in and plant a kiss on Sola¡¯s lips, and surprisingly really get into it.


    It was a solid ten seconds until either of them were done, with Sola now feeling the faintness that had plagued Julia, as she fell into Harley.


    ¡°W-Wow¡­¡± She let out, dazed, as Julia sat back down, before accidentally sharing a glance with Wess and immediately turning away.


    The narrative has been taken without permission. Report any sightings.


    ¡°Ju-¡°


    ¡°I-I¡¯m sorry, I¡¯m sorry, I¡¯m sorr-¡°


    ¡°Julia, calm down.¡± Wess insisted, grabbing her shoulders. ¡°It¡¯s Sola. I¡¯m completely fine with this. You¡¯re not cheating.¡±


    ¡°I-I-It still feels weird.¡± She said, before getting weird stares from everyone, only to remember she was next to spin. ¡°O-Oh, right, more kissing! Got it!¡±


    Julia spun it quite frantically, with the bottle even sliding off to the side, before it comfortably landed on Essex.


    They locked eyes for a second, then another second, then another, before Essex looked around awkwardly, waiting for something to happen.


    ¡°I¡¯m super cool with this too.¡± Harley whispered to Essex, assuring her with Sola nodding as well, as Essex decided to lean forward, with Julia now following suite.


    Both of them closed their eyes and pressed their lips together, before pulling back a few seconds later, with Julia covering her lips with her hands.


    Essex touched hers as well, before bowing to Julia.


    ¡°Thank you.¡± Essex said, as Harley started cracking up.


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to thank someone for kissing you.¡± Harley pointed out, moving the bottle back in place, as Essex went to grab it.


    ¡°But I enjoyed it.¡± Essex noted, spinning right after, before it quickly landed on Wess, folding her arms.


    ¡°¡­well then. Lucky you.¡± Wess remarked, smirking, as Essex smiled.


    ¡°Lucky me.¡± Essex replied, as they both got ready, leaning over toward each other.


    Right as they were about to start, Wess spotted Harley and Sola right behind Essex, eagerly waiting for the kiss. Wess locked eyes with Essex, before indicating behind her, as they started to get the same idea, smiling to each other again.


    They got closer, inches apart from each other, as their lips nearly touched, before both of them went for the other¡¯s cheek instead, separating and sitting back down right after.


    ¡°Oh, what?!¡± Harley exclaimed, throwing her hands out. ¡°What was that?!¡±


    ¡°I wanted kissing!¡± Sola insisted, jumping on Essex. ¡°She¡¯s right there!¡±


    ¡°What can I say? Essex knows how to treat a woman.¡± Wess remarked, before sharing an understanding glance with Essex, who smiled back at her, almost laughing again.


    As Wess sat back down, she caught Julia nervously huddled beside her, having intently watched the whole thing.


    ¡°What?¡± Wess asked, as Julia shook her head.


    ¡°N-Nothing.¡± Julia replied, watching as Wess went to spin the bottle. ¡­this is the best night ever.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Look, it¡¯s annoying, but it¡¯s not new behaviour.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I know¡­¡±


    Madelyn swirled her glass, standing behind the kitchen counter. ¡°She¡¯s always been private.¡±


    ¡°With us.¡± Milo insisted, waving his arm between them, as he took another sip from his glass. ¡°Have you seen her with her team? She lights up! I¡¯ve never seen her that happy.¡±


    Madelyn shrugged, before taking a sip of her glass as well. ¡°Well, you bore the brunt of her in high school. Anything would be joyous compared to that.¡±


    ¡°¡­I just can¡¯t shake the feeling it¡¯s something¡­¡± Milo started, running his hand through his hair, before Madelyn leaned in.


    ¡°¡­more?¡±


    ¡°Yeah. She¡¯s always loved Venators.¡± Milo insisted. ¡°So, she¡¯s excited. I get that. And her and Wess are dating right now, and that¡¯s great for her. Wess is great.¡±


    ¡°Wess is alright¡­¡± Madelyn suggested, sipping again, as Milo decided to not take the bait.


    ¡°But¡­that¡¯s where all her attention goes.¡± Milo said, shaking his hand dismissively. ¡°And I get it, they were recovering after that attack, bu-¡°


    ¡°You¡¯re still not getting time with her?¡±


    ¡°¡­yeah!¡± Milo insisted, nearly falling back on his stool, as Madelyn shook her head.


    ¡°I hate to be all parent on you, but kids do that. They leave.¡± Madelyn admitted, indicating to Bell¡¯s room. ¡°Bell¡¯s gonna be out of the house soon, and that¡¯ll just be an adjustment.¡±


    ¡°¡­I know, I get that.¡± Milo admitted, leaning back onto the counter, almost looking sorry for himself. ¡°I¡¯m not saying I need the¡­father-daughter bonding we used to have. She¡¯s gonna move on.¡±


    Milo tapped his fingers to the counter in frustration. ¡°I wanna know why the moment she came home, she went straight for the kitchen gloves and hasn¡¯t taken them off since.¡±


    ¡°She what?¡± Madelyn asked, taking a careful sip. ¡°That¡¯s news to me.¡±


    ¡°Like, that¡¯s weird, right?¡± Milo asked, as Madelyn nodded along.


    ¡°Yeah, pretty weird stuff. Is it a hygiene thing?¡±


    ¡°Your guess is as good as mine. I tried asking her team, but they stayed tight-lipped out of respect.¡± Milo mentioned. ¡°So, it¡¯s probably something serious¡­¡±


    ¡°Shit¡­¡± Madelyn let out, before tilting her head. ¡°Gotta respect ¡®em for that, though. That¡¯s a solid move.¡±


    As Milo started getting silent, Madelyn put down her glass to address.


    ¡°Look, I don¡¯t wanna be¡­cynical, mean mum, or whatever you guys think of me, but¡­¡± Madelyn prefaced. ¡°From what I¡¯ve seen, I don¡¯t think there¡¯s much going on there.¡±


    Milo lifted his head. ¡°You reckon? Cause they¡¯re real close.¡±


    ¡°You know girls that age.¡± Madelyn insisted, going back to her drink. ¡°Trust me, I guarantee what we¡¯re not seeing is all business. Just professional colleagues getting ready for a serious industry where people put their lives on the line.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Julia pressed her lips to Harley¡¯s, still closing her eyes to avoid much embarrassment, as Sola crouched on the sidelines, pumping her fists.


    ¡°Go! Go! Go! Go!¡± Sola cheered, as Harley found herself laughing mid kiss, before they broke it right after. ¡°Nice! Twenty seconds!¡±


    ¡°Ohmygod¡­¡± Julia let out, falling backwards onto Wess. ¡°W-Why does it keep landing on me¡­?¡±


    ¡°You say that like you¡¯re not enjoying it.¡± Harley remarked, shrugging. ¡°You want another do-over? This¡¯ll be our third steamy kiss¡­¡±


    Julia sat up immediately, shaking her head profusely, as Harley leaned toward her, deliberately shaking her chest.


    ¡°I guess you liked it then, huh? Oh Julia, you¡¯re so naughty~¡± Harley teased, causing her own laughing fit, as Julia¡¯s embarrassment became frustration.


    ¡°Y-You¡¯re so¡­icky!¡± Julia complained, as Harley¡¯s laughing only got worse, with her falling back on the floor, right as Percy came out of the kitchen, taking off her oven mitts.


    The kitchen was a bit out of the way, meaning Percy hadn¡¯t caught what was going on in the lounge room, leaving her without context as to why Harley was weeping with laughter, and why Julia was as red as a tomato.


    ¡°Percy!¡± Sola cried out, jumping up. ¡°We¡¯re playing spin the bottle! Wanna join?¡±


    Percy blinked in confusion, now registering the wine bottle on the ground.


    ¡­did they end up drinking more somehow? She wondered, as Harley finally recovered, with Essex pulling her back up.


    ¡°We¡¯ll happily take a sixth.¡± Harley insisted, winking at her, before Wess turned to Percy.


    ¡°Don¡¯t feel pressured. You¡¯re more than welcome to not participate.¡± Wess offered, as Percy thought on it for a second, before giving a thumbs up.


    ¡°¡­s-sounds fun¡­¡± She replied, coming to sit down, as Sola jumped to hug her.


    ¡°Yay! The more the merrier!¡± Sola insisted, as Harley grabbed the bottle again. ¡°Spin!¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡± Harley said, spinning it around again, before it landed back on a recently revived Julia.


    ¡°Wha-¡° Julia let out, as Harley grinned. ¡°Again?!¡±


    ¡°Fate wants us to kiss, Julia.¡± Harley insisted, wriggling her shoulders and feigning embarrassment. ¡°I¡¯m just so shy¡­this¡¯ll be our third time¡­¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t be intimidated, you¡¯ve got this.¡± Essex assured, giving two thumbs up, as Harley smiled warmly back at her.


    ¡°Thanks, babe.¡± Harley giggled, before leaning forward.


    Julia did her best mustering her courage, as she went in for the quickest kiss she could manage, before pulling back.


    ¡°Phew¡­did it¡­¡± Julia muttered, as Harley couldn¡¯t wipe her smile away.


    ¡°Gods, you¡¯re so cute.¡± Harley insisted, giggling into her hand, with the rest of the group laughing as well, leaving a flustered Julia as the only outlier.


    Why am I so worked up right now¡­? Julia wondered, giving Wess a look of sympathy, before spinning the bottle again. Please not Harley again¡­


    It spun around and landed on Percy, who looked up at Julia, beaming with excitement, her legs shimmying beneath her.


    Julia let out a few nervous breathes, getting ready for it, before being thrown off with how easily Percy went in for the kiss, both taking the moment for herself and considering Julia in it.


    After about five seconds, Percy pulled away, leaving Julia in a stunned silence, before she signed back to her.


    [You¡¯re a good kisser.] Percy assured, grinning, as Julia¡¯s embarrassment returned in spades.


    ¡°Glad we agree on that.¡± Wess remarked, with Julia turning to her in surprise.


    ¡°Wess!¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s true! I¡¯m very picky about these things.¡± Wess insisted, letting Julia cuddle up to her. ¡°Do you want me to share some with you after this is done?¡±


    ¡°¡­maybe¡­¡± Julia muttered, as Percy went to grab the bottle now, really getting into it.


    ¡°Oh, you¡¯ve got your pick here, Percy.¡± Harley bragged, as she silently giggled, before spinning it.


    She watched as it spun around and around, anticipation building in her, before it slowed down and landed on¡­


    ¡­Essex.


    ¡­


    There was a moment of dead silence, as it sunk in for both Essex and Percy, then eventually the rest of the room.


    While the others didn¡¯t pick up on why, the tension between them was obvious, with Essex avoiding eye contact and shrinking away, while Percy stood up and pivoted to the kitchen.


    [¡­I need to check on the cake.] Percy excused, quickly ducking away, leaving the room feeling a bit emptier.


    ¡°¡­alright, guess we¡¯re done.¡± Harley let out, slapping her hands on her legs and getting up. ¡°Might¡¯ve been pushing it¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­I-I mean I¡­¡± Julia started, blushing heavily, before accidentally getting looks from everyone and shying away. ¡°N-Nevermind, forget it¡­¡±


    Just as Julia was going to take the chance to retreat to her room, an idea crossed her mind, as she hurried inside and dug around her suitcase, grateful she brought a backup plan if things got quiet.


    ¡°So you still haven¡¯t talked?¡± Sola asked, as Essex solemnly nodded. ¡°Do you need a translator?¡±


    ¡°¡­a third party might make things more awkward.¡± Essex reasoned, just as Julia jumped out of her room with a small black device and a microphone.


    ¡°Hey, guys!¡± She called out, before holding it up for rest of the team to see. ¡°I didn¡¯t have room to bring all my boardgames, but I brought this.¡±


    ¡°A karaoke machine!¡± Sola exclaimed, hopping over to grab it.


    ¡°You¡¯ve used one before?¡± Julia asked curiously, as Sola happily nodded. ¡°Great! Seemed like a fun way to spice up the trip.¡±


    ¡°I¡­will simply cheer, if that¡¯s alright.¡± Essex insisted, nervously glancing back at the kitchen, as Sola feverishly looked for a song.


    ¡°Whatever works for you, Essex.¡± Julia said, as Harley and Wess sat together on the couch.


    ¡°Got it!¡± Sola cheered, before standing proudly in front of the room, waiting for the beat to kick in.


    3¡­


    2¡­


    ¡­1!


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Look at this photograph.¡± Madelyn insisted, shoving her tablet in Milo¡¯s face. ¡°Cause every time I do, it makes me laugh.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, it¡¯s too close to my face.¡± Milo complained, pulling back, before realising it was a faraway pick of Julia and Wess holding hands, just outside the entrance to the academy.


    ¡°I grabbed it when I went to meet Julia during that tournament last year. I was hoping to hold it over her, but then they started smooching during the fight and it stopped being my silver bullet.¡± Madelyn explained, now looking at it herself. ¡°¡­look, I¡¯m not offended she didn¡¯t tell me, but there¡¯s something pretty funny about her keeping it to herself.¡±


    ¡°How?¡±


    ¡°¡­I dunno, still makes her feel like a kid.¡± Madelyn remarked. ¡°Like she¡¯s making her dolls kiss and trying to hide it from us¡­¡±


    Madelyn threw her hands up. ¡°You¡¯ll hate to hear this, but she can keep her secrets. Doesn¡¯t bother me.¡±


    ¡°¡­I do hate hearing it.¡± Milo muttered, as Madelyn snarked.


    ¡°Yeah, well we both signed the paperwork already.¡± Madelyn insisted, finishing off her glass, as Milo stood up.


    ¡°¡­thanks for the drink. I only meant to pop in for a moment.¡± Milo assured, as Madelyn sighed out.


    ¡°You¡¯re still good company, even if you¡¯re in a bad mood.¡± Madelyn pointed out, as Milo went for the door. ¡°Don¡¯t be a stranger.¡±


    ¡°I try not to be.¡± Milo replied, heading back down to his car, before a voice called from the door.


    ¡°Hey, dad.¡±


    He turned to see Bell in the doorway, leaning against it, with a somewhat incredulous face looking back at him.


    ¡°Hey. Sorry, I thought you left for your clown thing already.¡± Milo apologised, as Bell waved her hand.


    ¡°I was just heading out.¡± She said, before sighing out. ¡°¡­I caught your conversation with mum.¡±


    ¡°¡­you¡¯ve really got to stop listening in like that.¡± Milo insisted, massaging his forehead, as Bell stood up, folding her arms across her body.


    ¡°I heard Julia¡¯s name and wanted to know what was up. I haven¡¯t talked with her since the first week she moved in with you.¡± Bell admitted. ¡°Like, she¡¯s closed off with me too¡­¡±


    ¡°Aww, come here.¡± Milo said, going up to hug her, as Bell just took it. ¡°She¡¯s doing well, from what I can gather. They¡¯re on a trip to a lodge right now to help out Wess.¡±


    ¡°¡­that¡¯s good of her. Wess is a good influence.¡± Bell said, before breaking the hug. ¡°And the rest of her team. Say what you will about Venators, but they really care about her.¡±


    I mean, we¡¯re right here¡­ Milo thought, as Bell cleared her throat.


    ¡°¡­maybe if¡­they¡¯re okay, that means Julia¡¯s okay too.¡± Bell explained, as Milo tilted his head. ¡°W-What I mean is, if¡­she¡¯s really open with them, they¡¯d probably feel some sympathy pain. If she was doing badly¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­so they¡¯re a barometer for her happiness?¡± Milo dryly remarked, as Bell shrugged.


    ¡°Basically. Kinda. Sorta. We wouldn¡¯t know without talking to Julia directly¡­¡± Bell reasoned, before feeling herself blushing. ¡°I-I-I¡¯m rambling, but you get what I mean.¡±


    ¡°¡­I do, but I don¡¯t love the implication.¡± Milo muttered, before turning back to his car. ¡°I¡¯ll drop off those old props of mine later in the week. Remind me, did you need th-¡°


    ¡°The big shoes, yeah.¡±


    ¡°Got it. Easy enough.¡± Milo assured, hopping in his car, as Bell waved at him, watching him leave.


    ¡°¡­oh dad, don¡¯t be offended. I¡¯m sure she¡¯s not having that much fun with them.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Don¡¯t you rip out my he-art!¡±


    ¡°I couldn¡¯t even try!¡±


    ¡°But baby, you run so qui-ckly!¡±


    ¡°Gotta ru-un and hide! Dun dun dun dun dudun!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t you rip out my he-art!¡± Wess sung happily, as Julia danced beside her.


    ¡°You scare the pants off of me!¡± Julia followed up, gripping the other microphone, as the others clapped along.


    ¡°Oh baby, when will I find you?¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll just wa-ait and see!¡± Julia sung, dancing in time with the beat, before she faced Julia for the chorus.


    ¡°Ooo hoo! You were the closest!¡± They sung together, before Wess separated. ¡°When I was wrong!¡±


    ¡°I was your song! Ooo hoo! You were the closest!¡± Julia continued. ¡°When I disappeared!¡±


    ¡°I dreamt you were near! Oooooo hoo¡­I dreamt you were ne-ear.¡±


    ¡°Wess has a damn good voice.¡± Harley muttered to Essex, as Sola cheered on the sidelines, with Percy now joining her with the cake mostly finished.


    ¡°She¡¯s very creatively oriented. This is a very sad song though.¡± Essex noted, as Harley snickered.


    ¡°Don¡¯t think you¡¯re meant to look into it too hard.¡± Harley reasoned, as Essex nodded, before looking over at Percy on the side, and quickly averting her gaze.


    Julia and Wess finished up their song right after, before laughing to each other and bowing, receiving pleasant applause from the others.


    ¡°Brava! Wonderful!¡± Sola cheered, now standing on her couch, as Julia rubbed her neck.


    ¡°G-Geez, the praise is a bit embarrassing¡­¡± She blushed, putting the microphone down and heading to her and Wess¡¯ room. ¡°I need a blanket. The cold outside¡¯s starting to seep in¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­b-bathroom¡­¡± Percy quickly excused, jumping up as Harley spun her head to catch her.


    ¡°Hey, you want me to check out your cake while you¡¯re in there?¡±


    Percy gave a thumbs up, as Harley jumped up and headed to the kitchen, while Wess and Essex got comfortable on their respective couches, and Sola grabbed the remote to start flicking through channels.


    ¡°Karaoke was super fun, but I wanna choose something Percy can do.¡± Sola insisted, flipping through, as Wess sighed from her seat.


    ¡°That¡¯s very thoughtful of you, dear.¡± Wess remarked, as Essex sat forward a little.


    ¡°¡­I believe¡­she is a fan of movies.¡± Essex posited, as Sola quickly went to hug her, before jumping back to channel surfing.


    ¡°Already ahead of ya, Essex!¡± Sola said before gasping at the screen. ¡°Wait, this is even better! Harley! Harley, get in here!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m busy handling Percy¡¯s cake. What¡¯s happening?¡± Harley called back, as Sola flicked to more channels on the TV.


    ¡°There¡¯s games on the TV! Like TV Games! Like the games you don¡¯t need a console for and you use the remote instead of a controller! They¡¯ve actually got ¡®em!¡±


    ¡°They¡¯ve got TV games?¡± Julia let out, popping her head out of her room, now wrapped in a blanket, before hurrying into the lounge room. ¡°What¡¯s on there?¡±


    ¡°A whole bunch of games! Boot Knockers, Hay Rollers, Sisters of the Scissor, Sideways Refreshment, oh oh OH! They¡¯ve got Mother Mother!¡± Sola cried, pointed at the TV. ¡°That¡¯s the party game about babies! Where you¡¯re a bunch of mums at daycare!¡±


    ¡°Oh shit, they¡¯ve got Mother Mother?¡± Harley cried out, before running into the room. ¡°Fuck yeah, how many players?¡±


    ¡°Uh, four. There¡¯s only four remotes.¡± Sola said, holding up the four remotes.


    ¡°You needn¡¯t hold a place for me. Not really my cup of tea.¡± Wess voted, lying across the armrests of her seat, staring at the ceiling.


    ¡°Percy¡¯s still in the bathroom, right?¡± Harley asked, before pointing to Essex. ¡°You want in?¡±


    ¡°¡­I like games.¡± Essex plainly said, almost looking like she was assuring herself. ¡°Ska music and games. I like them a lot.¡±


    ¡°¡­okay, great!¡± Harley cried out, as Sola chucked a remote her way. ¡°What level?¡±


    ¡°Oh, oh, hayloft! Gotta start it in the hayloft!¡± Julia insisted, as Sola picked the level. ¡°Where the babies have to pet the animals, but th-¡°


    ¡°The mums have to make sure they don¡¯t get trampled?¡± Harley finished, as Wess quietly sighed to herself.


    ¡°You and your games¡­¡± She muttered, before the bathroom door opened and Percy rejoined them. ¡°Welcome back, dear. You¡¯re returned to quite the spirited endeavour.¡±


    Percy¡¯s eyes widened, as she took in the scene of babies on screen nearly getting trampled by farm animals.


    ¡°Damn, you were quick.¡± Harley let out in annoyance, standing up and stretching her back. ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll get back to handling your cake. You can take my place.¡±


    Harley handed the remote off to Percy, who casually took it and sat down to join, before realising she was sitting next to Essex.


    There was a brief awkwardness between them, distracting Essex from the game, before they both turned their attention to the screen.


    ¡°The-the cows-the stupid cows!¡± Julia cried, pouting. ¡°They have the biggest hitboxes!¡±


    ¡°The babies can grab the chickens and fly to avoid them!¡± Sola insisted, moving to match her characters actions, despite not needing to. ¡°Yeah, take that goats! I¡¯m the goat around here!¡±


    Just as Sola started to hit a winning streak, a pig managed to bellyflop onto her baby, knocking her multiplier down and resetting her combo.


    ¡°Dammit!¡± Sola let out. ¡°I keep forgetting about them!¡±


    Right as she got back into it, she noticed Essex and Percy¡¯s scores were miles ahead of Julia and hers.


    ¡°Whoa, you two are so good at this!¡± Sola let out, as both of them only just acknowledged it, sharing a glance for a second.


    Essex glanced back at the TV, growing a small smile, before getting back into it, as Percy saw her trying to get ahead and went right back to it in hopes of keeping up.


    Both were neck and neck at this point, with Julia and Sola only really competing to stay out of last, before muffled cries came out of the speaker.


    ¡°Oh no, it got me!¡±


    ¡°Silly babies! I¡¯ll take your mothers now!¡±


    A giant rooster swooped onto screen and grabbed up Essex and Percy¡¯s mothers, before perching them at the top of the hayloft.


    ¡°It¡¯s the tie breaker! The rooster stole your mums!¡± Sola insisted, pointing back at Essex and Percy. ¡°Whoever¡¯s first up there wins!¡±


    Essex and Percy looked at each other in quiet acknowledgement, before immediately getting into it, button mashing away to make their babies climb up the ladders.


    Both were intently focused on the task, as Julia and Sola were now just watching them, with Harley even sticking her head out of the kitchen to observe.


    Essex¡¯s technique shone through, while Percy¡¯s raw determination carried her, as they both reached the top, the babies climbing onto the rooster.


    They started wracking up points by shooing the rooster away.


    ¡°Take its joints! It¡¯ll give you more points!¡± Sola cried, as they manoeuvred their babies around, before the rooster started falling out of the barn, toppling out and onto the ground.


    The victory screen came up, with Julia and Sola not even regarded, as Essex and Percy shot up on podiums, leading to a victory by¡­


    ¡­Essex.


    ¡°Yeah! Way to go, babe!¡± Sola cried, jumping over to kiss her cheek, as Essex was at a bit of a loss for words.


    ¡°That was so good.¡± Julia assured, clapping politely. ¡°No matching your skill.¡±


    Essex felt a bit proud of herself, and a little surprised that she was, before turning to face Percy again.


    To her surprise, Percy had the slightest smile, as she lightly applauded Essex for her victory.


    Essex found herself a little flush raking in the praise, and was incredibly grateful when Harley walked in with the finished cake, making a real show of placing it down on the coffee table.


    ¡°Hate to steal the moment away babe, but¡­dun dun dun!¡± Harley announced, placing down a beautiful Louileon cake in the centre, bowing with a tea towel over her arm. ¡°Bon Appetit¡­¡±


    ¡°My word¡­¡± Wess let out, beside herself, as Harley handed Percy the knife.


    ¡°All the love goes to Percy, I was merely a vessel for the detailing on the top.¡± Harley insisted, as Percy silently giggled, before cutting into it.


    She started handing out slices to the others, who each took a moment to appreciate the taste of their slice, with the first to speak up being Sola.


    ¡°I think I¡¯m in love with your cake, Percy.¡± Sola praised, as Percy kicked her feet.


    ¡°Percy.¡± Wess prefaced, as Percy looked to her. ¡°I mean no hyperbole when I say the finest cake I¡¯ve seen belonged to my dear Valerie, and yours has managed to surpass hers. Very impressive.¡±


    ¡°¡­s-stop¡­¡± Percy let out, blushing hard, as Harley was the last to take a bite.


    ¡°Damn girl, you¡¯ve got some fine cake.¡± Harley insisted, as Percy bended over, bowing to her.


    [Thank you, thank you.] Percy quickly signed to her, very visibly proud.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know about you guys, but I feel like we need to taste her cake a lot more often.¡± Julia insisted, as everyone nodded happily.


    They¡¯re too nice¡­ Percy thought, before subtly hiding her face from them. ¡­I love it¡­


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    The drive back home somehow felt even longer. Milo was stuck in his own head, knowing what he thought, what his ex thought, and what one of his daughters thought, yet the only person he wanted to hear from wasn¡¯t going to return until the morning.


    ¡°¡­should I have stopped her becoming a Ve¡­¡± He started, before shaking his head. ¡°No, bad instinct. She¡¯s happier now than ever.¡±


    Milo pulled into his driveway, as he ran his hands over his face.


    ¡°Wish anyone had warned me¡­¡±


    He went up to the front door, noticing Dulce standing outside of it like usual, except with bags of luggage and her tablet to her ear.


    She put it away right as she noticed Milo again, before giving him a quite salute. ¡°Hey, glad you¡¯re back. Wasn¡¯t sure if I¡¯d see you in time.¡±


    ¡°Are you going somewhere?¡± Milo asked, as Dulce grinned.


    ¡°Well, I was only meant to stick around until the girls were feeling safe, and since they so suddenly decided to stay overnight in another state, I think they¡¯re doing just fine.¡± Dulce reasoned, patting her luggage. ¡°So, I called my husband to come pick me up. I¡¯m needed back at the academy.¡±


    ¡°¡­Right, duty comes first.¡± Milo insisted, as Dulce wheeled out another bag from the front door, before Milo spoke up. ¡°Do¡­sorry, personal question¡­¡±


    ¡°Go ahead.¡± Dulce assured.


    ¡°¡­is it¡­hard to find time with your husband?¡± Milo asked, as Dulce let out a hefty breath.


    ¡°Kinda? I¡¯m pretty busy these days. He¡¯s understanding though, he used to be my team¡¯s manager, so¡­you know, some lonely nights.¡± Dulce chuckled, as Milo just listened to what she said, before sitting on the steps of the front door, still rubbing his face.


    Dulce noticed and decided to sit next to him. ¡°Rough day?¡±


    ¡°¡­I don¡¯t even know¡­¡± Milo admitted. ¡°¡­Julia feels like a mystery to me, and we barely get to spend time together.¡±


    Dulce nodded along, before leaning back casually.


    ¡°Okay.¡± Dulce prefaced. ¡°I wanna be frank with you, as a former Venator.¡±


    Dulce waved her hand down. ¡°It¡¯s so hard to find time. You work long hours, expend a lot of energy, and end up getting hurt a bunch. The press is in your face, fans wanting this and that, then you¡¯re expected to do chores and travel around and be comfortable with that.¡±


    Dulce raised her finger. ¡°And then, THEN, you get to spend time with your teammates. All that other shit comes first.¡±


    Milo sat in silent awe, as the weight of Julia¡¯s responsibility hadn¡¯t really sunk in.


    ¡°It¡¯s real hard for most teams to get along, but it¡¯s even harder having friendships outside of that.¡± Dulce insisted, throwing her arms out. ¡°Hell, I don¡¯t think I chatted to my parents throughout my career, only until I changed professions.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Milo let out, as Dulce nodded along.


    ¡°Oh yeah. Just kinda slipped down the priorities.¡± Dulce insisted, batting his arm. ¡°We¡¯re on good terms, it¡¯s just¡­time, really.¡±


    ¡°Did you let them know you were okay?¡± Milo wondered.


    ¡°I was on the news a lot. That was usually a good indicator I was still kicking.¡± Dulce chuckled, not really comforting Milo a lot, before she batted his arm again. ¡°Hey, cheer up. It¡¯s not all doom and gloom. She¡¯s got four awesome teammates who ar-¡°


    Milo just sunk his face into his hands again, almost groaning in annoyance, as Dulce backed off a bit.


    ¡°Okay, that¡¯s a nerve¡­¡± Dulce admitted, before patting his back. ¡°She¡¯ll find the time. But I hate to say, she¡¯s graduating in about a month. It¡¯ll be a while before she finds it.¡±


    ¡°¡­I don¡¯t know if that helped me or not.¡± Milo admitted, staring down at the ground. ¡°¡­thanks, at least, for hearing me out¡­¡±


    ¡°Hey.¡± Dulce said, before holding her arms out, as Milo accepted the hug. ¡°It¡¯s never easy seeing people off. But don¡¯t wallow, wave as they go. There¡¯s a good chance they¡¯ll come back.¡±


    Milo rested into it, letting his brain have it out between logic and emotion.


    ¡­I just want to know how much I mean to her¡­


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°¡­okay, she¡¯s really cute doing that¡­¡±


    ¡°Does she get sleepy after eating sugar?¡±


    ¡°I guess so.¡± Julia said, resting in front of the fireplace with the others.


    Outside had only gotten colder over the course of the night, so at Julia¡¯s suggestion, the blankets were piled up around the fireplace, as everyone winded down after a very fun night.


    The only real surprise was Percy falling asleep so quickly, and on top of Julia¡¯s lap.


    ¡°I hope I don¡¯t need to get up for anything.¡± Julia admitted, looking down and smiling, as Percy comfortably rested her head against Julia. ¡°She looks so peaceful¡­¡±


    ¡°And comfy. I wanna do that now.¡± Sola said, staring back at Julia expectantly, as Julia showed her hands.


    ¡°T-There¡¯s only so much room, Sola. You can¡­d-do it next time.¡±


    ¡°Yay!¡± Sola cheered, as Harley pulled her into the blankets, alongside Essex.


    ¡°Why¡¯d you need Julia? We¡¯re right here.¡± Harley insisted, as Sola was sandwiched between them.


    ¡°Good point¡­this is great¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­these blankets sure have brought out the worst in you.¡± Wess joked, lying delicately near Julia, idly playing with her empty wine glass.


    ¡°But is that so bad?¡± Essex asked, as Wess chuckled.


    ¡°No, I suppose not.¡± She muttered, staring down at the glass, as the fireplace crackled beside them.


    It had been a thought crossing Wess¡¯ mind for a while. There hadn¡¯t really been the right opportunity, but this was starting to feel like it. She wasn¡¯t exactly about to put this off any longer¡­


    ¡°¡­if I¡­may be open.¡± Wess prefaced, placing her wine glass down, as the others looked at her. ¡°¡­I feel the need to apologise. I fear I¡¯ve been quite selfish recently.¡±


    Julia decided to speak up. ¡°You h-¡°


    ¡°Julia, just let me say this.¡± Wess asked, looking to her, before getting a nod of approval. ¡°¡­despite¡­all of us having gone through quite a lot this year, I feel I¡¯ve been¡­taking the spotlight, as it were.¡±


    Wess started wringing her hands together. ¡°¡­what I went through was hard, but I acted poorly, and you didn¡¯t deserve that. I was acting out, but it shouldn¡¯t have been against you.¡±


    ¡°¡­I don¡¯t really think¡­¡± Harley started, before getting looks and shutting her mouth. ¡°Sorry, sorry, forgot.¡±


    ¡°¡­Sola¡­and Julia¡­all of you, really, have made some excellent points.¡± Wess said, holding her hands out. ¡°¡­there¡¯s days where I don¡¯t feel I deserve company as wonderful as yours. Pardon me, but it feels somewhat alien at times¡­I mean, you all know where that¡¯s from¡­¡±


    Wess noticed herself rambling and tried to reset. ¡°¡­if there¡¯s anything I¡¯ve realised over the last few years, it¡¯s how much I value you. Through my hardest moments, and¡­my most unbearable too¡­¡±


    The team laughed a little, as Wess found herself lightening up a little. ¡°¡­you were all there for me. And as Essex helped me realise, I feel I haven¡¯t been there for you as much. So I¡¯m sorry. I will do better in the future.¡±


    Wess sighed out deeply, before readjusting in her seat. ¡°¡­and also¡­thank you. I don¡¯t think I say that enough either. I wouldn¡¯t¡­¡±


    Wess could feel herself welling up, as she dipped her face down to avoid everyone staring at her.


    ¡°¡­I w-wouldn¡¯t be the person I¡¯ve grown to love without you.¡±


    Julia immediately went in to comfort her, as Sola, Harley and Essex followed up right after. Wess let herself cry for a bit, before getting back up and attempting to clean herself up, as the team broke the hug.


    ¡°¡­I¡¯m sorry, I keep belabouring the point.¡± Wess admitted, doing another reset. ¡°¡­so, with my recent disownment, I¡¯ve not been feeling myself. As well as the loss of my home and¡­parents, for what they were¡­I¡¯m no longer Wess Delacroix Nouvel. So¡­¡±


    Wess found herself struggling to speak again, as she finally reached the point she was trying to make.


    ¡°I-I¡¯ve¡­decided¡­on a last name.¡± Wess prefaced, breathing in sharply. ¡°To replace my previous one¡­¡±


    Wess struggled to keep her hands still, as she made her proclamation to the others.


    ¡°¡­from now on, my name will be¡­Wess Albalux.¡±


    The rest of the team looked at each other, as Julia smiled. ¡°That¡¯s great, Wess. Does it mean anything special?¡±


    ¡°W-Well, yes¡­it does.¡± Wess admitted, touching her fingers together. ¡°S-Since you¡¯re all the most important people in my life, it¡¯s¡­a combination of yours. Al from Alpine, Ba from Baroke, Lu from Lusagi and¡­X from Essex.¡±


    Wess deliberately turned from the others, a horrid blush coming across her face. ¡°I-It¡¯s too much. I¡¯m sorry, I¡¯m over-stepping my boun-¡°


    Julia went in for another hug, stroking Wess¡¯ hair, while giggling pleasantly.


    ¡°Wess, it¡¯s beautiful¡­¡± Julia assured, only getting more tears out of Wess, as Sola was crying now too.


    ¡°W-W-We¡¯re the most i-important? AWWWW!!!¡± Sola balled, with Harley trying to fan her face.


    ¡°Holy shit, Wess. That¡¯s the nicest¡­¡± Harley started, fighting back the tears. ¡°¡­dammit, I¡¯m made of tougher stuff than this.¡±


    Wess now noticed Essex by her side, resting a gentle hand on her back, before sharing a warm smile together, as Essex even shed a couple tears.


    Right as Wess thought Julia was finished with the hug, Julia went in to kiss her, impressively deeply, almost making out with just how passionate it was.


    It was a good while until either her or Wess stopped, before looking around them.


    ¡°¡­oh, sorry.¡± Julia apologised, darting her eyes a bit, as the others watched them, all now blushing to themselves. ¡°¡­u-uhh¡­it¡¯s been a¡­l-long day.¡±


    ¡°¡­yeah, long¡­long day¡­¡± Harley let out, breathing a bit heavy, before standing back up. ¡°Sola? Essex? You wanna¡­?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Sola replied a little too quickly, with Essex nodding profusely, as everyone quickly headed to their respective bedrooms, while Julia let Percy¡¯s head down gently, tucking her into the blankets before going to join Wess.


    Right before they headed into the bedroom, Essex pulled Harley aside, holding her arm.


    ¡°Harley?¡±


    Harley turned around. ¡°Yeah, what¡¯s up?¡±


    ¡°¡­I¡­wanted you to help me learn something before we head back.¡± Essex asked, as Harley gripped her arm back.


    ¡°A sexy thing or a regular thing?¡±


    ¡°Regular thing.¡± Essex replied, as Harley smiled.


    ¡°Yeah, that¡¯s cool. I¡¯m your go-to gal.¡± Harley remarked, closing the door behind them.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    After an¡­eventful night for the team, it was an expedient trip back home the following morning. The only one really mourning the expediency was Wess, staring longingly out the window of the Flash-Rail, quietly wishing to herself they could¡¯ve stayed one night longer.


    ¡­well, at least she was able to make her declaration.


    Wess smiled bashfully, as they pulled up into the station near Julia¡¯s house. Julia was half-expecting Milo to be greeting them there, but it was still early in the morning.


    They made their way back over, noting the absence of Dulce by the front door, before finding a note pinned to it explaining her absence, then finally making it inside.


    Before they could properly settle in, Julia opened the door and came inside, only t-.


    ¡°Julia.¡±


    Julia froze stiff at the tone, as she, followed soon by the team, turned to face Milo, crossing his arms and standing in the middle of the lounge room.


    He glanced over everyone, before indicating Julia come over. ¡°Could everyone else step outside for a moment? We need to talk.¡±


    Julia¡¯s glanced back at the others, assuring them not to worry, as they nodded back and quickly headed to the backyard, leaving their bags there.


    Milo took a second to sit down in one of his armchairs, as Julia took up a spot on the couch, sheltered into her seat.


    Milo rested his hands on his legs, his demeanour a lot more rigid than Julia was used to.


    ¡°¡­did you have fun on your trip?¡±


    ¡°¡­uhh, yeah. Yeah, it was good. I think we needed it.¡± Julia replied, before leaning forward. ¡°Dad, what¡¯s this about?¡±


    Milo closed his eyes and sighed out loudly, not directly facing her.


    ¡°¡­what¡¯s going on with you?¡±


    Julia blinked. ¡°Huh?¡±


    ¡°¡­I¡­you¡¯ve been staying here for¡­months, and¡­I feel like you¡¯re a stranger to me.¡± Milo insisted, surprising Julia. ¡°That you¡¯ve been closed off, or¡­avoiding me, or something¡­¡±


    Before Julia could speak up, Milo finally faced her, worry staining his face. ¡°Are you hiding things from me? Is there something you¡¯re not telling me?¡±


    ¡°D-Dad, no, it¡¯s just been a busy year.¡± Julia said, throwing her hands up, as Milo raised his eyebrows.


    ¡°Really? Then why do you need the gloves?¡±


    Julia¡¯s pupils shrank, as she immediately broke eye contact and pivoted away, confirming Milo¡¯s suspicions.


    ¡°I knew it! There was something! What, did you get hurt? Are you covering something up?¡± Milo implored, his hand to his chest. ¡°I¡¯m your father, you can tell me!¡±


    ¡°I-I¡­no, I r-really can¡¯t¡­¡± Julia stammered, shaking her head in worry, as Milo pressed his hand to his face, falling back into his armchair.


    ¡°¡­this is just high school¡­¡± He muttered, before sitting back up. ¡°This is just high school all over again! Hiding things! Pretending you¡¯re doing fine, what, to make me feel better? Cause I don¡¯t!¡±


    ¡°I-It¡¯s not that!¡± Julia implored, locking eyes with him again. ¡°It¡¯s¡­so you d-don¡¯t worry.¡±


    Milo shook his head, scrunching his fist to avoid crying. ¡°You¡¯re training to be a Venator¡­I worry literally all the time!¡­I¡¯m only gonna worry more if you can¡¯t trust me!¡±


    Julia found herself at a loss for words, as she leaned back into the couch, now deliberately facing away.


    ¡°Oh great, I screwed up again. No, shut yourself off, don¡¯t engage¡­¡± Milo grumbled, doing the same as her, as Julia started feeling frustration replace her panic.


    ¡°¡­it¡¯s not my fault¡­¡±


    Milo lifted his head, as Julia started to work herself up, scrunching her fist against her leg.


    ¡°¡­it¡¯s not my fault that I don¡¯t want to tell you things.¡± Julia insisted, putting a lot of energy into her breathing. ¡°You wouldn¡¯t listen anyway¡­Bell was the priority, not me.¡±


    Milo looked offended. ¡°Bell was the neve-¡°


    ¡°She was! She was, and you never had time for me!!!¡± Julia yelled, now standing up. ¡°It was a-always work, Bell, or goofing off! You only put in the work when I got in trouble!!!¡±


    ¡°I was providing for you! I couldn¡¯t always be there!!!¡± Milo added, standing up as well. ¡°Madelyn worked at my old job, I couldn¡¯t stick around the-¡°


    ¡°Gods, stop compromising!!! Take things seriously!!!¡± Julia cried, balling her fists to her eyes. ¡°Everything¡¯s a joke to you!!! Why can¡¯t you just be real with me?!?!¡±


    ¡°I AM!!!¡±


    ¡°NO YOU AREN¡¯T!!! I LIE CAUSE YOU DO!!!¡±


    ¡°IT WAS EITHER THAT OR ADMIT I WASN¡¯T HAPPY!!!¡± Milo screamed, raising his voice a little too loud, as everyone outside pretended not to hear what he¡¯d said.


    Julia stared back at him, shock plastering her face, as both of them were fully letting themselves cry at this point.


    ¡°I-I know¡­I know the divorce was h-hard for you, okay? B-But it was harder¡­for me.¡± Milo insisted, pointing back at himself. ¡°We r-raised kids, we bought a house, and yeah¡­there were talks a-about a third¡­but that never happened.¡±


    Milo started pacing around the lounge room, his head in his hands. ¡°I was just so miserable¡­and I did e-everything I could to stop you being miserable too.¡±


    ¡°¡­b-but I was miserable¡­¡± Julia admitted, letting her tears hit the floor. ¡°A-And you weren¡¯t there for me¡­you couldn¡¯t get a job for m-months, and every time I asked how it as going, you s-said ¡®these are grown up things, ask m-me in a few years!¡¯¡±


    ¡°¡­then¡­¡± Milo started, before covering his face again. ¡°¡­I c-couldn¡¯t tell you I had to borrow money from Madelyn.¡±


    Julia¡¯s expression sunk, as Milo looking imploringly at her.


    ¡°I-I couldn¡¯t shame myself like that. Looking my daughter square in the face and saying I had to go beg c-cause I couldn¡¯t land an interview for shit¡­I burned all my bridges after we separated, and yet, s-she was all that was left¡­¡±


    Julia saw so much pity in Milo¡¯s face, clearly holding all this back to at least maintain some image of dignity in front of his daughter. A pang of guilt ran through her, reflecting on that behaviour in her own way.


    ¡°¡­I¡­¡± Julia began, now properly facing him.


    She let out a haggard breath.


    ¡°¡­during the attack¡­I¡­nearly u-used my Whil¡­to kill Wicker.¡±


    Milo¡¯s face grew pale, as Julia refused to break eye contact.


    ¡°I-It was near the end of the night. H-He was yelling at Percy¡­and throwing her o-on the ground¡­and I-I didn¡¯t know if the others were dead or not, a-a-and-¡°


    Milo quickly rushed over, before hugging Julia deeply, letting her cry into his shoulder.


    ¡°I-I-I nearly did it. I-I couldn¡¯t risk using it, and it was only r-recently that I felt comfortable with myself again. I¡¯m s-so sor-¡°


    ¡°Shh, shh, it¡¯s okay. It¡¯s okay.¡± Milo assured, caressing her hair, still crying a lot as well. ¡°You¡¯re okay¡­you¡¯re still my daughter, okay?¡±


    Julia didn¡¯t talk and just kept crying, nuzzling herself into his sweater, as he kept comforting her.


    ¡°¡­I trust you.¡± Milo stated, breaking the hug and holding her out. ¡°You¡¯re one of the smartest people I know. You don¡¯t have to worry about making the right decision, c-cause you always do.¡±


    ¡°D-Dad¡­¡± Julia let out, falling into him again. ¡°I t-trust you too, okay? It¡¯s just hard to let it out sometimes¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­that¡¯s on me too.¡± Milo insisted, sniffing a lot. ¡°I should¡¯ve been open about the divorce¡­and Bell doesn¡¯t come before you, alright? You¡¯re both amazing.¡±


    ¡°¡­I know she needed help.¡± Julia confessed, breaking the hug and wiping some snot away. ¡°I just wish I got it too¡­¡±


    ¡°Well¡­I¡¯m sorry I didn¡¯t do that for you.¡± Milo let out.


    They both took a beat to quiet down and breathe, cleaning themselves up a little.


    ¡°¡­I like your jokes.¡± Julia admitted, surprising Milo. ¡°Not all the time, cause they¡¯re dad jokes, but¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­you¡¯re right, though. I should pick my moments.¡± He said, before reaching over to rustle her hair. ¡°Like embarrassing you in front of your team.¡±


    Julia started laughing, as she pulled herself away, facing the floor again.


    ¡°¡­I¡­really mean it¡­when I say I¡¯m okay.¡± Julia started. ¡°I know I hid it before, but I¡¯m in a really good place right now. And I¡¯m sure I¡¯m gonna get even better.¡±


    Milo let out a breath, before smiling. ¡°¡­well, like I said, I trust you. You seem happier. However, I¡¯ve got one last question before I let you go¡­¡±


    Julia looked at him curiously, before he raised a finger.


    ¡°¡­is there something going on with you and your team?¡±


    Julia froze again, her expression holding on an embarrassed surprise, as Milo cracked a smile and rubbed his neck.


    ¡°Well, I guess you can keep some secrets.¡± Milo laughed, before peeking out around the corner to the back door, beckoning the others back in. ¡°You guys are good! We¡¯re done talking!¡±


    The others slowly filtered back inside, doing their best to pretend they hadn¡¯t just witnessed an argument, as Julia cleaned herself up.


    Wess closed in and linked hands with her. ¡°Are you good, dear?¡±


    ¡°¡­yeah. Just had to clear the air a little. I¡¯m good, really.¡± Julia assured, leaning in for a kiss. ¡°Think that needed to be said for a while¡­¡±


    Milo did his best to clean himself up as well, while the team started grabbing their things and heading to their rooms.


    ¡°¡­okay, that was kinda bonkers.¡± Harley insisted, leaning into Sola. ¡°Are we just meant to ignore that that happened?¡±


    Sola looked over Julia and Milo again, seeing a good amount of emotion, but a sort of contentment on both of them.


    ¡°They seem better, so yeah.¡± Sola assured, as Harley rubbed her neck.


    ¡°Alright, I trust your judgement.¡± Harley said, as they moved her things back to her and Julia¡¯s room.


    Milo grabbed his nose and sniffed, before noticing Percy hovering, and pointing back to his and Percy¡¯s room. ¡°Sorry about the interruption. You can rest in there if you need, Percy.¡±


    ¡°¡­a-appreciate it¡­¡± Percy insisted, grabbing her bags, only to be stopped briefly by Essex.


    ¡°W-Wait.¡± Essex said, as Percy turned around to face her.


    Percy couldn¡¯t really pick up on what she was doing, before Essex put a fist to her chest.


    [¡­sorry.]


    Percy blinked in surprise at Essex suddenly signing, as Essex stood up straight. ¡°I know this isn¡¯t much¡­but I¡¯m making the effort to learn sign language. I have had difficulty with communication in the past, so I will get better¡­so that understanding is more of an option.¡±


    Essex then quickly bowed to avoid showing her face, and pivoted back to the laundry, feeling she¡¯d done what she needed.


    ¡°¡­g-grela¡­¡±


    Essex faced back, looking as Percy rubbed against her neck, trying her best to speak more.


    ¡°¡­I-I think¡­w-we¡¯ll both make the e-effort¡­¡± Percy insisted, leaving the two on surprisingly good footing.


    It¡¯s not like these gestures were about the change the world.


    But it was a start.

 Chapter 64: Rite of Passage

    This was a big day for Julia.


    ¡°¡­okay¡­¡±


    ¡°You got this, remember?¡±


    ¡°¡­y-yeah¡­¡±


    She and Sola had made the trip back to the academy. With this year¡¯s tournament wrapped up, campus was a lot less active than usual, meaning there was a good amount of empty space in the training grounds.


    ¡°Nobody¡¯s here, so you¡¯re safe to do it.¡±


    ¡°¡­Sola?¡±


    ¡°Yeah?¡±


    ¡°¡­can you¡­¡± Julia said, pointing behind her.


    ¡°Totally get it. No problem at all.¡± Sola said, comfortably stepping back, before jumping forward and giving Julia a quick hug. ¡°You got this! Remember!¡±


    Julia happily sighed, as she took a needed breath, staring out at the empty grounds in front of her, stretching into the Central Forest, with the Eldos Mountains drowning the horizon.


    She looked back down at her gloves, the same ones she scrambled to put on right after the attack. After she used her Whil¡­in that way¡­


    And she hadn¡¯t taken them off since.


    A small breeze ran over the grounds, sending a slight chill up Julia¡¯s spine and reminding her of what had happened that night.


    But¡­


    At least in this moment¡­


    It was just her.


    In a much better place, and a better mindset.


    She certainly wasn¡¯t thankful for that night, but¡­after everything that went down, this was the best she¡¯d felt in a while.


    The chill of the breeze was replaced with a warm ray from the sun, letting her take a comfortable breath, as she gripped one of the gloves, holding it.


    After keeping herself stable and grounded in the moment, she lifted it up, closing her eyes as she did so¡­


    ¡­before opening them¡­


    ¡­with her hand now free.


    It was still¡­just her hand.


    ¡°¡­ha¡­¡±


    Julia took a second to inspect it, the warmth of the sun still shining down on her, with the only distraction being Sola behind her, hugging her back after what she¡¯d managed to do.


    ¡°Okay, so you push square, square, triangle¡­¡±


    ¡°Square¡­square¡­¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s too slow. Real fast, one after the other!¡±


    ¡°¡­squaresquaretriangle!¡±


    Essex¡¯s character performed a combo, as her eyes lit up at the action on the screen, then back down to her controller.


    ¡°That was my combo?¡±


    ¡°Yeah it was!¡±


    ¡°That was because of my action?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t see anyone else here pulling off sick combos.¡±


    Percy cleared her throat from up on the couch, drawing a glare from Harley, as Wess chuckled from the other side of the couch, even with her attention on a novel.


    Essex¡¯s stared starry-eyed at the screen, trying the combo over and over, before the front door opened up, with Julia coming in first.


    ¡°Ahem¡­¡± She started, before lifting up her now glove-free hands. ¡°Hey guys.¡±


    ¡°Dear!¡± Wess exclaimed, jumping up from the couch, as the others followed suite. ¡°Look at you.¡±


    ¡°Uhh¡­¡± Julia prefaced, stepping back a bit now that everyone was huddled around her. ¡°I don¡¯t wanna get too hasty. I got rid of the gloves, but I haven¡¯t used my Whil yet. Or washed my hands.¡±


    ¡°Hey, no pressure from us.¡± Harley insisted, right as Sola jumped out from behind Julia. ¡°Sola, Essex did the combo!¡±


    ¡°No way!¡± Sola replied, pumping her fists, before running over to the TV. ¡°Show me show me show me!¡±


    ¡°¡­I will show you!¡± Essex exclaimed, running over to join her, as Percy carefully took Julia¡¯s hands into her own.


    ¡°¡­t-this is¡­a big step¡­¡± Percy managed, still visibly straining her voice. ¡°¡­y¡­yay¡­¡±


    Percy took her hands back, before quickly signing to Julia. [I wanted to say congratulations, but I don¡¯t think my throat wants a word that big.]


    [Sentiment understood.] Julia replied, sweetly hugging her back, as Percy jumped back onto the couch, before Julia locked eyes with Wess again.


    Before she could speak, Wess leaned in for a very long kiss, moving to lock her hands with Julia.


    ¡°You¡­have come so far.¡± Wess assured after parting, now holding her hands like Percy had and smirking. ¡°As¡­someone who¡¯s gone through a lot of adversity, I would also like to say congratulations.¡±


    Julia laughed a little, as Wess got a bit closer. ¡°¡­and I know we haven¡¯t spoken about it, but I don¡¯t think we¡¯ve been as¡­close recently. Aside from the lodge trip, of course¡­¡±


    Julia¡¯s smile faded, as she nodded in acknowledgment. ¡°¡­we¡¯ve both been going through a lot. I¡¯m sorry, I think I put our relationship on the backburner.¡±


    Julia shook her head. ¡°But I can safely safe, that stops today. You are getting all my sweet sweet lovin¡¯.¡±


    Wess chuckled. ¡°I should hope so, after all¡­¡±


    She leaned into Julia¡¯s ear. ¡°¡­it¡¯s been so long with those gloves on, I want to get used to the feel of those hands again.¡±


    ¡°¡­W-Wess¡­¡± Julia let out, blushing brightly, before facing her again. ¡°¡­okay, you¡¯ve convinced me. As long as you¡¯ve got the stamina to keep up.¡±


    Wess was taken aback but such a brazen comment, as she found herself flustered and without a follow-up remark.


    ¡°¡­y-yes, well¡­I was¡­a book?¡±


    ¡°Go on.¡± Julia teased, as Wess went back to the couch, only for Julia to slap her butt as she turned around, giggling to herself.


    Well then¡­back in full swing. Wess acknowledged, as Julia headed to the bathroom and wash up, only to stop right at the door.


    ¡°Oh, and just a reminder, we¡¯ve got those pre-graduation interviews with Vent tomorrow.¡± Julia informed, as Harley groaned from her seat.


    ¡°Are those mandatory? I don¡¯t wanna see that guy before graduation.¡± Harley insisted, as Sola popped up.


    ¡°And didn¡¯t we already do an interview with him before coming to the academy?¡± Sola asked, as Julia nodded.


    ¡°We did, but this one¡¯s different.¡± Julia explained, as Essex looked to Julia.


    ¡°Julia, allow me to take Harley¡¯s place.¡± Essex offered, as Harley stared at her with stars in her eyes.


    ¡°And I¡¯ll take Essex¡¯s place!¡± Sola added, as Julia¡¯s eyes drooped.


    ¡°¡­they¡¯re solo interviews. And who¡¯d take your place, Sola?¡± Julia noted, as Percy quietly raised her hand, getting a hearty chuckle from Wess.


    Julia shook her head. ¡°Just stick it out. It¡¯s one last thing before graduation. I¡¯m sure it¡¯ll pass by without any hassle.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    It was the start of Vent¡¯s day.


    He always looked forward to these interviews, so much so he had a little routine of bringing his suitcase and setting up a few knick knacks on the desk beside him, grabbing out a personalised pen and notepad, and getting comfortable in his office¡¯s armchair. It was the perfect excuse to use it, after all.


    Right as he got settled, he checked his watch again, waiting for it to tick over to eight. The moment it did, a knock rang out from the door, as he subtly rolled his eyes and prepared himself.


    ¡°Come in.¡±


    Very tentatively, Julia stepped through the door, looking around anxiously.


    ¡°S-Sorry, am I too early?¡±


    ¡°I start at eight.¡± Vent insisted, indicating to the armchair across from him. ¡°If you would.¡±


    Julia jumped to attention a little, as she hurried over to the seat and sat down, running her hands over her legs nervously.


    ¡°Do you mind giving me your name?¡±


    ¡°O-Oh, right. Julia¡­Julia Alpine. That¡¯s¡­the full name.¡±


    ¡°And your residence?¡±


    ¡°¡­resi¡­? Oh! I thought¡­¡± Julia started, avoiding eye contact. ¡°¡­here. Detu City. Do you need the street address?¡±


    ¡°City¡¯s just fine.¡± He replied, scribbling a few things down, before noticing Julia¡¯s twitchy demeanour. ¡°You¡¯ve gone through the hard part, Julia. You don¡¯t need to be nervous.¡±


    ¡°U-Uhh, right, duh.¡± Julia let out, still feeling the pressure, as she sat forward. ¡°I¡¯ve just¡­if this goes well, I could finally start studying to become a Venator.¡±


    Vent smiled. ¡°Well, I¡¯ll assure you off the bat that you passed the physical. That¡¯s the biggest hurdle for most people. Now all that¡¯s left is a few questions from me to assess your character.¡±


    Julia found herself grinning briefly, before stopping herself and shrinking back down. ¡°O-Okay, easy enough.¡±


    ¡°First question, what type of Venator do you want to be?¡±


    ¡°¡­hunting. Hunting Venator. They¡¯re the best ones, r-right?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not allowed to speak on that.¡± Vent replied, clicking his pen. ¡°Do you have a Whil or personalised weapon?¡±


    ¡°Umm¡­yes Whil, no weapon. My Whil lets me speed up and slow down things, but¡­I¡¯m not very good with it.¡±


    ¡°No problem, that¡¯s what we¡¯re for.¡± Vent said, noticing Julia opening up a little. ¡°Last question. What kind of team are you looking for?¡±


    Julia was visibly stumped, as she leaned back into her seat, trying to think of the best answer.


    ¡°¡­I guess¡­a nice team.¡± Julia insisted. ¡°Just a¡­you know, not a bunch of¡­gung-ho muscleheads. People¡­easy to get along with. You can share a laugh with. And you know they¡¯ve got your back in the tough times.¡±


    Julia really started opening up now. ¡°And they want to get better. I want people who can look at themselves and say¡­¡¯hey, that could use work,¡¯ or ¡®maybe I should do this instead.¡¯ Is there a term for that?¡±


    ¡°¡­self-actualisation?¡± Vent threw out there, as Julia started getting embarrassed and hid away again.


    ¡°¡­y-yeah, that¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­I was aiming more for skillset, but I can work with this.¡± Vent assured, before standing up. ¡°Julia, this is an easy recommendation. I won¡¯t speak too soon, but we can¡¯t wait to see you in the spring.¡±


    Julia stood up as well, before jumping into a handshake.


    ¡°Y-Yes sir, thank you!¡± She exclaimed. ¡°I promise, I¡¯ll try my best! Count on it!¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°This is his office, right?¡±


    Wess stared up at the door. ¡°Well, that¡¯s Vent on the door, so unless he¡¯s stolen someone¡¯s identity¡­¡±


    ¡°His first name¡¯s Duncan?¡± Harley let out, resting her hands on her hips. ¡°Huh. Okay then.¡±


    The team took up space outside of his office, getting comfortable in the seating area, with Percy feeling a touch out of place.


    [I don¡¯t really need to be here¡­] Percy admitted, still feeling a bit nervous being back at the academy, as Julia waved her hand.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be silly. We want you here.¡± Julia said, patting the seat next to her and grinning. ¡°You¡¯ll help pass the time.¡±


    Percy couldn¡¯t help feeling elated by this, as she eagerly took up the seat, struggling to keep still.


    She eventually rested her head on Julia¡¯s shoulder, surprising Julia, though not causing her to pull back, as Sola got up to use the vending machine.


    ¡°It¡¯s one on one, right?¡± Harley asked across from Julia, as Julia nodded.


    ¡°He¡¯ll be asking some questions and where we want our careers to go after graduating.¡± Julia said, as Sola grabbed a coke.


    ¡°¡­he is the PR teacher.¡± Essex prefaced. ¡°¡­will they be marketing questions?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, dear, they won¡¯t be too hard.¡± Wess assured, resting her hand on Essex¡¯s leg. ¡°Just stick to your instincts. They¡¯ve gotten you this far.¡±


    Essex found herself smiling, as Harley rested on Essex to match what Julia and Percy were doing.


    Julia let Percy get comfortable, as she stared at the clock in anticipation.


    It was the start of Vent¡¯s day.


    As usual, he started his little routine, something he could only ever indulge in two times a year. Fortunately, interviewing so many students took up a lot of time, meaning he could really appreciate the little things, even if it was mostly the same advice by the end of the day.


    As was pretty familiar at this point, he checked his watch again, waiting for it to tick over to eight, his eyes on the door this time. The moment it did, a knock rang out from the door.


    ¡°¡­shouldn¡¯t be too surprised¡­¡± He muttered under his breath. ¡°Come in.¡±


    Julia opened up the door and walked right in, giving Vent a little wave.


    ¡°Sorry, was I too early?¡±


    ¡°¡­you¡¯re punctual.¡± Vent said, indicating to the armchair across from him. ¡°Just to start off, your name and team?¡±


    ¡°Oh, right.¡± Julia started, sitting down and getting comfortable, before taking a breath. ¡°Julia Alpine, leader of Team Valiant.¡±


    ¡°And you¡¯re from¡­?¡±


    ¡°Detu City. The suburbs.¡± Julia clarified, tilting her head. ¡°I probably didn¡¯t need to clarify, did I?¡±


    Vent shrugged. ¡°I won¡¯t dock you any points. Now¡­how have you found your studies?¡±


    Julia really thought on this. ¡°Uhh¡­good¡­for the most part. Umm, my team and I¡­well, you know about the attack this year¡­¡±


    Vent snapped his fingers. ¡°That¡¯s right. You¡¯re the ones staying off campus on Faller¡¯s request.¡±


    ¡°R-right, right.¡± Julia agreed, waving her hand. ¡°O-Other than that, it¡¯s been¡­pretty good.¡±


    ¡°Okay. And how much do you feel you¡¯ve improved?¡± Vent asked next, as Julia leaned back and stroked her chin.


    ¡°¡­w-well, I don¡¯t want to¡­you know, brag or anything¡­¡± Julia prefaced. ¡°¡­but if you asked the rest of the team, they¡¯d say I¡¯ve come really far. I¡¯m way better with my Whil, and my marksmanship has only improved.¡±


    ¡°And your role as a leader?¡±


    Julia threw her hands up, before giving a good-natured laugh. ¡°I didn¡¯t think I¡¯d take to it at all, but¡­I feel really comfortable in it now. It helps that the others are so easy to get along with.¡±


    Vent found himself subtly smiling, as he scribbled a few notes down beside him.


    ¡°¡­now, here¡¯s the big one. Where do you see your career going from here? Are you staying with your current team, and are you still planning on becoming a Hunting Venator?¡±


    Julia looked a bit stunned at the question, as she took a few moments to respond.


    ¡°¡­well, at this point¡­I don¡¯t really see myself with any other team.¡± Julia admitted, nodding her head. ¡°And I¡¯m definitely becoming a Hunting Venator. We¡¯ve got a few plans to stick around Central Point before spreading out to more of Daysend, seeing where work takes us. Eventually we¡¯ll save up and get an RV to work out of, or something a bit more¡­industrial? I guess that¡¯d be the word?¡±


    Julia smiled back at him. ¡°There¡¯s a good bit in place, but we¡¯ll just see where the wind takes us.¡±


    Vent tapped his pen a couple times, finding he didn¡¯t need to take any further notes, before standing up and offering his hand to Julia.


    ¡°O-Oh, right, this part.¡± She remembered, standing up to shake it, as Vent went to speak.


    ¡°Once again Julia, this is very easy for me. I¡¯ll wait until I¡¯ve interviewed the whole team to give my final conclusions, but rest assured, that growth you mentioned is very evident.¡±


    Julia found herself beaming, not expecting such an earnest compliment, as she started to blush and take her hand back. ¡°T-Thanks.¡±


    Vent indicated to the door, as Julia gave a slightly awkward thumbs up before leaving, as Vent took a second to sit down and breathe, taking it all in.


    ¡°¡­one down, four to go¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°¡­somebody once told me, you¡¯ll end up old and lonely¡­I never listened to what they saaaaaid¡­¡±


    Cassidy sung casually, swinging her keys around her finger, as she flicked on the seventh floor lights for the EHM building, the morning light just starting to crack through the windows.


    ¡°I was feeling kinda done, pulled the trigger on my gun¡­with the barrel pointed to my forehead¡­¡± Cassidy sung, drumming with her fingers, as she turned on the lights to the break room. ¡°Well, the days stop comi-¡°


    Cassidy stopped once she saw someone lifting themselves up from the break room seats, rubbing his head from exhaustion.


    ¡°Florey?¡± She asked in shock, putting her bag down. ¡°What¡¯re you doing here?¡±


    ¡°¡­sleeping, mostly.¡± He replied, struggling to sit up, as Cassidy walked to the kitchenette.


    ¡°Sleeping? Why didn¡¯t you go back to your apartment?¡±


    ¡°¡­my apartment was wrecked a few weeks ago by that Wailing.¡± Florey explained, yawning loudly, as Cassidy went to grab a coffee and stopped herself.


    ¡°Wait, what?!¡± She let out, resting her hands on her hips. ¡°So you¡¯ve been staying here ever since?¡±


    ¡°Well¡­not here, the lab.¡± Florey said, pointing upwards, as Cassidy started digging around the fridge for milk. ¡°I¡¯m still looking for somewhere to stay.¡±


    Cassidy grimaced a little. ¡°You should¡¯ve told me. I could¡¯ve helped you find a new place. Or at least offered you my couch instead of using the break room chairs as a bed.¡±


    ¡°I wasn¡¯t planning on falling asleep here¡­¡± Florey admitted, his eyes still half-closed, as Cassidy started looking for ice. ¡°I ran out of freezer space for my petri dishes.¡±


    Once Cassidy opened the freezer, she could see what he meant, as several stacks were piled on top of each other, taking up the whole thing.


    ¡°¡­uhuh.¡± Cassidy let out, reaching around them to grab the ice cube tray, as Florey waved his hand.


    ¡°And I can¡¯t show my face to Marcus until I¡¯m done¡­I¡¯ll get rid of them though¡­they¡¯re just more duds anyway¡­¡± Florey offered, slowly getting up and wandering over, clearly still exhausted.


    ¡°You look worse for wear. Why don¡¯t you get a proper rest before working to the bone again?¡± Cassidy insisted, as Florey stuck his head in beside her, ready to pull the dishes out.


    Once he got a good look though, his eyes shot open in shock, before he pushed Cassidy to the side and dug around for one of the dishes, inspecting them feverishly.


    Before she could protest, Florey took a single one out, shakily holding it and putting it up to the light, as he shared a hopeful glance with her.


    Cassidy could piece together what it meant.


    ¡°¡­is that a breakthrough?¡±


    Florey slowly nodded, not really believing it himself, as he looked back down at the dish, before running out of the break room, nearly tripping through the doorway.


    ¡°THIS IS IT!!!¡± He exclaimed, running past the other employees heading to their workspace and toward the elevator.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°¡­okay, next up is¡­Harley Ba-¡°


    A loud banging knock came from Vent¡¯s door, causing him to shudder, as he took a second to breath and recollect himself.


    ¡°¡­come in.¡±


    The door burst open a little loud as Harley pulled herself into the room, a bag slung over her shoulder.


    ¡°¡­where¡¯s the interview?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re looking at it.¡± Vent said, indicating to the seat, as Harley dropped into it. ¡°Name?¡±


    ¡°Harley Baroke.¡±


    ¡°And where are you from?¡±


    ¡°Uhh, Denilee Town! Heard of it?¡± Harley asked, leaning forward, as Vent pursed his lips.


    ¡°¡­I¡¯ve been meaning to visit.¡± He pivoted, scribbling some notes down. ¡°¡­now, your results in the physical were exceptional. Even with raw strength alone, you were comparable to the applicants with Whils, and in some cases exceeded them.¡±


    ¡°Hell yeah I did!¡± Harley bragged, kicking her feet up on the coffee table, before putting them back down. ¡°Oh, probably shouldn¡¯t¡­¡±


    Vent gave her the side-eye. ¡°¡­I¡¯m assuming you don¡¯t have a Whil?¡±


    ¡°Nope. Got a bit of Whilvin in me, but no Whil.¡± Harley explained, shrugging. ¡°Not that I plan to be held back by that.¡±


    ¡°Uhuh¡­¡± Vent muttered, already assuming the answer to the next question. ¡°What type of Venator are you planni-¡°


    ¡°Hunting Venator, easy.¡± Harley insisted, folding her arms, as Vent nodded along.


    No surprise there. He thought. ¡°And do you have a personal weapon?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, my Buster Knuckles! Had ¡®em since I was¡­¡± Harley started, before thinking back on it. ¡°¡­I don¡¯t remember when actually, but they¡¯re good.¡±


    ¡°¡­right.¡± Vent said, sighing out, before resting his head. ¡°Now, important question. What kind of team are you looking for?¡±


    Harley looked a bit thrown by the question, as she took a minute to really think on it herself. Vent had a note scribbled down saying ¡®the strongest team there is!¡¯


    I should really make a bingo sheet for these. Vent pondered, as Harley slammed her hands together, ready with her answer.


    ¡°¡­good integrity. Real hard workers.¡± Harley replied.


    Vent was stumped with such an unexpected answer, as Harley continued. ¡°I don¡¯t really need strength, I¡¯ve got that covered, but a lot of heart.¡±


    ¡°¡­could you be more specific than heart?¡± Vent asked, as Harley spun her hands.


    ¡°Like, good people. A team you could have drinks with.¡± Harley insisted. ¡°And ones that¡¯ll think before throwing a punch.¡±


    Vent lifted his head. ¡°Really?¡±


    Harley nodded proudly. ¡°I¡¯m still working on that myself, so it¡¯d be good if they could remind me.¡±


    ¡°¡­okay then.¡± Vent surmised, before standing back up and indicating to the door. ¡°We¡¯ll let you know about the results soon enough.¡±


    ¡°Sweet!¡± Harley exclaimed, jumping up and heading out, before giving a quick salute to Vent. ¡°Thanks, teach!¡±


    Harley closed the door, as Vent fell back into his chair, massaging his forehead.


    ¡­we get them every year. He reiterated. ¡­what are the odds she takes any of my classes?


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Sola was casually wandering around with her coke, taking occasional sips, as the others waited for Julia to finish up her interview.


    She briefly passed Wess, as they locked eyes for a second, before Sola leaned in.


    ¡°Hey¡­did you get it ready?¡±


    Wess gave a subtle thumbs up, just out of eyeshot from the others. ¡°Should be arriving just around graduation. Remember, it¡¯s a secret until then.¡±


    Sola held a finger to her mouth, smiling behind it, right as Julia stepped out of Vent¡¯s office.


    This story originates from a different website. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.


    Harley sat up to acknowledge her. ¡°So? How was it?¡±


    Julia rubbed her neck, before sitting back down, as Percy took her place on her shoulder again. ¡°Uhh, good. Soft ball questions. Nothing too out of the ordinary.¡±


    ¡°Did he give you attitude?¡± Harley insisted, leaning forward.


    ¡°No, a lot of¡­kind words, actually.¡± Julia explained, shrugging. ¡°He may just be saving it for you?¡±


    ¡°He better not!¡± Sola exclaimed, sitting back down. ¡°Harley¡¯s making it big!¡±


    ¡°Hey, we¡¯re all making it big!¡± Harley insisted, as Sola pumped her fists up.


    ¡°We¡¯re all making it big!¡± Sola agreed, as Harley stood up to wait outside of Vent¡¯s door.


    ¡°Gimme your worst, Vent¡­¡±


    Vent comfortably waited for the clock to tick over, as he marked off a couple things on one of his bingo sheets, mostly just gimmes at this point.


    ¡°Should pick up with the next few¡­¡± Vent muttered, before seeing the time turn over and calling out. ¡°Come in.¡±


    Somewhat tentatively, Harley opened the door, peering inside to get a view of what she was walking into, before Vent got a good read of her.


    ¡°¡­Harley.¡± Vent started, growing a slow smile. ¡°Come, sit. Let¡¯s talk.¡±


    ¡°¡­let¡¯s talk¡­¡± She muttered under her breath, making her way to the seat.


    ¡°¡­now, remind me of your name and team.¡± Vent started, before Harley leaned forward.


    ¡°Oh, you know. You know.¡± Harley insisted, as Vent put his notes away, expecting a conversation. ¡°Don¡¯t give me that. I¡¯ve been on your shitlist since day one.¡±


    ¡°Have you now?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I have for, like, no reason.¡± Harley declared, pointing right at him. ¡°What the hell did I do to you to carry around this weird¡­macho grudge you got going on? Did I dare to take your class?¡±


    ¡°¡­well, that was part of it.¡± Vent prefaced, as Harley huffed out, before falling back into her seat. ¡°Do you really want to know?¡±


    Harley frustratedly nodded, as Vent got comfortable.


    ¡°There¡¯s a lot of applicants that come here¡­like you.¡± Vent explained, as Harley raised an eyebrow. ¡°Muscular, massive, and ready to fight the Wailing minute one. No care for safety, or a well-balanced team. Just power and more gung-ho energy to match their own.¡±


    ¡°¡­uhuh.¡± Harley replied, as Vent waved his hand around.


    ¡°They¡¯re the Venators that die the most.¡± Vent brazenly said. ¡°Often throwing themselves into situations they think they can win and painfully learning they can¡¯t, then leaving other Venators without a teammate and plenty of trauma. I make a point to turn them away if they¡¯re too¡­stupid, for lack of a better term.¡±


    You used gung-ho two seconds ago. Harley thought, as Vent turned to her again.


    ¡°But¡­you said just enough right for me to let you in.¡± Vent answered, as Harley sneered at him.


    ¡°Oh, good for me then.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Vent replied. ¡°¡­but then you started taking my classes, and quite simply¡­I thought you were taking the piss.¡±


    Harley blinked. ¡°Huh?¡±


    ¡°Your teammate, Wess, she was a natural, but you didn¡¯t even know what Activ was. I¡­I guess falsely assumed¡­you took my class as a challenge, showing you were more than¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­muscular, massive, ready minute one.¡± Harley finished, as Vent indicated back to her.


    ¡°Right. You¡¯ll be happy to know it worked, and you exceeded my expectations.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not why I did it¡­¡± Harley insisted, folding her arms, as Vent threw his palms up.


    ¡°Regardless, good job, but it left a sour taste in my mouth.¡± Vent decided, as Harley looked offended. ¡°So, I took some easy pot shots.¡±


    ¡°¡­wait, that was it? You were fucking with me cause you thought I was fucking with you?¡± Harley complained, as Vent let out a small laugh.


    ¡°Really misjudged that, huh?¡± Vent tried, only to see Harley wasn¡¯t taking it at all, before clearing his throat. ¡°¡­so, I figure we can blitz through the last of these.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, you better¡­¡± Harley muttered, sinking into her seat, her arms still folded. ¡°¡­I¡¯m only doing this so I don¡¯t screw over my team.¡±


    ¡°Understandable. Name and team?¡±


    ¡°Harley Baroke. Team Valiant.¡±


    ¡°Residence?¡±


    ¡°Denilee Town.¡±


    ¡°How have your studies been?¡±


    ¡°Fine.¡±


    ¡°Do you feel you¡¯ve improved?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Happy with your career? Are you staying with your team?¡±


    ¡°Yes and without a doubt.¡±


    ¡°Alright, we¡¯re all done.¡±


    ¡°Great.¡± Harley said, standing up immediately and heading out, only for Vent to speak up.


    ¡°Harley?¡±


    ¡°Uhuh?¡±


    ¡°¡­good job.¡± He stated. ¡°¡­thanks for not throwing a punch.¡±


    Harley gave him the side-eye before leaving. ¡°Yeah yeah¡­¡±


    As he left, Vent found himself looking down at his bingo sheet, before realising there wasn¡¯t actually anything to tick off after that.


    ¡°¡­huh.¡± He let out, fairly surprised. ¡°¡­well, okay then.¡±


    Essex silently watched over Sola as she finished her drink, kicking her legs out of boredom. Essex looked back at the vending machine, blinking, before deciding to get up and try to use it.


    ¡°¡­w-what¡¯s¡­V-Vent¡¯s deal?...¡± Percy asked, sitting up a bit. [Why¡¯s he so rude to Harley?]


    Julia simply shrugged. ¡°Beats me. Wess, you guys had classes together. Why¡¯s he being a dick?¡±


    ¡°¡­because he is?¡± Wess surmised. ¡°Harley did well enough in his classes. She had plenty of gusto, but that¡¯s just what she¡¯s like.¡±


    Just as they finished talking, Harley emerged from the office door and trudged over.


    ¡°So, got it out of the way?¡± Julia asked.


    ¡°Uhuh. He thought I was stepping to him.¡± Harley explained, falling into her seat and folding her arms. ¡°He¡¯s lucky I wasn¡¯t. I¡¯d break him like a toothpick.¡±


    ¡°An ice toothpick!¡± Sola insisted. ¡°Or a¡­balsa wood toothpick.¡±


    ¡°¡­paper toothpick?¡± Julia offered, as Sola went to sit in Harley¡¯s lap.


    ¡°Glass toothpick, that¡¯s also an option.¡± Wess suggested, while Essex started to struggle with the number pad.


    ¡°¡­b-bread toothpick?...¡± Percy added in, as Harley nodded along.


    ¡°All good options and all true.¡± Harley stated, playing with Sola¡¯s hair. ¡°He seemed impressed though, so I don¡¯t think we¡¯ve got to worry about him failing me or something.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t think that¡¯s even his job.¡± Wess noted, resting a hand on her chest. ¡°But you needn¡¯t worry. We¡¯re on good terms, so I can smooth things over if need be.¡±


    ¡°When have I heard that before?¡± Harley joked, getting some chuckles from the others, as Wess rolled her eyes.


    ¡°Hahaha, you¡¯re very charming¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°¡­so she¡¯s the kid of a noble? Is that the second one this year?¡±


    Interrupting Vent, a gentle and rhythmic, almost practiced knock came from the door, as he sat up in his seat.


    ¡°Come in.¡±


    As to be expected, Wess carried herself into the room, poised and presentable, before making a beeline for Vent.


    ¡°Mr Vent.¡± Wess greeted, going to shake his hand. ¡°A pleasure.¡±


    ¡°Likewise.¡± Vent remarked, not really expecting it, before indicating to the seat opposite and sitting down himself.


    Wess sat down and crossed her legs, facing Vent with a certain stiffness, as Vent checked over his notes.


    ¡°Name?¡±


    ¡°Wess Delacroix Nouvel.¡±


    Impressive name. Vent thought. ¡°And you¡¯re from¡­?¡±


    ¡°Mareau, of the Northern Wayside.¡± Wess answered, putting on a pleasant smile.


    ¡°Okay¡­¡± Vent muttered, writing some things down. This is going very smoothly.


    ¡°What type of Venator are you hoping to become?¡±


    ¡°Hunting Venator. If not, Dueling would be my second choice.¡± Wess replied, as Vent nodded along.


    ¡°Do you have a Whil or weapon? If not, what¡¯s your weapon preference?¡±


    ¡°Uhh, no Whil.¡± Wess insisted, smiling. ¡°And I do have a weapon, Belvedere.¡±


    ¡°¡­which is¡­?¡±


    ¡°A broadsword.¡± Wess answered. ¡°It¡¯s not arrived yet, but once it has, it should be the only weapon I use.¡±


    ¡°Naturally¡­¡± Vent said, before hitting the last question. ¡°And what kind of team are you looking for?¡±


    Wess blinked a little in surprise. ¡°¡­I¡¯m sorry?¡±


    ¡°¡­your Venator team?¡±


    Wess looked somewhat lost, before clearing her throat. ¡°Right¡­capable, I would say.¡±


    ¡°¡­a few more details, please.¡± Vent insisted, as Wess was visibly offended.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know what you want from me. Skilful? Physically gifted?¡±


    ¡°I was talking more about personality, camaraderie. What sort of team would you work best with?¡±


    Wess smiled. ¡°Well, what¡¯s the strongest team you have?¡±


    Vent blinked in surprise, before crossing off that note he made during Harley¡¯s interview, as Wess waved her hand dismissively.


    ¡°I¡¯ll have you know I¡¯m a very good judge of character. Once we pick our teammates, I¡¯m sure our natural abilities would work well with each other. I hardly see why that¡¯s of concern to you.¡±


    Picking teammates? Should I correct her? Vent wondered, with Wess openly smirking, feeling she¡¯d managed to one up him. ¡­maybe not. Might be a good reality check.


    ¡°¡­Wess? Can I give some advice?¡± Vent asked, as Wess kept her smile up.


    ¡°I hardly think I need it.¡±


    ¡°¡­I¡¯m gonna give it anyway.¡± Vent stated. ¡°I can tell the smile¡¯s forced.¡±


    Wess dropped it a little, as Vent leaned back in his seat.


    ¡°Your results in the physical were good, and you clearly have a sharp mind, so you¡¯re getting my recommendation. However, maybe when you¡¯re meeting your team, try not to force it. Find reasons to smile for real.¡± Vent offered. ¡°Okay?¡±


    Wess looked a bit miffed, as she stood up, doing her best to keep her composure.


    ¡°W-Well, that¡¯s your opinion. I shall take it with a grain of salt.¡± Wess let out, turning to the side. ¡°Are we finished here?¡±


    ¡°We are.¡± Vent said, inviting her to the door, as she tried staying quiet as she exited, before Vent heard a little muffled grumbling coming from the hallway.


    In his notes, he simply wrote ¡®attitude problems¡¯ under her name.


    ¡°Seems like a team to humble her would be best¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°¡­who¡¯s next¡­oh, the star pupil of my classes. This should be fun.¡±


    Interrupting Vent, a gentle and rhythmic, very much practiced knock came from the door, as he sat up in his seat.


    ¡°Come in.¡±


    As to be expected, Wess carried herself into the room, poised and presentable, before making a beeline for Vent.


    ¡°Mr Vent.¡± Wess greeted, going to shake his hand. ¡°Seems we¡¯re back here again.¡±


    ¡°That we are.¡± Vent agreed, pointing to the seat, as Wess sat down, getting properly comfortable in it. ¡°Let¡¯s get right into it. Name and team?¡±


    Wess smiled. ¡°Wess Albalux, of Team Valiant.¡±


    Vent looked a bit confused, before pouring over his sheets and finding a note attached to Wess¡¯ document regarding a name change.


    ¡°¡­right. Albalux now.¡± He remarked, thinking on how he preferred her previous name. ¡°And you¡¯re from¡­?¡±


    ¡°Mareau, still.¡± Wess remarked, as Vent raised his eyes at her.


    ¡°¡­gotcha. How have you found your studies?¡±


    Wess gave this some consideration. ¡°¡­if I¡¯m being honest, a mixed bag. I¡¯ve certainly learnt a lot and gotten some much needed experience. However, certain teachers and the attacks have hindered things, both for my team and I.¡±


    ¡°Feel like naming any of those teachers?¡± Vent asked, as Wess smirked.


    ¡°Oh, I¡¯m not falling for that one.¡± Wess let out, sitting back. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, you¡¯re not one of them. I¡¯ve actually found your marketing classes to be some of the most engaging during my education.¡±


    ¡°Well, that¡¯s greatly appreciated.¡± Vent replied. And it looks like you¡¯re putting them to good use.


    Vent scribbled a few things down. ¡°Do you feel you¡¯ve improved over your education?¡±


    Wess went to answer, before smiling to herself and cupping her hands together.


    ¡°¡­unquestionably.¡± Wess replied. ¡°There¡¯s been a lot of growth over the last few years. I¡¯m aware of¡­how I was first coming here. Needless to say, my team has been¡­¡±


    Wess grinned.


    ¡°¡­the best influence in my life. I love them dearly.¡±


    Vent took a second to let that sink in, briefly forgetting he still had a question for her, before snapping back to reality.


    ¡°¡­w-well, I was about to ask whether you¡¯re staying with your team, but that seems to be covered¡­¡± Vent muttered, jotting a few things down. ¡°Where do you see your career going?¡±


    ¡°Well, that¡¯s simple.¡± Wess prepared, counting down on her fingers. ¡°We¡¯re starting with a tour around Daysend, beginning in Central Point, possibly heading to the Southern or Northern Wayside after that. There¡¯s a plan in place for transport, but I¡¯m keeping that somewhat secret for the moment.¡±


    ¡°Even to me?¡± Vent questioned, as Wess wagged her finger.


    ¡°I can¡¯t risk you telling the others. Rest assured, it¡¯s covered. We¡¯ll start off with some smaller work, enough to get our names out there, combined with our presence in the tournament and news on a few occasions. Possibly get some brand deals, use our few connections to professional teams for collaborations, keeping on top of Activ to engage with fans¡­¡±


    Wess checked off a few things in her head. ¡°We¡¯re keeping the structure somewhat loose at first, but consistent. There are possibilities of hiring an agent or joining an agency at some point, but we¡¯ll have to see what works best at the time.¡±


    ¡°¡­well, that hardly surprises me.¡± He said, standing up and holding his hand out. ¡°I had a feeling you¡¯d have this part figured out, considering your results in my classes.¡±


    ¡°Naturally. I¡¯m quite gifted in this area.¡± Wess insisted, standing up to shake his hand, before resting her other hand on his. ¡°And¡­I don¡¯t know how much control you had over the decision, but I want to thank you deeply for pairing me with my current team.¡±


    Vent chuckled. ¡°Merely a recommendation. I like to say they chose you and I¡¯m merely the one who put it into action.¡±


    ¡°Regardless, I¡¯m eternally grateful.¡± Wess thanked, before heading out of the office, giving a small wave as she did.


    Vent had to take a second in his seat, as he fell back into it, before taking off his glasses and covering his eyes.


    He looked over his notes again to distract himself, sniffing a little.


    He found himself crying a few tears, doing his best to keep it to himself and not make it look too obvious.


    ¡°Come on, you¡¯re almost done¡­¡± He muttered, before shaking his head. ¡°I guess there had to be one at some point¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°¡­Florey¡­just for, like, a minute, indulge me.¡±


    ¡°¡­okay?¡±


    ¡°I need you to break it down in laymen terms.¡±


    ¡°I-¡°


    ¡°And not cause I¡¯m stupid, you just talk fast when you¡¯re excited and I don¡¯t know biology shit.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s¡­fine, most people don¡¯t.¡± Florey reasoned, strapping on a pair of goggles, before taking a heavy breath and entering the Wailing storage room, as he handed a pair to Rosalind as well.


    The Wailing was visibly agitated in its cell, somehow looking malnourished even without a fully composed body. Its form was slumped over, barely acknowledging the duo, as Florey clapped his hands together.


    He steeled himself, his back to the Wailing, as he showed the petri dish off to Rosalind.


    ¡°I found a way to keep the Wailing¡¯s body together while I dissect it.¡± Florey explained. ¡°Since its body still produces an obscene amount of water, I can partially freeze it at the right temperature, combine it with this non-destructive chemical compound of so¡­¡±


    Florey noticed he was losing Rosalind, before shaking his hands. ¡°That part doesn¡¯t matter. But¡­it means I can keep its body stable without interfering with my results.¡±


    Florey moved over to a small control panel over on the wall, connected to the cell, and pulled up a few options, plugging in some numbers.


    ¡°There¡¯s a few downsides, though.¡± Florey explained, as Rosalind started to notice how confident he seemed now that he was talking about something he knew. ¡°I¡¯ll need to perform the autopsy at the same temperature, so I¡¯ll be absolutely freezing for most of it. Also, I can only repeat this for Gelatinous Wailing tied to water-based magic.¡±


    ¡°Pretty lucky find then, huh?¡± Rosalind remarked, as she pointed to the boxes behind her. ¡°And these?¡±


    ¡°Coolers for moving the substance up to the lab.¡± Florey explained, now staring back at the Wailing in the cell, then back at the panel. ¡°¡­I mixed some of the compound into the filtration system for the cell. Once I put in the prompt, the cell should freeze over and the Wailing should¡­it¡¯ll¡­¡±


    ¡°Die?¡± Rosalind finished, locking eyes with him. ¡°It¡¯s okay, you can say big boy words.¡±


    ¡°¡­yeah, die.¡± Florey said, noticing himself hesitating, as the Wailing was now staring at what he was doing, trying to study his face.


    Florey tried to keep his cool, holding his hand up in front of the screen, still not pressing it.


    Rolling her eyes, Rosalind reached over and pressed it for him. A white mist started to roll into the cell, filling it up completely, and giving the Wailing just enough time to react.


    It could feel its body fighting itself, finally giving it some of the feeling it was meant to have, before betraying that feeling with pain, running all through it.


    It was dying, and it knew it.


    In a burst of energy, it slammed its massive head into the glass, shuddering it, doing it a few more times for good measure. Florey stepped back, but nothing was budging it.


    As it had before, it turned its head into a massive spike, just visible within the mist, and ready to drive into the glass, fully with the intention to shatter.


    It reeled back, ready to do it, as its body kept pulling it inward, telling it to stop.


    Eventually, its strength gave out, as it collapsed to the floor, huddled over and losing all the intimidation it¡¯d had.


    Lastly, it looked to Florey again, as Florey, despite it not having a face, was able to register one last action across the featureless body.


    Pleading.


    Only once Florey saw this, the Wailing fell limp, its body shuddering for a brief second, before it finally gave out and split apart into smaller chunks, spreading out across the cell in one last death rattle.


    The chunks stayed intact, holding their shape in the way Florey had promised, as Rosalind eventually let herself blink.


    ¡°Went out swinging. Can¡¯t help but respect that.¡± Rosalind remarked, before pointing back at the coolers. ¡°So, right up to the lab?¡±


    ¡°¡­yeah. They¡¯d be best fresh.¡± Florey reasoned, looking back at the cell, the mist now dissipating, before reminding himself of what he was doing¡­


    ¡­this was a Wailing¡­


    ¡­and it had it coming.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Vent patiently tapped his foot, watching the clock tick over to the next minute, waiting for a knock at the door.


    Is she late? Vent wondered, rearranging his things to pass the time. Is this a prank?


    Suddenly, he caught some footsteps outside his office, as he turned around, looking out the window, before seeing Sola standing out in the courtyard, glancing around aimlessly.


    Vent stuck his head out. ¡°Sola?!¡±


    Sola turned to him. ¡°Yeah?!¡±


    ¡°Your interview started two minutes ago!¡±


    ¡°¡­with who?!¡±


    ¡°Me!¡±


    Sola took a second.


    ¡°¡­oh! Hold on!¡±


    It took another few minutes for Sola to finally find where Vent¡¯s office was, as she sheepishly sat down across from him.


    Vent pouted his lips. ¡°¡­there is a map, you know.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Sola asked, before taking out her tablet to check, as Vent groaned and moved on to the questions.


    ¡°Name?¡±


    Sola kept checking her tablet, before lifting her head up. ¡°Huh?¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s your name, Sola?¡±


    ¡°Oh. Sola Lusagi.¡±


    ¡°And where are you from?¡±


    ¡°An orphanage.¡± Sola replied, before realising what he meant. ¡°Oh! Mykonori town.¡±


    Oh boy¡­ Vent realised, as he scratched the side of his head with his personalised pen. ¡°What type of Venator do you want to be?¡±


    Sola blinked in confusion, as she looked down at the floor.


    ¡°¡­the Wailing one? The one that fights Wailing?¡± Sola posited, as Vent kept his face stiff.


    ¡°¡­okay then.¡± He said, marking down ¡®Hunting Venator¡¯ before moving on. ¡°Do you have a weapon at all?¡±


    ¡°Nope!¡±


    ¡°A Whil?¡±


    ¡°Yeah! I shoot lightning out.¡± Sola said, rubbing her head. ¡°That¡¯s kinda the only reason I passed the physical¡­¡±


    Vent was starting to piece everything together, as he began making conclusions in his head. ¡°¡­and what kind of team are you looking for?¡±


    ¡°I get to choose?¡±


    ¡°No, I just make the recommendation based on your preference.¡± Vent explained, throwing his hands up. ¡°Or whoever I think would help balance you out.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± Sola let out, scratching her chin. ¡°I thought we were meant to go solo¡­is that an option?¡±


    ¡°After you graduate. You still have to conduct your studies as a team.¡± Vent explained, giving Sola more to work with.


    ¡°¡­then can you help with that?¡±


    Vent tilted his head. ¡°How so?¡±


    ¡°Who do you think I need?¡±


    Vent looked a bit put on the spot, as he grabbed his notebook and pushed it to his legs.


    ¡°¡­well, from your answers, you don¡¯t seem very¡­put together.¡± Vent blatantly stated. ¡°So¡­a stable team¡­of diverse personalities. Ones to balance out your eccentricities.¡±


    ¡°¡­is that a weird way to say electricity?¡± Sola asked, as Vent shook his head.


    ¡°No, it¡¯s a completely different word.¡±


    ¡°¡­alright, then that.¡± Sola said, nodding happily. ¡°And make them fun!¡±


    ¡°¡­you want to be a Venator, right?¡± Vent rightfully asked, as Sola nodded happily again.


    ¡°Yeah!¡±


    ¡°¡­alright, we¡¯ll be in touch.¡± Vent said, indicating to the door. ¡°And use that map.¡±


    ¡°Oh yeah! I nearly forgot about that.¡± Sola exclaimed, pulling her tablet out as she left, happily waving to Vent.


    Vent fell back into his seat, looking over his numerous notes about Sola and just how unfit she seemed for the position.


    Despite her talent, easy no. He realised, before acknowledging a small note he made about her when she was talking about her team.


    ¡­potential to grow.


    ¡­silently, and somewhat despite himself, he found himself leaving a small tick next to her name.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Does he have to take so long between interviews? It¡¯s only, like, five questions.¡± Harley insisted, still a bit miffed, as Sola looked back at her.


    ¡°Maybe Wess is really selling us in there?¡±


    ¡°Is Vent meant to be hiring us at some point?¡± Harley asked, getting a polite laugh from Percy, while Essex groaned after getting the wrong drink from the machine.


    Harley and Sola quickly noticed, as Sola sat up. ¡°You need help, babe?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m good¡­babe.¡± Essex insisted, still staring at the machine as she bit her finger. ¡°And thank you for the offer.¡±


    The team settled as Vent¡¯s door opened again, with Wess stepping out, looking visibly proud of herself.


    ¡°Nailed it?¡± Julia asked, as Wess grinned back at her and sat down.


    ¡°What do you think?¡± Wess assured, as Harley grabbed her shoulder.


    ¡°Atta girl Wess, show that jerk who¡¯s boss!¡±


    Wess jumped back in her seat, staring at Harley until she let go of her shoulder. ¡°¡­don¡¯t do that, and yes, he¡¯s easy to butter up.¡±


    ¡°Me next!¡± Sola announced, jumping up excitedly. ¡°Gimme that butter!¡±


    Sola held her hands out in front of Julia, as Julia looked around awkwardly, with no idea what to do.


    She seemingly mimed¡­handing Sola some butter?...as Sola turned around to Harley and Wess to do the same.


    ¡°There you are.¡± Wess responded, ¡®handing¡¯ her some, as Harley quickly did the same.


    ¡°You little weirdo.¡± Harley chuckled, as Sola stood right outside of Vent¡¯s door.


    ¡°Let¡¯s do this!¡±


    Vent checked himself in the reflection of his tablet, making sure his eyes weren¡¯t too red, before trying to get back into the right mindset.


    ¡°Honestly¡­I always said I¡¯d be ready¡­¡±


    He almost missed the start of the interview due to his distraction, before calling out.


    ¡°Oh, come in!¡±


    Clearly hyped up, Sola jumped through the door, skipping over to the seat, before immediately getting into it.


    ¡°Let¡¯s do this!¡±


    ¡°¡­someone¡¯s eager.¡± Vent remarked, glancing up from his notebook. ¡°I assumed you found your way here without too much trouble?¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± Sola replied, not really getting it, as Vent cut his losses.


    ¡°Name and team?¡±


    ¡°Sola Lusagi of Team Valiant! Yeah!¡±


    ¡°And you¡¯re from¡­?¡±


    ¡°Mykonori, Eastern Wayside!¡± Sola exclaimed. ¡°Go on, give me the big questions!¡±


    ¡°¡­alright¡­how have your studies been?¡± Vent asked, as Sola pumped her fists.


    ¡°Studying¡¯s boring, but my classes were fun!¡± Sola insisted, before dropping the energy a bit. ¡°Well, some of them. Others weren¡¯t, but that¡¯s okay. I still learned stuff.¡±


    ¡°Good, good¡­and do you feel you¡¯ve improved over your education?¡± Vent asked, as Sola nodded happily.


    ¡°Yeah, I totally have!¡± Sola exclaimed, counting on her fingers. ¡°I¡¯m better with my Whil, I¡¯ve got cool weapons now, I¡¯m part of the best team ever, I¡¯ve got a whole bunch of friends, I¡¯m doing a super secret project with Wess for the others, but you can¡¯t tell them! It¡¯s really secret!¡±


    Vent blinked. ¡°About the secret I don¡¯t know?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t even hint at it!¡± Sola insisted, before counting again. ¡°And I put on a play! It¡¯s been awesome!¡±


    ¡°¡­sounds like it.¡± Vent remarked, scribbling something down. ¡°Now, you mentioned wanting to go solo when I first interviewed you. Is that still your desi-¡°


    ¡°Nope!¡± Sola plainly answered, shaking her head, as Vent quickly crossed something out.


    ¡°Alright then. You¡¯re staying with your team?¡±


    ¡°Duh. I¡¯d be a complete dingus to leave them.¡± Sola stated. ¡°They¡¯re the best!¡±


    ¡°Yes, you¡¯ve mentioned that.¡± Vent commented, before standing right up. ¡°I respect your efficiency. It¡¯s a testament to your improvement. You look a lot more focused these days.¡±


    ¡°I am!¡± Sola assured, sticking out her hand. ¡°Thanks for putting me with the best team ever!¡±


    Vent went to quietly shake it. ¡°¡­I¡¯ll give my recommendation to the whole team, but I¡¯ll just say, your growth has been the most impressive.¡±


    Sola started to blush profusely, before hugging Vent quickly and leaving right after, exclaiming loudly to the others in the hall.


    ¡°Guys! I¡¯m the best, he said I¡¯v¡­¡±


    The door closed, as Vent ran his hands over his face.


    ¡°What¡¯s with all this¡­positivity? I¡¯m not used to it¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­e had the most impressive growth!¡± Sola exclaimed, jumping into Harley¡¯s lap, who immediately hugged her.


    ¡°Way to go, babe!¡± Harley cheered, right as Essex sat down next to her, holding fifteen cans of lemonade, a sunken expression over her face.


    She slowly put them on the ground, as Harley leaned over the seat.


    ¡°Hey Essex?¡±


    ¡°Yes?¡±


    ¡°You want me to show you how to get a coke?¡±


    ¡°¡­I should finish these lemonades.¡± Essex said, staring down at the cans, before Sola leaned over the seats.


    ¡°But do you want those lemonades?¡±


    ¡°¡­no.¡± Essex insisted, before standing straight back up and holding her fists up. ¡°I wish for a coke!¡±


    ¡°Uhh, Essex?¡± Julia said, holding up her tablet. ¡°You¡¯ve still gotta talk to Vent.¡±


    Essex slowly and disappointingly lowered her hands, before Harley gave her a squeeze on the arm. ¡°I¡¯ll get you one for when you¡¯re done.¡±


    ¡°¡­okay.¡± Essex said, assuring herself, before leaning over to kiss Harley¡¯s and Sola¡¯s cheeks and heading for Vent¡¯s door.


    ¡°Knock him dead.¡± Wess assured, scrolling on her tablet, as Essex confidently strode over.


    I have got this.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°¡­and last one for the day. Can¡¯t say I¡¯ll miss it, but it¡¯s sure been interesting.¡±


    A firm knock came from the door, as Vent stretched out, preparing for his last interview of the day.


    ¡°Come in.¡±


    Upon request, Essex opened the door and entered the room, briefly struggling to fit her scythe through the doorway before making her way in.


    ¡°Ms Essex.¡± Vent greeted, sticking out his hand, as Essex went to shake it. ¡°Thank you for meeting with me.¡±


    ¡°Grelo. I thank you for the education.¡± Essex stated, as Vent went to sit back down.


    ¡°You can thank Faller. He¡¯s the one who received your letter about enrolment and offered the scholarship.¡± Vent explained, indicating for Essex to sit down, as she propped her scythe beside the chair. ¡°Seems you¡¯ll be the second Venator from the Segaru Clan in history.¡±


    ¡°¡­dal, it is an uncommon desire for us.¡± Essex clarified, as Vent pointed to the scythe.


    ¡°Even with the provided weapon?¡± Vent remarked, getting no reaction from Essex, before turning his attention down. ¡°Now, this interview¡¯s usually a test of character, but with the scholarship guaranteeing enrolment, we¡¯re just looking for certain details before your education starts.¡±


    ¡°Understood.¡± Essex replied, sitting up straight.


    ¡°Name?¡±


    Essex stood up on instinct and bowed. ¡°Relias, I did not introduce myself properly. Aerlo Decali, my title is Essex.¡±


    ¡°¡­no last name?¡± Vent asked, as Essex nodded back. ¡°Okay, just Essex¡­I guess asking where you¡¯re from wouldn¡¯t make sense¡­what type of Venator are you wanting to study as?¡±


    Essex blinked. ¡°Which are responsible for killing Wailing?¡±


    ¡°Hunting Venators. Professionals in every sense.¡±


    ¡°¡­professionals?¡±


    ¡°Yep.¡±


    ¡°¡­then Hunting Venator.¡±


    ¡°Easy enough.¡± Vent said, tapping his pen and checking the other questions. ¡°Personal weapon¡¯s sitting right there¡­do you have a Whil?¡±


    Essex touched her scythe blade and changed her hand to metal. ¡°Dal.¡±


    Wish they were all this efficient. He thought. ¡°And¡­what type of Venator team are you looking for?¡±


    Essex tilted her head in confusion. ¡°I wish to go solo.¡±


    ¡°Right, but you¡¯ll need a team to study with.¡± Vent clarified, as Essex thought on it.


    Eventually, she came up with an answer.


    ¡°Unintrusive.¡±


    Vent blinked a few times, before making a quick note and standing up. ¡°¡­I¡¯ll see what I can do.¡±


    ¡°Grela. I thank you for the assistance.¡± Essex stated, standing up and bowing again.


    ¡°And we thank you for choosing our academy. Faller said he would send a care package back to the clan before the semester starts.¡± Vent informed, sticking his hand out again. ¡°I have faith you¡¯ll do well in your studies, Essex.¡±


    Essex shook it back. ¡°Relias, but it will not be faith that will aid me.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Vent found himself tapping his foot on the ground rhythmically, shaking his head back and forth in confusion.


    This wasn¡¯t the first time it had happened. Teams got close, that was the nature of Venator education. Often plenty of teams would have relationships in them, or end up forming lifelong connections.


    But, that was usually sequestered to only a few members at a time.


    Not the whole team.


    And certainly not by graduation.


    ¡°¡­sweet Whilit¡­¡±


    Vent didn¡¯t bother to check the time, but he saw Essex¡¯s shadow underneath his door and sat back up.


    ¡°¡­oh right, come in.¡±


    Upon request, Essex opened the door and entered, managing to fit her scythe cleanly through the doorframe, before heading over to Vent and sticking out her hand.


    ¡°Mr Vent.¡± She greeted, as he got up to meet her in kind.


    ¡°Essex, great t¡­¡± He said, only to feel cold metal as he went to shake it.


    It took him a second to register her metallic hand, then another to realise it was a prosthetic.


    He noticed Essex staring at him, before he pulled back awkwardly.


    ¡°S-Sorry, I thought you were using your Whil for a second.¡± He remarked, before recalling the memory. ¡°That¡¯s right. You were¡­¡±


    ¡°Mr Vent?¡±


    ¡°Yes?¡±


    ¡°The interview?¡±


    Vent blinked, before shaking his head and sitting back down. ¡°Right, sorry. Your teammates¡­are interesting. I¡¯m a bit thrown off.¡±


    Vent breathed out, before looking back to his questions as Essex sat down, getting comfortable in her seat.


    ¡°Name and team?¡±


    ¡°Essex. Team Valiant.¡±


    ¡°And I don¡¯t need to ask where you¡¯re from¡­how have your studies been?¡±


    Essex considered the question in full, before leaning forward. ¡°Underwhelming.¡±


    Vent looked a bit shock. ¡°Really?¡±


    Essex nodded. ¡°From an institutional perspective, I feel we¡¯ve been limited and set back due the numerous Wailing attacks, as well as personal circumstances involving our team specifically.¡±


    ¡°In what way?¡±


    ¡°¡­I would ask Faller personally.¡±


    Vent clicked his pen a few times. ¡°¡­I know you took more combat focused classes, were they at least informative?¡±


    ¡°¡­I feel I learned more from my team than any educator.¡± Essex blatantly stated. ¡°But that might be personal bias. We fought a lot of Wailing.¡±


    ¡°More than most teams in your year.¡± Vent pointed out, looking back to his notes. ¡°Do you feel you¡¯ve improved at least?¡±


    Essex cocked her head. ¡°As a Venator in training or as a person?¡±


    Vent shrugged. ¡°I guess either one¡¯s fine in this case.¡±


    Essex nodded. ¡°Then as a person is more meaningful.¡±


    ¡°I did notice you¡¯re missing your ponytail.¡± Vent mentioned. ¡°That¡¯s quite important in Segaru Clan culture, isn¡¯t it?¡±


    ¡°¡­the ponytail is not significant itself, but it¡¯s tied back to the philosophy of Muer and what it holds.¡± Essex clarified, resting her hand on her scythe¡¯s handle. ¡°As of this year¡­I¡¯ve stepped back from their teachings. A little. To know myself better.¡±


    ¡°¡­really.¡± Vent stated, not expecting a response, as he went to move on. ¡°You¡¯ve previously mentioned going solo after graduation. Is that still your decision, or¡­?¡±


    ¡°It isn¡¯t.¡± Essex replied, as Vent crossed off a square on his makeshift bingo sheet. ¡°I have found much worth with my current team, as well as love and security. Individual justice was my old desire, this is my new one.¡±


    Five for five¡­ Vent realised, tapping his pen over and over, before briefly forgetting Essex was there, only to jump to attention and stand back up.


    ¡°G-Great, thank you. I-I¡¯ll give my evaluation when¡­oh, you¡¯re the last one.¡± Vent realised, clearing his throat. ¡°Give me a few minutes, then I¡¯ll call your team back in for my conclusion.¡±


    ¡°Dal.¡± Essex said, bowing and grabbing her scythe, before heading out. ¡°And¡­thank you. My team is very unintrusive.¡±


    Vent stared blank at her as she left, before sinking into his seat once the door closed, unsure how to feel at such a rare phenomenon.


    ¡°¡­once in a blue moon¡­it¡¯s just like Team Spectrum all over again¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    It had been a labour-intensive few hours.


    The transporting of the remains was already a hassle, and the autopsy itself wasn¡¯t much better. Florey sequestered himself in the autopsy room with the remains, meaning Rosalind had to wait outside in the lab, minding her own business until he was done.


    She¡¯d resorted to balancing a few beakers on the end of her sword, holding it out in front of her and nearly dropping them a few times.


    ¡°I could never do this.¡± Rosalind remarked to herself, looking back at the door to the autopsy room. ¡°Credit to the nerd, he knows what he¡¯s good for¡­guess that¡¯s why Wicker likes him¡­¡±


    Right before the beakers were about to fall, the door opened up, with Florey slowly stepping out, his body sunken with exhaustion.


    Rosalind propped the beakers up on the nearby counter, giving him time to wind down, as he found the nearest stool and quietly sat down, staring into nothingness.


    ¡°¡­so, how¡¯s the goo going?¡± Rosalind asked, as Florey shook his head, visibly in disbelief.


    He stayed silent for a while, before finally deciding to speak up.


    ¡°¡­there¡¯s nothing.¡±


    Rosalind squinted her eyes, as she pulled out a lollipop. ¡°Nothing? What do you mean nothing? Didn¡¯t you say you were looking for a disease?¡±


    Florey ran his hands over his face. ¡°¡­they don¡¯t have it. The¡­its body¡­it was just that.¡±


    ¡°Florey, don¡¯t talk like a dipshit.¡± Rosalind insisted, as he threw his hands out.


    ¡°It was the same!!! The same physiology as a regular Wailing!¡± Florey insisted, pivoting to Rosalind. ¡°Nothing to e-even indicate why it¡¯s gelatinous!¡±


    ¡°Bullshit, it can¡¯t be nothing.¡± Rosalind insisted, jumping up on the counter, before Florey started to get pissed.


    ¡°Rosalind, get the fuck off my counter.¡± Florey demanded, as Rosalind caught his tone and gave him the side-eye, before doing so. ¡°¡­that¡¯s it. I¡¯m a failure. I spent a year of my life pursing nothing. I hitched my wagon to a stupid theory that wasn¡¯t even right¡­¡±


    Florey let out a nervous laugh. ¡°And Cecil¡¯s gonna come out of physical therapy, desperate to hear about my brand-new research! My breakthrough, that¡¯s what I called it! That¡¯s what Marcus insisted it had to be!¡±


    ¡°¡­Florey, I dunno shit about science.¡± Rosalind offered up, grabbing her sword, before starting to head out. ¡°But not every idea¡¯s a winner.¡±


    Rosalind held up her sword. ¡°I¡¯m good with this. Really good.¡±


    Then she tapped her metal connecter. ¡°But I still picked the wrong fight.¡±


    Florey stared in surprise, his mouth hung open, as she continued to clear out.


    ¡°Well, it was fun, but my obligations are donezo. Knowing my luck, we¡¯ll get paired up again in the future.¡± Rosalind insisted, mockingly saluting to him. ¡°See you in the next life, nerd boy.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    With her gone, Florey started to feel just how empty the lab really was, as he looked back at the autopsy room, his frustration still getting the better of him.


    In a fit of rage, he grabbed the beakers Rosalind had been playing with and smashed them on the floor, before grabbing a few more things and chucking them around, just trying to make a mess.


    He grabbed a nearby cabinet and toppled it over, as various files and notebooks were strewn about the floor. He ripped his lab coat off his back, bundling it up and throwing it across the room, breathing wildly as he did so.


    Once he did, he got a good look at his lab, now partially in ruins after his outburst, before starting to breathe again, the night sky bleeding in through the skylight.


    He passed by the nearby wash station and saw his face in the mirror. Massive bags under his eyes, some stubble he hadn¡¯t bothered to shave. The days spent without an apartment to go back to really showed¡­


    He took a second, as he ran his hands through his hair to destress, before a bit of the broken beakers crunched under his shoe, drawing his attention.


    He sighed out, before digging under the sink for some paper towels, as he got down and started to clean up the mess, feeling sorry for himself as he did so.


    It was going to be another long night in the lab, it seemed.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Vent had been pacing around his room for a good while. He¡¯d meant to call Team Valiant in a few minutes ago, but couldn¡¯t until he¡¯d collected himself.


    Taking several heavy breaths, he walked over to his door and opened it, sticking his head out into the hall.


    ¡°Valiant, if you would.¡±


    He headed to his desk proper, as Team Valiant all came into the room, taking up space where they could and filling out the room.


    Vent drummed his fingers on the table, as he turned to address everyone, trying not to make direct eye contact.


    ¡°¡­most times when I¡¯m doing this, I have the benefit of seeing students as individuals, meaning I get to see them outside of the ¡®team.¡¯¡± Vent explained. ¡°Also meaning if anyone is lagging behind or doesn¡¯t feel comfortable, I can make a recommendation on their behalf.¡±


    Julia nodded along intently, as Harley and Sola took up the armchairs, Wess leaned on the bookshelf, and Essex stood beside Julia.


    ¡°It also lets me see interpersonal team dynamics, or ¡®problem members¡¯ in some cases. Plenty of members also want to go solo, or change their Venator preference after graduating.¡± Vent carried on, sighing out. ¡°¡­usually, I have more to say at this point.¡±


    Vent leaned forward to address everyone.


    ¡°Valiant, please keep doing what you¡¯re doing.¡±


    Julia let out a surprising sigh of relief, as Wess was a bit stunned by the bluntness of the statement.


    ¡°You all seem set on your career path, you get along very well, and you¡¯re all very accomplished. No notes.¡± Vent assured, standing up now. ¡°I could make a recommendation, but your instincts should fare better.¡±


    ¡°U-Uhh, th-thank you, Mr Vent. That¡¯s really nice to hear.¡± Julia assured, sticking her hand out for him to shake. ¡°I-I don¡¯t think we were gunning for that, but we¡¯ll take it.¡±


    ¡°Hey, no notes is fine by me.¡± Harley insisted, now standing up, as Wess went to shake his hand too.


    ¡°We¡¯ll be sure to write once we make it big.¡± Wess insisted, as Vent laughed despite himself, with Sola jumping up too.


    ¡°Are we the first team to get no notes?!¡± Sola asked excitedly, as Essex joined her side.


    ¡°Is that of great accomplishment?¡± Essex asked, with Vent smiling, before shaking his head.


    ¡°I can¡¯t speak to the teams that came here before I started, but you¡¯re the first of the ones I¡¯ve assessed.¡± Vent insisted, as Julia started blushing.


    ¡°O-Oh geez¡­okay, I think we¡¯ll leave on that.¡± Julia bashfully replied, as the team started heading out, waving to Vent as they left.


    Right as Vent thought he was in the clear, Julia stuck her head back in and grinned.


    ¡°And thanks for everything!¡±


    Vent felt his eye twitch, as she closed the door, and he fell back into his chair, balling up into himself, before finding himself crying again, now letting himself get it all out.


    ¡­in all my years¡­


    BAM!!!


    Faller jumped a bit, as a large sound rung out from his desk, and Vent let go of the few hundred capitals he¡¯d laid onto it.


    He put his hands in his pockets, as Faller went to check the wad.


    He glanced up at Vent. ¡°¡­so you finally got one?¡±


    ¡°Uhuh.¡± Vent replied, grabbing the brim of his nose. ¡°You know the team.¡±


    Faller took a second, before putting it together and smiling.


    ¡°I can¡¯t say I¡¯m too surprised. They¡¯ve had quite the impact on those around them.¡± Faller remarked, taking the capitals and pocketing them.


    ¡°¡­hey. This is pretty small, all things considered¡­¡± Vent prefaced, looking away. ¡°¡­I don¡¯t care what the investors say, I think your teaching style¡¯s a lot better.¡±


    Faller found himself a bit caught off guard, before resettling in his seat. ¡°Well¡­that¡¯s very kind of you, Vent. Thank you.¡±


    Faller tapped the capitals in his pocket. ¡°Doubly.¡±


    Vent sneered, before turning to leave, as he shook his head and muttered to himself.


    ¡°¡­do well, Team Valiant. I think the industry needs you.¡±

 Chapter 65: Graduation

    ¡­it was time.


    It was finally time to head out into the industry.


    Three years of education.


    Several attacks on the academy.


    More classes than she could remember.


    And a team to back her all the way until now.


    But, after all that hard work¡­


    It was time.


    Time to graduate.


    Anticipation built in the air, as she rustled around in her bed, having woken up right before the alarm went off.


    She quickly grabbed her tablet to stop it, before seeing the notification for ¡®Graduation¡¯ on Activ and smiling.


    Rose could barely contain the excitement.


    ¡°After all these years¡­¡± She let out, before hugging her tablet to her chest. ¡°Me and Liddy can finally be in a team together!¡±


    Liddy was having just as much of a tense morning. Her eyes kept flicking to her tablet by her bed, waiting for the notification she¡¯d set up the night before like that would make it come faster.


    The moment it popped up, she went to grab it, before blushing and rolling around on her bed, overwhelmed by happiness.


    ¡°Team Rose and Liddy¡­it¡¯s perfect¡­¡± She sighed, taking a second to breath and sit in the moment, before rolling around on the bed again. ¡°This is going to be so much fun!¡±


    ¡°Guys, we all knew this day was coming, so I don¡¯t wanna belabour the point.¡± Rose insisted, addressing all the other members of Team Champion, still groggy from having just woken up after being dragged from their beds. ¡°I just wanna say thank you for the last few years. I know I was kinda grouchy at first cause I wasn¡¯t with Liddy, but¡­you guys were pretty alright too.¡±


    No one was really paying attention, save for the leader Jake, who was more just taking it in cause he probably should.


    ¡°But¡­with it being graduation today, we finally get to be in the same team, meaning I¡¯ll have to leave you behind. It¡¯ll be a big lose for both you and me, but I¡¯m willing to accept that.¡± Rose admitted, looking pretty remorseful. ¡°¡­also, if it¡¯s cool, I promised to meet up with her this morning, so¡­¡±


    The other members all looked at each other, before eventually to Jake, who just sighed in an expected sort of way.


    ¡°¡­okay. Have fun.¡±


    ¡°Oh, thank you guys! I really mean it!¡± Rose exclaimed, already dragging her suitcases out of the door. ¡°And don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll put in a good word with Faller! You¡¯re a-okay in my book!¡±


    She closed the door behind her, leaving the rest of the team awkwardly sitting in the lounge area, before Jake broke the silence.


    ¡°¡­did anyone ever figure out what her deal was?¡± He asked, as everyone collectively shook their heads.


    ¡°¡­and it¡¯s painful, and it¡¯s sad, and I¡¯ll really miss all of you. But I need to be with my Rose. She¡¯s the dearest, most wonderful, most perfect love of my life, and I won¡¯t hear protests about it!¡±


    Team Glory all stared at each other across the room, each going through their own morning routine separate from each other, as Liddy was only really addressing the leader at the kitchen table, Tom.


    ¡°Li-¡°


    ¡°No, I need to make a clean break! Don¡¯t try to stop me from going!¡±


    ¡°I d-¡°


    ¡°I won¡¯t hear it! Goodbye, everyone! And good luck on your future endeavours! You won¡¯t hear from me again!¡±


    ¡°Li-¡° Tom tried, only for Liddy to slam the door behind, as he lowered the earring of hers he found on the coffee table, before groaning to himself.


    ¡°¡­alright, fuck me I guess.¡±


    ¡°Rose!¡±


    ¡°Liddy!¡±


    ¡°Rose!¡±


    ¡°Liddy!¡±


    ¡°Rose!¡± Liddy exclaimed, running across the hall to her, before jumping into her arms. ¡°It¡¯s finally here!¡±


    ¡°I know, I can¡¯t hold back the joy!¡± Rose insisted, swinging her around. ¡°You look incredible!¡±


    ¡°You look amazing!¡± Liddy replied, as Rose let her down, before they both went in for a quick kiss. ¡°Did you break it off with your team?¡±


    ¡°I did. I know they¡¯re gonna miss me a lot, but it had to be done. You?¡± Rose asked, as Liddy pursed her lips.


    ¡°They really fought me on it, but I stood my ground and left. I couldn¡¯t bear to be without you a second longer.¡± Liddy insisted, as Rose started blushing profusely.


    ¡°¡­oh, there I go again. Blushing at the most beautiful woman in the world complimenting me¡­¡± Rose remarked, as Liddy hid her giggling in her scarf.


    ¡°After all these years¡­¡± Liddy started, before shivering a little. ¡°I¡¯m getting nervous now.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re telling me.¡± Rose agreed, as they both started wheeling their luggage down the hall. ¡°I think I¡¯m ready for it though.¡±


    Liddy grinned back at her. ¡°Ditto.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    It was a pretty groggy wake up for Julia.


    Nothing too unexpected. Harley was out clubbing with Saxin and Lenin until pretty late, only getting back close to midnight, and closing the door just loud enough to accidentally wake Julia up.


    It took a bit until Julia could fall back asleep, especially when she remembered what the next day held in store.


    She woke up, stretching out and finding Harley asleep across from her, having thrown the bedsheets off, splayed out on the floor.


    Julia lightly chuckled, before looking across the bed and seeing the calendar her sister had bought her after her last one was burnt at the academy.


    Today was circled in red.


    ¡°¡­after all this time¡­¡±


    ¡°Pancakes!¡± Milo exclaimed, holding his spatula to his mouth. ¡°Pancake time!¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s pancakes!¡± Julia followed up, holding her own spatula. ¡°Looking fine!¡±


    ¡°Flip ¡®em!¡± Milo sang, dropping one on a plate. ¡°On a plate!¡±


    ¡°Flip ¡®em!¡± Julia continued, dropping another on. ¡°Looking great!¡±


    ¡°Are these done yet, dear?¡± Wess asked, going to grab the plate and head to the kitchen table with the others, before Julia held up her finger.


    ¡°Hold on.¡± Julia said, before laying a slice of butter on top. ¡°There we go, perfection for the perfect lady.¡±


    Wess rolled her eye and smiled. ¡°Buttering me up in two senses.¡±


    Wess went to take her seat at the table, before pulling out her tablet, as everyone else was in the middle of breakfast too, with Julia quickly joining them.


    ¡°So, what¡¯s the plan for today?¡± Milo asked from the kitchen, as Julia leaned over her seat.


    ¡°We¡¯re gonna head back to the academy for the graduation celebration and ceremony and say goodbye to everyone.¡± Julia admitted, as Sola shot up from her seat, quickly swallowing her mouthful of pancakes.


    ¡°Mmm¡­and I¡¯m quitting my job!¡± Sola announced happily. ¡°So I¡¯m heading into Detu City.¡±


    ¡°And I¡¯m making a brief stop to Denilee.¡± Harley explained, waving her fork around. ¡°Angie insisted on coming to the graduation, at least to get out of Denilee. But she doesn¡¯t like travelling alone, so I¡¯m biting the bullet.¡±


    ¡°Which leaves me with some last-minute networking.¡± Wess followed up, still working on her tablet. ¡°Updating Activ, finding some work in the area, the usual.¡±


    Essex nodded along, quietly taking her time with her pancakes, right as Percy stepped out of her room, wearing an oversized shirt and clearly having just woken up.


    She started to register the scene, as Essex waved to her, beckoning her over.


    ¡°Hey, Percy!¡± Julia exclaimed, pulling out a seat. ¡°We made pancakes to celebrate graduation! You want some?¡±


    Percy¡¯s mouth immediately started watering, as she quickly hurried over and took her seat, kicking her feet in anticipation, before Milo handed some off to her.


    ¡°Well, that sounds like a fun day! And Julia, just a heads up.¡± Milo said, as she spun around. ¡°Me, Bell and Madelyn are probably going too, to see you off.¡±


    ¡°M-Mum¡¯s gonna be there?¡± Julia let out, as Milo chuckled.


    ¡°Are you surprised? Don¡¯t worry, we¡¯ll be at the back. We¡¯re not gonna cramp your style.¡± Milo teased, as Julia started to blush.


    ¡°¡­y-you can¡­come see me there. I¡¯m not too cool for that.¡± Julia confessed, hiding herself a little, as Milo took the chance to hug her behind the chair, giving her a loving noogie.


    ¡°I should hope so. You¡¯re gonna be off living it up in your big fancy Venator mansions, sipping on diamond champagne¡­¡±


    ¡°Mansion?¡± Sola let out, as Milo let a giggling Julia go.


    ¡°Yeah, what Venator¡¯s living in a mansion? RV¡¯s more like it.¡± Harley remarked, as Sola started laughing, with Essex cocking her head.


    ¡°Do Venators live in cars?¡±


    Harley shrugged. ¡°Some do. We probably will at some point.¡±


    Wess and Sola very quickly shared a glance, before Wess went back to messaging on Activ, as Percy delighted in her pancakes.


    ¡°¡­s-so good¡­I need more b-before we go¡­¡± Percy let out, joyously sinking into her seat, as Julia finished hers and grinned.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Percy. You¡¯ve always got a seat at the table here.¡± Julia assured, as Percy found her heart genuinely warmed, locking eyes with Julia, before deciding to keep to herself, as the rest of the team started to chat.


    ¡­I don¡¯t have to bring it up if they won¡¯t. Percy admitted, sighing quietly. I know what they¡¯re gonna say. I might as well live in this for as long as I can¡­


    Right as the chatting died down, Julia sat up in her seat, before sticking her hand in the middle of the table. ¡°Alright everyone, let¡¯s give it all we¡¯ve got today. No do overs.¡±


    The others happily joined her, leaning across the table in order to get ready for the day, as they all looked to Julia expectantly.


    Julia smiled, looking back at them, before realising they were waiting on her, as the obvious hit.


    ¡°¡­oh, I forgot to countdown¡­again¡­¡± Julia realised, as everyone started cracking up at Julia¡¯s cuteness, with Julia not really minding, as the thought of spending as much time with these people was all she could think about.


    I¡¯m the happiest person ever.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­Florey?¡±


    He didn¡¯t feel like eating.


    ¡°Hey¡­don¡¯t get so down. It¡¯s not gonna be your last research project.¡±


    He just kinda picked at his meal, staring off into the distance.


    ¡°And I know Ryan at this point. Even if he¡¯s disappointed, he doesn¡¯t show i¡­wait, sorry. That¡¯s not reassuring¡­he won¡¯t be disappointed.¡±


    He finally dropped his fork, before addressing Cassidy proper, as the rest of the break room finally came into view.


    ¡°¡­it was the reason¡­¡± Florey admitted, visibly exhausted, as he leaned onto the table. ¡°¡­that Cecil even hired me. He thought it had merit.¡±


    ¡°¡­well, not every scientist knocks it out of the park with every theory.¡± Cassidy reasoned, taking a bite of her salad, before pointing the fork at Florey. ¡°Okay, I¡¯m gonna give some perspective. How old are you?¡±


    ¡°¡­twenty one.¡±


    ¡°Great, I¡¯m thirty four.¡± Cassidy stated. ¡°I¡¯m nearly twice your age, and if I¡¯m being honest, I only started getting good at my job a few years ago.¡±


    Cassidy waved her fork around. ¡°It seems like the whole world, but remember, you¡¯re young. You¡¯ve got a lot of room to screw up in. And here¡¯s the secret¡­¡±


    Cassidy leaned in, cupping her hand to her mouth. ¡°You don¡¯t stop doing that. Nobody does. You just get better at bouncing back.¡±


    Florey was doing his best to take her advice in, but the sleep deprivation and already sour mood made it difficult.


    Cassidy picked up on this and kept eating. ¡°Different topic. How¡¯s house hunting going?¡±


    Florey blinked awkwardly, before running his hands over his face. ¡°¡­I haven¡¯t even started¡­got too caught in the research¡­¡±


    Florey went to start picking at his food again, as Cassidy felt a tinge of pain in her chest, before reaching a hand out.


    ¡°Hey¡­¡± Cassidy prefaced, before showing her hands. ¡°And it¡¯s cool to say no, but I¡¯ve got extra room at my place. You could stay there while looking for somewhere else to live.¡±


    Florey¡¯s eyes widened, as he went to shake his head on instinct.


    ¡°And before you say anything, I offered¡­and frankly, it would put my mind at ease¡­¡± Cassidy said, before leaning in again in a hurried whisper. ¡°If you weren¡¯t sleeping in the break room.¡±


    ¡°¡­I-I¡¯d be¡­mooching off of you. I don¡¯t¡­¡± Florey started, as Cassidy shook her head.


    ¡°Just until you get off your feet. You¡¯re still doing chores and paying rent.¡± Cassidy reasoned, before throwing her hands again. ¡°If you take the offer. Think on it, please.¡±


    Florey had forgotten about his meal at this point, as Cassidy¡¯s kind offer really threw him off.


    Is it bad that this feels so alien?


    ¡°¡­I-I¡¯ll think on it. Thank you, really.¡± Florey insisted, as Cassidy smiled, before getting up and batting his arm.


    ¡°If I was really putting myself out, I wouldn¡¯t have offered, okay?¡± Cassidy insisted, before checking her watch and heading out.


    Florey watched her leave, still in his own head, despite it throbbing from the stress.


    Talking with her and talking with Rosalind¡­ Florey realised. It¡¯s like night and day¡­


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Where¡¯re the IF¡¯s at?!¡±


    ¡°Two minutes to prep!¡±


    ¡°Okay! We watch these skies all day, no one in or out of the forest, and the moment the alarm goes off, evacuate EVERYONE! No more students getting caught in the mix!¡±


    ¡°Yes, Dulce, right away!¡±


    ¡°And you tell me if Ryan Cecil shows up on campus!¡±


    Dulce inhaled and took a deep sigh, shaking her head in exhaustion.


    ¡°How is everything?¡±


    Dulce lifted her head and saw Coatsworth approaching, as she snapped her fingers. ¡°Coming along. Doing as much as we can after the attack this year.¡±


    Coatsworth took a second to approach with his cane, before staring back up at the main building.


    Dulce noticed the silence. ¡°¡­what if he¡¯s not even alive?¡±


    Coatsworth turned back to her.


    ¡°Or¡­he¡¯s still outta commission. What¡¯re the chances he¡¯d even attack the graduation?¡± Dulce pointed out, as Coatsworth gave a small shrug.


    ¡°I can¡¯t say I understand where he was coming from. Hardly that rational for a scientist¡­¡± Coatsworth remarked, as he gazed back at the building, still mostly under repair, contrasting nicely with the celebratory events taking up most of the campus, and the students and visitors passing through the entrance.


    He couldn¡¯t help but smile.


    ¡°Despite all the damage, it¡¯s still beautiful¡­¡±


    ¡°Hey! Dulce, Coatsworth!¡±


    The duo turned to face Julia, Wess, Essex and Percy, all coming from the direction of the Flash-Rail station, as Dulce waved back.


    ¡°Hey, there you guys are! Where¡¯s Harley and Sola?¡± She asked.


    ¡°Taking care of personal things.¡± Essex clarified, before stepping forward. ¡°And looking good while they do it.¡±


    Dulce found herself cracking up at the delivery, as Julia beelined for Coatsworth. ¡°Is everything taken care of?¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re doing everything we can to avoid another disappointment. Your orientation was ruined, we¡¯d rather not hamper your graduation too.¡± Coatsworth informed, before bowing back to the team and noticing Wess intently on her tablet. ¡°We-¡°


    ¡°Yes, there was a recent name change!...no, our team doesn¡¯t suddenly have a new member also named ¡®Wess¡¯¡­how would I know? Oh for¡­¡±


    Wess pulled her tablet away, before Essex saw her frustration and took the tablet herself.


    ¡°Wess doesn¡¯t wish to speak with you anymore.¡± Essex replied, before hanging up the call and giving Wess a thumbs up.


    Wess took her tablet back. ¡°Thank you, dear. That¡¯s the Energia Agency off the list¡­how do you think Aurora would fair?¡±


    Essex avoided eye contact, as Coatsworth looked at Julia again.


    ¡°I merely wanted to ask how she¡¯s been.¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s been good.¡± Julia assured, as Coatsworth subtly indicated to Percy.


    ¡°And her?¡±


    ¡°Also really good.¡± Julia insisted, waving back to Percy, who was distracted staring at the masses of people flooding into the academy here to celebrate. ¡°Have you guys met?¡±


    ¡°¡­a little. Admittedly, I¡¯m asking on behalf of Faller.¡± Coatsworth clarified. ¡°He wanted to see you, but he understood today was an important day and didn¡¯t want to¡­impose.¡±


    Julia nodded solemnly. ¡°Right¡­¡± Julia let out. ¡°Out of curiosity, is Ferris with him?¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s off campus, actually.¡± Dulce interjected. ¡°For the last several weeks.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Julia let out, as Dulce nodded.


    ¡°Taking care of her alcoholism. She was weirdly receptive to it.¡± Dulce explained, still scouting around. ¡°Faller said she¡¯s still planning to come to the graduation event.¡±


    ¡°Great, that¡¯s really good to hear!¡± Julia beamed, before spotting a few people emerging from the crowd and recognising them.


    She gave a quick wave, before grabbing the others attention. ¡°Sorry, we¡¯ve gotta split. Good luck with event security!¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re a peach!¡± Dulce yelled as they ran off into the crowd. ¡°¡­man, you don¡¯t see a lot of teams like them.¡±


    ¡°I think that speaks to good things.¡± Coatsworth insisted, resting a hand on Dulce¡¯s back. ¡°Let¡¯s make sure today goes smoothly for them.¡±


    Julia and the others cleared through the crowd, finally getting into the main event itself, very reminiscent of the orientation day celebrations. They stopped once they spotted Joleicia, joyously jumping up and down, standing beside Chops.


    ¡°Hey! Over here!¡± Joleicia called out, as Julia ran up to her and hugged her very suddenly. ¡°Whoa, friendly greeting.¡±


    ¡°Hey, where¡¯s my hug?¡± Chops complained, as Julia reached an arm out and pulled them both in.


    ¡°It¡¯s nice seeing you guys¡­¡± Julia assured, while the others filtered in behind her. ¡°I haven¡¯t said it enough, but I really value your friendship¡­¡±


    ¡°Aww¡­¡± Joleicia let out, as Julia broke the hug, and she started fanning her face. ¡°C-Come on, Julia. Don¡¯t make me cry before the g-graduation¡¯s even happened¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not crying. Heart of stone.¡± Chops joked, sharing a smirk with Julia, as Wess came into view. ¡°Hey. How¡¯s biz with you?¡±


    ¡°The usual. Everyone¡¯s a nitwit except for me.¡± Wess grumbled, hanging up another call, before turning to Joleicia. ¡°You wouldn¡¯t happen to have some industry connection you could share?¡±


    ¡°Of course I do. Anything for you, Wess.¡± Joleicia said, chucking her tablet Wess¡¯ way, as Wess felt her heart flutter.


    ¡°Joleicia, I love you.¡± Wess insisted, scrolling through her contacts, before Joleicia spotted Percy, almost looking like she was hiding herself.


    ¡°Hey, Percy! Didn¡¯t know if you were coming.¡± Joleicia exclaimed, as Percy looked a bit caught off guard, before giving a friendly wave. ¡°Are you still staying with Valiant?¡±


    Percy took a second to understand what she meant by the question, before she saw everyone looking at her and panicked to answer quickly.


    [Y-Yes, I¡¯m living with¡­Julia¡¯s house.] Percy replied, as Joleicia nodded, before going back to chatting with Julia, as Percy let out a sigh.


    Sweet Whilit¡­I shouldn¡¯t have come¡­


    Essex, while not wanting to admit to it, was doing her best to casually stand guard for a possible worst-case scenario. The only thing she didn¡¯t predict, despite its familiarity, was the feeling of Saxin suddenly hugging her from behind.


    ¡°Good morning, Team Valiant!¡± She sang, with Lenin hanging back behind her. ¡°Essex, how are you this day?¡±


    ¡°Deeply cautious.¡± Essex confessed, trying to turn around in the tight hug, as Saxin cooed.


    ¡°There¡¯s that beautiful honesty.¡± Saxin admired, before pulling back and joining Lenin¡¯s side.


    ¡°You reckon Wic-uhh, I mean¡­evil man¡¯s making an appearance?¡± Lenin asked, as Essex grabbed her scythe.


    ¡°I refuse to let my guard down regardless.¡± Essex insisted, before looking around. ¡°Where¡¯s Nathaniel?¡±


    ¡°Oh, he volunteered for the dunk tank out of panic.¡± Saxin explained.


    ¡°Poor fella. He thought it meant for the whole day, so until he realises he can leave, he¡¯s stuck there.¡± Lenin clarified, as Essex grimaced, before Chops clapped her hands.


    ¡°Hey, who wants candy apples?¡± Chops insisted, as Julia and Percy both started salivating.


    ¡°I-I mean¡­we had some plans.¡± Julia started, before shrugging. ¡°They can wait though. Lead the way.¡±


    ¡°Lead it I shall.¡± Chops said, now leading the group, before subtly spying on Percy, noticing her general apprehension, but continued closeness to the others.


    ¡­oh. I see. Chops realised, before smiling. I think she worries too much.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Hey, check it!¡±


    ¡°Tyson, you look dumb as shit.¡±


    ¡°Shut up, no I don¡¯t!¡±


    Virgil kept a very close eye on the front entrance of his shop, as a few teens made their way inside, dressed in¡­


    ¡­hooligan clothing? I feel ancient using that word. Virgil noted, as they immediately went to the counter, before pointing at the spray paint sitting behind Virgil.


    ¡°Hey, uhh, w¡­shut up, man, I¡¯m doing it!¡± Tyson laughed, as his friend kept trying to distract him. ¡°Yeah, just the spray paint.¡±


    Virgil kept a close eye on them. ¡°¡­are you older than eighteen?¡±


    ¡°Tch¡­yeah.¡± Tyson replied, loudly chewing some gum, before fishing his ID out of his pocket.


    Virgil could immediately tell it was a fake, as he simply shook his head and turned around.


    Business is business. They¡¯d probably steal some otherwise. He reasoned, grabbing a can, as Tyson¡¯s friends started to clear out.


    ¡°Hurry up, Tyson! Fuckin¡¯ loser!¡± They called out, as Tyson flipped them off, before chucking some capitals on the counter and going to grab the can from Virgil.


    The moment he did, Virgil gripped the can tightly, holding him in place.


    ¡°¡­kid, listen.¡± Virgil said. ¡°¡­we both know what you¡¯re going to do with that.¡±


    Tyson started to sweat, as he kept chewing his gum. ¡°¡­yeah?¡±


    Virgil took on a completely serious expression. ¡°What you do is your business, but I encourage you to at least be smart about it.¡±


    Tyson smirked a little, as he looked like he was about to chat back, only for Virgil to tighten his grip and yank the can back.


    ¡°Don¡¯t just throw up your bullshit tag on a tucked away overpass cause you can, do something with meaning behind it.¡± Virgil insisted, refusing to break eye contact. ¡°If you¡¯re sloppy, the cops will find you in an instant, and you¡¯ll just be a typical vandal in cuffs, no more impressive than anyone else.¡±


    Virgil ripped the can away, before gently placing it back in Tyson¡¯s hands.


    ¡°So do something worth getting caught over, alright?¡±


    Tyson gave him the once over, genuinely thrown off by Virgil¡¯s stare, before silently nodding and pulling himself away.


    ¡°¡­fuckin¡¯ weirdo.¡± Tyson mumbled, heading out, as Virgil watched him leave, before sighing out.


    ¡°Never the right spirit¡­¡± Virgil bemoaned, just as the doorbell rang again, with Sola hopping through, holding a few rolled-up papers.


    ¡°Hey Virgil! How¡¯s business?¡±


    ¡°¡­it¡¯s business.¡± He bemoaned, grabbing the papers from Sola. ¡°I¡¯m surprised you¡¯re here today. It¡¯s graduation.¡±


    ¡°I know, I¡¯m quitting!¡± Sola exclaimed, as Virgil had to take a second for the bluntness.


    ¡°¡­r-right, right, I shouldn¡¯t be surprised. You¡¯ll be heading out soon.¡± Virgil clarified, as Sola noticed his saddened expression.


    ¡°¡­I¡¯m really sorry.¡± Sola apologised, as Virgil was visibly surprised.


    ¡°What for?¡±


    Sola touched her fingers together. ¡°I started working here so you¡¯d have time to train and join the Venator Academy. But it hasn¡¯t happened yet¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­I know. But I greatly appreciate the effort you¡¯ve put in.¡± Virgil insisted, smiling a little. ¡°I didn¡¯t even ask for the help, you offered it. You¡¯re one of great quality.¡±


    Sola started blushing a lot, as she tried to cover her face.


    ¡°Aw shucks¡­¡± Sola let out, as Virgil shook his head, before placing his hand on his chest.


    ¡°I mean it. I don¡¯t feel like taking you for granted.¡± Virgil insisted. ¡°So I, Virgil Blacklock Abandonal, solemnly promise to be a dear friend for life. If you ever need any help, feel no hesitation in reaching out.¡±


    Sola was actively tearing up now, as she tried wiping it away with her jacket sleeve.


    ¡°D-Dangit, the waterworks were meant to s-start at graduation.¡± Sola admitted, cleaning herself up, as Virgil found himself chuckling, before finally getting into the papers Sola had grabbed.


    ¡°We can talk about your uniform deposit and references after your graduation. I don¡¯t want t¡­¡± Virgil started, before noticing an envelope in the middle of the papers, with the Venator Academy logo over it.


    He went silent briefly, as he opened it up and started reading the letter inside, before gasping and nearly falling backwards.


    The letter dropped to the floor, as Sola¡¯s happiness switched to panic.


    ¡°What?! What is it?!¡±


    Virgil shakily grabbed the letter, before holding it up and starting to smile.


    ¡°¡­I-I-I got in¡­¡±


    ¡°WHAT?!¡± Sola exclaimed, before jumping into a hug. ¡°Actually?! You did it!¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s finally here¡­seven years of waiting¡­I passed my tests¡­¡± Virgil managed to get out, looking back at Sola. ¡°I-I don¡¯t really know how to take it.¡±


    ¡°Celebrating, that¡¯s how!¡± Sola exclaimed, before gasping loudly and jumping up. ¡°You should come to the graduation! It¡¯s basically a big celebration at the academy already!¡±


    ¡°O-Oh, right. That makes sense.¡± Virgil agreed, standing back up, before staring at the acceptance letter again, still taking it all in.


    He held himself up on his counter. ¡°Well then¡­it seems only appropriate you quit today, since I¡¯m¡­going to have to shut down the store anyway.¡±


    Sola blinked in shock. ¡°Really?¡±


    Virgil solemnly nodded. ¡°Well, I can¡¯t keep running it alone and training at the same time. Just one was enough to exhaust me.¡±


    Virgil rubbed his chin, starting to think through his options. ¡°I have enough savings to get me through my education, but¡­it¡¯ll be a shame to shut it down. I¡¯m grown quite comfortable here.¡±


    Sola pumped her fists in annoyance. ¡°Man! If I wasn¡¯t becoming a Venator, I¡¯d totally take over for you!¡±


    ¡°Another very nice gesture, Sola.¡± Virgil stated, running his hand on the wall, before sighing out. ¡°¡­thank you, pops. You made it all a bit easier.¡±


    Sola could see Virgil was having a moment and made the conscious decision not to pry, as Virgil headed into the backroom, turning to Sola.


    ¡°I¡¯m gonna start cleaning it. It¡¯ll help me think through shutting down the shop.¡± Virgil said. ¡°You¡¯re free to stay, but I wouldn¡¯t want to hold you up on such an important day.¡±


    He left Sola alone, as she tried to peer into the backroom to check on him, before sighing out.


    ¡°I wish it could stay open, at least to make him happy.¡± Sola moped, before pumping her fists. ¡°One more kind deed! Let¡¯s do it!¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    To put it simply, it was certainly the perfect day for it.


    Baron rarely painted the sky. He liked to take his time, but the sky had a tendency to change frequently, and he could barely keep up with it. He liked observing it but could never capture its beauty, or even do his best to emulate it.


    ¡°Hey, Baron!¡±


    However, with it being graduation day, it felt like the right time to try. A great change, something that, admittedly, felt like it was never gonna come, but was an inevitable as the weather. The perfect metaphor.


    ¡°Baron, what¡¯re doing?¡±


    Maybe it¡¯s right t-


    ¡°Baron!¡±


    ¡°Edward, shut your goddamn mouth.¡± Baron demanded, as Edward promptly backed down.


    ¡°Oh sorry B-¡°


    ¡°Apologising counts as not shutting up.¡± Baron stated, as he slowly counted down on his fingers, before pointing to Edward.


    ¡°¡­u-uhh, I just didn¡¯t know if you noticed Duke isn¡¯t here.¡± Edward let out, as Baron looked back from the balcony, observing the mostly empty room. ¡°Henry and George too, but that¡¯s pretty typical.¡±


    ¡°He hasn¡¯t been here all day.¡± Baron noted, before staring at Edward. ¡°He¡¯s probably out playing those carnival games they set up.¡±


    ¡°I-I know, it¡¯s just that it¡¯s graduation, so¡­¡±


    Baron refused the blink, before turning back around to his canvas. ¡°Are you saying you want to go find him?¡±


    Edward scratched his neck awkwardly. ¡°Not especially, but I can.¡±


    ¡°¡­do whatever you want. I don¡¯t feel like dictating today.¡± Baron admitted, as Edward gave a quick salute, even though Baron¡¯s back was turned.


    ¡°You got it, boss! I¡¯ll drag him if I have to!¡± Edward insisted, leaving right out the door, as the room suddenly deafened with how quiet it was.


    Baron gave it a second to make sure Edward didn¡¯t stick his head back in, before letting out a breath.


    ¡°If he was smarter, he¡¯d used his Whil to make handcuffs¡­¡± Baron remarked, staring at the canvas.


    He did his best to get back to painting, only to feel the enthusiasm leave his body with the sky changing on him again.


    ¡°¡­maybe another day¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°We¡¯ve gotta get the name out there!¡±


    ¡°Our names?¡±


    ¡°Yeah! They¡¯ll be our team names after all!¡±


    Liddy tilted her head, as they walked down the academy halls. ¡°Won¡¯t that be enough?¡±


    Rose paused briefly, before scratching her chin. ¡°¡­yeah, I guess so.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m more curious where we should go first. You wanna stay in Central Point?¡± Liddy asked, walking with linked arms, as Rose scratched her chin.


    ¡°¡­nah, it¡¯s gonna be way too competitive with all the new graduates.¡± Rose reasoned, before facing Liddy again. ¡°Let¡¯s go to the Southern Wayside! That place is teeming with Wailing!¡±


    ¡°Y-You wanna fight them right away? We¡¯ll only be a team of two.¡± Liddy pointed out, as Rose quickly kissed her.


    ¡°And they won¡¯t suspect a thing!¡±


    Oh boy¡­ Liddy realised, staring back at Rose hyping herself up. So pretty, so dumb¡­


    As they carried on with their walk, Team Valiant and Team Vanguard passed by them, walking in the opposite direction back outside, as Julia spun around to talk to the others.


    ¡°Alright, anyone else have things they wanna do before the graduation?¡± Julia asked, as Chops raised a hand.


    ¡°As a show of good will, we should probably free Nathaniel from that dunk tank.¡± Chops noted, as Joleicia eyes widened.


    ¡°I totally forgot that! Poor Nath!¡± She insisted, now running off. ¡°First priority, sorry guys!¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s cool!¡± Julia called out, facing the others, as Wess sighed in disappointment.


    ¡°I was going to go visit that reading spot Joleicia and I have, but I guess this is more important.¡± Wess noted, as Saxin sprung to life, before bumping Lenin¡¯s arm and pointing in Wess¡¯ direction.


    Lenin took a second to understand what she meant, before realising and spotting a good moment.


    ¡°A-Actually, Wess, since you¡¯re free, can we¡­talk for a second?¡± Lenin asked, as Wess looked up from her tablet curiously.


    ¡°¡­sure?¡±


    Lenin looked around for an empty classroom, before pulling Wess and Saxin in there, as Chops clicked her tongue.


    ¡°I should go help Joleicia. Nath¡¯s weirdly stubborn when he wants to be.¡± Chops said, grabbing Julia¡¯s attention, before waving her tablet in Julia¡¯s face. ¡°Hey.¡±


    Julia read over it and realised Chops had set up a group chat on Activ for both teams.


    ¡°We¡¯re not gonna see each other as much, but I swear to Whilit, we¡¯re not losing touch.¡± Chops insisted, smiling very genuinely. ¡°So if you¡¯re in the area, or vice versa, reach out and let¡¯s meet up.¡±


    Chops looked around, before leaning into Julia¡¯s ear. ¡°I¡¯m only saying this cause Wess is gone, but you guys are the coolest people I know.¡±


    Julia found herself too touched to respond properly, as she pulled out her tablet and opened up the group chat.


    Chops took the moment to wave and split off, heading in Joleicia¡¯s direction, before getting a message.


    She opened up the group chat.


    Julia [Let¡¯s hang out real soon, you nerd.]


    Chops cracked a smile, blushing despite herself, before shaking her head.


    ¡°Oh Chops. What did you do the deserve friends like that?¡± She let out, before continuing on her trek, right a-


    ¡°WHAT?!¡±


    Julia, Essex and Percy jumped at the sudden shouting coming from the classroom.


    ¡°Y-Y-Y-Y-You¡¯re the¡­th-the former¡­¡± Wess blurted out, struggling to even compose herself, before going to bow on instinct.


    ¡°No, stop it. Don¡¯t do that.¡± Lenin insisted, rubbing his face. ¡°This is why I didn¡¯t wanna tell¡­¡±


    ¡°She can take it. Yes¡­he¡¯s the former prince.¡± Saxin explained, as Wess shook her head in disbelief.


    ¡°Th-This is so strange¡­Graham e-even had a plate with your face on it¡­¡± Wess admitted, as Lenin threw his head back.


    ¡°Yeah, everyone did.¡± He said a bit loudly, before Saxin squeezed his arm. ¡°¡­sorry. I didn¡¯t want things to be weird, cause we¡¯re friends, but you also deserved to know as a¡­former Northern noble.¡±


    ¡°¡­I¡¯m more shocked I didn¡¯t pick up on it before.¡± Wess bemoaned, as Saxin raised a finger to her lips.


    ¡°But we would appreciate if you kept this to yourself. We don¡¯t really want this being public.¡± Saxin stated, as Wess nodded along.


    ¡°I perfectly understand. And¡­thank you for trusting me with this.¡± Wess said, as Lenin started putting his contacts back in.


    As he held his head back, Wess found herself wincing slightly, visibly in pain.


    ¡°¡­I¡¯m sorry, this is still so strange.¡± Wess admitted, as Lenin chuckled.


    ¡°Don¡¯t I know it.¡± Lenin said, as Julia popped her head in the door.


    ¡°Wess? Are you good in here?¡±


    ¡°Very good, please leave!¡± Wess insisted, trying to cover Lenin as quickly as possible, as Julia took the hint.


    ¡°A-Alright.¡± Julia let out, before sighing and joining back with Essex and Percy. ¡°Something private. She¡¯s okay.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s good. Wicker has not made an appearance, but this would be an ideal time with Harley and Sola still away.¡± Essex reasoned, grabbing her scythe out, before noticing Percy¡¯s apprehensive face.


    The story has been taken without consent; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.


    She lowered it, as Julia rested a hand on Percy¡¯s shoulder. ¡°And if any of us can hold their own perfectly fine, it¡¯s Harley and Sola.¡±


    Percy quietly nodded, not directly looking at Julia, as Julia noticed, but decided not to say anything. While looking over Percy¡¯s shoulder, she quickly spotted a good friend in the distance, walking beside their team.


    ¡°Hey, there¡¯s Donovan.¡± Julia let out, turning back to the two. ¡°I¡¯m gonna go meet up with them before the event. I¡¯ll catch back up later.¡±


    Julia gave Essex a quick hug, before running off toward Team Instinct while Percy went to join with Wess, only for Essex to grab Julia¡¯s sleeve and hold her in place.


    ¡°A-Actually¡­¡± Essex prefaced, blushing slightly, as Julia stopped and turned around. ¡°Just¡­before you go¡­¡±


    Julia waited as Essex sheepishly reached into her bag slung over her shoulder, before pulling out what looked like¡­


    ¡°¡­wha¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡­made this¡­for you¡­¡± Essex admitted, holding out a plushie for Julia.


    Julia slowly took it into her hands. To her surprise, it looked just like¡­


    ¡°M-Maxie¡­¡± Julia let out, already tearing up slightly. The craftsmanship wasn¡¯t nearly as sharp as Maxie¡¯s, and the proportions were a bit off, but Julia truly didn¡¯t care at all.


    This was one of the nicest gifts she¡¯d ever received.


    ¡°¡­I have been getting better in my textile classes¡­and plan to keep improving said skills, even outside of the academy.¡± Essex confessed, visibly embarrassed. ¡°While I am still working on our Venator outfits, I have been making this in my spare time¡­¡±


    Julia found herself stunned into silence again, hugging the plushie to her body, as she tried to clean herself up, at least to properly thank Essex.


    ¡°¡­d-does it have a name?¡± Julia asked, as Essex shook her head. ¡°¡­do you wanna name it?¡±


    Essex looked a bit put on the spot, before bowing her head in thought.


    ¡°¡­Lesse-¡° She started, before forcibly stopping herself.


    Giving it a bit more thought, she ruminated on the best name she could come up with.


    She let out a breath.


    ¡°¡­M-Maxie¡­¡± She said, before pointing right at it. ¡°¡­two.¡±


    ¡­


    There was a moment of silence between them, as Essex worried that she¡¯d made a mistake, before Julia lifted it up in her arms and held it above her.


    ¡°Welcome to the team, Maxie Two.¡± Julia grinned, looking back at Essex, before hugging her deeply. ¡°¡­thank you for everything¡­¡±


    Essex found herself welling up as well, before spotting Donovan ducking from view and breaking the hug to indicate it to Julia.


    ¡°R-Right.¡± Julia realised, still blushing heavily, as she tried to remember where she was.


    Essex found herself laughing a little at Julia¡¯s cuteness, before waving and joining back up with the others. Julia still found her thoughts lingering back to Essex, as she stared back down at Maxie Two in her arms.


    With a renewed vigour, she turned around to continue her previous goal. She sprinted down the hall, trying to keep pace before Donovan disappeared into a nearby classroom, catching them at just the right time.


    ¡°Donovan, wait!¡± Julia called out, taking a second to catch her breath, as they turned around the face her.


    ¡°Hey, Alpine. I thought you¡¯d be with your team today.¡± Donovan insisted, before pointing at Julia¡¯s arms. ¡°Where¡¯d you win that?¡±


    Julia stood back up, holding Maxie Two with one hand and placing her other on her chest.


    ¡°I-I just wanted to catch you and say I really valued your friendship over these last few years and that you¡¯re a real inspiration to me as a leader!¡± Julia blurted out, causing Donovan to freeze in place. ¡°I know our leading styles are pretty different, but I have so much respect for you and wanna wish the best for the future! And I know it¡¯s weird hearing all of this at once, but I¡¯m trying to get better at emotional honesty and letting people know I care about them!¡±


    Julia finally finished, letting herself breathe, as Donovan mostly just stood there, taking everything in.


    As Julia noticed the awkwardness seeping in, the classroom door opened up, with the rest of Team Instinct staring blankly at Julia, having caught most of that.


    Donovan soon noticed, before rolling their eyes and ushering them back in.


    Right as Julia thought they were going to leave without a word, Donovan stepped back a bit, with a slight hint of nervousness.


    ¡°¡­I¡¯m¡­not very good with emotional honesty either.¡± Donovan admitted, avoiding eye contact. ¡°You know me, pretty stiff. So¡­¡±


    Donovan let a breath out.


    ¡°Thank you¡­for being my first real friend¡­let¡¯s keep it up.¡±


    Donovan ducked into the class right after, as Julia only now realised just how much she was breathing.


    She took a second to calm herself, acknowledging just how¡­


    ¡­happy she was.


    A far cry from a few years ago.


    An emotional outburst like that and a gift from Essex would¡¯ve left her a stuttering mess, unable to even offer up a decent thank you.


    ¡­is this what growing up is? Julia wondered, looking back in the direction of Team Valiant. Is it fair to say I earned this? I feel like I haven¡¯t even done much yet¡­


    Quickly, she remembered her sessions with Ms Winters, before focusing on her breathing.


    ¡­no, I did earn this. People can love you, and you can love yourself. You love your friends, you love your family, you love your team. Same you, better life¡­


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    He didn¡¯t feel like doing his work.


    ¡°¡­god dammit¡­¡±


    Compared to what he was doing before, it felt so mundane. Purposeless. Just tasks to keep him busy.


    ¡°¡­no¡­no¡­ugh, come on already¡­¡±


    He finally got out of his seat and walked around, trying to take his mind off things. The lab felt noticeably empty without Rosalind to bounce off of, or stimulating work that kept him thinking.


    He passed by the mirror and noticed his facial hair coming through, still having not bothered to shave it.


    ¡­so scruffy¡­I look like dad¡­ Florey realised, just as the lab doors opened up, with a surprising face coming through.


    Cecil.


    ¡°C-Cecil.¡± Florey blurted out, as he made his way further into the lab, now walking with a cane, and Marcus beside him, helping him walk along.


    ¡°Florey¡­how¡¯ve you been?¡± Cecil asked, slowly making his way inside. ¡°I¡¯m sorry I haven¡¯t checked in sooner. Recovery¡¯s been slow going.¡±


    Florey rubbed his neck. ¡°Th-That¡¯s fine, take your time. I¡¯m not¡­s-sorry, should I¡­?¡±


    Florey went to help him walk, only for Marcus to raise a hand, insisting he had it under control. He eventually led Cecil to a nearby seat, giving him a rest.


    Once Marcus was sure he was okay, he quietly left soon after, only sharing a brief glance with Florey as he did.


    ¡°I¡¯m not interrupting work, am I?¡± Cecil asked, as Florey waved his hands profusely.


    ¡°N-No no, you¡¯re fine.¡± Florey insisted, as Cecil nodded.


    ¡°That¡¯s good. Marcus caught me up on the state of your research project.¡± Cecil admitted, getting comfortable and laying his cane across his legs, as Florey started to shrink into himself.


    ¡°¡­y-yeah¡­it was a bust¡­¡± Florey admitted, still standing uncomfortably, as Cecil noticed but didn¡¯t say anything.


    ¡°¡­I¡¯m sorry I haven¡¯t been more present.¡± Cecil stated, looking away. ¡°I¡¯ve been quite busy here and at the academy, but you¡¯ll happy to know I¡¯m no longer working there, so¡­I can oversee your work more personally.¡±


    Florey was still distracted by his disappointment and forgot to respond for a second. ¡°¡­oh, g-great, that¡¯s good to hear.¡±


    Cecil tilted his head, as what he had suspected was very much happening, before going to stand back up.


    Florey instinctively went to help him up, before he raised his hand similarly to how Marcus had.


    ¡°Florey, do you feel like going on a trip with me?¡± Cecil asked, as Florey found himself short of an answer.


    ¡°R-Right now?¡±


    ¡°You said you weren¡¯t busy.¡± Cecil insisted, smiling, before beckoning him to follow out of the lab.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Sola<3 [HEY! I QUIT MY JOB!]


    Cutie @}->-- [Good work? Was Virgin cool with it?]


    Sola<3 [Yeah! He also got into the academy1 And hes shuttin down the store since he¡¯ll be to busy!]


    PillowPrincess [Are you coming straight back to the academy? -Wess]


    Cutie @}->-- [*Virgil, sry, that¡¯s a really embarrassing typo]


    Sola<3 [Yep ill be right back!]


    <3Steeler [Good job babe. I hope Virgin was cool with it.]


    PillowPrincess [We¡¯re currently exploring the food stalls with Team Vanguard. Text us once you¡¯re back and we can meet up. -Wess]


    <3Steeler [Virgin.]


    <3Steeler [Virgin.]


    <3Steeler [Virgil.]


    Harley caught her tablet buzzing in her pocket, before reading back over the group text and smiling. Denilee was just starting to approach in the window, as she replied back.


    ¡°On ya¡­babe¡­show Virgin¡­who¡¯s the boss¡­¡± Harley typed, cracking herself up, as the Flash-Rail pulled into the station.


    Harley got up and headed to the doors, reading to duck out, only for them to open, and for her to come face to face with Angie.


    ¡°Angie, he-¡°


    ¡°Nope, back inside. We¡¯re heading straight back.¡± Angie insisted, pushing Harley back into the carriage and sitting down. ¡°I need OUT of Denilee, like, right now!¡±


    ¡°Did something happen?¡± Harley said, sitting across from her, as Angie threw her hands out.


    ¡°No, I¡¯m just SO cramped! There¡¯s nothing to do, and all my money¡¯s going into freakin¡¯ nursing school, and it¡¯s, like, forever until I graduate.¡± Angie complained, sinking into her chair.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t it an online degree? Can¡¯t you take it anywhere?¡± Harley asked.


    ¡°¡­yeah, but there¡¯s in person stuff I need to do for it that¡¯s out of town. So money goes to travelling for that, then staying the night, then basic living things, then I go back and spend all my money back at home again. It¡¯s¡­ugh, I¡¯m just so tired.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll bet. If you need, I¡¯ve got some extra funds.¡± Harley offered, as Angie threw her hands up.


    ¡°Nope, you¡¯re graduating. That money¡¯s for Team Valiant, not sweet old me.¡±


    ¡°You just sai-¡°


    ¡°Harley, I know you¡¯re worried about me, but I can still take care of myself.¡± Angie insisted, before leaning forward. ¡°In fact, I just lined up a really good opportunity, one that lets me travel and make money.¡±


    Harley¡¯s eyes lit up. ¡°Great! Did you get a new job?¡±


    Angie nodded. ¡°I don¡¯t wanna brag or anything, but I just got in on a startup that¡¯s, like, so gonna make it big. Really fun company, they sell supplements for health and stuff, and it¡¯s all about being your own boss and taking control of your life.¡±


    Harley¡¯s excitement started to die down, as she pursed her lips. ¡°¡­uhuh.¡±


    ¡°So you go around, selling the product, and while you¡¯re selling, you also get to recruit more people for the company. So you¡¯re selling and growing the business at the same time.¡± Angie suggested, as Harley¡¯s concerns were immediately validated. ¡°It¡¯s like, a really smart business model.¡±


    Angie started twirling her hair. ¡°I haven¡¯t recruited anyone yet, but they encouraged I do with family members or ¡®people desperate to invest in their future,¡¯ their words not mine.¡±


    ¡°¡­okay.¡± Harley started. ¡°So¡­just out of curiosity, if you were to describe the¡­structure of the business¡­?¡±


    ¡°Well, there¡¯s the founder, he¡¯s at the top.¡± Angie said, counting on her fingers. ¡°Then there¡¯s the executives below him, then there¡¯s the first layer of recruiters, the second layer¡­so I guess a big triangle?¡±


    ¡°Or¡­a pyramid?¡± Harley offered, as Angie thought about it for a second.


    ¡°Yeah I gu¡­¡± Angie said, only to stop herself, as the realisation washed over her. ¡°¡­oh. Oh no¡­¡±


    Angie started counting in her head, as her eyes started to well up, before immediately bursting into tears and falling over toward Harley¡¯s lap.


    ¡°Aww, come here.¡± Harley said, reaching over to hug her. ¡°There there¡­¡±


    ¡°I-I¡¯m so stupid!¡± Angie cried, sniffing loudly and lifting her head. ¡°You l-leave me alone long enough and I¡¯ll just j-join a flipping pyramid scheme! W-Why do I suck at having money?!¡±


    ¡°Hey, hey, don¡¯t talk about my friend that way.¡± Harley insisted, grabbing Angie¡¯s shoulders. ¡°Look at you. You¡¯re smart, sexy, and you¡¯ve got a big heart. Those kinda schemes always prey on nice people like you.¡±


    ¡°But I didn¡¯t have to fall for it!¡± Angie insisted, falling back to Harley¡¯s lap. ¡°I just wanna finally move out and make something of myself!¡±


    Angie was consumed in her grief, as Harley rubbed her back comfortingly.


    Geez, Angie. You¡¯re just too giving. Harley thought. There¡¯s gotta be somew¡­


    In that instant, Harley shot out of her seat, before dancing around happily.


    ¡°Wait! Wait wait wait, I¡¯ve got an idea! I know somewhere you can work!¡± Harley insisted, as Angie faced her again.


    ¡°R-Really?¡± Angie sputtered, before leaning over in her seat. ¡°I¡¯ll take anywhere, really. I¡¯m desperate.¡±


    ¡°Well luckily¡­¡± Harley grinned. ¡°We¡¯re heading there right now.¡±


    ¡°EEEEE!!!¡± Angie squeed, hugging Harley again. ¡°Finally! I¡¯ll get to start helping people¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­hey Av¡­it¡¯s been a bit. To be honest, I was busy¡­with team stuff, which feels weird for apologising for¡­¡±


    Leandra pinched her nose and shook her head. ¡°I¡¯m just gonna start over¡­¡±


    Leandra sighed out, as she faced his picture again. ¡°¡­we¡¯ve been really good recently. Still kinda¡­finding our footing, but spirits are high. I know I was pretty vocally against your leadership skills, but admittedly, I think you were better at uniting the team. I¡¯m still working out¡­gods, being a leader? Is that the right phrase?...whatever, close enough. Everyone else makes it look so easy. You did, Donovan¡¯s all effortless, Baron freaks me the fuck out, but he¡¯s got sway.¡±


    Leandra grimaced to herself. ¡°Julia¡¯s fine too. Could afford to throw some more weight around, bu-¡°


    ¡°Hey, you nearly done in there?!¡±


    ¡°Just a second!!!¡± Leandra shouted back, before facing the picture again. ¡°Yeah, it¡¯s just tough sometimes¡­¡±


    Leandra got up from the ground, before stretching her arms out. ¡°I think I¡¯m getting the hang of it. Once we¡¯re in the industry, I should get more comfortable. Out of the pan¡­¡±


    Leandra looked back at Avalon¡¯s picture again, before sighing out. ¡°And I shouldn¡¯t need as much consoling from a photo¡­¡±


    Leandra stepped out of the study, as Roman, Acadia and Claudius were all patiently waiting around the dorm, with Acadia getting up first.


    ¡°There you are. Ready to go yet?¡± She asked, as Leandra pivoted to her bed.


    ¡°Just grabbing something first.¡± Leandra said, while Roman hopped off his top bunk above her.


    ¡°Did you have a nice chat?¡± Roman asked, as Leandra glared at him.


    ¡°Were you listening in?¡±


    ¡°Yeah.¡± Roman admitted, as Leandra groaned, before dropping it.


    ¡°Yeah, whatever, helped me work through some stuff¡­¡± Leandra said, as she dragged out a box from under her bed, before opening it and taking out Avalon¡¯s cape.


    She draped it around herself, as Claudius cocked his head in confusion.


    ¡°You gonna wear that to the graduation event?¡± He asked, as Leandra folded her arms.


    ¡°Yeah, what of it?¡±


    ¡°¡­n-nothing, it looks nice. You wear it well.¡± Claudius insisted, as Leandra blushed profusely, before pointing back at him.


    ¡°D-Don¡¯t throw me off with a compliment! This is a big event!¡±


    ¡°Which is why we should leave now and get good spots!¡± Acadia insisted, running in place beside the door. ¡°Come on, come on, come o-¡°


    ¡°Leandra, I really hate to admit this, but you¡¯re smoking hot.¡± Roman offered up, as Leandra pointed at him now.


    ¡°AHA! I know you only said that to mess with me, so it won¡¯t work!¡± Leandra insisted, only for Roman to blow a kiss her way, stunning her in place. ¡°H-Hey! Not fair!¡±


    ¡°I-I wasn¡¯t trying to be weird, I can admit when someone looks nice!¡± Claudius defended, as Acadia facepalmed to herself. ¡°Honestly, I think you wear the cape better than Avalon did.¡±


    Leandra¡¯s blush consumed her face again, as she stared daggers at Claudius.


    ¡°Stop l-laying it on!¡± She insisted, jumping onto him and pinning his arms behind his back, with Roman joining the pile, as Acadia gave up and sat down, resting her head in her hands.


    ¡°I¡¯ll let them wear themselves out¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Come on, Lola, it¡¯s gonna start soon!¡±


    ¡°Hey, hey¡­volume down¡­¡±


    ¡°Oh, sorry.¡± Spence insisted, grabbing Ferris¡¯ hand, as Ferris used her other one to shield herself from the sun. ¡°If the event¡¯s too much, just grab my attention and we can split.¡±


    ¡°I should b¡­oh gods.¡± Ferris let out, turning away from the sun. ¡°¡­this is sobriety right, not punishment?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re adjusting. This is good for you.¡± Spence said, before taking off her sun hat and placing it on Ferris¡¯ head.


    Spence pleasantly smiled at her, as Ferris went to protest, despite shielding her face with the brim.


    ¡°¡­this is worse.¡± Ferris grumbled, before getting a glimpse of the sun again and immediately shielding herself with the hat. ¡°¡­thanks¡­or something¡­¡±


    Spence giggled, before jumping ahead. ¡°I¡¯ll take it.¡±


    Ferris happily hung back, massaging her forehead, as they headed toward the campus courtyard.


    Little bastards are lucky¡­ Ferris thought. I wouldn¡¯t be dragging myself out here for just anyone¡­


    ¡°Well?¡±


    ¡°¡­from where I can see, it looks like they¡¯re almost done setting up.¡± Julia explained, ducking out of the walkway surrounding the academy Spire and into the courtyard, as Wess sighed out contently.


    ¡°That¡¯s certainly a relief.¡± Wess replied, before hanging up her call, as Julia joined her.


    ¡°So? Anything?¡±


    ¡°¡­maybe.¡± Wess replied, deliberately being coy.


    ¡°Is it good?¡± Julia asked.


    ¡°Well, it depends¡­¡± Wess muttered. ¡°How does as a particularly notorious Wailing hunt right after graduation sound?¡±


    Wess could barely hide her pride, as Julia jumped into her with a hug.


    ¡°Wess, that¡¯s incredible!¡± She exclaimed, kissing her cheek over and over. ¡°I love you so much!¡±


    ¡°Alright, you¡¯re laying it on a bit thick.¡± Wess insisted, as Julia backed off, only for Wess to start playfully kissing her now. ¡°Now it¡¯s my turn.¡±


    Julia could hardly protest with Wess¡¯ mouth covering hers, briefly distracting Essex on the sidelines, waiting patiently beside Percy.


    Breaking her concentration on the two, Essex found Percy staring off into the middle distance, her attention toward the Spire.


    Noticing a spare moment, Essex gently cleared her throat, as Percy turned to her.


    ¡°¡­how¡¯re you doing?¡±


    ¡°¡­o-okay¡­¡± Percy replied, scratching her neck, before deciding to speak up. ¡°¡­h-how about you?¡±


    ¡°¡­there is an excitement and worry.¡± Essex answered. ¡°We¡¯re leaving the confines of the academy for the outside world.¡±


    Essex found herself resting her hand on her hip in an effort to mirror Harley. ¡°One could say it¡¯s very ¡®romantic.¡¯¡±


    Percy quietly nodded, as Essex leaned on the wall beside her.


    ¡°¡­I rarely find myself scared these days.¡± Essex admitted. ¡°But this feeling of the unknown is still new and¡­raises alarm bells. I am at least happy I didn¡¯t choose to go through it alone.¡±


    Julia and Wess¡¯ flirting was only getting more audible, as Essex and Percy happily stared back at them.


    Easy for you to say¡­ Percy thought, as Essex faced her again.


    ¡°To me, that has made me feel the most prepared. Not the combat training, the time spent with them.¡± Essex confessed, holding her breath slightly, as Percy lifted herself off the wall, wandering around to avoid looking at anyone.


    Unfortunately, her eye was drawn to Harley and Sola running in their direction, waving their arms about.


    ¡°Hey!¡± Harley called out, grabbing everyone¡¯s attention. ¡°How were the festivities?¡±


    ¡°Pretty festive! Sorry you guys had to miss it.¡± Julia insisted, as Sola quickly grabbed Julia¡¯s hands, before spinning her in a circle.


    ¡°Who cares! We¡¯re gonna make magic happen!¡± Sola declared, as a confused Julia looked to Harley for clarification.


    ¡°Magic, Julia.¡± Harley followed up, failing to answer any questions she had.


    ¡°Shall we head over?¡± Wess suggested, holding her arm out and pointing to the large crowd now gathered in the courtyard.


    The rest of Team Valiant decided to follow, only to realise Percy wasn¡¯t staying with them.


    [You guys can go without me. I¡¯m gonna go clear my head.] Percy insisted, giving a small wave. [I¡¯ll meet up with you after.]


    ¡°¡­okay. Have fun.¡± Julia called back, before turning to the others, shrugging her shoulders.


    ¡°You doing good buddy?¡±


    ¡°Y-Y-Y-Y-Yeah¡­th-th-th-th-thanks g-g-guys¡­¡± Nathaniel managed, still visibly soaked and shivering. ¡°Th-Th-Th-Th-There d-d-didn¡¯t s-seem t-t-to be an e-e-end point¡­¡±


    ¡°You know there¡¯s a door handle on your side. You could¡¯ve gotten out at any point.¡± Joleicia informed, tightening the towel around him with a hug, as Nathaniel stared up at her in surprise.


    ¡°R-R-Really?...I f-f-feel like th-th-th-th-they should a-a-advertise that m-m-more¡­¡±


    ¡°Or you panicked and missed the instructions?¡± Chops joked, rustling his hair, right as the crowd around them in the courtyard started to settle down as Ferris approached the mic.


    She gripped her head in pain, before leaning down onto her script.


    ¡°¡­congrats to the 5021 graduating year, your accomplishments have been a sight to behold, you should be proud of coming this far and excelling further, now please welcome principal Faller.¡±


    Ferris finished her portion and sat down as fast as possible, before getting a reassuring shoulder pat from Spence.


    Right as she finished, Team Valiant made their way into the crowd, finding their way beside Team Vanguard as they waited patiently for Faller to arrive on stage.


    Somewhat overwhelmed, Julia found herself looking around, hoping to distract herself or spot him early, only to catch the familiar faces of her family in the back, as well as Harley and Sola¡¯s parents standing pretty close by them.


    It took a second for Milo to catch her gaze, before grinning and waving back to her, followed by a wave from Bell and Madelyn.


    Julia sheepishly waved back, finding herself a little embarrassed¡­


    ¡­before finding herself confused as Adam was standing right behind them, giving two big thumbs up and jumping around wildly.


    Julia quickly turned back around, pretending she didn¡¯t see him and returning her attention to the stage, as Faller finally arrived, walking past the line of teachers sitting on the stage behind his podium.


    He read over a few cards in his hands, mumbling a couple words from his speech, before stopping as he passed Ferris.


    ¡°¡­what, nervous?¡± Ferris remarked, as Faller read his notes again.


    ¡°Of course. Good to see you here. How¡¯re you holding up?¡±


    ¡°¡­don¡¯t feel much different, the sun¡¯s just brighter now.¡±


    ¡°In a good way?¡±


    ¡°A blinding kinda way.¡±


    Faller finished reading and pocketed his cards. ¡°I guess that can be good in certain lights.¡±


    Ferris felt herself boiling at the bad pun, as Faller finally took centre stage, looking out over the crowd of waiting, eager students.


    Sighing out, he grabbed the mic.


    ¡°I¡¯ll¡­make this brief.¡±


    Before starting proper, he laid his hand out, indicating to the rides and pleasantries that¡¯d been set up for the graduation.


    ¡°You may have noticed the lack of ceremony for this year¡¯s graduation. I want to apologise, but with a budget stretched thin after the attack this year, we chose to invest in festivities to keep things fun as opposed to needless grandeur. You¡¯re welcome to Team Instinct.¡±


    A light laugh rang out from the crowd, as Donovan admittedly smiled, giving a thumbs up from the crowd to play along with the bit.


    ¡°You¡¯ll also be happy to know the main building is mostly finished repairs, just in time for you all to leave.¡±


    More laughter rang out, as Faller got settled, grabbing his cards back out from his pocket.


    ¡°That¡¯s enough pleasantries. I want to start my speech with a deep thank you, for¡­indulging in our teachings and taking our words to heart. I¡¯ve seen exceptional students enter these halls, truly going above and beyond in their duties toward ending the Wailing Conflict. You should all be proud of yourselves.¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s talking about me.¡± A student loudly whispered to another just in earshot of Wess, as Faller continued.


    ¡°You would¡¯ve only known me as the principal, but I was the head of the Engineering Department before Ms Jovie took over the position.¡± Faller explained, indicating to her, as she lifted her hand up in recognition. ¡°And one of the main lessons I¡¯ve tried to impart is¡­good maintenance. Of weaponry, but also of character, life, wellbeing. Learning to embrace the support of your team, but also admit to mistakes and let failure encourage you to do better. As clich¨¦ as it sounds, you only truly fail when you don¡¯t try.¡±


    He went silent for a second; a second longer than he normally would at this moment, before taking his time to speak back up.


    ¡°¡­and¡­I¡¯ve been a poor example of that.¡±


    A whisper of confused murmuring washed over the crowd, as Faller moved to put his cards away.


    ¡°Your education has been haggard, inconsistent, and needlessly dangerous at far too many points. This academy, and myself, have put you in harm¡¯s way, not as preparation, but as poor judgement on our part.¡±


    Faller gripped the podium to hold himself up, visibly getting emotional.


    ¡°This is not okay. You placed your trust in us, and we should have been better prepared. It isn¡¯t fair that you were roped into our mess.¡±


    Faller was decidedly not looking at Julia in the crowd during this, as Julia noticed this, but chose to keep listening.


    ¡°And I don¡¯t fault our wonderful staff. Chief of Security Dulce has decidedly handled every attack coming our way, even dealing with a Behemoth Wailing on her first day on the job. Jovie continues to carry the academy on her back, Coatsworth saved several students by taking a Wailing head on, despite in no way being a trained Venator, and¡­¡±


    Faller looked back behind him, seeing Ferris staring forward, her sunhat blocking Faller¡¯s view of her face, despite her knowing exactly where he was looking.


    ¡°¡­I¡¯ve yet to thank Ferris for saving my life on multiple occasions.¡±


    Ferris kept staring forward, but pulled into herself slightly, at least acknowledging the comment got to her.


    ¡°¡­the fault lies with me.¡± Faller admitted, his hand to his chest. ¡°I was not the strong leader I¡­needed to be¡­¡±


    In a surprisingly out of character move, Faller stepped away from his podium, moving away from the mic, before lowering himself to his hands and knees and bowing forward.


    ¡°¡­I-I¡­want to deeply a-apologise¡­¡±


    Faller tried to hold back some tears, while doing everything he could not to cover his face.


    ¡°¡­I-I¡¯ve been a f-failure of a principal¡­over th-these years¡­you all deserved s-so much better¡­¡±


    Spence nearly got up to help him, only for Ferris to hold out her arm, stopping her from getting up.


    ¡°¡­a-as of next year, I¡¯ll be r-resigning as principal¡­and C-Coatsworth will be taking over the role. I-I¡¯ve overstayed my welcome¡­¡±


    Faller stayed there, letting himself appropriately get out all the shame he needed to, as the students all stared up at him, the murmuring only continuing and getting louder.


    He stayed like that, preparing to get back up and finally hand the mic to Coatsworth to speak, only for a voice to ring out from the crowd.


    ¡°Hey, come on, man! It¡¯s okay!¡±


    Faller, in pure befuddlement, lifted his head up in the direction of the voice in the crowd.


    ¡°Don¡¯t beat yourself up so bad!¡±


    ¡°Yeah, the Wailing do that plenty already!¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t envy the position you were in!¡±


    ¡°Yeah, three attacks in three years! What the hell were you meant to do?¡±


    Faller found similar sentiments carrying through the crowd, completely going against what he thought he was going to hear.


    ¡°You¡¯re not a superhero!¡±


    ¡°Yeah, for a guy that spouts off about teamwork so much, you¡¯re sure taking all the blame!¡±


    ¡°How about the Wailing that attacked the place, huh?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I think they did more damage than you!¡±


    At this point, he was just standing, showing none of the¡­well, principal-ness he usually carried around the students.


    His mind was still made up in his head, but to hear such positivity was¡­jarring.


    In a blinding kind of way.


    Finally managing to pull back some composure, he went back over to the mic, before holding out his hand to Coatsworth.


    ¡°¡­thank you, truly. I don¡¯t deserve it¡­and now, Vice-Principal Coatsworth.¡± He introduced.


    He went to step back down, with Coatsworth patting his back as he passed, before sitting next to Ferris, still feeling the redness in his face.


    There was a notable silence, as Ferris refused to speak, and he took a moment to recover and breathe, before he finally started to address her.


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­we¡¯re starting a mental health program.¡±


    Ferris gave Faller the side-eye. ¡°¡­huh?¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ve got one year to pull it off before I¡¯m kicked out of the position.¡± Faller admitted, folding his arms and leaning back. ¡°We¡¯ve needed one for a while.¡±


    ¡°¡­investors aren¡¯t gonna like that.¡± Ferris reasoned.


    ¡°Well, they don¡¯t need to know it¡¯s happening.¡± Faller insisted, shrugging. ¡°It¡¯s about time we start being the change, Lola.¡±


    Faller sat back, with Ferris seeing a surprising amount of energy coming from a man who was on his knees crying just a minute ago, before finding herself¡­


    ¡­moved, she would have to say.


    ¡°¡­yes sir.¡±


    After a few lengthy speeches from the other staff, the graduation was basically done. Diplomas would be sent through the mail, again, to cut costs where needed. The students didn¡¯t really mind, but the fact there was no real celebration was a bit of a letdown.


    Especially for Team Beefcake.


    ¡°I don¡¯t like this.¡± Brad insisted, folding his arms and staring at the still fairly quiet crowd. ¡°I don¡¯t like this one bit.¡±


    ¡°We need something to get people excited.¡± Thad declared, as Efrem elbowed his side.


    ¡°Are you suggesting we juice things up?¡± Efrem encouraged, as Chad slapped a hand on his back.


    ¡°Took the words right out of my mouth!¡± He exclaimed, before pointing to Lad, holding a massive boombox on his shoulder. ¡°Hit it!¡±


    ¡°¡­kind of a wet fart to end things on, huh?¡± Harley admitted, getting a similar vibe from the others, as they stared around the fairly lifeless crowd.


    ¡°I am usually not one for ceremony¡­¡± Essex confessed. ¡°¡­but really? Nothing?¡±


    Just then, a slowly building cheering could be heard from the middle of the crowd, as a small circle formed.


    Team Valiant made their way over, before spotting Team Beefcake in the middle of the crowd, break dancing and hyping the crowd up with their admittedly very impressive dancing.


    ¡°Holy shit! Team Beefcake¡¯s busting it down!¡± Chops cried out, enamoured with their performance.


    ¡°Go! Go! Go! Go!¡± Leandra cheered from the side.


    ¡°Work those bodies!¡± Donovan encouraged, as Brad pulled off a very impressive lift with Efrem.


    Before Team Valiant could get too suckered in, Julia¡¯s attention was grabbed away.


    ¡°Julia! Hey!¡±


    Julia spun around, right as her dad swooped her up in a giant hug, with Madelyn and Bell following behind.


    ¡°Y-You guys are still h-here?¡± Julia managed, as Milo waved her around.


    ¡°I¡¯m not leaving without a goodbye! I¡¯m so proud of you!!!¡± Milo cried, refusing to let her go, as Bell stepped around him to talk to her.


    ¡°Way to go, sis. You really stuck it out.¡± Bell let out, before blushing. ¡°Th-That makes it sound like you weren¡¯t prepared. I mean¡­dedication, let¡¯s go with that.¡±


    Julia laughed a little, right as Milo put her down, before she looked behind him back at Madelyn.


    ¡°Th-Thanks for showing up, mum.¡± Julia said, as Madelyn sighed, before shrugging.


    ¡°It¡¯s a big day for you. And Bell would¡¯ve killed me if I didn¡¯t.¡± Madelyn remarked, as Milo chuckled.


    Julia did one last sweep to see if Adam had stuck around for whatever reason, only to catch Harley in a similar position with her dad.


    ¡°My baby¡¯s¡­all grown up!!!¡± Davidson exclaimed, squeezing Harley into a hug. ¡°You finally did it!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll hug you better!¡± Harley insisted, doing her best, as William stayed beside them, not wanting to get in between them, before Davidson rolled his eyes and roped him in.


    ¡°A-And you¡¯re doing okay, right? You made the right call with your team?¡± William double-checked, as Harley grinned back.


    ¡°Best team around! Don¡¯t worry, dad. We¡¯re keeping each other safe.¡± Harley assured.


    William sighed in relief, only for Sola to run past them into Maxine, before jumping into a hug and nearly toppling her.


    ¡°Sola, stop! I¡¯m too old to hold ya!¡± Maxine insisted, trying to pawn her off to Wayne, who just threw his hands up.


    ¡°Don¡¯t give her to me, I¡¯m too old too!¡± Wayne complained, before Sola only just noticed him.


    ¡°Dad, you came all the way here?!¡± Sola realised, landing on the ground.


    ¡°I¡¯m not missing this for world, kid. This is one of the biggest days of your life!¡± Wayne assured, as Sola pumped her fists.


    ¡°You coulda watched from home! I wouldn¡¯t be mad!¡±


    ¡°Nope, not hearing it. I¡¯m here and you can accept that.¡± Wayne insisted, as Maxine rolled her eyes.


    ¡°He sat in the car and refused to get out.¡± Maxine explained, sighing. ¡°And he forgot his medication¡­¡±


    ¡°I did? Oh well, I guess I can¡¯t choke it down now.¡± Wayne ¡®complained,¡¯ smiling to Sola, as she laughed a bit.


    Meanwhile, Essex did her best to not look too desperate, glancing around the crowd and hoping to find Kent anywhere there, before inevitably reaching the conclusion she of course wasn¡¯t.


    Right as the realisation sunk in, Wess lowered a hand on her shoulder, sharing an understanding glance as they watched the others happily spend time with their families.


    ¡°¡­I am glad I¡¯m not alone for this.¡± Essex admitted, smiling to Wess, who sighed out and nodded.


    ¡°You and me both.¡± Wess agreed, taking a second, before spotting a coy Cyrus a bit away, giving a small wave.


    Wess smiled and waved back, before he walked over, shaking his head.


    ¡°I heard through the grapevine¡­¡± Cyrus admitted. ¡°I¡¯m sorry those pieces of shit were pieces of shit.¡±


    ¡°As is as one does. Hardly spared them a thought.¡± Wess confessed. ¡°Frankly, I much prefer the company I have now.¡±


    ¡°¡­wait a minute, that¡¯s me!¡± Cyrus joked, as Wess started laughing. ¡°And I thought you¡¯d still be mad about the breakup.¡±


    ¡°Well, kicking your ass in the tournament certainly picked up my mood.¡± Wess remarked, as Cyrus waved his hand about.


    ¡°That was an off day. I didn¡¯t stretch beforehand, shoulda known better.¡± Cyrus joked, getting another laugh from her, as Essex felt some loneliness creep in, only to get another tap on her shoulder.


    She turned around to face Milo, with Julia behind him.


    ¡°Essex! Julia told me you made this.¡± Milo exclaimed, pointing at Maxie Two in Julia¡¯s arms, as Essex nodded.


    ¡°Yes, I-¡°


    Milo immediately grabbed her into a hug, swinging her around.


    ¡°You¡­are the best ever!!!¡± Milo insisted, as Essex merely accepted it. ¡°Julia, if you don¡¯t marry her ASAP, we¡¯re gonna have a serious talk!¡±


    Julia blushed profusely, still holding Maxie Two in her arms, before locking eyes with Essex, only for both of them to quickly look away in embarrassment.


    Milo eventually let her down, before joining back up with Madelyn and Bell and waving to Julia as they headed out.


    Right as the team had a free moment to themselves, a familiar voice rang out behind them.


    ¡°Hey, did I miss all the fun?¡±


    The team all turned around at once, before gasping in excitement at who¡¯d shown up.


    ¡°Dorothy!!!¡±


    Julia ran over to her excitedly, as Dorothy flared out her leather jacket, readjusting her sunglasses. ¡°We thought we were gonna miss you! Did you come to see us off?¡±


    ¡°I sure did. As I always say, gotta see people to appreciate them. Couldn¡¯t graduate myself without seeing my favourite team off.¡± Dorothy explained, as Harley clapped her hands together.


    ¡°Hey, glad you could make it.¡± Harley grinned, as Dorothy nodded happily.


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­well anyway, I best be off.¡± Dorothy said, before leaving and waving, as everyone waved back to her.


    ¡°Bye Dorothy!¡± Julia called out, before happily sighing to the others. ¡°Man, she¡¯s so cool!¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s the absolute coolest!¡± Sola agreed, right as she caught Virgil in the distance, looking around curiously.


    She sprung to life, before turning to Harley, who gave a big thumbs up.


    ¡°I¡¯ll go grab her!¡± Harley insisted, sprinting off into the crowd, as Sola ran over to Virgil.


    ¡°Hey!¡± She called out, as he gave a small wave back. ¡°Wait right there!¡±


    Virgil simply stood in place, doing exactly what he was doing already. ¡°¡­alright.¡±


    Sola jumped up to look around for Harley, before catching her dragging Angie over to them.


    ¡°Okay, this is gonna be great!¡± Harley exclaimed, before showing Virgil off to her. ¡°Angie, meet Virgil.¡±


    ¡°¡­are you tryna set me up?¡± Angie asked, before giving Virgil a once over and biting her lip. ¡°I mean, he¡¯s not too bad on the eyes¡­¡±


    ¡°I might say the same to you.¡± Virgil offered, before Sola jumped in between them.


    ¡°Virgil¡¯s got a store you can work and live at in the city!¡±


    ¡°Wait, really?!¡± Angie exclaimed, running over to grab his hands. ¡°Are you hiring?!¡±


    Virgil gave a nervous glance to Sola. ¡°Sola, what¡­¡±


    ¡°You said you¡¯d have to shut the store cause you couldn¡¯t work there anymore. So now you won¡¯t have to shut it.¡± Sola explained, beaming proudly, as Virgil found himself welling up a little.


    ¡°You were gonna shut your store?¡± Angie asked, holding his hands up. ¡°Well I have to work there now! Is the pay good?¡±


    ¡°¡­the pay¡¯s fine.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll take it!¡± Angie insisted, before hugging him happily. ¡°You¡¯re, like, my third best friend already!¡±


    Virgil didn¡¯t really know how to react, before turning to Harley and Sola.


    ¡°Get used to this energy. It¡¯s not going anywhere.¡± Harley clarified, before resting an arm around Sola. ¡°Nicely done, babe.¡±


    ¡°Nicely done you too!¡± Sola insisted, before spotting Julia confusedly staring at what was happening between these two seeming strangers.


    She quickly ran over, as Julia pointed at Virgil and Angie.


    ¡°¡­so¡­¡±


    ¡°Angie¡¯s gonna work at Virgil¡¯s shop so he doesn¡¯t have to close it!¡± Sola explained, as Julia finally put two and two together.


    ¡°¡­okay, that makes more sense. I thought they were, like, distantly related and you guys were reuniting them or something. That¡¯s a pretty friendly hug.¡± Julia explained, as Sola shook her head.


    ¡°Nope. I think Angie¡¯s last name is Prilia, and Virgil¡¯s is Abandonal.¡± Sola clarified, before thinking on it. ¡°No wait, it¡¯s Virgil Blacklock Abandonal. Who knew he had such a crazy name?¡±


    Julia¡¯s eyes widened, her eyes darting between Sola and Virgil.


    ¡°Wait, what?!¡± Julia let out, as she grabbed Sola¡¯s shoulders.


    ¡°Yeah, that¡¯s his name.¡± Sola replied.


    ¡°Virgil?!¡±


    ¡°Yeah.¡±


    ¡°Your old boss?!¡±


    ¡°Yeah.¡±


    ¡°Sola, that¡¯s him!¡±


    Sola cocked her head. ¡°Use more words.¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s the Blacklock Bandit!!!¡±


    ¡°¡­use better words.¡± Sola asked.


    ¡°No wonder he took down Alani and Devon like it was nothing¡­¡± Julia muttered, before returning her attention to Sola. ¡°He was a vigilante in Detu City when I was a kid. He cleaned up crime in the city since Venators couldn¡¯t deal with a lot of that stuff, and the police were barely doing their job.¡±


    Sola nodded in understanding, not really taking in the meaning, before starting to freak out like Julia. ¡°HUH?!¡±


    ¡°Nobody knew who he was.¡± Julia admitted, cautiously staring back at Virgil, still very much in his hug. ¡°But the name matches¡­¡±


    They both stared at him going over the details of the position with Angie, as Sola started to run over to him.


    ¡°I¡¯m gonna ask him ab-¡° She started, before noticing her parents about to leave and pivoting to them. ¡°Hey, wait up!¡±


    ¡°So-!¡± Julia attempted, before dropping it. ¡°¡­I guess we¡¯ll deal with it later.¡±


    ¡°Mum, dad, wait!¡± Sola yelled out, as they turned around. ¡°I¡¯ve gotta show you my Whil before you go! I¡¯m actually good with it now!¡±


    ¡°Hey, that¡¯s right, you were gonna show us! Well go on!¡± Wayne realised, as Sola started walking them over to the training grounds, out of the way of most of the crowd.


    The rest of the team decided to follow, as Sola propped herself up near the moat, aiming her hands just above the tree line.


    ¡°And get this! I¡¯m not gonna burn any trees this time!¡± Sola promised, as Maxine folded her arms, bumping Wayne¡¯s side.


    ¡°She looks so happy.¡± Maxine remarked.


    Meanwhile, running by the moat, Spence was walking with Ferris, who was massaging her forehead now that they were away from the crowd.


    ¡°You did really well! I¡¯m sure the students loved seeing you there.¡± Spence encouraged, as Ferris sneered.


    ¡°I¡¯m sure it gave some of them a real warm, fuzzy feeling in their hearts. Let¡¯s just thank Whilit none of them wanted to talk to me.¡± Ferris admitted, only just noticing Sola on the other side of the moat.


    Before she could register what was going on, Sola¡¯s Whil started to charge up, slowly building like usual, before bursting out in front of her as a clean, massive blast of lightning firing into the sky.


    Ferris instinctively went to duck, only for her footing to slip slightly on the edge of the moat and cause her to fall in.


    ¡°You weren¡¯t kidding. That¡¯s the cleanest shot I¡¯ve ever seen you make, kid!¡± Wayne encouraged, before spotting Spence balling her fists on the edge of the moat.


    Once Sola¡¯s Whil wound down, the team noticed Ferris laying solitarily in the moat, her hat somehow getting lodged in her mouth as she fell.


    With a loud sigh, she made no real effort to get back up, instead lying down in the moat and facing the sky, before spitting the hat out.


    ¡°¡­I¡¯d complain, but this feels kinda nice actually¡­¡± She muttered, before splashing could be heard from Team Valiant¡¯s direction.


    She lifted her head and spotted Sola wading through the water, her clothes getting soaked, before reaching Ferris and holding out a hand.


    ¡°Are you okay?¡±


    Ferris took a second, staring up at her, before reaching out and taking the hand, pulling herself up.


    ¡°¡­truthfully, I think I¡¯m the best I¡¯ve ever been.¡± Ferris admitted, as Sola helped her get out of the water.


    To no one¡¯s surprise, most of Team Valiant were desperately trying to hold back laughter from Ferris¡¯ tumble, as Ferris admittedly found it pretty funny too.


    Which was perfect timing for Percy to make her way around the moat too, having decided to head back after taking a needed long walk. What she came back to was Team Valiant, doing what they did best.


    Helping someone.


    Enjoying themselves.


    And having a laugh.


    ¡­should I expect anything less? She admitted, finding herself smiling despite her still present worries.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Meanwhile, as this was all happening, it had been the better part of a long drive for Florey and Cecil.


    Having gotten in Cecil¡¯s limo, Florey was given no details as to where they were going or why. He noticed Salaire driving them, but even the usually talkative guy was tight lipped today.


    The ride had been completely silent, with Florey mostly in his own head, before Cecil finally broke the silence.


    ¡°¡­Florey.¡±


    Florey lifted his head quickly. ¡°Y-Yeah?¡±


    Cecil kept his gaze out the window. ¡°¡­how do you feel about the Wailing?¡±


    Florey felt his voice catch a little, as he tried to answer as clearly as he could.


    ¡°¡­they¡¯ve been terrifying me my whole life. All the worst moments are tied back to them.¡± Florey admitted, looking surprisingly calm now. ¡°And they¡¯re also a genetic marvel of interesting questions¡­I hate them, but I¡¯m fascinated by them.¡±


    Cecil watched over his demeanour, as Florey noticed the slight menace in his gaze, before it turned back to normal.


    The limo turned a corner and headed in the direction of Heiamimi, as Cecil turned his attention to the window.


    ¡°¡­and does the name Wicker mean anything to you?¡±


    Florey was a bit lost for words, as he squinted in thought.


    ¡°¡­umm, not really¡­I think that was a criminal¡­like, a famous criminal back in the day? I think most people write him off as a rumour.¡± Florey reasoned, shaking his head. ¡°I don¡¯t know what he did, but if I remember the name, it was probably something big.¡±


    Cecil kept his incredulous look up, before getting comfortable and facing Florey properly.


    ¡°That¡¯s relatively true.¡± Cecil replied, placing his hand on his chest. ¡°¡­I¡¯m¡­Wicker. The current Wicker.¡±


    Florey took in the sentence, not really grasping the nature behind his statement, as he visibly tried to figure out what he meant by that.


    ¡°He was real. My¡­the former CEO of EHM was the Wicker before me, and I¡¯ve taken over the position.¡± Cecil clarified, as Heiamimi appeared in the distance. ¡°I¡¯ll explain more once we arrive. I¡¯m sure this doesn¡¯t make much sense right now.¡±


    Florey kept to himself, unsure whether Cecil was admitting to being a criminal. The thought had crossed his mind recently, especially with a lot of what Rosalind had hinted at. He didn¡¯t want to make waves at his first job and brand-new position, but he wasn¡¯t stupid. He knew something was up.


    After a bit more time, they arrived at Heiamimi, still just as deserted and undeveloped as when Florey was last here. The limo cruised through a few streets, before pulling up outside of what looked like a greenhouse, one built into the ground.


    Florey and Cecil stepped out, as Florey got a better look, seeing the greenhouse was practically empty, much like the rest of Heiamimi. No plantlife was in it, just a glass roof and another glass floor at the bottom.


    ¡°This is RC, the Retention Centre.¡± Cecil explained, approaching Florey¡¯s side. ¡°This is just a cover, though. The real facility¡¯s below here.¡±


    Before Florey could ask what he meant, Cecil indicated to a small stairway outside of the greenhouse, which lead to an elevator.


    ¡°After you.¡± Cecil insisted, as Florey nervously glanced back at him, before taking a step inside the elevator.


    Cecil joined him and pressed a small sequence in the number pad, as the elevator started to head down.


    The ride felt so much slower for Florey, as he squirmed uncomfortably, trying not to seem desperate for answers, but also wondering what was taking Cecil so long.


    ¡°¡­okay, I n-need to know.¡± Florey blurted out, turning to Cecil exacerbated. ¡°What does that mean? Th-That you¡¯re Wicker? What, you¡¯re a c-criminal?¡±


    Wicker sighed out. ¡°It¡¯s a reductive way to look at it.¡±


    Wicker could see Florey¡¯s frustration, before feeling the moment was right.


    ¡°¡­I¡¯ll stop beating around the bush and tell you the truth. It¡¯s about time you knew.¡± Cecil started. ¡°¡­the Wailing are a plague, we both know this. Despite the Wailing Conflict going on for over two centuries, their numbers don¡¯t seem to be diminishing. You¡¯ve noticed this, right?¡±


    ¡°¡­yeah, they¡¯re about as active as they¡¯ve always been.¡± Florey reasoned, as Wicker nodded along.


    ¡°And despite being built for this purpose, Venators aren¡¯t as effective as they should be.¡± Wicker added. ¡°Systems aren¡¯t perfect. This much is evidently true throughout history, but you¡¯ve seen firsthand. They¡¯re underperforming.¡±


    ¡°I mean, that¡¯s why I left the academy.¡± Florey agreed, as Wicker patted his back, right as the elevator reached their floor. ¡°I really started to lose faith in Venators as the¡­¡®best way¡¯ to handle the Wailing.¡±


    ¡°But¡­legally speaking, the only way someone can kill Wailing¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­is to become a Venator.¡± Florey finished, as they started walking out into the hall. ¡°Meaning¡­¡±


    ¡°If you wanted to deal with them in other ways, you would be labelled a criminal.¡± Wicker clarified, as Florey nodded his head, now getting the bigger picture. ¡°¡®Wicker¡¯ is a title meant for the leader of the Organisation, a group with the sole purpose to end the Wailing Conflict¡­by any means necessary.¡±


    Florey started stroking the few errant hairs on his chin, before stopping for a second. ¡°The Organisation? That¡¯s the name?¡±


    ¡°Yes, it is.¡± Wicker noted. ¡°Were you expecting something flashier?¡±


    ¡°¡­I guess?¡± Florey asked, as Wicker chuckled a little.


    ¡°The name is deliberately innocuous. We¡¯re technically breaking the law, so the less attention we can draw, the better.¡± Wicker reasoned. ¡°Best not to have a name that¡¯s easily traceable.¡±


    Right as he said that, the duo stepped into what looked to be a large viewing room, holding a giant window with a few lights streaking through.


    ¡°¡­so, you¡¯re breaking the law where need be¡­to end the Conflict properly?¡± Florey tried to understand, still mostly figuring it out, as Wicker shrugged.


    ¡°Basically.¡±


    ¡°¡­so, what¡¯s the point of this place?¡±


    Wicker started to smile, as he indicated to the window Florey had yet to look out of. Florey stepped forward, letting his eyes adjust to the light, before taking in what he was seeing.


    ¡­Wailing.


    Tens, maybe hundreds of them, all in massive cells lining the walls of an enormous room just outside the window. The glass floor he noticed earlier was actually a ceiling, obstructing what was underneath, while letting only enough natural light into the facility.


    ¡°This is where most of the experimentation happens.¡± Wicker said, as Florey¡¯s eyes were still glued to the cells.


    ¡°¡­w-what kind?¡±


    ¡°Any kind, really. We keep Wailing here to see what¡¯s most effective on them, or test out equipment. It¡¯s very helpful for EHM research, but its main purpose is testing for the Organisation.¡± Wicker explained, before catching the light in another room and beckoning Florey along. ¡°Come here.¡±


    Florey followed behind, as Wicker showed off a small room that looked to be a workshop, similar to one Florey had noticed on his trips to EHM¡¯s lower floors. Wicker pulled off a blueprint from the wall to show him.


    ¡°This is a device I was able to develop here. A chip.¡± Wicker noted, as Florey scanned over it. ¡°One that allows control over a Wailing¡¯s actions and can send a shock through their body to kill them.¡±


    Florey¡¯s eyes widened, as Wicker took the blueprint back. ¡°Instead of people fighting the Wailing, t-¡°


    ¡°They¡¯re fighting themselves.¡± Florey realised, as Wicker nodded very proudly. ¡°And if they get out of control, then you just kill them. You made something like that?¡±


    ¡°Sure. You could to.¡± Wicker offered, shocking Florey with his bluntness, as he looked down at the floor.


    ¡°¡­s-sir?¡± Florey let out, as Wicker sighed.


    ¡°¡­Florey, you have a brilliant mind.¡± Wicker said. ¡°One that would¡¯ve been wasted on Venators. One that, with the right nurturing, could be responsible for ending the Conflict.¡±


    Florey started backing up, tripping over his own words, and almost himself. ¡°I-I-I don¡¯t¡­I mean, th-that would be¡­of c-course I¡¯d want to do that, but that¡¯s n-¡°


    ¡°Florey.¡± Wicker repeated, grabbing his shoulders. ¡°I¡¯m already in my fifties. I don¡¯t plan to retire anytime soon, but I¡¯m in a dangerous line of work, and I¡¯m not the only criminal element in Daysend. There¡¯s plenty of people going for my head.¡±


    Wicker lowered his hands to Florey¡¯s arms. ¡°I need someone who can take over if I¡¯m gone. And who knows the Conflict won¡¯t be ended if things keep going the way they¡¯re going.¡±


    ¡°Th-This is a lot to take in¡­¡± Florey confessed, avoiding much eye contact. ¡°A-Are you¡­asking me to be the next Wicker?¡±


    ¡°At some point. Don¡¯t worry, you¡¯ll have time to get used to it.¡± Wicker assured, smiling back at him. ¡°Can I trust you with this?¡±


    Florey could see just how serious Wicker was in his conviction, keeping an iron grip on him, making sure he made the choice. It all sounded too appealing, too convenient, but¡­


    ¡­it¡¯s what he wanted to do for his whole life.


    And this was by far the best chance he had to do it.


    With the help of someone who truly believed in him.


    The one responsible for ending the Wailing Conflict.


    ¡­that was certainly quite the title to possess.


    Florey swallowed.


    ¡°Y-Yes¡­yes you can.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°I love you.¡±


    ¡°I love you twice.¡±


    ¡°I love you thrice.¡±


    ¡°I love you¡­what¡¯s the next one?¡±


    Rose scratched her chin. ¡°¡­I don¡¯t know.¡±


    ¡°¡­oh.¡± Liddy let out. ¡°¡­I love you infinity times.¡±


    ¡°Dammit!¡± Rose complained. ¡°You always get me with that one!¡±


    ¡°Cause it¡¯s true!~¡± Liddy sang, kissing Rose¡¯s cheek, as they sat atop of the main building roof, staring out at the Eldos Mountains on the horizon.


    ¡°¡­hey?¡±


    ¡°Yeah?¡±


    ¡°¡­you reckon we¡¯ll be okay?¡± Rose asked. ¡°Just the two of us?¡±


    Liddy could see some apprehension in Rose¡¯s eyes, as she couldn¡¯t help but smile and rest on Rose¡¯s side.


    ¡°Of course we¡¯ll be okay. We¡¯ll make it if we try.¡± Liddy insisted.


    ¡°Yeah, but just the two of us?¡±


    ¡°Yep, you and I.¡±


    Rose started shaking her head, only for Liddy to dip her back, before lying her down on the roof.


    ¡°You worry too much. We¡¯ve gotten out of worse scrapes.¡± Liddy assured, caressing Rose¡¯s face. ¡°Is there anything I can do to assuage your mind?¡±


    Rose started grinning. ¡°Something¡¯s coming to mind, perfect for just us two¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve talked to so many people¡­my lips are gonna fall off¡­¡±


    ¡°Damn, poor Wess¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­charming, Harley. I think I¡¯ll be able to manage.¡±


    ¡°You can have my lips instead, Julia!¡±


    ¡°¡­are propositioning another kiss between you two?¡±


    Percy snickered at the exchange, watching as she and Team Valiant idly wandered down the Venator Academy halls, seemingly for the last time in a while.


    She didn¡¯t let the melancholy of the scene linger with her for too long. There was already a well of sadness building up in her, one she promised only to let out when she was alone again.


    ¡­so it goes¡­


    ¡°I never thought I¡¯d be this social.¡± Julia admitted, stretching her arms. ¡°Look at me go.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll have to be once we¡¯re in the industry.¡± Harley noted, as Wess raised a finger.


    ¡°And you¡¯ll be taking the reins on most of it, as our fearless leader.¡±


    Julia¡¯s pupils shrank, as she darted her gaze away. ¡°Let¡¯s not¡­put that pressure on right now¡­¡±


    ¡°We shall apply it later.¡± Essex clarified, getting a chuckle from Harley and Sola. ¡°For now¡­I want to rest¡­¡±


    ¡°You said it¡­¡± Harley let out, throwing her arms back, only for Wess and Sola to step in front of the group.


    ¡°WAIT! WAIT WAIT WAIT!¡± Sola insisted, holding her arms out, as Wess lowered them.


    ¡°Sola, we needn¡¯t yell.¡± Wess remarked, as Percy tilted her head. ¡°We actually have a surprise.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± Julia let out. ¡°A¡­graduation surprise?¡±


    Wess pursed her lips. ¡°Somewhat. Come on.¡±


    Wess and Sola jumped for the nearest stairs as the others followed, all looking to each other in confusion.


    ¡°Did you guys know this was happening?¡± Julia whispered to Harley and Essex, who both shrugged.


    ¡°Did you?¡± Harley asked right back, as Julia threw her hands up, before turning to Percy.


    ¡°What do you reckon?¡± Julia asked, as Percy was a bit too in her own head to throw out a remark.


    ¡°¡­can¡¯t really¡­guess¡­¡± Percy confessed, as Wess and Sola stepped outside into the carpark.


    The others stuck behind them, waiting to see where they¡¯d be taken next, only to realise the duo were stopping right there.


    ¡°¡­oh, we¡¯re¡­here?¡± Julia let out, looking around curiously.


    ¡°Did you hire a party bus?¡± Harley genuinely asked, as Wess glared at her.


    ¡°No, of cour-¡°


    ¡°Wait, we totally should¡¯ve done that!¡± Sola let out. ¡°That¡¯s such a good idea, babe!¡±


    ¡°Sola!¡± Wess insisted, before recentering herself. ¡°¡­as I was beginning to say¡­¡±


    Wess cleared her throat.


    ¡°We wanted to start our careers off on the right foot. We know the plans from here are quite loose, but¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­we also wanted something to help out! So, I put some of my money away.¡± Sola explained, pointing to Wess.


    ¡°And I made sure she saved it and didn¡¯t get stiffed on pricing.¡± Wess said, before Sola pulled out a set of keys from her pocket and chucked them to Essex.


    Essex caught them, before staring down at them blankly, then back at Sola.


    ¡°¡­what do I do with these?¡±


    ¡°Psst, press the button!¡± Sola ¡®whispered,¡¯ as Essex took a second to find the button and press it, before the lights on a vehicle parked a bit further into the carpark lit up.


    She shot her head up, before looking down and pressing it again, and again, and again and again, before Wess took the keys off her.


    ¡°Okay, please stop, you¡¯ll wear them out.¡± Wess insisted, as Essex looked a bit embarrassed, while Julia got a closer look.


    ¡°Wait¡­i-is that¡­?¡±


    Yep, it was.


    A van.


    A clean, fairly standard, but also fairly roomy van. Not too much decoration to it, save for a giant image of the team¡¯s logo plastered on each side. Two, three if we were being generous, seats in the front, plenty of room in the back, and a small, retractable cover from the shade. It really felt like the van was using all the space it could.


    It was¡­


    ¡­you know what, it was just okay.


    And it was perfect.


    ¡°Y-You guys!!!¡± Julia exclaimed, hugging both Wess and Sola deeply. ¡°Y-You didn¡¯t have to g-go out of your way like this!!!¡±


    ¡°Well, I didn¡¯t have anything else to do with my money.¡± Sola pointed out, smiling. ¡°You guys mean the world to me. What else would I spend it on?¡±


    Julia beamed with overwhelming pride, before leaning down and kissing Sola¡¯s cheek, then going for Wess¡¯ too, before checking out the van proper.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know what is, but I think she likes it.¡± Wess remarked, as Sola giggled to herself.


    ¡°Whoa, there¡¯s already stuff back here!¡± Harley exclaimed, pulling out a few sleeping bags. ¡°You stocked it up too? You guys!¡±


    ¡°Well, yeah! We had to put the essentials in!¡± Sola clarified, joining Harley¡¯s side, before indicating to the broken fish tank tucked further inside, as Harley started cracking up.


    Essex was running her hand on the outside of it, before using her Whil, as her hand briefly turned to a sheen white steel.


    She retracted it right after, before staring up at it and smiling.


    ¡°¡­a place of our own¡­¡±


    Despite not wanting to get sucked into it, Percy was already in the driver¡¯s seat, checking out the specs and how it handled. She hated to admit it, but the seat and wheel were comfortable as hell.


    Dammit¡­I can¡¯t keep this up¡­ She thought, trying not to get emotional, as she gripped on the wheel tighter, while Julia whistled from outside the van.


    The rest of the team gathered up, as Julia rested her hands on her hips and smiled.


    ¡°Okay¡­let¡¯s make a promise as a team.¡± Julia prefaced, as Percy nervously stepped out of the van. ¡°Before we do anything and head out on our own, I just wan-¡°


    ¡°J-Julia!!!¡±


    At the sudden loud cry, everyone turned to Percy, doing everything she could to hold back emotion, before she stepped in front of the others to address them.


    It was a slow walk over, as the others stared at each other in confusion.


    Before saying anything, she bowed.


    [T-Thank you¡­] She signed, her hands noticeably shaky, as she faced everyone again. [I-I don¡¯t know how to properly thank you for everything you¡¯ve done for me. W-Without you, I would still be working for Wicker, and t-terrified of everything around me¡­]


    Percy gulped, as her throat began to dry. [Y-You¡¯ve given me safety and comfort, without expecting a-anything in return. Even when I was a b-burden, you didn¡¯t cast me out¡­]


    Percy finally wiped some tears away. [I-I overstayed my welcome. I knew I was d-doing it, but I couldn¡¯t bring myself to end it¡­it¡¯s¡­been fun, but I knew this wouldn¡¯t last long¡­you¡¯re off to go work as Venators, and¡­]


    Percy shook her head, trying not to look at the confused faces of the team, before bowing again.


    ¡°¡­t-thank you¡­¡± Percy finished, tears streaking down her face. ¡°F-From the b-bottom of my heart¡­¡±


    She turned to leave, with no idea where she was going to go, or who she could rely on.


    But the last thing she was going to do was burden the team any longer.


    This was her choice.


    At least¡­


    The team watched as she turned from the academy, still looking away from everyone and desperately trying to clean her face from tears as she walked away, before Julia cupped her hands around her mouth.


    ¡°Percy!!!¡±


    Percy refused to look back, trying her best to make a clean break and avoid any further heartbreak, as Julia kept calling out to her.


    ¡°Where¡¯re you going?¡±


    Percy lifted her head, still not looking back, as Harley joined in.


    ¡°Yeah, the van¡¯s right here!¡±


    Percy blinked.


    She turned back around, her eyes still red, as the rest of the team stared back at her, waving their arms for her to come over.


    ¡°You just started walking off towards Whilit knows where for no reason.¡± Wess remarked, leaning back on the van, as Sola ran up to Percy, grabbing up her hands.


    ¡°You¡¯re coming with us, silly billy!¡± Sola insisted, as Percy was truly lost with the request.


    ¡°It¡­wouldn¡¯t feel right without you.¡± Essex added, as Sola walked Percy back over, only for her eyes to start watering up again.


    ¡­b-but¡­


    She felt Sola¡¯s hand resting against hers, catching the smiles of the others as she came back.


    ¡­w-what¡­


    Before she could make her way back, she fell to her knees and started bawling her eyes out.


    W-What did I do to d-deserve them¡­?


    Percy was overwhelmed with happiness, as the rest of the team finally came around to her, comforting her as she kept crying.


    They helped her up to her feet, as she latched onto the closest person, being Julia, and hugged her tight, nestling into her neck.


    ¡°¡­t-thank you¡­s-so much¡­¡±


    Julia warmly hugged her back, watching as the sun started to set behind them, before indicating to the others to wait a bit.


    It took a few minutes for Percy to work through her feelings, as the rest of the team were patient, assuring her the whole time, before she finally felt a bit better, and Julia decided to address everyone again.


    ¡°Okay¡­what was I saying?¡± Julia started, as everyone laughed at her awkwardness, even Julia herself. ¡°Uhh¡­promise, that¡¯s it! Okay¡­¡±


    Julia held her hand out, before holding it into a fist, a fierce look of determination on her face.


    ¡°From this point¡­we¡¯re gonna become the best.¡± Julia insisted, as Sola cocked her head.


    ¡°The best?¡±


    ¡°Best team in the industry.¡± Julia assured, smiling proudly. ¡°Team Daybreak aren¡¯t holding the top spot forever, not with us coming around. We¡¯re knocking Victoria off her perch and claiming that spot for ourselves!¡±


    ¡°Dear, where¡¯d all this newfound confidence come from?¡± Wess insisted, smiling a little, as Harley grinned beside her.


    ¡°I love it. Fuck yeah, Julia, no rolling over!¡± Harley cheered, as Sola jumped onto her shoulders.


    ¡°No rolling over! The best is what we get!¡±


    ¡°Is the plan to ¡®wipe the floor¡¯ with them?¡± Essex asked enthusiastically, as Julia gave a thumbs up.


    ¡°And anyone else who gets in our way!¡± Julia declared, with Percy now standing up and silently cheering, still a bit woozy from crying. ¡°I doubt Wicker¡¯s gonna leave us alone.¡±


    ¡°¡­f-fuck that guy¡­¡± Percy managed, cracking everyone up, as Sola jumped onto her now.


    ¡°Yeah, fuck that guy!¡± Sola agreed, before an idea hit. ¡°And don¡¯t forget the Wailing!¡±


    ¡°How could we? That¡¯s our job, after all.¡± Wess remarked, now happily joining Julia¡¯s side and wrapping her arms around her, as Julia pointed to the sky.


    ¡°No Wailing stands a chance against us! We¡¯re six strong, with a van of our own and nothing holding us back!¡± Julia cried. ¡°If we don¡¯t end the Wailing Conflict, no one will!¡±


    ¡°YEAH! THAT¡¯S OUR LEADER!!!¡± Harley cheered, scooping Julia and Wess up in a massive hug. ¡°Team Valiant, for the win! Team Valiant, for the win!¡±


    Sola saw the opportunity and tried jumping back onto Harley, only for Harley to tilt back from the weight of holding up three people and fall to the ground. Misunderstanding the situation, Essex jumped onto her as well, joining the pile now, as everyone started weeping with laughter. Percy rolled her eyes, before walking over and playfully sitting on Harley¡¯s overturned back.


    Underneath everyone, Julia caught the light of the sunset again, glinting off of the van and back onto her.


    It¡¯s strange.


    By all definitions, this had been one of the hardest years of her life. And yet, she was the happiest, and most excited, she¡¯d ever been.


    Wicker was almost certainly coming after them for what they¡¯d done to him. And yet, she wasn¡¯t worried in the slightest.


    They were leaving the relative safety of school and heading out into the world, with no safety net or guarantee they¡¯d¡­


    ¡­they¡­


    ¡­they were okay.


    Despite everything, they were still okay. Despite everything, they were still happy, and they still loved each other.


    And now there was one more.


    That feeling of romance, of things on the horizon, yet to come, but very much welcome.


    So, care to continue with us on this intrepid adventure?

 Chapter 66: Team Valiant: The Movie

    Let¡¯s step back a little.


    About two weeks before graduation.


    As one might expect, Team Valiant were cherishing their last few weeks in Detu City, before finally heading out into the rest of Daysend to start their careers.


    The year had been hectic, and rest was warranted, as they lazed about Julia¡¯s lounge room, appreciating the silence and each other¡¯s company.


    The only thing to break up this pleasant scene was Julia, scrolling on her tablet and off in her own little world, before an idea that¡¯d lain dormant for a few months now crossed her mind, causing her to stand up and address the others.


    ¡°Hey, do you guys remember those people that interviewed us after the attack this year?¡±


    The rest of the team went to look at each other in recollection.


    Wess went to raise a point, before stroking her chin. ¡°¡­that¡¯s right, I totally forgot about them.¡±


    ¡°Wait, wasn¡¯t that after the tournament?¡± Sola asked, as Harley scratched her head.


    ¡°I think it was both. I remember them being the same people.¡± Harley wondered, nodding her head. ¡°Yeah, they asked a bunch of questions about our team and said they were doing a biopic or something.¡±


    ¡°A biopic?¡± Essex asked, as Julia shot up.


    ¡°Really?! They told you that?!¡± Julia exclaimed, before turning to a still confused Essex. ¡°It¡¯s like a movie based on our lives!¡±


    ¡°They¡¯re making a movie about us?¡± Essex wondered, as Wess rested a hand on her shoulder.


    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t get our hopes up. These sorts of projects live and die as quickly as the day.¡± Wess reasoned, as Sola pulled out her tablet excitedly. ¡°Movie executives are always putting feelers out to new Venator teams in hopes they¡¯re the next big thing. That way they can secure the rights before anyone else.¡±


    ¡°¡­does that make us a ¡®hot commodity?¡¯¡± Essex asked, as Wess¡¯ eyes sunk.


    ¡°¡­if we have to put such a spin on it.¡±


    ¡°Found it!!! It¡¯s coming out soon!!!¡±


    Everyone turned to Sola, as she waved her tablet about, before Wess charged over.


    ¡°What?!¡± Wess exclaimed, grabbing it up, before scouring the headline. ¡°How that¡¯s even possible?!¡±


    ¡°They¡¯re actually releasing it?!¡± Julia cried, reading over her shoulder, as Wess wrestled the tablet away, before scrolling.


    ¡°No, I¡¯m looking into this¡­¡± Wess muttered, scrolling again, before turning to the others. ¡°It¡¯s been less than six months! There¡¯s no way they cobbled a whole movie together!¡±


    ¡°¡­m-maybe that¡¯s¡­just how popular y-you are¡­¡± Percy posited, as Julia grinned beside her.


    ¡°I like Percy¡¯s idea.¡±


    Wess pursed her lips, before turning her attention to the tablet again.


    ¡°¡­okay, there we go¡­¡± Wess let out. ¡°It seems there was a Team Spectrum movie in the works about their origins, but due to our notable presence at the tournament and the recent attack, they pivoted to us ¡®up and comers.¡¯ I suppose that¡¯s one explanation¡­¡±


    ¡°So they¡¯re tryna capitalise on us?¡± Harley reasoned, as Julia thought for a second, before turning to Wess.


    ¡°Wess, did we secure a copyright on Team Valiant or anything?¡±


    Wess went to raise a point, before stroking her chin. ¡°¡­that¡¯s right, I totally forgot about that.¡±


    ¡°So we can¡¯t sue them?¡± Sola remarked, as Wess gave a dry laugh.


    ¡°Well, if it¡¯s as bad as most Venator movies, we could sue for defamation. I hardly think it¡¯s worth it though.¡± Wess pointed out, waving her hand about. ¡°We¡¯re just about to graduate. I¡¯d rather not spend a bunch of money on lawyers right now.¡±


    ¡°Well, we still gotta see it!¡± Sola insisted, jumping in front of everyone. ¡°If it¡¯s good, that¡¯ll be cool! And if it sucks, we¡¯ve gotta make sure so we can sue!¡±


    ¡°Again, Sola, we shou-¡° Wess raised, only for Harley to step in.


    ¡°Sounds like a fun weekend trip.¡± Harley exclaimed.


    ¡°This shall be my third movie in theatres.¡± Essex noted, giving a thumbs up.


    ¡°¡­a-and my first¡­¡± Percy admitted, as Julia pointed dynamically.


    ¡°Then let¡¯s make our way to the cinema!¡±


    Wess, sick of trying to speak over everyone, handed Julia the tablet and pointed at the release date.


    ¡°¡­in a few weeks once it¡¯s out.¡± Julia added, deflating somewhat. ¡°Right, thanks Wess.¡±


    Wess rolled her eyes, before going back to scrolling. ¡°Let¡¯s hope it¡¯s at least salvageable¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    It was a good few weeks of waiting, broken up with their graduation, but eventually, ¡®Team Valiant: The Journey Begins¡¯ was out, to a¡­


    ¡­well, Team Valiant were deliberately avoiding reviews to go in with a fresh perspective, and to avoid anything bad news if it wasn¡¯t reviewed well.


    After heading to the Cherry Theatre in Detu City, they sidled into their seats in a fairly empty theatre, sat through far too many ads and trailers, before eventually¡­


    ¡­the movie began.


    We open on a young woman, standing outside a massive building, clearly identifiable as the Venator Academy.


    ¡°Yep, that¡¯s me. I¡¯m Julia, just your average, run-of-the-mill kinda girl. Nothing too special about me. You¡¯re probably wondering how I got to study here, at the Venator Academy.¡±


    Cut to Julia as a small child, staring wide-eyed up at a TV.


    ¡°Ever since I was a kid, I¡¯ve wanted to be a hero. Fighting monsters, saving people, that kinda thing. I know, call me clich¨¦.¡±


    Julia, now settled into her seat, excitedly looked to the others, getting positive nods and thumbs up from them, as the on-screen Julia made her way inside the building.


    ¡°But I wanna make a difference, with a team of my own, and live up to the ideal of my heroes, Team Spectrum. And nothing¡¯s going to stand in my way.¡±


    Suddenly, Julia bumps into someone with a large swath of blonde hair in front of her.


    ¡°Well, except that.¡±


    Ignoring the bad joke, Julia lightly clapped as Harley came on-screen, grabbing Harley¡¯s arm happily.


    Harley braced herself, hoping she got as flattering a depiction.


    ¡°O-Oh, sorry. I¡¯m¡­a bit of a klutz.¡± Julia excused.


    The large blonde hair whipped to the side, revealing what looked to be a model, stick thin, perfect makeup and decked out in designer fashion.


    ¡°That¡¯s okay. I can be a total klutz too.¡± She excused, before sticking out her hand. ¡°I¡¯m Harley.¡±


    Harley¡¯s jaw dropped, as the on-screen Harley started twirling her hair.


    ¡°Are you studying to be a Venator as well?¡± Harley asked, resting a dainty hand on her hip.


    ¡°Yeah. You could say I¡¯m kinda obsessed with the idea.¡± Julia insisted, pushing her hair back. ¡°Sorry, I¡¯m a total dork¡­you probably think that¡¯s stupid¡­¡±


    ¡°Are you kidding? I¡¯ve been working my whole life for this.¡± Harley clarified.


    ¡°Why would she think that¡¯s stupid? She just clarified they¡¯re both studying there.¡± Wess accurately pointed out, as Harley threw her hands out.


    ¡°That¡¯s meant to be me? I look nothing like that!¡± Harley complained.


    ¡°The hair is accurate.¡± Essex noted.


    ¡°But where¡¯s the bulk?¡± Harley insisted, pointing at the screen, as the characters kept talking. ¡°Like, she¡¯s hot, they got that part right, but where¡¯s my muscle?¡±


    Sola noticed and sat up. ¡°Hey yeah, where¡¯s your bulk?¡±


    ¡°¡­th-those heels¡­don¡¯t look g-good for fighting e-either¡­¡± Percy added, as Julia reached out.


    ¡°Come on, guys, it¡¯s only been a few minutes. Maybe she bulks up later?¡± Julia posited, not really satisfying Harley, as what looked to be Wess was coming on screen.


    Julia leaned over to tap Wess¡¯ arm. ¡°Look, it¡¯s you!¡±


    Wess rolled her eyes, before giving into Julia¡¯s excitement and leaning back.


    Interrupting Julia and Harley¡¯s conversation, a woman with far too many suitcases and several servants passed by, before knocking into Julia.


    ¡°O-Oh, sorry, sorry, I di-¡°


    ¡°Watch where you¡¯re going, you simpleton!¡± Wess complained. ¡°You nearly got mud on my dress! Wait till my father hears about this indiscretion!¡±


    Wess immediately felt her eye twitching, as Julia slowly sank into her seat, avoiding any kind of eye contact with Wess.


    ¡°You¡¯re the one who bumped into her.¡± Harley defended, as Wess scowled at her.


    ¡°I¡¯ll have you know you¡¯re speaking to Wess Delacroix Nouvel, a Northern Noble, and one who doesn¡¯t have time to squabble with the riffraff! Now out of my way!¡±


    Wess charged past them again, followed closely by her servants, as Harley rested her hands on her hips.


    ¡°That girl needs a serious makeover.¡±


    ¡°Ugghhh¡­¡± Harley let out, cringing into her seat, as Wess was now solidly sunk into hers, visibly seething.


    ¡°¡­Wess?¡± Julia tried, looking to the others for support.


    ¡°¡­I have never once said¡­¡®squabble with the riffraff.¡¯¡± Wess noted, still staring directly ahead.


    ¡°¡­you do talk like that¡­¡± Harley muttered, as Wess finally raised out of her seat.


    ¡°Don¡¯t start with me, Baroke!¡± Wess declared, as Julia and Percy had to hold her down, right as Essex pointed to the screen.


    ¡°Sola, I beli-¡°


    ¡°No, I don¡¯t want it!¡± Sola cried, pleadingly, before turning back to the screen.


    ¡°With the paperwork finished, it¡¯s starting to feel real now.¡± Julia stated, as another person headed their way, before waving her arms widely.


    ¡°Whoa, whoa, WHOA!!!¡±


    She fell over right in front of them, before taking a tumble and bumping her head on the wall.


    ¡°Oh no!¡± She cried, standing up and rubbing her head. ¡°Oopsy poopsy, I fell over!¡±


    Sola stood up straight, her face having sunken in a way it never had before, as the butchering on screen continued to play out.


    ¡°Sorry. I¡¯m Sola. I wanna be a Venator, but I keep falling over!¡± Sola complained, huffing out. ¡°How am I meant to fight Wailing if I can¡¯t even stand up straight!¡±


    ¡°Well, my name¡¯s Julia! I¡¯m sure you¡¯ll find some other way to help people!¡± Julia insisted, as Sola gave a quick salute.


    ¡°I better, or else I¡¯m gonna be in real trouble.¡± Sola declared, only to trip over a nearby bucket and fall over again. ¡°Oopsy poopsy, not again!¡±


    Sola stared blankly at the screen, as the others tried to gauge her reaction.


    Before she said anything, she started to raise her hands, as Essex quickly noticed she was preparing to use her Whil on the screen and lowered them as soon as she could.


    Essex moved her back to her seat, as she threw her hands up.


    ¡°What the hell was that?!¡±


    She stood back up. ¡°I don¡¯t do that! That¡¯s not my thing! I shoot lightning out, I don¡¯t fall on my butt!¡±


    ¡°I mean¡­I have seen you fall over like that before¡­¡± Julia admitted, as Sola shook her head.


    ¡°Nuh uh! I so haven¡¯t!¡± Sola insisted, before sitting back down and folding her arms. ¡°Stupid movie¡­¡±


    Turning her attention, Essex noticed she was coming up on screen, as she felt the tension the others had and braced herself.


    ¡°You reckon we¡¯ll be on the same team?¡± Julia hoped.


    ¡°If we¡¯re lucky. I just hope we don¡¯t get too many weirdos.¡± Harley stated, before someone appeared behind them, with a scythe and purple suit.


    ¡°Excuse me.¡± She asked, pointing forward. ¡°Which is the way to the principal¡¯s office?¡±


    ¡°Uhh, that way, I think.¡± Julia said, before tilting her head. ¡°Who¡¯re you?¡±


    ¡°My name is Essex. A pleasure.¡± Essex stated, before heading in the direction of the office. ¡°If you¡¯ll excuse me.¡±


    She quickly left, as Harley turned to Julia, spinning her finger beside her head.


    ¡°What did I tell you? Weirdos.¡±


    ¡°Oh come on¡­¡± Harley groaned, as Essex sat quietly.


    She tilted her head, surprised at the¡­accuracy.


    ¡°¡­huh. You got out pretty unscathed.¡± Julia noted, as Essex turned to the rest of the team, before bowing toward them.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry that I¡¯ve been portrayed better.¡± Essex insisted, as Percy silently snickered and Sola shook her head.


    ¡°It¡¯s not your fault. You just got lucky.¡±


    ¡°¡­not¡­as much as Harley gets lucky.¡± Essex joked, as Harley, still dejected and sunken in her seat, reached over Sola¡¯s seat to high five Essex.


    ¡°I guess character accuracy wasn¡¯t a top priority for the filmmakers.¡± Julia remarked to Wess and Percy, as Wess shrugged her shoulders.


    ¡°Can¡¯t say I expected better. Let¡¯s hope it smooths out as it goes along.¡± Wess stated, before Julia remembered something and spoke up so everyone could hear.


    ¡°Hey, just double checking¡­¡± Julia asked. ¡°We all kept everything we said about Wicker how we planned, right?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I stuck to the script.¡± Harley confessed.


    ¡°I said he was behind the attacks and that he was controlling the Wailing.¡± Sola admitted, before turning to Percy and pumping her fists. ¡°And that he was a piece of shit to Percy who should rot in hell!¡±


    Percy found herself blushing, as Wess raised a hand.


    ¡°But nothing about him being Cecil. Drudging up the name Wicker¡¯s enough of a stretch, I doubt they¡¯d believe an uncorroborated accusation like that.¡± Wess clarified.


    ¡°Okay, cool.¡± Julia said, sighing out, before turning to Percy. ¡°Sorry if seeing him on screen¡¯s gonna be triggering for you. You can head out, if you need.¡±


    Percy shook her head, before pointing back at the screen.


    ¡°¡­d-does that mean I sh-show up soon¡­?¡± Percy asked, right as the scene cut to a dimly lit room, with a monitor showing the academy campus.


    ¡°I¡­trust that you got it in place.¡±


    Percy quietly nodded.


    ¡°Good, good¡­all according to my plan¡­¡±


    The shadowy man rested his hands on Percy¡¯s shoulders.


    ¡°With this, we¡¯ll finally vanquish those Venators once and for all!¡±


    He leaned over the desk, before pushing a big red button.


    ¡°Welcome to the Venator Academy. I hope¡­you enjoy your stay.¡±


    Percy looked to the others, shrugging her shoulders at the lack of info from her minimal screen presence, before it cut to Julia and Harley heading to the Orientation Event.


    ¡°I can¡¯t wait to start studying here. Is there anything cooler than being a Venator?¡± Harley insisted, as Julia hid her face.


    ¡°I guess so¡­I just hope people don¡¯t think I¡¯m a dork or anything¡­¡±


    ¡°Hey, you¡¯re not a dork.¡± Harley said, stopping right before they arrived at the courtyard. ¡°You¡¯re smart, kind, and the bravest person I know. And we¡¯re totally best friends.¡±


    Julia sighed out and smiled. ¡°You¡¯re right. Thanks Harley.¡±


    ¡°Now let¡¯s head to that event. I wanna see where the cute boys are at.¡±


    ¡°For fucks sake¡­¡± Harley muttered, falling further into her seat.


    Suddenly, screaming and large crashing was heard in the direction of the courtyard, with several onlookers running in the opposite direction.


    The ground started to shake, as the pleasant atmosphere was suddenly replaced with a creeping sense of dread, with the knowledge of exactly what was wreaking havoc on the other side of the building.


    Julia noticed the change and started to pay closer attention. The characterisation may have it problems, but this was something they couldn¡¯t get wrong.


    The first time we worked together¡­ Julia realised, quietly hoping in her seat. Maybe this¡¯ll turn it around.


    Suddenly, the onlookers started shouting as they ran.


    ¡°Watch out! There¡¯s a Wailing there!¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s bigger than any we¡¯ve ever seen!¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no point fighting it! It¡¯s too dangerous!¡±


    Julia and Harley looked at each other, before sprinting out into the courtyard and seeing a glimpse of it entirely.


    A Wailing.


    The size of the support towers, laying waste to the campus with no opposition.


    Its massive visage consumed the sky, as glass and concrete rained down on the ground below.


    More onlookers ran away, as Julia and Harley stared up into its eyes.


    ¡°Julia!¡±


    Julia broke her concentration, as Harley grabbed her arm.


    ¡°We have to get out of here! That thing¡¯s too powerful!¡±


    Harley started running, only for Julia to stay behind, as destruction collapsed around her.


    ¡°I¡¯m not running away.¡± Julia declared, before spotting a rifle on the ground nearby. ¡°This is what Venators do!¡±


    Julia picked up the rifle, before aiming it square at the Wailing¡¯s chest, getting the shot just right.


    The Wailing soon noticed her, before roaring wildly and swinging down to take her out.


    Just as the Wailing was about to hit, Julia fired, as the bullet left the chamber, before being consumed in bright, yellow light.


    The camera panned out to show the bullet travelling all the way through the Wailing¡¯s body and into the sky, as the Wailing stopped, took a second, and slowly but surely fell to the ground, collapsing in a massive heap.


    Julia, now having witnessed all of that play out, was staring agape at the screen.


    The others slowly turned to her, as all they could read was shock at what was unfolding.


    ¡°Julia!¡± Harley cried, running back over to her. ¡°You took that thing out all on your own!¡±


    Just as Julia went to turn around, she nearly tripped over her rifle, before tumbling over comedically.


    Harley shook her head. ¡°But I guess you¡¯re still a total klutz.¡±


    Julia got back up to her feet. ¡°All in a day¡¯s work.¡±


    ¡°What was that light that came out of the bullet?¡± Harley asked, whipping her hair to the side.


    ¡°That¡¯s my Whil, Velocity Propel. It makes it that bullets are five times as fast as they usually are.¡± Julia said, before shying away. ¡°But it¡¯s totally lame. It¡¯s not like those other cool Whils¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­they couldn¡¯t even get the name right¡­¡± Julia finally managed to say, as Harley rested a comforting hand on her.


    ¡°And where was Essex during that? She fought the Wailing too!¡± Sola insisted, standing up again, as Julia blinked a few times.


    ¡°Yeah, why was I the only one fighting it?¡± Julia let out. ¡°And then it dies after being shot once? What the hell was that?!¡±


    ¡°I thought you were defending this trainwreck.¡± Wess remarked, as Julia slowly sunk back into her seat, folding her arms.


    ¡°¡­I¡¯m still holding out hope, but they¡¯re doing us dirty.¡± Julia muttered, as Harley grimaced, before looking over to Sola and Essex.


    ¡°Julia¡¯s not usually this pissed off.¡±


    ¡°I think they made it personal.¡± Sola whispered, as Essex nodded.


    ¡°She doesn¡¯t like when she¡¯s the only one that gets credit.¡± Essex also added, as Harley sighed out.


    ¡°¡­let¡¯s stick it out. I¡¯m starting to like that suing idea.¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Wait, YOU guys are my team?¡±


    Julia stared out at the others littering their dorm room, as Wess¡¯ suitcases filled half the room.


    ¡°Oh great, I¡¯m stuck with the poors!¡± Wess bemoaned, leaving the room right away.


    If you discover this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation.


    Julia went to run after her, before giving up right away.


    ¡°Oh boy, I¡¯m not cut out for this stuff.¡± Julia sighed. ¡°All I¡¯m good at is being average¡­¡±


    Julia had to hold her tongue, desperately trying not to critique the movie too much, even as she felt some anger boil over.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°I¡¯ll join you guys for team training soon!¡± Harley exclaimed, before heading into a locker room nearby the training grounds.


    ¡°We do-¡° Harley started, ready to critique that they don¡¯t have lockers anywhere near there, only for on-screen Harley to start stripping down.


    The camera held on the shot egregiously, as most everyone turned away out of respect, save for a gobsmacked Julia and stunned Sola.


    Sola looked to be covering her eyes but was still peeking through her fingers.


    ¡°Awooga!¡± Sola let out, as Harley stood out of her seat and tried to block her gaze.


    ¡°Wha-why I am getting naked?!¡± She complained, as on-screen Harley then changed into equally revealing ¡®exercise gear.¡¯ ¡°¡­ugh, this is gross¡­¡±


    Harley fell into her seat, visibly pissed, as Julia¡¯s eyes remained glued to the screen.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Watch where you¡¯re¡­oh, sorry.¡± Wess let out, bumping into a stranger in the hallway, before an absurdly handsome man turned around.


    ¡°No need to apologise.¡± He said, flashing a fairly charming smile, before sticking his hand out. ¡°My name¡¯s Avalon.¡±


    The team¡¯s stared wide-eyed at the screen, before looking at each other in shock, as on-screen Wess started to swoon.


    ¡°Wess. Will I¡­be seeing on campus?¡± Wess asked, visibly blushing. ¡°We could¡­head to the Spire, i-if you want.¡±


    Avalon shot a finger gun her way. ¡°It¡¯s a date.¡±


    Suddenly, Julia¡¯s eyes shot open.


    ¡°Wait.¡±


    She turned to Wess.


    ¡°Did they replace Cyrus with Avalon?¡±


    The realisation hit Wess as well, as she instinctively covered her mouth.


    ¡°But this Avalon¡¯s way smoother!¡± Sola pointed out, as Harley shrugged in her seat.


    ¡°I guess they were worried an accurate depiction would come off as¡­disrespectful?¡± Harley stated, as the others mirrored her sentiments.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°You big bad Wailing! You better not hurt Julia!¡± Sola cried, rain pouring down, as the Gelatinous Wailing got closer. ¡°You¡¯re asking for it!¡±


    As the storm brewed around them, Sola stepped forward in protest, ready to confront this Wailing and protect Julia with her life¡­


    ¡­were it not for the branch she accidentally tripped over.


    ¡°Wha-oh no!¡± She cried, falling flat on her face and into the mud, before accidentally firing her Whil in the Wailing¡¯s direction and scaring it off.


    Once she managed to get up, the storm started to clear, before she simply threw her hands up and said¡­


    ¡°Oopsy poopsy!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m suing!¡± Sola yelled out, mostly to the screen, as Harley and Essex tried to hold her down. ¡°I¡¯m taking your asses to court!¡±


    ¡°¡­G-Get ¡®em!¡± Percy cried, cheering Sola on, as Harley insisted she stop jazzing Sola up.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Who are you?!¡± Julia cried.


    ¡°I¡¯m afraid I can¡¯t say.¡± Rosalind declared, showing off a cocky smile, as Wailing ravaged the academy around the team. ¡°You can just call me¡­Rosalind.¡±


    ¡°But that¡¯s just her name!¡± Julia complained, before sinking into her seat, losing the energy to keep critiquing.


    Essex immediately went to strike at her and missed, as Rosalind backflipped, right as a Wailing flew by, before landing on its back.


    ¡°You better watch out, losers! My master¡¯s not one to be trifled with!¡± Rosalind called out, as the Wailing flew away with her on it. ¡°Wicker sends his regards!¡±


    She started to disappear, as Team Valiant collectively gave up.


    ¡°Damn, she got away.¡± Julia complained.


    ¡°SHOOT. THE WAILING. WITH YOUR GUN!¡± Wess insisted. ¡°MY DEAR IS NOT THAT STUPID!¡±


    ¡°Why is she announcing Wicker¡¯s name so brazenly?¡± Essex asked. ¡°For someone so secretive, she was very loose with her information.¡±


    ¡°¡­p-poor plotting?...¡± Percy posited. ¡°¡­had to¡­s-set it up somehow¡­¡±


    Suddenly, the Wailing attacking the academy started to disappear, and the Behemoth Wailing slowly sunk into the water bordering the academy, as Team Valiant all started celebrating.


    ¡°We did it! We won! The Wailing have been defeated!¡±


    ¡°You did nothing!¡± Julia cried, before staring down at her empty popcorn bucket. ¡°¡­I¡¯m gonna get some more popcorn. Anyone want some?¡±


    ¡°I finished mine in the trailers.¡± Sola admitted, holding up her empty box.


    Essex and Harley showed theirs off too, as Julia sighed out.


    ¡°Cool, I¡¯ll be back in a few.¡±


    ¡°I think I¡¯ll join you.¡± Wess remarked, staring back at the screen. ¡°I need to not be here for a bit.¡±


    Julia and Wess got up, sidling past the others as they left the theatre and beelined for the concession stand.


    ¡°We should¡¯ve just brought our own.¡± Julia realised, sighing out. ¡°They¡¯re gonna overcharge like crazy¡­¡±


    Julia turned to Wess. ¡°Is popcorn too expensive in the Northern Wayside too?¡±


    Wess tilted her head. ¡°¡­relatively, but most people there are¡­well off. And the movie theatres are much nicer.¡±


    ¡°Right, makes sense.¡± Julia said, as they reached the stand. ¡°Uhh, three medium¡­no, two large popcorns.¡±


    ¡°No problem.¡± Said the concession worker, before going to grab something from behind the counter and coming up empty. ¡°Dammit¡­it¡¯ll be a minute. I¡¯ve got grab some bags from the back.¡±


    They quickly left, leaving Julia and Wess to wait patiently.


    After a moment of silence passed, Wess leaned against the counter.


    ¡°¡­Julia.¡±


    ¡°Yeah?¡±


    ¡°What do you think of the movie so far?¡±


    Julia let out a weakened sighed. ¡°¡­severely disappointed. Sort of a childhood dream that¡¯s been ran over with a steamroller.¡±


    Wess touched her fingers together. ¡°¡­what did you think of my portrayal?¡±


    Julia looked a bit surprised. ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    Wess avoided looking at her. ¡°¡­well, you were there for most of it¡­was I really that awful?¡±


    Julia¡¯s expression turned to worry, as she placed a hand on Wess¡¯ shoulder. ¡°No, of course not. You weren¡¯t that¡­well, cartoonish.¡±


    ¡°I know¡­but there has to be some kernel of truth in there.¡± Wess reasoned, standing back up and wandering a bit. ¡°They didn¡¯t pull this out of nowhere, this is from our accounts. This is how the filmmakers saw me¡­a spoiled rich kid with an ego the size of a Behemoth Wailing.¡±


    Julia rubbed her neck. ¡°¡­I mean, at first you seemed a bit like that¡­but that¡¯s before any of us really knew you. I stopped thinking that, like, a couple of days after we met.¡±


    ¡°¡­you¡¯re just saying that¡­¡± Wess muttered, as Julia smiled and wrapped her arm around her.


    ¡°And you don¡¯t have an ego. You have a lot of confidence that can read as an ego to stupid filmmakers who don¡¯t know how great you are.¡± Julia admitted, grinning to her after, as Wess rolled her eyes.


    ¡°Alright, alright, you¡¯ve laid on enough compliments. I feel better.¡± Wess insisted, staring back at Julia. ¡°I¡¯m sorry for making you worry.¡±


    Julia linked hands with her. ¡°Hey, you got the least flattering depiction of any of us. You have every right to be mad.¡±


    ¡°¡­Sola¡¯s is pretty bad too.¡± Wess admitted.


    ¡°¡­yeah, they did her dirty.¡± Julia agreed, as the concession worker came back with the bag. ¡°I hope they¡¯re at least kinder to the rest of us going forward.¡±


    Julia and Wess went about grabbing their popcorn and heading back to the theatre, sidling over to their seats.


    ¡°What¡¯d we miss?¡± Julia whispered, handing Harley her popcorn.


    ¡°We started second year with a plan to track down Wicker, then we went on a Wailing hunt, an-¡° Harley said, before stopping herself and grabbing Sola¡¯s shoulder excitedly. ¡°Babe, babe, look! It¡¯s happening!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m looking!¡± Sola exclaimed, struggling to stay still in her seat.


    Julia checked the screen and registered on-screen Harley and Sola in the middle of training in the Spire, before remembering them confessing that that¡¯s how they started dating.


    ¡°Please don¡¯t screw it up!¡± Sola begged, as Essex gave a proud thumbs up to both of them.


    ¡°Even if this is done well, it will still fail to capture the beauty of your love.¡± Essex insisted, as Harley and Sola both turned to her, blushing heavily, before jumping over to her seat to hug her.


    ¡°You sweetheart!¡± Harley cried, only for someone way further back in the theatre to shush them.


    Harley stood up and flipped them off, before Sola pulled her back down and pointed frantically at the screen.


    After a harrowing day of training, Harley and Sola were both panting heavily at the top of the Spire, with Sola on top of Harley, staring back at her.


    The sunset gleamed behind them, silhouetting them against the sky.


    ¡°This is it!¡± Sola let out, linking hands with Harley.


    ¡°¡­Harley?¡± Sola let out.


    ¡°Yeah?¡± Harley replied, resting her hand on Sola¡¯s.


    The team waited with bated breath.


    ¡°¡­you¡¯re my best friend.¡±


    The expressions on Harley and Sola¡¯s faces slowly sunk, as on-screen Harley sat up.


    ¡°And you¡¯re my best friend too!¡± Harley let out. ¡°I don¡¯t think I¡¯ve ever been as good friends with anyone else!¡±


    Harley and Sola slowly sat down in annoyance.


    ¡°When I think of you, all I think about is someone who makes me endlessly happy and fulfilled.¡± Sola insisted. ¡°In a platonic way.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s what friends are for!¡±


    Harley resumed the sunken position she was in before the scene, and Sola slowly curled up in her seat, visibly miffed.


    ¡°¡­we shouldn¡¯t have gotten our hopes up¡­¡± Sola muttered, as Essex comfortingly patted her, while on-screen Harley and Sola confirmed their friendship with a firm handshake.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°That Team Valiant¡­they¡¯ve been a thorn in my side for too long.¡± Wicker declared, addressing a kneeling Rosalind and Percy. ¡°Rosalind, I have a plan for you. You¡¯re to head to the academy at once.¡±


    ¡°Of course, my master.¡± She replied.


    ¡°And Percy?¡±


    Percy gulped.


    ¡°¡­I have something even more nefarious for you.¡±


    Percy tilted her head, visibly confused as to what they could even be hinting at.


    The rest of the team looked to her for some kind of hint, as she threw her hands up.


    ¡°¡­I-I don¡¯t know¡­it w-wasn¡¯t even a-anything like this¡­¡± Percy assured, as Julia sighed out.


    ¡°At this point, that¡¯s not too shocking¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°But what about us? What about our friendship?¡±


    ¡°Friendship?¡± Harley let out, standing up in her noticeably skimpy formal dress. ¡°You¡¯re jealous because I¡¯m friends with Sola?¡±


    Essex looked away in shame. ¡°¡­I just wish I could be friends with you too.¡±


    Harley tried averting her gaze from the screen, as on-screen Essex continued to pour her heart out.


    ¡°But we can all be friends! There¡¯s nothing wrong with that!¡± Sola insisted, as Harley sighed, before whipping her hair to the side.


    ¡°¡­I just don¡¯t see it. After all¡­¡± Harley let out, before staring back at Essex. ¡°¡­you¡¯re leaving us behind.¡±


    Harley and Essex blinked, before staring at each other.


    ¡°What?¡± Essex let out.


    ¡°You¡¯re moving teams. Julia told me yesterday.¡± Harley said, dramatic tears in her eyes. ¡°How c-could you abandon us like that? How could you b-be so cold?¡±


    Essex avoided eye contact. ¡°¡­I¡­I got a better offer¡­¡±


    Harley and Sola both gasped.


    ¡°¡­umm¡­¡± Essex let out, before looking back at Harley.


    She pointed to the screen.


    ¡°They fucked us up too.¡±


    ¡°¡­cool¡­that¡¯s really cool¡­¡± Harley grumbled in her seat, still not looking at herself on-screen.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°I did it! A well-deserved victory!¡± Wess cried, as Cyrus lay on the arena ground beside her, grabbing at his knee.


    ¡°Owie! Ow! That was so mean of you!¡±


    Wess turned to the crowds and opened her arms. ¡°Go on! Lavish me with your praise!¡±


    ¡°¡­I¡¯m finding the director and doing unspeakable things to their car¡­¡± Wess declared, vigorously massaging her forehead from stress, right as on-screen Avalon ran up to her in the arena, before sweeping her up.


    ¡°I think my princess deserves a reward.¡±


    ¡°Oh my, if you insist¡­¡±


    ¡°I certainly do.¡± He said, before kissing her in front of the crowd.


    Wess gagged and had to turn away, as the team reviled, and Julia was noticeably offended beside her.


    ¡°Wha-they know that¡¯s wrong!¡± Julia cried, turning to Wess. ¡°There¡¯s footage of the fight! You kissed me!¡±


    ¡°I remember, dear. It was beautiful, and I¡¯m not sullying it¡­¡± Wess insisted, waiting patiently with her gaze to the wall. ¡°¡­is it over yet?¡±


    ¡°¡­n-no, it¡¯s¡­still going¡­¡± Percy begrudgingly admitted.


    ¡°You¡¯re using a lot of tongue.¡± Harley let out, as Wess groaned in her seat.


    ¡°Sweet lord, let it end¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°Better watch out, Harley! I don¡¯t plan to play fair!¡± Adora cried, cackling wildly with daggers displayed, before charging right at her.


    ¡°No, great idea, telegraph that right away!¡± Harley called out, leaning back in her seat, as the others started laughing. ¡°Really smart move in a fight!¡±


    ¡°Better watch out, I¡¯m about to break the rules!¡± Sola added, as the others kept chuckling.


    Julia raised her finger. ¡°Guys, we shouldn¡¯t be too loud. We¡¯re still in a public theatre.¡± Julia insisted, as Wess sighed, before standing up and facing the maybe three people behind them.


    ¡°To anyone legitimately enjoying this drivel, I can only pity your pathetic taste in media and lack of critical thinking skills!¡± Wess let out, as the one guy in the back of the theatre booed her, chucking his popcorn her way.


    Wess dodged it and had half a mind to go confront him, before Julia pulled her down to avoid any escalation of the argument, right as on-screen Adora stabbed Harley in the leg during their match.


    Harley fell to the ground, with a noticeable shot of her backside, as Adora cackled wildly, before teleporting Harley and herself away from the arena.


    Harley ignored that this was the fourth needless shot of her butt in the movie, and blinked in confusion at the complete deviation to what had happened in real life.


    Harley eventually appeared in a dimly lit room, tied to a chair with her cleavage on full display, as Adora kept cackling, before taking off her mask and revealing¡­


    ¡°¡­you.¡± Harley let out.


    ¡°Are you surprised?¡± Rosalind teased, throwing her mask away and pulling out her sword. ¡°That whole fight was a ruse. I just needed you weak so I could capture you.¡±


    ¡°Then-¡°


    ¡°Yes, I was Adora the whole time!¡± Rosalind revealed, cackling again.


    ¡°What the fuck is happening?¡± Harley let out, as Sola jumped up in her seat.


    ¡°Did they listen to us at all?¡± Sola genuinely asked.


    Eventually, a second party walked into the room, arms behind his back and a wide grin across his face.


    ¡°¡­Wicker.¡± Harley let out, whipping her hair out of her face.


    ¡°¡­yes, it¡¯s me. And you¡¯re part of that annoying team.¡± Wicker admitted, before taking a strand of her hair and running it through his fingers. ¡°Now that you¡¯re here, your team shouldn¡¯t be too far behind.¡±


    ¡°What do you want with us?¡± Harley asked.


    ¡°It¡¯s not what I want with you.¡± Wicker confessed, turning to leave. ¡°I¡¯m only interested in one of you¡­Julia.¡±


    ¡°¡­again, he just admits he¡¯s Wicker¡­¡± Julia muttered, running her hands over her face. ¡°¡­this hurts. I¡¯m hurting watching this¡­¡±


    It cuts back to the rest of Team Valiant in their dorm, debating what to do to go and rescue Harley, as Essex sighs out.


    ¡°It¡¯s hopeless¡­we don¡¯t stand a chance against Wicker¡¯s forces¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­I say we give up.¡± Wess offered, as Julia stood up dynamically.


    ¡°No, Team Valiant is not about giving up! We stand for what¡¯s right!¡±


    Despite herself, Julia found herself getting a little inspired by her on-screen depiction¡¯s sudden shift into competency.


    ¡°We don¡¯t back down when we see a challenge! We face it head on, with teamwork, and friendship!¡±


    ¡°But it¡¯s impossible! It would take a miracle to save Harley now!¡± Sola insisted.


    ¡°There has to be some sort of key to this victory.¡± Essex said, only for Julia to spin right back to her.


    ¡°Wait a minute¡­say that back.¡±


    ¡°What¡­key to this vic¡­¡± Essex started, before seeing what she meant. ¡°Key to this victory!¡±


    ¡°What, what is it?¡± Wess asked, right as Julia reached into her nearby bag and pulled out some car keys.


    ¡°I¡¯ve got a plan.¡±


    ¡°She¡­I¡¯ve got a car?¡± Julia asked, scratching her head, as Percy did a double take.


    ¡°¡­th-this is¡­definitely...the first time we¡¯re s-seeing it¡­¡± Percy deduced, as it smash cut to the carpark, with the team jumping inside a much too nice car, before starting the engine and tearing off.


    Before anyone could question what was going it, it cut back to Harley, Wicker and Rosalind, as Wicker was about to hit Harley across the face, before stopping.


    ¡°¡­what¡¯s that noise?¡±


    Smash cut to Team Valiant, roaring down the street to what looked to be an abandoned warehouse on the outskirts of Detu City, as Julia refused to slow down, before driving right through the side of the building, crashing inside.


    As the smoke cleared, the team realised they were surrounded by Wicker¡¯s goons, all starting to encircle with their guns pointed at them.


    Julia went to mockingly put her hands up, before smirking and reaching into the car, grabbing out her assault rifle, and unloading into the henchmen.


    The rest of the team followed suite, grabbing out their weapons and mowing through the countless people, at least as much as a mature rating would allow.


    Team Valiant sat in abject horror as their on-screen depictions maimed and murdered their way through the warehouse, with the constant gunfire and explosions only being broken up by terrible quips here and there, all very incongruous to the sheer violence on display.


    After it dragged on for far too long, they managed to find the room Harley was trapped in.


    ¡°Harley!¡± Julia cried, going to untie her. ¡°Where are Wicker and Rosalind?¡±


    ¡°Julia, it¡¯s terrible! They said they were headed back to the academy!¡± Harley declared, getting up from her seat. ¡°Wicker said he was going to bring the Wailing with him!¡±


    ¡°Then we don¡¯t have a moment to lose.¡± Wess stated, right as Sola made her way through the door, before tripping over the entrance.


    She comically landed on her face, as Wess rolled her eyes. ¡°Well, except for that.¡±


    ¡°I hate this movie.¡± Wess insisted, sinking into her seat. ¡°This rise in action better mean it¡¯s wrapping up soon¡­¡±


    ¡°W-Wait!¡±


    The team all turned around, as someone else found their way into the room.


    ¡°A-Are you guys gonna take on Wicker?¡± She asked, before placing her hand on her chest. ¡°My name¡¯s Percy. I want to help.¡±


    The team were slacked jawed at the screen, as Percy kept chatting up a storm.


    ¡°And why should we trust you, Percy?¡± Julia asked, folding her arms.


    ¡°Because I know about his nefarious plans.¡± Percy announced. ¡°Wicker¡¯s been controlling the Wailing for years using his Whil. It let him mind control them and do his bidding, as well as tapping into their inherent evil tendencies, thus doubling their strength and pow¡­¡±


    Most everyone tuned out of the exposition at this point, before cautiously looking to Percy for her reaction.


    However, to everyone¡¯s surprise, she was cracking up, weeping with laughter at her on-screen depiction, so much so she was struggling to breathe.


    It took her a minute to regain her composure, as she wiped some tears away.


    ¡°¡­t-they¡­c-c-couldn¡¯t even¡­get that right!...¡± She managed, before falling into a laughing fit again, only to be joined by Harley and Sola quickly after.


    ¡°Geez¡­these filmmakers¡­¡± Julia bemoaned, sinking into herself. ¡°I guess this is a Venator rite of passage. We¡¯ve got a shitty movie all about us.¡±


    ¡°Weren¡¯t we just saying there wasn¡¯t a moment to lose?¡± Wess pointed out, as on-screen Percy kept talking ad nauseum.


    As the movie continued hashing out needless exposition, Essex stood up, before bowing to the others.


    ¡°I¡¯m heading to the bathroom.¡± Essex announced, turning to leave, right as Harley, having just recovered from her laughing, got up as well.


    ¡°Uhh, yeah, I¡¯m gonna go too.¡± Harley said, hopping over to join her, as they exited the theatre.


    Essex casually walked along, as Harley nervously looked over to her direction.


    ¡°¡­so¡­bad movie, huh?¡±


    Essex nodded. ¡°I¡¯ve not watched many movies, but I can tell this one¡¯s¡­¡®a doozy.¡¯¡± Essex replied, using air quotes.


    ¡°I know. The story was right there, and they still butchered it.¡± Harley insisted, as they headed inside the bathroom.


    ¡°¡­why is it?¡± Essex asked, facing Harley before they entered. ¡°Why did it turn out like this?¡±


    Harley went to speak, before stopping and ruminating on it.


    ¡°¡­number of reasons. The big one¡¯s probably the executives behind the project.¡± Harley reasoned, shrugging. ¡°A lot of these decisions are made my moneymen who want the movie to be ¡®marketable.¡¯¡±


    ¡°Is our story not marketable?¡± Essex asked.


    ¡°I¡¯d say it is.¡± Harley reasoned, nodding. ¡°But then the moneymen say it needs more action, or hot actors, or obvious, cringey dialogue to avoid any kind of subtlety or nuance.¡±


    ¡°¡­or for Sola to be a stupid comedic character.¡± Essex noted, as Harley snapped her fingers and pointed at Essex.


    ¡°Exactly. Biopic, my ass.¡±


    ¡°Your ass indeed.¡± Essex replied, before ducking into a stall.


    Having made her point, Harley only just remembered why she joined Essex and went to get her attention, only for the door to close in her face.


    She was left waiting anxiously for a few minutes as Essex took care of things, before the door finally opened up.


    Right as Essex stepped out, Harley quickly jumped into a hug with her, catching her off guard.


    ¡°¡­Harley?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m so so sorry!¡± Harley insisted, pushing her face into her. ¡°I know I apologised already, but I still feel bad!¡±


    ¡°Harley.¡± Essex said, holding her hands up.


    Harley suddenly realised she hadn¡¯t washed them yet and let her go, as Essex went to do so.


    The moment she dried them, Harley locked her in a hug again.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry!¡±


    ¡°For what?¡± Essex asked, as Harley sniffed a bit.


    ¡°¡­I know they totally butchered it with the ¡®friend¡¯ stuff¡­but seeing everything during the formal again reminded me what a dick I was.¡± Harley admitted. ¡°And I know we made up, but¡­it still hurts knowing I did that. So¡­sorry, again.¡±


    Essex watched Harley patiently wait for some kind of response from her, at least as reassurance.


    Instead, Essex took her hand and lightly donked Harley on the head.


    ¡°¡­we¡¯ve been dating for over a year.¡± Essex pointed out, putting her hand back down. ¡°You don¡¯t have to keep apologising.¡±


    Before Harley could refute the point, Essex took the initiative and leaned in, kissing her, before pulling back and smiling.


    ¡°¡­just be lucky you bagged a ten like me.¡± Essex replied, as she went to leave the bathroom, leaving Harley in a stunned, blushing state.


    Whoa¡­ Harley thought, finding herself swooning. ¡­since when was she so suave?


    Once Essex was out in the hall, she pulled out her tablet.


    Essex [I used the line you suggested on Harley.]


    Sola [Did she swoon?!!!?!?!!?!]


    Essex [I believe so.]


    Sola [<3<3<3 WAY TO GO BABE!!!!!!!1!!]


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Harley and Essex sidled their way back in, just as the on-screen team arrived back at the academy, parking in front of the main building, as the campus was being ravaged by an endless number of Wailing again.


    ¡°No!¡± Julia cried, as a voice came over the speakers.


    ¡°Team Valiant, so nice of you to join us.¡±


    ¡°Wicker!¡± Julia declared. ¡°Surrender now!¡±


    ¡°What, when the fun¡¯s just starting?¡± Wicker cackled. ¡°Soon, this academy will be mine! And then, all of Daysend will be in the palm of my hand!¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll never give in to your demands! We¡¯ll continue to fight for what¡¯s right and true!¡± Julia insisted.


    Laughter came over the speaker. ¡°If that¡¯s the case, then come find me on the roof of the main building. And make sure to give the Wailing a hello for me.¡±


    The speakers cut out, as Harley made a fist. ¡°Damn him.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ve gotta end this once and for all!¡± Julia declared, heading into the main building, as the others split off from her.


    ¡°We¡¯ll take care of the Wailing out here!¡± Wess called out, with Percy following after Julia.


    ¡°How did Wicker hear them i-oh, whatever. I don¡¯t have the energy to care¡­¡± Wess admitted, visibly defeated in her seat, as Julia reached over to squeeze her arm.


    As Julia and Percy made it to the first floor, the others headed out to the rest of the campus, only to be stopped by Rosalind, standing in the middle of the carpark, surrounded by deadly looking Wailing.


    ¡°Not so fast, Team Losers. I¡¯m not done with you yet.¡±


    Everyone started preparing for a fight, before Essex stepped forward, holding her arm out.


    ¡°She¡¯s mine.¡± Essex insisted, as they all nodded to her.


    Despite not wanting to admit it, Essex was genuinely excited to see herself in a proper fight scene. During most of the movie so far, she¡¯d gotten virtually no screentime compared to the others. This wouldn¡¯t normally be a problem, but with her recent want to change things up in her life, this would be her on-screen time to shine.


    ¡°¡­go, me, go¡­¡± Essex silently cheered to herself, as on-screen Essex pulled out her scythe.


    She charged at Rosalind, exchanging a few blows with her, before Rosalind tripped her and managed to get the upperhand.


    Rosalind started winning the fight, with Essex¡¯s back to a car, before falling to the ground, as Rosalind laughed over her.


    ¡°I can¡¯t believe Wicker wanted me to take you guys out. You¡¯re not even worth the energy.¡± Rosalind sneered, leaving Essex alone, before Essex got back up and caught Rosalind off guard.


    Quickly, she managed to get the upper hand, knocking Rosalind off her game and dealing blows quicker than Rosalind could respond.


    ¡°How¡¯re you¡­so damn fast?!¡± Rosalind cried, getting knocked to the ground, as Essex held her scythe to Rosalind¡¯s neck.


    Before she could respond, Rosalind managed to get a slash in at Essex¡¯s arm, thinking she¡¯d gotten in a good hit, only to stare in shock at what was underneath.


    ¡°Wait a minute¡­you¡¯re¡­¡±


    Essex held up her arm, revealing gears and servos underneath.


    ¡°¡­an android?!¡±


    A silence washed over the theatre, and especially over Essex, who was having a hard time comprehending, or even dignifying, what was on screen.


    As Rosalind stumbled back, Essex pulled her scythe out, before charging past Rosalind with one last slice.


    ¡°And you¡­¡± Essex declared, as Rosalind¡¯s body slumped over in the background. ¡°¡­are defeated.¡±


    The movie then cut t-


    ¡°Wait, we¡¯re just not addressing that?!¡± Harley complained, now out of her seat. ¡°Wasn¡¯t this a biopic?!¡±


    ¡°Hey, quiet down! I¡¯m tryna watch here!¡± The guy in the back yelled, as Sola leaned over her seat.


    ¡°Bite me!¡±


    ¡°¡­they think I¡¯m a robot?¡± Essex finally managed to say, as Harley and Sola quickly went to comfort her.


    ¡°No, no, of course not.¡± Harley insisted, as Sola grabbed her face between her hands.


    ¡°They just wanted a dumb plot twist for their dumb movie, okay?¡± Sola assured, as Essex shook her head.


    She freed herself from Sola¡¯s hands.


    ¡°¡­I¡¯m just gonna go.¡±


    She started walking to the door to the theatre, as Julia got up.


    ¡°Totally fair. We¡¯ll see you when it¡¯s over!¡± Julia called, as Essex gave a thumbs up and headed out.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    The movie continued on to what was turning out to be a pretty lengthy third act. At this point, nobody in Team Valiant was really invested, but felt obliged to see it through, at least so they never had to touch it again.


    During their fight with the Wailing, they¡¯d gotten help from various random Venator students, most notably Avalon, who came in right near the start and handled most of the fighting for Wess.


    ¡°My hero¡­¡± Wess let out, watching as Avalon singlehandedly managed to kill three Wailing in one clean blow.


    Wess found herself seething at this point, watching as Avalon took up what should have been any narrative importance given to her, before her hopes were slightly raised as he was hit by surprise by a particularly strong looking Wailing.


    ¡°Avalon!¡± Wess said, running over to him, as he coughed up some blood. ¡°You¡¯re hurt!¡±


    ¡°No shit¡­¡± Wess muttered.


    ¡°Wess¡­I¡¯m not gonna make it out of this¡­¡± Avalon declared, a tear rolling down his cheek. ¡°Just promise me¡­you¡¯ll live on¡­you¡¯ll smile every day¡­and¡­remember my sacrifice¡­¡±


    ¡°This feels so messed up¡­¡± Harley let out, as Percy turned to the others.


    ¡°¡­i-isn¡¯t he that student in¡­y-your year that died?...¡± Percy asked, as Julia nodded.


    ¡°It was out on a training mission. I guess they wanted to give him a heroic sacrifice?¡± Julia posited, before noticing Wess practically horizontal with how far she¡¯d sunk into her seat. ¡°Wess? You okay?¡±


    ¡°¡­I¡¯m ecstatic.¡± Wess grumbled, as on-screen Avalon stood back up.


    The Wailing let out a vicious roar, as Avalon held out his staff and ran right toward it, before taking a direct hit to the stomach.


    The Wailing smiled, before Avalon brought the staff down onto its head, as clouds started to form in the sky, right as Avalon summoned a massive strike of lightning and hit them both.


    Once it cleared, the Wailing turned to a pile of ash, as Avalon¡¯s body fell to the ground, with Wess running over to it.


    ¡°¡­A-Avalon, no¡­¡± She let out, holding his body. ¡°¡­I-I¡¯ll never love again¡­¡±


    ¡°Alright, fuck this movie. I¡¯m joining Essex.¡± Wess let out, immediately standing up and beelining for the door, as Julia couldn¡¯t even get in a goodbye.


    However, her attention was stolen away when she back came up on-screen, now at the roof of the main building, occupied by Wicker and a massive number of explosives.


    ¡°¡­ah, Julia. So nice of you to join me.¡± Wicker greeted.


    ¡°Save it, Wicker. We¡¯re through playing your games.¡± Julia said, as Percy nervously joined her side. ¡°You may think you have the upper hand, but goodness will always win in the end!¡±


    ¡°Is that so?¡± Wicker said, smiling wickedly, before turning to Percy. ¡°Let¡¯s see how strong those convictions really are. Percy, kill her.¡±


    Before Julia could realise what was going on, Percy was now holding a gun to Julia¡¯s head, slightly quivering as she did so.


    ¡°P-Percy?¡± Julia let out.


    ¡°You fool! I tricked you! She¡¯s been working for me the whole time!¡± Wicker cackled. ¡°And with you gotten rid of, I¡¯ll simply have the Wailing tear this place apart before blowing it up and starting my empire RIGHT HERE!¡±


    ¡°B-But why?¡± Julia managed, as Percy turned away.


    ¡°¡­y-you don¡¯t understand¡­I have to do this¡­¡±


    ¡°No you don¡¯t.¡± Julia insisted. ¡°That¡¯s not the Percy I know!¡±


    ¡°But we met, like, five minutes ago.¡± Julia pointed out, turned to Percy, who¡¯d skooched over to Wess¡¯ seat.


    ¡°She¡¯s kind, and heroic, and always speaks her mind!¡±


    Percy snickered again, as Wicker started to get upset.


    ¡°What are you waiting for Percy? Do it already.¡±


    Percy hesitated on pressing the trigger, staring into Julia¡¯s eyes, before grappling with herself and throwing the gun away.


    ¡°No, Wicker. I won¡¯t stand for it.¡± Percy declared. ¡°I¡¯m not gonna hurt one of my best friends.¡±


    ¡°Again, five minutes ago.¡± Harley reiterated. ¡°Also, if Wicker¡¯s got a mind control Whil, why doesn¡¯t he use it on Percy?¡±


    Julia went to speak, before stopping herself.


    ¡°¡­huh. Good point.¡± Julia said, shaking her head. ¡°Also, didn¡¯t Wicker say he had an interest in me specifically? So why¡¯d he try to kill me?¡±


    ¡°Hey, yeah! They totally bunked that up!¡± Sola pointed out, as Julia shrugged.


    ¡°I can¡¯t believe the movie didn¡¯t answer that. It¡¯s been airtight otherwise.¡±


    The others got a good laugh out of that, right as Wicker knocked Percy off the building somehow, before Julia grabbed her rifle.


    Wicker mockingly held his hands up. ¡°You think you can stop me? You¡¯re just some random girl. There¡¯s no hope of stopping the plans that are already in motion!¡±


    Julia wavered for a second, thinking over her options, before spotting the fuse near the explosives and getting an idea.


    ¡°¡­I may just be a girl¡­¡±


    Julia aimed the barrel at the fuse.


    ¡°¡­but I¡¯m also a Venator.¡±


    ¡°No!¡± Wicker cried, as she fired the shot off, lighting the fuse and causing every explosive on the floor to go off all at once in a massive explosion.


    Julia managed to quickly duck downstairs, as Wicker was blown off the side by the force of the explosion, causing him to slowly plummet down from the hundredth floor, before cutting away as he presumably hit the ground.


    Once the coast was clear, Julia made her way back up, taking a breath, before heading to the edge, lamenting that Percy had fallen as well¡­


    ¡­only for Sola to appear out of nowhere, blasting herself into the sky with her cannons, with Percy riding on her back.


    ¡°Percy!¡± Julia cried, as the duo landed. ¡°Sola, you saved her!¡±


    ¡°I sure did! I realised, just cause I fall over all the time doesn¡¯t mean I can¡¯t save people from falling!¡± Sola insisted, as the trio all laughed together.


    The Wailing immediately started to dissipate once Wicker was gone, with every Venator on campus cheering.


    The movie slowly transitioned into a heroic shot of Team Valiant in front of the academy, staring out at the horizon, looking on at their future and everything that had to come¡­


    ¡­before the silence was broken up by Harley.


    ¡°Uhh, guys? I don¡¯t know about you, but after a fight like that, I seriously need to get my nails done.¡±


    The whole team laughed at the hilarious joke, as it faded into the credits, playing a song by some random pop artist called ¡®Valiant and Loving It,¡¯ finally ending off Team Valiant¡¯s journey at the academy.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°So, how did it end?¡±


    Julia sighed out, as the others left the theatre and met up with Wess and Essex outside. ¡°Uhh¡­I¡­indirectly killed Wicker, and Sola learned to fly.¡±


    Wess blinked profusely. ¡°Sounds like I missed a lot.¡±


    ¡°Not really.¡± Harley insisted, rubbing her face over and over. ¡°That was so bad! They didn¡¯t do anything right!¡±


    ¡°¡­w-what¡¯re the reviews online like?...¡± Percy asked, as Wess had already been scrawling them, before handing the tablet off to Julia.


    ¡°Nothing favourable, and a sort of ¡®well, that¡¯s Venator movies for you¡¯ attitude about the whole thing.¡± Wess noted, as Julia lifted her head.


    ¡°Well, there¡¯s one positive revie¡­¡± Julia started, before quickly looking up at Harley and lowering the tablet. ¡°Actually¡­¡±


    Harley grabbed the tablet and scanned the review.


    Blonde one ws hot. rest was sorta okay mostly. 3.5/5


    Harley audibly groaned and handed it back. ¡°¡­of course¡­¡±


    ¡°...well, it doesn¡¯t really matter if we liked it.¡± Julia pointed out, spinning back around to the team. ¡°As long as other people got something out of it, then that¡¯s worth i-¡±


    ¡°Two out of five stars. Julia whined too much.¡± Wess read aloud, showing off a review pulled up on her tablet.


    Julia looked over the tablet, just as her energy disappeared again.


    ¡°¡­I wanna go home...¡±


    ¡°Of course you do.¡± Wess said, wrapping her arm around Julia¡¯s shoulders, as the team started heading off. ¡°What a waste of effort.¡±


    ¡°Let us hope if our stories told again in the future, it¡¯s much better adapted.¡± Essex insisted, as Sola jumped ahead of them.


    ¡°I¡¯ll say! You know what it needs? Better humou-¡°


    Right as she said that, Sola accidentally stubbed her toe on the pavement, before flailing her arms and falling onto the ground, faceplanting into the path.


    Just before getting up, she noticed the others looking at her, as Harley was holding back laughter.


    ¡°Oopsy poo-¡±


    ¡°This is the only time that¡¯s happened!¡± Sola insisted, playfully smacking her, as the team took their time getting back home, counteracting the horrendousness of the movie by enjoying each other¡¯s company.

 Year 3 Bonus Sketches are out now!

    Hey, just a little update post to say the bonus chapter for Year 3''s artwork is up on Day-to-Day Wayside! Yayayay!


    Also, new chapters of ''Aloette, The Pirate Princess'' will be releasing over January! I''ve finally got time, and energy, to work on it and should be releasing at least 9 chapters over the break between DTDK years. Go check it out if you haven''t. There''s not as many queer women in it, but there''s a good chunk of queer men. And pirates. Probably should''ve led with pirates, that''s a bit more important to the...story...The author''s tale has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.


    ...anyway bye!

 New chapters of Aloette, the Pirate Princess!

    Hey, just a quick post to say there''s new chapters coming out of Aloette, the Pirate Princess on RoyalRoad, and now on A03 as well! Perfect time to catch up, it''s not nearly as big as DTDK.The narrative has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.


    Pirates!

 Team Valiant go to Hooters

    ¡°¡­hey Harley?¡±


    ¡°Yeah?¡± Harley said, leaning her head back over Julia¡¯s couch, as the rest of the team lazed around her lounge room.


    ¡°I just got an ad on my tablet. Have you heard of this place called¡­Hooters?¡± Julia asked, as Harley shot up excitedly.


    ¡°Of course I have!¡± She let out, as Wess groaned beside her.


    ¡°¡­I shouldn¡¯t have expected better¡­¡± Wess muttered.


    ¡°Excuse me, but what is ¡®Hooters?¡¯¡± Essex asked, sitting across a now very curious Sola.


    ¡°They¡¯re only one of the most well-established, beloved chain restaurants out there! With over 400 restaurants in 29 countries, they¡¯re an all-in-one entertainment establishment for you and the whole family! Delicious food, drinks, non-stop sports broadcasts, and you can¡¯t forget about the gorgeous waitstaff! It all seems so simple, it¡¯s hard to believe nobody else ever thought of it!¡± Harley exclaimed.


    ¡°¡­Harley, are you sponsored by them?¡± Julia asked, as Wess rolled her eyes.


    ¡°Harley, isn¡¯t that the chain that¡¯s made a brand out of ogling the attractive women that work there?¡± She pointed out.


    ¡°¡­yes?¡± Harley replied, having already opened the door to leave. ¡°Come on! Let¡¯s go see what all the fuss is about!¡±


    And so they were already there.


    ¡°Huh? Wait, when¡¯d we get here?¡± Julia asked, looking to the others, as they stood outside a Hooters. ¡°Where are we?¡±


    ¡°Hooters!¡± Harley let out, despite that not being what Julia meant.


    ¡°Whoa! The screens are so big! They¡¯re playing all kinds of sports on them!¡± Sola exclaimed, staring through the windows inside, as she got a wave from some of the servers in there. ¡°And the women are so pretty!¡±


    She spun back around to Julia. ¡°Julia, we have to go in there! Pretty women!¡±


    ¡°I know, I-¡°


    ¡°Pretty women, Julia! Lesbian solidarity!¡±


    ¡°I can see the pretty women, Sola!¡± Julia replied, grabbing her shoulders, as Wess sighed out.


    ¡°¡­fine, let¡¯s get it over with and indulge Harley¡¯s little fantasy. And Harley?¡± She said, before pointing right at her. ¡°I¡¯m watching you.¡±


    ¡°Wess, I¡¯m not gonna hit on the waitstaff. That¡¯s douche behaviour.¡± Harley pointed out, as she opened the door and smiled. ¡°¡­but if they start hitting on me, then hey, I¡¯ll take it as it comes.¡±


    ¡°Does this place contain owls?¡± Essex asked, pointing up at the massive Hooters sign as they walked in.


    ¡°I don¡¯t thi-¡° Julia started, about to correct her, only for one of the servers to come up to them, beaming happily.


    ¡°Welcome! My name¡¯s Jenny. Can I get you guys a table?¡± She asked.


    Julia immediately started to get flustered, now getting a good look at the¡­form fitting outfits the servers were all wearing.


    ¡°I-uhuhh-I¡­ye-yes¡­y¡­¡±


    ¡°Yes please.¡± Harley intercepted, grabbing Julia¡¯s shoulders, as Jenny showed them to a large table.


    ¡°You guys just have a look over the menu and call me once you¡¯re ready, okay?¡± Jenny let out, flashing a grin, before heading off.


    Just as she went to leave, Harley started elbowing Julia¡¯s side.


    ¡°Sooooooooooooooooooo?¡±


    ¡°¡­Wess was right, this is weird¡­¡± Julia muttered, as Wess folded her arms and leaned back.


    ¡°Oh, sweet vindication.¡± Wess said, as Essex grabbed a menu and Sola spoke up.


    ¡°Hey, there¡¯s nothing wrong with women being smoking hot ladies!¡± Sola pointed out. ¡°Also, I wanna try to food while we¡¯re here.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not complaining about attractive women. It¡¯s the vibe of the place.¡± Wess denoted, now getting a good look at the fairly active restaurant, with several servers walking around with drinks and food. ¡°The selling point is women showing off their ¡®hooters¡¯ at the behest of customers.¡±


    ¡°Wait, that¡¯s what Hooters means?!¡± Julia exclaimed, as Harley grabbed the menu from Essex.


    ¡°Okay, how about we give it a shot and actually try the food?¡± Harley encouraged. ¡°You know my philosophy, hotness should be appreciated in all forms. Whether it¡¯s buxom women, or Hooters Original Style Wings.¡±


    ¡°Ooo! I wanna try the Hooters Daytona Beach? Style Wings, tossed in their signature Daytona Beach? sauce!¡± Sola exclaimed.


    ¡°Wess?¡± Julia asked, leaning over and whispering to her. ¡°Are we sure they didn¡¯t get a sponsor or something?¡±


    Stolen story; please report.


    ¡°I don¡¯t see any cameras.¡± Wess added, as Harley handed her the menu. ¡°¡­Essex, what are you getting?¡±


    ¡°A¡­¡®Twisted Texas Melt,¡¯ also served in their signature Daytona Beach? sauce, with a side of curly fries.¡± Essex replied, as Harley perked up.


    ¡°I should get those too. Curly fries rule.¡± Harley said, as Wess closed the menu.


    ¡°Alaskan Snow Crab Legs. I¡¯m curious how well it¡¯ll be prepared.¡± Wess retorted, as Julia looked over hers.


    ¡°¡­and I¡¯ll get¡­the Hooters Original Buffalo Chicken Sandwich.¡± Julia let out, only to notice someone standing right beside her.


    ¡°Hi there! Are you girls being served by anyone right now?¡± A server asked, with the nametag ¡®Thia.¡¯


    Julia was at perfect eyelevel with¡­well, with her¡­I mean, I shouldn¡¯t have to spell it out.


    She quickly averted her eyes, right as Jenny came back over.


    ¡°You¡¯re all good, Thia. I got this table.¡± Jenny answered, as Thia walked off. ¡°Sorry about that. Are you girls ready to order?¡±


    And with that, Team Valiant spent the better part of their afternoon trying out a sizeable amount of the menu, finding not only a range in delicious flavours, but also friendly, personal service, and a laid back atmosphere that both made them feel they were somewhere special, but also, right at home.


    ¡°I mean it, Thia. Those girls are so nice.¡± Jenny muttered to Thia, just off to the side as Team Valiant enjoyed their second course. ¡°They¡¯re probably the nicest customers I¡¯ve gotten all month.¡±


    ¡°Lucky.¡± Thia let out, as Jenny indicated behind her.


    ¡°Not only that, but that girl¡¯s already tipped me, and she¡¯s tipping A LOT. I think she¡¯s overcompensating for her nervousness.¡± She said, pointing back to Julia. ¡°Like, the blonde one¡¯s given me glances here and there, but that girl¡¯s eyes have been glued on me.¡±


    Jenny turned back around, smiling. ¡°I mean, not that I mind. She¡¯s pretty cute.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s days like this that make it all worth it, you know?¡± Thia said, bumping shoulders with Jenny.


    ¡°Ain¡¯t that the truth.¡±


    After letting their second course settle in their stomachs, Team Valiant took a moment to breathe, right as Harley noticed an unsettled look on Julia¡¯s face.


    ¡°What¡¯s up, Julia?¡± Harley asked, as Julia ran her hands together. ¡°Do you need to wash the food down with an iconic Hooters Draft Beer?¡±


    ¡°¡­no, it¡¯s just¡­this place just feels weird.¡± Julia admitted, as Sola leaned over the table.


    ¡°How so?¡±


    ¡°I mean, this whole place feels so demeaning. The selling point is women being exploited by wearing revealing outfits so that the customers can ogle them, with the whole restaurant¡¯s name even referring to slang for their boobs.¡± Julia pointed out, as Jenny overheard her while walking by. ¡°It just feels archaic.¡±


    ¡°Fair point.¡± Jenny replied, stopping by their table. ¡°A have a few friends who couldn¡¯t even work here because they didn¡¯t meet an arbitrary ¡®attractiveness¡¯ quota.¡±


    ¡°See? That¡¯s what I¡¯m referring to. Truly, we could do without this.¡± Wess added, as Thia noticed the commotion and came over.


    ¡°But is that so different to other industries? Models and actors are required to keep a certain level of unattainable beauty as well. How¡¯s this any different?¡± Thia noted, as Essex raised a finger.


    ¡°Doesn¡¯t this inherently feed the male gaze?¡± Essex pointed out, as Harley leaned back in her seat.


    ¡°True, most of the clientele are men, and the whole brand was founded by men. It¡¯s not like the point is, ¡®the waitstaff are pretty, but we¡¯re here for the food,¡¯ it¡¯s ¡®look at the jugs on that one!¡¯ Leering¡¯s the brand.¡± Harley clarified.


    ¡°So are we saying women can¡¯t use their looks?¡± Thia asked.


    ¡°No, I think it¡¯s about intention. Are we using our looks because we¡¯re confident in our appearance and bodies, or is it so we get a bigger tip?¡± Jenny noted, as another server heard the conversation and made her way over.


    ¡°I think a big issue¡¯s the gender and diversity divide too.¡± She added, with Jenny nodding beside her. ¡°I wouldn¡¯t have as many problems with the implications of working here if it wasn¡¯t only women, with very specific body types. Lift the arbitrary beauty standards and get some men in here.¡±


    ¡°Oh, men in crop tops¡­¡± Harley let out, fantasising to herself, as Sola chimed up.


    ¡°But then you¡¯d have people complaining that Hooters isn¡¯t the same anymore. Unfortunately, the selling point is the smoking hot ladies.¡±


    ¡°Right, and while you girls have been respectful, that¡¯s not always the case with customers.¡± Jenny pointed out. ¡°I feel more comfortable with other women coming here cause, even if they¡¯re checking me out, there¡¯s an understanding there. I don¡¯t feel like I¡¯m under threat.¡±


    ¡°Female solidarity.¡± Wess offered up. ¡°Working in an environment like this, there¡¯s hardly a divide between wanted and unwanted attention. You¡¯re at the whim of the customer.¡±


    ¡°And going back to Thia¡¯s point,¡± Another waitstaff member said, quickly coming over. ¡°I think we should be able to work in an environment where women can feel attractive, see themselves as attractive, and not feeling like they¡¯re doing something wrong.¡±


    ¡°Or putting down other women.¡± Thia added, getting unanimous agreement from the others. ¡°That¡¯s just another tool of the patriarchy. Define beauty standards, then divide women by said beauty standards.¡±


    ¡°And it¡¯s tough too, cause¡­we¡¯ll, we¡¯ve got to make money somehow.¡± Jenny added, turning to Julia. ¡°Unfortunately, you get so little advantages as a woman, we¡¯ve got no choice but to play to a male fantasy since they¡¯re the ones with power. And even at a restaurant like this, that dynamic¡¯s still there.¡±


    ¡°Well, there¡¯s an inherent connection between the patriarchy and capitalism.¡± Another server mentioned, as a few more joined in on the conversation. ¡°Any system of power requires those without power to exist, and so putting down women becomes a standard practice in both.¡±


    ¡°So the healthiest option would be taking back that beauty standard and letting ourselves define it. I don¡¯t want someone else telling me whether I¡¯m attractive or not, I know I am.¡± Jenny insisted, getting a ¡®here here¡¯ from the group. ¡°Let¡¯s finally take that pressure off of women.¡±


    ¡°And can I just say, attractiveness may be arbitrary, but I think you¡¯re all absolutely stunning.¡± Harley insisted, getting playful jabs from some of the servers.


    ¡°But getting back to that connection with capitalism, I think there¡¯s a larger point to be made about economic disparity and the role it plays in conscious and unconscious bias across societal groups.¡± Another server brought up, as basically the entire restaurant started to engage in the conversation. ¡°We assume it¡¯s built on conscious acts of malice, but often times, the ones in power aren¡¯t even aware that their actions are the cause o¡­¡±


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    ¡°I can¡¯t believe how quickly that conversation turned around.¡± Julia let out, as Team Valiant were heading home.


    ¡°I can¡¯t believe how quickly they all unionised.¡± Wess added. ¡°Good for them.¡±


    ¡°They made a lot of really good points in there.¡± Harley added, turning back around to the others. ¡°And honestly, the food was actually really good.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll admit, it was better than I thought it would be.¡± Wess said, as Sola jumped forward.


    ¡°If only we could have a society where women feel safe and confident enough to show themselves off, not for the attention of men, but because it makes them feel good about themselves and lets them express themselves and their femininity without the pressure of societal beauty standards or larger forces like the patriarchy pushing down on them.¡± Sola noted.


    Team Valiant all turned to each other with knowing looks, taking a moment to let the statement settle in.


    ¡°¡­that would be nice.¡± Essex chimed in, as they made their way back home.