《Oblivion: The beginning is the end》


 Chapter 1: A New Term

    "GOOD MORNING Pietermaritzburg! It¡¯s the 20th of April 2048. For some, it¡¯s just another Monday, back to work day. But for high school students, it¡¯s the first day of the second term. Do you remember your school days?" Sanele asked.


    "How can I forget my oversized uniform my mother bought me, saying I would grow into it!" Bianca replied.


    "I remember being excited when I was in grade 10." Sanele said.


    "Why?" Bianca asked.


    "Labobantu. I had a girlfriend, Thandeka, my very first girlfriend, and I was expecting some PDA, if you know what I mean." Sanele answered.


    "Yeah, near the tuck shop or behind the school." Bianca replied.


    "Remember the people who got caught dating and had to do a whole speech in the assembly?" Sanele asked.


    "Yoh! I remember. That was awkward." Bianca responded.


    "The things we went through growing up. It¡¯s the top of the hour, which means we have Themba with the headlines of the day." Sanele said.


    "Thank you, Sanele. The biggest headline of the day is SAPS to be abolished and ARMS will replace the department. Talks between the government and ARMS started mid-June last year and there was a breakthrough before the end of the year. There will be an official ceremony where high-ranking officials from ARMS and Shield are expected to be present. The spokesperson of the president released an official statement which states that the police of the country have not only failed the citizens but the whole department has given power to criminals to the point that they run entire cities and had the police department under their thumbs. This move of disbanding the police is to show that we, as the government, are serious when we said that there will be zero tolerance for crime. ARMS have also released a statement saying that it is unfortunate so many people have lost their jobs, but the organization has taken the decision that the police officers that are being retrenched will have their pensions released in full by the end of the month. ARMS also said that they have set aside a 500-billion-Pounds severance package for the former police members and each of the former officers will be given 2 million on top of their pension funds. The package will also be exempt from taxes. ARMS also addressed the citizens of the country and have said that the safety of the citizens is their number one priority. Those are your headlines this hour. If you want to know the full details of this agreement, visit our page at www.PMFM34578.COM and click on the headlines tab to get the full story." Themba stated.


    "ARMS replacing the police means no more 200 to look the other way, Bianca." Sanele replied.


    "I guess, but we have the song that will relax you and prepare you for your Monday. It''s called ''Oblivion." Bianca stated.


    Elizabeth removed her earphones, the muffled music fading as the bus doors swung open. She stepped inside, the familiar scent of worn vinyl and metallic seats enveloping her. As she settled into her seat, she clicked on the link to the article, carefully reading each line but her mind started to wander about what color she should dye her hair. A few minutes later, a mysterious figure hovered above her and grabbed Elizabeth by her shoulder, shaking her. Elizabeth looked up to see her friend Pretty.


    "So, you finally noticed me, Liz!" Pretty exclaimed before sitting beside Elizabeth.


    Elizabeth twisted her face before replying, "You know it''s a universal sign."


    "What is?" asked a confused Pretty.


    Elizabeth showed Pretty the article, "When someone is reading, it means they don¡¯t want to be disturbed."


    "You read?" Pretty asked in a sarcastic tone.


    Elizabeth looked down at her tablet and then up at Pretty, "I read! But let''s put that aside. Have you seen this article yet?" Elizabeth asked, showing Pretty her tablet.


    It took Pretty a couple of seconds to read the first paragraph, but she noticed the publisher, "Seriously? PMFM?" Pretty asked.


    Elizabeth was confused by her friend''s response, "What?"


    "An umbrella in a hurricane is more reliable than that radio station." Pretty remarked.


    Elizabeth smiled back at Pretty, "I know, but read." She handed Pretty her tablet.


    "Fine." Pretty rolled her eyes before taking the tablet and starting to read the article. As she read the first few lines, "You do realize they published a story about a 21-year-old man who claimed that he can talk to Jesus, only to find out he has schizophrenia¡­ What! This isn¡¯t right. What will replace the police then?"


    "ARMS!" Gugu shouted as she got on the bus, surprising Elizabeth and Pretty.


    "You know about this?" Elizabeth asked.


    Gugu had a surprised look on her face, "YES! That¡¯s what all the news outlets have been reporting about¡ªthe talks between the Government and ARMS that have been ongoing for months. A breakthrough has happened, and they''re just finalizing the details. ARMS will officially replace the Police." Gugu sat beside Pretty.


    Elizabeth cleared her throat before asking, "So, what does this new change mean for us?"


    "What do you mean?" Gugu asked.


    "We have the option of joining ARMS academy after we graduate this year. Does it mean we will study and be trainees, or nothing changes for us?" Elizabeth inquired.


    "I can''t say for sure. I was talking to Penelope about this yesterday, but it was late, so I ironed my uniform and went to sleep without any answers." Gugu replied.


    "Okay." Elizabeth said.


    Pretty looked at Gugu before handing Elizabeth her phone.


    Confused by the look, Gugu asked, "What?"


    "Nothing really." Pretty replied.


    "Just say what you''re thinking." Gugu clarified.A case of content theft: this narrative is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.


    "How was the date?" Pretty asked.


    Gugu''s face instantly turned red, "None of your business."


    Pretty started singing, "Usemathandweni."


    As the bus rolled to a stop, the girls gathered their things. Elizabeth slipped her tablet into her bag, her mind still processing the article about ARMS. She felt a sense of detachment, as if the news was just another puzzle to analyze rather than a source of anxiety.


    ¡°Okay, ladies, let¡¯s make an entrance,¡± Pretty declared, flashing a playful grin as she hopped off the bus first, her confidence radiating like the morning sun.


    Gugu followed closely, adjusting her backpack with a determined look. ¡°Remember, today¡¯s the day I finally take down Head Prefect,¡± she said, her voice laced with excitement.


    Elizabeth smirked, shaking her head slightly. ¡°You¡¯ve said that every Monday for the past five years,¡± she teased. As they were about to walk into block C, Nkosi on his skateboard skated past them, stopped, turned, and smiled at Elizabeth.


    Elizabeth''s face turned red as she smiled back, "Hey you."


    "Mamazi." Nkosi said as he hopped off his skateboard, embracing and kissing Liz, and then holding her hand as they walked to the school garden, leaving Pretty and Gugu standing with revulsion on both their faces. After a couple of seconds, they walked slowly toward the entrance of block C.


    Gugu shook her head, "She got back with Hoe Majesty, huh?"


    "She never learns." Pretty replied.


    Gugu extended her right hand and tapped her wrist, "Maybe the stories about him having a tree trunk are true."


    Pretty burst out laughing, "HEEEE! Maybe."


    "Are you ready for combat training today?" Gugu asked.


    "How can I forget the 7th and final lesson on a Monday, where you get folded like clean laundry by our Head Prefect? It¡¯s the best way to start the week." Pretty replied while opening the doors leading into block C, with Gugu walking behind her.


    Gugu replied confidently, ¡°I will win.¡±


    Pretty burst out laughing until she tears up, ¡°Okay Gojo, I should remind you that you have been saying that for five years straight. Maybe it¡¯s time to give up!¡±


    Gugu pushed her chest out and deepened her voice, ¡°No, why do you think I never challenged her in the last term?¡±


    Pretty, puzzled by Gugu¡¯s question, ¡°Because you had finally accepted defeat?¡±


    ¡°Nope, I¡¯ve been training, and today you will see how much I have improved!¡± Gugu replied.


    Pretty sighed, ¡°Look, I say this as your best friend, you finna get your ass beat.¡± Pretty turned to face Gugu, but while she was walking backwards with her arms out she bumped into Penelope.


    ¡°Pretty, Gugu, and where is your third wheel?¡± Penelope asked.


    ¡°She is with Nkosi.¡± Pretty said, grinding her teeth together and shaking her head.


    ¡°Oh! OOOOOH!¡± Penelope replied with a smug look on her face as she rubbed her thumb on her middle and index fingers, ¡°You know what that means, pay up, Pretty!¡±


    Pretty sighed and took out 200 Pounds from her pocket and handed the money to Penelope while slowly shaking her head.


    ¡°Easy money!¡± shouted a visibly overjoyed Penelope as she took the money, smelling it before putting it in her shirt pocket, ¡°Pleasure doing business with you.¡±


    Gugu cleared her throat, ¡°Penelope!¡±


    ¡°Yeah!¡± Penelope said looking at Gugu.


    ¡°I can¡¯t wait for combat training today, and Pretty, you know it¡¯s wrong to place bets on your friend¡¯s relationship?¡± Gugu asked.


    ¡°Yeah, right, but counterpoint: he cheats, they break up, after he grovels, they get back together. But this time around, it¡¯s sex. He wasn¡¯t just dating another person; he had sex with half a dozen women, so I really thought she would not get back together with him. I was extremely confident about this to the point when Penelope said bet money on it, I said ¡®It is on,¡¯ which makes me a good friend because I had confidence in my friend, and getting a little money for my confidence? Well, that¡¯s a win-win situation.¡± Pretty explained.


    Gugu shook her head before replying, ¡°It was a rhetorical question.¡±


    ¡°Say what you will, it doesn¡¯t change the fact that I won, and Gugu, you can¡¯t beat me. I almost forgot to tell you both that there will be a meeting after school, which is mandatory for everyone in class. Before you reply sarcastically, Pretty, it¡¯s about ARMS and the academy, which both of you are planning to enroll in next year, right?¡± Penelope asked.


    ¡°Not sure,¡± Pretty replied.


    ¡°Yes!¡± Gugu replied with assurance in her voice.


    ¡°Okay, but the meeting starts at 3 after school at the main hall. Don¡¯t be late,¡± Penelope elucidated.


    ¡°Okay, mom.¡± Gugu sarcastically replied.


    ¡°GIRLS!¡± shouts a figure as she enters the block before running towards Penelope and embracing her and lifting Penelope up.


    Penelope tapped the girl on her lower back, ¡°Miri! Put me down; you¡¯re going to wrinkle my shirt!¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± Miri said, putting Penelope down and hugging both Pretty and Gugu before turning around to look at Penelope and placing her arms over both Gugu and Pretty¡¯s shoulders, ¡°You don¡¯t understand how much I missed the lot of you.¡±


    ¡°Okay, I don¡¯t see Bella with you, though?¡± Penelope asked.


    ¡°Bella said she is going to be printing pictures for the history project due tomorrow in the red room.¡± Miri answered.


    ¡°Okay, Pretty, thanks for the money, and don¡¯t forget the meeting at 3 o¡¯clock in the main hall.¡± Penelope reminded her friends as she headed for the door.


    Miri, puzzled by what Penelope just said, ¡°WHAT¡¯S HAPPENING AT the hall? Wait, Penelope?¡±


    ¡°There is a meeting; it¡¯s mandatory for everyone in class.¡± Pretty explained.


    Miri was more confused by Pretty''s reply, ¡°Why, though? What is so important that we need to wait a whole hour after¡­ Oh, right, I forgot about it.¡±


    ¡°So, you aren¡¯t going to tell us what it is about?¡± Gugu asked with a stern tone.


    ¡°Nope. And where is the love at, Gugu? Oh! I forgot, it¡¯s Monday, the day you get folded for our amusement.¡± Miri replied.


    Gugu shook her head before replying in a sarcastic tone, ¡°I¡¯m glad I have both your support.¡±


    The first bell of the day rang, signaling the school assembly.


    ¡°It¡¯s not that you haven¡¯t won against Penelope; it¡¯s the fact that you never looked like you could win.¡± Miri explained.


    ¡°What¡¯s up with Yasmin?¡± Pretty asked, noticing Yasmin dancing slowly alone.


    ¡°YASMIN!¡± shouted a confused Miri.


    Yasmin turned around slowly, ¡°Sho.¡±


    ¡°What are you doing?¡± Miri asked.


    Yasmin chuckled to herself, ¡°Seriously, Miri? You don¡¯t hear this fire beat!¡±


    Miri sighed, ¡°That¡¯s the bell, girl; you¡¯re higher than Mandela.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not,¡± Yasmin said.


    ¡°Then why are your eyes red? Let¡¯s head to the main hall.¡± Miri said.


    A minute before the bell rang, Penelope ran to the red room to meet with Bella. She composed herself before she quietly entered the red room, the soft glow of overhead lights illuminating the scattered papers and photographs strewn across the table. The air was filled with the faint scent of ink and paper, a comforting reminder of creativity and late nights spent in collaboration.


    Bella stood at the table, her back to Penelope, completely absorbed in her work. The gentle curls of her hair framed her head, cascading down her shoulders like dark waves. The way she leaned over the table, focused and determined, made Penelope¡¯s heart race.


    Penelope couldn¡¯t help but admire the curve of Bella¡¯s figure, the way her shirt hugged her shape just right. The thoughts that raced through her mind were intoxicating; the things she wanted to do with Bella felt both thrilling and tender. Imagining the two of them curled up together, laughing and sharing secrets¡ªit felt like heaven itself couldn¡¯t look this good.


    Penelope placed her bag on the floor and walked over to Bella, embracing her from behind. Bella turned around and pulled Penelope closer before kissing her. The sound of the bell made Penelope pull away, ¡°The bell just rang.¡±


    Bella gently pulled Penelope close and started kissing her neck, ¡°Come on, let¡¯s stay right here, just you¡­ and me.¡± Bella said as she started kissing Penelope again.


    Penelope pulled away, ¡°As tempting as that sounds, we are going to be late!¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± Bella replied, slowly releasing Penelope from her embrace. But as Penelope turned around, Bella grabbed her by the waist.


    Penelope pulled Bella¡¯s hands off her waist, ¡°Stop it, Bella. Can I ask you something?¡±


    Penelope cleared her throat and picked up her bag. ¡°Shoot.¡± Bella said.


    Penelope lowered her tone and turned around, ¡°Why do we always meet in the darkness?¡±


    Bella sighed and shook her head, ¡°Not this again. It¡¯s the 5th time this month with this question, and the answer is still the same: it is because I am royalty.¡±


    Penelope''s body started to tighten up, and her palms started sweating, ¡°I¡¯m royalty as well, but still, I feel that¡ª¡±


    Bella cut Penelope off midsentence and replied in a condescending tone, ¡°Yeah, but you are just a mermaid.¡±


    Penelope stood there emotionless, shocked by what Bella had said, ¡°Wooow!!¡±


    Bella stretched the back of her neck, ¡°I didn¡¯t mean it like that.¡±


    Penelope stormed out of the room. She walked for a couple of seconds before stopping, as she was tearing up. Penelope closed her eyes, wiped her tears away, and took a few deep breaths to compose herself, then headed to the assembly hall.

 Chapter 2

    The assembly took place in the main hall, and everyone stood as Principal Xulu took the podium.


    Siyabonga leaned closer, whispering with a mischievous grin, ¡°So, how the hell did you get back together with Liz?¡±


    ¡°Love potion!¡± Nkosi shot back, his eyes sparkling.


    Siyabonga chuckled, shaking his head. ¡°Stop playing with her feelings,¡± he warned, his tone turning serious.


    ¡°Relax,¡± Nkosi replied, waving dismissively.


    ¡°Okay, but have you heard about the meeting after school?¡± Siyabonga asked, genuine curiosity in his voice.


    ¡°No, what¡¯s it about?¡± Nkosi inquired, raising an eyebrow.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know, but attendance is mandatory,¡± Siyabonga replied, a hint of concern creeping in.


    Nkosi clicked his tongue, frowning at the news. Just then, Ciara interrupted, ¡°Shhhhh!¡±


    As they turned to see who had spoken, Nkosi locked eyes with Penelope. A bead of sweat trickled down his forehead as his body started to shake, and he quickly turned away, silencing himself. Siyabonga laughed at his friend¡¯s reaction but he stopped when he felt Penelope gaze and started to tumble violently but he stops when Ciara holds Penelope hand.


    Once the assembly ended with a prayer, everyone filed out of the hall, buzzing with chatter As they entered the classroom, the scent of fresh paper and chalk filled the air. During the commotion, Bella tried to talk to Penelope, but Penelope ignored her, as everyone started got seated.


    Ciara tapped Penelope on the shoulder, concern etched on her face. "Are you okay? You seem a bit on edge.''¡±


    ¡°Can we talk about it later?¡± Penelope replied, her tone clipped.


    ¡°Okay, but there¡¯s one problem.¡± Ciara continued, her curiosity piqued.


    ¡°What?¡± Penelope asked, her confusion evident.


    ¡°I have this extra ticket to Party''s concert, and I was wondering if you knew anyone who likes Party?¡± Ciara inquired.


    Penelope''s cheeks flushed slightly. ¡°You¡¯re too good to me.¡±


    Just then, Mr. Peterson, the assigned class teacher, walked in, placing his suitcase on the table with a thud. ¡°Morning, everyone. Welcome to the second term of your senior year. You¡¯re just three terms away from the rest of your lives. My advice? Don¡¯t rush your success. Take your time to figure out who you are, and only then will you know what you want.¡±


    He scanned the room. ¡°Class, we have a new student this term. Yes, John?¡±


    John, ever the skeptic, raised an eyebrow. ¡°The school has a long waiting list. How come this new student gets to skip and start mid-year?¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t disclose that information,¡± Mr. Peterson replied, his voice steady.


    ¡°Why not?¡± John pressed.


    ¡°That matter is between the school and the new learner,¡± Mr. Peterson explained.


    ¡°But¡ª¡± John started, but Penelope cut him off, her voice sharp. ¡°Let it go, John.¡±


    ¡°Why should I?¡± John countered, his frustration bubbling. ¡°I waited in line; this new mystery person should too!¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s unbecoming of you to act like a spoiled child!¡± Penelope retorted, her gaze fierce.


    John rolled his eyes. ¡°Of course you would say that, coming from royal blood. You probably skipped ahead in line, so I take it this person is some spoiled royalty who deserves special treatment!¡±


    Mr. Peterson looked puzzled. ¡°Is this the hill you want to die on?¡±


    ¡°Why not? We live in an equal society, and special treatment is detrimental to society at large,¡± John argued defiantly.


    At that moment, a hulking figure opened the door and walked into the room, commanding immediate attention. Anni gasped, ¡°Damn, that man is big.¡±


    ¡°He''s cute, though,¡± Nontetha admitted, her cheeks flushing.


    John shook his head. ¡°You all sold out just because of¡ª¡± He stopped abruptly.


    ¡°Caribbean ocean blue eyes,¡± Nontetha exclaimed, biting her lip.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry about my classmates. We didn¡¯t mean to objectify you,¡± Beatrice said to the newcomer. When he looked her way, their eyes locked, and she quickly glanced down, her face turning crimson.


    ¡°It¡¯s alright,¡± Vergil replied, his voice deep and divine, resonating like a heavenly sound.


    ¡°Can you say that again, so I can make it my ringtone?¡± Nontetha asked, waving her phone.


    This exchange only fueled John¡¯s annoyance.


    Mr. Peterson regained control of the class. ¡°Class, meet your new classmate, Vergil Anansi. Did you get your timetable, student ID, assigned locker code, and your E-points for buying food in the cafeteria?¡±


    ¡°Yes, I sorted everything out on Friday except for the locker code, which I got before coming to class,¡± Vergil explained.


    ¡°Okay, if you need anything, ask Penelope or John. Both of them are Head Prefects, or you can go to student chairperson Miri.¡± The school bell rang, cutting through the chatter. ¡°Don¡¯t forget the after-school meeting at the main hall at 3 o¡¯clock. Leave your essays on the table as you leave the classroom.¡±


    The class moved as one, leaving their assignments behind before heading to the next lesson.  As Miri was about to leave, Bella grabbed her arm, stopping her. ¡°Please,¡± Bella whispered in Miri¡¯s ear, urgency lacing her tone. They paused, allowing the noise of the departing class to fade before they placed their essays on the table and headed to the restroom.


    Once inside, Miri concentrated, creating a barrier that enveloped the room. Turning to Bella, she asked, ¡°What happened?¡±


    ¡°It just¡­ I may have called Penelope a mermaid,¡± Bella confessed, her voice barely above a whisper.


    ¡°What is wrong with you?¡± Miri exclaimed, shock evident in her wide eyes.


    ¡°It just came out. I didn¡¯t mean it. She¡¯s been asking, ¡®Why do we always meet in darkness?¡¯ I don¡¯t like the pressure she¡¯s putting on me. We are dating because we like each other, not for social media likes,¡± Bella explained, frustration creeping into her voice.


    ¡°If you had just said that in the first place, you wouldn¡¯t be in the doghouse. But here we are. You need to stop using that derogatory word. You two have been dating for nearly 16 months now, right?¡± Miri pointed out, crossing her arms.


    ¡°Yeah, so?¡± Bella replied defensively.


    ¡°This isn¡¯t a new relationship, it¡¯s been over a year and both of you are letting your insecurities ruin your relationship.  Bella, I love you, but you forget that people from this planet love labels and being gay on this planet is still a problem due to reasons like religion and social norms etc. But anyway, long story short, if you looked at this from her perspective.  Fearless Penelope may be having an internal conflict with herself, trying to figure out her sexuality, and possibly doesn¡¯t want to admit that she is attracted to women. And here you are, having already dated a dozen women and had sex all of them experiences she doesn¡¯t possess. You should be stopping all these anxieties, or in simple terms, being her girlfriend, but you are exasperating her insecurities and now you have called her an ¡®M¡¯ word, which is a derogatory word for her species.¡± Miri said, her voice firm but caring.


    Bella shrugged, ¡°It just came out.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s just an excuse. You know what it¡¯s like to be on the other side of that conversation. Is it a sex thing?¡± Miri pressed, raising an eyebrow.


    ¡°What?¡± Bella asked, taken aback.


    ¡°This is your longest dry spell¡ª18 months, huh? How does it feel that she won¡¯t let you taste it? I bet you haven¡¯t even touched her. Hell, you probably haven¡¯t seen half of her naked!¡± Miri teased, a smirk playing on her lips.


    Bella sighed, her cheeks flushing.


    Miri burst out laughing. ¡°Well, who knew? Mrs. ¡®I can get anyone I want¡¯ can¡¯t even sleep with her own girlfriend. How the mighty have fallen. I think Penelope sees through you and wants to wait until she knows you feel the same way.¡±


    ¡°Are you sure about that?¡± Bella asked, her voice tinged with uncertainty.


    ¡°Yes, Penelope isn¡¯t daft,¡± Miri replied confidently.


    ¡°I know, but I like her a lot. I just don¡¯t know what I offer besides pleasurable sex, and I can¡¯t even give her that. I feel like I have to keep it hidden, or else she will see right through me¡ªif she hasn¡¯t already,¡± Bella confessed, her vulnerability shining through.The narrative has been taken without permission. Report any sightings.


    ¡°Just tell her that instead of pretending to be someone you¡¯re not. If you don¡¯t, someone else will slide in,¡± Miri warned.


    ¡°I know. Side note, the spider?¡± Bella asked, changing the subject.


    ¡°What? It¡¯s just Vergil. Since you brought him up, what happened between you two?¡± Miri inquired.


    ¡°He¡¯s the first man who treated me like a person, not a burden or an opportunity,¡± Bella confessed, a hint of admiration in her voice.


    Miri raised an eyebrow. ¡°Avoiding that question for nearly a decade now, but that¡¯s not necessarily true. What about that guy from Neptune, Macie?¡±


    ¡°He acted friendly because he wanted to use me to gain power. My father wouldn¡¯t object to a political nuptial, and if I had a child, they¡¯d be the ruler, and he¡¯d be the advisor,¡± Bella explained, her expression darkening.


    ¡°That sneaky bastard. What about Penelope, Vergil, and you?¡± Miri asked, curiosity piqued.


    ¡°I hope to continue dating Penelope¡­ Vergil and I will just be friends,¡± Bella stated firmly.


    ¡°Okay, let¡¯s head to class,¡± Miri replied, undoing the barrier and walking alongside Bella.


    As they entered the classroom, Mrs. Mbatha looked up, a smirk on her face. ¡°Look who has decided to join us¡ªnearly five minutes late! Now, both of you will continue reading from where we stopped last term.¡±


    ¡°Actually, time is an illusion created by humans because of their fear of mortality,¡± Miri retorted, a mischievous glint in her eye.


    ¡°What does that have to do with anything?¡± asked a confused Mrs. Mbatha.


    ¡°I¡¯m just saying,¡± Miri replied before dapping up Vergil, who stood nearby. ¡°What did I say?¡±


    ¡°You were right,¡± Vergil admitted, his paradis inducing voice bellowing throughout the room, causing the classroom to hush in awe.


    After the first three lessons of the day, the bell rang for the first break of the term. In the cafeteria, Luke and Brandon stood in line, Brandon rubbing his temples. ¡°My head is still ringing,¡± he complained.


    ¡°Maybe you should stop partying so much,¡± Luke suggested with a smirk.


    ¡°Why would I do that? And my man Dave, what¡¯s good?¡± Brandon called out, spotting Dave, who worked in the school cafeteria.


    ¡°This green bean salad will knock your socks off!¡± Dave replied enthusiastically as he prepared their meals.


    ¡°My man! Hook me up then,¡± Brandon said, grinning.


    Dave piled the salad into a bowl and placed it on Brandon¡¯s tray next to the chicken sandwich. ¡°And take some sparkling water¡ªgood for when you¡¯ve had a long night. And Luke, my man, meat lover¡¯s delight awaits you.¡±


    ¡°Yebo!¡± Luke replied playfully.


    ¡°For you, marinated lamb ribs, a chicken leg, smoked fish, chips, three freshly baked buns, and no more pork because of the Muslim students. Don¡¯t forget your 750 ml cola,¡± Dave listed off, a proud smile on his face.


    Luke and Brandon swiped their cards and headed to their usual table, where Gift, Nkosi, Moosa, and Siyabonga were already seated.


    Gift animatedly recounted his weekend, ¡°So, now I¡¯m hitting it from the back, have her on all fours¡ª¡±


    Luke and Brandon placed their trays on the table and took their seats just as Gift continued, ¡°¡ªand before I knew it, my bed was dripping wet.¡±


    ¡°Okay, are you done, Lex?¡± Nkosi interrupted sarcastically.


    ¡°Like the pornstar?¡± Gift shot back, raising an eyebrow.


    Nkosi nodded, ¡°Yes, and let¡¯s talk about something more important than your sexual adventures¡ªthis meeting after school today!¡±


    ¡°The only thing you need to know is that it¡¯s mandatory,¡± Gift replied, his tone shifting.


    ¡°Why?¡± Nkosi asked, intrigued.


    ¡°We¡¯ll find out in a couple of hours,¡± Gift said, leaning back in his chair.


    ¡°Why are you in such a hurry to leave?¡± Moosa inquired, eyeing Nkosi.


    ¡°Nothing,¡± Nkosi replied defensively.


    Siyabonga sighed, ¡°Unbelievable.¡±


    Confused by Siyabonga¡¯s remark, Nkosi retorted, ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°You going to see your side piece?¡± Siyabonga pressed.


    Nkosi lowered his voice, ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°Okay, if that¡¯s the case, you wouldn¡¯t mind me going through your phone?¡± Siyabonga challenged.


    Nkosi shook his head vigorously. ¡°Hell no!¡±


    ¡°Come on, Nkosi,¡± Gift coaxed.


    Moosa sighed, clearly exasperated.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with you?¡± Luke asked, sensing the tension.


    Nkosi bristled. ¡°Nothing at all.¡±


    ¡°Then why do you keep doing this?¡± Luke pressed, concern etched on his face.


    Feeling ambushed by his friends, Nkosi grew defensive. ¡°Why are all of you on my case?¡±


    Gift was the first to reply, ¡°You¡¯ve been dating Liz for three years now, and you¡¯ve cheated every chance you get. This is just wrong on so many levels.¡±


    ¡°Look who¡¯s talking!¡± Nkosi shot back, crossing his arms.


    ¡°All my girls know we¡¯re keeping things casual¡ªnothing more, nothing less,¡± Gift explained.


    ¡°Well¡ª¡± Nkosi began, but Elizabeth suddenly covered his eyes from behind.


    ¡°Guess who?¡± she teased.


    ¡°My queen,¡± Nkosi answered, smiling as he recognized her voice.


    ¡°Yes,¡± Elizabeth said, sitting on Nkosi¡¯s lap. ¡°What were you all talking about?¡±


    ¡°My friends here were saying how cute a couple we make,¡± Nkosi replied playfully.


    Gift grimaced, ¡°Mxm! I just remembered I¡¯ve got a meeting with my coach, so see you guys in class.¡± He stood up abruptly and left.


    Elizabeth, puzzled by Gift¡¯s sudden mood shift, asked, ¡°What¡¯s his problem?¡±


    ¡°A girl pissed on his bed while they were having sex,¡± Moosa replied casually.


    ¡°Dafuq?¡± Elizabeth exclaimed, bursting into laughter. Out of the corner of her eye, she spotted Penelope.


    Penelope greeted Elizabeth coldly, ¡°Liz.¡±


    ¡°Pem,¡± Elizabeth replied, her tone lighter.


    Penelope sighed and walked to her usual spot, sitting beside Ciara, with Nontetha opposite them.


    ¡°What¡¯s got you so down?¡± Nontetha asked, concern in her voice.


    ¡°Liz and Nkosi,¡± Penelope admitted, her expression darkening.


    ¡°What!¡± Nontetha exclaimed, turning to see Elizabeth on Nkosi''s lap. ¡°Wow, I have no words. What will it take for her to see the truth and dump his trifling ass?¡±


    ¡°GOD!¡± Ciara chimed in, rolling her eyes.


    Penelope and Nontetha laughed, the tension easing.


    ¡°Have you had the black forest cake yet? It slaps!¡± Nontetha offered, slicing a piece for them.


    ¡°No, let me get in on that¡­¡± Ciara said, but then noticed the cake was whole, not just a slice. ¡°You took the whole cake from the cafeteria!¡±


    ¡°So? You know how high the school fees are. I¡¯m making sure every penny my parents pay doesn¡¯t go to waste!¡± Nontetha explained defiantly.


    ¡°Fair point,¡± Penelope conceded, chuckling.


    Nontetha passed out plates before cutting a piece for Penelope and Ciara. Just then, Theresa walked into the cafeteria and joined them.


    ¡°And then what happened?¡± Ciara asked, redirecting the conversation.


    ¡°I slept for 18 hours yesterday,¡± Theresa replied, her tone weary.


    Penelope raised an eyebrow, confused. ¡°I¡¯d like to say that sounds extremely unhealthy. Why would that put you in a bad mood?¡±


    ¡°There was a family function for three days, and I didn¡¯t sleep well,¡± Theresa explained, sighing.


    ¡°Sorry, I guess,¡± Ciara responded, still puzzled.


    Nontetha shook her head. ¡°Why didn¡¯t you invite us?¡±


    ¡°I told you guys, and that¡¯s why I was mad yesterday,¡± Theresa clarified.


    ¡°Okay, but when did you tell us?¡± Penelope pressed.


    ¡°When we went to watch Mandisa''s dance tournament,¡± Theresa replied.


    ¡°No, you didn¡¯t!¡± Ciara interjected.


    ¡°I did. Let¡¯s ask Mandisa; she¡¯ll back up my story. Mandisa, woza kimi!¡± Theresa yelled.


    Mandisa walked over and joined their table. ¡°Oh! Cake! Theresa, be a dear and pass me a plate and fork.¡±


    Theresa handed Mandisa a plate and fork. ¡°Remember that dance tournament in Durban last week on Monday?¡±


    ¡°What about it?¡± Mandisa asked, intrigued.


    ¡°After you won, we hit a fast food place near the venue,¡± Theresa recalled.


    ¡°Yeah, they had giant-sized milkshakes,¡± Mandisa remembered with a smile.


    ¡°Yes, and what did I say before we ate the ice cream dessert and left?¡± Theresa quizzed.


    ¡°That there was a family function from Thursday to Saturday,¡± Mandisa answered.


    ¡°Yebo! What excuse do you have now?¡± Theresa asked, looking at the girls expectantly.


    ¡°To be honest, I forgot,¡± Penelope admitted sheepishly.


    ¡°I had a chance to tour the emergency unit facilities on Thursday, and I was offered a ride-along until yesterday, so it slipped my mind,¡± Ciara explained.


    Nontetha glanced at Theresa. ¡°I was with Lala, and we were on holiday off-world from Tuesday. We only came back on Saturday because she had to go to Palestine, and she finally arranged to be my mentor.¡±


    ¡°So, you finally wore her out?¡± Penelope teased.


    ¡°Yeah, she¡¯s one of the most powerful vampires in the world, so I need all the help I can get to control my abilities,¡± Nontetha explained.


    Theresa breathed heavily, ¡°Good to see you¡¯ve changed the subject! It¡¯s like I give a speech and no one listens.¡±


    ¡°Come on, we¡¯re sorry, okay? We¡¯ll make it up to you on Friday movie night. We can watch those black-and-white French movies you love, right, guys?¡± Penelope suggested.


    ¡°Yeah,¡± Ciara agreed.


    ¡°Yeah,¡± Mandisa echoed.


    Nontetha chimed in, ¡°Well, that sounds bo¡ª¡± but Penelope kicked her leg.


    ¡°I mean, I wouldn¡¯t miss it for the world,¡± Nontetha corrected, grinning.


    ¡°Okay, deal. Now let me break off a piece of this cake,¡± Theresa said, grabbing a knife to cut a slice for herself and Mandisa.


    Vergil entered the cafeteria and got in line behind Alba.


    Alba took her earphones off before ordering, ¡°Can I get a burger, a milkshake, some French fries, and is there any pudding left?¡±


    ¡°Yes, but there¡¯s only vanilla left!¡± Ma Sithole replied.


    ¡°Perfect, I love vanilla.¡± Alba said as she took out her E-card, swiping for her food and walking off, leaving her ear pods on the counter.


    Vergil took the ear pods and put them in his pocket before placing his order.


    Alba sat beside William and James. ¡°You two are an odd pair!¡±


    ¡°Not sure what that means,¡± James said, tilting his head slightly. ¡°We¡¯re both males in the same grade and class. What¡¯s odd about that?¡±


    ¡°Never mind,¡± Alba replied with a shrug.


    Will cracked a smile. ¡°You finally got tired of being alone?¡±


    ¡°Nope, it¡¯s the most peaceful thing in the world,¡± Alba affirmed.


    ¡°Why?¡± James asked, genuinely curious.


    ¡°Guess it¡¯s because you don¡¯t have to worry about fitting in,¡± Alba explained.


    James furrowed his brow. ¡°Humans are social creatures. We look for places we feel we belong.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s a nice theory, but I¡¯m the loner with the ability to manipulate shadows,¡± Alba rebutted.


    ¡°Maybe you would make friends if you took a chance and talked to people instead of expecting the worst,¡± Will suggested.


    ¡°Have you watched any horror movies? You know how that goes,¡± Alba retorted.


    Vergil walked up to Alba. ¡°Here, you left these on the counter.¡± He handed her the ear pods.


    ¡°Thanks,¡± Alba replied.


    ¡°No problem,¡± Vergil responded before walking off.


    Will nudged Alba. ¡°Here¡¯s your chance.¡±


    ¡°Fine, but if I get murdered, I¡¯m haunting you both!¡± Alba joked before turning around. ¡°Hey, Vergil, you can sit with us since it¡¯s your first day.¡±


    ¡°Okay,¡± Vergil said, turning around and taking a seat beside Alba.


    ¡°How¡¯s your first day going?¡± Alba inquired.


    ¡°Can¡¯t complain,¡± Vergil replied.


    ¡°Why did you change schools your senior year?¡± James asked, looking directly at Vergil.


    ¡°Opportunity and my uncle,¡± Vergil answered.


    James, focused and persistent, added, ¡°But why this school?¡±


    ¡°My uncle was the driving force, but I guess I needed to be certain about something,¡± Vergil explained.


    ¡°What does that mean?¡± James pressed, his curiosity evident.


    ¡°Nothing to be worried about,¡± Vergil reassured.


    ¡°Why would I be worried about something that has nothing to do with me?¡± James asked, tilting his head.


    ¡°On that note, I¡¯m Alba, by the way,¡± Alba introduced herself.


    ¡°Nice to meet you,¡± Vergil responded.


    ¡°And this is Will and James,¡± Alba continued.


    ¡°Nice to meet you,¡± Vergil repeated, making eye contact.


    ¡°Why?¡± James asked, tilting his head slightly again.


    Vergil, slightly confused, replied, ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°Why is it nice to meet us?¡± James clarified.


    ¡°I was being sincere,¡± Vergil explained.


    ¡°Oh,¡± James said, processing the information.


    ¡°Aaah, my name,¡± Alba interjected.


    ¡°What about it?¡± Vergil asked.


    ¡°My parents named me after the Ipomoea alba, commonly known as a moonflower,¡± Alba revealed.


    ¡°Flower that only blooms at night,¡± Vergil commented.


    ¡°You never told us that!¡± Will exclaimed.


    ¡°Because I don¡¯t like you all,¡± Alba joked.


    ¡°But wouldn¡¯t that mean that you like Vergil?¡± Will teased.


    ¡°Nope, I don¡¯t hate him; there¡¯s a difference,¡± Alba clarified.


    ¡°Reeeally?¡± Will replied sarcastically.


    ¡°Yes, liking and not hating are different,¡± James added, nodding earnestly.


    ¡°It¡¯s just banter, James,¡± Will explained.


    ¡°Okay,¡± James replied, satisfied with the response.


    After they all finished eating and disposed of their trays in the recycling bins, Alba asked, ¡°So, have you taken a tour of the school yet?¡±


    ¡°No, but I know where everything is; I just haven¡¯t really seen most of the school,¡± Vergil explained.


    ¡°The game room is the best,¡± Will chimed in.


    ¡°I prefer the library, and that¡¯s where I¡¯m going now. See you in class,¡± James stated, his tone final.


    ¡°Not really interested in games,¡± Vergil remarked.


    ¡°Then may I suggest the Observatory?¡± Alba suggested.


    ¡°Before you go on a date, Alba, you promised that you would help me with my history project,¡± Will reminded her.


    ¡°Fine, see you in class, Vergil,¡± Alba said.


    ¡°Sure,¡± Vergil replied.


    Will and Alba followed James to the library and worked on Will¡¯s project for a couple of minutes until the bell rang.

 Chapter 3: Contract?

    The news about ARMS had the whole class on edge, and a mysterious meeting didn¡¯t help. As the second bell rang, signaling the break, Bella told Vergil to meet her on the roof of Block E.


    Vergil opened the door and saw Bella waiting, seated on the guardrail. ¡°Hello, my sweet Bella,¡± he greeted her.


    Bella turned around, creating a barrier for privacy. ¡°Just in case someone is listening in.¡±


    ¡°How nostalgic. You¡¯re wearing the same glasses you wore the day we met,¡± Vergil remarked.


    Bella took off her glasses. ¡°I guess. They were a present from Miri because of my reclusive personality; eye contact was impossible for me. She got me these with ¡®nothing is impossible¡¯ engraved on them. I remember finding them after I went to the hospital. I was despondent, and you fixed them, even the words engraved in the frame.¡±


    ¡°I have to admit, it was a bit strange seeing someone wearing burnt glasses with broken lenses,¡± Vergil said, chuckling lightly.


    ¡°That was my first time¡­ Wait, I¡¯m getting my words mixed up. What I wanted to say is that it was the first time I could maintain eye contact with someone I just met.¡± Bella folded her glasses and placed them in her pocket. ¡°I called you up here to clear the air. The last time we spoke, it turned into a weird argument, and I¡¯m sorry for that. You¡¯re the second person who treated me like an actual person, not a burden or a political tool, and I shouldn¡¯t have put you in that situation.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s okay; water under the bridge, my sweet Bella,¡± Vergil replied.


    ¡°Okay, I know this is your first time in Africa, so when you¡¯ve settled down, hit me up. I¡¯ll introduce you to some of my favorite cuisines, and then we can hit the clubs to show these humans what it means to hold their liquor,¡± Bella suggested, getting up from the guardrail and walking over to Vergil, embracing him. A few seconds later, she felt something poking her in the stomach. Stepping back, she saw Vergil holding her favorite horror movie. ¡°Director¡¯s cut?¡± Bella asked, her eyes lighting up.


    ¡°Obviously,¡± Vergil replied, handing her the DVD.


    ¡°Thank you. Can we do it?¡± Bella asked.


    ¡°Right here? You know how it¡¯ll look, right?¡± Vergil asked, raising an eyebrow.


    ¡°I don¡¯t care,¡± Bella replied with a playful grin.


    ¡°Okay,¡± Vergil said, moving closer, their foreheads touching.


    Vergil walked in a video shore, scanning the shelves. ¡°Sho, where can I find the classic horror movies?¡± he asked the shop clerk.


    ¡°They¡¯re in the back, bra wami,¡± the clerk replied.


    ¡°Okay, thank you.¡± Vergil made his way to the back, browsed the choices, and found the one he wanted. ¡°Perfect!¡± he exclaimed before heading to the counter, paying for the movie, and leaving.


    ¡°That¡¯s always a weird experience, sharing memories¡­ Wait, what¡¯s wrong?¡± Vergil asked, concerned when he saw Bella in tears.


    ¡°My people can only share memories with those we have a mutual bond with. Even though we haven¡¯t spoken in a decade, we still have that bond,¡± Bella said, embracing Vergil and releasing her barrier. ¡°I have to go; I need to meet some students in the library. It¡¯s a club for reclusive people like me.¡±


    ¡°Okay,¡± Vergil replied as Bella stepped back and walked back into the building, leaving him alone on the rooftop


    Penelope, Ciara, Anni, Miri, and Elizabeth were seated near the school fields when Yasmin approached their table. ¡°What¡¯s up?¡±


    ¡°Not sure how to answer that,¡± Elizabeth replied, glancing at her phone as it vibrated with a text from Nkosi. Yasmin, standing nearby, noticed the message and shook her head.


    ¡°What?¡± Elizabeth asked, sensing Yasmin''s judgment.


    ¡°Nothing,¡± Yasmin replied.


    ¡°If you want to say something, then say it!¡± Elizabeth insisted.


    ¡°Do you know a goldfish has a memory of three seconds? After that, it forgets everything that happens?¡± Yasmin said.


    ¡°So?¡± Miri asked, a frown forming.


    ¡°It means you can stab it in the guts, and three seconds later, it will have forgotten that you stabbed it,¡± Yasmin replied.


    ¡°You know that¡¯s a myth, right?¡± Elizabeth shot back.


    ¡°Just like your relationship,¡± Yasmin retorted.


    ¡°Damn,¡± Miri muttered.


    Elizabeth shook her head, trying to brush off the comment.


    ¡°I mean, he cheated on you,¡± Ciara pointed out.


    ¡°With six different women,¡± Miri added.


    ¡°What if he went in raw and gives you an STD?¡± Penelope asked.


    Elizabeth sighed. ¡°I know you think I¡¯m dumb for taking him back, but he just gets me.¡±


    ¡°Maybe you should ask yourself one thing,¡± Anni suggested.


    ¡°What¡¯s that?¡± Elizabeth asked.


    ¡°You both were close friends before you dated, right?¡± Anni prompted.


    Elizabeth nodded.


    ¡°Are you dating him because you want to be in a relationship with him, or because you don¡¯t want to lose a boyfriend and a close friend at the same time?¡± Anni asked.


    ¡°That¡¯s a good question, Anni,¡± Penelope commented.


    ¡°I feel you,¡± Elizabeth said, feeling the weight of Anni''s words. Just then, the bell rang for the sixth period.


    After the sixth period ended, it was time for the ARMS session. Bella rushed over to Penelope and tapped her shoulder. ¡°Can we talk?¡±


    ¡°Okay, what do you want?¡± Penelope replied.


    ¡°Maybe take that bass out of your voice,¡± Bella joked.


    Penelope twisted her face, confused. ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°I was just playing,¡± Bella said, trying to lighten the mood.


    Penelope¡¯s frustration was palpable. ¡°Do I look like a toy to you?¡± she asked, her voice tinged with anger.


    ¡°No,¡± Bella replied, taken aback.


    ¡°I don¡¯t have time for this,¡± Penelope said coldly before walking off, leaving Bella behind.


    ¡°That was a train wreck,¡± Miri remarked sympathetically.


    Bella sighed, realizing she had made things worse. ¡°I know.¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t think you could make it any worse, but I guess I was wrong,¡± Miri replied, putting her arm around Bella¡¯s shoulder as they left the classroom.


    At the front of the class, Ciara and Vergil walked side by side, still deep in conversation after sitting across from each other for several periods.


    ¡°I know the layout of the school, Ciara,¡± Vergil said.


    ¡°Yeah, but did someone give you a tour?¡± Ciara asked.


    ¡°No,¡± Vergil admitted.


    ¡°Exactly,¡± Ciara said, smiling.


    Penelope intervened, pulling Ciara aside. ¡°Hi, can I borrow her for a second?¡±


    ¡°Sure,¡± Vergil replied.


    Penelope and Ciara walked to the women¡¯s changing rooms.


    ¡°Are you okay?¡± Ciara asked.


    Penelope sighed. ¡°Bella came to me, didn¡¯t apologize for what she said, and tried to make a joke. Like she didn¡¯t just call me that derogatory name a couple of hours ago.¡±


    ¡°Calm down,¡± Ciara said gently.


    Penelope snapped, feeling gaslighted. ¡°Don¡¯t talk to me like I¡¯m acting hysterical!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not. It¡¯s just combat training today, and Gugu will challenge you. You don¡¯t want to accidentally traumatize the whole class,¡± Ciara explained.


    Penelope took a moment to steady her nerves. ¡°No, but I¡¯m not in the mood today.¡±


    They changed and headed to the training area, waiting for the rest of the class to arrive. Once everyone was ready, Mr. Zwelethini addressed the class. ¡°Now that we¡¯re warmed up, we can start with field training. Today, I¡¯ll split you into groups of four for two different scenarios: a hostage situation and an active shooter in a shopping center. But first, it''s combat day.¡±


    Gugu eagerly raised her hand, and everyone knew who she was going to challenge. ¡°Penelope, run me my fade!¡±


    Penelope sighed. ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°You heard me, run them hands up!¡± Gugu insisted.


    Penelope replied, ¡°You don¡¯t want this problem.¡±


    Mr. Zwelethini turned to Penelope. ¡°Do you accept the challenge?¡±


    ¡°Will not accepting show up on my record?¡± Penelope asked.Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on Royal Road.


    Mr. Zwelethini shook his head.


    Ciara whispered in Penelope¡¯s ear, ¡°You don¡¯t have to do this.¡±


    ¡°I know, but I haven¡¯t seen Gugu this hyped. If I say no, I wouldn¡¯t hear the end of it. I accept the challenge,¡± Penelope said.


    ¡°What will be your form of combat?¡± Mr. Zwelethini asked.


    Gugu grinned. ¡°Metaphysical.¡±


    Everyone was shocked by Gugu¡¯s suggestion.


    ¡°You¡¯re not doing that,¡± Pretty yelled.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry about it; I got this,¡± Gugu replied confidently.


    ¡°She¡¯s going to kill you,¡± Pretty warned, visibly worried.


    ¡°Listen to her, Gugu,¡± Elizabeth yelled.


    Will walked up to Gugu. ¡°Do you think you can win?¡±


    ¡°Fighting Penelope in hand-to-hand combat would be a fruitless endeavor,¡± Gugu clarified.


    ¡°You didn¡¯t answer my question,¡± Will pressed.


    ¡°I will win,¡± Gugu replied.


    ¡°Okay, let¡¯s go, Pretty,¡± Will said, starting to pull Pretty away from Gugu.


    ---


    **Metaphysical battle** is when two or more beings agree on this form of combat. After the agreement, a battle circle is created around the participants, enclosing them within their respective circles. A designated room transforms into a battlefield. The combat is straightforward: you must use any means necessary to push your opponent out of the circle or incapacitate them.


    There are two classes of combat: regular battles and emperor-class battles. Both follow the same rules, with two key changes for the emperor class. First, the circle will start to close in on the combatants 90 seconds after the battle begins, and this process won''t stop until there is a winner. Second, if any part of a combatant leaves the circle¡ªno matter how minimal, including clothes, weapons, or even hair¡ªthey lose. After a combatant is incapacitated, the circle will disappear. However, if a combatant is removed from the circle, they will face an energy backlash that can wound or kill them.


    The school''s designated room has little to no energy, thus removing the possibility of death or serious injury. Penelope and Gugu step into the room and head to their respective corners.


    ¡°I accept your challenge of a Metaphysical battle,¡± Penelope declares.


    ¡°Glad to hear it, but I want to make it the emperor¡¯s class,¡± Gugu suggests.


    ¡°Fine with me,¡± Penelope replies, unbothered by the change in class.


    After their verbal agreement, a circle appears around them both.


    ¡°It¡¯s over, Penelope. I have already won!¡± Gugu yells, placing her hands together to enclose Penelope in a ball of lava. However, Penelope snaps her fingers, creating a cold breeze that cools the lava and hardens it. Gugu, anticipating this, uses the hardened lava to form two hands, which grasp Penelope''s hair. As Penelope reaches for the hands, balls of lava engulf both her hands, while lava begins to pour over her face. But this is the least of her worries; her hair is about to leave the circle.


    ¡°Sovereignty,¡± Penelope thought, and everything within her circle stops moving. ¡°You managed to bring it out of me, Human. As your reward¡­¡± The lava encasing Penelope is blown away, and she locks eyes with Gugu. Placing her index finger on her thumb to create a six, Gugu finds herself surrounded by the number. Still shocked by the sudden turn of events, Penelope declares, ¡°Curse technique: UNHOLY.¡±


    Gugu''s circle disappears, and she is suddenly crucified, levitating in the air. As the cross is reversed, the curse simulates the sensation of being burnt alive.


    An unconscious Gugu was instantly transported to the school infirmary, and the lesson was abandoned.


    Gugu woke up in the school infirmary an hour later. As she sat up, she saw Penelope looking out the window. ¡°What happened?¡± Gugu asked, still confused.


    ¡°I won the fight 189-0. Perfect record maintained,¡± Penelope replied, a hint of pride in her voice.


    ¡°Oh! Damnit! All this work and nothing to show for it. It¡¯s just...¡± Gugu held back her tears. ¡°Well, at least I tried my best. Penelope, what¡¯s wrong?¡±


    Penelope walked over and hugged Gugu. ¡°I¡¯m sorry. For a moment, I lost myself and took my frustration out on you.¡±


    Gugu whispered in Penelope¡¯s ear, ¡°I don¡¯t need your sympathy. I was the one who wanted the challenge. The least you could do is acknowledge my effort for stepping up and facing the unstoppable force.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± Penelope said again.


    ¡°I¡¯ve never heard you say sorry so much. I never knew you were part English,¡± Gugu replied, a hint of sarcasm creeping in.


    ¡°Sorry, I meant to say that for the first time in years, I was challenged and needed to answer some questions. But I did answer those challenging questions,¡± Penelope breathed easily, and Gugu¡¯s jokes seemed to lighten the mood.


    ¡°That¡¯s better. Now, if you could stop hugging me, I¡¯m starting to smell like you,¡± Gugu teased.


    Penelope released her and sat beside her. ¡°Why wouldn¡¯t you want to smell like a goddess?¡±


    ¡°Oh! You¡¯ve got jokes! But I just remembered that curse you used. What was that?¡± Gugu asked.


    ¡°Unholy. It simulates the painting where Lucifer is thrown by God into a sea of fire. The curse itself is mental rather than physical, so those caught in it may feel as if they¡¯re being burned for eternity, but it only lasts a few seconds,¡± Penelope explained.


    ¡°Okay, but I have to ask: what¡¯s going on between you and Bella?¡± Gugu pressed.


    ¡°Nothing,¡± Penelope replied too quickly.


    ¡°Come on, Penelope! You put me in a hospital; the least you can do is tell me the story between the two of you,¡± Gugu insisted.


    ¡°Okay, Bella and I are in a relationship,¡± Penelope finally admitted.


    Gugu was shocked. ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, we¡¯ve been a couple for 16 months now,¡± Penelope explained.


    ¡°But?¡± Gugu asked.


    ¡°Everything is good, I think. We are in a good place,¡± Penelope replied, though uncertainty crept into her voice.


    Gugu noticed the mismatch between Penelope¡¯s words and her tone. ¡°You don¡¯t seem confident about that.¡±


    ¡°I know. It¡¯s just... why does the magic of the first couple of months vanish?¡± Penelope lay back and sighed. ¡°Side note: this bed is so comfy.¡±


    Gugu responded in a sardonic tone, ¡°I¡¯m glad my pain has brought you this new discovery.¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t mean it like that,¡± Penelope replied.


    ¡°I know. Do you want my two cents?¡± Gugu offered.


    Penelope sighed. ¡°I guess.¡±


    ¡°Relationships are easy if both parties are fully committed,¡± Gugu said.


    ¡°Okay.¡± Penelope shook her head at the plain advice.


    ¡°What I¡¯m trying to say, in a roundabout way, is to look beneath the insecurities,¡± Gugu clarified.


    ¡°What insecurities?¡± Penelope asked.


    ¡°The fact that you haven¡¯t gone public with your relationship bothers you. As you said, you¡¯re a goddess, but she might not like the idea of going public with you, which leads to your doubts about how she feels,¡± Gugu explained.


    ¡°I don¡¯t have doubts about how Bella feels about me,¡± Penelope defended.


    Gugu took a moment to compose herself. ¡°Your actions say otherwise. Just talk to her and find out what¡¯s beneath her insecurities. This will also help you figure out your own feelings.¡±


    ¡°Okay, thanks for the advice,¡± Penelope admitted.


    ¡°Anytime. How long have I been out?¡± Gugu asked.


    ¡°An hour,¡± Penelope replied.


    ¡°What¡¯s the time?¡± Gugu asked.


    Penelope checked her wristwatch. ¡°Half-past two.¡±


    Gugu sighed with relief. ¡°Thirty minutes till the meeting.¡±


    ¡°You still want to go?¡± Penelope asked.


    ¡°Of course! The president of ARMS, Sheila, is here, and she¡¯s attending our mandatory meeting on the day the news broke about ARMS replacing the police,¡± Gugu explained.


    ¡°The doctors cleared you, but they called your parents. They¡¯ll be here in the next hour or so. Pretty brought your school uniform and bag,¡± Penelope informed her.


    ¡°Is she outside?¡± Gugu asked.


    ¡°She was the first in the infirmary, but she left to change back into her uniform when she heard you were okay. Your hubby Will is also outside,¡± Penelope added.


    ¡°And why did they let you in here?¡± Gugu asked.


    Penelope shrugged. ¡°Because I¡¯m the head prefect.¡±


    ¡°Even though you put me here?¡± Gugu asked, raising an eyebrow.


    ¡°That doesn¡¯t change the absolute truth of me being the head prefect,¡± Penelope replied.


    ¡°Okay, give me some space to change,¡± Gugu said.


    ¡°Okay.¡± Penelope got up from the bed and left the room.


    Gugu smashed her fist on the bed. ¡°Lost again, all that effort for what? Just to look like a fool in front of her. I hope Bella hurts you as much as you¡¯ve hurt me.¡± After her outburst, Gugu took a deep breath, composed herself, and changed from her training clothes back into her school uniform. Pretty and Will entered the room, and Pretty embraced her.


    ¡°You had us worried for a moment,¡± Pretty said.


    ¡°Yeah, I just thought I could win, but I guess it wasn¡¯t meant to be,¡± Gugu explained.


    ¡°Are you okay?¡± Will asked.


    ¡°Yes, now that two of my favorite people in the world are here,¡± Gugu replied.


    ¡°What about Liz?¡± Pretty asked.


    Gugu shrugged. ¡°Number three. And Pretty, where¡¯s my sheet?¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t need to worry about that.¡± Gugu stared at Pretty until she relented and took out the sheet from the combat training.


    ¡°It means nothing,¡± Pretty insisted.


    Gugu nodded. ¡°Read it to me.¡±


    ¡°Okay. If the room wasn¡¯t designed to minimize the raw energy, you would have been killed.¡± Pretty explained.


    ¡°Okay, what about Penelope?¡± Gugu asked.


    Pretty looked at Will before responding, ¡°She maintains her perfect record of not sustaining any damage.¡±


    ¡°Okay, let¡¯s go to the hall. We have a meeting to attend,¡± Gugu responded, grabbing her bag.


    ¡°Are you okay?¡± Will asked again.


    ¡°Yeah, I¡¯m perfect. Come on,¡± Gugu said as she left the room, with Pretty and Will following her to the hall where the rest of the class was. After a couple of minutes, the meeting started.


    Mr. Xulu stood on the podium. ¡°Gugu, glad to see you up and about. This meeting is about your future as the A class. You have been prepared over the last six years for the academy and beyond. Now, an opportunity has presented itself to all in this class who want to be ARMS agents. Our special guests here will talk more about this opportunity.¡± Mr. Xulu stepped away from the podium, and Derrek, one of the ARMS agents, walked to the front.


    ¡°Hello. My name is Derrek, and I know that most of you don¡¯t want to be here, but bear with me. This meeting is about your future in relation to ARMS. As you know, ARMS is replacing the police, and this change has presented all of you with an opportunity to be temporary agents. ARMS replaced the police primarily due to the skyrocketing crime rate, which has caused a ripple effect across the country. The Rand has lost much of its value, leading many companies to go under. Add the pandemic that lasted years and the looting that followed, and you have a country on its last leg. There are ten schools throughout the country that prepare pupils for the ARMS academy, and this school is ranked in the top two. We are here to offer your whole class temporary contracts until the end of the year, and the number one school has been offered the same contract. We believe that out of all the classes, these two are worth the investment,¡± Derrek explained.


    Anni raised her hand. ¡°Yes?¡± Derrek prompted.


    ¡°What if you don¡¯t want to sign the contract?¡± Anni asked.


    ¡°You are not obligated to sign. This is a temporary eight-month contract that will help those aspiring to become agents. Since the whole class is enrolled in the agent course, you¡¯ve all accumulated over 3600 hours of the 4000 hours needed to become an agent. This means that those who sign the contract will become agents before the end of the year, unlike their predecessors, who had to finish up the remaining hours in the academy,¡± Derrek clarified.


    ¡°What about school?¡± John asked.


    ¡°We will be talking to the school. There will be changes¡ªno more assignments, just exams, and your timetable will also be altered,¡± Derrek replied.


    ¡°How much?¡± Brandon asked.


    Derrek responded, ¡°Money-wise, you will get 20 thousand.¡±


    ¡°Per month?¡± Brandon asked, surprised.


    ¡°Yes, with benefits, health insurance, and your fieldwork for ARMS can be added to your CV. If you feel that you can¡¯t handle being an agent, you can activate a termination clause in your contract and receive a severance package. However, ARMS also has the option to terminate if we feel the work is too much for you,¡± Derrek answered.


    Sheila stood up and walked to the front of the stage. ¡°Look, no bullshitting. I was captain when I was 18, the youngest in history. Money-wise, you can become a millionaire if you climb the ranks, but if you¡¯re doing this to be famous, you won¡¯t last long. This isn¡¯t a superhero movie. You don¡¯t just swoop in, save the day, and then it¡¯s over. It¡¯s far from that glamorized picture. Our organization works hours on end to solve cases, from big corporations laundering millions to sex workers found dead, and both cases receive the same attention. So, if all you want is fame, go act in movies. We exist to help those in need. Now that introductions are over, you can all come to the front and take the contracts with you, but I must say that you have until Friday to sign.¡±


    The class lined up to take the contracts. When it was Alba¡¯s turn, she noticed a note inside the first page that said, ¡°Stay. We need to talk after everyone gets their contracts.¡± Alba stepped back to the second row and waited for the rest of the class to finish. Afterward, Sheila approached her and sat beside her.


    ¡°Hi, my name is Sheila,¡± she introduced herself.


    ¡°Nice to meet you, Sheila. I¡¯m Alba,¡± Alba replied, feeling a mix of excitement and apprehension about their conversation.


    ¡°Likewise. Now, straight to the point: I want you,¡± Sheila stated.


    Alba was taken aback. ¡°What?¡±


    Sheila burst out laughing, realizing how that sounded. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, this is serious. I think you would be a terrific addition to Crime Control. The newly created department is a better fit for you than the policing department of ARMS. Crime Control handles the CSI stuff you see on TV. I¡¯ve looked at your physics, biology, chemistry, and life science grades, and I was impressed. Your aptitude when it comes to dissecting everything was perfectly done¡ªno organ damage. You did splendid work, and your shadow manipulation is intriguing as well. But I care more about your talents with a knife than your fighting skills, so give me a call if you¡¯re interested.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t have your number,¡± Alba replied.


    ¡°It¡¯s written on the back of the note,¡± Sheila said as she got up and walked out of the hall, leaving Alba alone with her thoughts. Just then, she felt a tap on her shoulder.


    ¡°What?¡± she asked, turning around.


    ¡°You good?¡± Karabo asked.


    ¡°Always,¡± Alba answered.


    ¡°Alright, if you say so,¡± Karabo replied.


    ¡°What were you two talking about?¡± Beatrice asked.


    ¡°About the contract. Nothing else,¡± Alba explained.


    ¡°Okay,¡± Beatrice said.


    ¡°James is waiting in the car, but I can give you a lift if you want?¡± Karabo offered.


    ¡°I¡¯ll take the bus,¡± Alba replied.


    ¡°In 15 minutes? And it¡¯ll take another 15 to leave? Come on, let me take you home,¡± Karabo insisted.


    Alba sighed. ¡°If you insist.¡±

 Chapter 4: I want to be like you.

    In Block B, Bella spotted Ciara heading into the restroom alone and decided to follow her. As Ciara opened the door, she was taken aback to see Bella standing there.


    "Bella! Haven¡¯t you heard of privacy?" Ciara exclaimed.


    "I need something," Bella replied.


    "So, no apology for the whole serial killer vibe?" Ciara asked, but then realized that Bella genuinely doesn''t care about her feelings. She sighed and asked, "What do you want?"


    "You know?" Bella pressed.


    Ciara turned on the tap to wash her hands. "Know what?"


    "I messed up this morning. I said some things I shouldn¡¯t have, but I want to fix it," Bella admitted.


    "And you want me to help you?" Ciara raised an eyebrow.


    "Yes," Bella affirmed.


    "Penelope can be very emotional at times. Instead of trying to do a grand gesture like in some romcom, just ask her what¡¯s really going on¡ªafter you apologize, of course. Give her some space to cool off, then talk to her," Ciara advised as she closed the tap. "Now could you move out of the way? I need to dry my hands."


    "Oh! Sure." Bella stepped aside from the paper towels. "That¡¯s it?"


    "Yeah, nothing more, nothing less," Ciara replied.


    "Thank you," Bella said softly.


    "It¡¯s nothing really." Ciara tossed the paper towels into the bin and left the bathroom, bumping into Penelope, who was coming from the hall with Nontetha.


    "You really had to go, huh?" Penelope smirked.


    "Yeah, what are we doing tonight?" Ciara asked.


    "Nothing much; we just need to read this contract and that¡¯s it," Penelope admitted.


    "Sounds fun. Wait, shouldn¡¯t you be meeting your mentor, Nontetha?" Ciara asked.


    "Oh! Shit, I almost forgot. If I drive quickly, I can make it in a couple of minutes, right?" Nontetha asked.


    Penelope shook her head. "Not sure what that means, but even if you break every traffic law, you''ll still take an hour if you''re lucky. School ended 45 minutes ago, so expect a lot of traffic."


    "I guess I¡¯ll have to fly over to her," Nontetha said, half-joking.


    "Give me your car keys; I¡¯ll drive your car to your house," Ciara offered.


    "Ciara, you¡¯re a godsend." Nontetha pulled her keys from her pocket and tossed them to Ciara before dashing out of Block B. Just as she was about to take off, a car pulled up.


    "Miss Mgudlwa," called a figure standing beside the vehicle.


    "Yes?" Nontetha responded, unsure of what this man wanted.


    "I¡¯m Albert from the House of Williamson. I¡¯m a servant of Her Majesty and have been tasked with transporting you to her manor." Albert stepped forward, taking Nontetha''s bag. "Right this way, Miss."


    "Okay, what about my car?" Nontetha asked.


    "Your automobile has been transported to your manor," Albert explained.


    "Okay, give me a minute; I need to get something from my friend," Nontetha replied.


    "I shall await your return," Albert said, walking toward the vehicle with her school bag.


    Nontetha approached Penelope and Ciara, "Ciara, I need my keys back."


    "Okay," Ciara replied, handing over the keys.


    "You realize that you¡¯re going to be late?" Penelope pointed out.


    "Well, Lala sent Albert to pick me up, and he¡¯s talking about her Majesty like she¡¯s the queen or something," Nontetha explained.


    "That¡¯s because Lala is the Queen of Vampires," Penelope said, incredulity lacing her tone.


    "What?" Nontetha replied, bewildered.


    "You didn¡¯t know?" Penelope asked.


    "No, I didn¡¯t¡­ how do I look?" Nontetha asked, glancing nervously at her friends.


    "Okay, I guess," Ciara replied.The tale has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.


    Penelope burst out laughing. "Are you nervous?"


    "Nope," Nontetha said confidently, though her body betrayed her bravado.


    "You look nervous; you¡¯re literally shaking," Penelope pointed out.


    "Stop pl¡ª" Nontetha began, but then glanced down at her trembling hands.


    "I think it would be self-destructive for you to keep the queen waiting," Ciara advised.


    "I got this," Nontetha said, though uncertainty lingered in her voice as she turned to walk slowly to the car. After a moment, Albert started the vehicle and drove out of the school. Once they were clear of the premises, he created a portal that instantly transported them to the manor. He parked the car, stepped out, and opened the door for Nontetha, who was still visibly nervous.


    "I¡¯ve known her for decades, and she hasn¡¯t told me this," Nontetha mumbled to herself.


    "Is something wrong?" Albert asked.


    "No, nothing has changed; it¡¯s nothing, Al¡­ just had to clear my mind, that¡¯s all it''s just I haven''t been here before that''s all." Nontetha explained, stepping out of the car. Albert escorted her inside the manor to her room.


    "This is your room, there are clothes for you to wear when you see Her Majesty." Albert stated.


    Nontetha entered the room and changed into the clothes provided. When she left, Albert was waiting for her.


    "You look beautiful, Miss Mgudlwa," he remarked as he led her to the garden where Dracula was seated.


    "Hello, Your Majesty," Nontetha greeted, bowing before her.


    Dracula shook her head. "Someone told you I¡¯m royalty?"


    Nontetha nodded before rising. "May I sit, Your Grace?"


    "You play around too much," Dracula replied with a smirk.


    Nontetha took a seat opposite Dracula. "That¡¯s why I¡¯m perfect."


    "First day back at school; anything new?" Dracula asked.


    "There¡¯s this new exchange student, and he¡¯s massive. I mean, he¡¯s the largest person I¡¯ve ever seen," Nontetha said.


    "How big¡­ pause," Dracula replied, shaking her head in amusement.


    Nontetha burst into laughter. "It¡¯s not even that deep!"


    "The look on your face is priceless. But yeah, Vergil has a hulking frame, and you should see his eyes and face¡­ oh, his voice!" Nontetha continued.


    "Vergil Anansi from Venus?" Dracula inquired.


    "Yeah, do you know him?" Nontetha asked.


    "Not really; I just heard there was another Venusian in the city, that¡¯s all," Dracula explained.


    "Besides that, nothing much happened. Oh! I almost forgot¡ªI got this contract." Nontetha pulled out the document, handing it to Dracula¡¯s familiar. After reading through it, Dracula looked up and laughed. "Sheila impresses me more and more."


    "What does that mean?" Nontetha asked, confused.


    "Oh! You¡¯ll find out tomorrow, but I¡¯ll sign this after we¡¯re done with training," Dracula replied, handing the contract back to Nontetha¡¯s familiar.


    "Okay, I have no issues with that," Nontetha said.


    "Before you start your training, I need to give you a brief history lesson. Vampires still possess human physiology; it may differ, but it works similarly. Too much bleeding will incapacitate you.  I have to ask why now start with your training and get power?" Dracula asked


    "I want to be like you... these last decades I never thought I would have this type of relationship again and being in your presence I felt your aura as a women, Vampire and African it''s all part of your identity; and ah... that was eye opening for me and the fact I on the other hand had disregarded my lineage and reality as a Xhosa woman who is Vampire." Nontetha replied.


    Dracula was lost for words, "I will gladly help you in any one I can. Now, let¡¯s start with Blood Art created by me in the 1750s can''t remember the month or date because I had to live in the wilderness and train there but it was before the 60s. This art grants us power to make our dreams a reality. There are 2 arts: Enhancer and Manifestation which are the start of your journey but in totality their are 4 known to the world but the actual number is 5 but i have to admit that I am still figuring how to use the 5th so i don''t want to tell the world about something that is a work in progress.


    Let''s start with the basics Enhancers improve they physically capabilities and Manifestation is using blood to create what you want like weapons and constructs and you limit through mastery is your ingenuity.


    As living organisms, we passively absorb energy, which we can use to enhance our physical capabilities. Blood Art follows this principle, allowing our species to become a larger vessel for energy. This energy is directed to every fiber of a vampire''s body, the arts are a way to manipulate this to your desired effect.


    Manifestation art allows the user to forcibly release blood from their pores or a self-inflicted wound. Personally, I dislike it when vampires hurt themselves just to use Blood Art; it¡¯s self-destructive."


    "Why?" Nontetha asked.


    "Because you¡¯ll need more blood to perform certain Blood Arts, like Red Sea a mainstreamed art that I created. A small gash on your hand won¡¯t suffice, and the first thought would be to slit your throat to release the jugular vein and force liters of blood out. While we are vampires, we still have human like physiology, and if you bleed out, you will eventually lose consciousness. Which is the reason i created a better method for Blood Art: a single drop of your blood cell, when fused with mana best energy for the use of theability, allows that single cell to multiply to the point where you can create millions in an instant while changing their density. Time for a test." Dracula concluded.


    "What test?" Nontetha asked, puzzled.


    "Which blood art you can use most Vampires can use 1 art, open your hand and place it on mine." Dracula instructed. Nontetha complied, placing her hand on Dracula¡¯s open palm. "I will start pouring my energy into your palm so you can consciously feel it. After that, close your eyes to better focus on my energy. You should then be able to feel your own energy, which will have a different sensation than mine. Let your energy wash over your body; feel it travel from your head to your toes. Understand its nature and focus all your energy to your hand. This will allow you to feel every sensation, from your skin down to your blood cells. Once you sense every cell rushing through your veins, start merging your blood with your energy and push the merged blood out of your pores to the palm of your hand."


    "Okay, I feel your raging yet gentle touch, and I feel something warm and comforting. I can feel the blood from my veins rushing like a tempest, and the tempest is warm¡­" Nontetha replied.


    "Open your eyes." Dracula instructed.


    Nontetha opened her eyes and saw a flower.


    "Oh! This is new." Dracula said.


    "What is?" Nontetha asked as she looked down at her arm and her whole arm was muscular and it spreeds throughout her body making her more muscular as she was about to panic Dracula grabbed her hand, "You are an enhancer. You can boost all of your physical capabilities. But you skipped a stage and went to Berserk...  Now I know how to train you, but let me say it¡¯s not going to be fun for you." Dracula created a diamond garden within a clear crystal. "This garden symbolizes your immortality and new life and being the first of our kind to attain Berserk during they first training."


    "Thanks I guess when you perfect it''s just natura.." Nontetha fell asleep before finishing her sentence. Dracula takes her up to her room in the manor to let her sleep.

 Chapter 5: Existence

    Karabo drops Alba off at her apartment. Once inside, Alba heads to her room to change out of her school uniform and starts preparing dinner. Two hours later, Amanda walks in.


    ¡°Alba, I¡¯m home!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m in the kitchen!¡± Alba calls back.


    ¡°I¡¯m going to take a bubble bath!¡± Amanda replies, heading to her room to start running the water.


    Fifteen minutes later, as Alba is about to tell her sister that dinner is ready, she notices an envelope sticking out of Amanda''s coat. Unable to resist, she pulls it out and sees the school logo. Opening it, she finds a final warning about unpaid school fees due by the end of April. Shocked, she puts the letter back and sits down at the kitchen table.


    Amanda, now changed after her bath, enters the kitchen. ¡°That smells good! What¡¯s up with you? You look like a villain about to poison her adversary.¡±


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you tell me about the school fees?¡± Alba asks, her voice trembling.


    Amanda shakes her head. ¡°You went through my stuff again.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s what you¡¯re worried about?¡± Alba replies incredulously.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t tell you because I wanted you to keep enjoying high school without worrying about money,¡± Amanda explains, trying to reassure her.


    ¡°I know we¡¯re broke, and I¡¯m sure this isn¡¯t the only bill you¡¯re behind on,¡± Alba says.


    ¡°Life got tough after what happened to Mom and Dad. Everything has gotten worse,¡± Amanda admits.


    ¡°Well, I have good news,¡± Alba says, trying to shift the mood.


    ¡°About what?¡± Amanda asks, curious.


    ¡°I got offered a job today,¡± Alba replies.


    ¡°What kind of job?¡± Amanda inquires.


    ¡°To work for ARMS,¡± Alba says, her excitement bubbling over.


    ¡°Are you going to take it?¡± Amanda asks, concern creeping into her tone.


    Alba beams, ¡°The salary won¡¯t cover my education, but¡­¡±


    Amanda cuts her off, ¡°Don¡¯t take this job just for the money. It should be something you really want to do.¡±


    ¡°I just thought I could help out,¡± Alba replies, confused by her sister¡¯s tone.


    ¡°The accident made you grow up too quickly. You¡¯re still in high school; you need to be a kid. Don¡¯t worry about adult stuff¡ªI¡¯ll figure something out. Now come on, let¡¯s eat and watch your favorite classic horror film,¡± Amanda says, her voice gentle.


    Alba nods, unable to respond to her sister¡¯s sentiment.


    After dinner, Amanda falls asleep while watching a movie. Noticing this, Alba seizes the opportunity to call Sheila and steps out onto the balcony.


    ¡°Who is this?¡± Sheila asks, her voice brisk.


    ¡°It¡¯s me, Alba. We met after the meeting at school,¡± Alba replies.


    ¡°Alba, do you have an answer for me?¡± Sheila asks.


    Alba hesitates, knowing her sister wouldn¡¯t approve of what she¡¯s about to say. ¡°How much does ARMS pay a full-time agent?¡±


    ¡°Starting point will be around 45,000,¡± Sheila answers.


    ¡°Still not enough,¡± Alba murmurs.


    ¡°Having money problems?¡± Sheila asks, her tone shifting to concern.


    Alba hesitates again, weighing her words. ¡°Yeah, a bit. My family¡¯s been struggling since our parents passed away.¡±


    ¡°Let me be direct. I know about your school debt. I can pay it in a couple of minutes, along with your other debts, but you have to agree to join ARMS on a full-time basis,¡± Sheila states firmly.


    ¡°Why me?¡± Alba asks, suspicion creeping in. It feels too good to be true.


    ¡°In March last year, I created a new department with a new objective. I looked at promising agents and potential candidates, and you¡¯re on that list,¡± Sheila explains.


    Alba is taken aback. ¡°Why?¡±


    Sheila sighs. ¡°Because you score between 75-90% on tests, but when I looked at your answering scripts, it seemed like you purposely got questions wrong. You¡¯ve perfected the art of blending in with the crowd.¡±


    ¡°I never knew you were a therapist,¡± Alba replies sarcastically.


    ¡°Joking aside, you hide your true abilities because you don¡¯t like the attention. You¡¯ve concealed your main power, which isn¡¯t just shadow manipulation¡ªit¡¯s darkness manipulation. And as I¡¯ve learned, you possess telepathic abilities too,¡± Sheila elaborates.


    Alba laughs off Sheila¡¯s claim. ¡°You¡¯re reaching. It¡¯s shadow manipulation.¡±


    ¡°No, it¡¯s darkness. I know because the potency of your ability never changes, regardless of environmental factors. And your telepathy¡ªbefore you deny it, let me explain. James, your close friend, has autism. He¡¯s had multiple episodes at school, mostly triggered by loud noises or crowds. But after you were present when his sister calmed him down, the bell was changed, and now he can handle crowds without issue. This leads to two conclusions: either he cured himself, which is impossible, or he has a powerful telepath in his class who stops him from having episodes,¡± Sheila concludes.


    ¡°A telepath? That¡¯s a stretch,¡± Alba attempts to downplay.


    ¡°It would be if he didn¡¯t have an episode while away from you during the holidays. Speculation becomes fact. He hasn¡¯t had an episode in over three years, which means you''ve improved your range,¡± Sheila replies.


    ¡°What if I am?¡± Alba asks, intrigued.


    ¡°Come work for me. I¡¯m starting a new department in ARMS focused on researching the history and existence of all species on Earth,¡± Sheila explains.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t that common knowledge?¡± Alba queries.


    ¡°We live in a world where thousands believe the Earth is flat. There¡¯s a lot we have yet to discover, and you can be part of that,¡± Sheila responds.


    ¡°Okay, I¡¯m in. But what about my debt?¡± Alba asks.


    ¡°Perfect. Don¡¯t worry about it. I¡¯ll buy 49% of your sister¡¯s salon. When she accepts, I¡¯ll clear its debts, and she can use the funds to take care of yours. I¡¯ll also add a clause that allows her to buy me out later if she chooses,¡± Sheila explains.


    ¡°Thank you,¡± Alba says, relief flooding her.


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing really. Catch you on the flip side,¡± Sheila replies.


    Alba takes a deep breath, feeling a mix of anxiety and relief. She knows it won''t be easy, but at least she¡¯s taking steps to solve her family¡¯s financial struggles. Just then, her phone rings. It¡¯s Miri, sending a picture of her new pure gold hairbrush set.


    ¡°Man, she¡¯s doing the most,¡± Alba mutters.


    Miri goes live on her social media account, singing, ¡°BLACK GIRL MAGIC!¡±


    ¡°Get that camera away from me!¡± Bella shouts, clearly annoyed.


    ¡°Y¡¯ALL CAN¡¯T STAND IT!¡± Miri sings back, undeterred.


    Bella watches Miri and starts to smile. ¡°Miri, can you stop? Why are you so hyped in my room?¡±


    Miri pauses her singing. ¡°Because I¡¯m talking about you, Bella.¡±


    ¡°I guessed,¡± Bella replies before Miri leaves.


    Bella then makes a call to her home world. ¡°Father?¡±


    ¡°What do you want?¡± Shaka asks, his tone sharp.


    ¡°How is life?¡± Bella asks, trying to keep it light.


    ¡°Let¡¯s skip these meaningless pleasantries and get straight to the point. Why did you arrange this video?¡± Shaka demands.


    Bella clears her throat. ¡°What if I told you I could get a new job at ARMS?¡±


    Shaka¡¯s revulsion is palpable. ¡°You are royalty! A princess of Mars! And you choose to boost the military might of another planet? Shameful!¡± he replies, slamming his fist on the armrest.


    ¡°But... I can help,¡± Bella counters, her voice trembling.


    ¡°Lower life forms should suffer,¡± Shaka states coldly.


    ¡°I¡­¡± Bella¡¯s voice cracks.


    ¡°We are done here. You continue to bring shame on our family,¡± Shaka says before ending the connection.


    Bella sits in front of the black screen, tears in her eyes. Covering her mouth, she begins to cry silently. Miri, who had been nearby, hears her muffled cries and stops. She sees Henry, Bella¡¯s royal guard, heading to the room, and stops him.Unauthorized use: this story is on Amazon without permission from the author. Report any sightings.


    ¡°Why?¡± Henry asks, concern flickering in his eyes.


    ¡°Some things words can¡¯t fix,¡± Miri admits softly.


    Henry sighs and walks away to return to his post.


    ¡°That old man never changes,¡± Miri mutters to herself, grinding her teeth. She heads back into Bella¡¯s room. Upon seeing Bella in distress, she embraces her, allowing Bella to cry in her arms.


    Gugu puts on her shirt and checks her notifications before placing her phone back on the nightstand. ¡°I think Miri can be too much,¡± she says.


    ¡°You¡¯re talking about a girl with a pure gold pen here,¡± Will replies, handing Gugu a can of soda.


    ¡°Thanks,¡± Gugu responds, taking the drink. Will sits beside her on the bed. ¡°So, today you put up a good fight.¡±


    ¡°You mean when I got knocked out?¡± Gugu asks, raising an eyebrow.


    ¡°You had her worried, though,¡± Will counters.


    ¡°Yeah, and that led to my victory,¡± Gugu says sarcastically. ¡°Enough about that. Let¡¯s talk about you and ARMS.¡±


    ¡°Not sure they would want me,¡± Will admits.


    ¡°What? You got a temporary contract today from ARMS. That proves they want you,¡± Gugu states.


    ¡°Yeah, but my father is the leader of the western royalty, my mom owns a brothel, and my siblings aren¡¯t much better¡ªexcept for my sister,¡± Will explains.


    Gugu listens attentively, understanding the complexities of Will''s family background. ¡°That doesn''t define you, Will. Your worth is not determined by your family''s status or history.¡±


    Will nods, appreciating Gugu''s support. ¡°My sister told me she joined Shield for the money, though.¡±


    ¡°People need money. We¡¯re not talking about your family; we¡¯re talking about you and your fear of overcorrecting by putting as much distance between you and them,¡± Gugu explains.


    ¡°When you put it like that, you make me sound vindictive and conceited,¡± Will points out.


    Gugu opens her soda. ¡°I come from a military family. Losing like that to Penelope? Do you know what they did?¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Will asks, a serious look crossing his face.


    Gugu sighs. ¡°They laughed at me and made a meme about me.¡±


    Will shakes his head at Gugu''s remark. ¡°It¡¯s not really the same, though. Your family serves the public; mine destroys it.¡±


    ¡°We don¡¯t choose our family, but we choose who we want to be, despite what our family is or has been for generations,¡± Gugu replies before taking a sip of her soda.


    Will never thought of joining ARMS like that. ¡°You are wise.¡±


    ¡°Thank you. Coming from a military family isn¡¯t all bad. The skills I learn can be used to get paid by joining ARMS, even though I¡¯d be a pretty good MMA fighter,¡± Gugu explains.


    ¡°I would be excellent in the octagon,¡± Will says.


    ¡°One problem among the dozens in that plan: they don¡¯t let vampires compete. So you¡¯re out of luck when it comes to that dream,¡± Gugu points out.


    ¡°That¡¯s not fair,¡± Will protests.


    ¡°Says the guy who can run at Mach 1,¡± Gugu replies.


    ¡°I can slow down,¡± Will retorts.


    ¡°Right. I guess you also do something about the power, reflexes, and agility as well?¡± Gugu asks.


    ¡°Maybe,¡± Will admits.


    ¡°What about the healing factor?¡± Gugu inquires.


    Will shrugs.


    ¡°Face it, you can¡¯t. So just join ARMS, and you can stay here with me,¡± Gugu says, leaning in for a kiss.


    ¡°I like the sound of that,¡± Will replies before they start kissing.


    Gugu pulls away. ¡°Shit! What¡¯s the time?¡±


    ¡°Half past eight,¡± Will says.


    ¡°I gotta go. See you at school tomorrow,¡± Gugu replies, quickly getting dressed and leaving through Will''s window. She jumps to the ground of the boarding house, and as she sneaks out, her phone rings.


    ¡°Hello?¡± she answers.


    ¡°Hello, lover girl,¡± Pretty says.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know what you¡¯re talking about,¡± Gugu states.


    ¡°How is Will?¡± Pretty asks.


    ¡°Fine, thank you for asking. What do you want?¡± Gugu responds.


    ¡°What was the due date for the English book report?¡± Pretty inquires.


    ¡°On Thursday. Why are you¡ª¡± Gugu sighs. ¡°Wow, you haven¡¯t even started the project, have you?¡±


    ¡°Maybe,¡± Pretty admits.


    ¡°You know you¡¯re going to fail, right? But I will help you,¡± Gugu replies.


    ¡°Thanks! I¡¯m in your room right now,¡± Pretty ends the call.


    ¡°What! Pretty! Hello!¡± Gugu exclaims, looking at her phone. ¡°She didn¡¯t just hang up on me!¡±


    ---


    Anni chuckles, recognizing Miri''s tendency for over-the-top antics. ¡°Is it me, or is Miri wilding?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not you,¡± Yasmin replies.


    ¡°And why are you video calling us?¡± Anni asks.


    ¡°Because of the contract,¡± Theresa answers.


    ¡°We have till Friday to respond, and it¡¯s Monday,¡± Anni points out.


    ¡°I know, but I called all of you to know what you¡¯re planning to do with the contract. Also, I won¡¯t be signing it,¡± Theresa says.


    ¡°Why not?¡± Anni asks.


    ¡°This was supposed to be a decision made a couple of months from now. It¡¯s too sudden, and I don¡¯t like it,¡± Theresa explains.


    ¡°That¡¯s the worst excuse I¡¯ve ever heard,¡± Yasmin says.


    ¡°It¡¯s not. This is called being sensible,¡± Theresa clarifies.


    ¡°Well, I¡¯m doing it,¡± Yasmin declares.


    ¡°You do realize you won¡¯t be able to smoke as much?¡± Anni asks.


    ¡°Yes, but it¡¯s what I must do,¡± Yasmin replies.


    ¡°I¡¯m not,¡± Anni states.


    ¡°Why?¡± Yasmin asks.


    ¡°A good demon is a dead demon,¡± Anni replies.


    ¡°That¡¯s a bit morbid,¡± Yasmin responds.


    ¡°Yeah,¡± Anni agrees before ending the video call.


    ¡°She¡¯s in one of her moods again,¡± Yasmin notes.


    ¡°I¡¯m not sure if I want to join yet. There are too many dance tournaments coming up,¡± Mandisa explains.


    ¡°You haven¡¯t lost a dance tournament since you were ten. Give other people a chance to win,¡± Yasmin remarks.


    ¡°But one of these days, someone may come and push me to the limit, and that gets me excited,¡± Mandisa says.


    ¡°Doubt it,¡± Yasmin replies.


    ¡°I will be joining ARMS. I think this is a fantastic opportunity that I can¡¯t let slip by, and I can use my abilities on powerful foes,¡± Theresa declares.


    ¡°Just like that?¡± Yasmin asks.


    ¡°I wanted to see your reaction, but I always planned to join. It¡¯s nearly 9, so I¡¯m going to bed. See you both in 10 hours,¡± Theresa says.


    ¡°Okay, bye,¡± Yasmin replies.


    ¡°Bye,¡± Mandisa adds.


    ***


    Rose walked into Anni¡¯s room and stood in front of the doorway. ¡°Are you okay?¡±


    ¡°On the 29th, it would have been Dad¡¯s birthday,¡± Anni said quietly.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry about it,¡± Rose replied gently.


    ¡°Okay.¡± Anni sighed.


    ¡°I made you your favorite meatball sub with melted cheese,¡± Rose said, trying to lighten the mood.


    ¡°Melted cheese, you said?¡± Anni asked, a hint of curiosity in her voice.


    ¡°White cheddar cheese,¡± Rose confirmed.


    ¡°Don¡¯t play with me.¡± Anni smiled slightly.


    ¡°Why would I play? Come on, let¡¯s have dinner,¡± Rose encouraged.


    ¡°Okay, Mom,¡± Anni replied, feeling a bit better.


    As they headed to the dining room, a few minutes of silence passed. ¡°You seem weird,¡± Rose noted.


    Anni stopped playing with her food. ¡°I received a contract today.¡±


    ¡°What contract?¡± Rose asked, intrigued.


    ¡°To join ARMS on a temporary basis,¡± Anni explained.


    ¡°Okay, what do you want to do?¡± Rose inquired.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to join,¡± Anni replied firmly.


    ¡°You said the same thing about the Maritzburg School of Excellence,¡± Rose pointed out.


    ¡°That¡¯s different,¡± Anni insisted.


    ¡°How exactly? You were just talking to humans you consider friends,¡± Rose pressed.


    ¡°That is also different,¡± Anni countered.


    ¡°It¡¯s not your fault,¡± Rose said softly.


    ¡°Don¡¯t,¡± Anni replied, tears welling in her eyes. ¡°I was the one who went to town when he constantly told me not to go.¡±


    ¡°Humans have committed deplorable acts against demons, mostly out of fear. But mainly, it¡¯s a hatred that¡¯s been taught and passed down through generations. Your father did nothing wrong; he was just a demon used as an example during a boiling point of hatred,¡± Rose explained. ¡°I¡¯ve been in contact with Shield, and they¡¯ll be overturning his conviction. The charges will be lessened.¡±


    Anni felt a surge of hope. ¡°Why tell me now?¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t want to give you false hope, but you should join ARMS regardless of what happens with your father¡¯s sentence,¡± Rose urged.


    ¡°I¡¯m not sure if I want to,¡± Anni said hesitantly.


    ¡°Anni, you have an aptitude for being an agent. Your empathy allows you to get into the mindset of the perpetrator like no one else. Plus, you¡¯re at the top of all your classes, including the ARMS course. It looks like you would take to this vocation like a duck to water,¡± Rose explained.


    ¡°I guess,¡± Anni replied, feeling more convinced.


    ¡°Just do it and see how it feels. Plus, you¡¯d get paid, right?¡± Rose asked.


    ¡°Yeah.¡±


    ¡°See? Win-win. If you love it, you could join Shield. If I remember correctly, there¡¯s a special agent position that works with police departments worldwide to solve cold cases or active ones. That would allow you to travel and fight bad guys like a real-life heroine. I remember the hero name you gave yourself¡ªBlack Snow.¡±


    ¡°That never happened,¡± Anni chuckled. ¡°But I will sign the contract. Thank you; I needed to hear those words.¡±


    ¡°And don¡¯t forget, next month is your possession. Has the infestation begun?¡± Rose asked.


    ¡°Yes, I¡¯ve been having odd dreams for the past couple of months. But why is it called possession?¡± Anni wondered.


    ¡°Because it sounds cool,¡± Rose replied playfully.


    ¡°Okay, I¡¯ve been doodling this image lately¡­¡± Anni pulled out a piece of paper from her pocket and handed it to her mother. ¡°You study runes; can you tell me what it means?¡±


    Rose took the paper and opened it. ¡°It¡¯s Scandinavian Ase, a popular female name during the Viking period, which means goddess. How long have you been doodling this? Do you see it in your dreams as well?¡±


    ¡°The dreams started six months ago, and the doodling since the start of September last year. I can¡¯t stop drawing the name. In my dreams, I walk through a dark forest barefoot to a distant cave where I engrave the name on the walls,¡± Anni explained.


    ¡°Okay, it seems that everything is going as planned. Don¡¯t worry; everything will become clear to you next month,¡± Rose assured her.


    ***


    Gugu drove into her parents'' garage and walked into the house, trying to sneak past her family, who were having dinner.


    ¡°Gugu!¡± shouted Mr. Mkhize.


    ¡°Yeah?¡± replied Gugu.


    ¡°Can you turn this water into wine?¡± Mr. Mkhize joked.


    ¡°Because I got crucified? Real funny,¡± Gugu rolled her eyes and headed upstairs, ignoring the laughter from the kitchen.


    As she entered her room, she saw a figure sitting on a beanbag in the corner with the lights off. ¡°Did you come through the window?¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± Pretty answered, her voice somber.


    ¡°We need to start talking about boundaries, spider monkey.¡± Gugu threw her bag on her bed and switched on the light, revealing Pretty sitting in a sea of blood. ¡°I¡¯ll get the first aid kit.¡±


    Gugu hurried out of the room and returned with the kit. ¡°I¡­¡± Pretty started.


    ¡°Take off your shirt,¡± Gugu said urgently.


    Pretty removed her top and turned around. The sight of the wound on Pretty¡¯s back made Gugu grind her teeth in frustration. Taking a step closer, she noticed the plastic covering the beanbag and the areas where Pretty was seated. Pools of blood had turned her shoes a deep red. ¡°This is getting out of hand.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s just¡­¡± Pretty began.


    ¡°When are you going to start listening to me when you¡¯re in a box?¡± Gugu asked, trying to keep her voice steady.


    ¡°That won¡¯t happen,¡± Pretty replied firmly.


    Gugu couldn¡¯t believe Pretty was still defending him. ¡°He put you in the hospital last year, remember that?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not like that,¡± Pretty insisted.


    "Let me get this right I hit you for no reason and blame you for my actions? Yeah it''s not like that... Know what I will hunter him and gut him like the bastard he is." Gugu replied.


    "He is my father." Pretty remainded Gugu.


    ¡°And you think that makes this better?" Gugu asked but all Pretty could do was look down at her own blood


    "At least that monster stopped, but one of these days he won¡¯t.¡± Gugu said harshly.


    After Gugu disinfected Pretty¡¯s wounds and removed the leftover curse energy that was preventing her from healing, she left the room to put the medical kit away and burn the bloody plastic. Meanwhile, Pretty headed to the bathroom to take a shower. Nobuhle, Gugu¡¯s sister, noticed the bloody footprints leading outside. Following them, she saw Gugu crying and decided to clean the blood. She grabbed Gugu some clean shoes and headed to the fireplace. ¡°Beautiful night, isn¡¯t it? Here, change your shoes.¡±


    Gugu turned away, tears streaming down her face.


    Nobuhle sighed and placed the shoes beside her. ¡°The worst part about your day was losing a training match and becoming a meme. Yet that pain doesn¡¯t compare to this. The worst thought is that this probably happens every day, and you can only see it when it gets excessive, like what happened last year. You keep thinking about all the days you spent together, wondering how much of it you missed throughout the years. Since you¡¯ve known her for a decade now, when did it start, or did it start before we even met?¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t know you were a telepath,¡± Gugu replied sarcastically.


    ¡°Jokes. Do you want her to leave that monster of a man and stay with you?¡± Nobuhle asked.


    ¡°Maybe,¡± Gugu said despondently, hoping her sister had a plan to protect Pretty.


    ¡°Trying to get her away from one of the most powerful and richest men in the world using sheer force is a fool¡¯s game,¡± Nobuhle explained.


    ¡°Then I should do nothing while my best friend gets abused!¡± Gugu replied angrily.


    ¡°Well, you can do something about it, but it will take a little misdirection on your end,¡± Nobuhle suggested.


    Gugu smiled at her sister, always coming through for her. ¡°What can I do?¡±


    ¡°ARMS!¡± Nobuhle said enthusiastically.


    ¡°What?¡± Gugu asked, intrigued.


    After the conversation with her sister, Gugu returned to her room, changed into her pajamas, and got into bed. Pretty had stayed over so many times that parts of Gugu¡¯s walk-in wardrobe were filled with Pretty¡¯s clothes. Once Pretty changed into her pajamas, she climbed into bed next to Gugu.


    ¡°Can we cuddle like old times?¡± Pretty asked softly.


    ¡°Okay, but don¡¯t say ¡®cuddle¡¯; we¡¯re just spooning,¡± Gugu replied before wrapping her arms around Pretty. ¡°Pretty?¡±


    ¡°Yes?¡± Pretty answered.


    Gugu whispered, ¡°I¡¯m joining ARMS. I think you should too.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know,¡± Pretty said hesitantly.


    ¡°Please, your father has no power over ARMS. You can join without his or your mother¡¯s consent, and we can stay together forever,¡± Gugu urged.


    ¡°I like the sound of that,¡± Pretty replied, her voice filled with hope.

 Chapter 6: Reprieve

    Pretty is awakened by her alarm clock. With a groan, she begrudgingly grabs her phone from the nightstand and switches off the alarm.


    Gently, she removes Gugu''s arm from her and gets out of bed, the chill of the morning air biting at her skin. As she rummages through her side of the wardrobe, she finally finds her uniform.


    After a few moments of careful steam ironing, she moves on to Gugu¡¯s uniform, the rhythmic hiss of the iron filling the quiet room.


    Once finished, she heads to the bathroom. The sound of water running fills the small space as she sits down in the shower, letting icy water cascade over her for what feels like an eternity. Gathering her strength, she finally stands and begins to wash herself.


    A few minutes later, now dressed in her uniform, Pretty pulls the sheets off Gugu. ¡°Wake up, Gugu,¡± she says, her voice cutting through the morning haze.


    Barely awake, Gugu squints up at Pretty in her school uniform. ¡°What time is it?¡±


    ¡°Quarter to seven, or 6:45,¡± Pretty replies, attempting to keep her tone light.


    ¡°Okay, five more¡­¡± Gugu starts to drift off, then jolts awake. ¡°WHAT? HOW COULD YOU LET ME OVERSLEEP?¡±


    ¡°You ignored the alarms you set,¡± Pretty reminds her, crossing her arms.


    ¡°Shit! Shit! Shit!¡± Gugu mutters to herself as she rushes out of bed and into the bathroom. ¡°Where is my¡­?¡±


    ¡°Top left on the shelf,¡± Pretty answers, making the bed with swift, practiced movements.


    ¡°Thank you,¡± Gugu replies, now brushing her teeth. A minute later, she dashes into the shower.


    After finishing making the bed, Pretty places Gugu''s uniform on it. ¡°I''ll be downstairs having breakfast, and I''ve placed your uniform on the bed,¡± she calls out.


    ¡°AAAHHHHH! Fuck!¡± Gugu exclaims from behind the bathroom door.


    ¡°Shampoo went in your eyes again; don¡¯t rush! Your shampoo blocking hat is on the right!¡± Pretty yells as she leaves the room, a smirk on her face.


    ¡°Thank you; you''re a lifesaver,¡± Gugu replies, her voice muffled.


    After a quick shower, she rushes back to her room to put on her uniform and then heads downstairs. The sight of a visibly annoyed Pretty greets her.


    ¡°What?¡± Gugu asks, confusion etching her features.


    ¡°It¡¯s 7:19, which means we missed the bus,¡± Pretty informs her, arms crossed.


    ¡°I''ll take you; I know a shortcut,¡± Nobuhle offers, appearing in the doorway.


    ¡°Here,¡± Pretty shouts, handing Gugu a lunchbox and juice. ¡°That¡¯s your breakfast¡ªa sandwich and some orange juice. I also got you this mint gum to get rid of that breakfast odor.¡±


    ¡°Pretty, you¡¯ll make someone a great wife someday,¡± Nobuhle comments with a chuckle.


    ¡°I guess,¡± Pretty replies, scratching her head, a hint of embarrassment creeping in.


    Pretty and Gugu follow Nobuhle to her car, the morning sun shining brightly as they head to school. They manage to arrive at school just ten minutes before the bell rings, and Nobuhle parks outside the school gates.


    ¡°What did I tell you?¡± Nobuhle says triumphantly, her smile wide.


    ¡°You broke like 15 traffic laws in 30 minutes,¡± Gugu retorts, shaking her head.


    ¡°But you''re 10 minutes early,¡± Nobuhle points out, a playful glint in her eyes.


    Pretty sighs, ¡°Yes, bye.¡± She exits the vehicle. As Gugu is about to leave, she turns to her sister. ¡°I did what you asked, but are you sure about this?¡±


    ¡°Trust me; you won¡¯t believe it even when it¡¯s happening,¡± Nobuhle reassures her.


    ¡°Okay, oh! I left the lunchbox and juice bottle in the back,¡± Gugu exclaims, pausing before exiting the vehicle.


    ¡°What were you talking about?¡± Pretty asks, curiosity piqued.


    ¡°Your birthday,¡± Gugu says, placing her hand over Pretty¡¯s shoulder as they walk through the second gate. ¡°I was thinking we could make reservations at that new Italian place opening next month and then head to the amusement park.¡±


    ¡°That sounds like a fun night, but my birthday is in August,¡± Pretty reminds her, a hint of disbelief in her voice.


    ¡°The early bird catches the worm; maybe you can get a boyfriend before then, so we can go on a double date,¡± Gugu suggests, a mischievous grin on her face.


    ¡°No, no one is worthy of tasting these lips,¡± Pretty jokes, rolling her eyes.


    ¡°Okay, I am appointing myself your matchmaker, and let me just¡­¡± Gugu replies, pulling out her phone to text Miri to come to block H ASAP.


    ¡°What are you doing?¡± Pretty asks, raising an eyebrow.


    ¡°Bringing in Cupid, and here she is,¡± Gugu announces as Miri arrives, breathless.


    ¡°I ran and flew from the other side of the school, so what¡¯s the problem?¡± Miri asks, catching her breath.


    ¡°Pretty has never had a boyfriend¡­¡± Gugu starts, excitement bubbling in her voice.


    Miri cuts her off, ¡°Say no more, I got you. I have five suitors in mind.¡±


    ¡°Okay, indulge us,¡± Gugu says, her interest piqued.


    ¡°Walk with me, less like a couple and more like friends,¡± Miri instructs, leading the way.


    ¡°Why, are you jealous?¡± Pretty teases, glancing sideways at Miri.


    ¡°Nope. Let¡¯s start with the Head Prefect himself, John Munthali. I know, nerd alert, but every Friday he goes to help at the soup kitchen and never even posts about it on social media. You know what that means?¡± Miri asks, her tone serious.


    ¡°Fishing for likes,¡± Gugu answers, smirking.


    ¡°That¡¯s one way to look at it. The other would be that he isn¡¯t one to brag about his accomplishments and is respected by everyone, even the jocks. When it was time to select the Head Prefect, there was no surprise when he was chosen,¡± Miri explains.


    ¡°True,¡± Gugu nods, considering.


    ¡°When it comes to ladies, well, he is a bit of a mystery, but he''s smart, good-looking, respectable, friendly, approachable, and he is chilled most of the time,¡± Miri adds.


    ¡°Right, next suitor?¡± Gugu prompts, eager for more.


    ¡°Moosa¡­¡± Miri starts.


    ¡°Ah! No,¡± Pretty interjects firmly.


    ¡°He is a little uptight,¡± Miri admits, raising her hands in mock surrender.


    ¡°A little?¡± Pretty sarcastically remarks, a playful smile on her lips.


    ¡°Okay, a lot, but I''m sure underneath all that golden boy BS, there is a real one,¡± Miri defends.


    ¡°Prove it,¡± Gugu challenges, crossing her arms.


    ¡°Okay, let¡¯s go to the garden to finish this conversation,¡± Miri suggests, leading the way. As they exit the block, they step into the lush Bio garden, the vibrant colors of flowers surrounding them. They take a seat on a nearby bench.


    ¡°What are we looking at?¡± Gugu asks, glancing around.


    ¡°This garden was built by him. Every single flower that is not indigenous to this area, he planted them in a way that they don¡¯t affect the other plants and take all their nutrients,¡± Miri explains, pride evident in her voice.


    ¡°Wow!¡± Pretty exclaims, her eyes wide.


    ¡°Yeah, he puts in the work, no matter how mind-numbingly tedious the task may be. But since you don¡¯t fancy him, onto suitor number 3: standing at 7 feet tall, Gift,¡± Miri continues, her enthusiasm unflagging.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t he like a sex addict?¡± Pretty asks, raising an eyebrow.


    ¡°With multiple partners?¡± Gugu adds, sharing a conspiratorial glance with Pretty.


    ¡°Can¡¯t say, and yes, if Pretty is just looking for something physical, he is your guy,¡± Miri explains, shrugging.


    ¡°No!¡± Pretty interjects firmly.


    ¡°Okay, Masiya Siyabonga, that''s the 4th choice,¡± Miri announces, her tone serious.


    ¡°I think he''s gay,¡± Pretty concludes, crossing her arms skeptically.


    ¡°I second that thought,¡± Gugu chimes in, nodding.


    ¡°He is not gay,¡± Miri insists, shaking her head.


    ¡°How do you know?¡± Gugu inquires, genuinely curious.


    ¡°I saw him kiss a girl last year,¡± Miri explains, her tone matter-of-fact.


    ¡°And no gay man has ever kissed a girl before,¡± Gugu adds, smirking.Unauthorized usage: this tale is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings.


    ¡°Or dated a girl,¡± Pretty remarks, her voice teasing.


    ¡°Yebo, or even gotten married to a woman,¡± Pretty continues, giggling.


    ¡°I get your points, but just because he takes care of his appearance doesn¡¯t make him gay. And you both know... Oh! I see, it¡¯s the OCD, isn¡¯t it?¡± Miri realizes, a lightbulb moment dawning.


    ¡°Absolutely,¡± Pretty confirms, laughing.


    ¡°Yeah, that and the fact he is crazy,¡± Gugu adds, grinning.


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Miri asks, perplexed.


    ¡°Remember three years ago when he nearly got robbed? Not only did he smash the thief¡¯s face in, but he also had no emotions on his face during the entire altercation. That''s some serial killer shit right there,¡± Gugu explains, shaking her head in disbelief.


    ¡°Okay, the last one is Luke, the most laid-back guy in school. His personality is like a cool summer breeze, and he makes Pretty laugh and relax,¡± Miri suggests, her eyes sparkling.


    ¡°Perfect,¡± Gugu agrees, a grin spreading across her face.


    ¡°No, it¡¯s not,¡± Pretty protests, her face turning a bright shade of red.


    ¡°Your blushing face says otherwise,¡± Gugu teases, nudging her playfully.


    ¡°It¡¯s settled then,¡± Miri declares just as the bell rings, echoing through the hallways.


    ¡°What¡¯s settled?¡± Pretty asks, confusion written all over her face.


    ¡°Luke is going to be your first boyfriend,¡± Miri reveals, her voice dripping with mischief.


    ¡°Luke and Pretty sitting on a tree, K-I-S-S-I-N-G,¡± Gugu teases, dancing around them.


    ¡°Real classy, Gugu,¡± Pretty responds, rolling her eyes but unable to hide her smile.


    The girls head to class, and as they settle into their seats, Shelia walks in and stands in front of the whole class, her presence demanding attention. ¡°Today, all of you will have six lessons only, yes, blackie.¡±


    ¡°Firstly, that¡¯s racist, and secondly, why?¡± John inquires, raising an eyebrow.


    ¡°You do realize I am an albino, right?¡± Shelia asks, her tone sharp.


    The whole class is taken aback by this revelation, a ripple of murmurs spreading through the room.


    ¡°I am surrounded by racists,¡± Shelia mutters to herself, rolling her eyes.


    ¡°You are blond,¡± John points out, confusion evident on his face.


    ¡°So?¡± Shelia retorts, crossing her arms.


    ¡°I haven¡¯t met any Native African person named Shelia,¡± Nkosi adds, tilting his head.


    Shelia isn''t sure how to respond to Nkosi''s statement and decides to ignore it. ¡°Before asking me a lot of unnecessary questions, I will answer John¡¯s question. Yesterday, when you all took the contracts home with you, there was a clause written in the fine print. The said aforementioned clause, and I quote: in order for this clause to be activated, the contract has to be in the possession of the Class 12 A student for 12 hours, and well, it¡¯s nearly been 17 hours. This clause is straightforward: you will participate in one raid, and failing to do so will result in a fine in excess of 500 million,¡± Shelia explains, her voice steady.


    ¡°You can¡¯t do that!¡± Penelope shouts, visibly enraged.


    ¡°Next time read the fine print. I will see all of you in a couple of hours at the main hall. Goodbye for now,¡± Shelia concludes before leaving the class, her footsteps echoing behind her.


    ¡°This is some bullshit,¡± Penelope mutters, crossing her arms.


    ¡°Language,¡± Mr. Peterson reprimands, his voice firm.


    ¡°Mxm, Ciara, do you have the contract with you?¡± Penelope asks, turning to her friend.


    ¡°I think so,¡± Ciara answers, a hint of uncertainty in her voice.


    ¡°Take it out then, and why do you have the contract with you?¡± Penelope presses, her eyes narrowing.


    Ciara shrugs her shoulders, ¡°Plot.¡± She takes out the contract and hands it to Penelope, who quickly becomes the center of attention as almost the entire class surrounds her to see if it is true.


    Penelope browses through the 100-page document until she finds it. ¡°It¡¯s word for word what she said,¡± she announces, disbelief lacing her tone.


    Brandon is the first to respond to Penelope¡¯s revelation, his voice rising above the chatter. ¡°How can you be the Head Prefect and not know about this?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t see how this is my fault, and Miri right there¡ªshe is the student chair,¡± Penelope replies, pointing at Miri, who waves back at all of them.


    ¡°All of you take a seat. Most likely, Shelia put this in here so that the organization would know if we the investment can meet the job requirements, not just physically but mentally as well. But it also grants us firsthand experience so that we would know if we desire to be permanent ARMS agents¡ªtwo birds, one stone,¡± Miri explains, her tone confident.


    ¡°Fine, we will go along with this for now,¡± John conceded.


    ***


    Class 12A shuffled into the classroom, the chatter buzzing with anticipation. As they settled into their seats, Miri seized the moment, nudging Pretty with a playful grin.


    ¡°Hey, why not sit next to Vergil? You need the practice for your future partner.¡±


    ¡°What? No!¡± Pretty replied, her voice rising in pitch, a mix of surprise and embarrassment.


    ¡°Okay, well, I¡¯ll just tell Luke you like him,¡± Miri teased, shrugging her shoulders mischievously.


    ¡°Oh! It¡¯s like that.¡± Pretty glanced hesitantly at Vergil before sliding into the seat beside him.


    Across the table, Alba eyed Vergil thoughtfully, her curiosity piqued. Leaning forward, she asked, ¡°So, Vergil, where¡¯s your other half today?¡±


    ¡°Who is that?¡± Vergil responded, genuinely confused.


    ¡°She has a name, Vergil,¡± Alba whispered, rolling her eyes.


    ¡°Are you deadass?¡± Vergil shot back, a hint of disbelief in his tone.


    ¡°The mouth on you,¡± Alba remarked, covering her face as she stifled a laugh.


    ¡°Are you done flirting, or should we leave?¡± Anni interjected, her tone light but teasing.


    ¡°It¡¯s not that serious,¡± Vergil replied, trying to brush off the banter.


    ¡°Speaking of partnerships, I think the topic we should cover is what they use in forensic departments,¡± Alba began, shifting the conversation. ¡°We list the information they give the investigative team¡ªmicroscopic traces, like fibers, hair, or any tiny piece left behind. In crime scenes, they speak for the dead and reveal the moments of how they met their end.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t see a problem with that,¡± Pretty said, intrigued.


    Just then, Beatrice walked over to their table, handing out assigned sheets. ¡°Vergil,¡± she called.


    Vergil looked up at her, but she seemed lost in thought before finally saying, ¡°Do you know certain fruits look like butts?¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Vergil asked, bewildered.


    Karabo strolled over to rescue Beatrice, ¡°I think we should go. Oh! Vergil, I need you to see me soon so I can take your measurements for the senior jacket.¡±


    At that moment, Bella glanced at Karabo. ¡°His measurements are chest circumference 186 inches, arm length 80 inches, wrist circumference 147 inches, shoulder width 70 inches, jacket length 6 feet¡­¡±


    Everyone turned to look at her in surprise. Alba raised an eyebrow, ¡°And how do you know that?¡±


    Bella coughed, ¡°We, um¡­ knew each other on Venus.¡±


    ¡°That doesn¡¯t answer the question,¡± Anni pointed out, clearly skeptical.


    ¡°Is that true, Vergil?¡± Karabo asked, seeking confirmation.


    ¡°Yeah,¡± Vergil said simply.


    ¡°I just know, that¡¯s it,¡± Bella attempted to clarify, her tone defensive.


    ¡°So you say,¡± Pretty remarked, smirking.


    Beatrice, eager to contribute, jumped in, ¡°I got it! The school hall and doors, among other facilities, have been gradually increased little by little. I thought I was tripping, but it was in preparation for your arrival a year in advance.¡±


    The room fell silent, confusion spreading. ¡°Since no one has asked, what are you talking about?¡± Pretty finally asked.


    ¡°If Vergil¡¯s arrival was planned a year in advance by Sheila, it means the raid we are worried about will be relatively safe, and our lives will actually be in danger,¡± Beatrice explained.


    ¡°If you¡¯re done, Beatrice, this is still a lesson going on,¡± Mrs. Ntuli reminded her, her tone firm.


    Beatrice returned to her table, while Miri exchanged a knowing look with Bella, both struggling to contain their amusement as the lesson resumed.


    ---


    News of the impending raid lingered in the air, making the hours melt away. The entire class was tense¡ªeveryone except Miri, who buzzed with excitement about the news of her golden phantom.


    Suddenly, the bell rang for the second break, slicing through the anxious atmosphere and signaling it was time to meet Sheila in the main hall. As they filed in, a sense of anticipation filled the room, and students began finding seats, their murmurs echoing in the space. Sheila stepped forward, her gaze sharp and commanding.


    ¡°Who told you to sit down?¡± she questioned, her tone cutting through the chatter.


    ¡°But... you told us to meet here,¡± John pointed out, his brow furrowing in confusion.


    ¡°I said to meet me here, but I didn¡¯t say we¡¯d stay,¡± Sheila clarified, a sly smile forming on her lips, hinting at the surprise to come.


    ¡°So where are we headed?¡± Gift asked, her brow still knitted with worry.


    ¡°Joe¡¯s Place,¡± Sheila replied coolly.


    ¡°What?¡± Anni gasped, a chill running through the group.


    ¡°You heard me. The ten-story building in the middle of town. No cop dares enter without a death wish,¡± Sheila clarified, her voice steady.


    Karabo interjected, visibly worried. ¡°My brother James has autism, and you¡¯re sending us to confront a gang?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, darling. I¡¯ve made arrangements,¡± Sheila assured her, then added, ¡°I¡¯ve designed a device that will prevent James from having an episode, no matter the situation. It¡¯s quite remarkable.¡±


    ¡°What kind of device?¡± Karabo pressed, still concerned.


    Sheila began a technical explanation, her voice taking on a more enthusiastic tone as she detailed how the device worked by intercepting neurological pathways, stabilizing the brain''s response to stress. She signaled to Alba, who caught on and ceased using her powers. Sheila retrieved a flat black helmet from a bag and tossed it to Karabo, who handed it to James.


    Suddenly, Sheila activated loud music on the sound system, filling the room with a jarring noise.


    Karabo flinched, her eyes wide. ¡°What¡¯s wrong with you?!¡±


    Sheila ignored her, watching as James put on the helmet. It adjusted to fit snugly and turned a calming blue. Despite the loud music, James appeared unfazed. Satisfied, Sheila turned off the sound.


    ¡°See? Perfect. Now, let¡¯s talk about Joe. He¡¯s been bribing local authorities for years, but we recently found out he has the mayor in his pocket. The mayor¡¯s on his way to prison now, and Joe¡¯s remaining power base is that building. That¡¯s where you come in. Your mission is to take him down, so let¡¯s take a detour to the base before heading to Joe''s Place,¡± Sheila explained, her eyes glinting with determination.


    The class followed Sheila outside, where a military-grade beaming device awaited them. The air crackled with anticipation as they were transported to ARMS Base, nicknamed the War Room. After they arrived, Sheila condensed the beaming pad with the push of a button and began setting up a projector.


    Rosina, her trusted aide, busied herself preparing the room for the briefing. Sheila pointed at Will. ¡°What do you know about Joe¡¯s Place?¡±


    Will responded, ¡°It¡¯s avoided because of the gang that runs it.¡±


    ¡°Correct. It has ten floors and tinted windows, so you can¡¯t see in, but there are around 800 occupants. Our mission is to arrest every single one,¡± Sheila stated, pausing as Derrek walked in, a confident figure with an air of authority.


    ¡°Trying to steal my thunder?¡± Sheila teased, a playful glint in her eyes.


    ¡°Hardly. I¡¯m here to announce the team¡¯s leader,¡± Derrek replied firmly. ¡°Before that, I must say this squad works under both of us, so our doors will always be open. The person who will lead the squad is my nephew, Vergil.¡±


    The room filled with murmurs and whispers, creating a ripple of surprise.


    ¡°An honor... I guess,¡± Vergil said, his voice barely above a whisper.


    John, displeased with this appointment, challenged, ¡°Isn¡¯t this nepotism?¡±


    Derrek responded firmly, explaining the difference between a school setting and ARMS, which required more than just academic leadership. ¡°I understand your concerns, but I stand by my choice. Sheila?¡±


    ¡°Vergil¡¯s the right choice,¡± Sheila affirmed without hesitation.


    ¡°Alright, no more questions?¡± Derrek scanned the room before handing the briefing back to Sheila, who outlined the mission¡¯s logistics. As they headed to the changing room, Sheila stopped Karabo and Yasmin, instructing them to follow her assistant to specialized rooms.


    The class returned in custom-tailored uniforms, ready for action, the atmosphere charged with adrenaline.


    ¡°Alright, Vergil,¡± Sheila prompted, her voice steady. ¡°Time to step up and lay out your plan.¡±


    Vergil nodded, moving to the projector. ¡°First, am I correct in assuming the super magnet will disarm everyone inside?¡±


    ¡°Exactly,¡± Sheila confirmed.


    ¡°Okay, we will use the chaos to our advantage. The best way is to tweak the plan just a little. If we split into four teams, it increases our chances of avoiding injuries. Team A will start at the bottom, led by John, while Team B will start at the top, led by Penelope. Team C will start in the middle, then break into two teams¡ªC1, which I will lead, and C2, which Miri will lead. As for the members for each team¡­¡±


    Vergil proceeded to assign members to each team, carefully considering their skills and abilities.


    Team A: John will lead, with Gift, Moosa, Elizabeth, Mandisa, and Theresa.


    Team B: Penelope will lead, with Ciara, Gugu, Yasmin, Brandon, and Beatrice.


    Team C1: I will lead, with Bella, Luke, James, Karabo, and Nkosi.


    Team C2: Miri will lead, with Pretty, Anni, Nontetha, Siyabonga, and William.


    After Vergil detailed the teams, Sheila clarified the use of tranquilizer-based guns. ¡°You all have to remember to never shoot anyone with more than two bullets. The first bullet will do the job; the second bullet may be overkill, but still no problem. The third one will be lethal force for humans. As agents, lethal force is the last resort. Oh! I almost forgot¡ªthose metal bracelets are connected to the guns to avoid lethal force. The bracelet will vibrate when someone has been shot three times or more. It will turn blue when you are near that person, and that¡¯s when you administer the medicine to keep the person from dying. They will remain unconscious for 30 minutes, unlike the 4 hours if you use one bullet. The medicine is in a box found in the pocket of your uniform, and each box is filled with 10 injection needles.¡±


    Derrek spoke up as they wrapped up. ¡°Your transport vehicles are outside. Sheila and I will be in the Eagle, providing tactical support, but it¡¯s up to you from here.¡±


    They all headed out to the parking lot, where two riot trucks and the specially designed ARMS Eagle truck awaited. The engines roared to life, filling the air with anticipation as the team prepared to confront the dangers that lay ahead. Both riot trucks rolled through the gates of an abandoned apartment complex, parking just outside Joe¡¯s Place. The assignment was set to begin.

 Chapter 7: Raid part 1

    ¡°If you believe in God, here is your proof: the heavy rain will camouflage us perfectly. Those firearms you have been given are the new models; both the semi-automatic rifle and Glock 9 have had their speed increased, which means the bullets now travel at Mach 9 for the handgun, while the rifle bullets are four times as fast¡­¡± Sheila¡¯s voice trailed off momentarily, her focus sharpening. ¡°The reason your trucks broke into this abandoned apartment complex is that there are six guards on top of Joe¡¯s building. You are currently occupying two buildings in this derelict property. The first complex, where the truck is parked, will help with the problem of the six guards. Ciara.¡±


    ¡°Yes?¡± Ciara replied, her eyes steely with determination.


    ¡°You are the best marksman in your class¡ªhell, I would go as far as to say the best in Maritzburg school¡¯s history. Since you are the best, you will have to take out the guards on top of Joe¡¯s place and secure Team B¡¯s route into the building,¡± Sheila instructed, her voice unwavering.


    Penelope swiftly packed the sniper rifle into a suitcase and handed it over to Ciara. She took the suitcase but exchanged the rifle for a second Glock 9.


    ¡°Why?¡± Penelope asked, surprised by this choice.


    ¡°I would like to keep my mobility, and I am the best markswoman in school history,¡± Ciara asserted confidently.


    ¡°But still, it''s better to have it and not need it than need it and not have it,¡± Penelope pointed out, her brow furrowing.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I am ambidextrous, and both 9s hold 30 bullets. If I take six clips, I will be fine because I have you to watch my back,¡± Ciara clarified, a hint of reassurance in her voice.


    ¡°If you¡¯re both done, Team B will be waiting on the top of the building closest to Joe¡¯s place. After Ciara takes out the guards, fly over to Joe¡¯s place and wait for the magnet and other teams to get into position. Team A will be at the bottom, and Team C in the middle of the abandoned building... Elizabeth and Gift, zip up your uniforms, or else they won''t work properly,¡± Sheila explained, her tone firm.


    "No one is touching me." Elizabeth stated defiantly, crossing her arms.


    As Ciara left the truck and headed for the stairs, the rain pounded against the cracked pavement outside, providing a perfect cover for their operation. She quickly made her way up to the 10th floor.


    ¡°Are you in position?¡± Sheila asked, her voice crackling through the earpiece.


    ¡°No, I¡¯m in front of the door that leads to the top of the building, and it¡¯s locked. But don¡¯t worry about it; I will check in when I¡¯m in position,¡± Ciara answered, her focus unwavering. She engulfed her hand in energy, placing her right hand on the door lock, which melted away effortlessly.


    With a steady breath, Ciara slowly opened the door and walked to the edge of the building, rain cascading around her like a shroud. After setting up her sniper rifle, she pressed a button on her earpiece. ¡°I am in position.¡±


    ¡°Okay, we¡¯ve hacked the surveillance system, so you have the green light,¡± Sheila said, her voice calm.


    Laying down on the floor, Ciara took a deep breath, looking through her scope. She spotted her targets and opened fire. The rain drowned out the sound of the rifle firing four shots, and she managed to take out four guards. The last two, realizing their comrades had fallen, scrambled for cover. One guard hid behind a barrel, while the other ducked behind a generator. The guard behind the generator had a clear view of the one behind the barrel, but before he could act, the first guard peeked out. Ciara didn¡¯t hesitate, taking the shot. He fell unconscious instantly. The last guard, seeing his comrade drop, turned to check on him. In a flash, a bullet struck the back of his hand, rendering him unconscious as well. ¡°All the guards have been neutralized.¡±


    "Great work," Sheila praised.


    "We''re in position in the middle of the building," Vergil updated.


    "Just landed on top of Joe¡¯s place but had to leave the rifle on the roof," Ciara interrupted.


    "I''ll get one of the drivers to pick it up," Sheila responded.


    "We are in position, just waiting for the green light," Penelope reported.


    "Okay," Sheila acknowledged.


    "Our current position is on top of Joe," Penelope added.


    "How big is he?" Miri asked, her curiosity piqued.


    "Size doesn¡¯t matter; it''s about the motion of the ocean," Penelope replied with a cheeky grin.The genuine version of this novel can be found on another site. Support the author by reading it there.


    "Okay, Team A?" Sheila asked, her voice steady.


    "We are in position and waiting for the green light," John confirmed.


    Shelia activated the super magnet, disarming all weapons in the building. Communication systems shut down, and the cameras began looping static images. ¡°It¡¯s done.¡±


    Team B broke through the door, swiftly taking out the two guards.


    ¡°Ciara at the back, you¡¯re the healer, and we can¡¯t have you getting injured.¡± Penelope pointed out.


    In contrast, on the 8th floor of the building, Joe sat watching the security footage on repeat, flanked by his elite guards. The dimly lit room was filled with tension, the glow of the screens casting eerie shadows on their faces.


    Mandy opened a bag of chips, her casual demeanor belying the chaos outside. ¡°Joe, sweetie, where¡¯s the dip?¡±


    ¡°Are you seriously thinking about dip at this very moment?¡± Frank snapped, disbelief etched across his face.


    ¡°Why wouldn¡¯t I be?¡± Mandy challenged, oblivious to the gravity of their situation.


    ¡°We are being raided!¡± Mat yelled, his voice rising in urgency.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t Joe already bribe the mayor so that the police couldn¡¯t touch this place?¡± Mandy countered, her tone dismissive.


    ¡°ARMS are the new police. Looks like this will be fun,¡± Blade smirked, his eyes gleaming with excitement.


    ¡°The video footage is on repeat, but I would say there are four teams; there are four of us, so you know the drill¡ªtake out your teams¡­¡± Joe cut Frank off mid-sentence, his expression turning grave. ¡°It seems there¡¯s a barrier surrounding the building, so we can¡¯t use teleportation to escape. The only option now is to attack.¡±


    ¡°Found the dip,¡± Mandy exclaimed, oblivious to the growing tension.


    Joe teleported his elite guard to the second, fourth, and seventh floors while simultaneously teleporting Team A to his apartment.


    Blade turned around, a grin spreading across his face as he spotted John¡¯s panicked expression. ¡°What are his abilities? Fighting style? All these unknowns? Maybe we should retreat for now and regroup, but turning our backs to him is suicide.¡± John was lost in thought, grinding his teeth together.


    Liz absently examined her fingernails. ¡°I wonder what color I should get when I¡¯m getting my nails done. Blue is not my color; maybe lime or light pink. What to do?¡±


    ¡°John is about to get us killed with his hesitation,¡± Mandisa thought, frustration mounting.


    ¡°I should have slept early; my body feels weird,¡± Theresa sighed, the weight of the situation pressing down on her.


    ¡°What to do? Oh! That¡¯s right, Moosa can harden his skin like a diamond, and our opponent looks like he uses swords. He probably has hidden blades too, so Moosa is the perfect opponent to buy us time to figure out a winning strategy.¡± John smiled, rallying his team. ¡°Moosa, it¡¯s all yours. The rest of us will support you!¡±


    ¡°If you won¡¯t make the first move, then I will,¡± Blade shouted as he lunged forward, drawing his sword. He charged toward Team A, cutting through a hail of bullets with a single swing, demolishing John and Moosa¡¯s guns. Before John could react, Blade kicked Moosa in the chest, using the momentum to create space between them.


    ¡°Your fight is with me!¡± Moosa shouted, hoping to rally his team with his battle cry.


    Blade laughed off Moosa¡¯s remark. ¡°Color me impressed. That new uniform is going to make this difficult, but I must say, those are some nice reactions. I guess I will play around a bit.¡±


    John contacted Team C2¡¯s leader, ¡°There¡¯s an obstacle in front of us, Miri. We won¡¯t be able to rendezvous with you anytime soon.¡±


    ¡°I hear that there¡¯s a minor problem in front of us as well,¡± Miri explained.


    Mat burst out laughing. ¡°I¡¯m the minor problem.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I¡¯ll win this and go rendezvous with my team in no time at all,¡± Miri clarified, her confidence shining through.


    ¡°Your bravado won¡¯t save you,¡± Mat pointed out, a smirk on his face.


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Miri asked, confusion flickering in her eyes.


    ¡°About?¡± Mat responded.


    ¡°You said your bravado won¡¯t save you,¡± Miri reiterated.


    ¡°Yes!¡± Mat confirmed.


    ¡°Who¡¯s bravado?¡± Miri asked, bemused.


    ¡°What?¡± Mat replied, baffled.


    ¡°It¡¯s a figure of speech,¡± Anni chimed in, trying to clarify.


    ¡°I know what bravado means, and before you ask, it means boldness. But he is using the word as if one of us is named Bravado,¡± Miri pointed out, her frustration mounting.


    ¡°It¡¯s a threat, right? Whoever you are?¡± Nontetha asked, narrowing her eyes.


    Mat nodded.


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you just say, ¡®Come catch these hands¡¯? Much easier,¡± Miri suggested, rolling her eyes.


    ¡°He was being slick with his reply,¡± Siyabonga added, chuckling.


    ¡°How old are all of you? You¡¯re talking like high school teenagers,¡± Mat remarked.


    ¡°We''re in grade 12, and the term is young adult,¡± Miri clarified.


    ¡°But she looks like she¡¯s 16!¡± Mat exclaimed.


    ¡°I¡¯m turning 17 in three months,¡± Nontetha replied, slightly annoyed.


    ¡°Okay, you¡¯re a bit tall for your age, but at least you¡¯re old enough to have sex,¡± Mat said with a grin.


    ¡°Eh!¡± Pretty exclaimed, eyes wide.


    ¡°What is wrong with you?¡± Miri asked, incredulous.


    ¡°It¡¯s the law,¡± Mat replied, shrugging.


    ¡°You had to take it there,¡± Anni muttered, shaking her head.


    ¡°That¡¯s messed up,¡± Siyabonga added.


    ¡°Mr. No Name is a pedophile,¡± Miri declared, her voice rising.


    ¡°Wait, no! Why are you covering your chest?¡± Mat asked, raising an eyebrow.


    ¡°Don¡¯t touch me!¡± Nontetha screamed, darting behind Miri.


    ¡°You monster,¡± Miri shot back, rolling her eyes.


    ¡°You know what? Forget this¡­ Wait a minute, your name is Miri?¡± Mat asked, suddenly intrigued.


    ¡°Yes,¡± Miri replied cautiously.


    ¡°The princess of Mercury?¡± Mat asked, eyes sparkling with recognition.


    ¡°Yes,¡± Miri confirmed, her brow furrowing in suspicion.


    ¡°Okay, throw me those handcuffs,¡± Mat pointed at Will. ¡°I¡¯m talking to you.¡±


    ¡°Okay,¡± Will replied, confused but compliant, tossing the cuffs.


    Mat grabbed them and quickly handcuffed himself, sitting down on the floor. ¡°You know you¡¯re going to jail, right?¡± Anni asked, a teasing lilt in her voice.


    ¡°I¡¯d rather go to jail than try to fight with her,¡± Mat retorted, a cheeky grin on his face.


    ¡°Shelia, I know you¡¯re listening, and Mat surrendered, so we are headed towards Team A. I want to know about the elite guard!¡± Miri called out.


    ¡°There are three of them left; Blade is the fourth most dangerous, Mat is the third, Frank is second, and the most deadly of them all is Mandy,¡± Sheila explained, her tone grave.


    ¡°Okay, like I said, we will go help Team A,¡± Miri declared.


    ¡°What¡¯s happening with your team, Vergil?¡± Sheila asked.


    Vergil cleared his throat, gathering his thoughts. ¡°Well, we were going door to door checking to see if there is someone in this building when a man appeared¡ªhis name is Frank, and well, he is gone.¡±

 Chapter 8: Raid part 2

    The air was thick with tension as Frank gripped his firearm, his instincts honed from years of combat screaming danger. One moment he had been on the seventh floor of a concrete building, and the next, reality twisted, leaving him in an eerily familiar yet desolate version of the same structure. The walls shimmered faintly, like fractured glass, and his footsteps echoed unnaturally in the vast emptiness.


    ¡°Where the hell am I?¡± he muttered, his scarred hands tightening around his weapon, fingers brushing against the cold metal for reassurance.


    A faint laugh rang out, soft and mocking, reverberating through the hollow space. Frank raised his gun, spinning in place, scanning the room with his one good eye. He crept through the building, each floor revealing only shadows, until he finally descended to the ground level. Stepping outside, he was greeted by a sunny sky, birds flitting overhead, a stark contrast to the dread pooling in his gut. ¡°Where am I?¡±


    With a surge of determination, Frank created a barrier around himself and took to the sky. Hovering over the city, he surveyed the ghostly landscape below. The streets were barren, devoid of life, a haunting reminder of what once was.


    His binoculars revealed a figure darting away in the distance. Stopping his flight, he leapt from building to building, careful to avoid detection. As he gained a clearer view, he retrieved a sniper rifle from his storage space, his heart pounding with adrenaline. Aiming carefully, he squeezed the trigger, the bullet striking the figure in the leg. The man screamed in agony, and Frank''s heart raced as he waited for a savior to respond. When no one came, he pulled the trigger again, silencing the scream forever.


    Flying down, he approached the corpse, searching the pockets for answers. Nothing. As he removed the mask, his breath caught in his throat. The man¡¯s face mirrored his own, identical down to the scars etched into their face and eye.


    ¡°What the fuc¡­¡± Frank whispered, he quickly removed all his clothes and his body is identical to his down to the scars.


    Before he could process the implication, a gunshot rang out. Frank instinctively activated his barrier, the bullet crumpling against its surface. Frank looks up press a button and an detonating the bombs he planted killing the sniper, as smoke filled the air, mingling with the sound of shattering glass as grenades rained down from all directions. Frank''s barrier held strong, but confusion gnawed at him.


    Frank takes out his assault rifer as he is surrounded by a mob with black clothing and he starts firing at them but the bullets are stopped by an invisible barrier something that confusies him greatly and he flys away switching weapons to a machine gun. He unleashed a hail of bullets, enhancing their velocity with his gravity manipulation, but they, too, were stopped short.


    The mob pursued him, flying through the air like phantoms. Frank wove between buildings, using the urban landscape to his advantage, frank starts using the buildings to attack them and crushing all of them with relentless force. But then, they suddenly stop pursing him and a car hurtled toward him, striking his barrier. He crushed it with a wave of his hand, only to be met with a barrage of vehicles¡ªa bus and a truck followed suit.


    As he halted them, he realized they were filled with plastic bombs and grenades. They detonated, painting the sky with fire and debris, yet Frank remained unscathed. With a surge of determination, he manipulated the air, spinning it into a vortex that cut through the mob like a scythe leaving behind a blob of red.


    A moment of rest but as Frank looked up, his breath hitching as the sky darkened with an impossible sight¡ªthousands of buildings hurtling toward him, each one laden with enough explosives to level entire blocks. The air itself seemed to hum with the sheer destructive energy contained within the descending structures.


    His heart pounded, but his instincts kicked in. He clenched his fists, and focused all his energy towards his gravity barrier. It shimmered around him, a translucent sphere of immense force.


    ¡°I¡¯m not going down here,¡± Frank growled, gritting his teeth as the first hundred of building struck.


    The explosion was massive, a thunderous eruption that sent shockwaves rippling across the city. His barrier absorbed the brunt of it, but the force began to overwhelm its structure. The shimmering field wavered, cracks forming as the next wave of detonations struck in rapid succession.


    Frank growled in defiance, his mind racing. Using his powers, he manipulated the air currents and the explosion¡¯s energy itself, redirecting the force away from his position. Flames and debris twisted unnaturally, arcing around his barrier like a controlled inferno.


    More explosions followed. Each one tested the limits of his barrier, but Frank refused to let it fail. He pushed his gravity manipulation to its peak, compressing and redirecting the blasts. The redirected energy carved massive craters into the ground below, ripping through buildings and streets in a terrifying display of destruction.


    The entire city was collapsing. Towers toppled like dominos, and roads buckled and split open, spewing molten debris. Fire consumed everything in its path, and the skyline became an unrecognizable wasteland.


    Amid the chaos, Frank soared through the air, surrounded by his shimmering barrier. But even with his redirection, the force of the detonations was too great to avoid completely. A final, cataclysmic explosion struck, larger and more violent than the rest.


    The shockwave hit like a freight train, and Frank¡¯s barrier flickered violently, its structure breaking apart as he was hurled through the air. He crashed to the ground, skidding across the rubble as his barrier finally gave out.


    Smoke and fire filled the sky as Frank pushed himself to his knees, blood dripping from his wounds. His breathing was heavy, his body battered but still functional. He had survived the explosion, but the destruction of the city was absolute.


    Frank pushed himself to his knees, blood dripped from his wounds. He had survived, but the city lay in ruins around him. As his vision cleared to reveal an ominous sight¡ªtens of thousands of black-clad figures emerging from the haze, As he stood, his vision cleared to reveal the ominous silhouettes of a mob in black emerging from the haze they numbers were in the tens of thousands, "No rest for the wicked but I should tell you that I haven''t used my secret move to save my energy but I have no choice." Frank yelled as he stood up and he lifts up his hands and in seconds starts crusing every single one of they vital organs killing them all and he drops to his knees his body covered his burns and he is breathing heavy, "That''s it no more power left... I Have to figure out a way out here."


    Frank staggered to his feet, his body trembling with exhaustion. The air was thick with smoke and the stench of burning rubble. He clenched his fists, summoning the last reserves of his strength for once again he was surrounded by a mob in black but they numbers had tripled, so he scanned the crowd.


    Then he noticed it¡ªtheir movements had become synchronized, precise. A cold chill ran down his spine as one figure stepped forward, removing their mask.Love this novel? Read it on Royal Road to ensure the author gets credit.


    Frank¡¯s heart sank. The face staring back at him was his own, down to the scar over his left eye.


    One by one, the others followed suit, unveiling identical faces. Tens, hundreds, thousands of Frank¡¯s own likenesses stared back at him, their eyes cold and unfeeling.


    ¡°Thank you.¡± one of them said, their voice a distorted echo of his own.


    Before Frank could react to this new reality, he felt a sharp pain as a bullet hit his back. He fell to the ground, the world fading into darkness.


    Vergil cleared his throat, gathering his thoughts. "Well, we were going door to door checking to see if there was someone in this building when a man appeared¡ª"


    Suddenly, Karabo materialized infront of Vergil, with an unconscious Frank at her feet, "I got him!" she announced, her voice laced with triumph.


    Vergil blinked in surprise, "Karabo was the first to react. She disappeared with him and reappeared moments later with him subdued."


    Sheila nodded approvingly, "Okay, continue heading upstairs."


    Karabo glanced down at the incapacitated Frank, a satisfied smile on her face. The team quickly regrouped and proceeded up the stairs, their mission pressing forward despite the unexpected encounter.


    On the second floor of the dimly lit, abandoned building, Team A found themselves locked in a fierce battle with Blade, a formidable opponent whose katana gleamed ominously under the flickering red lights overhead.


    ¡°I wonder what will fail first, my katana or your skin?¡± Blade taunted, his voice dripping with arrogance.


    ¡°Your fight is with all of us,¡± Gift replied, determination etched on his face.


    ¡°None of you interest me, so you can leave right now, and I won¡¯t kill you. You have my word,¡± Blade sneered, his confidence palpable.


    With a burst of energy, Gift charged forward, closing the distance between them. He aimed a straight right at Blade, but the skilled fighter dodged effortlessly, using his katana to slice at Gift¡¯s stomach. The blade met the reinforced fabric of Gift''s uniform, stopping his blade. Swiftly, Blade leveraged the katana¡¯s edge to lift Gift and throw him against the cold, hard wall and Blade rushed in to finish him off and John chased after him.


    In a fluid motion, Blade spun, aiming to slice John in half, but instead, his elbow connected with Gift''s nose, fracturing it with a sickening crunch. John seized the moment, launching an electrical beam at Blade, but the agile fighter rolled out of the way, leaving Gift to bear the brunt of the attack.


    Moosa attempted to capitalize on the chaos, charging at Blade with a knee strike, but was met with a powerful kick to the gut, sending him crashing into John. Blade, now aware of the slick ground beneath him, leaped instinctively, only to find himself engulfed in a swirling ball of water.


    With a swift swing of his katana, he unleashed a shockwave that obliterated the water around him. ¡°It seems one of you may offer some sort of a challenge,¡± he remarked, a smirk playing on his lips.


    Mandisa gathered the moisture in the air, encasing Blade in an icy iron maiden. Just as the doors were about to close, Blade unleashed his fury, slicing through the icy prison as if it were mere paper.


    Liz walked up to Mandisa, "Why are you having problems against noname NPCs?"


    Mandisa looked at Liz, "He is hiding something that is why he is relaying on his physical capabilities and sword skills, so I want to force him to use everything he has and then finish him off... pause."


    "Yeah I will be taking over because that is just too much time to waste on an NPC; I mean he hasn''t even moved NPC behaviour." Liz pointed out as she walked towards Blade.


    Blade laughed, shaking his head dismissively. ¡°I am a trained killer. No matter who steps up they will..."


    Liz cut Blade off mid-sentence with an exaggerated, mocking tone. ¡°Whe-whe-weh! Nobody cares. Seriously, we didn¡¯t even ask for your name. Do you know why? Because nobody cares. Just hurry this up already.¡±


    Blade narrowed his eyes, momentarily stunned by her dismissive attitude. ¡°You know bullets from your fancy weapons don¡¯t work on me, right?¡±


    Liz gasped dramatically, clutching her chest in mock fear. ¡°Oh no! You broke the sound barrier! Please, don¡¯t hurt me.¡± Her sarcastic tone dripped with disdain.


    Blade inhaled deeply, closing his eyes to focus. He wasn¡¯t going to let her get under his skin. Instead, he decided to end this swiftly. Activating his ultimate move¡ªGodspeed¡ªhe surged forward, moving faster than lightning itself.


    But something was wrong.


    As he stepped forward, his left leg snapped backward instead, nearly throwing him off balance. He froze, confused, and tried to compensate with his right leg, only for it to jerk sideways like a puppet with its strings cut. His arms followed suit, flailing in directions opposite to his intent, twisting grotesquely in ways they shouldn¡¯t.


    Liz watched Blade struggle, his body flailing in chaotic movements he couldn¡¯t control. She didn¡¯t attack, though he was utterly vulnerable.


    Liz gaze shifted to the reflection of a nearby window. Completely unconcerned about the fight, she reached up to adjust her hair and smooth out a wrinkle in her outfit. The light from the window caught her face as she tilted her head, inspecting her reflection with the precision of someone preparing for a photoshoot, not a battle.


    Blade he opponent was still struggling, ¡°What the hell is this?¡± he thought, panic clawing at the edges of his mind. His movements became increasingly erratic, his body betraying him as if it had a will of its own. Every step forward sent him spiraling backward, every attempt to steady himself only made him stumble more violently.


    His thoughts raced. ¡°She must¡¯ve used her power on me¡­ but how? When?¡±


    Desperation bubbled to the surface as he by forcing his mouth shut but nothing happed and blade grinned believing that he found a loop hole and now hoped to bait Liz into revealing her secret. But even his voice betrayed him.


    ¡°Derewoprevo si ytiliba rouy yas tsum I¡­¡±


    The words were garbled and reversed, spilling out in a way that made no sense even to him. The sound of his own twisted voice only deepened the panic surging through him.


    But Blade face contorted into a wide, unnatural grin, stretching so far it made his muscles ache. The forced smile was utterly horrifying, a grotesque mockery of his fear and confusion.


    "Like I said No name NPC." Liz said as she allowed Blade to look at her and she is point her gun at him; when they lock eyes tears welled up in his eyes, started streaming down his face as his body betrayed him further. The act of smiling hurt more than anything else¡ªa cruel mockery of his fear and humiliation.


    Liz let out a mocking laugh, each "ha" sharper and more piercing than the last. Her voice echoed with a cruel sense of finality as she stepped closer to Blade, who now knelt trembling, his smile twisted into a grotesque reflection of his despair.


    ¡°All those days, months, years¡ªhell, decades¡ªspent training,¡± she said, her tone dripping with derision. ¡°All that effort, all that discipline. And yet, here you are, as powerless as the day you began.  Everything you built, everything you believed, forged by the axiomatic mindset that training would make you invincible. But in a single moment, reality itself has been inverted."


    She tilted her head, her smirk widening. ¡°Because without Law, there is only Chaos.¡±


    The sound of the hiss of the tranquilizer leaving the barrel of Liz¡¯s gun offered Blade an end to this humiliation. His body shuddered once, then collapsed to the ground, his limbs slack as unconsciousness overtook him.


    ¡°You¡¯ve improved your power, Liz.¡± Theresa noted.


    ¡°Yeah, I can manifest in waves now improving the speed and make it affect several parts to the thing, like Blade''s brain.¡± Liz explained.


    ¡°Is everyone okay?¡± Mandisa asked.


    ¡°Yeah.¡± Moosa replied, brushing himself off as he got to his feet.


    Gift, still rolling on the floor, interjected, ¡°I think my nose is broken.¡±


    John leaned against the wall, shaking his head. ¡°How hard is your head? You damn near gave me a concussion.¡±


    ¡°You both deserved it. We had to work as a team because of Isa and Liz. None of our parents will have to write a eulo--" Theresa began, but the sudden arrival of Pretty interrupted her.


    ¡°Here¡¯s Pretty!¡± yelled Pretty as she rushed down the stairs.


    ¡°Hi,¡± Liz replied, grinning.


    ¡°It¡¯s over, damn,¡± Pretty remarked, catching her breath.


    Miri, sprinting closely behind Pretty, chimed in, ¡°Here¡¯s Miri.¡±


    ¡°She already did that one,¡± Theresa countered.


    ¡°You stole my thunder,¡± Miri shot back playfully.


    ¡°Where is the rest of your team?¡± John asked, shifting his focus.


    ¡°They''re right behind me. Just give them a couple of minutes,¡± Miri explained, her eyes darting toward the staircase.


    ¡°Should we call it in?¡± Mandisa asked, glancing at John.


    ¡°Oh, yes, Sheila,¡± John confirmed, pulling out his communicator.


    ¡°What?¡± Sheila''s voice crackled through the device.


    ¡°We rendezvoused with Miri¡¯s team, but we were confronted by one person,¡± John reported.


    ¡°Okay, check the remaining rooms and see if you haven¡¯t missed anything,¡± Sheila instructed.


    ¡°Doesn¡¯t make sense why just six guards and then the elite force.¡± Sheila muttered to herself, deep in thought.


    ¡°What are you mumbling to yourself about?¡± Rosina asked, appearing beside her.


    ¡°Nothing.¡± Sheila replied, a hint of worry lingering in her tone.

 Chapter 9: Raid part 3- Unspoken Chains

    Joe turned around and walked towards the fireplace, a sly grin on his face, ¡°I will leave them to you, but you know who I want you to send.¡±


    ¡°I know.¡± Mandy replied.


    With a swift motion, Joe pushed a hidden button, and the fireplace slid aside, revealing a sleek, metallic elevator. The atmosphere thickened with tension.


    ¡°Wait!¡± Penelope shouted, her voice cutting through the silence, ¡°You are under arrest.¡±


    Joe turned back, feigning surprise, ¡°Oh! Then why am I leaving?¡± He stepped into the elevator with a casual air.


    As the team drew their guns, Joe simply pointed up at the gas pipe on the ceiling, suggesting a potential threat. However, Beatrice narrowed her eyes and murmured, ¡°Ascension,¡± assessing the situation. She realized it was a bluff.


    ¡°It¡¯s a bluff.¡± Beatrice declared, ¡°There is no gas leak. This building was modernized in the 50s and upgraded 20 years ago; all the gas lines were replaced with modern power sources. We saw those solar panels and generators on the roof.¡±


    In a flash, the team redirected their weapons toward Mandy and opened fire. Yet, the bullets halted mid-air, suspended just before her, then fell harmlessly to the floor. Seizing the moment, Beatrice clapped her hands.


    Mandy stretched her arms, a confident smile playing on her lips as she dropped a bag of chips onto the floor, ¡°Time to go to work.¡± With incredible speed it seems like she had teleported behind Brandon, placing him in a tight rear neck choke, rendering him unconscious. She then hurled his limp body at Yasmin, knocking her out of the room.


    Penelope, Beatrice, and Gugu quickly assumed fighting stances, launching a coordinated attack from all directions. However, Mandy danced around them effortlessly, jumping over Beatrice as Gugu¡¯s punch accidentally landed on Penelope¡¯s gut, sending her crashing through the wall.


    ¡°You all fight like kids.¡± Mandy taunted, a smirk on her face, ¡°Everything is straightforward and easy to read.¡±


    With a swift gesture, Mandy invoked a powerful 4th tier barrier seal¡ªthe House of Three Lions¡ªencasing the apartment. ¡°To stop anyone who tries to interrupt my lesson.¡± In an alarming display, she dislocated her left shoulder, then broke her elbow, and finally shattered her wrist. After this self-mutilation, she released her arm, which began to heal instantly, ¡°The price of an incantation-less seal is harsh but worth it. Now, where were we? Oh! Yes, I have to teach you all a lesson.¡±


    Penelope sighed, brushing debris from her body, ¡°What should I do? My fighting style could work, but¡­ Beatrice has that ability.¡±


    Gugu faced Mandy, determination in her stance. She stepped forward but was met with a swift front kick to her stomach, followed by a crane kick that sent her crashing to her knees. Beatrice attempted to assist but was kicked squarely in the face for her trouble and she is sent flying through the wall and the barrier stops her from flying through the building.


    Gugu, recovering quickly, unleashed a shockwave intended to blow Mandy away. Yet, Mandy countered, reversing the airflow and pressure with a mere flick of her wrist, creating a gentle breeze, ¡°Not good enough.¡±


    Taking a moment to steady herself, Gugu re-assumed her fighting stance.


    ¡°You know fighting me head-on won¡¯t end well for you, right?¡± Mandy taunted.


    ¡°We shall see.¡± Gugu replied, gradually closing the distance between them. She threw a right jab, followed by a left uppercut. Mandy easily dodged, her head moving with fluid grace. Just as Gugu prepared a jumping knee, Mandy had already repositioned herself behind Gugu, their backs almost touching.


    ¡°I told you so.¡± Mandy spun around, delivering a powerful kick to Gugu¡¯s stomach. Yet, Gugu utilized her energy exoskeleton to absorb the blow, softening the impact, "Those ARMS uniforms are quite the masterpiece but against me I can put more power then they can stop; so using your exoskeleton shows you have experience and you can adjust but against me you may as well be naked."


    Mandy¡¯s expression turned to one of mild irritation. Just then, she noticed beads of sweat forming on her brow, the right leg of her sweatpants singed, and a reddened mark on her shin. The sudden heat on her cheek and neck signaled danger.


    Gugu, undeterred, launched another series of attacks, but her high kick missed its target. She followed up with a left cross which Mandy parried effortlessly, then countered with an uppercut and a roundhouse kick, sending Gugu crashing into the wall.


    As Mandy glanced down, her hands were turning red and swelling, a sign of her own exertion. Gugu, regaining her footing, charged at Mandy again, this time faking a straight right before landing an uppercut that nearly dropped her. Gugu pressed her advantage with a series of body shots, ending with a right cross and a straight left that split Mandy¡¯s lip, snapping her head back.


    Mandy retaliated by kicking Gugu''s right shin, momentarily unbalancing her. Seizing the moment, she shot a blast of pressurized air at Gugu, creating the needed distance. As Mandy assessed the situation, she realized the severity of her own injuries¡ªsecond-degree burns creeping dangerously close to third-degree, her clothes barely holding together.


    Before Mandy could adjust Gugu reappeared in front of Mandy and Gugu exoskeleton had a deep ember hue and as the hot air burned Mandy''s throat Gugu started landing with a flurry of attacks right, left, uppercut, elbow into a flying knee; in mere seconds Mandy looked like a burnt victim and as she prepared to counter she smiled before Gugu vanished, leaving behind a splash of blue liquid that Mandy punched, causing her to collapse.Taken from Royal Road, this narrative should be reported if found on Amazon.


    In the bedroom, Gugu quickly turned, firing through the hole in the wall at Mandy, who lay seemingly unconscious. She shot three times at the back of Mandy¡¯s neck before Penelope rushed in, stopping her.


    ***


    Minutes earlier, Ciara was teleported by Beatrice to the elevator. As she exited, she followed Joe down the corridor to a room on the 5th floor. She opened the door to find Joe using a hammer to break his right hand.


    ¡°Put the weapon down!¡± Ciara shouted, her guns drawn and ready.


    Joe looked up, then tossed the hammer to the floor, ¡°This is payment for my teleport seal. Let¡¯s talk, Ciara.¡±


    ¡°How do you know my name?¡± she asked, confusion flickering across her face.


    Joe unbuttoned his shirt, revealing a talisman on his chest, ¡°Joe is asleep right now.¡± he explained. He pulled out a small remote and pressed a button, causing the lights and all electrical systems to shut off. Candles flickered to life, casting eerie shadows around the room.


    Ciara holstered her guns, ¡°Who are you, and what do you want?¡±


    Joe cleared his throat, his voice steady, ¡°I am from the syndicate, and I want to express my deepest apologies. The way you were treated was beyond demeaning.¡±


    ¡°You mean being tortured on a daily basis?¡± Ciara responded, her tone dripping with sarcasm.


    ¡°Yes, that deplorable behavior isn''t condone by management, and I would like for you to join us. This time, I will be upfront about our purpose. Humans, unlike the Subterranean or Atlanteans, got the short end of the stick when it comes to evolution. What we deem as superhuman is as natural as breathing for them, and we want to close that gap. With your power, we can achieve that and more.¡± Joe explained.


    ¡°So, you want humans to be apex predators?¡± Ciara asked.


    ¡°Well, that¡¯s just the beginning. We want humans to rise to the top of the whole cosmos. I know it sounds insane, but think about Miri, one of your classmates.¡±


    ¡°What about her?¡± Ciara interrupted.


    ¡°She could wipe out our world, and we wouldn¡¯t be able to stop her. Or Bella¡ªshe can turn into any human on Earth and cause wars between countries¡­¡± Joe continued.


    Ciara cut him off, ¡°They wouldn¡¯t do that!¡±


    ¡°But they could. What if they attempted these actions you deem impossible? Who would stop them?¡± Joe pressed.


    ¡°Or an asteroid the size of country could collide with Earth tomorrow.¡± Ciara shot back.


    ¡°Jokes aside, the truth is combustion is the reason for our existence, and that¡¯s true for many other worlds and civilizations across the cosmos. That fear is what maintains peace amongst worlds. What do you think would happen if combustion became a thing of the past? Would Mercury continue its peaceful relationship with Earth when they could easily take over?¡± Joe asked.


    ¡°You won¡¯t turn me with fear.¡± Ciara replied, though her tone wavered slightly.


    ¡°I know, but what if I told you every planet is actively seeking a way to end combustion? They may claim it¡¯s for peace and security, but if someone finds the remedy¡ªa way to stop combustion¡ªpeace for our planet will be a distant memory.¡± Joe explained.


    Ciara, regaining her resolve, replied, ¡°Making every human on Earth super beings won¡¯t change anything. Even that couldn¡¯t stop the armies of Mercury or Mars, meaning all that effort would be in vain.¡±


    ¡°That is likely, but I wouldn¡¯t be here if I couldn¡¯t guarantee humanity''s survival. The Subterranean possess knowledge that could tip the scale of power in our favor, and that¡¯s where you come in. With your ability you can annihilate them, allowing us to possess their knowledge.¡± Joe revealed.


    ¡°Genocide?¡± Ciara asked, her voice a mix of disbelief and horror.


    ¡°I understand your hesitation, but you would be saving billions. The Subterranean hold knowledge of thousands of civilizations. We would live without the fear of invasion from neighboring planets,¡± Joe insisted, glancing at his watch. ¡°It seems I have run out of time. So, what¡¯s your answer?¡±


    ¡°Human governments are fully aware of combustion, yet they¡¯ve chosen not to make this information readily available to the public.¡± Ciara said, her tone firm, ¡°As you mentioned, it¡¯s a threat even to highly evolved civilizations, and yet humans, armed with that knowledge, continue waging wars among themselves. It¡¯s as if the species is racing headlong toward its own destruction. Turning every human into a super-being? That would only accelerate their inevitable extinction by centuries. I refuse to be the one to hasten humanity¡¯s downfall.¡±


    Joe sighed, a hint of disappointment crossing his face, ¡°The offer still stands. Together, we can create a new hierarchy. Devour!¡± he yelled as the talisman on his chest glowed ominously, instantly devouring his upper body and parts of the beaming pad hidden in the corner of the room.


    ***


    Sheila had left her truck moments before Joe activated the EMP, scouting the area. She approached the abandoned building where the trucks were parked. As she reached the end of the property, Derrek contacted her.


    ¡°Found anything?¡± he asked.


    ¡°Nothing yet. Expanding the search.¡± Sheila replied, exiting the building. As she reached the end of the street, she encountered a veil, ¡°They¡¯re here.¡±


    ¡°The power just came back on. I¡¯ll check with Ciara. Rosina, are the earpieces working?¡± Derrek inquired.


    ¡°Yes.¡± Rosina confirmed.


    ¡°Ciara, where is Joe?¡± Derrek asked.


    ¡°He¡¯s dead. He killed himself.¡± Ciara replied.


    ¡°Oh! You heard that, Sheila?¡± Derrek asked.


    ¡°Yes, I guess now we know what we¡¯re dealing with.¡± Sheila said.


    After the remaining members of Joe¡¯s elite guard were arrested, Sheila and Derrek met with the deputy director and a Shield agent. Derrek recounted the raid¡¯s events. ¡°So, that¡¯s all that happened. The new squad did exceptionally well, except for the hiccup with Gugu.¡±


    Klaus examined Mandy¡¯s medical report, ¡°That is concerning. I¡¯ve been informed that Mandy is a Subterranean and has diplomatic immunity, but I¡¯ve been assured she won¡¯t be pressing any charges. What about Ciara and this secret organization?¡±


    ¡°I designed the uniforms they wore to ensure no one was in danger, but I didn¡¯t anticipate a Subterranean. As for Ciara, she responded as I expected. She turned down the offer, but that doesn¡¯t mean she¡¯s with us. Ciara has endured hardships that have made her distrust ARMS and SHIELD by extension. Her only loyalty lays with Penelope and the Atlanteans. Regarding the organization, it¡¯s more dangerous than we thought. There was not only a veil around the city blocks but also a beaming pad where the meeting between Ciara and Joe occurred. Joe damaged it beyond repair, so I can¡¯t track where Ciara was teleported, meaning they anticipated my presence.¡± Sheila explained.


    Eve cleared her throat, ¡°One question: Vergil comes to school, meets Ciara, and happens to choose the team that met with the person who wanted to recruit her. Smells fishy to me.¡±


    ¡°My nephew isn¡¯t part of the organization.¡± Derrek replied, irritation creeping into his voice.


    Klaus intervened before tensions escalated. ¡°Let¡¯s not start blaming each other. We didn¡¯t expect the organization to have this much power. Next time, we must be prepared because they won¡¯t take no for an answer.¡±


    ¡°Since everything has been covered, I¡¯ll end this meeting.¡± Sheila announced, her anger palpable.

 Chapter 10: Gugu

    It''s Thursday, just 48 hours since the raid, and I still can¡¯t shake the fear. My hands tremble at the mere thought of her¡ªher beauty, her vibrant red hair. Wait, no. She nearly killed me, no matter how she beautiful she looked... man I have never thought about messing with a women but god damn, ¡®Gugu.¡¯ What¡¯s that sound? Oh right, I got lost in thought again, now facing the consequences of her actions. Here I am, sitting with Ms. Lane for the second day in a row.


    ¡°Where are you drifting to?¡± Mrs. Lane asks, her voice pulling me back.


    I push my lower lip out, feeling my shoulders inch toward a shrug. What can I say? I¡¯ve messed up just as things began to look up. Pretty will head back to that man; the hope I felt lasted less than half a day, ¡°I don¡¯t know what you want me to say.¡±


    Mrs. Lane sets her pen and notebook aside, ¡°Alright, no more notes. You don¡¯t have to say anything. We can talk about the weather if you like.¡±


    That catches me off guard, ¡°You¡¯re joking, right?¡±


    ¡°Nope. There¡¯s a cold front coming, apparently.¡± she explains.


    ¡°So?¡±


    ¡°Just making conversation.¡± She pauses, ¡°Mind if I ask you something?¡±


    ¡°Sure, I guess.¡±


    ¡°If I cleared you and gave you the letter to prove it, what would you do?¡± Mrs Lane asked.


    Should I punch this woman? No, relax. It¡¯s a test or some reverse psychology trick, ¡°I¡¯d leave and go straight to the base to get my badge.¡±


    ¡°Why?¡± Mrs. Lane asks, leaning forward.


    I knew she¡¯d ask that, ¡°Because I want to be an ARMS agent.¡±


    ¡°And what about Mandy?¡± She adjusts her seating position, her gaze unwavering.


    ¡°What about her?¡±


    ¡°You nearly killed her. No reprimand or charges of assault.¡± Mrs. Lane points out..


    None of you have any idea how dangerous she is, ¡°Why is that a terrible thing?¡±


    ¡°Because if Mandy were human, you¡¯d be in jail. One moment, and all your hopes and dreams would be gone.¡± she replies.


    ¡°But I¡¯m going to save lives, and she¡¯s not dead, so no harm, no foul.¡± I explain, but she looks at me, assessing my words. Then she pulls a letter from her notebook and slides it across the table.


    ¡°Here. This clears you. With this letter, you can become an agent on a temporary basis, and by the end of the year, you¡¯ll be certified.¡± Mrs Lane explained.


    I pick it up, skimming the words, the reality sinking in. I could leave, but the words she spoke still echo in my mind: ¡°SAY HER NAME!¡± I can¡¯t move.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± she asks.


    I sit there, frozen, unable to respond.


    ¡°You have what you wanted. Why are you still here?¡± Mrs. Lane presses.


    Summoning all my strength, I manage to whisper, ¡°This letter was written yesterday¡­ Why?¡±


    ¡°Because that¡¯s what you wanted,¡± she replies simply.


    ¡°Well, yeah.¡± Murmuring is all I can muster.


    ¡°Then why are you still here?¡± she asks again.


    Tears burn in my eyes. ¡°So that you can tell me I¡¯m not a monster.¡± I set the letter back down on the table.


    ¡°Don¡¯t get hung up on terms like ¡®monster¡¯ or ¡®evil.¡¯ These concepts are subjective, which is why actions are judged by intentions. What made you pull the trigger?¡± she asks.


    I was trapped in a timeless dimension, ¡°I felt like a mouse that a cat had by it''s tail.¡± She told me I did well against her human. ¡°She was toying with me, and I accepted it was a question of how I¡¯d die, not if. But then I thought of my best friends, my boyfriend¡ªall trapped in that same building.¡± She placed her hand on Penelope¡¯s chest, ¡°I wasn¡¯t going to let her take them too. I don¡¯t remember every detail, but I do remember feeling her fall and just¡­ shooting her.¡± And asked how much pressure it would take to crush her heart. ¡°I know my actions were brutal, but the image of their dead bodies in my mind kept me going.¡±This story originates from Royal Road. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.


    She told I know you that you thought about this ever since the crucifixion. ¡°Do I regret it? No. Do I wish there was another way? Absolutely.¡± How do I reply to someone who can read my mind? And how many powers does she have? ¡°The raid was nothing like training. It was real, and it showed me that out there, in the real world¡­¡± You met overpowered people who can kill you with the flick of the wrist, ¡°Things aren¡¯t controlled. I don¡¯t know if I¡¯m cut out to be an agent.¡±


    ¡°But you signed the contract.¡± Mrs. Lane pointed out.


    ¡°Yeah, that was before the raid.¡± Before meeting that overpowered smoke demon.


    ¡°It¡¯s good that you can be honest about ARMS. If you feel this way, why do you still want to be an agent?¡± she asks.


    ¡°I have to.¡± Hopefully, I don¡¯t run into her or anything even close to her level of power because if I do fuck this shit I quit, ¡°I need to save someone I love.¡±


    "And what about your mental health?" Mrs. Lane asked.


    Acceptance of the fact that running is not cowardness, "I¡¯m shaken by what happened, but there are other roles in ARMS¡ªimportant ones where I wouldn¡¯t have to fight."


    "That¡¯s it?" she pressed.


    "Yeah." My answer felt small and inadequate, but that what happens when you fight above your weight class.


    "Gugu, being an agent shouldn¡¯t be for anyone else. It should be because you want it." Mrs. Lane said softly.


    "It¡¯s not that simple."


    "Why not?" Mrs Lane asked.


    I hesitated. "I can¡¯t tell you her name, but¡­ her father abuses her. Physically. Every time I tend to her wounds, it brings up things I don¡¯t want to think about." The command echoed in my mind: ¡®SAY HER NAME!¡¯


    "Why?" Mrs. Lane asked gently.


    "Because I don¡¯t want to remember." Her voice thundered in my head: ¡®I SAID SAY HER NAME OR ELSE EVERYONE DIES!¡¯


    "And when these memories come up, what do you think of?" she continued.


    "Someone I hurt." The weight of shame settled heavily on my chest.


    "Who?" Mrs Lane asked.


    "My first best friend." Irma.


    "Tell me about her." Mrs. Lane encouraged.


    I took a deep breath, recalling that first encounter. "I come from a military family. Every year, there¡¯s a big gathering, and when I was five is when her. She was incredible. I was a shy kid, always keeping to myself. That year wasn¡¯t any different. I barely said hello to anyone before heading outside.


    ¡°Yo, what are you doing?¡± a female voice asked.


    I looked up at a girl in overalls with a ponytail, brown eyes, and coffee-colored skin. She wore braces, ¡°Just sitting.¡±


    She grinned and pointed at the sky. ¡°Look up.¡±


    ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°Trust me. Come lay down and look up.¡± Her tone was playful, not demanding. Reluctantly, I moved to lay beside her. ¡°Not sure what I¡¯m looking at.¡±


    ¡°Wait for it,¡± she said, lying next to me.


    ¡°Wait for wha¡ª Oh, wow.¡± Wonder filled my voice.


    ¡°Right? It¡¯s like you can reach out and touch the sky,¡± she said. Then she turned to me, ¡°What¡¯s your name?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m Gugu. What¡¯s yours?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m Irma.¡± After a moment, she asked, ¡°Do you have a best friend?¡±


    ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m your best friend now.¡± Irma stretched out on her back.


    "Just like that?"


    "Yep." she said with a grin.


    From that day forward, Irma and I spent every moment possible together¡ªexploring, laughing, sharing our hopes, dreams, and fears. She was sunshine in my life, always bringing warmth and joy, even in my darkest moments. Years later, we found ourselves in central Africa for training, continuing our adventure together¡ªwandering bustling streets, taking boat rides down the river. Every moment felt special with Irma by my side.


    One highlight was a floating restaurant built above the river. We¡¯d just arrived at one of the city¡¯s tourist hotspots when something unexpected happened.


    "This place is beautiful." I remarked.


    "Yeah." Irma agreed, but her attention was already on the menu.


    "Are they going to follow us the whole time?" I nodded toward the guards assigned to us.


    "Just pretend they aren¡¯t here. That¡¯s what I do." she said without looking up.


    "It¡¯s suffocating."


    "They¡¯re just doing their job. We¡¯re in a new city, and we haven¡¯t even started our training yet. It¡¯s for our safety." Irma explained.


    "Okay, oh my God!"


    "What?" she asked, curious.


    "Your celebrity crush just walked in."


    "Are you serious?" Her eyes lit up.


    "Yes."


    "Where is he, my future baby daddy?" she asked.


    "Over there." I pointed, noticing a guy heading out of the restaurant.


    Irma wasted no time. She stood up and rushed over to him, tapping him on the back. When he turned around, she froze.


    "Nothing." she muttered, walking back to the table, where I was barely holding back laughter.


    "That wasn¡¯t funny." she said, sitting down.


    "You should¡¯ve seen the look on your face! Your eyes were sparkling like a princess!"


    "That man looks nothing like Q." she said, still annoyed.


    "I think they¡¯re identical. And look at his girlfriend."


    "Look at that man¡ªhe¡¯s ugly, and he ain¡¯t nobody¡¯s boyfriend." she said, visibly annoyed.


    "Okay, but Q¡¯s married."


    "There¡¯s something called divorce. I don¡¯t know if you¡¯ve heard of it. And enough about my future husband¡ªhow do you feel about starting training tomorrow?" Irma asked, changing the subject.


    I sighed, gazing out at the river. "I get it, the whole ¡®carrying on the family tradition¡¯ thing. But I¡¯d be lying if I said I didn¡¯t miss home."


    Irma said softly, "But we¡¯ve got each other."


    "Yeah, I¡¯m glad you¡¯re here. Today has definitely put me at ease."


    "I¡¯m glad I could help." Irma smiled, raising her water glass, "Toast to the next 20 years?"


    "To the next 20 years," I said, lifting my glass to meet hers.

 Chapter 11: CRA

    I was twelve when we started training. It was tough being away from home, but Irma¡¯s parents sent homemade South African food for the first couple of years, which brought a comforting taste of home. But the comfort of home was fleeting. Training was brutal.


    Well I struggled with everything¡ªacademics, tracking, weapons training, elemental skills, diplomacy was the worst of it like thick of a sewer and tge residual bulit up for years like the nastiest, filthiest and discolored part that looks like a mutated blob you have ever seen, even my classmates stated to think I was racist I had to improve on that first but It wasn¡¯t just the physical strain; the mental load was overwhelming. Hours of theory work and right after practicing combat drills left me collapsing into bed every night , my body aching and my mind spinning.


    I was dead last in everything, a fact that my instructors never hesitated to point out. Failure after failure weighed heavily on me, each mistake a sharp reminder of how far I had to go. But then there was Irma.


    Irma was a natural. Always at the top in everything, she seemed to glide through training effortlessly. I used to marvel at how she could disarm a dummy in seconds during combat drills or navigate complex maps with ease but even in a diplomatic classes it was effortless for her to switch between the two. She was the prodigy everyone admired, even when we were kids.


    But what set her apart wasn¡¯t just her talent; it was her kindness. Despite her own packed schedule, Irma always took the time to help me out. Whether it was explaining a difficult technique or staying late to practice sparring, she was there, guiding me through my stumbles.


    There were nights when I felt like giving up, when the weight of being the worst in the class felt unbearable. Irma would sit with me, her voice steady and reassuring, "Gugu you improve or else will share your Bruce and Clark else worlds loveliest couple to the rest of the class."


    With that motivation by the end of the year I had risen in rank from 1246 to 104. It was a leap I could hardly believe. When the rankings were released, I screamed in a high-pitched tone that probably sounded like a dog whistle and grabbed Irma in a tight hug.


    ¡°I did it! Can you believe it?¡± I said, my voice cracking with excitement.


    Irma laughed, her smile as warm as ever. ¡°Of course I can. I always knew those fan fictions where a good investment to use to blackmail you at a later date.¡±


    "You swing that way now Irma?" Klaus asked.


    "If it isn''t Klaus the man who till this day who is talking to himself in my dms." Irma said.


    I couldn''t hold it in I burst out laughing as Klaus walked away.


    ***


    A couple months later we took our final exams...


    "The Black Forest stood as a shadowed abyss, its trees towering and gnarled, absorbing the faintest traces of light. Each trunk pulsed faintly with embers of life, an invisible energy that sustained the forest''s lush growth in eternal darkness. The forest was alive, not just with flora but with the whispers of unseen creatures..."


    "Who are you talking to?" Irma asked.


    Just fake a smile, "No one." I smiled


    "Never smile like that again you look like a pedo about to take her next victim." Irma stated.


    "Why not him?"


    "It''s sexist of you to think they only male Pedo''s." Irma pointed out.


    ¡°Let me explain the rules of this test.¡± Sim began, ¡°Two of you will enter from opposite sides of the Black Forest. This is a race, but not just about speed. As soon as your name is called, you¡¯ll select a weapon from the cabinet behind me and head into the forest. These weapons are non-lethal and coated with a paralyzing agent. Here¡¯s the catch: using your powers in the forest is an automatic fail. Your task is simple¡ªhunt your opponent. But you only get one chance. If your attack fails, your only path to victory is escaping without being seen. If you¡¯re spotted, you lose by default.¡±


    Sim gestured to the suit lined up in front of the class, ¡°Your suits are equipped with cameras. Tap the button and state the exact coordinates of your opponent to after the failed ambush and you pass. Some of you may wonder why only one chance is allowed. The reason is simple: in a real ambush, one chance is all you get.¡±


    He leaned forward, ¡°Your bio-EMP, used to track your target¡¯s position, will reveal your own location when activated. So, think carefully about when and how to use it. This isn¡¯t just a test of skill¡ªit¡¯s a trial of wit, precision, and your ability to outthink your opponent without giving yourself away.¡±


    Sim¡¯s eyes scanned the group, ¡°The first two to take the test will be Gugu and Theo.¡±


    "Fuck it" screaming as I grabbed a bottle filled with the agent and a crossbow. ''Wait he didn''t say... oh I got his ass.''


    The wind screamed in my ears as I ran,  pushing myswlf harder, going faster, till the ground beneath me was a blur. The world around me seemed to stretch and warp, colors blending into streaks as my speed increased.This narrative has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. If you see it on Amazon, please report it.


    I knew the moment I broke the sound barrier¡ªthere was a deafening crack, a sonic boom that sent a pulse through the air. I didn¡¯t slow down until I reached the edge of the black forest; my feet skidding to a stop in the thick, loamy soil. My heart pounded in my chest as I caught my breath, staring into the forest''s shadowed depths.


    The air here was different¡ªthick, heavy, and almost alive with energy. The embers of life were everywhere, saturating the forest to the point that even standing here, I could feel them pulsing faintly against my skin.


    I crouched at the edge of the Black Forest, the dark canopy towering over me like a living, breathing entity. This forest wasn¡¯t just vast¡ªit was one of the largest in the world, stretching nearly 2,500 square kilometers. Its dense, pulsating embers of life made it nearly impenetrable to even the most advanced hunter abilities.


    I was the 3rd fastest in the class only two people who can break the sound barrier and even surpass me and Theo wasn''t one of them. Theo isn¡¯t the type to hesitate; he¡¯d probably activate his mapping ability just long enough to find a path, then shut it down to avoid detection. That meant I had a small window¡ªmaybe a minute at most¡ªto execute my plan.


    I needed to mark him. Not his location, but him¡ªhis clothes, his gear, something that would move with him. I¡¯d developed my lava detection ability for years; now, I could sense it naturally, even from 50 miles away. The key was to shoot a tiny ball of lava, the size of a snowflake, and let it cool on his clothing.


    But this shot required precision and perfect timing.


    I quickly ran the calculations in my head, sketching the geometry of the forest in my mind. The average tree height was about 60 meters, with branches weaving together tightly. The forest¡¯s diameter was about 50 kilometers, and Theo has to enter from the opposite side. I estimated his current position to be about 10 kilometers away from where he is supposed to enter into the forest.


    I generated the tiny ball of lava in my palm, using mana will eliminate my energy signature so he won''t be able to sense; its heat faint but steady. The challenge wasn¡¯t just aiming¡ªit was timing. The lava would cool mid-air, so I had to ensure it reached him before solidifying. Based on the forest¡¯s density and the ambient temperature, I calculated that I had about 50 seconds of flight time before the lava lost its heat and became inert.


    I adjusted my angle, tilting my wrist slightly. The trajectory needed to account for gravity, wind resistance, and the occasional gap in the forest canopy.


    No pressure. Just pure class.


    I waited, counting down in my head. Theo would likely activate his bio ability on the outskirts of the forest so he can know the terrain before entering the forest which is when i will fire off to catch him as he about to enter the forest. The moment I sensed it¡ªa faint flicker like a dying ember¡ªI released the shot.


    The tiny ball of lava streaked through the air like a comet, its heat signature faint but distinct. I tracked it as it disappeared into the forest, weaving through the dense trees.


    I held my breath, waiting. If I¡¯d fired too early, it would miss Theo entirely. Too late, and it would cool before reaching him.


    Several agonizing seconds passed before I felt it¡ªa tiny, imperceptible ping as the lava latched onto something moving. Theo. I couldn¡¯t see him, but I could feel the lava cooling, embedding itself into his gear.


    A triumphant grin spread across my face. ¡°Man that''s just too easy.¡±


    Walking into the forest, every tree hummed with an overwhelming glow of life, their vibrant energy drowning out the subtler signs of movement nearby. I had to rely on my instincts and creativity to stay ahead.


    Theo was already in pursuit, unaware he¡¯d been marked. I needed a plan¡ªand fast. My eyes caught a broad leaf glistening with morning dew, and an idea struck me. I found the perfect spot to hide, one where the only vantage point to see me clearly was a specific bush. Carefully, I drew a vial of paralyzing agent from my belt pouch and smeared it across the bush¡¯s surface, ensuring the coating was thorough. Then, I crouched low, blending into my surroundings, and waited.


    Theo moved cautiously, his sharp sense of smell guiding him. He sniffed the air, tracking the faint trace of Gugu¡¯s scent, and inevitably zeroed in on the bush¡ªthe only place with a clear view of where I was hiding. He leaned in, intent on confirming my location.


    And then, with a sudden thud, he collapsed face-first into the ground.


    I stepped out of my hiding spot, a grin spreading across my face as I approached him. Confusion filled his wide eyes as he struggled to comprehend what had happened.


    ¡°Better luck next time.¡± I said, my voice dripping with amusement.


    ---


    Unlike Gugu, Irma entered the Black Forest with quiet confidence. She had chosen a simple weapon¡ªa paintbrush. It was an unconventional choice that started as a joke by hunters and no hunter had used it successfully but Irma¡¯s calm demeanor silenced any doubters.


    "You are going to lose just like every hunter who has used that and be the 557th hunter." Klaus said.


    ¡°They aren¡¯t me.¡± she had said when questioned about her decision.


    Once inside the forest, Irma activated the hunter technique known as Zombie Mode. Her body slowed, her heart beating once every sixty seconds. This state meant she was dead as all her bodily functions slowed many stopped in this state made her invisible to hunters¡¯ bio ability, as she no longer emitted embers of life energy. To the forest, she was a ghost.


    Irma navigated the terrain with ease, sensing the natural flow of embers around her without needing to use her abilities. She blended seamlessly into the environment, each step deliberate, every movement designed to be noiseless.


    Klaus, on the other hand, moved cautiously, frequently activating his mapping ability to survey his surroundings. Each pulse of energy gave away his position, a beacon Irma used to track him with precision. She closed the distance silently, her every movement a masterclass in stealth.


    When she finally reached him, Klaus had no idea she was there. She observed him for a moment, noting the tension in his shoulders and the way his eyes scanned the darkness around him. He was alert and cautious, but it was not enough.


    In one motion, Irma darted forward and struck. The tiny paintbrush, dipped in paralyzing agent, grazed the back of Klaus¡¯s neck before he could sense her presence. He froze, his body locking up as the agent took effect.


    Irma stepped back, studying her handiwork with satisfaction. She slung Klaus over her shoulder effortlessly and carried him through the forest, her steps measured as she made her way to the examiners.


    When she arrived, Klaus still immobilized, the examiners stared in disbelief.


    ¡°You used the brush?¡± one of them asked, incredulous.


    Irma simply nodded, setting Klaus down gently. ¡°I told you¡ªnone of them are me.¡±


    I must those first couple of years of training were magical. By the time we were eighteen, Irma was still number one, and I had cracked the top twenty¡ª in 16th place. These rankings came with certain privileges, like being allowed to leave the fort without guards. Walking through the vibrant streets of Bangui felt like a dream. The city pulsed with art, music, and tantalizing food. Everything felt right, but what made it even better was having Irma with me.


    ¡°She sounds like she meant the world to you.¡± Mrs. Lane said.


    ¡°She does." Well currently speaking...she did.

 Chapter 12: My first time

    We made it a point to experience the whole country.


    Irma leaned over, showing me a map of the country. ¡°Since the nearest hotel is 5 km away from the airport, I booked a backroom in the area. We can start at the edge of the country and work our way down slowly.¡±


    ¡°What about transport between cities?¡±


    ¡°Boom.¡± she said, handing me her international driver¡¯s license.


    ¡°When did you get your driver¡¯s license?¡± I asked, marveling at the picture-perfect image of her, like a Victorian drawing of a Nairobian goddess, "How do you look this good in your licence photo?"


    ¡°Because I am flawless, and I got it six weeks ago.¡± she replied with a wink.


    ¡°Okay, this means we can finally rent a car.¡± I said, handing her back the license.


    ¡°We can also buy a car and go backpacking.¡± Irma suggested.


    ¡°Are you done packing?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± she answered, a hint of mischief in her tone.


    ¡°What I saw you put in your bag was just a dress, a t-shirt, and jeans.¡±


    ¡°Not forgetting my cosmetics bag.¡± she replied.


    ¡°So, no bra or pajamas?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll buy some shorts and a shirt at the airport. And these two beauties are flawless, which means I can go braless,¡± Irma said with a grin.


    ¡°Okay, let¡¯s head out then.¡± I said, grabbing my suitcase.


    We traveled on Friday nights and returned on Sunday afternoons. It was fun, a whirlwind of adventure. Before we even realized it, two years had passed, and we still hadn¡¯t decided on a car.


    ¡°How about this one?¡± Irma said, scrolling through her tablet and sliding it to me.


    ¡°Not another sports car, Irma. It¡¯s not practical.¡±


    ¡°And civilians who buy DT 300s are serial killers.¡± she replied.


    ¡°Irma, since you have the nerve to talk in class, you¡¯ll be the first to do your presentation.¡± Mr. Michaelson said, cutting through our banter.


    Irma strode confidently to the front of the room, the soft click of her boots echoing in the otherwise quiet classroom. She activated the projector with a flick of her wrist, her neatly organized presentation appearing on the screen behind her.


    ¡°My presentation.¡± she began, her voice steady and commanding, ¡°is about hunting vampires. As you can see from this diagram, vampire physiology and human physiology share many similarities. However, the differences are critical.  Their organ structures are nearly identical, but vampires have increased organ size and efficiency. This gives them physical capabilities that far exceed human limits. They can break the sound barrier with their movements, possess superhuman strength, reflexes. Even seasoned hunters cannot take them head-on in a fair fight.¡±


    Irma clicked to the next slide, which detailed vampire cognitive function. ¡°Even if a hunter could match their physical abilities, they¡¯d still be at a disadvantage. A vampire¡¯s brain processes information at an astonishing rate, allowing them to adapt almost instantly to any strategy or attack. And this is before factoring in their blood arts¡ªunique abilities powered by their vampiric nature¡ªor their unparalleled healing factor. Let me be clear: killing a vampire is not an option. They are biologically immortal. There are documented cases of individuals who were turned into vampires in their sixties reverting to the peak physical condition of a 21-year-old.¡±


    Irma advanced to the next slide, which displayed a striking image of Dracula. ¡°Dracula, the Queen of Vampires, is the only known being capable of killing other vampires. Her methods remain a mystery. Some speculate it¡¯s due to her sword, rumored to be of supernatural origin. However, there are accounts of her killing vampires with her bare hands, suggesting her power transcends any single weapon.¡±


    She clicked to a slide titled "Containment Strategies."


    ¡°When it comes to hunting vampires, the goal is not to kill but to contain. The first step is disorientation. Using low-frequency sound waves targeting the iris, we can induce hallucinations, creating an opening for further action. During this window, I would use a paralyzing agent in conjunction with a neurotoxin. The paralyzing agent immobilizes them, while the neurotoxin targets the nervous system, temporarily shutting down their respiratory system.  Once subdued, the vampire must be restrained using cuffs made from a combination of diamond, titanium alloy, and polycarbonate. These materials are strong enough to withstand their immense strength. Finally, they should be submerged in a liquid designed to absorb energy as well additional use of poison that target every vital organ which would further diminish their abilities. This setup ensures their containment in a secure black site.¡±


    She turned off the projector and faced the room. ¡°This concludes my presentation,¡± she said, returning to her seat with an air of quiet confidence.


    "It''s a bit strange that you remember her presentation in great detail." Ms lane pointed out.


    "Well... after... I will get to the why but the how is that I have great memory so the little things I always remember." Was she always that beautiful but the redhead is breath taking lit...


    "Okay, I understand that as well as the fact that your training is important but being in class and learning wouldn''t make people close. So I must ask, when are you going to talk about those special moments that you are most fond of." Ms lane pointed out.


    "Special well let''s start with my first time..."


    The sun had just begun to rise, painting the sky in soft oranges and pinks, as I  tightened the straps on my running gear. The air was crisp, carrying the faint scent of dew and earth from the black forest ahead. Beside me, Irma adjusted her wristbands, her ever-confident smirk in place.


    ¡°We¡¯ll start from the fort,¡± Irma said, nodding toward the stone structure that had stood for decades as a training hub. ¡°Fort to the forest, through it, and then to the peak. Think you can keep up?¡±


    ¡°I might even leave you behind.¡±


    Irma chuckled, clearly enjoying the banter. ¡°We¡¯ll see.¡±


    I looled closer and it''s something I never thought I would see, "You have bag underneath your eyes."


    "Yeah I have been seating in on fraction meetings and it''s a lot dealing with the human fraction they always pushing an agenda and baseless allegations which I constantly have to find evidence to prove they are wrong so it takes a toll but I am fine." Irma explained.


    The moment my foot touched the dusty trail outside the fort, I felt the familiar surge of energy ripple through my body. My heart pounded, syncing with the hum of power I had learned to control over the past few months. The crisp morning air nipped at my skin, and I could feel the quiet promise of the day in the faint rays of sunlight breaking through the horizon.


    Irma was already a few steps ahead, her lean form cutting through the air like an arrow. Her movements were effortless, fluid, and confident. She glanced back at me, ¡°Where did all that confidence go.¡± she called over her shoulder.


    I smirked. ¡°Oh, you¡¯ll see.¡±


    As I pushed off, my body surged forward, breaking into a sprint. At first, the pace felt manageable, but soon, I felt the familiar rush¡ªthe world around me blurring as I poured more energy into my legs. The sound of my own footfalls faded behind the sonic boom as I shattered the sound barrier.


    The shockwave rippled out, scattering the loose dirt and pebbles on the trail. My bioluminescent glow, faint and translucent, shimmered around me, absorbing the friction and heat of my rapid movements. It was like wearing a second skin, one that protected me from the forces trying to tear me apart.


    Ahead, the black forest loomed like a living shadow, its massive trees standing like sentinels. The trail leading to its edge was uneven, a mix of jagged rocks and loose soil, but I barely noticed. Every step was deliberate, my energy cushioning the impact and propelling me forward.


    Irma slowed slightly as she approached the forest, letting me catch up. She turned to glance at me, a smirk tugging at her lips as she extended her for a celebratory dap.


    The forest air was heavier, cooler, and carried the faint scent of damp earth and moss. The towering trees seemed to lean in, their thick canopy filtering the sunlight into scattered beams that danced on the forest floor.


    Irma run in front of me backward she was just showing off now, ¡°Congrats on being able to maintain mach 2, stay sharp in here. The embers of life at this speed will mess with your senses so don''t use the emp just use sense the energy already there so you aren''t overlorded.¡± Irma told me with sign language at this speed speaking isn''t possible.


    I nodded again, my senses already adjusting. The embers¡ªsmall pockets of natural energy that pulsed faintly within the forest¡ªwere like static on a radio signal, making it harder to map the terrain ahead.


    The forest was alive with sound: the rustle of leaves, the distant calls of birds, and the rhythmic thud of our footsteps. The uneven terrain forced me to focus, my energy extending subtly outward to guide me around roots, rocks, and low-hanging branches.


    Irma was still ahead, but I was gaining on her. My bioluminescent glow flickered as I adjusted the flow of energy, pushing harder to close the gap.


    The trail twisted and turned, narrowing in some places and opening into wide clearings in others. Each step was a test of precision, my energy not just propelling me forward but also stabilizing me on the uneven ground.


    This tale has been unlawfully obtained from Royal Road. If you discover it on Amazon, kindly report it.


    By the time we reached the heart of the forest, the air was thick with humidity, and the embers pulsed brighter, almost distracting in their intensity. I focused harder, tuning out the interference and letting my instincts guide me.


    When we finally broke through the edge of the forest, the mountain stood before us, its peak bathed in golden sunlight. The climb was steep, but for the first time, I didn¡¯t feel daunted.


    The challenge was on. I let my energy surge again, my bioluminescent glow flaring brighter as I pushed forward, the mountain trail blurring beneath my feet. Every step felt lighter, faster, and for the first time, I wasn¡¯t chasing Irma. I was running with her.


    The wind whipped through my hair, its sharp, cool bite against my skin only a distant sensation now. My heart was pounding from the sheer exertion of the run, but my body felt different¡ªstronger. As I glanced over at Irma, she was already watching me closely, her gaze sharp and calculating, as if she knew what I was about to realize before I did.


    We had stopped at the peak of the mountain, a place we had been to countless times before. The view was breathtaking, the rolling landscape of the Central Republic of Africa stretching beneath us like a vast, untamed sea of greenery and dust. The black forest we had just run through lay in the distance, a dense web of trees and mystery. I could feel the pulse of energy beneath the earth, the same energy that flowed through my own veins, a constant hum just beneath my skin.


    It had always been there, this ability to harness and control energy, to push my physical limits. But today¡ªtoday it felt different.


    ¡°Gugu¡­¡± Irma¡¯s voice broke through my thoughts, pulling my attention to her. ¡°You¡¯ve been pushing yourself hard, haven¡¯t you?¡±


    I nodded without answering, knowing she understood. She always understood. Her observation was sharp, and the gleam in her eyes told me she¡¯d noticed what I had been feeling all along. The way my energy had been responding to my movements, the way it had become an extension of my body.


    ¡°I think you¡¯re ready,¡± Irma said softly, her voice carrying over the mountain¡¯s edge like a secret.


    "Ready for what?" I asked.


    Irma stepped closer to the cliff¡¯s edge, her silhouette framed by the morning glow, "To fly." she said, her tone almost casual, as though she were telling me to tie my shoes.


    I frowned, "Stop playing."


    She turned, an amused smile curling on her lips? "I''m serious. Look, you know how we passively absorb energy from everything around us, right? When we harness that energy, we amplify our physical abilities."


    I nodded, ¡°I know. And by channeling the energy in our bodies we get superhuman abilities and manifesting it outside our bodies, we enhance our durability. Combining both lets us perform superhuman feats, like breaking the sound barrier without falling apart.¡±


    "That''s how you fly you imbue your body with energy and direct that energy and the process of flying is done I wanted us to fly for years before we came to the academy but I didn''t want you to fell like you had to do it so I never told anyone that I could now fly." Irma explained.


    Her casual admission made my jaw drop. "You¡¯ve been flying? And didn¡¯t tell me?"


    She shrugged. "You weren¡¯t ready. But now you are."


    "I don¡¯t know¡­¡± Doubt seeped into my voice. The idea of flying felt like stepping off the edge of sanity.


    Irma stepped closer, her expression softening, ¡°Gugu, when you run, doesn¡¯t it always feel like you¡¯re holding yourself back, like you¡¯re stopping yourself from taking off?¡±


    I hesitated. ¡°Yeah¡­ I always thought it was air pressure, so I started forcing my energy downward to stabilize my strides.¡±


    ¡°Exactly! And when you jump, you redirect that energy upward to propel yourself higher, right?¡± Irma asked.


    ¡°Yes, but it¡¯s hard to change direction mid-air. It takes practice.¡±


    "That¡¯s the key to flying¡ªenergy redirection. You¡¯ve already mastered the basics without realizing it as you have shown when we run fromnthe fort till the peak. Now, it¡¯s just a matter of letting go of your fears and just envision what where you want to go and just...¡± She stepped back, and to my astonishment, began levitating.


    Effortlessly, she floated upward, then tilted her body, flying upside down with her legs crossed as though she were lounging on an invisible hammock. "See? It¡¯s easy. I know you can do it.¡±


    Her confidence in me was infectious.


    I closed my eyes, feeling the pulse of energy thrumming around me. The wind carried the faint hum of the mountain¡¯s energy, a natural rhythm that resonated with my own. I let go of the instinct to force my energy downward and allowed it to flow naturally, letting it suffuse my entire body. Slowly, I opened my eyes¡ªand realized I was floating.


    ¡°Focus.¡± Irma¡¯s voice guided me, steady and calm. ¡°Your energy responds to your mind. All you¡¯re doing is moving it from one place to another like walking.¡±


    I nodded, concentrating on moving the energy toward Irma. The world around me felt distant as I slowly floated forward. Gravity tugged at me faintly, but the bioluminescent glow surrounding my body kept me steady, insulating me from the pull of the earth and the rush of the air.


    I was flying.


    As I approached Irma, still upside down and watching me with a smug grin, she reached out, placing a hand on my chest. A soft glow of energy surged between us, forming a symbol that disappeared almost as quickly as it appeared.


    ¡°What was that?¡± I asked, feeling a sudden ease in my breathing.


    ¡°I cast a seal. It converts the raw energy in the universe into breathable air. You¡¯re welcome.¡± she said, her tone light but undeniably proud.


    I exhaled, no longer worried about oxygen. With that fear gone, I pushed more energy outward, propelling myself forward faster. The world blurred around me, the mountain shrinking beneath my feet as I soared upward.


    The exhilaration was beyond anything I¡¯d ever known. The wind roared past my ears, but the glow around me shielded me from its full force. I twisted and turned, experimenting with the flow of energy. I tilted my body slightly, rising higher into the sky, the landscape below becoming a sprawling, endless panorama of green and brown.


    I glanced at Irma, who was now casually ¡°sleeping¡± mid-air, her arms behind her head. I couldn¡¯t help but laugh, the sound carried away by the wind.


    I pushed myself further, the glow around me intensifying. The river below sparkled in the morning light, and on impulse, I descended just enough to let my fingertips skim its surface. The water rippled from my touch, sending startled fish darting away.


    For a moment, I caught my reflection in the shimmering water. My bioluminescent glow illuminated the rippling surface like a warm ember in the pre-dawn light. I felt¡­ alive. Truly alive.


    The sensation was so overwhelming that I found myself returning to Irma, unable to contain my amazement. As I reached her, my body gave out, and I began to collapse. She caught me effortlessly, cradling me in her lap mid-air.


    ¡°What¡¯s happening?¡± I mumbled, my voice barely audible.


    ¡°Flying is taxing on the brain.¡± she explained, brushing a strand of hair from my face, ¡°Your mind isn¡¯t used to the strain of manipulating energy in this manner.¡±


    I stared up at the endless sky, my eyelids growing heavier. My right hand reached upward as if trying to grasp the heavens, ¡°I get it now.¡± I whispered, ¡°Why humans always dreamt of touching the sky¡­¡±


    Those were my last words before exhaustion claimed me. The rest was a blur¡ªvague memories of being carried on Irma¡¯s back, the feeling of cool air against my skin, the warmth of a bed.


    Flying for the first time¡­ It was everything I¡¯d ever dreamed of and more.


    Learning how to fly was exhilarating. But without a pass to fly in residential areas, we were restricted to the countryside. Three weeks later, we bought an old van. It was a disaster on wheels¡ªrusty, with a hole in the roof and an infestation of pests. Barely an hour after driving it off the lot, it broke down in the middle of nowhere. Frustrated, we pushed it back to the nearest town, a grueling three-hour trek under the sun. By the time we arrived, I was exhausted, drenched in sweat, and regretting every decision that had led to this moment.


    The tow truck took another two hours to haul the van back to the fort. I was too tired to care. I took a shower, sank into bed, and didn¡¯t wake up until morning. When I did, I realized Irma still hadn¡¯t returned.


    By midday, she rolled in with the van looking brand new¡ªfully restored and gleaming as if it had just rolled off the assembly line. ¡°What did you do?¡± I asked, incredulous.


    ¡°Let¡¯s just say I have my ways.¡± she said with a smirk.


    With our transportation sorted, we ventured to neighboring towns, reveling in the freedom of the open road. Sleeping in the back, indulging in junk food, and making spontaneous stops at roadside diners became our cherished routine. As we neared the end of our training, I convinced Irma to save the Party City¡ªa legendary hotspot in Central Africa¡ªfor our grand finale.


    ¡°Did you actually go?¡± Mrs. Lane asked.


    ¡°We did.¡±


    Mrs. Lane raised an eyebrow, ¡°You¡¯ve told me a lot about Irma. What about you, Gugu? How did you handle moving away from home at twelve¡ªleaving behind your family, your friends, your entire life?¡±


    I shrugged, ¡°People didn¡¯t really hang out with me much. It was always Irma they wanted. I was just... there.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± she pressed, ¡°but what about things like puberty? Dating? You had to navigate all that away from home.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯d already started having periods before I left, and Irma was a huge help with all that.¡± Damn I was like her tail.


    ¡°And your love life?¡± Mrs. Lane asked.


    I hesitated, ¡°My first kiss was with Irma. It just sort of happened after she got her invite to Fraction meetings. But dating¡­ well, people always wanted Irma, not me. At one point, I was planning to lose my virginity in a bathroom with some guy I met, just to get it over with, but Theo stopped me.¡±


    ¡°What happened with Theo?¡±


    I smiled faintly, ¡°He was a good guy. We kicked it a couple of times. One night, I asked him if he wanted Irma, like everyone else seemed to.¡±


    "Why is it always Irma with you like I am here with you do be here with me too."Theo said as he looked at Gugu.


    "You didn''t answer my question but I will be present." I said nodding while dranking my beer.


    "Nah the Irma is overrated and her shadow is where my gaze is focused on." Theo admitted.


    "I am her shadow huh?" I asked.


    "Yeah and they call me slim." Theo said.


    I chuckled at his corny joke, "You lucky I like those dimples of yours."


    "Did you just admit I am beautiful?" Theo asked.


    I shook my head while smiling and having another sip of my drink.


    "I see the red you do think I beautiful." Theo said.


    "Yeah if I do then want?" I asked looking at him in the eyes.


    "I would kiss you." Theo said. I started to lean in for a kiss and as out lips are about to met, "I am a virgin."


    I backed away immediately, "What?"


    Theo drank the whole bottle of beer he had  and he opened another and started drinking.


    "Theo answer me my question we both 29 why dating life is people hitting on to me to get to Irma so it''s hard for me that''s why I just wanted to get it over with. Theo you are beautiful and sexy, you grew into your frame really well and alway been in the top 5 in the class, so how is that possible?" I asked.


    Theo put the second bottle down and took deep breath, "I never had the attention of women so when i started too as I turned 18 I just thought they were being nice but Klaus told me other wise and I took advantage of the situation and went on a couple of dates and they was this French girl and we kissed and went on several dates and well remember that Mrs him nickname I was given?" Theo asked.


    "Yeah I always find the name weird but Irma shut them down and I just paid it no attention because I was focused on climbing the ranks." I admitted.


    "The reason for that nickname is because of the french girl her name was Natalie and she is trans woman and I didn''t know tell one of our classmates told me and I didn''t believe it but when I asked her, she admitted it and that she was leaving in a weeks time and wanted to us to be intimate but I told her no she should have told me before on the first date and maybe things would''ve been different but I couldn''t look past that. That''s why I was mocked and women I go on dates with always find out about her and they feel some type of way about it which is a roundabout way of saying they didn''t like that I was kissing on a trans women and in the end I just stopped trying." Theo explained.


    "That''s a lot but I don''t care about that it."


    "You sure it''s not the achool talking?" Theo asked.


    "It might be it has made me destroy my inhibitions and I can feel that I am a bit tipsy but hey fuck everyone else you are not less or more then a man besides sexuality is a spectrum you can do what ever you want... but that still doesn''t explain why you would openly admit that you are a virgin?" I asked as the cool air filled my lungs.


    "Because I have liked you since I was 15." Theo admitted.


    I couldn''t stop help but smile, "Well I think that my mind has been feeling the same way as well... so let''s just hung out and see what this is."


    "Okay." Theo admitted.


    Mrs. Lane leaned in, ¡°So, was Theo your first boyfriend?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, he was.¡± feels werid thinking about ex''s.


    ¡°And?¡± Mrs Lane asked.


    "We had fun and the sex was okay we both were virgins in our late 20s so it was to be expected." His head guy was not good at all, "But I was close to top 5 and wanted to get that position so we aren''t official in my final yearbecause I was just pushing to finish and graduate and then we will get back into to this relationship after."


    "Did you get back together I mean?" Mrs Lane asked.


    All I hear is static after the moment I was asked that question, "I am a horrible person."

 Chapter 13: What lays beyond

    In my final year, I had climbed to fifth place in our class. We had completed our training, academics, and the pledge ceremony, which marked our graduation.


    ¡°As hunters we duties has changed we aren''t the humans bloodhounds that commit genocide on they whims; we are now protectors of the supernatural committee and we hunt down those who would seek to do harm on them. Every hunter during the entrance exam before training begins. Each starts with 40,000 points, and your performance determines how many points are deducted. Only those with more than 28,000 can attend. Once enrolled, you accumulate points to advance. To graduate, you need over 6 million points. Here¡¯s what they don¡¯t tell you: those who score above 8.5 million become honorary members of the hunter faction, and hitting 11 million grants you a chair position. There are 15 subjects, each worth 20,000 points for the year. This point system applies to theory; field training has an additional 20,000 points before the entrance exam. Don¡¯t forget, the 40,000 points are split between field and theory, with field training having 20 courses, each worth 15,000 points. The total points tally never changes. Everyone in this room jas passed and now I will list this year''s top 10 hunters.


    1. Irma: 6,020,000 points for theory + 6,020,000 for fieldwork = 12,040,000 perfect score, making her the third hunter to achieve a chair after graduation and the first with a perfect score.


    2. Klaus: 10,763,665 points


    3. Gugu: 10,705,954 points


    4. Theo: 10,591,675 points


    I placed an "L" on my forehead and looked at Theo, ¡°LOOOSSSSEEEE.¡±


    ¡°Gugu¡­¡± Mr. Johnson warned.


    ¡°Sorry,¡± I muttered.


    Mr Johnson continued.


    5. Bianca: 10,499,245 points


    6. Bruce: 10,402,578 points


    7. Zac: 10,389,814 points


    8. Lindo: 10,312,494 points


    9. Nbu: 10,223,025 points


    10. Zion: 10,121,070 points


    For the commencement of the ritual, The box in front of you contains rubies that house the energy you''ve accumulated throughout your studies. Next to it is the key to breaking the seal. When you open your boxes, you¡¯ll find a necklace bearing your family¡¯s crest. Your parents instructed you to wear this necklace daily¡ªit houses your energy, aiding in the creation of these rubies. Remove the crest, place it in the center of the box, and arrange the orbs around you. Once complete, use a portion of your energy to break the seal covering the crest, and the ritual will begin. The rubies have been distilled to enhance your physical capabilities and slow down your aging without the risk of combustion. Afterward, you will awaken anew, as the connection between two worlds solidifies.¡±


    The ritual began, and we officially became hunters.


    Afterward, Irma shared her plans for the future, her eyes shining with excitement.


    ¡°I want to be head of both the human and hunter fractions.¡± Irma confessed.


    ¡°What?¡± I was taken aback, ¡°That¡¯s impossible, even for you. Firstly, it hasn¡¯t been done, and secondly, the human fraction groups us with the supernatural now that we¡¯re officially hunters.¡±


    Irma simply smiled, ¡°After talking to several vampires, demons, and werewolves, I realized the biggest threat to peace on Earth is human fear¡ªespecially when it comes to mortality. The head of the human faction can manipulate that fear to bend countries to their will, leading us straight to war. That¡¯s why I should... no, I will be the head of both factions.¡±


    I stared at her, ¡°I don¡¯t know how to respond to that.¡±


    Her expression turned serious, ¡°I know it¡¯ll be tough. But humans need to be kept on a leash. I know how crude that sounds, but it¡¯s the truth.¡±


    ¡°That may be true, but there¡¯s a reason it hasn¡¯t been done.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m aware of the severity of this path.¡± she replied, ¡°I understand the indignities I¡¯ll face. But in the end, it¡¯ll bear fruit.¡±


    ¡°Life is always interesting when I¡¯m with you.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s that supposed to mean?¡± Irma asked.


    ¡°You just naturally attract people.¡± I said.


    Irma shrugged, ¡°I never really thought about that.¡±


    ¡°I guess I can¡¯t talk you out of it. We just graduated and still have one more city to party at.¡±


    Irma grinned, ¡°I know! I¡¯m planning on having that Cosby special¡ªthat¡¯s how inebriated I want to be.¡±


    ¡°Maybe don¡¯t take a massive shit this time around.¡±


    Irma looked offended, ¡°That has never happened to me.¡±


    ¡°Really? You defecated on the toilet sink last year at the Christmas party.¡±


    Irma blushed, ¡°I had a bottle of vodka.¡±


    ¡°After having thirty-two beers.¡±


    Irma rolled her eyes, ¡°Fine, I promise.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a deal then.¡±


    Irma sighed, ¡°I¡¯m hungry.¡±


    I stood up, stretching. ¡°I think the meal¡¯s been prepaid. Should we get going?¡±


    Irma nodded, ¡°Yep. And I have to say congratulations, Gugu.¡±


    ¡°For what?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re third in our class. I always knew you could do it.¡± Irma explained.


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    ¡°It was nothing.¡± I extended my hand to her, ¡°Truthfully, I wouldn¡¯t have made it without you.¡±


    As Irma took my hand and I pulled her up, I noticed how close we stood, ¡°You¡¯re a beautiful woman.¡±


    "Whatever." I said as I walked away.


    ¡°I¡¯m serious.¡± she replied as she followed me into our room.


    ¡°Alright.¡±


    ¡°What are you wearing to the party?¡± Irma asked.


    ¡°I¡¯m not a huge fan of dresses. Best I can do is black jeans and an oversized jersey, maybe some heels.¡±


    ¡°So, just heels with your regular outfit?¡± Irma asked.


    I shrugged, ¡°I look cute. I¡¯ll only wear uncomfortable shoes if necessary.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡± She headed toward the shower.


    ¡°How long will you take?¡± I asked.


    ¡°Two hours, I think.¡± Irma said.


    ¡°Okay, wake me up when you¡¯re done.¡± I flopped back onto the bed, drifting off to sleep.


    A few hours later, I woke up to Irma trying to get my attention. I couldn¡¯t hear her, so I washed my face and walked back to the room. There she was, in a mustard-colored dress. I was stunned, ¡°Wow, you look beautiful.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve been trying to wake you up for twenty minutes!¡± she exclaimed, clearly irritated. ¡°We should leave, and you haven¡¯t changed yet.¡±


    I sighed, tying my hair into a bun. I changed into black leather pants, a satin black shirt, and a three-piece necklace, finishing off the look with a brown coat. ¡°Happy now?¡±


    ¡°You forgot to brush your teeth.¡± she said, crossing her arms.


    ¡°I¡¯ll use the ball thing.¡± I grabbed the metal ball, popped it in my mouth, and after a few seconds, spat out multi-colored foam. ¡°We can head out now.¡±


    Irma smiled, ¡°Thank you for changing, and you look lovely as well.¡±


    We headed to the hall where the graduation ball was being held. As soon as we walked in, Irma grabbed everyone¡¯s attention.


    ¡°Looks like some potential leaders of the werewolf fraction are here.¡± I noted.


    ¡°I can see that.¡± Irma said, scanning the room, ¡°But I don¡¯t see any vampire nobility.¡±


    ¡°Good. Vampires are insufferable.¡± I muttered.


    ¡°You should say some can be insufferable, and there are some that you love being around.¡± she countered.


    ¡°They''re all assholes with god complexes.¡±


    ¡°Again, some may have developed a god complex, but I believe you¡¯ll meet a vampire you want to be around one day.¡± Irma said.


    ¡°And I¡¯m the queen of Earth.¡± I joked.


    ¡°Life has a funny way of coming full circle.¡± she replied.


    ¡°Trust me, that will never happen.¡±


    ¡°Shall we go mingle with our guests?¡± she asked.


    ¡°Fine.¡± I sighed, following her.


    As we walked toward a table, I could feel the aura of one guest radiating off them.


    ¡°Irma, you look ravishing!¡± Bile greeted, all smiles.


    ¡°Thank you! And you remember Gugu, my best friend?¡± Irma introduced me.


    ¡°How could I forget your tail?¡± Bile grinned.


    I wrinkled my nose, ¡°That¡¯s funny because I could smell wet dog from my room, which is on the other side of the fort.¡±


    ¡°Wow, I¡¯m glad Irma finally gave you permission to speak.¡± Bile replied.


    ¡°Well... damn, can¡¯t top that.¡± I said, laughing.


    ¡°What¡¯s my name?¡± Bile asked, her eyes sparkling with mischief.


    ¡°THE BIG BAD WOLF!¡± I responded, slapping hands with her multiple times.


    ¡°LET THEM KNOW! And this is my best friend Anele.¡± Bile added.


    ¡°Hello, nice to meet you.¡± Anele said, visibly nervous.


    ¡°Hey, I¡¯m Irma, and this is Gugu. It¡¯s a pleasure to meet you.¡± Irma smiled warmly.


    ¡°So, you¡¯re graduating. What are your plans now?¡± Bile asked, her gaze switching to Irma.


    ¡°I¡¯ll be leading both the hunters and human factions.¡± Irma replied, keeping a subtle eye on Anele.


    ¡°Wow, that¡¯s unexpected.¡± Bile raised an eyebrow.


    ¡°You asked.¡± Irma shrugged.


    ¡°Is she serious, Gugu?¡± Bile turned her attention back to me.


    ¡°Unfortunately, yes.¡± I said, feeling a strange sensation in the pit of my stomach.


    ¡°I mean, they say dream big, but that¡¯s massive¡­¡± Bile trailed off, noticing Irma¡¯s curious look at Anele, ¡°No big deal, but Anele is half werewolf, half vampire.¡±


    Irma and I exchanged shocked glances.


    ¡°Before you start with any borderline derogatory questions, Anele¡¯s parents went to Neptune and used the birth program.¡± Bile clarified.


    ¡°What¡¯s that?¡± I asked, still trying to catch up.


    ¡°When two beings from different species have intercourse and one of them ends up pregnant, the baby has a high chance of not making it to term, even if the parents come from the same genetic lineage. Vampires and werewolves are a good example¡ªthey both share human lineage but differ in physiology. That¡¯s why vampire-werewolf hybrids have been nicknamed ¡®bipolar¡¯¡ªit¡¯s extremely disrespectful, but the name comes from the fact that vampires are more analytical while werewolves are more emotional. The birth program blends the child¡¯s DNA, making it possible for the child to be born without defects unless one of the parents is a carrier.¡± Irma explained.


    ¡°Okay, Anele, do you have a near unattainable goal like being chair of the vampires?¡± I asked, trying to lighten the conversation.


    ¡°No, nothing like that. I plan on joining Shield¡¯s ecosystem department.¡± Anele replied.


    ¡°That¡¯s the department that focuses on animals and our ecosystem, right?¡± I asked.


    ¡°Yeah, protecting wildlife on our continent from poachers and environmental changes.¡± Anele nodded.


    Bile turned to Irma, ¡°Irma, can I steal you for a second?¡±


    ¡°Sure.¡± Irma said, following Bile outside. ¡°What do you want?¡±


    Bile placed several cycle balls in a circle around them and whispered something into her wristband. A blue field surrounded them both. ¡°Now we can talk in private.¡±


    ¡°About what?¡± Irma asked, her brow furrowed in confusion.


    ¡°A right-wing terrorist group calling themselves Predators.¡± Bile replied, her voice steady but urgent.


    ¡°Okay, but why not report this to ARMS?¡± Irma pressed.


    ¡°Two reasons. First, they¡¯re based in Eastern Europe, and second, they¡¯re hunters.¡± Bile explained.


    ¡°So their are Supremacist. But this isn¡¯t new; there¡¯ve been several terrorist groups since the Holy Crusades, most of which barely got off the ground.¡± Irma said.


    ¡°My sources say they may have a benefactor within the human faction.¡± Bile added.


    ¡°That sounds ominous.¡± Irma replied.


    ¡°Indeed. But the group¡¯s numbers are below 300 for now.¡± Bile reassured her.


    ¡°One question. Why approach me with this instead of my father?¡± Irma inquired.


    ¡°To build ties with the future head of the hunters¡¯ fraction and to gauge what your reign might look like based on your plans.¡± Bile replied.


    ¡°Bile, I know hunters have committed unspeakable atrocities against the supernatural community, especially during the Holy Crusades. We¡¯ve been paying for those sins ever since. But that¡¯s not enough to atone for what we did. Humans, when faced with fear, tend to destroy what they don¡¯t understand. I wouldn¡¯t be any different if I¡¯d been born back then. All I can do now is promise to shed light on these events and stop both factions from whitewashing their sins when I take charge.¡± Irma¡¯s voice was firm, resolute.


    ¡°That¡¯s good to know.¡± Bile nodded, handing Irma a portable hard drive, ¡°This contains all the information you need about the group.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll make the preparations and shut this group down.¡± Irma said, accepting the hard drive.


    Bile touched her wristband, deactivating the cycle field, and the device floated back into her hand. She paused at the door, looking back at Irma, ¡°I¡¯m eagerly waiting for your reign to begin.¡±


    Lost in thought, Irma walked toward the balcony, staring out into the moonlit sky. A shadow moved beside her, and she turned to see me, ¡°Oh! Gugu, it¡¯s you. I thought I was alone.¡±


    "And then you dragged me to the function, only to go all reclusive?" I teased.


    "Please, Gugu! I just had an uncomfortable conversation with Bile." she replied.


    "One conversation, and now you''re bummed out? Don¡¯t be like that. Tomorrow¡¯s problems are tomorrow¡¯s problems." I pointed out.


    "Sorry, I just got lost in my thoughts for a minute." Irma admitted, rising to her feet.


    "What were you two talking about?" I asked.


    "I¡¯ll tell you later. Now let¡¯s dance." she said, slipping her hand over my shoulder. We returned inside, and the rest of the ceremony was filled with laughter and celebration.

 Chapter 15: its starts but at what cost?

    Afterward, we decided not to sleep at the facility and headed out to a vibrant town on the outskirts of the capital where we booked the hotel we planned to party one last time before the graduation ceremony .


    That Saturday night was an unforgettable whirlwind of laughter and music. I can still picture the club we went to, its entrance pulsating with energy and anticipation. The bass thumped through the walls, reverberating in my chest as we stepped inside. The moment we crossed the threshold, I was hit by a wave of sensory overload¡ªthe scratchy itch of the wristband on my wrist mingled with the intoxicating scent of gin and the unmistakable tang of weed that hung thick in the air.


    The blinding lights flashed in a dizzying array of colors, illuminating the crowded dance floor where bodies moved in sync with the relentless beat. The DJ spun a mix of tracks that seemed to connect us all, each song igniting a spark of joy. But amidst the chaos, one image stood out above all: Irma.


    She was a vision of carefree exuberance, clad in black jeans that hugged her figure and a cropped top that shimmered under the strobe lights. Her laughter rang out, bright and infectious, cutting through the thrum of the music. Captivated, I watched as she swayed and twirled, her breath reeking of vodka¡ªa testament to the fun we were having.


    The night unfolded like a vivid dream, marked by the echoes of our shared laughter and the warmth of our friendship. We drank liberally, letting the spirits loosen our inhibitions, and by the time we stumbled out of the club at half-past two, I felt a mix of exhilaration and fatigue. The cold night air hit us like a splash of ice water, sharp and refreshing against my flushed skin.


    As we walked, the world felt surreal. We were a little too loud, a little too carefree, and then a truck driver shouted at us, his face twisted in anger as we meandered down the middle of the road. Irma, ever the bold one, shouted something cheeky back before we burst into giggles, the driver¡¯s fury fading into the background of our revelry.


    The night took a turn then when a group of guys approached us, their intentions evident in their smug smiles. In a moment of pure chaotic humor, Irma suddenly vomited on them, the unexpected sight sending us into fits of laughter. ¡°Sorry!¡± she managed between giggles, her face a mix of embarrassment and amusement. Quickly, we decided it was time to retreat and hopped into a cab, our laughter echoing inside as we settled into the back seat.


    The driver, Job Kamara, was a stoic figure, his expression a mix of amusement and annoyance as we hung out of the windows, singing at the top of our lungs. The cool breeze whipped through our hair, and we tipped him handsomely when we arrived back at our hotel at three o¡¯clock, our hearts still racing from the night¡¯s adventures.


    Once inside, the hotel room felt like a sanctuary from the chaos outside. Irma, still buzzing with energy, flopped onto the bed and grabbed the hotel landline.


    "What are you doing?" I asked, bewildered.


    "Hot wings and some pizza. That¡¯s what I need to satisfy my palate." Irma said while dialing the front desk.


    "You¡¯re not serious."


    "Yes, I want room service¡ªjust hot wings and pizza. It¡¯ll be here in two minutes. Fantastic¡­ No, I don¡¯t need anything else." She hung up the phone, turning to me, "What are we watching?"


    "I weirdly want to watch a slasher film." I replied, browsing through the TV options. "Next week, are you going to stay, or head straight to Europe?"


    "I''ll head back home for a couple of days, but by Thursday, I¡¯ll be in Europe." Irma answered.


    "For how long?"


    Just then, the doorbell rang, and Irma walked to the door. The waiter wheeled in the food and left, "What did you ask again?" Irma said as she took a plate of wings and pizza.


    "How long will this assignment take?"


    "I don¡¯t know. I read through some of the files, and they seem disorganized, but they could still be dangerous." she replied, biting into a slice of pizza.


    "I guess. But who are these rogue hunters?"


    "Nobody serious. Most of them were in the last 50 in their respective classes when they graduated, but the leader was in the top 3... I can¡¯t seem to find the words. Yes, got it. He¡¯s always maintained his position in the top 3 since starting training, and he¡¯s the reason for my caution." Irma explained.


    "Why would someone that highly rated suddenly change like that?" I asked, but as I looked over at her, I noticed Irma had passed out, a plate resting on her chest. I got up, removed her shoes, took the plate off her, and tucked her in bed before heading to my own.


    When I woke up, Irma was groaning so I just headed to the pharmacy for to get something for me and Irma hangover and after went to the restaurant for my meal and called Theo, "Hey."


    "Hey, how is the trip?" Theo asked.


    "It been memorable and Irma vomited on some guys."


    "She can''t hold her liqual... I am glad you called but since we are done with school and we can continue were we left off, right?" Theo asked.


    "I see no problem with that." I said smiling.


    "Thank god, what are your plans after this finishing school or just continue being a hunter?" Theo asked.


    "A long 6 month vacation and then I will start my hunter duites, what about you?"


    "You know my family I will start the day after the graduate ceremony." Theo explained.


    "So, long distant huh?"


    "We will live for a long time Gugu and this is just for a couple of months for you I have no problem having a long distance relationship... I gotta to go but have a safe trip to the fort, bye and I love you." Theo said.


    "I love you too." I said while hanging up the call and i finished my meal and headed back to my room and I walked in on Irma  clutching her head. She grabbed her phone to check the time. "What the fu¡ª"


    "Good afternoon." I said while packing my clothes.


    "What happened?" she asked.


    "This tiny Russian fella came out of nowhere and sucker-punched you. You tried to fight him, but he knocked you out." I grabbed a bottle of water from the mini-bar and headache pills from my bag, then brought both to her.


    "Thanks." Irma said, taking the pills and gulping down the water.


    "We should head out. There¡¯s a storm coming." I pointed out.


    "It¡¯s already 3 o¡¯clock! We¡¯ll be caught in it!" she protested.


    "It¡¯s an 18-hour drive. There won¡¯t be any fights for a couple of days because of the storm. If we leave now, we¡¯ll make it by midday tomorrow, just an hour and a half after the ceremony starts, since it begins at half-past one. I¡¯ll use the back roads to avoid most of the storm, and the detour will save us four hours, giving us time to freshen up before the ceremony."


    "Fine. I¡¯ll get changed, and we¡¯ll head out." Irma conceded, heading to the bathroom. When she returned, I handed her sunglasses.


    "What¡¯s this for?" she asked.


    "Hangovers and bright lights don¡¯t go hand in hand, and I¡¯ve already packed my bags and yours. These were the last clean clothes you have, so let¡¯s go." I took a pill for the drive back.


    "Okay, you sure you should be taking those?" Irma asked.


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    "Yeah I need the energy and I know the drop off means moving like a snail and fogs my mind but that''s when you will take over driving duties." I explained.


    "Okay." Irma said.


    We checked out of the hotel and got in the van from the valet. Irma fell asleep in the back, her head leaning against the window, oblivious to the world outside. The first couple of hours were uneventful, just the steady hum of the engine and the occasional rustle of Irma shifting in her sleep. I turned up the radio, trying to drown out the monotony of the road.


    But as we passed the last sign of civilization, the sky darkened as I started to fade within the next hour but the sound of hail pummeling the van was deafening and kept me awake but my body was heavy and my eyes were shutting down with each hit reverberating through the metal frame. I gripped the steering wheel, squinting through sheets of rain as visibility plummeted. There was no shelter in sight, just the endless stretch of road disappearing into the grey.


    I glanced at the speedometer¡ªit read 130 km/h. If we could make it to the next town, an hour away, we could wait out the storm in safety. My heart raced as adrenaline kept me going for nearly an hour but I could feel it and I was done but I tired to continue as I pressed the accelerator, feeling the engine roar beneath me, but the van swayed dangerously in the wind and I saw it too late sharp turn as we were driving through a moutain and I was speeding and tried to turn left but I hit a pothole and burst a tire the sound like a gunshot.


    The van jolted violently before I could react we had already crash through the guardrail and we started rolling down the hill. Time seemed to slow as the world flipped upside down. Glass shattered, mingling with the storm, and I braced myself against the seat, praying for the chaos to end. A tree branch crashed through the window, and I blacked out.


    When I regained consciousness, I was hanging upside down in the van. Dazed, I ripped through my seatbelt and fell, landing awkwardly on the broken glass. Cold rain soaked my skin as I called out for Irma. Struggling to walk, I used the van for support and made my way to her.


    Finding her upper body draped over a suitcase, hanging out the back window, sent a jolt of panic through me. Her face was..." Why won''t my hands stop trembling?


    "Take your time." Mrs. Lane said gently.


    ¡°I barely recognized her. It felt surreal, like a nightmare I couldn''t wake up from. I  grabbed her and run into town and I headed straight to the hospitals and when I got there I blacked out. The next thing I remember is waking up in a hospital bed, heavy with the weight of what had happened. A week slipped by in a haze, and when I finally woke up for longer, I felt a hand squeezing mine. It was my mother.


    ¡°Mmmmooo¡­¡±


    Thandeka rushed toward me, enveloping me in her arms. ¡°Are you okay?¡±


    I shook my head. The doctor came in to check on me, and afterward, I looked at my mom for answers, ¡°Are you alone?¡±


    ¡°No, your father went to the airport to fetch your sister. She just arrived.¡± she replied.


    ¡°What about Irma?¡± I pressed, searching my mother¡¯s eyes for reassurance.


    But she couldn¡¯t meet my gaze, ¡°I¡¯m so sorry, Gugu. Irma... she is brain dead.¡±


    The words hit me like a brick. A cold wave of disbelief washed over me, ¡°No... no, she can¡¯t be gone,¡± I whispered, my voice breaking.


    My mother held me tightly, but all I felt was numbness. I couldn¡¯t even remember what she said next. Minutes felt like hours until a doctor who gave us space came back to check on me but I didn¡¯t hear anything he said. The days that followed¡ªI was lost in a fog. One moment I was in that sterile hospital room, and then I was on a plane, fleeing everything.


    Years passed, trapping me in a darkness I felt was my fault Thoe kept on coming but after 3 years he stopped but I was numb to it all. On good days, I¡¯d visit St. Marylin Hospital, sitting on a park bench, daydreaming about that terrible day. When the hail began to fall, I¡¯d escape to the forest, finding shelter beneath a massive tree. There, I¡¯d imagine Irma waking up, her brown eyes sparkling with laughter, sharing corny jokes until the rain stopped.


    ¡°Do you still daydream about taking a different action that day?¡± Ms. Lane asked.


    ¡°Yes, but not as often as I used to.¡± I admitted.


    ¡°The shooting of Mandy and the accident with Irma¡ªwhat¡¯s the common denominator?¡± she pressed.


    ¡°Me.¡± I replied, the weight settling on my chest.


    ¡°And?¡± Mrs. Lane asked.


    ¡°My choices.¡± I said flatly.


    ¡°What about the aftermath?¡± she continued.


    ¡°I shell up like I did after finding out about Irma. I criticize myself harshly.¡±


    ¡°You can never go back.¡± Ms. Lane reminded me. ¡°You can''t turn back time or stop yourself from shooting Mandy. It has already happened.¡±


    She could give Bruce a run for his money with her detective skills, ¡°So, what should I do then?¡±


    ¡°Accept it. Both actions. No one knows where life truly starts or ends. Blaming yourself is easy, but you need to look deeper.¡± Ms. Lane pointed out.


    ¡°There¡¯s nothing deeper.¡± I scoffed.


    ¡°Really? You knew before the trip you would be in an accident, and your best friend would end up brain dead?¡± Ms Lane asked.


    ¡°No, I was impulsive, just like Irma. If I had paid more attention to the storm instead of looking for shortcuts, I would have realized we needed to wait it out.¡±


    ¡°What about the Mandy incident? You¡¯re a trained hunter. You knew something your team didn¡¯t.¡± Ms lane pointed out.


    ¡°If I had spoken up, we could have changed our strategy. Penelope is an Atlantean princess; Mandy presence was of a subterranean I can''t mistake that feeling and them fighting could have sparked an international incident. We would have talked to Mandy instead of fighting.¡±


    ¡°Exactly. You need to slow down and think before acting on impulse. What caused you to lose that focus during the raid?¡± Ms. Lane asked.


    ¡°I lost to Penelope... I guess I just wanted to hurt Mandy.¡±


    ¡°Why?¡± Mrs. Lane pressed.


    ¡°Someone I care about was hurt. He hit her, and when I was fighting Mandy, I just lost control.¡± I wanted to take my anger out on her for constantly losing to Penelope and not being able to protect Pretty.


    ¡°Gugu, if you want to be an agent, you need to compartmentalize your personal and work life. If one spills over into the other, this incident could happen again.¡± Ms. Lane said.


    ¡°Okay.¡±


    As the session wound down, Ms. Lane shifted the focus to my current life, ¡°How are you coping? With life?¡±


    ¡°School is easy; it always has been. The material is straightforward. My real struggle is connecting with others.¡± or it was a struggle.


    ¡°Like your boyfriend?¡± Mrs. Lane asked.


    ¡°Will is fine. He treats me well. I guess I got lucky.¡± And that ass.


    ¡°What do you mean by ¡®I guess¡¯?¡±  Mrs. Lane asked.


    ¡°I don¡¯t open up. That¡¯s always been hard for me in dating.¡± But not with Will.


    ¡°Why?¡±  Mrs. Lane pressed.


    ¡°Labels mean it¡¯s real, and I have to expose myself.¡±


    ¡°Have you had casual flings?¡± she asked, cutting to the chase.


    ¡°Yes.¡± after Theo and I ended.


    ¡°Did any of your casual flings want more?¡± she asked.


    ¡°Yeah, they did.¡±


    ¡°When one of your flings wanted more, you cut them off because you subconsciously believed they wouldn¡¯t like the real you.¡± Mrs. Lane pointed out.


    ¡°No¡­ maybe.¡± But not currently.


    ¡°Because of Irma?¡± Mrs. Lane asked.


    ¡°What about Irma?¡± I asked.


    ¡°She was your best friend. She saw the real you, not the mask you wear in public. She loved you ¡± Mrs. Lane replied.


    ¡°What¡¯s your point?¡± I don''t do that now.


    ¡°Do you hate Irma?¡±  Ms. Lane asked.


    I shook my head, revulsion etched on my face, ¡°What! I love her!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not what I asked.¡± Ms lane pointed out.


    ¡°No, and why would you ask that?¡± relax Gugu so don''t get arrested for assault.


    ¡°Your description of Irma is poetic, but when you talk about yourself, you judge, criticize, and belittle yourself.¡± Mrs. Lane pointed out.


    ¡°So?¡± I did do that and still do when talking about Irma.


    ¡°The reasons you love her are the reasons you haven¡¯t dated anyone.¡± Mrs. Lane replied.


    ¡°Yeah! Right.¡± My two boyfriends don''t exist.


    ¡°She is the sun, and you are a planet.¡± Mrs. Lane said.


    ¡°What?¡± Confusion flooded my mind.


    ¡°You need her, but she doesn¡¯t need you.¡± Mrs. Lane explained.


    ¡°That¡¯s harsh.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s why you didn¡¯t believe any of your physical relationships were anything more. Why would they want you instead of her?¡± Mrs. Lane asked.


    ¡°So, I¡¯m insecure?¡±


    ¡°No, it¡¯s just that Irma¡¯s personality is larger than life, casting a shadow you¡¯ve always lived in. That affected your self-esteem and self-worth.¡± Mrs. Lane explained.


    ¡°Whatever.¡±


    ¡°Now that Irma isn¡¯t in your life, you¡¯ve opened up, gotten a new boyfriend, and made close friends.¡± Mrs. Lane added.


    ¡°I should be happy that my friend is brain dead?¡± I asked.


    ¡°Don¡¯t dwell on dualism.¡± Mrs. Lane said.


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°Duality helps us make sense of chaos. Life isn¡¯t just one thing or another. You need to accept that you can have conflicting opinions. Irma is a dear friend, but without her, you¡¯ve built healthy relationships.¡± Mrs. Lane explained.


    I nodded, a flicker of understanding sparking within me.


    ¡°How did you get back to living your life after the accident?¡± Mrs. Lane asked.


    ¡°My sister took me to S?o Paulo, and we traveled through South America. Slowly, I came out of my shell. It took years to get off my medication, I wanted to finish school and started again at grade three. That¡¯s when I met Pretty, who grounded me. Then there were Liz, Anni, Theresa. My life grew richer. My family supported me through it all, and I¡¯m eternally grateful.¡± I really am happy and lucky.


    ¡°Okay, our time is up,¡± Mrs. Lane said.


    ¡°Oh! Okay.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s great you have people to rely on. It¡¯s crucial for balancing your life as an agent.¡± Mrs. Lane added.


    ¡°Thank you. You¡¯ve helped me clear my head.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m glad to hear that. Goodbye.¡± Mrs. Lane said.


    ¡°Bye.¡± I replied before leaving the room.


    For the first time in years, I headed to the hospital where Irma was. I slipped into her room, and there she was. Her face was still misshapen, but I could look at her and whispered, ¡°Hello¡­ I don¡¯t know what to say except that I miss you, and I¡¯m sorry for not coming sooner. I just couldn¡¯t stand to see you like this. I will search the galaxy to find a way to bring you back to your peak condition.¡± I kissed her forehead and slipped out before anyone caught me.


    When I got home, Pretty was watching a movie. She turned to me, concern etched on her face, ¡°Where have you been?¡±


    ¡°I had my psych evaluation.¡± I said while standing on the doorway.


    ¡°Bad news?¡± Pretty asked.


    ¡°No, I got cleared.¡± I said while I walked in and closed the door.


    ¡°That¡¯s bad?¡± she asked, confused.


    ¡°No, just one of those days.¡± I droped my bsg on my chair and climbed into bed, resting my head on her shoulder.


    ¡°Say no more.¡± Pretty said.


    ¡°What are you watching?¡±


    ¡°Mountain Sharks.¡± Pretty responded.


    ¡°Mountain sharks?¡± I echoed, raising an eyebrow.


    ¡°A prehistoric shark fossil was combined with modern shark DNA, creating a new species. After a failed experiment, they mutated and can now swim in rocks.¡± Pretty explained.


    I laughed at the absurdity, ¡°That sounds awful and awesome. There¡¯s nothing like a terrible movie to lighten my day.¡±

 The sins of Ghent

    The worst part is the best part about Lava, I don''t burn I devour you whole,a process of absorption mind, body and soul...


    "Gugu... Gugu... Gugu!"


    I looked back at Mrs Lane.


    "Where did you go?" Mrs Lane asked.


    I smiled, "No where." oh how I hate making this fake smile.


    "It doesn''t seem like it." Mrs Lane.


    I shrugged my shoulders.


    "Okay, are you happy in this place or is it a place you hurt yourself so that you don''t feel bad about Irma." Mrs Lane asked.


    "Well... It''s... bad and worse."


    "Tell me about this place." Mrs Lane said.


    "We went to Ghent...


    I always hated kill orders even the idea that as a hunter I would be forced to act with such impunity turned my stomach and it had been hours and I still felt sick.


    Irma''s voice played in my head from the moment she handed us the files. Calm, precise ¡ª like the words she spoke weren''t deciding whether whole lives would be erased from this world.


    "Investigate disappearances in Ghent. If Chimeras are found... termination is authorized."


    No hesitation. No mercy.


    I stared out of the private jet window as we cut through the night sky, the faint drone of the engines drowning out the silence between all of us. The Committee never called for exterminations lightly. If every faction had signed off... it meant whatever we were walking into should be horrifying.


    I shifted in my seat, feeling Theo''s hand brush against mine on the armrest. He didn''t say anything, just laced his fingers through mine. His thumb traced slow circles over my knuckles ¡ª absentminded, like he wasn''t even thinking about it.


    We hadn''t been long since I said we should take a break so we can focus on passing. Maybe three months since I felt his touch but I didn''t complain. We were given a mission to head to hell so maybe we could just enjoy this without asking question.


    "What''s on your mind?" he murmured, leaning closer.


    I glanced at him ¡ª those dark curls falling over his forehead, soft brown eyes always carrying more weight than he let on. I could feel Klaus watching us from across the aisle, pretending not to notice. Bianca was asleep, curled against Bruce''s shoulder. Lindo had his headphones in, head bobbing to whatever bass-heavy nonsense he was listening to.


    Only Irma sat upright, eyes flicking through her tablet ¡ª like she''d memorized the mission brief and was still looking for something everyone else missed.


    I squeezed Theo''s hand.


    "The order."


    His lips pressed together. He didn''t like it either ¡ª none of us did ¡ª but Theo was practical. He always had been. "Better us than some bloodthirsty strike team."


    I hated that he was right.


    We were the lesser evil.


    We landed just before dawn, touching down on some private airstrip far from the city lights. Black cars were already waiting for us ¡ª tinted windows, Committee drivers who never said a word. They took us straight to the hotel, a sleek place tucked between canals with stone walls and dark wood furniture.


    I couldn''t help noticing how normal everything looked. Tourists sipped coffee along the water. Old couples wandered hand in hand. Somewhere in the distance, church bells rang ¡ª soft, hollow chimes that made my stomach turn.


    None of them knew what was happening beneath their feet.


    Our rooms were booked under fake names. Irma made sure we were spread out across different floors, but Theo and I were in the same room ¡ª some small mercy in all of this from her.


    We barely had time to unpack before Irma called us into one of the suites for the briefing.


    "Disappearances started four months ago." she began, pacing slowly at the head of the table. "Thirty-five confirmed victims ¡ª all supernatural. Vampires, Blood witches, Werewolves, fallen... no pattern except what they are."


    Bruce leaned forward, "Who tipped off the Committee?"


    Irma''s eyes flicked toward him. "The Blood witches."


    A low murmur rippled through the room. Even Bianca looked up at that. The Blood witches never called for help. Not unless something had them running scared I thought but I later found out it wasn''t fear they wanted but habearjars of death.


    Lindo shifted in his chair, tapping his fingers against the table. "They think someone''s making Chimeras."


    Irma didn''t confirm it. She didn''t need to.


    "There''s a kill order, they are the perfect slave no consciousness or soul just an empty shell that will follow orders even if those orders were to die." she said instead, cutting straight to the heart of it. "This order was signed by every faction. If we find any abominations..."


    Her eyes settled on me. "We end them."


    No one said a word.


    I felt Theo''s hand rest on my thigh under the table, grounding me. That night, we went out for dinner ¡ª one last moment of normal before we''d have to dig through whatever nightmare was waiting for us in this city.


    Irma chose some little bistro by the water. Candlelit tables. Warm bread. I could almost pretend it was just a trip, just friends on a European vacation.


    Theo ordered wine for both of us without asking. He always remembered the little things ¡ª what I liked, what I couldn''t drink without my stomach twisting.


    "You okay?" he asked quietly as the others argued over the menu.


    I nodded, even though I wasn''t.


    He leaned in, voice low. "I know what you''re thinking."


    "You don''t."


    He tilted his head, those soft eyes catching mine. "You''re thinking they were people once. That maybe they still are."


    I swallowed hard. "You don''t know that."


    Theo didn''t argue. He just reached across the table and squeezed my hand again, like he could hold me together by touch alone.


    By the time we got back to the hotel, the city was heavy with mist. I could feel the heat rising under my skin ¡ª the way it always did before a mission but this one was different.


    Theo peeled off his jacket, stretching out on the bed like this was just another night.


    I stood by the window, watching the canal below.


    "You''re not sleeping, are you?" he asked softly.


    "No."


    He didn''t press. He never did.


    Instead, he got up, walked behind me, and wrapped his arms around my waist ¡ª warm, steady. His lips brushed the back of my neck. "We''ll get through this."


    I closed my eyes and leaned into him, letting his heartbeat drown out the memories already trying to claw their way in the first Chemira... how I burnt it."They''re just mindless slaves." I whispered.


    Theo kissed the side of my head. "You keep telling yourself that."


    I didn''t know if he meant the Chimeras...


    ...or us.


    I couldn''t sleep that night.


    Theo snored softly beside me, one arm draped across my waist like he''d forget where I was if he let go. I stayed awake, staring at the ceiling until the first cracks of dawn stretched across the sky.


    By the time we made it downstairs for breakfast, the others were already at the table ¡ª Klaus nursing a black coffee, Bianca with her curls tucked under a silk scarf, Bruce halfway through his third plate of eggs.


    Lindo tapped away at his phone, probably texting one of his side pieces. Theo slid in next to me, yawning as he reached for the coffee pot.


    Irma was nowhere to be seen.


    I didn''t expect her to be.


    Twenty minutes passed before the door opened and she walked in ¡ª hair pinned into a pony tail in a dark suit pristine like she''d never even touched a bed.Her eyes flicked across the table, checking faces. "We know who made them."


    The whole room went still.


    Lindo''s phone clicked off. Bruce set down his fork.


    Irma dropped a file onto the table.


    "Willem De Klerk. Former biochemist for the Dutch government. Went off the grid three years ago. The Committee''s been tracking his movements, but this..." She tapped the folder. "This is new."


    I opened the file, flipping through photos of the manor ¡ª all cold stone and wrought iron gates, tucked deep into the Ghent countryside.


    "They''re calling it the Foundry." Irma said. "That''s where he''s making them. But the Chimeras aren''t stored there."


    Klaus''s sharp blue eyes cut toward her. "Where are they kept then?"


    Irma''s lips pressed together. "We head to the manor which is a front. We lean on De Klerk, he''ll give us the location excalt location of the sight."


    I stared at the grainy surveillance photos ¡ª guards at every entrance, some carrying weapons, others with that unmistakable glow behind their eyes.


    Enhanced.


    "We hit the manor first." Irma''s voice was steady. "Neutralize the security, find De Klerk... then we move on the storage facility."


    No one asked if we''d get the information out of him. If the Committee signed off on this... there would be no interrogation rooms.


    Just bodies.


    We left within the hour.


    Two black SUVs, tinted windows. Theo drove, knuckles tight around the wheel. Klaus rode shotgun, cleaning his revolver like we were heading to a funeral.


    I watched the city slip by through the glass ¡ª old buildings and winding canals, little boats rocking against stone walls. It all felt so fragile.


    I hated cities like this. The ones that pretended the world hadn''t already ended a hundred times over beneath their feet.


    The manor stood on the outskirts ¡ª a hulking beast carved into the earth. Iron fences wrapped around the property, cameras in every corner. I could see the guards from half a mile away ¡ª steel, sweat, something bitter curling under their skin.


    They weren''t human. Not entirely.


    Irma''s voice crackled through the comms in my ear.


    "Klaus, Bruce ¡ª perimeter. Lindo, Bianca ¡ª south entrance. Theo, Gugu ¡ª you''re with me."


    Theo glanced at me. "You ready?"


    I rolled my shoulders, heat flickering under my palms. "Yeah."


    The first guard never saw me coming.


    I moved faster sound and ended the fight quickly as possible my fist connected with his chest, ribs cracking as his body folded in half. He hit the ground before the echo of the sonic boom caught up.


    Theo was right behind me ¡ª shadows coiling around his arms, his knife flashing once before another body crumpled at his feet.


    We left them in the dark ¡ª broken bones, scorched earth.


    Irma glided through the breach like a ghost, not even breaking stride as she snapped a man''s neck with one hand.


    She was always faster than the rest of us ¡ª faster than me.


    We tore through the manor like predators bring death to all ¡ª clearing rooms, dropping guards before they could scream. Bianca''s voice whispered through the comms, counting bodies in that soft, bored tone of hers.


    "Nine down."


    "Twelve."


    "Seventeen."


    The whole place smelled like antiseptic and rot ¡ª like something had been carved out of the walls and stitched back together wrong.


    Theo opened the basement door, and the stench poured out thick and heavy.


    I gagged.


    They weren''t storing anything here.


    This was where they were made.


    We found Willem De Klerk in the library, sipping tea like he hadn''t built an abomination under his own floors.


    Irma walked in first, pistol leveled at his head.


    He barely blinked. "You''re too late, you know." His voice was thin, clipped.


    Irma didn''t flinch. "Where''s the facility?"


    De Klerk smiled. "You wouldn''t understand the beauty of my creations. As humans we stand at the precipice of war at the best of times this force creation means no need for human life to be disposable numbers and no children being molded by propaganda of the state that it''s they duty to fight and they are fighting for democracy and when they turn 18 they are just shipped into one warzone after another to protect billion dollar industries interest not democracy or the people."


    I heard his jaw break before I saw Irma move ¡ª her hand twisting under his chin, snapping bone like wet wood. He slumped forward onto the desk, blood pooling against parchment.


    Theo didn''t even blink.


    Irma wiped her hands on his sleeve, leaned down, and whispered something against his ear.


    Whatever she said... it made him talk.


    The coordinates led north ¡ª an old textile mill outside the city, buried beneath a shipping yard.


    That''s where they kept them. Hundreds of them.


    Waiting.


    We stood outside the manor at dawn, the sun bleeding red over the skyline. The city stretched out below us, blissfully unaware.


    Irma stood at the front of the group, tying her braid back like she hadn''t just killed a man with her bare hands. "You all know what happens next."


    No one said a word.


    Her eyes found me last ¡ª cold steel behind those silver irises.


    "Gugu." My stomach twisted. I already knew what she was going to say. "When we find them... you''re the one who ends it."


    Theo''s hand found mine ¡ª warm, steady.


    I squeezed his hand as I stared at the sky, heat licking under my skin ¡ª molten, waiting. In a couple of hours I''d turn a whole building into a tomb.


    Hundreds of lives.


    Maybe they were still people.


    Stolen content alert: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.


    Maybe they weren''t.


    It didn''t matter.


    The kill order had been signed.


    I would be the one to carry it out.


    "We move in pairs." Irma whispered, voice low against the stone walls of the abandoned textile mill. "Zac and Lindo, north wing. Klaus and Theo, south. Bianca with Bruce¡ªcentral offices. Gugu... you''re with me."


    I didn''t argue. No one argued with Irma.


    The place reeked of death. The kind that lingers long after bodies are gone ¡ª like the air itself remembers what happened.


    It was fitting. This was where the first Chimera had been made centuries ago. Half-wolf, half-vampire, stitched together with necromancy and hubris. The creature was said to have torn through entire villages before the witches burned it down to the marrow.


    The Committee buried that secret. But secrets always come crawling back.


    We found the bodies first ¡ª bloodless, soulless husks stacked like cargo behind rusted machinery. Bianca swore under her breath over the comms, but I could hear the tremor in her voice.


    "Human?" Klaus asked.


    "No." Irma answered.


    "They''re harvesting them." she murmured.


    Harvesting.


    I felt my stomach twist. They were breaking down supernatural bodies ¡ª claws, fangs, venom sacs ¡ª cutting and stitching until something wrong was born.


    Chimeras weren''t just abominations. They were sacrilege.


    The first one came at us in the basement. It crawled on all fours, built like a wolf but with leathery wings fused to its back and two mismatched eyes ¡ª one yellow, one crimson. Lindo shot it through the heart. It kept coming. Bruce beheaded it. It still twitched.


    I had to melt its bones into slag before it stopped moving.


    "There''s more," Irma said, wiping blood off her blade.


    There were always more.


    By the time we reached the central hall, we''d seen at least a dozen ¡ª mangled things with too many limbs, stitched smiles, and souls screaming behind yellow eyes.


    Zac lost his knife arm in the scuffle. Bianca''s ribs were cracked.


    Klaus whispered a prayer, but no gods were listening in this place.


    We found the lab at the heart of the mill ¡ª glass tanks filled with hundreds of them. Floating things with stitched faces, their eyes flickering behind the glass, half-awake. Half-alive.


    Irma''s voice was steady as always.


    "Kill order stands."


    They were monsters, I told myself. Abominations. Things that shouldn''t exist.


    But when I walked between those tanks, they stared at me. Some of them were crying ¡ª soft, muffled sobs against the glass.


    "I can''t..." Bianca whispered.


    "You can." Irma''s knife was already in her hand.


    I stepped forward. The others backed away.


    That was why they''d brought me. Why they always brought me.


    The living can''t burn the dead. But lava... lava devours everything.


    I felt it stirring beneath my skin ¡ª molten heat rolling through my veins. My palms prickled, sweat sizzling where it touched me. I raised my hands, and the first tank shattered ¡ª glass, fluid, and stitched flesh melting into black sludge.


    The second tank followed. Then the third.


    They screamed ¡ª not human, not beast. Something in between.


    I hated how easily they burned. How quickly the air filled with ash.


    Irma stayed silent through it all. She knew better than to comfort me.


    By the time it was done, the walls were scorched black. Nothing left but heat and the stench of cooked meat. Hundreds of lives snuffed out ¡ª no funerals, no names. Just another secret buried under the Committee''s orders.


    Irma placed her hand on my shoulder.


    "You did the right thing."


    I didn''t answer. I just watched the ashes swirl.


    The Committee would write this down as a victory. A necessary act. The abominations were gone. The city was clean.


    No one would ask who gave the order to make them in the first place.


    No one ever does.


    By dawn, we were on a train out of Ghent. Zac''s arm was gone. Bianca would need weeks to heal. The rest of us just carried the weight.


    I watched the sunrise from the window, skin still fever-hot beneath my jacket.


    I did the right thing.


    That''s what I kept telling myself.


    I wondered how long it would take for that to feel true.


    ***


    I couldn''t sleep that night.


    Theo snored softly beside me, one arm draped across my waist like he''d forget where I was if he let go. I stayed awake, staring at the ceiling until the first cracks of dawn stretched across the sky.


    By the time we made it downstairs for breakfast, the others were already at the table ¡ª Klaus nursing a black coffee, Bianca with her curls tucked under a silk scarf, Bruce halfway through his third plate of eggs.


    Lindo tapped away at his phone, probably texting one of his side pieces. Theo slid in next to me, yawning as he reached for the coffee pot.


    Irma was nowhere to be seen.


    I didn''t expect her to be.


    Twenty minutes passed before the door opened and she walked in ¡ª hair pinned into a pony tail in a dark suit pristine like she''d never even touched a bed.Her eyes flicked across the table, checking faces. "We know who made them."


    The whole room went still.


    Lindo''s phone clicked off. Bruce set down his fork.


    Irma dropped a file onto the table.


    "Willem De Klerk. Former biochemist for the Dutch government. Went off the grid three years ago. The Committee''s been tracking his movements, but this..." She tapped the folder. "This is new."


    I opened the file, flipping through photos of the manor ¡ª all cold stone and wrought iron gates, tucked deep into the Ghent countryside.


    "They''re calling it the Foundry." Irma said. "That''s where he''s making them. But the Chimeras aren''t stored there...wait something is off."


    Klaus''s sharp blue eyes cut toward her. "Where are they kept then?"


    Irma''s lips pressed together as she spaced out for a moment, "W... we head to the manor which is a front. We lean on De Klerk, he''ll give us the location excalt location of the sight."


    I stared at the grainy surveillance photos ¡ª guards at every entrance, some carrying weapons, others with that unmistakable glow behind their eyes.


    Enhanced.


    "We hit the manor first." Irma''s voice was steady. "Neutralize the security, find De Klerk... then we move on the storage facility."


    No one asked if we''d get the information out of him. If the Committee signed off on this... there would be no interrogation rooms.


    Just bodies.


    We left within the hour.


    Two black SUVs, tinted windows. Theo drove, knuckles tight around the wheel. Klaus rode shotgun, cleaning his revolver like we were heading to a funeral.


    I watched the city slip by through the glass ¡ª old buildings and winding canals, little boats rocking against stone walls. It all felt so fragile.


    The manor loomed at the edge of the city ¡ª a stone carcass half-swallowed by ivy and rust. Floodlights carved pale circles into the mud, their beams sweeping slow across barbed fences and guards posted like statues. Even from this far out, I could smell what they were.


    Spliced. Half-human. Half-something else.


    Irma''s voice filled my ear ¡ª steady, clipped, the way it always was before bloodshed.


    "Klaus, Bruce ¡ª perimeter. Lindo, Bianca ¡ª south wing. Theo and Gugu... with me."


    No one argued.


    Irma moved first, a green coat wrapped tight around her ribs. The moon caught the silver glint of her blade as she vanished into the dark.


    Theo nudged me forward, "You hot?"


    I flexed my fingers, feeling the heat stir beneath my skin ¡ª low and steady, waiting  "Always."


    The first guard didn''t get a chance to scream.


    Theo slipped behind him ¡ª blade under the jaw, slicing clean. I caught the second before he could turn, pressing one burning palm against his chest. His ribcage caved inward, heart boiling inside the bone.


    We left their bodies smoking in the grass.


    No alarms. No sound.


    Just death soaking into the dirt.


    Inside, the walls were lined with velvet and dust. Chandeliers hung like broken ribs. The whole place smelled... wrong. Like bleach failing to cover rot.


    We cleared room after room ¡ª shadows and whispers swallowed by our silencers. Bianca counted bodies through the comms, her voice too flat to be bored.


    "Seven."


    "Twelve."


    "Nineteen."


    The library was at the heart of the manor. Willem De Klerk sat behind a desk, tea steaming at his elbow, like he hadn''t built an abomination under his own floors.


    Irma''s pistol leveled between his eyes, "Where''s the facility?"


    He barely glanced up, "You think you''re saving anyone?"


    His smile was the kind men wear when they believe in what they''re doing.


    "We''re not making monsters. We''re refining evolution."


    Irma broke his jaw with one hand.


    Whatever she whispered into his bleeding mouth made him talk.


    The mill waited north ¡ª a gutted skeleton tucked beneath the shipping yards. The place had burned centuries ago when the first Chimera tore through the village. The Committee buried the story. Left the ruins to rot.


    But secrets never stay buried.


    By the time we reached the entrance, the stench had already worked its way under my skin ¡ª something sweet and spoiled clinging to the walls.


    Irma raised her hand, two fingers flicking forward.


    "Pairs."


    I fell in behind her.


    We found the bodies first ¡ª strung up behind rusted machinery, drained dry. They weren''t human.


    Harvesting.


    That''s what they were doing. Breaking them down into parts ¡ª claws, fangs, venom sacs ¡ª cutting and stitching until something worse was born.


    The first Chimera crawled out of the basement.


    Half-wolf. Half-crow. Eyes stitched shut. Wings fused to its spine.


    Lindo shot it through the heart. It kept coming. Bruce beheaded it. It kept twitching.


    I had to melt it down to bones before it stopped moving.


    They waited for us in glass tanks ¡ª rows of them, floating in yellow fluid, eyes flickering behind the glass. Some were half-formed ¡ª ribs yawning open, limbs stretched too long. Others were whole ¡ª stitched smiles carved into gray faces, their souls trapped behind yellow eyes.


    Irma''s voice never shook.


    "Kill order stands."


    They were monsters.


    I told myself that. Over and over.


    But when I moved between the tanks, some of them reached for the glass ¡ª weak fingers pressing against the fogged surface.


    Some of them cried.


    Bianca mummers, "I can''t¡ª"


    "You can."


    Irma''s knife flashed once.


    The others backed away.


    That''s why they''d brought me. They always did.


    Lava doesn''t ask questions. Lava doesn''t weep.


    I let the heat rise ¡ª molten hunger filling my veins. My palms blistered. Sweat turned to steam.


    The first tank cracked ¡ª glass, fluid, stitched flesh melting into black sludge.


    Then the second.


    Then the third.


    They screamed. Not human. Not beast. Something in between.


    I hated how quickly they burned.


    By the time it was done, the walls were black, the floor slick with ash.


    Irma laid a hand on my shoulder ¡ª light, steady.


    "You did the right thing."


    I didn''t answer.


    The Committee would call it a victory. A necessary act.


    The city would go to bed without ever knowing what had been built beneath their feet.


    No one would ask who signed the orders. Who made the first cuts.


    No one ever does.


    By dawn, we were on a train out of Ghent. Zac''s arm was gone. Bianca''s ribs would never heal right.


    The rest of us carried the weight ¡ª tucked behind our teeth, pressing against our lungs.


    I watched the sun rise over endless fields. The heat still clung to my skin beneath the jacket, coiled and waiting.


    I did the right thing.


    That''s what I kept telling myself.


    I wondered how long it would take before the lie stopped tasting like ash.


    ***


    I couldn''t sleep that night.


    Theo snored softly beside me, one arm draped across my waist like he''d forget where I was if he let go. I stayed awake, staring at the ceiling until the first cracks of dawn stretched across the sky.


    By the time we made it downstairs for breakfast, the others were already at the table ¡ª Klaus nursing a black coffee, Bianca with her curls tucked under a silk scarf, Bruce halfway through his third plate of eggs.


    Lindo tapped away at his phone, probably texting one of his side pieces. Theo slid in next to me, yawning as he reached for the coffee pot.


    Irma was nowhere to be seen.


    I didn''t expect her to be.


    Twenty minutes passed before the door opened and she walked in ¡ª hair pinned into a pony tail in a dark suit pristine like she''d never even touched a bed.Her eyes flicked across the table, checking faces. "We know who made them."


    The whole room went still.


    Lindo''s phone clicked off. Bruce set down his fork.


    Irma dropped a file onto the table.


    "Willem De Klerk. Former biochemist for the Dutch government. Went off the grid three years ago. The Committee''s been tracking his movements, but this..." She tapped the folder. "This is new."


    I opened the file, flipping through photos of the manor ¡ª all cold stone and wrought iron gates, tucked deep into the Ghent countryside.


    "They''re calling it the Foundry." Irma said. "That''s where he''s making them. But the Chimeras aren''t stored there wait something is off... I have said that before..."


    Klaus''s sharp blue eyes cut toward her. "Where are they kept then?"


    Irma''s lips pressed together spaced out for a moment, "W... we head to the manor which is a front. We lean on De Klerk, he''ll give us the location excalt location of the sight... I see you." Irma said as she took out a knife and run it besides her neck till blood shot up in the air and she spun around grabbing something mid air and stabbed it so many times that she was covered in red and when this person dropped to the floor everything fractured.


    Walls bent. Light folded in on itself. The whole world cracked like glass.


    We were back at the manor.


    Willem was at his desk. The tea still steaming.


    I felt the heat in my chest spike ¡ª rage boiling under my ribs.


    A loop.


    They played us.


    Irma''s gun barked. Willem''s head snapped back ¡ª body crumpling to the floor. But the smile stayed stretched across his slack mouth.


    Fake. A puppet.


    The scent of burnt gunpowder hung thick in the air. Irma stared at the body, her eyes flicking over every detail ¡ª the blood pooling wrong, the way the fingers twitched even after death. The whole time, her face stayed carved from stone.


    Theo stepped forward, "Loop¡¯s broken... he¡¯s dead."


    Irma didn''t answer.


    Her hand shot out ¡ª fingers wrapping tight around the puppet''s slack jaw. She pried it open, pushing past teeth until her thumb caught on something tucked behind the tongue.


    A capsule.


    Glass, thin as a film.


    She crushed it between her nails, and a wet hiss filled the room ¡ª black liquid burning away against her skin like acid.


    "Delayed trigger." she murmured. "His body was buying time."


    None of us missed the way her knuckles clenched, "They knew we''d get this far. The lab¡¯s already burned... but the shipment¡¯s still intact, it''s on his cargo plane since they planning on containing it just incase things went left field it''s the 23G model with the hawk painted on the back."


    I shifted where I stood, "How do you know?"


    Her eyes flicked up, "Because we¡¯re still alive."


    Bianca''s voice crackled over the comms, "Irma, what¡¯s more valuable than making new Chirmera''s?"


    "A way to control them." Irma said.


    The air shifted we all felt it ¡ª that cold pulse crawling under the skin. Like something waking up.


    Theo turned first, knife raised. I felt the heat surge through me on reflex, palms simmering. But Irma was already reaching into her coat ¡ª pulling out a thin vial wrapped in cloth.


    A siren''s bone.


    She snapped it between her fingers.


    The cry that spilled out of the hollow tube was barely more than a whisper ¡ª low and wet, like something scraping against glass from the other side.


    And the thing that answered...


    It was already here.


    "My assumption is true they were using tge corpes of a siren to kidnap the people who would be used for experimentation." Irma said


    As a hulking figure broke through the wall, limbs twisted through the dark, joints bending wrong. Water leaked from its open mouth ¡ª salt dripping down a neck marbled with stitch scars. It hung in the air like a puppet dragged up by unseen strings.


    Irma''s voice stayed flat. "They''re reanimating them now we all know the rules about confranting a siren avoidance means life fight means death but I ask all of you to buy me sometime so we can finish this mission, it''s a corpse not the real thing I know you won''t have issues."


    It attacked first.


    Just a blur of twisted limbs and raw strength ¡ª faster than something that size had any right to be.


    Klaus covered his body with a winds moving at high speed that mange to cut part of the siren''s hand but it punched straight through the wind sending him into the wall.


    Theo''s knife caught it in the side of the neck ¡ª steel glinting under the flickering lights. But the siren didn''t bleed. The blade stayed buried in muscle, and the stitched seams bulged, sealing around the steel.


    Bianca opened fire from behind, bullets hammering into its back with hails of bullets¡ª but the damn thing didn''t stop moving.


    It turned ¡ª faster than any corpse should ¡ª and threw Theo across the room like a ragdoll.


    The air cracked as Lindo vaulted over the table, blade carving into its shoulder ¡ª muscle splitting like wet fabric ¡ª but the siren''s arm lashed out and caught him mid-air, slamming him against the ceiling hard enough to bend metal beams.


    It was mindless, but that made it worse.


    No fear. No pain.


    It just kept coming.


    I blurred into motion ¡ª heat rippling from my palms as I slid low under one of its arms and slammed my fist into its ribs ¡ª molten cracks splitting through dead flesh.


    The siren flinched.


    Barely.


    But the smell of burning meat filled the air.


    Theo carved another gash across its spine ¡ª this time the blade caught bone ¡ª but the siren grabbed him and tossed him halfway across the room.


    Bianca was firing steel into its head ¡ª but the thing just kept twisting and lunging, time she made the projectiles faster more durable it wouldn''t stop.


    Klaus rose from the rubble, and used Bianca offense to get close enough to press his against what was left of it''s chest and he unleashed a blast of compressed air.


    Boom.


    The slug blasted straight through.


    The siren staggered.


    But the wound was already stitching shut.


    Irma''s voice stayed steady from the back.


    "Thirty seconds."


    The thing charged ¡ª claws dragging through stone, mouth yawning wide enough to split its own jaw.


    We broke it down piece by piece ¡ª every hit slower than the last ¡ª but the damn thing wouldn''t stay down.


    My lava burned through chunks of muscle ¡ª but the dead flesh just knitted itself tighter.


    Theo''s blade flicked out again ¡ª severing tendons ¡ª but the limbs kept moving without them.


    Klaus'' compressed air shredded it''s flesh ¡ª but the corpse wouldn''t fall.


    It took all of us ¡ª all of us ¡ª just to pin it in place for a handful of seconds at a time.


    Irma''s voice cut through the chaos.


    "Ten."


    The siren threw Bianca clean across the room, her molten blood splattering against the walls.


    Theo buried a knife straight through its empty eye socket ¡ª the blade punching out the back of its skull. The siren twitched ¡ª head snapping sideways ¡ª but it just kept moving.


    "Five."


    Lindo jammed the barrel of her pistol under its chin and emptied the whole clip ¡ª blood spraying across the ceiling.


    It didn''t stop.


    "Three."


    Theo locked both arms around its throat, straining as his skin stretched tight ¡ª strength surging through his veins ¡ª but the siren''s body barely even buckled.


    It grabbed him by the wrist ¡ª bones snapping ¡ª and flung him across the room.


    "One."


    Irma stood up, "Fall."


    The word came out soft ¡ª but the world obeyed.


    A pinpoint of light blinked into existence in front of her, this point no larger than a marble floated in the air.


    Then everything bent.


    The walls curved inward ¡ª stone groaning as their own weight dragged them toward that singular point.


    The floor stretched.


    The ceiling twisted.


    I staggered back ¡ª heart hammering in my ribs ¡ª but there was nowhere to go.


    Every step curved back on itself ¡ª like I was trapped in a spiral tightening with each breath.


    I looked up.


    The sky itself was folding ¡ª clouds smeared into thin streaks, stars bending into slow, lazy curves ¡ª dragged across the horizon toward that tiny hole.


    Reality was collapsing.


    Not breaking.


    Not warping.


    Folding.


    Like every inch of space between here and as far as my eyes could see had been nothing but paper ¡ª and Irma was creasing it between her fingers.


    My stomach flipped as I felt a hand on my back before I was thrown into this folding abyss.


    I thought I was going to die and closed my eyes and then I started falling, "I didn''t know the afterlife had air." I opened my eyes and well it wasn''t the afterlife so I turned trying to get my bearings looking back to see it was who did this but the was no one.


    Even the manor wasn''t visible.


    The was nothing behind me but the same endless black and bits of white, I turned around and the plane was right there.


    Irma had stitched the distance between the plane and I.


    I took off midair and flew the sonic boom echoed throughout the sky as I closed the distance.


    The engines howled ¡ª red lights blinking in the dark ¡ª but I caught up quick, the hawk painted on the back a clear bullseye and when I touched it all the heat rolling through my bones swelled up.


    I slammed both hands into the hull ¡ª fingers burning straight through the steel ¡ª cutting into the plane like it was made of butter.


    Irma had played her part.


    Now it was my turn.


    Guards spilled into the cargo bay ¡ª rifles snapping up ¡ª but I barely slowed down. I carved through them ¡ª skin blistering under my palms ¡ª until their screams melted into the wind but I only knocked then out.


    Then the Chimera stepped out from the shadows.


    Bigger than the last ones I had fought in thw loop.


    It wings dragged low against the floor ¡ª bat-leather stretched over barbed bone. Its breath steamed through fanged jaws, eyes burning white behind patchwork stitches.


    It grinned was it alive or a muscle tick.


    The plane buckled beneath us.


    I fought like I always did ¡ª heat rolling through every punch, every kick ¡ª but the damn thing kept knitting itself back together.


    Demon blood.


    I ripped a wing off at the joint. It grew back.


    I scorched half its face into molten bone. It grinned wider.


    The plane was already breaking apart around us.


    I made my choice.


    I grabbed the Chimera by the throat ¡ª fingers melting through its patchwork skin.


    The sonic boom ripped the night apart ¡ª the last pieces of the plane breaking behind me in a wash of flame and twisted steel.


    Higher.


    Wind screamed in my ears.


    The Chimera thrashed ¡ª claws carving into my ribs, snapping through flesh and bone ¡ª but I held on.


    Higher.


    The stars smeared into streaks of white.


    My lungs burned ¡ª breath turning to smoke in the thinning air ¡ª but I could feel the heat building underneath my skin.


    That molten thing inside me, rolling through muscle and marrow.


    It howled against my palm ¡ª jaws stretching wide, too many teeth snapping at my face.


    Its wounds were closing as fast as I made them. Flesh knitting itself back together ¡ª faster than any werewolf, faster than any vampire I''d ever seen.


    No silver. No fire. Nothing would kill it.


    Unless...


    I stopped trying to burn through it.


    And started burning it from the inside and outside.


    I let go.


    Lava poured from my palms ¡ª thick and glowing ¡ª filling its mouth, its lungs, its veins.


    It bucked ¡ª shrieking as molten light spilled from its eyes, from the seams stitched into its throat and I flew faster burning it from the outside as well.


    But I didn''t stop.


    Not until there was nothing left but ash ¡ª smoke swirling in the cold, thin air.


    I opened my hand.


    What was left of the Chimera scattered to the wind.


    I looked down at my palms ¡ª scarred, blistered ¡ª the heat still burning beneath the surface.


    Nothing left.


    Not even bones.


    Something flickered in the corner of my eye.


    I squinted ¡ª raising a hand against the glare ¡ª and saw the sun breaking over the horizon.


    A new day.


    The mission was done.


    I floated there for a while ¡ª clouds painted gold beneath my feet, ribs aching, lungs raw ¡ª watching the world wake up below me and looking at this view was worth it, such beauty made me feel... good.