The next morning inside Ironhawk Academy.
After the announcement was sent to all students, Alex woke up to the sound of her phone buzzing beside her pillow.
She sat up slowly, eyes half-open, and murmured to herself:
– "So… it's finally time?"
With that, she jumped out of bed, dressed in a hurry, and rushed straight toward the Headmistress's office her mind still foggy from sleep.
But as soon as she reached the door, she spotted Amani standing there.
– "Good morning, Amani."
– "Morning, Alex."
– "Why are you waiting out here? Didn't you go in yet?"
– "Headmistress Dalia told me to wait for a bit."
– "Ah… I see. So, you got the message too."
– "Yeah. I came to find out what's going on."
Just then, Yuya appeared from the corridor, walking with his usual calm composure:
– "Good morning, Amani. Alex."
The girls replied together:
– "Good morning, Yuya."
Yuya looked between them curiously:
– "So? What's the news?"
Amani gave him a teasing smile:
– "Oh, how strange you're actually interested this time! I thought you'd just walk in and say, 'When do we leave?"
Yuya chuckled faintly:
– "Come on, give me some credit. Anyway, why are you two standing outside?"
– "Headmistress asked me to wait," Amani replied plainly.
Moments later, Rion and Mira joined them:
– "Well, well… good morning, everyone," Rion said, smiling casually.
Before he could continue, Amani interrupted:
– "Before you ask, the Headmistress said to wait."
Rion laughed, brushing his hair back:
– "Ha! So I would've been the third person to ask the same question."
Mira folded her arms confidently:
– "It doesn't matter what happens next. I'll stay beside Rion, no matter what."
Alex looked at Yuya, raising a brow:
– "Weird. You didn't say a word to Rion. That's the first time you two met, and you're this quiet? Did fighting that bug monster mellow you out or something?"
Yuya smiled faintly:
– "Maybe… Anyway, if you hear anything new, let me know, Alex."
– "Huh? You're leaving already?"
– "Yeah." He answered briefly and walked away, steady as ever.
After a few minutes, the office door opened, and Iris stepped out:
– "You may come in now."
The group entered the office.
Alex immediately asked, her voice brimming with curiosity:
– "Headmistress, please what's going on exactly?"
Dalia gave them a calm smile before speaking:
– "After the information we obtained recently, I've decided to send you all on a mission… to Valdoris.
This time, however, you'll be divided into teams five students per group, each accompanied by an instructor for support.
A leader will be assigned to every team, chosen based on strength and leadership potential."
Amani raised an eyebrow:
– "And how will you decide the teams? Randomly?"
– "No," Dalia replied firmly. "Each of you will be selected based on compatibility and skill to maintain balance within every group."
Mira suddenly stepped forward:
– "Does that include me, Touka, and Rion as well?"
– "Of course," Dalia said. "In fact, Rion will be a key factor in how we arrange the teams."
Rion blinked, slightly surprised:
– "Wait… how many teams are we talking about?"
– "Four," she answered simply.
At that moment, a knock sounded. Iris opened the door to reveal Max:
– "Come in, Max."
– "Morning, Miss Dalia."
– "Good morning. You missed a bit of the briefing ask Alex later."
– "Got it," he said with a faint grin.
Dalia looked around at the gathered students, her tone turning serious:
– "Any further questions?"
Alex raised her hand:
– "Just one… why now? Why make this decision suddenly?"
The room fell silent for a few seconds before Dalia answered, her voice low but firm:
– "Because of what we learned from the creature known as Shaltra.
It confirmed the presence of humans in Valdoris.
Not only that… but they possess the same abilities as us the power of Armors."
Shock spread across the room.
Max clenched his fists:
– "That's… dangerous. So this mission could mean rescuing civilians or facing people just like us."
– "Exactly," Dalia replied confidently. "That's why I chose you all.
The final team arrangements will be decided after the evaluations.
Anyone who wishes to withdraw may do so no one will be forced."
Amani murmured softly:
– "Do you really think we're ready for this?"
Dalia smiled faintly:
–"You don't need to worry. This is what you were all trained for.
You are… the hope of Valdoris."
The students left the office one by one, each lost in thought.
Rion muttered under his breath:
– "Are there really humans still alive there? Or is it just another lie?"
Mira turned toward him:
– "What do you think? Will you go?"
– "I will," Rion said, his voice steady.
"Not because they ordered me to… but because I've already decided I'll wipe out every last monster that remains."
Alex laughed softly:
– "Funny hearing that from you, considering you're half-monster yourself.
But honestly… I never doubted you, not even once."
Rion gave a small, genuine smile:
– "Thanks, Alex."
Her eyes sparkled mischievously:
– "Rion just thanked me! Oh wow, this must be the best day of my life.
Could this be… the start of something between us?"
He smirked:
– "I don't think so. Maybe you should see a vet about that imagination of yours."
Alex gasped in mock outrage:
– "Rion! I was just joking! Why so cold?"
Max laughed, stepping forward:
– "Alright, enough flirting, you two. Alex, fill me in on what I missed."
She sighed dramatically:
– "Fine, fine… I'll tell you everything."
Last Night
After defeating the insect-like beast, Kim and Ken walked side by side through the quiet corridor leading back to the academy.
Kim smiled faintly and said:
– "Didn't I tell you? You're strong, Ken. But remember… no one is strong in everything. Each of us has something special that defines us."
Ken gave a small laugh:
– "Maybe you're right. …Thanks for saving me, brother."
Kim chuckled, patting him on the shoulder:
– "Don't thank me. It's what brothers do."
– "Yeah… I guess so."
A sly grin spread across Kim's face:
– "So… what do you say we stay up tonight?"
Ken raised an eyebrow. "Why not?"
Later, the two sat together in Ken's room. Kim pulled out a small box and said with excitement:
– "Let's play Shadow Leaf Cards!"
Ken laughed as he arranged the deck:
– "Careful, I'm pretty good at this game."
– "We'll see about that."
As they played, Kim asked:
– "So tell me how did you know that plan of yours would actually kill the beast?"
Ken tilted his head:
– "Which part are you talking about?"
– "The part where you realized that would destroy it from the inside."
Ken sighed lightly:
– "I figured the clash of mana inside its body would tear it apart. You raised the heat, I lowered it its own unstable mana would collapse from within."
Kim blinked, surprised:
– "You figured that? Just like that?"
– "Not exactly." Ken smirked. "I knew the mix between thermal energy and unstable mana causes internal collapse, not external. I… studied a bit about mana structure before."
Kim nodded with admiration:
– "I didn't know you thought things through like that."
Ken laughed softly. "Sometimes I have to think for both of us."
A short silence passed before Kim yawned:
– "Looks like it's getting late… let's crash."
– "Good idea," Ken mumbled, already half-asleep.
And just like that, after a long day of battle and laughter, the twins drifted off into a peaceful sleep.
A New Morning
By the time morning light crept into the room, the twins were still fast asleep.
Kim blinked his eyes open lazily and reached for his phone only to freeze when he saw the time:
– "Ken! Wake up! This is important!"
Ken groaned, pulling the blanket over his head:
– "Five more minutes…"
Kim yelled, "You're still the same lazy bum! Look for yourself!"
He tossed the phone at Ken's face. The boy sat up in shock after reading the glowing message:
– "What?! Why do they always send these things so early?!"
Minutes later, the two were rushing through the academy halls toward the principal's office.
They found Manata waiting by the door, her usual calm smile on her face:
– "Good morning, Kim, Ken. How can I help you?"
Kim answered quickly:
– "We came to ask about the new mission."
–"Ah, so you've heard,"
Manata said gently:
– "Go ahead Dalia's waiting inside."
Inside the office, Dalia looked up from her desk, her tone firm yet calm:
– "I already know why you're here. Yes, the teams will be formed soon. You might be separated depending on the assignments but the decision isn't final yet. For now… that's all you need to know."
The twins exchanged uneasy looks before bowing slightly:
– "Understood," Kim said.
As they left, Ken muttered under his breath:
– "So… we might actually be split up this time?"
Kim placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder:
– "Whatever happens… we'll still have each other's backs."
But deep inside, even Kim couldn't shake off the uneasy feeling that change was coming.
Training Room
In the metallic corner of the academy's weight room, Atsuri was lifting heavy bars, sweat dripping down onto the cold floor beneath him.
His breathing was rough, his mind racing.
Will I be chosen? Am I strong enough?
He couldn't stop thinking about Amani, about how she had purposely lost her last match. He didn't understand why but it drove him to train even harder.
Footsteps echoed. Yuya entered quietly:
– "Morning, Atsuri."
– "Morning," Atsuri replied between breaths.
– "Didn't you go ask Dalia about the mission details?" Yuya asked.
– "Amani already told me," Atsuri said, setting the weights down. "We're getting divided into teams of five with a teacher as backup. But… I'm still not sure about myself."
Yuya nodded slowly:
– "I feel the same. Like we're not ready yet."
Atsuri looked up at him, eyes sharp with determination:
– "Ready or not… if there are people in Valdoris who need help, I'm going. Saving them is my choice my duty."
Yuya gave a faint smile:
– "You sound serious for once."
Atsuri chuckled. "And you sound less arrogant than usual."
That made Yuya laugh as well:
– "Maybe because I'm still recovering after fighting Shaltra."
– "I get that," Atsuri said, picking up another dumbbell. "After my battle with Dafron, I realized just how far I still have to go."
He handed one of the weights to Yuya:
– "Come on. Let's train. I know you're not as lazy as you pretend to be. We all have our reasons to go back there… and to get revenge, right?"
Yuya tightened his grip on the dumbbell, his tone low:
– "…Yeah. Exactly."
At the Academy Courtyard:
The sun was slowly sinking beyond the horizon, painting the sky in shades of violet and gold. A cool breeze drifted through the wide courtyard, where students were gradually dispersing after a long day.
Rion sat quietly on one of the stone benches. Beside him, Mira gazed at the distant skyline, lost in thought.
Suddenly, Trangen came running toward them, her steps quick and uneasy. Her short black leather jacket fluttered with her movement, revealing the white crop top beneath it. The light-blue denim shorts she wore had frayed edges, with a small chain hanging from the side. Around her neck was a thin black choker, and her high sneakers clacked sharply against the stone floor.
Without a word, she threw herself into Rion's arms, hugging him tightly as tears welled up in her eyes:
– "Rion… are we really going there? They said we'll be split into teams! I don't want to be in a team without you!"
Rion gently patted her shoulder, his voice calm as always:
– "Trangen… don't worry. No one knows how the teams will be assigned yet. All I know is that I'm going… it's the principal's decision."
Her voice trembled as she clung to him:
– "No! Don't leave me! What if you don't come back? What if you die?!"
Before Rion could answer, Kairen appeared, her steps firm and her tone sharp as she pulled Trangen away by the arm:
– "Trangen! How many times have I told you to stop doing this in front of everyone?"
Trangen lowered her head in embarrassment:
– "I'm sorry, Kairen…"
Kairen sighed, then sat beside Rion, a faint smile softening her expression:
– "Good morning, Rion."
He nodded lightly:
– "Morning."
She looked at him with calm, reassuring eyes:
– "I know your mind's been restless with everything that's happening, but worrying won't help now. Try to relax a little things will make sense soon."
Rion nodded:
– "Alright, Kairen."
Then he turned toward Mira and asked quietly:
– "Mira… do you think those rumors about the creatures that emerged from the sea are real?"
Mira blinked, slightly confused:
– "Rumors? I haven't heard anything like that. And I don't recall any paper mentioning it either. They're probably just stories."
Rion fell silent, his gaze following the purple clouds drifting across the sky:
– "I see… well then, I suppose we'll find out soon enough."
In Valdoris.
In one of Valdoris's muddied districts, a man ran through the streets clutching a small sack of food to his chest. He panted hard, sweat pouring down his face, his heart pounding like war drums.
As he neared the building where his children lived, a terrifying sound rose behind him. He turned and saw a giant snake-like monster pounce, swallowing him whole in an instant.
Before the dust settled, another creature appeared this one with a warped humanoid form. Its body was sheathed in a continuous, muscular armor of dull gold that emphasized enormous, threatening muscles. Its face was human but scarred, eyes blood-red, hair short and dark. A razor blade fused into its left forearm looked like an extension of its body. Its fingers were long and sharp, and its feet ended in clawed, beast-like talons.
The monster spoke in a hoarse voice:
– "Hey who allowed you into my territory?"
The other creature trembled:
– "Master Ogon… I didn't mean to..."
His plea was cut short. With a single sweep of his blade, Ogon split him in two and said coldly:
– "No one trespasses here."
A girl then entered beautiful and cruel. She wore a black combat suit that clung to her athletic frame, highlighting a slim waist and broad shoulders. Her long blond hair fell like silk down her back, and her eyes glittered a bloody red calm, merciless. Her hands were sheathed in black gloves tipped with gleaming claws.
She addressed Ogon in a calm, steady voice:
– "Master Ogon… how are you?"
Ogon stretched lazily:
– "Fine, Nivera… but I'm hungry. I want food."
Nivera glanced at the scattered corpses and asked with a sneer:
– "There's a human and a monster… which do you prefer?"
He shrugged, uninterested:
– "No difference. Prepare them both. I want to eat."
She bowed slightly:
– "As you wish, Master Ogon."
After Ogon left, Nivera stepped toward the bodies but then heard a faint whimper from inside the building. She moved in slowly and found two little girls trembling with fear, tears streaking their faces. A wicked smile crossed her lips as she thought to herself, Looks like a small meal…
At that moment another creature appeared a scaly beast armored in gray plates, with a scorpion-like poisonous tail and bright blue eyes. He sneered:
– "Hello, Nivera… what a lovely sight."
She looked at him coldly:
– "What do you want, Askorven?"
He chuckled:
– "Seems you found a tasty treat today."
She replied icily:
– "I'm not in the mood for your talk. Leave. Now."
Feigning innocence, he raised his hands:
– "Alright, as you wish, Lady." Then he left.
Nivera turned back to the two girls, whispering to herself, Now… I'll truly enjoy my meal.
She stepped forward slowly then the air behind her trembled with a strange energy. She spun around, eyes widening in surprise:
– "Ah… you?"
Behind her stood a small boy in plain, dark gray clothes, a hood casting his face in shadow. Only two pale yellow, vertically slit eyes like a cat's glowed from beneath the hood. The boy smiled with childish mischief:
– "Hello, Nivera… hope I'm not disturbing you."
She snapped, cold:
– "What do you want, Edi?"
He answered lightly:
– "Nothing… except your master wants to see you."
She raised an eyebrow:
– "Him? Why?"
He shrugged:
– "I don't know. He just sent me."
Narrowing her eyes, she muttered:
– "It must be about Shaltra, Dafron, and Ismeld… they're late returning."
Edi laughed with devilish cheer. Then, turning to the girls with fake innocence, he said:
– "I'll take one, if you don't mind right, Nivera?"
Nivera's smile was icy:
– "Of course… take her, Edi."
Edi vanished in a ripped shadow, carrying one of the girls away. The other screamed:
– "No! My sister!" Nivera approached slowly, grabbed the remaining child by the shoulders and lifted her despite her screams. Without mercy, she sank her fangs into the little girl's neck. The child's cries faded and her tiny body fell pale and motionless.
Nivera wiped her mouth slowly, her voice flat:
– "Children's taste… never gets old."
She then left calmly to bring Ogon his meal.
Afterward she went to the main stronghold where her master resided. The building loomed enormous, its strange ornamentation radiating dark authority. She walked down the long corridor into the great hall and bowed before him.
His voice was deep and majestic:
– "Nivera."
She bowed once more:
– "Yes, Master."
He asked with stern gravity:
– "What news from the scouting parties we sent into the occupied state? Has anyone returned?"
She lowered her head:
– "Unfortunately, no, Master… no word from Shaltra, nor Dafron, nor Ismeld."
A brief silence fell before he spoke, low and furious:
– "I'm counting on you this time. Do not repeat your past failure."
She answered quickly, submissive:
– "As you command, Master. I will not disappoint you. I will send insect beasts to search for them."
Battle Arena: Natsumi × Vodo
The training grounds thundered with explosions of lightning and shards of shattered stone.
In the center, Vodo and Natsumi faced each other, exchanging blows that grew fiercer with every strike.
Electricity danced wildly around her body, while the ground beneath his feet cracked from sheer, earthen force.
Natsumi clashed head-on with him and shouted:
– "You're strong, Vodo!"
Vodo grinned, his voice rough between breaths:
– "And you're no less, Natsu… not one bit!"
She stepped back, lowering her arms as she caught her breath:
– "That's enough," she said calmly. "We'll stop here for today."
Vodo dropped to his knees, panting hard, sweat dripping down his chin. He laughed weakly:
– "Whoa… that was a real fight. No armor, no limits! It's awesome having someone like you in the academy, Natsu."
Natsumi smiled faintly, brushing a few loose strands of hair from her face:
– "Thanks, Vodo."
A short silence lingered between them. Then, with a faint blush spreading across his cheeks, Vodo said hesitantly:
– "Natsu… I...I think I like you."
Her eyebrow arched in surprise. Then a sly, teasing smile curved her lips:
– "Oh? I like strong boys too, you know."
Vodo's face turned a deeper red. He stammered:
– "R-really?! I… I didn't know. I… I love you!"
Natsumi froze, staring at him with wide eyes:
– "You… love me?"
He turned his face away, embarrassed:
– "Yeah…"
She walked toward him slowly, then knelt in front of him. Her voice softened, tinged with curiosity:
– "But why? I'm pale-skinned, and you're darker. Wouldn't it be more natural for you to like someone who's… like you?"
This time, Vodo looked her straight in the eye, his tone firm:
– "No, Natsumi. I love you because you're you. You're beautiful inside and out. Skin color doesn't matter to me."
For a moment, she just stared at him. Then a faint smile crossed her lips.
She leaned closer, her voice low and almost playful:
– "Then… how much do you love me, Vodo?"
His voice trembled again:
– "I love you so much, Natsu… more than anything."
Natsumi extended her hand toward him, her smile mysterious:
– "Then… take my hand."
He hesitated for a second, then reached out with a trembling hand. She grasped it tightly and pulled him along:
– "W-wait, where are we going?" he asked nervously.
– "Just follow me," she replied, her eyes gleaming with mischief.
As they walked off together, Bern stood quietly at the edge of the arena, watching.
A cunning smile curved her lips.
(This is interesting… let's see how far they'll go.)
She followed them in silence.
Minutes later, Natsumi stopped before her room. She opened the door and stepped inside with Vodo.
Before closing it, she turned to him, her tone soft but shadowed with mystery:
– "You love me, don't you?"
Vodo nodded, trying to steady his breath:
– "Yeah… I'd do anything for you."
Natsumi took a step closer, her gaze sharpening. She whispered:
– "Then… prove it."
She closed her eyes and offered her body to him. Vodo approached slowly, each step weighted with his palpable hesitation, yet his eyes remained fixed on hers. Natsumi's lids were sealed, her breath quiet yet accelerating deep inside, as if silently challenging his restraint.
He extended his right hand, his fingers tracing a trembling path across her left cheek, sending a surge of warmth through her. He leaned in further, close enough for his breath to mingle with hers, then his lips crashed onto hers with sudden intensity a fervent kiss that liberated all their suppressed emotions.
His other hand drifted slowly down her back, tentatively exploring her contours at first, then gaining confidence until it settled firmly on her waist, pulling her closer as if he feared she might slip away.
Their proximity intensified, their bodies generating a heat that seemed to dissolve the air between them. Her heart fluttered, hearing the quickening drum of his own heart beating against his chest like war drums.
In a primal, instinctive move, he lifted her by her thighs, his strength seemingly beyond his control. His fingers pressed slightly, a fleeting mix of mild pain and overwhelming pleasure that made her smile right into the kiss.
When he placed her on the bed, it wasn't a rough toss, but an eager, urgent motion, like a man no longer able to hold himself back. Her strands of hair fanned out on the pillow as her eyes locked onto his, a blend of challenge and desire.
Vodo paused above her for a moment, breathing heavily, his face flushed. Sweat beaded on his forehead, and his hands still trembled, but he did not retreat. He bent down once more, returning to her lips for a deeper, wilder kiss, filled with a longing he couldn't mask.
Natsumi smiled cunningly, lying beneath him:
– "I take it kissing me wasn't enough for you."
He answered, panting, his face burning:
– "No."
With playful femininity, she concluded:
– "Then... do what you want."
In the meantime...
Meow was pacing the student corridors, her thoughts a tangled mess. She muttered to herself:
– "I wonder what the students are up to now... There's a persistent unease within me. I feel like I should be closer to Valdoris... I must rid this corrupt world of the monsters. Yet, even with three monsters among us, I'm starting to realize... not all monsters are bad."
At the end of the hallway, she turned left and spotted Bern with her head pressed against a door. Bern was clearly eavesdropping, her expression bizarre mouth slightly open, a trail of drool suggesting she was hearing something highly entertaining.
Meow approached with a puzzled frown:
– "Bern?"
But Bern quickly placed a finger to her lips, shushing her.
Meow moved closer, right next to her, and began to hear muffled, unmistakable sounds from inside the room.
Suddenly, Meow gasped as realization dawned. Flustered, she rushed forward and banged loudly on the door.
Bern jumped back and darted into a corner, leaving Meow standing rigidly before the entrance. From inside, sounds of frantic scrambling, bumping, a crash, and muffled muttering could be heard.
Then the door swung open. Natsumi stood there, visibly discomposed, a towel wrapped tightly around her body.
Meow demanded sharply:
– "How are you, Natsumi?... What were you doing?"
Natsumi stammered nervously:
– "I was... just showering. Is something wrong?"
Meow replied in a chilly tone:
– "No... nothing at all. If you don't mind, may I come in?"
Natsumi hesitated for a long moment:
– "O-o-of course, please do."
Meow stepped inside and sat down on the bed. Natsumi remained standing, attempting a nervous smile she couldn't quite hold together.
Meanwhile, Vodo was hiding in the bathroom, desperately trying to be silent. But a spider descended from the ceiling and landed right on his nose! Terrified, Vodo let out a small, stifled sound, muffling it with his hands, but Meow had caught it.
She jumped up quickly and flung the bathroom door open... only to be confronted by a naked Vodo! She screamed and slammed the door shut immediately.
Meow spun toward Natsumi, her eyes blazing with fury:
– "How dare you do this? Don't you know this is wrong? If the Headmistress finds out, the consequences will be severe!"
Natsumi lowered her head in shame, her features showing clear remorse:
– "I'm truly sorry, Meow... I didn't mean for this to happen."
Meow shouted, even angrier:
– "You didn't mean it?! Do you think that is a rational response?"
Natsumi was unable to reply, remaining silent and staring at the floor.
Meow marched to the door and yanked it open suddenly... causing Bern to tumble onto the ground; she had been listening right up against it. Meow looked down at her with contempt:
– "Can you stop this? Eavesdropping is disgusting."
But Bern replied with a strangely happy expression:
– "On the contrary... it's wonderful!"
Meow slapped her hand to her forehead in exasperation:
– "What is this absurdity I'm hearing?!"
She then stormed out of the room in a huff and left the area.
Bern, however, calmly closed the door and whispered happily:
– "Carry on... carry on... leave her be."
Vodo emerged from the bathroom, looking guilty:
– "I'm sorry, Natsu... It seems I've caused you trouble."
Natsumi gave him a slight smile and said:
– "Don't worry about it... I know she won't tell anyone."
Then she looked at him with an attractive, feminine gaze:
– "Do you want to continue?"
He was still flustered and replied:
– "But... Bern is listening."
Natsumi laughed:
– "Don't mind her... Bern is perverse, everyone knows it. She just enjoys hearing and seeing these things."
Vodo sighed, relieved:
– "Really? Good... then we don't need to worry about her."
Natsumi drew closer and said in a low voice:
– "Huh?... Do you want a second round?"
In the Marketplace – Rion and Mai
The atmosphere in the town of Kenimar's marketplace was calm despite the lingering signs of destruction left by the monster attack. Rion walked leisurely among the stalls and houses, observing the residents slowly rebuilding their lives. A soft smile touched his lips as he watched the children play once more.
Suddenly, his eyes caught sight of a girl nearby, chatting with a merchant. It was Mai. She turned towards him as he approached, smiling:
– "Hey, Rion. What brings you out here?"
He answered smoothly:
– "Nothing specific, really. Just wanted to make sure everything was alright after what happened."
She chuckled lightly:
– "Nice. So, you're free today, aren't you?"
– "Looks like it."
– "Perfect. Then you can help me."
He raised an eyebrow in curiosity:
– "Okay... with what, exactly?"
– "You'll see. Follow me."
She walked quickly ahead of him until they reached the staff changing room for the workers. She abruptly turned to him, her tone serious:
– "Take off your clothes."
Rion's eyes widened in disbelief:
– "What? Are you kidding me?"
– "No time for jokes. Hurry up."
Mai stripped down until she was only in her underwear, while Rion stared, utterly perplexed. Anxiety started to etch itself onto his face as he muttered:
– "Am I invisible to you or something?"
She ignored his comment and began putting on a worker's uniform, then tossed an identical set of clothes at him:
– "Change into these. We have a lot of work to do today."
She walked out without waiting for his response, leaving him standing there stunned for a few moments. He finally sighed, saying:
– "Looks like I've gotten myself involved..."
The Aftermath
They spent the entire day assisting the townspeople, moving stones, clearing rubble, and rebuilding damaged walls. The sun was dipping towards the horizon when Rion finally slumped onto the ground, tiredly wiping the sweat from his brow.
He smiled wearily:
– "Finally... done."
Mai sat beside him, dusting the grime from her hands:
– "Excellent work, Rion. How about I help you get rid of that exhaustion?"
He looked at her, puzzled:
– "And how do you plan to do that?"
She gently took his hand and said with a mysterious smile:
– "Just come with me."
She led him to the town's hot springs. Rion paused at the entrance, surprised:
– "A hot spring? I've never been in one before."
– "You'll love it. You helped me and the townspeople, so they allowed me to bring you in with me."
He nodded sheepishly and went into the changing room. Just as he was about to step into the spring, the door swung open, and he saw her, completely naked, entering without a moment's hesitation.
He was instantly flustered and yelled:
– "What are you doing here?!"
She laughed softly:
– "Didn't you know this place is mixed?"
His face flushed red, and he quickly covered himself, then descended into the hot water, trying his best to appear calm.
Mai sat on the opposite side, exhaling in comfort:
– "What a wonderful feeling... I didn't realize you were so strong. We finished the work much faster than I expected."
– "I'm glad I could help." he said, fixated on the water surface.
A brief silence settled before she spoke:
– "You know? When I joined the academy, I had a huge crush on Yuya. He seemed perfect... but he was incredibly arrogant. He couldn't stand seeing anyone outdo him."
Rion looked up in surprise:
– "Is this really the time to talk about the past?"
She laughed:
– "Maybe... but talking to you is comfortable. I feel like you understand me in a strange way."
– "Honestly, I don't know how to respond to that."
– "You are so shy, Rion!" she said, smiling.
– "What did you expect? There's a naked girl right in front of me in a hot bath!"
She chuckled again, then leaned her head back and
spoke in a calm voice:
– "You know, when I was little, I had nothing... no family, no home, no warmth. I lived in a narrow alley, scavenged for food in the trash, and bathed in the river. People used to mock me... call me hurtful names just because I didn't know right from wrong."
Rion lowered his gaze and said gently:
– "Mai..."
But she continued:
– "When the war broke out, I discovered a strange power inside me. I ran without realizing it until I reached the port, and that's where I met Amani and Alex. They taught me what it meant to live... to be a girl."
Rion paused for a moment before saying:
– "I understand what you went through... but I don't think this is the right place for such memories, is it?"
She smiled, closing her eyes:
– "Maybe, but I'm not ashamed of anything anymore. Even so... there is one thing I want to say."
He looked at her in surprise:
– "What is it?"
– "I feel something different towards you, Rion. You're not dangerous like the others... Your presence makes me feel safe. Even your shyness makes me smile. Maybe it's because... I never felt beautiful, but you make me feel that way."
Rion was silent for a moment, then said calmly:
– "Mai... you are a strong woman, and that doesn't diminish your femininity at all. On the contrary, your strength is what truly makes you beautiful."
She lifted her head towards him, surprise reflected in her red eyes.
(Beautiful...?) she thought to herself, lightly touching her cheeks.
Rion rose from the water, smiling:
– "I'm going to head out now. I'll see you later."
She watched him silently until he left, then whispered with a small smile:
– "Thank you, Rion."
Parting Ways
A little later, she exited the springs to find him outside, already dressed.
– "How about we grab a bite to eat together?" she asked lightly.
– "Sorry, Mai. I have an appointment with Kairen to visit her mother."
– "Ah... I see, no problem. I'll see you around."
She waved at him, smiling despite the slight sadness clouding her eyes.
He waved back before departing.
Afterward, Rion met Kairen in the middle of the town. She stood with her hands on her hips:
– "Finally! You're late, slowpoke."
He laughed, saying:
– "I was helping some people clean up the rubble."
– "Well... I'm going to tell my mother it was your fault anyway."
He smiled softly as they walked together through Kenimar's alleys, while the sunset painted the sky red over the town that was slowly starting to breathe again.
At the Academy: Trangen's Room
Trangen sat alone in her room, surrounded by silence and the tangled threads of her own thoughts.
She whispered under her breath, voice trembling slightly:
– "I have to tell him… but will he understand? Why haven't I said it yet…?"
Suddenly, a figure appeared before heridentical in shape and face, but with fiery red hair and a sharp, scornful tone.
"Idiot! Don't tell him. If you confess, you'll just look desperate. You need to act distant—make him chase you."
Then another self appeared, this one with blue hair and gentle eyes, radiating warmth.
"No! Listen to me instead. Confess, Trangen. Love doesn't wait, and chances don't come twice. Tell him before it's too late!"
A third form materialized beside them, hair brown, expression lazy, slouched in a chair.
"I don't get why you care at all. Don't tell him. Don't even think about him. He's not that handsome, and he clearly doesn't care about you. He's probably flirting with other girls right now while you sit here talking to yourself."
The argument between the three grew louder and louder until Trangen finally snapped.
"Enough! You're all fighting over me, but I haven't even done anything yet!"
Then she stood abruptly, resolve flashing in her eyes.
"I already told him… but I left before he could answer."
The room fell silent.
Then, all three figures whispered the same word before fading into nothingness—
"Stupid…"
Trangen's chest tightened. She hurriedly grabbed her jacket and stormed out of the room, her only thought: Find Rion.
In the hallway, she spotted Bern, crouched suspiciously near one of the doors.
"Bern? What are you doing?"
Bern jolted, pressing a finger to her lips.
"Shh!"
Trangen frowned. "You're eavesdropping? On Natsumi?"
Bern pushed her away lightly. "None of your business. Go away."
"Fine, fine. But… do you know where Rion is?"
"No idea," Bern said coldly, still focused on the door.
Trangen muttered to herself as she walked off, "Weird… I can't sense his aura like usual."
At the academy gate, she ran into Mai.
"Mai, do you know where Rion is?"
Mai smiled playfully. "Yeah, he went with Kairen to visit her mother."
"And where does she live?"
Mai chuckled. "No clue, sweetheart."
Just then, Mira appeared from the distance, munching on popcorn.
"Hey, Trangen. What's up?"
"Do you know where Kairen's mom lives?"
"Nope," Mira said casually, tossing another kernel into her mouth. "But I think he'll be back soon."
Trangen sighed in frustration. "Ugh… I don't even want to see him right now!"
Mai tilted her head, smirking slyly. "Sounds like someone else is falling for Rion besides me…"
Trangen straightened, eyes fierce and determined.
"Yes. I love Rion. And no one's going to take him from me."
Mai grinned. "Oh? Are you challenging me, then?"
Before things could escalate, Mira cut in calmly, her tone almost cold.
"I don't think that challenge will happen."
"Why not?" Mai asked curiously.
"Because Rion… doesn't love. He never has, and maybe never will."
Trangen froze where she stood. "You mean… he'll never love me?"
Mira smiled faintly, her eyes unreadable.
"No, Trangen. He does love you but not the way you love him."
Before Trangen could respond, Alex emerged from the academy doors, looking confused.
"What's going on here? A meeting?"
Mai shrugged. "Nope. Just someone searching for Rion."
Then, a notification tone buzzed from all their phones at once:
– "Team distribution will begin soon."
Signed, The Headmistress.
Mira's lips curved into a small smile:
– "Finally. The Headmistress made her move."
Trangen clenched her fists, voice shaking slightly:
– "I'm scared, Mira… What if I'm not on Rion's team? I don't want to be apart from him."
But Mira kept eating her popcorn, unfazed:
– "You never take me seriously!" Trangen snapped.
Mai's tone turned firm:
– "Trangen, focus on your training. The teams will be chosen based on strength, not feelings."
Trangen lowered her gaze, her voice soft but resolute:
– "Yeah… you're right. I'll get stronger—strong enough for Rion to notice me… and be proud that I'm on his team."
In Valdoris specifically, Astron's dark streets
A young man moved cautiously through the alleyways, the faint light of the street lamps glinting off his short white hair.
He wore thin rectangular glasses that framed his cold, unshaken gaze.
His outfit was simple yet deliberate
a sand-colored knit sweater, sleeves long enough to cover part of his hands, and dark brown trousers held by a black leather belt with a silver buckle.
Black gloves wrapped tightly around his wrists, and his reddish-brown boots bore the marks of long journeys.
He was tall and lean, his movements quiet and fluid like a shadow gliding through ruin.
Under his breath, he muttered,
– "Damn it… not enough food. I'll have to search farther out."
But then he froze.
A faint sound behind him.
Out from the darkness emerged twisted, humanoid creatures.
Their faces were pale and hollow, eyes lifeless like walking corpses.
He turned slowly, expression unchanging, and raised his right hand.
A silvery liquid shimmered into existence, morphing into a shining metallic axe, while his left arm was enveloped in the same material, forming a sleek, reflective shield.
Then he moved fast as a flash.
The sound of steel slicing flesh filled the narrow street as he cut them down one by one.
By the time he stopped, his breaths were ragged, his axe dripping with faint silver light.
He stumbled into an abandoned store, leaning against the cracked wall.
His voice echoed faintly in the silence:
– "My name is Nir Spashi… one of the unlucky ones who never escaped this hell."