Hitori stepped through the front door of the Nova Dormitory, holding it open a few seconds so a fourteen year old boy could scurry through. Seeing him reminded Hitori of back when he was that age this time of year. Halfway through the longest break of the year, running around at a furious pace trying to make the most of it.

Though, thinking about it, Hitori supposed most of his Kosmiches were spent in the Training Center, same as all his time off. He hoped the kid had at least a little fun. He shrugged, problems for later, for now he needed to make plans for helping Elvira with her investigation. Bringing an accused murderer into Nova was very strange.

Varzhish would have to be absolutely convinced, and convincing, about Drake’s innocence for her to be working with him, which was comforting. More than that, Hitori got the impression she knew a lot more about the situation than even Drake. Elvira was almost certainly caught up in something big, and right now she was totally clueless. And he was too.

Hitori sighed. “Life’s really got to be all red sands and black suns, huh?” he said under his breath, pausing in the middle of the path.

“Not like you to get lost, kid,” a voice said from behind.“Ah, Mr. Hassan, sir,” Hitori said, turning to face the speaker. It was Hassan Ahmose, a Nova Instructor who was also the man in charge of the Park.

Hassan looked to the side and grumbled, “Lived with me for seven years, doesn’t have to be so formal.”

What does this stupid wimp want?

“What’s that?”

He coughed. “Nothing, nothing. Wondering why you’re clogging the walkway. Got a lot on your mind or something?”

“Ah, yeah, maybe. Nothing I can’t handle,” Hitori said with a smile.

“Good, good.” Hassan gave Hitori a long look, then wandered off with his gaze. “You, uh, need anything, I’m always, you know”—Hassan trailed off, then coughed loudly. “Anyway, got a message for you from the Headmaster. He’s looking for ya, think it’s some kind of mission.”

“A mission?” Hitori said. “Like, right now?”

“Don’t know the details, to be honest, other than he’s a right black sun about it.”

“Alright, thanks for letting me know. Is there a particular time he wanted me by?”

“No, just said for you to come as soon as possible.”

Hitori frowned, then sighed. “Great. I guess now’s as good a time as any.”

“Yeah. Sorry.” Hassan shrugged. “I’m sure it’ll be fine. I hope it doesn’t take too long though, I was planning to invite your team over during Kosmiche.”

Hitori smiled at him. “That would be a lot of fun. I’ve got to introduce you to the new girl at least, but I’ve got a feeling it might be a year before we’ve got time for it.”

Hassan chuckled. “Busiest kid in whole school, you are. I don’t think even your mother worked as hard as you do.”

Maybe, but she was a try-hard too, for all the good it did her.

“I suppose,” Hitori said. “But anyway, have a good rest of your day.” They parted ways, Hitori changing course for the main office.