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

“Sir, you okay?”

Faller shook himself conscious and acknowledged Ferris. “Okay is a relative term…”

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

“Ferris, I believe you’ve met Seears.” Faller said, indicating to the man sitting next to her, his feet propped up against Faller’s desk.

“Unfortunately…” Ferris remarked, as Seears turned to her with a slight surprise.

“Ferris is here for this? Really?” Seears sneered.

“Go eat a dick.” She snapped back.

“Sure. Name your price.”

“Would you two shut up?” Faller snapped, before settling himself. “This is also our new Chief of Security, Patricia Dulce. Apologies about…everything you’ve had to deal with.”

“It was a hell of a first day.” She sighed.

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

“Charming.” Ferris said, her gaze focused on Faller. “Can we hurry this up?”

Faller nodded and grabbed a few papers. “…the ‘Behemoth Wailing’ attack is our first priority. We don’t know why or how it happened, and the press is having a field day speculating while we decide on what to do.”

Faller turned to Ferris. “What’re we looking at?”

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to the two main support buildings will take most of the year to fix, and several first-year students have already withdrawn their enrolment following the attack.”

“Shit…” Faller muttered, resting his hand on his temple. “Of course they did…”

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

He moved to Seears. “What’s our best move from here?”

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

“I conducted a few interviews.” Dulce added, as the room went silent.

“…my recommendation, have the remaining first-year’s form teams as soon as possible.”

Faller’s eyes widened. “Right now, during a panic? You can’t be serious. It’s only been two days, Seears…”

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

“No, go ahead.” Faller waved, as Seears got up and grabbed himself a glass.

“At this point, I’d send them home.” Ferris argued. “Most of our resources are going to repairs and relief, and we’ll already struggle with the facilities we have left. And most of the students remaining won’t want to go anywhere near, heck, the practice dummies after something this traumatising.”

“…Dulce, what’s your assessment of the student’s safety?” Faller asked.

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

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

“Consider it done.” Seears said, pulling out his tablet. “I’ll get to work on the inductions.”

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

“Yes, sir.” Dulce said, saluting and heading out, slowly followed by Seears.

“Seears, I don’t want anything too big, okay?” Faller asked him. “We don’t ne-“

“Yeah, yeah. This isn’t my first rodeo. Keeping it subtle.” Seears remarked, ducking out the door.

“Ferris, you’ll be helping out with the inductions too.” Faller explained.

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

“Why were you out on the courtyard balcony when the Wailing attacked?”

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

“I couldn’t just sit by and watch my academy get destroyed by the one thing it’s built to fight against.”

“You shouldn’t be out in the action.” Ferris reasoned. “Especially when a ‘Behemoth Wailing’ that’s twenty times the size of a regular Wailing is tearing the academy apart. Gods, I just said regular Wailing…”

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

“The third party?” Ferris questioned. “Really?”

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

He slumped back in his chair and breathed deeply. “How could we let this happen…”

———

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

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

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

She was thrilled.

“Hey, Julia.” Called a familiar voice, as Chops showed up and leaned against Julia’s bed frame. “That’s pretty good to hear.”

“You don’t know the half of it.” Julia exclaimed, rocking back and forth on her bed.

Chops flashed a grin. “You nervous?”

“Actually, no.” Julia said. “I’m a little terrified, but not nervous.”

Chops snickered to herself. “Didn’t know there was a difference.”

“I gonna get a head start over the others. Wanna join me and get our placements sorted?”

“Sure. The gods know I have the time.” Chops said, following Julia across the hall. “Hopefully, it’ll take my mind off that Wailing thing.”

Julia didn’t weigh in, starting her stride with confidence, before very quickly bumping into someone adjusting their bags on their bed and knocking him over.

“Oh my-are you okay?” Julia asked, sticking out her hand to help him up.

“Well, that was rude.” He replied, rubbing his head. “And on induction day, too.”

“I’m sorry, I really didn…” She started, before finally getting a good look at his face and realising who it was. “It can’t be…”

“It can’t be? What kinda…” He started, before realising who she was in return. “Julia?”

“Florey?” She replied, before jumping into him for a hug. “Florey! It’s actually you!”

“You’re here too? What’re the odds of that?” He remarked, hugging her back just as hard. “I missed you like crazy!”

“Hello there.” Chops interjected. “Julia, mind introducing me?”

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

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

“Oh yeah.” Julia realised, a slight playfulness to her voice. “But I totally guessed right, since we’re both here.”

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

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

“Chops?”

Julia pointed to Chops, who waved to him casually. “Hey.”

“Oh. Sorry, go on.”

“Me and Chops were gonna go get sorted early, so if you wanted…”

“Just give me a second.” Florey said, before putting on his backpack. “Let’s go.”

“Great! Oh my gods, there’s so many things you’ve missed back home! First, dad got a new job down at the p…”

———

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

He certainly was impressive…shame I couldn’t stay at his place and had to come back here.

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

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

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

“Attention, first year students. Team placement and induction will commence today at 10:30am. A…”

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

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

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

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

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

“…good to know.” She said, presenting her hand to Harley. “Saxin.”

“Harley.” Harley replied, respectfully shaking it. “Sorry I didn’t work up the nerve last night.”

“I understood once I saw who you left with. Quite the looker…” Saxin reminisced. “Fortunately, we both ended up here.”

“I know, right? I’m surprised to see someone like you here.” Harley remarked.

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

“Well, you’re hardly the warrior type. Most Venators don’t wear dresses.” Harley remarked.

“Are you saying you’d rather see me without the dress?” Saxin asked, resting her grinning face against her hand.

Harley leaned in a little too close. “Maybe…”

Saxin smiled back to her, before standing back up and straightening her dress. “I’m a slashing weapons expert by trade, but that doesn’t mean I can’t be classy about it. A woman like myself should know how to look presentable.”

Harley laughed a little. “Can’t argue with that. And by the way, I very much appreciate the effort.”

Saxin giggled into her hand. “Glad to see I’m already reaping the benefits. I was about to take a little stroll before we’re assigned to our teams. I wouldn’t mind a bit more of your company.”

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

Saxin shrugged. “These things happen. I’ll be thinking of you, though. Don’t let that distract you…”

Saxin sashayed away, deliberately trying to draw Harley’s eye. Harley nearly forced herself to follow, but shook herself free of Saxin’s siren song and headed to the placement officers. She knew what an opportunity going to this academy was, and she wasn’t about to delay her education any further.

———

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

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

“I don’t need excuses! I need my suitcases at the academy!...no, you’re the problem!”

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

“…I swear if this was father…” She mumbled, heading back inside the main building.

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

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

Wess found her bed again, taking a well-deserved seat and lifting a bit of pressure off her leg. After scraping her leg during the Wailing attack, her recovery was impressively quick, but considering the academy’s reputation for emergency healthcare, Wess was just happy it wasn’t anything too damaged to fix.

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

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

She sighed to herself, trying to steel her mind, as an announcement came over the speakers about teams being formed in half an hour. Wess nonchalantly stood up, expecting that the academy would have to form teams by this point, and prepared her bag. She wasn’t about to be slowed down by her leg or by her classmates.

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

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

Wess rolled her eyes.

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

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

“Hey Wess! How’s the…you okay?”

Wess needed a second. “Don’t...do that!”

“Sorry. Thought it’d be fun.” Joleicia apologised. “I was gonna ask something...oh! How’s the leg doing?”

“…fine.” Wess replied. “My heart on the other hand…”

“Listen, don’t be worried about your team, okay?” Joleicia said, smiling pleasantly. “Just cause you can’t pick your own members doesn’t mean they won’t be super awesome.”

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

Wess spun around and started walking to the officers.

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

———

Sola was lost again.

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

“I’m such a dummy…” She whined, gripped with crippling annoyance. “I get a little free time, and I wander into a forest…”

She sighed to herself. “That rabbit was just way too cute…it’s so the rabbit’s fault.”

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

“Agghhhh! What’s with this place and labyrinths?!” Sola grumbled, kicking a tree stump, before realising it was a tree stump, one that had clearly been cut by a blade. “If that was man made…” She reasoned. “Then the academy can’t be far!”

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

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

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

Sola approached with caution. “Hi.”

Essex looked up and realised who it was. “Sola Lusagi. A pleasure.”

“I didn’t expect you here.” Sola remarked. “Why are you in the forest?”

“I am training. We’re Venators.” She replied, getting up and grabbing her scythe again.

“Okay, but why the getup?” Sola asked, having forgotten she was lost.

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

“Well…no, I guess not.” Sola admitted. “I never really think about that stuff.”

“You will have to if you want to survive.” Essex warned her. “This is an unforgiving profession.”

Sola stared in a fixation. “That stuff sounds so smart when you say it.”

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

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

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

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

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

“Which direction is the assembly hall?” Essex asked, her scythe at the ready.

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

“Understood.” Essex replied, heading off in that direction, leaving Sola to play catch up again.

Sola quickly pulled out her tablet and freaked out while they were running. “Essex! We’ve only got five minutes!”

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

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

“…first years?” He asked in fear.

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

The officer looked at Sola. “You know there’s no cut off. It’s not like we were gonna lock you out.”

Essex stood firm. “...that would make sense.”

“Where…oh gods…where are we…going?” Sola struggled to say, as the officer flipped through their tablet list.

“Names?”

“Sola…Lu…Lusagi.”

“Okay, and…?”

“Essex.”

“No last name?” The officer asked.

“Last name?” Essex asked.

“…whatever. Okay, Sola and…oh, that’s fortunate.”

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

“Turns out you’re in the same room.”

———

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

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

Names are the windows to the soul, after all. She reminisced. I can’t believe he actually said that. Dad’s such a dork.

Julia mumbled to herself. “It doesn’t look like either Chops or Florey are on my team...” She sighed to herself, somewhat disappointed, before assuring herself again. “I’m sure my team will be great regardless.”

She mumbled the names to herself as she read. “Sola Lusagi. Okay…then there’s Essex…oh, just Essex.”

She turned to the next chair. “Wess…Delacroix Nouvel? What a name…she’s probably incredible.”

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

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

“Y-yes.” Julia said, intimidated by her physique again.

Harley peered around at the other chairs. “I’m guessing you’re…Sola?”

“Julia, actually.” Julia said, tentatively sticking out her hand. “And it turns out we’re on the same team.”

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

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

“Lucky…” She moaned.

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

“Yeah. We walked in together, but apparently we’re on different teams.” Julia acknowledged. “I guess I was secretly hoping we’d all be put together.”

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

“Get out of here…” Harley remarked, as Julia tapped her shoulder. “Yeah?”

“I’m gonna go talk to them. Can you get my attention if the others arrive?” Julia asked.

“No problem.” Harley said, staring right at Saxin, as Julia wandered over to the other team.

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

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

“…but I guess that was bound to happen at some…oh, hello.” Saxin greeted, peering up as Julia entered the scene. “You’re awfully cute.”

“T-thank you…” Julia stuttered, wondering why everyone kept saying that.

Saxin looked over the seats. “Are you…Lenin per chance?”

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

Saxin finally got good look at him too, and found her gaze just as curious. “Well, hello.”

“Is…uh…is this my team?” Lenin asked, trying in vain to break his eye contact with Saxin.

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

“Huh.” Chops said. “Moth to a flame?”

“More like a moth to another moth.” Florey remarked, turning to Julia. “Sorry we aren’t in the same team.”

“It’s not your fault. Actually…” Julia said, indicating over to Harley, standing out amongst most of the other students from her height alone.

“Oh damn.” Florey exclaimed. “You won the jackpot.”

Julia proudly grinned. “No backsies.”

“Just don’t forget us little people when she’s carrying your deadweight on her shoulders.” Florey joked, as Julia playfully punched his arm.

“I’m exhausted already…” Chops moped, slumping into her seat. “Can we get to our rooms already?”

“Our fifth member isn’t even here yet. I hope you aren’t gonna sleep through our degree, Chops.” Florey asked.

“Who’s to say, really?” Chops casually remarked, closing her eyes. “Wake me when we’re at the dorms…”

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

“Julia, this is the actual Sola.” Harley introduced, as Sola waved awkwardly. “Apparently, Essex’ll be here in a bit.”

Julia smiled and stuck out her hand. “Julia Alpine. A pleasure to meet you.”

Sola reciprocated. “Ditto.”

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

“…oh! I mean, Sola Lusagi. Venator in training.” Sola doubled back, actually shaking Julia’s hand. “Sorry, I’m all frazzled right now. Just ran straight from the forest.”

Harley giggled. “What were doing in a forest?”

“I got lost following a rabbit.”

Julia blinked. “On purpose?”

“No…but I guess yes.” Sola accepted. “It was really cute, though.”

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

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

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

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

Julia moved her hand back and gave a well-meaning smile. “Likewise.”

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

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

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

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

“Denilee town?” Julia asked, as Harley nodded. “Isn’t that where Team Spectrum fought off the Savage Wolf Wailing?”

Harley’s eyes lit up. “You know about that? That was, like, this legendary day for the town! I wasn’t old enough when it happened, but my dads saw the fight first hand! I think one of them even threw a bottle at it.”

“Your dads saw it in person?!” Julia exclaimed. “When can I meet them?”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Julia smiled to her. “Hi. Are you Wess Delacroix Nouvel?”

Wess sighed to herself and accepted her fate. “I suppose I am for now…”

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

“Perfectly fine.” Wess stated, ending the conversation then and there.

Julia refused to let it lie and stuck out her hand. “My name’s Julia.”

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

“Have you been here long?”

“No.”

“…do you have a weapon? Or a Whil?”

“I hardly see how that’s relevant.”

Julia blinked. “Well, we are Venators. I mean, I’ve got a Whil, so I figur-“

“You’ve got a Whil too?” Sola excitedly asked, getting out of her seat. Julia smiled and nodded back to her. “Can you show me?”

Julia laughed a little. “It’s not really something I can show off…but, I can try.”

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

“Alright, Sola. Throw the mug to me.” Julia said.

Sola looked around. “Right now?”

“Why not? Come on, I wanna see too!” Harley cheered on, as Julia readied her hands.

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

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

“Alright, that was stupid…” Julia admitted, noticing Wess’ disinterest. “I promise I’m usually better with this stuff.”

“But clearly not when it counts…” Wess mumbled.

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

“Yes, thank you, Julia.” Wess said, arms folded. “But you needn’t keep glad-handing me. I will be out of your proverbial hair soon enough.”

“Proverbi-what do you mean?” Julia asked, grabbing the rest of the group’s attention.

“Don’t worry. I won’t hold this place too long. I’m asking for a transfer to another team once this…induction nonsense is over with.” Wess explained.

“But…you just got here?” Julia pointed out. “How can you leave after one minute?”

“I’ll have you know I’m a very good judge of character. If I see someone I can’t learn much from, I know.” Wess clarified.

Julia looked a little lost. “But we’re a team, right?”

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

“What?” Julia questioned.

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

“…huh?” Julia said, not really asking anything. She was pretty sure her ears were lying to her.

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

“Yours, maybe, but not mine.” Wess interjected. “I’m sure you’ll get a replacement team member with just as much appeal and style.”

“Guys, we’ve barely gotten to know each other!” Harley complained. “Can we stop deciding our entire careers before they’ve even happened?”

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

“Solo…Sola…” Julia muttered to herself, almost in a daze.

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

“Who looks to be in charge here?” Wess asked, as Sola pointed her to Ferris. “Ah, perfect.”

Julia snapped out of her panic. “Wess! You haven’t even given us a chance!”

“I’m not leaving anything to chance.” Wess declared. “I’ve already done that with the academy, and they appear to have let me down.”

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

Harley patted Julia’s back. “Let’s go get our things. We’ll get her to come around.”

“…we’re supposed to be a team.” Julia bemoaned, as Harley’s comforting clearly wasn’t doing anything.

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

“Hey~” Saxin teased. “Sorry, darling, but his words were just a little quicker. I’d still be open to a date, however.”

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

“I want to ask you about transferring teams, preferably to one of my choosing this time.”

“Come again?” Ferris asked, eyebrow raised.

Wess cleared her throat. “I want to change my team.”

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

“Yes, yes, I’m speaking about now, though.”

“Now?” Ferris asked, with an amused grin.

“Of course, now. I’m not making myself wait a ye-“

Ferris started cackling to herself. “Listen, we don’t allow that. The team system is difficult enough to structure by itself, so we aren’t about to change you out because your first impression was bad.” She kept laughing into her hand. “If you’re desperate, you can bother the principal with this. I’m sure he’d just love more on his plate right now.”

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

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

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

“…did you transfer teams?” Julia asked, not wanting to hear the answer.

“Honestly, she was hopeless. She advised me to ‘move my shit.’” Wess vented. “I suppose I am with you for just a while longer…where did the other three go?”

“They’re getting their stuff ready in the hall. I think Harley was chasing after that other blonde woman too.”

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

“Oh, geez, you really don’t like that.” Joleicia stated, hands on her hips. “Is this your teammate, Wess?”

“…for the moment.” Wess said, standing back up.

Joleicia looked Julia up and down, and smiled, sticking her hand out. “Joleicia McCarthy. A pleasure to meet you.”

Julia looked her up and down as well and shook the hand vehemently. “Likewise! It’s great to see another friendly face.”

“Well, we’re colleagues. I think it’s good that we’re social outside of our teams.” Joleicia said, giving a pure laugh afterwards.

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

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

“Oh, I’m sorry. I haven’t introduced you.” Joleicia apologised. “Julia, this is Cho-“

“Actually, me and Chops already know each other.” Julia explained. “We’ve been talking for a few days now.”

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

Joleicia blushed. “I’m not thaaat great…”

“I beg to differ.” Chops added, turning to Julia. “Wanna walk with us?”

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

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

“You’re a firearms expert too?” Julia asked excitedly.

“Well, mostly sniping, but I dabble with SMG’s and assault rifles too. Also, swords…” She stated. “I’ve always really liked swords.”

“Wow…” Julia let out, as Wess rolled her eyes and Chops wrapped her arms around Joleicia.

“You can’t have her. She belongs to us.” Chops joked. “You can keep cranky pants over there.”

Wess didn’t dignify her with a response, apart from a noticeable eye twitch when she said it.

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

“Is that your team?” Joleicia asked, giving a small wave to them. “They look nice.”

“Yeah, they do, don’t they?” Julia remarked, smirking at Wess, who avoided eye contact.

“Julia!” Harley called out, propping her hand on a suitcase. “We packed your stuff for you. We also tried to find Wess’ stuff, but…”

“It’s been delayed.” Wess clarified. “Additionally, there’s no point in me moving my effects in if I don’t plan to stay. In place of that, I might as well help you move your things in.” Wess said, directing Sola and Essex toward the dorms, to varying degrees of acceptance.

“I guess that can’t be helped…just don’t say old Harley did nothing for ya.” Harley called out, as Chops’ ears perked at the sound of Harley’s name.

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

Harley looked a bit confused, before the memory clicked for her and she smiled. “Chops?”

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

“You’re here! You made it!” Chops cheered. “I’m so happy for you!”

“I can’t believe it!” Harley replied, hugging her still. “I thought you said Venators were lame.”

“When did I say that?” Chops chuckled, as she remembered Julia standing by, confused and disoriented.

“You already know each other?” Julia asked.

“Duh. Harley’s my ex I told you about.” Chops reminded her. “We went out a bit ago during my illustrious tour of the Southern Wayside.”

“She crashed on my couch for a couple weeks.” Harley said, punching her arm. “And now she’s here, totally stalking me.”

“How do I know you aren’t stalking me?” Chops joked, as Harley brought her in for a playful hug.

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

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

“I’m with ya there.” Harley said, patting Julia’s back. “Let’s check out the digs.”

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

———

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

“Oh, doesn’t it all make your heart race?” She exclaimed, passing Ferris in the hall.

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

“So? Is everyone safe?”

“You said I needed to be here.”

“Is everyone safe, Ferris?”

Ferris grabbed her temple. “Yeah, they’re safe. They talked about nothing, then left for the dorms.”

“Security’s still with them, right?”

“Do you trust Dulce or what?”

“…no, no, you’re right. I’m acting paranoid.”

“I still don’t get why I was here.”

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

“I’d get payed more as a babysitter…” Ferris commented.

“…that’s all, Ferris.”

Ferris hung up and leaned against the wall, before propping herself up and slouching back to the hall. “Back and forth, back and forth…”

———

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

“Hi guys!” Joleicia waved, hurrying over to them with Chops in tow.

“Hell yeah!” Harley cheered, meeting up with their group. “We’re across from each other!”

Joleicia turned around to Wess in excitement. “Hi neighbour!”

“Joleicia.” Wess replied, granting her a smile.

“We located the front desk and acquired our cards.” Essex explained, holding out five cards to unlock the room.

“You guys could’ve gone in already.” Julia said, borrowing one of the cards.

“We didn’t want you to miss the reveal.” Sola explained. “How rude would it be if we just jumped the gun like that?”

“That’s…a very considerate point.” Julia realised, happily grabbing her things. “Shall we?”

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

It was…

It was okay.

“Is this it?” Wess remarked, scanning around the lacklustre room.

“This is it!” Julia exclaimed, rushing around the room ecstatically. “Our own team hangout!”

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

“Whoa!” Sola exclaimed, jumping out onto the balcony. “We get our own training grounds!”

“No, those are communal.” Harley explained, patting her head. “But it’s nice to have it right outside our window.”

“The kitchens fully stocked!” Julia yelled out, checking through the fridge. “Bathroom too!”

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

“Everything’s in working order.” Julia said, as the team gathered back into the main room. “Now, who’s taking the extra bed in the study?”

“I’d prefer to be out here.” Harley said, as Sola nodded beside her.

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

Julia nodded to her. “Okay. Just be careful if you’re planning on lighting incense. We don’t want the dorm to burn down with all our stuff in it.”

“Understood.” Essex said, moving her bags into the study, as the others started wheeling their stuff inside as well.

“How’s the moving going?” Florey asked outside his teams’ room, as Julia and Harley re-emerged from theirs.

“Pretty good. Not a lot of personal space, though.” Julia answered.

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

Florey started moving things in and out, as Julia and Harley followed suit.

“It still feels a bit weird moving in with people I just met. I’ve only ever lived with my dad until now.” Julia said to Harley.

“Me and Chops moved in pretty quick after dating. I guess this isn’t much different.” Harley pointed out. “Still, peopl-“

“You! Hall!”

Julia turned around confused. “You hall?”

Quickly, she noticed Ferris trudging down the hallway, pointing her finger at Florey specifically as he re-emerged from his teams’ room.

“Me?” He said, a little worried about what he might have done.

“Don’t leave your bags unattended in the hall. We might get the wrong idea.” Ferris warned.

“I was just helpi-“

“Don’t backchat me. Security’s paranoid for a good reason.” Ferris demanded. “Go get your things.” Florey grumbled a little, placing the boxes he was holding down and heading to the hall with Ferris as an escort.

“Classes haven’t even started and Ferris is already bossing us around.” Harley commented, getting a sympathy nod from Julia.

After about half an hour, the team had unpacked most of their bags, save for Wess, made themselves at home in the space, save for Wess, and claimed the beds they’d all use, which by process of elimination meant Wess had no choice anyway.

Julia flopped onto her bottom bunk. “We’re done! We’re actually done. I could sleep forever…” In defiance of her last statement, she shot up from the bed. “Who wants to do something together?”

As she peered up, she noticed Harley about to head out the door. Julia cocked her head. “Where are you going?”

“I am gonna chase up Saxin for that date, before Lenin sinks his claws into her.” Harley said, deliberately choosing a button up shirt so that she could eventually button it down.

“Oh…okay.” Julia said. “I was hoping, you know, since we’re all here now, we could do a team thing together?”

“I appreciate the offer, but I’ve gotta strike while the irons hot.” Harley clarified, ready to head out the door.

“…that’s fine. Wess, how abou-“ Julia started, before turning to see Wess grabbing her handbag and heading out the door as well.

“I’m off to see the principal.” Wess explained. “Don’t expect me to be back.”

She slammed the door behind her, as Julia looked to the other bottom bunk off to the right of the room. “Sola?” Julia asked, as Sola awkwardly avoided eye contact.

“I was sorta gonna go get my bearings. I got lost a bunch already, so I wanna do that less…” Sola said, getting up and shuffling to the door as well. “Nice meeting you, Julia.”

And in that moment, Julia was by herself.

Julia sighed to herself, before going to unpack her bags as a way to distract herself from the team. She might as well take out a few items and personalise her space while she had the time. All the inevitable stuff was there; spare clothes, Team Spectrum posters, her trusty alarm clock and matching calendar, and who could forget her good luck char-

“May I ask what you are doing?”

Julia flinched for a second, before shooting up and realising Essex was still here, just hanging out in what was now her bedroom.

“I was…unpacking…” Julia admitted, hiding her memento behind her back.

“What is that behind your back?” Essex asked, as Julia realised how obvious it must’ve looked. She tried to keep it hidden, but realised how futile the effort would eventually be. Accepting her fate, she revealed a stuffed fox toy, shimmering orange with dot eyes, in her hands. It was noticeably worn with age, but still well taken care of and maintained, showing almost no signs of inevitable tears and repairs.

“This is…Maxie.” Julia whispered, holding out the toy while trying to hide herself behind it.

Essex slowly approached her. “You have brought a stuffed toy to your Venator training?”

“…it’s a good luck charm from home.” Julia said. “Dad insisted…”

Essex stared into the toy’s eyes, analysing the fur and craftsmanship intently, before staring at Julia just as intently.

“Y-yes?” Julia asked, feeling prompted.

“May I…touch it?” Essex asked, pointing out a finger.

Julia hesitated, as to be expected, but gave in to Essex’s curious stare, handing it off to her, as Essex took it in her arms. She inspected it thoroughly, running a finger or two over the fabric stitches, before pressing it against herself and hugging the toy lovingly.

Julia was surprised with how Essex took to it, as Essex closed her eyes and lost herself in the moment, as Julia stood on the sidelines, wondering if she should intervene. Eventually, Essex finished the hug, but didn’t hand back the toy.

“May…I sleep with it tonight?” Essex asked, holding it to herself.

Julia blinked. “Tonight?”

Essex nodded.

Looking around, Julia didn’t see many other options. “…I guess I wasn’t gonna do much with it anyway. It shouldn’t b-“

Julia stopped when Essex went back to staring at the toy’s eyes, realising she’d stopped paying attention to her entirely, as Essex looked completely enamoured with it. Julia even noticed a faint smile.

Julia sighed to herself and accepted her fate. “It’s fine. You can sleep with it.”

Essex seemed really excited, even if her face didn’t show it, as she skipped back into the bedroom with Maxie in her arms, already brushing its fur and pressing it to her neck warmly. She closed the door behind her, as Julia felt a little odd about the interaction.

…I did the right thing. Julia assured herself. And now I’m by myself again.

She stepped back to her bed and lay against it, staring at the top bunk that was supposed to belong to Wess, if she ever came back.

“So much for a team…”

———

*knock knock knock*

Joleicia popped her head up from her book, as she heard a knock at the door. She’d only just moved in with her team and already she was getting visitors. She got up from their little lounge area and opened the door, as Julia greeted her with a slightly incredulous face.

“Julia! How’s moving going?” Joleicia asked, inviting her in.

Julia shrugged as she entered. “Alright? I guess…everyone is-“

Julia stopped as she entered the room, a little disoriented. The dorm room resembled her one exactly, but perfectly mirrored, with the study/bedroom and kitchen/bathroom having swapped places.

“…everyone’s off doing their own thing.” Julia finished. “Where’s everyone else?”

“Well, Chops is chilling in the study. She’s been displaying sketches and stuff for the last hour or so.” Joleicia explained. “Saxin and Lenin decided to check out the Spire, and Florey wanted to do some early practice.”

“I thought you’d be doing a team exercise. Or…something…” Julia said, taking a seat on the teams couch.

Joleicia looked to her and smiled. “They’re all still people. I wanted to hang back here with them, but I’m not about to force them to stay. I mean, we did just meet each other.” Joleicia advised, sitting next to Julia. “We’ll do team stuff later.”

“They could have given it a chance...” Julia grumbled.

“Relationships take time.” Joleicia said. “Don’t force it. Let it happen naturally. Just keep being your pleasant self.”

Julia looked back up at her and smiled warmly. “Can I be you when I grow up?”

Joleicia chuckled a little. “Oh, please…”

“I heard Julia’s voice.” Chops announced, exiting the study. “What’s all this then?”

“Julia was feeling a bit sad. I was just giving her some advice.” Joleicia explained, getting up. “But she forgot we’re still here to hang out.”

“I’m down. I’ve been meaning to check out the academy’s specialist training grounds.” Chops explained, grabbing her jacket and bag.

“Julia, wanna join us?” Joleicia asked, as Julia looked up to her and happily nodded.

———

“Man, that Saxin’s a dirty flirt…” Harley mumbled, heading back through the dorm hallway. She stopped and grabbed herself a drink from the vending machine, as she tried to drown her sorrows at Saxin’s swift and effortless rejection. “You cherish her, Lenin.”

She sighed to herself, before reaching into her handbag and pulling out numerous pieces of paper, each with a different person’s number on it.

“These were a good pick me up, though.” She giggled, thinking back to the other students who’d asked her out afterwards. “I still got it.”

She turned the corner and found Wess by the door, stamping her foot with her arms crossed.

“Heya, Wess!” Harley called out, as Wess turned and facepalmed herself.

“Oh great…” She bemoaned, as Harley approached. “Fine, bare witness to my shame.”

“I thought you were changing teams?” Harley asked.

“Apparently, I must make an appointment with ‘his majesty.’ Like that should matter…” Wess muttered. “So, I suppose we are on the same team for the time being.”

Wess continued stamping her foot, as Harley stared at her, confused.

“Aren’t you going in?”

“I didn’t bring the room card. Funnily enough, I assumed I wouldn’t need it after today.” Wess clarified, as Harley leaned over and scanned her card instead. They opened the door to the sound of sizzling, a pleasant aroma wafting through the room, as Harley and Wess noticed Julia in the kitchen, an apron around her and a frying pan in her hand.

Julia noticed them and turned. “Hi guys. Wess! You’re back!”

“Oh, you noticed…” Wess remarked, heading to the lounge area.

“What’re you doing?” Harley asked, pointing to the lit stove and chopping board.

“I’m making us all dinner.” Julia explained. “I thought it would be a nice housing warming gift for the whole team.”

“Seriously? Thanks!” Harley exclaimed. “You need any help?”

“Actually…” Julia said, indicating to some uncut vegetables. “If you could handle that, we should be done in about three minutes.”

“No problem.” Harley said, picking up the knife, as they heard the front door open again and Sola wander back into the room.

“I smelled food!” She yelled, turning excitedly to the kitchen and jumping around giddily. “You guys can cook?!”

Julia giggled. “I guess that means you can’t.”

“Nope!” Sola replied, sitting against the couch, a little too close to Wess.

Almost like clockwork, Essex exited her room wearing her exercise gear, as she noticed Julia and Harley just finishing up and serving the food on a few plates, as she sat against the back of the couch, again, too close to Wess.

“Now, I just wanna say…” Julia started, passing a plate to Sola first. “That I’m really excited for our next few years here. I know we don’t know each other very well…” She passed another off to Essex. “But I hope that won’t be the case forever.”

Lastly, she handed one off to a reluctant Wess, as Wess looked down at the dish and was pleasantly surprised with the food she saw.

“You keep cooking like this and that won’t be a problem.” Harley said, having already taken a bite and loving the flavour.

“It's like a stir fry, but with more flavour!” Sola added, scarfing down the food a little too fast. “You’re a cooking wizard!”

“I’m glad you liked it.” Julia beamed, as Wess took a little sniff of the food, before delicately taking a bite and nearly marrying the plate on the spot.

This is wonderful… Wess admitted, though not openly to Julia, as she took another bite just out of view. …it must have been an accident. Surely…

Essex handed back the plate, clean of any scraps and bowed. “Grelo. I am thankful for the food.”

“No worries.” Julia replied, as Essex grabbed her scythe and headed for the door.

“I should be no longer than a few hours. Dovono.” She said, bowing again and leaving, as Julia collected everyone’s plates.

The team stayed up a little and talked, before heading off to bed after such a full day. Julia let herself collapse onto the bed, as she turned and looked up, seeing Wess climb into the bunk above her. She didn’t look thrilled about it, especially since she had to borrow Julia’s spare pyjamas, but got in regardless, as Julia smiled to herself under the sheets.

We’re gonna get there.