...just…one more…

…but if…foli…

…we’ll…togeth…

…loss…soun…

…Essex!

Essex’s eyes shot open, as she sat up in her bed, half dazed from her abrupt awakening. The study was still dark, but looking over at her alarm clock, it was still just morning.

…what were those? She thought, rubbing the sleep from her eyes. This has been the third night this week…

She glanced to her side and noticed Maxie still upright, his button eyes staring back at her, as she affectionately stroked his fox-orange fabric, comforting her after what could only be described as a nightmare.

Standing up, she went to grab her scythe, before remembering it was still being upgraded and wouldn’t be returned for another two weeks. Gripping her hand tightly, she decided to grab Maxie instead and head out into the main room to prepare breakfast for herself, where she saw Julia in the kitchen, humming to herself.

“Hmmhmmhmhmmm…oh, good morning, Essex.” Julia greeted.

“Cali.” Essex greeted back, leaving Maxie on Julia’s bed. “I thank you for lending me Maxie once again.”

“It’s no problem.” Julia said. “After those nightmares you mentioned, I figured he’d help you sleep anyway.”

“A nightmare is a dream’s attempt at emotion.” Essex explained. “I will not let it phase me.”

“Alright, toughie.” Julia remarked. “Want me to make you some breakfast?”

“I would not want to put you out.” Essex said.

Julia rolled her eyes. “Then that’s a yes. What do you want?”

Essex sighed to herself, before walking to the fridge and assessing what they had. “…we appear to have several cases of eggs.”

“Yeah, we need to use those up soon. I could have sworn Sola liked eggs…” Julia mumbled.

“Then I will have them as breakfast.” Essex said, as Julia smiled to herself, grabbing a couple and getting to work.

Essex sat down at the kitchen table, looking over the team’s calendar to confirm the prolonged absence of her scythe, and cringed at the ever-present fortnight still ahead of her.

Julia looked over and noticed Essex staring absentmindedly. “Trying to fill the time?”

“I am not used to free time.” Essex explained. “I often dedicate myself to training or helping others when I am free of duties.”

“It’s a shame we’ve caught up on class work.” Julia added. “Not a shame for the others, but you know…”

Essex kept staring, before turning to Julia. “What do you do with your free time?”

“Ah, good question.” Julia said, finishing off her and Essex’s breakfast and sitting with her. “I like cooking, and listening to music, and reading up on Venator news on my tablet. There’s been this awesome new team on the rise called Team Daybreak…” Julia started, before she could see Essex checking out at the mention of the industry and using a tablet. “…but there’s other stuff too.”

“I wish to do something that will…I do not know the term for it…”

“…waste time?” Julia asked.

“…I believe so.” Essex said. “Something that will make waiting for the return of my scythe a quicker process.”

“We could always keep talking.” Julia said, laughing a bit. “Why not train without your scythe?”

Essex shook her head. “It would not be proper. I train to aid others, and the scythe is my tool. Training without my tool would be against the values of the Segaru Clan. Additionally, half of my routine requires my scythe in order to be completed.”

“Yeah, I get it. I don’t get to train my shooting skills all that much without a personal firearm.” Julia empathised. “Talk about a kettle without water…”

“Vonodo, what does that mean?” Essex asked.

“Oh, that was just an old saying my dad threw around. Kettles boil water, so without any water, it would just sit around gathering heat for no good reason.” Julia described, as Essex made her way through her poached eggs.

“Am I similar to the kettle?” Essex posited, getting a giggle out of Julia.

“Not in a bad way.” Julia said. “If you want help with what to do, you should ask the rest of the team. I’m sure they’d be happy to throw some ideas your way.”

Essex thought it over, before nodding. “Understood. I will ask them.”

“Harley and Sola are out in the training grounds. Harley’s pretty good at filling time.” Julia said, as Essex got up from the table, having finished breakfast.

“Grela. The food you have provided was excellent.” Essex thanked.

“No problem.” Julia smiled, as Essex headed for the door. “Hey, quick question I’ve been meaning to ask. What does ‘Grela’ mean?”

Essex turned to her, folding her arms and thinking to herself. “…it is a form of thank you. It is to show respect for your providence of hospitality.”

“How polite.” Julia admitted, hiding an embarrassed smile, before returning her attention to her tablet, as Essex exited the dorm room.

I believe Harley has been interested in the Segaru language before. Essex thought. Perhaps teaching her will fill the time.

“Oh, Essex.” Came a voice behind her, as Saxin came out of Team Vanguard’s room. “My, my. Even without the scythe, you strike a brilliant pose.”

“Cali.” Essex greeted. “Where are you going?”

“Oh, Chops and I have a study date in the Detu City library. She’s quite the book nerd, actually.” Saxin explained. “Any plans yourself?”

“I am attempting to find ways to fill my time.” Essex said.

Saxin cocked her head. “Don’t you have any hobbies?”

“Hobbies?” Essex asked.

“Oh, darling. You need to find something to do other than scythe swinging.” Saxin advised. “Focus is important but having a variety of interests can only benefit you. Tell me, what do you like other than combat?”

Essex thought over the question, before struggling to answer it. “The members of the clan do not allow personal indulgences unless it aids others.”

“Well, what’s wrong with aiding yourself?” Saxin reasoned. “You matter just as much as anyone else.”

Saxin felt her tablet buzz, before remembering her prior engagement. “Apologies that we always have to cut our conversations short.” Saxin said, readjusting her dress. “Lo reme, dear Essex.”

Saxin sashayed down the hall, as Essex looked back to her and waved.

“Lo reme.”

Essex continued to the training grounds, as she reminisced on her conversation with Saxin.

I am unsure if I used that term incorrectly. She thought. …aiding myself…

———

“Alright, again.”

Sola pulled her fist back, before swinging forward, nearly toppling over, and smacking into Harley’s outstretched hand. “Ow.”

Harley chuckled into her other hand. “You’ve gotta keep both your feet on the ground, or else your punches won’t have any impact. You need to ground yourself better.”

“Is this stuff even gonna matter?” Sola asked. “I’m gonna be wearing arm-cannons. I couldn’t punch stuff anyway.”

Harley shook her head. “What if they got broken, or stolen? You still don’t have great control of your Whil. You’d have no way to defend yourself.” Harley explained. “It’d be irresponsible of me not to teach you. Come on, one more time.”

Sola accepted her point and nodded, before taking another swing, now lifting up the other foot, and still smacking into the outstretched hand.

“Uh, better?” Harley assessed, as they noticed Essex emerging from the dorms and heading their way.

“Hi Essex!” Sola called out, as Essex waved back.

“What are you two doing?” Essex asked, joining them.

“I’m helping Sola bulk up.” Harley said, as Sola flexed to emphasise her point. “You wanna join us?”

“No, thank you. I am refraining from physical training.” Essex said. “I am trying to find methods to ‘waste time,’ and have thought I might offer to teach you the Segaru language.”

Harley broke into a grin. “Seriously?! Yes, yes yes yes! Sorry, Sola, but I’m cutting this short.”

“Huh?”

“Okay, I’ve already done some digging, but I haven’t gotten any solid translations across…” Harley muttered, rushing to her bag and pulling out a notebook. “I’ve noticed roots shared with the Western Wayside language, but…wait, we should probably go somewhere else.”

Harley looked around the training grounds, acknowledging the glaring sun and dust-covered ground.

“And the study area’s a little too stuffy for something this fun…oh! What about the specialist training grounds?”

“The wha?” Sola asked, as Harley grabbed her and Essex’s arm.

“Dissecting language, and root words galore, we’ve three words for two, and three words for four!” Harley sang joyously, dragging them along, as Essex worried that she might’ve made the wrong decision.

———

The specialist training grounds were notable for several reasons. Firstly, they were far nicer than the regular training grounds, specifically as they were a part of the main academy building structure. Secondly, you had to book in training time, rather than arriving and leaving at your leisure. And lastly, there was air conditioning.

“I’ve never even seen this place.” Sola commented, spinning around the building’s floor.

“Makes sense. Only second and third years can use them, and most are just training for the yearly tournament.” Harley said, indicating to the number of teams dotted around the grounds, all flexing their various skills. “But we can still sit on the sidelines.”

Essex scanned the building in its entirety, assessing each of the teams’ abilities, and Harley and Sola took their seats by the sidelines.

Harley looked back at Essex. “Essex?”

“This is an unfit training area. We will not be fighting Wailing in pristine environments such as this.” Essex explained.

“Some Venator trainees need these clinical environments.” Harley added. “Especially those with, like, psychic powers and weird gravity stuff.”

“If other Venators are not prepared for rough terrain, then I am worried they will not do well against our foe.” Essex continued, sitting back with them.

“They can always get better with time.” Sola said. “I’ll need my arm-cannons to use my Whil for a while, but at some point, I’ll be good enough to use it without them.”

Essex sighed out. “I will concede your point.”

“Can you hurry up, Essex? I wanna learn some lingo!” Harley complained, rocking back and forth, as Essex joined her and started to explain her language as best as she could.

“…so Calias is a proper formal greeting.”

“Yes.”

“Cali is shortened and less formal, kinda like saying ‘hey.’”

“Yes.”

“Calias Delo is an extension for greeting or addressing groups.”

Essex nodded. “It is also a thank you for eventually giving your time and listening to what you would have to say. It is concluded with Delos, as a further thank you.”

“Okay…” Harley said, writing that down. “And Aerlo Decali is reserved for your first greeting with someone, followed by uttering your name.”

“Yes. But it is a title, not a name.” Essex explained. “That is the basics of our greetings.”

“Wow…” Harley remarked, smiling to herself. “I’ve got so much to learn…”

Sola kicked her legs back and forth, bored out of her mind from listening to Harley and Essex, as Essex watched Harley write a couple more things down, lost in her own world.

“…Harley?”

“Hmm?”

“May I ask you something?”

“Uhh, sure.” Harley said, putting away her notebook.

Essex breathed out. “I have been having nightmares as of recent. I do not know why, but they appear to be recollections of events that I can not remember.”

Harley blinked. “Damn. Are you sleeping alright? Is your room too hot?”

“No, I am fine.” Essex said, having gotten Sola’s attention. “But I do not wish to have them anymore and am unaware of how to prevent them.”

“Are you stressed about anything?” Sola asked. “Like your scythe?”

“…that has been a concern.” Essex admitted.

“I totally get it. I used to wake up from nightmares punching my pillow, then William would burst in and wrap me in blankets till I calmed down.” Harley remarked, sitting back. “It only happened, like, twice, but it was still pretty scary when it did.”

“Do you still use this method?” Essex asked, getting a laugh out of Harley.

“No, I outgrew that when I was seven.” Harley said. “But I could show you some meditation techniques I learned. It’s nothing too strenuous, so you should gel with it.”

“Strenuous?” Essex asked, as Harley got up and took a seat on the floor, patting beside her for Essex to join.

“Oh, oh, can I join?” Sola asked, as Harley patted on her other side invitingly.

“Okay, first, we’re breathing in.” Harley said, taking a deep breath, as Essex sat beside her and joined in, followed by Sola. “Then out, then we’ll repeat that a few times over.”

They all did so, instinctively closing their eyes, as Harley reached out and slowly lay down.

“Now look at the ceiling and focus your vision on one point.” Harley said, as they both did so. “What’re you focusing on?”

“Uh, there’s a basketball stuck in the rafters.” Sola pointed out, Harley drooping her eyes.

“I guess that works. What about you, Essex?”

“The window.” She said. “I am focusing on the window.”

“Okay. Window works.” Harley said. “Now listen to me as I talk…listen…to my voice…and breathe…”

Essex and Harley slowly inhaled in and out, letting their chests rise and fall, up and down, as Sola started following them, getting a few breaths in, before needing to get up, distracting herself with other stuff.

“Just focus…on yourself…”

Essex followed along, lying back and slowly closing her eyes.

“Just you…and who you are…”

Who you…

“Just…somewhere around here. I tried to approach, but she fled before I could.

I can’t believe this. A girl? Living in the forest?

We live in the forest too, Ross.

We live together in the forest. She’s probably just some wild animal you mistook!

Shh! You might scare her again!

What she? It just feels like we’re hunting for game…

She was here, I…wait.

What?

…hello? Are you out there?

What’re yo…ahh!!! She’s here! She’s right in front of us!

Ross, don’t scare her. She might be frightened…hello, I’m Kent.

Don’t socialise with her! We can’t let her hurt us!

Muer is about showing compassion. We don’t go attacking someone who’s helpless…don’t worry, we’re here to help…how long have you been out here?

Why’re you…

Don’t worry. I’m just gonna…ow!

What? What’s wrong?

…it’s nothing. She just bit me.

What?! How dare she!

Muer tinusa. Selamorta no, Ross. The body is merely a vessel. She’s acting defensive from living alone.

…you know what? I’m leaving. You can bring her back to camp if you want, but she’s more menace than helpless.

…don’t listen to him. I know there’s good in everyone, and I can let the bite slide. How long have you been out here? I’m guessing too long by your…one…month? A year? You poor thing…if you want, you can come back to camp with me. We have food, and clothes. You can borrow my bed, too. We can find you a place to stay once we arrive near the city. Does that sound good?...Really? That…is there something you…oh, hello there…you wanted to know if…yes, he can come along too. Don’t worry, I’ll make sure to take care of you both…

…Essex.

Essex? You dozed off.” Harley said, shaking Essex’s shoulder. “You didn’t look very comfortable.”

“I…had another dream.” Essex admitted. “But it was not…scary…it was a recollection.”

“Oh geez. Have you actually been getting a good night’s sleep?” Harley asked.

Essex looked away. “…it is no worse than others.”

“That’s no excuse, Essex. Come on, get up.” Harley said, helping her to her feet.

“Why do you think you had another dream?” Sola asked, looking up to Essex.

Essex thought on this, before shaking her head in reply.

“I guess the meditation wasn’t it.” Harley assessed, before snapping her fingers. “You know who’d be perfect to ask about sleeping?”

Sola blinked, before it connected for her too. “Wess.”

Harley shrugged to Essex. “It couldn’t hurt. You know she loves a good nap.”

“That is true.” Essex agreed. “But I do not know where she is.”

Harley looked to Sola. “Come to think of it, same.”

“I think I saw her with Joleicia earlier.” Sola said. “Back when we were out on the training grounds.”

“Understood.” Essex replied, turning to Harley and bowing. “Grela. I appreciate your efforts in aiding me.”

“Oh, wait…” Harley said, frantically pulling out her notes. “…Relias…shit, sorry, that’s an apology.”

Essex smiled at her efforts, before leaving the specialist training grounds, as Harley flipped to, hopefully, the right page.

“Wait! Uhh…there we go! Peno Decu!” Harley said, as Essex looked back to her and nodded firmly, before exiting.

Sola turned to her. “What’d you say?”

“It’s kinda like saying 'break a leg.'” Harley explained. “But apparently it’s more like ‘you can solve this problem’ or ‘I know you are capable of this.’ It seemed appropriate.”

———

Essex began searching the academy for Wess, checking the places she’d normally spend time in. The dorm was obviously empty, as well as the library, study area, and even the Academy Daiquiri Lounge. Lenin confirmed she was with Joleicia, however, and that they were probably still on campus, but was just as lost as she was when it came to their whereabouts.

Essex bordered the training grounds, skirting around the edge of the forest, hoping to find Wess getting some extra training in, but found the grounds fairly light on students.

I would imagine they are waiting for upgraded weapons as well. Essex assessed, finding her search to be slightly in vain. I am no closer to finding her.

She continued down to the Weapon Reserve, noticing a prominent traffic cone still stuck on a nearby tree, as she contemplated giving up looking for today, before spotting a few moving shapes about the forest.

They appeared somewhat large and hard to define, as Essex assumed the worst.

Could this be a Wailing? Essex realised, arming herself with the nearest branch. I will need to warn the security bef-

As Essex stepped through the foliage toward the shapes, they slowly became clearer, before opening out into a quiet clearing, with a lone oak tree sitting atop a small hill.

Additionally, the shapes turned out to be Wess and Joleicia, having made themselves comfortable, before noticing Essex on the sidelines, wielding a large stick.

Wess slowly opened her eyes and looked over at Essex, before closing them again and leaning forward in annoyance. “Why can’t I have anything to myself?”

“Hi Essex!” Joleicia greeted. “I guess you found our hiding spot. Whoops.”

Essex blinked confusedly, before putting down the branch. “I have been searching for you.”

“Oh, yeah. Sorry, we came here pretty early in the day. I hope you weren’t searching for too long.” Joleicia apologised.

“Don’t invite her over.” Wess asked. “It’s bad enough she’s interrupting my relaxation.”

“Wess, she’s a teammate.” Joleicia complained, helping Essex up the hill. “Sorry about her. She’s acting like a bit of a grumpy-puss today.”

“Nicknames aren’t aiding my mood.” Wess added, as Essex stared on.

“Why are you two in the forest together?”

Joleicia sat back down with Wess. “Well, last semester, Saxin told us about this private spot in the forest that was great for reading and resting. Ol’ Wess and I were only allowed to us it if we didn’t tell anyone about it.” Joleicia clarified, laughing awkwardly. “But I guess we just broke that, huh?”

“It was bound to happen.” Wess accepted, turning to Essex. “Did you need us for anything?”

“Dal. I am having difficulties with my sleep, and I wished to ask you for advice.” Essex said, still standing.

“Advice on sleeping?” Wess questioned.

“Advice for avoidance of bad dreams.” Essex explained. “They have become a concern.”

Wess put down her novel and stood up with her. “I’ll assume you’re regulating your temperature, and you seem perfectly healthy, physically speaking.”

“When did they start happening?” Joleicia asked.

“This week. They have become a nightly occurrence.”

“Maybe it’s a psychosomatic thing?” Joleicia suggested, looking to Wess. “That sometimes does it for me.”

Wess cocked her head. “Have you tried analysing your dreams?”

“I…would not know how.” Essex professed. “That is beside my skillset.”

“…well, that’s unfortunate.” Wess said. “I’m afraid that’s the limit to my help.”

“Sorry, Essex. I’ve got nothing too.” Joleicia said. “It has been getting hotter lately. Best case scenario, it’s just the heat.”

“…perhaps.” Essex dismissed, before deciding to change the subject. “Pertaining to another issue, I am having difficulty utilising my time without training.”

Joleicia smiled and nodded. “Totally! I’ve already read through five of my longest books just waiting for my upgrades! I miss my rifle so bad.”

“She insisted on borrowing some of mine.” Wess added, getting a playful arm punch from Joleicia. “…actually, do you have anything planned for this afternoon?”

“No. Do you have a suggestion?”

“Well…” Wess started, looking back at Essex and sighing. “…you may not even want to go, but there’s a small pop-up art gallery on campus that I’ve wanted to check out.”

Essex cocked her head. “Art gallery?”

Wess blinked confusedly. “Have you not been to one before?”

“…I do not believe so.”

“Oh my…” Wess groaned, sinking her head into her lap again, as Joleicia leaned down to her ear.

“…you should…”

“…why…doesn’t want…”

“…good for…out of…”

“…fine.”

Wess faced Essex again. “…would you still like to come along? I could…show you around, perhaps?”

Essex thought it over, before nodding firmly. “I will accept your offer.”

“Well, no point dilly dallying.” Wess said, grabbing her stuff. “We’d best get a move on. Who knows, developing your analysis skills might help you decipher your dreams.”

Essex followed along beside her. “That would be beneficial.”

“Bye guys!” Joleicia called out, going back to her book as soon as they left.

———

The academy had been putting on events fairly regularly sincerely the start of the semester. The yearly tournament meant that more visitors were around the campus grounds, and students participating needed something to take their mind off their combat heavy tournament events. And of course, the extra funds helped in repairing the support towers to their former glory.

Everyone was welcome, of course, even those who knew nothing about art.

“No paintings?”

“No.”

“No music?”

“No.”

“Did you tell stories, at least?”

“No.” Essex explained. “We do not show pride for our actions. If our actions were truly helpful, then they do not need to be shared in narrative.”

“The Segaru Clan sounds like a nightmare…” Wess expressed, drawing a frustrated glance from Essex.

“There is nothing saying you must avoid ‘art’ as well.” Essex defended. “It is a custom of our clan, not a rule that we enforce on other people.”

“But how can you live without creative expression?” Wess asked, as they arrived at the entrance to the gallery.

“It is not a necessity.” Essex explained. “We do not possess what is unnecessary.”

“Art is not…” Wess went to say, before reminding herself they were at the gallery, and that she should enjoy herself. “…I suppose you have your reasons. But I don’t like them.”

“I am not asking you to like them.” Essex added, as Wess approached the first few paintings on display, reading over their artist bios.

“It’s so bizarre reading about artists outside the Northern Wayside…” Wess muttered, as Essex watched her from the sidelines, analysing the gallery around her.

Is this a hobby that Saxin was referring to? Essex wondered. How is staring at recreated images a possible pass-time?

Essex stared at the other visitors, all discussing the works on display amongst themselves, before looking back down at Wess, shifting her view between the works and the bios.

Essex felt prompted. “What is the purpose of art?”

Wess broke her trance and resettled herself, her attention still on the painting. “What a lofty question. Do you mean to me?”

“…yes.”

“Well…to inspire thought and discussion. The best art manages technical proficiency and intellectual gravitas while also being appealing in some way.”

“Gravitas?” Essex asked.

“Uhh, weight, or importance.” Wess clarified. “True artwork means more than just paint on a canvas, notes from an instrument, actors on a set. It has a lesson to teach, or a point to bring up.”

“I…do not understand. How is a painted canvas different from another canvas?” Essex pointed out.

“It comes down to personal connection. It’s all about what you see in the work.” Wess said, looking around tentatively, before spotting a noteworthy painting. “Come.”

Essex followed, as they stood in front of a portrait painting of a man, cleanly put together, and posing in what looked to be the academy principal’s office.

“This is ‘Thoughtful Regalia,’ a portrait made of Alsius Venator, shortly after he founded the academy. It’s quite well known.” Wess explained. “What do you think about it?”

Essex stared at the work inquisitively. “It is an impressive imitation of a person.”

“But what does it say to you?” Wess asked. “What about the scene could mean something, or his pose? Could that imply anything?”

Essex looked again. “He is leaning on the desk.” She looked back to Wess. “That is not noteworthy.”

“Okay…” Wess said, grabbing the brim of her nose, before standing beside Essex. “To me, he looks casual, almost like he’s leaning on the table to appear more down to earth. But it could also show he’s tired and needs support.”

Essex stared at Wess, before slowly nodding in response.

“But then contrast that with the large bookcase behind him, and the degrees beside that. He’s clearly a very intelligent person, and is proud of it, but wants to appear more personal, not like some stuffy suit looking down from his ivory tower. But if he’s tired, it could show that his position’s taken a toll on him, and that despite his intelligence, even he can’t help succumbing to it.” Wess finished, somewhat swept up in her own explanation by the end. “Does that clear it up?”

Essex broke eye contact and looked back at the painting, approaching it again, before squinting horribly and nearly lashing out at it.

“…but that is not on the painting.” Essex pointed out, as Wess nearly broke.

“What do you mean ‘not on it?!’ It’s an interpretation! Of course it’s not o-“ Wess exclaimed, before catching herself and quieting down, remembering there were other people around them trying to have a nice time. “…I think it’s clear we aren’t going to make any headway here.”

Wess grabbed her bag and started heading out, still in a huff, as Essex followed behind, somewhat tentatively.

“I am sorry that I do not understand art how you would want me to.” Essex apologised.

Wess kept walking, before stopping suddenly and sighing. “…you’re making an effort…it’s appreciated.”

She continued through the gallery, less bitter than before, as Essex hung back to avoid getting in the way of her enjoyment, until Wess reached the end, content in their overall experience.

“It’s always great to see fresh talent among the established.” Wess confessed, cleaning herself up. “I appreciate you coming along, Essex, even if this wasn’t your cup of te-“

Wess looked back curiously and found Essex all the way back at ‘Thoughtful Regalia,’ staring directly up at the portrait with a fixed glance. Most of the other visitors had left at this point, leaving the solitary image of Essex trying to understand this painting.

Wess approached and rested her hand on her hip. “You don’t have to understand it in one day.”

“But I have to.” Essex said. “These dreams will plague me until I can understand them, and I do not know how.”

Wess stood beside her, looking up at the painting too. “You know, most people spend their whole lives trying to understand art, especially artists themselves. Often the greats don’t even truly understand their own work.”

Essex focused her gaze, as Wess grabbed her shoulder and indicated to the exit, grabbing her attention. “You’ll understand with time. We all do.”

Essex acknowledged her point and followed her out of the gallery, as Wess checked her watch casually.

“I’m sorry, but Cyrus is expecting me to join him for clothes shopping.” Wess said, waving to Essex. “I’ll see you back at the dorm for dinner.”

“Dovono.” Essex called, continuing down the hallway on her own, left to her thoughts as she planned on heading back to the dorm.

A hobby is a passion…something to feel strongly about. Essex wondered, wandering through the empty halls, the afternoon sun glaring through the windows. What would I feel strongly about?...could Maxie be considered a hobby?

Her thoughts were interrupted briefly, as she heard a few voices she recognised from one of the staff offices she passed.

“…ut I expect more from you down the line. These marks are not detrimental, but unless you show some initiative, they are sure to get worse.” Said Vice-Principal Coatsworth, as Essex caught Florey leaving his office, just catching the tail end of a longer conversation.

“Yeah, thanks, Mr Coatsworth.” Florey replied, fairly dejected, as he exited his office and quickly spotted Essex. “Oh, hey Essex.”

“Florey. What were you discussing with Coatsworth?” Essex asked, surveying the door subtly.

Florey looked downward and kicked the air. “Just…I’m dropping behind in some subjects, and he was chewing me out, pretty much.”

Essex blinked. “Chewing you out?”

Florey rolled his eyes. “He was lecturing me on how to improve. I’ll be honest, he’s pretty weird to talk to.”

Essex looked to the door again. “I have heard.”

“Oh, what fortuitous timing!” Called a voice, as the duo saw Saxin down the hall, waving joyously to them. “Essex!”

“Saxin! Cal-“ Essex replied, before changing her greeting. “Lo reme!”

As Saxin approached, she giggled to herself pleasantly. “Unfortunately, Essex, that’s an old Northern Wayside goodbye, not a greeting, but it was a very cute attempt.”

She sidled up to Florey. “How was Coatsworth? Was it anything worth discussing?”

“No, no, just some routine stuff.” Florey played off, getting a side-eye from Essex. “Thanks for getting my room key.”

“You’re just lucky Chops and I were already back at the academy.” Saxin said, giggling. “But careful, if you keep forgetting it, you may lose room privileges all together.”

“I’ll keep that in mind.” Florey said, heading down the hall. “Later, Essex.”

“…oh! Lo reme!” Essex replied, watching Florey duck around the corner, before turning to Saxin. “Was that a more appropriate usage?”

Saxin smiled. “You’re very quick on the uptake…would you care to join me for a little trip?”

Essex nodded. “Where?”

“To the academy Spire. I’ve been putting off visiting it again, but since I had some free time, I figured why not.” Saxin explained, skipping around Essex. “And we can finally spend some time together.”

“I would agree.” Essex said, Saxin locking arms with her, as they followed the stairwell down and out the building together.

———

The Spire always looked incredible, due to its seamless marble sheen and impressive presence, and for standing out amongst the boxier skyscrapers surrounding it, but nothing compared to how it shone when the sun started to set. This wasn’t clear from the stairwell inside, but the entrance onto the top showed it off in the best light.

“Breathtaking…” Saxin let out, finding a nice spot on the flatter edge of the tip, Essex joining her too, their legs dangling over the edge. “It’s so beautiful up here, don’t you think?”

“The view is expansive and daunting.” Essex said, looking downward, Saxin coughing to herself.

“Yes, well…” Saxin started. “This is the kind of view you share with the special people in your life.”

Essex looked around, casually catching the repairs being made to the support towers due to the Behemoth Wailing attack, before finding Saxin again and nodding.

“I’m surprised you wanted to come up here with me.” Saxin said, twiddling her thumbs. “I’ll be honest, I’m somewhat nervous about being up here…”

“Is the height a concern?” Essex asked, Saxin rolling her eyes playfully.

“No…that’s not it.” She said. “Plus, I couldn’t fall off even if I wanted to.”

Essex looked confused, before letting the comment slide and peering out again, as Saxin inched closer.

“I’ve heard it’s been getting warmer.” Saxin commented.

“I have heard that too.” Essex replied, as Saxin rested her head on Essex’s shoulder. “Vonodo, what are you doing?”

Saxin realised and pulled her head back, slightly annoyed. “Isn’t it obvious?”

“What is obvious?” Essex said, as Saxin groaned to herself.

“…come on, I never struggle with this part…” Saxin muttered, before looking back at Essex. “Hold on, I show you what I mean.”

As Essex waited for her answer, Saxin leaned over and locked lips with Essex, long enough to leave an impression, but short enough to leave some room, as Saxin pulled back to assess how Essex would react.

“So?”

Essex blinked, then blinked again. “Why did you do that?” She asked matter of factly.

Saxin blushed a little. “I thought the reason would be self explanatory. Are you not interested?”

Essex touched her lip. “…I do not believe so.”

“Oh…” Saxin let out. “…my apologies. I suppose I misread things between us. Or maybe I was testing the waters. Relationships can be hard to judge when you’re in the middle of them.”

“Are you not in a relationship with Lenin?” Essex questioned, as Saxin shrugged her shoulders.

“We’re free to explore. Neither of us really love the idea of exclusivity, anyway.” Saxin said, as Essex still looked a bit dazed.

“…was that a sign of passion?” Essex asked.

“Sign of affection, I would say. I wanted to see how you feel about me.” Saxin smiled. “Oh well, you win some, you lose some. I hope this won’t make things awkward between us.”

Essex shook her head. “I am more confused than offended.”

Saxin chuckled to herself. “You always want to hear that from an unrequited lover…I guess we’re just stuck here now, appreciating a brilliant sunset.”

Saxin looked back to Essex. “How dreadful.”

Essex nodded politely, staring off at the horizon with Saxin, playing with the word passion in her mind.

“…Saxin?”

“Yes?”

“…I am worried that I am a kettle without water.”

Saxin blinked. “A what?”

“I have been trying to find hobbies, as you have suggested, but I do not know what I am passionate about.” Essex explained. “It is aggravating.”

“Okay.” Saxin nodded. “What have you tried so far?”

“…discussion, language, meditation, understanding art, and…what we have just done.” Essex clarified, as Saxin rested her head on her hand.

“Those are very high concept for one day. You must be exhausted.” Saxin assessed, pulling out her tablet. “If you’ll indulge me, I think we should listen to some music together while we enjoy this sunset.”

“Will this be passionate?” Essex asked, as Saxin laughed to herself.

“If you want it to be.” Saxin remarked, handing Essex an earbud, as she scrolled through her playlist. “Tell me which is your favourite.”

“Understood.” Essex said, as Saxin went through each song one by one, all varying in genre and style.

Does Saxin have a passion for music? Essex thought. She is the singer of Team Vanguard’s band, so it would make sense.

As Saxin continued, getting unamused looks from Essex for each choice, she stopped on one song in particular, freezing Essex in place, before clearly focusing intently on the music. Saxin offered her the other bud, as Essex took it without looking, focusing her attention on tapping her foot to the rhythm.

She sat listening for a few seconds, before pulling an earbud out and turning to Saxin hurriedly. “What is this music?”

Saxin looked down to her tablet. “This is my favourite ska band, The Wine-box Initiative.”

“This is ska?” Essex asked, Saxin nodding in response, as Essex replaced the earbud, bobbing her head along with the music.

Saxin gave her a minute, letting her listen to as much as she wanted, before tapping her shoulder. “Enjoying it?”

“It is very good music!” Essex projected, Saxin pulling out her earbud. “I am enjoying this style and genre.”

“Oh?”

Essex nodded frantically. “It is high energy, but I can maintain the rhythm, and it does not feel repetitious.” She explained, noticeably energetic compared to her regular demeanour. “What is the word for great enjoyment?”

“Passion.” Saxin replied.

Essex blinked blankly, before looking over at Saxin’s tablet again. “Do you have anymore ska music?”

“Plenty.” Saxin said, handing Essex the tablet, as Essex took a minute to figure it out, before scrolling through to her heart’s content, sampling each new song she could get her hands on.

———

The day was winding down, with coldness following the sunset, and Saxin and Essex leaving the Spire to warm up in their dorm rooms. Essex had yet to return the tablet, still going through Saxin’s extensive ska library, as they started to approach their dorms.

Saxin turned to Essex, still bobbing her head along with the music, before tapping her shoulder again.

Essex looked up at her.

Saxin pointed to her ears.

Essex took a beat to react, before realising Saxin’s request and handing her back the tablet.

“Thank you.” Saxin said, pocketing it.

“No. I am thankful to you.” Essex said. “I did not know of this until you showed me. I do not like handling a tablet, and do not listen to music as recreation, so there was no way for me to know of it.”

Saxin patted her head. “But by the sounds of it, you’ve already been broadening your horizons recently. I’m sure you would’ve found it at some point.”

They eventually made it back to their dorms, as Saxin leaned against her team's door, watching Essex grab her room card.

“A hint of advice.” Saxin said, getting Essex’s attention. “You don’t need to limit your passions to hobbies. There’s plenty of things in your life that you can be passionate towards.”

Saxin left with a smile and closed the door behind her, as Essex stood in place, staring at her room card idly.

…could she mean Maxie? Essex wondered, dismissing the thought. …could she mean him?

She took a careful breath, before entering the dorm, finding the rest of her team scattered around the room, and Julia preparing dinner.

“Hey!” Sola greeted.

“Hey, Essex.” Harley said, waving from her bed and pointing to Wess. “We found Wess, by the way.”

“I have already talked with her.” Essex said, nodding to Wess as she came in.

“Please, don’t involve me in a conversation. I’m exhausted from my shopping trip.” Wess groaned, face against the couches arm rest. “I want to sleep…”

“Not yet, Wess. Since you’ve gotta try…” Julia prefaced, plating up the last of the food. “…some beef tartare!”

Wess stayed still, before rising from the couch and heading to the kitchen. “How dare you tempt me with meat…”

“I will happily be tempted by meat!” Harley exclaimed, joining them in the kitchen, as Essex grabbed a plate herself, thanking Julia as they all sat down to enjoy dinner together.

“Oh boy…” Sola said, moaning in her seat. “Those eggs aren’t sitting great with me…”

“Yeah, I’m feeling it too.” Harley empathised. “Good job, Julia, but I think it was just too much.”

“Well, I had to use up the eggs somehow.” Julia said.

“…let’s do more punching! That might work off the meat sweats!” Sola suggested, getting out of her seat, grabbing the team’s attention.

“Uhh, alright.” Harley said, joining her out the door. “I guess if you want to do it now. Bye guys.”

Harley and Sola ducked out the door, as Wess stood up herself. “I swear, that girl’s going to pull something. I’m taking this opportunity to sleep. You may only wake me if there’s a murderer above my bed, or if the room is on fire.”

“Last I checked, you’re on the top bunk.” Julia joked, as Wess was already getting changed in the study, as Julia turned to Essex. “How’d you like it?”

“It was excellent.” Essex replied, Julia getting up from the table, as Essex realised she should attempt something more nuanced. “…the flavours…were…good..and heavy.”

Julia seemed a bit surprised at Essex’s compliment, but took it well regardless. “Yeah, I liked the flavours too. I think the egg was a bit off, though.”

“It did appear that way.” Essex added, Julia pulling out cooking utensils and bowls. “Have you not finished with dinner?”

“Oh, I was just gonna make some dessert for the next few days.” Julia said, stopping briefly. “Did you…have dessert back in the Segaru Clan?”

Essex nodded. “It was reserved only for Boncala Day, but we did…have it.”

Julia smiled back to her, before patting the space next to her. “Since you said earlier that you were having trouble filling the time, I thought you could help me with some baking, since it’s both practical…” She grabbed another bowl. “…and fun!”

“…yes.” Essex agreed. “Fun.”

“You sound like I’m forcing you.” Julia giggled. “We’re gonna finally finish off those eggs by making two cakes for the next few days. And you can just follow along with me.”

Essex nodded, mimicing Julia as she grabbed a couple eggs.

“You just crack, crack, crack the egg into the bowl.” Julia instructed, indicating to Essex.

Essex lifted the egg. “Crack…crack…crack…” She broke it, dropping it in. “…the egg into the bowl.”

“Crack, crack, crack the egg into the bowl.”

Essex looked back at her, before repeating the motion. “…crack, crack, crack the egg into the bowl.”

“And now…M-I-X the flour into the bowl.”

“M-I-X the flour into the bowl.” Essex repeated.

“Butter, butter, butter joins the bowl.” Julia sang, bobbing along.

“Butter…butter…butter joins the bowl.” Essex sang, struggling to get the butter off her knife.

“We’re making us a cake that you’ve never seen before!” Julia sang.

Essex cocked her head. “That is not an instruction for how to continue.”

Julia looked caught in the act, before filling the silence with an awkward laugh. “…we can just stop singing now.”

Julia and Essex carried on with their mixing, leaving the cakes in the oven, as the time finally ticked over to 9:00pm.

“Man, I’m sleepy. Wess might’ve had the right idea.” Julia said, shivering a little. “I thought it was supposed to be getting warmer too. I’ll have to sneak into her bed to warm up.”

“Julia.” Essex said, as the timer on the microwave went off. “They are finished.”

“Great!” Julia cheered, grabbing the cakes out of the oven and leaving them to cool. “Damn, how does yours look so good?”

Essex looked confused herself. “It is not something I normally do.”

“Maybe it was laying dormant, ready to come out.” Julia grinned. “A secret guerrilla chef gene.”

Essex barely understood what that meant, as Julia left her oven mits against the side of the cake tins.

“Thanks for the help, Essex.” She said, before catching herself. “Or rather…”

She bowed to Essex. “…grela.”

Essex caught herself blushing, trying to hide it, as Julia found her attempt very cute.

“Maxie’s free tonight, if you still need him. Harley told me about your meditation stuff…” Julia said, as she turned around and noticed Essex had a gentle tear running down her face. “Essex?”

Essex quickly noticed, having not even acknowledged it was there, and wiped it away. “It is nothing. I will not need him.”

Julia closed the gap between them and rested a hand against her shoulder. “Are the dreams bothering you that much?”

Essex shook her head, clearly upset. “I refuse to let these dreams control me.”

“But they’re doing it anyway.” Julia pointed out. “What’s bothering you?”

Essex locked eyes with her, took a beat and breathed in, before letting it out.

“…when the Segaru Clan first found me…I…was accompanied by a fox cub. He had helped me to survive in the wild, and had trained beside me when I became a member…being far from home for this long…I have needed something to be close towards…”

Julia was left surprised, but shook herself free. “Is this why you wanted Maxie?”

“…it is one reason, yes.” Essex said.

“Essex, I didn’t know you were homesick.” Julia said, looking a bit forlorn. “I guess being without the clan and your scythe must’ve left yo-“

“Like a kettle without water.” Essex repeated.

Julia brought Essex for an impromptu hug, sniffling a little too. “I should’ve noticed. I’m the team leader after all…”

“No.” Essex refused, breaking the hug. “I should have told you. It is not your job to predict my emotions. If I am having trouble again, I will tell you why.”

Julia smiled back to her. “Yeah, sure.”

“I will attempt to sleep properly tonight.” Essex said, leaving for the study, before looking to Julia’s bed and quickly grabbing Maxie. “May I borrow him?”

“Of course.” Julia replied, leaning on the kitchen counter. “If you have those nightmares again, just come out here and we can talk, alright?”

“Understood.” Essex said, opening up the study. “Grela.”

Julia looked back at the study happily. “Thank you for being so open.”

Once the door closed, Essex changed out her suit into her novelty Team Vivisect shirt, entering her bed with Maxie in tow, trying to drift off to sleep once again. Fortunately, the night was much cooler than the rest of the week, and a slight scent lingered from Maxie, comforting Essex as she cuddled with him, before drifting off into another familiar dream.

...just…one more…

…but if…foli…

…we’ll…togeth…

…ex…

Essex?

Are you alright? How long have you been out here?

We have food, and clothes. You can borrow my bed, too.

Don’t worry, I’ll make sure to take care of you…

…Essex

“…thank you…”