Warmed by the hearth stone

Though hearts are kept closer in

All fires soon spread

“Goodbye, Central Point…” Julia muttered, waving at the window, as the Eldos Mountains started passing by the Flash-Rail. “Welcome, Southern Wayside.”

“I have never been so close to the Eldos Mountains before.” Essex remarked, joining Julia by the window, before pointing at the mountains on the right. “What are the lines running down the side of those peaks?”

“Oh, those are rivers.” Julia explained, joining her gaze. “Apparently, water gathers at the top of a few of the mountains and slowly trickles down. A lot of people don’t know why they formed, but the fact that they’ve been flowing for centuries makes them pretty noteworthy.”

“How romantic…” Harley added, joining them and staring at the peaks as well. “I bet that’s a great date spot…”

“Most people can’t be bothered to climb all the way up there.” Wess pointed out, sitting down with a book, before casting her gaze at her teammates. “As sweet as that thought is.”

“I’d do it.” Sola chimed in, smiling back at Harley, who quickly shied away, causing Julia to laugh.

“So, Harley.” Julia asked. “What can we expect from Denilee?”

Harley swapped out her embarrassment for a grin. “Only the best town ever. It’s got Detu City beat, for sure.”

Julia giggled back. “Is that a challenge?”

“Trust me, once we get there, you’ll fall in love with it too.” Harley declared.

Wess let out a haughty laugh, not lifting her gaze from her novel, as Harley sat back down with Sola, taking off her shoes to get more comfortable, while patiently waiting for the ride to reach its destination.

Funnily enough, Rosalind was doing just the same, tailing the Flash-Rail as closely as she could manage from the road below, with her arm hanging out the window.

Rosalind considered pulling it back in for safety, before chuckling at the notion, as she stared up at the Flash-Rail compartment, Team Valiant’s faces plastered against the glass.

Their enjoyment soured her mood immediately, which only fuelled her to keep chasing after them, before she was immediately interrupted by the border guard waiting right at the border line.

She slowed her car down, as she watched the Flash-Rail pass over into the Southern Wayside and off into the distance without her, leaving her to go through the rigmarole of an inspection as her anger boiled.

“You’re not getting away that easily…”

After another few hours on the Flash-Rail, the team eventually arrived at Denilee, stopping at its train station with their bags in tow.

Just before anyone else could take another step, Harley stepped in front of the team, while blocking their view of Denilee from inside the station.

Once she felt the team was ready, she displayed her hand and presented the town.

“Welcome to Denil-“ Harley declared, stepping forward, before standing directly on top of a bindi patch, stabbing directly into her uncovered sole. “Mother fucker!”

Harley hobbled back, grabbing her foot tightly, which admittedly amused Wess, before she held it up and plucked each bindi out.

“I shouldn’t have taken my shoes off.” Harley realised, putting her foot back down, while still feeling a tingle of pain running through it. “Alright, WELCOME to Denilee.”

Immediately, the difference to Detu City was on full display. The Southern Wayside’s foliage had always been distinguished for its year-round autumn colours, and nowhere was that clearer than Denilee. A ring of trees bordered the outside of the town, following it as it travelled through the forest with long roads of buildings and houses. Businesses were tightly packed, each fairly humble in their presentation, but it was clear the town stretched much further than was apparent from main street.

To Harley, it was the perfect home.

“Son of a…!” She yelled out, stepping into another bindi patch, which gave the rest of the team enough time to appreciate the vibrance and natural feel of the town.

“What a gentle atmosphere.” Wess remarked, as Sola took a deep breath.

“I am surprised somewhere so untouched is surrounded by farmland.” Essex pointed out, before Julia took notice of the buildings around them.

“You guys have a museum?” Julia asked, as Harley looked back at her.

“Yeah? Of course, we do. Why wouldn’t we?” Harley questioned, as Julia realised how rude it must have sounded.

“O-Oh, sorry, I-I didn’t mea-“

“I guess us country folk wouldn’ be all fancy like you city types!” Harley mocked, putting on a deliberately absurd voice.

“Harley, I really didn-“

“We’s just too busy milkin’ goats and wrestlin’ cows!” Harley continued, starting to get a few laughs from the rest of the team.

“Alright, now you’re jus-“

“Imma read some corn on da cob for en’ertainment!” Harley added further, now adding a silly dance to her routine, as Julia gave up and decided to move on.

“Geez…” Julia let out, getting a comforting pat on the back from Wess, as Harley caught up to her and led the charge again, with the team dragging their suitcases behind them.

“So to recap, yes, we do have a museum.” Harley clarified, drawing more embarrassment from Julia. “As well as a theatre, dance hall, concert hall, a couple other halls I can’t remember…”

Harley started pointing out the noteworthy as they walked. “That’s the Big Taco, one of our main illustrious landmarks. Then there’s the overpriced movie theatre, the Speed Chicken fast food joint…” Harley prattled on, as the rest of Team Valiant struggled to take in everything around them, despite it being a small town.

“And there’s the roundabout of doom.” Harley pointed out, noting a particularly busy roundabout at the intersection of several roads. “Trust me, never drive on that thing. It’s got five different exits and six different businesses connected to it, and all of them will get you killed.”

Sola stared at the ill-conceived roadwork and shuddered. “And I thought being a Venator was dangerous.”

“And, oh here we go…” Harley said, excitedly presenting the next landmark. “This is the PlyPlace, the best hardware store you’ll ever find. This place has, singlehandedly, kept my dad’s farm in business for years.”

“It is very large.” Essex mentioned, staring at how far back the building stretched into the forest behind it.

“The carpark’s almost excessive.” Wess remarked, watching a couple go by with an enormous stack of boxes. “There’s nothing like this in the Northern Wayside.”

“Nope. It’s a Southern Wayside staple for a reason, especially the bake sale on Sundays.” Harley bragged, just as the front entrance opened, despite none of them stepping in front of it.

Eventually, the reason why made herself known, before gasping at Harley’s arrival.

“No way! Harley!” She cried, rushing over to her from the entrance. “You have to tell me when you’re coming back!”

“I was gonna surprise you later! I forgot you worked here.” Harley said, before noticing the team’s confusion. “Guys, this is Angie, one of my dearest childhood friends.”

“Oh, stop it.” Angie teased, before acknowledging the four other people around her. “Heya, Angie Prilia. I love fun, parties, and appreciating life in all its many facets.”

Angie was impressively bubbly, which only seemed to amplify Harley’s existing optimism. Despite being in a fairly drab work uniform, Angie had made an effort to splash it up with some colour. When next to Harley, it was clear the two had been close for a while, which was immediately apparent by their actual closeness.

Julia stepped forward and shook her hand. “Uhh, Julia. I’m the…leader of Harley’s team.”

“No kidding. I thought Harley was the leader.” Angie said, grabbing her hand and shaking it a bit wildly. “Guess you beat her to the punch, huh?”

“I-I really didn’t.” Julia replied, as Angie let go and moved on to Wess, before immediately stopping.

“Whoa. You’re huge.” Angie let out.

Wess stared down at her chest and back up to Angie. “Thank you.”

“I mean, not Harley big, but damn…” Angie let out, staring a little too long, before Harley dragged her away to her protest. “Noooo…”

“Don’t creep on my team.” Harley insisted, before plopping her in front of Sola. “This is Sola. All around great, and…my girlfriend.”

Sola stared at Angie curiously, as Angie grabbed her hands and shook them sporadically.

“You’re a lucky lady, Sola!” Angie congratulated, grinning back at her. “Harley’s been with a lot of folks before, so you must be something special to catch her e-“

Harley dragged Angie off again, while muttering into her ear. “Can you not mention my exes? That’s just weird.”

“Sorry, sorry.” Angie apologised. “My big ol’ heart just can’t help but bring in new people. Especial…”

Angie’s voice dropped the moment she lay her eyes on Essex, who stood somewhat proudly with her scythe on display.

“Uhh…ummm…hi.” Angie settled on, slowly extending her hand, as the team was shocked at her sudden shift in demeanour.

Essex looked at her and bowed. “Aerlo Decali. My title is Essex.” She then shook the hand back, as Angie gently giggled to herself, trying not to blush too hard.

“What the…” Harley let out, as Essex stared at her mid-handshake, curious if this was normal behaviour for Harley’s friend.

“I know this may be a bit presumptive…” Angie mumbled, struggling to look at Essex’s striking lilac eyes. “…but do you want to go somewhere tomorrow?”

Essex’s mouth hung open, before she looked back at the team, all fairly confused. “…it would depend on my schedu-“

“Great! I can’t wait!” Angie let out, cheerily leaving Essex’s side, before joining up with Harley again. “What a team! It almost reminds me of back in high school with Sloane.”

“Oh, I miss her. What’s she doing nowadays?” Harley asked.

“She’s some bigshot fashion designer in Louileon, I think. I wanna visit her, but I’m still saving up to move out of here.”

“I think at this point, that’s never gonna happen…” Harley admitted, before instinctively walking off with Angie, leaving the rest of the team to themselves.

“Huh.” Julia managed. “Do we just…?”

“Guys, come on! We’ll walk to my house!” Harley announced, as the others looked to each other, before following behind, hurrying down main street.

“Alright, spill. I need details.” Angie asked Harley, standing further ahead from the others. “How did you and Sola happen?”

“Well, I was training her for some class stuff, and we worked through a few things together.” Harley explained. “Then, after an ill-advised sparing match, we…sorta realised we both wanted it to happen. It’s been a few months now, so I’ve already outlasted my relationship with Chops.”

“It’s that serious?” Angie exclaimed, before whispering into her ear. “Have you gone any further yet?”

“Further?” Harley asked.

“You know.” Angie said, shuffling her shoulders. “The horizontal tango. The dance with no pants. Have you given her a physical pleasure only shared between lovers?”

Harley tried to look away, before shaking her hand. “No, no, we haven’t…I mean…” Harley started, before leaning in further. “…you know…”

Angie stood back, mouth agape in utter shock.

“Harley Baroke, I can’t believe you!” Angie cried. “You of all people have been putting off se-?!”

“Shh, shh shh!” Harley insisted, covering Angie’s mouth, before making sure the rest of Team Valiant behind them didn’t hear. “I haven’t been putting it off! We…had some things to work out.”

Angie broke herself free. “And did you work them out?”

“Well, yeah.”

“Then what’s your excuse?!” Angie yelled again, causing Harley to block her mouth again.

“I’m just waiting for the right time!” Harley said. “She hasn’t ever…done it before, so I want to make it really special. It’s the least I can do.”

Angie rolled her eyes, before moving away from Harley’s hand again. “Are you just trying to make up for how you lost your v-plates?”

Harley glanced to the side for a little too long. “No.”

Angie’s eyes drooped. “Well, I can’t blame you. Theme parks and first times just don’t mix.” Angie mentioned, as they both shuddered at the thought of it. “That poor clown…”

“That’s not entirely it.” Harley said, looking behind her and watching as Sola stared wide-eyed at the new sights and sounds around her. “She’s fragile.”

Angie pouted her lips, before poking Harley’s side. “Sounds like you’re the fragile one. Come on, Girl in Red, where’s that mojo of yours?”

“Oh, don’t get me started, or else I’ll turn my mojo on you.” Harley teased, ready to play around with Angie, before she side-glanced Sola again and stopped herself, shuffling along, which only confused Angie further.

Just off into the distance, Rosalind had parked by the edge of the forest, high enough to watch as everyone traversed the main street of Denilee. She fortunately caught up after her inconvenience at the border but didn’t get the chance to catch the team off guard like she had hoped.

She rested against the hood of her ute again, as she stared at Team Valiant crossing main street, before ducking behind some buildings, just out of sight.

Having disappeared on her, she grit her teeth, banging her fist on the car, before opening up the door and taking out her sword.

In her fit of anger, she remembered to calm herself and slowly put the sword back.

“…this won’t work.” She realised, staring back at main street. “I just can’t get closer without being spotted…”

She rested against her car, thinking through her options, as she side-glanced her tablet, wondering if she needed backup.

…I can’t do anything here. Rosalind rationalised. But not using this chance would be a waste.

She went to grab it and held her finger over the number pad, before sighing out and displaying her hands.

“But what if they got in the way again?” Rosalind said aloud to herself. “I was looking out for your work, Wicker. This is my job, isn’t it?”

Rosalind nodded to herself, before committing to the call and watching main street again.

“Yeah…RC…I was hoping to have a package delivered to me…yes, he allowed it...I don’t know if I’ll return it yet, but I’ll…oh yeah?...they’re...okay…I can work with that…yeah...I’ll send you my location. Don’t waste my time here.”

Rosalind sent over her details and hung up, before grabbing a half-finished bag of chips from her backseat and getting comfortable, kicking her feet up on the dashboard.

“Suck a dick, Team Valiant…”

“Here we are!” Harley announced, standing just beside a long, winding path running through the surrounding forest. “My dads cottage is just through here.”

“Well, I guess I’ve gotta go now. It was fun meeting you guys.” Angie announced, grinning widely, before spotting Essex and shying away.

“I’ll…see you on our date, Essex…” Angie said, giggling to herself, which only confused Essex further, before she turned back to Harley. “And we’re going out tomorrow night! We need some more mojo in our lives!”

“Mojo?” Sola wondered, frustrating Harley, before Angie started to walk off, waving to the team.

“The invite’s open to you too, Sola! I think you’ll really dig it!” Angie called out, heading on her way.

Harley looked to Sola. “Y-You really don’t have t-“

“I’ll see you there!!!” Sola yelled back, waving happily to Angie as she left, before smiling at Harley. “She’s so nice. I’ve never been to a club before. We’re going to a club, right?”

Harley huffed out. “Yeah, I guess we are. Man, Angie’s a handful…”

“I can only imagine.” Wess remarked, walking past Harley onto the path, as the bright red and orange forest surrounded them.

“This is a different experience to the Aishanara Forest.” Essex mentioned, staring up at the foliage. “It is less dense and far more colourful.”

“Hey, what colours do the leaves turn in autumn?” Julia asked, as Harley rested a finger to her chin.

“Uhh, purple-ish, I think.” Harley replied. “Central Point’s looking a little baren in comparison now, huh?”

“…I still like it.” Julia let out, just as the cottage came into view, standing atop a hill with rolling fields of grain stretching out behind it. The cottage was noticeably small, but in that perfect sort of cosy way that made you appreciate the space all the more.

“Davidson! William! I’m back!” Harley yelled out, waiting for a response, before Davidson poked his head out from the front door.

“Already?” He asked, stepping out onto the porch. “You could have at least texted u-“

He immediately stopped once he acknowledged the rest of Team Valiant, before grinning giddily. “Is THIS your team? I love them already!”

“Davi, was that Harley yelling out?” William asked, sticking his head out the front door too, before realising Davidson was already down the hill, greeting the team properly.

Davidson was a fairly well-built guy, but wore it in a way where his muscles weren’t immediately apparent. Despite being somewhat unclean from his evident farm work, the slight bit of stubble and blonde messy hair managed to work for him, even if his attire was as overtly farm-chic as you could get.

“Okay, hold on. I’ve got this.” He prefaced, before pointing to Essex. “You’re Essex.”

“Yes.”

“Wess.”

“Correct.”

“And…?” He said, before staring at Julia. “Sola?”

“Julia…actually.” She corrected, before Davidson rolled his eyes.

“Hey, two for four isn’t too bad.” He confessed, before landing his eyes on Sola and standing above her. “So. You’re the girlfriend I keep hearing about.”

Sola looked around her, before nodding. “Yeah.”

“Hmm…” Davidson said, looking over her, as William walked down the hill to join them. “You’re shorter than Chops, and you’re about as well-dressed…”

“Oh, come on, give the girl a break.” William insisted, joining his side. “Not everyone can be like Chops.”

“Oh my god…” Harley let out, groaning into her hands, as Davidson got defensive.

“What? I’m making sure she’s right for our Harley.” Davidson insisted, before leaning down to meet Sola’s height. “Now, how long’s this been going on?”

“A few months.”

“Do your parents know too?”

“Yeah.”

“And do you love her?”

“Of course!”

“Well, I’m sold. Sola, welcome to the family!” Davidson announced, bringing her in for a hug.

“Come on, don’t crowd her.” William insisted, as Davidson went to complain, before rolling his eyes and standing up. “Apologies for my husband. Despite his age, he’s still learning the basics of boundaries.”

William bowed to the team. “William Baroke. It’s a pleasure to meet Harley’s friends.”

In stark contrast to Davidson, William was noticeably more put together, with much darker skin, a fairly heavy beard and a mannered disposition. It was clear he was more of a homebody, but that didn’t stop him for putting in just as much work as Davidson, whether that be farm work or basic chores. Noticeably, despite their little spat, he stood very close to Davidson.

“Can we help with your things?” William asked, before grabbing a few of the suitcases and wheeling them up the hill toward the cottage. “I hope the train ride wasn’t too much for you.”

“It was for some of us…” Sola admitted, getting a hearty laugh from Davidson, as the team entered the cottage, acknowledging just how small it truly was.

“Wow. I’m surprised Harley can even fit in here.” Julia remarked, as Harley smirked at her.

“Was that supposed to be a dig?” Harley asked, before she spotted Davidson staring at Essex, bowing in front of the front door.

“What’s up with her?” Davidson asked, as Harley looked down at her, before remembering her similar action at Julia’s house.

“Right. You can stay here.” Harley said, before Essex quickly got back up, struggling to fit her scythe in the door.

“Couldn’t she have just asked instead of bowing?” Davidson wondered, as Essex turned to answer.

“I cannot formally ask to be invited in. It would be seen as presumptive.” Essex answered, as Davidson quickly looked over her, before putting the dots together.

“Oh! You’re the Segaru one! The one from the clan!” Davidson realised, smacking his forehead. “I didn’t realise since you weren’t wearing the robes!”

“Robes?” Wess perked up, setting her bags down in the lounge room with the others, as Davidson looked back at Team Valiant.

“Yeah. It’s tradition for members of the Segar-“ Davidson started, before realising Essex was right there and clearing his throat. “Sorry, you should explain it.”

“…for members to wear robes as to mask their identity.” Essex finished, shying away with the explanation. “It is to ensure that we do not garner fame or favour for our actions, and that we only act for the reason of helping others.”

“So, why aren’t you wearing yours?” Sola asked, as Essex was noticeably embarrassed.

“…it is a personal choice.” Essex answered, hoping that would suffice, as Julia leaned over to Wess.

“I thought personal choices like that weren’t allowed in the clan?” She whispered.

“Perhaps they made an exception?” Wess whispered back, before speaking up. “Apologies for taking up so much room. We’ll try to use the space well.”

“It’s really no problem.” William chimed in, heading to the kitchen. “We have a few spare beds we’ll set up soon. I’ll make you guys something after your long trip here.”

“Is that a Northern Wayside accent?” Davidson asked again, as Wess nodded back. “Wow. Harley, you’ve made some interesting friends at your academy.”

“Damn right, I have.” She grinned proudly, before bringing in the team for a hug. “I’m gonna get everyone settled in. Don’t wait up.”

Harley indicated to the staircase up to her room, as the team hurried up there, letting Davidson breath out a sigh of relief.

“I always thought Harley was embellishing with her team.” Davidson admitted, as William worked on a couple sandwiches. “They seem really nice so far.”

“We raised her right. She tends to draw in the good ones.” William said, before Davidson joined his side, wrapping an arm around his waist.

“Kinda like someone I know.” Davidson remarked, leaning in to kiss his cheek, as William started to blush.

“Davi, please…” William insisted, smiling despite himself, as Davidson got a bit friskier, before Harley popped her head back down the stairs.

“Hey, where’s the spare lin-guys! Come on, not while we’re in the house.” Harley insisted, as to two quickly separated, with Davidson giving a nervous laugh.

“Sorry, Harls. Old habits.” He joked, as William quickly went to hide his embarrassment.

———

After settling in for the rest of their first day, the team thought it best to spend their second day exploring Denilee to its fullest, even if not all of them were as keen to head out.

“What’s up, Essex?” Harley asked, her arm around Sola as they walked, as Essex scanned around main street cautiously.

“I am curious as to whether Angie was serious about her date invitation.” Essex admitted.

“Oh, she definitely was.” Harley confessed. “Don’t worry. She’s a lot at first, but she really grows on you.”

Essex nodded unsurely, as Sola skipped ahead of the group, excitedly checking out every unique building they passed, letting Harley pull the rest of the team back for an aside.

“Hey, guys. Can I ask a favour?” Harley said. “Can I have my bedroom for tonight? Just for me and Sola?”

“Oh. Of course, Harley.” Julia agreed. “I don’t wanna pry, but…”

“Julia, I think we all know what it’s for.” Wess insisted, as Julia admitted to herself that she knew, before they realised Essex wasn’t clued in. “Sex, Essex.”

“Oh. Understood.” Essex replied, before her face went quickly flush, as the implications flooded her mind. “R-Right…”

“Thanks. This means a lot to me.” Harley assured, sighing out, before realising Sola was now talking to Angie of all people, forcing her to hurry over and intervene as soon as possible.

“I’ve got this great place i-oh, hey, Harley!” Angie called out, waving as she ran up to them. “I was just filling in Sola on our plans.”

“I-Including her?” Harley worried, before the others followed behind, most notably Essex. Angie’s pushing it way to fast. I need to slow her somehow...

“Oh my…” Angie let out, closing in on Essex. “I didn’t realise you were so eager to spend time with me…”

“That is no-“

“Angie, you read her like a book!” Harley insisted, grabbing Essex’s shoulders. “She’s been dying to spend most of the day together, preferably alone.”

“Harley, what i-“ Essex went to ask, before noticing Harley’s pleading expression and indicating to Sola, as Essex realised her responsibility.

“…yes.” Essex let out. “I will spend time with you.”

Angie prompted her further.

“…on a date.”

“Then let’s go already! Bye, team!” Angie cheered, grabbing Essex’s arm and skipping away, as Essex looked back at Harley with concern, while Harley mouthed the word ‘sorry.’

Just as Angie was out of eyesight, Harley turned to Julia and Wess just as desperately.

“Is it cool if you guys go explore on your own while I talk with Sola?” Harley asked, trying not to seem too forceful, as Julia and Wess both looked at each other, before shrugging.

“Why not? Sounds like fun.” Wess said, before pointing to a large windmill nearby. “Let’s stop by there first.”

“We’re gonna split up for a bit, Sola! See you later!” Julia called out, heading off with Wess, leaving Sola to realise it was just her and Harley on their own.

“Huh.” She let out. “We sure split up quickly.”

“Yeah. Coincidences.” Harley replied, before ushering Sola down the street. “Let’s enjoy ourselves then.”

The duo walked in silence for a bit, before the uncomfortable air started to build up.

“Soooooo…how’re you liking Denilee?”

“It’s great! Seeing this place really clears up a lot about you.” Sola exclaimed, surprising Harley.

“How so?”

“Well,” Sola started, pointing at the museum. “That’s probably why you’re such a big history buff.”

“I mean, Davidson likes that stuff too.” Harley excused, as Sola indicated to the farmland just off into the distance.

“That explains all your agriculture knowledge.” Sola added, as her finger landed on a few garish buildings taking up one of the many side streets. “And all those clubs are where your partying comes from!”

Harley looked over them again, as a few scenes in her life of getting wasted, partying like crazy and ending up in someone else’s bed flashed before her, as she looked back at Sola worriedly.

Sola noticed quickly. “You okay?”

“…y-yeah. Nostalgia…rush.” Harley said, hoping that was a thing. “I…guess you didn’t get up to that in Mykonori, huh?”

“Nope!” Sola cheered, hopping along, as Harley berated herself for missing her chance.

…would she ever be okay with that? Harley wondered. She’s never had a problem with it before, but maybe it’s different now that we’re dating…

Angie stared at Essex adoringly, resting against their shared table overlooking the main street at some restaurant, while Essex did everything she could to try and ignore the fact that she was there.

“You’re really attractive…”

Essex blinked. “That was not intentional.”

“Could’ve fooled me.” Angie let out, resting her head on the table. “You carry yourself very well…”

“It…would be more difficult for me not to.” Essex replied, confused by Angie’s comment, before Angie sat back up suddenly.

“So, how is it? Is this romantic? What are you feeling right now?”

Essex pulled herself back, before staring out at the street beside them. “…mostly perplexment.”

“Really?” Angie let out. “Was it the restaurant? We can go somewhere else.”

Essex shook her head in reply. “I am afraid that…I am not interested.”

Angie’s cheerier demeanour sank, as she also sank back into her chair. “Oh.”

Angie quickly picked her energy back up. “Well, it’s not the most embarrassing rejection I’ve gotten. I flirted with a Venator for a while, until they said ‘I’d rather fight the Wailing than date you.’ Talk about a turnoff.”

Essex nodded in acknowledgement, as Angie leaned over again, less in infatuation and more in curiosity.

“Alright then, who’s the ideal partner for you?”

Essex tried to hide her face, which only caused Angie to lean in further.

“I can tell you mine.” Angie said, leaning back and counting on her fingers. “First, I’d want a really built butler to wait on me, then another really built gardener to watch. I should say, this all takes place in a mansion I own. Then a really, really, sexy maid, if I can get one, who’s go…”

Essex attention started to drift, as she looked out onto main street in order to ignore Angie, before she noticed Harley and Sola on their stroll together. Her gaze fixed on the two of them, their touching hands, their slightly flirty body language, the remnants of a joke they were both still laughing at. They were happy, pretty much like they always were.

Essex wondered if this was even possible for her. It had never been her sole focus in life…

…but neither has becoming a Venator.

“Yo, Essex?”

Essex turned back frantically. “Y-Yes?”

“You barely heard me out. I was describing the really naughty stuff.” Angie mentioned, as Essex was grateful she had missed out on that. “What’s got you so distracted?”

Essex didn’t want to answer, but felt Angie’s gaze digging into her.

“..th-the idea…of ideal partners…” Essex muttered, as Angie snapped her fingers.

“There we go. All it takes is a little bit of my magic.” Angie bragged, leaning back in her seat. “Some say I’m a distant relative of the original cupid.”

Essex glanced back to her, even if she didn’t actually care about anything she was saying.

Harley noticed the silence between her and Sola creeping in again, as she forced herself to get to the point of her private walk.

“Umm…Sola.” Harley started, already feeling uncomfortable, as Sola linked arms with her.

“Yeah?”

“I’ve...I’ve never asked about, uhh…intimate things…between us.” Harley paraphrased, as Sola cocked her head.

“Like kissing?”

“No, a bit more than that…”

“Groping?”

“Uhh, more.” Harley prompted, raising her eyebrows. “The big one.”

It took Sola a second before she got it. “Oh. That one.”

“Yeah.” Harley said, swallowing. “I wanted to have this conversation a little sooner, but since the dorm rooms aren’t exactly private, it didn’t feel right to bring up there…”

Sola didn’t add much to the conversation, leaving Harley somewhat lost on her point.

“I-I mean, would you be…” Harley started, before stopping herself suddenly.

Why the hell am I struggling with this?! It’s never been this hard before. Harley thought, as she stared back at Sola’s eyes. …she’s so cute.

Harley shook herself free from her own thoughts, as Sola continued to look on confusedly.

“Harley…” Sola replied, resting her head on Harley’s arm. “I-I mean, I’ve never…you know…so I wouldn’t really know what to…say.”

“I know, it’s…” Harley quickly added, trying to assure her. “I’m not gonna force you into anything.”

“Yeah. Yeah, right.” Sola said, before the duo felt the uncomfortable silence creeping in again.

“…”

“…”

“You wanna put this off for a bit?”

“Uh huh.” Sola said, nodding back at Harley, leaving them to their stroll, just as Julia and Wess came back over to join them.

“What a gorgeous windmill. Honestly, the architecture to this place astounds me.” Wess said, before looking at a slightly uncomfortable Harley and Sola. “Are you two alright?”

“Of course!” Sola replied. “It’s all perfectly natural!”

“Natural?” Julia wondered, looking to Wess, before they spent the rest of the day exploring the town to their leisure.

———

Eventually, night fell over the gentle town, letting the local businesses shut down for the day and allowing the nightlife to awaken properly. Harley and Sola gave a quick farewell to Davidson, William and the rest of the team, before heading out to join up with Angie.

“Didn’t you feel like joining them?” Davidson asked, as Julia shook her head.

“It’s not really our thing.” She replied, getting a similar reaction from Wess and Essex.

“That’s understandable. Do you feel like anything special for dinner?”

“Whatever works for you, Mr Baroke.” Julia insisted, sitting by the kitchen counter to join Wess and Essex, as Davidson gave her a knowing look.

“You can call me Davidson. Anyone who’s won my Harley’s heart deserves first name privileges.” Davidson said, heading to the fridge, as William looked out the window quietly.

He sighed out, before turning around, only to realise Julia, Wess and Essex were looking at him.

“Are you worried about Harley?” Essex asked, as William tried to keep his composure.

“No, we’re pretty used to this by now. She can handle herself.” William confessed, turning back to the window. “But I am worried about…her and Sola.”

“Oh, that’s just paranoid thinking.” Davidson said, grabbing a leftover pie from the fridge, before starting up the oven. “She seemed a lot better with Sola.”

“What’s might the concern be about?” Wess asked, leaning against the kitchen counter, as William faced her again.

“Harley hasn’t had a great track record with long-term relationships in the past.” William admitted. “The best she’d done was Chops, but even that ended pretty abruptly.”

“At first, we just thought that wasn’t really her thing.” Davidson added, joining William’s side. “But it’s clear she really wants it. I guess the concern is…”

“…now that she’s dating a teammate, a breakup would be much messier.” Julia finished, getting a solemn nod from Davidson.

“We’re just looking out for you guys. No need to get her new friends caught in the crossfire.” Davidson insisted, looking out the window as well, before noticing the lights still on for his tractor. “Is that still running? Hold on, I’ve got take care of this.”

He gave William a quick kiss on the cheek, before ducking outside to turn it back off, as William sighed out again.

“I love them both so much.” William muttered, drawing the girls attention. “And it feels weird not being Harley’s safety net anymore.”

“That’s right. Weren’t you two responsible for Harley’s training?” Wess asked, getting up while the pie was cooking, as William nodded back.

“When we had the time. Davidson handled most of the combative techniques, and I showed her how to defend herself.” William said, chuckling a little at the memory. “She got so grouchy whenever I showed her, but she’d thank me for it now…”

William sighed out. “And sure, it was a bit hard to reign in her party antics when she got older, but we made sure she was being safe, and that if she didn’t come home at night, she’d at least be back for breakfast.”

William circled his finger on the countertop. “But now, we just have to hope she’s still doing that…”

William was quiet for a moment, letting his eyes drift up to the window and the lights coming from the club district, as Julia shuffled in her seat.

“W-Well, if it assures you, she definitely has with us.” Julia mentioned, peaking William’s interest. “Even with her spending plenty of nights at the academy bar, or out in Detu City, she’s still on top of her grades. And she helps with team assignments all the time.”

“If you want further evidence, look no further than Sola.” Wess assured. “The only reason they got together was because Harley offered to help Sola when she really needed it. If she wasn’t considering others, they never would have ended up together.”

“…somehow, I’m not surprised.” William said, before gently chuckling to himself. “But it’s still lovely to hear.”

Davidson hopped back in just as the pie finished up, before scooting Wess out of the way.

“What did I miss?” Davidson asked, retrieving the pie from the oven, as William let out another light laugh.

“Only that our daughter’s as wonderful as ever.” William assured.

———

“This is so new for me! I’d never go to a club back in Mykonori.” Sola mentioned, skipping along happily, before stopping in front of Harley. “How’s my outfit?”

Harley gave her dress a quick once-over, admitting in her head that it was pretty conservative for a club, but still looked really cute on Sola.

“You look great.” Harley assured, before Sola pulled her along quicker.

“Then let’s get there faster!” Sola exclaimed, causing Harley to laugh, before they spotted someone just outside the club.

“Wassup bitch!” Angie called out, significantly dressed down compared to her outfit earlier in the day, as the sound of the club district started to bleed in for the arriving duo. “I’ve already got a table for us inside! Come on!”

Angie started dragging Harley along with Sola, giving her whiplash as the loud music and stuffy atmosphere hit her the moment she entered. She’d been there several times before, but the strange claustrophobia was still just as comforting to her.

Angie dragged them both to their reserved seating area, just between the dance floor and bar, as Sola tried talking over the music.

“How’d you get these seats?!” She yelled, still trying to adjust, as Angie scooched closer.

“I know the owner’s son, and we sorta have a thing…” Angie teased, before laughing. “I won’t go into details, but he’s very accommodating.”

Sola half-heard what she said and simply nodded along before looking to Harley. “Have you been here before?!”

“Uhh, yeah, plenty of times…” Harley admitted, feeling a bit awkward as other people started crowding near them.

Angie’s eyes lit up, as she spotted a couple women walking in and sitting themselves at the bar. “Oh, Harley! Check them out.”

Harley instinctively looked, noting two very attractive woman at the bar, as one briefly locked eyes with her.

She quickly turned back around, as Angie rested a hand on her leg. “You should talk to them! That one on the left’s so your type! Use some of that Girl in Red magic!”

Harley felt herself starting to break a sweat, before she spotted Sola, looking around curiously while blocking her ears.

“Hey, babe?”

Sola perked up and looked at her.

“Can you get us a couple drinks at the bar?” Harley asked.

“Can do!” Sola replied, quickly nodding and getting up, navigating the crowd of people between them and the bar, as Harley slinked back in her seat.

“What’s up?” Angie asked, as Harley dragged her hands over her face. “Aren’t you feeling it tonight?”

Harley dropped her hands down, as she stared at the ceiling to avoid looking around her.

“I’ve…got a confession…”

Angie cocked her head. “About you and Sola?”

“It’s not just that…” Harley admitted, visibly down on herself. “…I’ve been putting it off entirely.”

Angie’s eyes widened. “You mean…?”

Harley nodded, before resting her head in her hands. “I haven’t had sex for months.”

“With anyone?!” Angie freaked out, still being drowned out by the club atmosphere around her. “How the hell did you manage?!”

Harley ignored the question and stared at the floor. “…it didn’t feel right. I wasn’t…doing it…with Sola, so it didn’t feel right to hook up with random people at a bar, or anyone else for that matter…”

Angie sat back down and rested a hand on Harley. “Have you talked with her about it?”

Harley shook her head. “I don’t know where to start. I don’t even know what she wants. Are we exclusive? Does she not want me sleeping with other people? What about clubbing? It’s clearly not her thing.”

Angie patted Harley comfortingly. “So? We’ve had sex before, and I’m not some pottery nut who’s bending over backwards to visit some ruins or whatever.”

“…that’s a gross oversimplification, but okay.” Harley said, as Angie did her best to drown out the noise around them.

“Just talk with her. Take a risk.” Angie said. “If she’s worth it, you guys can figure this out.”

Angie nudged her with her elbow. “And if you’re lucky, you two might finally consummate things.”

Harley couldn’t help but grin, as she shoved Angie away. “You horndog. Is sex all you think about?”

“Hey, I was thinking about sex AND my friend’s feelings.” Angie insisted, indicating to Sola still waiting by the bar. “You guys can leave if you want. It might be better to work things out at home.”

“Yeah, you might b-“ Harley started, before spotting Angie staring back at a hunky guy near the bar, making eyes at her as well. “…of course. One track mind…”

Harley accepted her losses and waded through the crowd to meet Sola at the bar, who was waving her hands at the bartender wildly.

“HEY!!! TWO CRASHER’S RIDGE COCKTAILS!!! HELLO???” She yelled, trying to speak over the music, as he finally noticed her and turned around. “FINALLY!!!”

“…I’m gonna need some ID.” He asked brazenly, as Sola looked immediately offended, just as Harley joined her side.

“Hey, Harley, glad you’re here! This guy’s trying to stiff us out of our drinks, so I figu-“ Sola started, as Harley grabbed her shoulder.

“Do you wanna head home early? I need to talk some stuff out.” Harley stated.

Sola studied her expression for a bit, before nodding back to her, as they worked their way to the entrance of the club, with Harley leading Sola through as best she could.

Harley waved back to Angie as they left, before making a beeline with Sola to her cottage, huddling together to avoid some of the evening breeze.

“...this has to do with what we talked about yesterday, right?” Sola asked, as Harley nodded her head.

“Yeah...I guess I didn’t hide it well...” Harley admitted. “…I was…planning…on us…well, I mean I don’t know if…”

Harley tried starting again, as Sola linked her hand with Harley’s and smiled back at her.

“…I’ve been a bit worried…about us having sex.” Harley confessed. “I know I’ve done it plenty, and you…haven’t, so I didn’t want to just take that from you so brazenly…”

She sighed out. “…but I really want us to do it. I wanted it to be special, and…it didn’t feel right to do it with anyone else…”

Sola stared back at her curiously. “So does that mean…?”

Harley nodded back. “I haven’t…had sex with anyone else since we started dating.”

“But that’s been, like, four months now.” Sola realised, as they stopped briefly. “You didn’t have to do that.”

“I mean, we never really talked about being…exclusive.” Harley said, muttering by the end, before facing Sola again. “But if that’s what you want…then that’s what I’ll do. You mean so much to me, and I don’t want to ruin that by taking you for granted.”

Sola noticed how much Harley was putting into her confession, as she reached out to grab her hands again and face her.

“Well, it’s fine by me. I trust you to be safe about it.” Sola smiled. “I know it’s not really my thing, but I won’t take it from you if that’s what you enjoy.”

Harley blinked. “R-Really?”

Sola nodded sweetly. “Just as long as…we’re still a thing. And…we still get to…you know…”

Harley pounced Sola into a hug. “Oh, you’re the best girlfriend ever!”

Sola started laughing wildly, trying to get Harley to put her down. “Cut it out! People’ll stare!”

“Who cares! My girlfriend’s awesome!!!” Harley yelled out, drawing the attention of a couple passers-by, as Harley grabbed up Sola’s hand again. “Come on. We’re pretty close to home now.”

They carried on down the rest of main street, through the pass in the surrounding forest and up the hill to Harley’s cottage, holding hands the whole way, as they walked in to find Harley’s dads and the rest of the team by the TV, watching a Team Spectrum documentary with their reheated pie.

“Oh, back home early?” Davidson called out, leaning over the couch, as Harley smiled back at Sola.

“Yeah, just felt pretty tired. We’re probably going to head to bed early.” Harley excused, having trouble hiding her and Sola’s excitement. “Goodnight.”

“Goodnight!” William called out, watching them head up the stairs, as he realised everyone else was looking with him. “…I’m going to turn up the TV.”

Sola jumped right onto the bed, as Harley quickly followed, holding herself above her, as they shared a glance for a moment.

“Are you really sure?” Harley asked again, a little out a breath. “If you’re not ready…”

Sola held up a hand and rested it on Harley’s cheek. “So ready.”

Harley smiled again, watching as Sola got herself comfortable.

“I’m gonna make this the best night of your life.” Harley assured, taking off her shirt. “Just sit back and enjoy yourself.”

Sola nodded, a slight hint of nervousness finally creeping over her face, as she lay back gently, watching as Harley slipped under the covers, planting kisses along her neck, before reaching down, opening up he-

———

Hello, C. here, censoring this for your convenience. There are certain boundaries we don’t cross as writers. Some dirty laundry is best not aired.

Don’t worry, nothing important was lost. I’m not one of those ‘sexposition’ writers.

And unless you’re some sort of degenerate, this wouldn’t be to your taste anyway, I assure you.

Now, back to our regularly scheduled programming.

———

Harley was left panting wildly, splayed out in a mass of sweat and tangled sheets. Meanwhile, Sola lay under the sheets as well, holding the covers up to her as she focused on breathing.

Just as she managed to get her breath back, Harley turned to Sola frantically. “Sola, you’re incredible!”

“I am?” Sola asked, as Harley leaned in to kiss her again.

“Wow. That was something else.” Harley remarked with noticeable energy. “Where’d you learn to do that leg thing?”

Sola thought on it for a bit, before shrugging. “I dunno. This was my first time.”

Harley grinned, before kicking her legs happily. “AH! That was so much fun! Yes yes ye-”

Sola smiled back at her, as Harley realised the mood and sequestered herself.

“O-Oh, sorry…how…did you like it?” Harley asked, avoiding eye contact, as Sola placed a finger to her chin, before pouncing Harley.

“It was great! Definitely the best I’ve ever had!” Sola joked, as Harley patted her head.

“Oh, just wait until next time. This’ll look like nothing compared to that.” Harley bragged, just as Sola pulled back.

“Next time?” She asked. “We’re done for tonight?”

Harley found her face forced into a grin, just as she pulled Sola back onto the bed, ready to continue their night together.

———

“You’re cute.”

“No, you’re cute.”

“I’m not cute, I’ve got a bunch of muscles.”

“Muscles can be cute! Don’t sell yourself short.”

“No, the muscles make me sexy, not cute.” Harley reasoned, following Sola up the stairs to the Flash-Rail station. “Big difference.”

“What if I got muscly?” Sola asked, swinging their locked hands back and forth.

“You’d still be cute.” Harley grinned, as they reached the top to find Julia, Wess, Essex, Davidson and William waiting for them. “Sorry we didn’t walk with you.”

“That’s fine. We didn’t want to…interrupt…in case…” Julia started, before waving her hands back and forth. “You know what, forget I said anything!”

“In case you were ‘being intimate.’” Essex finished, using air quotes, before nodding to Julia for approval, which she didn’t get.

“We won’t pry. We’re just here to see you off.” Davidson insisted, dropping a few bags by the team’s side. “It was great to have you guys over.”

“If you want, we might have some work for you on the farm once you’re in the industry.” William suggested. “Mostly dealing with pests and the occasional Wailing.”

“Hey, Julia, we’ll be like Team Spectrum.” Harley pointed out, surprising Julia. “With the Savage Wolf Wailing?”

Julia’s eyes lit up. “Yeah, that’s right! That’d be so aweso-”

Julia’s attention was drawn to Harley’s dad grinning at her, as she quickly quieted down. “...you don’t need to...go out of your way...”

“We’d be happy to.” Davidson added, joining William by the stairs. “Safe travels. Good luck with the train, Sola.”

“Thank you!” Sola exclaimed, waving as they left. “And don’t you worry! I’ll take good care of your daughter!”

“We wouldn’t have it any other way!” Davidson called back, waving as well, as William found himself laughing at the exchange.

“I’m glad to see you’re both in good spirits.” Wess remarked, watching as Harley and Sola struggled to get off each other. “Was it just that good?”

Harley smirked back at her. “Wess, since when did you get so interested?”

“Oh, hush. Stop looking into things.” Wess insisted, resting on her suitcase. “Love is beautiful, no matter how it’s expressed.”

Wess watched the couple playfully flirt, before shrugging. “You just seemed to be in an even better mood than I was expecting.”

“Oh yeah.” Sola realised. “Well, Harley and I sorted some things out.”

“We talked it through and decided we don’t need to be exclusive.” Harley explained.

“Vonodo, what might that mean?” Essex asked curiously, as Harley blushed.

“Essex, I didn’t realise you were interested.” Harley teased, closing in on her. “If you…wanted something more, I-“

Essex’s eyes widened and she backed off immediately. “Th-That was not my intention! I do not wish to disrupt our current relationship in that manner!”

The team was thrown back by her suddenness, as Harley sunk back a little and lessened her smile.

“O-Okay, I was just joking.” Harley excused, looking a bit embarrassed. “Sorry, I thought that translated…I didn’t mean it, obviously.”

Essex quieted down, avoiding looking at Harley and Sola, just as the Flash-Rail for the Northern Wayside arrived behind them, slowing to a stop.

“Oh, Mareau. I’ll be home soon…” Wess cooed, joyously stepping onto the train. “Come on! We needn’t burn daylight!”

The rest of the team soon followed, settling down for their long trip, save for Essex, who steadied herself on the platform, before stepping on and taking a deep breath.

“This will be a long trip…”

———

“…ch ch ch…they call me Rosalind, I’m known for my…posturing.”

Rosalind sat up in boredom, checking her tablet again over and over, before spotting a familiar truck further down the hill she was parked on.

Quickly, Rosalind got back into her car and drove down to meet it, as her and the driver parked the truck somewhere away from prying eyes.

“Don’t you think this is overkill?” The driver asked, getting ready to empty the cargo.

“We’re dealing with a Venator team here, one that’s beaten me before, so no.” Rosalind pointed out. “Plus, if I screw this up again, Wicker’ll be on my ass…”

The driver lifted his eyebrows, as he unhooked the back of the truck. “I guess…”

Rosalind ignored the comment for the moment and watched as the hatch swung open, revealing a mostly empty storage container, until several pairs of eyes opened up, glowing against the interior of the truck, before a set of two, large Wailing emerged from the back, immediately imposing, and coiling around each other symbiotically.

They studied their surroundings quickly, before noticing Rosalind in front of them, causing them to act out and panic the driver.

“Easy.” Rosalind said, holding up a remote control, before turning to the driver. “How effective is this?”

“A-Activating the remote should kill them.” The driver replied. “But that’s as far as it goes.”

Rosalind clicked her tongue, before facing the Wailing. “You know what this is, right?”

The Wailing froze and studied the remote for a second, as Rosalind nodded back.

“Correct. I have a job for you.” Rosalind said, pulling up photos of the news report involving Team Valiant and showing it to the Wailing. “You need to kill them.”

The Wailing both looked at each other, then to Rosalind, which caused her eye to twitch.

“Gods, it’s like talking to Jules…alright, I’m gonna assume you got that. They’ll be leaving on a Flash-Rail later this afternoon. Follow them.” Rosalind commanded. “And when the time’s right, quickly and quietly finish them off.”

The Wailing continued staring at her, before coiling around each other again and leaning into her, almost ready to bite her head off.

“Threat of death wasn’t enough?” Rosalind said, before sighing out. “Fine. If you manage to kill them, you’ll be set free. For good.”

The Wailing shot up in recognition, staring at each other in visible disbelief, before dashing toward Denilee, slinking through the trees together with clear drive.

“There we go.” Rosalind said. “You said they’re good at tracking?”

“Y-Yeah. They can’t forget a face.” The driver assured, joining her side. “You’re not actually letting them go, right?”

“No.” Rosalind sneered.

“Right, right. That was pretty smart, though.”

Rosalind stared at him.

“It’d just be suspicious if you killed them, but Wailing kill rookie Venators all the time. Especially since they don’t have their weapons.” The driver pointed out, as Rosalind stayed silent. “Wicker sure was clever to think this one up.”

“He didn’t. He doesn’t even know about this.” Rosalind admitted, stunning the driver.

“P-Pardon?”

“I lied.” Rosalind said, as the driver found it hard not to shake. “Get over it.”

Rosalind took a deep breath, before heading back to her car, only to find the driver still weighing his options silently. “You’re not planning on telling him, are you?”

“O-Oh, no, I’d never be that stupid.” The driver insisted. “B-But if he finds out...”

“I’ll get a big ol’ thank you for a job well done. One less problem.” Rosalind remarked, rolling her eyes. “Don’t worry. I’ll return them. It’ll be my head too.”

“Y-Yeah, right. Of course...” The driver replied, before getting back into his truck and tentatively tipping his hat to Rosalind. “Afternoon, Miss Castello.”

The driver drove off, as Rosalind gave him a fair bit of distance, before driving out herself, heading off to follow behind the Wailing, tracking them on her tablet as they carried on through the forest after their targets, and their eventual freedom.

“…they call me Rosalind…confident in what I am…sorry, girls, cause it’s the end…your sacrifice was…Valiant…”