Safety in numbers

But peace of mind is not so

Easily embraced

It had been a long search.

Tracking down Team Valiant hadn’t been an easy task. Right after being set onto them, they had headed off up north down the Flash-Rail line. If anything, that meant they were easy to track back, since there was only one Flash-Rail in and out of the Northern Wayside.

However, it meant the two Wailing sent to kill them not only had to trek through the Southern Wayside and Central Point, but they then had to wait a full day for the train to return just to catch it.

Fortunately, while waiting patiently on the border, a Flash-Rail passed overhead, which one of the Wailing noticed contained the faces they were looking for.

They spun around each other in excitement, before slinking off down the track, ready to continue their hunt anew.

Sola did her best to calm her nerves. She tried to avoid thinking about being on a train, but considering it was still a few hours until they reached Mykonori, the trip wasn’t going by nearly fast enough.

Dawn had only just broken, with the sun just reaching over the horizon, though none of the team had gotten any sleep considering what had transpired in Mareau, save for Wess who, after the night she had, desperately needed it.

“How’s she holding up?” Harley asked, sitting with Sola, as Julia looked to her side at Wess, sleeping across two seats with Graham’s coat draped over her.

“Alright, but that only means so much when she’s asleep.” Julia admitted, watching over her peacefully.

“I’m afraid we are out of food. We failed to retrieve our suitcase of provisions from the manor.” Essex explained, digging through their luggage. “We will have to buy some from Mykonori.”

“Did you message your folks about us staying a bit longer?” Harley asked, as Sola nodded.

“Yeah, Maxine said it’s fine. She’s gonna pick us up at the station.” Sola explained, before looking over the seats at Wess again, feeling a pang of empathy ring through her.

“…I hope she’s okay.” Sola let out, drawing everyone’s attention back to Wess. “Being there felt so…scary. I never knew her parents were that ugly…”

Julia noticed Sola’s sorrow and smiled to her. “She’ll be okay. We’ll take some time to recover in Mykonori and she can get some well-deserved rest.”

“If she’s up for it, we can take her to the Colossus of Mykos.” Harley offered, hugging Sola and grinning. “I know that’d cheer me up.”

“Were we not doing so anyway?” Essex pointed out, only for Harley to avoid responding.

“…no…what are…”

Wess stirred a bit in her sleep, as Julia reassuringly rubbed her arm, just as the Flash-Rail rumbled suddenly, briefly freaking out Sola.

“I-I’m fine.” She let out, grabbing the arm rests. “G-Geez, since when were these things so bumpy?”

Unbeknownst to Team Valiant, despite their otherwise empty train carriage, their trip was now accompanied by the two symbiotic Wailing, riding on top of the carriage with their claws grabbed onto each side.

Both briefly glanced inside to get a better idea of who they were dealing with, as they realised the team was visibly tired and noticeably unarmed.

The thought came to just take them out, then and there like it was nothing, before the reminder of Rosalind insisting the deaths look as natural as possible popped into their minds. They also knew Flash-Rails were well-guarded and that any attempt to get inside would end lethally.

They couldn’t screw this up.

They couldn’t risk it.

Waiting patiently, they rode it out with them, hoping to find their opportunity to strike and finish off Team Valiant for good.

“Oh, there it is!” Sola called out, just as the Flash-Rail skirted closer to the coastline of the Eastern Wayside.

Immediately, it was a breath of fresh air. Mykonori stood proudly against the cliffsides and coast of the Eastern Wayside, with smaller residencies running up the hills, before leading to the more built-up parts of the town down the coast. Canals ran through the city streets, breaking up the mostly white architecture with streaks of blue, only to be broken up further by the Colossus of Mykos standing proudly in the centre, reaching up to the sky in worship.

The town only looked more gorgeous as the sunrise continued to careen, painting everything in the limited but welcoming orange of morning.

The station started to come into view, with it seeming entirely empty, save for the car parked outside and Maxine near the station, huddled together in a jacket.

She lifted her hand to try and make out the figures coming out of the Flash-Rail, before the doors opened up to Sola, hopping down the stairs joyously.

“There you are.” Maxine sighed, before fully yawning. “Couldn’t you have texted me when people are normally awake?”

“Not really.” Sola admitted, just as the sunlight coming in started to blind her. “I’ll explain when we get home. Thanks for picking us up.”

Maxine huddled even more. “Well, I figured if the message was so sudden, it had to be important. You’re just lucky I was awake to catch it.”

“Easy now.” Harley said, holding up Wess along with Essex, trying not to disturb her sleep. “Is there gonna be enough room in the car?”

“You know, a hello wouldn’t go amiss.” Maxine pointed out, as Harley immediately felt embarrassed.

“O-Oh, right…I’m Harley.”

Maxine’s eyes widened, as she looked to Sola. “Oh. That Harley.”

Maxine turned to the rest of the team and gave a very brief bow. “Maxine Lusagi. You’re welcome, in advance.”

Anyone compared to Sola looked older by comparison, but Maxine was clearly much older, having at least three and a half decades on her. She was visibly stern, and just by how much she was looking over Sola, decently cautious. However, her choice of rabbit-themed pyjamas underneath the jacket certainly took away from that vibe.

The team started packing themselves and their luggage into the car one by one, as Maxine asked Sola a quick question, before being redirected to Julia.

“You’re Julia, right?” Maxine asked, as Julia sighed in relief.

“Yeah, I am.” She replied.

“Okay. Sola told me you’re the team leader.” Maxine stated. “And from what I’ve heard, a pretty good one.”

“W-Well, I don’t like bragging…” Julia excused with a nervous smile, as Maxine took on a more serious expression.

“I don’t wanna pry too much, but why the sudden early visit?” Maxine asked, still rubbing some sleep from her eye, as Julia noticed the tone shift.

Julia averted her eyes. “Th-Things were…difficult at Wess’ home. It didn’t feel safe to stay…”

Maxine nodded back. “Alright.”

She quickly looked and pointed to Wess, slumping into the back of the car. “And how’s she doing?”

“It was pretty heavy on her, so a few days of recovery should help.” Julia reasoned. “Her parents have been difficult before, but this was…”

Julia noticed Maxine making an effort to stare at her, as she waved her hands. “I-It doesn’t matter. Th-Thank you for letting us use your house…a-and your car.”

Maxine smiled and rested a hand on Julia’s shoulder. “You’ve kept my daughter safe on plenty of occasions. The pleasure’s mine.”

They moved over to the car, now with Maxine in the driver’s seat, Julia next to her, and Harley, Wess and Essex packed into the back, with Sola on Harley’s lap.

“You good?” Harley asked, as Sola failed to pull the seat belt over. “Oh.”

“This’ll have to do.” Maxine excused. “I’ll drive slowly. We’re not too far anyway.”

The group drove in silence down the street, turning around a few tricky corners, all while everyone stayed quiet and Maxine focused on the road.

“…this is a nice car.” Essex said.

“Yeah, it’s pretty good.” Maxine replied.

“…”

“…”

“…so…” Julia said, drumming on her legs. “How, uh, how long have you been taking care of Sola?”

“Uh, good question.” Maxine said, leaning back to Sola. “How long’s it been? Nine years?”

“Twelve.” Sola answered, as Maxine noticed her face go flush.

“Y-Yeah, twelve. That’s it.” She tried to save, before keeping to herself, just as the car was noticeably quiet again.

“…”

“…”

“…oh, we’re here.”

Maxine reached their house and parked the car, just as everyone made their way inside.

“Just leave your stuff in the lounge room for now. We can take care of it later.” Maxine insisted, just as the team got comfortable, as Sola allowed Essex to stay in her home. “Wayne and I will set up your beds soon, too.”

“Thanks, mum.” Sola said, grabbing Wess a blanket from the closet, laying it on her while she slept on the couch.

“I’ll leave you girls to it.” Maxine said, heading back to bed for a few, all while thinking back on the team. “So those are the folks looking after her…”

———

“Old Gods, kill me...the morning isn’t my friend...”

It had been a rough morning for Ferris, but most mornings were. She’d kind of accepted that at this point. It was never fun having to drag herself over to the academy, and waking up in the same house as Faller was impressively off-putting as well.

“I hate him so much…” She muttered to herself, lying her head on the Academy Daiquiri Lounge bar, surrounded by members of the campus security team.

Technically, the Academy Daiquiri Lounge wasn’t supposed to serve as a bar until the evening, but Ferris tended to cause a fuss if Seears didn’t fork over any alcohol. Fortunately, Seears could rely on the security team to be good sports, but that didn’t mean Ferris wasn’t a bother.

“You know who else sucks? Coatsworth.” Ferris complained, grabbing the attention of a few of the security. “Little brownnoser who looks like the living embodiment of a virgin pencil…”

“Oh, here we go again.” One of the guards remarked, getting a laugh from a few others, as Ferris hyped herself up again.

“And Cecil! That fucker’s as bland as a wet paper towel that never learned to love.” Ferris added, sloshing her beer around, as Seears waited on the sidelines for his chance to clean up her spills.

“Oh, oh, what about Spence?” Another guard asked, as Ferris pointed to them excitedly.

“What about her? She’s like if a rainbow fucked a pixie, but if both were terrified of the experience.” Ferris remarked, causing a roar of laughter from the guards.

Just in the middle of the laughing fit, Chief of Security Dulce made her presence known and cut through the crowd.

“Hey, hey, come on now.” Dulce said, raising her hands. “They’re good people. No need to bad mouth your fellow staff members behind their backs.”

“She’s so good at it, though.” A guard mentioned, before turning away from Ferris, as Dulce took a seat beside her.

“Another rough morning?”

Ferris took a swig of beer. “Don’t try to armchair therapy me.”

“Oh, trust me, I don’t know anything about that stuff.” Dulce insisted, before grabbing Ferris’ bottle. “But I do know that drinking this early in the morning can’t be good for you.”

Ferris eyed the bottle, before turning back to Seears. “Hey, Seears! Get me another one!”

Dulce quickly looked to Seears and shook her head, as Seears took the hint and decided to cut Ferris off.

“I hate you.” Ferris groaned, crashing into the bar top again, as Dulce patted her back.

“I don’t care if you do. As long as you aren’t killing yourself with this stuff.” Dulce said, giving a thumbs up that Ferris couldn’t see. “I know you’re just worried about the academy.”

“No, I’m not.” Ferris flatly replied. “I hate this place.”

“Really?” Dulce let out, scratching her head. “Huh. How about that.”

Dulce sat back up and patted her back again. “At least you get to work for a great guy like Faller.”

“Were you even listening?!” Ferris yelled out, as Dulce went back to join her peers, before Ferris lay on the bar top, wondering to herself quietly.

Great guy… Ferris thought. …great guy…

Just as she started to take refuge in her solitude, Ferris felt another pair of eyes on her, before she sat up and spun around to threaten them.

“Good morning, Miss Ferris.” Coatsworth greeted. “Though, it would appear the morning hasn’t been good to you.”

“…ugh.” Ferris let out, realising she didn’t have the energy to lash out at him, as he joined her at the bar. “Why are you here?”

“I wanted to see Seears.” Coatsworth replied, grabbing his attention. “And return the sunglasses he lent me.”

“I was wondering where they went!” Seears let out, leaning over the counter and grabbing them excitedly. “Why’d you have them?”

“You had lent them to me when we were carpooling together.” Coatsworth explained. “I was too busy with work and kept putting off giving them back.”

“Well, it’s much appreciated.” Seears grinned back. “I’ll put in a word to Faller to get you a raise.”

“Ughhh…” Ferris groaned, as the duo looked at her puzzlingly.

“Is she in poor health?” Coatsworth asked.

“No, she’s just got a hate boner for Faller, like that’s anything new.” Seears remarked, before grabbing a glass. “I’ll get you a thank you drink in the meantime.”

Coatsworth gave his attention to the hunched over Ferris. “What’s your problem with Faller?”

“…you don’t need to know.” Ferris muttered, circling the ring of condensation left behind from her bottle. “And for your information, that’s not why I’m bitter right now.”

Coatsworth turned his head curiously, as Ferris started imagining him as a bird.

“Don’t get chummy with me. I can handle this by myself.” Ferris declared, sitting back up to poke at Coatsworth. “I don’t need a yuppy following me around.”

“Lola.” Coatsworth said, leaning in and laying his hand on hers. “I suspect this is important, and if this concerns the safety of the academy and its students, then you do need me.”

Ferris gave it a second, before ripping her hand away, as the bar counter suddenly didn’t feel as comfortable anymore.

“…screw it.” She said, finally getting up, before stumbling to her feet. “You keep quiet, don’t let anyone in on this, and for Whilit’s sake, don’t bring up that we’re working together.”

“This will be swift.” Coatsworth assured, following behind Ferris just as Seears went to get him his drink, as she started to regret working with him already.

———

Wayne stretched his arms, as well as the rest of his body the moment he was out of bed. A few things clicked into place, as he leaned over and kissed Maxine on the forehead, before heading to the bathroom and grabbing a couple bottles of pills.

He groaned as he poured them into his hand, before he swallowed them back, then readjusted his appearance in the mirror, before stepping out into the hall and finding four new people in his living room along with his daughter.

“Uhh…” He let out, looking over them curiously, as they did the same to him. “Hey, kid?”

“Yeah?” Sola replied.

“Does Maxine know about this?”

“Yeah.”

“Oh.” He said. “…okay then.”

He headed over to the kitchen, digging through the fridge, as he could feel the stares of Sola’s companions still on him.

“Oohh…going back to sleep was a big mistake…” Maxine groaned, heading out of the hallway, before meeting up with Wayne. “Hey, dear.”

“Morning.” He said, indicating to the living room occupants. “Whose Sola hanging out with?”

“That’s her Venator team. They came in early last night.” Maxine explained, squeezing around him to reach the fridge.

Wayne smacked his forehead. “Oh! That’s makes a lot more sense.”

He wandered over to them and rubbed his neck. “Hey, sorry for the awkward welcome. I’m Wayne, Sola’s father.”

Wayne was showing his age a lot more than Maxine was. Granted, his grey hair was fairly well styled, and he clearly had a bit of build to him, but the heavy bags under his eyes and slightly withered skin showed someone who time hadn’t been too kind to. Despite that, his smile was as polite and genuine as you could ask for.

“Julia. Sorry we arrived so suddenly.” Julia apologised, as Wayne shrugged.

“It makes no difference. I’d offer you breakfast but, sorry to say, we don’t have much food in the house right now.” Wayne noted, pointing to Maxine as she struggled to find anything to eat. “We were going to go shopping before you arrived.”

“Hey, we need to go food shopping too. We’ll just join you!” Sola offered, as Wayne grinned.

“Great!” He said, looking to Harley. “The blonde one can carry the bags.”

“…sure?” Harley said, as Maxine walked over to Wayne.

“That’s Harley, dear.” Maxine said, sharing an intense glance with Harley before turning back around.

“Oh. Oh!” He realised. “That Harley!”

“Sola, there’s an echo in your house.” Harley joked, as Sola looked around curiously and Julia laughed to herself.

Just as Wayne got comfortable, he suddenly registered the giant scythe lying beside Essex, as Essex looked at him and cocked her head.

“U-Uhh…hi.”

Essex turned to face him. “Aerlo Decali. My title is Essex.”

He nodded hurriedly, glancing between her and the scythe, before rustling came from the other side of the couch.

“…huh…” Wess managed, slowly getting up and registering her surroundings. “…oh. We must have arrived already.”

She acknowledged the team around her, before spotting Sola’s parents.

“Apologies for the sudden intrusion.” Wess said, bowing in her seated position. “In an ideal scenario, we wouldn’t have barged in during the middle of the night.”

“It’s fine, honestly.” Maxine excused. “I don’t know what happened in Mareau, but stay as long as you need. It’s not pain for us.”

“How’re you feeling?” Julia asked, reaching out to Wess, as she took a deep breath.

“…I don’t think I’ve quite processed it yet…” Wess admitted, holding her hand back. “But I hope we’ll continue our plans. I’d hate for my parents to ruin this trip of ours.”

Just as Wess was feeling content, her stomach growled quite loudly, embarrassing her almost immediately.

“S-Sorry.”

“I had a feeling that might be the case.” Wayne said, before heading back to his bedroom. “I’ll get dressed, then we can all head out to Mykonori proper and buy some food.”

“I suppose we didn’t end up eating much of dinner…” Wess remarked, before noticing everyone in Team Valiant was looking at her with concern. “What?”

“We’re really sorry about what happened.” Harley said, leaning over to her.

“It was difficult to witness, so I only imagine how it must have felt.” Essex added, as Sola nodded beside her.

Wess sighed out. “I’ll be fine. Unfortunately, this sort of behaviour is quite common for those two. I just rarely have friends around for it…”

Wess looked back at Sola and held her hand. “Please, let’s enjoy our time in Mykonori. I’m dying to see the Colossus of Mykos.”

Sola noticed her happy demeanour and grinned back. “Me too!”

“Alright, that should do it.” Wayne said, re-emerging with a very similar outfit, save for a nice jacket and actual pants. “Let’s make tracks.”

“Hold on.” Maxine interrupted, just as the team got up to leave. “Before you go, I wanna have a quick talk.”

Sola and Julia pointed to themselves respectively, as Maxine shook her head and indicated to Harley.

“Me?” Harley asked, as Maxine pointed her head to the hall, grabbing two cups of water as she went.

Harley looked back to Sola for help, as Sola shrugged and encouraged her to go, with Harley just doing so.

Maxine led her to a side room, seemingly meant for guests to stay in, but only just barely. Bookshelves were thoroughly packed on each wall, and a decent amount of garden supplies were piled up in front of them, giving just enough room for the two seats set up.

Maxine pointed Harley to her seat, which she promptly sat in, then sunk into a little, as Maxine made herself comfortable.

“Harley Baroke.” She prefaced, folding her arms. “So, you’re the one who’s captured my girl’s heart?”

Harley broke a sweat. “I-I wouldn’t phrase it like that…”

Maxine didn’t look too impressed. “I have to say, out of everyone she mentioned from her team, you seemed the least likely to end up together. Just looking at you two, the differences are immediately apparent.”

Harley didn’t know whether that was a comment about her muscles and tried to cover them up as best as she could, as Maxine took a sip of her drink.

“Forgive me for being protective. I have certain expectations. She’s never been in a relationship before, but from what I’ve heard, you’ve been in plenty.”

Where’s she going with this? Harley thought to herself.

“So, why do you think you’re good enough for my daughter?” Maxine stated bluntly.

Harley was caught off guard, but tried to give a quick response. “I’m…not?”

Maxine nodded. “Correct. Why do you like my daughter?”

“Umm…it’s a little hard to describe.” Harley wavered.

Maxine made a point to fold her legs.

Harley gulped. “I don’t think I could sum it up as one big thing, or even a bunch of small things...but truth be told, she’s one of the best people I’ve ever met. And funniest. She really impresses me with what she’s been able to accomplish, and truth be told, I think she’s handled our relationship better than I have.”

Harley started circling her fingers. “When she first came to the academy, she couldn’t even fathom using her Whil, and now she’s actually comfortable with it. I couldn’t even imagine being in her position with something like that.”

Maxine stared at her, as Harley laughed to herself. “And she’s totally adorable. I love when she gets excited, and she’s amazing in be-“

Maxine’s eyebrows raised, as Harley cleared her throat and stopped herself.

“W-Well, it’s a lot of things, really. She’s too good to put into a few words.”

Maxine looked her up and down, trying to make out whether her expression was genuine or not, before sighing. “…I believe you. You pass for now.”

Harley felt the tension leaving her body, as she felt comfortable enough to go for her drink.

Maxine watched her take a sip. “But I swear, if you’re my daughter’s first heart break, I’ll kill you.”

Harley nearly choked on her drink. “Y-yes, ma’am.”

“Good.” Maxine nodded, standing back up. “Enjoy your trip.”

“S-Sure.” Harley managed to say, trying not to seem too desperate to leave, as she quickly ducked out to meet up with the others.

“How was your talk?” Sola asked, as Harley quickly whisked them out the door.

“Informative. Let’s go.” Harley said, rushing them into the car and out of the residence of Mykonori.

———

“First things first, I need information. Any important to do with Faller or personal plans. I’ll…” Ferris started, before struggling to get out the words. “I’ll…talk…to the other staff members and see what they know. You go through his office and bring back anything of note. Got it?”

“No.” Coatsworth replied, as they both stopped rushing down the hall. “I’m unsure why we’re doing this.”

Ferris rolled her eyes and leaned on the wall. “I’m worried that…some of Faller’s information might not match up with his actions. So I want to double-check it.”

“That’s still very broad. It would be much more helpful if we were searching for something in particular.” Coatsworth pointed out, as Ferris massaged her forehead.

“Fine. You know that drawer Faller has on the right side of his desk?” Ferris frustratedly asked, as Coatsworth slowly nodded his head. “Just bring that to me.”

Coatsworth blinked. “The whole drawer?”

“Yeah.” Ferris confirmed. “Meet me in the staff room with it in an hour, then I’ll see what we’ve got.”

Coatsworth still struggled to make out Ferris’ reasoning. “Ferris, I don’t know what your intentions for this are, but I want your assurance that you will not harm the academy with your actions.”

Ferris mockingly saluted. “I assure you, this is to help it. I love this place.”

Coatsworth ignored to terse remark and headed off in the direction of Faller’s office, as Ferris finally relished in the lack of companionship, only to stare worriedly at the entrance to the academy library.

“Alright…just get it over with…” Ferris groaned, slinking her way in, looking around. “Shit, who’s the librarian here again? Whatever, I’ll find out…”

Ferris wandered around the library in search of any staff members present, only to come up dry, as she leaned on the bookshelves.

“I always hated libraries…”

“Umm, Ferris?”

Ferris turned her head to see no one on her left, just as a tap came from her right, belonging to Spence.

“You can’t lean on the bookshelves.” Spence clarified. “It’ll damage the books.”

Ferris stared back at her with dead eyes, before pulling herself off the shelves and facing her. “What are you doing here?”

“I volunteer here when I have spare time.” Spence explained, giggling afterwards. “It beats hunching over my desk scrawling away at paperwork.”

“Even when it’s semester break?” Ferris reasoned.

“Well, you’re here too.” Spence pointed out, which Ferris begrudgingly conceded to. “What’s up?”

I guess this’ll have to do. Ferris said, looking her over. She’s been here longer than me. Maybe she knew him before I did?

“What do you know about Faller?” Ferris bluntly asked, as Spence looked puzzled.

“Faller?” She wondered, putting a finger to her chin. “You mean in general?”

Ferris shrugged. “Pretty much.”

“Well, he worked here for a few years as a teacher. I think he was head of the Engineering Department before Jovie.” Spence recalled, before leaning on the bookshelves while lost in thought.

Ferris chose not to note her hypocrisy. “What was he like back then?”

“Uhh…studious. Mostly kept to himself.” Spence said. “He was reeeeeally passionate about the Wailing Conflict. It was hard to bring up anything else around him. Actually, there was this running joke among the other staff at the time, you’re gonna love this, where we sai-“

God, this isn’t going anywhere. Ferris realised, slowly ignoring Spence as she spoke. Man, she can run her mouth off.

“-ourse, nobody found it funny at the time, let alone him, so w-”

Ferris sighed out. I wonder if Cecil has anything better to say?

Coatsworth cautiously and stealthily walked up to Faller’s office, despite it being a very standard thing for him to do as Vice-Principal.

Admittedly, most of that was pre-emptive nervousness for carrying around a desk drawer in the middle of the hall, but he could always say he’s moving offices again.

Just as he was about to reach the office, Faller’s secretary came into view, sitting by the desk just outside Faller’s door.

Coatsworth’s walk became stiffer than normal, as he crossed passed them, causing them to look up.

“Yes, Coatsworth?”

“...I need to enter.” He explained. “And leave with a desk drawer.”

The secretary blinked, before looking back down at their computer.

“Just make sure to return it.”

Coatsworth sighed out, quickly ducking into the office, while tugging on his suit. “That was fairly simple...”

He glanced around the daunting room, before starting to shake. “Now where do I begin?”

“Faller?” Cecil asked.

“Yeah. Did you know him before he was principal?” Ferris asked, as Cecil continued to wipe down the counters in his lab.

“That feels like a loaded question, Ferris.” Cecil pointed out. “Actually, I was up for the same position.”

Ferris squinted. “The Venator Academy principal?”

Cecil nodded, reaching further across the counter. “The board didn’t want me, though. Considering I’m running my own manufacturing company, they saw it as a conflict of interest.”

Makes sense. Ferris thought, watching as he looked back at her.

“What’s with all the questions about Faller?” Cecil curiously asked, cleaning off his rag, as Ferris looked away.

“I’m trying to get dirt on him. He wants me to go to this social thing, so I’m gonna blackmail him out of it.” Ferris explained, causing Cecil to laugh.

“That’s a good strategy.” Cecil chuckled. “I may just borrow that if he does the same to me.”

I’m surprised he bought that. Ferris wondered. For the head scientist, he’s a bit dense.

“Well...I hate to spread rumours about anyone.” Cecil said, leaning against his counter. “But he did have a pretty aggressive streak as a teacher.”

“No shit.” Ferris said, with Cecil nodding along.

“All the time. Except around students.” Cecil said. “He made a real point of that.”

Cecil tapped his chin. “And ever since the attacks on the academy, that’s been flaring up again. I’m sure you’ve seen how he’s acted behind closed doors.”

Ferris kept to herself, as she recalled just how aggressive Faller had gotten before the last attack.

“Scary guy sometimes. Power like that can...I’m sorry, but that’s all I have.” Cecil apologised. “If I could tell you anything more, I would.”

“No, that was...enough.” Ferris said, before sighing out. “But I think I need to visit the Engineering Department.”

Coatsworth rummaged around Faller’s desk, trying to find anything important that Ferris might want, but struggled to make anything out amongst the piles of administrative files and desk supplies.

I suppose only the drawer will be necessary. Coatsworth realised, as he noticed the draw on the right side. How can Faller tolerate her behaviour?

Coatsworth sidelined the thought and pulled the drawer out, before lifting it off its hinges and immediately struggling with its weight.

“Oh no...” He quickly realised, just as it landed on his foot. “AH!”

He jumped back as it clattered to the floor, grabbing at his foot painfully.

“Sweet Susan, that stings...” He let out, setting the foot back down and readjusting his suit. “This will not work...”

He crouched to the ground and started taking a few less essential items out of the drawer, mostly spare paper, files, and...

...something odd.

“Huh?”

Coatsworth lifted up a strange looking metal object tucked into the back of the drawer, seeming to resemble an insect in some way.

What a strange paperweight. Coatsworth wondered, putting it to the side, before remembering what Ferris had asked of him, and deciding it was best to pocket it instead.

He got the best grip of the drawer he could and lifted it again, before manoeuvring it out of the office to meet up with Ferris before he passed out from exhaustion.

Jovie stopped what she was doing and turned to Ferris in annoyance.

[Why are you here?] Jovie signed.

“I’m sightseeing.” Ferris said, looking around at the engineering department. “It’s lovely.”

Jovie furrowed her brow. [You know how busy we are before the tournament.]

[Sorry.] Ferris signed. “But this is pretty important stuff. Did you know Faller before he was the principal?”

Jovie nodded pretty fervently. [I was his assistant. I took over after he got promoted.]

“And, while you were working for him...” Ferris started. “...did he get pissed off a lot?”

Jovie drooped her eyes. [Is that a dig at me?]

Ferris scowled. “I mean in general.”

[...sometimes.] Jovie admitted. [It was rare, but he could get pretty annoyed when machinery acted up, or when a student did something dumb with their equipment.]

Seems reasonable to me. Ferris admitted, as Jovie went back to sorting through spare parts.

“Follow up question.” Ferris prefaced, as Jovie faced her again.

[Yeah?]

“If...someone had...attacked the academy...” Ferris wondered aloud. “Like the last Wailing attack...why do you think they’d do it?”

Jovie thought on this for a bit, before the obvious answer came to her.

[Hatred.]

“...hatred.” Ferris repeated, just to confirm it to herself.

[There’s always a frustration behind violence. What happens when a computer acts up?] Jovie posed, shrugging. [You don’t ask it politely to start working again, you smack the side of it until it does. That’s why Wailing attack so much.]

“The Conflict’s been going on for centuries...” Ferris reasoned. “...and some people just want it over with by whatever means...”

[The Conflict won’t end until one of two things happen.] Jovie signed. [Either the Wailing die, or we do.]

“Yeah, yeah, I know...” Ferris muttered, avoiding looking directly at Jovie, who just went back to her work. “You’re surprisingly wise.”

[Glad I could help.]

———

“Do you ever feel like you’re being watched?”

Julia turned to Sola. “That a weird question to bring up out of nowhere.”

“Oh.” Sola said, pointing at the Aishanara Forest as Wayne drove them down the streets of Mykonori. “Well, I always felt that way back at the orphanage. The Aishanara Forest is right next to it, and some people would say they saw eyes coming out from the darkness.”

“Maybe it’s Enprov, the Old God?” Harley added. “Some say they’ve seen it float through the forest, lost and purposeless.”

Sola thought about it, before shaking her head. “Nah, that’s dumb. The Old Gods don’t have eyes.”

“She’s got you there.” Wess remarked, as Harley blushed and turned away to avoid looking stupid.

The Wailing pair stared at the car passing by, just as it entered the main district of Mykonori. They’d lost their chance to attack when the team had arrived due to the suddenness and exposure of morning, meaning they were stuck slinking into the Aishanara Forest to cover, waiting for the team to make themselves vulnerable.

They slithered against each tree trunk, avoiding direct sunlight to stay in stealth, as the nearby orphanage let out the younger children to play, just as Bradley looked over at the nearby forest and spotted something.

“Sister Magen!” He yelled out, pointing at the forest. “I saw a shadow.”

“A shadow?” She asked, looking to the forest. “Do you mean something in the shadows?”

“Uhh...” He said, trying to think if that’s what he meant, before losing interest. “I dunno. Look what I can do with this ball!”

“Wow! That’s very impressive!” Sister Magen praised, watching as he kicked it between his legs, before looking to the forest soon after, hoping to spot something herself.

“Will we be within town soon?” Essex asked, as Wayne stretched his head back.

“Any second now. I just need a good park.” Wayne explained, as the team all stared out the windows, watching as the pristine white architecture and crowds passed them by. “There we go.”

Wayne pulled over to an empty spot, as the team all got out, still admiring the sights around them.

“Here’s an idea.” Wayne floated. “How about you girls go sightseeing for a bit, then you can come back and get the groceries? I’ll hang back and shop a bit myself.”

“Great idea!” Sola exclaimed, pointing to the Colossus of Mykos in the distance. “First one there wins!”

“Wins what?” Julia asked, as Sola quickly ran off, followed by Harley.

“No way you’re beating me again!” Harley yelled out, only for Essex to stand to attention.

“I-I will join in as well!” She cried, frantically following behind, leaving Julia and Wess to themselves.

“We could’ve walked together if they’d just waited.” Julia reasoned, sighing out. “Oh well.”

“Let’s hurry up, shall we?” Wess encouraged, as Julia perked to attention and joined her side, linking hands with her.

Wess looked down. “Julia, you needn’t hold my hand.”

“I know. I just wanna make sure you’re okay.” Julia assured, smiling gratefully. “And that you know we’re here for you.”

Wess smirked back at her. “Like I don’t know that already. You’ve made that painfully clear.”

“I should hope so.” Julia grinned. “Enjoy your rest, okay?”

“Yes, yes.” Wess assured, patting Julia’s hand, as they took their time joining up with the others.

———

“Huh.”

Harley scratched her head, as she looked directly up at the Colossus of Mykos.

The giant figure stood over the largest canal in the town, with its legs stretched to each side and its palms displayed to the sky. To everyone gazing at it from below, it was a great symbol of worship.

Meanwhile, Harley was staring at its crotch under the robe.

“I was kinda hoping to see something. There’s, like, nothing there.” Harley realised.

“It’s just like a doll.” Sola pointed out, getting a snicker from Harley.

“What is it you were expecting?” Essex wondered.

“I dunno. Giant carved dick.” Harley bluntly put, as Essex blushed in response.

“O-Oh.”

“Come on! Show us the junk!” Harley called out.

“Yeah! Where’s the junk at? Give it up already!” Sola added, as they started getting looks from everyone around them.

“What are you two yelling about?” Wess demanded, just as she and Julia joined up with them.

“Great Prophet Mykos is lacking in the package department, and we’re mad about it.” Harley explained.

“Might I remind you two we’re performing in the nationally broadcasted tournament soon?” Wess pointed out, trying to hide her face. “Don’t have them associate Team Valiant with yelling at a statue for lacking genitalia.”

Harley and Sola looked at each other.

“This is Team Valiant, demanding this statue show us the goods!” Harley yelled even louder, only grabbing more attention.

“Mykos betrayed us!” Sola added, just as Wess started to walk away.

“I’m leaving before someone films this.” She aptly stated, just as Julia turned to Harley and Sola and folded her arms.

They looked back at her in shame.

“Bad idea?” Sola said.

“Come on, guys. I know you’re having fun, but don’t do it at Wess’ expense.” Julia insisted. “We’re trying to put her mind at ease, okay?”

“...yeah, sorry.” Harley said. “We thought she’d get a kick out of it.”

“Let’s just try to avoid PR disasters.” Julia reasoned, as Sola perked up with an idea.

“I’m gonna get some food for Wess early. That way, we can eat it while we walk.” Sola suggested, as Julia tapped her chin.

“Great idea. We’ll just get the rest later.” Julia said, just as Sola was getting excited again. “Good thinking, Sola.”

“Thanks!” Sola cheered, running off to a nearby store she was familiar with. “I know the perfect place!”

Julia found herself laughing. “She’s really giving, huh?”

“That’s what I love about her.” Harley remarked, just as she noticed Essex off to the side, staring up at the statue in awe. “Don’t you agree?”

Essex took notice and faced her suddenly. “Vonodo, what did you say?”

“Don’t you like her too?”

Essex averted her eyes and tried not to look too nervous. “Y-Yes, yes, I...yes.”

“...okay then.” Harley let out, shrugging to Julia, as she watched Sola happily head off to the shops.

———

“Thank you!” Sola called out, walking out of the store with her bag, as she looked down at the store-bought grape tarts. “These’ll really knock her socks off.”

“Hey, kid!” She heard behind her, as she spotted Wayne emerging from a shop nearby. “Just couldn’t wait to get to shopping with your old man, huh?”

“No, I was just buying something for Wess.” Sola explained. “I was gonna get it later, but she needs cheering up now.”

“That’s a good kid.” He said, rustling her hair. “Let’s meet up with your team.”

“Can do.” Sola beamed, joining his side, as they walked down the fairly busy streets of Mykonori.

“So...what have you been up to during your degree?” Wayne asked, as Sola shrugged.

“Just the same old, same old, really.” Sola said.

“And how’s the team been?”

“Awesome.” Sola grinned. “This is the most fun thing I’ve ever done in my life.”

Wayne rubbed his neck. “I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t jealous.”

“You and mum are fun too. But Team Valiant’s my age.” Sola bluntly put it.

“Yeah, you’ve got us there.” Wayne laughed, which slowly turned into a cough.

The coughing got more out of hand, before he slammed his fist to his chest. “Oh geez...”

“Have you been taking your pills?” Sola asked, as Wayne rolled his eyes.

“Against my will. Like they’re helping at all...” He groaned. “It’s not about to reverse it...”

“I’m sure it’ll clear up.” Sola said, before reaching into her bag. “Tarts usually cheer me up.”

“Thanks, kid, but that’ll only make me feel worse.” Wayne admitted, as Sola put the tart back. “I can’t eat that much processed sugar at my age.”

“Oh...” Sola let out, as Wayne noticed her dejectedly staring at the ground.

“...but I could probably eat the grapes on them.”

Sola stopped. “Oh yeah! Why didn’t I think of that?”

She went to grab one, as Wayne sat back and appreciated watching her go to such lengths just to make him happy.

Sola and Wayne quickly met up with the rest of Team Valiant by the Colossus of Mykos, as Sola hurried over to Wess, lying on an empty bench.

“Hey, Wess!” She called. “I got you something!”

...another gift? Wess wondered, sitting up. Hopefully this one’s intact.

“I was gonna get it later, but I thought you could use it.” Sola said, showing off a few of the small tarts.

Wess noticed the grocery store packaging and slightly winced. “...tarts.”

“I know they look cheap, but trust me, they’re good.” Sola insisted, before Wess took a breath and grabbed them.

“I’ll take your word for it.” Wess said, opening them up and taking a small bite, before reeling a bit. “Goodness gracious, that’s excellent.”

“I got a couple years back and never forgot how good they taste.” Sola explained, sitting down with Wess and going for one herself. “I thought your fancy palette wouldn’t really like it.”

“Sola.” Wess assured. “I know good taste when I have it.”

Wess went for another bite. “And you, my dear teammate, are good taste.”

Sola smiled back at her, before kicking her legs a little. “...how are you after yesterday?”

Wess swallowed and faced Sola proper. “I’ve...been through worse, but those were usually isolated experiences...”

Wess ran her hands through her hair, debating whether to show Sola her Favour scars, before deciding against it taking a breath.

“...I felt so weak.” Wess admitted. “That...vile, vile man takes a swing at me, and I couldn-”

“No, don’t say that.” Sola assured, resting a hand on her. “You weren’t weak.”

Wess stared to the side. “I’m training as a warrior, and I couldn’t even fight back.”

“You don’t need to fight back to be strong.” Sola insisted. “You were strong every day you were in that house.”

Wess stared at the floor in frustration, before sighing out and patting Sola’s hand. “...part of me’s just mad I didn’t get the last word in.”

“You left.” Sola said. “That was the last word.”

Wess nodded to her solemnly, before going in to finish her tart.

“...thank you for that.” Wess said, smiling and pointing to the tart. “And this.”

Sola giggled. “It’s better than me trying to cook.”

The duo kept laughing to each other, as Wayne did his best to stand back and let them enjoy themselves, just as he felt his tablet buzz in his pocket.

Maxine [How goes the shopping trip?]

Wayne looked back at her on the bench and typed.

Wayne [Our daughter’s made some very good friends.]

———

Ferris tapped her foot impatiently, just by her desk, as she waited for as long as she could manage.

“Slow bastard...” Ferris muttered. “I trounce around the whole academy drunk and I’m still faster...”

Almost immediately after, she noticed someone coming in, only to be disappointed that it was Vent.

Vent looked up at her. “Geez. What crawled up your a-”

“Bite me, Vent.” Ferris spat back, as he just ignored her and found his way to his desk, right as Coatsworth came in a few seconds behind him.

“My...apologies...” Coatsworth said, struggling to hold the drawer. “...this...has travelled several floors...”

“Did you use the elevator?” Ferris asked.

Coatsworth blinked. “There is an elevator?”

Ferris looked shocked. “Wha-yes, there’s an elevator! This place is huge!”

“Well, I was not aware of one.” Coatsworth excused, hoisting the drawer onto Ferris completely empty desk, before he took the chance to tug at his tight suit again. “That should make returning it much simpler.”

“As simple as you, apparently.” Ferris remarked, watching as Coatsworth made a meal of working out the tightness in his suit. “Geez...”

“What?” Coatsworth asked, straightening out his sleeve.

Ferris’s eye twitched. “Woulda stop tugging at your suit? It’s pissing me off.” Ferris complained, as Coatsworth briefly stopped. “Just get a new fucking suit already.”

Coatsworth shook his head. “I can’t do that.”

“You’re the Vice-Principal. I’m sure you can afford it.” Ferris croaked, as Coatsworth shook his head.

“It has sentimental value to me.” Coatsworth explained, looking down at it and running his hand over the sleeve. “It’s a gift from my wife.”

Ferris raised an eyebrow. “Doesn’t she know your size?”

“No.” Coatsworth said, before letting out a gentle smile. “But she knew I liked it. She was in hospital for a few years, but once I was hired here, she got me this suit as a gift. It was such a sweet gesture…”

Coatsworth tapped his fingers together. “…and it was her last gift before passing.”

Ferris reeled a bit, before glancing at Coatsworth solemnly, watching as he clearly recalled something tragic.

“I was going to suggest that we go and get the suit refitted once she was out of hospital…” Coatsworth explained. “But, of course, that didn’t end up happening. And, after a while, I couldn’t bring myself to refit it at all.”

Coatsworth stared at the floor. “I’ve gotten used to it, however. At first, I just bore through it, but in a strange way, I think it’s grown on me. Whenever it pulls on me, it makes me think that she’s trying to get my attention again.”

With visible confidence, Coatsworth turned to Ferris. “So no, I won’t get a ‘new fucking suit.’”

Ferris kept her mouth shut, as she took the opportunity to sit at her desk, before the need to respond hit her.

“…it’s not easy losing those close to you.” Ferris lamented. “I commend you for sticking it out.”

“It’s the right thing.” Coatsworth assured, leaning near the desk. “She wanted to have kids at some point, so…I guess I started seeing the students here like that.”

He stared up at the ceiling with pure elation. “And if I can keep them safe, then I know she’ll be happy, wherever she may be.”

Ferris started digging through the drawer as he was talking, checking out a bit by the end, as Coatsworth turned to her in annoyance. Eventually, she stopped digging and sighed.

“...you might as well know…I saw him leave a book in here.” Ferris admitted. “It just looked like a day planner, but he seemed protective of it…”

Ferris held up the book in question and chuckled. “Turns out…it was just a day planner. A few days are marked ‘Ferris-free.’ No wonder he didn’t want me seeing it.”

Coatsworth looked down at her. “I’m sorry to hear that.”

“Whatever. If I bothered to keep ones of these, I’d do the same.” Ferris said, shrugging. “The rest of the draw is empty too. Just a few loose files and office supplies. I guess I wanted it to have what I was looking for, but…”

Coatsworth casually ran a finger over the pocket carrying the metal insect he’d found earlier, as he debated showing it to Ferris, before inevitably giving in to his good nature.

“...I did find an additional object.” Coatsworth brought up, taking it out of his pocket and grabbing Ferris’ attention. “It didn’t know what to make of it...”

Ferris’ eyes widened the moment she saw it, as she grabbed for it suddenly. “Where’d you find this?!”

“In his drawer. It was tucked away.” Coatsworth said, as Ferris scoured over it.

“This is one of the listening devices.” Ferris explained. “They were all over the academy during the last attack. Faller sent me to deactivate them.”

Coatsworth recalled what Julia had told him during the attack and joined her. “That is the listening device?”

“That sneaky...” Ferris said, as she nearly chucked it across the room, briefly scaring Vent. “Great guy! Fuck off with that! He hid this from me like I wouldn’t find out!”

Coatsworth stared at her as she freaked out over the bug and sighed out in frustration. “What is with you and Faller? I feel like you’re having this cat and mouse game where neither participant wants to play. What were you hoping was in that planner?”

Ferris stared back at him, before looking to the ceiling, just as she slumped into her chair.

“Are you really concerned for the safety of the academy?” Ferris asked.

Coatsworth was caught off guard, as he watched Ferris instinctively go for her pocket flask.

“…I don’t know if I can trust him right now.” Ferris admitted. “For a while, I just didn’t like the guy, but…I’m starting to get…cautious.”

“Cautious?” Coatsworth asked.

Ferris stared at him, studying his face, and trying to study his intentions, before just giving up and resting her head on the wall while taking a swig.

“…for a while, me and Faller have been looking for…something.” Ferris confessed. “Something dangerous. Something that might be influencing the Wailing Conflict.”

Coatsworth nodded along. “Something that caused the attacks on the academy last year?”

Ferris turned to him. “You’re a perceptive one…yeah. I think Faller told you about the listening devices, but he never showed you them…”

Coatsworth wondered over what Ferris was admitting, before coming to a conclusion. “Do you believe that Faller might be involved with this?”

Ferris shook her head. “Not just involved.” Ferris said. “I think he’s running it. Whatever all this is…he’s part of it somehow.”

She held up the bug. “And the fact that he kept this only proves it more.”

She banged her head against the wall to get out some frustration. “And I fell for it…”

Ferris waved her hand. “I’m supposed to protect him, but now I’m wondering if I haven’t been aiding the enemy…”

“...but what could he have against the academy? Against Venators?” Coatsworth asked. “He’s the principal, for goodness sake.”

“Maybe he only got the position so he’d have power over this place?” Ferris pointed out, feeling a strong headache coming on. “We already know someone’s working from the inside. For all we know, Faller let us onto that just so we wouldn’t find out it’s him. Then he could get any potential heat off of himself...”

Ferris watched Coatsworth properly sitting on her desk, processing this information in his own way.

“I should apologise, by the way.” Ferris said. “About this time last year, I was accusing you of the same thing.”

Coatsworth recalled Julia’s accusation and waved his hand idly. “It’s understandable...so, what do we do now?”

Ferris leaned further back in her chair. “How the fuck should I know? I’m not even completely convinced.”

Coatsworth stared back at the drawer, before picking it back up again. “I should return this. It will only cause suspicion if Faller finds it missing.”

Coatsworth waited for Ferris to put the bug back in, as she rolled her eyes and begrudgingly did so.

“Whatever this plot is, we will find out who’s behind it.” Coatsworth assured, carrying the drawer. “We may not be friends, but we both share this goal.”

Coatsworth took his leave, just as Ferris got up to stop him.

“Hey.” Ferris said. “...if this gets dangerous, don’t throw yourself into the fire, you know?”

Coatsworth looked puzzled.

“The students may be your...” Ferris started, before groaning. “...children, but they’re also training to be warriors. They can keep themselves safe.”

Coatsworth let out a smile. “I was already saved by Team Valiant once. I just hope to return the favour in kind.”

Coatsworth left proper with the drawer in hand, as Ferris clicked her tongue and went back to her desk.

“...Team Valiant.” She muttered, staring at the ceiling. “Stay safe, you little bastards...”

———

After a few more days of enjoying Mykonori’s vastness and calming nature, the team were restocked and ready to head out once again. Due the extra few days, they took their time to hang out with Sola’s parents and appreciate the homeliness of their little abode.

Especially Sola.

“Have fun, you guys.” Maxine said, waving them off. “Travel safe.”

“I hope Mykonori was to your liking.” Wayne added, waving as well, as Sola gave them both one last hug.

“It was even better this time.” Sola exclaimed, hopping onto the train with the rest of the team, save for Julia, who was still retrieving her bags from the car.

Maxine noticed and went down to help. “Don’t worry.”

“Oh, thanks.” Julia said, handing off a bag. “This was a really nice trip.”

“I’m glad you liked it.” Maxine said, hauling the bag up, before reaching the top of the stairs.

Julia went to join the others, just as Maxine grabbed her shoulders.

“I just have one question for you before you leave.”

Julia tried not to look nervous and nodded.

“Are you safe?”

Julia double-took, as she tried to understand the question. “W-What do you mean?”

“I wanna know if you’re safe right now.” Maxine asked. “If you’re taking care of my daughter, I need to know I can keep trusting you. If you feel safe, then I can be confident she is too.”

Julia gulped a little, watching as Maxine took the question very seriously, before giving an honest answer.

“Yes. You can count on us.”

Maxine patted her. “Okay then. Happy travels.”

Wow, she can be scary. Julia realised, taking the chance to join the others on the train, just as it shot off down the track, heading deeper into the Aishanara Forest.

“You packed more of those tarts, right?” Wess asked, as Sola happily handed her another one. “Oh, you angel.”

“What’re friends for?” Sola giggled, just as the forest came into view. “The Aishanara forest is so calming...I’m not even worried about being on a train...”

“So, you said the clan’s gathered in the forest?” Harley asked, as Essex nodded back to her.

“Dal. They are situated close to Michiri for the next few months.” Essex explained. “We shall arrive just in time for Boncala Day.”

“Man, I can’t wait to meet them!” Harley let out. “This is gonna be so good!”

“I can’t believe we’ve been traveling for nearly two weeks.” Julia brought up. “I hope we do more of this after graduating.”

“If Wailing aren’t an issue.” Wess mentioned, going in for a bite of the tarts. “Heavens, that’s good...”

“Don’t worry. We’ll be fine.” Sola ensured. “Team Valiant are as strong as ever! To the forest!”

———

After a few days, the pair of Wailing had fallen into a similar routine. They’d check to see if the team were in any vulnerable areas, only to come up short due to the number of bystanders or sheer exposure to the public eye. They waited patiently for an opening that never came. Worse yet, if they jumped the gun, people might report them to any nearby Venators, meaning their whole operation would be mute.

They took their time gnawing on a few animal carcasses, with one watching the team while the other watched their surroundings.

And, suddenly, the Wailing watching the team spotted them heading for the Flash-Rail, as it grabbed the others attention.

They both watched as the team entered the carriage, before it shot down the track and travelled closer to the forest, right past where they were hidden in the foliage.

They both looked excitedly at each other.

This was it.

This was their best chance.

They could finally kill Team Valiant.

They could finally be free.