“Bye, Cyrus! Good luck at the Apollo Agency!”

“I’m gonna hate it!”

“We know, just have fun with it!”

“Don’t forget us when you’re famous!”

The rest of Team Salvation waved Cyrus goodbye, as he hopped onto his Flash-Rail, heading off campus in the blink of an eye, as Wess chuckled to herself.

“He’s going to hate it.” She remarked, just as Julia started jumping around.

“I can’t believe it! Internships!” She let out, as Sola quickly joined her. “Another chance to work with professionals!”

“We get to meet more Venators!” Sola added, locking hands with Julia.

“Maybe we can catch up with Team Swift again. Or Vivisect.” Harley posited, before bumping Julia’s side. “We could even head to Team Spectrum’s old stomping ground.”

Julia’s excitement built up again, only for Essex to raise her hand.

“Did Faller not state we can’t go t-“

“Essex is right.”

The team turned around to find Ferris leaning against the wall, staring purposelessly at the ceiling of the Flash-Rail station.

“Faller made it clear. After your little stunt at EHM, no internships for you.” Ferris clarified, drawing Wess’ ire.

“Of course…I was hoping he’d forgotten about that by now.” Wess admitted, as Ferris felt around for her flask.

“Nope.” Ferris replied. “Instead, you get to stay on campus.”

Ferris failed to grab her flask over and over. “But to keep things fair, Faller’s letting you shadow a staff member of your choice for the next couple months. It’s basically a discount internship.”

“Wait, really?” Harley asked, getting excited. “That’s actually not too bad.”

“Is that so Faller can keep an eye on us?” Julia asked, as Ferris bothered to face her.

“Well done, Julia. You figured it out.” Ferris said, finally finding her drink, before deciding to walk off now that her obligations were fulfilled. “And don’t even think about shadowing me! I don’t want you, and you don’t want me!”

She quickly left the train station, leaving Team Valiant to their devices, as Sola pouted to Julia.

“I thought you said that Faller’s punishment for breaking into EHM was for show?” Sola asked.

“Well, he still has to uphold it. It’ll look suspicious if we suddenly get off scot-free, especially to Wicker.” Julia reasoned. “And technically, he’s still punishing us for disrupting the tournament.”

“Still, it sucks we couldn’t even try for an internship. Everyone else gets to go, and now we’re stuck behind here.” Harley complained. “All this so I could keep my stupid leg…”

“You’re welcome.” Wess replied, before noticing Essex staring off awkwardly. “Essex? What’s the matter?”

Essex was suddenly thrown off by Wess talking to her, before making an effort to talk herself.

“…I did not know what to do with this.” Essex admitted. “I…was offered an internship with the Aurora Venator Agency.”

“Really?” Sola let out. “Good for you!”

“Aurora? Which one is that again?” Wess wondered, as Julia rested on her side.

“That’s the same agency as Team Avalanche. They’re based in the north of the Eastern Wayside.” Julia clarified, right as Harley breathed in through her teeth.

“On the border of Wailing territory, too.” Harley pointed out.

“When’d you get that?” Sola asked, as Essex pulled out the business card she’d received.

“During the tournament. A representative had found me and offered the position for this year, but now I’m afraid I cannot attend.” Essex bemoaned, while Sola handed the card around. “This would be a useful opportunity to experience an agency in person.”

“And you’d get to meet another professional Venator team.” Julia noted. “Man, I wish you could go.”

“Who cares what Faller says. Just go anyway.” Harley insisted, giving a thumbs up. “If he asks questions, we’ll just stuff some pillows in your bed and pretend you’re asleep.”

“…for how long?” Essex questioned, immediately stumping Harley.

“…shit…”

“Aww, you guys came to see us off!”

The team turned to spot Joleicia and Nathaniel heading onto the station platform, with Joleicia proudly leading the charge.

“How goes it, other Team V?” Joleicia asked, hugging Julia suddenly, as Julia quickly hugged back before breaking it.

“Not great…Faller won’t let us take on an internship.” Julia explained, breathing to slow her heart.

“For what happened at the tournament.” Wess noted, as Joleicia rested her hands on her hips.

“Bummer. I know you were really excited about it, Wess.” Joleicia said. “You were rescuing a teammate. That should count for something.”

“L-Like a friendship award?” Nathaniel suggested, as Harley chuckled a little.

“The trophy should be two hands shaking.” Sola added, only worsening Harley’s laughing. “Or, like, someone patting someone else’s back.”

Harley was basically keeling over, as Essex stepped in. “If Harley could speak, I believe she would say ‘I’m here to tell the tale. That is where it counts.’”

“Totally agree on that.” Joleicia grinned, as Wess cleared her throat.

“So speaking of internships, where did you manage to hitch your wagon to?”

“Energia Agency!” Joleicia called out, as Julia cocked her head.

“But that one’s in Detu City. Why’re you traveling there now?”

“We’re checking the place out before we start there next week.” Nathaniel added. “The others were busy, so I got roped along…”

“And don’t worry, we’re still staying on campus.” Joleicia assured, slinging an arm around Nathaniel. “Your favourite friend team won’t leave you behind for the agency glitz and glamour!”

“A-Actually, we literally have to right now.” Nathaniel pointed out, indicating to the Flash-Rail pulling in. “Bye guys. Good luck with…stuff.”

“Thanks! Later guys!” Julia called back, as the duo hopped onto the train, with Joleicia waving back to Julia, before the Flash-Rail sped off into the city. “Alright, we should get on top of who we’re shadowing. Anyone got thoughts yet?”

“I’m asking the Chief of Security herself, Dulce.” Harley bragged, looking visibly proud of herself. “Kindred spirits and all that.”

“I’ll probably ask…Spence. I think she needs to hang out with more people.” Sola admitted, as Wess scratched her chin.

“I’ve got someone in mind, but I’ll have to see about his availability...” Wess muttered, before turning to Julia. “Anyone on your mind, dear?”

“Not especially. Coatsworth might be fun.” Julia pointed out, before an idea quickly crossed her mind. “…then again…Essex?”

Essex faced her.

Julia smiled. “I think I can get you that internship.”

———

“…Ferris?”

“…”

“Your tab is due.”

“…”

“You’re teaching a class.”

“…”

“You’re in your underwear. Everyone’s laughing at you.”

Ferris lifted her head off the bar, before flipping Seears off.

“I-“

“You were gonna make me do something…” Ferris groaned. “Faller has me working non-stop, so don’t start giving me orders too…”

Seears made a subtle movement to wipe up some drool from beside her. “At least don’t fall asleep on the bar. I don’t want people thinking I bore you.”

“No comment, poindexter.” Ferris replied, just as the front door opened, with Julia and Wess stepping into the Academy Daiquiri Lounge.

“You reckon she’s here?”

“It’s the campus bar, darling. What do you think?”

“Okay, I just didn’t wanna assume that.” Julia reasoned. “She can’t be here all the…”

Julia immediately noticed Ferris at the bar, nursing a beer bottle, before stopping herself.

“…alright, she is. You know the plan?”

“Chat up Seears and pull him away so you and Ferris can talk.” Wess repeated, before kissing Julia’s cheek. “Watch in awe.”

Julia happily did so, as Wess sashayed her way to the bar, before pulling up a seat.

“Seears.” She called out. “Just the man I wanted to see.”

Seears spun around, before spotting Wess resting by the bar. “Uhh…Team Valiant, right?”

“Correct.” Wess replied, sitting up in her seat. “I’m sure you’re aware of Faller’s decision to have us shadowing staff.”

“Right. And you wanted recommendations.” Seears said, before leaning against the bar himself. “First of all, avoid Vent, he’s a stick in the mu-“

“No, I actually wanted to ask after you.” Wess posited. “You’re head of PR here, after all, and I already have plenty of teachers for combat.”

“…true.” Seears agreed, standing back up again. “…well, it’s not like I have nothing to teach you…”

“Then we’re already halfway there.” Wess smiled, as Seears scoffed to himself.

“You know what, I’ve been working on this pitch recently, and I’ve needed the backing of a certain government official.” Seears said, holding his hand to his chest. “I’m very charming, but we don’t seem to get along for whatever reason. How are you with schmoozing?”

Wess smirked, before leaning back. “How about I show you?”

Seears grinned, just as he chucked his cloth across the bar. “Fuck it, I like you. Come on.”

“What, already?” Wess asked, hopping up, as Seears allowed her behind the bar.

“You’re not busy. And I run on my own clock.” Seears insisted, flipping up a sign saying ‘Bar’s Closed.’ “Let’s get schmoozing.”

Wess quickly followed him behind the bar, before giving Julia a sudden thumbs up, as Julia took her chance to hurry over and pull up a stool next to Ferris.

“Uhh…Miss Ferris?”

“I said don’t shadow me.”

“It’s not about that.” Julia said, as Ferris lifted up her head. “Essex has an offer from the Aurora Venator Agency.”

“…Aurora?” Ferris asked, raising an eyebrow. “They’re pretty famous talent scouts. Impressive they even found her.”

Ferris scratched her nose. “Shame she can’t go.”

“Right. Well, I’ve got an offer I want you to float to Faller.” Julia suggested. “Let Essex go to her internship, while we stay here and still shadow staff.”

Ferris squinted her eyes. “I’m failing to see the benefit to him.”

“But…” Julia prefaced, taking in a breath. “…I’ll personally shadow Cecil for you.”

Ferris raised her eyebrows in surprise.

“I can spend the next couple months with him, looking out for anything that might confirm he’s Wicker. Meanwhile, that frees up time for you guys and your own investigation.” Julia said. “I can get closer to him than you guys can, and he already thinks I’m not suspicious of him.”

“…huh.” Ferris let out, stroking her chin. “…I thought Faller told you to stay out of all this?”

“…I know the risks.” Julia admitted, leaning in. “But I can’t just sit by when I know I can do something about it.”

“…we couldn’t guarantee your safety either…”

“I’m fine with that. That’s why I’ve got my team.” Julia said, as Ferris rolled her eyes.

“Uhuh…fuck it, I’ll let Faller know.” Ferris said, exciting Julia. “You’re a clever girl, appealing to my need for more sleep like that.”

“Glad I could help.” Julia smiled, right as Ferris reached past the bar to grab another bottle. “Ah-“

“Don’t tell Seears.” Ferris insisted, as Julia let it be. “To us clever bitches.”

“…sure.” Julia said, grabbing an empty bottle and clinking it.

———

“Do you actually wanna go?”

“Of course. It would be beneficial to the team.”

“But like, do YOU wanna go?”

“Dal. I’ll meet interesting people, I’m familiar with the terrain, and I can experience more Wailing combat firsthand.”

“Okay.” Harley said, lying backwards on the couch, her head resting on Sola’s lap. “You want us to make you a little care package before you go?”

“OH! Can we? Can we can we can we?” Sola insisted, pumping her fists, as Essex sat against the coffee table, trying not to blush too heavily.

“B-But it has not been confirmed yet. Julia is still ou-“

“Guess who got you that internship?” Julia announced, bursting through the team’s dorm door, before pointing to herself. “This guy!”

“Already?” Harley let out, jumping off the couch. “Damn, you work quick.”

“You did?” Essex exclaimed, standing up suddenly, before hurrying over to Julia. “T-This fast?”

Julia nodded back proudly.

Essex could feel herself getting quickly overwhelmed. “I-I am very grateful. You have gone out of your way, a-and I truly appreciate it.”

Essex struggled to come up with more thanks, before just hugging Julia outright, as Julia could feel her heart racing and face flushing.

She noticed Harley and Sola giving her a big thumbs up behind Essex, as Julia was grateful Essex broke the hug soon after.

“No problem, Essex. You totally deserve it.” Julia assured. “You should probably plan out your trip, though. It’s gonna be quite the trek out there.”

Essex slowly turned back around to a very joyous Harley and Sola, before hiding her face somewhat.

“So?” Harley asked.

“Care package?” Sola added.

“…I would like that very much.”

“Hell yeah! Let’s do it!” Harley insisted, before holding out her hand. “Gimme your tablet. I’ll make you a playlist for the ride over.”

“And I’ve got a super cute jacket you’ll like! Hold on!” Sola exclaimed, rushing into the study, leaving Essex standing in the middle of the room, still taking in the news.

“…I get to go…”

———

Cecil took his time cleaning up the science department lab, inspecting every corner he could for grime, as he moved some chairs out of the way to reach lower onto the floor.

He started crawling on his hands, grabbing a small brush and squeezing it between two tables, just as he heard the lab doors open up, with a small knock coming from the front.

“Just a-“ He greeted, before standing up too quickly and banging his head on the counter. “Ow.”

“Cecil? Are you alright?” Julia asked, coming into the lab proper.

“Yes, just went to say hi too suddenly.” Cecil insisted, before realising who it was. “Julia. What brings you around?”

Julia blinked. “Didn’t Faller tell you?”

Cecil recalled what she meant and smacked his forehead. “Right, the shadowing thing. Sorry. I was busy taking care of my monthly lab clean.”

Julia glanced around the lab. “Don’t you have assistants to help you?”

“I like to look over things myself.” Cecil pointed out, leaning against one of the counters. “So…you wanted to shadow me of all people.”

“O-Oh, yeah.” Julia managed, trying to find her confidence again. “Sorry. I’m probably pushing it since the…well…”

“The EHM break in?” Cecil remarked, ripping off the bandage. “Water under the bridge. You know I don’t hold your team responsible for what happened, or you personally.”

I guess that means he probably didn’t spot me spying in on his meeting… Julia noted. Well, that’s one less thing to worry about.

Cecil resettled himself. “With that said, I am curious why you chose me. You haven’t taken many science-related units, and seem pretty content in being a hunting Venator. Surely there’d be more value in any number of other teachers.”

Julia found herself struggling for words a little, before coming up with a quick save for herself.

“…forgive me, but my reasons are kinda personal.”

Julia leaned against one of the counters before continuing. “Actually, last year, I was talking with my friend Florey...” Julia admitted, as Cecil’s head perked up. “He said he got a job with you guys, so...I wanted to learn about why he liked you as a boss.”

“Really? I didn’t know you were friends with him.” Cecil noted.

“Well…before he went to join you, we got into a big fight…” Julia confessed. “It was only recently that we’ve sorta patched things up.”

“Ah. That explains it.” Cecil said, as Julia cocked her head. “Oh, right. He came back to the academy during last year’s formal, and I was curious as to why he did so.”

Cecil waved his hand. “He was patching things up.”

Partly. Julia thought. Is that why Rosalind was spying on us? Could she have been keeping an eye on him?

“Yes, by the way.”

Julia broke her train of thought. “I-I’m sorry?”

“To shadowing. I’d appreciate the company.” Cecil insisted. “Florey’s been a remarkable apprentice, so I’d love to get to know a friend of his.”

Julia stood back up proper. “Great! That’s really great. I can help you out around the lab too.”

“Why not?” Cecil said, smirking a bit. “You can pay off some of the damages from your trip to EHM.”

Julia’s pupils shrank and she started to sweat a bit, as Cecil chuckled lightly. “I’m kidding. You can start at ten next Monday. Bring an outfit that can afford to get dirty.”

“Alright…thank you, sir.” Julia said, deciding to leave right after to avoid any further complications, as Cecil watched her go on her way.

“What interesting company you keep, Florey.”

———

“Lawkins!”

“Present!”

“Jones!”

“Present!”

“Baroke!”

“Present and accounted for!” Harley replied, catching Dulce in a grin, as she grabbed Harley’s shoulder.

“Look at you, don’t even need to train ya!” Dulce exclaimed, before turning to the remaining security. “You all know your standard duties! Hop to it!”

The security staff all cleared out of the building, exiting the security department and spreading out over campus, leaving Dulce and Harley on their own.

“And you get to patrol with me today.” Dulce insisted, as Harley pumped her fist.

“Yes! Already in on the action!” Harley celebrated, as Dulce snickered.

“I don’t know what action you’re referring to. The last time the academy was under attack was a year and a half ago.” Dulce pointed out, cutting off Harley’s excitement. “Patrolling’s as dull as it gets.”

“…oh, yeah.” Harley realised, rubbing her neck. “…well, we get to hang out at least.”

“Now that’s worth celebrating!” Dulce exclaimed, slinging her arm around Harley. “So what’s been up with you since we last spoke?”

“Uhh, I’ve got two girlfriends now.” Harley noted, as Dulce’s face looked a bit awkward.

“…do they know about each other?”

“Oh yeah, their dating too. It’s like a polycule…thing.” Harley explained, as Dulce sighed out. “Sola and Essex from my team, actually.”

“No shit. My husband was my team’s manager back in the day.” Dulce bragged.

“You were a Venator?!” Harley let out, as Dulce proudly nodded. “What team?”

“Team Bombard!” Dulce proclaimed, striking a pose. “Patrollers of the Southern Wayside!”

“And you’re from the Southern Wayside?” Harley gasped. “You might be the coolest person I know! Save for Dorothy, obviously.”

“People credited us for singlehandedly stopping the Raski problem from spreading to the south.” Dulce said, cracking her knuckles. “I mean, it was nice to get the credit.”

“So why’re you working here now?” Harley asked, as Dulce stretched her arms behind her head.

“I got older. Couldn’t keep up with all the new teams coming out.” Dulce explained. “Patricia ain’t what she used to be, save for where it counts.”

Harley picked up on the joke and nudged her elbow into Dulce’s side. “Bet your husband gets most of the ‘physical attention’ these days.”

“Oh yeah.” Dulce insisted, slapping Harley’s back. “He’s a lucky guy!”

They both kept laughing to themselves, as they drew the attention of students around them, wondering if they were chatting or actually patrolling at all.

———

“Alright, basic introductions. You go first.” Seears insisted, hurriedly walking through the main building with Wess.

“Wess Delacroix Nouvel, house of Delacroix. Only daughter.” Wess stated, keeping up pace.

“No kidding. My first name’s Wesley.” Seears replied, surprising Wess.

“Really? What a small world.” Wess remarked, just as they rounded a corner. “I’m part of Team Valiant. I grew up among the elite of the Northern Wayside, training my social and business skills. After breaking the confines of my homelife in Mareau, I came here to study as a hunting Venator and claim my name in history.”

Seears grinned back at her. “I like ambition. It’s good to see it so thoroughly planned.”

Eventually, they made their way to Seears’ office, as he held the door open for Wess before making himself comfortable in the space.

“Well, I was a middle child, born in Mokuddo to two beautiful mothers. Entering high school, I was head of debate team, before I slowly grew to despise it and all the little politics. Then I worked on the local paper.” Seears explained, pulling out a board from behind a bunch of disorganised boxes.

“Eventually, I moved to working with CWNN for a handful of years, helping improve the image of the news station, before a Wailing killed my mother and I moved my talents here.” Seears followed up, cleaning up the board a bit, while also shocking Wess with his bluntness.

“I-I’m sorry?”

Seears realised the confusion. “Oh, right. While I was working on a pitch, my family home was attacked by a Wailing, before taking the life of one of my mothers. Before I could complete it, I quit and sunk into a spiral of self-hate and depression, almost giving up all together, before eventually finding Antonio. And my god, he was exactly what I needed…”

Seears leaned over his desk to grab a photo frame and show it to her. “He’s a vet. A beautiful, sexy, abs like porcelain vet, with the purest smile and a heart of platinum. I’m pretty sure his first line to me was ‘I’m used to saving injured puppies, so you shouldn’t be much more difficult.’”

Seears laughed a little, before noticing the slight bit of distress in her face. “Wess?”

“…s-sorry. It’s just you’ve had quite the difficult life…and you’re very nonchalant about it…”

Seears shrugged and sat on top of his desk. “I know. But it’s all good now, right? I got out of that spiral.”

Seears kicked his legs back and forth. “It’s all thanks to Antonio. If he hadn’t found me, I wouldn’t have fixed my life or found my calling here. Now I’ll spend as much time as I can paying him back for it.”

“…I’m in a somewhat similar relationship at the moment.” Wess remarked. “I keep finding myself wanting to pay her back for everything, but I don’t know if it’ll ever be enough.”

“Oh, love…what do you make us do?” Seears let out, before hopping off his desk. “Anyway anyhow, here’s the pitch.”

Seears flipped the board around, showing off various diagrams and early drafts pinned up.

“You’ve heard about the barrier going up around Detu City, right?” Seears asked, as Wess nodded back, taking a seat. “Right. However, the current plan for it doesn’t include covering the Venator Academy.”

Wess blinked. “Seriously?”

“It’s bullshit, right?” Seears let out, before grabbing a marker and making some crude notes. “Our schmoozee is Senator Caren Carmichael. She’s stood firmly on the point that ‘after several attacks, it’s clear we can defend ourselves,’ so now they can cut costs on the project by shortening its reach.”

Seears closed the marker. “Faller already tried talking with her, but wasn’t able to make any headway. Now he’s employed my silver tongue. But…”

“…it didn’t work as well?”

Seears nodded in shame, before pointing to Wess with the marker. “However, I’ve got a plan to win her over, one that needs two people to work. You think you can handle it?”

“I’m still sitting here, aren’t I?” Wess assured, leaning in, as Seears smirked and flipped the board back around, drawing up new plans.

“Okay, we’ll start at a coffee shop…”

———

“You ready?”

“You bet!”

“Alright, newbie, first things first! I need help organising the aisles.” Spence declared. “Lots of third year students come in around this time of year, but they don’t really put the books back correctly.”

“Oh yeah. I keep forgetting where they’re meant to go.” Sola admitted, as Spence blinked awkwardly.

“Well, it’s a very intricate system that I’ll be happy to show you!” Spence insisted. “First, each genre is broken up into a subgenre consisting o…”

Sola stared at Spence as she carried on, taking her through the library and showing off each aisle in detail.

“Bla bla bla bla books bla bla bla decimals bla bla bla bla bla organise and synergise bla bla bla.”

Spence took a quick breath, before facing Sola proudly.

“Did you get all that?”

“…I think so!” Sola cheered, as Spence gave her a thumbs up.

“That’s the spirit! I’ll hand you the history books…” Spence said, grabbing a large pile and dropping it off to Sola. “And, even though I don’t usually like to, I’ll do the economics books for a…change.”

Spence eyed Sola up, raising her eyebrows over and over, as Sola noticed her staring, before looking around in confusion.

“Get it?”

“Get what?”

“…change?”

“…”

“Like money?”

“…”

“They’re economics boo-“

“Spence, these books are getting heavy.”

Spence rolled her eyes and puffed out her chest. “Okay! Sorting commence! Commence with Spence!”

“Oh! I got that one.” Sola admitted, heading further down the aisle, as Spence went about organising her shelves.

After a few minutes, Spence’s eyes wandered over to Sola’s work, before she noticed Sola placing books in the wrong order by mistake.

“Sola, those are pre-monarchy Northern Wayside books.” Spence pointed out.

Sola stopped for a second, as she cocked her head. “Don’t they go in the Northern Wayside section?”

Spence shook her head. “There’s a sub-category for that. Then they go in alphabetical order within their subgenre, unless their subject is broad enough to go in general. Then they’re sorted in order of letter, year, and publisher, unless it’s in a subgenre, in where only letter and year matter. However, we have to leave room for borrowed books, since we need to register which books are coming out, meaning we shou-“

“But wouldn’t it make more sense to just put them all in alphabetical order?” Sola suggested, as Spence pouted.

“Well, what if students want specific periods in history?” Spence insisted, waging her finger. “We want to make this easy on them.”

“But I’m a student, and it’s not easy on me.” Sola noted.

Spence’s eyes drooped, before she sighed out and pointed to the front counter. “How about you sort the returned books? You just need to scan them in and sort them by subject.”

Sola looked back at it, before pumping her fists. “I can do that!”

She ran over to the table, as Spence picked up her books, before noticing Sola immediately struggling with the scanner.

“Oh boy…”

———

Essex sat on top of her suitcase, struggling to keep everything inside while zipping it up. She played around with the zipper out of frustration, before standing up, letting the bag flop open with clothes and various knick knacks spilling out.

“Their care package may have been too generous…” Essex remarked, reaching in and pulling out several scented soaps and plenty of plush pillows. “…but it would be difficult without these objects…”

She scratched her head and sighed out. “As Sola would say…oh boy.”

“What’re you oh boy-ing about?” Julia asked, popping her head into the study, as Essex indicated to the suitcase.

“I am having trouble with packing. Harley and Sola insisted on these items.” Essex explained, as Julia rested on the door frame.

“Aww. I think they might be worried about you.” Julia grinned, as Essex tried to avoid looking embarrassed. “It is a pretty long way to travel on your own.”

“I can handle this excursion.” Essex assured, as Julia rolled her eyes.

“Yeah, we know. But we can’t help but be cautious.” Julia said, before Essex sat on the suitcase again. “Let’s be thankful you can carry your scythe with you.”

Julia spun around and headed for the kitchen, before Essex spoke up suddenly.

“Speaking…of cautious.”

Julia turned back around.

“Are you prepared for interning with Cecil?”

Julia froze a little, before nodding back to Essex and chuckling.

“Yeah…yeah. Even if…you know, even if the worst is true, right now we’re still science teacher and student.” Julia let out. “There’s no reason he’d think otherwise.”

“Right. I can accompany.” Essex offered, getting up. “If you’d feel safer.”

“It’s fine, you’re busy getting ready for your trip.” Julia noted. “That’s why I’m doing this in the first place, after all. It’s more important that you prepare.”

Essex looked a bit sceptical, but nodded back to Julia regardless, as she pivoted from the kitchen and went and grabbed her bag, before taking a breath and heading out of the dorm.

“Uhh, sir, have you done these shelves yet?”

“…no, I don’t think so. Just give them a dust anyway.”

“Right.” Julia replied, wiping away some more dust from the bookshelf, as Cecil worked away at the corner in his office, reorganising a couple books lying around.

“You know, I spend so much time in the lab, I rarely get the chance to clean my actual office.” Cecil pointed out. “Or even use it, for that matter. I use the one in the science department way more.”

“I guess the fortieth floor of the main building’s a bit out of the way…” Julia remarked, getting a titter of acknowledgement from Cecil.

“Especially for autopsies and studies. All my important materials are down several flights of stairs.” Cecil said, as Julia cleaned up a few more spaces, before noticing a picture frame next to the bookcase showing Cecil alongside several students in lab coats.

She picked it up briefly, before Cecil noticed and went to join her side.

“We took that after dissecting the Behemoth Wailing.” He said, as Julia jumped a little at him suddenly piping up. “Most of them were interning in third year as well, funnily enough.”

“For you?”

“Well, they were studying to be scientific Venators, and then the opportunity to study the Behemoth Wailing came along.” Cecil noted, sitting against his desk. “A fair few are actually working at EHM now.”

Just like Florey… Julia thought, before putting the photo down and going back to cleaning, before needing to satiate a question she had.

“Umm, sir…out of curiosity…”

“Yes?”

“What do you think about the Wailing? Personally?”

Cecil looked a bit puzzled at the question, before stroking his chin.

“I despise them.” Cecil stated, standing up properly. “I don’t know many people who’d say otherwise.”

“Yeah, right…” Julia said, as Cecil tapped his fingers on his desk.

“…I mean…on some level, they’re quite fascinating.” Cecil pointed out. “Did you know it’s been theorised that humans and Wailing might have a common ancestor?”

Julia’s eyes widened. “Really?”

Cecil nodded. “Obviously, nothing recent. That’s the leading theory as to why Whil’s manifested in the first place. Anecdotally, there’s always been this association between Wailing ‘magic’ and Whil’s, but until that connection was made, they’ve ostensibly been separate.”

“Yeah. I mean, I think I saw some news broadcasts about regulating Whil usage.” Julia mentioned. “One of the Senators at the time was saying ‘they’re as destructive as a Wailing. We can’t let Whil users walk around without guidelines.’”

Cecil audibly scoffed. “The regulation is that people are using it. It’s called common sense judgement.” Cecil argued. “Venators have done far more good with their Whils than bad, I assure you.”

“Right, yeah. You don’t have to tell me twice.” Julia said, scratching her head. “It’s not like we’d use it on other people or anything.”

Another question crossed Julia’s mind. “Going back to my previous point, where do you think the Gelatinous Wailing came from?”

Cecil squinted, before leaning back on the wall and thinking. “…unfortunately, we haven’t come up with anything concrete. The best guess is that it’s a latent genetic mutation that allows them to withstand conventional weaponry.”

Julia nodded her head. “I remember Florey told me he thought it was an illness in the Wailing.”

Cecil smiled. “Yes, I saw his notes on that. He’s actually looking into that at the moment.”

“Really?”

“He’s been mentioning wanting to do an autopsy on a Gelatinous Wailing to see if that’s true.” Cecil said, before chuckling a little. “He’s got a curious mind. I hope something comes of this latest project, at least to pay off his efforts.”

Julia casually went back to wiping the bookshelves down again. “Are you helping him with it?”

“No, unfortunately, I’m far too busy at the moment. I’m sure you’ve read about EHM’s upcoming merger with Andro Manufacturing.” Cecil posed, as Julia nodded back. “My plates pretty full.”

Julia thought about it for a second, before double-taking. “He’s not gonna have to catch the Wailing on his own, is he?”

“Don’t worry. We’ve hired help for that.” Cecil assured. “We’re not really ‘out of the pan, into the fire’ kind of people.”

So they’re capable of Wailing capture? Julia wondered, before dismissing it. …maybe that’s a stretch.

Cecil laughed to himself. “He reminds me a lot of myself, actually, back when I was his age. All these theories buzzing around, waiting to be tested. I wasn’t as lucky, though.”

Julia nodded and went back to cleaning, as Cecil tapped his leg against his desk idly.

“…do you know about his homelife? Before he came here?”

Julia stopped cleaning, before stiffly shaking her head. “I-It wouldn’t be right to talk about…”

“Right.” Cecil said, before sighing out. “I can’t imagine it was easy for him. Genius is rarely ever celebrated, or understood.”

“…but I’m sure you get a lot of acclaim as the head of EHM.” Julia pointed out.

“On some level, yes.” Cecil noted. “But…you know as well as I do, there’s only so much one person can accomplish. We’re only one company, and the Wailing Conflict’s not exactly ending anytime soon.”

“Right, yeah. Florey was saying similar things.” Julia clarified, slowing down her cleaning. “One of the reasons he left was cause he thought Venators weren’t getting the job done.”

Cecil looked back at Julia. “Do you think they’re getting the job done?”

Julia shrugged. “I’m becoming one, aren’t I?”

Cecil tilted his head. “Fair point. Still, with the emergence of Behemoth Wailing and Gelatinous Wailing, it seems they keep finding new tricks to throw us off over and over.”

Julia reached a high spot of the bookshelf, before laughing a little. “What next, a Gelatinous Behemoth Wailing?”

…

Cecil stopped for a long second, before registering what Julia had said properly and laughing after. “Exactly. Knowing them, most likely.”

Julia noticed the pause but didn’t feel like mentioning it, as she focused on her task again, letting the office settle into its typical silence.

———

“Go long!”

“I am!”

“Go longer then!”

“Hold on, hold on, I got it!” Dulce let out, backing up quicker, as Harley idly spun the tree trunk in her hands.

“Come on, I can throw further than that!”

Dulce started clearing more distance, preparing for whenever Harley was about to throw, just as a couple other security guards were passing by, catching them in the middle of the action.

One stopped in their tracks, before bumping the other’s shoulder. “What’re those two doing?”

The other spotted the commotion and groaned. “Oh, that’s rich. Dulce pulls us up for slacking off, and now she’s doing it herself.”

“Reckon we should call her out?” The first one suggested.

The second one grinned. “Absolutely.”

They cupper their hands and yelled out. “Yo, Dulce!”

Dulce quickly spun around to address them, just as Harley threw the tree trunk, sending it flying toward her, before it collided right into her, sending her to the ground.

“Oh shit!” The guards called out, rushing over to her, as Harley join up as well.

“Dulce? You good?” Harley asked, helping her up.

“Nah, I’m alright. Don’t…ow…” Dulce let out, before turning to the guards. “Why’d you distract me?!”

“We-w-“

“You were slacking off!” One of the guards complained, pointing to Harley. “With the newbie, no less!”

Dulce’s eyes widened, as she looked back at Harley.

“Oh.” She muttered, blushing a bit. “Oh yeah…”

She cleared her throat, before straightening her posture. “…and you called me out on it, which was the test.”

The guards looked at each other.

“It’s important to question authority and call out injustice when you see it.” Dulce reasoned. “Which was the lesson, so you…did a great job.”

Dulce looked to Harley for backup, as Harley quickly picked up on the idea and gave a thumbs up.

“She was actually getting me to help teach the lesson as part of my induction.” Harley insisted. “Well done, you two!”

The guards kinda just stood there for a second, unsure what to make of the situation, before shrugging it off.

“…alright, I can appreciate that.”

“Yeah, if it was deliberate.” The other guards stated. “Like obviously you wouldn’t get distracted from patrolling and goof off, even when you’ve called us out for t-“

“Speaking of which, shouldn’t you get back to your route?” Dulce reminded them, as the guards noticed the obvious and started heading off.

“R-Right, sorry Dulce!” One called out. “We’ll get right on that!”

Dulce rested her hands on her hips, before turning back to Harley. “Rule one of success: bullshit till you make it.”

Harley nodded back to her. “Rule two of success: when others need help bullshitting, you have their back.”

“Ain’t that the truth!” Dulce exclaimed, as the duo laughed together, before immediately forgetting to patrol again.

———

“…ow for a fact she loves this coffee shop and comes here every Wednesday. After all our planning, this should be a cakewalk.” Seears insisted, before turning back around to Wess in the car. “You ready?”

“Stopping asking that, it makes you look desperate.” Wess stated, checking herself in the mirror, as Seears clapped excitedly.

“That’s what I’m talking about. Let’s do it.” Seears hyped up, as they both got out of the car and headed inside the café, Brewster’s Brew.

Almost immediately, they spotted the Senator near the back of the line, idly scrolling on her tablet, as Seears closed the distance.

“Caren Carmichael, as I live and breathe.” Seears greeted, as Caren begrudgingly lifted her head, before smiling.

“Wesley. How convenient that you’re here.” Caren critiqued, just as the line moved up a bit. “Here for another pitch?”

“How did you know?” Seears joked, rubbing his hands together, before stopping himself suddenly. “Uhh…sorry, just a sec…”

“Problem?” Wess confusedly asked, as Seears pulled her away for a sec.

He started muttering to her, before Wess started glaring at him, as he quickly headed out of line.

“So sorry, I’ve just got to use the bathroom really quick. I’ll be back to pitch, promise!” Seears insisted, speeding off before giving Wess a quick thumbs up.

“Honestly…” Wess let out, massaging her forehead, as Caren made a point to stick her hand out.

“Caren Carmichael.” She introduced, as Wess curiously shook her hand. “Senator Carmichael.”

“Right! Senator. Apologies, I’m a Northern Wayside native.” Wess excused.

“No apologies needed. Save for your representative, he’s a prick.” Caren insisted, getting a chuckle from Wess. “So, are you working with Seears?”

“Somewhat.” Wess said, before leaning in. “Truthfully speaking, I’m here to smooth things over between you two. Apparently, you’re not a fan of his.”

“Not just him.” Caren assured. “It’s that academy he’s working at, and the industry behind it.”

Wess cocked her head. “You’re not big on Venators?”

“The privatised military force? Yeah, not my cup of tea.” Caren stated, tapping her foot. “This freakin’ line, I swear…you know the Wailing are the victims here, right? And yet we can’t stop funding their slaughtering. Essential capitals, right there.”

“You’re starting to sound like WRNG.” Wess mentioned, before recalling something. “Hold on, weren’t they protesting against you this time last year?”

“I’m not big on them either.” Caren admitted, just as the line moved up a bit. “Even if we agree that the Wailing are being mistreated, I’m not about to critique a privatised military and then go and support a militia.”

Wess gave them a moment, before speaking up again. “So despite supporting the Wailing, you’re heading the protective barrier going into place around Detu City?”

Caren sighed out, before massaging her forehead.

“…you saw the Behemoth Wailing attacking the Venator Academy. I can’t not act on that. I can’t have another Wailing army rushing into Daysend’s capital on my watch and pretend like peace talks are our only option! Are you finished ordering yet?!”

The people in front of the Senator jumped, before quickly wrapping up their order and leaving.

“And yet the barrier isn’t going around the academy?”

Caren went to order, before giving Wess the side-eye. “So Seears told you?”

“Yes.” Wess said. “And I’m starting to think it’s personal bias.”

“Macchiato, and I don’t act like that.” Caren assured, leaning down to meet Wess’ height. “Covering that much land is far too costly, and from what I’ve seen, the academy can bounce back fine from one of those things. We already gave them funding for their big fancy IF’s.”

“Fair call…but at what point does the blowback become too much?” Wess posited. “You’ve already got a fair amount of detractors who’ll see this as nothing but a personal attack on the Venators you oh so despise.”

“They’ll hate me regardless.”

“If you aren’t protecting the academy that’s already been attacked twice, you’ll be making far more enemies than it’s worth.” Wess added. “Supporters of yours will see it as vindictive, your colleagues in the Senate might read it as petty a-“

“I’m starting to think you knew more about me than you let on.” Caren said, grabbing her coffee.

“Regardless, I’m saying including the academy might win back some support, and come off as a good faith move for future investments. It’s good to be seen as the one protecting all of Detu City.” Wess reasoned. “You catch more flies with hone-“

“I’m familiar with fly fishing.” Caren assured, before taking a sip of her coffee, giving herself a moment to think. “…huh.”

She pointed back at Wess. “…tell you what, I’ll think on it. You’ve actually given something to consider.”

“Thank you. You’re fun to debate.” Wess joked, getting a laugh from Caren.

“I already like you lot more than Seea-“

“Did someone say my name?” Seears called out, leaving the bathroom, as Caren scoffed.

“There we are. I was starting to think you’d fallen in.” Caren remarked. “I just had a very interesting debate with your colleague, Miss…?”

“Wess Delacroix Nouvel.”

“Delacroix…I believe I’ve met your father.” Caren said. “I’m starting to understand where you got your negotiating know-how.”

“Hold on, is THAT the time?” Seears sold, holding up his watch. “So sorry, Caren, we’ve gotta head out. I’ll have to get to that pitch at a later date.”

“I’m sure.” She replied, waving as Seears shoved Wess out of the store.

Just as they turned to corner, Seears checked the coast was clear, before leaning in.

“So?”

“Went perfectly to plan.” Wess assured, as Seears pumped his fist.

“I didn’t spook her with the ‘sudden bathroom visit?’”

“Nope. I just laid out my cards and joined her playing…field. I might be mixing metaphors there…” Wess noticed. “I brought up WRNG, conveniently didn’t mention I was a Venator, and caught her up in her own sound reasoning. She’s considering the barrier extension again.”

“Great! Great call having you handle this.” Seears cheered. “Alright, back to the academy. We’re planning our next steps.”

They both started heading to the car again, as Wess stared back at the academy in the distance as they walked.

“…and thanks to yourself.” Wess said, drawing Seears’ attention.

“Sorry?”

“Regarding Antonio. He only would’ve helped you out of your spiral if you let yourself be helped.”

Seears watched Wess as she walked ahead, holding her hands behind her.

“Often times, accepting that help can be the hardest part.” Wess clarified. “And while it takes the right people to get you out of that, you need to respond to it. I would be nothing without my team, but my team wouldn’t have extended a branch if I was nothing.”

“…well damn.” Seears let out. “I guess I never really looked at it like that.”

“Don’t pay him back to make you even. Do it as a thank you for all he’s done.” Wess clarified, as Seears rubbed his neck.

“…I hate how right you are.” Seears agreed, before leaning over and sighing out. “That’s it. I’m gonna propose.”

Wess did a double take. “What?!”

“It’s about time I did. I bought the ring ages ago but never felt like I was worth it to him.”

“That was on the table?!”

“Yeah, didn’t I mention that before?”

“You certainly did not!”

“So you think I shouldn’t?”

“Obviously not! You’d be a moron not to bag that man as soon as possible!”

Seears grabbed out the keys, before snickering to himself. “Hey, Antonio, you have a student to thank for me proposing. No, I probably wouldn’t have asked otherwise. Yes, she does sound very smart.”

“…alright, alright. That’s enough compliments for one day.” Wess said, slinking into the passenger seat, as they drove back to the academy together.

———

“For the last time, no!”

“But it’s way easier!”

“It doesn’t work like that!” Spence complained. “Returned books go in the return slot, then they get scanned, sorted, assessed for damage, reorganised and redistributed, and then they can be booked out!”

“But what if another teammate wants the textbook for themselves?”

“It still has to be scanned, sorte-“

“But we can just extend it!”

“It doesn’t work like that! It’s under a different name and it confuses the system!” Spence groaned, right as the clock hit five, finally giving her an excuse to disengage and start packing up her things. “I don’t make the rules, Sola! I just volunteer here!”

“Well find who does make the rules and make them make better rules!” Sola insisted, as Spence left the library the moment she could, beelining for the staff offices while grumbling to herself.

“Why doesn’t she get it? I’m not trying to be difficult. Just extend it, she says! Like I have the authority!”

Spence stomped her way over to her desk, before landing in her seat and huffing, drawing the attention of Ferris a few desks over.

Ferris peered over, catching a glimpse of Spence muttering to herself, before deciding to ignore her, only to give it a moment’s thought and get up, wandering over to her desk.

Spence kept arguing with herself, just as Ferris tapped on the wall behind her.

“What’s got you in a tizzy?”

Spence breathed loudly out of her nose. “I don’t wanna bother you with this.”

“Really?” Ferris asked, leaning down to meet her eye level. “Cause you’re never this worked up.”

Spence spun her fingers in a circle, before throwing her hands down. “That Sola is so hard to teach! I don’t know what I’m doing wrong!”

Ferris took the opportunity to sit on Spence’s desk, as she worked herself up again. “I try to explain something, and it just bounces off of her! She refutes points, and then I try to explain it again, an-“

“She still doesn’t get it?”

Spence frantically pointed at Ferris in agreement, before sinking into her seat. “…I don’t want to speak badly on a student, but my head hurts so much…”

Ferris gave a cautious look around the room, before leaning in. “Truth be told, I’ve had the exact same problem.”

Spence shot up. “Really?”

“You should see her during her Whil classes.” Ferris admitted. “If you think getting her to organise books is hard, try getting her to control lightning.”

“I couldn’t even imagine.” Spence agreed, as Ferris nodded to her.

“Oh yeah. I had to trap her in a forest with a Wailing just to teach her one lesson.” Ferris remarked, getting a chuckle out of Spence.

“Did you get the Wailing’s cooperation?”

“Yeah, it was actually substituting for me.” Ferris joked, getting another laugh from Spence, as Ferris let out a subtle smile. “I just handed it the lesson plan and it took care of the rest.”

Spence kept chuckling, before a thought crossed her mind.

“I didn’t tell you she was helping me at the library.”

Ferris looked a bit surprised, before staring off to the side. “Context clues.”

Spence grinned. “I’m surprised you remembered I volunteer there when I’m not teaching.”

“Yeah, so I can avoid it.” Ferris insisted, biting her tongue. “Libraries are for stupid nerd kids and their taped-up glasses. They only go cause there’s no lockers in there they can be pushed into.”

Spence tried to lock eyes with Ferris again, before turning back around, still holding onto her smile. “Well, thank you for cheering me up.”

“This won’t be a regular thing.” Ferris pointed out, leaving her alone. “And don’t go stomping into here again! That’s my job!”

“Sure thing!” Spence called out, before finding herself laughing again. “You’re a funny one, Lola…”

———

*bzzt* *bzzt*

Julia felt around for her pocket, before pulling out her tablet.

She suddenly went to grab her bag, as Cecil lifted up his head up from his work.

“Something the matter?”

Julia pointed back at the wall clock, as Cecil quickly noticed it was already five.

“Oh, it’s time for you to go. Apologies, I didn’t even notice.” Cecil excused. “Well, thank you for today. I know it’s mostly busy work for now, but you’ve still been a great help.”

“Glad I could.” Julia said, before heading out the door. “See you later!”

“Bye.” Cecil waved, just as Julia closed the door behind her, letting out a heavy and solid breath.

She rested on the wall briefly, massaging her forehead, as she stared at the ceiling in profound confusion.

…I can’t get a read on him. Julia admitted to herself. He’s so affable…or is that an act? Or was Florey right about him? Was I…?

She stopped herself, before pulling out her tablet again, reading the reminder of Essex leaving for her trip, before heading to the elevator and down to the station.

———

“How was guard duty?”

Harley punched the air. “Dulce kicks so much ass and I love hanging out with her!”

“…that was not the question.” Essex replied, as Harley scratched her cheek.

“Oh, yeah, the guarding part was fine too. I got to chuck a tree again!”

“Lucky! I just got stuck sorting books.” Sola admitted.

“Any good ones?” Harley asked.

“No, just history and geography stuff.”

“Oh, absolute yawnsville, right Harley?” Wess remarked, smirking back at her, as Harley ‘accidentally’ flipped her off while scratching her face.

“Well, how was your glorified coffee run, Wess?” Harley said.

“Excellent. With how much I’ve helped, I might as well be running the place.” Wess retorted, quieting Harley, as Essex quickly joined Harley’s side.

“…at least…Harley looked good while doing it.” Essex said back, surprising Wess with the sudden dig.

“E-Excuse me?”

“Oh, get roasted, Wess!” Harley let out, jumping onto Essex. “Get her ass!”

“Essex got you so good!” Sola added, as Essex attempted a smirk back at Wess.

Wess’ face started trembling, just as Julia arrived on time at the station, noticing Harley and Sola crowding around Essex and her luggage.

As she approached, Wess turned around to her, on the verge of tears.

“Wess?”

“Th-they’re making fun of me, Julia…”

“Alright, what’d you guys say to Wess?” Julia huffed, holding her side comfortingly, as Harley split off from Essex.

“Essex got in a good dig. Wess just can’t take what she gives.” Harley insisted. “Can you, pillow princess?”

“Don’t bring that one back!” Wess cried, swatting at her, just as the speakers to the station rang out.

“Next stop: Mykonori. Five minutes to departure.”

“That would be me.” Essex let out, before noticing some nervousness in her voice. “It…has been a while since I’ve been on my own…”

“No need to worry. You’ve got us with you in spirit.” Harley insisted, giving a thumbs up. “And a massive fuck off scythe.”

“And Team Avalanche.” Sola pointed out. “No Wailing’s touching you with them around!”

Essex turned to Wess suddenly. “A-And I will attempt to…network where I can.”

Wess rolled her eyes, before closing the distance and hugging her. “Enjoy yourself. That’s your first priority.”

Wess broke the hug, just as Julia went in for one of her own, before facing Essex proper.

“Text us if you need. I know you don’t like using your tablet, but we’d love to hear about your trip.” Julia insisted, hugging her again. “Also…”

Julia leaned in to whisper. “I packed Maxie for you. He can be your good luck charm.”

“…thank you.” Essex said, before breaking the hug, as the Flash-Rail pulled into the station.

Before she could even attempt to go on, Harley and Sola quickly and suddenly hugged her together, putting in a lot more energy in than Julia and Wess had.

“We’re gonna miss you so bad!”

“Come back in one piece!”

“Yeah, don’t come busting down the dorm door with a hook hand and an eyepatch!”

“Unless you wanna be a cool pirate!”

Essex managed to wriggle out from them and get onto the Flash-Rail, before clearing her throat.

“Well, you two…had best…keep those butts tight…for when I’m back.” Essex attempted, winking back at them. “You…sexy people.”

Luckily for her, the Flash-Rail doors closed immediately after, just as it went shooting down the tracks, leaving the remainder of Team Valiant behind to watch as it disappeared into the middle distance.

“…”

“…”

“…she’s so cute…” Harley let out, starting to tear up.

“…I miss her already…” Sola agreed, grabbing Harley’s side.

“It hasn’t even been one minute.” Wess groaned, before turning to Julia. “Dear?”

“…sh-she better be okay on her own…” Julia managed, tearing up as well. “She’ll make us worry otherwise…”

Essex took her seat, wheeling her bags next to her as images of Daysend sped by in the windows, showing off the careening sunset accompanying her journey.

She flipped the Aurora Venator Agency business card in her hand, thinking back on her time at the Venator Academy and everything that had led up to this.

“…I didn’t even want to be a Venator…” She reflected, getting comfortable. “And now I am interning in order to help my team…”

Remembering what Julia had said, she reached over to one of her bags and unzipped it, before pulling out Maxie and holding it in front of her, smiling back at his button face.

“What do you say, Maxie? Do you think this was all worth it?”

“…”

“…I think so too…”