Hayze gets out of the recovery bed.
Hayze:
Alright, that’s it. I rested for one day. I’m out of here.
Recovery Girl:
I can’t say I advise this, but I also can’t stop you.
Hayze starts walking to the door.
Hayze:
Thank you for your help, Recovery Girl.
Adrian:
Leaving so soon?
Adrian is standing in the doorway.
Hayze:
Yeah, I need to get to work.
Adrian:
Doing what?
Hayze:
Getting stronger. That girl’s tried to kill me twice now, and she isn’t going to stop, so I have to be ready for our next dance.
Adrian smiles.
Adrian:
Good, I was hoping you’d say that. I think it’s time I started training you personally again.
Hayze:
R- really?
Recovery Girl:
You know he was dead yesterday, right? He shouldn’t be walking, let alone doing intense exercise.
Adrian:
I’m aware.
Hayze:
What else is there for you to teach me? I thought you already went through all the moves you came up with.
Adrian:
Not all of them.
Hayze:
Hm?
Aster, Yul, Daniele, and Tyson approach the entrance of class 2-A’s dorm.
Aster:
Alright, I’ll go first and take Justus and Kevin with me. After that, you guys can talk to the rest of them about the mission.
Daniele:
Right.
Yul:
Mhm.
Tyson:
Can we talk about this first?
All three of them turn to look at Tyson.
Daniele:
What is there to talk about?
Tyson:
Look, I know our jobs are to take orders, but this is insane. These guys literally got their provisional licenses a week ago! Shouldn’t we take responsibility and tell Black Hollow, Lust, and Impact that this is a terrible idea? Hell, one of them already died! I don’t feel right inviting these guys on a mission like this.
Aster:
Do you really think we do?
Tyson:
Well, no, but you don’t seem to have any problem being the messengers.
Daniele:
Of course we do, but I know Ms. Lust, and she was pretty shaken by what happened to Hayze. She only wants Saige, Sydney, and Blair’s help because she has no other choice.
Yul:
The same goes for Impact.
Aster:
None of us like bringing these 2-A students along, but it’s our job to decide on personnel. Our goal is to be ready for the mission.
Tyson:
*grunts* Right.
Aster:
Anyway, let’s go inside.
The four enter the dorm. All of 2-A, minus Hayze, Alden, Silver, and the Vanguard members, are in the common area.
Blair:
Aster?
Aaron:
What are you guys doing here?
Zach:
Yeah, today’s our designated in-class day.
Aster:
It still is, but we have some things to discuss.
Kevin jumps out of his chair.
Kevin:
Does this mean what I think it does!
Aster:
Yes, it does. Justus and Kevin, come with me.
Justus:
Okay.
Kevin:
It’s about time Exciton got off his lazy ass!
Aster:
Let’s go.
Kevin and Justus follow Aster out of the building.
Zach:
Hey, good for them.
Alexis:
Yeah, I thought Kevin was going to explode if he had to wait any longer.
Daniele:
Alright, Saige, Blair, Alexis, Silver, Wes, and Zach, please come with us outside.
Wes:
Huh?
Zach:
What’s up?
Alexis:
I believe Silver is in his room right now.
Tyson:
Eh, whatever. You can fill him in after.
Daniele, Yul, Tyson, and the students listed gather outside.
Wes:
So, what’s this about?
Daniele:
You’re all going on your first mission.
They all have looks of surprise on their faces.
Blair:
A Mission?
Zach:
Really?
Alexis:
Already?
Daniele:
Yeah, and it’s a big one.
Yul:
The number 10 hero, Big Tank, is leading a siege on the Vampire Queen’s headquarters.
Saige:
The Vampire Queen?
Zach:
They’re really going after her?!
Daniele:
Yeah, her recent attack was the last straw, and the heroes are finally going to do something about it.
Alexis:
Not to sound ungrateful, but are we qualified to be involved in something like this?
Wes:
Yeah… the guy just beat all of us in a tournament kind of died…
Tyson:
Oh, trust us, nobody likes it.
Daniele:
Tyson’s being a little blunt, but it’s the truth. This operation is all hands on deck, so I recommend getting your gear ready and training hard. Everyone involved will be meeting at Big Tank’s agency in two days.
Yul:
You’ll probably hear this a lot, but this will be an extremely dangerous mission.
Tyson:
You guys are going to the big leagues, so take it seriously.
All of them nod.
Daniele:
Aaron and Ash already know what’s happening, and we’ll trust you to fill in Silver.
Blair:
What about Hayze?
Daniele:
Lust isn’t sure she’ll involve him yet, so keep this a secret from him and everyone else.
Saige:
Understood.
Zach:
We got it.
Daniele:
Well, we’ll see you guys in two days then.
Yul, Daniele, and Tyson leave.
Wes:
A mission, huh?
Zach:
Sounds awesome!
Wes:
If by awesome you mean “deadly,” then yeah.
Zach:
Oh, come on, Wes! We’ll be involved in taking down one of the biggest and worst criminals this city has ever seen! That’s exciting!
Saige:
I’m actually with Wes on this one. We’re WAY underqualified to be tagging along on something like this.
Alexis:
Especially considering what happened to Hayze. Imagine what would happen if you got caught in that dark ring with the masked girl, Zach.
Zach gulps.
Zach:
That’s fair…
Blair:
We can’t all be afraid, though. The heroes are trusting us to be on our A-game!
Saige:
Oh, don’t worry, I’m not scared. I’m just acknowledging the amount of danger we’re all in.
Wes:
I have a feeling I’m going to be joining Jake soon.
Alexis:
Look at the bright side; you won’t have to deal with Aaron anymore.
Wes:
Thanks…
Blair:
Anyway… who wants to fill Silver in?
Saige:
I’ve got it. Silvy and I are great friends!
Blair:
Something makes me doubt that.
Wes starts walking away.
Alexis:
Where are you off to?
Wes:
You heard them. I’ve gotta refill on ammo and supplies. God knows I’ll need them…
Zach:
That’s a good point. I’ve gotta go work out!
Zach runs inside as Wes walks off.
Blair:
Well, I guess it wouldn’t be our class if we didn’t get rushed into something dangerous.
Alexis:
Yeah… it’s so weird how trouble just kind of follows us…
Saige:
I call it a happy coincidence!
Blair:
How can you be smiling right now? You know the likelihood of all of us returning from this mission is like… slim to none?
Alexis:
Hayze got lucky… the rest of us might not be.
Saige:
Yeah, but look at the bright side. This is one hell of a way to start our careers.
Alexis:
*sighs* You have a point.
Blair:
I hate how cheery you can be… hm?
Blair notices Hayze and Adrian walking into the forest surrounding the dorm.
Blair:
Was that Hayze?
Alexis:
Is he really up and about?
Blair:
I think he was with Mr. Adrian.
Saige:
Huh. It’s probably unimportant. We should ignore-
Blair starts walking towards them.
Saige:
*sighs* I hate how obsessive you can be.
Kevin, Aster, and Justus arrive at Vulcan’s agency in a rickety car.
Kevin:
The others got helicopters, limos, tanks, race cars, and we got an uber? This is horseshit!
Aster:
An uber with 2 stars.
Kevin:
Is that supposed to be better?
Justus:
This isn’t Exciton’s agency.
Aster:
Who said we were going to Exciton’s agency?
Justus and Kevin:
Huh?
Aster:
This is the Vulcan Hero Agency.
Kevin:
Wait, as in the guy trying to replace Justus’ dad? You know, because he died.
Justus:
Thank you, Kevin.
Kevin:
No problem, buddy.
Aster:
Yes, Vulcan has requested to meet with both of you. Of course, only after Exciton recommended it.
Justus:
Then why are you here?
Aster:
Exciton felt bad saddling Vulcan with two rookies, so I’ll be assisting him for a short while.
Kevin:
Oh, so he’s lending you to him, kind of like a neighbor with a rake.
Aster stares at Kevin.
Aster:
I’m going to pretend I didn’t hear that.
Vulcan:
And I’m going to pretend to be impressed with anything you slackers do.
Vulcan is standing at the front entrance of his agency.
Aster:
Hello, Vulcan.
Justus:
It’s great to meet you, sir. Thank you for taking time out of your day to see us.
Kevin:
Yeah… how long have you been standing there?
Vulcan:
Long enough, run back to U.A., and then if you still want to continue working with me, run here again.
Kevin:
Welp…
Kevin cracks his knuckles.
Kevin:
See you guys in a bit!
Kevin runs off.
Vulcan:
You two, follow me.
Aster and Justus follow Vulcan inside.
Vulcan:
I expect only one thing out of my employees… results. I don’t just take on any wannabe heroes; I work with the best. If you don’t show your worth, then you’re gone.
Aster:
Oh, don’t worry, I’m worth a lot.
Vulcan looks at Justus.
Vulcan:
What about you?
Justus:
I’d rather show you my value than tell you.
Vulcan:
You’re both off to good starts. However, you’ll need to pass my test if you want to earn my respect.
Justus:
Yessir.
Vulcan:
Come with me to the arena.
Vulcan starts walking down the hallway, and Aster follows.
Justus:
(The arena?)
Adrian and Hayze stop walking in the middle of the small forest.
Hayze:
So, there are more moves you have to teach me?
Adrian:
Yes, I concocted them a long time ago, but most of them are dangerous.
Hayze:
How so?
Adrian:
They each involve you pushing each elemental form’s power to its absolute limit and, in some cases, breaking it. Think of Kevin’s 100%; for example, it’s undeniably powerful but comes at a steep cost. For this reason, I’ve avoided teaching you any of them. However, after the most recent incident, I’ve realized you need to have these aces up your sleeves.
Blair, Saige, and Alexis are watching from behind some trees and bushes.
Hayze:
I do need to increase my arsenal… my Lightning Form’s strongest attack: Blackout Blitzkrieg, couldn’t damage Ivy even back before the Final Exams. I was boxed in and didn’t stand a chance against her.
Adrian’s eyes narrow.
Adrian:
Why did you call her that?
Hayze:
Huh?
Adrian:
You called her “Ivy,” why?
Hayze:
Because that’s her name. It’s better than Masked Girl or her.
Adrian:
It concerns me that you’d call a girl that tried to kill you twice by such a familiar name. Don’t tell me that Khaos’ feelings towards her are your own! That evil bastard was willing to risk everything to stop Ivan from killing her. Please, for the love of God, don’t tell me you’d have done the same!
Hayze:
I don’t expect you to understand, but that girl isn’t a bad person.
Adrian:
What?! How could you say that after everything she’s done?
Hayze:
Because I wouldn’t be standing here right now if she was.
Adrian, Alexis, Blair, and Saige all look confused.
Hayze:
When I chased after her to save Blair, I shouldn’t have made it back. She could have killed me in an instant but didn’t. And you know why? Because she wanted to know why I wasn’t afraid of her. That was such a big deal for her because the only other person that ever showed no fear in her presence… was Iota. She didn’t choose the path she was on. She was forced into it, and until I’m sure she’s evil, I won’t stop believing she can be saved.
Adrian stares at Hayze.
Adrian:
Do you understand how hurt everyone was when they thought you were dead? Blair couldn’t even let me finish telling everyone you were fine before she started freaking out. You have friends, Hayze, and lots of them. Everyone was upset, and they were going to miss you dearly.
Hayze:
I know…
Adrian:
I don’t think you do if you’re telling me that if you come face-to-face with this girl again, you’re not going to kill her!
Hayze:
Trust me, I do.
Adrian:
Hm?
Hayze:
My biggest mistake was staying in Alaska for three months… I ran away. I ran from everyone because I was afraid of being cared about. I was scared of having to consider the thoughts and feelings of others before I did things. I convinced myself that everyone hated me and was better off without me. I was a coward. I believe I can save Ivy, but she doesn’t come before Blair, Saige, You, Fatal, or anyone else. If I have to kill her… I will because I won’t hurt any of my friends EVER again.
Adrian is taken aback.
Adrian:
Okay… I can respect that. I disagree with it, but as long as you know what’s at stake… I can’t fault your ambitions.
Hayze:
Thank you.
Adrian:
Alright then… let’s get started.
Alexis, Blair, and Saige quietly leave.
Alexis:
How Hayze could feel that way after what she did… he really does think he can save everyone.
Saige:
It’s pretty moronic, but as long as he isn’t putting himself in danger. I won’t stop him.
Alexis:
Yeah… speaking of that, I should probably talk to Aaron. I’ll see you guys later.
Alexis walks off. Saige looks at Blair. She looks like she’s deep in thought.
Saige:
What are your thoughts, Blair?
Blair:
I trust Hayze… but that doesn’t mean I’m not worried.
Saige:
Keep in mind that he might not even be on the mission.
Blair:
He probably will… it’s okay, though. If he can die and be this determined to improve, I should be just as motivated. I made the finals of the provisional licensing exam for a reason, so I’ll be sure to be as prepared as possible. He won’t have to face that girl if I kill her first.
Saige:
Damn.
Blair:
What too much?
Saige:
No, that was just really dark… I like it!
Blair smiles.
Blair:
Well, you’d better start training too. It’d be a real shame if you didn’t come back.
Saige:
Oh, I will, don’t worry about me.
Blair:
Sure…
Saige:
Anyway, I’ve gotta go make sure Silvy is okay.
Blair:
Good luck.
Saige:
I don’t need it.
Vulcan, Aster, and Justus enter a large room with a dirt arena taking up most of the floor space.
Aster:
Interesting. Exciton always said he wanted an indoor battle ring in his agency.
Vulcan walks to the center of the arena.
Vulcan:
You must prove to me that you’re worth my time. Justice, step into the arena.
Justus walks onto the dirt.
Aster:
What about me, Vulcan?
Vulcan:
You work for Exciton, so I’ll assume you’re worth something already. This one, though, he has to make an impression.
Justus:
I will.
Aster:
Alrighty then.
Vulcan cracks his neck.
Vulcan:
Tell me something, Justice. How far did the apple fall from the tree?
Aster:
(That didn’t take long…)
If you spot this story on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.
Justus:
We shared a quirk. That’s about it.
Vulcan:
Good. I won’t lie to you; I hated your father.
Justus:
I did, too, once.
Vulcan:
I want to be clear that I won’t treat you any differently from your peers because of my relationship with your father. Regardless of whether you were a replica of him or not
Justus:
Well, we’re not.
Vulcan:
Yes, but I hope you share at least one other thing with Colossus…
Justus:
Huh?
Vulcan:
His ambition. That man dreamed of making this world a better place without lifting a finger. That was his goal long before he was given the ring, which was part of why he was selected for the job. It wasn’t something he decided upon being given the proper amount of power. And I respect him for that.
Vulcan pauses.
Vulcan:
So, Do you plan on carrying on his legacy?
Justus is silent for a moment.
Justus:
No, I don’t.
Vulcan:
Well, that’s disappointing.
Justus:
Let me finish. I don’t want to continue his legacy; I wish to perfect it. My father required an artificial way to reach the heights of power needed to achieve such a stabilizing presence. His dying words called for my generation to be the ones to reach that state naturally. That’s my goal. I don’t want to be the next Colossus; I want to be something better.
Vulcan stares at Justus.
Vulcan:
*nasal grunt* You’re bold; I’ll give you that, but strong words won’t get you anywhere. I need to see whether you can back them up.
Justus:
Yessir.
Vulcan:
Your test will be-
Kevin bursts into the room, drenched in sweat and breathing heavily.
Vulcan:
What?
Aster:
How the hell are you back here already?
Kevin:
I ran really fast!
Aster:
That was like… 15 minutes…
Kevin:
Yeah, so?
Aster:
It took us 10 minutes to drive here!
Kevin:
Yeah, so?
Aster:
You did a round-trip!
Kevin:
I’m not following.
Vulcan:
Just get in the damn arena.
Kevin stands beside Justus.
Vulcan:
You’re Goliath, correct? I’ve heard good things about you.
Kevin:
Take that back!- Oh… I was expecting an insult.
Aster:
I was too.
Vulcan:
Since we’re on the subject of motivation, tell me yours.
Kevin:
Motivation? I just want to be a great hero.
Vulcan scoffs.
Vulcan:
That’s it?
Kevin:
Yeah, so what?
Vulcan:
If you don’t have a reason to fight outside of your own amusement, you’ll never reach the heights you aspire.
Kevin:
What do you mean? I’m just as tough as any of my friends! I don’t need a tragic backstory to keep me going!
Vulcan:
No, you don’t.
Kevin:
Then what do you mean?
Vulcan:
Right now, fighting is fun for you because you’re young and haven’t experienced the harshness that combat facilitates. Sure, you’ve had a few experiences with life-and-death battles, but once those become normal for you. So what happens when the fights stop being fun? You’ll find yourself having difficulty getting out of bed in the morning.
Kevin doesn’t have a response.
Vulcan:
You don’t need a backstory; you need a reason to fight. I don’t really care, of course; I’m just advising you.
Aster:
(Vulcan is harsh, but he’s been around for a long time. He’s wise, and his words carry a lot of weight. I know my reason for fighting: to protect my family. I’ve been the man of the house for a long time, thrust into the role of watching after my mom and sisters. I need to be strong for them, and I’ll do anything to keep them happy and safe.)
Aster looks at Justus.
Aster:
(Justus’ purpose is obvious; he has to fill the most oversized shoes the planet has ever seen. That kid’s been destined for greatness since the moment he was conceived, for better or worse. Vulcan brings up a great point. I’ve only been working for Exciton for less than a year, but I can tell you that being a hero isn’t as fun as you’d think it would be.)
Vulcan:
Alright, it’s time for us to begin your test.
Justus:
Both of us at the same time?
Vulcan:
Of course, you’ll need the help.
Vulcan begins oozing lava from his fingertips. The lava merges to form a massive serpent behind him.
Kevin:
We’re fighting you?!
Justus:
(This could be troublesome.)
Aster:
(Like my sister, Vulcan has a lava control quirk, but his is very different. They both secrete lava from their skin, but Vulcan has complete control over it in every aspect. He can shape it any way he likes, such as making this artificial lava monster.)
Vulcan:
Behind me is a door that leads to my office. Inside it are two contracts. You'll be my employees if you can get in there and sign the papers.
Aster smiles.
Aster:
(I see why he didn’t want me to be a part of this.)
Kevin:
Is that all? Or is there something else we should know?
Vulcan:
Yes, you have just three minutes.
Kevin and Justus’ are shocked.
Justus:
(How can we get past Vulcan in just three minutes?)
Kevin:
(We’re staring down the strongest man alive with a time limit? This is insane!)
Vulcan:
Your time starts now.
Kevin turns to Justus.
Kevin:
Any ideas?
Justus:
Not currently.
Kevin:
You think there’s any way we could use our quirks to restrain or stun him long enough for us to get past?
Justus:
No, we both fight with our fists. There isn’t much room for creativity.
Kevin:
Well, if we go at him, we’ll get knocked down faster than a house of cards in a tornado.
Justus:
So, we agree that’s the last thing we should do?
Kevin:
Yup, but I don’t have any other answers. We’re warriors. What else are we supposed to do?
Justus stares at Vulcan.
Justus:
Well…
“
Silver:
I’ve got nothing, you?
Hayze:
Well… he did tell Karma to ask nicely…
Silver looks at EMD, then back at Hayze.
Silver:
I- *looks at EMD* May we have the ball?
EMD:
Sure. “
— Chapter 29
Kevin:
You can’t be serious… I won’t say EMD was a pushover, but compared to Vulcan?
Justus:
Do you have any better ideas?
Kevin:
Not really, but that doesn’t make it a good idea.
Justus:
*To Vulcan* May we pass you?
Vulcan’s eyes narrow.
Kevin:
*whispers* I think you pissed him off.
Justus:
Maybe I wasn’t supposed to ask.
Justus starts walking toward Vulcan.
Kevin:
Woah, what are you doing?
Justus:
Perhaps the test is to have the courage to set your pride aside and not fight.
Kevin:
You think so?
Justus:
No, but that’s my best idea.
Kevin thinks for a moment.
Kevin:
Well, if there’s one thing I’ve learned at U.A.: It’s that ego will kill you faster than any villain. I’m with you.
Justus:
*nasal grunt*
Kevin and Justus walk past Vulcan together. He doesn’t try to stop them.
Vulcan:
(Good.)
Justus and Kevin reach the door and look back at Vulcan.
Vulcan:
What are you waiting for?
Kevin:
I uh… I guess an explanation?
Vulcan:
You don’t get one.
Vulcan extinguishes his lava.
Aster:
(I once asked Exciton why Vulcan hated Colossus so much. He told me the story of their “battle.” It’s cool to see Vulcan learned from that mistake and wants proteges that wouldn’t do the same thing.)
Vulcan opens the door to his office and gestures for Kevin and Justus to enter.
Vulcan:
You’re both worthy of my time.
Justus:
Even without testing our strength?
Vulcan:
The provisional licensing exam did that for me.
Kevin:
Huh… I guess you’re right.
Vulcan:
Now go and sign those contracts before I change my mind.
Kevin and Justus enter Vulcan’s office and sign the papers.
Vulcan:
Good, we’ll go on patrol now. You won’t need to show up here tomorrow.
Kevin:
Huh, why?
Vulcan:
In two days, there will be an important meeting that I’ll need you two to attend. Use the day off to prepare.
Kevin:
Prepare for a meeting?
Justus:
What’s the meeting about?
Vulcan:
Aster will explain it to you while we patrol. Come with me.
Kevin and Justus look at each other before following Vulcan out of his office.
Vulcan:
(If it were up to me, these kids would have 0 involvement in this mission, but I’m not the one calling the shots.)
Adrian taps Hayze’s shoulder and enters flame form.
Adrian:
Each of these abilities is extremely taxing on the body. That’s why I can’t use them. However, you can.
Hayze:
Because of my healing quirk?
Adrian:
Yes, and you’ll see why soon.
Adrian creates a fireball in his hand.
Adrian:
First, your fire. This technique will grant you a power boost similar to Fatal’s muscle boost. Heat increases blood flow and circulation to stressed or ailing tissues and joints. Heat also loosens tight trigger points and softens muscles to decrease stiffness and improve flexibility. So, heating your muscles will give you an insane boost to your physical limitations.
Hayze:
How would I heat my muscles, though?
Adrian:
Easy, by creating fire inside your body.
Hayze:
What?
Adrian:
That’s why I haven’t introduced these concepts yet. They’re advanced and dangerous.
Adrian changes to Lightning Form.
Adrian:
This one is much simpler but arguably more powerful.
Adrian begins emitting electricity all throughout his body.
Adrian:
In this form, you become a living lightning bolt to unlock the next stage of your power… you need to become an even more powerful lightning bolt.
Hayze:
How?
Adrian points at the clouds.
Adrian:
You need a jump start. Being struck by lightning will magnify your electrical output to the extreme and make you faster than lightning. Of course, that much power surging through a human body is anything but safe.
Adrian changes to water form.
Adrian:
For your water, you need to combine the two unique elements of the ability. One, controlling water, and two, moving faster in liquid. Control the water around your body as you move through it to make your speed and strength even better. It seems simple, but remember that even though your body is adapted to moving in water quickly, it’s still unnatural, and pushing it further could be risky.
Adrian changes to wind form.
Adrian:
Finally, you need to take what you’ve learned about making gusts of wind sharp and learn how to shape them into weapons of destruction.
Adrian begins creating a scythe made of wind in his hands before abruptly stopping.
Hayze:
That one doesn’t seem too dangerous?
Adrian holds up his hands and forearms; they have many small cuts.
Adrian:
This was only a few seconds. You’re wielding razor-sharp wind. If you hold on to it for a few minutes, you could slice your hands.
Hayze gulps.
Adrian:
I’m sorry, but unfortunately, these explanations are the most I can do for you. If you’re serious about increasing your strength, you must do most of the work alone.
Hayze:
Don’t worry, I’m ready.
Adrian:
I’ll be here to guide you, of course. Let’s start with your fire, but with a single finger, not your whole body.
Hayze:
Right. (If my plan to save Ivy works, I won’t need any of these new abilities, but it’s better to be safe than sorry. Plus, we never know when the next battle will arrive. So I need to be ready for anything.)
Silver is lying in his bed, staring at his ceiling.
“ Lust, Aster, and Black Hollow start chasing after Ivy. Black Hollow notices Silver isn’t moving.
Black Hollow:
Silver! Come on!
Silver looks catatonic.
Silver:
*under his breath* Hayze… is dead… I’ve lost to Hayze twice… if he couldn’t beat her… what could I do? “
— Chapter 146.
Silver:
*frustrated grunt*
Silver slams his fist against his wall.
Silver:
(Pathetic!)
Someone knocks on Silver’s door.
Silver:
Go away.
Suddenly, a pink translucent hatchet slices into Silver’s door. Saige looks in through the hole.
Saige:
Here’s Saige!
Silver:
Fuck you and your movie reference!
Saige reaches through the hole, opens the door, and enters the room.
Saige:
What’s wrong, Silvy?
Silver:
Nothing, now go away.
Saige:
Really? Because the sound of your fist slamming against your wall doesn’t make me believe that’s true.
Silver:
I’m just frustrated; it’ll pass.
Saige:
Oh really? So, watching Hayze die had no impact on you at all?
Silver:
At the time, yes, but he’s fine now.
Saige:
Then why are you frustrated?
Silver:
That’s none of your business.
Saige:
Awwwww! But Silvy!
Silver:
I don’t need your help, so just go.
Saige:
I thought you said you learned the value of friendship?
Silver:
Yeah, I value my friends, but if I have a problem, I’ll do it myself.
Saige shrugs.
Saige:
Well, from one girl to another-
Silver:
Shut up.
Saige:
Being a lone wolf seems cool, but would you rather have your pride or a solution?
Silver thinks for a moment.
Silver:
*sighs*
Silver sits up on his bed.
Silver:
When I was watching Hayze fight that girl… before everyone else showed up. The thought came through my head that if Hayze doesn’t win… I’ll have to step up and take her on. But… instead of being ready for the challenge, I was afraid… Hayze literally just defeated me. How could I overcome someone he couldn’t beat? I got flashbacks to the prison exercise. It was like it was unfolding again before my eyes… My friend was gonna die, and I couldn’t do a thing except watch and wait for my turn. Then… after everything was over, Hayze was dead, and Black Hollow ordered me to help chase after the girl… I was frozen. I didn’t want to run to my death.
Silver looks at Saige.
Silver:
You can laugh now.
Saige sits down next to Silver.
Saige:
Honestly, I think I would have reacted the same way, maybe even worse, but that’s why we’re rookies. We’re not used to the idea that any given fight could be our last. And we’re certainly not used to watching our friends die. That’s why the prison exercise exists. It weeded out the weak. Look at Jace.
Silver:
Yeah… I guess you’re right about that.
Saige:
And listen.
Silver:
Hm?
Saige:
Just because Hayze couldn’t beat someone doesn’t mean you can’t. You know that, right?
Silver:
Of course, Hayze was fighting at half-power after all, but he and I aren’t the same. He has the spark to overcome enemies that outclass him, and I don’t know if I’ve got that.
Saige slaps Silver.
Silver:
What was that for?
Saige:
You’ve been on the receiving end of Hayze’s “spark,” and you can’t see it?
Silver:
See what?
Saige:
David can always defeat Goliath, but only if David believes he can do it in the first place. You only lose when you give up, Silver. And you did that before the battle even began.
Silver is silent.
Silver:
(How could I lose confidence so easily?) Thank you, Saige… I appreciate your help.
Saige smiles.
Saige:
You know, you and Hayze are pretty similar.
Silver:
Why? Because we’re both asocial?
Saige:
Well, yes, but I was referring to how you both throw out the tough guy act quick when a pretty girl starts talking to you.
Silver:
Get out.
Saige stands up.
Saige:
You’re welcome!
Saige goes to leave.
Saige:
Oh, by the way…
Silver:
Hm?
Saige:
We’re assisting Black Hollow, Big Tank, and a few more Top 10 heroes in taking down the Vampire Queen.
Silver:
Really?
Saige:
Yeah, Tyson stopped by to tell you to prepare and train for the mission. It sounds like it’s going to be pretty dangerous.
Silver:
If Hayze’s fight was any indication… yeah, it will be.
Saige:
Well, good luck.
Silver:
You too.
Saige leaves.
Silver:
(That girl drives me crazy… and I hate that I like that.)
Ash, Eve, Aaron, Alexis, Angel, Karma, and Gus are sitting in the common area, watching Hayze train outside.
Angel:
You know, it’s kind of hard to believe that guy was dead less than 48 hours ago.
Ash:
Hayze sure does recover quickly…
Eve:
If you ask me, he’s being stupid. This level of intensity so soon after being injured isn’t good for his body.
Karma:
Should we be worried about him… mentally? He did just go through a pretty traumatic event.
Aaron:
I wouldn’t. The last thing Hayze would want us to do is worry about him. If something was wrong, he’d still be in that recovery bed.
Ash:
That’s a good point.
Aaron:
Although, watching him work this hard is firing me up. I’m going to go out there and train with him.
Eve:
Pfft, good luck.
Aaron walks to the exit, and Alexis follows after him.
Alexis:
Aaron, wait!
Aaron:
Huh? What is it, Alexis?
Alexis:
I assume you’re aware of the mission.
Aaron:
Yeah, that’s why I want to go train. Why?
Alexis:
Well, I just uh… I… uh…
Aaron:
Let me guess, you’re worried I’m gonna be overconfident and wind up like Hayze did?
Alexis:
Pretty much, yeah.
Aaron:
You don’t have to be. After our fight in the Licensing Exam, the super-overconfident Aaron is gone. I know I’m mortal, and trust me, I’m afraid of what will happen, but I also know the only thing I can do is be as ready and prepared as possible for the mission as I can be. I promise I won’t die.
Alexis:
Y- you do?
Aaron:
Yeah, but you have to promise me the same.
Alexis:
Of course! That was never in question.
Aaron:
So… are we good?
Alexis:
I think so.
Aaron:
See, this is what I like about you. One quick talk and we’re both on the same page.
Alexis:
And this is what I like about you. Ruining a nice moment with a strange compliment.
Aaron:
Aren’t I the best?
Alexis:
No, but I don’t need that.
Aaron:
(Alright, Aaron, you’ve got her right where you want her. Time to reel her in with one of your vintage romantic lines.) Wanna make out on the stairwell?
Alexis:
Eh, yeah, sure.
Aaron:
(Works like a charm!)
Over the next few days, the 10 students participating in Operation V-Day trained hard. Aaron and Zach exercised for hours in the dorm’s gym, Alexis experimented with new forms of paper, Kevin and Justus worked with Vulcan, Wes worked on his aim, and mirror tricks, Ash, Blair, and Saige sparred with one another, and Silver trained with Black Hollow. All the while, Hayze worked hard with Adrian on the new techniques he introduced to him, unaware of the mission. Finally, all students gather in the dorm’s main lobby on the meeting day at Big Tank’s agency.
Gus:
So, if you guys are going to your work studies, why are you wearing your school uniforms?
Justus:
Today, we’re only going for a meeting, no hero work.
Angel:
Wait, so you’re all going to the same place?
Alexis:
Yeah, I think it’s some formal thing for the Top 10. They just want us there to observe.
Karma:
Interesting.
Hayze walks up to Blair.
Hayze:
What’s this about?
Blair:
Uh… I… You see, it’s uh…
Saige:
Lust wants you to take a few more days off after what happened.
Hayze:
I understand, but you guys just said you’re only observing some meetings. It doesn’t sound like it’s anything significant.
Saige:
Maybe we should talk about this outside…
A car horn honks outside.
Saige:
Speaking of…
Three vans are parked outside the dorm. The 11 students with hero licenses walk out, and Lust, Daniele, Yul, and Tyson await them.
Lust:
Hello, everyone. I hope you’re having a wonderful day.
Aaron:
*under his breath* Damn, she’s even hotter in person.
Alexis punches Aaron.
Aaron:
What? What did I do?
Lust:
We’ll take these cars straight to Big Tank’s agency. This meeting is strictly confidential, so they’re pretty discreet.
Daniele:
Each one sits five people, so we’ll-
Daniele notices Hayze is among the students.
Daniele:
*whispering* Um, Ms. Lust, look.
Lust:
Oh, Hayze, I’m glad you’ve recovered well.
Hayze:
Yup, I think I’m ready to return to work.
Lust is quiet for a moment.
Lust:
Yes, well, that’s my decision, not yours, and I think it would be best if you stayed out of the field for a little bit longer.
Hayze:
Why? I’m healed and back and to full strength both mentally and physically. So there’s no reason for me to be held back any longer.
Lust:
Hayze, you were dead, not even a week ago at this point. That’s not something you can just return from with ease.
Hayze:
Why not? I think it’s kind of a waste of time for me to sit around and think about what happened any longer. I need to get back to my career.
Lust:
*sighs*
Hayze looks around at his peers; everyone looks awkward.
Hayze:
Let me guess, this meeting has something to do with the Vampire Queen?
Lust:
It might.
Hayze:
You’re worried that if I’m involved, then the same thing will happen again, right?
Lust doesn’t respond.
Hayze:
Well, I have to go. Especially if you’re taking my friends.
Lust:
Hm?
Hayze:
I won’t sit on my hands and watch my friends risk their lives without me there to help. I just won a tournament amongst all of us. I defeated three people standing here, and they beat many others themselves. I’m not trying to sound narcissistic here, but if you’re afraid to bring me along, you’re basically admitting that you don’t have faith in anyone standing here.
Everyone is quiet.
Hayze:
I don’t want special treatment and protection from the dangers ahead. I want to be there for my friends.
Lust stares at Hayze.
Lust:
I haven’t been a pro long enough to experience having one of my heroes die, let alone one in training. It was an awful feeling, considering I gave you the O.K. to engage that assassin. I’m just worried that your emotional involvement in this operation will cause you to make poor decisions and get you killed again. That’s why I don’t want you to come along.
Hayze:
But I-
Lust:
I’m not changing my mind, Hayze. There’s nothing you can say to make me think otherwise.
Hayze:
*frustrated grunt*
Silver steps forward.
Silver:
Then what about me?
Lust:
Huh?
Silver:
I’m not going on this mission if Hayze isn’t.
Tyson:
Woah, Woah, Woah, you got a direct order from Black Hollow! You don’t want to disobey him. You could throw your whole career away!
Silver:
We’re heroes, not nazis. I have a right to go against orders.
Tyson:
Dumbass.
Justus steps forward.
Justus:
The same goes for me.
Aaron:
Me too.
Saige:
Yeah, I’m not going if Hayze can’t.
Kevin:
Same here.
Zach:
Hayze deserves to be a part of this more than I do.
Ash:
That goes for me too.
Alexis:
I’m out too.
Wes:
I’m with everyone else.
Aaron:
I trained with the guy. He’s ready.
Blair:
Yeah, Hayze is one of us, and we’re not going anywhere without him.
Lust is shocked.
Yul:
*under his breath* Mutiny, huh?
Tyson:
(These kids have some balls.)
Daniele:
(These guys are essential for the mission… it’s pretty much sunk without them. What will Ms. Lust do?)
Lust thinks for a moment.
Lust:
I didn’t realize you were all this passionate…
Aaron:
We’ve been through a lot together. We’re a pretty tight group.
Silver:
So, we’re not letting one of our own be left behind.
Lust:
Well, you’ve backed me into quite the corner here. (Maybe I’m being selfish. If his own friends are this determined to have him come along… Who am I to be this stubborn?
Lust takes a deep breath.
Lust:
Fine, you can come.
Everyone looks happy.
Hayze:
Thank you, Lust.
Lust:
I’ll be keeping a close eye on you, though. Now come on, everyone, we’ll be late if we don’t leave now.
Class 2-A:
Right.
Everyone loads into the vans and begins heading to Big Tank’s agency.
Hayze:
(These guys are my friends, and it took me too long to see that. I guess it’s true that you never realize the value of something until you’ve lost it.)
A bat watches the vans take off from U.A. Scarlett drinks a wine glass of blood while she sits on a throne in a candlelit room.
Scarlett:
Good… the pieces are slowly falling into place.
Large Man enters the throne room.
Scarlett:
What is it?
Large Man:
The teleportation specialist has collected half the required targets.
Scarlett:
Good, and that means they agreed to the terms of our arrangement?
Large Man:
Of course, most were in prison, so it was either join us or rot in their cell. I’d say that’s an easy call to make.
Scarlett stands up.
Scarlett:
I’ll start granting them the power of Soulvania.
Voice:
You’re bringing in new recruits, my Queen?
Scarlett:
Hm?
A teenage girl with large muscles and a scar on her face enters the throne room.
Scarlett:
Terus? What are you doing here?
Terus:
I just returned from hunting down your dinner when I saw this large freak welcoming some new ugly faces. I want to know what’s going on.
Scarlett:
Remember our talk when I asked you to join me?
Terus:
Y- yes.
Scarlett:
Well, we’re expecting some visitors soon, and your brother will be one of them.
Terus gets a smile on her face.
Terus:
R- really?
Scarlett:
Yes, you see, these new recruits are just like you. They have a vendetta against someone attacking us soon, and they’ll all have a chance at revenge.
Terus:
I’ve waited for so long… I finally get to meet him…
Scarlett:
Mhm, and what are you going to do?
Terus:
Kill him.
Scarlett smiles.
Scarlett:
Good girl.
