The next morning, Clementina woke up on the living room sofa. Since it was off, she didn't use any energy. She got up and checked her phone's clock, which read 5:50 in the morning, with thirty minutes left before heading to school. So, she headed to the kitchen to prepare breakfast, but to her surprise, Hipólito was already preparing the milk. This, for some reason, annoyed Clementina to the point that she said:

"In heaven's name, what are you doing? That's supposed to be my job."

"Oh, Clementina, good morning. Since you were sleeping, I decided to prepare breakfast for Candado, Hammya, and you."

"I do that, and I've been doing it for almost six years."

"Well, don't get upset, it's just this once. Tomorrow you can do it. Now go wake up Candado and Miss Hammya."

Without further ado, Clementina went to wake up the two of them, so she left the kitchen so that Hipólito could cook in peace. She went to the second floor to wake up Hammya and Candado. Carefully climbing the stairs, she first went to Hammya's room. She opened the door gently, approached Hammya, and delicately put her hand on her shoulder, applying some pressure to wake her up.

"It's time to go to school, Hammya. So, good morning."

"Good morning, Clemen... I'll be right down."

Having succeeded, Clementina left Hammya's room and entered Candado's.

When she entered his room, she was struck by the way he slept. This time he resembled a turtle; he was wrapped in several blankets that formed a Galápagos turtle shell. There was a small opening for him to breathe, so it was easy for Clementina to talk to him. However, as soon as she began to touch his hair to wake him up, Candado pushed her hand away and closed the opening.

"Visiting hours are over," Candado declared.

So, with no other option, Clementina transformed her right hand into an electric shock device, inserted it inside the blanket shell, and... well, the response was quite obvious in every sense. Candado screamed and tumbled out of bed with all his blankets on top of him, while Clementina let out a few mocking laughs. The blankets and quilts covering him made it practically impossible for him to get out, so he decided to use more force to free himself from that mountain of blankets. When Candado managed to emerge, he was completely furious, with his hair standing on end (thanks to the shock) and his eyes literally blazing.

"HOW DARE YOU WAKE ME UP IN THE MOST INHUMANE WAY POSSIBLE!?" Candado yelled.

"Oh, I call it revenge with a side of sauce, as compensation for what you did to me last night."

Candado stood up and said,

"This won't go unpunished, trinket. I'll give you a punishment later," Candado declared as he entered the bathroom.

"Oops, sorry," Clementina whispered, imitating Candado's cold expression.

Later, she left the room naturally, without even feeling remorse for what she had done to Candado. So, once she fulfilled her duty of waking up the others, she headed to the kitchen to pour herself some milk.

Right at that moment, Hipólito was pouring milk into two glasses. Clementina sat at the end of the table, and Hammya sat beside her. At that instant, Candado arrived, adjusting his tie, with all his hair tousled and standing on end due to the electric shock Clementina had given him.

"What happened to your head?" Hammya asked.

"A satellite fell on me while I was sleeping."

"Do you want milk?" Hipólito asked.

"No, thanks. I'll have mate; my head hurts a lot."

When he said that, he sat alone at the southern end of the table, as he wanted nothing more to do with Clementina. He snapped his fingers, and the thermos and mate flew to his hand. Candado loaded his mate and took a sip.

"It's cold," he looked at Clementina and extended his hand holding the thermos, "heat this up."

"Do I look like a kitchen or a microwave?"

"Heat it up or I'll reformat you."

"You wouldn't dare; you need me a lot."

"Are you trying to test me, tin can?"

Clementina said nothing more because she was frightened; those psycho-killer eyes indicated that his patience was running thin. So, she took the thermos and instantly began overheating the water, and in a moment, the water was hot.

"Thanks, junk."

"You're welcome, licebmi nevoj nótrap."

"I'll rip out your vocal cords if you insult me like that again."

Clementina said nothing more; she remained silent and continued sipping her milk, just like Hammya, who had finished before everyone else and decided to nibble on some cookies on the table. Meanwhile, Clementina began processing data to check the weather, temperature, and season. Candado had installed this data so that he could anticipate unexpected weather changes since in the Chaco, one is never sure if it will be sunny, rainy, hot, or cold. For these reasons, he had that information. As for the season, Candado thought that if the Chaco's weather was quite peculiar, the season might be, too. It wouldn't be surprising if they were in autumn, and for some mysterious reason, winter arrived. While Clementina finished analyzing the day's conditions, she looked at Candado and said,

"My forecast says we'll have 24 degrees Celsius with a minimum of 19 by noon, clear skies, 9% humidity, and the interest rate will be very high next week."

"The last one was totally unnecessary, although truth be told, where the heck have you seen it hot in the morning and cold at noon? We might as well be upside down."

"Well, it seems this province has its ups and downs, Candado," commented Hammya.

"Young... I mean, sir, I think it would be prudent to head to school."

"Why? It's only 6:23; it's a long way to 7:30."

"I'm receiving some information on my radar; Lucas is coming at an incredible speed."

When Candado heard that, he quickly stood up, grabbed his beret, and rushed to the second floor.

"What's happening to him?" Hammya asked.

Candado and Lucas always have races to see who is the fastest and most cunning. So far, Candado hasn't lost a single time."

"Races? How did you know Lucas was coming this way?"

"It's simple; in my brain, I have a radar that detects movement within a hundred kilometers. When someone or something uses their power or magic, my radar informs me of the individual, helping me prevent threats to my young master."

As Clementina was explaining the situation, Candado opened the door and said,

"Well, Uzoori is already downstairs; it's time to go."

Clementina looked at Hammya and said,

"You go, Miss Hammya; I haven't finished my breakfast."

"Am I going to ride Uzoori?"

"In a way, yes, but hurry up, or I'll lose the race."

Hammya stood up and ran with Candado outside, where Candado's white steed was waiting for them. Candado jumped and settled in the saddle, then approached Hammya, took her arm, and with a swift motion, seated her on the horse.

"You'll want to hold onto something because we're going very fast. LET'S GO!"

With that shout, Uzoori started galloping, racing through the deserted streets of the town. Candado passed by some houses of his friends, waving to Hector, Anzor, the twins Lucia and Erika accompanied by Declan, Ana Maria, and German as he ran. As they advanced, they encountered parked cars on the road. Hammya, who was holding onto Candado's shoulders, didn't stop screaming in panic since they left the house. Candado didn't stop and pulled out a whistle from one of the horse's saddlebags, starting to blow it repeatedly. One of the car owners stuck their head out of the window and shouted,

"HERE COMES THE GAUCHO, GENTLEMEN! HERE COMES THE GAUCHO, GET YOUR LICENSE PLATES AND PUT THEM ON YOUR ROOFS!"

Quickly, everyone grabbed some hard plates and placed them on the roofs of the cars. Candado jumped over the car roofs, running one by one until he reached the asphalt.

"That was insane, Candado."

"You're alive, aren't you?"

"Yes, but what does that have to do with it?"

"Then don't complain."

Candado continued running on the asphalt, dodging motorcycles, cars, and people. All these feats lengthened his path. At one point, Candado felt Lucas's aura and turned his head to the left, seeing Lucas running on the roofs, teleporting from one place to another while smiling. Candado wasn't willing to lose, but with people and objects in his way, he decided to take a shortcut through the forest. The curious thing was that as he advanced, the branches, thorns, burrs, and leaves mysteriously parted, as if the forest itself made way for him. Hammya noticed this as she followed him.

When they emerged from the forest, Candado could see the school very close, but Lucas was also close to catching up. Candado whispered something in Uzoori's ear, and they started to go faster. Lucas, exhausted, could no longer use teleportation, but he was still fast. Both were neck and neck, rapidly approaching the finish line, which was the school gate. The gatekeeper was just opening the gate, unaware that the two runners were dangerously approaching him. When he finally noticed, they were right in front of him. Candado jumped over the gatekeeper, while Lucas passed between his legs, causing the gatekeeper to faint from the fright.

The result of the race was clear; Candado won "by a head," while Lucas couldn't catch up, even stretching his arms. Right at that moment, Kapanga's "Desesperados" had finished playing. When the race ended, Hammya got off the horse, embracing the ground in fear, while Candado dismounted to approach Lucas, who was panting, bent over from exhaustion.

"God, I lost for the seventh time; I assure you I'll win tomorrow."

"I don't doubt it," said Candado as he handed him a bottle of soda.

"Thanks, idol."

At that moment, the vice principal appeared, a fat, bald man with a very bad temper. He was one of those teachers you wouldn't want to have, but as Candado is who he is, he doesn't care at all.

"How many times have I told you not to enter the school with this beast?"

"Mr. Luke, I recommend that you don't speak about Uzoori like that while I'm present."

"I don't care; there are rules here, and they must be respected, Candado. That's something that distinguishes us from animals."

"It's a pity that you're in the education field, saying something so stupid."

"What did you say? Didn't your parents teach you to respect your elders?"

"And didn't they teach you how to teach people? Instead of telling me something as stupid as that."

"If I were in charge, I would have expelled you a long time ago."

"But you're not. Frankly, I'm glad that Rodolfo is our director, despite our differences. The guy is good at his job, something I've never seen in any case of someone in education, not even in you."

"I am the best..."

"Someone like you will never be better at education."

With those words, Luke left the place indignantly, upset that a kid like Candado would treat him in that way, something he couldn't tolerate. So, he locked himself in his office.

At that moment, Candado's other friends arrived, entering through the gate. Anzor was the first to approach Candado and put a hand on his shoulder.

"How's it going, Candado?"

"I'm good, thanks."

"Please, could you tell me the time, boss?" asked Ana Maria.

Candado took out his watch from the pocket of his vest and said,

"It's 6:34. The school still has time to open."

"Then why are you here so early?" Declan asked.

"Because Lucas started a race I couldn't refuse."

"Well, why don't we go inside?" suggested German.

"You're right. You guys go in; I'll take my horse behind the school so he can graze."

"Whatever you say," said Hector.

Having said that, Candado took his horse to the designated area, but instead of tying him to a tree branch, he left him free since he trusted Uzoori. If he told him to stay, he stayed without moving. When he finished doing so, he signaled Uzoori not to leave the spot, and the horse responded by lying down on the ground. Then, Candado left the place and entered his classroom, where his classmates were sitting at the back of the room, talking among themselves. When Candado approached, they decided to invite him into the conversation, but instead of discussing the previous topic, they started debating something more important.

Candado, yesterday afternoon I was in Resistencia and passed by where the Cascabel guild massacre occurred."

"And?"

"And I found this," Lucas said, showing a badge of a Silver Falcon.

Candado took the badge and remembered what Nelson had told him at that restaurant.

"Whoever it is, it seems like they're trying to provoke W.O.G.A.B.," Lucas said.

"Have you found out anything else?" Candado asked.

"Yes, I also found out that Circuit 42 was destroyed, but there were no injuries or deaths."

With those words, Candado also recalled what the strange man in the forest had told him: "Someone wants to start a conflict between W.O.G.A.B. and U.F.E.T.C." It was completely strange that the Silver Falcon badge appeared at the crime scene, especially considering that the same person had caused his grandfather's death. Was he involved in this matter, or did he want to imply that? While considering the numerous possibilities, he looked at his classmates and said,

"Something is wrong. I think this is a provocation."

"Yes, but from whom?" Lucía asked.

"That's what I'd like to know."

"I'm sure this was done by the Circuit," Matlotsky asserted.

"No, it wasn't them," Candado replied.

"Candado is right. Someone in the shadows wants to start a war," added Hector.

"On what basis do you make these conjectures?" Lucas asked.

"It's simple... well, it could be that... let me think."

"You don't remember, do you, Hector?" Candado said.

"I'm sorry, it was so detailed that I forgot."

"I stick to my idea because if they were really the Circuit, they would have attacked us first instead of others. It makes no sense for them to destroy a small guild. Besides, as I told Hector, if they were really seeking a war, they would have attacked the most important settlements of the Bernstein Organization."

"Come on, Candado, do you really think those people are as smart as you? No, they're stupid, undesirable, and heartless," Declan opined.

These words struck Candado's mind, making him realize that his plan to avoid a conflict between the guild members and the circuitists could be in jeopardy. He had noticed that, like Declan, many people could be swayed by hatred and emotions, and they might be pressuring W.O.G.A.B. to start a war in response to this incident. He realized that the attack on a small guild aimed to sow hatred between the two major organizations.

"Wait, Declan, do you really believe they started this?" Candado asked.

"Yes, they hate us. For years, they have tried time and time again to derail us in their quest to dominate the world. Let's be objective, Candado. There's no such evil as the Circuit's. If they want to eliminate us, I don't see why we shouldn't do the same."

That's not being objective; it's prejudiced. You're saying that all of them want to finish us. Think a bit, don't let anger take over. Remember, you have intuition for these matters. Don't rush to conclusions so quickly. It's true that they went too far once, but now it's different times. Esteban leads them, someone who has a guild girlfriend."

"My apologies, Candado. I'll try to do better next time."

"Continuing with the topic, how did you come to the conclusion that someone wants to provoke a war?" Germán asked.

"I thought that was happening, but I confirmed it yesterday."

"By whom?" Erika asked.

"I have no idea, he didn't tell me his name, but I know he was sent by Esteban to try to find out who is behind all this."

"Well, what was the person who told you like?" Lucas asked.

"His way of dressing was very formal, but he didn't have a face."

"Alright... that's really strange," Matlotsky commented.

"But his face emitted white smoke, and..."

"CARBORAPOR! IT'S CARBORAPOR!" Héctor shouted. (wordplay in coal/carbón and steam/vapor in spanish)

"What's that?" Candado asked.

"They are those who handle coal and steam; only masters in that art can hide their faces with that steam mixed with coal. But it's strange, usually only adults can do it since it's expensive, but if this individual achieved it, then they must be very powerful."

"Oh, I didn't know that," Candado said.

"The truth is, very few cases exist where a person like that can emit white smoke from their head because to achieve it, they must use their powers for protection and not for selfish purposes."

"Great, but who could be orchestrating things from the shadows?" Ana Maria asked.

At that moment, Candado remembered what Rucciménkagri had told him about the matter: the Witnesses. However, he had to find a way to mention it without compromising his friend. After a few minutes pretending to think about it, Candado said,

"I heard it from one of the people I had an unwanted encounter with. They mentioned something about the 'Witnesses.' Maybe they are the ones behind all this."

"Witnesses? That's impossible; they have been extinct for a long time," Lucas said.

"Wait, do you know the Witnesses, Héctor?" Candado asked.

"Of course, my mother fought against them when I was your age. That was a month before she became friends with your mother."

"What do you know about them?" Clementina and Candado asked at the same time.

"Well, according to the writings and the information my mother provided me, the Witnesses were followers of Thanatos. Some say they were his siblings; others believe they were children who abandoned their humanity to learn spells. But, in my opinion, they don't fit into any of those categories."

"Well, we already knew that, but why do you say they have become extinct?" Candado asked.

"The reason they became extinct is that a while ago, their leader tried to bring back Thanatos with a very dangerous spell called 'The Black Hole.' This spell had the power to nullify or destroy any type of power in the world, and it was obtained through the blood of the Bailak. The Witnesses tried to resurrect Thanatos, but that spell was extremely powerful and absorbed them, leading to their own destruction. It caused an explosion that covered thirty-five kilometers around, killing everyone present and destroying everything in its path. The few who survived were hunted down one by one, both by the guild members and the circuitists."

"Wow, it seems that despite being hunted, I think very few survived and are starting to recruit new people."

"What leads you to think that?" Anzor asked.

"Candado refers to the people he and I fought with yesterday," Clementina said.

"What she said, we had some trouble in the forest yesterday afternoon."

"Wow, we didn't know. Did you have any issues?" Héctor asked.

"No, nothing I can't handle."

"Humble as always, huh?"

"Matlotsky, please, say another stupid thing and I'll knock you out with a punch."

"Well, it wasn't that serious."

"Well, what was I saying? Oh, yes, the fight. Well, I was saying that I had problems with these people, and while I remember, I snatched this from them." Candado showed the badge he had shown to Rucciménkagri and continued, "I'm sure you know this."

Héctor stood up and took the badge in surprise, as if he had seen a ghost.

"This is impossible; they were supposed to no longer exist."

"It seems you've made a mistake, Héctor, because this is worth more than a thousand words," Candado said, pointing to the badge.

"If you took this from one of them, it means there are more."

"I thought that too, maybe they are preparing to start a war."

"You're not entirely wrong, Candado."

"What do you mean, Lucas?" Candado asked.

"Don't forget what Héctor said; they were trying to bring Thanatos back. If they exist, it means they are still trying to achieve that."

"That would be a problem. Imagine the guy who dominated the world for three whole years... free. That would be terrible chaos."

"Where have you seen chaos that is cute?" Candado asked.

"Seriously, you need to stop being so logical," Clementina and Hammya said.

"It shouldn't be that terrible. They tried once and failed; there can't be much difference now," Anzor said.

"Maybe you're right. If they couldn't bring him back then, it's unlikely they'll succeed now," Declan commented.

"In other words, there won't be anything to worry about," Ana María added.

At that moment, Esteban appeared, hands in his pockets, entered the classroom, and the first thing he did was stare intently at Candado, who returned the gaze. It felt like a big fight was about to break out any moment, but Esteban looked away and sat at his desk. Apparently, that day, he had no intention of fighting.

"Is he sick?" Germán asked.

"No, I think he wants to challenge me after class," Candado replied.

As he had predicted, Esteban stood up and walked towards Candado. Esteban's steps put Candado's friends on high alert, but being on guard did nothing to help him. As Esteban approached, they took a step back, except for Hammya. When Esteban stopped, he looked at Candado, and Candado looked back at him. Both were about to unleash all the hatred they had harbored against each other.

"Tell me, where do you find these defects?" Esteban asked.

"Where I find them is my problem and no one else's."

"So, you're... numb to all this, glad to know you're too cowardly for certain things."

"Do you think I care about the speeches that come out of that hole you call a mouth? After all, only shit and garbage come out of there."

Esteban raised his hand to chest height and started releasing an electric sphere, continuously shooting some kind of threads from that energy sphere, while Candado ignited his hand with the same violet flame.

"Do you know? My biggest dream is to defeat you and prove that I am much better than you," Esteban declared.

"You defeating me? That's a completely impossible dream," Candado said as he stood up, pressing his forehead against Esteban's.

The situation briefly became terrifying, with the possibility that either of them would unleash all their energy on the other, but it all ended when the bell rang.

"You got lucky, for now," Esteban said.

"No, you got lucky."

At that moment, Anzor and Declan grabbed Candado by the shoulders and dragged him outside while he made provocative gestures at Esteban. He was more focused on insulting Esteban than on what Anzor and Declan were doing to him.

Everyone lined up, saluted the flag, sang the Argentine anthem, and entered their classrooms, except Candado, who approached the flagpole and knelt before it for two minutes, as if venerating a god. No one had noticed it before, except the school principal. Until that moment, absolutely no one had any idea that Candado did that every day. When he finished the reverence, he stood up and entered the classroom. The teacher hadn't noticed that Candado had just come in, as he didn't care.

I'd like to say that Candado was the favorite of the class or the teachers, but that wasn't the case. In reality, the entire school, except for his friends, feared him, and the teachers hated him. Candado had put the teachers in their place more than once. An anecdote tells that teachers used to ask students for money for infrastructure projects that were never carried out. One day, a teacher raised the fee and requested a donation of two hundred and fifty pesos from each student to install an air conditioner, the same one they had promised more than three times. On the day the donation was due, the teacher stopped the class and asked for money from the students. Candado was the first on the list, but instead of giving money, he and Clementina brought in a brand new air conditioner and placed it on the teacher's desk. The students were fascinated with the gift, but the teacher was not. Despite hiding his disgust with a smile, his displeasure was evident. From that day on, the teachers realized that getting money from Candado Barret would be completely impossible, and every time they asked for donations for something, Candado handed them the object they supposedly would buy, ruining their little scheme. There were many anecdotes about Candado, as numerous as the stars in space, countless.

Forgetting a bit about his exploits with the teachers, Candado sat at his desk, which was next to Hammya, when the class came to a halt. No one knew why until the principal walked in, stood in front of everyone, and said:

"I know this is somewhat unusual, but today we have another student, although most of you already know him, so there's no need for introductions. Come, step in."

When the principal announced the arrival of a new student and the door opened, a girl with short black hair entered, carrying a sports backpack on her back, similar to the ones tennis players or footballers use. She was dressed in men's clothing, with dark pants, black shoes, a black frock coat, and a white scarf elegantly wrapped around her neck. She also wore a light blue and white hat on her head, and unusually, a yellow chick rested on her head.

Most of the students were surprised to see her, as some were new to the school. However, Candado, upon seeing her, covered his eyes, showing his displeasure. The girl looked at everyone and said:

"Hello, Viki Tonrrial Cortez Arín has returned once again to her beloved town."

Candado muttered as he held his temples with both hands:

"Well, I'm done for today, go and take a seat, miss."

After that, Viki took a seat next to Héctor and began to pay attention to the class as the teacher gave his lesson. During the class, Hammya approached Candado and asked:

"Candado, who is she?"

Candado looked up from his book and turned to Hammya.

"Are you deaf or what? She said her name five minutes ago."

"I didn't mean that, but who is she to you?," Hammya clarified.

Candado turned around and continued reading but answered Hammya's question.

"She is one of us."

"From the Roobóleo guild?"

"Of course, she is part of our guild."

"Wow, does she have powers like you guys?"

"Sure, if you look closely, she's a vampire."

"A vampire? But it's daytime."

"That's from movies. If you want to know more about her, you'll have to ask her during recess."

After the conversation, Candado returned to his reading without interruptions, while Hammya looked at Viki with curiosity. Viki, in a friendly manner, greeted her classmates with a smile.

When the recess bell finally rang, all students went out to the courtyard, except Candado and his friends, who approached Viki. They gave her hugs and congratulations, as after a year and two months, their guild friend had returned. While everyone was talking to her, Candado and Hammya approached.

"Oh, Candado, it's been so long."

"Yes, so long," he said sarcastically. "Why are you back? You were supposed to be away for three more months."

"Heh, the truth is, I got bored."

"You got bored?"

"Yes, Candado, I got bored. I got bored of feasting on cattle."

Anger ignited in Candado's eyes.

"You're a... I sent you away so you could control yourself, and it seems you didn't. What the hell have you been doing for a year?"

"Sleeping, playing, and eating."

Candado made a frustrated noise, but Declan placed his hand on his shoulder to calm him.

"I sent Pio with you to prevent you from doing that, and speaking of that, where the hell is Pio?"

"She's at home, said she wouldn't come to school today. Could we visit her if you'd like?"

"Yes, I'm going to visit her, so I can scold her with my own hands. I sent her with you to keep you in check, and you bring her back the same. Without any CHANGE!"

Viki laughed at Candado's provocations, enjoying making him angry. But after he calmed down, she turned to Hammya and started a friendly conversation:

"Who are you? I've never seen you around here before, but I like your hair color."

Hammya replied:

"Oh, thank you. You're the first person to say that without calling it weird."

Viki stood up and shook her hand:

"I'm Victoria Tonrrial, but everyone calls me Viki. You can call me Viki too."

"Pleasure, Viki."

"What's your name?"

"I'm Hammya, Hammya Saillim. Nice to meet you."

"Wow, what a beautiful name."

"Thank you. Is it true that you're a vampire?"

"Yes, I am. That's why my eyes are red, but don't worry, I won't bite you. I don't bite my friends."

"Doesn't the sun harm you?"

"No, although blood has water."

"Oh, does silver harm you, or the cross?"

At that moment, Viki pulled a crucifix from her scarf and said:

"I'm Christian, and this is silver. There's nothing more blessed than the cross of Almighty Jesus."

"The stake through the heart?"

"Tell me, Hammya, do you know anyone in this world who wouldn't die from a stake through the heart? No one. Who wouldn't that kill?"

"But you drink blood."

"Yes, because it's my food. Without it, I can't live."

"So, have you killed to get it?"

"No, because nowadays you can go to a hospital and ask for blood, that's all."

"You're very strange."

"Look who's talking."

"And that chick?"

"She's Sío, she's my pet. I've had her since I was three."

"But she hasn't grown."

"Because I cast a spell on her to prevent her from growing."

"Something that almost cost you your place in the guild," added Héctor.

"Well, at least nothing serious happened."

The conversation continued, and everyone was happy that their friend had returned after a year, except Candado. Although deep down in his bitter shell, he was also glad she had come back, or so he thought.

Shifting to another topic, after recess, while Candado leaned against a classroom window reading his book, Erika, his friend, returned from break and warned him:

"Candado, get down now!"

Without hesitation, Candado dropped to the floor as Erika had instructed, and at that moment, tentacles emerged from the ground, shattering the window. Not only that, but they also knocked down benches and chairs, spreading panic among the frightened students. The tentacles seemed to be looking for someone, and Candado signaled to his friends to help those trapped in the chairs and tables. Anzor and Declan unsheathed their swords and began cutting the tentacles, while Héctor, Germán, and Lucas assisted the children. However, a tentacle struck Germán in the chest, sending him flying toward the exit door. Fortunately, Germán quickly got up and transformed into a werewolf before returning to the classroom to confront the tentacles. Candado, on the other hand, remained on the ground, out of reach of the tentacles, and shouted:

"ERIKA, LUCÍA, GET EVERYONE OUT OF THE SCHOOL NOW!" Candado yelled as he fought against the tentacles emerging from all directions.

At that moment, Ana María entered the classroom and punched the tentacle blocking Candado's path. This allowed him to stand up and use his flames to burn the tentacles in his way. However, the tentacles kept emerging from the windows and the ground. At that moment, Tínbari appeared and joined the fight.

"Tínbari, I'm blind, I don't sense any magical power, I need your help NOW!" Candado exclaimed.

Tínbari's eyes glowed yellow as he responded:

"It's behind you, approximately eighty meters away."

Candado looked behind him and saw a window, but more tentacles emerged, preventing his escape. Armed with his facón, Candado gave the order to his friends:

"The enemy is out there; I need your help to break through and catch it."

All his friends responded in unison:

"AT YOUR COMMAND, CANDADO!"

Declan and Anzor cut tentacles, Clementina shot others, Germán uprooted them with his strength, Lucas set them on fire, the twins petrified them, Viki cut them with her sharp nails, Matlotsky struck them with his hammer and shot them with his nail gun, and Héctor used his cards to stop the tentacle attacks on his friends. They worked together until they finally managed to create an opening in the window.

"NOW, CANDADO, JUMP!" Declan shouted.

Héctor wrapped Candado in a sphere of cards and jumped through the window, taking Candado outside the school. Tínbari stayed behind to help Candado's friends in the fight against the tentacles.

Candado, outside the school, faced the individual causing the chaos. The person raised their hands and moved them strangely. Candado threw his facón at him, but the person dodged it, causing the tentacles emerging from the ground to deactivate. Candado confronted him and punched him in the chest, causing his hood to fall off, revealing a wooden mask. Candado was surprised to see that the individual seemed to be his age, dressed in a light green tunic and a wooden mask concealing his face.

Stolen novel; please report.

"Who the hell are you?" Candado asked, keeping his gaze cold on the mysterious individual.

The person didn't respond and remained silent, staring fixedly at Candado.

"I'll ask you one more time: Who the hell are you, and what do you want?" Candado insisted, approaching the individual and pulling out his facón, which was embedded in a tree.

"You don't want to talk, do you? Judging by that mask, I can assure it's not to hide your identity, but rather a mark on your face, isn't it? Witness." Candado provoked a reaction from the mysterious individual, who opened his eyes in surprise. Candado seized the opportunity and lunged at him, landing punches while the person could barely defend himself. The individual seemed perplexed upon hearing the word "Witness," indicating a connection to the matter.

"You're one of those who stay silent when they discover their dark secret, aren't you?" Candado continued while continuing to attack the individual.

Finally, the mysterious person prepared to fight Candado, and both of them remained on guard, waiting for one of them to make the first move. Candado decided to take the initiative and lunged at the individual, who summoned three tentacles from the ground to pursue him. However, Candado acted cleverly and ran toward the person. As he was about to strike, Candado jumped to the side, causing one of the tentacles to fall onto the person, injuring him.

"I thought you were smarter, man of few words," Candado mocked.

"Do you believe that, don't you?" a voice was heard behind Candado.

Candado turned around and saw the individual with the mask partially broken, revealing part of his face.

"You spoke. Not bad for a newcomer like you," observed Candado.

"I must admit it's the first time I've been attacked and hurt," replied the mysterious individual.

"Who are you?" Candado asked again.

"You're not my target for now." The person didn't reveal his name but shared his alias. "I'm Guz, and I represent the Witnesses. Soon, this world will be ours."

After saying this, Guz ran into the forest, leaping from tree to tree like a monkey.

At that moment, the gaseous figure that Candado had encountered yesterday appeared.

"You, what are you doing here?" Candado asked.

"I was having breakfast when I heard a commotion at the school. I peeked and saw you entering the forest, so I followed you here. But I must be grateful; that guy gave me a clue. They want to kill Esteban, and I won't allow that."

With that, the gaseous figure launched in pursuit of Guz, while Candado remained in place without taking any action.

When Candado finally returned to school, he found his friends removing the tentacles they had cut and Matlotsky repairing the damaged windows, chairs, and tables. His friends rushed to him, concerned about what had happened. Héctor was the first to ask.

"What happened? Did you encounter the person who started all this?"

Candado looked at Héctor seriously and responded:

"Yes, I found him, but he wasn't interested in me. His target was Esteban."

"Esteban?" all his friends expressed their surprise.

"It can't be, was he a mercenary?" Anzor asked.

"No, he was a... a Witness."

Everyone was stunned upon hearing the dreadful word "Witness." If a Witness had tried to kill Esteban, that meant their assumptions were correct: someone was trying to start a war. The events of that day and the day before had reached Candado's brain, fitting the last piece of the puzzle.

The day before, three individuals had attacked him with a clear goal: to end his life. It wasn't because Candado was strong and fearsome, but because he held the position of president of the W.G.A.B. (World Guilds Adjacent Bernstein). By killing him, the attackers would try to blame the Circuit, and vice versa, triggering a conflict. However, what the three individuals didn't know was that Candado had been previously sanctioned for hitting a fellow guild member in the convent. This action had led him to lose the presidency, replaced by the representative from Japan, Yuuta Aikawa. Candado had kept this information secret, not to protect himself, but to protect Yuuta and the organization's morality.

Candado's theory was confirmed, and the shadow of war loomed over the world. He knew that another conflict would lead the planet into chaos, regardless of who won; the result would be total destruction. However, Candado changed the subject to avoid worrying his friends.

"Hey, are you going to keep standing there or are you going into the school?" Candado asked.

"Sorry, Candado, but the principal gave us the day off. Three teachers were injured, but their injuries are not serious," Hammya replied.

"Seriously?" Candado asked.

"No, Candado, they're just superficial wounds. They'll be fine," Héctor said.

"I have an idea. Why don't we celebrate Viki's return in the Roobóleo brotherhood?" Matlotsky suggested.

Lucas looked at Matlotsky disgusted, but surprisingly, Candado agreed.

"I think it's a good idea," Candado said.

"But, sir...? Well, as you wish," Lucas conceded.

"Are you going to organize a party?" Matlotsky asked excitedly.

"No, just celebrate," Candado clarified.

"You're so boring, Candado," Matlotsky commented.

"And you're an avocado, so don't complain," Candado replied.

Then, Candado and his friends headed to the guild to celebrate their friend Viki's return. It was the first time Candado had organized something like this for one of his friends. Along the way, some of them noticed a slight change in Candado's attitude, especially Héctor, Viki, Ana María, Clementina, and Lucas. Since Hammya arrived, Candado had been acting differently, but they preferred not to draw conclusions about his change in personality.

Finally, they arrived at the guild. Anzor opened the door, and everyone entered. Candado closed the door, turned on the lights, and they scattered around the place. Matlotsky turned on the music system and mentioned that it was the first time they had a day off to use the house. Hammya took the opportunity to ask about what exactly they did.

Candado was about to answer, but his Irish friend replied.

"The Roobóleo guild, like any other guild, is dedicated to solving problems for other people, such as stolen items, murders, mysteries, escapes, and more," Declan said.

"Wow, I had no idea."

"Of course not, because you're nothing more than a dreamer," Declan added.

"Listen to me, now I'm part of this guild, and I would appreciate it if you stopped being so unpleasant."

Declan stomped his right foot hard and stared at Hammya.

"Don't raise your voice at me; you're nobody to speak to me that way. Maybe you're part of this guild, but I've been in it longer than you, so be very clear about that. If you plan something strange in this guild that harms us, or I suspect you're betraying us," he unsheathed his saber at that moment, placed it at Hammya's neck, and continued, "your head will roll at my feet."

"Declan, lower your weapon, you know what the rules are, right?"

"Yes, Candado, I know."

At that moment, Anzor and German came and took Declan away to prevent further problems between the two of them.

"Apologize to Declan; he doesn't trust you, but he will someday. For now, give him time," Viki said as she handed her a glass of soda.

"What's wrong with him?" Hammya asked.

"He still hasn't gotten over Ocho's betrayal to the guild."

"Ocho?"

"Yes, she was like you, one..."

"Viki, wait, did you say she? Is she a woman?"

"Yes, she was one of us, but she betrayed us and tried to assassinate Candado. It hurt us a lot when she betrayed us, but it hurt Declan even more since she was his girlfriend. He always felt guilty about that, and he always thought that because of him, his friends almost died. That's why he's so distrustful."

"Wow, I'm sorry."

"He's tough and stubborn, but he's a good friend. He's the kind of person who would vouch for you if you're in trouble."

When Viki said that, Hammya headed towards where Declan was.

"What are you doing?"

"If I'm going to be part of the guild, it's better that I start working on gaining the trust of the others."

These words were etched into Viki and Candado's minds. Candado, who had his back turned, heard them. When he did, he showed a small, momentary smile, visible to Héctor's eyes.

Hammya approached a semi-closed bedroom, peeked inside, and opened the door. Inside, she found Declan sitting in a chair, back turned, cleaning his sword. Hammya walked towards him slowly. When she was close enough, Declan, without turning around, said:

"My intentions are clear; I won't talk to you. No matter what you do, I'm not interested in your friendship."

"Look, I don't want problems with you. All I want is for you to treat me with respect."

"Respect? That's not something easily obtained. In fact, I highly doubt someone like you can earn my respect."

"If Matlotsky could do it, then I can too."

"Haha, that guy is tough, but he would never think of betraying the guild."

"Well, over time, we'll be friends."

Declan said nothing more and continued cleaning his sword. Hammya, on her part, stepped away from the room and joined Candado, who was sitting in the middle of the table, reading a book.

"Hello, Candado."

"Hello, Esmeralda."

"What are you doing?"

Candado looked up.

"Girl, what the hell do you think I'm doing? Am I fishing? I'm reading, girl, reading."

"Sorry, Mr. Fancy, it was just a question."

"Yes, a very stupid and pointless one."

"Why are you so mean? I don't understand why people respect you so much."

"One, because I'm devilish, and second, why do you care?"

"You're a jerk."

"I don't care, as long as I do what is right, my attitude doesn't matter."

"Changing the subject, tell me, how many countries does the World Organization of Gremial Adjuncts Bernstein govern?"

"Today, there are ten countries, including Argentina, Paraguay, France, Germany, Kenya, China, Cuba, Japan, Iran, and Venezuela."

"Wow, it used to be seven before. Why are there ten now?"

"Because those three countries achieved incredible things. Cuba entered because Fernando Álvarez started a revolution against the Circuists. At that time, the cradle of the United Front of Circuits and Technomancers was Cuba, but Fernando expelled them with just eighteen guilds throughout the island, so he earned a space in our hall. Nowadays, the best guilds are in Cuba. In Iran, Alli Fereshteh reached a peace agreement with the circuits of the East. It was the first country to have a treaty with them after sixty-five years, inspiring other nations worldwide to have dialogue treaties to achieve peace. For that reason, it earned a place in our hall. Venezuela was a country heavily affected by foreign imperialism, to the point that there were no guilds in that country for more than sixty years. Then, a guy named Ramiro Solari created a guild dedicated solely to combat hunger and poverty. It earned a place in the W.O.G.A.B. because it was the only country that supported my mother in the GreenBlood case. When she was expelled, she sought help in that country and was warmly welcomed. When the case ended, my mother was elected president, and as a token of gratitude, she opened the doors to Ramiro, earning that seat in our hall."

"Wow, how is it possible I've never heard of that?"

"Because businessmen and imperialists took care of silencing us, talking about unimportant issues. Nowadays, the United Nations knows about our existence, but they don't know why we exist; they've never touched on the subject. Only a few countries are aware of our existence."

"It's a bit sad."

"Sad? It's not sad. In my opinion, I think it's better this way. If our name were known worldwide, they would use the organization for their own benefit—things like war, political and religious conflicts, promotion of imperialism, and a bunch of things that would damage Harambee's ideals. I'd rather die than allow them to tarnish its name."

"Heh, it seems like you admire an African a lot."

Candado closed the book and brought it down forcefully on Hammya's head.

"Don't you dare use her name like that. For your information, thanks to her, people like you don't go through life as slaves."

"That hurts, and a lot."

"So you don't forget, ever," said Candado, pointing at her with a book.

"Okay, okay, I won't forget."

"That's better."

"By the way, why would your mother be well-received in Venezuela? Was she hated?"

At that moment, Candado's expression changed; he became somber and calm, and his gaze weakened.

"At that time, yes. My grandfather had defeated a strange being called 'P.' He had a friend named Mike Thompson, representing the U.S. guild called GreenBlood. But in that battle, Mike lost his life saving my grandfather. When 'P' was defeated, he said that Mike was the true hero, elevating GreenBlood to martyrdom and the pinnacle of the W.O.G.A.B. But years later, my mother sought help from that guild but was betrayed; the help never came. It was then that the question arose: 'How is it possible that a fearless guild like that, which had fought for its brothers, did not come to the aid of one of its sisters?' At that moment, she began to investigate the matter. The closer she got to the truth, GreenBlood, using its influence, ordered the expulsion of the Roobóleo guild from the organization. Even with the help of France, Kenya, Cuba, and Paraguay, they couldn't stop Argentina from being expelled from the W.O.G.A.B., but she never gave up and kept seeking the truth. The path was difficult, and everything was against her, but she was never alone; she had my father, who always supported her in everything."

"How did all this end?"

"My mother sought help from the U.F.E.T.C. Since she was underground, she no longer cared about what people thought of her or her guild, so she forged an alliance with them. That's how the Circuits helped her, and together they exposed GreenBlood. She returned to the guild, and they were compensated with millions of gold bars."

"Gold?"

"Yes, my family doesn't use dollars. All our fortune is in gold bars. We don't trust a piece of paper that claims to be very valuable."

"Well, that's quite unique. Are you a millionaire?"

"Millionaire? No, of course not. Trillionaire."

"Wow, that's quite a fortune, despite having an ordinary house."

"Yes, my family and I don't like showing off with big houses and other things."

"Where is all that fortune stored?"

"In our personal vault."

"Vault? Don't you keep it in banks?"

"No, banks exist because society trusts them. In contrast, my family and I don't trust them, and we're not foolish enough to put our entire fortune in the hands of strangers."

"Ah, I see, you apply a lot of logic and sociology in your family."

"Uh... thanks."

"I have another question, is the Circuit similar to you?"

"No, it's completely different. They only have one leader elected by popular vote, but to be the leader of the U.F.E.T.C., you have to be respected by both chambers of the institute."

"Are there representatives from the countries in general?"

"No, the idea of Thanatos was for a world without borders connected to other societies. If you're a Circuist, you won't represent any country but the ideology of Thanatos."

"And is that wrong for you?"

Candado closed his book and placed it aside on the table.

"Well, it's not wrong to think differently or expand your thoughts. What's wrong with them is taking that ideology to the extreme, killing and threatening. That's what's wrong with the Circuits. I don't share the idea of imposing my thoughts by force."

"What do you really want?"

Candado stared into Hammya's eyes, then looked at his hands. He opened and closed them until he clenched his fists and said.

"I just want peace, no more cold war among us, no more bloodshed."

"Relax, Candado, relax. I have faith that you'll achieve peace."

"Well, I'm glad you have faith. After all, that's the only thing that doesn't get lost, even in the worst moments."

"Um..."

"Don't say more. I like always having the last word, not because I'm arrogant."

At that moment, Hector approached with a green folder in hand.

"Candado, can I talk to you privately for a moment?"

"Sure."

Candado stood up and followed Hector to the meeting room.

"Well, can I know what's going on?"

"It's about this folder, it was delivered a few minutes ago."

"Who sends it?" Candado asked as he received the folder.

"It's a delivery from the W.O.G.A.B. Do you think it would be an expulsion note?"

"No, I don't think so. If that were the case, the folder would be black, not green."

Candado opened it, and inside there was a letter with the official seal of the organization, the lion. Candado took the letter and examined it from top to bottom. After a few seconds of observation, Candado handed the letter to Hector and said,

"Here, read it to me. I don't know Japanese."

"Oh, you know French, German, Wichi, English, and Persian, a bunch of European languages, who knows how you learned them, but you can't read Japanese."

"Do I look like a world translator? Do me a favor and read me the letter."

"Fine. 'Dear Nankinjo...

"That idiot..."

"...,'Dear Nankinjo.. on March 10th, your exemption from your missions was decreed, and within thirteen days, you will be able to return to your duties at the Harambee Board. I hope this has served you as a choice. Remember, be careful when unleashing your wrath. I look forward to your return to Kanghar for your services as Candado/President. Sincerely, your boss, Yuuta Aikawa.'

Hector made a face looking upward.

"Isidro..."

"'It's great, Candado, you'll be able to return to the organization.'"

"Well, at least he was kind enough to give me permission to return on March 23rd. I'm going to kill that suspicious-faced guy."

"Well, remember that you hurt a board member."

"Yes, and I accept my punishment, but I won't tolerate him writing 'Your boss' in a damn letter. I'm going to break his nose."

"Come on, Candado, no more fights with your supe... I mean, I mean; comrades. It's been enough."

"Are you giving me orders?"

"Yes, I'm doing it for your own good. You must let go of that anger; in the future, it could bring problems."

For the first time, Candado felt that Hector was right. If he hadn't let anger take over, he would never have fought with the one who cast a terrible spell on him, and he wouldn't be spitting blood. If he wanted to live, he would have to trust the requests of others. As his grandfather used to say, "You can never have all the answers and solutions at your disposal. You will always have to trust others, especially your friends." His grandfather was a very wise man, and Candado always tried to listen to others. So Candado looked at Hector differently; in his eyes, there was a bit of compassion.

"You're right, I don't want to make mistakes. Now I understand why he gave me thirteen days; it was for me to start being more tolerant. We're all supposed to be brothers in the W.O.G.A.B., seeking the best for our families. I made a mistake by hitting that boy. I had a bad day, and I guess I wanted to take it out on him. When I return, I'll apologize to him. We're all supposed to be the heralds of Harambee."

Hector was fascinated by what Candado said. It was the first and only time Candado made a mistake and acknowledged it, so much so that he unconsciously started applauding.

"Bravo, that's a very big step."

"About what?"

"About your attitude. Keep it up."

"Ah, sure, I'll be sure not to let it go to my head."

"Heh, well, it's time for me to go. I have to help Lucas back there with his experiments."

After saying that, Hector left and left Candado alone in the room. He had been lately very thoughtful, about his health and what Rucciménkagri told him yesterday. So he grabbed a blank sheet, a pen, and wrote about the situation that the W.O.G.A.B. was going through. Slowly, the guilds and the Circuits walked on a tightrope. It was necessary to stop the war at all costs. Candado took notes on the matter, wrote down the most important points: the organization of the Witnesses, the attacks, the murders of guilds and Circuits alike, etc. If the path is conflict, then it must be stopped. We shouldn't be dragged into a war. The world shouldn't see war again.

Once he finished writing, Candado opened the door and called Clementina. She immediately went to him. Candado handed the letter to her and said, "I want you to take this letter to the post office, please."

With those simple words, Clementina ran off to deliver that letter. Candado, even if it didn't show, was under a lot of stress. His perspiration started to become dry, his heart was beating rapidly. All of this caused Candado to lose balance and fall to the floor. His friends, seeing him on the ground, rushed to assist him. Hector and María helped him stand up.

"Are you okay, Boss?" asked Ana María.

"FOR SOME REASON, I FELL!"

"I'll call the doctor..."

"No, you're not calling anyone without my authorization."

"But you fell, that's not..."

"I repeat, you're not calling anyone without my authorization."

Hector and Ana María took him to the rest room and sat him in an armchair, but when everything seemed to be improving, Candado started coughing. Hammya, who was nearby and knew what would come after the cough, took a handkerchief from his pocket, covered Candado's mouth, and patted him on the back. Candado had spat up blood again, but this time, his friends hadn't noticed. So, to distract his friends from the blood on the handkerchief, Hammya asked for water, and as soon as they took their eyes off him, Candado wrapped the handkerchief and hid it in his pocket. Hammya handed him a glass of water, and everything remained a secret again.

"Alright, what happened to you?" asked Germán.

"Nothing, it was just exhaustion, that's all. I just need to rest."

"True, you've worked a lot this past month. I think you should hand over control to Hector for a week," said Declan.

"No, the craphead is messing things up, and with everything that's happened, I can't afford to take a break. I'm the president of the Oilthief Brotherhood, and my responsibilities come first."

"Yes, everything you said is true, but if you don't take care of yourself, it's all going to be worthless because you're going to die. Take a week off and don't be stubborn. That's all we ask of you. It's not a month, not a year, not a century, just a week. After resting, you can go back to being the same cold, bossy, and arrogant guy you always are."

"Arrogant? Seriously?"

"What Matlotsky means is that you need to take a break. You need it, after all..."

"Lucas, I've rested for two days. I'm fine. I don't need anything."

"

What if we vote?" Anzor suggested.

"You wouldn't dare, considering I haven't given any authorization," Candado replied.

"Sorry, Candado. You yourself said this is a democracy. It's in Article 5-K of our little law: 'In case the board members disagree with the president, a vote shall proceed.'"

"Damn it, Ana María, shut up!" Candado interrupted. "See, that's all you're good for."

"Good idea, Mari. Let's vote. Those in favor of Candado taking a break, raise your hand."

Héctor and everyone else, including Hammya, raised their hands.

"Wait, we're missing Clementina," Candado said.

At that moment, the phone rang, and Héctor went to answer it.

"Hello... ah... wait, let me put you on speaker."

"I, Clementina V02, vote in favor of Candado taking a break."

"IS THIS SERIOUS!? HOW THE HELL DID YOU KNOW WHAT WE'RE TALKING ABOUT!?"

"Remember, sir, that the house and I are one. Now I bid farewell. I'll see you at home. Bye!"

"Let's not talk about it anymore. Ernest will have a well-deserved vacation," Héctor said.

"Who is Ernest?" asked Hammya.

"That's my name, young lady. I'm called Ernest."

"I thought your name was Candado?"

"Yes, it is. Any problem?"

"No, not at all."

"The discussion is over, and the vote is in. Candado will take a break for a week," Matlotsky declared.

"OBJECTION!"

"Denied," said Héctor.

"Come on, it's just seven days; afterward, you can go back to being the boss," Ana María said.

"What's the damn difference? You always call me boss."

"It doesn't matter, please accept," Lucas said.

"All right, I accept, one week, just one week. I hope the guild doesn't catch fire while I'm away."

"Your trust in me is very touching."

"Shut up, Héctor."

"Fine, as the temporary president, I decree your break. This means you can go back home."

"Okay, I'm leaving."

Candado grabbed his backpack, exited the room, walked to the guild's exit, mounted Uzoori, and galloped home. Meanwhile, his friends stayed behind, watching their ex-boss leave.

"Shouldn't I go after him?"

"No need, Hammya. We need you here," Viki said.

"Not really," Declan said while fixing a bookshelf.

"Ignore him, he's a durubu."

"It's pronounced dúr, Viki, and that's not it."

"Whatever, you're a funny-talking idiot."

"And you're an tá tú le muc an-horrendous."

At that moment, while Viki was getting nervous about what Declan had said, as he was speaking Irish to her, Hammya's eyes sparkled, and she said.

"You're a very horrendous pig."

"Me? What? I'm defending you, and this is what I get?"

"No, it's not what you think. What he said is what it means in English."

"Oh really? So, I'm a horrendous pig, then you're a toad," he said as he left, taking Hammya by the hand.

As the two girls left, Declan began to distrust Hammya. Only Candado knew Irish; it's practically impossible for anyone else to know his language.

On the other hand, after Hammya and Viki distanced themselves from Declan, they headed to the break room. In that place, everyone was taking a break in their own way. Lucas and Héctor were playing chess, Anzor was meditating on the floor with his sword in his lap, Ana María was leaning against a wall while using her phone, the twins along with Germán and Matlotsky were playing cards. Hammya and Viki sat on the couch and started a friendly conversation.

"You did well back there. Candado was the only one who understood that language, but since when do you know Irish?"

"I have no idea, but it felt like I already knew or had heard that language."

"You're too reserved, Hammya. Now I understand why you're with us. You caught Candado's attention."

"Do you think so? Because I have no clue."

"I also had no idea why my request was accepted until one day I understood. I'm sure you'll understand it too."

"What about you? Why weren't you around these last few days?"

"Well, I suffered from a massive blood addiction. I couldn't control myself and even attacked my comrades. I bit Héctor and almost sucked all his blood. It's my fault he's anemic."

"Anemic? He doesn't seem like it."

"Believe me, he is, just not visibly."

"And what happened next?"

"I asked... I begged, pleaded with Candado to send me far away from Isla del Cerrito to avoid harming my comrades."

"So it's settled?"

"Yes, it was difficult at first, but now I'm fine, all thanks to Candado and Pio."

"Pio? Oh, yes, you mentioned her, but where is she now?"

"She's just like me, a slacker. She's at home, probably painting a picture. I forgot to get her vote."

"She must be good. What's her full name exactly?"

"Her name is Natalia Ballester Pio, but everyone, except Candado, calls her Pio."

"I'd like to meet her."

"You'll meet her, you'll see, I guarantee it."

"Candado had arrived home peacefully. He had no problems on the way, as usual. This time, everything was calm yet somewhat chaotic. At home, his parents weren't around; Hipólito was in the living room playing with baby Karen, Clementina was in the basement doing her morning check-up since the post office was nearby. Candado was in his room reading a book by Iván Crusoe titled 'The Golden Spear.' In it, he recounted all the exploits of Harambee, the heroine of O.M.G.A.B. Every time Candado read that book, he felt proud of his great-grandfather Jack Barret. Despite only showing a small smile, he felt very happy inside. Until Tínbari arrived just to annoy him.

"A bit more, and your friends would have noticed that something's wrong with you."

"I don't know what you're talking about."

"Your collapse in the guild. Luckily, your comrades are stupid and only believed that you were..."

"It was! Due to nerves. I've never been in this position before."

"Come on, I know when it's exhaustion. What you have is a powerful spell eating you from the inside."

"Shut up. I still have ten years of life."

"Yes, if you rest and avoid physical and mental overexertion. This is a symptom of what you have."

"It's a lie!"

"A lie? Candado, you've been using the violet flame a lot these past few days. You've been fighting more than necessary. It's obvious that your spirit is weak."

"Stop saying nonsense. Once I find the bastard who did this to me, I'll force him to remove this damn spell."

"There's no time. The clock of your life is ticking. You have to remove it, and fast."

"These predictions are never accurate. They're more fake than Nostradamus' prophecies."

"I'm sorry to tell you that it's not the case. You'll never be able to defeat death. It's something inescapable."

"There's always a first time, Tínbari. I don't plan on dying in a hospital connected to a respirator. I plan to live a long time. I'll live a pathetic and old life."

"It's very admirable to challenge me, but it won't help you."

"Tell me, cuckold..."

"Cuckold? I don't even have a woman."

"Not because of that... forget it."

"What do you want to tell me?"

"Nothing, I forgot."

"Well, but remember it. I have all day."

"I'm happy for you."

Candado headed to the door, opened it, then looked at Tínbari.

"Because I don't, idiot."

After closing the door forcefully, Tínbari appeared right in front of him.

"I'm not leaving."

"Oh, well, I do, so move."

Tínbari grabbed him by the waist and lifted him up.

"What will you do now, kid? It's not easy to break free from me."

Candado, amid struggles and kicks in the air, said:

"Let me go, vermin."

Tínbari began shaking him up and down like a soda can.

"I'M GOING TO RIP YOUR HORNS OFF!"

After a few minutes, Tínbari teleported to the backyard and threw him up into the tree, causing Candado to get caught among the branches.

"Now, what will you do, kid? I hope you can rip off my horns," Tínbari said with a smile.

"I swear to you... I swear that when I come down, I'm going to rip your eyes out."

"I hope so," Tínbari said as he laughed. When Candado was teetering on the branches of the tree, Clementina appeared in a short T-shirt, long dark pants, and the same shoes.

"Oh, how did he get up there, ma'am?"

"Does it matter how I got up here? I need to come down, bring me the ladder." As soon as Candado said that, the branch broke, and he began to fall. However, thanks to Clementina's reflexes and speed, she reached him before Candado hit the ground. Nevertheless, as Clementina had just completed her morning checkup a few minutes ago, she had completely forgotten to secure, meaning bolt, her arms. As a result, Candado fell into her arms. Since Clementina had no bolts, Candado's body detached her metallic arms, causing him to fall to the ground anyway. Not only did he have to endure the fall with his back against the ground, but he also had to endure the strong impact of Clementina's metallic arms, making the blow harder and more painful.

"Oops, I forgot to weld them, but I'm fine."

"Really? Look at that, miss, she's fine, we should give her an award."

"It's not a big deal, seriously."

"You know something, Clem?" Candado asked with a sly smile.

"What is it, sir?"

"I'M GOING TO SKIN YOU ALIVE WHEN I STAND UP! I BROKE MY BACK AGAIN BECAUSE OF YOU!"

"I'm sorry; I tried to help."

"I DON'T GIVE A DAMN! I TOLD YOU, I TOLD YOU TO BRING ME THE DAMN LADDER!" With all due respect, but there was no time.

"THEN YOU SHOULDN'T HAVE HELPED ME!"

"Does it hurt?" When Tínbari asked that, Candado climbed onto his back and, with great anger, began pulling with all his might at Tínbari's horns.

"YOU, RED VERMIN, IT'S YOUR FAULT TOO! AS I SAID, I'M GOING TO RIP YOUR HORNS OFF!"

"I got it, let me go, it hurts a lot." Candado pulled back with all his strength; however, Tínbari's horns were slippery, causing Candado to fall back onto the ground. But this time, he wasn't furious as he was just a moment ago; instead, he relaxed, stood up, took Clementina's arms, and reattached them.

"Sir, are you no longer angry?"

"No, I'm not angry anymore. It may sound strange, but for some strange reason, I accept both of your apologies," said Candado with the same cold expression on his face.

Candado snapped his fingers, as he always does, and the bolts flew into his hand. With his knife, he delicately screwed the loose bolts, careful not to scratch Clementina's skin. Once he finished fixing her arms, Candado stood up, took the wooden ladder beside him, leaned it against the tree, and climbed it until he reached one of its branches. Candado extended his hand and said.

"Please, come out. I won't get mad at you."

At that moment, a snake coiled around his arm and climbed up to his head. Once there, it transformed into a girl.

"That's... is... who is she?" asked Tínbari.

"Her name is Yara; she's Candado's 'adopted daughter.'"

"Oh, she was the same girl I saw... somewhere."

Candado descended from the ladder with Yara in his arms, and together they entered the house. Once inside, Candado sat her on his lap and began talking to her in a gentle tone, like a father to his child, or daughter in this case.

"Yara, why were you in that tree?"

"Because I was going to give you a scare."

"A scare?"

At that moment, Hipólito appeared, carrying baby Karen, just to find out what all the commotion was about.

"Mauricio says he never saw you scared; he wanted to check if that was true."

"It's 'check' and no, it's not true. I do get scared sometimes."

"So, you're not afraid?"

"Not now, I'm not afraid. But if my life or even the lives of those around me were in danger, then yes."

"Well, then you do have fear."

"Changing the subject, I have a surprise." Candado took a small bag from his pocket and handed it to Yara. "I bought it on my way back from the guild. I hope you like it. I know it's not your birthday yet, but it's a gift from me."

Yara opened it, revealing a beautiful blue flower brooch inside. Candado took it and placed it in Yara's hair.

"It looks good on you, do you like it?"

"Yes, I love it; it's very pretty. Thank you, Dad."

"You're welcome, Yara."

"Tomorrow, I want you to take me for a walk around the place. I want to learn more about where you live."

"Alright, but remember, when we walk, don't let go of my hand at any moment, and don't wander off."

"Got it, don't let go, don't wander off, I got it."

"Well, that's how I like it."

"Dad?"

"Tell me, sweetheart."

"That baby over there, is she your daughter?"

"No, she's my sister. I'm sure that when she's your age, you two will be good friends."

"Will it take long?"

"Um... about three years or so."

"Why so long?"

"She's a baby; she still needs to learn the basics to be like you."

"Well, I can wait. After all, I'm not going anywhere."

Candado started to laugh, and Yara joined in, while Clementina, Tínbari, and Hipólito were watching the heartwarming scene with joy. It was the first time the trio saw Candado so happy.

On the other hand, Hammya and Viki had left the guild more than fifteen minutes ago, strolling together through the town. Viki was showing Hammya around since she was new to the town, and as they didn't have classes that day, many schoolmates were around, some of whom greeted them. Among them was Esteeman, passing by with some new sneakers.

"Hello, Viki and Hammya, how are you doing?"

"Good, Double E, good."

Gregorio Maximiliano Esteeman had short, dark hair and black eyes. He wore blue gym clothes, including a short shirt and shorts. Despite not being part of a guild, either independently or affiliated, he always showed loyalty to guild members in general. More than once, he accidentally broke one of Candado's windows. He was Candado's friend and loved playing rugby.

Powers: He can fly and stay airborne, has very high speed, surpassing even Anzor and Declan, thanks to his physical effort. His skin is as tough as armor, and his punches can be lethal to a human without powers.

Abilities: He excels in rugby and made a promise to himself not to use his powers to win a match. Almost entirely, as he once tried to tackle someone, and, since he had steel-like skin, the tackle was like crashing into a wall, causing harm to the other player. He is also good at providing useful information to Candado; he and Héctor are the only ones who call him Ernést instead of Candado.

"Did you hear? There were no classes today due to an underground tentacle attack."

"How do you know? You weren't there."

"Viki, Viki, Viki," he said, shaking his head, "I'm an expert, and I'm very observant."

"Daria told you, didn't she?"

"Yes, but it doesn't matter. The point is, while I was looking for my ball, I saw Esteban facing off against the guy who caused it. I know because he summoned the same tentacles Daria described."

"Don't tell me."

"I swear I saw it with my own eyes. Esteban was fiercely fighting against the strange guy, a lightning bolt here, another there, until the guy covered himself in some kind of slime and fled, and Esteban followed him."

"What happened?" asked Hammya.

"I followed him a bit and saw Esteban shooting lightning wildly through the forest, but the guy dodged them. The weird thing is that Esteban wasn't alone; someone else was helping him."

"Who was it?"

"I don't know; his face was literally white smoke, like a well-dressed ghost."

"Hmm, that's curious. It's exactly the person Candado encountered yesterday."

"It doesn't seem curious to me, Hammya. Candado said he was a Draft and Drafts not only do their job but also protect their leader."

"I see, then forget it."

"Ahem, never mind, the point is that the confrontation ended in a draw, no one won; it was very strange."

"What happened next?" Hammya asked.

"The guy fled, and Esteban and his accomplices went after him. What I'm getting at is, keep your eyes wide open. You never know what the hell might happen. And I say this so that you take care of Candado."

"Why take care of him? He's fine without..."

"Thanks, Maxi, for the advice. We'll take good care of Candado."

"Alright, I'm leaving because I'm running late. See you tomorrow, girls."

After Maxi bid farewell to them, the two continued their stroll. But after a few minutes, Hammya looked at Viki strangely and asked.

"Why did you interrupt me?"

"Hammya, we're friends of Candado, and it's our duty to help him. He might be grumpy, stubborn, bossy, and cold, but he's actually wounded. He had to endure the death of his sister two years ago, and now he had to go through the same thing two months ago."

"It's not an excuse to treat me like trash."

"He has never done that; since I arrived, I haven't seen him treat you that way."

"Hasn't he? He hit me with a book this morning."

"What were you talking about?"

"Uh, we talked about what the guild was, what the circuit was, those things."

"Well, you must have said something stupid for him to hit you."

"Yeah, he's a jerk, couldn't take a joke."

"Well, maybe you shouldn't have made that joke, especially if it's an important topic."

"Still, I think he should tone down that attitude of his."

"Calm down, Candado isn't bad, he's just like that."

"Changing the subject, where are we going?"

"Well, you told me you wanted to meet Pio, that's where we're heading."

"Oh, great, I'd like to meet her."

"You'll like her, she's a good girl, a bit stubborn but good."

"No worries. Is she part of the guild?"

"Yes, of course. She, along with Héctor, Lucas, and Erika, are the intellectual force of the guild."

"What does that mean?"

"Didn't Candado tell you? All guilds have their own strengths: strength, intelligence, cunning, saboteurs, thieves, infantry, cavalry, etc. We have two strengths: intelligence and cavalry."

"Can you have more than two?"

"Sure, but we don't have much personnel."

"Why is that?"

"Because Candado decides who enters and who doesn't. In fact, only people who catch his attention can join the guild."

"What catches his attention?"

"Yes, for example, I joined because the first time I saw him, I tried to kill him. However, during the last minutes of the fight, Candado let me hit him, and he even wanted me to deliver the finishing blow."

"And what did you do?"

"I didn't do it, I don't know why. I just knelt down and started crying. At that moment, I realized I was about to take a human life for food, as my parents didn't have money."

"But... you're a vampire."

"Yes, I am, but not my parents. They do need to feed. Anyway, when I stopped the fight, Candado reached out to me, even though I had tried to kill him a few seconds ago. He helped me up and asked, 'Why are you doing this if you don't like it?'"

"What did you answer?"

"I told him about my problems, that we were poor, and I told him that the Circuit promised to pay me if I assassinated him. When I finished telling him everything, Candado took fifty thousand pesos in one-hundred-peso bills from his pocket and told me that my family and I should move to this town."

"What happened next?"

"After that, I moved. My father got a job with Héctor's father, and I was officially accepted into the Roobóleo guild."

"How did Declan take it?"

"He wasn't there yet. Only the Russian was."

"Well, from everything you've told me, what's the conclusion of why you ended up in the guild?"

"Candado was intrigued that someone like me didn't dare to kill him when I had the chance, even though he gave me a significant advantage."

At that moment, Hammya began to remember what Candado said when he accepted her into the guild: "I accepted her because she's not human." Those were Candado's words. Lately, she hadn't thought much about it, but just as she was about to, Viki interrupted her.

"Look, Hammya, here's Pio's house."

The house was nice, resembling a medium-sized chalet but built with concrete. Viki approached and knocked on the door.

"Pio, it's me."

From the other side of the door, Pio replied, "I don't know any 'me.'"

"It's me, Victoria."

"I don't know any Victoria."

"Don't be like Candado and open up."

After a few seconds, the door opened, and Pio came out to welcome them.

Pio had long, black hair and dark eyes. She was dressed quite uniquely, resembling a bartender without an apron; the only giveaway that she was a woman was her long hair.

Power: She has the ability to levitate things, can fly, can dematerialize anything made of water, has immense strength, and, like Lucas and Candado, can control fire, which, in her case, is light blue.

Ability: She is an expert at getting on anyone's nerves, even Candado's. She enjoys painting and solving puzzles, is very bossy when in trouble, and is very cautious in combat.

"Hello, Viki, I didn't know it was you."

"Heh, don't pretend; I know very well that you did it on purpose."

"It's not true."

"It is, and don't deny it."

"Okay, I won't deny it, but it's a lie."

Viki made a face and looked up.

"Doesn't matter," she stepped aside and introduced her friend, "The one next to me is Hammya Sandia."

"Saillim," Hammya corrected.

"I'm sorry, I was mistaken."

"Greetings, Hammya Saillim," Pio approached and shook her hand. "I'm Pio Ballester, delighted to meet you."

Hammya nodded. Then, Pio invited them inside, and once there, Hammya and Viki took seats on the sofas, while Pio sat, quite literally, in the air. For Viki, it was normal, but for Hammya, it was something extraordinary.

"Well, I don't want to be rude, but what exactly are you doing here?"

"Well, Viki spoke about you, and I asked if I could meet you."

"Well, thanks. Where are you from that you have that hair color?"

"I'm from Entre Ríos."

"Does the color of your hair have anything to do with your power, or do you just dye it that way?"

"No, it's my natural color, and that's it. As for my power, I'm not clear on how it works. Once, when I was five years old, I tripped and fell, but before hitting the ground, a tree root stopped me, and to this day, I don't know what happened or why."

"Wow, but have you done it again?"

"A few days ago, I hurt Candado with my power," Hammya said, looking very embarrassed.

Viki and Pio were left open-mouthed when they heard that someone as submissive as her had hurt Candado.

"Are you joking, right?" Viki asked.

"I wish it were true."

"Impossible, it's practically impossible."

"I'm sorry, Pio, but unfortunately, it's true."

"Damn, it's unbelievable, I basically can't believe it."

"It wasn't my intention; he wanted me to give him a sample of my power, but I never thought it would be so disastrous."

"Well, at least it wasn't serious," Viki said.

"Actually, I found it strange that Candado didn't get upset with me for what happened."

"No, it's not strange. Candado is a very respectful person. If he asked you to use your powers, then Candado knows very well the consequences."

"How profound, Viki, how profound."

"Shut up, Pio."

"Anyway, tell me something about your life."

Just as Hammya was about to respond, someone knocked on the door.

"Oh my God, now who could it be?" Pio complained.

She approached the door and asked, "Who is it?"

And from the other side of the door came the response, "Is this, by any chance, the house where Miss Natalia Ballester lives?"

"Who are you?"

"We are her friends."

"Oh, really? I'm her sister. How do you know her?"

"We know her from the guild. I'm Germán, Lucas, and Candado."

Pio smiled and said, "Get out, you lying trio. I'm not interested in anything if you want to see me."

When Pio said that, a hand punched through the door and opened the door latch. Two guys and two teenagers with porcelain masks, each with the face of an animal, entered behind it. Pio stepped back and kicked the first one who entered, then ran to the living room to warn Viki and Hammya. But as she was about to tell them, one of the guys pulled her hair and pulled out a machete. Pio reacted quickly and grabbed his arm, but as she was in a bad position, it was harder for her to stop the machete that was slowly approaching her neck. When all seemed lost, Viki jumped out of nowhere and kicked him in the face, making him drop the machete. At that moment, the others entered. The teenagers had weapons and started shooting. This made Pio and Viki hide in the living room. Hammya was completely scared and couldn't move from the couch. Viki kept the door closed with her body, also blocking the bullets, as she was immortal being a vampire.

"PIO, CALL THE GUILD, WE NEED THEIR HELP URGENTLY!"

"RIGHT AWAY!"

So Pio quickly ran to the kitchen and dialed the number. Hammya stayed crouched, covering her head.

"If Candado gave me permission, they would already be dead," Viki whispered as she bared her fangs.

Unfortunately, after the gunfire ceased, the door broke, and Viki was sent flying through the air with her chicken Sío. Then the four intruders entered and began attacking Hammya, but Viki leaped off the bookshelf and hit one in the face. She then looked at the ones with weapons and, with a smile, started growing her nails in a terrifying manner. They, unafraid, began shooting, but the bullets did nothing to her. When she reached them, she cut the weapons into three parts as if they were butter. However, the two of them grabbed her arms and threw her against the wall. In a synchronized manner, they started beating her.

At that moment, Pio arrived and tried to save her, but the two kids got in the way: one armed with a machete and the other with lava hands that dripped onto the floor, leaving a hole in it. Pio, showing a smile, quickly launched herself at them. The guy with the machete began swinging it through the air with the intent to kill her, but she was very fast and easily dodged it. The other one shot lava from his hands, and Pio landed punches and dodged them.

Meanwhile, Viki fought against the other two. Fed up with being beaten, she lifted her feet and kicked them in the stomach, making them release her. Once she was free, she plunged back into the fight. She embedded her nails in the chest of one and threw him out of the window, which was open for some reason. She pummeled the other with punches and kicks all over his body, leaving him very weakened. Once he was in that condition, Viki took a leap and kicked him in the chest, sending him flying out of the window, which broke this time.

Once Viki finished with those two, she went to help Pio with the other two. However, these two were more skilled than the teenagers, faster, stronger, and smarter. They were challenging to attack as they dodged the blows from Viki and Pio. In contrast, they managed to land blows, many of them lethal. However, since Viki was a vampire, they didn't harm her at all. She fought alongside her companion Pio, and they had something the intruders lacked: teamwork and synchronization in combat. They had learned these elements from Candado. While Viki blocked all the hits, Pio attacked them in vulnerable areas.

However, at one point, the machete-wielding kid struck Pio in the abdomen, leaving her on the ground. Viki tried to assist her, but she couldn't since every time she approached Pio, she was attacked by the boy with the lava. Meanwhile, the machete guy slowly approached, dragging his weapon on the floor. When he reached Pio, he raised his machete in the air.

At that moment, when all seemed lost, Hammya emerged from her hiding spot and threw a glass at his face. The guy bent down and rushed toward Hammya with his machete to kill her, but she barely dodged as she had left a wound on his arm, causing the weapon to get stuck in the kitchen shelf. When he managed to free his machete, he approached her again, and Hammya, terrified, was paralyzed and closed her eyes.

At that moment, Candado entered through the kitchen window, brandishing his facón, and began to duel with the intruder. In this fight, Candado managed to disarm the guy and began to attack him with all he had. The intruder, desperate, tried to fight back, but his efforts were entirely futile. In a desperate attempt, he threw a punch at Candado, but he stopped it with his counterpalm, and cleverly, Candado grabbed him with the same hand he used to block the punch. Then he threw him toward himself, to the point of dislocating his shoulder. He struck him three times in the ribs. When he finished, Candado lifted him and knocked him out with a headbutt to the face, but it didn't do much good as he escaped through the window, the same way Candado had entered. Afterward, he approached Hammya, slapped her, and said:

"Don't be stupid, girl. Never hesitate or close your eyes again when you're in a fight like the one you just witnessed."

Hammya, with her hand on her cheek, looked at Candado and nodded. Once Candado saved her, he walked calmly to the living room. There, he saw Héctor and Viki sitting on a couch, he was trying to treat some gunshot wounds with bandages and wiping the bruises from his face with a handkerchief. He also saw the assailant lying on the floor being stepped on the head by Declan while polishing his sword and Pio, who was tying up the guy.

"Good job, team."

"What are you doing here, Candado?

"Well, if you haven't noticed, Héctor, Pio was the one who called me, and I was the one who passed the call to the guild.

"True that Pio doesn't know about your break.

"What? You on a break? That's new.

"Shut up, Pio.

"That means Héctor is in charge.

"Don't let it go to your head. I'll be back in a week.

"Alright, that's enough, Candado. Have you taken care of the other one?

"No, he slipped away. At that moment, Clementina appeared, carrying a bag of money.

"Clementina, well, I didn't see you come in. And what's with the bag? "said Declan.

"It's obvious why I came in through the window. As for the money, it's for the repairs.

"I told you to stay and take care of Yara.

"And I am taking care of her. Right now she is talking to Miss Hammya. If I were you, I would go and see the lady. She's been a little scared, after all, she was almost killed.

"Did you bring her here? "exclaimed Candado as he was leaving.

"Sir, what do we do with them? Candado paused for a moment and then looked at the two guys.

"Send them directly to the northern stadium. There they will be sentenced. As soon as he said that, Candado entered the kitchen and there he saw Hammya sitting on the floor very excited, breathing wildly, while Yara was next to her fanning her with a piece of cardboard.

Candado walked over, knelt down and put both his hands on her cheek.

"Hey, hey, take it easy, it's all over now," he said coolly.

Hammya was still excited, so Candado had no better idea than to slap her again.

"That's it? Are you all right now? "he asked again, still with his expression. Hammya calmed down, looked at Candado and gave him a hug. This made Candado lose his balance and fall down sitting up.

"Hammya, don't exaggerate, please let me go," said Candado while trying to free himself. But after a while, Hammya started to cry on Candado's shoulder.

"Wait, don't, if this is because I hit you, I'm sorry for hitting you," he said while trying to get her off him.

"No, you are right for hitting me. Thank you for saving my life. Thank you.

"Well, please let me go," he said wearily. However, Hammya was still clinging to him and would not let go for anything in the world.

Somehow, Yara was not very comfortable to see him being hugged by someone else who was not her, as well as confused to see him. But after a while, Yara also decided to hug Candado for no apparent reason, leaving him totally immobile.

"Now you too? Candado had remained inert for a few minutes, until Hammya and Yara released him.

Candado didn't know why they had hugged him like that, but he did know about Yara, since she is a girl and emotes everyone, but not Hammya, even though she slapped him twice.

"Well, I don't want to know about the hug. Now I want you to go home, is that clear, Hammya?

"Yes, all right.

"As for you, young lady, go home. I'll be back as soon as I finish my work. "No, sir, you're on vacation. Yara's not going anywhere.

"Of course you are.

"I'm not.

"Yes.

"No.

"Yes.

"No.

"Yes, it is.

"Yes.

"No.

"Well, you said it. He goes back to the house.

"Hey, you cheated, that's not fair, that's not fair.

"I'm sorry, life isn't fair. "I'm sorry, life isn't fair. Now go back home.

"I refuse to go back.

"You don't say "Russian", you say "I refuse".

"Well, that, I don't want to go back, I want to be with you. -Well, that, I don't want to go back, I want to be with you.

"We'll talk later, We'll talk later. Go back home.

"I DON'T WANT TO GO BACK!

"I'll charge you with the lord of terror if you disobey me. At that instant, Yara began to tremble and wag her tail wildly.

"I'm not afraid, really, I'm not afraid, let him come, I'm going to punch him.

"It's called "trompada". Are you going back home?

"NO! Candado, already out of options and without any patience, with a grimace and a stomp, let Yara stay with him, since he was tired of arguing with a five year old girl.

At that age, that's when a child is as stubborn as a mule. So Candado lifted Yara up and said.

"Okay, you win, but next time you will listen to me.

Candado went over to Hammya and helped her to her feet, then took her by the hand and led her to the living room where the others were. Once there, Candado began to talk to his companions.

"Have you seen it? It's totally out of the ordinary that they tried to kill Pio.

"You are absolutely right, Candado. I can't believe the Circuit tried to kill our friend," said Viki.

"Where are Declan and Pio? "asked Candado.

"They went to take the culprits to the north side.

"Did you see the faces behind the masks?

"Yes, but I don't know them. Declan seemed to know them and even gave their names. -What were their names?

"Fernandez Trillozo, disciple of Desza Blastimania, and Colman Cervantes," said Hector.

"It's impossible. I thought I was wrong.

"What's wrong? "Clementina asked.

"Fernandez was once part of the Guild, but he was expelled because he was a psychotic madman.

"What does that mean? "asked Viki.

"I was wrong. Not only do the Witnesses recruit opponents of the Circuit, but also outlaws of the O.M.G.A.B.

"What does that mean, Candado?

"It seems that our enemy wants to learn from us in order to destroy us.

"It's quite strange. Why gather these people together to destroy us?

"Don't be like that, Viki. Remember that you need to calm down.

"Our enemies want to meet us?

The truth had become quite strange. It was not possible to think that there were guild members who had been dismissed for aggressive and treasonous behavior. The Witnesses were becoming quite strange, going against their ideologies to wipe out the guilds. They wanted to go to great lengths to destroy their enemies. The explanation was far away for everyone, but for Candado, the answer didn't matter. If these madmen wanted to wipe them out, then he would be the one to destroy them first. The world had already seen one war, a dark war. Harambee fought and defended the freedom that many people died for. The guilds represented the guarantee of that peace, and they had to demonstrate that responsibility that was given to them.