Working as a Hero Care Assistant means embracing a lifestyle where the clock has little say in dictating my waking moments. In an era where heroes boldly venture into newly discovered realms, our services at MagicPerformax have never been more vital. As danger escalates in these distant lands, facing fierce kingdoms and unknown entities, the business of providing support has thrived alongside these perils.

Returning from the convenience store, I step into the modest warmth of our small home, situated on the fringe of the bustling business district. It's a humble testament to our parents' legacy, two war heroes whose valor granted us a semblance of comfort. Sometimes I wonder if they'd frown upon my career choice, envisioning me as a gallant figure clashing with demon lords or quelling orcish uprisings, not clutching a microwaveable dinner, entrenched in the daily grind of aiding heroes via calls and emails.

"I'm home," I announce, pushing open the door.

"Vaughn!" My sister's voice, bright as morning, greets me, followed by the patter of eager footsteps. Yvonne engulfs me in a hug, her smile wide, her embrace enveloping my waist. "How was work?"

"Up with the sun, aren't we, Yvonne?" I reply, a smile creeping into my tone. "Grabbed us breakfast. Let me heat it up, and then we can chat."

…

"So, how was the office adventure today?" Yvonne's voice dances with curiosity as I place a plate heaped with bacon and eggs before her.

"Well, it was an odd mix of chaos and delight," I respond, swirling the coffee she's poured. "Dad would have probably grumbled at the very notion of it, yet there's something undeniably enjoyable about the madness."

Yvonne laughs, her chuckle mingling with the clink of her spoon against the milk glass. "Dad's eyebrows would have met his hairline, imagining his child in the support wing rather than on the front lines," she teases, yet her gaze softens. "However, I find it inspiring, the path you've carved."

A warm smile touches my lips at her words. "You'd be surprised. Many out there seem to think this is a walk in the park, hence the flood of applicants." I take a sip of the coffee, its aroma grounding. "They're even reaching out to schools now, I heard."

"True," she confirms, forking up a piece of egg. "It's not just MagicPerformax, either. Concentratus and Innovative Solutions are in the race too. Concentratus especially, with their extravagant display of armaments."

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"Really? And how does MagicPerformax stand in all this?" I inquire, a hint of intrigue coloring my tone.

Yvonne opens her mouth to reply but then glances at the clock. "Oh no, I need to dash," she blurts, downing her milk in one swift gulp and standing with urgency. "I have beadle duties today, and punctuality is the code." She darts over, a quick kiss landing on my cheek. "You've transferred the money for—"

"It's done," I interject, showing her the confirmation on my phone.

Her face lights up. "You're a lifesaver, Vaughn. Love you tons! Now, make sure you get some rest after you eat," she says, her concern genuine.

"Love you too, Yvonne. And don't worry, I will,"

…

After a satisfying breakfast and some much-needed rest, I'm roused by the pleasant chirping of birds and the less welcome sound of my phone alarm. Shaking off sleep, I step into the shower, letting the water reinvigorate me for the day ahead. Once dressed, I check my phone and am greeted by a message from Dory.

Vaughn, great news! Your TL's appeal worked out. The Quality Manager has decided the issue won't count against your team's overall metrics, and they've advised Workforce to keep that client away from you in the future.

A wave of relief washes over me as I quickly type a thankful reply to Dory. I finish dressing, making sure my shirt sits neatly, and head downstairs. Double-checking that everything is secure, I step outside, heading back to the heart of our bustling operations.

On the way, I catch a glimpse of Yvonne mingling with other students, most likely heading to the business districts to unwind. We exchange a brief, cheerful wave before I continue on my way. The loss of our parents was a profound hardship, but having Yvonne here has been an unending source of solace.

I soon reach the office, noting the unusual sight of several helicopters descending towards the rooftop. Such occurrences aren't unheard of, but they usually signify a significant visitor—perhaps a VIP client is in town.

"I bet Alliana is in the loop," I muse to myself as I show my ID to the security guards and make my way through the imposing glass entrance. I exchange quick greetings with fellow agents before a recognizable voice halts me.

"Ah, Vaughn!" It's Lemi, with his trademark easy-going manner.

I return the greeting with a casual smirk. "Lemi," I say, as we both step into the gleaming elevator.

"Here's to another day in the world of MagicPerformax," he says, exhaling a light-hearted sigh as I nod in agreement. "Wonder what the queue's like today," I muse aloud, prompting a head shake from him.

"It's a mess," Lemi discloses. "I've heard we've got a backlog of at least twenty calls. More exploration teams are running into trouble, and the demand for support is spiking."

I consider this. "But that's good for business, right?" I say as we exit the elevator into the heart of operations. "More customers, more revenue."

Lemi frowns, "The clients have been pretty on edge, though," he admits, heading towards the locker room. "Had one earlier practically yelling for revival potions because his automatons went rogue. And there was that mix-up with the chemist's—"

His words are cut short as a soft voice intervenes. We both turn to see Judy, her blonde ponytail and clear blue eyes making her instantly recognizable among the SMEs.

"Lemi, you know we shouldn't be discussing clients outside of the production floor," she chides gently, causing Lemi to start a bit."A little levity never hurt anyone, Judy," Lemi mutters, though he concedes with a pat on the head from her.

"I'd love to agree, but we've now got forty calls in the queue, agitated agents, and TLs on the warpath. Time to hustle," Judy reminds us with a pointed look.