Harley collapsed on the changing room bench, letting out a heavy breath as she rustled her hair, with sweat still clung to her body, just as Wess walked in as well, looking about as knackered as Harley.

“Well...my body’s just about to give up. My swinging arm’s starting to rebel.” Wess admitted, trudging over to her locker. “Have you had time to read up on our opponents?”

Harley waved her hand. “I’ll get to it...let me get oxygen first.”

“Frankly, I would’ve done it beforehand...” Wess muttered, as Harley managed to catch it.

“Don’t piss me off, Wess...we’ve gotta fight together soon...” Harley said, palming at her face. “I don’t wanna be tempted to...leave you alone with our opponents...”

“Then it’ll be a fair fight.” Wess remarked, showing off Belvedere and Artisan. “I just worry about who we might have to fight. Lord knows I want to avoid Team Ferocity...”

“And that douche Archer...” Harley said, thinking back to the start of the tournament. “I better not run into him again...”

“I heard even Cyrus is competing.” Wess pointed out, sighing to herself. “Hopefully, he’s yours to handle.”

Harley looked back at Wess, before sitting up. “You forget. I’ve got plenty of exes too. Odds are I’ll be matched with one sooner or later.”

Wess scoffed at the joke. “The odds haven’t been in my favour for most of my life, Harley. Counting chickens and all that...”

“Well, if that happens, feign an injury.” Harley suggested, grinning at Wess with a thumbs up. “I’ll take your place.”

Wess rolled her eyes and hid a smile. “My hero.”

Suddenly, a chime came out from the overhead TV, as footage of the recent fight aired.

“And just like that, Lenin Diggs has been left in the dust, as Duke de Vil and Archer Parthos claim the victory for themselves! Our two remaining competitors will split off and go into the solo rounds next week, so stay tuned! Oh, my heart’s racing!”

Harley and Wess stared up at the monitor, as Harley folded her arms. “Poor Lenin. Must’ve sucked getting paired up with Duke.”

Just as she said that, Lenin pulled himself into the changing room, stretching out a few stiff muscles.

“That Archer guy, I swear...” Lenin let out, painfully readjusting his shoulder. “I mean, Duke wasn’t help either, but I don’t think that guy knows how to hold back...”

“Sorry to hear about your loss. Those were quite unfair circumstances.” Wess remarked, as Lenin gave a well-meaning smile.

“I gave it a go. It’s not like I’m becoming a Dueling Venator anyway.” Lenin pointed out, stretching his back. “Plus, Saxin said that if I lost, she’d make it up to me.”

Lenin gave a thumbs up before leaving, as Harley rested her head in her hands, right before another person came rushing into the changing rooms.

“Hey guys!” Sola greeted, before jumping into Harley. “Wow, you smell bad.”

“Oh, hey.” Harley greeted, waving awkwardly. “We just...finished training, so...”

“Oh man, you really forget the smell in here.” Julia said, pinching her nose, just as Essex followed behind her.

“It permeates.” Essex pointed out, looking around the changing room for somewhere less fragrant.

“How goes the research into Faller?” Wess asked, before Julia shrugged nonchalantly.

“It’d be going better, but we haven’t had much time recently. Assignments are ramping up, and...I’ve got some plans that I need to get on top of.” Julia admitted.

“Plans?” Wess wondered.

Sola nodded. “Apparently, Julia’s gotta do some stuff in Detu City, so me and Essex are gonna do some research by ourselves.” Sola said, getting up and slinging her arm around Essex, drawing Harley’s eye.

Sola noticed her looking. “What?”

Harley shook her head. “Nothing.”

Sola’s eyes drooped. “It’s not nothing. I saw your face.”

Harley folded her arms. “My face can look different...”

Sola pouted, before dragging Harley off into another part of the changing room, away from the team.

“What’s that about?” Julia asked, as Essex tried to shy away, not wanting to stir up any more trouble.

Sola pulled Harley behind a couple lockers. “Come on, I know that look.” Sola let out.

Harley folded her arms. “...it just feels a bit weird having you two study alone.”

Sola blinked. “Are you jealous?”

“A little, yeah.” Harley said. “And...it’s like you’re trying to make it up to her...for the formal stuff.”

“But we’re teammates.” Sola pointed out. “And we’re the only ones with free time who can check out Faller’s history.”

Harley looked away. “It’s fine. I...I’m not gonna stop you from doing that. It's more important.”

Sola nodded back, before turning away. “Okay.”

Sola went to join the others, before stopping suddenly and turning back. “I wouldn’t go behind your back, alright?”

“...I know.” Harley let out, before leaving with her and rustling her hair.

They caught a few more people filtering into parts of the changing room, just as footage for the current match came across the TV.

Julia stared excitedly at the screen. “Oh, looks lik-”

“What the hell are you doing?! Defend! Defend!”

The team all turned to face the other half of the changing rooms, as they peered in to see Taylor yelling at the other TV showing off the match.

“Come on! Stop choking!” Taylor demanded. “Pick up th-oh, for...you guys suck!”

“Hi.” Sola greeted, stepping forward, as Taylor turned in frustration. “Why’re you yelling at the TV?”

“Cause they’re failing horribly!” Taylor yelled at the screen, resting their hands on their hips. “I get eliminated just to watch this shitshow?”

Sola watched the screen for a bit, before nodding. “Yeah, they suck like crazy.”

“Those are my teammates. They actually got into the next round, unlike me.” Taylor said, before pumping their fist. “Team Cha-Chunk!”

Sola cocked her head. “Cha-Chunk?”

“Yeah, like the sound.” Taylor insisted, making a motion with their arms. “Cha-Chunk! Like a shotgun!”

“That’s such a cool name!” Sola let out, turning to Julia and the others. “We should change our name to something like that!”

Julia and the others decided to join up with them. “But I like Team Valiant.”

“I like your energy. Are you studying here?” Taylor asked, eyes on the screen, as Sola nodded happily.

“Yeah! It’s been a fe...” Sola started, only to stare right up at them and recognise them. “...wait a minute! I’d know that awesome blonde hair anywhere!”

Taylor suddenly turned to her with wide eyes. “Sola?”

“Taylor!” Sola yelled out, jumping into them with a hug, as they swung her around joyously, surprising the rest of the team present.

“You guys know each other?” Harley asked, as Taylor let Sola down.

“We were friends back at my orphanage!” Sola said, struggling to keep her hands off them. “We hung out all the time!”

“It’s actually...” Taylor let out, before addressing the team present. “We’d spend hours together and run off into the forest a bunch. Sola kept getting lost and I’d have to drag her back out.”

“I did! That happened!” Sola exclaimed, jumping around joyously. “It’s been ages! How are you?”

“Well, I got shipped off to Aceoro. Western Wayside didn’t know what was coming.” Taylor bragged. “I’m basically the best Venator they’ve ever had.”

“Lucky!” Sola let out. “I knew you’d land on your feet!”

“Speaking of, it’s funny seeing you training to be a Venator.” Taylor remarked, eyeing Sola up. “It looks like you’re taking care of yourself now.”

Sola nodded emphatically. “I’ve even got a Whil now!”

“No shit!” Taylor let out. “You’ve gotta show me some time!”

Sola kept wriggling in place, before remembering the others were with her. “Oh yeah! My team!”

Sola jumped over and immediately dragged Harley over. “This is my girlfriend, Harley.”

Taylor recognised her from a few weeks prior and smirked. “I’ll be. What a small world.”

Taylor stuck out their hand. “Well, Sola’s girlfriend, I’m Sola’s regular friend. Pleased to reacquaint.”

Harley looked down at the hand, before shaking it. “Likewise.”

“And we’ve met already too.” Julia said, jumping in and quickly shaking their hand. “Julia.”

“Now I recognise ya. Were you the one with the rifle during that match last week?” Taylor asked, with Julia nodding in response. “I swear, you were the spitting image of Infra.”

Julia stood up straight. “You know Team Spectrum?” Julia let out, as Taylor nodded to her.

“I mean, you’re talking to their number one super fan.” Taylor bragged, pointing to their chest. “I own all their memorabilia, their documentaries, even that rare misprin-”

“-ted autobiography!” Julia finished. “Finally, some who gets why they’re so cool!”

“So cool, right?” Taylor let out, as Wess and Essex closed the distance to introduce themselves to Taylor, leaving Harley to back off a little.

Harley saw Sola and Taylor wrapping their arms around each other again, before trying to take her eyes off of it.

In the midst of their conversation, Taylor lifted their head toward Harley. “Everything all good, Harls?”

Harley ignored the nickname and waved back. “All good.”

“Alright. Hey, you mind if I sit in on your training while I’m here?” Taylor offered, pointing to the screen. “Beats watching my teammates flail around like dead fish. And I can see you use your Whil!”

Sola jumped up excitedly. “Totally!”

...before Julia dragged her back down, reminding her of the obvious. “Oh, right. I’m not training right now.”

It took Taylor a second, before they realised the obvious. “Oh, right. You got eliminated. Why would you be training?”

Sola was fortunate to avoid saying the real reason. “...yeah, but I’ll try to give a demonstration.”

“Greatly appreciated.” Taylor insisted, before being swept up in seeing Sola again and sweeping her up, grabbing her into a hug. “It’s wild seeing you again! Going here for the tournament was so the right decision!”

Harley kept a careful eye on the two, just as Taylor put Sola back down and saluted.

“Well, watching my team’s pissing me off, so I’m gonna go do literally anything else. Lo reme.” Taylor said, leaving right after.

“What a curious character.” Wess pointed out, turning to Sola. “I didn’t know you kept such good company.”

Sola smiled proudly, just as Harley came up from behind, before bringing her into another hug.

“Come on, I’m sick of training! Let’s go do something.” Harley insisted, as Sola couldn’t help but laugh.

“At least take a shower first!” Sola exclaimed, as they started leaving the changing room.

“I don’t see why that can’t be what we do.” Harley offered, as the idea connected for Sola.

“Oh yeah! We can actually do that!” Sola realised, before dragging Harley a bit faster. “See you guys later! We’re gonna use the dorm for a bit!”

Julia, Wess and Essex were left to their devices, as Wess started massaging her forehead.

“Harley was meant to study our opponents...” Wess pointed out. “Once again, I’m saving her...”

“I believe you’re up against Team Exemplary.” Essex explained. “Leandra and Roman, specifically.”

“Oh.” Wess said, before sitting down. “Well, that actually saves me some trouble. They’ll hardly be a challenge.”

Wess looked back up at Julia. “So, in regards to your plans...”

“O-Oh, right...” Julia let out.

Wess cocked her head. “Is it something serious?” Wess asked, just as Julia scratched her neck.

“Kinda...I’m meeting up with Florey.” Julia explained, shocking them both.

“Meeting? When did he contact you?” Essex asked.

Julia looked to the side. “It’s...back at the formal, he...showed up and said he’d ‘explain himself later,’ then he gave me his number.”

Julia took out her tablet and waved it around. “I just got a text from him this morning saying he was free and to meet in a couple days, so I fig-”

Just as she said that, her tablet went off again, spooking her enough to nearly drop it.

She realised it was a call, as the name ‘Madelyn’ came on screen.

“Well, that was terrifying timing.” Wess commented. “Do you need to take this?”

Julia remembered the formal again and gripped her phone, before taking a breath.

“I should. I’ll just be a minute.” Julia excused, before going off, right as Wess grabbed her hand and gave her a reassuring squeeze.

Julia ducked out of the changing room, as she tried to lean comfortably on the wall. Immediately, it felt off, leading her to walk around idly instead.

She called the number back, as she practiced her breathing.

Please be nothing, mum...

“...Julia? Am I actually speaking to you now?”

“Y-Yeah, hi mum.” Julia said, brushing some hair aside. “Did you need something?”

There was a slight pause.

“Well, how do you do too? I get it, you don’t want to talk to me...”

“No, mum, that’s not it...” Julia assured, rubbing her forehead. “Does this have to do with the call at the formal?”

“Yeah, actually.” Madelyn said. “Since you didn’t call back, I figured you were mad about something. Didn’t want to push anything...”

You’re the one who called in the first place. Julia thought. “So, what did you want?”

“Well, first, I wanted to hear about the rest of your trip.” Madelyn insisted. “Also, after something like that, I figured you’d want to borrow some extra money.”

“I-I’m good, really.” Julia excused, shuffling her feet.

“On top of that, I wanted to know if you were competing in the tournament. I was planning on visiting the campus to check out what the fuss was all about.” Madelyn explained. “But then I saw your team on TV and it answered it for me. I wasn’t gonna waste my time otherwise. Driving kills my back.”

“Y-You could have just texted.” Julia replied.

“I wanted to hear your voice. I’m your mother, sue me.” Madelyn said, as Julia was sure she was rolling her eyes. “So? Any big changes on your end?”

Julia realised just how much had happened recently that Madelyn didn’t know about.

“No.”

There was a pause.

“No?”

“N-Nothing big, really...just...n-normal Venator stuff.”

“You’re not even seeing anyone?”

Julia started blushing. “Mum, stop being nosy.”

“Would you tell me this stuff otherwise?”

“...probably not, no.” Julia admitted, as Madelyn sighed over the phone.

“Alright. But I’ll be coming over at some point, so get something gossip worthy ready.” Madelyn insisted, before hanging up the call, finally letting Julia off the hook.

She went back into the changing room just after, as Wess and Essex turned to her.

“Who was it?” Essex asked.

Julia pocketed her tablet. “Mum. She told me she’ll be visiting soon.”

Wess blinked. “Your mother? Well, this should be interesting.”

Julia sighed loudly. “This and Florey all at once...thank goodness I’m not competing in the tournament anymore...”

“If you wish, I can distract your mother when she arrives.” Essex said, giving a thumbs up. “I will lead her astray.”

“Lovely offer, but at least let me meet her first.” Wess insisted, smiling back at Julia. “I’m curious about certain aspects of Julia’s awkward teen years.”

“This is all too much...” Julia let out, as the weight of her commitments really started to sink in.

———

Ferris was struggling with another headache.

She never liked waking up in the same house as Faller, but ever since finding that bug in his office, waking up there only became more uncomfortable, so much so that she was willing to put up with the tournament nonsense at the academy just to get away from him.

Admittedly, the alcohol wasn’t helping much with the headache, but the Academy Daiquiri Lounge was quiet, compared to most of the campus, anyway, and it’s not like she wasn’t going to drink.

Lazily, she rested herself on the bar, staring up at the TV above her showing off the upcoming tournament matches.

“Hey, is this free?”

Ferris slowly lifted her head and turned to see another woman pointing at the bar stool next to her, before shrugging.

“I don’t own the bar.” Ferris remarked, as she took her seat.

“Didn’t think you did.” The woman pointed out, turning to Ferris. “Scrawny guy over there looks more like the type.”

She pointed at Seears, idly cleaning some glasses to the side, which managed to get a laugh out of Ferris.

The woman stuck out her hand, as Ferris bothered to shake it.

Who the hell is she? Ferris wondered, sitting back. Not a lot of friendly types at the bar...

“You feel like a lollipop?” The woman asked, fishing around in her pocket, as Ferris sneered at her.

“What am I, five?” Ferris said, as the woman just gave a nonchalant shrug and stared at her.

...I shouldn’t give her my name. Rosalind rationalised. Wicker would have a field day...

Frustrated with the TV, Ferris cleaned out her bottle, then inspected it to see if there was any left.

Ferris turned to Rosalind, before indicating to Seears. “You want one?”

Rosalind shook her head. “I don’t drink. I’ll take a coke, though.”

Ferris gave her a look, before shrugging. “A drink’s a drink. Hey, Seears! Get your dumbass over here!”

Seears bit his tongue and headed over. “And what can I get you…ladies…today?”

“Beer and a coke. And don’t skimp out on the cheap shit.” Ferris demanded, as Seears rolled his eyes and went to make it.

“And if you’ve got it, put some lemon in it!” Rosalind demanded too, slamming her hand on the counter.

“Of course I have it…” Seears grumbled, as the TV flashed images of Harley and Wess in preparation for the upcoming fight.

“I fucking hate those kids.” Rosalind groaned, resting her head on the table. “Look at them, acting like they’re the queens of the goddamn tournament…”

“Who thought these things up, anyway? Wailing don’t fight in competitions.” Ferris pointed out, grabbing the beer out of Seears’ hand, as Rosalind went for her drink too.

“Oh, god yes.” Rosalind exclaimed, grabbing her coke excitedly. “About time staying here got some perks...”

“It’s like, great, you can fight other students. What an accomplishment.” Ferris droned on, as Rosalind took out her lollipop and sucked on the provided lemon slice.

“Maybe it’s some tradition crap.” Rosalind said.

“Doesn’t mean it’s smart. Moron Venators…” Ferris pointed out.

Rosalind chortled. “Finally, someone who gets it.”

“Preach to that.” Ferris said, holding up her bottle to Rosalind, who clinked it with her glass. “I’ve gotta teach those bastards all freaking day, waiting on hand and foot, working them through the dumbest mission basics.”

“Don’t they still have that order of proceeding or whatever?” Rosalind pointed out, displaying her palms. “Secure the area, protect local morons, ask the Wailing politely to leave and give dem a widdle kiss…”

“Oh, that should have been removed decades ago.” Ferris sympathised. “It only gets them into a stupid routine before it all goes to shit and kills them.”

“You know, my father used to…” Rosalind started, before stopping herself. “Well, he wasn’t one, but he was studying to become one. Piece of shit got kicked out and wouldn’t stop banging on about the opportunities he’d missed. Forced me to learn how to fight just so he didn’t feel his training was wasted.”

“Sounds like a dick.” Ferris stated bluntly.

“Damn right, he was.” Rosalind let out, taking a good swig of her drink. “I left as soon as I could. Never missed him, never will.”

The story has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.

“Douchebags like that are best left in the dust.” Ferris said, taking another swig, before stopping herself mid swallow. “My boss is like that too.”

“Seriously?” Rosalind asked.

“Yeah, but he’s the real analytical type. Keeps prattling on about the good of the academy and all its students…” Ferris said, dry heaving after. “…then I have to save his ass every time a Wailing comes around cause he insists on seeing it in person. And THEN, I have to run about being his little errand bitch, all for his crackpot plans and theories.”

Rosalind sat up and grinned. “How the hell haven’t we met since today? You just described my shitstack of a boss too.”

Rosalind snickered to herself. “Are you sure we don’t work for the same guy?”

Ferris stared back at her, before raising her bottle again and clinking it with Rosalind’s glass, shaking her head. “It’s a small world.”

Rosalind lay on the counter. “But trust me, if you were in my line of work, you’d want to kill your boss every single day.”

“I think we might be soulmates.” Ferris remarked, getting a laugh out of both of them, as they both really started to enjoy their drinks.

———

Harley glared at Taylor, as they flung their whip onto Belvedere’s handle, trying to pry it from Wess’ grasp, only for her to throw it off and back away.

“Use your shield more! You coulda blocked that!” Taylor encouraged, going for a similar manoeuvre, just as Wess batted it away with Artisan. “Nice!”

Wess let her weapons down, before taking a breather. “Do you...want to take a break?”

Taylor shook their head. “Nah. Tell me when you’re ready to go again. I could keep going for ages.”

“...I could keep going for ages...” Harley mumbled under her breath, as Taylor clapped their hands.

“Come on! Make like Hammerbrazen!” Taylor encouraged. “Use that vitality Whil already!”

“Team Spectrum and Hammerbrazen? Someone’s quite the fanatic.” Wess remarked, standing back up, as Taylor wiped their nose.

“Of course, I’m very well read. And quite the history buff.” Taylor insisted. “Ever been to Collrino?”

“No, but I’ve always been keen.” Wess said. “All those ancient pottery showcases keep popping up in Mareau...”

“I know. I helped get some of the exhibits.” Taylor added, shocking Wess.

“Get out.”

“It’s true. Technically, I wasn’t allowed in some cases, but I had to preserve the work.” Taylor pointed out, just as Harley rolled her eyes off to the side.

“Well, you have my sincerest thanks for saving Daysend’s culture.” Wess said, folding up Artisan and putting Belvedere back in its sheath. “I’d love for you to tell me more.”

Taylor shrugged, before heading to the stands Harley was sitting on. “Sure. Might as well brag about it to someone.”

All you do is brag. Harley thought, just as Essex started walking in from the distance, heading up the stands with them.

“Hey.” Harley greeted. “How’s your research going?”

“Difficult. Information sources are light with details on Faller’s history.” Essex clarified. “Interviews, articles, personal remarks. All are surface level.”

“Doesn’t surprise me.” Harley commented, as Essex took a seat. “Thanks...for the effort.”

“Jesalo Mosori.” Essex replied, laying back comfortably, just as Taylor lifted their head from their conversation with Wess.

They stared over Essex briefly, only for her to notice, as she looked back at them.

“Are you in need of something?”

“You’re not from the Segaru Clan, are you?” Taylor asked, surprising Essex.

“Dal. I am.” Essex assured.

“I thought so. Casually dropping the language like that.” Taylor said, pointing back at Essex. “I didn’t recognise you without the robes, but it does explain the scythe.”

Essex stood up. “You are aware of the clan?”

Taylor nodded proudly. “I should hope so. I went to great efforts to learn the language.”

Oh, get out of here. Harley thought, trying not to pay attention.

“That would mean you would have needed to meet with them in person.” Essex realised.

“Yeah.” Taylor acknowledged, as Essex’s excitement grew.

“Relias, I am...thrown off.” Essex said, as Taylor waved their hand.

“I get it. You guys are pretty secretive about this stuff. That wasn’t about to stop me, though. Peno Decu and all.” Taylor excused, as Essex nodded along.

“Apologies. I assumed you were something similar to Eldava Monodo Del when we had first met.”

“At least I’m not a forseca.”

“Of course. I would not assume something so scathing.”

“I mean, it wouldn’t matter. Muer tinusa. Selamorta no.” Taylor remarked, getting a small laugh out of Essex.

They made her laugh? Harley realised, growing more and more frustrated. Just great...this better not throw me off our next match...

“Hey, Harley! I like your team!” Taylor exclaimed. “You feel like doing some training with me?”

Harley ignored them and stared off into the distance, as Taylor shrugged nonchalantly. “Guess she didn’t hear me. Who wants to hear about my trip to the Ruins of Revs?”

...I guess they were Taylor-made to piss me off... Harley thought, before regretting it immediately. Come on, Harley, you’re better than that...I’m totally off my game...

———

Leandra.

She stood at the end of the hall.

Staring directly out onto the arena.

It was almost time.

It wa-

“Okay, from the top!” Avalon announced, standing on one of the benches in the waiting area. “We’re what you’d call the bes-”

“Literally no one wants to say that and we didn’t even do it for our first match.” Acadia interrupted, annoying Avalon.

“Well, I did it.” Avalon proclaimed.

“And you were eliminated first.” Claudius pointed out, as Avalon glared at him too.

“How are we meant to intimidate our opponents if we aren’t a united front?” Avalon encouraged. “I suggest w-”

“Guys, shut up!” Leandra insisted, looking back at them. “I can’t think with all of you yammering.”

“Competitors! Make your way to the arena!”

Roman pulled himself up from his bench and joined Leandra’s side.

“You ready?” Roman asked.

“I will be.” Leandra assured. “Once I’m out of ear shot...”

Leandra started walking out onto the arena proper, feeling her confidence slowly returning to her bit b-

“Remember, Leandra, you’re representing the team! This is important for us!” Avalon insisted.

“Yes, thank you, Avalon!” Leandra yelled back.

“Do a good job today! We don’t want to appear slacking after last match!”

“I get it!” She yelled again.

“And try to look regal! Maybe a curtsy at the beg-”

“Shut up already!!!” Leandra yelled, properly facing him this time, as Avalon let her leave.

“Well.” Avalon remarked. “Seems her match has given her quite the temper.”

“It’s you.” Acadia insisted, dropping her head in her hands. “It’s always you...”

After grabbing their weapons and heading up, the murmuring of the crowd and the openness of the arena started to sink in, as Roman rested a hand on Leandra’s shoulder. “Ignore him. We’ve clearly got this.”

“I know that.” Leandra insisted. “I’m just sick of his voice...”

“Maybe if we lose badly enough, he’ll shut up for good?” Roman offered, as Leandra readied herself.

“I’m not losing to princess over there...” Leandra insisted, getting her shield ready. “Time to get payback, Wess. I’ll finally put this rivalry aside.”

Meanwhile, Harley and Wess stared at Leandra and Roman on the other side of the field, as they cocked their heads in confusion.

“Who are they again?” Wess asked.

“Avalon’s team.”

“Oh, right.” Wess said, unsheathing Belvedere. “Team...something.”

“Exemplary. What’s with the shield?” Harley asked, folding her arms. “Leandra’s only got a shield on her. Like, no sword or anything.”

“That’s certainly odd.” Wess remarked, looking to Roman. “Does he only have a bag?”

Harley just noticed that Roman didn’t even have a weapon and was only carrying a drawstring bag over his shoulder.

“What the heck?” Harley let out. “Who brings a bag to a tournament match?”

“Perhaps his weapon’s inside?” Wess said, entering a combative stance. “Regardless, we’ll get answers soon enough.”

Harley nodded back, before spotting Team Valiant in the crowd, waving to them both, joined of course by Taylor.

Harley let out a huff, trying to focus on the upcoming match, which Wess noticed.

“Are you alright?”

“...yeah, I’m good. No distractions.”

“If you aren’t in the right head space, don’t screw us both over.” Wess insisted, folding her arms. “We work well together when we’ve both got a clear head.”

“Hey, I said I’m clear.” Harley encouraged, looking to Wess and getting her Buster Knuckles ready, just as Spence came over the speakers.

“Team Exemplary VS Team Valiant! Who’s gonna come out on top? Who’s gonna show their moxie?”

“Who’s going to start this match?” Vent interrupted, before clearing his throat. “Competitors, get ready.”

“At least let me do my intro...”

Both duos entered combative stances, save for Roman.

“And...we’re off!”

“They might have Whils, so we’d best stay together until we get a read on their abilities.” Wess suggested, only for Harley to stare back at her.

“Wait, you didn’t research them?”

Wess looked offended. “Well you didn’t either! It’s only Team Exemplary. It hardly seemed worth the effort.”

“...fair call.” Harley confessed, looking a bit sheepish. “We’ve been pretty busy lately.”

“HEY!!!”

Harley and Wess shot back to Leandra.

“Focus on the fight!!! Stop chatting!!!” Leandra yelled, getting her shield ready.

“We could’ve taken them off guard if you hadn’t warned them.” Roman pointed out, getting ready to run.

“Yeah, that would’ve looked real good for us.” Leandra said, indicating to the crowd. “Starting with an underhanded move like that.”

“It’s their fault for getting distracted...” Roman remarked, only for Leandra to start running toward them, followed eventually by Roman.

Harley and Wess went back to their defensive poses, before charging ahead as well.

Wess started running at Leandra head on, Belvedere at the ready, waiting for her to pull out her own weapon, only for her to keep charging forward, before aiming her shield at Wess, causing her to block it with Artisan.

Leandra slid off Wess’ shield, before finding her footing and facing her again.

Meanwhile, Wess was thrown off by the sound of Harley being thrown to the ground behind her, just as Roman joined Leandra’s side again.

“What the hell was that?!” Harley yelled out, getting back up. “You put bricks in your bag?!”

“Why’s your shield bladed?!” Wess added, as Leandra stood proudly, holding out her shield.

“It’s my battle shield!” Leandra proclaimed. “And it’s the goddamn best!”

“Also, no, I didn’t.” Roman said, showing off their bag. “Actually, it’s only got a pillow in it.”

“Pillows don’t hurt!” Harley yelled, getting her Buster Knuckles ready again. “It’s gotta be a Whil!”

“Wow, she still has all that know-how from first-year.” Roman remarked. “Figured out how to use Activ ye-”

Harley interrupted him with a flurry of punches, which Roman managed to block with his bag, as Leandra pointed her bladed shield at Wess.

“This is it! I’ll finally get payback for you looking down on me!” Leandra declared, only confusing Wess again.

“I...truly don’t remember doing that.” Wess said. “Well, I did with Team Exemplary, but not you specifically...”

Leandra’s eye twitched.

“I’m part of the team!!!” Leandra insisted. “We’re exemplary for a reason!!!”

Leandra caught Avalon in the crowd, cheering and looking quite proud of himself, as she started to feel some embarrassment.

“R-Regardless, prepare to pay, princess!” Leandra proclaimed, before charging at Wess again, going for a shield bash.

Wess quickly went to block it herself, right as Leandra collided with her, managing to just push her back and onto the ground.

Wess did her best to stand back up, only for Leandra to overwhelm her again, knocking her over and trying to pry Artisan from her using her shield.

While struggling to hold her back, Wess luckily slipped Belvedere behind Leandra’s leg, pulling it out from under her, causing her to fall back, as Wess used the opportunity to get back up and ground herself.

“She’s surprisingly good with it...” Wess realised, trying to get back her breath, as Leandra jumped to her feet. “I just have to wear her out...”

Right as she said that, Harley grunted beside her, as Roman had her pinned underneath his bag, with Harley trying desperately to hold it up.

The ground was cracking beneath Harley, as the weight of the bag kept sinking her further and further.

“Well, now that I’ve got the time.” Roman prefaced, casually leaning on top of the bag as it did most of the work. “My Whil lets me change an object’s weight. To everyone else, this bag is heavy as shit.”

Roman sunk down to meet Harley’s bitter gaze. “To me, it’s just my bag.”

Harley grit her teeth, sinking further into the ground, before getting a good grip on it and putting all her weight into throwing it back at Roman, who just caught it normally.

Harley pulled herself from the ground, severely exhausted, as Roman joined Leandra’s side.

“That’s what you get!” Leandra stated. “That’s for the disrespect!”

Harley did her best to join Wess, as it was clear both were pretty out of it.

“She doesn’t have a sword. Her shield’s the weapon.” Wess said.

“His bag’s heavy as shit, but only for us.” Harley added, as they both looked at each other with a gaze of understanding.

“We should have bothered with the research...” Wess admitted, slapping her forehead.

“Worry about hindsight later. I’ve got an idea.” Harley said, only for Leandra to charge right at her.

Harley held up her Knuckles to block it, only for Wess to sweep in and do so, before they both realised Roman was jumping over Leandra, swinging the bag down onto them.

They both backed off, as the bag crashed into the ground, shattering a chunk of the arena beneath them.

The crowd gasped at the damage, as cheers started erupting from them, hoping to see more action.

“I should probably hold back a bit more...” Roman realised, as Leandra blocked him off again.

“Take care of the big one. Wess’ll be a sinch after that.” Leandra insisted.

“Well? What’s your idea?” Wess asked, getting ready for another attack.

“Just a guess, but I think Roman’s not very fit.” Harley pointed out. “He looks pretty lazy, and he doesn’t feel the bag’s weight, so he’s not lifting a bunch.”

“So we take out Leandra.” Wess realised. “But if we can’t get around the bag-”

“We’ll figure it out.” Harley said, charging forward, right as Leandra did the same.

Just as Leandra pointed her shield’s blade at Harley, she grabbed onto it with her Knuckles, holding both of them in place.

Roman went in to swing overhead at Harley while she was stationary, just as Wess blocked him off, attempting to cut off the handle of his bag.

Roman pulled it back and swung it at Wess now, as she dodged backwards, waiting for it to hit the ground.

Once it did, Roman pulled it back up, hoping to hit Wess again, just as she jumped to the side, aiming Belvedere for the drawstring as it swung up. It just managed to cut, as the bag flew out of Roman’s hands and towards Leandra.

Leandra barely had a second to react, before it landed square in her chest, knocking her away with its sheer weight, as Roman briefly panicked.

“Oh shit...” Roman let out, just as Harley picked up Leandra’s shield and chucked it at him, knocking him to the ground as well.

After a few more seconds, the speakers came on again.

“And in just a few seconds, Team Valiant wins it! Leandra Brimmer and Roman Snowball are finished!”

“Despite all odds, Wess Delacroix Nouvel and...Harley Baroke won. What a surprise...”

Harley let out a few heavy breaths, leaning on her legs, before giving a thumbs up to Wess. “Nice...thinking...”

“You held her back.” Wess insisted, smiling and waving back at the crowd.

“Dammit...” Leandra muttered, just as the weight of Roman’s bag returned to normal. “Avalon’s gonna be pissed...”

She stared at Wess accepting the praise. “My ire’s only been invoked more, Wess...you just had to take this from me...”

———

“Boo!!!” Rosalind yelled out, standing over the bar. “Rigged! They rigged it!”

“Hey, get off there!” Seears complained, as Rosalind begrudgingly did so, only to flip him off when he wasn’t looking.

“Little shits didn’t deserve to win.” Rosalind insisted, getting heated again. “I swear, if that were me...”

“...they’re good fighters.” Ferris admitted, circling her bottle. “Not great, but they’re better than those chumps in Team Exemplary...”

“Good fighters...” Rosalind grumbled, pushing her legs against the bar and balancing on her stool. “I still hate them...”

Suddenly, Rosalind sat up proper and shook Ferris’ shoulder.

“Hey. You know…shit, what’s her name?” Rosalind said, snapping her fingers, before pointing to Ferris. “Commander Major! That’s it! From Team Ballistic!”

Ferris sat up and took a swig of her drink. “Yeah, I know of her.”

Rosalind waved her hand. “I really looked up to her when I was younger. She was one of the only Venators I could actually stand, and she seemed to hate the industry as much as I did…hearing about what happened to Team Ballistic in the end really fucked me up. She...was a good fighter.”

Rosalind stared at the counter, before laughing slightly. “To be honest, she’s the reason I got good with my sword.”

Ferris raised an eyebrow. “You’ve got a sword?”

Rosalind nodded, getting up and running over to the side of the door where it was resting, before coming back and showing it off. “I know she didn’t use a katana, but this fit me better. Way more versatile.”

Ferris took her time looking over it, noticing the strange triangular pattern running up its side, side-glancing Rosalind the whole time, before handing it back. “Just from the wear and tear, I can tell you’re pretty experienced with it.”

Rosalind sneered. “Fuck off. I’m great with it.”

“What kinda line of work has you carrying around a sword?” Ferris wondered, sitting up a little, as Rosalind waved her hand.

“Bodyguard. And some freelance stuff.” Rosalind played off, before leaning into Ferris a bit more. “You’re not, like...undercover, are you?”

“God no.” Ferris said, as Rosalind felt a bit more at ease.

“Good.” Rosalind grinned.

“Still, who do you need to bodyguard here?” Ferris wondered, as Rosalind finished off her third coke.

“No one. I’m doing surveillance.” Rosalind admitted. “Gotta keep an eye on certain people.”

Ferris raised an eyebrow. “Dangerous people?”

“In a sense.” Rosalind said, drumming her fingers on the bar. “Dangerous for my boss.”

“...no kidding.” Ferris said, leaning back again. “Freelance, huh?”

“Yeah. Hard stuff.” Rosalind admitted, before facing Ferris again. “It’s basically whatever the boss wants from me. No two jobs are really the same, but that’s just cause I’m capable.”

“At least you’re not babysitting all day.” Ferris joked, as Rosalind laughed again.

“If you hate it here, then why’re you torturing yourself?” Rosalind wondered, leaving Ferris silent.

“...I don’t really have a choice.” Ferris confessed, turning around and leaning backward on the bar. “The world wouldn’t want me anyway.”

Rosalind gave her a side glance, before bumping her side. “We’re always hiring.”

Ferris smirked, before turning back around. “No, you’ve got it good. I don’t wanna stink up your work.”

“I don’t have it good. I’ve just made it work.” Rosalind confessed, staring up at the TV again.

Ferris found her gaze drifting to Rosalind again, before she rested on the bar, trying to think of whatever else to say.

———

“I just don’t know what I’m gonna say.”

“He’s the one who walked out. He should be the one to talk.”

“But I still don’t know if I’m the one who pushed him to leave.”

“If that were the case, he probably wouldn’t want to talk to you at all.”

Harley picked at her lunch, floating around her own thoughts, as Julia and Wess talked back and forth across the table from her.

“...I’m allowed to be mad at him, right?”

“Of course you are.” Wess insisted. “Don’t let him off the hook just because you’re friends.”

Julia nodded comfortably, before linking hands with Wess. “Thanks Wes-”

“Julia, please.” Wess insisted, separating them. “Not in the study area.”

“O-Oh, sorry...”

“...I don’t blame you.” Wess said, before leaning in. “I’m pretty irresistible.”

Julia cracked a smile. “You just had to compliment yourse-”

“Doesn’t Taylor seem a bit weird to you guys?”

Julia and Wess both looked at Harley, as she’d just lifted her head.

“Taylor? How so?” Wess asked.

“You mean kinda like Sola?” Julia pointed out, as Harley scratched her forehead.

“No, just...it doesn’t sit right with me.” Harley pointed out. “Sola’s best friend from childhood shows up out of nowhere after...how long? And now they’re hanging out all the time.”

Harley waved her hands frantically. “And they just happen to have everything in common with the whole team? Sure is a coincidence.”

“Well, yeah. It probably is.” Julia said. “Also, they haven’t seen each other for ages, they’ve gotta catch up. Actually, aren’t they going around campus together?”

“I believe so. Taylor wanted to see the Spire in person.” Wess noted, as Harley’s eye twitched.

“Wha-that’s our date spot!” Harley exclaimed, folding her arms and pouting. “Sola knows how much that means to us...”

“It’s also the most notable landmark at the academy...” Wess muttered, as Julia reached across the table.

“There’s no reason to be jealous. Sola wouldn’t go behind your back.” Julia clarified. “She’s just excited to see an old friend. It’s like you and Chops in first-year.”

“We’re exes. It’s different.” Harley pointed out. “And it doesn’t change my mind about Taylor. There’s something off about them...”

Julia and Wess both looked at each other, before sighing out and continuing their previous conversation.

I’ve just gotta get them to confess to whatever they’re doing. There’s no way it’s just friends catching up. Harley thought. They’ve gotta be trying something...I just wish I knew what...

———

Ferris slammed her drunken fist on the counter.

“Hey, Seears! More of this shit!” Ferris yelled out, as Seears swore under his breath.

“I hope you’re going to pay for this.” He asked, as Ferris blew a raspberry.

“No! Charge that dicklick Faller. He never lets me touch his liquor cabinet…” Ferris complained, before crashing onto the bar counter. “Oh god, it’s all coming back…”

“You better not mean back up.” Rosalind said, backing away.

“No, just…all the ways I’ve fucked up…” Ferris let out, rolling her face on the counter. “I’m a goddamn failure...everyone hates me...good for nothing...”

“Good for conversation.” Rosalind insisted while finishing her drink, only to realise the state Ferris was in.

Rosalind bumped her side. “Hey, don’t you say that stuff.” Rosalind said, throwing her glass down. “You don’t let those people in. They don’t matter.”

“Whadda you know?...I just met you today...” Ferris slurred, as Rosalind poked her arm.

“Beating yourself up does nothing. It just means they won. They got to you.” Rosalind insisted. “You’re always better than that, and better than them.”

Rosalind started getting more heated up. “Just cause they don’t get you doesn’t mean you’re some...broken fucking thing that they need to put down to feel better! That shits for the birds!”

Rosalind slammed her fist on the bar. “Don’t give anyone the time of day! You’ve got nothing to fix!” Rosalind proclaimed. “And anyone who says otherwise can fuck off!”

Rosalind took a breath, before sitting back down, as Ferris slowly turned back to her.

“...why’re you even bothering...?”

“Cause there’s only two kinds of people I like.” Rosalind said, holding up her fingers. “Me, and people who get it.”

Rosalind poked her again. “You get it.”

Just as she said that, her tablet buzzed in her pocket, prompting her to get out of her seat and drawing Ferris’ eye.

“Urgent business?”

“Actually, yeah.” Rosalind said, before taking out her wallet. “Hey, piss boy.”

Seears begrudgingly turned around, only for Rosalind to throw several hundred capitals on the bar, shocking Seears stiff.

“For my drinks, and whatever’s on her tab.” Rosalind said, indicating to Ferris, before smirking to herself. “Guess I found a use for it, Salaire...”

Ferris could hardly believe it, as Rosalind took her sword and left, saluting on her way out, as Seears shared a glance with her.

“Who the hell was she?” Seears let out, quickly raking up the money.

“An angel.” Ferris let out, lying on the bar again. “I shoulda married her on the spot...”

———

Julia rhythmically drummed her fingers, staring off into the white noise of Detu City. The café managed to provide enough distraction for her, even as she knew her drink was getting cold.

The only thing that drew her attention was Florey across from her, taking a sip of his own drink, as it was clear he wanted to start up the conversation.

“...it’s a nice café.” Florey started.

“What?” Julia asked, looking at him.

“I said it’s nice. The café.” Florey clarified, putting the drink down.

“...yeah, it’s good.” Julia replied, before looking away again.

Florey started drumming his hands too. “How’s the tournament going?”

Julia faced him again. “Good. Harley and Wess are doing really well.”

“And the others?”

“They’re good too.” Julia answered.

Florey noticed the lull in the conversation again, before taking another sip of his drink.

“Alright, I’m just gonna come clean.” Florey stated, leaning into the table. “About what happened.”

Julia finally turned to him.

“...during the end of the year, after I was...really struggling in a lot of my classes, I got a job offer. From Mr Cecil.” Florey said, surprising Julia. “To work with him at Event Horizon Manufacturing.”

“You got a job at EHM?” Julia replied, as Florey nodded back.

“He offered, and...after our fight, I said yes.” Florey added. “I started working there in...March? Around then.”

Julia still had to take in the news. “So why didn’t you call? Or come over and explain where you went?”

Julia leaned in a little. “You could’ve done that at any point.”

Florey was a bit lost for words. “I was...acting out. The last time we’d talked, you were really angry, and then at the atta-”

“No, you were the angry one.” Julia pointed out, crossing her arms. “I wanted to help and you started yelling at me. If you’re apologising, don’t pretend I was the one at fault.”

Florey sighed out. “...I was angry, and...didn’t know if we were still friends.”

Julia took a deep breath, before going for her drink, then putting it down. “...I wouldn’t stop being friends with you after one fight.”

“Right. Obviously...” Florey realised. “I wasn’t really thinking straight...”

Florey settled into his seat more. “But I don’t regret leaving. Studying as a Venator in the first place was a mistake. I’m much better off at EHM.”

“If you didn’t want to become one, then why go through all the trouble of applying?” Julia wondered. “You seemed content enough when we first arrived.”

Florey fell silent for a moment, as he rested his hands on his cup. “...I wanted to be a scientific Venator, not a hunting one.”

Julia blinked. “Then why’d you go to VA? It’s almost exclusively for hunting Venators.”

Florey scoffed. “Dad insisted.”

Julia stopped talking.

“He said his son shouldn’t be anything less than a ‘real’ Venator.” Florey recalled. “My plan was to go to the Defender’s Guild, but I didn’t get a say.”

Julia avoided eye contact, as Florey took a needed breath.

“But now I know that even then, I wouldn’t be doing anything. Just perpetuating more research into wasting time.” Florey remarked, drawing Julia’s attention.

“It’s not a waste of time. Venators are ending the Wailing Conflict.” Julia pointed out. “We’re literally built to do that.”

“Then why the lessons on marketing? Why the job fairs and needless sparring matches over petty squabbles? The tournaments, for god's sake.” Florey declared. “Don’t you think if Venators were saving the day, they would’ve done it by now?”

“It’s not gonna happen overnight, Florey.” Julia let out. “The Wailing aren’t rolling over. And they’re only getting tougher.”

“But are Venators?” Florey said. “What’s taking so long? It’s a centuries long fight that’s never going to end at this rate.”

Julia turned away from him again. “I think it’s pretty rich for you to leave after one year of your degree and act like you’ve got it all figured out.”

Julia showed her hands. “If you’ve got such a problem with it, then what’s your solution? How do you plan to get rid of the Wailing?”

Florey took a minute to think.

“I don’t have one, but I’ve got a better chance of finding it where I am now.” Florey said.

“Alright then. While you’re working on that, I’ll work on being a Venator.” Julia pointed out. “We’ll see who ends it first.”

Florey scowled a little, before shaking his head and reaching out over the table. “We’re both going about it our own way. I don’t look down on you for wanting to become a Venator. Heck, a year ago, I was in the same position.”

Florey tried to look more approachable. “And I don’t want us to leave here on bad terms.”

Julia stared at the ground again, as her face betrayed her frustrated exterior. “...I don’t want to either, but...I’m not gonna instantly forgive you for leaving again, and without any warning this time.”

Florey nodded solemnly. “I can take that.”

Julia turned to face him again, as Florey felt he could open up a little more.

“You wanna talk about some nicer things?” Florey asked, as Julia nodded back.

“How’s work treating you?” Julia said, as Florey perked to life a little.

“Really well, actually. I’m getting a great amount of work done.” Florey explained. “And I’ve got my own lab.”

Julia double took. “Really?”

“Yeah. I mean, technically, it’s Cecil’s, but he never uses it.” Florey said, raising his hand up. “All the way on the top floor.”

“That’s some position.” Julia remarked. “What’d you have to do to get that?”

Florey scratched his cheek. “Uhh, just apply, actually...came with the job.”

Julia begrudgingly smirked. “I can see why you took the job now.”

“Well, I actually didn’t know about the lab going in...” Florey admitted, getting more comfortable. “But I’ve got this boss, right, Cassidy, and she’s been su...”

Rosalind took her time watching over the conversation, before she noticed it picking up between the two of them. While it was clear there was still some tension, Julia was starting to look more engaged with Florey’s talking points, if only a little. Even Florey felt comfortable enough to smile.

Rosalind took down her binoculars and took a few notes, before clicking her tongue worriedly.

“Who would have guessed? Wicker was right...”

———

Despite the cold, Harley needed answers.

It was already night time, and Harley was having trouble focusing on anything else during most of the day. Her suspicions kept coming up, and she knew the only way to take care of them was to tackle it at the source.

By confronting Taylor.

She huddled together in the coat she borrowed from Wess, waiting patiently outside the academy entrance for Taylor to arrive.

This is it...some proper answers...

Harley tapped her foot impatiently, watching her visible breath.

After all, they’re...they were...

Harley grit her teeth a little.

...it doesn’t matter. I know they’re up to something with Sola.

Harley kept waiting, as the cold bled into her coat even more, unsettling her further.

Trying to get some warmth into her body and stave off boredom, she made an effort to wander around the entrance, huddling up as she walked, just as the academy Spire started to come into view from behind the main building.

Harley stared at it for a second, as the night truly started to sink in for her.

...what am I thinking?

Harley stopped moving for a second.

This is just stupid...what would Taylor even be doing?

Harley sank to the ground, as she sat on the curb of the main pathway.

...I’m just mad that them and Sola were getting along. And...about Sola and Essex...and...

Harley hung her head down, as she let out a frustrated breath.

I’m doing it again...

She eventually stood back up, as she pulled out her tablet and checked the time again.

“I’ve gotta text them and call it off.” Harley insisted, gripping her tablet tightly. “Maybe I was wrong abou-”

“Hey, Harls!”

Harley turned to see Taylor coming down to meet her, only to be hit by the sudden chill of the night.

“Wow, couldn’t have picked a worse place to talk, huh?”

“...I just didn’t want to be interrupted...” Harley admitted, sighing out, before facing Taylor. "Look, I’ve gotta confess something, so...”

Harley did her best to work up the nerve, as Taylor sat by, waiting patiently.

“...I...didn’t like you.” Harley started, just as Taylor looked confused. “Wait, I meant...I started not liking you when...”

Harley took a breath before starting again. “...I was jealous of you hanging out with Sola. She’s my girlfriend and...when you were getting along so well, I felt left out.”

Harley avoided looking Taylor directly in the eyes. “A-And then you got along with the rest of the team, so...I thought...quite stupidly, I’ll add...”

Harley spun her fingers together. “...that you had ulterior motives.”

Taylor looked a little offended, before taking Harley’s comment in properly.

“A-And obviously, that’s not the case. Why would I even think that?” Harley added, turning her back to Taylor. “You were just excited to see Sola, right? It’s not like you were trying to replace me or anyt-”

“Harley.”

Harley stopped briefly, as she spun back around to face Taylor.

Taylor folded their arms, hoping to hold off some of the cold, before opening their mouth to speak.

“Alright. Thanks for telling me.”

“...”

“...”

“...?”

Harley blinked.

...what?

Harley looked around awkwardly, as if she were expecting something to happen, only for Taylor to follow along.

Why didn’t...

Taylor kept trying to follow her gaze, before realising it was aimless. “What is it?”

So they really weren’t...?

Suddenly, Taylor realised what was happening.

“Oh my god. Were you expecting me to actually be a dick?”

“No, no, of course no-”

“Is that why you dragged me here?”

“W-Well, at first, ye-”

“So I could confess some evil plan about replacing you or whatever?”

“I mean, that didn’t have to happe-”

“Just because I show up after a long time, suddenly, I’m trying to take your friends away? Cause I’m getting along with them? Hey, maybe I was just excited to see Sola after a decade of being apart.”

“Alright, I’m sorry! I was scared, okay?”

“Yeah, well it’s still shitty.” Taylor insisted, huffing out. “Like, come on. Yeah, I got to know the team, because you’re important to her. Heck, I figured her girlfriend would understand that...”

Taylor waved their arms. “Who does that? Who sneaks into a friend group just to fuck with them as some weird revenge thing? I’m competing in the tournament. I don’t have time for...social coercion and identity theft.”

Taylor pointed back at Harley. “I literally didn’t know you three weeks ago!”

“Okay, now that you’re laying it out, it really does feel stupid.” Harley defended. “But...”

Harley tried to hide her face. “...I was angry, okay? You’re really cool, and me and Sola are in a bit of a rough patch, so when I saw you making her and the team so happy...I dunno, I got defensive.”

Harley patted her chest. “I do that! I’m the team's wall! It’s just normal for me!”

“If you’re gonna apologise to me, you should apologise to your team as well.” Taylor pointed out, quieting Harley. “If you guys are really close, some silver-tongued stranger coming in and befriending you shouldn’t rip you apart, you know?”

Harley bit her tongue, before staring at the ground. “...do you think I’ve been a bad partner to Sola?”

Taylor folded their arms. “My perspective’s pretty biased right now. You may not want an answer to that.”

“Fair call...” Harley let out, as Taylor stared back at the academy.

“I’m gonna head back to my dorms now, but you need to think some things over.” Taylor noted. “I’m not gonna be your scapegoat. Sola seems happy with you.”

Taylor pointed back at her. “So keep it that way.”

Taylor promptly left, as Harley was left taking the brunt of most of the cold.

Harley kicked the ground, before grabbing her head.

“Why do you do this, Harley?” She said to herself, smacking her forehead. “Don’t ruin a good thing...”

Harley stared up at the night sky. “But I can’t just say yes to Essex...and I can’t pretend everything’s normal...Sola’s too smart to fall for that...”

He let out her breath again, as it gathered in a cloud in front of her. “I don’t know what to do...”

She sunk to the ground again, ignoring the cold around her.

“Am I even good enough to be with her?”