Seeds of Smitty 8==D~~
4 members
Yo guys <
I was just got called by Principal Arif just now <
he said Ms. Lyra gotta pickup Mr. Caden this afternoon <
wanna come? <
Seen at 8:42 a.m.
Sworn Brother Takoda >:-D
> Bro im just a story below of ur house
> so… Im coming~
Sent at 8:43 a.m.
Bro Smitty :v
Replying you: “wanna come?”
> Just woke up. I’m cool staying home.
Sent at 8:50 a.m.
Bro Aime $$$
> me too
Sent at 8:56 a.m.
Replying ’Bro Smitty :v’: “dude, I just woke up…”
He also said she gonna pickup the girl too <
Seen at 8:56 a.m.
Bro Aime $$$
Replying you: “He also said she gonna…”
> Hyun?
Sent at 8:56 a.m.
I guess so <
Seen at 8:57 a.m.
Bro Aime $$$
> then im comin too
Sent at 8:57 a.m.
Bro Smitty :v
> me too then
Sent at 8:57 a.m.
fuckin simps <
seen at 8:58 a.m.
Bro Aime $$$
> Says the dude who leaves his house for girls :*
Sent at 9:00 a.m.
Bro Smitty :v
Replying ‘You’: “fuckin simps”
> Look whos talkin
Sent at 9:05 a.m.
Sworn Brother Takoda >:-D
Replying ‘Bro Aime $$$’: “Hyun?”
> Aime, bro. dont let her see u getting hard ok?
> or else, ur ass stayin in the station :J
Sent at 9:08 a.m.
Replying ‘Bro Aime $$$’: “u didn’t make any…”
Stfu Negus, we meet at school’s gate at 1pm <
Replying ‘Bro Smitty :v’: “and at least…”
Whatever, negus. At least I’m honest about it :V <
Seen by 3 at 9:09 a.m.
Bro Aime $$$
> hahahahaaha XD
Sent at 9:09 a.m.
***
After the group chat fizzled out with a few more jokes, everyone confirmed they'd meet at the school gate. It was already at the time as promised, Takoda waited with Axka by the Amethyst High’s gate. He let out a sigh. “Man, thank the Ancestors that it’s still spring this month.”
Axka shrugged. “Still sweating though.” He kept flipping his shirt to cool off while scanning the street for their friends.
Smitty and Aime eventually came into view.
“There those fools come.” Axka muttered, exchanging middle fingers with them as they approached. As they closed, The Slingers exchanged dap.
“What now?” Smitty asked, shifting the topic.
Axka glanced at his phone. “Ms. Lyra’s on her way.” He shoved it back in his pocket. “So, you guys done sucking each other’s cock yet?” Axka threw in a sarcastic joke.
“Nah, we’re not done yet.” Aime blurted without thinking, earning a round of blank stares. A pause hung in the air as Aime’s brain caught up to his mouth.
“I mean—our girlfriends are going to… which you don’t have, Axka.” Aime quickly laughed, trying to defuse the awkward silence that followed.
Axka chuckled. “Solid cover-up, bro. Really.”
Smitty grinned, chiming in, “Well, at least the guy’s making an effort. Can’t say the same for the rest of you losers.” The group gave him the same blank stares. “Wait—shit, I mean, I was backing Aime up, bro,” Smitty added, but the damage was done. Takoda burst into laughter, and the rest followed suit.
The hum of an engine interrupted their banter. Takoda glanced toward the road “There she is,” he said, pointing at the vehicle.
Ms. Lyra’s MPV rolled to a stop, its engine purring softly as Ms. Lyra rolled down her window. “Come on in, everyone,” she said, her voice calm.
As the doors clicked open, their eyes briefly met—a silent exchange of unspoken tension, acknowledging that this ride wasn't going to be just another casual trip.
They opened the third-row passenger seats, and Aime immediately pushed forward. “I’m taking the middle. Gotta be near Hyun,” Aime declared, rushing for the seat.
Axka shot him a look. “What the fuck, man? Let us get in first if you want the damn middle.”
Takoda chuckled, seeing right through Aime. “Control your cock, bro.” He teased, giving a sly grin, the group’s laughter followed naturally as they climbed in, easing the tension.
Aime, grinning sheepishly, stepped aside. “Alright, alright. Go ahead.”
“Boys? Come on, hurry up,” Ms. Lyra called from the front, her voice a mix of impatience and amusement at their antics.
As the car doors closed, the engine hummed to life. Banter resumed immediately, Aime and Axka trading playful insults, throwing playful jabs at each other.
However, Smitty, leaning forward from the back seat, finally asked what everyone had been wondering. “So, what’s the deal, Ms. Lyra? Did Caden get into trouble or what?”
Ms. Lyra, still focused on the road, didn’t bother looking back. “No, Mr. Caden didn’t break any laws, so they’ve let him go. We’ll get the full story after we picked them.” she said calmly.
***
The atmosphere inside the police station felt heavy, a stark contrast to the banter that had filled the car earlier. The faint hum of a police scanner buzzed in the background, its static melding with the distant murmur of officers at their desks.
Caden sat slouched in the visitor’s chairs, looking far too relaxed for someone who had just been questioned as he already engaged in conversation with Ayame, who sat beside him quietly, her posture straight and composed, completely unbothered by the situation.
“So, no school?” Caden asked, his voice as casual as if they were discussing weekend plans rather than a brush with the law.
Ayame, as usual, gave him a flat response. “I’ve already completed my basic education,” she said, her tone final and matter-of-fact, shutting down any further questions.
Caden nodded, acknowledging her words without pushing further. His attention drifted to the station’s large windows, and through them, he caught sight of Ms. Lyra approaching. With a casual raise of his hand, he signaled her, indicating that he saw her coming. The gesture was subtle, almost nonchalant, as if he were simply waving off an old friend.
When Ms. Lyra’s car pulled up to the station, Caden pushed himself up from his seat and strolled outside, Ayame following closely behind. The boys in the car immediately took notice.
“There he is, Mr. Cool himself,” Takoda said, pointing them.
Aime, who was sitting in front of Axka, shifted in his seat, his excitement palpable as he caught sight of Ayame. He turned to Smitty next to him, unable to hide his enthusiasm. “Dude, she's right there,” he whispered with a grin, nudging Takoda’s arm.
Aime turned his head slightly, smirking. “Yeah, but she’s the girl that saved us. Plus, she’s cute.” He shifted again, trying to get a better view of her as she and Caden walked toward the car.
Takoda shook his head. “Bro, she’s not even looking at you.”
Axka, irritated, leaned back. “You’ve got a girlfriend, dude. Relax.”
Aime flashed a grin. “Oh, thanks for the reminder, solo ninja,” teasing Axka about his single status with a playful grin.
“Okay, Ryuha’s cartoon addict,” Axka smirked sarcastically, twisting the knife with his own playful insult..
“It’s ‘anime’, dude. Get your facts straight,” Aime corrected with an exaggerated eye roll, but his attention quickly shifted back to Ayame.
The sound of the car doors unlocking cut through the banter. Caden swung open the front passenger door, a playful smirk on his face. “Come on, everyone. We’ve got seats to fill.”
Takoda stepped out of the front seat. “Mr. Caden, we saved your spot,” he said with a playful grin. Caden returned the smile but shook his head. “I’m driving this time. Ms. Lyra, you’re in the middle with Ms. Hyun.”
Turning to the boys in the back, he added, “Rock-paper-scissors for the four of you. Winner gets the front seat.”
“Ah damn, it’s gonna be cramped back here,” Smitty groaned as they got out of the car to sort out the seating.
“Alright, make it quick, or I’ll choose at random.” Caden warned, already moving toward the driver’s seat. Ms. Lyra and Ayame stood by, waiting for the boys’ game as they ready to take their seats in the second row.
“Rock! Paper! Scissors! Shoot!” The call rang out in unison, and Takoda threw his hands up in triumph.
“Yes! I win!” Takoda grinned, already making his way to the front seat
“Man,” Smitty grumbled, walking with the rest as they reluctantly squeezed into the back.
As Caden pulled away from the curb, he glanced in the rearview mirror at the cramped trio in the back. “You boys alright back there?”
They groaned in response. Axka, squished against the window, tried to adjust his position, his leg awkwardly raised while held the car’s grab handle. “I’m fine… I’m used to this,” he muttered.
Aime, sitting beside him, couldn’t help but joke. “Yeah, you might be used to it, but we’re not,” he said, shifting uncomfortably while Smitty muttered under his breath.
Up front, Takoda leaned forward slightly, his curiosity getting the best of him. “So, where are we going now?”
Caden kept his eyes on the road, his expression neutral. “School. We’ll talk after I meet the principal.”
Axka glanced at Ayame, who sat in silence, adjusting her sword with meticulous precision. His curiosity got the better of him.
“Hey, Hyun. That thing you mentioned last night—Guin—what’s that about?”
Ayame’s cold voice cut through the car’s hum. “Etherea’s energy source, the life force in everything. My father’s clan calls it Guin. My mother’s people call it Ki. ”
Ms. Lyra, sensing the opportunity to add context, chimed in from the front. “Different names, same idea. The Sacred Seal calls it Elan, I believe.”
Takoda nodded. “I think my people call it Mana. Right, Axka?”
Axka, who was still positioned himself in a tight space while focused on Ayame’s words, shrugged. “I don’t know, man. My brain’s too cramped to remember right now.”
Takoda chuckled lightly, the tension easing for a moment. Then, out of the backseat, Smitty, who had been quiet until now, threw in his two cents. “And in Desa Samudra, they call it Prana.”
Axka still fidgeting from the cramped space, shot a glance at Smitty. “Man, you always know everything when there’s a girl around,” he muttered sarcastically, earning a playful glare from Smitty. Axka smirked, rising his brows slightly in response.
Caden, sensing the conversation drifting off-track, brought it back with a question. “So, humans need Elan to use Etherea abilities, right?” His voice cut through the playful banter.
Ayame’s focus shifted momentarily, her tone remaining steady. “Any human can use it, yes. But it requires discipline. Mastery takes years.”
Takoda leaned forward, his face lighting up with excitement. “So, I’ve got Mana too?”
Ayame nodded slightly. “Every living thing does.”
Aime perked up. “Wait, so I can do magic too?”
Ayame’s reply was flat. “If you have the discipline. It’s not as easy as you think.”
Takoda’s excitement dimmed at her words, and a brief silence fell over the car. In the back, Axka was still mulling over Ayame’s words—If anyone could learn this power, what made her special? There had to be more to it than just practice.
Finally, he couldn’t help but ask, “Then what makes you so different, Hyun?”
Before Ayame could respond, Aime clicked his tongue in annoyance. “Don’t make her uncomfortable, man.”
But Ayame didn’t seem fazed. Her voice was as cold as ever when she answered. “I’m one of the prodigies of my clan. Only a few of us are trained by the grandmasters. My siblings and I… we’re different.”
Axka nodded, still intrigued, but he couldn’t shake the feeling that there was more to her story. There always was.
The rest of the car ride was filled with low murmurs and the occasional joke, but Ayame’s quiet presence had a way of making the boys more aware of themselves, though none of them could quite put a finger on why.
Then, the looming gates of Amethyst High came into view. The conversation fizzled out as they neared the school gates.
The school was mostly empty since the students who weren’t part of the camp had already gone home. Only a few people were still around, doing their respective activity related to the school.
The iron gates opened as Ms. Lyra’s car rolled through. Silence fell as they approached the parking lot. They made their way directly to the principal’s office.
“Alright, boys. I’m heading in with Ms. Hyun and Ms. Lyra. You guys can wait here.” Caden turned to them, standing outside the principal’s office.
Takoda nodded. “Yeah, we’ll be fine, Mr. Caden.”
Caden opened the principal’s door, stepping inside as he greeted the principal, Lyra and Ayame followed closely from his behind. The Slingers could hear him say, “Thanks for bailing us out, sir…” before his voice trailed off as the door closed.
A moment later, Ms. Lyra opened the door slightly, her face came into their view. “Come on in, boys. The principal wants to speak with everyone.” She beckoned to the group.
The boys exchanged quick glances, their faces puzzled. This wasn’t what they were expecting. Still, they followed without hesitation, each step heavier than the last.
The door clicked shut behind them, sealing the group in the room with Principal Arif. The weight of authority filled the air as Arif cleared his throat. His voice was steady, but commanding. “Alright, everyone, you can sit down. Let’s discuss this swiftly.” His eyes moved between the group, settling on Ayame. “So this is the expert, Mr. Caden.”
Caden gave a slight nod, a trace of a smile on his lips. “She’s young, but trust me, she knows how to handle things.”
The principal turned to Ayame, who remained composed. “Welcome to Amethyst High. I am Arif ibn Adnan, the principal here,” he introduced himself formally.
Axka leaned over to Takoda, whispering under his breath, “Oh great, he’s about to rattle off all his titles.” His voice low but teasing, making Takoda muffled his soft chuckle.
Sure enough, Principal Arif continued, his posture straight and unwavering. “You may call me ‘Abu al-Kawkaba’ or ‘al-Farouq’. Or simply ‘al-Mudir.’ any of those will do.”
They all paused, looking at the principal. “It’s part of my people’s tradition.” He gave a soft chuckle.
Ayame stood, bowing respectfully.
“Greetings, Principal Arif ibn Adnan. My name is Hyun Ayame. My father is from the Maeum Clan in Haebang, and my mother is from the Reikon Clan in Ryuha. I was trained and raised to master the Etherea.”
The principal listened intently, nodding as he took in her introduction. “And how old are you, young miss?” he asked, his eyes appraising her.
“I’m fifteen,” Ayame replied steadily, her voice unwavering.
“Fifteen…” Arif repeated, his eyes studying her. “And you’ve been tasked with a duty, correct?”
“Yes,” Ayame responded curtly, her expression cold, as if stating a fact.
The others listened intently as they spoke.
“Alright, let’s put that aside for now. Let’s move on to the heart of the matter,…”
Caden’s expression grew serious as he began recounting his interactions with the authorities. He spoke about how Ayame had been granted special permissions by Federal Constitution due to her role in the Etherea case and the handling of her sword. His tone was measured and calm, but the gravity of the situation was clear.
“Ms. Hyun was released before me,” Caden concluded. “The Federal’s officer came, and confirmed that she was neither Rogue or Renegade. Said this case protected under Special Powers Articles, in one of their section numbers of the Federation code.”
Ayame remained seated, her eyes focused ahead as Caden spoke about her. She didn’t need to defend herself—Caden’s words carried enough weight.
Principal Arif nodded as he listened, absorbing the information. Then he addressed The Slingers that seated in a line, his eyes softening slightly. “I’d like to hear from the rest of you. Tell me what happened from your perspective.”
One by one, the boys recounted their versions of the events. Throughout the conversation, Axka couldn’t help but steal glances at Ayame, couldn’t help but wonder—why do I felt we’re similar in a way?
Once the group finished speaking, the principal gave a small nod. “Thank you, all of you. You’ve provided a thorough account of the situation. I will filed this in my report.” He paused, a thoughtful expression crossing his face. "Alright, everyone. I appreciate your time. You can go home now and rest.”
Smitty’s face lit up with surprise. “Wait—what about school? Mr. Lawson told us to come in.”
Arif smiled knowingly. “You’ve earned a day off. Consider it my permission.”
The boys exchanged grins, clearly relieved. “Yeah boy!” Axka said, high-fiving the others.
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As the group started to leave, Caden and Ayame lagged behind. The principal cleared his throat and addressed Caden and Ayame. “Mr. Caden, Ms. Hyun, could you stay for a moment? There’s another matter to discuss.” Arif’s voice cut through the laughter.
Caden nodded toward Ms. Lyra. “Take them to the car. We’ll catch up with you in a bit.”
Ms. Lyra smiled at him, teasing, “Don’t be too long.”
Caden chuckled. “I won’t, sweetpea.”
The boys couldn’t resist teasing him. “Ooooooh, sweetpea!” they chorused as they filed out of the office, leaving Caden and Ayame behind with Principal Arif.
Once the room was quiet again, the principal stepped past Caden and Ayame, gesturing toward the door. “Let’s take a walk.” He opened the door with a smile, Ayame exchanged a brief glance with Caden, who nodded for her to follow. “Shall we?”
As they strolled through the empty school, passing several classrooms. A student greeted the principal as they walked by. “Good afternoon, Mr. Arif.” He returned the greeting with a nod, “Good afternoon.”
They walked through the hallways. The faint hum of distant conversations drifted by as a few lingering staff members and students finished their tasks. The three walked in comfortable silence for a moment before Principal Arif spoke again.
“Ms. Hyun, what exactly is your duty here in Alpenreich?” he asked, his tone more inquisitive than before.
Ayame’s voice was calm as ever. “I am on my Trial of Pilgrimage. I must accomplish something significant for my clan to complete it.”
The principal nodded thoughtfully. “That’s a heavy task, for someone your age.” Arif continued walking, with Caden staying close to Ayame’s side.
“May I offer a suggestion?” Arif asked, his voice calm and steady.
Ayame glanced at him, her curiosity flickering in her otherwise unreadable expression. “Sure.”
They stepped outside into the crisp air, the sun casting a golden glow over the valleys and fields stretching far into the distance. Arif came to a halt, and Ayame mirrored his movement, her eyes briefly flicking toward the horizon. Behind them, Caden lingered, close enough to overhear yet maintaining a respectful distance, the faint smell of cigarette smoke barely reaching the edge of her senses.
“There’s an academy,” Arif began, his eyes following the contours of the valley on ahead, “that specializes in turning exceptional youths like you into Paragons—extraordinary people who shape the future.”
Ayame kept her eyes steady on the principal, She had expected the offer to come at some point. Being a Paragon was a prestigious role, after all.
Paragons? How did it connect to my Pilgrimage? I had been raised knowing my duties within my clan, but this new path felt... different. This suggestion tugged at something deeper—something she hadn’t fully considered.
“I’ve already completed basic education early in my clans.” she replied, her voice calm, echoing the words she had spoken so many times before. But now, they felt somewhat distant. Would this offer something her clan had not?
Arif gave a soft, knowing chuckle, his eyes glinting with something like amusement, or perhaps wisdom. “True, but we never truly stop learning, no matter how much we think we’ve mastered,” he said, his tone light.
“Especially someone as young as you. This could be your chance to go beyond what your clans expect of you.” There was wisdom in his tone, but also a quiet plea, as if he hoped Ayame would understand more than he was saying.
Ayame felt her heart stir from a growing interest. She had always followed the path set before her, but the idea of shaping her own destiny was both enticing and uncertain. Her eyes flickered to Caden, who remained a few steps behind, watching the exchange. He admired Ayame’s calmness, but part of him couldn’t help but wonder if she ever questioned the weight she carried so effortlessly. He trusted her to make the right decision, even if the path ahead was uncertain.
Why wasn’t he part of this conversation? Was there something the principal wanted only me to consider? The question lingered in her mind, but she chose to focus on the principal’s offer for now.
The principal continued, “Since you’ve already learned all the basic education within your clan, I believe you should consider attending this institution. It offers a higher level of education, more suited to someone of your capabilities.”
“Their head-principal is one of my closest friends,” the principal continued, his voice light but firm. “He could recommend you as part of the next generation of Paragons. I’ll inform your clan and your parents, of course.”
Ayame listened intently. The concept of the institution wasn’t new to her—she had heard about it before. But what piqued her interest now was why Principal Arif had chosen to discuss this privately, away from the others.
Why would he speak to me so personally with such confidence? I’m sure there’s a reason for this more than just my abilities… she thought, her curiosity growing.
The principal seemed to notice the shift in her expression. “I see you have a question,” he said, his voice gentle but perceptive.
Ayame hesitated for only a moment, gathering her thoughts. “Why speak to me privately but not with the rest, Principal Arif?” she asked, her voice calm and measured, though curiosity underscored her words.
Arif’s smile widened slightly, as if he had been expecting this. A soft chuckle escaped him. “There’s a boy in the group—a remarkable boy—who took in his younger brother after my wife passed. Raised him entirely on his own for years. I’ve loved them both as my own sons, especially since my wife couldn’t have children. But when he reunited with his brother, he refused any financial help, wanting to stand on his own, as if fulfilling a promise.”
Ayame listened carefully, sensing that he was talking about Axka. Her expression neutral but her mind curious. Why was he telling me this?
The principal’s voice softened. “I love those brothers like my own. His younger brother idolizes the Exemplar, and one day, he’ll expect Axka to follow.”
“Greatness doesn’t always require special abilities,” Arif continued, “but comparisons—especially to someone with talents beyond reach—can wound deeply. He might think I don’t see his potential, though I do.”
Arif paused, thoughtful. “I want Axka to grow as a human being, without the burden of expectations. His brother sees him as a hero, and pushing him could break that bond.”
Arif glanced at her as she shifted slightly, her fingers brushing the edge of her sleeve. The silence between them felt full, not with words but with the weight of unsaid truths—truths Ayame recognized all too well.
“Sometimes, it’s better to let someone find their own path.” Principal Arif’s voice softened, his eyes distant as if he were seeing something far beyond the present moment. “Rather than force it on them.” His words carried the weight of a man who had seen lives shaped—and destroyed—by expectations. Caden hadn’t glanced at them once, but he listened to every word the principal said, reflecting as if recalling a distant memory.
Ayame felt a pang of recognition. The path Axka walked was not so different from her own—carrying the weight of expectations, of duty. Yet, while she had the guidance of her clan and the honor of her bloodline to bolster her, those very privileges often felt like chains, binding her to a path she didn’t entirely choose.
But Axka… He had only his brother, his journey was different. Less about power, more about survival. Was this what he faced—bearing responsibilities too great for one so young, but with no one to share the burden?
But questions began to form in her mind: But was it really kindness to shield someone from their destiny? What if Axka’s true potential lay beyond what anyone expected—even himself?
Her thoughts were interrupted as the principal spoke again, his voice pulling her back to the present. “What do you say, Ms. Hyun?” The question hung in the air, demanding a decision. For a brief moment, Ayame hesitated, weighing the path set before her and the new one opening up at her feet.
Ayame stood silent for a few moments longer than necessary, her mind a whirlwind of possibilities. Was this truly the path she needed to walk? Or was it just another step in a journey she had never chosen? Yet, as much as she questioned it, she knew deep down that this could be the very achievement she needed to complete her Trial of Pilgrimage.
Finally, she bowed respectfully, her voice steady though her mind raced with possibilities. “I will look forward to your guidance,” she said, sealing her decision.
Arif smiled, sensing her resolve. “Good. I'll inform your clan and keep you updated. In the meantime, Mr. Caden and Ms. Lyra will be there for you if you have any questions.” His voice carried the finality of their discussion as he offered her a respectful nod.
Caden took a final drag of his cigarette, tossing it into a nearby pit. “Alright, Mr. Arif, we’d better head out. But don’t forget—you gotta take me to dinner for this,” he teased, grinning. Principal Arif chuckled, watching them leave.
As they walked toward the car, the lightness of the previous conversation faded, replaced by a comfortable silence. Caden glanced at Ayame and noticed the thoughtful expression on her face.
“His words still on your mind?” Caden asked, breaking the silence. Ayame blinked, snapping out of her thoughts. “Yes… and no,” she replied slowly. “Speaking of your student, I’ve noticed something whenever I see him through my Etherea Vision. The Abyssors lurking in the shadows back inside the building seem drawn to him, but not to you.”
Caden’s curiosity piqued as he asked, “Do you mean he’s at risk of being possessed?”
Ayame shook her head slightly. “Unlikely. The Abyssors in the building don’t seem interested in possessing him; they just seem drawn to him, like seagulls trailing a fishing boat,” She said thoughtfully.
Caden shrugged off the speculation, remarking, “At least nothing’s happened to him.” He paused, then added, “But even when those Abyssors show up, he’s not afraid of them.”
Ayame considered this and then asked, “Has he encountered them before?”
Caden paused, a smile tugging at his lips as he recalled a memory. “I remember a few years ago, we were outside by the stairs with Takoda, just talking. Out of nowhere, we heard sniffling sounds from upstairs—Mika was crying. He’d seen a ghost under the bed and couldn’t sleep. But Axka? He didn’t even flinch. He ran straight up to check it out.”
Caden chuckled softly. “If there’s ever a paranormal situation, that kid’s the one who’d run toward the ghost, not away.”
Ayame thought back to their time at the camp, remembering how Axka had chased her when most people would have fled. She had intended to scare anyone nearby, but he had run straight at her without hesitation. There was something different about him—something unflinching. Caden’s words only solidified what she had suspected: this boy’s courage went beyond what was ordinary.
And his birthmarks… She had seen many things through her Etherea Vision, but those marks—they felt different, as though they carried a weight she couldn’t yet understand.
As these thoughts swirled in Ayame’s mind, their destination came into view—the car, waiting silently at the curb. The conversation with Caden echoed in her head as they approached.
Axka sat cramped in the back, flipping through social apps as everyone around him scrolled through their phones or hummed along to their music. Earphones weren’t really his thing.
Instead, Axka distracted himself by bouncing between apps. Polaroid to check out the latest photos from the accounts he followed. There were some cool shots and a few that made him pause, but nothing really grabbed his attention.
Then he switched to FriendHub, where the feed was filled with funny posts and memes—mostly the kind of stuff that made him smirk but forget almost immediately.
A notification pinged. Axka opened it, but it wasn’t something he waited. Each notification that popped up felt like a reminder of the messages he hadn’t received, the feeling that he was losing touch with something—or someone—important.
Chatterbox. Just seeing the icon made his heart stutter, his thumb hesitating midair. He could feel that all-too-familiar tightness creeping up his chest—the gnawing doubt that something wasn’t right. His hand hovered for another second before he gave in, tapping the icon and watching it load. Had she seen the video I sent her?
He tapped on their conversation, his eyes scanning the messages:
Siyanda :-]
Last seen a long time ago
*Attached a video* <
Here’s a funny video to made ur day :D <
sent at 9:02 a.m.
Axka stared at the message thread, her silence pressing down harder than he wanted to admit. He scrolled idly, trying to ignore the tightening in his chest. He tried forcing his attention outside, and he spotted Caden and Ayame walking back to the car.
“There they are,” Axka said, his voice cutting through the quiet as everyone looked up. They all shifted, preparing to head out as Caden and Ayame finally climbed in.
Takoda broke the silence with a question that hung heavier than usual in the car. “So… what did the principal want?” He leaned forward, the usual carefree tone gone from his voice.
Caden, preparing to drive, glanced back. “Well, it looks like Ms. Hyun is going to enter some institution. The principal recommended her for it.”
“An institution?” Takoda frowned. “What kind of institution?”
Caden shrugged slightly, glancing over at Ayame. “It’s something prestigious. Apparently, she’s got a lot of potential.”
Axka noticed a brief glance exchanged between Caden and Ayame. Was there something more to the story? He felt a twinge of curiosity. Maybe Caden just hadn’t phrased it quite right.
Everyone chimed in, giving their good wishes to Ayame except for Axka. He was lost in thought until Ms. Lyra spoke up.
“Then how about we celebrate this by eating at ‘Matsuya Takumi’? My treat!” she suggested with a smile. The car buzzed with excitement, and with that, they drove off. The promise of a good meal and celebration lifted everyone’s spirits including Axka, the thought of a good meal was a welcome distraction from the knot in his chest.
***
By the time they arrived at Matsuya Takumi, the group was buzzing with chatter. They piled out of the car, eager to dig into a good meal.
Inside, the low hum of conversation mixed with the rhythmic clink of plates and cutlery as they took their seats. The air smelled of food’s aroma, making Axka’s stomach growl despite himself.
The menus arrived quickly, and when he opened it, his eyes widened. “200 Scales!? For this dish?!” he whispered in disbelief, pointing at the small plate dish on the menu.
Aime leaned in, “Dude, just pick something. It’s not even your money.”
Axka knew he didn’t deserve this kind of meal, he kept flipping through the menu, searching for the cheapest option.
The waiter came over and asked for their orders. Everyone around the table ordered their meals with ease, each with their own preferences like this was normal for them.
But for Axka. Axka’s fingers still fumbled over the pages of the menu that wouldn’t break the bank. Every prices glaring at him like a reminder of what he couldn’t afford.
“Oh man, oh man,” he muttered under his breath, still lost in the menu. Smitty, growing impatient, nudged him. “Hurry up, man,” he said. Finally, Axka found something that wouldn’t make him feel too guilty.
“I’ll just have water, and, uh…” Axka squinted at the menu, the letters blurring. “Ohyan—Oyakodon?” He glanced up at the waiter, giving an awkward smile as he stumbled over the unfamiliar word. The waiter gave him a polite smile. “Oyakodon, got it.”
Axka nodded quickly. “Ah yeah, that one. And just water, please.”
“Alright, I’ll get your order right away,” the waiter said before heading to the kitchen. Soon enough, the meals were served, and everyone was excited to dig in.
Axka lifted his spoon but guilt twisted in his gut. Mika was probably eating leftover rice from this morning. His grip loosened, and before he knew it, he’d set the spoon down. “Excuse me,” he said quietly to the waiter that passing by. “Can I take this home instead?”
The waiter gave him a polite smile. “Of course.”
Axka hesitated before asking, “Could you take this meal out? I want to eat it later at home. Sorry for the trouble.” The waiter smiled kindly. “No problem.”
As the waiter was about to take Axka's meal away, Caden stopped him. “Wait, sorry,” he said, then turned to Axka. “Mika?” He raised an eyebrow.
Axka paused, he could tell Caden knew exactly what he was trying to do. Caden nodded in understanding and then spoke to the waiter with a smile. “Could you please make another one as a take-out instead? This one stays here.”
He turned his eyes back to Axka. “It’s on me,” Caden’s voice softened, his eyes holding a quiet insistence. “Just enjoy the meal, alright? You should’ve just ask.” The weight of unspoken understanding passed between them.
“I know, but it just feels a bit... rude.” Axka tried to explain.
Smitty leaned in with a smirk, “Looks like the ‘Brother Complex’ is kicking in hard today, huh, Axka?” Axka glared, lifting his spoon as if to strike. Smitty shrugged. “Just calling it like I see it.”
Caden stepped in to diffuse the situation. “Alright, knock it off. Not in front of the food, and certainly not in front of my beautiful lady here.”
Takoda saw an opportunity to tease. “So, Ms. Lyra is food now?”
Caden leaned back with a playful glint in his eyes. “I’ll eat her later,” he winked, knowing full well the reaction he’d stir.
The table exploded into laughter, Aime practically choking on his drink while Takoda slapped the table, wheezing and Smitty grinned wide. Even Axka couldn’t help the small smile tugging at his lips, despite himself. Ayame however, still in composed state, eating silently.
Ms. Lyra’s face turned scarlet, her eyes wide as she swatted at Caden’s arm. “Caden!” she squeaked, her voice half-laughing, half-scolding. Caden grinned, leaning back, clearly enjoying the reaction.
With the tension lifted, they all continued enjoying their meals, the earlier awkwardness melting away in the warmth of shared laughter.
With the bill settled, they slowly made their way out of the restaurant, the cool night air hitting them as they stepped outside. “Man, I’m stuffed,” Aime groaned, stretching as they approached the car. Smitty gave him a playful nudge. “Don’t pass out on us yet, rich boy.” Laughter rippled through the group as they piled into the car, the buzz from the meal lingering as the drive began.
The car filled with tunes and some half-hearted chit-chat. The first stop was Smitty’s place, out in a chill neighborhood. “Thanks, Mr. Caden and Ms. Lyra. See you guys later,” he said as stepping out.
The next stop was Aime’s place, a sleek-looking bungalow. He waved lazily, stepping out of the car. “Bye-bye, Hyun. Maybe I’ll see you… if you can keep up with my schedule.” he added with a smirk. Ayame didn’t even blink, her stoic expression unchanged. Takoda rolled his eyes while Axka shot a glance of irritation, but Aime’s words bounced off Ayame like they didn’t matter.
Once Aime was gone, Caden, still in a playful mood, turned to Takoda. “Hey, why don’t you switch seats with the queen here?” he teased, referring to Ms. Lyra. “Let her sit up front with her king.”
Takoda laughed. “Okay, King Playboy,” he replied, moving to sit next to Axka, who was sitting in the back. Caden chuckled as he started the car and continued driving.
After a few minutes of silence, Caden glanced back at Ayame, her quiet presence filling the middle row. “Ms. Hyun, do you have a place around here to stay?” he asked, his voice soft but curious.
Ayame shrugged, her eyes distant. “I usually find somewhere to stay.” To her, it wasn’t a big deal, but the way they all stared at her, even in jest, made her realize how foreign her life must seem to them, except for Axka, who couldn’t resist a joke. “So, basically homeless?” he said, raising his brow slightly.
Takoda elbowed him, laughing but reminding him to tone it down. “I’m just messing with her, she just that cold.” Axka said, smirking.
Caden chuckled at the back-and-forth. “So, no place to live…” Caden thinking a thoughful solution, but Lyra interrupted with a suggestion. “Ms. Hyun, why don’t you stay at my place for a while? I got plenty of room.”
Takoda nodded in agreement. “Yeah, that’s a good idea.”
Caden coughed, lightly tapping on his steering wheel, “Oh man, guess no eating out tonight.”
Takoda raised an eyebrow, amusement flickering across his face. “Wait, you’re serious?” His disbelief was met with Axka’s quiet chuckle, breaking the tension that had started to creep in.
Caden coughed softly. “Yeah, she can stay with Lyra until she goes to the institution. You’ll probably get to move into the dorms before summer break, Ms. Hyun,” he added, glancing back at Ayame from back mirror.
The conversation shifted to summer break, with Takoda voicing his excitement. “I’m so ready for the holidays. Spring vacation is way too short. I want something more lively.”
Caden agreed. “Yeah, I’m with you. I need a long rest for this. Been tired from all these medical checks.” Ms. Lyra placed her hand gently on Caden’s arm, her fingers lingering as if to reassure him. He covered her hand with his, squeezing it briefly, a quiet acknowledgment of the challenges he had faced.
Everyone settled back into their own world. Takoda, sitting next to Axka, seemed absorbed in his chat with his girlfriend.
They hit a red light, and while they were waiting, Axka leaned against the window of the car, his eyes absentmindedly scanning the streets as they passed by. His mind wandered until something familiar caught his eye.
His heart stuttered—Siyanda?!
She was walking beside some guy outside ‘Zur Goldenen Rose’, a high-class restaurant Axka could never afford. His eyes followed them. Who’s that guy? Maybe it's someone unimportant…?
He fumbled for his phone, hands sweaty as he opened their chat. The message from earlier still hung unanswered. Okay, it’s fine... she’s probably busy. He quickly typed:
Siyanda :-]
Last seen a long time ago
Siyanda, I saw u just now. In front of Zur Goldenen Rose <
sent at 4:02 p.m.
He watched her through the car window, He tried to convince himself again—Maybe he’s just a friend... or a cousin... right? His mind wouldn’t let it go. Yet, the familiar tightness in his chest told a different story, that whispered of disappointment—a pressure he’d felt too many times before.
He stared at her as she chatted with the guy, waiting, hoping for Siyanda checking on her phone. As seconds passed, his phone buzzed in his hand, but when he gazed down, the screen stared back at him. Empty. Void. A blank of unanswered messages.
It didn’t make sense at first. His thumb hovering over the ‘refresh’ icon. The screen blinked, but the empty thread remained. He tapped it again—nothing. The corner of his mouth twitched, and he wiped his palms on his jeans, fingers fidgeting over his phone's case.
Then it hit him, his heart pounded painfully in his chest. No chat. No profile picture. No last seen—she blocked me…
Axka flickered back to Siyanda. Her steps matched his, the easy rhythm of two people comfortable in each other’s presence. The guy walking beside her said something, and she laughed, tipping her head back like she always did when they shared a joke. Axka watched, motionless, from the car window.
“Oh…” It was the only sound he could muster, a hollow whisper to no one but himself. His hand loosening its grip on his phone, the lump in his throat felt like it might suffocate him.
I guess it happened again… The familiar sting of disappointment washing over him. Another failed connection, another name added to the list of unfulfilled dreams. He longing for something more but kept losing what little he had.
He slowly turned back to face the front, catching Ayame’s stare lingering on him—just for a second, even if it was just her side profile. The guy walking beside her
“What?” His voice cracked slightly. She looked away, uninterested.
She didn’t notice, especially not the emotions I’m feeling now.
The car continued on its route. He trying to blink away the sting in his eyes, barely hear what Caden was saying from the driver’s seat. “… Jade was confiscated until tomorrow… If they scratched it…” His words were muffled, lost in Axka’s overthinking and emotions.
Axka turned his gaze out the window, the blurred lights and shadows of the passing streets doing little to distract him from the tightness in his chest. The tightness in his chest squeezed until it hurt, each beat of his heart a dull thud in his ears.
Had it ever been real? Or was I the only one chasing something that was never meant to be mine?
Axka recalled back about Siyanda with the guy—tall, sharply dressed, so effortless—made those shared moments they shared feel like static. The jokes, the late-night chats, how she made him feel worth knowing… Had it all been a game?
Now, she was with someone who could afford places like ‘Zur Goldenen Rose.’ Someone who wasn’t him.
Soon after, the car came to a stop, Axka lingered in his seat for a moment. The hum of the engine fading made the silence between him and Caden more pronounced.
“Thanks for the ride and the food,” he said, though the words felt hollow, slipping out almost mechanically.
“Anytime, lil’ brother.” Caden watched them from the back mirror.
As they stepped out, he glanced back at the car—Caden waved, Ms. Lyra smiled—but it all felt distant, like the world was moving while he stood still. He waved back, forcing a smile as they drove off.
As Axka headed up the stairs with Takoda a few step in front of him, his thoughts drifted back, slowly overtaken by a weight he didn’t fully understand yet. He needed something to lift his own spirit.
“Hey, you free tonight? We could go stargazing with Mika.” There was a hint of desperation in Axka’s voice, an unspoken need to be around someone. Anyone.
Takoda glanced at him, catching the slight edge, but he hesitated. “Sorry, bro. Lily wants to hang tonight.”
Axka tried to shrug it off, forcing a smile. “No worries, tomorrow then?”
Takoda, opening his door, joked, “Damn, bro. Your boss must really love you now, huh?”
Axka replied, flashing a grin casually. “Nah, I just told my boss I’m taking four days off.”
“Alright, tomorrow it is.” He closed the door, and Axka headed to his place upstairs. He felt a slight loneliness creeping back in.
Axka opened the door, his heart heavy from the day. “Mika, I’m home.”
Mika’s bright smile greeted him, as always. “Welcome back, Axka!”
For a second, Axka’s chest tightened. Here was Mika, his world, so innocent, so unaware of everything Axka had just lost today.
“Here, for you.” He handed the take-out container over, the forced smile barely covering his weariness. Mika didn’t notice. He never did, and maybe that was for the best.
Axka couldn't help but feel the weight of his earlier encounter with Siyanda pressing on him, but this—this was real. Mika was real. But everything else? It all felt so fragile, like it could be taken away from him at any moment.
I can’t lose Mika too. He’s all I have left. But… it’s not enough…
He felt a pang of guilt, for not being satisfied with just having his brother. Why did he feel like he needed more? Maybe that’s just being human.
As they made their way into the living room, Mika looked up at Axka and said, “Thanks, Axka. How’s Caden? Is he okay?”
They settled on the cheap couch. “He's doing fine,” Axka replied, pushing the weight of his earlier thoughts aside. “He’s still got that playful side in him, at least.”
“How about stargazing tonight? Maybe Takoda can join tomorrow,” Axka said with a small grin, trying to take his mind off things. Mika’s eyes lit up, “Yes, please!”
Axka switched on the old television he had found by the dumpster last year. It still worked—definitely a case of “one man’s trash is another’s treasure.” As they sat on the couch watching the static-filled television, Axka glanced over at Mika, who was laughing at something on screen.
The knot in his chest began to loosen. Even with everything going on—Siyanda, school, the camp, responsibilities—this moment grounded him.
Clarity might come tomorrow, or maybe it never would. What he knew for sure was that life was about holding on to what didn’t break. Hoping that, in the end, it stays the same. As long as I have him, maybe I can still believe there’s something real left.
But the words hollow, as this was just the beginning. If he wasn’t careful, he wouldn’t just lose the people around him—he’d lose himself. Maybe it was all meant to be, maybe he’d been destined to watch everything slip away from the start.
Well, that didn’t matter now. He wouldn’t let himself think about it. Not yet.