“So you’re Harry Ballman,” Iter deduced, “I heard about you. You’re Illate’s friend, aren’t you?”

“You can call me his best,” Harry responded, “Maybe not his only anymore.”

After Illate left the library, Iter was ambushed before he could finish packing his things. Harry didn’t let him leave before he could say what he came to say. Iter and Harry ended up standing on opposite ends of the table in the nonfiction section of the library.

“What is it you want?” Iter asked, “I recall you did well in the writing contest, yes?”

“I want your help,” Harry answered, “It concerns Illate.”

“Is there something wrong with him?”

“Yes,” Harry replied, “you’re here.”

“What?” Iter was taken aback, “Am I not doing a good job teaching?”

“You noticed, right?” Harry said, “Illate’s good. He’s better than he lets on.”

You could be reading stolen content. Head to Royal Road for the genuine story.

“He just needs confidence, yes,” Iter agreed, “Isn’t that why I’m here?”

“Do you remember the girl who asked for your help?” Harry asked, “Itra?”

“Yes,” Iter answered, “she was a nice person.”

Harry placed his hand on the desk and sat down. “She was the person originally helping him.”

“Yes, and?”

“Iter.” Harry looked him in the eye, “Have you ever…wanted someone you could share your stories with? Someone who would be there to help you out? The one person who would read your stories?”

“Yes, that’s been something I’ve always wished for…” Iter answered, “You’re not saying…”

“I am saying.” Harry stood up for dramatic effect, “That’s who Itra is for Illate!”

Iter froze. Before saying anything else, he left himself a moment of silence.

“Are you…serious?” He asked to verify.

“I’m serious.”

“We need to fix this right now,” Iter declared, “I can’t believe it, I got in the way of such a beautiful story between two people!”

“Exactly!” Harry exclaimed, “Can I…consider you a partner in this?”

“Just tell me what you need…”

So began a partnership between Illate’s friends, all behind his back.