Chapter eight: Heroes

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“Hm….” Isaac groaned, uneasily standing and looking around, “Of all places…why here?”

“They lost it didn’t they? Maybe it was by chance,” Artemis whispered from within his backpack.

“Yeah but…a video store, really?”

Currently Isaac and Artemis were inside a small video store, standing in one of the aisles where they held classical movies. Isaac nervously observed the people around him while fiddling with the spacial key in his pocket.

“How long you gonna stand there?” Artemis asked.

“The piece is right here but there's too many people around, I don't wanna get caught reaching into a pocket space,” Isaac deferred, pretending to look at DVD’s.

“Well you can’t stand there forever.”

“I know I know,” He sighed, “Lets just hope Sinar doesn't have any Automatons set here.”

“We didn’t have to worry about them on the second one…but then they came on the third…but it could be a pattern.”

“Hm…” He took another glance around and noticed a dispersal, “Lets see if you're right!” Swiftly, he took out the device and had the distortion reveal itself, tapping the end on it and opening it for the object he was looking for to come out, “Got it!” Before anyone could look their way, he stuffed it into his storage. “Ok, that's piece nu-”

“Master, jump away!” Artemis shouted.

Isaac recognized that as unsealed Artemis and leapt away. From where he stood, a dark tentacle crashed out from the ground. “The hell!?” The floor shook and the customers were startled, unsettled further by the shakes.

“More incoming!”

Without question, he moved, avoiding multiple tendrils that were trying to grasp him. He managed to get outside before the ground was ripped asunder and the automaton was revealed. It was giant, purplish black, and oval shaped, having three eyes on the front with multiple tentacles attached coming from all around it except its front. “Tentacles, why tentacles!?”

“That's not all!”

“What do you-?” Before he could finish that question, in his area, multiple drills bore from below, revealing cockpits that opened up, more automatons emerging. They were the Automatons with the diamond face and bladed arms, ones the duo fought before at the museum. “You gotta be kidding!” Before he could be surrounded, he followed the dispersing crowds' example and ran. He managed to get to the corner, peeking out to see the automatons look around, mostly in his direction.

“Master,” Artemis came out, leaning on Isaacs shoulder, “I believe they're tracking us.”

“Seriously?” Isaac groaned, aggravated, “Guess we got-”

*BANG*

The sound of a gunshot took their attention. An Automaton fell with a hole in its face, behind him standing one of the Shibuya Guardians. She was a white-haired bright skinned lady who was four feet two inches tall, had her hair in twin tails, and wielded a pair of six-barreled pistols with a pink rose pattern on them. She wore a bright pink shirt that had an opening to show some of her cleavages to her size E bosoms with short-sleeved brown shoulder guards, having on a pair of red slacks that were loose but not so loose around her shapely lower half also wearing around her hips two belts that leaned on the side with bullets on them, her shoes having half an inch of a heel on them. She took aim at the other Automatons and took well aimed shots at them.

“It's Lele!” Isaac said in relief.

“Where’s her familiar?” Artemis questioned.

“Maybe she's on the way? Either way, she can handle this. Seal contr-”

Before he was sealed, Artemis shot his gaze back, “Behind us!”

“Huh?” Looking behind he saw more pods emerge, with more of the machines coming out. “Crap!” He ran out before they could attack.

“Huh?” Lele took notice of Isaac and aimed her gun at the chasing Automaton, “I got you!” She fired but her shot was blocked by a tentacle. “What!?” Looking over at the three eyed beast's direction, shooting it only for her bullets to be deflected by a few of the many tendrils on its body. “Damnit!” Behind her, she was jumped by two of the blade wielders. Calmly and swiftly, she swiveled and fired upon their heads. Again, her bullets were deflected by the three eyes tentacles, the smaller Automatons grabbing on them and maneuvering around to attack, almost getting her.

“Master, these Automaton’s are gonna overwhelm her, we should help!” Artemis suggested.

“She’s got backup coming, doesn't she?” Isaac questioned, continuing to avoid the ones chasing him.

“We don't know how long that will take! It's better we act now before it gets worse!”

“Urg!” He looked over at Lele, witnessing how well her opponents were coordinating in defense and attack, making it difficult for her.

“Master!”

“I know!” Gazing around, he spotted somewhere to hide around the corner, “Enhancement three!” Powering himself up, he rushed over, outrunning and avoiding the Automaton going after him, getting to his destination. “Alright,” Noone was watching him or looking his way, “Lets align the stars!”

“Armatizing!” While Isaac was suiting up, Artemis jumped off, donned his armor, and equipped his sword. They both jumped out of the corner, pushing away the nearby diamond faces, “Master, I’ll handle the tentacles, it'd be best if you took care of the smaller ones!”

“Crowd control, got it!” He, along with his familiar, rushed out the corner, “Scissor Guard!” He realized his weapon and engaged the enemies.

Lele was gaining some distance from the tentacle Automaton when she spotted the two. “Star Mask!? Moon Familiar!?”

Artemis jumped over to her, knocking the limbs away before they could hit. He glanced at her and explained, “I'll take care of the tentacles, Master will handle the bladed Automatons!”

“Master? You mean Star mask?”

“Yes,” He nodded, releasing a white slash at the limbs that went for Isaac, “Let's work together!”

“R-right!” She was flabbergasted but went with it anyway. “Im fine now girls,” She said in her ring, “Star Mask and The Moon Familiar are here!”

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Lyla was exiting the store, grabbing her dog. “Cmon girl,” She smiled, walking off with her bag.

Once they had taken a few steps and away from people, Ira spoke: “Did you get the treats?”

“Heh,” Reaching into the bag, she pulled out a bag of treats, “They had your favorite flavor.”

“Heck ye-” Her collar vibrated and the rim flashed a dim red, same thing with Lyra’s ring.

“Emergency!” Lyra got serious, looking for a spot that could give some privacy. There was a nearby alley and she went to it with Ira in tow. Taking out her phone and bending down to let Ira see, she tapped her ring on it which opened up a screen that showed a map. In the area it showed there were red blips that were moving around. “Automatons, and lots of them!”

“Where are they!?”

“Near center street! Let's- Oh!” A white dot showed up, heading to the crowd. Tapping it, a profile picture of Lele showed up.

“It's Lele!”

“Yeah but where’s Riaz?” Noticing the phone icon on the picture was shaking, she pressed it and joined the call.

“-Need backup?” Someone asked in the call.

“I just might!” Lele said, “Riaz is at her check up so I'm on my own!”

“Ira and I can get there in like eight minutes, anyone else closer?” Lyla questioned.

“Me and Shenia are closer but she’s a bit tied up,” Liz answered, “I can try and sneak out.”

“I’d appreciate tha- Hm?” Lele stopped and two black blips popped up

“Lele? What's that?””

“Star Mask!? Moon Familiar!?”

“Wha-!?” Lyla was taken aback by that.

“I'll take care of the tentacles, Master will handle the bladed Automatons!” The Moon Familiar could be heard speaking.

“Master?” Lele responded, “You mean Star Mask?”

“Star Mask…” Lyla mumbled with Ira looking over with some concern.

“I'm fine now girls, Star Mask and The Moon Familiar are here!”

“Really?” Said someone different.

“Yeah, got my backup! Get back to you later!”

“Stay safe!”

“Mhm!” The call ended.

“....” Lyla stayed where she was, staring at the screen, mostly at the two black blips. Her mind thought back to that night.

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Flashback

Lyla and Isaac were setting up for the next video on the channel.

“So what'd you bring today?” Isaac asked.

“Today,” Lyla pulled up a large bag, “I brought some more exotic fruits. I also got some cheese.”

“Meow?” Artemis tilted his head on the cheese notion.

“Heh, I'm guessing Isaac here has only given you cheddar and colby cheese, right?”

“Mew?” He looked even more confused.

“The pure yellow one and the white and yellow kind,” Isaac explained.

“Mrow,” He said in an Oh type fashion, turning to Lyla and nodding, “Mew.”

“He's been holding out,” Lyla smirked, “I've got an assortment of cheese cubes with some crackers and pepperonis. Time for some fine snacking!” She chuckled.

“Mwow!” Her enthusiasm was infecting Artemis.

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Artemis brought a cube of pure white cheese to his mouth, biting into it. “Mmmm!” He whimpered in happiness, taking a cracker with his free paw and taking a bite.

“You like the Monterey Jack the best?” Isaac asked.

“Mhm!” Artemis nodded.

“You should make him an omelet with it,” Lyla suggested.

“Mm!!” With shining eyes, he looked over at Isaac with a hopeful smile.

“Sure,” Isaac chuckled, “but I’m sticking with colby.”

“Hmhm,” He took one last bite of his cheese and reached for a pepperoni.

“Hold on,” Lyla stopped him.

“Meow?”

“Lemme show you an upgrade,” With a confident smirk, she took two crackers, a cheese cube and a pepperoni, stacking them into a cracker sandwich, “Tada!”

“Mwow!” Looking at it with awe, he leaned towards it.

“Take a bite,” She brought it close to him, letting him bite into it.

“Mmmm!” His eyes lit up with his ears perking and tail wagging, taking the cracker sandwich from her and munching on it.

“Good huh?”

“Mhm!”

“Heh,” Isaac laughed, “Were really giving him the fine dining of snacks,” He stated while reaching for the snack plate to make his own cracker stack.

While he was making one, Lyla was looking at his glove. “Hey, remind me again where you got that glove?”

“Hm? Oh well, it was something my dad left for Dixon to give me. I only got the right one cause Dixon lost the left one. He’s still looking.”

“Why you wearing it?”

“What do you mean?”

“You don’t have them both, so why ya just wearing one?”

“Well…” He tried to think of something, “Guess it's because it's from my dad. He wanted me to wear this so…”

“Snrk,” Lyla couldn’t help but chuckled.

“What?”

“That sounds so like you. It reminds me of the time we baked each other cookies in culinary class. I messed up mine so bad but you still took one.”

“I remember, I nearly choked that day.”

“Yeah you did! It was funny!”

“Glad you enjoyed my pain,” He rolled his eyes but kept his smile.

“Still,” Looking at the glove, she thought about his dad, knowing first hand how great of a man he was, “having one glove looks cool. Kinda reminds me of Ryuko, except you can’t transform with it.”

“I'd need life fibers for that.”

“Meow?” Artemis got their attention.

“Hm? What's up?”

“Mew,” He pointed to Isaac and Lyla before bringing his paws together with a tilt of his head.

“Huh?”

“You want us together?” Lyla guessed.

“Mrow,” He shook his head, emphasizing his curious tilt and claps of his paws.

“Uh…oh! Are you curious about how we met?”

“Hm!” He nodded.

“We met in highschool,” Isaac answered, “We became partners for a project and I went to her house and when I stumbled upon her outfits, the floodgates opened. She went crazy about telling me her favorite characters to cosplay and anime in general. We almost got no work done.”

“Hey,” Lyla snarkily looked his way, “don’t make me out like some cosplay nerd.”

“Aren't you?”

“Watch it,” She pushed her fist into his side.

“Ow! That hurts!” He laughed.

“Apologize!”

“No way! Ah!” She added more force but he remained vigilant.

*Beep-beep-beep*

“Hm?” She pulled her fist back after hearing the beeps from her watch.

“What was that?” Isaac asked.

“Um…” On the screen it read Scan complete.

“Lyla?” He leaned in to take a peek.

“I-t’s just an alert,” She pulled her arm away, nervously chuckling.

“What for?”

“A package delivery, it's a lanyard I ordered.”

“Oh that Gurren Laggan one restocked?”

“Uh, yeah! Finally got it!”

“Cool,” He glanced over at his cat and saw how much was left of the snack tray, “Well greedy Artemis nearly cleaned off the snacks.”

“Mrow!” Artemis huffily meowed in offense.

“Let's move onto that dragon fruit.”

“Sure thing!” Lyla agreed, looking at her watch but focusing back on getting fruits.

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“Seeya!” Lyla waved off, walking down the hallways of the apartments after leaving Isaacs.

“Later!” Isaac waved back.

Artemis hopped on his shoulder, smirking. “You two are closer than I realized.”

“Yeah, maybe we can go on a double date with you and Selma.”

“Huh!?” That made his face turn red and flustered.

“Counter attack,” Isaac smugly grined, walking back inside with a grouchy Artemis.

Lyla was walking down the stairs, keeping her smile, but slowing down a tad once she reached the floor below. “...It's nothing…It’s gotta be…” She said to herself, continuing down and continuing to bring down her pace. Once she got to ground level, she stopped. “...” Raising her wrist, she looked at her watch, where it asked to show results of the scan. Hesitantly, she tapped it, and when the results showed, her eyes widened. On the screen, it showed a diagram of a male body with the right hand highlighted and the words Limiter detected shown on top. “....Isaac…”

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Present

“Lyla,” Ira nudged her partner.

“Huh?” Lyla came back and looked at her apologetically, “Sorry.”

“Thinking about Isaac?”

“...Yeah…” Solemnly, she looked away.

“It’s been almost two weeks…maybe you should confront him?”

“How? I'd risk revealing myself. Even then I lied to the team about him having Dusk Energy.”

“The team doesn't have to know. It can be a one on one thing between you two, and I won’t say a thing.”

“Still got the problem of how.”

“Talk to him. We're jogging tomorrow aren't we.”

“Sofi’s gonna be there.”

“Yeah, but afterwards you two go the same way, that would be your chance.”

“I dont know…”

“You gotta go for it Lyla,” Ira placed her paw on Lyla’s arm, “or else this is gonna eat you up forever.”

“Hrm…” Still Lyla had an unsure look.

“At least try, please?”

“...” With a sigh, she complied, “I can at least try.”

“Thanks.”

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Star Mask pulled his scissor blades out of the sword automaton, letting it fall. “Phew,” Wiping off the sweat, he turned to look at the area. Lele and The Moon Familiar had already taken out the large one and were aiding him in clearing up the last few, the cat walking up to him. “That all of them?”

“I'm not sensing any more, Master, so we are safe,” The Moon Familiar answered, jumping up onto his shoulder.

“Great. How bout Civilians?”

“Since we were their focus, there were no casualties.”

“Helps that it’s a wednesday noon,” He chuckled.

“Hey!” Lele called out, running to them.

“Hm?”

She stopped in front of them and extended her hand. “Thanks for the help. My Familiar was tied up with something so I was on my own there.”

“O-oh,” He timidly shook her hand, “No worries, I didn’t do much anyways. My partner was the one that helped you out.”

“Dont sell yourself short, you played a big part too in holding off those Knights.”

“Well…” Flustered, he rubbed the back of his head with a shy smile, “The Moon Familiar was the one who took out the main one. He deserves it more.”

“Master,” The feline spoke, looking at his partner, “Your handling of the Diamond blades was much more important than you think,” He made a small smile, “Thank you for your help.”

Taken aback by that, Star Mask gazed at him with shock. “Arti-MMPH! M-moon Familiar!” Star mask’s heart beat spiked at the near tongue slip.

“Say…” Lele spoke, curiosity in her voice, “How'd you know what they were called?”

“Oh um…we’ve studied them before.”

“You’ve had encounters with these?”

“Uh…” As if saved by the bell, police cars and ambulances pulled, “That's our cue!” He reached into his Dusk space.

“W-wait!”

“Stars Out!” Dropping a bead, he escaped in the flash.

Lele rubbed her eyes and looked around, seeing no sign of the two. Closing her eyes, the Guardian tried to sense for them but found nothing. “Dang,” She snapped.

“Ms Lele,” An officer approached, “Is everything ok?”

“Yes, thanks. There should be no casualties but check around just in case.”

“Sure thing,” he nodded, “but before I go, were you working with Star Mask just now?”

“Mhm,” She smiled, “He and his Familiar were a great help.”

“I see. That's good to hear,” He himself smiled at that notion, “Should we leave these,” Motioning to the side, he pointed to the Automatons, “to you then?”

“Yes please,” She twisted her ring, a white ring appearing around her hand, “I’ll be quick,” waving her hand around, she moved the ring around, going for the large on first, closing her hands and having the ring close and the Automaton disappear in a flash of white. Opening it back up and spreading her fingers to split them, she moved it to multiple Diamond blades, closing her hand and getting the same results. Tapping her ring, she spoke into it, saying: “Got some Automatons coming to the lab.”

This story originates from a different website. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.

“Roger!” A female voice replied.

“...Star mask and the Moon Familiar…” With a smirk, she finished, “pretty cool.”

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Next day.

Isaac groaned, the morning rays dimmed through his curtains. He raised, stretching and yawning, taking his phone to see the time that read close to eight. Getting up and rubbing his eyes, he walked out his room, pausing next to Artemis’s beanbag, lightly tapping it with his foot. “Morning time, Artemis.”

“Mmm,” Artemis blinked a few times, getting up and extending his body, taking a long gaping breath before smacking his lips and slipping off his bed.

The cat followed Isaac to the restroom, hopping on the counter and grabbing a small yellow toothbrush with his front paw, his claws wrapping around it in a tight grip and leaning it to the human. Isaac took his red one and brought out the toothpaste, placing some on his bristles before doing the same for his familiar. With the sink turned on for a moment, the two wettened the ends and started to brush. Both made sure to be thorough, Isaac going over his back teeth multiple times while Artemis dug into his fangs. After they spit, the mouthwash was grabbed, Isaac taking the first cup while filling one for Artemis and letting him sip it down before twisting back on the cap. The feline leaned back and gargled while his partner placed the wash away before mimicking him. They swished it around, spat it out, rinsed their mouths with water, and washed their faces, Artemis using a rag to wipe his.

“Pancakes and scrambled eggs sound good?” Isaac asked, drying his face off.

“Sure,” Artemis nodded, putting his rag on the rail.

They went to the kitchen, the tom sitting at his spot on the table, waiting patiently for the food. Once plated, the man asked, “You want me to cut the pancake this time?”

“Hmm…” Looking over at his paw, he flexed them and spread his beans, “...Yeah, I dont got a knife holding method yet.”

“You didn't do too bad last time,” Isaac commented, cutting the cake before bringing the food, drizzling some syrup on Artemis’s pancakes before handing it over.

“Thanks,” He stood straight and bowed, “Itadakimasu!” After that he took his fork and started to eat.

While eating, Isaac checked his phone and noticed a message that came around half past seven from Sofi. Opening it, he gave it a read, “Oh, hey that present Sofi got for you came in last night.”

“Really?”

“Yep. She’s gonna give it to you once we meet. My guess is some jog gear.”

“Cause of the measurements she took?”

“Had to be some reason.”

“Think it'll be a shirt?”

“I'm thinking a jacket, a work out kind.”

“That’d be cool.”

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Once breakfast was done, Isaac set the dishes in the sink, giving them a quick rinse before leaving it. After that he got ready, getting his clothes on and an exercise jacket, putting on his shoes.

Artemis was already in his backpack with headphones on, listening to music when he spotted Isaac. “Ready?” The cat asked, taking out a bud.

“Yep,” Isaac placed the bag on his shoulders, “Lets go!”

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“There he is!” Lyla waved. She was in the park with Ira and Sofi, both wearing typical exercise gear, Sofi’s colors being sky blue with light red.

“Hey guys,” Isaac greeted.

“Meow!” Artemis popped out.

“Morning you too,” Sofi smiled, “Artemis?” Approaching, she was holding something behind her back.

“Mow?” The feline tilted his head in curiosity.

“Hehe,” She pulled out what she was holding, “Surprise!” In her hands was a clear package that had a small gray jacket inside. It was Artemis’s size, with a hood that had cat shaped holes with cuffs to cover the ear, black trim, and a large pocket on the front. On the chest was a small logo in the image of a bundle of threads that said Weave and Drip.

“Mwow!” He looked at it with piqued interest.

“Cool!” Isaac agreed.

“Nice huh? I got it custom made just for you,” Sofi cheerily grined.

“Thanks Sofi!” Looking at Artemis, he asked: “Wanna wear it?”

“Meow meow!” Artemis rapidly nodded.

“Someones excited,” Lyla laughed, patting the open spot next to her, “Come here,” Artemis hopped over.

Sofi approached him, taking out the wear, “Arms up.”

“Hrm!” Artemis complied, standing all the way up with his front legs up high.

“Alright,” Rolling up the waist, she slid it down on the feline, carefully pushing his arms through and pushing the neck hole on his head with ease. Once his paws were out, she pulled down and rolled the rest of his jacket down. “There!”

“Meow!” He checked himself out, liking how it felt and looked.

“Like it?” Isaac asked.

“Mew mew!” He nodded, facing Sofi and bowing, “Meow!”

“You're welcome, Artemis,” Sofi patted the cat, “I had it specially made, just for you. It's got a front pocket for your music pod.”

“Mow!” With lit up eyes, he looked to Isaac, expectedly.

Isaac chuckled, reaching into his backpack, “I hear ya, I hear ya,” Taking out the device, he handed it to Artemis and put an earbud in one ear, “Just one ear, in case we need to call out to you.”

“Meowwow,” He nodded, sliding through the song list and picking a tune, sliding it in his pocket, standing and letting out another meow to signal he’s ready.

“Alright, let’s jog!” Lyla cheered with a bark from Ira. They started with a slow pace as usual, going down the routine path. Lyla had thought last night about how to bring up Isaac’s glove. She didn’t have definitive proof that he was Star Mask, but too much lined up once she found out his glove was a limiter. “So…you guys see about Star Mask and the Moon Familiar yesterday?”

“You mean the news? Sofi asked.

“Yeah that. They gave Lele some backup against those monsters.”

“They're called Automatons aren’t they? But yeah, I saw them on a news panel, you Isaac?”

“Uh,” Isaac gazed away, after getting home yesterday, he and Artemis were fiddling with the pieces they had, noticing how similar they looked and how they could connect, trying to make out a shape before Stein came in asking for the juicy details, his words, and watching anime to distress before getting pizza, so they didn't have a chance, “Can’t say that I did.”

“Hm?” Lyla raised a brow, “Didn't you get the link I sent?”

“I was busy and it was a live cast on their channel so I couldn’t rewind.”

“What were you busy with?”

“I…” He looked away from her, trying to think of a good excuse. ‘Crap, I can’t say Astronaut training. With a launch coming up, he’s been too busy to even do it as a cover.’

“Isaac?” Lyla’s eyes were getting suspicious.

“You ok?” Sofi was starting to show some concern herself.

‘Think man!’ Artemis thought, looking at his partner nervously.

‘Don’t pressure me here!’ Isaac glared at the cat. ‘Pressure…that's it!’ A light bulb went off. “Ok ok fine I'll tell you! But you gotta promise not to tell Dex.”

“Dex?” With a curious tilt, Lyla questioned why Dex was brought up.

“Yeah. None of this leaves this conversation, ok?”

“Is your Star Guide ok?”

“Well…he’s got a driving test coming up and…he’s feeling a whole lot of pressure so I decided to come help him calm down by visiting his place and reviewing the test.”

“He’s got another test coming up? That's gonna be number six right?”

“Six?” Sofi looked surprised, “He’s tried six times already?”

“Yeah, Dex is pretty good with code but when it comes to steering a wheel, crash and burn.”

“Oh…”

Isaac continued, “He's determined on this one, but that's making him feel more nervous.”

“So you were helping him calm down?”

“Mhm,” He nodded, “Don’t say anything about this, it's a little embarrassing.”

“Sure thing,” Sofi thumbed up.

“Lips sealed!” Lyla motioned.

“Phew,” Artemis sighed in relief.

“Was it interesting?” Isaac asked, “The News segment I mean?”

Sofi answered: “I thought it was, they brought up how active they've been and how helpful they are to the Guardians. Shiki, an anchorwoman, thought it would be cool if Star Mask and The Moon Familiar were indoctrinated into the Guardians.”

“Really? That would make them the first male Guardians ever.”

“Right? It’s such a surprise twist, and you know what…” She thought back to when Star Mask saved her, “I think they earn that title. They saved me after all.”

Isaac glanced at her with some awe, seeing that small smile. There was some conflict in him, knowing that she was the attacker at the expo and that he’d have to stop her next attack whenever that is. “Saved you huh…?” He mumbled and looked away.

“Hm? You say something?”

“N-no, sorry. First male Guardians does sound pretty neat though.”

“Letto doesn't think so,” Lyla chimed in.

“That one Anchor guy?”

“Yeah, him,” She rolled her eyes, “He’s so cryptic of them, thinking it's weird how close the two are to some of the incidents, speculating that they were somehow the cause, still questioning where they came from, yada yada.”

“Sounds like he doesn't like them.”

“He doesn't,” Sofi added, “If you ask me, he’s just a harsh critique looking at the smallest things. Honestly I wish he realized how comparable what he says is to the Guardians.”

“Right?” Lyla agreed.

“Guy needs a kick in the ass.”

“That's a little harsh,” She looked over at Sofi, a little disconcerted.

“Sometimes harshness is needed, especially when someones got their head far up their ass,” Sofi had a mean scowl on her face when she said that.

“Jeez. Dealt with some during your plays?”

“Yeah…Me and my friend…and she especially…didn’t deserve it,” With a tightened fist, her glare worsened.

Isaac and Artemis looked at her with concern and sympathy, knowing what she meant.

Lyla had curiosity with her concern, “What do you-?”

Before she could finish, Isaac cut her off. “I see a fountain, let's take a quick drink break.”

“Oh, um ok.”

“I could use a quick drink,” Sofi agreed.

“You go first,” Isaac told her, slowing down letting her get to the fountain first. Before Lyla could go any further, he grabbed her arm, “Hey,” He whispered.

“Hm?” Lyla looked back at him, stopping in her spot, “What's up?” She whispered back.

“She’s…had a rough time dealing with a certain… critic, her friend got the worst of it apparently.”

“Really?” With a short glance, she looked to Sofi who was letting Artemis take a drink.

“Yeah, so it's best not to ask her about it.”

“So that's what she meant with what she said last week.”

“Last week?”

“I asked her about how acting’s going and she told me slow but she’s not gonna let the critiques get to her but…she added how she won't forgive them either. It was before you met up with us.”

“I see.”

Ira barked, getting Lyla’s attention. “Oh, thirsty girl,” She took out a foldable bowl, filling it in the fountain.

While she was doing that, Artemis jumped onto Isaac’s shoulder, whispering in his ear: “Hey, do you mind if we take Sofi home today?”

“What brought this?” Isaac questioned.

“When she was getting me some water she mentioned to me how I got a good owner and she was looking at you two when she said that.”

“Oh yeah?” He wondered if she knew what they were talking about.

“Mhm. This could be a good chance to learn more.”

“Ever since that incident, progress has been slow so this could be a good boost…but that's not the reason you wanna do it right?” He smirked.

“Heh, no it's not.”

“You're a good cat!” Isaac petted his familiar who chuckled in response.

“What did he do?” Sofi asked.

“Huh? Oh uh…he was just…” Artemis started to purr and nuzzle against him, giving an excuse, “well this,” He softly laughed.

“Aww,” With an enticed smile, she reached over to pet Artemis herself, “You’re too cute.”

Lyla approached them with the bowl folded up. “Ira’s all quenched up. Ready to continue?”

“I'm ready,” Sofi nodded.

“Lemme take a swig real quick,” Isaac stated, going to the water source and taking a quick drink before wiping his mouth, “Alright, ready. You, Artemis?”

“Meow,” Artemis said in agreement, leaping off.

“Alright, let's roll!”

They continued the rest of their jog.

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After the jog.

“You’ve never offered me a ride home,” Lyla pouted, heading to the park exit with the others.

“You never asked,” Isaac stated.

“That's for the gentlemen to ask the lady.”

“Haven’t had a lady to ask,” He smirked with Artemis stifling a laugh.

“Dick!” Lyla guffawed.

“You walked into that one, Lyla,” Sofi commented.

“Hrmmm,” With a grumble and puffed cheeks, she glared at the two like a brat.

With a sigh, Isaac gave in, “Next time, I’ll give you a ride, promise.”

“I want a special segment,” Deflating a bit, she crossed her arms.

“Huh? In what?”

“Artemis reacts.”

“We don't have any special segments so what could we do?”

“Hehehe,” There was a twinkle in her eye and mischievousness in her smile, “I'm glad you asked.”

“Dammit…” He realized the trap he fell in.

“For the past month,” She pointed out as if in a declaration, “in the videos we’ve done, it's been food, anime, and music videos, mostly openings! It’s cute and Artemis gives great reactions but it's time to evolve!”

“Evolve into what?”

“...Games!” She said in fierce determination.

“Games?”

“Meow?” Artemis tilted in confusion.

“Games!” Lyla continued, “Board games, card games, trivia games, Artemis is smart enough for it!” She got closer, keeping her finger on Isaac, “This can get us to the well needed boost to one mil!”

“Us?” Isaac was intimidated a little but wasn’t gonna let that “Us” slide.

“Hey, I’m in those videos just as much as you, and it was my idea.”

“True…”

“So next video, we're doing board games!” With a quick twist, her finger went to Sofi, “With Sofi as our fourth!”

“Huh, me?” Sofi pointed at herself, confused.

“Yes you! Doesn't it sound fun!”

“I…I don't know.”

“Oh cmon,” Reaching over, Lyla grabbed Artemis.

“Eh?” Artemis was surprised by the grab.

“You gonna deny this face?” She held him up.

“Mew?”

“Puppy cat eyes!” Lyla whispered.

“Uh-” He pursed his lips and dilated his pupils, “M-meow…”

“Urk…” The eyes, though delayed, were super effective on Sofi, “...Gah!” Dramatically, she arched back, holding her chest, “Vile cuteness…my weakness…” She glared at Lyla, “You…how dare you use such underhanded tactics! Can you not fight fairly!?”

“Hehehe, all's fair in love and war!” Lyla evilly grined, leaning out the cat, “Give in!”

“Ack!” Clenching her chest, she cringed and stepped back, “No I…I mustn't…but they eyes….those eyes….” She swooned with failed resistance, “Fine…I shall give in…but,” Aiming her finger at Lyla, she shot a gaze filled with righteous determination, “only…this one time!”

“Hmhm, you say that now, princess but will you hold true to it?”

“You shall see!”

There was a brief pause with their eyes interlocked and Isaac began to applaud them. “I shoulda recorded that,” He stated.

“Hehehe,” Sofi asked, “You just got a free show from your Idol, don't you feel honored?” She haughtily said with a flip of her hair.

“Very honored,” Isaac smiled.

“Alright, we had our fun!” Lyla stated, setting down Artemis, “Thanks for the back up.”

“Meow meow!” Artemis nodded, walking next to Isaac.

“Ready to go?” Isaac asked, Sofi. With a nod from her, he got his answer, “Alright, seeya Ly-”

“Wait!” Lyla spoke out.

“What’s up?”

“How…how's those DND sessions going?”

“Oh those? Uh, pretty well actually.”

“How about your partner in those sessions? You guys butting heads?”

“Him…well…not butting heads with him…but,” Pondering his next words, he spoke: “I feel like im holding him back.”

“Huh?” Artemis looked up at him, surprised.

“What do you mean?” Lyla asked.

“Thing is…He’s the hero, I’m not, I’d rather just leave it to the heroes like him but…he kinda needs me and I feel like when I hesitate I’m holding him back. I said I'd have his back but like I said, I'm no hero.”

“...What's your class?”

“Uh…traveler.”

“Star traveler no doubt. Lemme guess, friend’s a hero class.”

“He is.”

“I see…lemme ask you something. Remember that time your dad helped that kid out of a tree?”

“Yeah I remember. We were getting ice cream and a kid got stuck trying to get his balloon.”

“He was keeping the kid calm while calling the fire department but when the branch started to crack, he climbed up himself.”

“I remember, I thought he was cool for that.”

“In that moment, was he a hero or an astronaut?”

Isaac was confused, “What do you mean?”

“The problem you have right now isn’t the fact that you're not the class of hero, but that you don’t understand what it means to be heroic.”

“I don't get it?”

“You don't have the class to do the act. That's the only hint you're getting.”

“O-ok,” He was still confused but her words did make him think.

“Anyways, Ima get goin! Cmon Ira!” She ushered Ira to follow who complied with a bark.

“S-seeya!” He waved, “...Class to do the act…” He repeated.

“Meow?” Artemis nudged him to get his attention.

“Huh? Oh sorry,” He looked to Sofi, “Ready?”

“Mhm,” Sofi nodded. They headed to his bike and rode towards her place. It was obvious that he was thinking about what Lyla said as they were going on the roads so Sofi decided to say something. “Hey Isaac?”

“Yeah?”

“I'm gonna give you my own hint.”

“Your own hint?”

“Say someones gonna be attacked by a monster and you have the power to save them, would you?”

“Well… yeah, if I'm the only one able to I would.”

“That's what's called a heroic act, not the actions of a hero.”

“Isn’t that an oxymoron.”

“Not at all, but that’s all you're getting from me.”

“Hm…well thanks, that does help actually.”

“You're welcome, just returning the favor.”

“Favor?”

“For what you said to Lyla. I'm guessing you didn’t want her to open up a wound?”

“Course. I saw how you looked and based on what you told me, I didnt wanna cause any pain. I don't know what happened exactly, but…it’s not my place to pry.”

“...You're a good guy,” Sofi smiled.

“Thanks.”

“...Mind if we take a detour?”

“Hm? Where to?”

“I'll guide you, take a turn here,” She pointed off to the right.

“Ok,” He followed her finger.

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A few minutes later

“Pull in here,” Guiding Isaac around, Sofi had him pull into a driveway of a small one story house that was placed on level ground.

The home was colored in a vibrant blue with a black trim, having a small garden on the front with a small picket fence for protection. In that garden were an assortment of flowers, each section being one of the same, five sections at most, and they were all well kept and recently watered. On the porch were two lawn chairs and a coffee table right next to the front door.

“Where are we?” Isaac asked.

“Cmon,” Sofi said, getting off the bike.

Isaac and Artemis curiously glanced at each other before getting off and following her, the feline going in the backpack. They approached the door and Sofi gave it a few knocks.

“Coming!” A faint, feminine voice spoke from inside. Footsteps were heard walking up to the door before opening it. “Hello?” Appearing at the door was a female that was nearly the same height as Sofi with long, smooth, light brown hair, soft teal eyes, and fair white skin. She looked young with soft slightly round cheeks and a thin rectangular figure, only with slight curves on her body. Currently she wore a brown checkered dress with a white blouse and the skirt went below her knees. Once her eyes hit Sofi, she smiled wide. “Sofi!”

“Hey, Cara!” Sofi smiled.

“What are you- hm?” With a turn, she noticed Isaac.

“Uh, hi,” Isaac nervously smiled.

“This is that fan slash new friend of mine, Isaac,” Sofi explained, “and he brought his cat Artemis!”

“Mrow!” Artemis popped out.

“Oh so these are your new pals!” Cara extended her hand to greet them, “Im Cara!”

“Isaac,” Isaac shook her hand.

“Mew meow!” Artemis extended his paw to do the same.

Cara was surprised, “Wow, you weren't kidding, he is smart!”

“Told ya,” Sofi stated.

“Well, come on in!” She ushered them to enter.

When they first walked in, they were greeted to the living room. The Stand was right next to the door, holding the wide flatscreen tv, a few game consoles, DVDs, and games, both video and board. It was set across a white couch with two lounge chairs on the side with nightstands set between them. It led to two separate rooms, one was the dining room with an oval table and the other a kitchen that had an island in the middle. There were three doors in the dining room, each leading to what was assumed to be separate rooms. The curtains they had placed up matched the color on the walls which were the same as the outside but more vibrant with white on the edge, barely touching the hard wood floors.

Looking around, Isaac thought the place looked nice. “Nice house,” He stated, “Hm?” While observing he noticed a few pictures up on the wall but what stuck out to him was not only the spaces between them but that there was a little bit of dust that showed faint outlines of frames.

“Thanks,” Cara thanked, “You hungry? My folks made casserole last night.”

“I could go for some casserole, you Isaac?” Sofi asked.

“If it's ok, then gladly, but uh…” Smiling timidly, he asked: “can Artemis join at the table?”

“Huh?” The two ladies looked at him confused.

----------------------------------------

Artemis stabbed into the casserole with his fork, placing a piece in his mouth, “Mmm!” he hummed. Currently, he was standing on the chair with a small box to act as a booster, leaning his upper half on the table to access his food.

“This is good,” Isaac complemented.

“Thanks…” Cara said, looking at Artemis in awe.

“So…how'd you teach him this?” Sofi asked, equally awed.

“Well…” He didn't have a strong excuse but Isaac couldn't say Artemis learned on his own, “He always eats with me and he was curious on how to use a fork so I taught him how to hold a fork.”

“He always eats with you?”

“Yeah, this morning we had scrambled eggs and pancakes. I had to cut up the pancake for him though.”

“That's amazing!” Cara shined, taking her phone, “Mind if I record this?”

“Meow!” Artemis nodded.

“He’s ok with it,” Confirmed by Isaac.

“Great!” With approval, Cara recorded the eating cat.

“If you like this, you should follow our Youtube.”

“Sofi told me you had one, but now I’m a subscriber!”

With a short laugh, Sofi told her: “I told you you’d regret not subbing earlier.”

“Yeah yeah.”

“Hmph,” With a cross of her legs, she sharpened her gaze while placing her hand on her chin, smiling warmly at Cara, “Dear child, when will you ever realize?” She said in a somewhat motherly tone.

“Hm?” Both Isaac and Artemis looked at Sofi oddly.

“Mother's always right, but it's ok,” She reached over and softly brushed her hand across Cara’s head, “I still love you my foolish daughter.”

“...’ When Sofi started, Cara’s grip on her phone had tightened somewhat with her expression souring but trying not to show it. With a breath, she looked over at Sofi with a smile that looked forced, saying: “From the Daughter of the Count right?”

There was a slight pause and Sofi returned the smile and answered: “Right on the mark.”

“You always did love playing the high and mighty ones, which isn't a surprise,” She said a little snidely.

“What’s that supposed to mean?”

Cackling, she looked away playfully, “Oh nothing.”

*Skrrpl* The sound of a straw sucking up drips caught their attention. Artemis blushed, the source of the sound emanating from him and his empty glass, “Mrow…”

“Need a refill?”

“Hm,” Artemis nodded.

“Mind if I get one too?” Isaac asked.

“Sure,” Taking both glasses, Cara went to the kitchen. “Be right back.”

Once she had left the dining room, Sofi looked to Isaac, saying: “She was part of that play too.”

“Really?” Isaac questioned, returning the gaze.

“She was the daughter and I was the the mother, the count…it was one of our favorite plays,” Looking down sadly, she picked at her casserole, “Usually Cara would join me for a random bit but now… there’s no trace of that, no trace of that same actor who would always…” She bit her lip, unable to finish.

Compassion was in Isaac and Artemis’s eyes. Thinking back, Isaac realized what could’ve possibly been hung up from before.

Sofi’s grip tightened and her face scrunched. “I’ll never forgive them…Lixin corp…” With intense anger, she looked up at Isaac, “I swear…I’m gonna shove my foot right up there ass!”

“Sofi…” Isaac nearly gasped.

With a deep breath, she calmed herself down. “Sorry. Got a little heated there.”

“It’s-”

“Im back,” Cara returned with two full glasses of soda, handing them to Isaac and Artemis, “Here ya go.”

“Thanks.”

“Sofi didn't say anything embarrassing about me did she?”

“Not at all.”

“Would I ever?” Sofi questions with some offense.

With a side glare, Cara said: “Need I remind you of the Care Bear incident?”

“That was an accident!”

“Should I ask?” Isaac laughed with Artemis snickering.

“Oh well she ha-”

“Don’t you dare tell him!” Cara cut off.

“You brought it up,” She said a bit mockingly.

Cara pouted while the others cackled, her soon joining.

----------------------------------------

“Sure you don't want a ride home?” Isaac asked Sofi, exiting the house.

Sofi shook her head. “I'm gonna spend some more time here. Her dad can take me back when he comes over for a break.”

“Ok, if you're sure. See you!” He bid goodbye.

“Meow!” Artemis waved.

“See ya! Text me when you start those board games!” Sofi called out before going back in.

Isaac got on his bike, placing Artemis on the basket. “Finally met her friend,” Isaac stated.

“When Sofi did that bit she looked like she was in pain,” Artemis said.

“You noticed that too?” He started petaling, “What Sofi said though…was pretty unsettling. She’s serious.”

“...Honestly…I don't blame her for feeling that way. If it were my friend I'd be pissed too.”

“Yeah if someone messed with Dex to where he’d want to quit coding then I'd wanna deck the guy…Still though that's no excuse.”

“Yeah, she’s going too far. Even if you're angry, you can’t swing your blade recklessly, less you cut someone you don’t want to cut.”

Isaac gazed down with intrigue, “Where'd you get that from?”

“What do you mean?”

“That saying.”

“Huh? Haven't you said that before?”

“No.”

“Huh…wonder where I heard it from them.”

“Did yo-” The sound of a loud explosion interrupted and caught his attention, making him stop, “The hell!?”

“What was that?! It sounded close!”

“It did…wanna go check it out?”

With a tilt of his head, Artemis looked to Isaac confused, “Huh?”

“Do you wanna go check it out? See if help is needed?”

“Well yeah but-”

“Let's go!” With a turn, he pedaled his way to the commotion.

“W-wait! Are you sure about this!?”

“...I'm no hero, Artemis….I'm just a guy who wants to see the stars…even though I got these powers I still feel the same…that being said, if someone was in need right in front of me and I could do something I would, I'd rather leave it to the pros but if they aren't there I wouldn't just stand there…between the two of us, you're the real hero.”

“Isaac…”

He stopped across the street, seeing a fire and what looked to be Automatons and a thief in the smoke. “Still…I shouldn’t let that stop me…because I did say I’d have your back…” Looking back, he flashed a confident smile, “I gotta make sure I can still use you right?”

“....” Artemis returned the smile, elated by what he said, “Thanks!”

There was another explosion caused by the assailant. “You ready?”

“Do it!”

Reaching out, Isaac said the words: “Release Control Art Two!” Artemis shifted and jumped out of the basket, “Alright,” Isaac looked forward, looking more determined than ever, “Lets align the stars!” He transformed himself and with Artemis at his side he rushed in. Star mask and the Moon Familiar engaged their enemy.

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End

Next chapter: Balance.