Play her a song By: Options

[Mature content] fantasy, adventure, comedy, romance

Chapter 1: What a shame life is

"Fuuwahhhhhhhh!"

Letting out a huge yawn Louis slowly lifted his head off of his drool ridden desk and took a long glance at his surroundings, trying to get an indication of where he was.

There was a blackboard at the front of the room and to his left was a window plagued wall showing a view of a blue sky and a glaring sun. He was surrounded by a large amount people seated in rows. There were people of many colors, backgrounds, and countries. Hell the bunch of people looked so diverse and random; if someone didn't know already they'd be hard pressed to figure out what country they were in.

'Oh I see familiar faces! I think, yeah, maybe? School! I'm at school!' Louis thought to himself as he slowly stretched his arms forward loosening up his stiff muscles. Taking a few seconds to ascertain his condition and wipe the drool of his face he faintly started to feel something was off. Why was everyone staring at him with those strange expressions?

"Hmmm I wonder what it is. What is it? I don't know." Louis incoherently muttered as he rubbed his half lidded eyes.

"Louis...." a calm yet frigid voice came from the somewhere in the room.

Surprised Louis once again glanced around the room in his drowsy state and his eyes ended up locking with a young and mature looking woman who was standing at the front of the room, looking over at him with sharp piercing eyes, which were outlined by her extremely long straight black hair that partially covered her face.

They stared at each other as the rest of the class held there breathes not daring to make a sound. Many had already faced innumerable horrors at their young age. Overcame and supported each other through heartless and countless battles. But they didn't feel the need to turn from a bystander to victim in this particular situation. What was mere seconds felt like years as the students waited with bated breathes; in the end Louis finally broke the unbearable silence.

"Must of been my imagination, no definitely my imagination, time to go back to sleep." Louis uneventfully stated with a completely perplexed then certain expression, as he slumped his body back on his desk, causing more than one person to almost slip out of their chairs.

"Don't go back to sleep!" roared the mature looking women completely dumbfounded at her student and seething with anger, which was unusual as she usually had a more forgiving personality.

"Oh Miss Rowrow I didn't see you there. Why are you yelling? You look really frustrated."

"It's Miss Morrow, Mor-Row do you hear me! And I'm clearly yelling because you not only slept through but also interrupted my class, and you never ever listen to what I tell you!" Miss Morrow yelled back. As she approached him prepared to give him a beating

Louis was going to object to that statement but was quickly interrupted by a brave female and her unyielding fist which smashed into the back of the head. She was a black skinned and quite physically fit girl giving her a lean and muscular figure, which matched well with her golden bronze eyes. She stood there confronting her teacher, trying to calm her down.

"Miss Morrow I'm sure he's very sorry for his actions and would like to ask you for your forgiveness, as he would hate to delay the lesson anymore with his antics."

'How did she even get over here so fast!? Her seat is on the other side of the classroom and I didn't even see her move! Those clearly weren't movements a human should be able to do!' Louis screamed in his mind while rubbing the back of his head.

"Cassandra what are you getting in my way for? I clearly need to teach that kid another lesson and remind him where he is."

"I'm sure he hasn't forgotten what level this academy requires for entry, and what expectations everyone has."

"Huh this school[Bam!]..."

"I'll personally discipline him later myself. So there's no need for you to worry."

Seeing Cassandra's dangerous and sadistic smile Miss Morrow reluctantly decided to let her handle it. As Cassandra had said she had already wasted enough time and needed to get back to task at hand, which was teaching her class. Letting out a heavy and tired sigh Miss Morrow told Cassandra to go back to her seat, and returned to the front of the classroom sulking all the while. She was going to resume the lesson but was interrupted again by a statement that even took her completely off guard.

"That's got to be what's bothering you. You're having relationship problems again, right? I'll tell you now. The guy you're dating is trash you should dump him this instant. He's clearly an asshole and if he bothers you again I can beat some sense into him."Louis said in a rare spurt of anger and disdain.

Making several fellow classmates quite confused. Of course almost everyone noticed Miss Morrow wasn't in a good mood today. But what everyone was wondering was how he connected that to relationship troubles? Cassandra had started muttering something about breaking Louis as she glared daggers at him, while everyone else's gazes were directed at the seemingly cool and calm Miss Morrow.

'H-how did he know about the fight? Did I say something about it? Wait I never even said I had a boyfriend. Shit I've been silent too long; I need to smooth things over.'

As she was agonizing on what she should say the class began whispering to each other guessing at what her silence meant. They had all already thoroughly searched her boyfriend's background and daily routine. They couldn't leave there fragile and trusting teacher unprotected you know. But they didn't find anything that raised any flags, so were wondering what had happened and why Louis showed so much hate towards him.

"Stop talking nonsense I have no such problems."

This statement meant to put out the fires just fueled them even more. Not one student believed her unconvincing answer and their eyes blazed in anger. The news was quickly spread throughout the school through texts and social media and people were ready to mobilize and go on a hunt. Miss Morrow was a thoroughly liked teacher in the academy and hurting her was not a wise choice. Let's just say after school all hell is going to break loose for a certain regular office worker somewhere in the city.

"Shut up!" Miss Morrow yelled and the class silenced.

"Louis you have a detention this lunch!" Miss Morrow lashed out angrily at the source of her troubles.

"A-ah excuse me teacher but I think he went back to sleep." A small girl voiced out hesitantly from the seat next to him.

XXX

The bell rang signalling the end of the day. Students began to chatter, go to clubs, make plans, mobilize their punitive force, and go home, yet Louis continued to be seated at his desk slumped over letting out light breathes while in a deep sleep.

No one approached him; it was not like everyone hated him or anything. It was just the challenge of waking him up and trying to hold a proper conversation with him was a little to intimidating for most. He was an eccentric, different, and a lot of people in the school had problems interacting with him.

But at an academy like this, which had collected high honors and gifted students, prodigies from around the world. There were more than a few equally spunky characters he got along with.

After a couple minutes the amount of people in the classroom began to thin, and a guy whose demeanor was as cold as ice walked into the room. He had dusty grey eyes and hair and gave out airs of intelligence and refinement. He had a strange aura about him that attracted people gazes towards him, but made you think twice about approaching him.

Walking over to the sleeping Louis he gave him a little shake trying to wake him up. But Louis just moaned and shifted around a bit not even close to being stirred from his endless nap time. Even though he completely expected this it still made the boy sigh every time it happened, which was probably quite often as the scene almost seemed too natural.

"Chris you're finally here!" Cassandra shouted happily as she jogged over from the other end of the classroom and agilely jumped onto Christopher's back.

"Did you need something?"

"Actually a friend wanted to talk to you."

"No thank you."Christopher quickly denied but was sadly ignored.

"Elizabeth get over here!"

Hearing her yell a childish looking girl with brown curls hesitantly walked over from the side of the classroom, with a second girl in tow. As they were walking over Cassandra whispered in his ear to be nice though she still didn't get off his back.

"H-hello there" Said the girl, trying to sound casual in her greetings but sadly failed.

Christopher wasn't all that friendly of a person and didn't enjoy talking to people especially strangers. He actually only liked and talked to a couple of people in the academy and ignored the rest. But as this was Cassandra's request he responded with basic curtsies, his facial expression belaying none of annoyance he felt.

"Ah Elizabeth is it? Did you need something of me?"

"N-not really."

"Yes she does."Cassandra quickly corrected.

'She's one of those people that have trouble saying what's on their mind isn't she. Fuck my life this conversation going to take forever.' Christopher complained in his mind completely masking his true thoughts with a courteous smile.

"If you need anything I'd be glad to help you, maybe, no actually it depends what it is, scratch that probably not."

"U-um you know I-I was wondering." Completely ignoring Christopher's earlier statement and stumbling on her own Elizabeth tried to form her now mumbling into clear sentences. 'Wow I expected that would elicit a different reaction but she completely ignored me. All I got out of that was a couple of sharp looks from Cassie and that other girl' thought Christopher while nothing but a sigh came from his mouth.

"If you, if you would.., I was wondering if you! If you would!" As she continued in her agitated state her voice gradually grew louder and louder, causing the students left among the class to quiet down and start to observe the happening.

But Elizabeth was completely in her own world not noticing and Christopher, well Christopher had pulled out a novel from who knows where and was casually reading, not even being slightly afflicted by the events. It was not like Christopher was oblivious to what she wanted to say and his situation, it's better to say he completely knew what was happening and what she wanted from him. But all he could think of at the moment was how much time she was wasting and how annoying this conversation was.

"It's okay just say what's on your mind." Christopher guided her as he flipped his page.

"Would you and Louis like to, maybe, eat with me and Sarah tomorrow!?" Elizabeth finally asked in a loud and forceful voice. Making the girl that came with her sigh and rub her temple as if she had a headache, while Cassandra let out a small giggle, and the rest of the observers looked towards Christopher.

"Louis and I are busy tomorrow, so no." Christopher said making it short and sweet. He assumed the silent girl was Sarah and he wasn't up to having lunch with two random strangers anytime soon, though he was actually doing something tomorrow.

"But there free the day after so why don't you do it then?" Cassandra chimed in from his back.

"O-okay I see the day after then." Elizabeth replied as she ran off not before taking a peak at the sleeping Louis.

Her friend who seemed of Japanese heritage gave a slight bow before following suit. As they disappeared Cassandra finally slid off his back and patted him on the shoulder.

"Well I got to go to my club thanks for not being too mean and I'm coming over later this evening!"Cassandra yelled out as she ran off leaving Christopher and a sleeping Louis together.

Sighing at the appointment that was forced on him Christopher picked up Louis piggyback style grabbed their bags and walked out into the hall. They were currently on the third floor of the building so they walked over to the stairs and started descending to the first floor, running into an unexpected friend on the way.

"Hey Igor, you're back already?" said Louis in his overly lazy yet charming voice from Christopher's back.

Louis had actually woken up when Christopher picked him up and of course Christopher realized this. It was an instinct he had grown throughout there years together. He could tell if his friend was asleep or awake by a mere glance.

"Oh hey guys, I actually just got back last night and decided to come do the required mental evaluation today, before coming back to school tomorrow."

"How was the other side?"

"A hell hole like usual." Igor replied with a pained smile on his face.

"Did something happen?"

"Ah, maybe, I'll tell you guys about it later. Well I got to go right now, see ya."

Christopher and Louis watched as Frederick slowly walked away and disappeared around the corner. Probably looking for somewhere to be alone and sort out his thoughts.

"I have to hold him to his word." Christopher muttered to himself as he resumed descending the stairs.

Finally reaching the ground level they started shifting through the crowds heading towards the exit. The first floor consisted of a huge entrance lobby with a multitude of hallways sprouting out of it in all directions. Leading to gyms, labs, classrooms, and large variety of other places. This school took students from everywhere excelling in a large variety of fields ranging from the arts, to sciences, to sports and basically anything else you can think off.

So the school buildings were rather grand to accommodate and provide supplies and room for each student to perform there activities to the best of their abilities. Hell, the school even had its own airfield.

So it took them around twenty minutes of walking to make it off school property and on to the public roads. The academy was near the outskirts of a large Federation city in what used to be Canada, ten long years ago.

The academy was still relatively new as was the city. They had been built as a joint project so it wasn't surprising how convenient the city's functions were for the students. The city's railway system passed and stopped essentially on the academy's front door step, and came around every fifth teen minutes until midnight. Getting on the train Christopher and Louis rode it around to the south east side of the city.

The city was well, very modern. All the buildings had sleek designs and towered above them as if reaching for the skies. Crowds of citizens bustled around the many streets shopping and doing an array of activities. Many people had moved to the city during its development stages for a slew of reasons, like business, superior living conditions or to simply go to the academy. Christopher and Louis were amongst the many students that actually lived in the city and not in the dormitories on the school grounds.

Garnering them many stares, though the academy did have an available uniform one could wear. It wasn't required so most didn't wear it. But it was required to wear the school symbol somewhere on your body. Louis had the academy emblem woven on a worn baseball cap he liked and Christopher on his jacket.

Which identified them as students of the academy making them a very unique existence in the city. Of course there were other schools and academies around the city for regular people; some even had many great achievements. But you almost became revered the moment you wore the symbol of their school. It also didn't help them any that Louis was currently sleeping on Christopher's back. Making them stand out even more.

Once off the train they or to be more accurate Christopher began walking away from the center of the city. Weaving down the many paths and alleys they ended up in front of a dojo surrounded by a forested area. Entering they were greeted by the sight of many people training and in fierce sparring matches armed and unarmed alike. Seeing this Louis slid off of Christopher's back and started walking beside him. After taking a few steps in they were noticed by a man working at a desk which was shifted off to the side.

"Christopher and Louis good to see you both, the master has been expecting your arrival. He's in his room please go on ahead. I'll prepare something to drink."

"Thank you instructor Chang," they both bowed and said in chorus as he got up and walked away.

As instructor Chang disappeared into the next room where the kitchen was located, they began making their way to the side of the building. Exiting the area where everyone was training they strolled down a hall and stopped in front of a door giving a small knock before entering.

The room wasn't anything grand it looked like any other one you could find around the city. A simple design with bookshelves along one wall, a desk and two chairs across from it, and a small window showing a view of the forest across from the door. In the middle of the room laid an old looking man in a fluffy looking bed with various medical instruments around him.

"[Cough] is that you Chang?" the old man grumbled out in a sickly voice.

"No master Udo it is Christopher and Louis, we've come to finish the game as requested." Christopher said in a respectful voice.

"Oh my boys good to see you, Louis come give an old man a hand and Christopher please set it up."

Following his instructions Louis hurried over and helped the old man sit up and slide out of bed, then supporting him shuffled over to the chair at the side of the room making sure his IV drip was with him the whole way, then adding pillows and blankets so he was warm and comfortable in the seat. Meanwhile Christopher set up the game of chess as it had been the previous day on top of the table, his photographic memory helping him out quite a bit. Once he was finished he sat down in the seat across from the old man.

"I believe it was your turn master."

"I believe it was but first things first, Louis I think Chang left the saxophone under the bed."

Hearing his master Louis promptly walked over and grabbed the sax from under the bed. Opening the case there was a completely average alto saxophone placed inside. But Louis didn't mind and put it together with practiced hands before giving it a little test. As he was finishing up preparations Chang arrived giving a light knock before walking in with some tea and cookies.

"Please excuse me."

He said as he walked over and placed three cups of tea and the cookies on the table beside the game of chess.

"Do you need anything else?"

"No thank you Chang you may take your leave."

Chang silently left the room as told. Master Udo took a sip of his tea before speaking once again.

”I'd like some Jazz Louis."

Giving a small nod Louis began playing a smooth and flowing tune, making a small smile spread across master Udo's face. Louis had gotten into the academy because of his musical talent and could play most any instrument efficiently. But his preferred instrument and the one he was revered for was the violin though he rarely played it for other people. But when he did his very essence invaded his music, his raw emotions, the very person named Louis. Were all unmasked and left bare when he picked up that violin. His music was alive and seeped into everyone souls never fading. A experience really hard for anyone to describe, and the thing that made him coveted in the music industry, though he never recorded his music and never sold it.

After a few moments of indulging in the music Udo moved his attention to the game in front of him. They had played hundreds of chess games since he became their master. Yet sadly he had never won one even with his years of experience with the game.

The three spent a good amount of the evening like that simply letting time pass with music and a small game of chess that had an old man's pride at stake. Sharing laughs talking about the past and their experiences, their days and their nights, both Christopher and Louis were completely open and unreserved with master Udo showing the deep trust they had with the aging man. It was a happy time for all three people. But those times had to end.

"Checkmate."

"[Laughing] dam it lost again."

"No need to feel down master, you played quite well today." Louis said lightly patting the old man on the back.

Of course Louis didn't play the sax the whole time he took breaks between songs to rest, talk, and watch the game, and he could see Udo had done better than usual. Standing up Christopher put away the chess set and tidied the table while Louis cleaned and put away the saxophone.

"Well master, Louis and I should head home now as it's getting late."

"Yes we wouldn't want to make anyone worry now would we. But before you go I have something to say and give you."

Hearing the seriousness in his voice Louis and Christopher moved and stood at attention in front of him waiting for him to continue.

"You both have completed your training and learned everything I could teach you a long time ago. So first I must thank you for keeping an old man company over these past few years. But my time has come to an end. I'm going to die soon."

This not so surprising statement made both Louis and Christopher frown but they kept silent.

"The cancer has spread to my heart and I'm on my last spurt of life. So before I go I want to give you both something. Get my wheel chair it's not too far."

Christopher walked over near the book shelves and grabbed his wheelchair pushing it over to him. Louis Picked him up and gently placed him in it, placing the blanket around him after.

"Um but master should you really be going outside?" Louis questioned as he placed a pillow behind his back and made sure he was comfortable.

"[Laughing] who really cares?" Master Udo said while Christopher silently pushed him out the door with Louis in tow.

They walked out into hall and started moving to their destination being guided by Master Udo, stopping in front of a room somewhere near the back of the dojo. Louis opened the door first allowing Christopher to walk in pushing their master then followed suit.

The room had nothing much in it the ground was essentially bare and there was no furniture. But countless scrolls were hung completely covering the walls. Collectively the scrolls created a painting, a painting they couldn't help but be in awe of.

It depicted two foxes running through a dense forest. Light seeping through the tree tops partially lighting the way. Vibrant green colors exploded from the ground with bright flowers and life weaved through, illuminated by the light of the sun. Deep shades gathered and spread out lurking and crawling in the shadows, threading itself around the light. The fox's colors opposite, one with white fur tinged with black on the tail, feet, and nose. One with black fur tinged with white.

The painting was conflicting but seemed to meld together perfectly. Master Udo was silent giving them a few moments to truly admire it before speaking.

"As you know we have no name, no home, no allegiance. A clan that doesn't exist, people of the shadows who are never seen and never heard, seeking no fame and no fortune. This is a painting of the two fox spirits Tatsuya and Kotomi who protect our clan, hiding us, accepting our necessary evils and accepting the ones that aren't."

Slowly lifting his hand he pointed towards a shadowed corner of the room. Christopher and Louis walked over and found a cardboard box. Inside were two sleeping baby foxes very much to the liking of the ones in the paintings.

"Kotomi the white one, I give to Christopher. Tatsuya the black one, I give to Louis."

They both reached into the box picking up there fox waking them up. But the foxes didn't bite or claw but began to lick their new friends playfully.

"They are now a part of you please treat them well and with respect. They are the representations of our school and clan, and shows that all of my knowledge and skills have been passed to you two."

"Yes master!" they both said giving a deep bow.

"Now both of you get out of here, send Chang in on your way out."

Hugging their foxes they exited and sent Chang in who was surprisingly waiting out in the hall, and then exited the dojo leaving to go home. They both drifted into their own worlds as they steadily made their way home. Louis slept with Tatsuya snuggled in his arms while Christopher read with Kotomi on his head and after about fifth teen twenty minutes they reached their house and Christopher opened the door promptly walking inside with Louis in tow.

Walking down the hall they went up stairs to placed foxes in their rooms telling them to be good then returned to the first floor. Walking through the living room and on into the dining room Christopher greeted Louis's mom as she busily worked in the kitchen.

"Mrs. Matthews were home."

"Oh my Christopher welcome home." Mrs. Matthews replied sweetly as she gingerly finished up the dishes and turns towards the boys with a bright smile.

"Hmmm, I'm home mom." Louis says walking sluggishly slightly behind Christopher. Seeing her son Mrs. Matthews leaks out a light sigh and makes her way towards him smacking him in the back of the head.

"Boy, wake up already!"

Louis swayed a bit from the hit then slowly moved behind Christopher hiding behind him for protection. 'Why do people keep on hitting me?' Louis complained inwardly.

"Louis and I are going be upstairs if you need anything please call us."

"Oh my you're just going to leave an old lass such as myself to toll away in the kitchen all by her lonesome self?" Mrs. Matthews said putting on theatrical hurt face.

'Oh no' thought Louis as he slowly started to back away out of the dining room.

"I'm sure Louis would love to help you cook Miss Matthews." said Christopher feeling he needed a bit of revenge for that lunch incident. As quick as a hawk swooping down Miss. Matthews ran over and grabbed her pre..(Cough) son in her talons keeping him from escaping.

"Well you guys have fun." Christopher said walking out. While Louis gave him a betrayed look as he was helplessly dragged towards the kitchen.

Christopher kind of felt like Louis was over exaggerating the whole event though he could help out himself it was nothing compared to what Louis was capable of. Christopher would go even far as to say Louis was the best cook he knew and no matter how much Louis protested it was obvious he didn't hate to cook, though he didn't exactly like to either. Slowly walking up the stairs and into his room Christopher sat down in his comfy chair settling in to finish his book.

The day turned into evening and Christopher was called down for dinner. Taking a glance at his bed he noticed Kotomi had fallen asleep, so he decided to go to dinner and bring back something for her to eat. Getting up and putting down the manga he was casually reading after finishing his novel, Christopher made his way downstairs and was greeted by the sight of a staggering Louis putting food on the table. So Christopher decided to help out and set the table, and soon all the food was out and the whole family was gathered.

Not before Louis hurriedly ran upstairs to check on Tatsuya, who thankfully hadn't caused any trouble and lazing about the room. Louis had already gotten over the supposed betrayal and was casually listening to his family talk over food.

"Another player was confirmed dead on the other side; I spent most of my day trying to identify her." John said casually as his wife asked him how his day was. No one was really surprised at this news Mrs. Matthews and her daughter Elena just gave short responses not really responding to the subject, but Chris decided to expand the topic.

"Who was it?"

"Her name was Claire she was fourteen years old disappeared a week ago." John said though he probably wasn't allowed to share such information with them.

John worked for a special sect of the world federation which was formed a little over ten years ago when the incidents started. It was designed to help combat and monitor people who go to the other side. Keeping track of who where and what's happening.

"First time over?" Louis asked jumping in on the conversation.

"Yes, reported level one, no class." John answered simply continuing to eat.

"Cause of death?"Louis said, again asking another question.

"Suicide."

"Boys not in front of Elena!" his wife Lily yelled at them.

"Wait, why only me I'm not a child anymore!"

Lily was going to explain to her daughter but was interrupted by a loud knock on the door, then a loud voice.

"I'm letting myself in!"

"Oh I forgot to tell you Cassandra was coming over." Christopher casually said. As Louis jumped out o his chair and started running for the back door, as if he just remembered his life was hanging in the balance. But was grabbed and tackled by an incoming Cassandra, and helplessly pinned to the ground.

"Help me Chris! Save me! I don't want to die!"

"You just shut up I'll deal with you in a bit. Hello Mr and Mrs Matthews, Elena, it's nice to see you all again."

"Cassandra what a nice surprise. Would you like to eat dinner with us, Louis made it today."

"If you're offering I'd love too."

After that for the next few minutes the neighbors could hear horrid screams and shouts coming from the Matthews home. But no one was really alarmed as they recognized it as Louis's voice. Once Cassandra finished disciplining Louis she pulled up a seat between Christopher and the slumped over Louis who had barely made it back to his seat, and was served some food by Lily. The rest of the meal was lively as Cassandra happily talked about her day and what Louis and Christopher did at school.

Once they finished the meal the three ended up in the backyard sitting on the porch and talking. There was a nice cool breeze blowing and the green grass healthily rooted itself in the ground. The three had been childhood friends and were rather close so they could talk rather freely around each other, and be rather relaxed.

"Why'd I get stuck with those random girls? You know I don't like strangers." Christopher protested.

"Well she actually tried to ask Louis several times but she could never get the question out and Louis drifted off mid conversation more than a couple times."

"Wait, what about me?"

"Did Christopher not tell you? The day after tomorrow you have a lunch date with Elizabeth, though Christopher and Sarah are going to be there. "

"What! Wait who's Elizabeth[Bam]."

"Like I told you before she's the cute girl with the brown wavy hair who has a crush on you. Like hell I know what she sees in you."

This novel is published on a different platform. Support the original author by finding the official source.

Louis's looks were well average. He had unruly black hair, dark brown eyes, and slightly pale skin. He could blend in to a crowd with ease.

"He has more redeeming qualities then you think."Christopher added in.

"Yeah, what he said"

"I guess, well it's her choice anyways. Christopher let's get in a quick spar before I go."

"You're not staying for the night?" Louis asked.

"Na I'll go home after."

Both her and Christopher got up from their seats and jumped onto the freshly cut lawn moving away from the porch where only the light of the moon shone, and the shadows of the swaying trees stretched. Doing a couple of stretches Cassandra was getting herself pumped and ready to go, while Christopher on the other hand had loosened up his muscles with a few movements and was calmly waiting to start.

"I want to go back inside so just start already!"Louis shouted. As he waited on the porch watching them prepare.

A few seconds after Louis's shout reached them Cassandra dashed at the motionless Christopher. Doing a spin mid sprint she unleashed a lightning fast high kick at Christopher's face. Ducking Christopher let her kick fly right over his head and took a step in as he rose from his crouching position letting out a quick jab towards her chin. But she was expecting something like that and with fluid movements lowered her body using the centripetal force from her previous action to try and swipe his feet out from under him.

Truth be told she was really fast, way faster than Christopher, and she hit hard like a truck. Making him unable to directly block any of her blows, overall he was physically outmatched. But an insidious smile spread across his face as he observed her movements. Hopping backwards right above her sweep kick Christopher moved into the shadows of the trees.

Cassandra followed and started unleashing a flurry of kicks with great vigour. But Christopher kept on dodging with the smallest margins, or brushing them away with his hands. They went deeper and deeper in the shadows making it harder and harder to see. Christopher finally did a counter a strong kick at her mid body. Dodging it by jumping up Cassandra let out a heel drop but as she was attacking Christopher just disappeared from her sights, blending with the shadows.

Breathing heavily Cassandra jerked her head around trying to find him but all she could see was darkness and more darkness.

"U-uh Ch-Chris where a-are you."

She suddenly heard rustling to her right and her eyes shot over as she readied herself but nothing came. But there was something over there. She suddenly heard rustling to her left and her eyes shot over as she readied herself but nothing came. But there was something over there. She suddenly heard rustling behind her she quickly turn around and readied herself but nothing came. But there was something over there.

"Y-you can't scare me with just this.'

Then she heard something from above she glanced up and her world went black. When she woke up she was back on the porch. Louis was to her left and Christopher to her right both staring at her.

"She's finally up. I don't know why you knocked her out for."

"Yeah yeah my mistake, perhaps I got too in to it, I apologize."

"What happened to me?"

"You lost, though we're not going to tell you how. Oh and my mom set up the guest room for you as its pretty late now. Well were off to bed now good night"

Getting up Christopher and Louis left Cassandra to her thoughts and went to the kitchen. Secretly taking out two plates and some uncooked meat they soundlessly went up the stairs and in to their rooms.

XXX

The phenomenon which would be later known as Black Life swept over the unsuspecting world a little over ten years ago. Hundreds of thousands of people disappeared one night leaving no trace and no explanation. People just woke up to find them gone. There was no sign of struggles or illegal entry they were simply no longer present. They disappeared taking nothing with them, not even the clothing on their back.

The world was in an uproar no one could comprehend what had happened. It was if they were obliterated, their very existence erased leaving nothing. So most did the only thing they could, they waited, but sadly nothing came. No one claimed responsibility; no one could find a speck of anything. Thousands of people had just up and disappeared, simply spirited away.

The second day came and more people disappeared sending many in to a horrid panic people began to question their leaders and what they were doing. But what could they, even they saw no hint of reason in what was happening, and no way to stop it from happening again.

Then the third day after the incident came and one of the victims suddenly turned up as unexpectedly as he had disappeared, found in an alleyway near his home in Paris, France, alone and screaming for help as he sullied his face with tears and snot. The news of his appearence gave many people hope. Thousands of reporters flocked the city trying to get interviews questioning the police and the French government whom had placed him under protective custody. But they got no answers.

Being viewed as an important source of information the French had him interviewed by their top analyst but the story he told was too unbelievable, too impossible. He was marked off as insane and was put in a mental program to rehabilitate. Of course the media and citizens of all countries were kept in the dark about these events. All of those who knew the tale were even sworn to secrecy.

But fortunately or maybe unfortunately over the next few days many other victims began appearing and disappearing around the world and as more stories were told the firsts mans tale became more and more of a possibility.

The world's governments began lengthily discussions and debates trying to collect as much information possible, in the end ominously voting that a conference with all world leaders would be held and all information on the matter would be shared there.

But as the politicians were arguing rumors began to spread from survivors they didn't find first, they were rumors of a new world, a fantasy world, of a corrupt world with few places to hide. As the tales of horror began to become more consistent the unbelievable stories became more believable then became fact, stirring the already frantic mob known as the human population.

The world leaders quickly discovered that other countries had as much information on the event that had perspired as they did. Not helping at all with discussions just splitting them into those who believed in the stories and those who didn't. There were even arguments accusing countries of withholding information.

They were leading the world nowhere very quickly. The world leaders wanted answers as much as the nest person, so scientist and researchers from the furthest reaches of the planet were gathered to explain what was happening. But as they were fooling around more people disappeared and reappeared day by day and the world was in a riot, militaries and police forces were being pushed back and had to resort to violence to contain the mayhem.

People wanted answers and they wanted them now. After much debate it was decided to reveal everything. People were panicking from the lack of solid information; they needed to give them something to support them. They couldn't hide such a large and reoccurring phenomenon it was impossible. At least they could prepare people with all the information available. So, on August 22, 2020 the president of the United States of America appeared in a press conference as a representative for all the world leaders and the made the announcement to the world.

"Good citizens of every nationality, of every country, of every colour. Do not panic I stand before you today as nothing but a man, a man who is doing everything in his power to become what you need in this time of crisis. You've all have heard rumors, rumours of atrocities that no person should ever face and rumors of a new world.

Though I can't say they're all true I also cannot say they are all false. You must use what I explain to you today to decide that for yourselves. You can believe me or not it is your choice. Eight days ago on August 14, 2020 hundreds of thousands of victims were all moved by unknown means to a new world reportedly called 'Avail' by victims that have returned.

Races, intelligence, ability were not discriminated the only prerequisite to be transported found was being over the age of 13 and being asleep at time of movement. It is unknown to where this world is and the time there strangely moves five times faster than here, as too why that is also an unknown. Though its technology and economy is mostly to the likings of our medieval era it has a system which we do not have, magic. Yet at this time its unknown how it works and its limits, though it is possible for us to use it but only in Avail.

Humans inhabit this world and are almost identical to us but we also have had reports of multiple mythical races being active and very real, Elves, orcs, demi-humans, goblins and many more completely unknown to us.

In Avail gods are beings that show themselves to and interact with the lower world and us mortals. And have granted Avail a unique evaluating system devised by the gods themselves. Stats, classes, and skills can be learned, grown and perfected very much like a RPG and can be viewed with simple magic. But this is a reality, you must never forget that. Though skills and magic cannot be used here the physical and mental changes you gain from stat increases are carried over.

As for the political situation in Avail, it's in shambles. Corruption and violence run rampant, war plagues the land. Races fight to destroy others and you can never really know who's on your side. We cannot afford to trust the people not of our world. Yet fear not people of earth we are here to prepare you for what you cannot, no must not face alone...."

The president continued vigorously in a lengthily speech going into details about the information collected about this world, the continued disappearances, and what they were doing about it all. When the speech ended the president left without taking further questions. There were many reactions people panicked, prayed, celebrated, and worried. And quite a few died in the slight pandemonium that ensued that day though it could be said it was kept to the minimum.

Over the next few years countermeasures and laws would be put in place involving this phenomenon, and the understanding and information about this new world would become more detailed and common knowledge known throughout the world. Schools and workplaces would even implement training into their curriculum and schedules, becoming essential parts of life.

Combat training, survival, first aid, and any other skills to face the worst situation were drilled into everyone bodies and minds. The economy of the world changed greatly as it was unpredictable when one would be transported which caused countries to be forced to ban together creating a world federation to meet supply and demand, and to keep their lives comfortable and the world running.

The people who were transported to Avail nicknamed themselves players to help distinguish between natural residence and visiting people in that world. Prevention was long forgotten and all of human's power was focused on preparation for the inevitable. In the end it became a common occurrence in society, and so did the deaths it caused.

XXX

The next day Louis was woken up by the loud yelling and constant shaking of his little sister.

"Get up you lazy ass brother before you make me go to extreme measures!"

Louis was having some inner turmoil as he wondered why his Canadian little sister was so different from those Japanese little sisters depicted in the anime he had happened to see.

"I going down stairs you better hurry up." Elena said as she stopped shaking him and started to leave the room. But before she made it out Louis called out her in his less than motivated voice.

"Heeeey, is Chris up? He's probably up, right?"

"No."

"He's not up yet? He's probably up right?"

"I said no!"

"He should probably get up soon, but maybe he's up already."

"I'm going to wake up Christopher so you just get up o-okay!" Elena responded while slightly blushing. Making him a bit worried at such the obvious reaction, 'She could at least try to hide it' thought Louis.

"Tatsuya where are you?" Louis said out into the room. In response movement started under his blanket and a black shadow shot out standing itself on his head.

"There you are. You have to stay at home today but I promise tomorrow I'll take you to school with me,. Okay buddy."

The small fox responded with a lick on his face then went back to sleep after walking back under the blankets.

After an hour Louis had finally completed getting himself out of bed, maintaining his violin and getting dressed which he did in that order, and was currently trudging his way down the flight of stairs towards the kitchen for some breakfast. But when he passed through the dining room to his surprise his family and Christopher were seated and eating breakfast together which actually rarely happened.

Giving a low grumble as a good morning the men responded with their own low grumble, his sister ignored his greeting rudely sticking her tongue out at him and his mother gave him the only regular good morning. When he asked where Cassandra was he was told she went home early this morning to freshen up and get ready for school.

After breakfast Louis and Christopher left for the academy together, Elena had left earlier as she didn't want to walk with them despite her school being only a couple train stops before theirs, though it was a regular school.

Reaching school they were a bit late as the bell had already went, that could be contributed to Christopher having to carry Louis more than half the walk. But no one really bothered them about it as the first quarter of the day was essentially free time. So they could develop their talents and realize their full potential.

The other three quarters taught lessons on different things. The second quarter teaching common things like maths, science and English. The third quarter teaching combat, survival, and physical conditioning. While the last quarter taught about Avail and its history, monsters, etc.

They separated and did their own things expanding their horizons in their respective fields. Soon it was third quarter, and the only part of the day Louis and Christopher were taught together. After getting changed they both walked out in shorts and a t shirt and started running laps on the field as a warm up with the rest of the class.

After the warm up the class split up either going to the forest on school grounds to learn more about survival or go to the training hall for some sparring or training on practice dummies. Louis went for the survival training but Christopher decided to go and do some combat training so they split up.

When Christopher entered the training hall there was quite a few people already in sparring matches or wailing at a practice dummy. Walking up to the side Christopher picked up two wooden swords with heavy cores then walked to the corner of the hall and began beating a dummy with fluid and rhythmic motions.

"Hey Christopher you're really going at it there aren't you."

" Igor I almost forgot you were coming back to school today." Christopher replied straightforwardly while continuing his training.

"Yeah I was stuck there for almost a week earth time and it seemed like everyone wanted a piece of me it was horrible [laughing]." Igor explained as he began beating his dummy with a wooden spear. But Christopher didn't fail to catch the slight anger in his voice.

"So what happened? You said you'd tell me yesterday."

"I guess I did didn't I...."

Igor was probably the only other person Christopher voluntarily talked to in the academy other than Cassandra and Louis. Prodigies had a lot of pride which annoyed the living hell out of Christopher. But Igor wasn't like that; he was a very laid back and cynical person which made him entertaining to talk too.

"Just spit it out already.' Christopher said as he dropped his swords and sat down on the ground waiting for him to speak.

"Not very considerate are you?"

"There is really no need for such formalities with a guy like you."

Letting out a tired sigh Igor caved in and started telling his story though he continued to kit the dummy at the same time.

"I was spawned in a town named Canterbury, it was poor, and there weren't many players. So we all gathered in a group to survive. My frequency of going over has increased these past months, if you haven't already noticed. So I was usually there most of the time and other players began looking at me as their leader, though we had troubles we secured shelter, food and necessities and were able to scrape by, by doing odd jobs around town. We were doing fine until that fucking bastard saw us."He said barley in a whisper but Christopher heard him clearly.

"He caught notice of one of the girls in the group and tried to take her by force with his men but we fought them off. But that was just the beginning of our problems, that bastard was some snotty ass noble passing through and he complained to the mayor. So over the next week or so the villagers started to ignore us. We couldn't work buy food, making us solely rely on the game outside the city. It was a struggle and every day the players that were there cursed that bloody noble. But then another week past and he came once again but with the guards this time, telling them we assaulted him and his men. We tried to resist but were overwhelmed and arrested, all of us over the next few days would be captured once we came to Avail and stuck in the jail cell. And the girl he wanted, well he got her and I haven't seen her since. She probably is his slave now but I can't really say for sure. I thought I had to break us all out while were still all there. So I tricked a guard killing him and escaping outside of the city. But on the way out I loss three people not counting the girl who was taken. The group of twelve I was with turned to a group of eight in two weeks. The day after we escaped outside of the town I was transported back to this world."

Christopher was silent, what does one really say when someone tells you a story like that? So neither trying to console him or question his choices Christopher simply said what he thought.

"It's good most of you made it out."

"Yeah, but the thought that I left a couple of people to die and that girl with that noble it it...."

"If you tried to save her you all probably would have died."

"I could have saved them there were a lot ways and we could've escaped together!"

"No you probably couldn't off. You're more reasonable than to think you could, you're skill set is not in that area."

"But I was there leader and I watched! Watched all be fucking butchered! They kept on screaming and screaming! Shit!"

"It was the most logical choice at the time."

"Fuck it fuck it fuck it, fuck all of it!" he screamed back as he abandoned any sense of technique and began repeatedly whacking his dummy like a savage with a stick. The laid back and cynical personality had longed disappeared drowned in anger.

"I'm going to murder those bastards! There all fucking dead I Fucking swear! I hate it! I hate it!" I hate it all!""

"I see and how are you going to do that?"

"What do you fucking mean I'm just going to walk up in there and stab my spear head through there fucking brains!"

Hearing his response Christopher quickly walked over to his raging visage and slugged him in the face as hard as he could, causing him to stumble backwards at the unexpected attack.

"What the fuck you do that for!?" Igor screamed which Christopher walked over and slugged him again as a response.

"Christopher, What the fu.." he was hit again and again and again and until he could hardly stand. His nose was broken, face bloodied, a complete mess.

"You done with your foolishness?" Christopher asked in a stern voice.

"I guess." Frederick spat out as his wooden spear slipped out of his hands and he plopped down on the ground hugging his knees.

"I just wanted everyone to come home you know." Igor said as he wiped the tears that started spilling out of his eyes.

The whole hall had turned silent by then; some more weak willed people had even left the area already. Not like this type of thing was a rare occurrence, people broke down all the time. Hell they even had a force of school councillors available which were always booked because the multitude of cases. Every student had to have their mental state checked every time they came back from Avail. But this wasn't the type of thing you could get use to or get over in a fifth teen minute sit down.

"I know buddy I know." said Christopher as he sat down beside him as people slowly began training once again.

XXX

It was now there lunchtime which was between the third and fourth quarter. Christopher and Louis walked together to the garden at the side of the school though they usually just did their own things during lunch. The garden was a very quiet place where the noise of the rest of the students rarely reached.

Sitting down on the sole bench in the area they reached into their respective backpacks and took out their lunches that were thrown together this morning. They ate in silence soon finishing and brushed off the few crumbs that had ended up on their clothing.

"Were going to have to skip last quarter" Christopher said casually.

"I know." As Louis answered he and Christopher stood up, slung their backpacks over their shoulders and picked some flowers from the garden before leaving the school.

After around an hour of twists and turns down bustling streets they reached their destination. It was a plot of land isolated from the noise and hassle one would usually associate with the city, a real quiet and serene place.

They walked through the gates and began making their way down the path which weaved it`s way around the area like a snake; after around another five minutes they turned and began walking over the freshly cut lawn stopping when they reached an aged maple tree with a single stone in its shade.

Christopher bending down a bit brushed off the leaves and dirt that had ended on top of the tomb stone. Then handling the tulips that were picked in the school garden he placed then in front of the grave. Letting out a light breath Christopher dusted his hands on his pants while softly stepping back in line with Louis who had moved in front of the grave.

"Happy anniversary Charlotte, your loyal brother has come to celebrate your death with you." Louis said in an uncharacteristically happy and energetic voice, though only sadness could be seen in his eyes.

"Been a while hasn't it?" Christopher said with a smile that was full of an array of feelings which were clearly only reserved for her. They talked about their days, what happened lately, how the family was doing and an hour passed by in a flash as the boys took turns speaking.

"Well we have to go soon but I have a special surprise." Louis said. Reaching into his backpack Louis grabbed the only thing that was left in there after he had eaten his lunch. It was his violin, he bent down and with the greatest care slid his violin case out of his bag and placed it on top of the tomb stone.

With practiced hands he opened the case revealing a high quality violin which was slightly worn from repeated use. The violin was made out of spruce and had a soft brown colour and a slick sheen to it. That paired with its masterful yet simple design made it a true sight to behold even for someone with no experience with the instrument. Taking a few minutes Louis prepared, tested, and maintained his instrument so he could perform to the upmost of his abilities.

"Louis wont you play her a song." Christopher quietly said. A light and gentle breeze blew as Louis slowly placed his violin under his chin and touched the bow to the string. A deep and melodious sound resonated throughout the graveyard as Louis slowly and masterfully began his song. A song filled with a indescribable pain.

XXX

It was lunch time and Elizabeth was eating with her two friends in the cafeteria as she always did though today she couldn't help but be distracted. The absence of a certain classmate to whom she paid a lot of attention to was currently filling her mind. Louis who was usually woken up and dragged to the cafeteria by Christopher was nowhere to be seen.

She knew Christopher said they had something to do but she couldn't help wondering what it was. She sighed inwardly as she glanced towards the corner of the cafeteria where he usually ate once again. Elizabeth was a shy girl but her cute freckled face paired with her slim body, and brown wavy hair gave her a unique charm, making her quite popular with the opposite sex.

So despite her timid personality she had gained some confidence in her looks, but that had long since dissipated since the guy she liked wouldn't even spare her a second glance. She had tried approaching him numerous time despite her shyness only to find herself walking away after putting him to sleep.

But she had gotten a promise from his best friend yesterday and they'd eat together tomorrow and she was really excited. That was until she saw him today, she had regular classes with Louis second quarter and she thought he was acting weird. One might think that it is quite unlikely for someone to know if Louis who basically slept through the whole class was acting strange, but people quite easily reveal their emotions in sleep.

Elizabeth could see he wasn't having a nice nap like he usually did, and though he tried to hide it Elizabeth swears she saw tears. 'He must have had a bad dream' she thought as she began working herself up, but while Elizabeth was lost in thought her friends redirected the conversation towards her.

"Elizabeth what do you think?" her friend named Sarah asked. But Elizabeth was lost in her own world as she thought about Louis.

"Hey earth to Elizabeth, are you there. I think she zoned out again." said the third girl in the group named Cassandra as she waved her hand in front of Elizabeth's face.

"I guess we have to do that don't we." said Sarah as she looked over at her friend with slight pity.

"Yup!" shouted Cassandra with a huge grin on her face.

Getting up from her seat Cassandra slowly moved behind Elizabeth and whispered something in her ear. Causing her face to become red and let out a little scream as she jumped out of her seat. Prompting more than a few people to glance over to see what's happening.

"W-what are you saying Cassandra he would never do something like that!" Elizabeth shouted out. But soon noticed the stares and quickly sat back down. But by that time Cassandra was already on the floor laughing.

"What were you thinking about?" Sarah asked trying to help her smooth things over by making conversation.

"Nothing." she quickly replied as her cheeks reddened a bit.

"Well we'll just leave it at that for now." Cassandra said as she picked herself off from the floor and dusted herself off before taking her seat.

"Did you need something from me?" inquired Elizabeth regaining some of her composure.

"Uh yeah, we were just talking about how some people we knew were having trouble adapting back to our world after going to the other side for extended periods and were wondering what you thought on the matter." Sarah responded.

"Sorry, I-I really don't know about stuff like that." Elizabeth responded weakly. She knew both Cassandra and Sarah were both players and had a rough time on the other side, though they could be considered lucky as they've gone and come back several times without being faced with anything really traumatic. But as she wasn't one she felt uncomfortable giving input on such subjects.

"Were not asking you to solve the problem or anything we were just wondering what you think." Cassandra said between bites in her sandwich.

"Let it go Cassie if she doesn't want to answer she doesn't have too."Sarah interrupted Elizabeth before she could reply.

"Fine." Cassandra grumbled out while giving a pout.

"Um Cassandra you seem quite close to Louis and Christopher."

"Yeah you could probably say that. I've known them for a long time."

"Come on Cassandra you know what she's asking."

"Fine, Just to tell you I don't have any romantic feelings towards Louis so you have no need to worry about me. What you should be worrying about is getting him to notice you. Both of them are still caught in the past. And no I'm not going to tell you what I mean."

Cassandra said in a rare serious tone with a distant expression on her face, causing both girls to stare at her in wonder.

XXX

It was around four thirty when Louis and Christopher finally made it home. Walking through the door Christopher and Louis flicked off their shoes and entered into the hallway, where Christopher and Louis both tiredly collapsed on the ground. Actually it would be more accurate to say the exhausted Christopher collapsed on the ground with the reasonably tired Louis on his back. As they were lying there Lily walked up to them.

"And where were you two!?"

"What are you talking about honored mother?" Louis passively answered as Christopher was currently incapacitated.

"You know what I'm talking about, the school called saying you both skipped last period!"

"We skipped last period? I don't think we skipped. We probably didn't skip right Chris?"

"No." Christopher managed to squeeze out.

'"See mother, we're tired so were going up stairs" Louis said and quickly dragged the limp Christopher up the stairs before his mother could protest more.

"Those boys are a handful." Lily muttered to herself as she walked towards the living room deciding to let the boys go for now.

When Louis Finally made it into his room with Christopher he decided that he needed something to occupy his mind. So he grabbed some sheet paper and sat at his desk. By time he was in position Christopher had caught his breath and taken a book titled "War and Tactics" out of wherever he kept all these books and had started reading. They continued doing their own thing, dinner came but they decided they weren't hungry and didn't go. Both of them kept to themselves only having a few exchanges and moving a few times to take care of Kotomi and Tatsuya before they decided to separate to get changed and go to sleep.