Mitch swung his glowing fists, sending another wolf-like monster flying into a brick wall. It slumped to the ground with a yelp, then melted away into bubbling ooze.

"Yeah, take that!" Mitch shouted. Around him, the others were battling more creatures that had ambushed them on the trek back from Mei's house.

Booker blasted some back with sizzling bolts of energy. Astor made a few turn on each other with his psychic manipulation. And Mei vanished and reappeared, disorienting them.

But Mitch was on the frontlines, pummeling any monster that got too close. With Ms. Minx's guidance, they had turned into a cohesive fighting unit. And Mitch had to admit, it felt good being part of the team.

Ducking under a swipe of jagged claws, Mitch delivered an uppercut that launched the creature skyward in a blazing arc. The red aura around his hands throbbed with power.

As the last monster dissolved into slime, a now-familiar voice echoed in Mitch's mind:

> Congratulations, [Mitch Striges]! You have reached Level 3, aura user. You are awarded a new skill: Berserk!

Mitch blinked. A third red bar had appeared in his vision. This must be that "Berserk" power-up.

Curious, he focused his energy into it. At once, fiery heat coursed through his veins. His muscles bulged, fists clenching. A bestial rage filled him, driving out all thought and reason.

With a bellow, Mitch charged the remaining monsters, eyes burning red. He was a whirlwind of uncontrolled fury, smashing all in his path.

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When the scarlet haze finally lifted, Mitch found himself alone amidst steaming piles of vanquished foes. The others stood back watching him warily.

"Dude...that was hardcore," Booker said with awe and a hint of fear.

Mitch shook his head to clear it. "Yeah, guess I kind of lost it for a minute there."

Ms. Minx eyed him sternly. "That power boost could be useful, but you need to keep it under control."

"Will do," Mitch promised. He didn't like feeling that violently out of control. But if he could master this "Berserk" state, it might give them an edge against tougher enemies.

First though, he probably owed the team an apology for going temporarily ballistic on them. He walked over sheepishly, hoping his newfound rage wouldn't compromise the trust he'd earned.

Astor watched uneasily as Mitch descended into a fit of uncontrolled rage, smashing enemies with abandon. He could sense the violent energy swirling around the other boy.

When Mitch finally came back to his senses, looking shaken, Astor felt a pang of guilt. Had his manipulation of Mitch's mind somehow caused this? Unleashed this furious entity within him?

Astor hugged his arms, shrinking back as Ms. Minx scolded Mitch about controlling his new power.

Ever since Astor had planted that temporary affection, he'd felt Mitch's thoughts growing more volatile toward him, like a pot threatening to boil over.

Maybe Mitch's outburst against the monsters had vented some of that, but Astor still felt on edge around him. Those glowing red fists made him nervous.

Sensing his discomfort, Ms. Minx came over. "Are you all right, Astor?"

He nodded, not wanting to voice his concerns directly with Mitch there. But Ms. Minx seemed to understand.

"I know your powers make the others uneasy," she said gently. "Using them against human minds is wrong. But perhaps you could practice on animals instead to help tame them."

Astor's eyes widened. "You really think I could control animals?"

"With guidance, yes. Start small, and see if you can connect with a rat or stray dog. It would be a constructive use of your abilities."

Astor considered it. If he could master his psychic powers safely, maybe the others would fear him less. And they could certainly use the scouting help of some tamed creatures.

"Okay, I'll try it," he agreed. He'd start to slow, and get the hang of it without hurting anyone.

Ms. Minx patted his shoulder. "I know you'll use your skills for good, Astor. We all will, in time."

Bolstered by her trust in him, Astor stood a little taller. He would prove himself an asset to the team, not a liability. Together, they would unravel the mysteries of their uncanny new abilities.