Defender’s Call Ch. 38

Before we begin I want to thank all the readers that have stuck with this story while I’ve been updating it.

I hope you enjoy :)

This will also be the last chapter I will be ing on Amino. To continue reading, please find the story on FanFiction.net under the same name.

—————

“Yes.” Was Valerie’s immediate answer.

Ryan just stood there with a stunned look on his face.

“Well good, now can stop gawking so we can get going, otherwise we’re going to be late.” Said Ayden.

“Oh, uh yeah.” Smiled Ryan as we began our march towards the basketball gym.

The rest of us gave Valerie and Ryan their privacy, walking ahead and idly chatting.

“They look so adorable.” Cooed Ayden after casting a quick glance back.

“I didn’t take you for the sappy type.” I quipped.

“Just because I don’t always show it doesn’t mean I don’t have a romantic side.” She fired back, crossing her arms.

As we walked towards the gym, gradually other of class three ed us. First was Siku, and Alyss. Siku dressed in a nice red colored dress while Alyss sported a metallic grey.

“Where’s Gale?” Asked Johnny, who had moved next to Alyss.

“She went to go meet up with Melody.” She answered, a slight blush on her face.

“Hey guys, wait up.” Called Jacob from behind us. I turned to see Jacob running towards us, Chandler and Kana Fukuya no too far behind.

“Yo Jaco.” Cheered Johnny with a wave.

“We got ourselves a crowd now.” Said Ayden with a smile.

“Guys I found ‘em.” I heard Shen cheer as she came over the hill, soon followed by Jasmine, Arzin, Caleb, and Erik.

“I guess the gangs all here.” I said with a shrug.

“This is really it.” I said as we neared the entrance of the gym, hero students trickling in. “It’s been a whole school year.”

“I never thought it would end.” Added Ayden.

“You can say that again.” Agreed Siku.

“But it went by so fast.” Noted Johnny.

“A lot’s happened, and it hasn’t even been a full year yet.” Said Arzin.

“Then we’ll move forward.” I declared. “From here, we get stronger, and we tackle whatever comes at us.”

“You bet we will.” Cheered Ryan.

“Now can we please go in?” Asked an impatient Ayden, getting a round of laughter from the class.

“Then in we go.” I said before class three stepped through the door.

To say that we were blown away by the display would be an understatement. The gym had been expanded to its largest size possible in order to accommodate for the entire, five thousand strong, student body.

A purple floor mat sat on the wooden floor of the gym, a stage was set up on one side, a black podium with the purple ‘DH’ logo on it. Behind it, sat nine coat racks, each adorned with a black uniform jacket, the cuffs with two gold bands surrounding one purple, the same repeated on the lapels, the Excelsior uniforms, the gold badges shimmering in the light. Everyone wanted one of those uniforms, no matter the course. I was hoping to receive one, even though I knew my chances were next to nothing, the hope still remained.

Long tables were decorated with purple table clothes. Spaced around each table were centerpieces of purple flowers. Purple and gold streamers hung in a criss cross pattern over the entire display. At the back, a dancefloor had been set aside, small lights shining softly over it. The tables were all set, thanks to the culinary course, with plates for a three course meal for all of the students and teachers.

The crowd inside was already large and continuing to grow by the second.

“What are the seating rules?” Asked Ayden.

“Open seating.” Answered Ryan. “If you would actually read the announcements you would know this.”

Ayden cast an annoyed glance at Ryan before we moved forward, finding a table for our large group.

I got up when I noticed a kid with red hair rolling around in a wheelchair, he was wearing a uniform jacket with a silver cuff band.

“I’ll be right back.” I said standing up.

“Where are you going?” Asked Iz, who was sitting across from me, which gave me a minor heart attack initially.

“To see a friend.” I answered.

I walked up behind the kid in the wheelchair. “Hey, Thane.” I called.

He spun around and looked up at me. He smiled when he saw me. “Rei, it’s so good to see you again.” He reached his hand out for a handshake. When I shook it I couldn’t help noticing that the back of his hand was nothing but scar tissue. “How’s it going.” He asked with a smile.

“It’s going good.” I answered flatly, holding my feelings back. I felt so responsible. The attacks all happened just so I could get a message from a villain. I caused all of it, and Thane had been stripped of his legs because of it, he had his dream stolen.

“Is something the matter?” He asked, a concerned look came over his face.

I quickly wiped away the tears that I didn’t even realize had begun to form. “No, it’s all good.” I lied.

There was a pause, then I lost it. “No, it’s not all okay.” I itted. “I, I just wanted to apologize. I’m the reason that you’re in that chair, I’m the reason that you can’t fulfill your dream.” I felt a tear roll down my face, quickly followed by another.

“Oh come here.” Thane pulled me into a hug, it was a little awkward with him sitting down.

After releasing me he shook his head. “You’ve got it all wrong. I got to fulfill my dream that day. I got to save lives. I got to help people.”

“But, you’re stuck in the chair, your life is so, so different because of me. I took away your future as a hero.”

“That doesn’t matter. A heroes job is to change lives. Everyone at this school is here for that reason, to change people’s lives. It doesn’t matter if you do it for fifty years or fifty days, even one day. What matters is that you helped, changed people’s lives for the better. That is worth everything. And my dream isn’t gone, just redirected. I work on engineering projects in the hopes that one day my work changes lives. See, the dream is still the same, just different in execution. Now go back to your friends.” Said Thane with a smile. “The fun is about to start.”

“Will do.” I said with a chuckle.

“Hey, Rei.”

“Yes?” “Promise me this, that whatever happens, you will always help others, no matter what.” “I promise.”

“If everyone could please make their way to their seats, the Concluding Dance is about to begin.” Announced an automated voice.

A few seconds after I took my seat the lights dimmed. A moment later a spotlight began to shine on the podium, and Vendetta appeared out of thin air in a cloud of purple smoke. “Students of Defender High, you have made it. You have fought the good fight, and kept thy faith. You have kept faith in yourself, in your classmates, in your ideals and beliefs. You have completed a school year, with summer just around the corner. Tonight is for reminiscing on days past and celebrating past achievements and future aspirations. I, Vendetta, director and founder of Defender High hereby declare that the End of the Year Dance begin.”

The gym erupted in cheers and applause as the lights lifted, and pop music started playing faintly.

An army of servers began setting down plates and filling water glasses. Tonight’s dinner was steak with mashed potatoes with a caesar salad, and it all looked delicious.

I looked down the table at my friends. Johnny was greedily digging into one of his two stakes. Erik was having trouble with the silverware, his large hands clumsy with the implements, much to Arzin’s amusement. Ayden was being her usual deviant self and adding an extra layer of flavor to her stake by charring it. Alyss and Ryan were chatting and laughing, and for the first time in a long time, Alyss had a soft and cheerful smile on her face that fit her much better than her neutral expression. Chandler was trying to convince Kana of something, to which she was clearly opposed to judging by large red X across her screen. Siku and Jacob were debating over which way to cut a steak, long ways or short ways, though I didn’t know why one would be better than the other. Shen was laughing as Caleb tried to take too large of a bite, smearing potatoes on his chin.

At another table I could see that Haru and Murasaki had ed Ryoko and Hoseki, at which I couldn’t help but let out a smile. They arrived here as friends, and they should enjoy their last few days in the States with each other.

“So, Rei.” Began Iz. “What class do you’ll think you’ll get.”

I let out a pffft’ before answering “I don’t really know. I would guess two, maybe three again. Which I would be fine with.”

“Same here. I just wonder who got the Excelsior positions.” She said looking up to the stage.

“Asher and Moriko for sure.” I answered.

“Definitely.” Agreed Iz.

“You have the daughter of one of the most powerful heroes in the world and a kid with a lightning quirk that no one even though was possible.” I said before taking a sip of water.

“Maybe you got one.” I almost spat out my water. I was flattered, and glad that Iz thought that highly of me. ‘Maybe she really does like me, on some level.’ I thought to myself before quickly shaking it away. “I hope so, but I doubt it.” I answered.

“I still got the hope that you’ll get one.” Said Ayden.

“Same here.” Agreed Ryan. “If anyone from our class should get an Excelsior spot it should be one of you.” He pointed at Ayden and I.

“No way.” Said Ayden, shaking her head. “I’m still working out a lot of kinks with my quirk.”

“My quirk is so chaotic for everyone in general that I can barely work in a team. So I don’t think I’ll get it either.” I said.

“I think Siku could get it.” Added Jacob.

“There is no way I’m getting Excelsior.” Disagreed Siku.

“Why not. Your quirk is stronger than you think.” Said Jacob.

“Yeah, but that’s only recently. They look at the whole year to pick the Excelsior.”

This conversation went back and forth, the class debating on who could or couldn’t get it, the people mentioned anything themselves almost any chance of actually getting it. Reason ranging from ‘I’m literally as dumb as a sack of rocks’ to ‘my quirk just flings things around’.

A hush fell over the gym. I looked up the stage to see that Vendetta was standing at the podium once again.

“The time has come.” He declared. “Our next Excelsiors shall be chosen. This is not a position that is handed out lightly. Students that are chosen for this award must excel in academics, perform well in combat, but most importantly they must have a strong character. They must always be able to face what the world throws at then, all with a smile. They must persevere in the hardest times, and pull their brothers and sisters in arms towards victory. These nine out of the five thousand have shown these things. I ask that as your name is read, please stand and come forth to claim that which you have earned.”

He paused. “Fourth Year Excelsiors: Kalyani Ojha, Abigail O’Nunan, and Luca Durtschi. Third Year Excelsiors: Dusty Lawson, Tehya Hinkson, and Zalen Murray. And finally, Second Year Excelsiors: Moriko Lorien, Asher Soaringeagle, and Tyler Echienholtz.”

The gym was a ruckus as they took their places loud whistles and whoops filled the air as excitement swarmed over the crowd. Kalyani looked proud, her head held high. Moriko was smiling wide, but her body language betrayed that she was expecting this. Asher was smiling a genuine smile, laughing. His eyes playfull flashing bright blue. At the end Tyler had the most bewildered look on his face. He was not expecting this in the slightest from what I could tell. He was a member of class five earlier that week, now he was one of the most powerful kids in the school.

The males traded out their old jackets for the new ones, Asher thumbing the three lined cuffs. The girls left their jackets on the racks, settling for having their badges moved to their dress.

As the nine left the stage, the applause hadn’t died down in the slightest and in fact had only gotten stronger.

Vendetta held his hand up, and the crowd quieted down. “Let us celebrate our friends as we close out this year. The dance floor is now open. Goodnight, and Excelsior.”

“EXCELSIOR.” Echoed the gym as Vendetta disappeared in a cloud of purple.

“Hey Iz.” I began, rather nervous, my voice almost shaky. “May I have this dance?”

“Yes.” She said standing up. As we took the dance floor, other students began to us. The song was fast paced, a waltz. I was silently thanking Ryan for teaching me how to dance the waltz.

“You’re good at this.” Commented Iz as she was kinda pulled along by the song, and me.

“Ryan’s the real master. He’s the one who taught me.” “Ryan taught you?” She asked.

“Yeah. He’s quite the dancer Just look over there.” I nodded towards Ryan and Valerie, who had moved to the center of the dance floor and where showing everyone else up.

She let out a little laugh. God, I loved that laugh.

“Hey Rei.” Called Asher as we ed him and Moriko. Asher in his new uniform jacket and Moriko in a forest green dress.

“Hey Asher. Dude congrats, to you and Moriko.” I said.

“Thanks. I was not expecting to get it.” itted Asher.

“Of course you were gonna get it.” Scoffed Moriko. “You don’t even know your own power.”

“I had no doubts that you would get it, Moriko.” Said Iz as the two ed by.

“Thank you.”

“So, Tyler is gonna be in class one now.” I said.

“Yeah, I don’t know much about the guy.” “But you saw me fight him yesterday right?”

“Yeah, I can see why they picked him.”

“That’s quite the jump though. From class five to one.”

“But it also means that class one won’t be the same next year. Someone will be missing.” Noted Moriko.

“I don’t like that.” Said Moriko flatly.

“But we all knew it would happen. We all were prepared for it, at least we all hoped so.” Said Iz.

“Hey. Let’s not get bummed over who moved where, let’s be happy that we’re one step closer to our goal.” Cheered Asher, a broad smile on his face.

“You’re right. Let’s celebrate.” I agreed, a smile coming across my face.

The night went spectacularly. The dance switched from the traditional style to a more modern selection of pop and EDM. At the very end, when everyone was getting tired and starting to trickle out, they switched back to instrumental. They played a song for the tango, Ryan and Valerie stole the show, being the only ones that knew how to tango.

The final song of the night was a classic, Frank Sinatra’s ‘My Way’.

“Do you know this song?” Asked Iz as we danced.

“Yeah, actually.”

“Can you sing it?”

I gulped. “I mean, I can.”

“Can you?”

“I planned each charted course. Each careful step, along the byway. And more, much more than this. I did it my way. Yes, there were times, I’m sure you knew, when I bit off more than I could chew. But through it all, when there was doubt. I ate it up, and spit it out. I faced it all, and I stood tall, and did it my way.”

I saw her smile as I kept singing. I sang the lyrics with ion, with feeling. And they took on new meaning, right there in that moment.

As I kept singing I noticed that there were other voices mixed in, other’s singing along, and it sounded lovely.

“For what is a man, what has he got? If not himself, then he has naught. To say the things he truly feels, and not the words of one who kneels. The record shows I took the blows. And did it my way. Yes, it was my way”

As the music faded away, and those who were left erupted into applause.

“What just happened?” I asked as Iz and I began to walk out.

“You sang the song.”

“Yeah, I know that but what happened?”

“It was you, Melody, and a few others singing instead of the recording.”

“Oh God.” I said, feeling my face flush.

“What, you sounded amazing.”

“I’m glad you think so.”

“Hey Rei.” I heard Haru call as she flew down. “Come over to the class building, we’re having an after party.”

“You wanna go?” I asked Iz.

“Sure.”

“Great. See you there.” Cheered Haru as she flew off.

“This should be interesting.” Said Iz as we began walking over.

—

“I when we first arrived in the states.” Said Murasaki as Iz and I walked onto the roof, the cool night air felt great. All over the roof were chairs, a lot of our friends in them. A table sat to one side with two liter bottle of soda. Murasaki, Haru, Ryoko, and Hoseki were all sitting in front of everyone. I could see Kana, Orochi, Ayden, Johnny, Shen, Erik from our class, and a mix of kids from other classes. Asher and Moriko were present, Eric from class one was hovering over the crowd, Aelin and the Zheng twins were off to one side. Orochi was perched on his mobile heat pad with Kaito and Ilesh next to him. Griffith, Myron, and Cheyenne weren’t too far away while Alizeh hung upside down on what looked like a collapsible pull-up bar. Diana’s purple tattoos were glowing under the moonlight. Oakley was idly braiding Lei’s long hair while Airion, Steven and Ashton sat on the roof’s edge, held up by a web.

I realized that these were the people that the Japanese exchange students saw as close friends from their time here in the states.

“As soon as we got off the plane, Gyaza tells Ryochan, ‘no it said this way.’ We were maybe six steps inside the terminal and he’s already correcting people so I’m standing there like ‘this is gonna be a long year’”. She earned a laugh from the crowd.

“Oh come on. I wasn’t that bad.” Protested Hoseki.

“Oh yes you were.” Said Ashton from the side. “You were correcting our English most of the year.” Another round of chuckles swept through as Hoseki held up his hands in surrender.

“I would have to say one thing that sticks out in my mind is deg my hero suit.” Began Haru. “I came from the engineering course back at UA, but I qualified for the hero course here, so I chose to go into the hero course. I knew a little of what I was doing. But I loved deg my hero suit. When I put it on for the first time. I was so proud of it. I couldn’t help but smile, and I couldn’t stop.” Haru chuckled as a wide smile spread across her face. “Look, I can’t even stop smiling right now. But I do have to say that the reason that I even did as well as I did this year was because of a great class rep and friend.”

A few claps came from the crowd before Ryoko began. A feeling washed over me, and I didn’t really have a word to describe it. It wasn’t pride, that was part of it, but there was more, joy and happiness, but also a twinge of sadness, they were leaving. After all we’ve been through, it was time for our friends to go home.

“My fondest memory would have to be my first holiday here in the states. We had a long spring break, and Aelin was kind enough to invite me to her place down in Missouri. Her family was kind, and I enjoyed seeing more of the country. The Ozarks were beautiful. The little streams and trail that ran through the forested mountains. I heading to this one lookout in Arkansas, and it was amazing. The forest just went on and on as the mountains rolled. Then we actually drove back here for a couple of days. I took so many pictures so I wouldn’t forget it. So, thank you for that Aelin. The second one would be meeting Asher and Moriko. They were really the first ones after Aelin that helped me out with English at the start and were great encouragers. So thank you guys for that.”

“Hmm. Best memory.” Hummed Hoseki. “I would have to be the quirk training with my friends on the weekends. I had heard that some of the cass four kids worked themselves ragged some weekends to train their quirk. When I asked if I could they said I could. When we went out in the forest to train, it was intense. I fighting against Airion, which was a mess as he kept honing his quirk. Steven ran out of web a lot, and he would end up falling to the ground. Ashton would end up in coughing fits from all the mercury he used. Diana would push herself so hard during all phases of the moon, injuring herself and ing out many a time. Lei would form so many plants that her hair would go brown at the ends and Oakley almost got stuck in trees a couple times after staying phased in one for too long. It was times like these when we encouraged each other harder than ever, and we kept pushing. Yeah it hurt like hell, but we’ve gotten better, and we’ll keep getting better. So thank you guys for encouraging me and helping me make some good friends.”

“I didn’t know that you could get sentimental Gyaza.” Joked Murasaki, but it was clear she was touched by the words of her friend.

“I have my moments.” He said with a smile.

“I have a question.” Said Ashton. “Who’s staying here and who’s going back?”

After a moment of silence, Ryoko finally spoke up. “I’m going back. I loved my time here with class one. But I miss Japan. I miss my parents. I promise to stay in touch with you guys, and come back when I can.”

“I’m leaving too.” Murasaki blurted out. “For basically the same reasons as Ryoko. My mom has been worried sick about me while I’ve been gone. And I also need to go back to show off to the brother what all I’ve learned here.” Murasaki wiped a tear away. “But I’m gonna miss you guys.” She said with a pained smile.

I saw Haru gulp, she was about to speak up before Hoseki stole the show.

“Well, I’m staying. My parents are moving to the states this summer. So I’m transferring here.”

“I’m staying too.” Shouted Haru, clearly tense. “I have a better chance of becoming a pro hero by staying here. Back home I’ll have to fight really hard to get in the hero course. Here I’m still enrolled in the hero course.”

“Dang it Haru.” Said Murasaki pulling her friend into a hug. “When you make it big you better come see me.”

“I will.”

Hoseki stood up, his red plastic cup raised. “Then a toast.” He said as everyone else stood. “To all the good times that have past and yet to come, to the success of our friends, whether here or away.”

“Cheers.” We all shouted as those who could downed their soda.

—

“This is really it.” Said Murasaki as her and Ryoko stood in front of the security line at Denver International Airport. It was early in the morning, but the long drive and tired feeling was worth it. Most people said their goodbyes last night, so it was only me, Johnny, Haru, Hoseki, Iz, Ayden, Valerie, Ryan, Asher, and Moriko.

“Yeah.” Said Ryoko. “We’re actually leaving.”

“I’m gonna miss you.” Said Haru as she pulled Murasaki and Ryoko into a hug. “Stop by my house if you can and say hi to Jirou and Tsukiko for me.”

“Will do.” Said Murasaki.

“I sketched out these pictures for the two of you.” Said Ryan, handing a wrapped frame to both of you them.

“Thank you.” Said Ryoko as they put them in their carry on bags.

“It’s been fun. I hope to see you guys again soon.” Said Asher.

“See you guys soon.” Called Murasaki as the two girls walked into security.

We all started shouting bye and waving like maniacs, earning some strange looks from the crowd around us, but we didn’t care.

We quietly walked back out to the cars and began the drive back to school.

—

In the Air over the Pacific

Murasaki

“Let’s see what Ryan packed us.” Said Murasaki in Japanese as she unwrapped the gift. She let out a little chuckle. Inside was a picture, a sketch, and a letter.

The picture was of her on stage during their bands performance, she saw a massive smile on her face as she strummed away on her purple guitar. Rei behind her on the drums with Orochi and Kana on the other side of the stage. The sketch was of Murasaki kneeling, her P90 raised and ready to fire, a determined look on her face.

‘Dear Murasaki.’ The letter began. ‘You have been a great friend and I was glad that I got to meet you. I hope that you carry the memories you made here forever in your heart. I can’t wait to see you again. Ryan Artus.’

She shook her head as she looked at the picture and sketch again. “Good grief I miss them already.”

—

Ryoko

When Murasaki mentioned the gift that Ryan made for them, Ryoko decided that she would look at hers too.

Inside was a letter, picture, and sketch, just like Murasaki’s gift.

The picture was of her standing tall along her classmates from class one. THe sketch was of her standing with Haru in their final fight. Her hair was messy, her skin scraped, but her eyes were defiant and strong. She had no clue how Ryan could draw so well. Now she was wishing that she had spent more time with the other classes.

‘Dear Ryoko. I know that we never really were friends during your time at Defender High, but I’m glad you came. You were strong and talented and gave me something to strive for. I hope that your memories from your stay in the States. Best of luck, Ryan Artus.’

Her mind flashed back to her time in Missouri, living with her friend Aelin. It reminded her of her own house, three other siblings all causing chaos. She was looking forward to seeing her sisters again. And now she was stronger than ever, and she hoped to share that power in order to change Japan, and change the world for the better.

—

Yamaoka Household

Murasaki

“Mr. and Mrs. Yamaoka.” She called taking off her shoes and taking a pair of house slippers.

“Hmm. Oh Murasaki. Thank you for coming by.” Cheered Ms. Yamaoka as she wrapped Murasaki in a hug.

“No problem. Haru-chan asked me to say hi to Jirou and Tsukiko.”

“Do you think she’ll be okay? Staying over in the states?”

“Oh yeah.” Said Muraski as she walked into the kitchen, Jirou and Tsukiko sitting at the counter eating lunch. “Without a doubt. She’s got some amazing friends, which you met when they came over.”

“Umezu-chan.” Cheered Tsukiko jumping down and wrapping Muraski in a hug.

“Hey there Tsuki-chan.” Cooed Muraski as she patted the little girls head.

“Are you staying long?” Asked the little red winged Jirou.

“So Jirou-kun. I have to catch a train back up north soon.” A sad look came over his face. “Hey, don’t worry. I’ll be back soon for classes at UA.”

“Yay.” He cheered before turning back to his lunch.

Ms. Yamaoka and Murasaki moved back into the living room, where Muraski asked: “Has Tsukiko developed a quirk yet?”

“Not that we can tell.” Answered Ms. Yamaoka with a sigh. “I’m worried for her. Or society doesn’t exactly treat the quirkless kindly.”

“She’ll be okay. She’s got Haru as a big sister. When they know what Haru is capable of, no one will mess with her.”

Ms. Yamaoka let out a chuckle. “I suppose you’re right. Well thank you for coming by, it meant a lot to them.” “It was no bother. Well I have to catch a train. I’ll talk to you soon Ms. Yamaoka.” “See you later Murasaki.” She said with a smile on her face. She made her way towards her husband’s. He’d locked himself in there since early this morning, and she was getting worried.

She went to knock on the door when she heard faint crying from inside. She opened the door and saw that the study was a mess of paper. Her husband was leaned over at his desk.

She walked up behind her beloved and wrapped him in a hug. “What is it?” She asked sweetly.

“It’s my past.” He sobbed, sitting up in his chair. “My mistakes have finally caught up to me.”

“How?” She was confused. “You said that you had escaped it all.”

“No one ever really escapes their past.” He muttered.

“But that doesn’t answer the question.”

“It’s my son.” He cried out as fresh tears fell down his face. “He’s alive. I’ve found him. And he is the person I tried to be: a hero.”

“So it really was him?”

“Yes.” He mumbled.

“So why are you sad?”

“Because, if I found out then so did she. That means that we are all in danger.”

“We’ll be okay. We have people to protect us. Police and pro-heroes.”

“I guess you’re right.” He itted.

“Good. Now clean up, lunch is ready and your kids want to see you.” She placed a kiss on his head before leaving him alone in his study.

Mr. Yamaoka felt tears fall down his face again. He had neglected to tell her, purposefully, that he feared that not even All Might could help them now.

—————

Back in the US

Rei

“See you next year room.” Called Johnny as he closed the door to our dorm room.

“Let’s get going before we miss the bus.” Said Ryan as he raised his suitcase handle and began walking towards the elevator.

“I like the idea of keeping the same dorm room every year. Keeps us from moving so much stuff in and out.” I noted as we ed the small crowd in the elevator.

“Yeah. But I think that a new room would be nice.” Added Johnny. “Get a new look at the campus.”

”True true.” I itted. “But we got a good dorm. It’s close to the park and that awesome little store.”

”Not to mention that killer noodle place.” Added Ryan as we stepped into the lobby.

“Fine.” Conceded Johnny. “You win.”

We stepped onto the bus, and saw that Ayden, Haru, Alyss, Cheyenne, and James were closer to the back.

”Hey guys.” Called Ayden as we put our stuff in the overhead bins.

“Hey.” I said taking a seat next to James.

“Where’s Iz and Valerie?” Asked Johnny, sitting down next to Ryan.

“They left earlier this morning.” I answered. “Iz’s lives on the East Coast.”

”Valerie flew back to Italy.” Added Ryan. “She left at one o’clock in the morning.”

“Dang.” Whistled Johnny. “That’s early.”

The bus stopped by a few more dorms before pulling out of the large gate and set its sights on Denver.

“It’s weird, you know.” Said Cheyenne as we drove through Grand Junction. “I’m looking forward to going home, but at the same time it feels like I’m leaving home.”

“I get that feeling a little too.” Said Alyss. “I love Defender and it does feel like home sometimes. But home will always be back in Wyoming for me.”

We began reminiscing about the past year. Lessons we learned, friends, and enemies, we’d made.

“For me, it’s Ashton Eurus.” Said Cheyenne. “Him and I but heads like a pair of elk.”

“Brook Taylor.” Sighed Ayden. “And Soren. Those two are gonna be the reason I get kicked out of Defender for attempted murder.”

“Petra Khione.” Said James. “I swear that girl tries to kill me whenever we fight in training.”

“But we’ve made a lot of friends too.” I pointed out. “For me, besides most of class three, would be Asher, Moriko, Orochi, Ilesh, Kana. There’s a lot to name off.”

”Yeah.” Agreed Ayden. “I’ve made more friends than enemies.”

Soon, we arrived at Denver International, and after going through security, we all began our goodbyes.

Cheyenne and Alyss walked towards their flight to Cheyenne, Wyoming. Johnny headed towards the walkway to a different terminal, while Ryan headed down towards the end for the flight to Chicago.

“I guess this is where we part ways, for now, anyways.” I said to Ayden and Haru as James and I arrived at our gate.

“Yeah. I’ll see you in a couple weeks?” Asked Ayden.

“Most definitely.” Answered James.

“Enjoy Vancouver.” I told Haru.

“I’m looking forward to it actually.” She cheered with a smile. “It’ll be like a sleepover party, only for a whole summer.”

“Only a whole summer.” Echoed Ayden sarcastically.

“Hey, afraid you won’t be able to keep up with me?”

“No. I’m just afraid at what the heck we’ll build while you’re at my house.”

“Heh heh heh, I’m looking forward to improving my gauntlets.” Said Haru menacingly.

“Well, see you guys soon.” Cheered Ayden as the pair walked towards their gate.

—————-

Bellingham, Washington

“It’s so good to finally be home.” I sighed collapsing onto the ceiling as I turned on my quirk.

“You’ve gotten better at controlling that.” Noted my mom from my door.

“Yeah. A year of intense training will do that.”

“Well. I’m glad you’re home. Dinner will be in a few minutes.”

“Okay. I’ll be down soon then.”

‘Man, it’s good to be home.’ I thought to myself as I fell back down to my bed.

—————

Haru

“It’s nice to have you over Haru.” Said Mr. Clark as I sat down to my first dinner at Ayden’s house.

“Thank you Mr. Clark.” I said. ‘I can’t believe I’m eating dinner with one of the best heroes in North America.’ I thought before taking a bite from the freshly cooked hamburger. “Wow. This is really good.”

“Yeah, my mom is a killer cook.” Agreed Ayden before taking another bite.

“So, how you liking Defender?” Asked Mr. Clark.

“I like it a lot.” I answered. “The park is nice. The mountains remind me of Japan a little. And their engineering department is a dream come true.”

“You’re a tinkerer, eh.” Said Mrs. Clark. “Then you’ll love staying here. Ayden has a massive workshop.”

“Oh. Goodie.” I cheered. “When can I see it?”

“Not tonight.” Said Ayden. “Tonight we take a break from anything project related.”

“Okay.” I conceded. ’This summer is going to be awesome.’ I cheered internally before taking a large bite out of my hamburger.

—————

Alyss

Even at the start of summer, the Wyoming wind still brought a bit of a chill. When Cheyenne and I stepped outside the airport, the familiar juxtaposition of warmth from the sun and the cold from the wind. At least in Colorado there were mountains to block the wind.

”You’re ride gonna be here soon?” I asked Cheyenne as I took a seat at a nearby bench. If there was one thing I knew about my family is that timeliness was never guaranteed.

“Most likely not.” She answered leaning up against a pillar. “My dad isn’t exactly what you would call organized.”

We sat in silence for a few moments before I decided to ask a question. “So Cheyenne, you’re part of the Cheyenne Tribe, right?”

“Yeah.” She answered flatly. “And if your wondering, no I don’t live on the Rez, and no I don’t need your pity. History is history, I can’t change it.”

I paused, treading with caution. “I was going to ask why you’re named Cheyenne. It’s a little weird being named after your tribe.”

“I was adopted.” She answered. “By a Hispanic man and his white wife from Buffalo, just off I-25. They couldn’t have kids of their own, so adoption was their only option. They named me Cheyenne because they found the name beautiful. So when I began digging into my past I found my real father and ed. I’m just thankful I didn’t turn out to be Crow.” She said with a little smile.

“Yeah, that would’ve been a nightmare.” I agreed with a chuckle. The Cheyenne and Crow didn’t like each other very much, and some bad blood still caused problems every now and then.

An hour past before Alyss finally got a text from her Uncle, he was on his way and would be at the airport in about thirty minutes.

When her uncle arrived in his truck, Cheyenne still had no ride.

“Hey Cheyenne.” I called. “You need a ride?”

“Thanks but no.” She answered.

“Do you have any word from your parents?”

“No.” She answered flatly.

“You’ll sure you’ll be okay?” I asked.

“I’ll be fine.”

“Okay.” I said uneasily before closing the truck door. As we pulled away from the airport, I couldn’t help but feel that I was making a mistake.

“Can you turn around?” I asked my Uncle.

“You worried about your friend?”

“Yeah.”

“Then I sure can.” He gunned it and as soon as he pulled out of the airport he drove back through it.

“Are you trying to kill me?” I asked as my Uncle laughed.

“Just havin’ a bit of fun.”

As we pulled into the airport pick up zone with squealing brakes, I could see Cheyenne with a confused look on her face, as if she was asking herself ‘what just happened?’

“Cheyenne.” I called. “Come on get in.”

“Why?”

“Because no one is here to pick you up, it’s been almost two hours.”

“You’re ride wasn’t here till recently.” She pointed out.

“Have you heard anything from your dad?” I asked.

She paused. “No.”

“Then please, come with me. You said that you lived in Buffalo right? Well we don’t live that far from there, close to Spotted Horse. It’s only an hour drive from Buffalo.”

She tapped her fingers against her leg, looked at her phone, and then slipped it into her pocket. “Okay.” She relented.

As Cheyenne got into the back seat of the truck, my Uncle turned around. “Nice to meet you. I’m Josiah Smith, Alyss’ uncle.”

“Nice to meet you Mr. Smith.” She said as the truck began to pull forward.

“How do you like horses Cheyenne?”

“I like them, but I’ve never really gotten the chance to ride one.”

I cast a glance at my uncle and he nodded in confirmation.

“Then how would you like to go on a horse ride later this evening.”

Her eyes lit up like fireworks. “I’d love to.” Said answered.

“Then it’s a plan.” I cheered with a smile as the truck hit the highway.

—

Erik

“Mom.” I called as I entered the cool house. They always liked to keep it cold, especially this time of the year. Early summer in New Mexico still meant soaring temperatures. “I’m back.” “Erik.” I heard my little sister cheer as she jumped down the stairs. “I missed you.”

“I missed you to Tina.” I said wrapping my sister in a hug. She was a few years younger than me, a seventh grader. Her dark brown hair was pulled into a nice braid. She was the reason I fought, she was the reason I wanted to become a hero. She was born quirkless, and it sickened me that people would make fun of others for a thing like that. Tina had one of the sharpest minds in her grade, and her personality was cheerful and bubbly. But no one cared because she didn’t have any power.

“Kadinkov.” His father called in Russian. Kadinkov being Erik’s first name. “Is that you?” “Yes father.” Erik answered back in Russian.

“Welcome home son.” He bellowed as he walked into the foyer and wrapped me into a big bear hug. He was a tall man, a medium build with strong arms.

“It’s good to be home.”

“Please, tell us all about it. We’ve got nothing but time now.” Cheered Erik’s father as they walked into the living room followed close behind by Tina

“Where’s mom?” Asked Erik as he took a seat.

“She’s off at the store.” His father answered. “Now tell me, how much stronger have you gotten?”

“A lot.” Replied Erik with pride. “I can now keep my ice body for at three times the size it was twice as long.” “My goodness.” Exclaimed Mr. Stanislavovich. “What’s it like in the dorm rooms? “I like them. My dorm has high ceilings and doors I’ve made some good friends but not as good as the ones in my class.”

“Like who?” Asked Tina.

“For one, Arzin Swati. She’s my combat partner.”

“What’s her power?” Asked Tina as their father listened with a smile on his face.

“She can split into copies. Before you know it you’re surrounded.”

“That’s so cool. What’s the strongest quirk in your class?”

“Hmm.” Erik had to think for a second. “Well the first one that comes to mind would be Valerie or Ayden. Both have strong quirks upfront, but they can be easy to counteract.” He answered. “But I would have to say the strongest the more that I think about it would be either Soren or Rei. Those two are something else. Just imagine, two fierce rivals. Soren, cocky and arrogant to the last, and Rei, a nice kind guy with a cheerful attitude. They were at odds from the start, their personalities grating against one another the entire year.”

Tina’s eyes were lit up like fireworks. “Who won, who won?” She eagerly demanded.

“Well, that’s just the thing. I don’t know yet. But I think that we’ll know sometime soon.”

“When.”

“Before next school year starts when the second year classes are announced.”

“How long will that be?”

“I don’t know. We’ll just have to wait and see.”

—

Donovan

Donovan let out a sigh as he fell back onto his bed. The familiar walls of his small room greeting him like an old friend. Little knicks from shooting his beebee gun in the house, a dent in the wall from where his old friend Connor fell into it. The broken fan mounted on his wall after Rachel hit it with her horns. A few antlers were hung around the room, bucks he had harvested deer hunting.

He walked into the trailer’s little living room and opened the fridge to find his favorite drink with a note tied to it. He smiled as he picked up the bottle of Moxie.

‘I’m at work but I’ll be back before seven. Love, Mom.’

He realized that he never thanked his mom enough for what she did as he sat down at the bar and flipped on the TV, thumbing through channels, looking for something to watch.

Holdredge wasn’t exactly a large town, and apparently word had gotten around that he was coming home as a knock came from their trailer door.

He opened the door to see a bunch of his old friends standing outside his door. His smile got even bigger at the sight.

Rachel and her younger brother Matt were dressed in their work clothes from their father’s farm. Donovan could tell that Rachel’s horns had gotten a little taller since he left, while Matt had grown like a beanstalk, coming up to his sisters shoulder now. Connor was wearing his basketball jersey, looking like he just ran from the court. Alejandro was holding a plate of cookies and wearing his usual massive grin.

“You just gonna stand there?” Asked Connor.

“Come on in guys.” He cheered as they all let out a whoop.

Immediately Rachel tackled me in a big hug. “I’m so glad you’re back.”

“I’m glad I’m back too. Just mind the ceiling.” Croaked out Donovan.

When Rachel pulled away, she had a big smile on her face.

“How’d you learn that I was comin’ back so early?” I asked as we all got comfortable in the mobile home. “I was planning on surprising you guys.”

“Have you met your mom?” Asked Connor, snacking on a cookie. “She can’t hardly contain herself whenever she gets news about her son.” “So what’s life like at Defender?” Asked Alejandro.

“Hectic.” I answered. “And tiring. But worth every second of it.”

“What are the fights like?” Asked Rachel.

“Chaos. But I’ve got Torin to back me up.”

“Can we see your hero suit?” Asked Matt.

“That’s right. I haven’t shown you guys.” Donovan jumped up as he ran into his room. “It’s nothing special. Just a black bodysuit.”

“It looks good though. It fits your personality.” Commented Rachel.

“I’m simple?” “No. Minimalistic, and goal oriented. You focus more on the fight than how you look in the fight.”

“Ah.” He paused. “But that ain’t the coolest part.” He pulled out his specially made compound bow, the limbs unfolding gracefully and smoothly.

“That is awesome.” Oohed Matt.

Donovan couldn’t help but smile. He loved Defender, but this was home, and he would fight for it till his final breath.

—

Izabela

To say that Izabela was not looking forward to coming home would be an understatement. She hadn’t seen her family since Christmas Break, as she had opted to stay at Defender over Spring Break.

She gulped as she opened the door to her family’s house.

“I’m back.” She called quietly into the drab house. With the Christmas tree gone, the house felt grey and empty. Even the happy pictures on the wall seems subdued.

“Hey sis.” Mumbled her sister as she came down the stairs, as if Izabela hadn’t been gone for months.

Izabela let out a sigh as she walked up to her room. She opened the door to everything of hers packed into three boxes on a bare mattress.

She gazed disgustedly at the cardboard as if it was rotting. Was her family trying to make her go away, cause she would call Valerie in a heartbeat and she would be on her way to Croatia to stay with her family there.

She set her stuff down as she dug through the boxes to find her bed covers.

“Izabela.” Called her father sternly. “Dinner is ready.”

“Okay.” She answered.

“Excuse me?” He demanded.

“Yes sir.” Izabela droned.

As she sat down to eat, she noticed that the mood of the house was nill. Nothing positive, nothing negative, merely existing to exist.

“How’s Defender?” Asked her mother, trying to stir conversation, which came as a relief to Izabela.

“It’s still awesome. I love it there.” She answered before taking a bite at the mediocre pasta in front of her. “We had our end of the year dance not to long ago. Two of my friends finally got together after dodging each other for the whole year.”

“Do you know if you’ll move up a class?” Asked her father.

“I hope so.” She answered truthfully. “But I doubt my performance was good enough. There are a lot of seriously powerful quirks.”

“Then maybe you should transfer to Baltimore Private.” He stated, not a suggestion, a statement, something that Iz was all to aware of.

“I’m fine where I am.” She defended. “I have friends, a dorm, a uniform. I have everything I need ba-” She caught herself. She was going to say ‘back home’. Since when did she start thinking of Defender as home. “Back at Defender.”

“If you say so.” He muttered before taking a bite of his pasta.

The conversation was going nowhere, but Izabela was doing her best to play along. She wanted to have a relationship with her family, and she didn’t understand why something like a dream created an ocean between them.

“I often wonder what Grandfather would say in times like these.” Said Izabela. “He always knew how to make a room light up. He was so kind and cheerful. I miss him.” “I miss him too.” Echoed her sister.

“Maybe he would still be here if he didn’t act out.” Her father said, before taking another bite.

She had no idea what came over her but in that instant. She snapped. “Why do you treat him so badly?” She demanded, slamming a set of hands on the table. “He was your father. Don’t you have any sympathy for him. He was a hero, one of the best in Europe and all you can do is complain about him.”

“Did you ever think of the pain he caused when I was a kid?” He shouted back in Croatian. “Living with a hero for a father. He would come home exhausted, so tired and weary he couldn’t eat. He could barely talk. He was working himself to death. I just want you to be okay, to be safe. I don’t want you dying like he did.” “To be honest, if I died like he did I would die with no regrets.” I shouted back in Croatian. “At least people could talk about me and say that I did something that mattered. That I at least tried to make our world a better place. Why do you think that Grandfather has a statue of him in Zagreb? Because he did good in the world. I want to do the same good. And if that means sacrificing myself I would be fine with that.” “But what if we aren’t?” He asked. “I don’t want to lose you. I love you too much for that.”

“Do you?” Izablea demanded, not even realizing the words that slipped out of her mouth. “I come home to see my things in boxes on a bare bed.” “To keep it from getting dusty.”

“You can just dust it off. I come back and try to socialize, and all you can talk about is moving me here and saying how bad grandfather was and how he died a needless death.”

The room was silent after Izabela’s rant. She covered her face, realizing what she had done. Then she ran, she ran up the stairs and grabbed her things, she hadn’t unpacked them yet. She ran out of the house faster than her family could react, the training at Defender shining through. She ran away from her family, away from her problem. She felt warm tears roll down her face. She was so weak, oh so weak. She was supposed to be courageous and face the giants. If she couldn’t even face her family, how could she face a villain and hope to win?

—

Jasmine

Jasmine was so excited to be back home in central Arkansas, the familiar humidity and heat of summer, and enjoying a nice day on the range, the shooting range.

“Pull.” She called before an orange clay pigeon flew across the sky. Which was promptly blew into pieces after a shotgun blast.

“Not bad for reloaded shells.” Said her mother, a shorter woman with her long black hair

“Of course they are. It’s my gun powder in them.” Quipped Jasmine.

“You’re aim has gotten better. But let’s see how you stack up with a pistol.” Challenged her father.

“If you’re up for it?” She asked with a devious smile.

Soon Jasmine was loading up her gauntlet with regular bullets, standard nine millimeter rounds while her mom and dad loaded up pistols.

“Six rounds, most points wins.” Said Jasmine, taking aim, propping her right arm up with her left.

“Sounds good to me.” Said her mother before firing off a round.

Jasmine took aim at the paper, then squeezed off three quick shots, two hitting the bullseye, one on the ring just outside. After squeezing off the last three shots she pulled of the gauntlet and sat down.

She was satisfied with her shots, a good grouping three in the bullseye, three just outside it. She had definitely improved.

But this place would always be home, no matter how much time she spent at Defender.

—

Chandler

Chandler opened the door to his family apartment. It might be the start of summer but the Minnesota air still had it’s chill. The inside was dark, which puzzled Chandler. His family was usually home this time of day.

“Surprise.” His family shouted, jumping from behind couches, the hallway and the kitchen countertop.

“Ahh.” He screamed in momentary panic before a bright smile came across his face.

“Welcome home.” Cheered his father before wrapping him in a hug.

“It’s good to be home.” Said Chandler as his niece and nephew, both eight, ran up and tackled him.

“Hey guys.”

“Uncle Chandler,” Began his niece, letting go of his leg. “Are you a superhero yet?”

“Not quite yet.” He answered truthfully, ruffling her curly hair. “But I’m working on it.” “You gave us quite the scare earlier this year in the sports festival.” Said his older sister as the two hugged.

“Thank you for coming. I know it’s not easy for you to drive cross country.” Said Chandler.

“I wouldn’t miss this for the world. I get to see my little brother turning into the next great superhero.”

“I don’t know about that.” He protested, scratching the back of his head.

“Oh, I know you’ll do amazing” Said my grandmother as she rolled up to us in her wheelchair.

“Grandma.” I sighed.

“It’s the truth.” She insisted. “Now enough bickering. I want some cake.”

—

Ryan

“What’s happening?” Asked Ryan, casting a confused look at his mom, who was rolling a heavy suitcase next to the front door.

“We are moving to for a little while.” She answered.

“Why? And where’s Dad?”

“Dad is already in , has been since last week.” Answered Sammy, my older brother.

“Grandfather’s health is going downhill. The doctors don’t think he’ll make it to the end of the year.” Added my mother solemnly.

“Oh no.” I gasped. Last I saw of grandfather he was healthy and happy in his house in Lyon.

“We leave for the airport soon. Gather whatever you need quickly.” Ordered his mother.

“Yes ma’am.” Said Ryan as he ran up to his room. This was going to be an interesting summer for him to say the least.

—

Valerie

“Welcome home darling.” Cheered Aunt Gemma as Valerie stepped into her car, a purple Aston Martin this time.

“Thank you Aunt Gemma.” Yawned Valerie.

“I was going to suggest going and getting some coffee, but it looks like you need rest more than anything.” She said as the car pulled out of the airport.

“Some coffee actually sounds good right now.” itted Valerie. “It’ll help me get adjusted to this timezone.”

“Then coffee it is. I know this wonderful little place in Bern for some good coffee.”

“Sounds perfect.” Said Valerie as they drove around the twisting roads.

————

It had only been a day before Valerie knew that this summer would be different than any summer.

“Hey Ryan.” She said with a smile as she picked up the phone.

“Hey Valerie.” Answered Ryan, clearly tired and worn out.

“What’s wrong?” She asked, worried that something had happened.

“Nothing, really.” He answered. “I just wanted to let you know that I’m in Lyon, . My grandfather isn’t doing too well, so I’ll be living here for the summer.”

“Oh. Ok.” She said surprised.

“See ya later.” He yawned.

“See ya.” Echoed Valerie before putting her phone down.

“Who was that?” Asked Aunt Gemma, who was reading over financial reports for her company.

“A friend from school.” She answered before turning back to her book. “He’s in seeing his grandfather.”

“Interesting.” Mumbled Aunt Gemma.

A few minutes later her phone rang again, this time Iz was calling, and Valerie got scared. She knew about Iz’s family, and was concerned that something happened.

“Iz, what happened?” Asked Valerie as soon as she picked up.

“My family and I had a disagreement.” Answered Iz solemnly.

“Oh no.” Gasped Valerie. “Are you okay?”

“Yeah I’m good.” Answered Iz. Valerie heard something happening in the background, it sounded like voices.

“Where are you?” Asked Valerie.

“Zagreb.” Answered Iz.

‘Things have gotten worse.’ Thought Valerie. She knew that Iz had family in Croatia, so she guessed that’s who she was living with. “What’s happening?”

“Just answering the usual questions as I walk through the city running errands for my Uncle and Aunt.”

“Do they think you’re the grandchild of the Hero of Zagreb?” Asked Valerie with a chuckle.

“That’s exactly what they think.” Answered Iz. “I’m pretty sure the whole city knows who I am by now.”

“I didn’t realize that your grandfather was that big of a deal.”

“Oh he’s massive.” Exclaimed Iz. “He’s a national hero and he’s written into history books. They love him, even though he’s dead.”

Valerie let out a slight laugh.

“What’s so funny?” Asked Iz.

“Just your situation. The shy girl being bombarded by so many questions.”

“Yeah, and it’s driving me crazy. Well anyways. I’m home so I gotta go.”

“Talk to you later.” Said Valerie as Iz ended the call.

She looked over to see a slight smirk on her aunt’s face. “Sounds like we’ll be taking a trip soon.”

“What does that mean?” Asked a curious Valerie.

“Well, we’re gonna go see your friends of course.”

—

Caleb

“Welcome home Caleb.” Called a booming voice in the airport terminal as Caleb’s jaw dropped to the floor. Dressed in casual clothes was Toledo’s hometown hero, Raindrop. His black hair was swept to the side, and he was wearing a navy blue polo with khaki shorts.

“Raindrop?” Exclaimed Caleb as he reached out for a handshake.

“Yep.” He answered with a smile, shaking the blue skinned boy’s hand.

“What are you doing here?”

“I came to welcome you home.”

“But why?”

“Your parents asked me to.” He answered quietly as the pair walked out. “Also because I’m a fan. I always watch the Defender High Sports Festival, and when I heard that there was a kid from Toledo in the top classes, I began following how you were doing. How would you like to do a bit of extra rescue training during the summer?”

“Would I like too? Heck yeah.” Cheered Caleb as he put his suitcase in the back of Raindrop’s car, a blue SUV.

“Good to hear.” Said Raindrop. “Let me know what dates work best for you so I can start planning. But let’s get you home first.”

“Yes sir.” Agreed Caleb as he closed the car door.

—

Gale

“Hey dad.” Called Gale as she walked into her dads classroom.

“Hey punkin.” He answered as he locked the door to the fabric room. He was walking now, but his hair was still gone. Progress was being made, he was winning the fight. “Just give me a moment or two to lock up.”

“Did you enjoy teaching?” Asked Gale as she sat on a desk.

“I loved it.” He answered enthusiastically. “I can’t wait till the beginning of next year. How’d you like the hero course?”

“I’m so ready for next year to start.” She cheered.

“How was Melody?” He asked as they walked towards the door.

“She was sad to leave.” Answered Gale. “She did ask me to go see her during the summer.”

“Then we’ll make it happen.” Declared her father.

“Thank you.”

“Anything for you.” He said with a smile. “Now let’s get back home fast. I’m hungry and I want some dinner.”

“Agreed.” Said Gale.

“Last one to the car cleans up the plates.” Shouted Mr. Orr as he ran down that hall.

“No running in the halls.” Called Gale as she chased after her father.

—

Siku

“It’s so good to be home.” Sighed Siku as she flopped down on her bed. The small cabin that she called home was farther north of Grand Rapids, Manitoba.

She was greeted by familiar smells: the wood stove in the main room, cedar from her bed frame, and her grandmother’s home cooking.

She looked over at a picture of herself, and her two best friends. A boy with shoulder length black hair and a girl with braided hair, Siku was in the middle, her hair in her trademark stacked braid.

She sat up and let her hair down, the sheer volume of the black locks covered her eyes and part of it rested on the bed.

“That’s much better.” Siku mumbled to herself as she pulled her hair out of her face.

She walked over to her desk and opened up her journal. Siku gazed back at the last date: the first of April.

She picked up her pen and began to write. She wrote about her last few days at Defender, what her first year had meant to her, the friends she had made and the lessons learned. She wrote about her concern for her class rep, Rei, she wrote about her hopes for the future: what class she would make, how much stronger she could become. She wrote about Gale, and that she would do anything for her. She wrote about her good friend Jacob, the brilliant engineer that made her laugh.

She wrote about what all she hoped her second year would hold, not just for her, but for each of her classmates.

————

Betaread by Scotken