Morning light slipped gently through the curtains, soft and golden, painting the room in warm hues.
Stella stirred beneath the covers, a quiet "Mmm?" escaping her lips as consciousness tugged at her.
Something smells nice…
The scent of eggs and toast wafted through the air—simple, comforting, homemade.
She blinked her eyes open, expecting to find Rein still beside her. But the bed was empty, the sheets cool where he'd been.
Stella sat up slowly, rubbing sleep from her eyes, hair tousled and falling across her face. She padded barefoot toward the kitchen, drawn by the aroma.
Rein stood at the stove, back to her, white hair messy from sleep, hoodie sleeves pushed up as he flipped eggs with careful focus.
"Good morning," he said without turning, a small smile in his voice.
Stella leaned against the doorway, cheeks warming despite the lingering drowsiness.
"G-good morning," she mumbled, voice still thick with sleep.
"You always wake up at this time?"
"No…" Rein shook his head, plating the food. "I usually wake up at 5:50 a.m. But with you… I actually slept longer. I thought the nightmares would pull me awake again."
Stella's brow furrowed as she walked closer, sliding onto a stool at the counter. "Huh… 5:50 a.m.? A whole hour before school? Why?"
Rein exhaled deeply, setting a plate in front of her—eggs, toast, a side of fruit. Simple, but made with care.
"Nightmares," he said quietly, avoiding her gaze for a moment. "A lot of nightmares."
Stella's heart tightened. She reached out, fingers brushing his wrist.
"Oh… Is it Chaos?"
"Yeah…" Rein's voice trailed off, the word heavy. He forced a brighter tone, sliding her a fork. "Anyway, breakfast is getting cold. Eat up."
Stella studied him for a second longer, then smiled softly—grateful, reassuring.
"Thanks," she whispered. "For cooking. And… for sleeping with me."
Rein's cheeks tinted pink, but he sat beside her, their knees brushing under the counter.
For the first time in years…
Morning didn't feel like running from the dark.
It felt like starting something new.
The breakfast plates sat empty on the counter, the scent of eggs and toast still lingering in the warm morning air.
Rein pushed back his chair first, stretching with a small smile. "I'll get ready. You finish up."
Stella nodded, sipping her coffee. "Take your time."
He headed to the bathroom, door clicking shut behind him. The shower ran briefly—hot water chasing away the last traces of sleep. He dried off quickly, towel around his waist, and grabbed his uniform from the hook.
The mirror fogged slightly, but he wiped it clear. His reflection stared back—white hair damp and messy, violet eyes bright but shadowed. He pulled on his pants, then reached for his shirt.
The door creaked open unexpectedly.
Stella poked her head in, holding her uniform. "Hey, is the—oh!"
She froze, eyes widening.
Rein stood shirtless, back to her at first, but he turned—towel low on his hips, skin still glistening from the shower. His build was lean, abs defined but not over-pumped—subtle lines from quiet strength and survival, faint scars tracing his ribs from the concert.
Stella's cheeks flushed pink. "S-sorry! I didn't mean to—"
Rein grabbed his shirt quickly, face burning red. "It's fine! Uh… just getting dressed."
She backed out, door shutting with a soft click, but not before her gaze lingered a second longer—appreciative, teasing.
Not bad… her inner voice whispered, heart skipping.
Outside, Stella fanned her face, waiting for her turn.
When Rein emerged—fully dressed, hair tousled—he cleared his throat. "Your turn."
Stella nodded, slipping past him into the bathroom with a mischievous smile. "Won't be long."
She shut the door, starting the shower. Steam filled the room as she let the water run hot.
A knock—soft, hesitant.
"Stella? Forgot my toothbrush in there," Rein called.
She'd just stepped out of the shower, towel discarded. She slipped on her black bra—simple, lacy edges—and nothing else yet, skin still damp and flushed.
"Come in—it's open."
The door creaked.
Rein stepped in, eyes on the sink—then they lifted.
Stella stood there in just her bra and underwear, towel-drying her long silver hair. Water droplets traced her collarbone, her figure athletic yet soft—curves accentuated, skin glowing under the steam.
Rein froze, violet eyes wide, toothbrush forgotten in his hand.
Stella turned slowly, catching his stare. Instead of covering up, she leaned against the counter, a teasing smirk playing on her lips.
"Like what you see?" she asked, voice low and playful, one eyebrow arched.
Rein's face exploded in crimson. His gaze darted—then snapped back, unable to help it.
"I—I-uh—sorry!" he stammered, backing toward the door. "I'll… wait outside!"
Stella laughed softly, stepping closer—just enough to make his heart race faster.
"Running away already?" she teased, tilting her head. "It's nothing you haven't… imagined."
"STELLA!" Rein yelped, finally bolting out, door slamming behind him.
Her laughter echoed through the bathroom—bright, fond.
He's too cute when he's flustered.
They finished getting ready in flustered silence—uniforms on, bags packed.
As they headed out the door, hands brushing, the awkward heat turned to quiet, shared smiles.
School awaited.
But this morning's secret lingered between them—warm, teasing, theirs.
They stepped out of the apartment building into the crisp morning air, the city already stirring with the hum of early commuters and distant hover buses.
Stella glanced at Rein, her lips curving into a soft chuckle. He was still flustered—ears red, gaze fixed firmly on the sidewalk ahead.
"Alright, let's get going," she said, voice light and teasing.
Rein nodded quickly, adjusting his bag strap. "Y-yeah. Let's go before something else happens."
Stella's eyebrow arched, amusement dancing in her blue eyes. "What?"
"I meant—let's go," he corrected hastily, face burning even hotter.
She laughed quietly, falling into step beside him. Their hands brushed as they walked, the memory of the morning lingering like a secret spark between them.
The route to Silverlight Academy was familiar—tree-lined streets giving way to the bustling outer districts. Students in uniforms dotted the sidewalks, chatter rising as the gates came into view.
Then—a very, very knowing voice cut through the air.
"HEY! LOVE BIRDS!"
Zen's shout echoed down the block, his black-and-yellow hair unmistakable even from a distance. He jogged over, grin wide and chaotic as ever.
"Morning, Zen," Rein said, trying to sound casual.
"Hey, Zen," Stella added, her tone smooth.
Zen skidded to a stop in front of them, hands on his hips. His golden eyes narrowed playfully as he looked between them—then zeroed in on Stella.
"I've never seen you walk from this way, Stella. What changed your mind?"
"Nothing," she replied easily, shrugging. "Just thought I'd take this route today. Ran into Rein."
Rein's face betrayed him—blushing harder than ever, the image of her in that black bra flashing unbidden in his mind. He stared at the ground, willing the heat away.
Zen's grin turned downright devilish.
"Hellooo? Spirit of Rein, are you with us? What happened?"
"Nothing happened," Rein muttered, forcing composure into his voice. He straightened, meeting Zen's gaze. "Seriously."
"Okay, if you say so," Zen drawled, clearly not buying it. He slung an arm around Rein's shoulders—careful of the ribs—and leaned in. "But you're redder than a Hex Vein flare, bro."
Stella stifled a laugh, covering her mouth.
Zen's energy shifted suddenly, eyes lighting up. "Anyway—I can't wait for training! It's gonna be so fun!"
Stella rolled her eyes fondly. "We still have a long way before exams. Wait it out."
"SHIT—EXAMS!" Zen yelped, clutching his head dramatically.
Rein blinked. "What? You good?"
"I didn't prepare shit for that!"
"DID YOU HEAR ME?" Stella said, raising her voice with mock exasperation. "THEY'RE A LONG WAY AWAY!"
"I KNOW!" Zen wailed. "BUT STILL—HAVE TO PREPARE EARLY!"
Rein and Stella exchanged a glance.
"…"
"…"
Zen froze mid-dramatic pose, then burst out laughing. The other two joined in, the sound carrying down the street.
For a moment, the whispers hadn't started yet.
The stares hadn't begun.
It was just them—three friends walking to school.
Like nothing had changed.
But everything had.
The gates of Silverlight Academy loomed ahead, bustling with students. Hover buses hummed overhead. Astra Division kids practiced energy flares in the courtyard.
The whispers started the moment they stepped through.
"Is that Rein?"
"The one from the concert attack?"
"Heard he can use Chaotic energy now… Board approved it?"
"Scary… what if he loses control?"
Stella's jaw tightened. She stayed close to Rein, her hand brushing his—a silent anchor.
Zen walked on his other side, grin fading slightly as he caught the murmurs.
Rein pulled his hoodie up, shadowing his face. The fabric felt like armor—hiding his violet eyes, his white hair, the anomaly they all saw.
But it didn't block the voices.
They made it to class just as the bell rang—homeroom, desks filling quickly. Rein slid into his seat in the back, Stella beside him, Zen dropping into the one in front.
The teacher began roll call, but the whispers didn't stop.
"Chaotic user… in our school?"
"He's dangerous. What if Chaos comes back through him?"
"Board's crazy—letting him walk free?"
Rein sank lower, hood pulled tight. His shadow twitched faintly under the desk—unnoticed, but a reminder.
Stella leaned over, voice low. "Ignore them."
He nodded, but his fists clenched under the table.
Then—footsteps.
Three cocky guys from the front row sauntered back during the brief lull, tall and smug, Vein lines glowing faintly on their arms. Dual or low Tri—enough to feel untouchable.
The leader leaned on Rein's desk, smirk sharp.
"Hey, freak. Heard you're packing Chaos now. Is that true?"
Rein looked up slowly. "What do you want?"
The guy laughed. "Want? To see if the rumors are bullshit. Fight me. Show us what that 'approved' power looks like."
The class went silent.
Stella half-rose. "Back off."
The leader ignored her. "Come on, anomaly. Or scared?"
Rein's shadow stirred.
Then—
The door slammed open.
Zen strode in like a storm—he'd stepped out earlier, but timing was perfect.
His golden eyes blazed as he took in the scene.
He stepped between the bullies and Rein, posture casual but radiating menace. Tri Vein lines pulsed faintly under his sleeves—silver-blue, ready.
He fixed the leader with a death stare cold enough to freeze blood.
"Is there a problem here?"
The words were quiet.
Too quiet.
The leader faltered, smirk slipping. His friends shifted.
Zen didn't blink.
"N-no," the leader muttered, backing up. "Just… talking."
Zen's smile returned—sharp, dangerous. "Good. Keep it that way."
The three scrambled back to their seats.
Zen dropped into his chair, slinging an arm over Rein's back.
"You okay, bro?"
Rein exhaled. "Yeah. Thanks."
Stella relaxed, hand finding Rein's again.
The teacher cleared their throat, resuming.
But the message was clear.
Mess with Rein…
You mess with the squad.
The classroom door slid open with a soft whoosh, cutting through the lingering tension like a knife.
Principal Wilson stepped in, his presence commanding the room instantly. The teacher paused mid-sentence, nodding respectfully as Wilson took center stage at the front.
Students straightened, whispers dying to nothing. Rein kept his hood up, eyes fixed on his desk. Stella's hand rested lightly on his knee under the table—a silent steadying force. Zen leaned back, arms crossed, still glaring daggers at the three bullies in the front.
"Good morning, class," Wilson said, voice calm but carrying that unmistakable authority—warm, yet unyielding. "I apologize for the interruption, but there's an announcement that can't wait."
The room held its breath.
Wilson's gaze swept the class, lingering just a moment on Rein—subtle, protective.
"As many of you know, a tragic event unfolded at the recent school concert. An entity from the Void Realm—Chaos—emerged, endangering lives. Many were hurt. Some are still recovering."
Murmurs rippled, eyes flicking to Rein.
Wilson raised a hand. Silence fell.
"In light of this," he continued, "the school board has accelerated our safety measures. This year, every student in the Astra and Flux Divisions will receive custom-made Astral suits—tailored to your Vein rank, designed for enhanced protection and energy channeling. Distribution starts next week."
Excited whispers broke out. "Custom suits? Already?"
Wilson let it settle, then his tone grew graver.
"But that's not all I came to say."
His eyes found Rein again, voice steady.
"One of our own—Mr. Rein Seethoshi was at the center of this storm. Not by choice. Chaos targeted him. Used him as a gate."
The class stiffened. A few shifted away from Rein's desk.
Wilson's expression hardened. "Let me be clear. Rein is not a threat. He is a student. A human. Like all of you."
He paused, letting the words land.
"The Board has granted him freedom—with supervision. But here, at Silverlight, we go further. I will protect him. Personally. And I expect every one of you to treat him as you would any classmate—with respect. With humanity."
The room went pin-drop silent.
Rein's hood shadowed his face, but under it, tears welled. A few escaped, trailing down his cheeks, splashing quietly onto the table.
Protect me… like human…
Stella noticed, her thumb brushing his hand—comfort without words.
Zen grinned faintly, proud.
Wilson nodded once. "That is all."
He left as quietly as he came.
But the echoes remained.
The class shifted—some stares softened. Others lingered.
Rein wiped his eyes discreetly.
For the first time that day…
He felt seen.
Not as a monster.
As himself.
Lunch hour brought a brief respite to the courtyard—sunlight filtering through the trees, the hum of student chatter mixing with the clink of trays and distant energy flares from training fields.
The trio claimed their usual spot under a shaded tree: Rein, Stella, and Zen, trays balanced on laps. The morning's whispers had faded slightly, but the air still felt charged—like everyone was watching from the corners of their eyes.
Rein poked at his sandwich, appetite low. Stella sat close, her knee brushing his—a quiet comfort. Zen shoveled food like it was his last meal, golden eyes scanning the crowd with his usual chaotic energy.
Then—footsteps.
A group of students approached—four of them, the same ones who'd whispered loudest in class. They shuffled awkwardly, faces flushed with embarrassment.
"Umm… Rein," the leader said, rubbing the back of his neck. "We're sorry for everything we said."
"Yeah," another chimed in, voice small. "We really are."
Rein looked up, surprise flickering in his violet eyes. "W-what? Uhh, don't worry about it. I know why you did it, so please—"
Zen cut him off, fork pausing mid-air. "Yeah, right. Say your apologies properly."
The students shifted, glancing at each other.
"No, don't worry about it—really," Rein insisted, voice gentle. His hood was still up, but a small smile broke through.
The leader exhaled in relief. "Oh wow… you're so kind. Thank you, Rein."
"No problem," Rein replied quietly.
The group nodded gratefully, then turned and left—backs a little straighter, whispers now absent.
As they disappeared into the crowd, Zen slammed his tray down harder than necessary, fist clenched.
"Agh, you deserve the apology, you know…" he growled, eyes narrowing. "Especially that bastard in class earlier."
Stella flicked his forehead lightly—sharp, but affectionate.
"You really want them to think he's a monster?" she said, voice calm but pointed.
Zen blinked, rubbing the spot. "Uhh… no?"
Stella turned to Rein, her blue eyes soft. "Then this is better. This way, they'll know he's kind."
Rein met her gaze, warmth spreading through him. "Thanks."
The moment settled—small, but meaningful.
Then—the speaker crackled to life overhead, echoing across the courtyard.
"Mr. Seethoshi, please report to Principal Wilson's office. He's waiting for you."
Heads turned. Whispers started anew.
"Oh… why is he calling me?" Rein muttered, setting his tray aside.
"I have no clue," Zen said, shrugging. "Just go. You'll be fine."
Stella half-rose. "I can join you—"
The speaker buzzed again, as if anticipating.
"And no one should accompany him. Thank you."
Stella sank back, crossing her arms. "Oh, come on."
Zen burst out laughing—loud, uncontrollable, doubling over. "Hah! Even the speaker's got your number!"
Stella shot him a glare, but her lips twitched.
Rein stood, hood still shadowing his face, but a small smile breaking through the nerves.
"Guess I'll see you guys after."
He walked off toward the office—whispers trailing him like shadows.
But this time…
He didn't pull the hood tighter.
Rein made his way down the familiar hallways, the speaker's echo still ringing in his ears. Whispers trailed him like smoke, but he kept his head up, hood down now, violet eyes forward.
The principal's office door loomed at the end of the corridor—polished wood, etched with subtle Astral seals that hummed faintly.
He knocked twice, steady but quiet.
"Please come in," Wilson's voice called from inside—warm, reassuring.
Rein pushed the door open, stepping into the spacious room. Sunlight filtered through tall windows, casting long patterns across the desk piled with reports and a single framed photo of a younger Wilson with his late wife.
"Good afternoon, Principal Wilson," Rein said, closing the door behind him.
"Good afternoon, Rein," Wilson replied, rising from his chair with a gentle smile. His eyes held that familiar mentor warmth. "You're probably wondering why I called you here alone."
Rein nodded, shifting slightly. "Uh… yes. Why is that?"
Wilson chuckled softly, the sound rich and kind. He gestured to the chair opposite his desk.
"Sit, my child. This isn't punishment."
Rein sat, nerves twisting in his stomach.
Wilson leaned forward, eyes twinkling with something almost mischievous.
"Activate your Astral energy."
Rein blinked. "What? But… I'm just a Sole Vein."
"Come on," Wilson encouraged, voice steady. "Do it."
Rein hesitated, then exhaled slowly.
"Okay… as you say."
He focused—drawing on the familiar flow inside him. Blue aura flared to life around his body, cool and shimmering. Lines traced his skin, glowing softly.
His left wrist lit up first—one faint line.
Then—a second appeared beside it, bright and undeniable.
Dual Vein.
"W-what?" Rein stared at his hand, overwhelmed. The aura pulsed stronger, wrapping him like confirmation.
"H-how…?" His voice cracked, eyes wide.
Wilson's chuckle deepened, warm and proud.
"I knew you never checked your Vein-Code after the battle," he said gently. "You broke through during your fight with Chaos. Pushed past your limit. Your body adapted."
Rein's breath shook. "Why… why didn't you tell me sooner?"
Wilson smiled wider. "Well… I wanted it to be a surprise."
He leaned back, eyes shining.
"You're moving up to the Flux Division now, Rein."
The words hit like sunlight after an endless night.
Tears welled in Rein's eyes instantly—hot, unstoppable. His vision blurred. The weight of everything—the concert, the trial, the stares, the fear—crumbled.
He stood abruptly, legs unsteady, and collapsed forward—not falling, but into Wilson's open arms.
Wilson caught him without hesitation, pulling him into a firm, fatherly hug.
Rein clung tight, face buried in Wilson's coat, tears soaking through.
"Thank you," he whispered, voice breaking. "Thank you for everything. Thank you for standing up for me… for protecting me…"
Wilson's own eyes glistened, one hand resting on Rein's back—steady, protective.
"Oh, my child," he murmured, voice thick with emotion. "Don't be. You've earned this. All of it."
They stayed like that for a long moment—mentor and student, guardian and the boy he'd chosen to shield.
Outside, the school carried on.
But in that office…
Rein finally felt the chains loosen.
Just a little more.
Wilson held Rein steady, the hug lingering a moment longer before he gently pulled back, hands on the boy's shoulders.
"Are you okay, my child?" he asked softly, voice thick with emotion.
Rein wiped his eyes quickly, nodding. "Yes… I am. Sorry for that."
Wilson shook his head, eyes glistening. "No need, my child. I'm glad you felt comfortable enough to show me."
He smiled warmly, steering Rein back to the chair.
"Now… let's update your badge and identification card for school."
Rein blinked, still processing. "Already?"
Wilson chuckled. "Of course. Can't have a Dual Vein walking around with a Sole badge."
He pulled a sleek device from his desk drawer—scanner humming to life.
"Your old card and badge, please."
"Here," Rein said, handing them over with slightly trembling fingers.
Wilson scanned them, typed a few commands, and a new set printed smoothly from the machine—gleaming Flux Division emblem, Dual Vein rank clearly marked.
"Here you go, my child," Wilson said, handing them over with pride.
Rein stared at the new badge, thumb tracing the glowing lines.
"Thank you… Once again, Principal Wilson."
Wilson waved it off gently. "Don't be, my child. Go eat—your friends are waiting."
Rein stood, bowing slightly before heading out, the new badge clipped to his uniform.
The hallways felt different on the way back—lighter, somehow.
He reached the courtyard tree, where Stella and Zen waited.
"Finally took you lo—" Zen started, mouth open mid-sentence.
Then he saw it.
The new badge. Dual Vein. Flux Division.
Zen's eyes bulged. His tray clattered to the ground—food forgotten.
"HOLY CRAP NO WAY!!!"
He exploded upward, jumping like he'd been shocked, arms flailing wildly.
"MY BOI'S A DUAL VEIN NOW?! DUAL?! FLUX DIVISION?! WHAT THE—HOW—WHEN—BROOOO!!!"
Zen grabbed Rein's shoulders, shaking him like a rag doll. "YOU BROKE THROUGH?! AGAINST CHAOS?! THAT'S INSANE! YOU'RE A BEAST! A LEGEND! LET'S GOOOOO!!!"
He spun Rein around, yelling loud enough for half the courtyard to hear.
"DUAL VEIN REIN! DUAL VEIN REIN! EVERYONE LOOK AT THIS MAN!"
Students turned, jaws dropping.
Stella's eyes widened, then softened with pride. "Oh my god…"
She walked over calmly amid Zen's chaos, cupped Rein's face, and kissed him—deep, congratulatory, right there in front of everyone.
When she pulled back, smiling. "Congrats."
Rein blushed furiously, breathless. "Thank you…"
Zen froze mid-jump, eyes bugging out even further.
"OH MY GOD THEY KISSED!!!"
He collapsed dramatically to the grass, fake-sobbing. "MY SHIP! IT'S SAILING! I'M NOT READY! SOMEONE HOLD ME!"
Then he popped back up, punching the air.
"DUAL VEIN AND A KISS?! TODAY IS THE BEST DAY EVER!!!"
Rein laughed despite himself. "Hey, calm down…"
"CALM DOWN?! NO CHANCE! THIS IS HUGE! WE'RE CELEBRATING! ICE CREAM! NO—PARTY! TRAINING ARC EARLY!"
Stella chuckled, looping her arm through Rein's.
Zen kept ranting, drawing more stares—but this time, they were smiles.
The echoes were changing.
From fear…
To awe.
The afternoon bell rang, pulling the courtyard back into motion. Trays cleared, students streaming toward classrooms.
Rein, Stella, and Zen headed to their next period—Advanced Energy Control, a mixed class for Astra and Flux students. The room was larger, with tiered seating, walls lined with energy-absorbing panels.
They slipped in just as the teacher—a stern woman in her forties, Ms. Harlan, known for her no-nonsense Tri Vein drills—began roll call.
Her eyes landed on Rein as he took his seat.
The class quieted.
Ms. Harlan paused, gaze flicking to his new badge—the gleaming Dual Vein emblem, Flux Division transfer clear.
A beat of silence.
Then her expression shifted—not fear, not suspicion. Respect.
"Mr. Seethoshi," she said, voice carrying across the room. "Congratulations on your breakthrough. Dual Vein. Impressive."
The class turned, murmurs rippling—some surprised, some envious, a few nodding approval.
Rein flushed, hood down now. "Th-thank you, Ms. Harlan."
She nodded sharply. "Flux Division placement approved. You'll be joining the advanced drills starting today. No special treatment—just higher expectations."
Zen leaned over from the next row, whispering loud enough for half the class to hear. "That's code for 'you're gonna get wrecked, bro—but in a good way!'"
A few students chuckled. The tension eased.
Ms. Harlan's lips twitched—almost a smile. "Mr. Kirisawa, save the commentary for after class. Or you'll be running laps."
Zen saluted dramatically. "Yes, ma'am!"
Stella squeezed Rein's hand under the desk, eyes proud.
As the lesson began—energy shaping exercises—Ms. Harlan called Rein first for the demonstration.
"Seethoshi. Show us your new control."
Rein stood, aura flaring blue—stronger, steadier than before.
The class watched, not with fear…
But with curiosity.
The echoes were shifting.
Slowly.
But surely.
The final bell rang like a release—sharp, freeing, echoing through the halls.
Students poured out, chatter rising as the day ended. Rein, Stella, and Zen grabbed their bags, weaving through the crowd toward the gates.
The afternoon had been… better. Whispers turned to curious glances. A few classmates even nodded at Rein's new badge. The Dual Vein reveal had shifted something—fear giving way to reluctant respect.
Zen was still buzzing, recounting his exaggerated version of the morning drama to anyone who'd listen.
"And then I was like—bam!—death stare! Those guys ran like scared puppies!"
Stella rolled her eyes fondly. "You didn't even flare your aura."
"Details!" Zen waved it off. "Point is, my boy's a Dual Vein legend now. Flux Division! We're unstoppable!"
Rein smiled quietly, the weight lighter on his shoulders.
They stepped through the gates into the fading afternoon light.
And there—leaning against the wall, arms crossed, long white-pink hair catching the breeze—stood Valkyrie.
A duffel bag and suitcase sat at her feet. Stella's things.
Zen froze mid-step. "V-Valkyrie?! Goddess?! What are you doing here?!"
Valkyrie straightened, offering a calm nod. "Waiting for Stella."
Stella waved, walking over. "Hey, big sis. Thanks for bringing my stuff."
Rein's cheeks warmed—he knew the plan, but saying it out loud…
Zen's head snapped between them, eyes widening comically.
"Stuff? What stuff? Why does Stella need stuff here? At school? Wait—"
His gaze landed on the bags. Recognition dawned.
Then horror.
"NO WAY. STELLA'S MOVING IN WITH REIN?!"
He clutched his head, staggering back like he'd been shot.
"YOU TWO ARE LIVING TOGETHER?! WHEN DID THIS HAPPEN?! WHY WASN'T I TOLD?! MY SHIP IS SAILING, AND I DIDN'T EVEN GET AN INVITE TO THE CRUISE?!"
Stella laughed, covering her mouth. Rein turned redder than his old hoodie.
Zen spun in circles, yelling at the sky. "THIS IS BETRAYAL! MY BEST BRO AND MY—wait, does this mean sleepovers?! CUDDLES?! MORNING KISSES?!"
"Zen!" Stella and Rein shouted in unison.
Valkyrie's lips twitched—almost a smile. "You two forgot to tell him, didn't you?"
Stella winced. "Kinda… slipped our minds."
Rein rubbed his neck. "Yeah… sorry, Zen."
Zen collapsed dramatically to the ground, fake-sobbing. "Forgotten… abandoned… my own ship update denied…"
Then he popped back up, grin manic.
"BUT THIS IS AWESOME! GROUP SLEEPOVERS! WAIT—NO, THAT'S WEIRD. NEVER MIND!"
Valkyrie shook her head, handing the bags to Rein. "Take care of her."
Rein nodded seriously. "I will."
Zen slung an arm around Rein's shoulders. "You better, bro! Or big sis here will end you!"
Valkyrie's eyes narrowed playfully. "Exactly."
Stella hugged her sister tight. "Thanks for bringing everything."
"Anytime," Valkyrie said softly. "Text me."
As Valkyrie walked off, Zen kept ranting—half excited, half dramatic.
"THIS IS THE BEST/WORST DAY EVER!"
Rein and Stella exchanged a look—laughing, hands intertwined.
School was over.
A new chapter—literally—was beginning.
At home.
Together.
The school gates faded behind them as the group walked into the evening light—Rein carrying Stella's suitcase, Stella with the duffel slung over her shoulder.
Zen was still in full chaos mode, bouncing alongside them like an overexcited puppy.
"THIS IS HISTORIC!" he declared, arms flailing. "My best bro and my—well, basically sister-in-law now—LIVING TOGETHER! I need details! When did this happen? Was there a dramatic confession? Rooftop? Rain? Tell me everything!"
Stella rolled her eyes, but her cheeks pinked. "Zen, calm down."
"CALM DOWN?! IMPOSSIBLE!"
Rein chuckled, the weight of the bags nothing compared to the lightness in his chest.
Zen suddenly darted forward, snatching the suitcase from Rein's hand.
"Nope! Official best-friend duty activated! I'm carrying the heavy stuff!"
Rein blinked. "You don't have to—"
"Too late!" Zen hoisted it effortlessly, flexing dramatically. "See? Tri Vein perks! Gotta show off for the new couple!"
Stella laughed. "You're ridiculous."
"Ridiculously awesome," Zen corrected, winking.
They reached Rein's apartment building sooner than expected—Zen filling the walk with nonstop commentary: predictions about breakfast fights, who'd hog the blankets, and dramatic reenactments of "future couple arguments."
At the door, Rein keyed in the code. They piled inside, Zen dropping the bags with a theatrical thud.
"Home sweet love nest!" he announced, spinning in the living room. "Not bad, bro. Cozy. Perfect for—"
"Zen," Stella warned, half-amused.
He grinned innocently. "What? I'm being supportive!"
They unpacked Stella's things together—Zen "helping" by holding clothes up dramatically ("This crop top? Bold choice!") and folding with surprising care when Stella glared.
Rein watched them, warmth spreading through him. This—banter, laughter, normalcy—was something he'd never dared hope for.
After everything was stowed—uniform hung, books on the shelf, a few personal touches making the place feel less empty—Zen flopped onto the couch.
"So… dinner? Movie? I could crash here forever—"
Stella flicked his forehead again. "Out. They need space."
Zen clutched his heart. "Betrayed! By my own ship!"
But he stood, slinging his bag over his shoulder.
"Fine, fine. I'll leave you lovebirds alone." He pulled Rein into a quick bro-hug, then Stella. "But text me everything. Everything."
Rein smiled. "Thanks for helping, Zen."
"Anytime, Dual Vein legend." Zen saluted at the door. "Don't do anything I wouldn't do!"
The door clicked shut behind him.
Silence settled—soft, intimate.
Stella turned to Rein, stepping close.
"Just us now," she whispered.
Rein's heart raced, but he smiled.
"Yeah."
He pulled her into his arms.
Just us.
Zen was still buzzing from the school day, half-skipping down the street with his hands behind his head, replaying the moment he death-stared those idiots in class.
His phone suddenly went bzzz in his pocket.
He pulled it out instantly, expecting another meme from Rein or a "stop yelling" from Stella.
But the name on the screen made him stop dead in the middle of the sidewalk.
Valkyrie.
The message was short and perfect:
"Hey, Zen.
Want to meet up? Just you and me.
There's a small park near the east gate.
I'll wait there for 20 minutes.
– Valkyrie"
Zen stared at the screen for a full three seconds.
Then he screamed at the top of his lungs (right there on the street, people turned and stared):
"GODDESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS!!!"
He started sprinting full speed toward the east gate, arms pumping, hoodie flapping behind him like a cape. Halfway there, he stopped, spun around, fixed his hair in the reflection of a shop window, sprayed on emergency deodorant from his bag (he always carries it), and sprinted again even faster.
When he reached the park, he was panting as he had just fought Chaos himself.
Valkyrie was sitting on a bench under a tree, legs crossed, looking calm and beautiful like always—white-pink hair catching the late afternoon light.
Zen skidded to a stop right in front of her, bent over, hands on his knees.
"I… made it… in… 19 minutes… and 47 seconds…" he wheezed.
Valkyrie looked up, one tiny, amused smile tugging at her lips.
"You ran the whole way?"
"Obviously!!" Zen straightened up, still breathing hard. "When the goddess summons me, I don't walk—I teleport!"
She stood slowly, stepping closer until they were only inches apart.
"I wanted to talk to you alone," she said softly, her voice lower than usual.
Zen's grin faltered into something softer, almost nervous for the first time.
"I'm listening… goddess."
She reached out and gently fixed the collar of his hoodie that was all messed up from running. Her fingers lingered a second longer than necessary.
"Thank you for protecting my little sister today," she said, eyes meeting his without looking away. "And thank you for always being there for Rein. You're loud… chaotic… ridiculous…"
She paused, the corner of her mouth lifting.
"…but you're also kind. Brave. Loyal. And I've noticed… for a while now."
Zen's face went from red-running to full tomato-red-flustered in 0.2 seconds.
"I… uh… I mean… anytime… for Stella… for Rein… for you…"
Valkyrie's smile grew—small, but genuine. Warm.
"Next time you want to see me…" she murmured, stepping even closer, "you don't have to wait for me to text first."
She leaned in slowly, giving him every chance to move, but he didn't.
Her lips pressed to his cheek—soft, lingering, deliberate. Not a quick peck. A real kiss, warm and promising.
When she pulled back, her eyes held his.
"I'll be waiting for that next time, Zen."
She turned to walk away.
"Wait!" Zen blurted, voice cracking slightly.
Valkyrie paused, glancing back.
Zen lunged forward—awkward but earnest—and wrapped his arms around her in a tight, sudden hug. His face buried in her hair for a second, heart pounding against her back.
"I… I won't make you wait long," he mumbled into her shoulder, voice muffled but sincere.
Valkyrie stiffened for half a heartbeat—then relaxed, one hand coming up to rest lightly on his arm.
A soft chuckle escaped her.
"Good."
She let the hug linger just a moment longer… then gently pulled away, smiling over her shoulder as she walked off.
Zen stood there, arms still half-raised, face blazing, grin slowly spreading wider than ever.
He whispered to the empty park:
"…She definitely wants to date me."
Then he punched the air and yelled one more time—for the whole neighborhood to hear.
"YEA!!!"
The apartment was quiet, the city lights casting a soft glow through the curtains.
Stella stepped out of the bathroom in a loose tank top and shorts, hair still damp. Rein was already in bed, under the covers in a t-shirt, scrolling on his phone, but glancing up the moment she appeared.
She smiled, sliding under the covers beside him—close, but not too close at first.
The space between them felt warm, comfortable.
For a moment, they lay in silence, the only sound their breathing syncing slowly.
Stella shifted, turning toward him. Her hand rested lightly on his arm.
"You okay?" she whispered, voice soft in the dark.
Rein's breath caught. "Yeah… just happy you're here."
He turned to face her, hand finding her waist over the fabric—gentle, reassuring.
Stella smiled, scooting closer until she could rest her head on his shoulder.
Rein's arm wrapped around her naturally, pulling her into a warm embrace. She nestled against his chest, listening to his heartbeat.
They stayed like that—cuddling quietly, fingers intertwined, occasional soft laughs when their legs tangled accidentally.
A goodnight kiss followed—slow, tender, lingering just enough to make hearts race, but stopping there.
When they finally settled, Stella curled into him, his arms secure around her.
"Goodnight," she whispered.
"Goodnight," he replied, voice full of quiet wonder.
They fell asleep tangled together—warm, safe, content.
No shadows.
Just them.
And the promise of tomorrow.