The members of Prime Convergence stood lined up in front of The Elementary. Their hands thrust forward, chests out, eyes blazing with confidence. One by one, they called out their names in steady voices, as if this were some grand stage performance.
The reaction was… not what they hoped for. Every single member of The Elementary just froze—then gawked.
Silence broke with Iyan’s voice, flat and sharp.
“Your introductions are… quite dramatic.” His tone cut like a small, mocking knife.
Still holding his pose, Frost glanced calmly at Dainny. “Told you we’d get ridiculed if we did this.”
“Haa… agreed. Just make it cooler, introduce us properly, Dainny!” Marco said, nodding with fake seriousness but clearly siding with the mockery.
“But I think it’s cool,” Erpan added, still enjoying the pose with a satisfied grin.
Dainny wanted to disappear from existence right then and there. His face burned, his chest fumed, his tongue froze. His teammates, of course, looked relaxed as ever.
“SHUT UP!” he finally snapped.
A low chuckle rippled through the room. Sonik, arms crossed, smirked.
“Heh, so you’re the one who came up with that pose, huh?” His voice dripped with mockery, stabbing Dainny’s humiliation deeper.
Prime Convergence finally dropped their pose. But Dainny remained deflated, cheeks crimson from embarrassment.
Suddenly, a side door opened. A man walked in, arms stacked high with folders that nearly reached his head. His hair was a mess, thick glasses perched on his nose, and his wrinkled lab coat sagged under the weight of pens stuffed into every pocket.
“Ah! Professor Sam, welcome!” Earth called out, waving enthusiastically.
“Ah, you all, good morning!” the man replied warmly, though a little breathless.
“Prof… it’s already noon,” Tah said, pointing to the wall clock.
“Eh? Really? Goodness, I didn’t notice… too much work,” Prof Sam muttered, then gave a weary laugh.
When his eyes fell on Dainny, Frost, Erpan, and Marco, his expression shifted. He stared intently, from head to toe, as if reading not just their bodies but their very aura. It wasn’t the look of an ordinary scientist.
Frost and Marco instantly grew cautious. They exchanged a glance, checking the room’s tension.
“Wow… so there are guests after all,” Prof Sam said, as if just realizing. Then he gave a thin smile. “Nice to meet you. I’m Professor Samuel, but just call me Prof Sam.”
Erpan leaned toward Earth and whispered, “Is he one of the element users too?”
“No. He’s the one who proposed all this.” Earth spread his arms wide, pointing at the entire facility, the staff, even the massive aircraft visible outside the window.
“Hee… so he’s the mastermind,” Erpan murmured, nodding to himself.
But before the atmosphere could settle, a sudden whirring sound sliced through the room. From the side, a blazing, fire-coated fist shot toward Prime Convergence.
“—!!”
Frost reacted instantly, drawing his pistol, while Marco thrust his hand forward.
“BANG!!” Frost’s shot rang out just as a loud “THUD!!” exploded, the clash of energy filling the room with a veil of mist.
The attacker leapt back, smoke trailing from his hand. His face came into view: Pira.
“Pira! What are you doing?!” Sky shouted, his face flushed with anger.
Pira only cast a cold glance at Prof Sam. “This is what you wanted, right?” he asked casually, as if the attack were nothing.
The mist slowly cleared. Everyone held their breath. Inside it stood Prime Convergence, encased in a solid wall of ice—untouched, unbroken.
“Lila! Why did you help them?!” Pira barked, spinning toward her with frustration.
But Lila’s eyes widened. “M-me? I didn’t do anything! I didn’t move a thing!”
Pira froze. “What…? Even Lila’s surprised? Then why is that ice still holding?” His mind raced.
The ice began to crack and melt away. Just then another gunshot rang out.
“BANG!!” A bullet tore through the air toward Pira. He flinched, barely raising his hand in time to block it. Sparks of fire and metal scattered.
Before he could catch his breath, a shadow dashed toward him.
Pira reflexively summoned his flames—but only a thin puff of smoke sputtered out.
“What?!” His eyes widened in panic.
A violent collision shook the room. BOOM! The impact rattled the floor, the air itself seemed to be sucked out, and everyone froze in awe.
That moment marked the beginning of a clash that would change the course of the meeting.
Erpan’s fist slammed into Pira’s fire-coated palm. The explosion was deafening, shaking the floor as sparks of flame scattered into the air. Pira gritted his teeth, both arms trembling as he struggled to hold back.
“Heh! That all you got?” Erpan sneered, his eyes glowing with a wild thrill.
Pira spat to the side, sweat mixing with smoke on his face. “You think you can push me down, kid? I’m fire that will never burn out!” His boast sounded strong, but the redness of his palms betrayed the strain of withstanding Erpan’s strike.
Without hesitation, Erpan vaulted upward, grabbing Pira’s arm to gain leverage, then brought his knee down toward Pira’s head.
“Hhh!!” Pira growled, forcing his flames to burst forth. In an instant, fire roared across his body, erupting like a small bomb. The explosion rattled the glass in the room until it cracked, forcing The Elementary to back away and shield their faces.
“Hot! Way too hot—oi, Levis, stop hiding behind me!” Sonik barked, shoving the green-haired boy aside.
Erpan, however, had already leapt back, kicking off the wall and landing lightly. His breathing was steady, his expression casual, as if this were still just a warm-up.
Now Pira’s body was engulfed in fire, flames burning red-orange across his skin. With arrogance blazing in his eyes, he pointed straight at Prime Convergence.
“You’re all finished here!”
But before he could advance, Sky squinted, suddenly realizing something strange.
“Uh… where’s Dainny?” he asked innocently.
Every head turned at once. Even Pira, who had been brimming with confidence, suddenly paled. His flames flickered and died into a thin haze of smoke.
“What?!” Panic shot across his face as his eyes darted wildly.
“Above?” Frost muttered quietly, just loud enough for Marco and Erpan to hear.
And sure enough. From the ceiling, a shadow dropped like lightning—Dainny, silent and swift, with his blade already drawn and hovering at Pira’s throat.
“?!?!” The room froze.
Pira instinctively tried to raise his arms, but it was too late. The sword was so close, he could feel the biting chill of steel without it even grazing his skin.
What stunned everyone wasn’t just the blade at his throat. From the flat of the sword, a sudden burst of wind erupted sideways. The pressure was so intense that chairs flew across the room, hair whipped wildly, and Prof Sam’s mountain of papers scattered everywhere.
“My notes!” Prof Sam yelped, scrambling after the fluttering sheets.
The Elementary stood dumbfounded, even Lila’s normally cold composure shattered in shock.
Pira collapsed to his knees, eyes wide, throat dry. He tried to summon flames again, but only smoke sputtered out. His hands trembled.
Dainny calmly withdrew his blade, flashing a thin smile.
“Hm. Not bad, right? Consider that a warning,” he said lightly, as though showing off a party trick.
Erpan whistled. “Heh, stylish as always, Dainny.”
Marco grinned, arms crossed. “Even though you nearly fell off up there, right?”
Frost glanced sideways. “…Don’t ruin the act, Marco.”
Dainny’s face reddened. “Shut it! Can’t I look cool for once?!”
The Elementary remained slack-jawed—caught between awe, shock, and disbelief at what they had just witnessed.
Then, without warning, Pira twisted and lunged, launching a sudden counterattack at Dainny.
Everyone jumped—even Prof Sam, Lila, Earth, Iyan, Tah, Sky, Levis, and Sonik were taken aback.
A thunderous impact rang out, wind blasting through the room and sending dust everywhere.
“Wow… is this place seriously this filthy?” Frost brushed at his clothes casually, as if a lethal strike hadn’t just happened.
“For real… it’s nasty in here. Ew—” Erpan flailed his hands dramatically. “HUH!” he gasped when the dust only thickened.
Marco simply covered his nose and mouth, fanning the air enough to breathe.
“AREN’T YOU WORRIED ABOUT DAINNY?!” Sky finally snapped, unable to take their indifference.
“He’s right! Why aren’t you panicking?!” Tah added, bewildered and frustrated.
Frost, Erpan, and Marco exchanged looks. Their expressions? Calm. Almost smug.
“Why would we worry? Look.” Frost pointed toward Dainny.
As the dust settled, Dainny stood unshaken, effortlessly blocking Pira’s furious strike with nothing but his rusty sword.
“Ha… ha-ha… just what are you people?” Pira muttered, half-laughing, breath ragged.
The others gawked. How could he withstand such force so easily?
Sliding his blade back into its sheath, Dainny whirled on his comrades. “WHY DIDN’T YOU DO ANYTHING, YOU JERKS?!”
The three answered only with sly smiles. “Heh.”
“What’s with the ‘heh’?! Why didn’t you back me up?!” Dainny shouted, veins bulging on his neck.
“You’re fine, aren’t you?” Frost replied as if it were the most obvious thing in the world.
“Y… you… bastards…” Dainny growled, enunciating every word, his face flushed with anger.
Their bickering left everyone—Prof Sam, Earth, Iyan, Tah, Sky, Lila, Levis, Pira, and Sonik—utterly speechless. What had been a deadly fight now looked more like some absurd comedy act.
Finally, Prof Sam stepped forward with Earth. “Remarkable… absolutely remarkable. I didn’t expect you to work together so seamlessly.”
He began breaking it down:
When Pira lunged at Dainny, Marco had raised his hand, summoning a barrier of water around them.
Frost then fired a special bullet. When it struck the water, it froze instantly into solid ice.
The ice melted rapidly, generating steam that disrupted Pira’s fire control. That was why his flames sputtered out so suddenly.
At the same time, Dainny had already leapt back up into the rafters, slipping from sight.
And once the opportunity appeared, he descended with perfect timing, forcing Pira into panic.
“That’s how it went, right?” Prof Sam asked, turning to Marco.
Marco smiled with serious eyes. “Exactly.”
The room fell silent, stunned by the complexity of the strategy.
“But… how could you come up with all that so quickly?” Sky asked, his eyes wide with admiration.
Marco gave him a brief glance, lips curling slyly. “Ah, that was just me.”
“H-how?!” Sky stammered in disbelief.
“That’s why I’m the strategist of Prime Convergence,” Marco answered coolly, brimming with confidence.
“B-but that’s impossible!” Sky protested, still shaking his head.
Marco only tapped his temple with a smirk.
“Use your brain… wisely.”
Sky could only groan in exasperation, no closer to understanding.
Meanwhile, Dainny slid his sword back into its sheath—and strangely, the weapon vanished. Frost’s pistol disappeared too, without a trace. The Elementary’s curiosity spiked, but before they could ask, the four were already whispering among themselves, plotting again.
They turned together, grins sharp and mischievous, their aura pushing The Elementary back a step.
“WE WANT A TOUR! A ROOMTOUR!” Dainny, Frost, Erpan, and Marco shouted in unison, full of energy.
Silence.
Tah raised a brow. Sky smacked his forehead. Sonik clicked his tongue. “A second ago they were serious, now they’re like kindergarteners…”
Prof Sam burst out laughing. “Hahaha, fine… let’s take a walk. You four are truly something.”
Just like that, the tense atmosphere dissolved. They set off, touring the massive airship Helicxe.
Onboard, officers greeted them as the ship loomed vast above them. Its sheer size dwarfed their Quick-Jet, making it look like a toy.
“Huge…” Erpan muttered, eyes sparkling as he gazed upward. “If I fell from here, at least the view would be gorgeous before I died.”
“Idiot, you wouldn’t die from a fall,” Frost shot back flatly, though his sharp gaze counted every steel panel underfoot.
The tour began.
Engine Room.
The roar of turbines filled their ears the moment the doors opened. The air was heavy with the stench of hot metal and oil. Hundreds of pipes glistened, some trembling with the flow of energy. Marco smirked.
“One wrong leak, and this whole ship turns into a giant firework.”
“Why do you sound so pleased imagining that?” Dainny asked, unsettled.
Prison.
The corridor was cold, lit by dim white lamps. Transparent bars confined weary prisoners within. Erpan knocked on the glass, making one prisoner glare.
“Whoa, this glass is thick. If I punched it… wonder if it’d break?”
Tah slapped his head. “Don’t cause trouble, idiot.”
Laboratory.
Rows of strange devices lined the room. Glass tubes filled with glowing blue liquid cast a soft light. Frost lingered, scrutinizing them closely.
“This… their tech is primitive. But the potential is immense.”
“Primitive?!” one scientist snapped, but Marco barely held back a laugh.
Conference Room.
A long table circled a holo-map of the world. Marco leaned closer, eyes gleaming with interest.
“A place like this… countless strategies could be born here. I like it.”
Dainny allowed himself a faint smile, sitting briefly. “Not bad. Comfortable too.”
They passed through hangars, weapon depots, and medical bays, everything so meticulously arranged it left Prime Convergence—so used to chaos—quietly impressed.
By the end of the tour, back on the main deck, Erpan stretched.
“Not bad. But if they had a swimming pool and a basketball court, then it’d be perfect.”
Tah glared. “You think this is a five-star hotel, idiot?”
Dainny chuckled. “Alright, let’s head back. I’ve seen enough.”
“Yes… this is who we are. Working for Earth’s safety!” Prof Sam said, glancing proudly around.
“And we… thank you, Prof Sam.” Dainny replied sincerely. Rare words for him, but honest this time.
Prof Sam nodded warmly, extending his hand.
Dainny clasped it firmly, respect clear in his grip.
“Come again anytime!” Prof Sam said with genuine cheer.
The sky was painted in orange twilight, the massive ship glowing under the sunset. The scene was warm, almost melancholic.
“Yeah… we’ll drop by now and then,” Dainny said, smiling faintly.
The four turned to leave, but Earth suddenly stopped them.
“So… how exactly are you going home?!” he asked, baffled, since they were still miles up in the air.
Dainny, Frost, Erpan, and Marco froze, glancing awkwardly at each other.
“Well, maybe we could borrow—” Dainny started hesitantly.
“Absolutely not!” Tah cut him off, his sarcasm slicing the mood.
Finally, they were escorted on a Quick-Jet back toward Los Angeles, landing instead in a small rural village on the outskirts.
As the aircraft came to a halt, Dainny, Frost, Erpan, and Marco stepped down one by one. The evening wind carried the scent of damp earth and grass from the village.
Before leaving, Dainny and Frost waved in unison.
“Thank you!” they shouted together.
The Quick-Jet roared back into the sky, its engine fading into the orange horizon.
The four walked down the dirt road into the village, passing clusters of wooden houses. Warm lights flickered on as night settled in.
“Let’s buy toiletries and some clothes!” Marco suggested firmly, earning nods from the others.
“Alright, let’s split tasks,” Frost added calmly.
In the end:
Marco bought clothes.
Dainny handled toiletries.
Frost searched for lodging.
Erpan enthusiastically hoarded food.
They regrouped later at a modest inn. Lanterns glowed warmly on the veranda, casting golden light, while inside the scent of old wood mixed with the aroma of food from the kitchen.
They set their things down, then took turns bathing. The sound of running water alternated with Erpan’s constant complaints about the icy cold temperature.
Afterward, they cooked together. The simple fragrance of soup and steaming rice filled the room, wrapping them in a homely warmth. Over dinner, quiet laughter replaced the weariness of the day.
That night, they all slept in the same room. Thin mattresses, plain blankets. Yet somehow, it was enough.
The next morning, sunlight pierced through a small window. A rooster crowed outside, and the muffled voice of a vegetable vendor drifted through. Dainny was the first to wake.
Groggily, he dragged himself to the bathroom. Cold water splashed his face, jolting him awake.
Dressed in the new clothes he’d bought, he pulled out his phone, switched it on, and glanced at the screen.
October 14, 2007. Saturday.
He clicked it off again, pocketed it, and shuffled out, yawning wide. His hair was still messy.
“I need coffee…” he muttered, rubbing his eyes.
He strolled through the village streets. The crisp morning air carried the scent of wet soil mixed with the aroma of toasted bread from a small café. People bustled about—workers heading out, children laughing as they ran, vendors setting up their stalls.
His eyes briefly caught a signboard: Warm Coffee & Donuts. But his steps continued… until a pizza shop on the corner stopped him in his tracks. The smell of cheese and smoked meat made his stomach growl. He licked his lips, unable to resist.
“Two boxes of pizza, and four hot milk coffees,” he ordered curtly. The shopkeeper smiled knowingly—used to hungry morning customers.
Minutes later, he walked back with his hands full. The pizza boxes radiated warmth, while steam curled from the coffee cups.
Back at the inn, he set everything on the table. “Finally made it…” he sighed in relief.
“Ah, Marco.” Dainny blinked as Marco suddenly appeared behind him.
“Where were you?” Marco asked casually, pulling out a chair and opening one of the pizza boxes. The rich aroma filled the room.
He licked his lips, eyes hungry—but then stopped, rummaging in his pocket. Out came a small vial of reddish-brown powder.
Dainny frowned. “Don’t tell me you’re about to—”
Shhhk. Marco tilted the vial toward his cup.
“Stop with your weird experiments!” Dainny snapped, grabbing at his hand, visibly uneasy.
Marco only chuckled, smirking mischievously. “Relax, it’s… just a little extra.”
“And I think it’ll be fun,” he added nonchalantly, dropping the powder into his coffee.
Dainny’s eyes widened. “Hey, didn’t you hear—”
Too late. Marco had already sipped it. He paused, brow furrowed.
“…Hmm. Sweet. Or… what is this?”
Another sip.
“Sluurrp… ah! Tastes like… a shoe.”
Dainny stared, mouth half open. “…Seriously? A shoe?”
Suddenly the door creaked. Frost and Erpan walked in, sweaty from training.
“Let me guess,” Dainny deadpanned. “Frost shot. Erpan ran.”
But Erpan’s eyes sparkled. “Whoa, pizza and coffee!” He snatched the nearest cup—Marco’s.
“Wait, Erpan, that’s—” Marco started, but Erpan gulped it all down.
Silence. Every eye turned to Erpan.
His face reddened. His body shook. His mouth opened, fighting something.
Then—
“WAAAAH!! HOT! SPICY!!!” Erpan shrieked, hopping around, clutching his throat.
Dainny spun toward Marco. “You said it tasted like a shoe! What the hell is this?!”
Marco shrugged, equally baffled. “It really did taste like a shoe…”
Frost facepalmed. “Marco. Stop with your idiotic experiments.”
Erpan flailed wildly. “WATER!! WAAATER!! MY MOUTH IS ON FIRE!!!”
“Shut it already!” Frost barked, though clearly no one could stop Erpan’s meltdown.
Hours later, they were packed and ready to head into the city. Even though it was Saturday, work awaited them Sunday.
Each carried a backpack, with Erpan hugging a bag of food tightly.
“How much money do we have left?” Frost asked flatly.
They held out their cash:
Dainny: $300.
Frost: $578.
Marco: $670.
Erpan: $57.
Three pairs of eyes bore down on Erpan.
“Hehe…” he grinned awkwardly.
“Didn’t we split it evenly yesterday? Why’s yours so low?” Marco jabbed.
Without a word, Frost snatched all the cash.
“Hey, hey! What’re you gonna do with all that?!” Marco demanded.
“Buy a motorcycle,” Frost said, deadpan.
He walked off.
Marco chased after him. “Wait! That’s not enough!”
“No problem. I’ll buy the cheapest one. Rest goes to mods.” Frost calmly displayed the total: $1,605. Then left.
The others waited outside a pizza shop.
12:42.
“What’s taking him so long?!” Erpan fidgeted.
“Probably bargaining,” Dainny guessed, chin resting on his hand.
They sighed in unison. Just as Marco was about to complain again, a motorcycle key clinked against Dainny’s head.
Clink!
They turned. Frost stood casually, pointing toward the lot.
Silence.
Then they spun—and saw it. A gleaming, freshly modified motorcycle sat there, menacing and polished.
“What took you so long?!” Dainny scolded.
“As I said. Modifications.” Frost’s expression remained stoic, though pride flickered in his voice.
Marco gaped. “Victory Motorcycle… damn.”
The three crowded around, circling the bike in awe.
“This is bad!” Marco suddenly pulled them close, sitting cross-armed, face grim.
“Our funds are running dry.”
Frost wordlessly pulled out his wallet, revealing $400. “Still enough. We’ll split it again.”
He tucked it back.
Marco groaned, opening his own wallet—empty. A fly even buzzed out. Painful but comical.
He then held up his ID card like it was a revelation.
“You know what this is?” he asked.
They all nodded… blankly. Marco knew they had no clue.
“Work,” he explained. “If we want money, we need jobs. Understand?”
The three froze like lightning had struck. Then, slowly… they grinned. Too strangely. Marco squinted in suspicion but pressed on.
“Jobs! Got it?! I know you’re lazy, but think. Where will we live with no money?” he barked.
He turned to Erpan.
“Imagine if we’re broke. No gym for you.”
Erpan clutched his chest like his heart broke.
He turned to Dainny.
“And you, buddy. No noodles. No spaghetti. None of your favorites.”
Dainny gasped, gripping his stomach like he’d gone hungry.
Finally, Frost.
“And you—no more gun range. No bullets. No materials. Nothing.”
Frost froze. His face blank, like marble.
“Think about it,” Marco pressed.
The three lowered their heads. Slowly… tears fell from each eye.
“F-fine…” they muttered together, defeated.
Marco smiled, patting their shoulders one by one. “Good. That’s good…”
But when he turned, away from their view, a sly grin crept across his face. His fist clenched against his chest, eyes misty.
“They’ll finally work. My plan worked…”
At the bus stop, Dainny handed Erpan the motorcycle key.
“Ride, my friend!” he said, patting his shoulder.
Erpan’s eyes widened, then lit up like fireworks. He grinned wide. Meanwhile, Dainny, Frost, and Marco boarded the bus, waving.
Minutes later, the bus rolled alongside Erpan’s roaring bike. His hair flew back, joy radiating.
“WOOHOO! THIS IS AMAZING! HAHAHA!” Erpan shouted, nearly drowned out by the engine.
Frost leaned on the railing. “He looks so happy.”
Marco smirked. “Let him be. Usually, he’s the one suffering. Let him enjoy it once.”
Dainny leaned back, gazing at the sky. Then suddenly said, “Hey, you guys notice something?”
“WHAT?! NOTICE WHAT?!” Erpan yelled, even though he clearly didn’t hear.
Frost exhaled, deploying a small drone from his hand. His tactical goggles lit up. Marco glanced sharply around.
Erpan’s grin faded. From the east, through a cloud of dust, a massive silhouette appeared.
“Hey… look at that!” Erpan’s voice turned grim.
The bus rattled. Dust swirled. Frost peered through his drone feed, jaw tightening.
“Damn… a big one. This isn’t a joke.”
“What do you see?” Marco asked.
Frost lowered his goggles, cocking his Desert Eagle. “Something big is coming.”
Dainny stood on the bus seat, smiling faintly at the rising dust. “Heh… let’s get started again.”
“Yeah. Let’s.” Frost’s cold voice clicked as he displayed his Desert Eagle.
“Let’s get started, he says.” Marco stood too, relaxed but eyes sharp.
Outside, Erpan revved harder. “I’m always ready!” His bike screamed past 200 km/h.
Then—
A thunderous roar ripped through the air. A black jet pierced the sky as if tearing space itself.
They all turned at once.
“Quick-Jet!” they shouted together.
The rear hatch opened. A girl with white hair stood framed in the wind.
Marco narrowed his eyes. “Who’s that?”
Dainny recognized her instantly. “The white-haired girl…”
Frost added firmly, “Lila.”
From below, Erpan yelled, “The ice girl, right? Her name’s Lila?!”
Lila’s eyes widened at them, surprised. But she quickly turned toward the monster looming ahead—a towering, starfish-like beast, its slimy green skin rippling as it thrashed short, spiked limbs. A single massive eye glared red with rage.
The creature swung its limb, sending a shockwave that rattled the Quick-Jet violently.
Dainny glanced at Frost and Marco. “What about the driver?”
“We get off here. We pay… and he leaves,” Frost explained calmly.
They disembarked. The driver nodded, took Frost’s final fare, then shut the bus door. The engine roared, and within seconds the bus was gone, taillights fading into the distance.
Silence hung over them.
“Alright… time to hunt,” Frost said coldly, anticipation flickering in his tone.
He raised his Desert Eagle. The weapon shuddered, parts shifting like a machine assembling itself. A thin blue light traced its frame until it reshaped into a Mosin-Nagant sniper rifle, complete with scope, bipod, and delicate engravings.
Frost crouched, steadying it on his shoulder, eyes locked in.
Erpan revved, pulling up. “Need a lift?” he shouted.
“Always.” Marco smirked.
Dainny and Frost readied themselves. Dust, engine roars, and killing intent thickened the air.
Erpan leaned low over the handlebars, Marco poised behind him. The bike screamed—180 km/h… 185… 190… and steady at 200. The wind howled past.
Lila’s eyes widened from the Quick-Jet. “They’re insane… are they really planning to ram it?!” Panic flickered in her voice. She glanced sideways.
“Levis! I need you now!” she shouted.
Levis, usually laid-back, lit up with sudden fire. His eyes shone, fists clenched. “Alright… time for me to shine!” he declared with a fierce grin.
The battle began.
Dainny and Frost dashed forward. Dainny charged head-on, while Frost swung wide left, finding a sniping angle.
Erpan and Marco thundered straight in on the motorcycle. The wind roared in their ears. Suddenly, Erpan let go of the handlebars.
“Oi! Are you insane?!” Marco grabbed the controls as Erpan stood on the seat, launching himself into the air.
From inside the Quick-Jet, Lila barked to her crew.
“Prepare the cannons! Lock the target now!”
On the ground, Levis conjured a rocket launcher from glowing green vines—an organic yet deadly weapon. “Target locked…” he muttered.
Erpan soared, body slicing through the wind like a human missile. His fist clenched, muscles surging.
“You call yourself big?” Erpan sneered. “Say hi to me, idiot!”
“THUUDD!!!”
His punch crashed into the monster, earth trembling with the impact. Dust exploded outward in waves.
Levis froze. “S-so powerful…”
Erpan twisted midair, shouting with raw energy.
“What are you waiting for?! FIRE!!!”
“On it!” Lila commanded.
The Quick-Jet unleashed a storm of heavy rounds, raining down on the beast.
Levis fired his vine-rocket. “BOOOM!!!” The green explosion blossomed, choking the monster in toxic smoke.
The monster roared, thrashing its limbs and shaking the ground like a storm. From above, Erpan was nearly thrown off balance—until a stream of water coiled around his waist.
“Got you!” Marco shouted from below, yanking Erpan back down and dropping him neatly onto the back of the motorcycle.
Erpan just burst out laughing. “HAHAHA! Nice catch, buddy!”
Not to be outdone, Lila conjured a massive block of ice and hurled it straight at the monster’s head. “Freeze, bastard!”
The starfish beast swung one arm, shattering part of the ice, but its body still staggered under the blow.
And then—
“BANG!!!”
A single bullet pierced the monster’s enormous eye. Frost’s shot.
“Bullseye,” he muttered coldly, lowering his Mosin-Nagant.
The monster screamed, clutching its face. Before it could recover, Dainny appeared, vaulting off Erpan’s shoulders and leaping even higher, his sword glinting in hand.
“I’ve got a greeting too…” his voice was quiet, yet sharp.
He shifted the blade sideways, left hand bracing the hilt, right hand gripping tight. In an instant, he swung down in a powerful arc.
“SHWIIISSHHH!!!”
One of the monster’s limbs was cleaved clean off, slamming to the ground with a thunderous crash.
Dainny nearly lost his footing mid-air, but Marco’s water whip snapped around him again, yanking him back to safety.
“Watch it, idiot!” Marco yelled.
Dainny managed a small grin, still shaken. “Heh… nice save.”
The bike carrying the three of them screeched to a halt some distance away. Marco at the front steering, Erpan in the middle, and Dainny perched at the back—they watched as the enraged starfish beast lumbered closer.
“Should we… run?” Erpan gulped.
Marco revved hard, the tires screeching. The monster roared, chasing them relentlessly, its tentacles smashing the ground and sending shockwaves across the dirt.
On the other side, Lila launched spear after spear of ice, while the Quick-Jet rained gunfire from above. The onslaught forced the creature to falter.
But with one eye gone, it switched to scent, sniffing violently for prey. That’s when it caught the sharp aroma radiating from Levis.
“Hehe… take that!” Levis laughed smugly.
Frost, lying prone with his rifle, cocked the Mosin-Nagant again. BANG! Another bullet ripped through the monster’s remaining arm.
Lila seized the chance. She shaped a massive blade of ice and hurled it into the wounded arm. CRAAACK! The limb split off instantly.
“Adios…” Marco smirked, raising his hand. From the sky, a colossal water spear materialized, crashing through the beast’s torso and out its back. With a snap of his fingers, the water detonated, blowing the monster apart in shards.
“Bang.” Marco mimed a cowboy’s finger-gun at the smoldering wreck.
Frost lowered his rifle, letting the Mosin-Nagant dissolve into nothing as he slung it casually over his back. The Quick-Jet descended with Lila, Levis, and the rest of their crew aboard.
“Wow… that was amazing!” Levis shouted, leaping straight at Erpan.
“Hey, hey, don’t cling to me!” Erpan protested, clearly annoyed.
Lila stepped forward. “So… you helped us?” she asked.
Dainny, Frost, and Marco glanced at each other, then answered in unison. “No.”
Before she could reply, Dainny suddenly pinched her cheeks and stretched them wide.
“Well, you popped up out of nowhere… so yeah, I guess you could say we helped.” He shrugged, then tilted his head. “Happy?”
Lila’s cheeks puffed angrily, making Dainny flinch and step back.
Levis raised his shoulders. “Get used to it. Lila’s still young, cut her some slack.”
“Wait, what? How old are you guys?” Dainny asked curiously, staring at Lila. He muttered, “She’s… really short.”
“I’m 16, and Lila’s 15!” Levis grinned, still clinging to Erpan.
“Can you get off me already?!” Erpan hissed.
Dainny’s eyes widened. “Huh? Fifteen? So you’re still in pu—”
THWACK! Lila’s kick nailed him straight in the groin.
Every guy present, even the Quick-Jet crew, instinctively clutched themselves and groaned in unison.
“OUCHHH… that’s gotta hurt!”
Dainny collapsed to his knees, trying to keep a straight face while holding the pain, though his expression screamed otherwise.
Erpan peeked, then quickly looked away. “I didn’t see anything… I didn’t see anything…”
“Heh, teasing a girl gets you what you deserve,” Frost mocked with a sly grin.
Lila’s eyes sharpened dangerously. Erpan and Levis gulped in unison, their faces pale.
“Uh-oh… why’s she looking at us like that?” Erpan whispered nervously.
Lila stepped toward them. With each movement, Levis—still hanging onto Erpan—grew paler.
When she came around behind Erpan, Levis froze completely. His lips trembled, eyes watery.
“Tell… the leader… I said goodbye…” he whimpered.
Erpan’s eyes bulged. “Oi, don’t say that yet!”
Without warning, Lila grabbed Levis with one hand, hoisting him effortlessly like a doll. A chilling frost enveloped his body, freezing his head.
“W-wait, Lila! I—I feel… so cold… A-ahh…!” Levis howled, thrashing helplessly.
“Aaa-ahh! Ouchhh! Ahhhhhh!”
Everyone else just stared, half unsure whether to intervene or laugh. Even the crew held their breath.
Dainny, still holding his groin from earlier, frowned. “This girl’s… seriously dangerous.”
A second later, a chunk of ice flew straight into his head.
“OUCHHH!” He toppled back again, grimacing.
Minutes later…
Dainny slouched on the motorcycle, chin resting on the handlebars, his face utterly drained. Marco sat behind him, while Erpan squatted nearby with a blank stare. Frost leaned against the bike, gazing at the sky as if waiting for divine inspiration.
“Haah… I just want to go home…” Dainny muttered, sipping a tiny cup of coffee Levis had handed him.
Levis sat nearby, drinking his own coffee, trying to regain some dignity. “So… what do you guys think?” he asked.
“Kinda sweet,” Frost said flatly. “Don’t like it.”
Then Lila reappeared, done speaking with the Quick-Jet pilot. Her face was firm, her decision clear.
“Goodbye, friends,” Levis said, trying to leave with cool flair.
But his collar was snagged by Lila. He froze, forcing a nervous smile.
“L-Lila… what’s wrong?”
“We’re going with them,” she declared firmly, staring straight at Dainny.
Dainny blinked, then slowly stood, instinctively covering his groin again—still traumatized.
“How’s that gonna work?” he asked, pointing at the motorcycle, which could only hold two, maybe three.
Levis immediately chimed in. “Exactly, Lila! There are six of us. That bike can only take two or three. Where are you planning to sit, the exhaust pipe?!”
Hours later, Dainny, Frost, Marco, Lila, and Levis were all squeezed into an old car, bouncing along a dusty road. The seats were stiff, and every pothole made them all lift slightly from their seats.
“H-hi, my name’s Ali,” said their driver, a friendly-looking man they’d just met. He glanced at the backseat briefly.
Levis smiled thinly. “I’m Levis, and this is Lila.” He pointed beside him.
Ali nodded, eyes back on the road. From the mirror, he caught sight of Erpan riding casually behind on the motorcycle, half-wearing his helmet, tailing without hurry.
The car rolled on, passing a giant sign:
“Welcome to Los Angeles, California.”
Dainny, sitting by the window, let out a lazy sigh. “Well… we finally made it.” His voice sounded more sleepy than excited.
They stopped at a gas station. Erpan refueled his bike while the others stretched outside. The Los Angeles breeze carried the smell of gasoline and dust.
When the tank was full, they continued their journey, even making short stops: at a massive mall (just window shopping), a car wash, and a furniture store. Finally, they grabbed fast food. Marco went in first, returning with a plastic bag of KFC.
He opened the car door and plopped a box of chicken onto Dainny’s lap. “Eat first, so you don’t faint.”
“Finally…” Dainny muttered, half alive again as he opened the box.
As the car rolled on, Ali started chatting again. “So, why’d you stop at all those places?” he asked curiously.
Dainny yawned, resting his head against the window. “You know, Ali… our money’s almost gone.”
Ali raised an eyebrow. “Oh? And then?”
“Obviously… we need to work. Earn cash. What else?” Dainny replied, sounding utterly uninterested.
Ali chuckled, nodding. “Alright then. Good luck, my friend.”
At last, they reached a large traditional marketplace. The noise hit immediately—vendors shouting, street musicians playing, car horns blaring. The air was thick with spices, raw meat, and fried snacks.
The car stopped. Erpan parked his motorcycle and joined the group, handing Ali a few bills.
“For gas and fare. Thank you.”
Ali accepted with a warm smile. “Be careful here. LA markets are as rough as its streets.” He waved goodbye as his car pulled away.
Now just the six of them stood before the bustling market. Levis leaned toward Lila, whispering, “Maybe we should buy something for the others too.”
Lila nodded. “Yeah, you’re right.”
They all stared into the crowd. People were packed shoulder to shoulder, vendors shouting over one another. A child ran past, nearly slamming into Frost.
“This… is way too crowded,” Frost muttered, folding his arms. “Even busier than a free concert.”
Dainny just sighed, already looking drained of motivation.
Finally, Frost spoke up, giving orders. “Okay. Marco and I will get the vegetables. Erpan and Levis, you two grab the meat. Dainny, you and Lila take care of extras—cooking oil, flour, eggs, that kind of stuff.”
Dainny turned lazily. “Wait… what was that again?”
“Oil, flour, eggs, basic supplies. Got it?” Frost replied sharply.
Dainny raised his hands in surrender. “Yeah, yeah… whatever.”
The group split up, disappearing into the chaotic marketplace.
Dainny and Lila entered a store as Frost directed. They split, each going for their share.
Dainny went straight to the fridge, hauling four cartons of eggs at once with a show-off swagger, then grabbed bottles of sauce, milk, and a few more items. His arms were so full he was on the verge of dropping everything.
Lila showed up with a cart, her face serious though her eyes darted toward him. “Are you shopping… or weightlifting?” she said flatly.
Dainny just grinned. “Heh, it’s called multitasking, little girl.”
Lila scoffed, but went to lift a huge box of cooking oil. She struggled visibly. Dainny hurried over, dumping his pile aside to take it from her hands.
“Whoa, whoa, relax, small fry. Leave the heavy stuff to me.” He lowered his tone, like some wannabe hero.
Lila glared. “You think I can’t?!”
“You can… but then you’ll just become extra baggage.” He pointed at the snack rack. “That stuff suits you better.”
Lila froze, her face turning red, fighting the urge to hurl something at his head.
At the checkout, the cashier rang everything up quickly. “That’ll be 19 dollars.”
Dainny paid without a word, arms stacked high with groceries. As they stepped outside, he suddenly stopped, making Lila bump into his back.
“Ow! Hey, walking wall, why’d you stop?!” she snapped.
“Reflex. Just checking the wind,” Dainny answered casually, making her huff louder.
Outside, Frost, Marco, Erpan, and Levis were waiting. They piled everything in the middle.
“Alright… let’s divide it,” Frost said flatly, like a logistics officer.
They split the goods evenly. But then, Dainny and Frost suddenly headed back into the market.
“Huh? Where are they going now?” Levis asked.
Marco sighed. “I know that look… they’re on some ‘secret mission.’”
Erpan crossed his arms. “Bet they’re just buying snacks.”
Sure enough, before vanishing, Dainny looked back and called, “Get yourselves something you like! Consider it a bonus!”
Once the others scattered, Frost slung an arm around Dainny with a grin.
“Nice one, man!” he cheered, giving him a high five.
Dainny laughed. “Haha! Okay, now time to grab my favorites. You go hunt your weird materials.”
Frost nodded eagerly. “Deal! We’re not leaving until this mission’s complete.”
The two marched back in, looking like kids sneaking away from their parents.
Eventually, Dainny and Frost finished.
Dainny carried bags of instant noodles and spaghetti, while Frost clutched a strange-looking stone—clearly important to him.
“Let’s go home!” Dainny yelled, raising his hand high.
“Agreed!” Frost lifted his hand too.
They strolled back, scanning for Erpan, Marco, Lila, and Levis. But the crowd was a sea of people—no sign of them.
Refusing to give up, Dainny climbed onto the market roof. “Frost! See them?!” he shouted down.
“Not yet!” Frost bellowed back.
Dainny gave a quick thumbs up before scanning again. Minutes later, he jumped down.
“Well?” Frost asked.
“Still nothing,” Dainny sighed.
Then his eyes caught a familiar figure standing near a “Lost & Found” sign. Shoulders slumped, head bowed, body trembling—crying.
He and Frost exchanged glances and approached.
“Levis?” Dainny called.
The boy lifted his head slowly—tears streaming. “D-Dainny… Frost… hic…”
The attendant looked over. “Are you his brothers?”
“No,” they both answered flatly, in unison.
Levis just sobbed harder. Dainny groaned, while Frost patted his shoulder hard enough to make him jolt.
“Uwaaaa~!!” Levis wailed even louder.
“Noisy,” Frost muttered, eyes cold.
“Hey, where’s Erpan? Weren’t you with him?” Dainny asked.
Levis wiped his eyes, stammering, “I-I don’t know… suddenly he looked at Marco, and Marco was holding… something. Then—then Erpan just bolted!”
Dainny narrowed his eyes. “And why are you here, then?”
Levis bit his lip, then admitted quietly, “I… got swept away in the crowd. Totally lost them.”
Frost clenched a fist, making Levis panic. “YES, YES, YES!! It’s my fault! Don’t hit me again!”
Dainny stared blankly, then turned. “Let’s find them.”
Frost nodded. Levis scrambled after them.
Hours later…
The three slumped outside an ice cream shop. Cones in hand, melting slowly, none of them had the energy to eat.
“It’s been over two hours… still no sign,” Frost grumbled.
“I’m dead tired,” Dainny groaned, resting his head on the table.
“I… I just want to go home…” Levis whimpered, nearly collapsing.
Suddenly—
“KRAAASHHH!!!”
A massive explosion shook the air. Glass rattled in the shop. People screamed and scattered in chaos. Thick smoke rose from the heart of the market.
“What the hell?!” Dainny shot to his feet.
“B-but… aren’t monsters like that supposed to stay hidden?!” Levis panicked.
“Sometimes… there are exceptions,” Frost muttered darkly, already suspecting the truth.
Without hesitation, Frost hoisted Levis over his shoulder like a sack and leapt to the rooftops.
“EH?! AAAAAHHHH!!” Levis flailed, kicking wildly.
Dainny leapt up after them. From above, the scene was clear.
A massive squid-like creature rampaged below, its body scarred with gashes, tentacles smashing everything nearby.
But that wasn’t all.
Three figures stood against it—fighting with everything they had.
“Marco… Erpan… Lila,” Frost muttered.
Dainny tightened his grip on his sword. A faint red aura flickered around him.
The real fight had only just begun.
Erpan spotted Dainny and Frost charging ahead. His jaw tightened—without hesitation, he sprinted straight at the squid.
“Erpan, wait!” Lila reached for him, but he was too fast.
Levis gawked, heart racing. “He’s seriously going in alone?!”
Marco clenched his teeth. He couldn’t just stand by. “Then I’m coming too!” he shouted, dashing after him.
The ground quaked as a massive tentacle rose high, casting its shadow over them both.
“ABOVE YOU!” Lila screamed, her voice cracking with panic.
Erpan glanced up, pupils narrowing. In the next heartbeat, his fist slammed upward.
BOOOOM!
The air shuddered. The tentacle that had dropped like a guillotine was blown back, flinging aside with a violent snap. Dust exploded everywhere.
Erpan’s face remained calm—eerily calm, in stark contrast to everyone else’s panic.
Marco seized the opening. Flames engulfed his hands, swirling together with wind, forming a blazing spear. He hurled it, piercing into the tentacle and making the beast shriek.
“SKRRRIIIIIIIIGHHHHH!!!”
The roar rattled their eardrums, deafening and furious.
Two other tentacles shot toward Marco, fast, wild, deadly.
Erpan didn’t stand idle. He leapt, his body twisting midair, and his fist smashed into one of the tentacles with brutal force.
BOOOOM! The tentacle crashed into its own kin. A cracking noise rang out, the monster’s flesh quivering like thunder exploding in the ears.
The creature roared again, louder this time, shattering the windows of the surrounding shops.
Erpan landed beside Marco. They exchanged a brief glance—no words, no signals. As if their roles were already decided, they split up, Marco to the left, Erpan to the right.
Lila stepped forward with a tense face, both hands raised. “Ice’s Wall!”
CRAAASH! A wall of ice surged up, slamming into three tentacles at once. The impact sounded like a glacier breaking apart.
Levis swallowed hard. His hands shook, but he forced himself forward. “I can too… I have to!” He hurled dagger-like leaves. SWISH SWISH SWISH! Some stabbed into the monster’s face, black blood splattering out.
The monster grew even more furious. Its ten tentacles thrashed wildly, smashing stalls, carts, and even tearing the roofs off nearby houses.
From the rooftop of the market, Dainny watched with sharp eyes. He reached into his pocket and pulled something out.
“ERPAN! THIS IS YOURS!!” he shouted, throwing two gloves into the air.
Erpan looked up. His gaze locked on the gloves, floating in the air like hope itself.
Tentacles closed in on him. One from the front, two from the sides, one from above.
Erpan leapt, kicked off the wall, somersaulted, ducked beneath a deadly swipe. As one tentacle struck from above, he grabbed it instead, swung himself like an acrobat, and launched closer to the gloves.
Another tentacle lashed from behind, sharp enough to slice the air itself.
Erpan didn’t slow down. He stepped on another tentacle as a springboard, his body surging higher. His fingertips finally brushed the gloves.
The instant he grabbed them, he slid them onto his hands. A faint glow shimmered around the gloves, merging with his strength.
Erpan drew a deep breath. A thin smile crept across his face.
Four tentacles targeted him at once—two from the left, two from the right.
“Four? Hmph…” He clenched his fists, his eyes gleaming. “…fine.”
The air around him began to quake.
But just before the tentacles could strike—
“ERPAN!!”
Marco’s voice thundered. From below, both his hands burned with fire and wind swirling together. With one massive swing, he unleashed the combined energy at the incoming tentacles.
“BUWWOOOMMM!!”
A violent explosion of fire and wind blasted out. Two tentacles were hurled back, wrapped in scorching currents.
Erpan spun midair, dodging the rest. And when the four tentacles collided after the blast—
“My turn!”
Erpan’s fist, now wrapped in the new gloves, shot forward.
“DOOOOMMMM!!”
One punch. Four tentacles smashed down into the ground. Dust erupted across the marketplace, forcing everyone to shield their faces.
The creature screamed. “KRRIIIIIHHHHH!!!” The sound rattled their chests, as if the world itself shook. Its four tentacles were truly severed, black blood gushing wildly.
“Haa… haa…” Erpan panted, sweat dripping down his temples.
But before relief could come, two more tentacles swooped from above, shadows engulfing his body.
Erpan didn’t move. His eyes stared straight ahead. “I trust them…”
And he was right. From the right side, Dainny lunged in. His sword gleamed, slicing with precise force.
“SWIIISH!!”
Both tentacles split in two, the severed halves crashing straight toward Erpan.
“Eh?! They’re falling this way?!” Erpan yelped in panic, scrambling. “Crap, too close!!”
“THUUUDDD!!”
Two massive chunks slammed into the ground, just a breath away on either side of him. The earth quaked violently.
Erpan collapsed onto his rear, face pale. “Damn… almost crushed…”
Lila and Levis watched anxiously from afar. Levis swallowed hard. “He’s still cracking jokes at a time like this… that’s… kinda awesome…”
But the monster wasn’t finished. Its remaining tentacles lashed out, pounding the ground, collapsing buildings around them. Stones and dust scattered everywhere.
One tentacle shot toward Marco. But Marco only scoffed, raising his hands. Lightning spikes shot out from his palms, wrapping the tentacle.
“ZZZRAAAAKKKK!!”
The tentacle convulsed, then snapped. Marco just clicked his tongue. “Heh… easy.”
From a rooftop, Frost was already aiming. He switched his weapon mode, his high-tech grenade launcher locking onto the target.
One shot.
“BOOOOMMM!!”
A perfect blast shredded the final two tentacles.
Frost exhaled. “Done.”
He leapt down, landing firmly. Without a word, he walked toward where Lila and Levis stood.
Dainny lowered his sword, face still serious. Erpan stood, dusting off his pants, while Marco casually joined him.
The four regrouped. Dust still clouded the ruined marketplace. From within the haze, a sound rumbled…
“Ghhrrrrrrhhhhhh…”
Slowly, they all turned back to the battlefield.
In the middle of the blast crater, among shattered buildings and smoldering tentacle chunks… the giant squid still endured.
Its body was ruined beyond recognition.
Only its head remained.
Yet even half-dead, it clung to life.
Its massive eye glared at them with hatred. Its breath was ragged, but the fire of power hadn’t yet died out.
One second. Two. Silence.
Dainny stepped forward, his eyes locked on the monster’s head.
Levis swiftly pulled out poisoned leaves.
Without hesitation, Dainny hurled them straight at the squid’s brain.
In an instant, the creature died—its body dissolving into dust, carried away by the wind.
Dainny, Frost, Erpan, and Marco stared with blank expressions.
Meanwhile, Lila and Levis smiled in relief, as if it was finally over.
But a few seconds later—
Dainny and Frost suddenly jolted, their faces pale.
They frantically searched their pockets, jackets, even pants.
Marco frowned, confused.
“What are you guys doing?” he asked, approaching.
But Dainny and Frost kept rummaging desperately.
The result was empty.
They both dropped to their knees, faces full of despair.
“It’s gone…!” they shouted together, tears trickling down their cheeks, weary smiles plastered on.
Lila froze, completely lost.
Erpan leaned toward Levis, whispering, “What’s wrong with them?”
Levis bowed his head, his expression grave.
“Marco, Lila. Listen carefully.”
Everyone gathered close.
Levis spoke two words that made Marco and Erpan immediately nod in understanding.
“Materials… and spaghetti.”
Lila raised a brow, utterly baffled.
“Wait… what?”
Without answering, Marco sat beside Frost, patting his shoulder with sympathy.
Erpan did the same for Dainny.
Dainny and Frost looked up at them, eyes watery, like kids who’d lost their most treasured toy.
Then, with absolute determination, Marco and Erpan raised their thumbs.
“Let’s go buy materials… and spaghetti!”
Hearing that, Dainny and Frost’s eyes lit up again—like their whole world had just been saved.
Their sorrow vanished in an instant, replaced by radiant smiles of pure joy.
Dainny and Frost stood tall, burning with new energy.
Without needing to speak, Marco and Erpan rose as well, already understanding.
Together, they set off to the shop for the things they needed. Lila and Levis followed behind, planning to buy something too.
A little later, Frost glanced at his phone. The glowing digits read 10:25 PM. The night was growing late.
Their shopping done, they now stood at a bus stop, waiting with Lila and Levis.
Lila tilted her head back, gazing at the perfect full moon.
“The moon looks beautiful tonight~,” she said with a warm smile.
“Yeah… nights like this really are the best,” Dainny replied, also admiring the sky.
“You can even see the stars clearly,” Frost added, raising his head.
Soon, a bus pulled up in front of them. The door opened, and Lila and Levis prepared to board. But Lila glanced back, smiling at Dainny and the others.
“Thank you… it was all so much fun,” she said sincerely, her smile glowing.
Dainny, Frost, Erpan, and Marco stayed silent, but in their hearts, the same thought echoed:
“She’s so cute~.”
Lila and Levis waved before stepping inside. The bus driver leaned out the window.
“Hey, aren’t you getting on?” he asked casually.
“No, we’re just seeing them off,” Dainny answered calmly.
“I see. Well then, take care!” The driver shut the doors, and the bus rolled away, fading into the distance.
Afterward, the four turned around and walked home. Frost pushed his motorcycle slowly, following Dainny, Erpan, and Marco who were on foot.
They passed along the quiet road, then into the alley leading to their boarding house. The night air bit cold, making Erpan shiver.
“Brmm… it’s freezing tonight!” he grumbled, rubbing his arms.
“Relax, we’re almost there,” Marco said, trying to reassure him.
They kept walking until they reached a small park they had to pass through. The park lights glowed dimly, the night breeze rustling the leaves softly.
There, they saw someone sitting alone on a park bench. Her hair fell across part of her face, her clothes neat, like a girl lost in thought.
Frost immediately noticed, still guiding his motorcycle with one hand.
“Her outfit’s nice… looks like a girl,” he muttered quietly.
Marco squinted, trying to recognize her.
“Eh, isn’t that… Stella?” he said with a hint of surprise.
Everyone quickly realized it too—except Marco, whose eyes locked onto the girl.
Without hesitation, they decided to approach. Frost parked his motorcycle and walked with the others.
When they finally stood before Stella, the girl turned, noticing the shadows cast by the four figures. Her face looked sorrowful, tears shimmering faintly in her eyes. That alone shocked Dainny, Frost, Erpan, and Marco.
“What happened to you?” Dainny asked, leaning slightly so he could see her expression better.
Stella blinked at them, startled, then took a deep breath and forced a smile. “It’s nothing… really,” she replied faintly.
Dainny frowned, glancing at Frost, Erpan, and Marco. All of them looked equally confused.
“You look like someone who just got dumped,” Dainny said, half annoyed, half worried.
Frost glanced around, checking their surroundings. “And… being out here this late, shouldn’t you be at home?”
Dainny tapped Erpan’s shoulder, handing him some money. “Oi, go grab a canned coffee. Quick.”
Erpan nodded, disappeared for a moment, then returned with the drink. Dainny handed it straight to Stella.
“Here… it’s cold tonight. Be careful, okay?” he said gently.
Marco added, “Seriously, a girl out here alone at midnight—it’s dangerous.”
Stella looked at them with a puzzled face, then carefully sipped the coffee.
“Do you… want us to walk you home?” Dainny asked again, softer this time.
“T-thank you… but no need,” Stella replied, rising slowly and beginning to walk away.
As she moved, they noticed a paper stuck to her back with the word Trash scrawled on it. Her shoes were wet, her clothes smudged when the light hit just right. She nearly lost her balance from the cold, but kept walking.
Dainny, Frost, Erpan, and Marco simply watched, their faces blank—but inside, they felt her pain.
They followed her from a distance, silent guardians. Stella didn’t seem to mind, or maybe she didn’t even notice, still walking with sadness weighing down her steps.
“Was she bullied at that party?” Erpan whispered, half to himself, half to the others.
“Maybe… dressed that nice, out here at night…” Frost murmured, lowering his head as if tracing her path.
Suddenly, a sleek red car pulled up. Loud jeers burst from inside.
“Yo, Stella! Trash! Hahaha… how was my party, huh?!”
Trash rained down on her before the car sped off.
Dainny, Frost, Erpan, and Marco stood frozen, their anger boiling beneath the surface. They waited until Stella disappeared around a corner.
She finally turned left, entering a house. To their surprise, it was right near their own place.
“Should we invite her to walk with us tomorrow?” Marco asked, looking at Dainny.
Dainny nodded slightly. “Yeah…” His answer was short, but firm.
Behind closed doors, Stella leaned against it, exhausted. Her hands trembled as she removed her shoes. Slowly, she made her way to the bathroom, turning on warm water. The sound of it running felt like a small comfort, washing away some of the night’s weight.
After her shower, Stella sat at her vanity. Her head bowed, tears slipped silently. Her mind replayed the insults—the drinks thrown at her, her soaked shoes, the humiliating word stuck to her back. She tried to stop herself from crying, but couldn’t.
Minutes passed. She just sat there, eyes closed, breathing deeply, fighting to calm herself. The footsteps in her home, the warm scent from the kitchen, the gentle glow of lamps—none of it erased the ache in her chest.
The next morning, Stella woke with swollen eyes. The air was cold, biting her skin, but she forced herself through her routine—shower, dress, prepare for school. Every movement felt heavy, but her will to face a new day still flickered.
Hand on the doorknob, she hesitated. Her heart pounded—was it curiosity, or some uneasy premonition crawling up her neck?
Click.
The door creaked open.
Stella gasped. “Eh—!”
Dainny stood outside, leaning against her gate with both hands tucked into his pockets. The moment he saw her, a wide grin spread across his face.
“Yoo… good morning, world! And good morning… to the class president!” he shouted, saluting like a soldier.
Stella froze, eyes wide. “W-what are you doing…?” she asked nervously, her cheeks flushing pink.
Dainny strolled closer casually, head tilted slightly. “What do you think? Obviously, I came to walk with you… and be your friend.” He extended his hand toward her.
Stella lowered her gaze, biting her lip. “B-but if you walk with me… you’ll—”
“HAH!” A loud voice cut her off.
“KYAA!” Stella yelped, startled to see Erpan pop out of nowhere.
“Idiot,” Frost muttered, smacking Erpan’s head hard.
“Ouch!” Erpan winced, though his face stayed straight.
Frost turned to Stella. “Listen. If anyone tries to mess with you, let them. We don’t care.”
Soon Marco appeared, carrying a plastic bag filled with cold drinks. “If they dare to cause trouble…” He didn’t even finish before Dainny, Frost, and Erpan shouted together:
“Just smash them!”
Stella stood frozen. Those words struck her heart—scary, but strangely comforting too.
Dainny extended his hand again. “Besides, we’re friends… right?”
Frost placed his hand over Dainny’s. Erpan followed with a confident grin. Marco calmly added his on top.
Only Stella hadn’t joined yet. All four stared at her, serious but full of conviction.
Clutching her skirt, she slowly raised her hand. Hesitant, she placed it atop theirs, then smiled faintly.
“YOOO!!! LET’S GO!!!” Dainny, Frost, Erpan, and Marco shouted together, throwing their hands up high.
Stella lifted hers too, though not as high, her face burning red.
“Y-yoo… let’s go…” she whispered softly.
The boys chuckled, then they all walked toward school. Marco handed out cold drinks, sipping as they bantered lightly.
Along the way, Stella lowered her gaze. “I-isn’t it troublesome… for you to be with me?” she asked timidly.
Dainny just chuckled, ruffling her hair. “Don’t worry about it.”
“H-hey! My hair’s a mess now!” Stella pouted, puffing her cheeks.
Dainny burst out laughing. “Hahaha, you’re cute when you’re mad.”
Stella huffed, but her eyes sparkled—for the first time in a long while, she didn’t feel alone.
She kept fixing her hair, smiling softly, pressing her hand over her chest as if to hold onto that warm feeling.
When they reached a junction, Dainny suddenly stopped. Frost, Erpan, and Marco halted too, making Stella almost bump into him.
“Eh? Why’d you stop?” she whispered from behind him.
Three figures appeared from the right. Stella stiffened.
They walked casually, as if waiting on purpose.
“Yo, Sky! Earth! And—” Dainny greeted warmly, but Sonik cut him off with a glare.
“Cut it out, idiot!” Sonik snapped.
Stella instinctively stepped back, hiding behind Dainny. Sky noticed immediately, his eyes lighting up.
“Heee… Sonik, look! Isn’t that the girl from before?” Sky pointed, grinning.
Sonik glanced, face blank. He raised his hand in a short wave. But to Stella, still haunted, that motion felt like a threat. Her body froze, eyes widening.
“Ahahaha! Look! She’s terrified just ‘cause you waved, Hedgehog!” Erpan burst out laughing.
“Oi! Damn it, Erpan!” Sonik hissed, but a crooked smile tugged at his lips.
Marco quickly mediated, pulling out some cold drinks.
“Here, cool your heads. Let’s have one.”
Earth, Sky, and Sonik accepted without hesitation, the crisp sound of cans opening echoing together.
“Stella, relax.” Dainny turned with a reassuring smile. “They’re friends. And friends? That means allies.”
Slowly, Stella nodded. A faint smile appeared, and this time, she walked beside them instead of behind.
Conversation flowed easily as they neared the school gates.
“Hey, hey, Stella!” Sky leaned forward eagerly. “What’s your favorite food?”
“Eh? Um… maybe sweets?” she answered shyly.
“Perfect! Then we’ll go try some together. My treat!” Sky laughed cheerfully.
Before Stella could respond, a loud car horn blared. A luxury car pulled up slowly, stopping right in front of them. The tinted window rolled down, mocking laughter spilling out.
“Hello losers! Hahaha… pathetic!”
The car revved and pulled forward—but then plop!
A bird swooped by, dropping its mess right onto the shiny hood.
Silence. Then Dainny cracked first.
“Pffft—KAHAHAH! What kind of luxury car reeks like a barn?!”
“Heh, junk deserves junk,” Frost added, feigning coolness.
“Haha, perfect match! Filth on filth!” Sky howled.
“As it should be,” Earth added calmly. “Waste attracts disaster.”
The girls inside fumed, about to get out—when Erpan casually kicked the back of the car. It shot forward uncontrollably, horn blaring frantically until it vanished down the street.
“HUAAHHH!!” their screams echoed.
“Pathetic road trash,” Erpan muttered.
“Oi, that was awesome!” Dainny high-fived Erpan. Frost and Marco joined in, a chain of high-fives spreading through them.
Stella just stared, stunned—then suddenly, laughter burst from her lips.
“Hahaha… hahaha…!” She laughed freely, with no fear, no hesitation.
Seeing her laugh so honestly, the others joined in. Their joy filled the bright morning air in front of the school.
“Eh, but seriously, Erpan…” Stella tilted her head. “How did you even kick a car that heavy?”
“U-uhk!” Erpan stiffened, trembling, caught off guard by the question.
The rest roared with laughter at his awkward face.
When they reached the classroom doors, the group split up. Sonik and Sky headed for Class 1-A, Earth for 1-D. They waved before parting.
Left were Dainny, Frost, Erpan, Marco, and Stella, standing before their own class.
Dainny glanced at Stella calmly. “Well?” he asked suddenly.
“Eh?” Stella blinked, confused by the vague question.
Dainny just sighed lightly, shoving his hands into his pockets. “If you need anything, just call us,” he said, glancing at Frost, Erpan, and Marco to make sure they agreed.
Stella was silent for a moment. Then she lowered her gaze, a genuine smile spreading on her lips. “Thank you… all of you.”
Dainny looked at her briefly, then turned to his friends. His smile was warm—different than usual.
“Yeah…” he murmured softly, before his voice rang louder, filled with conviction.
“Because I love my family.”