"Another order for a beef quiche!" Celicia called back.

"Got it!"

Velvet had the bakery in an uproar. Ordering the other's as they worked, making more and more food. She knew the state of Quizzical Quiches. It happens every holiday season. The massive overload of orders from everybody in the town, plus the other surrounding towns. Brushing the flour off her cheek, Velvet assembled the pie, watching Laphicet scramble and grab the stuff for her.

"Thanks Laphi." She smirked. "Finally off your phone?"

"Less talky, more worky!"

Even with a big bakery, and all the people working, there never seemed to be enough. Sure, Celicia expanded the bakery for other stuff she wanted to try, like pies, cakes, breads, even small chocolates, but quiche's remained as their number one specialty.

The crowd seemed to ebb by lunch time and Velvet took a seat and relaxed. Her stomach growled, but she wasn't too terribly hungry to eat their products. Staring at the food they made was making her a bit nauseous.

The hockey center pulled her phone out, looking down her contact list. For all the time she spent with her, Velvet never got Eleanor's phone number. Maybe it's because they constantly see each other.

Letting her mind wander, she looked back at their argument before they left for the holiday. They barely talked to one another and Eizen only made their sprints harder following the game. If one fucks up, everybody does the time. A carry-over from his days in the military, many agreed.

But it didn't make up for having no way to contact her. No way to say sorry…

Even if it was a bit half-hearted.

Velvet balled her hands up again. Getting worked over something as silly as this. But with a hectic morning and things finally slowing down, maybe she can find some room to think.

"Veeelvet! Hey, you here?" A familiar voice called out. She lifted her head over the small kitchen window.

Niko Garlan.

"There you are! I was wondering if you're working in your sister's shop! You wanna grab some lunch?"

Velvet looked over to Celicia. While she was busy with customers, it looked like the work coming in wasn't all that bad. She tapped on one of the many hand's shoulder and said, "I'm taking my lunch break."


-.-.-


Slurping down hot chocolate, Velvet set it aside and took a bite of her sub sandwich. Roast beef with everything on it on wheat bread. Delicious bliss.

Niko giggled, leaning over. "Still a messy eater I see."

"If it's good, it's good. Don't judge me." She answered back, after swallowing. "Glad to see you back Niko."

"Thanks! How's hockey in Telliesin? Got any fights under the belt?"

"Just that one girl from last year… You know the one, the redhead."

"Oh wow, again?"

"… She transferred to Telliesin."

"Oh."

"And we're rooming together."

"Oooh." Niko shook her head. "Hey, you didn't just punch in the face, did you?"

"… Yes."

"Velvet."

"It was during practice! And we were upset, and she blocked my way, and… and…" She looked at Niko. The same face she made back then. "And I'm making excuses, aren't I?"

"Eyup." She took a long sip of her drink.

Velvet rested her elbows against the table, head held up by her hands. "Nothing ever escapes you, does it?"

"Naah, but Calvin manages to find a way. It's trick."

She sunk further. That's right, Niko's boyfriend from her college. Must be nice, having somebody to support them.

Her friend arched her eyebrow, pulling her drink away. "You've changed. A little, but its something."

"Huh?"

"Whenever I talked about Calvin, you just ignored it. Even so, you've always just tried to have things your way." Niko smiled. "You've changed."

"Maybe."

"Is it because of her?"A cat-like smile grew on her face.

"… Yes." Velvet admitted. "She's very patient. Handling me and… everything I do."

"Self-reflecting is the best for you~"

"Yeah, yeah, shut it." Velvet took another bite.

"Is she attractive?"

"Can't say she isn't. Damned angel on the ice if she wasn't always paired against me."

"Is hockey the only thing that'll keep her on your mind?"

Velvet paused. Her fingers drumming across the table. "… Yes."

Niko grew a smile. "You're so much like him."

She lightly pounded against the table. "I am nothing like him."

"Hm. Maybe. But you have changed."


-.-.-


Ichirou Rangetsu. The lead goalie of the Midgand Silver Knights. Stalwart, commanding, dominant. With a beaming smile, he took on whatever pucks managed to get passed their defenseman.

A goalie's actions easily sway the tide of battle. A single save, a single goal, can spell doom or miracle for a team. And for all their hard work, they're always treated as the stranger ones. After all, who wants to be shot at with a puck?

He minded not for the fame or fortune that came from hockey. Compared to other sports, there were far more profitable ways. For him, it is, and always will be, the love of the game.

But that love can be distorted. Changed through ill events or misaligned beliefs.

The last practice before everybody got their holiday breaks. Showers and all, Ichirou donned a t-shirt before looking over at his teammate and captain, Artorius Colbrande.

"Heading back home, bud?"

The younger man gazed over, his face unflinching and smooth. "I have other duties to attend to."

Ichirou raised an eyebrow. "Ya know, I'm surprised Celicia hasn't filed for anything."

"She knows how I feel."

"You and Vel are exactly the same. So damn stubborn." He shook his head.

"Perhaps that's the reason we cannot stay close."

"Oi, Ichi, just him'em go." The newest rookie on the team, Oscar Dragonia spoke out. Always the fanboy following the captain.

"Boy, I've notice Arty here for a while. Ain't that right?"

"No comment."

Ichirou sighed. Maybe he needed a lesson in Rangetsu 'tough love'. Nevertheless, he kept his mouth, and his hand, shut and close. He didn't want to insight the watchful eyes of Melchior Mayvin, the General Manager of the team. He had his own choice words for the man following the business deals of the team.

But that was a tale for another day.

"Anyhoo, Dragonia, how's the gf?"

He chuckled, shrugging back. "She's doing well. We've been videochatting a lot so… It'll be like a grand reunion when I get back! I even got her a present."

The goalie held his tongue out. "You know everybody throws up sugar every time you talk like that, you cherry fuck?"

"Look into the mirror with you and Morgrim."

Comically, Ichirou looked back. "We have a fair relationship."

"Ok, Pussy-whipped boy."

Well, he's got him there. Ichirou chuckled as did the rest of the team. Artorius sighed, setting his skates on their respected rack. Everybody's talking about love. Love so sickening its beautiful in its own cheesy way. For all the things he bore, all the love that he carried, perhaps being away was his own punishment.

Something Ichirou said, was a punishment not just to himself, but to his family, undeserved.


-.-.-


Eleanor gazed down the list in her hands. An audacious task was bestowed upon her. Getting all the stuff for a small family friends party. To do so, she needed to head off and buy things for cooking. Fruits, marshmallow fluff, and some green beans.

In a large grocery store in Northgand, it was Harvest Day and packed. People of all kinds in winter gear trekking from one side of the store to the other. The scent of freshly baked goods, rich meats and food blew about the massive store.

She stopped for a moment, looking at the bakers walking back and forth between ovens. Oh, that's right, Velvet's sister owns a bakery. The thought passed and she brushed it away. Not looking where she was going, the redhead spun around some passing people.

"Sorry!"

Her mind still played back their latest fight. Stubbornness versus stubbornness. Nobody wins.

She sighed, grabbing another pack of canned fruits. Fingers lightly tapped its semi-full drum.

"… That damned idiot." Eleanor huffed, placing the can in her basket and heading out to pay. Despite the crowds, she got out a few minutes later.

The cool air of Northgand chilled her cheek. Her breathe fogging up as snow fell from the grey skies above. Despite calling this place her home, it never really felt like home.

She was born and raised in Islegand, where cold weather was a myth.

Her mother got transferred from work down south to up north. A drastic change of seasons and clothing. Driving changed and…

When Eleanor looked, she was standing by her car, hesitating. The alarm deactivated and she placed the groceries in. Lights blinked on and the engine roared to life. She's only been in the store for a few minutes, but she wanted the cold interior gone.

Minutes passed and she led the stick back to reverse. The snow barely piled on the back window. She stopped as a few people walked on by. Her heart stopped for a moment.

It felt like an eternity. It was something she wanted to do herself. The driving part was getting better. With the radio playing some old song, Eleanor drove. Even with her mind on the road, it drifted. What if somebody else was in the car? Was her driving ok? Suitable? Passable?

Her hands felt sweaty. The wheel slipped in her hands and she gripped it tighter.

By the time she looked on the road again, she was already home.

It wasn't the driving part that scared her. She was used to driving in the snow.

Shutting off the engine, Eleanor grabbed the bags and headed inside. The scent of warm turkey and gravy filled her nose. A bright smile grew on her face, and she headed in.

A woman stirred a light sauce, taking gentle care. The same kind of bright red hair color tied back in a ponytail as she turned.

"Eleanor, how was the trip?" She asked.

"It was alright, mom." She set the items on the kitchen island. "That everything?"

"Yup, thanks sweetie~" She smiled, grabbing the cans and setting them aside. Eleanor took her coat and set it on the rack.

Her mother looked over, noting Eleanor's robotic movement. "Still scared driving?"

"W-what? N-no, no. Just… I worry when I drive."

Her eyes soften. "I see." She wanted to change the subject. Be a little more light-hearted.

"Did you find anybody you like at Telliesin?"

She looked over, tapping her finger against the table. "Th-there is one person…"

Her mother smiled. "What are they like?"

The tension in her shoulders loosened. "Brash, and impulsive. A look before you leap. Crude, but… passionate. Troubled, but attempting. But… I wonder what her goal will be."

"Oooh, so it's a girl you like?" She giggled.

"N-no! I mean, yes! B-but I mean..!"

Eleanor's mother hugged her tightly. "It doesn't matter. If you think you've found somebody, then cherish them."

She slowly hugging her back. "Thank you… It was the girl I punched during the game."

She gasped, mouth open in shock. "Her? It was her?" That shock soon replaced by laughter. "Love at first punch, huh?"

"H-hey, it wasn't like that!"

"Alright, alright; sorry, sorry." She brushed a tear from her eye. "But did you exchange phone numbers?"

Eleanor stopped. "No… No, we didn't. Uhh… I mean, we share the same room and all soo…"

"Be sure to get her phone number when you get back~"

"Ugghh…" She cupped her face in her hands.

It just had to end like this, didn't it?


-.-.-


Magilou grinned, eyeing all the gadgets before her.

The mall of Eastgand was packed on this marvelous Friday. For the day after Harvest Day had massive deals on all sorts of things. From the incredibly expensive flat-screen TVs, to game consoles and more, this was a paradise for penny-pinchers.

"Bienfu, what do you think?"

Her 'servant', Bernard Wylt groaned. He hated when she did this. "Please don't call me that."

"Well, what do think?"

"Just another piece of tech you're gonna get bored with. Why can't you get something normal, like lipsticks or brushes or…"

"Oh hush. You're just getting tired of carrying all my bags."

And she was right. Almost covered from head to toes, Bernard's eyes peaked over the bags and boxes he carried. He looked more walking packages than a person.

All of these things were Magilou's.

"Fine, fine. We can take a break if you like."

"Oh, thank the Empyreans." He waddled to a bench and took a seat. Magilou checked her nails before leaning on the bench's armguard.

"Honestly…" He sighed. "I know mom has all the money in the world, but doing something like this… Are you even gonna do anything with them?"

"Ha! When did you get so worried about my wellbeing?"

"I've known you for a long enough time, Magilou. You're just grabbing stuff for grabbing sake." He adjusted his legs. "Except, maybe these games you got. Need help for that major?"

"Inspiration doesn't come from nothing! Gather, steal, and make it your own." She scoffed.

"Riiight. All this junk… You're just running away, like before."

The blonde frowned, brushing her hair to the side. "Yes, running away. A stringent path paved for me, without any say from me."

"You can't be all that mad. I mean, he's the one that brought you in…"

"Doesn't mean I'm not grateful." She scoffed. But this conversation was getting nowhere. Shopping awaited. "Come, I'll reward you with some hot chocolate. And I'll take some of the bags."

His eyes lit up. Was Magilou being serious? On a cold day like today, even in the mall, a hot chocolate would fuel his body. Better than mother's warm double-chocolate chip cookies.

"R-right! Let's go!"

The blonde goalie smiled. Bait a little and they'll all come. No different from hockey.


-.-.-


Rokurou watched his eldest brother bob his head in his room. Listening to the latest test song by his group, he smirked. This was a defining moment. Another day, and the only place he'd see him again was through the television.

The Rangetsu name was proud. The blood of old warriors and achievers ran through their veins. There was no such thing as quitting, no such thing as failure.

There was nothing better than sibling rivalry. In the past, their family would've fought with knife and blade. But there are better methods now. Success, monetary wealth, happiness and family.

These became the new cornerstone of the Rangetsu name. Competition is everything.

And Ichirou couldn't be happier.

He pulled the large headphones over his head, handing over a few more gald bucks over.

"How's the music deals coming? You guys decided yet?"

"Nothing yet. We're looking for graduation to finally announce our partnership."

"Heh. You've packed up and ready to face the world. I wish I could've been there to see it all."

"You have your own life and I have my own." The younger Rangetsu took back his headphones and dragged his beer over.

The brother's clanked their cans together and chuckled.

"I'm proud, Rokurou. You achieved something none of us could do. And followed your heart."

"Funny how it started with a petty grudge: 'I want to beat you'. Step out of your shadow. Not just the brother of Ichirou Rangetsu, but founder of a band."

"One arena to another." He held his can again. "Cheers."

"Cheers."


-.-.-


The first one back from break and Velvet already felt anxious. It was like one of her many tests. Wrapping her head around this, pacing back and forth. The morning before classes start again. In her hands were two small boxes. Quiches she made, still fresh from the oven.

She walked down the dorm corridors, finding her room's door propped open.

As she pushed it open, she found Magilou laying on her bed while Eleanor shook her head at her.

"Velvet. I was wondering when you're getting here." The redhead welcomed.

"Welcome back, Vel!" Magilou sprawled across her bed again.

Velvet frowned at the blonde, flicking her forehead before turning back to her roommate. "Eleanor… You're not still mad about our argument are you?"

She paused. "A bit…"

"I see."

Their goalie faked gagging before Velvet flicked her forehead again, and laying the quiche box on her.

"First order. Pay me later."

Eleanor stared at the other box. Was it for her?

Awkwardly, Velvet handed over the box. "… I mean, if you don't want it…"

The redhead took the box. Opening it and the fresh smell of baked cheese and meat rolled into her nose. It still carried the smell of the bakery. Or, at least, she thinks it's a bakery smell.

"It's not an apology. Just… thought you might've wanted it." Velvet scratched the back of her head.

"It's a start…" Eleanor chuckled, setting it down. With a small spoon attachment to a pen, she slowly dug into its crus-

"Wait, wait, wait!" Magilou cried out. "Don't it now!"

"Eh? Why not?"

"Well… Unless you want to be blowing chucks later."

She froze. Oh, right.

Coach Eizen.