Six
Orange daybreak peered over the top ridges of the valley, a quiet glow falling to the track in front of Ezreal. He ran.
His legs were beginning to ache, but he kept pace. One more lap and he'd finish. Almost there. He fired off a bolt of energy at a Training dummy standing along the track. Bullseye.
A little over a month and a half had passed since he'd started attending Durandal, and he'd settled into a routine. Mornings would start with three laps around the Dorm's track. Then breakfast, school, club, study group, and dinner. Shower into some free time, then sleep.
Another dummy, another shot, another hit. He kept running.
It had been both the longest and shortest month and a bit of his life. Every day was filled to the brim, running him ragged from all the running around he had to do – and don't get him started on the onslaught of Graves lectures. Those were the real kickers.
That said, Ezreal loved every minute of it. It was so freeing, being able to use powers, powers that he didn't have less than a year ago – and actually put them to use. Everyone he'd met had powers out of his wildest dreams.
Over the last month he'd realised a few things. One: His powers were super cool. Two: He had such little control over them, it was laughable. At least he'd settled on a name for his bolts – Mystic Shots. Had a nice ring to it; short, snazzy, and cool. Zoe and Yasuo seemed to agree, though Ekko and Irelia had just rolled their eyes.
There was another thing, but he didn't want to dwell on it.
He shot the last dummy and slowed to a halt. He checked the time. He was just on pace. Clicking his tongue, he ruffled his loose-hanging hair in frustration. He wasn't improving fast enough. Well, he was improving, but he was still leagues behind the second and third years.
A happy jingle played from one of the nearby consoles, a flat touchscreen atop a waist-high thin pillar, followed by an artificial female voice. 'You have completed your chosen routine. Your score is: Average. Good Job! Retry?'
He mouthed the words absently and shut it off. Whoever installed this dumb feature should be fired.
In the mornings, the Dorm's halls were always empty. It weirded him out at first, but he now found a strange satisfaction in it; it was like his own private world, one he could explore at his leisure. He grinned.
He showered and changed into his uniform. He took his time – it was still early - but as always, by the time he got out, people were starting to clog the halls towards the caf. If he wasn't quick, he'd be stuck with a C set, and man oh man, did he not like the C set.
Quickly making a stop to his room to dump his workout gear, he saw that Ekko had already left. Usually, this was the moment that Ezreal would have to gently prod his roomie awake, then retreat to the caf while he calmed down. Ezreal hummed.
He was about to head downstairs, but a glint on the floor caught his eye. He crouched down - something was snuggled between a couple of loose pyjamas, plaid and blue. Ezreal moved them out of the way.
A compass? It wasn't Ezreal's. Compasses were cool – they were used by adventurers in those films he would always watch with the other Home kids. He smiled; he could send them a picture later.
So then, Ekko had a compass? That was a cool discovery. He wondered what the kid used it for. Ezreal gave it a quick look over, and stood.
He pocketed it. He'd ask Ekko about it at breakfast, and maybe he could convince Ekko to let him mess around with it sometime.
Shutting the door, he rushed downstairs. As he expected, the caf was packed, and the line was long. He sighed, accepting his fate, and waited. He got his C set.
Ekko was sitting at the table that had slowly become their go-to; second row from the back, a little to the left, and close to the door to the student kitchens. He was hunched over, sipping away at a coffee so discoloured from milk that Ezreal was sure it was a crime, his other hand locked over his ear, and eyes tightly shut. Zoe sat opposite Irelia, who was next to Ekko.
'Like I said, you can't just slack off this year and expect to pass again, Zoe. Ahri said second year is infinitely harder than first.' Irelia said. She had a healthy meal of cooked vegetables and soup, with a small bowl of rice. She'd likely made it herself.
'Boooooooo, it's always Tails this, Tails that, boooooo!' Zoe said. Her meal was a assorted set of candy bars. She'd definitely not made it herself.
There was a small opening left for Ezreal, who took his place on Ekko's other side. He grunted a greeting to him.
'Morning, Ez!'
Ah. And there was the other thing Ezreal had realised over the last month.
Lux was smiling brightly at him, her own meal a modified version of Irelia's. She'd gotten Irelia to teach her some basic cooking. So pretty. Uh, Lux, not the food. He cringed internally.
This was the issue.
He grinned back at her. Then he winked. 'Yo. Havin' a good morning? Feelin' alright?'
She tilted her head. 'Um, sure? How was the morning run?'
Just keep smiling. 'Good, good. A-anyway, it's, uh, tuesday today, huh?'
'It, um, sure is.' Lux took a sip of her coffee.
Irelia snorted to the side. Ezreal ignored her.
'A-anyway!' He turned to Ekko. Give me an out!
Ekko did not comprehend. He just stared.
Useless.
He looked to Zoe next. This was a sure shot, right?
...She was face down on the table. Sleeping. Wrappers lay around her silhouette.
Useless.
Irelia cleared her throat, loudly. 'Ezreal, did you handle the task I asked you about yesterday?' She was trying her absolute hardest not to laugh.
'What do y -' Oh. '- uhhhh, yes, I did. Yes.'
'Good, well. Keep at it.' Irelia said.
'...Are you guys feeling okay?' Lux said.
They nodded.
Lux nodded slowly. 'Right, okay. Well, I need to head off early, I said I'd help out setting something up with Alune. See you in class, Ez.'
'You betcha,' he shot her finger guns.
Lux tilted her head in confusion, caught herself, then shrugged and returned the gesture. She gathered her belongings and left.
Ezreal slumped into his seat, and Irelia let out the laugh she'd been holding. From Irelia, the sound was short, harsh, and incredibly jarring. He glared.
'It's not that funny.'
'I'm sorry, I'm sorry!' She managed to get through. 'It's just – how has she not noticed?'
'...Please stop.'
'And how are you so bad with her? You were fine last week!' She laughed again.
Ekko groaned and looked up at her. 'What are you yelling about?'
'Ezreal's crippling crush.'
'Oh, that. Can't you save it 'til later? I'm trying to savour the quiet before class.' He shuddered. 'Professor Sylas does not like me.'
'Ezreal does like Luxanna though.' Irelia grinned.
'I'm so glad you're enjoying this.' Ezreal said.
'Someone has to be. Spicy developments among my juniors? Yes please.'
'For someone so serious, you're a real gossip, you know that? Picking on your poor underclassmen.'
She snorted.
'I'm awake! What'd'I miss?' Zoe shot up, corners of her mouth covered in chocolate. Her eyes were bouncing around the room.
'Please don't.' Ezreal prayed.
'Ezreal's pathetic love life.' Ekko said. Zoe's face went wide.
'What? What what what?'
He covered his ears. 'I regret saying that.'
Ignoring Zoe's further outbursts, Ezreal sighed. 'Can we please talk about something else?'
'Fine,' Irelia said, still smirking. 'I have some business to take care of afterschool, so I'll be a little late today. You'll have to make do for a while, Yasuo said he had something to discuss with us.'
He breathed in relief. 'That's okay, I've gotta make a stop by the Luminary club anyway.'
'Ah, in that case, Ekko, you're in charge of Zoe until I show up.'
'Hm? What now?'
'Great, thanks.'
He grunted.
Irelia nodded and resumed eating, smirk still on her lips. Ezreal just groaned and picked away at his food.
….Yep. Still gross.
'Settle down, settle down. I have a few importan' announcements today.' Graves said. He didn't look up from his clipboard.
The class quieted instantly.
'Hmph. Good. First off, you all passed your first roun' of exams. Good. Less work for all of us.' He nodded in satisfaction and checked something off his list. 'Next, I've been told to inform y'all bout the first School-wide Club Practical Exams. You'll hear more details from your individual club leaders, so tha's all I'll say.'
Ezreal perked up. This would be the first actual event of the year. The past month had been nothing more than a ongoing individual training session, with the occasional visit from Sorcery club members. Finally, some real action.
Plus, he wanted to use the club points they could gain to put some extra facilities in the damn room. He really needed a place to store all the extra tech Jayce was piling on him.
Graves kept talking for a while, eventually checking everything off his list. He was about to sit down, before he added something as an afterthought;
'Oh and 'fore I forget, Lymere, come see me after class.' Graves said.
'Oh crap.' Ezreal muttered – earning him a shhh from someone next to him. He shot them a glare.
Then he sighed. A Graves lecture in the morning break?
Great.
As the bell rang, Ezreal watched in silent suffering as the students around him happily hopped out of their desks, whisking their friends away towards the various facilities on campus; ready to spend their half-hour break in any way they so chose.
He dragged his feet to Graves's podium.
'You wanted to see me, sir?'
'Not here.' He said, not looking at Ezreal. He stood and left the room. With a sigh, Ezreal followed. He caught Lux sending him an apologetic smile. Cute. He smiled back. Then it immediately faded when he turned his gaze back to Graves.
What could this time be about? He'd already been chewed out for his uniform; Ezreal had taken to wearing his suspenders hanging loosely at his waist, and rolling up his sleeves on the blazer. He was also wearing a very much non school issue sweatervest, but he had a genuine reason for that. His actual school one got burned up at club a couple of weeks ago.
Don't ask.
If not that, Ezreal ran through the other options; His hair; too long. His attendance was mostly good. Better than good, even – good enough. And he'd only handed in a piece of work late once. Once!
Graves turned as they reached a quiet section of stairs. He fixed Ezreal with one of his signature scowls.
Uh-oh, this was his 'serious' scowl.
'What's the problem sir? I swear, I have a reason for the vest -'
'I don't give a damn about your vest, wear it backwards for all I care.' He grunted, scanning the area once more. 'Do you recall the incident during Orientation?'
Ezreal frowned. 'I mean, yeah, I almost died. Also, how would you wear a vest back -'
'The Principal doesn't believe you. Thereby, she doesn't believe me.'
'Why would I lie about something like that?' he said. Graves, surprisingly, nodded.
'I do believe you, for what it's worth. But I don't got any proof.'
Ezreal raised an eyebrow. 'Proof? How even?'
'I've made four separate trips into the damned Sword this month. Four, Lymere. Nothing. There is no 'White Room' or whatnaught.'
'But you just said you believe me!'
'And I do, therefore,' Graves flicked his clipboard at Ezreal. 'You're comin' with me. If I can't find it, you'd better.'
Ezreal wasn't expecting that. But he grinned. 'Sure, I'm itching for some action!'
'Yeah, no action. Feel free to die whenever, but when you're under my watch – it goes on my record. No, we ain' going to risk your life here.'
'But sir -'
'We'll go tonigh', at 10. School gates. Come alone, and don't be late again.'
He left, ignoring whatever Ezreal said, leaving Ezreal alone in the staircase. He frowned.
'Well, I don't know how to find it, either.' He grumbled, deciding to make a stop by the vending machine on the fifth floor on his way back to the classroom.
But hey, as far as Graves Lectures went, this one wasn't even really a lecture. He grinned at the tiny victory, and Shifted up the stairs.
Ez was acting weird. More than usual.
Lux couldn't really fathom why; he'd been perfectly fine, and suddenly he'd just – snapped? That was the only way she could really put it.
He left the room, following Graves with a worried smile. His eyes caught hers, terror ripe from the oncoming chewing out he was sure to have. Lux smiled encouragingly, and he returned the gesture. They left the room.
Either way, she had a bit of a break now. She packed away her notes – maths were her weakest subject, she'd have to review them later – and walked over to Alune's desk. She was talking animatedly to her brother, who sat in serious silence. He gave Lux a solemn nod as she approached.
'Heya, guys.'
'Oh, hello Lux. I was just saying to Aphelios about our um...what was the word -?'
'Practical Exam?'
'Yes, that, practical.' She nodded, mouthing the word again. 'I am excited.'
Aphelios opened his mouth to say something, but Lux couldn't hear him over the bustle of students around them. Alune nodded.
'Mhm. What do you think, Lux?'
'Ummm,' she said. 'Yeah, I think so too.'
Aphelios nodded wisely.
Alune smiled. 'I wonder where we will go.'
'Not sure, but do you want to go somewhere now? We've got a bit of time.'
'Oh, okay. That sounds very good. I am thirsty. Phell?'
He shook his head, eyes falling down to his stack of books still atop his desk. There was deep pain in them.
'We'll bring you back a soda then. Text us if you want something else.'
He nodded, and the two of them left.
The hallways of the school were kept spotless, blue on white walls and shimmering marble floors, rays of light streaming in from full-sized windows overlooking the courtyard. Their classroom was on the third floor, so it was a short trip to the first floor's vending machines. They were lined up between two branches of a staircase leading into a hall; what that was used for, Lux hadn't found out yet. But she'd frequently seen seniors go to and fro, so she assumed it was important.
She slipped in a coin and tapped a water. Alune followed, plus a soda for her brother. Lux leaned back and drank.
'So, how do you like the school?'
'Mmm,' Alune had a sip. 'I do like it. Everyone here is so helpful and nice.' her eyes narrowed. 'Mostly.'
'Mostly.' Lux agreed. 'Do you miss your family? It must be hard, being so far away from them.'
'Yes, but Phell is here with me. That is nice.' She smiled. 'But you? How is your family?'
Lux thought about it for a moment. Her brother was here at school, as was her aunt, but...
'I think about them a lot.' She said.
Alune nodded in understanding. She tapped a bracelet at her wrist, a collection of small white pearls.
'They are with you, in your thoughts. And you are with them, always.'
Lux mirrored her smile. She didn't fully understand, but she knew it was an important truth to her friend.
'Oh, Luxanna, Miss Rakkor, good to see you.'
Lux's heart skipped a beat, and Sylas approached them with a smile. He had his long hair tied back in a messy bun, and his shirt wasn't fully buttoned up – Lux found it hard to avert her gaze. But she managed, and smiled up at his stubble-covered face.
'Professor, good morning.' Alune said.
'Quite, and to yourself.' He nodded to her, and grinned at Lux. 'It's been a while since we've last met, Luxanna.'
She blushed. She didn't know why, but she did. She buried her nose into her water, surfacing when she was mostly sure the heat had passed.
'Yes, I suppose it has, Professor.'
It hadn't, though. They'd had Literature last thursday.
No, that was too long.
Lux took a casual sip of water. 'What brings you here?'
He nodded up to the double doors atop the stairs. 'I have some business with a student in the Simulation Room. Just stopped by to say hi.'
He leaned down – wow, he towered over her – and tapped at an iced tea on the machine. It whirred, and dumped the drink out. He reached down again to get it, but Lux felt a sudden flash of inspiration.
'Oh, here!' she said quickly, reaching down and beating Sylas's extending hand to the punch. She grabbed the drink, an Ionian blend of a Citrus tea, and held it out to him.
He blinked, then chuckled lightly and smiled. 'Why thank you, Luxanna. Very generous of you.'
He reached out to take the drink. His fingers grazed her hand.
It was as if a jolt of electricity shot through her – she nearly jumped back out of shock. But she held her ground, smiling up at Sylas warmly. His own smile wavered for a moment before returning, and retracting his hand. His eyes, a deep ocean blue, flashed bright for a moment.
He drew himself up with a sharp inhale, and nodded. 'Well, very good. I'll see you both in class, I suppose. Don't loiter around too much, that stickler Malcolm won't be pleased.'
Lux laughed.
With another grin, Sylas left up the stairs and through the doors. Lux stared after him for a couple of lingering moments.
'...Lux, he is a teacher.' Alune said.
'Hm? What?' She broke out of her trance, snapping back to Alune, whose face was both concerned and very very mischievous. Lux didn't like it at all – wait, what'd she just say?
'I didn't notice this before, but now I see. I see, I see.' She was grinning.
'W-what...? Is there something on my face?'
Alune giggled. She shook her head, playful smirk dancing on her lips. It was a new expression on her. Lux was not a fan.
'I will not tell anyone, do not worry. But really...Professor Sylas?' She looked towards the door, pensive lips. 'Well, I think I can see it.' She giggled.
Lux huffed. 'I don't know what you're on about. Let's go back to class.'
And they did, Alune occasionally breaking into little fits of giggles, much to Lux's growing annoyance.
'The Battle Club doesn't get their own trip.' Yasuo said.
'What?!' Ezreal said. Ekko grunted next to him, scowling.
Irelia stood close to Yasuo, arms folded and eyes rolling. Zoe was doing something in the back, making a lot of noise.
'Instead,' Yasuo continued. 'We tag along with one of the other clubs. Since there are five of these trips a year, it rounds out to a neat two with two of 'em, and one with the other. Fun, hm?'
'But,' Ekko said. 'Why?'
'It's because we never have enough members to warrant our own trip.' Irelia said with a sigh. 'This is actually the most members we've had in the last few years, apparently.'
'And as such,' Yasuo said. 'It's up to us to decide which of the clubs we'll be joining first. So, here are the options -'
'Can we go to a place with a festival? It's nearly summer!' Zoe bounced in, earning a light smack atop the head from Irelia.
'Summer's still a while away, so don't get too excited.'
'I checked. No festivals at any of them.' Yasuo said. Zoe frowned, and Irelia glared at both of them, eyeing What did you expect?
'Either way, we have to decide by the end of the day. I might've been putting this off for the last week, so let's get to it, boys.'
'Yasuo! You have to be more responsible!' Irelia said.
'Yeah, so I'm asking for your input now. We've got time, don't be such a straight, Irelia. You'll curse us with bad weather on the trip.'
Exasperated, Irelia sighed and sat at a bench. Ekko tried to give her an encouraging smile. She returned it with a weak nod.
'So, the choices are as follows; Luminary is going to the Rocky Highlands, up in the north part of the country. Apparently it's so they can observe some exhibit or what have you about some scholar. Sounds pretty boring if you ask me.'
'I think it sounds cool.' Ekko said.
'Booo!'
'Sorcery is heading to Needlebrook. It's a coastal town, not much there. I hear their seafood is absolutely incredible, though.'
'They also have a pretty famous theatre.' Irelia added. She was still scowling.
'Right, that. I almost forgot. Anyway, there's also a God-weapon shard a couple kilometres east of it, so they'll be going to check that out. Did I mention the seafood?'
'Yes.' Ekko, Ezreal, and Irelia said.
'Are those sweet?' Zoe asked.
'Probably can be.' Yasuo said. Zoe whooped. Another eye roll from Irelia.
'So, with that said, I move we decide on the Sorcery club. Objections?'
'Wait, what about the Assassin club?' Ekko said.
'Don't like 'em. We can put them off for a bit.' Yasuo said.
Ekko opened his mouth to argue, but Ezreal raised a hand. 'I vote sorcery!'
'Of course you would,' Ekko said. 'Lux is there.'
Irelia's mouth twitched into a smile. Zoe's eyes flew wide open. 'Lux? What about her?' She gasped. 'Wait. You don't mean... -?'
'Okay, look here guys -' Ezreal started, but Ekko shook his head.
'Yeah, yeah, we know; "It's not what we think" or "Oh, she's just really cool", or whatever. Just own up to the fact that you're a lovesick puppy.'
'Oh, oh, what now? Why is this the first I'm hearing of this?' Yasuo's eyes were shining. 'Our little Ezreal has an equally little girlfriend? You move fast, kid! Colour me impressed.' He frowned in thought. 'Actually, no, that girl's terrifying.'
'Guys! That's not why I wanna go with Sorcery!' He said, but he was blushing madly.
Everyone except Zoe and Ezreal were laughing.
'Although I'm voting for them too, don't act like there's any other reason, Ezreal.' Irelia said with a few light chuckles.
'Like you're any better, Irelia.' Yasuo said, laughing much harder. 'What is with the underclassmen in this club and Sorcery? Care to explain?' He laughed again.
It was her turn to blush, but Irelia's redness burned to fury quickly. Ezreal tried to take the chance to turn the conversation to her -
She glared.
- maybe not.
Ekko stopped laughing. 'I mean, sure, this sounds fun. We'll do you a favour, Ponytail.' He clapped him on the shoulder.
Yasuo tried to mirror the gesture with Irelia, but she locked him with eyes of daggers. He still went for it, though.
She tried to hit him. He avoided the blow with a laugh.
'Okay, okay, I'll drop it. Jeez, you're touchy.' Yasuo dusted off his shirt. 'Okay, so once more – Sorcery? Objections?'
Zoe yelled something, but the rest grunted assent.
Yasuo moved to dismiss them, but Ekko raised his hand. Yasuo sighed and nodded to him.
'Bullying Ponytail is fun and all, but what are we actually...doing on the trip? It's called a 'Club Practical Exam' for a reason, right?'
'Oh, that.' Yasuo rubbed the back of his head, eyes shut as he thought. 'Uhhh, hm. Irelia, you're up.'
She was still glaring, cheeks red, but she did as told. 'We'll be competing with the other clubs based on how we perform. We'll be working with local law enforcement, doing tasks, helping around the town, writing good research – that sort of thing. At the end, we'll be compared against the other clubs and we'll get points based on how we place.'
Ekko gaped at Yasuo. 'And you didn't lead with that, why?'
He shrugged. 'We have five members. Just enjoy the trip.'
Yasuo flopped into the chair behind Braum's desk.
'So we're just conceding?' Ekko said.
'Pretty much.' Yasuo said. He flipped open a notebook, and began scribbling down something.
Ekko looked to Irelia. 'You're okay with that attitude?'
She shrugged too. 'He's right. We tried really hard last year, too, but it just – didn't work.'
Scowling, Ekko turned to Ezreal. 'You're being awfully quiet.'
'Hm?' Ezreal's head snapped to Ekko. 'Sorry, what? Wasn't listening.'
'Ezzzzz! You're not in l..lo...like – with Lux, right?' Zoe said, popping up in front of him.
'No! Lay off!' Ezreal said. He tried desperately to claw Zoe off of him, but alas. She kept pelting him with questions.
Ekko frowned.
The sun had start to set over the valley, painting the road back to the dorms a decidedly auburn brush. Lux was walking by herself tonight. Alune was off with Aphelios, and for once, Lux was grateful for it. She'd been teasing Lux non-stop all afternoon.
With a frustrated sigh, Lux pulled out her phone and fiddled about. What about Sylas, hm? He was an old friend, Alune. Leave her alone – it was normal to be excited to see him.
Either way, Lux wouldn't be able to see him come friday. Sylas was an advisor for the Luminary Club, and they'd be on the other side of the country. For a week.
...Well, Needlebrook was nice, right? She'd had some lobsters imported from there before, and they were always amazing. And they had a famous theatre, one that even hosted world-famous Troupes and bands. And they'd recently discovered a fragment of a God-weapon in the Mountainpass!
...She wished she was going to the Rocky Highlands.
She shut her phone off in frustration. Maybe Alune was right?
No, just ignore her. Right about what? It was only natural to want to spend time with your friends.
Lux continued the path home like this for a while, until the white-topped building came into her view from beyond the thick forestry. Weird to think it only took her a month to think of it as home, but hey.
The gardens were usually full of people by now, but today didn't seem to be the case. In fact, Lux noticed a few flowers in colours she didn't know the garden hosted – people usually covered them from her vision.
Curious, she diverged off the path inside the dorms and passed into the gardens.
The fading daylight blanketed the garden with a fairytale glow. Lux hummed to herself. Being empty, the view was enchanting. She'd not spent much time here, so the rainbow of colour in the plants filled her with a renewed sense of wonder. She'd almost forgotten how pretty the school could be.
She took a seat at one of the benches that lay scattered around the garden. Nice and quiet. She guessed it was because of preparations for the Practical, but she didn't mind it. It was nice.
…
…
…?
With a deep yawn, Lux opened her eyes and looked around. Where -?
Ah, she'd drifted off.
She stretched out, relishing that post-nap rush. Lux smiled to herself. Her eyes became clear again, and she looked around the garden.
Night hadn't fully fallen yet, but the sun had disappeared behind the high tip of the valley, rendering the garden itself dark; the light now refusing to push itself past the wall of mountain that separated them. Instead, a few electric torches were lit along the cobblestone pathways, giving just enough light to see.
She spotted a figure at another bench, a few steps away. Lux stood and approached it, grinning. Katarina looked a lot less wild when she was sleeping.
Deciding what to do, Lux stopped and looked at her. She brought her face a little closer -
Katarina's eyes shot open, hands flying from their relaxed position, grabbing Lux's.
'Woah! It's just me!'
Katarina's grip loosened, exhaling. 'Oh. Sorry. Old habits and all.'
'Aha-ha, yeah...' Lux said. She held her hands up a little. 'Care to uh -'
'Ah.' She let go. Smirk. 'Assassin Club through and through, I suppose. Been a while.'
Lux, rubbing at her wrists, gave a short nod and a weak laugh. 'It's a shame we don't have many activities that overlap.'
'Shame for who?' She snorted, lounging back into the bench. 'Rest of the school's happier this way.'
'I think it's a shame.'
'Surprised you're still saying that, considering you've definitely heard about us by now. Real black sheep. Scary.'
Lux had heard, yes, but she'd mostly dismissed the talk of the Assassin Club with a laugh and a shrug. Aphelios was weird, but Katarina seemed nice enough. 'You don't seem to mind.'
She shrugged. 'I just keep to myself, and everyone's better for it.'
Lux raised an eyebrow. 'Sounds like a stock character line. Do you also have a dark secret that causes people to avoid you?' Lux smiled at her own joke.
'Not really a secret, Red,' She smirked, closing her eyes as she sunk deeper into the bench. 'Last principal that vanished was dear old Dad. People think I got 'im.'
'Oh – ummmm...'
Katarina laughed, drawing herself in and scooting over. She patted the vacant seat. Lux sat. 'Relax. I didn't do it, I have no idea where in the hells he went.'
'I'm sorry, I didn't know.'
'Don't be. He's a real piece of work. Was, I guess.' She snorted. 'Wherever he is, I hope he's rotting.'
Lux felt a strange case of deja-vu.
Katarina exhaled sharply. 'Anyways. I walked into the Garden and saw you fast asleep. Thought a lady like yourself would need some protection, so here I waited.'
'That's, um, sweet of you? Thanks.'
Snort. 'You believed that? I was just going to take some pictures and send them to your brother.' She grinned. 'Then I guess I dozed off too.'
Lux giggled. What a weird girl. Good pull, Garen.
Sylas's face flashed in her mind. She blushed – and cleared her throat to hide it.
'So – uhm, where is the Assassin Club going for the Practicals?'
'Hm? Oh, those.' Katarina shrugged. 'Dunno if I'm allowed to tell you. Somewhere in the east.'
Lux didn't press it.
'So then Red,' Katarina said, leaning back again. 'How's school treating you? Everything you imagined?'
Was it? Lux thought about it for a moment – images of her new friends, her powers, even her aunt.
The image of herself from the pillar of light -
She frowned.
'That's not the face of happiness, Red.'
Lux flushed, and shook her head. 'No, no, I really do like it. It's a wonderful school, filled with wonderful people.'
'Heard you got into a fight with another first year.'
'Mostly wonderful people.'
Katarina laughed. 'True enough. How do you find the facilities?'
'Are you a feedback form?' Lux smiled. 'Mostly pretty great, although...'
'Although?'
Her fight with Qiyana came to mind. 'I don't really know where I can go to practice. You know, privately.'
Kat snorted, and grabbed her bag. 'You should've said that sooner. I can help you out with that. Come on.'
It turns out Katarina had something daring in mind. Daring by Lux's standards, anyway.
The teacher's lodgings were a few minutes walk away from the Students', two white buildings stacked right next to each other overlooking a filled car park. One of the buildings was tall and blocky, windows dotting the walls of the four or five stories Lux quickly counted.
The other building was short and long, running in a strip until the end of the car park. It was made of bright and reflective metal, and there were no windows. It reminded Lux of a prison.
So it was hard to hide her distaste as Katarina discreetly guided her towards the prison building.
'Why are we here?' She whispered. Katarina didn't look back as she replied.
'This is the teacher's training hall. They're small, cosy, and very much private. They're even soundproof, if you can believe it.'
'This wasn't what I meant!'
'Relax, Red. I use 'em all the time. The trick is to just not get caught.'
…
'There, we're here.'
Katarina stopped as they reached the edge of the complex. They were completely shrouded in darkness, the carpark floodlights stopping a few metres ahead of them. Katarina gestured above them, and Lux saw the gratings of an air vent. She frowned.
'I didn't know I was going to be in a heist film today.'
Katarina snorted. 'He wasn't kidding when he said you're a smartass. Just follow.'
She leapt up to the vent, and in a motion so quick that Lux couldn't even catch it, removed the grille, set it down, and climbed back up through the opening. Lux blinked and stared.
Katarina poked her head back out. 'You coming?'
With a resigned sigh, Lux followed. She hated breaking the rules.
Well, as long as they didn't get caught, she supposed.
'Late.'
Ezreal ignored Graves's comment as he approached their meeting spot. He checked the time on his phone – 10:02. He scoffed, feeling a dull weight in his blazer pocket. He'd forgotten to bring the compass up with Ekko, much less return it. He felt bad about it, but he shrugged and figured he'd just give it back later.
'So, how we doing this?' Ezreal said, pushing it out of mind.
Graves huffed. He was in casual wear, but over his shoulder was a large case. He still looked intimidating. 'We'll drive over, go inside, and you'll find me this room. Simple?'
'Simple.' Ezreal grumbled. 'I really don't know how to find this place, Professor.'
'We'll see.'
'Okay, well, I warned you.'
Graves grunted assent, and he led them to his car.
The ride was pretty awkward. Despite the two of them having known each other for almost a year now, Ezreal still found Graves hard to talk to. Perhaps it was because of the whole student-teacher dynamic, but Ezreal still couldn't really register Graves as a teacher. The man was clearly not meant for it.
The thought made Ezreal a little curious.
'Say Professor,' Ezreal said with forced casual-ness. 'Why are you a teacher?'
'Not your business.'
Welp.
'Was Military before.'
'Oh?' Ezreal hadn't been expecting anything more. 'Why'd you quit?'
Graves grunted. 'Didn'. Something came up.'
'Any chance you'll tell me what?'
'Nope.'
Ezreal shrugged in his chair. He'd already gotten more out of the grump than he expected.
'But why teaching?'
'No choice. Either way, we're here. Gauntlet on, and let's go.'
Ezreal looked out the window; the word shining bright despite the cover of night. It seemed to collect the various sources of light – floodlights, moonlight, the neon colours of signs – and reflect them back out twice as strong. Graves killed the engine and stepped out. Ezreal followed.
Huge. That's the one word to describe the God-weapon.
'Stay close to me, and you'll be fine.' Graves said. He walked past the various barriers and fences that enclosed the space, and pressed his hand onto the God-weapon.
Bright blue waves of energy rippled from his touch, pulsating outwards in lines before merging together to form a rough square. The inside of the shape blared white, faded, then disappeared. Graves walked inside the opening.
'Follow.'
Ezreal did.
The inside of the weapon was much the same as the last time; a wide dome-like room with various pulsing lines of energy running up the walls. It was dim, his eyes took a moment to adjust to the low hum of the blue lines of light.
Unperturbed, Graves drew his weapon from his bag – a massive rifle, double-barrelled and red, the handle carved like the hilt of a sword. A familiar-looking one, actually -
A God-Weapon shard, one of Durandal's.
Graves checked the weapon quickly, grunting in satisfaction before turning back to Ezreal.
'Lead.'
Ezreal ignored the bluntness, and did. 'Yes, sir.' he grunted. Graves growled, so Ezreal hurried along.
The two walked for what felt like hours. As Ezreal remembered, the inside of Durandal was a maze of ever-changing hallways that all looked exactly the same. The only way he could even tell that they were moving forward was the occasional break in rooms, one a little wider, one a little taller, and so on.
But Ezreal was concerned. How could he even find this place, when he wasn't actively trying to last time? If Graves had come down here three times over a month, what chance would he have of dropping on it again?
Sigh. He turned to Graves.
'I really don't know where to go.'
Graves shrugged. 'Never do, in here. Tha's the point.' He checked his watch. 'The damn Sword only listens to the Principals, and it can sense everyone with the Power.'
'You should've brought her with you, then.' Ezreal said, sighing. Graves looked like he'd been slapped.
'Dear lord, no. I ain' bringin' that Cat anywhere I don't have to.'
'Well, then, what do you expect me to find? I told you already, we stumbled on it by chance.'
'Durandal don't do chance, kid.'
Ezreal scoffed. What a load of bull. Was he supposed to just, what, up and ask the walls to open?
Frustrated, he reached a hand up to run through his hair. As he did, he felt a dull weight pulling at his blazer. Blinking, Ezreal felt at his chest.
He fished out the compass he'd forgotten about. He held it upright. The hand was freaking out, shooting in one direction before snapping to another. With a frown, Ezreal flicked the cover. and his eyes widened.
Ekko had been the one to actually find the room, right?
What if...
Feeling a rush of excitement, Ezreal laid the compass out flat, and grinned as the hand stabilized a little. It was still shooting around, but as he tilted himself around to get a bearing, the hand decided on a direction. Sort of, at least.
The hand was still constantly spinning, stopping, and starting again, but now it always stopped at one single point. Ezreal looked up in the direction, and breathed in. Was this it?
'What're y'doing, Lymere? Get a move on.' Graves's voice.
Ezreal began walking down the hallway, making sure to follow the compass.
The hallways passed in a blur, but he made sure to always take the north-most one.
…
….
…..
'Well, I'll be.' Graves said from behind him.
Ezreal finally looked up, and let out a single laugh. There it was.
The doors were still open, a room of bright white wood bleeding the dim blue light back into the hall. Ezreal stepped forward – before he was hit with the most rank smell he'd ever experienced.
'What the -' He coughed, raising a hand to his nose. Graves, though silent, did the same.
Graves stepped into the room, and eyes narrowed. He pointed, and Ezreal's eyes fell to a pile of discoloured, disgusting flesh wrapped in purple shards of armour.
Yeah, this was the room.
Regardless, Graves stepped forward, and Ezreal followed. He looked around, and was once again shocked. A pure white room of wood inside the God-weapon would surely be something that he'd have heard about, right?
The thing that really caught his attention, though, was the stone basin in the centre of the room. He remembered the first time he'd come here, this was the source of light. It had been pure white, blaring throughout the entire space, and dazzling.
But Lux had done something, and it was gone. He frowned behind his hand, and brought his free hand down to touch the stone basin. Empty. It was about as wide as a plate, and about twice as deep. In the centre of it was a circular carving, purple and dull. It was protruding outwards, and looked as though it was a different material – smooth and marbled. He reached out his hand to touch it -
'What'd you find?' Graves said, voice muffled through his sleeves. Ezreal retracted his hand and turned around. He shrugged.
'It's pretty much the same as last time. Save for the smell.'
'You have your friend to thank for that,' Graves snorted and gestured towards the pile of rotting flesh.
'I guess it's been down here for a while, so...'
Graves shook his head. 'I can't take that thing back in my car. But this room -' He looked around, eyes narrowing evermore as he took it in. 'The Cat needs to see this.'
He crouched down, slinging his weapon in the process, and ran a hand along the floorboards. He recoiled at it's touch.
'What?' Ezreal asked.
'Petricite,' Graves said, standing back up. 'It's used to dampen pulses of Power. We used it in the army.'
Ezreal's eyes widened. 'Like, for taking prisoners and stuff?'
'Well, yeah,' Graves looked around again, taking in the whole room with furrowed brows. 'But it could also be used to hide ourselves. It's dangerous.' His eyes fell to the stone basin. 'What's that?'
Ezreal looked back to it. 'Last time we were here, it was an, uh, pillar of light.'
'And now?'
'It's just an empty basin. Lux did something, and she -' he thought about her staff.
'She -?'
He shook his head. 'I don't know. She did something and it was gone. Came out of it, and blasted the thing over there. She saved our lives.'
Graves glared at the basin. 'I see. Anythin' else here?' He moved next to Ezreal, and eyed the purple stone.
Without waiting, Graves reached out and laid his free hand over it.
He held it for a moment, hand feeling around, before sighing and withdrawing. He shook his head. 'I'unno. Never seen nothin' like this before.' He retracted his hand, and began to explore the room. Ezreal was left standing over the basin.
Frowning, Ezreal looked down at the ball. It just seemed off.
With a sigh, he leaned down onto the ball.
…?
Black.
Nothing.
Where was he?
...Wait, he? Who was he?
Red. Two red points. Glowing.
A jolt of shock shot through Ezreal's body, shooting his hand back. He felt a rush – sharp and snaking, reaching up from under his skin and through his bones. He grimaced, the rush quickly turning to a harsh pain.
He shut his eyes, falling to his knees. Ears ringing. It was all-consuming, racking every part of his body in waves of horrible, burning pain. The flames flared, growing from a small spark inside, until it was covering every last inch of his body.
I awaken.
And suddenly, it was all gone. Ezreal was motionless for a moment, tentatively opening his eyes. He looked up, and finally registered some sound aside from the ringing -
' -kay? Kid! Can you hear me?' Graves stood over him, face wild and staring right down at him.
Ezreal blinked. 'Yeah. Fine, just a little dizzy.' He shuddered, standing up slowly. 'What happened?'
'You started screamin', tha's what.' He frowned. 'What did you do?'
'What? What did I do?' Ezreal just stared at Graves blankly.
Graves nodded to in front of him, and Ezreal slowly turned to look. 'Huh?'
The pillar was gone, leaving a gaping hole in the ground. It was a stone circle within a perfect square of petricite flooring. It was dark, but Ezreal could see small white bars lining the side of the hole.
It lead down.
Ezreal heard a deep rumble.
Graves stood, deep scowl on his face.
'We're leavin'. I need'ta talk with those friends o'yours.'
Ezreal nodded absently, staring at the hole.
...What had awakened?
e – z (23: 17): heya, you there? I needa talk, it's kinda important
Lux read the text as she took a break at the small bench. Katarina and her were taking a quick break – a well earned one. They'd been at it for nearly three hours. Lux chugged away at her Iced tea, and typed out a quick reply.
Luxanna✿ (23:25): Yeah, what's up?
She set her phone down, but received an immediate reply. She looked.
e - z (23:25): wya rn
She frowned. Much as she wanted to, she didn't think it was a good idea to let her friend know she was...not in a place she was meant to be. She set her phone down, wry smile on her lips. Quick glance around the small, metal room, uncomfortable about the whole situation. She didn't want to lie to Ez about it, though she didn't exactly want to tell him either.
'Ahhh, that was a good sequence.' Katarina said, plopping herself down next to Lux. The bench was small, but just big enough for the two of them. Not big enough for Katarina to not notice Lux's phone, though, and nodded at it.
'Boyfriend?'
Lux laughed. 'No, nothing like that. Friend's just asking where I am.'
She narrowed her eyes. 'What'd you say?'
'Nothing, don't worry.' She brought her phone back up. She fiddled with her fingers for a moment, wondering what she should say...
It pinged again.
e – z (23: 26): really don't wanna be a bother, but this is pretty important.
e – z (23: 26): it's about orientation last month
e – z (23: 27): graves is with me
'Graves?' Katarina said, confusion in her voice. 'That jackoff hates students, why would he be with your friend?'
'Oi,' Lux said, pulling her phone away from Katarina's prying eyes, who sniggered. She tilted her head at the texts. Katarina was right, though. Ez was terrified of the professor – why would he be with him? It was also pretty late.
'Alright, should we get going then? Seems like you've got somewhere to be.' Katarina said, gathering the gear they'd been using.
'Thanks.' Lux said, standing. She sent a quick reply back.
Luxanna✿ (23:28): I'm going back to the dorms now. Meet you in the lobby?
The response was instant and affirmative. Lux smiled, Ez had been pretty sparse with texts over the last week, so she'd be lying if she said this wasn't a nice return to form.
'So, how do we get back?' Lux said. Katarina shrugged.
'Front door.'
'Very sneaky. Is that safe?'
She opened the door, smirking. 'Adds to the rush. Haven't been caught yet.'
'I'm not so sure...' Lux said.
Following her out, Lux's gaze shifted nervously. The hallway was empty. She still didn't feel safe. Katarina, on the other hand, was swaggering out.
'Are you sure we won't get caught?' Lux said.
Katarina approached a console on the wall. She waved a hand dismissively as she tapped at a button. 'Chill, Red. No-one's ever around at this point.'
A sliding door slid open to her side, and Lux came face-to-face with Sylas.
They blinked at each other for a moment. Katarina coughed once to the side.
Sylas cleared his throat and shook his head once. 'Ah, Luxanna. How, er, nice to see you. And you, Miss DuCuteau.'
Katarina grunted.
'Professor, I can explain -' Lux said.
'And I'm sure you can, Luxanna. But,' Sylas eyed the various bags the two girls were carrying. 'I'm afraid I wouldn't be a particular fan of any excuse. What are you doing here?'
'We, um, were,' Lux said, feeling heat rise in her face. She shifted around. 'Well, you um, see -'
'Was giving her some hand-to-hand pointers. I dragged her here, Professor Dregs. She asked for some help, so I snuck her in.' Katarina said.
'I've told you to not call me that.' He sighed, rubbing his stubble. He looked down at Lux, lips pursed. 'It's admirable you're training this late. But you are not allowed to use this facility, Luxanna.'
She looked at her feet. 'Yes, Professor.'
'And you,' he scowled at Katarina. 'How far are you going to push your luck?'
She shrugged. 'It's held til now.'
Sylas snorted. 'Yes, I suppose it has. But now, I shall have to write you both a detention. Can't be playing favourites here, Luxanna. I'm sorry.'
Lux nodded silently, eyes still downcast.
'Dregbourne, what ever is taking you so long -' A new voice from just out of Lux's vision. Her blood ran cold. She recognised the voice, shrill and commanding.
Sylas clicked his tongue, and Tianna appeared. She looked angry already, but when she looked past Sylas's shoulder, she froze. Then, fury.
'And what do we have here?'
Lux didn't move.
'I asked Luxanna and Miss DuCuteau here to, ah, run an errand for me, Tianna dear.' Sylas said, quickly turning to face her.
She scoffed. 'When you're off doing one for me, yes, absolutely.' She eyed Katarina, then stared at Lux. Her eyes were cold. 'I see you still don't choose better company for yourself, Luxanna.'
'Hey, cool it, Mom.' Katarina said. Tianna looked surprised, Katarina smirking to Lux. Lux, still terrified to move, whispered;
'She's my aunt, not my mother.'
'Oh really? My bad, same thing.' She shrugged. To Tianna; 'I'm great company, thanks.'
'How dare you speak to a teacher in that tone.' Tianna said. She pushed Sylas to the side, towering over Katarina. 'I should have you expelled right here -'
'But you can't, can you?' Katarina grinned back at her. 'Until poor old Dad is found, you're stuck with me, Vice-Aunt.'
Tianna fumed. She spun to Lux, who jumped at the sudden glare. 'I expected nothing from you, Luxanna, and I'm still appalled. You will provide an explanation in the next ten seconds or I will -'
'I asked her here, Tianna.' Sylas said.
'I highly doubt that, Dregbourne. Unless you have a very good reason, this will be brought to the Acting Principal's attention first thing in the morning.'
Sylas breathed in, but before he could say anything, yet another voice called out.
'Lux! Are you okay?'
Ez?
Lux looked up, and sure enough, Ez was rushing towards them from the carpark. Professor Graves trailed behind him, rushing a lot less. He was scowling.
Sylas and Tianna turned to see, and Katarina laughed. 'This keeps getting better and better.'
Lux smiled weakly at Ezreal, who stopped next to Sylas. He froze when he looked at the two teachers, apparently just seeing them. He chuckled nervously.
'Oh, Professor! Fancy seeing you here. And the Vice Principal!'
Tianna closed her eyes and inhaled – slowly. 'Wonderful.'
'Crownguard, Dregbourne.' Graves said, reaching them.
Sylas nodded. 'Malcolm.'
'And I suppose you have reason for these two to be here?' Tianna said.
Graves huffed. 'I need'ta talk with the two o' -' he spotted Katarina. His eyes rolled, but he cleared his throat and continued. ' - three o'them.'
'Yes, Malcolm here told me to let Luxanna in.' Sylas said.
'Sure.' Graves said.
'Lux, you won't believe what just happened, Graves and I were down in the -'
'Are all the first years so rude?' Tianna said, turning her anger to Ezreal. He froze, and smiled weakly. She continued, 'Ah, you are the other charity case. Lymere, I presume?'
'Hey, what's that supposed to mean?' Lux said. Tianna could be angry at her all she wanted, but she was crossing the line here.
'Your excellent choice in company always amuses, Luxanna. Know that I am disgusted.' Tianna turned. 'No matter. If you all insist on being absolutely infuriating, I will retire myself for the night.' She moved to leave, but Ez flushed a bright red, and stepped forward.
'Hey, that isn't fair! Lux is great! She's the smartest student in the class, and she's crazy strong, and -'
'Lymere!' Graves hissed, but it was too late. Tianna stopped, drawing in a deep breath, and turned deliberately. Her face was blank. She looked Ez directly in the eye. He recoiled, but fixed his stance and stood. The colour drained from Lux's face.
This was not the time to act the hero, Ez.
'Lux is, uh -' he stuttered.
'The kid's jus' tired, Crownguard, ignore 'im.' Graves tried to cut in, but Tianna flashed an open palm at him. Graves grimaced, and quieted.
'Do you have any idea who you are speaking to, child?' Tianna said. Her voice was quiet and level. There was no emotion in it.
'Auntie, please -'
Tianna shot her a glare, and Lux quieted.
'I cannot remove Luxanna. I cannot remove DuCuteau. But I can remove you.'
Everyone held their breath.
Except Ez. He balled his fists, and returned the icy glare.
'You're going to expel me for defending someone? Go for it. I'll happily leave for my friends.'
Everything froze. Lux blinked. Ez stood his ground, but he was beet-red. He didn't move a muscle.
The edge of Tianna's mouth twitched. 'You are correct; that would be childish of me. Forgive me.'
Ez's face twisted into confusion. 'Uh, thank you.'
'You are Battle Club, yes?' Tianna said.
Ez gulped, weak smile back. 'Er, yeah.'
'Are you a betting man, Lymere?' Her voice was still ice.
'I, uh – no,'
'Let's make a wager,' Tianna said. 'Shall we decide your status at this school on it? Hm?'
'Uhhhh -'
'If you and your Battle Club can top the rankings of this upcoming Practical, you will be allowed to stay. Simple, no?'
'Crownguard, this is ridiculous,' Graves interjected, but was immediately cut off by Tianna rounding her glare on him. He held the gaze for a moment, and moved to say more -
'If I win, will you lay off Lux?' Ez said.
'Ez! Stop it! Don't be stupid!' Lux hissed. She turned to Tianna, but Katarina grabbed her arm. She shook her head once at Lux.
'Fine. If you win, I will never interfere with Luxanna or her affairs again. I will even relieve her of her prior engagements, if she so wishes.' Her lips twitched again, nearly parting into a smile. Nearly.
Lux's blood turned to ice.
'You're on.' Ez said.
Everyone else erupted into scrambled noise; Sylas trying to talk down Tianna, Graves yelling at Ez, Katarina laughing, but Lux just stared.
The pit in her stomach dropped.