(AN: Hi all. I don't have much time since I gotta get ready for work so I wanted to type up this editorial. I know I always apologize for how late these chapters come out, but this one is the most extreme one. Since posting the last chapter, I began my new schedule, which has me working from 8pm to 6am. Despite having three days off, working that much every week surprisingly saps your motivation dry. Heck, I didn't even finish the second half of this chapter until a couple of days ago due to other projects I was busy with as well as just how... tired this job makes me.

I'm gonna try and keep up with the consistency the chapters release though. The current point we're at has been one I've been thinking about a lot these past couple of weeks, and for all of you who waited patientlly for this chapter, thank you SO much. I hope this chapter was worth the wait.

With that, let's begin...)


The lights of the traffic light went from red to green in an instant as Valdez took his foot off the brake and pushed it ever so slightly on the gas pedal. With the car speeding off and with no traffic in front of them, the blue chameleon stared at Espio as he relayed everything that his mother has written in her scroll.

"Marry?!" Valdez questioned. "As soon as you return to Gojo?! I didn't think they wanted you to marry THAT fast! What are the Brides thinking?"

Espio turned back to face the dashboard of the car. "I… don't know. I suppose I have a lot of thoughts. Am I truly ready to have a wife, have children and…"

The chameleon gasped, realizing he was seconds close from relaying how he's been feeling to Valdez. He knew he shouldn't hide it from the blue chameleon, but at the same time, he wasn't sure if he would at LEAST tell his mother about this. And there was one more thing too-

"I was someone who never really thought about ideas such as having a wedding. I've never seen one myself, as it was something the villagers did more often."

"Well, it's long, stuffy, and unless you like wearing kimono for hours, dull."

"Valdez-san, you say this like you have been married?"

"I've went to a few of the staff's weddings if they invited me. I'm not too much of a fan. Still though, I think you're a little too young. I would at least wait until just a bit before Shami is of age."

"It seems like my mother wants me to take the role my father had."

"I suppose I can get why she would do it, after all, while your mother is primarily the one running Gojo, Naga-san helped out a lot too with many things back then. Your mother only has so many hands, you know."

"Are you saying I should do it?"

"Well, did you expect you wouldn't be married?"

"I know all of us in the Shinobi clan must have someone we can call a wife, but… I never expected that I would be next."

"Well, now you know. But I wouldn't worry about it too much for now. Perhaps your mother will change her mind, and even if she doesn't, the date for you to return to Gojo…" Valdez yawned then rubbed his eyes. "…isn't for another couple of months."

But Espio looked at the floor below him. He wanted to tell Valdez about what was going on, but... well, Valdez did say 'the date for you to return to Gojo isn't for another couple of months'. Maybe perhaps how he's been feeling would go away with time? After all, it felt like some kind of illness, and he didn't know what else to call or describe it.

Espio yawned just like Valdez had. He just wanted to return to the dorm, see Vector again, and hopefully make up for lost time.

"But… should I tell him too?..." Espio thought to himself.


MEANWHILE…

Vector placed the last of his luggage into the trunk of his convertible and slammed hard as his father and mother closed their eyes and winced in pain.

"Vector, whad'do I always tell y'eh 'bout slammin' the damn car doors?!" Vector's father questioned. "Swear to Gaia, yer gunna break it one of these days, and I ain't gunna be responsible fer payin'! Better make sure that Mobius U pays y'eh handsomely!"

"Eh, cars like this are designed to be like this, pops!" Vector replied. "The whole thing ain't gonna crash down just cause I slam a door!"

"Well, perhaps your father just wants you to treat your car carefully so it doesn't break down," Vector's mother replied. "After all, it's the only way you can go back to school…"

She then yawned.

"Ya didn't need to wake up so early to see me off, ya know. I know yeh two like to sleep in when yer off work."

"Oh Vector, honey… don't say that. We haven't seen you since August. It was so good finally having you back home after so long."

"Well, I'll be back fer Christmas, I promise. I just mainly gotta get past December first. Not only is it finals season, but the Winter Playoffs start in two days. Coach is gonna want us on the field every day fer practice."

"And dun forget, what else do y'eh do besides that?" Vector's father questioned.

"Riiiiight… get up early to work out and have carrot juice as a pre-workout…"

Vector shuddered. He knew that carrot juice was a really great source of vitamins and the like, but did it REALLY have to taste like that?

"Are you sure you'll be able to manage?" Vector's mother asked. "I know sometimes you like to sleep in too."

"Well, I got mah roomie, don't I? I know sometimes he likes to get up."

"Why not get him to help you? I'm sure he'd love to see you succeed."

Vector looked down at the floor and put his finger on his chin, realizing that it WAS a smart idea. But Espio's workouts were far more different than his own… could he really help?

Well, it was worth a shot asking once he got back to Mobius U.

"I'll see 'bout that, ma. Anyway, I gotta start headin' out! Oh, and ma, ya DID put what I asked yeh 'bout last week into mah luggage, right?"

"Of course I did! Washed it and everything!"

"Thanks! Okay, fer real, I gotta head out now!"

"Oi, Vec!" Vector's father called out. "Ain'tcha forgettin' one thing?"

Vector rolled his eyes. "Course."

Getting out of his car, the crocodile walked back to his parents and pulled them both in for a tight hug. Father and mother patted their son's back.

"Be sure to enjoy the rest of your semester before Christmas!" his mother said.

"And remember, yer gonna win this year's playoffs! Have confidence and train as hard as y'eh can! I can't wait to brag to all the boys back at work how mah son is the one who won that playoff." Vector's father added.

Vector smiled. "Dun worry, I won't let either of yeh down. I'll keep on mah studies AND football playin'!"

"Of course you will, sweetie! And once it's all said and done, you deserve a nice and relaxing Christmas break."

"Okay, NOW fer real fer real I gotta start headin' out!" the quarterback said. "I'll call ya later today!"

Vector grabbed his keys from his pocket as he hopped into his car, starting it up as he turned back around to see his parents wave. He held one hand up as he started to roll out of the driveway and down the street back to Mobius U.


With Valdez and Espio hopping out of the car and closing the door behind them, the blue chameleon locked the car as he grabbed his multiple bags.

"Okay, Espio-kun, unfortunately, I can't take you back to your dorm myself," Valdez said. "I have to go to a staff meeting with the headmaster and many other department heads. But I'm sure you don't need to me to show you where you need to go, right?"

Espio shook his head.

"Good. Now, I likely won't be around for your first class, but come lunch time, I should be free from my meeting so I'll seek you out once you're done. I'll see you later-"

Just then, Valdez stopped.

"Oh, I almost forgot!"

Espio looked confused as Valdez crouched onto the floor, opening up one of the bags he had strapped over him. Just then, the blue chameleon brought out a plastic container.

"Valdez-san, what's this?" Espio asked.

"When you went to bed last night, I woke up really quickly after my nap and wanted to get something to eat, and that's when I found out we had a LOT of leftovers from our meals this weekend. So, I made you a bento. We have here two pieces of salmon onigiri, fruits and pickled vegetables, as well as some of the natto hosomaki sushi rolls we made on Saturday. I did have quite a lot there so it is a bit heavy… will you be able to eat it all?"

"I… don't think so," Espio replied, remembering that even the onigiri and tsukemono he had on Friday was a little too much for him.

"Then, why not share it with Vector? I'm sure he wouldn't mind!"

Espio's eyes shot open wide. Now that he thought about it, would Vector eat part of this bento? What he ate in Gojo was VERY different to what Vector was used to, and it's clear the quarterback's meal palette was more akin to the Outside World's taste.

Although, while Vector was happy to introduce Espio to the food of the Outside World, it also didn't seem like the crocodile was OPPOSED to non-'traditional' meals. Besides, with Vector being the one to teach Espio about the Outside World, maybe it was time Espio taught Vector about his home.

"Valdez-san, I don't know if I can accept this… this is far too generous!"

But Valdez smiled. "We're in Central Mobius, Espio-kun. There's no need to be so humble like you're back home."

Espio looked at the plastic container and grabbed it with both hands. He looked down at it and bowed. "T-Thank you very much!"

"Okay, now I really should be heading to my meeting. I'll see you after lunch!"

With that, the blue chameleon turned around and started to run towards the exit of the parking garage. With the container containing the bento in his hands and the bags with his clothes strapped around his shoulders, Espio soon made his way out of the garage and back onto the campus. At least, he HOPED he did remember how to get there…

As his geta shoes clacked against the concrete of the parking garage and soon, the sidewalk, Espio began to shiver due to how cold this morning was. Judging from the shape and color of the clouds above in the dark blue sky, he knew it was only a matter of time before the snow season began. At least he wasn't having to train outside this year…

"Heh, look who it is! Didn't think you'd be on campus this early!"

Espio perked up when he heard that voice, recognizing that… slimy tone. He turned around to see that green hawk (Jet was it?) walking up towards him. By his side was that large albatross the chameleon saw during Mighty's wrestling match. The chameleon's face notably changed, as far too long this year he had been falling for everything Jet had been telling him.

"I'm not going to let you mess with me this time…" Espio thought to himself as he stared at the two birds walking up towards him, a look of seriousness on his face.

"Oh, what's THIIIIS?!" questioned Jet. "What's in the container? Come on, lemme see, lemme see!"

But just as Jet was about to swipe the container, Espio pulled it back, the same look of seriousness on his face.

"What the heck- Hey, what the heck is your problem?!"

That's when Jet noticed Espio's face. "Jeez, lose the killing face! With a look like that, you'll likely think I was involved with what happened with those idiots from Crisis City! And they're so shit at committing mischief… pah, I feel insulting by you THINKING that! I can tell it's on your face!"

"Wh…" Espio said, trying to remember what Valdez and Professor Longclaw taught about informal greetings. While he was told to never say this to people, Espio didn't care either way. "What do you wu… wa… want?"

Jet's face scrunched up. "Wow, when the hell did you become an asshole?! All I wanna do is say hi and you treat me like a nuisance!"

"Hey, chameleon!" the albatross said as he cracked his knuckles. "I dunno what crawled up your ass today, but don't think I'm gonna let you take it out on the boss and get away with it! Come on! You and me, right now!"

But Espio simply stared at the albatross. Not only did he know getting into ANOTHER fight was the unwise thing, Espio knew this wasn't a battle worth fighting. So, the transfer student turned his head and started to walk forward.

"H-Hey, get back here!" Jet called out. "What, are you STILL pissed about all the stuff I told you? Come on! I was just joking! Not my fault you can't find my jokes funny!"

But Espio continued to walk.

"B-Boss, he's ignoring you! What do we do?!" the albatross asked.

"I'll show him, Storm," Jet replied as he walked behind Espio and grabbed his shoulder. But as he did, the chameleon quickly turned around, yanked the hawk's arm and pushed him forward. Staring into his eyes, Espio spoke only one word.

"Let me go…" he said in his native tongue as the hawk let go.

"F-Fine! If that's how you're gonna be-"

"Ah, Storm! So good to see ya this mornin'!"

A voice interrupted the two as Espio looked to see who the voice was from. Sure enough, he saw Munch and Alan walking up towards him. The stocky rat walked up to the albatross and bear hugged him, lifting him into the air as the albatross looked surprised.

"H-Hey, Munch! L-Lemme go! I'm a little busy here with the boss…" Storm said.

"Busy? What, pray tell, are you two up to?" Alan asked as he grasped his lute. It was then that he turned towards Espio. "Ah, Espio! I didn't quite notice you there! Good morning, my little reptilian friend!"

Espio nodded his head. "Good mor… mor-morning," he replied, still having a little bit of trouble pronouncing 'morning'.

"Hey, mind beating it, you two?" Jet asked. "We're a little busy with this… ESPIO right here."

"Oh, you aren't causing trouble, are you, Jet?"

"N-No! What, is Bow saying something about me again? You know how much I hate it whenever he slanders me…"

"He just wants what's best for ya, pal! No need to badmouth him!" Munch replied.

"Yeah well I never asked for his opinion! I got my life, he has his with you guys and that's it!"

"What the boss said!" Storm added.

"Storm, you're a great wrestler, but I'm sure you don't need to be this juvenile," the rat added. "But, I suppose you're right. It IS your life after all. By the by, I just wanted to verify, will you be around this Thursday for Weight Training? You skipped out on last week due to that injury you had."

"Course I will dude!" the albatross replied. "Now uh…" he then turned to Jet. "Boss, I think we gotta get outta here, I don't wanna get my wrestling life involved with what's goin' on here."

"Just what I was thinking!" the hawk replied. "Come on Storm, let's beat it."

As the two birds walked away, Espio could hear Jet grumble, "…man, that chameleon dude's gotten boring now. Can't believe I couldn't mess with him until at least after next semester…"

"Don't mind Jet," Alan said. "Sure, he has a knack for his… 'practical jokes', but I think he'll learn quickly that life isn't about messing with other people. I am curious to know though, what is it that you're holding?"

Feeling like he could trust Alan and Munch more than Jet and Storm, Espio opened the container (thank goodness the weekend at Valdez's apartment taught him how to open plastic containers) and showed the two his bento.

"My goodness, that looks delicious!" the quail said. "Is that your breakfast this morning?"

Espio shook his head.

"Well, whatever it is, I'd sure like to have that as a meal!" Munch replied. "Looks nutritious, smells great, and judging by how that looks, looks like a prim and proper Northern Mobius meal, eh Alan?"

"So much that I could make a song right now! But… hmm… do I have lyrics of any kind that can fit?... I don't think so…"

"Not even one song?"

"Doesn't seem like it's coming to me… what a crying shame… Anyway, with that out of the way, I think we should go and meet the others in the A building, right Munch?"

"That's right! We haven't seen them yet, and we were the first to arrive! We gotta get goin', Espio! But I'm so happy we were able to see each other again after the wrestling match we had! If you have time, come back and arch with us in the I building gym! We all miss you!"

"Now would normally be the time I would play a farewell tune, but I'm building up my singing voice for next month! Going to be quite busy singing! Goodbye for now, my chameleon friend! Enjoy your day and the meal you have in your hand!"

Quail and rat began to wave as they walked away, leaving the chameleon by himself. Espio closed the container and followed behind Alan and Munch, ready to head towards West Hall.


As the clock hit 7 am, cars were beginning to be parked near and around Mobius U, the slamming of doors being heard around the vicinity as students began to walk through the gates and clamor around campus back at Mobius U. With many of them talking about what they had done over Thanksgiving break, it was the only time the students had that morning to relax before that day's classes began.

Among this sea of students was Vector, who had two bags held on his right shoulder as he walked past a group of students sitting by the fountain in front of the A building. He sighed as he rubbed his eyes.

"Well, at least glad to be back here after a few days of a needed break," Vector said to himself. "Hopefully, the rest of the semester can go out just fine-"

Just as the crowd began to split off with people going to different directions around the campus, a sudden yell caused Vector to stop.

"VECTOR!" a feminine voice said. "Oh, there you are!"

Vector began to growl to himself as he realized WHO this was.

"Julie…" he said as he turned around, looking at Julie-Su.

"Aw, are you sleepy this morning, big guy?" she said. "Hey listen, did you think about what we talked about before the game a few weeks back? Like, REALLY think about it?"

"Are ya really gonna try and act all nice and friendly with me as if yeh didn't just try and blackmail me over somethin' so petty?" Vector replied. "And no, I didn't think 'bout it. I told ya already, Julie. Just forget me and move on already. Fer Gaia's sake…"

As he turned around, he was stopped when a foot slammed down on his right foot. Vector tensed up as he saw Julie to his side.

"T-The fuck ya do that for?!"

"So, I can't even act nice for ONE morning without you having to act like an asshole?!" she questioned. "For all the stuff you accused me of doing weeks back, you sure aren't realizing that you yourself are an asshole, Vector!"

"May I remind yeh that yer doin' all this cause I slept with ya drunk and now yeh seem to think I wanna get back with ya like how things were when we were in high school? What will it take fer ya to leave me alone?"

"At least consider the idea of forgiving, Vector! I told you I'm both sorry AND changed! I even told you what I did was a mistake! If I didn't want to let go, I would still think that what I did was okay, but it wasn't!"

"Yeh'll prove to me that you realize what ya did was a mistake when ya stop tryin' to chase after me. I told ya, yeh had yer chance with me. And look what ya did with it. Ya used yer chance to make me into a fool while you found someone better. I moved on from ya. Can yeh? Now, get off mah foot and go to class. This is the last time I'll say it. If yeh continue to search me out, I'll refuse to even acknowledge ya. Maybe one day in the future I'll forgive ya. But today ain't that day. So please, LEAVE. ME. ALONE."

Forcing Julie's foot off his own, Vector held onto his bags tighter as Julie watched him walk away. She balled up her fists into a curl as she grit her teeth. Just then, two girls came up behind her.

"Julie? Did it work?" asked Mina, member of Gamma Zeta Beta and one of Julie's best friends. Beside her was Tiara Boobowski, who looked concerned.

"I see how you're standing, Julie…" Tiara said. "Oh… I'm so sorry…"

"He didn't say no… did he?"

"I don't get it… why won't he move past it?" Julie said as she sniffed.

"Oh, bunny boo…" said Mina. "If he's being a dick, maybe it is for the best that you move on. You don't deserve a man like that. Especially if he's acting like your asshole exes."

Mina and Tiara hugged their friend to signify their solidarity, but Julie however, didn't cry despite her sniffing. Her expression only boldened as her two friends hugged her.

"Vector… I WILL make you forgive me no matter what I do, or how many bridges I burn," she thought to herself. "I want you to treat me right like you did all those years ago, and I want us to show that true love can let us move past hardships… and if you won't let me…"

Just then, Julie turned her head as through the crowd of people, she noticed a few members of the Badniks football team. When her eye caught on one person, however, her expression changed.

"…thanks girls…" Julie said while smiling. "Gimme a minute though, I'll be right back…"

"Huh?" questioned the two as they watched Julie run off towards the crowd of students heading up the steps to the A building. They watched as the pink echidna stopped someone they hadn't seen before.

"You recognize him, Mina?" asked Tiara.

"Can't say… why would Julie stop someone like him?" added the mongoose. "What would she see in a… purple gorilla?"


As Espio checked the fridge again on his bento, he closed it before sitting atop of Vector's bed. The chameleon had just finished unpacking his bags, putting all his clothes back where they normally where, and getting his books and notebooks ready for his first class of the day. And yet… Vector still hadn't arrived.

It made Espio feel upset. Not only was he looking forward to seeing Vector come back, but he wanted to show the quarterback the bento Valdez had prepared for the two of them. The look on his smiling face when he saw what it was, getting to eat it together while still improving Vector's chopstick skills, bonding together over a meal that he'd have at home…

Espio sighed before breathing in. The bedding however, despite being a few days since Vector had slept in it, had a scent that he could only describe as 'Vector-like'. The distinct smell of part pasture, dirt, and sweat, and another half being something he couldn't quite describe and the scent of the scale cleaning shampoo he'd bring with him during his morning showers.

"It smells… so nice though…" he said. "Vector… where are you?"

Just then, a familiar BEEP was heard. Espio gasped as he quickly raised his body off from the bed. The door swung wide open, and a familiar person was in front of the door frame.

"Welcome back, dorm, I'm hooooo-" Vector said before being cut off. He looked at Espio as the chameleon, in one of his more rarer moves, gave the crocodile a smile.

"Hello, Vector…" he said without tripping on his words. The crocodile went into the dorm and closed the door behind him.

"Well, hey there, Espio! So glad to see ya again!" the crocodile replied. "Didja see our game on Thanksgivin'?"

Espio nodded. "Y-Yes, I… I… oh, what do you say… I do…? I d-did?..."

"Second time's the charm!"

"A-Ah! Yes, I di-did!"

"Well, I'm back! Although, get used to seein' me a lil' less until this semester ends. This comin' few weeks are gonna be the toughest yet. Not only do we gotta start studyin' fer finals fer classes that end in December, but I gotta start trainin' fer the Winter Playoffs. We gotta make sure we win this year! I at least wanna make a come back after last year's disaster of a last game!"

Espio wasn't too sure what Vector meant, but he just hoped that meant things would be going back to normal. As he watched the crocodile unpack his bags, taking out his clothes, his laptop, and other knickknacks that he had in his bag, that's when Espio gasped when he realized he almost forgot something.

"Vector!" he said as the crocodile was folding his clothes to be put away in the drawer.

"Hm? What is it?" asked the quarterback as the chameleon ran over to the fridge and pulled out the bento. He opened it up and showed it to his friend. "Whoa, what's that? Is that yer lunch fer today! Looks tasty…"

He shook his head.

"No? Who's it for?"

"V-Valdez said that… it… it was… how do you say that word… sh-shhhar?"

"Share? What, this?"

Vector looked down at the bento then back at his friend. "OH, wait! Did Mr. Valdez make this fer us to share?"

Espio gasped as he nodded his head.

"Aw, that's nice of him! I kinda was hopin' fer somethin' nice from the dinin' hall fer lunch today, but I dun mind sharing that! Looks good too!... what is this stuff by the way?"

"Gojo f-fu… food."

"This is food from yer village, eh? Def looks a LOT more different than what I'm used to! Well, regardless, I'd be happy to split it with ya fer lunch! Just put it back in the fridge so it dun gets spoiled."

Espio turned around and did just that, closing the fridge as the crocodile finished unpacking. He grabbed his phone and checked the time.

"Uh oh, looks like we only got 20 minutes before class starts. Come on, we still got time, so lemme just pack up mah stuff and let's bolt it outta here. Ya got yer stuff, right?"

Espio grabbed his bag that he left on Vector's bed and put it over one shoulder.

"Alright, wait fer me, okay? Then we'll get outta here."

And so, the chameleon stood still as he waited for the crocodile to get ready. It felt so strange, forgetting everything that had happened in the previous week or so just because Vector was there. From his strange reaction to the Wrestling match, to his mother announcing his suitor period was coming once he returned to Gojo, to even forgetting that Jet tried to mess with him AGAIN only for it to fail. In fact, it was almost like having Vector next to him felt like protection in a way…

"But… should I talk to him about this?..." Espio asked himself. He wasn't even sure if he should, as some of his conflicting thoughts came after seeing both that strange photo, but also looking back… the way how he was smelling Vector's bedding… Never once had someone else's scent came to him in the times he had to sleep on someone else's futon back in Gojo or any of the Historic District villages, so… why now?

It was for naught, as Vector was done packing. With his bag over his shoulder and his headphones plugged into his phone, the crocodile moved his head towards the door.

"Alright, I'm ready. C'mon, Espio. Let's go."

The chameleon followed behind the crocodile as they went their usual way through West Hall and through the A building to reach the back doors of the building. But along their way…

"Yo, Vec! Over here!"

Vector and Espio turned their heads to see three familiar faces by one of the entrances through the Medical Students' hall; Bull Bones, Brawny, and Rudy, all huddled close to one another. The crocodile quickly took a detour as Espio followed behind.

"Yo guys, what's up?" Vector said as fist bumped the bulldog, warthog, and lizard one by one. "Hey, ya guys did great last Thursday!"

"We did great?" Brawny questioned. "Dude, you should have seen yourself! You were really on our asses, but that's the sign that you wanted to win!"

"Well, who wants to be playin' football when ya could be spendin' time with yer family?"

"And in spite of that rushing, we won!" Bull said as he put his hands behind his back. "Well, doesn't help that Grand Metropolis ain't really what I call the BEST team. Frankly we got off easy."

"But hey, we did win!" Rudy added. "And besides, I think this was just a warmup for the Winter Playoffs. Can you imagine how that's gonna be?"

"Yeah, I know," Vector replied. "Last night, coach gave me a text to meet him in his office to discuss our plans fer the playoffs. Looks like we're still gonna be trainin' daily on days that we dun play a game. And I'm gonna do my mornin' routine too."

"I think it's one we all should follow," Brawny replied. "We all gotta be in tip top shape. When's our first game by the by?"

"Think it's on December 2nd… and it was against… oh boy, who WAS it against?"

"Wasn't it our rematch against the Winterberg Peckys?"

Vector quickly turned his head towards the warthog. "Oh, FUCK no. We are SO gettin' our revenge fer what happened durin' our last game!"

"There's the motivation we love to see!" Bull said. "Speaking of singing your praises, Rudy, don't you have something you wanna tell Vector?"

"Oh right!" the lizard replied. "Connery wanted me to let you know since he's in class right now. He said that you did a fine job during Thursday's game, and that he's happy that you don't have any kind of distractions around you. And that… uh… if you keep it up, we'll win the Playoffs guaranteed?"

Vector however, lowered his eyes and softly bellowed. "Ugh… I know what he means by 'not having any kind of distractions'. I'm just gonna pretend he said the first part and nothin' more…"

Espio looked up at his friend, noticing the look on his face.

"Oh, didn't quite see you there, Espio!" Bull said. "Don't worry, Connery ain't here. We won't bite."

"I thought we were already friendly with him, dude!" Brawny replied. "He's the one who actually went out and found the dudes who fucked up our field! He's had my respect since!"

"Be thankful I don't act as Connery's informant. I want him to at LEAST go through his first day back from Thanksgiving break without needing to get into SOME kinda disagreement," Rudy said. "But for real, Espio. We're glad to see you too. You gonna come to our playoff games and root for us, right?"

Espio stared at the lizard, not entirely sure what he meant. He only softly nodded.

"Good, that's the spirit!" Rudy then slapped Espio's shoulder, taking him off guard by how hard Rudy's hit was despite him being one of the more leaner members of the Badniks. "Fans like you are how we do our best!"

"Hey, yeh three better head off to class soon. Won't be long before it starts," said Vector.

"My classes start at 11," Brawny said. "I know when it is."

"Just wanted to make sure. I know it's gonna suck both studyin' and trainin', but at least have the courtesy of not bein' a blockhead before the Playoffs. Won't wanna get coach on mah ass, especially now. He kicks into overdrive."

"As if he normally doesn't do that," Rudy replied. "What you get when you're trained by AD Sommersby."

"I just feel ONE of us are gonna get our heads ripped off before the finals," Bull added. "Who do you think it'll be? One of the dozens of unnamed players?"

Everyone sans Espio turned towards the bulldog.

"…anyway, Espio and I gotta head out to class. I'll see ya guys durin' lunch, 'kay?" Vector said as he turned around, with the chameleon following behind.


FIFTEEN MINUTES 'TILL 1 PM…

It was finally after two classes that day that Vector and Espio were finally able to go to lunch. After returning to the dorm quickly, Espio held the bento in both hands as Vector wondered about the meal he was going to have.

"I wonder how it'll taste?" Vector said. "When I think of Northern Mobius food, or well, from the part YER from, I think of stuff like sushi rolls and… uh… that's it really. I am curious to try this though but uh… will I need chopsticks again?"

The crocodile did a hand motion replicating chopstick usage as the chameleon nodded. Vector looked up towards the sky.

"Oh boy, cause I did it SO well the last time…"

Entering through the K building, the two reptiles entering the dining hall as they saw the sea of students grabbing food and placing them onto plates or ordering from the several restaurants, alongside the people who were already sitting down.

"Since we dun need much… I'll go get us some chopsticks fer us to enjoy. And… hm… hey, Espio, want somethin' to drink? Somethin' like…"

Vector walked past the main buffet area as Espio followed behind. He stopped in front of a wall of different vending machines and grabbed his wallet from his pocket. Scanning in his meal card, he pressed a few buttons on the machine as a red sports drink was vended out. As it was being carried to the pick up box, the crocodile turned to see Espio looking wide eyed at the vending machine.

"Ya seen one of these before, Espio?" Vector asked. Espio surprisingly, shook his head. However, it seemed that despite being aware of vending machines, it mystified yet entertained him in the same way that cooking popcorn in the microwave did. After the sports drink was vended out, Vector pressed more buttons on the machine again as a second red sports drink was vended out. Picking up the second one, he handed it to Espio.

"Here, it's on me!" Vector said, smiling his toothy grin. "Now, let's get us our chopsticks and find the guys."

As Espio grabbed the sports drink, looking at it as he held the bento in his other hand, Vector walked over to the utensils area and picked up two packages of chopsticks next to the normal fork, knives, and spoons. With that, the two reptiles made their way past the food court area and into the seating area of the dining hall, Vector turning his head to find his fellow teammates (and Mighty). Sure enough, while they were at a different table, everyone was there at the same time. With many of them eating their meals, some were talking amongst each other, with Knuckles being the first to notice Vector and Espio.

"Yo, Vec! Espio! Over here!" he said. "Sorry about the table change. Looks like the music people got to it before us."

"Who knew the band geeks would defeat us jocks," Thrash said in the middle of a pile of noodles, beef, and vegetables. "I feel so offended that it came to that."

"Well, I'm here!" Vector said as he sat down.

"You aren't eating anything today, Vector?" Mighty asked as he looked up from his yogurt.

"Sure I am! Espio here had somethin' Mr. Valdez made and he wanted to share it with me! Er… will we have to heat it up?"

Not understanding him entirely, Espio opened the bento and revealed the lunch the two reptiles were to be sharing. Vector licked his lips.

"Looks so good…" he said as Espio put the bento on the table. The chameleon opened his chopsticks, separated them in half, and immediately took the first piece of onigiri from the bento. Realizing that he wasn't going to heat it up, Vector followed suit, carefully holding the chopsticks in his hand as it began to shake.

"Come on…" he said as Mighty and Knuckles watched.

"What's that?" Knuckles questioned.

"Uh… looks like a triangle of rice. Dunno what this stuff is though or what it's called but…" Vector replied before placing it in his mouth. As he bit down and let the flavors hit his taste buds, he was surprised by how it was. "It's pretty good… it's rice and… fish as well? Alongside somethin' else I can't recognize too."

"Rice and fish?" Mighty questioned.

"I mean, if you ask me, sounds like a good source of carbs and protein," Knuckles added. "Don't the Northern Mobians have food that's healthy for you?"

"Yeah, they do," Thrash added. "We talked about that some time ago, didn't we? Are you thinking of changing up your diet before the Playoffs, Knux?"

"O-Oh, no-no it-"

"Well, glad to see SOMEONE is seeing the light," Connery said. "Don't worry, Knuckles. Now that you're the first one to actually consider such a thing, I have a GREAT plan that'll suit you."

"I… ugh… thanks, Connery…" Knuckles groaned, looking away from the horse.

"And for that matter, it makes me happy to hear that you all are thinking of the playoffs before they've even started."

"Oi, didn't you forget I had to go on a diet when the semester began?" Monk questioned.

"Yes well you're off it now that you were able to lose a few pounds," the horse replied. "Frankly, it would be for the best that you all follow suit like Knuckles. We're going to need the best food, best rest, and best exercise we can get before the playoffs and during it too. Vector, have you discussed with Coach what we're going to do?"

Vector rolled his eyes, not wanting to interact with Connery, but at least it wasn't about Espio this time (who he was seemingly ignoring). "I will tonight. He wanted to see me and discuss plans fer it. Alongside that, I usually have mah own plans fer workouts as well as what I eat. Includin'… ugh, a glass of carrot juice each mornin'…"

"Don't be disgusted, Vector. Does it taste good? Maybe not, but it does a lot of benefits for you. Still though, with how you performed last week as well as you having a plan for our playoffs, I think that everything will be okay."

"Are you sure about that?" questioned Rotor. "The way you put it like that, it sounds like you're ready to throw hands with someone. Besides, you know things have been tense lately."

"If this is your way of talking… 'smart' to me, Rotor, then if you think that I'm the one who's bringing tension to this table, you all need to look at yourself and question how you're adding onto it too. I don't appreciate being the one shoved around in this blame game, and I only want what's best for us athletes. And if that means-"

Suddenly, Connery stopped as he began to sniff. His snout moved back and forth as he raised an eyebrow.

"…what… is that smell?"

Axel followed suite, as did Bull and Brawny.

"Hey, you're right! What is that smell?" asked the warthog. The horse then looked towards Vector and Espio, the two in the middle of their bento and moving onto the sushi rolls after eating their onigiri.

"What… are you eating?..." Connery questioned, his moustache bowering as a scowl formed on his face.

"Northern Mobius food?" replied Vector. "What, ya gotta problem with that?"

"Stop eating that. I don't care how healthy it might be, that smells absolutely putrid… and besides, did you even make that?"

"No… Mr. Valdez made it fer us to share. Besides, I ain't gonna throw it away just 'cuz yeh don't like it."

"So, you don't even know HOW it was made and yet you're just eating it just to show off how righteous you look eating foods from outside Central Mobius. Heaven knows how those meals are cooked."

"Connery, can we just… let this the fuck go?" Rotor said. "I dunno 'bout you, but I'm REALLY getting sick of all this arguing. Like, just let Vector do whatever the hell he wants to do-"

"IF I do that, Rotor, then I'll practically let Vector bog himself down with distractions and shallow displays of virtue signaling. I'm frankly doing him a favor, reminding him that he can get plenty of the nutrients he needs here in this cafeteria. Not from some kitsch lunchbox with what looks like display food and a foul odor. And what did I tell Rotor about using those sticks, Vector? The fork, knife, and spoon were invented for a reason. You DON'T need two wooden sticks."

Thrash looked over at the bento. "I dunno, Connery… thing does look kinda healthy. There's plenty of fruits and veggies, and a fair bit of rice as well and even… fish? If anything, while I know you're vegetarian at least, I think it's a meal you'd agree with."

"Besides, Espio doesn't eat meat," Mighty said as he drank his energy drink. "Frankly, I think you could learn a thing or two from the meals he has."

Connery turned towards the armadillo, his mane zipping along with his head. "And I think I would prefer it if this group stopped trying to justify having this insipidness at this table! Do you think I would trade the food that I know comes from this part of Mobius for whatever garbage I'm seeing in front of me? Even if it is apparently, 'healthy', since you lot are apparently all experts in meals outside of Central Mobius, I refuse to bow down to eat meals meant for a group of people with… no clear access to the finest ingredients."

Vector's arm began to shake. He had been trying his best to hold himself back, but it was too late. He snapped his chopsticks in his hands.

"Connery… yer going too far…" Vector growled.

"Let me guess, is this the part where you start to call me a bigot? A racist? That's all I hear from you liberals. Anyone says something you don't like; you point fingers and cry racism like a petulant child. I'll tell you this, Vector."

Connery got up as he scooped up his trash and bag before arching his back towards the crocodile.

"If those two words even come out of your mouth, then I know that you have no argument against me. So, be our good quarterback and make sure you're getting the RIGHT meals."

With that, the horse walked away as Vector threw the chopsticks onto the table, landing on Monk and Knuckles' laps.

"I'm not gonna comment on WHAT your meal is…" Monk said. "But why do you need to share it… well, like how you're doing it? Like as if you're on a date… with another man…"

"Monk, dun even fuckin' START," the crocodile replied. "I ain't even hungry anymore…"

Vector turned towards Espio, who noticed the hidden solemn look in his eyes. He knew that the chameleon wasn't one to express his emotions, and despite his anger, the way that the crocodile could see the look in Espio's eyes in that moment…

"So, who's betting on Connery getting into a fight before the season ends?" Bull Bones asked. "I."

Thrash, Mighty, and Rotor chimed in, as did a few other members of the team.

"I don't see this as a joke, Bull," Axel replied. "This team is starting to fall apart more and more by the day. If we can't cut off the source of our discord, then we're guaranteeing a loss for the Winter Playoffs."

"Not our fault Vector lets that chameleon follow him everywhere he goes," Monk replied. "Like a damn stalker, I'll tell you what… never seen a man act like that towards another man, and so out in the open too like, do you think I not only have to pass by degeneracy on the walls of this campus but now even in the sport I'm in, my fellow athletes are being followed around by these in-your-face… tch, not even worth giving them a name. Lack of traditionalism and pure degeneracy is what I call it."

It took everything in that moment for the crocodile to not explode on the gorilla.

"Yo, Vector… you alright?" Knuckles asked.

"I'm… fine…" he replied through gritted teeth. However, he knew that was a lie. Even with Coach talking to Connery, even with the team defending Espio, it STILL wasn't enough for Connery and Monk to get on the chameleon's case just because the two were friends.

And Vector knew that when he meets with coach tonight and discusses plans with him, he'll show the two that he can be friends with Espio and still lead their team to victory no matter how much they harass him. He would show them that Espio isn't who they think he is despite their biases.

Despite his confidence, all it took was for him to see Espio again for it to go down as his look softened. The chameleon had stopped eating and only stared at his food.

"Hey," Vector said as he put his hand on Espio's shoulder. The chameleon looked up at him. "Dun worry 'bout what happened. Connery's just bein' an idiot again. I'll get a new pair of chopsticks and we'll finish our lunch together. I wanna enjoy those sushi rolls, and we got three pieces left, 'kay?"

Espio could only stare back at the crocodile. "'Kay?" Vector asked again before Espio nodded.

"Okay."


"So, we have a lot of cram planning to do until the first of December," Coach Augustus said that evening in his office as Vector looked back at the polar bear. "I think a good idea we need to do tomorrow is talk about strategies for each team. We're already planned to go against Winterberg for our first game, but it we win against them, then after SHOULD be either the Metal City Flickies or the Westopolis Aliens. If you ask me, I think we should probably switch up everyone's position on the field for each game, see who works best in each area."

"If yeh ask me, coach… the Flickies were kinda strugglin' at first this season, but they've recently started to pick up," Vector replied. "We may need to change up strategies if that's the case. The one I'm most worried 'bout is their offense. They've gotten a lot stronger, probably strong enough to take down Knux and Monk. The Aliens on the other hand, feel kinda so so. I ain't too worried 'bout them. Been a mixed bag with that team. Okay defense, not so good offense, kinda good-ish quarterback, the works."

"Don't get too overconfident, Vector. We're going to have a very busy December ahead of us. And that's not even taking into account the College Bowl in January. I just hope that the trophy is ours this year. We've come so close and yet so far too often when it comes to the playoffs, it just HAS to this year."

"Well, I ain't gonna let yeh or the team down, coach. I already said I'm gonna train as hard as I can, eat the best food I can fer strength, and get plenty of sleep."

"And I'm glad you know what your role is when we're not out on the field. But remember, don't tire yourself out TOO quickly. Your workouts will help you build the muscle and cardio you need, but you need to make sure you do it nice and steady so you aren't sore the day of a game. Why don't you get Espio to help out?"

"Espio?"

"Frankly, I think you're going to need a personal trainer. Not just one who'll help you work out, but also keep you focused on your schoolwork. You DIDN'T think I'd just let you slack on your studies, did I?"

"Well, coach… erm, I-"

"Hey, what did I tell you first practice?" Coach Augustus pointed at Vector. "I DON'T allow blockheads on this team. Just because you're gonna be busy at practice and training to prepare doesn't mean I want you slacking on your schoolwork. Finals are coming up soon, and I BETTER hear that you're studying too. Mind power matters as much as body power too, you know. Don't make me have to talk with your professors…"

Vector raised his hands up. "I'm gonna be fine, coach! I promise I ain't gonna be like Knuckles!"

"He's always your go to man for when I threaten you boys not wantin' to be idiots, huh?"

"Hey, it's an easy joke to make!"

The two laughed.

"Well, we should discuss this tomorrow. Not only do you need your rest, but since you got to my office, it's started to snow. You're gonna be okay, right? I know how you cold blooded mobians are in the cold."

"Coach, this ain't the first time I've been out in the snow... even if it does suck ass."

"Well, better run back to the West Hall and get ready to turn in soon, no?"

"And I gotta bring Espio back too. Poor guy's almost waited two hours fer me to get outta this office."

The coach smiled. "Heh, you're right," he said before getting up. "Well, if you'll excuse me, I gotta meet with AD Sommersby real quick. Poor man's been busy all week planning all the future stuff for our participation in the playoffs."

"Careful he doesn't rip yer head off, coach."

"Vector, that man was MY original coach and the man who trained me when I first applied to work here. I've known my way around him for years now."

Vector snorted as he walked out of the room, turning to his right and seeing Espio sitting still as a statue on a bench just outside of Coach Augustus' office. He walked towards his friend and tapped him on the shoulder, Espio turning towards him.

"Hey there, sorry yeh had to wait so long. I'm done now. Let's head back to the dorm soon. It's really cold outside and it's startin' to snow," Vector said as Espio got off the bench, following behind the crocodile as the two walked past the doors of Mobius U's coaches in the northeastern portion of the I building. They walked down the halls and exited into the main indoor gym area and out of the I building, where the first wind chill immediately got towards the two.

"Rrr… G-Gaia it sure is cold, even bundled up like this…" Vector said as he wrapped his arms around himself. He looked down to see that Espio had his eyes closed, and despite not looking like he wasn't bothered, it was clear on Espio's face that he was. "Yeh gonna be okay, Espio?"

"I will be… be fa-fine," he replied.

"Yeh sure? If ya want we can like… y'know…" Vector stopped himself, wondering where he was even going with this. What WAS he even trying to suggest? Espio turned his head in confusion. "…never mind. Let's just run back to the A buildin' as fast as we can, okay?"

With that, Vector started to move in place as he got his blood rushing. He instantly took off, running down the steps and zipping past the concrete walkway of the back campus. Though it was mere seconds when ran from the I building, he was halfway there towards the A building when he turned around and saw Espio run after him in a position he'd never seen before: left arm over his face as the chameleon was now starting to catch up.

However, Vector was able to reach the doors to the A building just a second before Espio, and he sighed before coughing into his elbow due to the cold.

"Hey, that was a nice effort!" he said. "Keep this up and yeh'll be able to catch up to me. And I ain't even… one of the…" he took a few breaths. "…fastest guys on the team. That honor goes to Connery… frankly… you should challenge him… maybe it'll get him to finally… respect you… anyway… let's get inside."

With Espio coughing into the sleeve of his hakama, the two reptiles walked inside into the A building, their bodies flushed with the warm air of the building.

"That feels so much better, eh?" Vector asked as Espio nodded.

"It is… too… too… c-co… coo…"

"Cold?"

"Yes! It is too cold…"

"Huh, yeh could say that again. I would ask if ya want somethin' warm, but it probably would only be in the K buildin' and I think the dinin' hall closed fer the night-"

"H-Hey, Espio!"

The two were interrupted as they were in the midst of walking towards the stairs to the third floor. They turned around and saw… Jewel.

"Yeh…" Vector said as he got in front of Espio. "Whaddya want? Gonna treat Espio bad again, eh?! As if he hasn't already been gettin' harassed by members of mah team, now yeh gotta come in too?!"

"…what do you mean?"

Vector stopped, noticing how the jewel beetle didn't seem angry or even tried to put on an aura of faux happiness under a mask of contempt.

"Besides, why are you suddenly acting like an overprotective boyfriend?" she asked. "I'm just here to ask him something."

Jewel looked down at the floor as she grabbed her arm. "So… Espio… I… there's a lot I've had on my mind about… well, about us. And I think now is the time I stopped avoiding you. Are you busy tomorrow for lunch? I wanna take you out somewhere so we can talk. You sure seem like to hang out with your friend here, but I just wanted you to know that… I wanna take you out somewhere and talk to you face to face."

Vector looked down at the chameleon, who had moved out of the way of Vector's frame. The crocodile crouched down towards him.

"Espio, yeh ain't really gonna go, are ya? She's probably just fakin' it…" he whispered. To his surprise though…

"Yes."

"Huh? S-So, you'll go?!" Jewel asked.

"Yes."

"Oh… thanks, Espio. Don't worry, I'll say everything I need to say tomorrow. I'll see you tomorrow then during Creative Drawing."

With that, the jewel beetle began to buzz away after turning around. Vector simply stared at her from the distance as he turned towards Espio.

"Why didja say yes?" he asked "Yeh know all she's gonna do is torment ya as she always does."

"Jewel is na… na… how do you say that word."

"Nice?"

"Yes! Jewel is nice."

"Nice? When the hell did she become nice?"

But now that he recalled… Mr. Valdez mentioned something about it the other day when he came by the dorm to collect Espio's weekly letter to his mother.

"Espio and Jewel did rather well on their last drawing project," he said. "Her attitude towards him seemingly changed. He mentioned something about her being rather antagonistic towards him and had it continued, I would have talked to her personally. But it's like a switch flipped."

Is that what happened? Did Jewel's opinion on Espio change so much that she wanted to invite him for lunch? Not that he didn't mind, but he was worried for Espio since he wouldn't be there.

…wait, why was he stressing for something that only his friend was going through.

And there was that comment…

"…why are you acting like an overprotective boyfriend?"

That and Monk's comments from earlier came back into his mind and all Vector could do was stand there by the staircase. What did this mean? He did care about Espio a lot, even so much to a point that he was going to stand up for him but… boyfriend?

"Is… is this how others see it?" Vector questioned to himself. "B-But he ain't mah-"

Suddenly, the side of Vector's shirt was being tugged as Espio looked up at the crocodile.

"I'm okay," he said.

"That yeh are…" Vector replied. "Yeh gonna be fine tomorrow, right?"

"I will be fine."

"Course, I know ya will. I just am… am a lil' worried she'll just treat ya bad. If she does well, ya know where I am." Winking, he then turned around. "So, let's head back to the dorm now, 'kay?"

With that, the two reptiles started to make their way towards the stairs.


THE NEXT DAY

"'Zo, now 'zat we 'ave reviewed 'ze rubric for 'ze final project, class time on Thursday will be spent on your final project!" Professor D' Coolette said as he walked around the classroom. "If you need me, I can be reached via email or by phone, but 'zis is a project I expect you all to not only do in class, but also outside class! 'Ze project must be on my desk by December 16th, and we'll begin our final presentation and peer critique on 'ze coming Tuesday. And unlike 'ze other projects, I will NOT allow for late work. If 'ze project is not turned into me by Saturday the 16th, then you will fail 'ze first part of 'ze final. And 'zat's 10% of your grade, 'zo I would recommend you do it, least not you will fail 'zis class. Especially when you need your final for 'ze second part of the final, which iz your final portfolio! 'ZO…" he then clapped his hands. "I expect great projects from you all!"

The coyote looked around the classroom before continuing. "Before I dismiss you, come up to my desk and retrieve your prompt for what you shall draw for your final! And once you obtain it, you shall be free to go!"

However, he then stopped in front of Espio.

"Espio, 'owever, I would like to speak to you once everyone leaves. Valdez, iz it okay if I talk to Espio by 'imself?"

"O-Oh, of course," Valdez replied. "Is there a reason?"

"I just noticed 'zomething about Espio and 'ould like to speak to him. After class, okay?"

Translating for him, Espio could only wonder about why Professor D' Coolette wanted to talk to him about. There was only one thing he could realize was the answer…

"…he noticed I'm thinking about him…" the chameleon thought to himself. All throughout class, as he listened to the professor's lecture about the final project, flashes of Vector kept going into his mind. It would happen briefly, then sometimes it would happen repeatedly for a couple of seconds. He wasn't sure what was going on anymore, why was his mind wanting to see Vector? Was it about what he said yesterday about Jewel? Was it how Connery was acting towards the others yesterday and how Vector was standing up for him? Whatever it was, Espio found it harder and harder to focus on the lesson today because of it.

And so, with class dismissed, everyone got up and got a slip of paper with their subject for their final. Espio reached into the basket of papers and pulled one out.

"Valdez, what does this say?" he asked as he gave the paper to the blue chameleon.

"City life at night," Valdez replied. "Ah, I think I might have to take you to Central City at night for you to do your project. We can't be long though, as I'm usually busy in the evenings. Plus, Professor D' Coolette wants you to be present in the area where you'll paint your environments, so I can't take a picture. Meaning… you won't be able to work on your project. At least that means we can focus on your portfolio for the art show."

"Art show? Valdez, what does that mean?"

"A lot of people will be coming from various art institutes around Central Mobius to observe the art you and your fellow classmates have created. You'll be displaying your works."

Espio quickly zipped his head towards Valdez. "…to-to other people?"

"Yes. Think of it like how you and your peers of the Shinobi clan's dojo would visit other dojos from the other villages back in the Historic District. You're displaying your own art to the dojo masters and their students when you did that, right? It's nearly the same thing, just with your drawings."

Espio looked down at the floor, thinking about how nervous he would get performing in front of others, especially his own family. Remembering how his mother would critique his technique, he had to thank the stars at LEAST she wouldn't be here for it…

"Anyway, you have to talk to Professor D' Coolette, no? I shouldn't take up your time. Look, everyone's already left. Since it's Tuesday, we don't have another meeting with Professor Longclaw, meaning you'll need to wait until 3 for your next class. I have to return to my office to do my own work, so I'll meet you for your next class, okay?"

Espio nodded as Valdez walked away, heading out of the classroom as he turned around, seeing Professor D' Coolette at his desk as the first few students of his next class started coming in.

"Pu-P.." he said, trying to remember the English word for 'professor'. "Pro… profe…"

"Professor," the coyote said. "It iz no shame if you 'ave a 'ard time with English, Espio. Gaia knows I 'ad a lot of trouble learning 'ze language myself. I came from East Mobius naturally. But 'zat iz besides 'ze point. Espio, I wanted to ask… are you feeling okay?"

Espio turned his head. "What?"

"I couldn't 'elp but notice 'zat you seemed very… very out of it today! You normally are very attentive in class, but today, you seemed almost conflicted! Non, I don't like to 'zee you like 'zat! Are you sure you're okay?"

Images of Vector continued to flash in Espio's mind, and he tried his best to ignore them all. Closing his eyes, he took a few breaths.

"I'm fine," he said, lying to Professor D'Coolette. The coyote looked at him strangely.

"Well… okay. But always remember, us professors are always looking out for out students, so feel free to talk to any one of us if you are 'aving trouble. And 'zere isn't just us. 'Zere is also 'ze college's therapist, Mr. Valdez, and ton colocataire! Your roommate as well. I know you 'ave been 'ere for less 'zan a year, and while I know you are more used to it now, 'zere is no shame in 'aving trouble around campus. 'Zat is all I wanted to talk to you about. You're free to leave now."

Espio bowed before turning around and leaving the classroom. However, his mind was still rushing.

"I can't tell him," he thought to himself. "I can't tell anyone about what's going on. I don't want him to tell Vector about-"

Just then, a voice stopped him.

"There you are!"

Espio turned around to see Jewel waiting by the classroom's door.

"What did Professor D' Coolette want to talk to you about?" she asked, holding her bag with all sorts of pins and buttons on it. "Never mind. Listen, I have another class after this, so wait for me in the A building lounge area right there," the jewel beetle pointed to a corner of sofas where students were busy doing work on laptops near the vending machines. "…at exactly 12:30. Then I'll take you out, okay? And remember, 12:30!"

She then turned around and started to flap her wings as Espio watched her fly past the sea of students.

"At least she still isn't being rude…" he said, sighing.


LATER…

It was around the time that Jewel mentioned that Espio was standing patiently at, waiting for the jewel beetle to arrive. He had been standing there at that location for the past hour, being used to having to wait long amounts of time due to his ninja training. A few people passed by, calling him standing still 'strange', but sometimes when ambushing an enemy, you needed to play a long game of waiting before you can make the strike you needed.

Finally, the chameleon noticed a familiar face buzz towards him, still holding her bags, Jewel flew towards him.

"There you are," she said. "Man, you look like a statue… whatever, let's just go. We… no, I mean… I got a lot to talk about…"


After following Jewel out of the A building, towards her car in the same place Vector and Mr. Valdez parked (albeit in a car MUCH smaller than either of theirs), the two drove out to a high rise building in the middle of downtown Central City.

"Here's the place," she said after the two had gotten out of the car and headed towards the building. With Jewel leading the way, she opened the door for Espio as the chameleon looked around. The building seemed very old, made of material he hadn't seen before. He touched it with his fingers, feeling how… smooth it was.

"It's marble, Espio," Jewel said. "It's nice, but I guess you're not used to it. Look, let's get inside."

Espio followed after Jewel as he entered the building, and as he looked forward, he saw multiple counters with treats and foods he hadn't seen before. The building smelled of various different aromas, all of which… were REALLY good!

"Let's sit down here," Jewel said as she sat down at a table closest to the two. Espio looked over at the empty seat and followed suite, continuing to look around at the building.

"Well, welcome to Ella's, I guess," she smiled, putting her bag on the table. As Espio looked at the bag, he finally got to see all the decorations that Jewel had on her bag closer. There were some with just normal designs on them, but there were others that said, 'I'M AN ALLY' in rainbow coloring, a pink symbol with a fist in the middle of a circle, 'STOP HATE' with white lettering amongst a black background, just to name a few.

"Oh, good afternoon, Jewel!" a sudden sweet voice said. Espio looked up to see a plump Overlander woman come towards their table. Espio noticed her dirty apron, her curly hair, as well as the dust on her hands.

"Hi Ella, I'm here for lunch," she said. "I'm already ready for my order."

"Ah, the usual no?" she asked. "Ham and honey dijon with soup du jour, small chocolate mousse cup on the side and Russian tea?"

"Yes ma'am! And uh… for my…"

"Ah, who is this handsome young man you have with here today?" Ella asked. "Are you two on a date?"

The jewel beetle quickly turned towards the woman. "N-No! He's just a friend from my Creative Drawing class! We just needed to talk about some stuff!"

"Ho ho ho, no need to get so embarrassed, Jewel darling. Has he ate here before? Those clothes he wears…"

"Yeah, he's not used to West Mobius food. He's from Northern Mobius and is more accustomed to Japanese… well everything."

"Well, I just hope he likes Spagonia Region food! Oh, what am I saying, he'll LOVE it! Do you know what you'll be having, sir? Or shall I get a menu?"

Espio looked confused.

"He… doesn't really speak English well," Jewel said. "Do you have a menu for deaf patrons? Maybe he can use that to find out what he wants?"

"Of course! Let me just go get one!"

Ella turned around as Jewel reached over the table. "That's Ella, owner of the bakery. She's really sweet, and since I'm a recurring customer because of how much I come by to do assignments outside of class as well as college related work with the staff, she knows me by name. Once you get to know her, it's like she's a second mother. And the stuff she cooks and bakes it REALLY good. Her family is from Spagonia, and they're known for their cuisine there. In fact, Professor D' Coolette is from the same place, and-"

Just then, Ella came back.

"Here's our picture menu, sir," she said as she handed it to Espio. "Whatever looks best to you, just pick it out and I'll put it on your order. Is this separate or together?"

"Together,"

Just then, Espio pointed to the spinach and asiago tartine.

"Ah, excellent choice! Anything else?"

"I'm not sure what he eats…" Jewel said. "But why not give him what I ordered too? A Russian tea and… for desert… let's let him do a vanilla éclair. That's a good first one, don't you think?"

"I couldn't agree more! Okay, I'll get this ready for you two! I'll be right back!"

With that, Ella left the two as Jewel turned towards Espio.

"Now that she's gone, I can finally talk. Listen… Espio I…"

Jewel looked down at the table. "I suppose you kind of want an explanation for everything, huh? Well, the first thing I'm gonna say is… I'm sorry."

Espio stared back at Jewel, who continued.

"I… I've had a lot of thoughts these past couple of weeks ever since you bailed us out on our group project. And for what you did for the football team too. Trust me, I don't… think running from the cops is a good idea and frankly you kinda DID deserve what happened to you, but I don't think you had bad intentions. I bet you were just confused, huh?"

She shook her head. "But, you're probably not here to listen to me ramble. I guess I got a lot to say…" she then sighed. "I guess it's just so hard being in this position… I guess I can start from the beginning."

She then stared at Espio back. "To begin, I'm someone who's always considered myself someone who cares a lot about not just presentation, but also action. Since childhood, I've put in a lot of work to not just succeed in my classes but also extracurricular work, even helping out with school programs too. I've always believed that people should be judged based on the value of their work. And I've worked hard for what I've done. I wasn't in the Beta Club in middle school or Valedictorian for high school graduation for no reason. I wanted to show others what I could do and show that if you work hard, you can achieve anything you want. I never really liked stuff like participation trophies, or even what they started doing by bailing out failing students. It's like… why bother letting them pass if they aren't willing to put in the effort to work?"

She saw that Espio was still listening and continued. "To be honest, I've felt that way towards scholarships as well. Not so much scholarships based on like how good your academics are, but more so who you are. Like… why is there a need for special treatment? Shouldn't what matter be what they create, not who they are? And to be honest… when I first met you… I quickly realized that you were in that boat of people I didn't like. My issue was that I felt you weren't really putting in much effort into what you were doing, that people were only sympathizing with you just because you're from Northern Mobius and don't speak English. And the work I was seeing from you it just… it felt lazy. It felt completely underdeveloped, as if you had an education that hasn't evolved since about hundreds of years ago. I don't think that now clearly but… that's the vibe I got out of you. I felt like, compared to someone like me who spent hours on assignments as well as balancing everything I do around campus, you were taking the easy way out when I know you could do more with what you create."

Jewel then shook her hands. "B-But don't get the wrong idea! I regret a lot of what I think now but I like… I wasn't meaning a lot of what I said because of racism! I mean, look at my bag! I not only oppose that, but I've participated in peaceful protests outside of campus, gone to the Democracy of the People Party rallies, and I make sure I signal boost a lot of what's going on in the world on my social media! Was I rude, yeah but I like… I wasn't racist!"

She then began to nervously giggle. "Y-Yeah… like… all the times I threatened you… all the times I told you that your art style looks undeveloped… or looked like garbage… or called it laziness… or blamed you for everything… Or the time I said I'd take you back to the boonies where you came from, that you don't know what real art is. Or even all the times privately, I thought you were insanely stupid and never had an education where you're from and that the school only chose you to take away opportunities from hard working students…"

With each realization, Jewel's eyes grew wider and wider as she began to breathe heavily. With that final statement…

"…oh… oh Gaia… I…"

She looked up at Espio, clutching her chest.

"…I… I was being racist towards you, wasn't I?"

Espio continued to stare back, face unchanging as Jewel put her hands on Espio's elbow.

"Espio! Please! Please please please I'm SO SO SO SO sorry! I… I didn't realize what I was really saying or how hurtful it meant! I selfishly wanted people to follow my own work ethic and put down others who didn't, not even realizing that everyone doesn't have to follow mine to still create something worthwhile! And it made me put you down at every opportunity not realizing you're smart in your own sense. And now look where it got me! I'm such an awful person, how can I say I hate racism when I let myself be racist?!"

The chameleon could only stare back as Jewel got closer and closer into Espio's face.

"Please! Tell me you forgive me! I promise that I'll improve! I have to improve, I just have to! I'll stop expecting people to be as hard working as me… I'll… I'll stop with all these high expectations for transfer students like you who might be struggling, whatever! I just don't want to be known as the racist beetle who treated my classmate wrong because I wanted him to be like me! I don't want this expierence to ruin my future because of how I acted! And I just... I... I...!"

Espio looked around nervously, realizing that Jewel was starting to bring unwanted attention. "E-Eee… eto…" he said in his language, trying to find the words to say.

"Yes! Tell me that you forgive me! Even if you don't, I'm going to show you how much I'll change! Trust me when I say that this experience has changed a lot about how I feel, and I just want you to know how absolutely sorry I am, and nothing can get over how terrible I feel! Please, just let me know how you feel! You HAVE to, Espio!"

"I… I…"

He wasn't sure what to say at this point. Not only did he not really understand much of what Jewel said, but why was she acting like this? It was starting to make him feel uncomfortable. Maybe he needed to talk to someone about this?

"Do… do you not forgive me?..." Jewel said as she sat back down in her chair. Espio still was very nervous at this point, clear as day on his face. "Oh… you can't understand me that well… I… forget it…"

The jewel beetle stared down at the table. "Just… just give it a few days if you want…" she said in a melancholy tone. "I'll be here…"

Espio continued to look at the jewel beetle, still confused. He knew he had to talk to either Vector… or maybe Mark… or even Valdez about this. What would they do in this situation?

Just then, Ella had returned to the table.

"Okay, I have your-" she said before being interrupted. "Oh, Jewel darling, what's wrong?"

The jewel beetle didn't answer.

"Well, whatever just happened since I left, everything will be okay once you eat up my delicious meal. Cheer up, everything will be okay!" Ella then proceeded to put everything down onto the table. "I'll get your check soon, but I hope you enjoy!"

She walked away as Espio watched Jewel open up a plastic spoon and stir it around a bowl of green and yellow liquid. He looked over at his meal, wondering how it was meant to be eaten. He turned to the table next to him and saw someone pick it up with his hands, meaning it must be like the burgers that he's seen Mark and his friends eat.

Doing just that, he put the sandwich in his mouth and began to chew, noting the distinct taste of cheese. He still wasn't used to dairy just yet, and every time he ate something with it, it made his stomach hurt.

"But this is… good…" he said as he chewed and swallowed, still watching the silent jewel beetle play with her food.


MEANWHILE…

Back on campus, Vector was returning from Physiology II now that it was time for lunch. He knew that Espio would be with Jewel for lunch, and as much as he didn't like it, the chameleon still agreed.

"Hope she ain't doin' anythin' to him right now…" he mumbled to himself as he listened to his music. Since there wouldn't be Espio at the dining hall, he wondered if it was even worth it to go now. In fact, now that he thought about it, despite having Advanced Weight Training earlier today, he could use this time to get some cardio in on the treadmills before lunch. After all, the dining hall was going to be open for another two hours…

"Sounds like a plan!" he said as he diverted his path from the K building to the I building. But as he started to walk along the path to the I building and to the stairs, the doors suddenly swung open. Vector looked up to see a familiar sight.

"Ah, Monk…" Vector said, still remembering the comments Monk said yesterday.

"Vector," he nodded.

"Yeh just came out of Weight Trainin' yerself?" he asked.

"Of course. Our session just ended, so it's time for lunch. Were you not going to eat?" the purple gorilla asked.

"Espio ain't gonna be there, so I decided to get some cardio in fer an hour at least to train fer the playoffs."

"Ah… your little roommate. Well, that's good that you wanna use your time to train. Glad to see you're focusing even between classes."

As the gorilla walked down the steps, his massive frame passing by Vector as sweat even appeared on his non-gym clothes…

"By the by…" he said. "I wanted to ask you personally, primarily because you might know since you're our quarterback."

"Hm?" Vector replied. Monk then looked around.

"…there wouldn't happen to be any… homosexuals on our team, are there?"

"Huh? Wha… gay people? Uhh…" Vector looked around. "Why are ya askin'?"

"I heard something interesting the other day, and I just wanted to verify. I rather not this team be boggled down by the display of the degenerate agenda. After all, we play in front of and are in the homes of millions of families during our games. I rather our image not be destroyed by… THAT."

The crocodile's face contorted. "What… in the hell are yeh even sayin'? I mean, I dun think anyone on the team is gay and even if they are, why should that matter? Isn't what matters how they play?"

The gorilla snorted. "Well, perhaps you don't understand. Regardless, if you don't know anyone, well, I suppose you can ignore my question. I'll meet you in the dining hall after your run."

With that, Monk walked away, leaving a confused Vector behind. But one thought was starting to enter his mind…

"That comment just now and what he said about Espio…" Vector said to himself. "Monk isn't really startin' to think that… is he?"

END OF CHAPTER 16