🎶: As It Was - Harry Styles
PILTOVER UNIVERSITY
The campus was alive with the buzz of a new academic year. Students darted between classes, laughter echoed through the corridors, and the autumn air was filled with the scent of fresh beginnings. Among them was Caitlyn Kiramman, the epitome of elegance and poise, her heels clicking confidently against the marble floors as she made her way to the student government office. Her turquoise eyes scanned the bustling hallways, always on the lookout for ways to improve campus life.
Ever since the New Progress Day when the bridge between Piltover and Zaun was rebuilt, marking the end of the war between the two cities, an era of democracy had begun. This monumental event had brought about peace and unity, fostering collaboration and growth between Piltover and Zaun. Caitlyn, as a prominent student leader, was dedicated to ensuring that this new era thrived in school.
Caitlyn paused for a moment at the main entrance, taking in the familiar sights and sounds that signalled a new chapter. The campus was a canvas of vibrant colours, with trees shedding their golden leaves and students donning cosy sweaters and scarves. She adjusted her blazer, smoothing out any wrinkles, and continued her journey with purposeful strides. Her mind was already buzzing with ideas for the upcoming semester—initiatives to enhance student engagement, plans for community outreach, and strategies to tackle pressing issues. It is all about legacy, her mother's words echoing at the back of her mind.
As she approached the student government office, she spotted a group of first-year students huddled together, looking slightly overwhelmed. Remembering how lost she had felt during her first year, Caitlyn's compassionate side kicked in. She altered her path and walked over to them, her warm smile instantly putting them at ease.
"Hi there! Are you all finding your way around okay?" she asked, her voice gentle yet confident.
The students nodded, visibly relieved. "It's a bit overwhelming, but we're getting there," one of them replied.
Caitlyn nodded understandingly. "It can be a lot to take in, but you'll settle in soon enough. If you ever need any help or have any questions, don't hesitate to reach out. I am Caitlyn, your student body president," she smiled reassuringly at them, handing over a spare map she carries around of the campus with key locations highlighted for moments like this.
Just then, Samantha, a close childhood friend and fellow student government member, approached along with another familiar face—Seraphine, popular HexGram livestreamer for her random, bubbly vlogs and a EchoStream sensation for her original music uploads. With her captivating voice and vibrant personality, Seraphine had quickly become a rising star, beloved by fans for her authentic connection and innovative style. Caitlyn is only surprised she hasn't yet upped and left university to go global.
"Well well, aren't you a sight for sore eyes," Samantha greeted, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "We were just discussing the booths for the campus fair later."
"Hello Sam," Caitlyn winked, her smile widening. "Seraphine! Your idea for the musical performance at the event was fantastic. I think it's going to bring a lot of fun to our campus."
Seraphine beamed, her eyes shining with enthusiasm. "Thanks, Cait! I'm really excited to share some of my new music with everyone. Need you girlies to listen to some and give me your reviews."
Caitlyn's eyes lit up with genuine interest. "I'd love to! Your music always has such a unique vibe."
Samantha nodded eagerly, her curiosity piqued. "Count me in too. I can't wait to hear what you've been working on, Sera. And with all the activities we have planned, it's going to be awesome, I can't wait."
Caitlyn felt a surge of pride. She had afterall been working hard for this year since last year, and even then was not enough time for her.
Samantha's expression turned thoughtful. "Speaking of the campus fair, I heard there's a rise of new students from Zaun joining us this year on. It's exciting, and I am sure the boys would be like, man hot but I'm curious about how they're gonna be adapting. Have you heard anything?"
Seraphine nodded, a bit unsure. "I've met a couple of them. They're definitely different, and their style stands out, but they've been pretty cool so far. I'm curious to see how they'll fit in."
Caitlyn smiled, her tone optimistic. "I am sure this year would be great with them along."
-ਠà§-
🎶: Seven Nation Army - The White Stripes
Across campus, in the old gymnasium, Vi was busy unleashing her frustrations on a punching bag. With each powerful punch, her burgundy hair swung wildly, and her muscles rippled under the strain. Being president of the boxing club within months during her first year, she had quickly earned the respect and admiration of her peers. Her leadership and undeniable talent made the club one of the most popular on campus, and Vi found solace in the rigorous training and camaraderie it offered. The gym had become her sanctuary, a place where she could channel all of her rebellious energy. Her reputation as the campus rebel was well-earned, and she wore it like a badge of honour.
Sweat glistened on her toned arms, highlighting the definition of her biceps and the intricate tattoos that adorned her skin. Her tank top clung to her form, accentuating her athletic build and the raw power she exuded with every movement. Vi's intense powder blue eyes were focused, a mix of determination and defiance burning within them. Her lips curled into a smirk as she landed a particularly hard punch, the impact resonating through the gym.
As Vi's fists connected with the heavy bag, she felt a familiar rush of adrenaline, a temporary escape from the chaos of her thoughts. School was just another arena—a place filled with rules and expectations, none of which seemed to fit her. She didn't care about popularity or grades. To her, it was about survival, carving out a space where she could be herself without judgment.
She thought about her younger sister, Powder, channeling her emotions into each punch, driving her fists into the gym bag with relentless power. Growing up in a tough neighbourhood, Vi had learned the hard way that life wasn't always fair. Their parents had passed away when Vi was just twelve, leaving her to take care of Powder. The two sisters had been through thick and thin together, facing countless challenges that had forced Vi to grow up quickly.
Thankfully, they weren't entirely alone. Vander, a kind-hearted man who ran a popular bar in Zaun, had taken them under his wing. He became a surrogate father figure, providing the guidance and support they desperately needed. Vander's bar wasn't just a place for drinks; it was a safe haven for many in the community, and he made sure Vi and Powder had a place to call home. Vi actually did well in school that she managed to get herself sponsored to go to Piltover University, which she always assumed was thanks to Vander, but she never really knew who exactly was behind it. Vander didn't have that kind of money lying around, especially not in Zaun.
Vander moved his bar closer to the campus so that she didn't have to pay extra for dorm rooms. Now that the bridge between Piltover and Zaun has facilitated a so-called truce between the two factions cities, a lot of the Zaunite regulars supported Vander by coming to the new establishment in Piltover.
Didn't matter anyway. Vi's determination stemmed from a need to be strong for both of them, to never show weakness, even when the weight of expectations threatened to crush her. She remembered the nights she would stay up, making sure Powder was safe and reassured despite the dangers lurking outside their door. It was during those long nights that Vi had promised herself she would protect Powder at all costs. No matter how hard life got, she would be the rock that her little sister needed.
As she wiped the sweat from her brow, Vi glanced at the clock. She still had time before her next class, but her mind was already drifting, replaying the brief, charged encounter she had experienced at the archery range.
-flashback-
It had been just a few days before the start of the new second year semester.
Vi had been exploring the campus after some rounds at the boxing gym, and she needed a breather from Powder giving her shit about something she can't remember right now. Then she heard it—the rhythmic thuds of arrows hitting their targets. The sound was unmistakable, a steady, almost hypnotic beat that drew her attention. She followed the noise, curiosity piqued, until she found herself at the archery range, and found a fellow student there, focused and determined as they lined up their shot. Vi had watched from a distance, admiring the precision and grace with which the person moved.
The archer, with their dark navy blue hair and elegant posture, was a vision of concentration. The way they held the bow, the slight furrow of their brow, the fluid motion as they released the arrow—it was mesmerizing.
Shit, I wouldn't want to be in between that, Vi thought, leaning against a nearby tree, her eyes fixed on the archer. She is definitely a pro. That composure and control? Must be some control freak for a Piltie. She scoffed at herself for that joke.
The archer, sensing she was being watched, turned and met Vi's gaze. There was a moment of stillness, an indefinable tension hanging in the air between them. Vi found herself captivated by the intensity in those deep striking blue eyes. The light behind her accentuated their beauty, casting a glow that made them seem even more striking. The archer had broken the gaze first, turning back to their target and releasing the arrow. It flew straight and true, hitting the bullseye with a satisfying thud.
Damn, Vi thought, her eyes widening slightly in silent awe. She's an all right shot.
Vi stood there for a moment longer. Something about this person stirred a sense of intrigue within her. She shifted, shaking off the feeling. She had more important things to worry about than someprettymysterious archer. As she turned to leave, Vi couldn't help but glance back one last time.
The archer was still there, poised with an air of elegance and confidence that was impossible to ignore. The sun set now cast a halo around her, now making her appear almost ethereal. Vi's heart skipped a beat—she hated to admit it, but she was impressed.
-Back in the boxing gym, real time-
As Vi stood there, lost in her thoughts, her phone buzzed in her pocket. She pulled it out and saw a text from Loris:
"Hey, doofus. Need you here ASAP to set up the booth."
Vi sighed and rolled her shoulders, feeling the tension ease slightly. She couldn't ignore Loris's request, especially since the fair was a big deal for the student body. She wiped the sweat from her brow and headed to the locker room to get ready.
Vi took a quick shower, letting the hot water wash away the grime and stress of her intense workout. As she stepped out, she caught a glimpse of herself in the mirror. Her burgundy hair was still damp, clinging to her face and neck. She ran her fingers through it, tousling it into a messy, rebellious look that suited her.
Vi slipped into a snug, dark grey tank top that showed off her toned arms and the intricate tattoos winding down her biceps. Over that, she threw on a worn leather jacket, the sleeves slightly rolled up to reveal her forearms. She paired this with ripped black jeans, the tears giving a glimpse of her strong legs. Her look was completed with a pair of well-worn combat boots, their scuffed surfaces a testament to many past adventures. All ready to impress.
She fastened a studded leather bracelet around her wrist, a gift from Powder, and wore a chain necklace with a small, silver gear pendant—something Vander had given her years ago. Vi stood back and admired her reflection. The ensemble was perfect—tough, stylish, and unmistakably her. With a final glance in the mirror, she grabbed her phone and headed out.
"Calm down, princess. I'll be there to save your sorry ass in a minute."
-ਠà§-
🎶: I'll Be Waiting - Disco Hue
CAMPUS FAIR
The entire campus fair pulsed with energy as Seraphine's rendition of "I'll Be Waiting" blared through the sound system. As the opening beats of the song filled the air, an electrifying excitement rippled through the crowd. Seraphine's captivating voice soared through the speakers, pulling people from every corner of the fair towards the stage like a magnetic force.
The fairgrounds were alive with activity—booths lined with colorful banners, laughter and chatter blending with the music, and the tantalizing aroma of food from various stalls wafting through the air. Students and visitors danced to the infectious rhythm, their smiles wide and spirits high.
This year, Caitlyn and the student body really wanted to make sure the event was inclusive, especially for the new Zaun students. Last year, the New Progress Day had caused some drama with the Piltover alumni, but this time, the fair was all about unity and diversity. Caitlyn made sure it did.
Caitlyn stood at her archery booth, effortlessly charming the crowd with her polished demeanour and genuine enthusiasm. She guided students through the basics of archery, demonstrating the correct stance and grip, while answering their questions and encouraging them to try the sport. Her friends gathered around, helping set up targets and handing out bows and arrows to eager onlookers.
Samantha was manning the student government booth a couple of booths away, engaging the crowd with her sparkling eyes and animated expressions as she handed out flyers, answered questions, and motivated students to get involved in campus activities and initiatives. When she finished, she approached Caitlyn, her face lighting up with a smile. "This fair is amazing! Everything is so hyped up and the people are loving it."
Caitlyn nodded, her eyes twinkling. "I noticed. It's great to see so many students interested. How's the setup going on your end?"
"Smoothly," Samantha replied, giving Caitlyn a playful shoulder bump. "We've had a lot of new sign-ups for student government. Looks like it's going to be a busy year for you and me."
Just then, Seraphine joined them, her cheerful presence adding to the lively atmosphere. "Hey you two! I just performed a couple of songs. Did you girlies hear me?" she asked, her excitement practically bursting out of her.
Caitlyn grinned, nodding enthusiastically. "We did! You were amazing as always. Your music always brings such positive energy."
Samantha chimed in with a big smile, "Absolutely, Sera! The crowd was dancing, can you believe it. You really know how to light up a stage."
Seraphine blushed slightly. "Aww thank you ladies! Cait, I totes saw your club's demo video and it is in-sane. You should try to shoot a few arrows when you get a chance so that I can vlog that for my next vid."
"I might just do that," Caitlyn said with a smile.
🎶: Raise Hell - Dorothy
As she spoke, her eyes caught sight of a familiar figure approaching from a distance. The crowd seemed to part instinctively, making way for Vi as she strode confidently through the bustling fair. Her burgundy hair, slightly tousled, caught the sunlight, and her athletic build was impossible to miss. The effortless way she carried herself commanded attention.
Freshmen, both Piltovan and Zaunite, wide-eyed and eager to take in all the excitement of the fair, couldn't help but stare as Vi approached. Whispers spread through the groups like wildfire, and some of the more daring students nudged each other, pointing discreetly. It was clear they recognized her reputation, the tales of her rebellious nature and impressive boxing skills having preceded her.
A few of them exchanged nervous glances, while others looked on with admiration and curiosity. One brave freshman even stepped forward, hoping to catch her eye or perhaps muster up the courage to say hello. Vi noticed, her lips curling into a knowing smirk, acknowledging the attention without losing stride. Her presence was magnetic, a mix of raw energy and confidence that drew people in. Even those who didn't know her couldn't help but be intrigued by the enigmatic aura she exuded. As she made her way to the booth, the buzz of the fair seemed to intensify, the atmosphere charged with the excitement of her arrival.
Samantha nudged Caitlyn gently. "Well god damn, look who's here," she whispered with a knowing smile.
So that's the girl from the range, Caitlyn thought, her mind briefly drifting back to their first encounter. She remembered the intensity of Vi's gaze, the way it had made her feel… well, something that she couldn't really place.
"Who is she?" Caitlyn asked, glancing back at Samantha, trying to sound casual.
"That's Violet Kane, but everyone calls her Vi," Samantha explained, leaning in conspiratorially. "She's a bit of a legend around here. Boxing athlete, always getting herself into fights back in Zaun, and she's got this no-nonsense attitude that everyone," Samantha paused, eyes wide, "And I mean everyone thinks is kinda hot. She got into the campus thanks to Vander. He's kind of a local Zaun hero, runs a bar near campus."
Seraphine, joining the conversation, nodded enthusiastically. "Oh my gosh, yes! She's, like, super protective of her friends and has this, like, incredible presence don't you agree? Ooh! And get this—there's this rumour that she once, like, single-handedly took down a group of bullies who were harassing another freshman last year. Isn't that just totally cool? And, oh my gosh, look at those muscles. She's so hot!"
Caitlyn remained calm and cool, a small, intrigued smile playing on her lips. "Sounds impressive."
Samantha smiled. "She's from a rough neighbourhood back in Zaun. Heard her parents died in the rebellion years before. She might look tough, but she's got a loyal and caring side once you get to know her."
Caitlyn smirked and nudged Samantha playfully. "And how do you know so much about her?"
Samantha chuckled, shrugging lightly. "Word travels fast around here, and let's just say I have my sources. Plus, Vi's the kind of person who stands out. It's hard not to notice."
Both Samantha and Caitlyn turned to Vi again, a little bit of awe and curiosity in their eyes. "Clearly."
Just then, Seraphine whipped out her phone and began recording a HexGram story. She focused on Vi as she walked past towards her booth, looking confident and cool. Seraphine added a playful caption:"Spotted: The fierce Vi strutting her stuff at the fair! #BoxingBoss #CampusQueen #ZaunStar"
Vi noticed Seraphine's phone and rolled her eyes, but she couldn't help a small smirk. Great, another fan. Can't a girl just walk in peace?
Meeting Vi, finally a name she can put a face to, in person again was going to be interesting, to say the least. Caitlyn couldn't help but think Vi's confidence bordered on arrogance, but she had to admit, Vi had earned it. Shaking off the distraction, Caitlyn turned back to her booth, refocusing on her tasks. There were flyers to hand out, questions to answer, and students to engage with. She couldn't afford to let her mind wander, not now.
"Sammy, focus," Caitlyn said, gently steering her friend back to their booth duties. "We've still got a lot to do."
Samantha nodded, flashing a quick grin. "Got it, boss."
"Sera," Caitlyn added with a smile, "I'll catch your performance later. Make sure to save me a front-row seat."
Seraphine giggled, giving a thumbs-up. "You got it, Cait!"
-ਠà§-
🎶: Black Sheep - Metric, Brie Larson ver.
"Ayyyy, finally off the catwalk," Loris greeted as Vi walked to the booth, his grin wide and teasing.
Vi smirked, rolling her eyes playfully. "You can't rush perfection." She quickly dodged the cloth Loris tossed at her, catching it mid-air and throwing it back with a grin. "Try harder next time, princess."
The two were a striking pair—Vi with her fierce and rebellious look, and Loris with his laid-back demeanor and sharp wit. Loris was the only Piltover friend she made during orientation last year who didn't make her feel like kicking his ass. Unlike the many stuck-up types Piltover University seemed to harbor, Loris was refreshingly down-to-earth. They clicked instantly, and found themselves mostly drunk at Vander's bar more often than Vi could count.
Loris couldn't resist teasing Vi. "So, you going to knock out some freshmen today, or just charm them to death with that dazzling smile of yours?" he joked, his eyes twinkling with mischief.
Vi rolled her eyes but couldn't suppress a grin. "Depends on how annoying they get," she shot back, giving him a playful shove.
Loris chuckled, adjusting a banner for their booth. "Think we'll get any sign-ups today?" Loris asked, leaning against the booth.
"Who knows," Vi replied, rolling her eyes. "As long as no one expects us to be cheerleaders, we're good."
Loris chuckled, then his expression turned serious. "Yeah, I definitely can't see you with a skirt and pom-poms." His face softened, and he added jokingly, "But hey, maybe we can challenge the archery club to a friendly match. Arrows versus fists."
Vi smirked, glancing at the archery booth. She found herself checking out the tall and slender archer, noticing the way she carried herself with elegance and precision even on a boring campus fair. Always so perfect. She wasn't used to seeing someone so put together yet with a hint of intensity beneath the surface. Then again, welcome to Piltover. Pilties.
"I'd pay to see that. Whoever that is probably has no idea what it's like to get their hands dirty," Vi said, unable to hide the interest in her tone. "If this was back in Zaun, the undercity would have eaten her alive."
Loris followed her gaze and raised an eyebrow. "…Her?"
Vi snorted, realizing she had spoken out loud. She quickly brushed off Loris's question with a wave of her hand. "Can we focus here?"
Just then, Vi's phone buzzed with a text. She glanced at the screen and saw a message from Powder:
"Ugh, Ekko is being such a pain! He thinks he knows everything. Can't stand him sometimes."
Vi sighed, shaking her head. "Powder is at it again," she muttered.
Loris glanced over. "Ekko trouble?"
"Yeah, same old story," Vi replied, typing a quick response to Powder: "Hang in there, Pow. I'll talk to him later."
The archer's eyes lingered on Vi for a moment longer than necessary, curiosity piqued by the stark contrast to her own carefully curated image. Vi gave her an arrogant smirk and a nod that exuded the same arrogance. She quickly looked away.
Caught you, Vi thought, her smirk widening.
-ਠà§-
🎶: Electric Feel - MGMT
About an hour later, Vi found herself wandering past the archery range again, her curiosity getting the better of her. She noticed earlier that the archery club was having a demo and couldn't resist the urge to see if the leggy archer was the one showcasing her skills.
Sure enough, the navy blue haired babe was there, giving a demonstration to the freshmen. Her precision with the bow was impressive, each shot landing perfectly on target. Her sidekick Samantha was by her side, hyping up the crowd and ensuring everyone was engaged with her infectious enthusiasm.
Vi watched from a distance, her powder blue eyes narrowing as she studied Caitlyn's every move.
"Are we planning to join archery now?" Loris's voice broke her concentration as he walked up behind her.
Vi snorts quietly. "Just observing," Vi replied with a shrug. "They're fascinating in an annoying kind of way."
Loris laughed, shaking his head. "Yeah, sure. Just be careful one day your mouth don't get hit by one of those arrows."
Caitlyn sensed a familiar intensity, her breath catching slightly when she saw Vi leaning casually against a tree, with a friend -Loris, was it? She wasn't sure. The two locked eyes for a moment, again with that tension. Caitlyn felt a spark of electricity, a palpable charge in the air between them. Vi's gaze held the same intensity as the last time, almost predatory, and Caitlyn found herself drawn in despite herself.
Vi smirked, clearly amused by Caitlyn's reaction. Her eyes roamed over Caitlyn, taking in every detail with a mix of curiosity and appreciation. Caitlyn's heart raced, and she felt a flush rise to her cheeks. There was something about Vi—an electric presence that was both thrilling and completely unsettling.
There she is again with those eyes, Vi thought, seemingly enchanted by her intense focus. Caitlyn broke the gaze first, focusing on her target and letting an arrow fly, hitting the bullseye with a satisfying thud. Cheers and claps erupted from the crowd, adding to the sense of achievement.
Another perfect shot, Vi felt a surge of admiration and irritation. There was something about this archer that she couldn't shake.
Vi nudged Loris in the ribs, her eyes still locked on Caitlyn. "What's the deal with her?" she asked, her voice low and curious.
Loris followed her gaze and raised an eyebrow. "Caitlyn Kiramman. One of the top students around here. Comes from a wealthy family, but doesn't flaunt it. She's smart, and not surprisingly, the student body president."
Vi rolled her eyes at Loris, like it was obvious. "Yeah, I got that part. But what's her deal? Why's she so..." Vi struggled for the right word, gesturing with her hands for emphasis.
Loris chuckled, shaking his head. "You mean besides the whole 'smart, rich, and capable' thing? She's got this rep for being fair and standing up for what's right. Heard she fought a lot for the Zaun students' rights to be equal in the school, making sure they get the same opportunities and respect. Remember that Piltie jackass you decked last year for harassing a freshie? Caitlyn was the one who got him expelled, and you didn't."
Vi didn't know what to feel about that. She didn't know Caitlyn personally, but now she was unequivocally curious. And it wasn't bullying—it was something worse. The fucking jackass deserved what he got, and Vi relished that memory. It was something Vi hated so deeply she could snap a steel bar in half just thinking about it. Something stirred in her chest—respect? Curiosity? Maybe even a hint of guarded admiration.
Vi tilted her head, intrigued. "Oh so she's not just a pretty face with a bow?"
Loris chuckled. "Far from it. She's got brains. Pretty popular, and not to mention hot. Those legs?" Loris let out a slow, low whistle. "Just sayin'."
Vi nodded, her expression thoughtful but unreadable. "Hm," she murmured, the sound carrying an edge of intrigue.
Loris shrugged, giving Vi a knowing look. "She might not be your type, though. A bit too... proper for your taste, don't you think?"
Vi ignored that. "Why have I never noticed her before?"
Loris grinned, giving Vi a snarky look and an exaggerated eyeroll. "Oh, I dunno, maybe you've been too busy boxing your ass off, partying like a little shit, and being a badass playgirl to every other freshie girl you see that she didn't seem that interesting to you last year?"
Vi rolled her eyes, smirking. "Yeah, yeah. Now can we go back to focusing on how you're shit at freethrows?"
Loris snorted. "Sure Vi, as long as you promise not to punch anyone's face you see just because."
As they walked away from the range laughing, Vi couldn't shake the feeling that this wouldn't be the last of Caitlyn Kiramman she hears. This year was shaping up to be far more intriguing than she had anticipated.
END OF CHAPTER ONE