Lisa's point of view:
This was so troublesome. Why do we have to do this campus tour? It's such a waste of time. I should be spending my time harnessing my Eureka after receiving it today, not wandering around aimlessly. This tour is nothing but a distraction from what really matters.
However, that loner seems different today. He's talking more, and his mood seems more energetic than usual. He's normally so awkward around people, barely making eye contact with anyone. But today, something is off. Even this morning, he called out my name and actually looked at me. He never talks to his mother, or anyone in the house for that matter, so what's going on with him?
Anyway, I should be thankful to his mother for letting me and Uncle Kevin stay and act as a new family to hide our identities. I better train hard, perfect my Eureka, and prove those people about my family. Mother, Father, please wait for me—I'll come for you guys.
"Oh, are you Lisa by chance? My name is Wade. It looks like we're in the same group for the tour," Wade said with a friendly smile, extending his hand toward me.
"Oh, I see. It's a pleasure to meet you!" I replied, shaking his hand with a polite smile, though my mind was elsewhere not this small talk.
Wade stood next to me, glancing at the hologram projected from his EP.
"Oh, there are three more people. Let's see... Miko, Anna, and Hugo," he said, reading the names aloud.
Miko. Miko Tatsuya... Tatsuya! I haven't heard that name for a while. The Tatsuya Clan—one of the most powerful clans in the Coastal Sector. Their reputation stretches across the entire Dominion, known for their connection to nature and mastery of Eureka. As descendants of an ancient bloodline, they've maintained their influence for generations, controlling many of the trade manufacturers in the region. The Tatsuya Clan has always stood tall, their legacy built on strength, discipline, and tradition.
When I was a child, my parents once visited the Coastal Sector. I remember hearing stories of the Tatsuya family, their palatial homes by the sea, and their near-mystical connection to the tides and nature. They wielded great power, not just in their abilities but also in their influence over the Dominion's economy. They were revered and feared—untouchable, in many ways.
Now, one of their own, Tatsuya Miko, was here. In the same group as me. I wasn't sure whether to see this as an opportunity or a threat.
I glanced over at Wade, who was still talking. Wade's goal was to seal the Oracle Gate, and he seemed confident in his words, but if I could show off my skills and demonstrate my strength alongside him, it might work to my advantage.
"Ms. Miko, it's a pleasure to be in the same group as you!" Wade said with an appropriate tone, bowing slightly as he addressed her. His words were formal, showing respect for her status, as was expected when dealing with someone from a powerful family like the Tatsuya Clan.
Tatsuya Miko acknowledged him with a slight nod, her expression calm and composed. "The pleasure is mine. I look forward to working with all of you," she replied, her voice measured and graceful. After a brief pause, she added, "Please, just refer to me by my name. There's no need for formalities."
Her tone was polite, but there was a certain firmness to it, as if she was used to brushing off unnecessary titles and formalities. Wade smiled, accepting her request with a nod, but I could tell he still held her in high regard. Most people would, considering her background.
"Ah... are you all part of Group 5?"
Hugo asked, his voice hesitant as he approached us. His nervousness was apparent, and I could see Anna standing quietly behind him, her gaze fixed on something distant, as if disinterested in the conversation.
Wade turned to Hugo with his usual friendly demeanor.
"Yes, we are."
Hugo gave a quick nod, adjusting his glasses nervously.
"Great, I was just making sure," he mumbled, glancing over at Anna, who remained silent, her expression unreadable.
It appeared that my group was composed of an odd mix of people—some strange, others outstanding. On the other hand, I glanced at Lucien, who looked strange yet unusually energetic today. He seemed more animated than usual, his awkwardness replaced by a newfound energy that I couldn't quite understand. Normally, he'd keep to himself, barely speaking a word, but today… it was like something had changed.
What's gotten into him?
It appeared he was in another group, confidently guiding everyone. Seeing him take the lead was perplexing. Was this really the same Lucien who avoided eye contact and mumbled responses? The transformation was hard to ignore. Did he hit his head or something? The thought crossed my mind as I watched him interact with his group, speaking openly and even cracking a smile.
It didn't make any sense. Lucien had always been the quiet, withdrawn type—the one who barely spoke up and stayed in the background. But today, it was like he'd woken up as a completely different person.
"Lisa, are you ready? One of the seniors from Year 2 will guide us around the campus!" Wade's voice snapped me out of my thoughts. I looked around and noticed the rest of the group was already prepared to move out.
"Oh, yes. I'm ready," I replied quickly, brushing off my distraction. I couldn't afford to lose focus, not with so much on the line. As we gathered to follow our guide, my mind was still preoccupied with Lucien's sudden change. I'd have to keep an eye on him—it was too strange to ignore.