Scene: The Knights of Orleans Reassessment
INT. KNIGHTS OF ORLEANS GUILD BASE – EVENING
The Knights of Orleans Guild Base is a stunning blend of royal French decor and martial sophistication. Crystal chandeliers hang from the high, coffered ceilings, casting a warm glow over walls adorned with tapestries of golden lilies and portraits of storied guild members from generations past. Velvet-lined armchairs and gleaming mahogany tables add an air of regality, contrasting with the well-worn training dummies and polished weapons displayed along the walls.
At the center of the room, Ludociel Vanderbilt, known as the Maiden of Orleans, sits opposite her older brother and guild master, Hendrickson Vanderbilt. Hendrickson's face is serious as he considers her recent match against Lysander Gentoshi.
Hendrickson (sighing, shaking his head): "Wow, Ludociel… You've always been our guild's pride, the Maiden of Orleans. Everyone knows you possess the strongest power among us, and one day, you'll undoubtedly lead the guild. But… you lost. Do you have any excuse?"
Ludociel (calmly, a hint of respect in her tone): "No, big brother. Lysander is strong, crazy-prepared, and relentless. He's not someone who could be defeated easily. You saw it yourself—he's skilled, and he fought with a depth I didn't expect."
Hendrickson runs a hand over his jaw, a faint look of frustration creeping over his face.
Hendrickson (musing, reluctantly impressed): "True… But doesn't this mean you're no longer second-ranked in the school? If ranks shift after the matches, you'll likely drop to third, maybe even fourth, with Lysander and his brother, Alexei, now rising through the ranks. Not sure where Angela would place against you, either… Do you think you can beat her?"
Ludociel (sighing): "Angela didn't even use a weapon in her fight, brother. It's hard to gauge her full strength. She's skilled, no doubt, but I am faster than she is." (pauses, thoughtful) "Still, she might have something hidden, too. Those Gentoshis are… unpredictable."
Hendrickson (pensive): "Hmm… The Gentoshi family… and their GGG corporation. Quite the dangerous combination, aren't they?"
He fixes his sister with a steady look, clearly pondering the implications of their growing influence.
Hendrickson: "You think you could take on Lysander or Alexei next time?"
Ludociel (calm, analyzing): "Maybe. I could train to adapt to Alexei's technique; his fighting style was straightforward enough to study in his match. But Lysander…." (she pauses, considering) "He might still have some secrets up his sleeve. Think about it: all he used were his Azure and some chemical spores. Alexei, on the other hand, had an entire arsenal—the Aztec triangular shirt, rock belt, feather accessory, specialized shoes and gloves, black jeans, and his dragon spear."
Hendrickson lets out a low chuckle, shaking his head.
Hendrickson (half-laughing, half-sighing): "Haizz… Those mad scientists from GGG really are something else, aren't they?"
Ludociel grins, a hint of challenge lighting her eyes as she looks over at him.
Ludociel (mockingly): "Oh, they are, alright. But don't think I'm not training to adapt. Shouldn't you also train, Guild Master? Who knows—those GGG scientists might decide to try something 'funny' with you next time."
Hendrickson lets out an exaggerated sigh but doesn't hide the faint grin tugging at his lips. He glances around their guild hall, taking in the impressive decor and the legacy of battles that had shaped their family.
Hendrickson (thoughtfully): "Maybe I should… just in case. Though, if they keep up with these inventions, I may need a new strategy myself."
His gaze settles on Ludociel, his tone shifting to something more serious.
Hendrickson: "What do you think about taking on a dungeon raid soon? You've trained hard enough here—real experience could be the next step."
Ludociel straightens, a spark of excitement flickering across her face.
Ludociel (resolutely): "Maybe I should, brother. There's only so much we can learn from these battles. It's time to test what I can do out there."
The two siblings share a determined look, both aware that the world outside the academy holds greater challenges and perhaps more formidable opponents.
Scene: Lingering Spirit of Battle
INT. ST. ALARIC ACADEMY – SUPERPOWER BRANCH CLASSROOM – DAY
The classroom is buzzing with the excitement of the previous day's battles, as students of the Superpower Branch cluster in groups, their voices filled with pride and awe. At the center of one lively group stands Shizuka Maidono, who listens with a slightly embarrassed smile as her classmates heap praise on her performance.
Among the crowd, Severin Ashford and Alyssa Kane exchange glances, nodding thoughtfully.
Severin (admiringly): "Honestly, the Academic Branch fighters are no joke. The way they use their tech and strategy… it's a whole other level of skill."
Alyssa (nodding): "They really are strong. Watching those matches made me realize how much work it'll take to stand beside our own top five. I want to train even harder now—become as skilled as the royals."
Nearby, Kaelen Moretti lets out an impressed whistle, grinning at Shizuka.
Kaelen (grinning): "But Shizuka! You were incredible! That water vortex—Eric didn't stand a chance! It's like you're on the same level as His Majesty the King!"
Shizuka's cheeks flush, though she tries to keep her composure, glancing at her wakizashi as she responds.
Shizuka (humbly): "Thank you, Kaelen. Honestly, I just did my best… When I saw that armor, I knew it'd be tough. I had to come up with a plan right there, and that sword really helped me control my water. But I still have a long way to go."
Niko Tavaris shakes his head, laughing in disbelief.
Niko (amazed): "A long way? You're the only one besides the King who's won so far! That's not something most of us can say."
Jaxon Varro nods firmly.
Jaxon (confidently): "Exactly! If we can get even half as strong as you and the King, the Academic Branch better watch out!"
In the back, Grigor and Elena Vark exchange glances with expressions of determination.
Grigor (serious): "That's true… but we shouldn't underestimate them either. Seeing them use strategy and tech like that shows they're strong in ways we don't always train for."
Elena Vark (agreeing): "I think Severin and Alyssa have the right idea. Watching those fights showed us our own weaknesses too. We need to focus on becoming stronger ourselves—not just relying on the top five to carry us."
Arabelle Fairwater joins in, looking up at Shizuka with respect.
Arabelle (admiring): "Shizuka, you've shown us it's possible. I want to learn to think on my feet like you did out there. It wasn't just your power—it was your tactics that really won that fight."
Shizuka chuckles softly, both grateful and a bit overwhelmed by the praise.
Shizuka (smiling, a little shy): "Thank you, everyone. But really, I couldn't have done it alone. Seeing the King and everyone else fight gave me the courage. Let's all keep training hard together, and who knows? Maybe one day we'll all be up there on that stage."
The group nods in agreement, their admiration turning to determination. Inspired by her words, the Superpower Branch students resolve to push themselves further, driven by a newfound respect for the skills and strength required to reach the top.
In another corner of the bustling classroom, Hugo and Fenix stand back, watching the lively scene around Shizuka with amused expressions. Fenix raises an eyebrow, a smirk spreading across his face.
Fenix (grinning, teasing): "Whoa, someone's getting famous~ The Sea Witch is practically a legend now!"
Hugo rolls his eyes slightly but can't help the pride in his voice as he watches his friend surrounded by admiration.
Hugo (smiling): "She tried her best, Fenix. And yeah, it was worth it. She really is great."
Fenix crosses his arms, looking between Hugo and Shizuka with a mischievous glint.
Fenix (nudging Hugo): "Hey, maybe with a few more battles like that, you'll be next up in the spotlight, huh? Not that you're not famous already."
Hugo chuckles, shaking his head.
Hugo (good-naturedly): "Maybe... but I think I'll leave the legendary moves to Shizuka. For now, anyway."
Fenix raises his hands in mock surrender, grinning wider.
Fenix: "Hey, suit yourself, man. But who knows? If our Sea Witch can pull off a win, maybe we'll all have to step up our game."
Hugo's smile lingers as he looks at Shizuka once more, both inspired and quietly determined, knowing that one day, he hopes to stand beside her in both skill and strength.
Scene: A New Mentor – Preparing for Dungeon Exploration
INT. ST. ALARIC ACADEMY – SUPERPOWER BRANCH CLASSROOM – MORNING
The classroom settles down as the door opens and Professor Aster, their homeroom teacher, strides in, followed by a tall, striking woman with intense, perceptive eyes and a confident stance. She has a quiet but commanding presence, dressed in sleek, dark attire suited for swift, precise movements, with a silver emblem of Cloud Tower pinned on her collar.
Professor Aster (introducing): "Class, today we have a special visitor—a master of the thief class and one of the great hunters of Cloud Tower. Please welcome Candice Nosferatu."
A hushed murmur ripples through the room as students exchange curious glances, intrigued by the title and her connection to Cloud Tower. But Fenix stiffens in surprise, his gaze narrowing as he recognizes her.
Fenix (whispering to Hugo and Shizuka, surprised): "Nosferatu? She's from the Nosferatu clan?"
Shizuka (confused): "Wait, another vampire clan? And your clans don't get along?"
Fenix (nodding, keeping his voice low): "Yes. The Nosferatu clan embraces progressive methods and modern techniques, while my Tepes clan… we're a bit more traditional." (he smirks) "Let's just say we're not fans of their approach. And it figures she'd be with Cloud Tower. They value innovation over tradition, which suits her perfectly."
Professor Aster's voice brings their attention back to the front.
Professor Aster (gesturing toward Candice): "Miss Candice will be leading your upcoming dungeon exploration, teaching you all about the different kinds of monsters you're likely to encounter. As a master in her class, she's experienced in stealth, tracking, and monster study—skills vital for what lies ahead."
Candice Nosferatu gives a polite nod, her eyes sweeping over the class with a quick, assessing glance.
Candice (calm, with an edge of authority): "Dungeons are unpredictable, and so are their inhabitants. To survive—and succeed—against monsters, you need more than strength. You need awareness, flexibility, and knowledge." (she pauses) "Which means learning as much as you can here in class. I'll be pushing you to be adaptive and resourceful, just as Cloud Tower hunters are trained."
The students shift with excitement, some with nervous anticipation. Professor Aster steps forward with a final instruction.
Professor Aster (firmly): "Additionally, I strongly encourage each of you to acquire a weapon as your starting tool. Battling dungeon monsters is one thing in theory, but facing them with your own blade, staff, or whatever you choose will give you vital experience. Cloud Tower has sponsored a selection of basic monsters for your practice, so prepare well."
At his words, a few students exchange uncertain glances, and Hugo glances down at his desk, his expression troubled.
Shizuka (noticing, with concern): "Hugo? What's wrong?"
Hugo sighs, his tone soft with a hint of frustration.
Hugo: "It's just… my brother, Andrea, tries his best to support me, but getting a decent weapon? It's beyond what we can afford right now."
Fenix (sympathetically, clapping him on the back): "Hey, don't worry, Cyclops. You have the strongest ability here, remember? And you still have us as a party. We can easily deal with any enemy."
Hugo manages a small smile at Fenix's encouragement, while Candice steps forward, her gaze sweeping the room as she senses the mood.
Candice (addressing the class): "A weapon is important, but a weapon alone doesn't make the warrior. Resourcefulness, courage, and adaptability are just as critical." (she nods toward Hugo, as if she's overheard his concern) "With the right mindset, you can turn any tool into an asset."
The class exchanges motivated glances, and Professor Aster gives a final nod of approval.
Professor Aster: "Prepare yourselves, class. Your training starts now. And remember: in dungeons, it's more than just your skill that matters—it's your willingness to adapt."
Scene: Debrief in Class – Slime Lesson
INT. ST. ALARIC ACADEMY – SUPERPOWER BRANCH CLASSROOM – DAY
The lights dim as Candice Nosferatu stands at the front of the room, a projector humming to life beside her. Slides flicker on the screen, displaying a colorful image of various monster types, starting with a particularly unappetizing depiction of a slime.
Candice (smirking): "Alright, class. I know biology isn't exactly thrilling, but proper preparation is everything. You never walk into a fight without knowing what you're up against. Underestimating your opponent is the quickest route to disaster."
She clicks to the next slide, revealing a closer, almost uncomfortably detailed image of a slime's semi-fluid body.
Candice: "Now," (her gaze sweeps the room), "who can tell me the weakness of a slime?"
Almost half the class raises their hands, some students clearly eager to get the basics down. Candice points to Severin Ashford, a tall, serious-looking boy with short-cropped silver hair.
Severin (confidently): "Fire, right, miss?"
Candice (nodding): "Yes, Severin, fire works. But there's more to it. Slimes are immune to regular physical attacks due to their semi-fluid bodies. Their true weakness is elemental attacks in general—fire, yes, but also ice, lightning, anything that disrupts their structure. Fire's simply the most convenient element to create without needing magic or a weapon."
Severin (impressed): "Oh… thanks, miss."
Candice gives a brisk nod, her expression shifting to one of amused patience as she clicks to the next slide, revealing an even more grotesque close-up of a slime's internal structure.
Candice (with a hint of amusement): "Now, let's get into some of the more difficult—and admittedly disgusting—details of a slime's body. Knowing these can make the difference between an efficient takedown and a fight that drags on forever."
In the back of the room, Hugo, Fenix, and Shizuka exchange glances, leaning closer to each other as they whisper.
Hugo (raising an eyebrow): "She really has a… unique way of teaching, doesn't she?"
Fenix (smirking): "Of course. Nosferatus are known for their unconventional ways. This feels like an interrogation more than a class."
Shizuka (whispering, with a chuckle): "Well, if we survive her lessons, we'll be ready for anything in the dungeon."
The three share a laugh as Candice continues on, unperturbed by the murmurs, her attention solely focused on drilling essential monster knowledge into her students. The rest of the class listens, some with fascination, others with barely concealed squeamishness, but no one dares to lose focus under her watchful gaze.
The classroom dims further as Candice Nosferatu clicks to the next slide, revealing a video clip of a slime in action. The screen shows a large, semi-fluid, translucent creature, its gelatinous body shifting and pulsating as it engulfs a small animal in its path. A few students in the front row lean back, startled by the sight.
Candice (gesturing to the video): "Here we have a live example of a slime's feeding process. As you can see, it doesn't 'eat' the way most creatures do—it digests through direct contact. Slimes produce a powerful mucus that breaks down whatever they touch, slowly absorbing it into their body."
The slime on screen pulsates, its translucent outer layer undulating as it gradually envelops its prey. The animal, now engulfed, slowly dissolves in the thick mucus, leaving no trace behind. The students watch with expressions of disgust and fascination.
Candice (continuing, unbothered by the students' reactions): "The more a slime consumes, the larger it grows. Its size increases not only its body mass but also its digestive capabilities and resource pool. Larger slimes can even generate tentacles from their semi-fluid bodies, like so."
She clicks, and the video cuts to a massive slime generating several appendages that reach out, twisting and writhing as if searching for new targets.
Candice: "These tentacles aren't strong individually. They can't crush or strike like a solid weapon, but physical attacks won't affect them either. Their semi-fluid nature lets them absorb blunt force with minimal damage. They're best tackled with elemental magic—fire, ice, or even lightning attacks that can interrupt their form."
She pauses the video as the slime reaches its full size, its body taking up nearly half the screen. The creature's tentacles thrash and squirm, but its movement remains slow and cumbersome.
Candice (calmly): "As you can see, slimes are very slow. They're not much of a threat unless you need to pass by them or if they're guarding a valuable area. In many dungeon scenarios, slimes are commonly found near rooms with high-value loot, and it's for a reason—they're natural deterrents."
Candice pauses to let the information sink in, her gaze scanning the room, catching the wide-eyed expressions and occasional grimaces.
Candice: "Your best option with slimes is avoidance. If you can, steer clear of them unless there's an absolute need. But if you must engage, remember their weaknesses. Fire is most convenient. Ice can also freeze them in place, and lightning will disrupt their movement. The goal is to destabilize them, not wear yourself out with useless physical attacks."
From the back, Hugo, Fenix, and Shizuka exchange hushed whispers, a mix of intrigue and unease on their faces.
Hugo (whispering, glancing at the screen): "Well, that's… effective. But her way of explaining it…"
Fenix (smirking): "Nosferatus love detail, especially when it comes to dissecting weaknesses. This is probably her version of 'light' information."
Shizuka (whispering back, smiling): "Maybe so, but I'd rather learn here than figure it out in front of one of those things."
Candice hears the faint murmur, but she doesn't acknowledge it, merely returning to her presentation with a slight, knowing smile.
Candice (clicking to the next slide): "We'll continue with more advanced monsters in the next lessons. For now, focus on understanding the basics, because not all monsters are as predictable as slimes."
The class listens in attentive silence, realizing how vital this knowledge might be once they set foot in the dungeons themselves. Candice's unique approach, while unsettling, has their full attention.
Scene: Chaotic Heart-Warming Lunch
INT. ST. ALARIC ACADEMY – SUPERPOWER CAFETERIA – LUNCHTIME
The cafeteria is an absolute battlefield of bustling students, laughter, and clattering trays as students use their powers to claim food. The smell of freshly prepared dishes fills the air, but the scene is anything but calm.
In one corner, a student with fire abilities is launching tiny fireballs into the air, creating distractions to snag a bowl of pasta from the server's counter. Not far from him, a girl with wind powers uses gusts to push students out of the way, gently steering her lunch tray to herself like a boomerang. Another student with telekinesis is quietly hovering multiple trays at once, sneaking a few extra desserts onto their plate.
Hugo, Shizuka, and Fenix navigate through the chaos, each observing the entertaining antics of their classmates. Shizuka watches with a bemused smile, while Hugo, despite the pandemonium, feels a wave of fond nostalgia and warmth settle over him. After the tension of the inter-branch battles, the usual friendly chaos feels like a welcome return to normalcy.
Hugo (thinking): "After everything, it's nice to see everyone back to this lively chaos… It almost feels like a welcome home."
Beside him, Fenix raises his palm, summoning a stream of blood that arcs from his hand like a thin, flexible ribbon. The blood forms into a whip and shoots out with precision, wrapping around a plate piled high with food. With a swift pull, the plate retracts into his grasp, the food untouched and secure.
Fenix (smirking, handing a plate to Hugo): "Lunch, served fresh and brought to you with style."
Hugo (grinning): "Always appreciated, Fenix. Your 'unique' ways are a lifesaver around here."
Fenix proceeds to snag another plate, sending his blood whip out again to secure a tray for Shizuka as well. Students around them are too engrossed in their own tactics to notice, and their table fills up quickly.
They sit down, the sounds of laughter, shouts, and light-hearted scuffles filling the background as the lunch rush continues around them. Hugo's shoulders relax as he takes in the familiar setting, feeling oddly sentimental.
Shizuka (glancing at him, curious): "Hey, Hugo, you've got that nostalgic look. Got any plans this afternoon?"
Hugo (smiling, determination clear in his voice): "Yeah, I'll be training. I've got a long way to go if I want to really control my power. The fights last week made me realize that."
Shizuka (nodding with a supportive grin): "That's the spirit! I will join you. I need to keep my water control up to scratch too."
The three share a moment of camaraderie, laughing over their meal as the bustling cafeteria carries on around them. In the organized chaos of St. Alaric's cafeteria, surrounded by friends, Hugo feels the weight of recent tensions lift, replaced by a renewed sense of purpose and belonging.
Scene: Deals with the Devil
EXT. ST. ALARIC ACADEMY – SUPERPOWER TRAINING GROUNDS – AFTERNOON
The Superpower Training Grounds are alive with energy, echoing with the sounds of power in motion. Fields of sand and earth intermingle with patches of stone, forming the perfect terrain for rigorous practice. Pillars of stone, charred scorch marks, and frozen patches dot the area, remnants of countless training sessions that have taken place over time. In one corner, Shizuka, Fenix, and Hugo work together, each focusing intently as they shape their powers.
Shizuka forms an intricate statue of a horse from ice, refining every line with precision. Next to her, Fenix molds his power into a bouquet of delicate, blood-red roses, each petal curving with surprising detail. And Hugo, with a new level of determination, summons a pillar of black flame, the heat and intensity a marked improvement from his previous struggles.
Shizuka (mockingly impressed): "Wow, Hugo! Look at you actually controlling that flame. I remember when 'control' for you meant not burning your own hands."
Fenix (grinning as he shapes a blood rose): "Yes, yes, truly a step up, Cyclops. Wasn't it just last month you could barely light a spark without nearly setting your sleeve on fire?"
Hugo smiles humbly, his gaze darting to Shizuka's flawless ice sculpture and Fenix's refined bouquet.
Hugo (modestly): "Well, I still have a long way to go… You two are masters at controlling mana. I mean, look at that."
Fenix chuckles, giving Hugo a theatrical bow.
Fenix (grinning): "Yes, you still have a long way to go, Cyclops, before you can reach the great Fenix's level."
A new voice, smooth and mocking, cuts through the air from behind them.
Lysander: "Oh? I wonder if I can match that level too?"
They turn to see Lysander Chocolate Gentoshi approaching, his wand, Azure, in hand. With a single wave, he summons a formation of winged swords, arranging them in midair to form the shape of a delicate flower that spins in the breeze above him, the blades glinting dangerously as they twirl.
Shizuka (whispering, nervous): "He's the one who beat the Queen…"
Hugo is visibly shaking, a mixture of guilt and fear clouding his expression. Fenix, however, stands protectively in front of Shizuka and Hugo, his usual grin unwavering.
Fenix (grinning): "Oh~ the King's advisor has graced us with his presence… May this humble peasant know the reason for your descent?"
Lysander (amused, with a casual wave of his hand): "Nothing big, really. Just some…"
Before he can finish, a flash of lightning streaks across the training grounds, and Kimhyun appears at Lysander's side, his expression stern but calm.
Kimhyun: "Lysander~ I told you it was my fault. No need to bother them…"
Shizuka (surprised): "Huh? What happened?"
Lysander (calm, calculating): "That sword you used during the match, Shizuka—the wakizashi, remember? It's a GGG weapon issued specifically to Kimhyun, our company's sponsored student. I'm here to investigate how it ended up in your hands."
Hearing this, Shizuka, Fenix, and Hugo visibly relax. The presence of the Jack, Kimhyun, seems to add a layer of reassurance, and Lysander's words confirm he isn't here to pick a fight. Only Hugo continues to tremble slightly, keeping his gaze averted from Lysander's piercing eyes.
Lysander (continuing, his tone lighter): "Anyway, I'd like you to come with me. I have a proposition—an interesting deal for all of you."
Scene: Deals with the Devil 2
INT. GGG CORPORATION – WEAPON WORKSHOP – AFTERNOON
The workshop buzzes with quiet activity, filled with row after row of intricately crafted weapons, each piece glinting under the overhead lights. A faint hum from machinery and the soft clinking of metal fill the air. Shizuka, Fenix, and Hugo look around, wide-eyed at the display of beautifully forged weapons and their price tags, which though high, aren't as astronomical as the famed dwarven weapons. They pause by various displays, awestruck by the sheer craftsmanship and variety on offer.
Lysander (calmly, gesturing around): "Well, you see, the match has given us a decent boost in sales. Half the weapons Academic Branch uses come from here, and now we're reaching an even broader audience thanks to fighters like Kimhyun and Shizuka. So, we're planning to leverage this boost, make an announcement, get more publicity."
As he continues to walk, Shizuka's gaze lingers on an elegant sword with a blue-tinted blade. She glances at the price tag, eyes widening at both the cost and the quality.
Kimhyun, following Lysander closely, gives off an oddly obedient aura, trailing behind him almost like a loyal guard dog. Noticing this, Shizuka raises an eyebrow, but she doesn't comment.
Lysander (stopping and turning to Shizuka): "Anyway, here's my proposal: Shizuka, give back that wakizashi you used in the fight. In exchange, you can pick any sword from here as part of our sponsorship pack. After that, we'll need you to take some photos with me and the team here. Sounds good?"
Shizuka (eyes shining): "Wait… really? I can actually choose? This sounds too good to be true!"
Lysander (coolly): "Publicity and advertisement. Plus, that wakizashi wasn't really a great match for you."
Shizuka (surprised): "It… wasn't? But I beat Eric with it."
Lysander: "It's designed to amplify electrical currents. Sure, your water flow could be boosted that way, but if you keep using it, you might run into… accidents. Water flow and electricity aren't exactly compatible."
Shizuka: "Oh…"
Lysander (sighing): "Last thing we need is a complaint saying our product's faulty."
Fenix (raising an eyebrow): "And what about us?"
Lysander (smirking): "You? You're free to go."
Fenix (with a teasing grin): "Oh, come on. You didn't drag us all the way here for nothing, advisor of the King."
Lysander (chuckling, amused): "Sharp as ever, aren't you?"
He pauses, his expression turning serious once again.
Lysander (coolly): "Fine. I'll offer you all a deal. You can each choose a weapon here… but I need that bastard"—he nods toward Hugo—"to do something for me."
Hugo (nervously): "Something…?"
Kimhyun (stepping forward): "Lysander, don't push him."
Shizuka (whispering to Hugo): "You don't have to, Hugo…"
Lysander (sighing): "Relax, it's not as bad as it sounds. I just need you to… well, it's about Andrea."
The mention of his older brother's name catches Hugo off-guard.
Hugo (surprised): "What?"
Lysander (sighing deeply): "Look, I'll be blunt. I hate you, bastard. No… I fucking despised you. If it weren't for you, our parents might still be alive."
At these words, Hugo visibly flinches, guilt clouding his face.
Lysander (voice firm, yet almost pleading): "But Andrea doesn't deserve to carry the weight you dropped on him. He's working two jobs on minimum wage, turning down a life he should've had. If you could just convince him to come back, take up the position I offered him at GGG… he'd be set. You both would."
Hugo (struggling): "Our parents…?"
Lysander: "They left him an inheritance as the eldest, meant for Dad's work. Originally, he'd inherit it all, but he ran off. And I, as the second eldest, have to pick up all the family responsibilities he left behind."
Lysander (with a frustrated sigh): "Look, I never wanted this either, okay? I thought Andrea would come back. But three months have gone by, mid-terms are coming up, and he's still in that pit you dragged him into."
Lysander pauses so that his words would travel to Hugo's sense of guilt and get absorbed.
Lysander (resolute) "And so... a deal with the devil. You convince our big brother to work for GGG. He got money to give you and him a better life while I have my hand free of our parents' work? Cool?"
Hugo (saddened, the weight of his past mistakes visible in his expression): "But I…"
Lysander (cold, yet resolute): "You owe him, Hugo. He doesn't deserve the misery he's in because of you. Help him come back to the life he deserves."
The tension in the room is thick as Hugo stands in silence, grappling with Lysander's words. Shizuka places a reassuring hand on his shoulder, and Fenix watches Lysander, his gaze both wary and calculating.
After a beat, Hugo lets out a long sigh, his expression resigned.
Hugo (nodding, quietly): "Fine… I'll talk to Andrea. I'll convince him to take the job."
Lysander's usual stoic demeanor cracks, a satisfied smirk spreading across his face.
Lysander (grinning): "Good. Once Andrea agrees to the position, you three can choose whatever weapon you like from here."
The trio exchanges glances, a mixture of disbelief and awe crossing their faces as they realize the value of what's being offered.
Fenix (smirking, nudging Hugo): "Looks like your guilt complex is finally paying off, Cyclops."
Shizuka (whispering to Hugo, softly): "You don't have to carry this alone, Hugo. We're here with you."
Hugo offers them a small, grateful smile, but it's clear his thoughts are already turning toward his older brother, Andrea, and the life he's led since the tragedy.
Lysander (casually, gesturing around the workshop): "Feel free to look around, get a taste of what's waiting. Once Andrea's in, these weapons will be yours for the picking."
He turns to leave, but pauses at the door, casting a sharp glance over his shoulder.
Lysander (firmly): "And bastard, remember. Don't mess this up."
With that, Lysander strides out, his figure disappearing down the hall. The silence lingers, each of them absorbing the weight of the deal they've just struck.
Kimhyun (coming up beside Hugo, gently): "You know, you're doing the right thing. Andrea deserves a second chance, and… so do you."
Hugo (exhaling deeply): "Thanks, Kimhyun. It's… it's time I start setting things right."
They all share a quiet moment, each looking toward the weapons around them with renewed determination, knowing this isn't just about gear anymore—it's a step toward closure, redemption, and proving their worth.
Scene: Deals with the Devil 3
INT. HUGO'S APARTMENT – EVENING
The apartment is small, barely enough space for the four of them to stand together in the cramped dining room. Hugo's belongings are few and modest, reflecting a life lived humbly. Stacks of books and a worn couch occupy one corner, while the kitchen is little more than a stove, a counter, and a few dishes stacked beside the sink. Hugo, Shizuka, Fenix, and Andrea stand shoulder-to-shoulder, each a bit too close for comfort.
Andrea (surprised, brows raised): "What? Lysander did that?"
Fenix (grinning): "Yeah, Cyclops' brother? Is that so hard to believe?"
Andrea (nodding, taken aback): "It… is, actually. Lysander's never exactly been the sentimental type. The fact that he'd go this far to get me back, after all his scheming and posturing over the branch tensions… it's just hard to imagine."
He pauses, shaking his head in disbelief. Hugo and Shizuka share a surprised look, trying to make sense of the situation themselves. But Fenix bursts into laughter, his eyes gleaming with amusement.
Fenix (laughing, slapping Andrea's shoulder): "Haha! You brothers are more alike than you'd care to admit."
Andrea (blinking, confused): "Huh?"
Fenix (with a knowing grin): "Think about it. The king's advisor wants to reconnect, but he's got his pride. He's desperate enough to dangle the perfect opportunity in front of you, and if you don't take it, you'll lose this chance forever. But all he really wants is for you to come back into the fold."
Andrea falls silent, his face thoughtful as he processes this. Hugo's expression softens as he watches his brother, while Shizuka's warm smile offers encouragement.
Fenix (leaning in, holding Andrea's hand): "Don't you want a better life than this, Andrea? Hugo needs better gear if we're going to keep training, and you need a fresh start. And hey, even siblings with issues… we find a way back to each other in the end."
The sentiment seems to reach Andrea. Shizuka nods, her warm smile growing.
Shizuka (gently): "Yes, and Lysander didn't say you'd have to give up supporting Hugo, did he? Take the offer. It could be what you all need."
Hugo (grinning): "Yeah, big brother. If Lysander's that set on having you back, maybe it's time. Let's just… make things right."
A long pause, and then Andrea sighs, a faint, reluctant smile forming as he squeezes Fenix's hand.
Andrea (resigned): "Alright, alright… I'll reconsider it."
The room relaxes, a renewed sense of hope settling over them, as if they've taken the first steps toward healing old wounds and building something better together.
Scene: The Tamed Wolf
INT. GGG CORPORATION – VIP LOUNGE – EVENING
Kimhyun sits cross-legged on a plush leather couch, his wolf ears perked up and tail swaying lazily behind him. The usually composed Lysander stands next to him, gently scratching behind Kimhyun's ears while his fingers ruffle through the thick, soft fur. Kimhyun's tail wags back and forth, eyes closed in utter bliss as he leans into Lysander's hand.
Kimhyun (sighing, completely satisfied): "Ahh~ So good."
Lysander watches him, his hand pausing briefly as he raises an eyebrow, thinking to himself.
Lysander (internally): "Just weeks ago, you were still bristling at the idea of anyone petting you, and now… you act like a perfectly trained pup. Did I just tame a wolf?"
Kimhyun shifts slightly, opening one eye to glance up at Lysander with a curious smile.
Kimhyun: "Oh, right. By the way, I'm surprised at you today. I thought for sure you'd knock a few heads."
Lysander chuckles softly, resuming his petting as he ruffles the fur between Kimhyun's ears, almost instinctively.
Lysander (smiling): "Hey, I'm not some barbarian. That's more your branch's specialty. I mean, isn't brawling all you Superpower Branch students ever do? Yue used to complain non-stop about having to scrounge for lunch because the cafeteria was one big battlefield. He practically begged to eat with Angela and me his first year."
Kimhyun laughs, his eyes sparkling with a hint of playful pride.
Kimhyun: "Oh, come on. That's different. It's called sparring."
Lysander (raising an eyebrow): "Sparring? What's the difference?"
Kimhyun (grinning): "Well… nobody's supposed to get hurt."
Lysander gives a small, amused scoff, shaking his head slightly as he thinks about the irony.
Lysander: "Our school infirmary is filled to the brim because of your so-called 'sparring' matches. That's why we in the Academic Branch had to fund our own private infirmary."
Kimhyun (smirking): "Oh, right, the place where you rich kids go to skip class."
Lysander (faking a cough): "Ahem, we call that 'school sick,' thank you."
Kimhyun chuckles, eyes closing again as Lysander's hand finds a particularly good spot behind his ear.
Kimhyun (sighing, almost dreamily): "So… are you seriously giving them weapons? Like, for real?"
Lysander (shrugging): "Why not? Three B-ranked weapons in exchange for a decent manager and a bit of positive PR… it's a good deal. Worth every coin."
Kimhyun lets out a long, contented sigh, leaning his head into Lysander's hand as he closes his eyes.
Kimhyun: "Mm… I suppose~ Ahhh, so good…"