Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

"Kayden Break has requested me to a duel?" You asked your right-hand man.

You stood by the large glass window in your office, staring down at the empire you've built. Your empire, your organization, Flame, filled with awakeners who're only loyal to just you and you only.

As the name of your organization suggested, you and your people's main attribute were the ability to confidently control the work of fire.

"Yes." He answered.

Your right-hand man, nicknamed Nebula. A loyal and trustworthy man to get the job done. He had been by your side for years now. He bore red hair, with soft yet colorful yellow eyes. Nebula was a tall man, almost reaching 6 feet. He had a gentle look and approach, but once he's mad, he can turn into a completely new person.

"Accept it." You instructed him.

"W- what..?" Nebula was taken aback. "Are you sure about this...? Kayden Break is—"

You cut him off, "I know everything there is to know about him. He's a troublemaker, but he's still strong enough to be on par with the top 10s." You turned around, facing Nebula. "I'm taking on this challenge because I want to."

"But if you fight him, you'll receive severe injuries!" Nebula tried stopping you. "That's why the other top 10s avoid fighting each other and him!"

You chuckled, "do you think I'm scared of a few scars?" You smiled, "if I do become weakened, you'll cover for me, won't you?"

Nebula looked into your eyes, shocked, surprised, but there was a feeling inside of himself. A feeling when someone you've looked up for so long has come to acknowledge you. "Yes, master!"

"Great." You smirked. "Did he mention a time or place? I heard he usually forgets them when he sends a notice."

"Ah, yes, he did."

A few days had passed.

It was finally the day of the fight.

You arrived on a deserted land, barren of anything. It was the place he settled for. You waited for him to arrive. Awakeners from your organization were stationed nearby, waiting in case Kayden had planned any dirty tricks.

Thud.

A small sound against the ground.

Kayden had arrived.

You looked at him, pridefully.

"Oh? You actually came." Kayden seemed to have not expected this outcome.

"Did you think I'd avoid a fight directly addressed to me?" You asked.

"Yeah. All the other top 10s seem to." Kayden replied arrogantly.

"That's because they're scaredy-cats. They just want power, they can't risk an injury."

"What about you then?" Kayden asked, grinning widely. "Aren't you afraid of being weakened by a mere injury as well?"

"Hmph. Should I be? I'm part of the top 10, there's no reason to be scared when I'm already this powerful." You crossed your arms, standing tall.

"I like your attitude. Yeah, that's the attitude the top 10 should have." Kayden went into position, "let's get this started then."

"Alright." You unfolded your arms, channeling your power and strength.

Each one waited for the first to make a move, but none budged.

"I thought you were brave, but it looked like it was just a facade." Kayden tsked.

"Attacking first does not determine who wins or loses."

"Yeah, yeah." Kayden provoked. "Then, why aren't you attacking?"

"Same goes for you." You smirked.

You were both long-range offenders, so there was no need to go face-to-face combat.

"Fine." Kayden suddenly struck down lightning from the sky at the speed of light.

You dodged smoothly, dashing away from the area of attack.

Even if you were a long-ranged combatant, that was no excuse not to hone your other skills. Such as speed, was necessary to survive if you could not take a defensive route.

You activated your flames. Your left eye lit up in a harmless, slightly transparent white flame. The flame helped you see better, like a hawk's eye. You reached your hand out, firing a small condensed fireball at him.

"Is that all the top 10's got?" Kayden destroyed it easily with a small spark. "I thought you were boasting about your abilities, but it seems like you're not really all that special."

You didn't reacted, remaining calm. "Could say the same for you. Rumors say you're a troublemaker who's ready to jump anyone at any time, but you've stayed calm until now. The only thing you've done is provoke me. They also said you were as strong as the top 10."

"Ha! Those rumors are just exaggerated. Well, except for the part where I'm as strong as the top 10." Kayden grinned. "I don't fight people who I find unworthy."

You frowned, "am I not worthy to go against you?"

"Well, yeah." Kayden shrugged. "All you've done is throw a puny-looking fireball."

"So have you."

"Enough with the talk, let's get to the real deal." Kayden took the bait.

The sky rumbled as the clouds turned dark. It started raining.

You looked up in the sky, furrowing your brows. Flames to water was weak, and he was taking advantage of that.

"What're you busy thinking about?" Kayden grinned as he blew another powerful attack.

You blocked his attack with your second attribute, wind.

His attack left the ground around you burnt.

He sent another lightning strike. "Why aren't you using your main ability?" He said, continuing his attack.

You kept on defending with the power of wind. It was infuriating, the power was weaker than your flames but better for defense. Plus, you couldn't even use your fire attribute to your advantage in this situation.

"Do you think you can defeat me with your side abilities?!" Kayden kept pouring out insults, trying to provoke you again.

"Enough with this futile attempt!" You shouted as you placed down your spatial dimension.

The area was engulfed inside a sphere, one that felt like you were on top of a volcano or on a piece of land floating in hell.

"So this is your dimension." Kayden looked around. "It's not that special except for the heat."

There was no longer any rain or water that could get in your way.

You roughly extended your arm outward, and shot. Another fireball, the size of a house came tumbling down at Kayden.

Kayden blocked it, using his electricity as a shield. "That's more like it." He grinned, excitedly.

'You madman.' You glared at Kayden. 'I'll end you and show everyone who's superior!' You shot up towards the sky, floating in the air. You channeled your powers once again, you were going to end this with one attack.

Kayden looked up at you, bewildered. He didn't expect you to take him seriously. He flew up as well, around your level. "You're ending it here already?" His smile said otherwise. He also started preparing his last attack.

"Don't get so cocky."

"DIVINE JUDGEMENT!!!"
"HEAVEN'S WRATH!!!"

The two of you released your attacks at the same time. It was only a matter of strength that'll prove who's better.

The attack moved towards each other, seconds before disaster. The mere sound of the two approaching one another created a ruckus, shaking the land below and the skies above. Then the next second, it collided. The impact blew anything in its radius away.

You clenched your jaw, covering your face with your arm. Using the wind and fire together, you protected yourself. You didn't know if it was the same for Kayden, the light that covered the whole territory was far too bright to see anything.

The light dismissed after a minute.

You could finally see, the injuries you obtained, the injuries he suffered, who won, who loss.

You felt the trickling down your arm. You looked down, your arm was basically gone. It was rendered useless. A sharp pain came from your side, you clenched your stomach, gripping it with your usable hand. 'What..? Did I lose...? Me? A top 10?!' You instantly looked up.

Kayden, he was in a worse condition than you, so why was he smiling like he won?!

"Heh.. HAHAHA!!" Kayden started laughing like a maniac.

You looked at him in disbelief, he really was a madman like the rumors said!

"You, Y/N, you're strong! I like you." He grinned widely.

'What...?'

"Then, let's see each other another time." Kayden smiled at you before he flew away in a wink.

"..."

You retreated your spatial dimension, returning the area you changed back to normal.

"Master! You're injured!" Nebula came running towards you, alongside a few others.

"Let's get you treated by the healers."

You nodded.

Chapter Text

"How is it, Elysia?" You asked her.

A few days had passed since you began treatment.

Elysia, your personal healer. One of the world's best healers actually. She swore her loyalty to you after you saved her from a desperate attempt to escape her kidnapper who abused her powers.

Elysia furrowed her brows, frowning as she examined you. "I healed your broken arm and the other scars... but there's something strange residing in your stomach, which is causing the pain you felt earlier." She closed her eyes, not wanting to face the consequences.

Nebula's eyes widened.

You sighed, massaging your aching forehead. "I knew I wouldn't get out of it without a problem."

"Then, why'd you accept his ridiculous request?!" Elysia shouted softly.

"That's my choice." You sat up from the bed. 'The power stopping my recovery in my stomach must be Kayden's energy.' You concluded. "I'll heal on my own."

The two nodded, understanding their master's orders, but they were nervous. It was practically a fight against another top 10, so what if they couldn't recover fast enough? If the others noticed, then they'll target them in their weakened state.

You got up and left the room.

The two watched as you left.

"What should we do?" Elysia asked, worried.

"What's wrong?" Nebula didn't seem to understand why she was so worried. Yes, their master was hurt, but was it that big of a deal? The Y/N he knew was strong even without help.

"I didn't them this because I was worried for them, but..."

"But what?" Nebula started panicking. "But what?!"

Elysia covered her face, scared to be shown, "they'll notice it soon!" She yelled, as if she were about to cry. "They might not recover like they said they will!"

Nebula patted her back, trying to comfort her, "Elysia, please tell me, so I can help.."

"The attack Y/N sustained from their battle with Kayden left an almost unrecoverable mark! Not even I can minimize it! His energy is clogged inside their body. If Y/N tries to use force control, one of their routes will be blocked! It might even cause the power inside to explode at one point!"

Nebula's eyes widened, realizing the severity of the situation.

Bang!

The door slammed open with great force.

"What do you mean master is injured?!" A girl, around 17-18, came rushing in, demanding an explanation.

"Jean."

Nebula spoke just her name, and it was enough to shut her up.

She clenched her fists, she heard everything, but she couldn't dare soak it in, "is it really true..?"

Nebula sighed sadly, "yes... if Elysia says so."

There was no way one of the world's best healers could've been mistaken.

"And what are you doing here?" Nebula asked Jean, taking her outside, leaving Elysia. "Shouldn't you still be in the World Awakened Academy?"

Elysia was left alone, to fight for herself in her sorrow, 'I'll find a way to heal you, master! Just wait for me and don't overdo it!'

Jean bared her teeth, "the school shut down for a bit."

"What.. what do you mean?" Nebula was once again shocked.

"A few days ago, Frame came by and suddenly swept the academy into chaos. They tried to kill us!"

"Frame.. attacked the academy...?"

"Yes." Jean nodded, furrowing her brows. "And.. Andrei, the top 10, was there as well..."

Nebula's eyes widened in shock. "How come I haven't been notified by the academy about this?" Nebula grew furious, more like he was being mad for someone else.

Jean looked away, "I don't know. Maybe because no one got hurt.. because Kayden's disciple and Kayden himself interfered."

"K.. Kayden.. and his disciple...?" Nebula asked, in complete surprise.

Kayden had appeared before his master in a showdown. He must've sustained a major injury, yet he showed himself in front of the world?! And in front of Andrei as well?!

Nebula was bewildered, he didn't know if Kayden was just mad or stupid.

Jean confirmed. "And.. I lost to an unaffiliated awakener called Wooin in an official spar..." Jean bit her lower lip, lowering her gaze, as if ashamed of herself.

Nebula's face turned serious. "Jean. I'll go tell master about everything, except for your loss."

Her eyes jolted up at him, "you're not going to tell master? My loss has brought shame to Flame!"

Nebula shook his head. "Master does not care for such trivial matters, don't worry about it."

Jean smiled, thankful. "You're going to include the symptoms of their injuries in your report, right?" Jean crossed her arms, standing sassily, waiting for a response.

Nebula met her gaze, then turned away, "yes..."

You sat in your bedroom, alone, looking down at your hand. Then you clenched it into a fist. 'What's wrong with my force control?! Why isn't it working properly?!'

It wasn't like you were doing it wrong, but the power you received was less sufficient than before.

You clenched your fist, frustrated. 'I have to recover my strength before the other top 10s realize my situation! They'll find out as soon as the news gets out that I fought Kayden.' Even in that moment of frustration, you practiced your force control.

Knock knock!

"Come in." You told the outsider.

"Master.." Nebula walked in.

"What is it, Nebula?" Your voice softened.

"I have come back to report something." He told you respectfully.

"What is it?" You tilted your head.

"Ahem.. Jean returned from the academy, she told me a few things."

Nebula paused, making you more curious.

"She said that Frame attacked them a few days ago. Thankfully, she received no major injuries—"

You interrupted him, "wait."

Nebula waited for you to tell him to continue.

You supported your head on your hand as you began thinking, 'Frame dares to attack the academy, where many rookie members of Flame study at?!' You grew furious. 'Let's see what your excuse is now, Frame!' You had a hatred for Frame, for personal reasons and business reasons. "Continue."

"Yes.. master.." Nebula replied awkwardly. "Andrei was there at the scene. Kayden's disciple was also there and due to that, Kayden showed up unexpectedly and got into a fight with him."

"Kayden.. showed up there...? And fought Andrei..?" You looked up at him, utterly shocked. He had just fought you recently, and now he's stirring trouble again?! Did your fight with him mean nothing to him?!

"Y/N..."

You stopped him, again, "you may leave now."

"..yes.. master..." He seemed to wanted to say something, but kept it to himself. 'Master's already upset, I shouldn't tell them.' Nebula left the room, shutting the door behind quietly.

"How did it go?" Jean asked.

"I couldn't tell them about their injuries.." Nebula sighed.

Jean shrugged, "it's not like they'll die from it. Plus, we can always cover for them." Jean smiled reassuringly.

Nebula smiled, "yes. That's what we've been training to do."

Chapter Text

"Elysia." You stormed into her room.

"What is it, master?" Elysia turned towards you, disregarding whatever she was working on.

"You knew.. didn't you?" You glared into her eyes, feeling betrayed.

Her eyes shook, frightened, scared. "Master! No- I mean yes— I knew! B- but you have to listen to me! I didn't mean to!" She tried to explain.

"Explain, then." You crossed your arms, frowning.

"I- I didn't want to worry you.. I thought before I tell you.. I would find the cure first..." Elysia shrieked, like a squirrel in front of a tiger.

"Elysia."

She shivered in fear, closing her eyes shut.

You sighed, "you could've just told me. You know I couldn't get mad at you." You tried reassuring her with a smile.

Elysia slowly opened her eyes, still shivering. "I'm sorry..."

You turned around, "there's no need to be sorry. You'll find the cure for me, right?" You smiled at her.

"Yes! Of course, master!" Elysia got up, hyped, "I'll start right away!"

"Alright!" You cheered for her. "But.. are you not going to explain to me what exactly is wrong with me?" You stopped her for a moment.

"Ah.." Elysia quieted down. "As you might've guessed, the power stopping you from making a full recovery is Kayden's. And due to his powerful energy in your system, using force control may feel like something is missing because a small portion of it cannot come through the blockage." Elysia explained.

You nodded, understanding the concept.

"So, I recommend ignoring that area where the power resides for now while using force control, at least, until I fix it. If the power is overstimulated, it may explode and damage your core."

"Alright. Thank you." You patted her head. "Don't overwork yourself." You waved her goodbye as you left her room.

"Don't worry, master! I'll definitely find the solution!"

You left the room. 'I should recover quickly.' You set out to your personal training room.

Every world awakener had one. It was where they trained to their best. Every room was made to fit the users.

Your's was as hot as the deepest grounds on earth.

You sat down, in the middle of the room, meditating. A surge of flames surrounded you, but you were unaffected by it. It was your power, it had no right to harm you.

The flame intensified. You started sweating from the pressure.

But no matter how much you trained, the feeling of emptiness didn't go away.

'It's fine. Elysia will figure this out soon.' You reassured yourself.

Knock knock

"Nebula?" You questioned the person outsider.

"No.. it's me, Jean..." She opened the door slightly, peaking out her head, but retreated due to the pressure of the heat.

"What is it?" You continue your training.

Jean gulped, anxious. "I didn't tell Nebula this but.. when Kayden showed up at the academy, Kartein also showed up."

"Why are you telling me this?" You asked her.

"Well.. I thought I'd just tell you..." Jean averted her gaze. "Just in case Elysia isn't able to treat you..."

"Do you not believe her?"

"It- it's not that!" Jean defended herself. "But I heard that Kartein is the greatest healer in the world, so.. it might be easier to obtain a cure from him.."

"That's true."

Jean's eyes lit up.

"But will he do that for me? That's uncertain. You know how Kartein is, if he doesn't want to, he won't. Even with a bribery with massive wealth and power, he won't budge."

Jean's excitement dispersed. "..sorry.. for wasting your time..." She looked away, saddened.

You stopped her, speaking, "but thank you, for worrying about me."

Jean smiled through the pain, "it's nothing. The whole organization is worried for you as well." She said her goodbye, "get well soon, master," as she closed the door slowly.

You stared at your palm.

Crash!

'Why isn't anything working?!' Elysia gripped onto her hair, frustrated as she looked at her scattered research papers. 'I can't find anything! Nothing's working!'

It had been a week since Elysia had analyzed the injury, even looking through many different perspectives, yet she could not find any results.

'This can't be, somethings wrong! Something must be wrong! Otherwise, why can't I figure it out?!' Elysia thought to herself. 'Y/N's about to come in for another checkup soon, if I don't find the solution fast...' She bit her lip at the thought of that.

"Elysia?" You opened the door to her research lab.

"Ah..!" Elysia looked up at you, showing herself in a dishonored manner. "I- I'm sorry, I'll clean up quickly!" She rushed to clean the mess inside her room.

"No, it's fine. I don't really mind." You told her. "Let's start the checkup, alright?"

Elysia nodded nervously.

You sat down on the chair she offered to you.

Elysia leaned forward, on top of you. She placed her gentle hand on your chest.

You felt her power seep throughout your body.

Elysia closed her eyes, focusing. 'Let's see how Kayden's power is holding up inside Y/N first.' Elysia thought as she channeled her power towards that area. She furrowed her brows, 'what..? How can that be...?'

"What's wrong, Elysia?"

"I'm sorry, master!" She suddenly apologized. "It seems I was mistaken.. there are traces of both Kayden and another healer's power blocking your pathways."

"A.. another healer..? What do you mean? Do you mean Kartein is also behind this?!" You jumped up from your seat.

"Yes.. I think I didn't notice this before as the power was still fairly new, but since it's worn off now, it's true nature is more clear." Elysia crossed her arms, laying her chin on her hand, "you remember when the rumors about Kayden being weakened by an attack from a top 10 circulating?" She suddenly asked you.

"Yes...? But why's that connected to this?"

"I believe that Kayden struck a deal with Kartein to heal him and because of that, traces of his power is shown in Kayden's power." Elysia explained. "This is bad," she grumbled, "it might not be known, but healers, as good as their healing abilities are, they can also slow down an awakener's recovery with it."

You gulped. 'Is that why Kartein was with Kayden...? This is a huge matter, what should I do?..'

"Master."

"Yes..?" You looked up at Elysia, who wore a serious face.

"The only way to reverse this is to get Kartein and Kayden to retrieve their power inside you."

Chapter Text

'The only ones who can heal me are those two..?' You thought to yourself, staring outside the window. 'Not even Elysia can heal me... but why does it have to be those two?'

The two Elysia mentioned were notorious for being hard to work with. Kayden, only had the thought of fighting. While Kartein, didn't care for anyone except himself. The two would never do something for someone else.

You groaned, 'whatever, it's worth a shot.' "Nebula."

"Yes, master?" Nebula entered the room upon your command.

"Locate Kartein's or Kayden's location."

"Huh..?" Nebula was confused, but obeyed either way. "Yes, I will look into it."

A few days passed.

"Master, I have obtained the information you requested." Nebula spoke, handing you a tablet. "There is also additional information I found about Kayden's disciple."

"What does his disciple have anything to do with this?" You asked as you took the tablet.

"Well.." Nebula averted his gaze. "He, and Kartein, have only shown up whenever he was in a serious situation."

"What..?" You looked at him in disbelief.

There was no way someone, or two, that're so self-centric, would show up to fix another one's problems.

At least, so you thought.

"What brings you here, Y/N?" Yoo Jiyoung, chairwoman of Shinhwa the biggest and most influential awakened organization in South Korea, asked you.

She sat down across from you.

"Kayden Break, I heard he frequently visits South Korea." You informed her.

Her darkened, "if you came to threaten him using Seo Jiwoo, then I'm afraid I cannot let you walk around my country so freely."

You sighed, "I'm not here for that. I need to meet Kayden for something else, not for a spar or a grudge."

Jiyoung calmed down.

"I wanted to acquire his location, but my men only found traces of him leading to Jiwoo. So, I wanted to meet him first. I ask you, chairwoman of Shinhwa, the one sponsoring Seo Jiwoo, allow me to meet him."

Jiyoung thought about her next decision, 'they don't look like they're here to harm him.' She concluded, "alright. I will arrange a meeting here with Jiwoo."

"Thank you." You bowed down to her.

Her eyes widened, "you.. you don't have to. I'm less superior than you, a top 10." Jiyoung bowed down instead.

You smiled, "you're humble. The top awakener of each country are usually prideful."

"Thank you.."

Beep!

"Jiyoung? What's wrong?"

They were talking over the phone, Jiyoung and Jiwoo.

"Can you come by my office, tomorrow..?"

"Sure! I'll be there in the afternoon, is that alright?"

"Yes..."

Beep!

"You heard that?" Jiyoung turned towards you.

You nodded. "Then, I'll come back tomorrow afternoon. No need to see me out." You left the building.

"..." Jiyoung watched as you left her office, and from the window, outside the building. 'I can't tell what your real objective is, but as long as you do not harm Jiwoo.'

The next morning...

"Veramonte.. Patrick.." Jiyoung spoke as she sat up from her chair, greeting the three who entered the room.

"No need." The old man, Veramonte Patrick, excused her rude behavior. "It's my fault for not informing you ahead of time."

Jiyoung stood quietly. His appearance was much more pressuring than Y/N's, not from power but from the atmosphere.

"I brought my grandchildren here with me today instead of just Jurion." Veramonte sat down on the one-seated couch while his grandchildren sat together.

The Patrick family, a prestigious and well known awakened family. Their head, Veramonte Patrick, one of the top 10 awakeners in the world, raised their status higher.

"What brings you here, today?" Jiyoung asked. She was used to it, Jurion and Veramonte already visited multiple times before. "I have an appointment with someone soon, so please, keep it short."

"An appointment with someone? Someone who's more important than the Patrick family?" Veramonte asked.

Jiyoung sweated, "yes.." she was quite brave for saying that. "They're Y/N, from Flame, a top 10 just like you."

The Patrick family was shocked.

"What.. why...?" Veramonte asked.

"I cannot disclose that. It is their choice whether they wish to disclose it or not." Jiyoung kept her mouth shut. It was better trusting someone who had no intention on harming them than someone's grandson who wishes to marry her.

"Veramonte?"

Everyone turned towards the voice.

Tap tap

You waked inside the room. "What're you doing here?"

"Y/N.." He stared at you. "I didn't expect to meet you here."

"Me neither, but I have an official appointment here unlike you." You crossed your arms.

Veramonte sighed, "I apologize, I wasn't informed about this. Then, we will leave for now." He apologized and headed out the door.

"Whatever." You tsked.

Ian, the youngest grandson of Veramonte, followed after.

Jurion got up from the couch, walking towards the door. He stopped right in front of it. Jurion stared at you from behind his back. 'I thought Jiyoung was the most beautiful person, but I guess I was wrong...' He left quietly.

"You're here early." Jiyoung greeted you.

"I figured I would come earlier than expected. Were you in a difficult position? He didn't seem to be here for nothing if he brought his grandchildren with him, I'm assuming he's asking for marriage between you two."

"You.. guessed from just that..?" Jiyoung seemed quite surprised.

"Hmph. Do you think you can become a top 10 if you're stupid?" You asked the obvious.

Jiyoung smiled awkwardly, "I should have known, I apologize. And thank you, for helping me."

"No need." You sat down on the couch. "I wouldn't have interrupted if I didn't want to. Plus, seeing Veramonte, or any other top 10, is quite a rare sight. You know how the more powerful you are, the more you go into hiding."

Jiyoung knew.

"So, I'll call us even."

Jiyoung nodded. "It should be time for Jiwoo to arrive soon."

"Chairwoman."

A voice came from the other side of the door.

"I brought him here."

"Come in." Jiyoung instructed.

Her right-hand man, Goo Inhyuk, entered the room, followed behind a boy.

"Hello, noona..." The boy greeted her nervously.

Chapter Text

"Jiyoung, did Jurion come visit you again?" The boy, presumably Jiwoo, asked her. He didn't notice the person standing a bit further away from her.

"Yes." Jiyoung nodded. "He came for a short bit, but left quickly."

"Why is that..?" Jiwoo asked, worried.

"I apologize, but this is what I came here to discuss about with you." Jiyoung interrupted him, changing the topic.

Jiwoo was confused.

Jiyoung motioned towards you, "this is Y/N, a top 10 in this world, they wish to meet you."

Jiwoo turned to you, surprised. "A top 10.. wants to meet me..?"

"Yes." You spoke. "I heard you're Kayden's disciple."

His expression immediately shifted to wariness as you said "Kayden".

You sighed, seems like their mentor and student relationship was stronger than you anticipated. "I'm not here for whatever you're thinking about." You assured the kid.

He calmed down a bit. "Then.. why are you here..?"

You glanced at Jiyoung, "would you mind leaving for a bit?"

Jiyoung nodded as he headed outside.

"Sit down." You told the boy.

Jiwoo sat down, still wary of you.

You casted your power around the room, engulfing it. It was different from your spatial dimension, it was peaceful and lively instead of dreadful.

Jiwoo flinched, surprised.

"This is a simple barrier to prevent eavesdropping from outside company." You told the kid. You leaned forward while sitting down. "Tell me where your mentor is." You asked with a serious expression.

Jiwoo furrowed his brows, "was what you said a lie? You said you weren't going to harm him!"

You leaned back, "yeah, I did." You shrugged. "I need to find him because I need his help, not to fight him."

"What..?" Jiwoo was caught off guard. Seems like he knew his master's nature.

"You see.. me and him had a duel together." You started explaining everything. "And because of that, I sustained a large injury." You groaned, not wanting to admit it.

Jiwoo had a gap between his mouth, but his pupils shook. "He didn't tell me that..." Jiwoo clenched his fist. He was referring to Kayden.

"Did he not tell you?" You tilted your head to the side a bit, confused. 'Guess he really cherishes his disciple enough to not worry him about this.' You sighed. 'How nice. Maybe I should take in a disciple as well...'

"No.."

Your words caused Jiwoo more discomfort.

'Jesus, what's with this kid. You don't have to look so upset..' you started feeling guilty. "Haa..." you scratched the back of your neck, "he probably didn't want to worry you. Plus, it's not like he died." You reassured the kid.

His expression only darkened more with more and more anxiety.

'What the?! Why're you more miserable than before?!' You panicked, frustrated as well. "So, uhh," you tried to change the subject, "because of that, a small part of my power is being blocked by his energy. I'm looking for him because I want to remove it. It's not that troublesome, but it feels uncomfortable." You excluded the part where you could potentially die from it.

"Yes.." he said in a low voice. "I won't be able to tell you though..'

"Huh? Why?" You were even more confused. 'I thought they had a good relationship, so how come he doesn't know where his teacher is?'

"Kayden comes and goes whenever he wants... if he drops by, I'll inform him about you." Jiwoo tried smiling, though he still seemed to be in sorrow.

You stared at him, surprised. He really looked like an angel, an innocent and lively child maintaining his childhood. It reminded you.. of you... before that... You smiled painfully, unconsciously. "Thank you." You got up, heading towards the door.

Jiwoo watched your steps.

You turned your head towards him, smiling, "if you ever need anything, please tell me." You smirked, "this is a one-time guaranteed wish from a top 10." You shut the door behind you.

His gaze widened. 'A wish...?'

"Kayden! Kayden!"

"Huh? What is it?"

Jiwoo suddenly rushed home after your conversation with him ended. He seemed to have collected his thoughts.

"Is it true?!" Jiwoo bent down next to Kayden's fat cat belly. "You fought a top 10?!"

"Huh?"

Kayden and Kartein stopped in the middle of their activities.

'Where did he find out about that?!'

Kayden averted his gaze.

Jiwoo stared into his eyes, pleading.

Kayden gritted his teeth, giving in, "Jiwoo."

"Yes..?"

"Sorry for not telling you." He sighed.

Jiwoo smiled softly, "I know. I know you didn't tell me because you were worried for me."

"Who said I was worried?!" Kayden playfully punched him. "Anyways, yeah, I fought a top 10. But, how did you find out?"

Jiwoo gulped, with a determined gaze, he spoke, "I met with them today."

"What...?"

Once again, the two were struck with shock.

Jiwoo placed his hand on his chin, thinking, "they said they were looking for you, Kayden."

"What..? Why..?" Kayden didn't expect this. "Do they want a rematch or something? I didn't perceive them to be that type of person."

Jiwoo shook his head, "no. They said something about an injury that only you can heal."

"An.. injury...? Only I can heal..?" Kayden didn't believe that, he wasn't even a healer in the first place! 'Wait, what if they're just doing this to get my attention? After all, I'm the most handsome man there is! Well, it wouldn't be bad having such a powerful person pursuing me, I could keep asking them for duels.'

"Wait." Kartein intercepted, interrupting Kayden's fantasies. "It must be because when your powers collided, it became mixed up together. So, when they tried to retrieve the lost power, they must've also absorbed your power. But, because my power was also mixed up in that mess, because you begged me to heal you temporarily," Kartein paused to glare at Kayden.

"..." Kayden averted his gaze.

"My power stopped Kayden's power from dispersing from their's." Kartein concluded. "They must be looking for you so that you can take back the power from their system."

"Then, why did they come to Jiwoo instead of me?"

"You muscle-head." Kartein spoke, irritated by his lack of thinking, but what made it worse, was his brain that was only smart during combat-related things. Guess you can't be good at two things at once.

"What??" Kayden whined, not understanding.

"Your location has not been known yet."

"Oh.. right..."

Chapter Text

"A.. message.. arrived from Kayden...?" You looked at Nebula, who just reported the information, in shock.

Nebula nodded.

"I didn't expect to hear an answer so soon." You weren't mad. "Why didn't he just say it directly to me if he told you." You sighed, a bit frustrated. "What did he say?"

Nebula repeated Kayden's words, "meet me back at Shinhwa."

"Huh? No time mentioned?"

"No.."

You groaned, "this idiot.. whatever, let's head to South Korea then."

"Yes, master. I will prepare the private jet and notify Shinhwa."

A few days later...

'We're back here again..' You stared up at the main Shinhwa building, a tall towering skyscraper. You stepped inside, greeted by mr. Inhyuk.

"Welcome, Y/N. It's a honor to have you back again." He bowed. "It's also a honor to have you here, Nebula."

Nebula smiled back at him.

"Let's go." You told the man.

"Yes." He led you towards the elevators as he pressed the top button.

The three of you stood quietly in the elevator.

Inhyuk broke the silence. "Kayden has already arrived and is waiting for you."

You nodded, remaining composed, but you never expected this, Kayden wasn't the type to wait in one place, seeing him as the troublemaker he is.

"May I ask why you wanted to meet mr. Kayden?"

You didn't even glance at him. "There's no need for you to know. What you do need to know though is that I won't be causing trouble, so rest assured."

Inhyuk smiled, "that's reassuring." For some reason, when you said it, it made he calm down, but when Veramonte said it, he became more tense.

"Anyways, what happened with Veramonte? It didn't seem like it was his first time visiting witth his grandsons. Are they really pressuring Jiyoung to get married? What would they even gain from that..." You inquired.

Inhyuk sighed, "it already seems as if you know everything."

Ding!

The elevator stopped.

Inhyuk stepped out the cabin. "Well, they haven't visited since then. I guess they're wary about you. Even Jurion hasn't texted the chairwoman when he has done so, so many times in the past." Inhyuk opened the door to Jiyoung's office, inviting the two inside.

You nodded, heading inside with Nebula.

There sat Jiyoung in her desk, and Kayden on the couch by himself. He stared at you, as if there was nothing else in the room except you.

"You're really here, Kayden Break."

Kayden scoffed, crossing his arms. "Did you think I'll reject your request?"

You raised an eyebrow, suspicious. "But you've ignored every request made towards you. Are you saying this is no different from then?"

"Hah! No. This is different, very different." His grin grew.

"I must ask," you sat down across from him, "why did you decide to change and accept my request?"

Kayden shrugged. "I wonder why as well."

You glared at him with peaceful yet suspicious intent. No one really knew what was on his mind anyways.

Kayden glanced at Jiyoung, "would you mind leaving for a moment?"

Jiyoung nodded, she stood up and left along with Inhyuk.

"You too." Kayden shooed away Nebula.

Nebula didn't budge.

You glanced at Nebula, "go." You told him.

Nebula instantly left.

You turned your attention back to Kayden. With a serious look, you asked him, "what is it that you needed everyone to leave?"

"Kartein." Kayden suddenly called out.

Kartein suddenly showed up from the shadows, or rather, from his demonic-looking awakened ability.

Your eyes widened as you saw him. 'Those two were working together..?'

"You already know who I am, so let's cut to the chase." Kartein ignorantly sat down on the empty couch in the middle.

You watched the two, cautiously.

"You said you were injured, right?" Kartein asked for reassurance.

Your gaze hardened. "Yes." You replied, though you felt an unsettling feeling like you were being trapped into a corner.

Kartein grinned. He sat back into the couch. "I can help you, but only if you give me something in return."

"Promise you what..?" What could Kartein have possibly wanted from you? Power? He never honed his offensive abilities. Wealth? He was already offered billions yet never accepted. Moral? After rejecting everyone? Love? What a useless thought for an awakener...

"What are you doing?" Kayden questioned him.

Your gaze turned to Kayden. 'That's right.. Kayden can also heal this wound...'

"What do you mean?" Kartein asked back.

"You're suddenly offering to heal someone, very unlike you." Kayden scoffed. "You're not playing another dirty trick, are you?"

"Are you kidding me?" Kartein looked at Kayden as if he would kill him any second. "Should I stop healing your damn disciple whenever he breaks his core then?"

"..." Kayden averted his gaze.

'Are they close? He also fixed a core before?! And Kayden's disciple on top of that?!' Your eyes widened as you heard the shocking news. Fixing a core was unheard of, it was basically impossible! You gulped, realizing Kartein may be the only person who could heal your injury. "What do you want, Kartein?"

They both turned towards you.

"What do you want in return for you to heal me?" You asked again.

Kartein grinned.

'Why's he grinning?' You and Kayden thought, thinking that something was off...

"I can't tell you now, but I will once the treatment is over."

"What..?" You were flabbergasted. Who the hell accepts a deal not knowing what they'll gain or lose?

"Are you stupid?" Kayden commented at Kartein. "You think they'll agree to such a ridiculous offer? What if you asked them to kill themselves eight after you finish?"

Kartein scoffed, crossing his arms, "you're the one who would order someone to do that, not me. Plus, why would I even heal someone if I wanted them dead."

'That's just hinting that you'll kill me during the session...' You sweated nervously.

"So, what do you say, Y/N?" Kartein asked watched you carefully, waiting for an answer.

"But.. I need to know what you want. If you want power, wealth, connections?" It wasn't a bad deal to offer everything seeing as it was Kartein who would heal you, but something made you have to ask.

Kartein sighed.

'Is it that difficult..?' You grew more anxious by the second.

"I want you."

Chapter Text

"What...? You.. want me...?" You pointed at yourself, completely dumbfounded.

Kayden was also as surprised as you were.

"Is it so strange?" Kartein asked.

"Yes."

"..."

Kartein began to speak again. "I guess you don't remember."

'Remember what?!' You panicked. Was it a good or bad thing? Then you suddenly remembered something, you once had amnesia, 'is it connected to that...?'

"It's been a long time anyways." Kartein said as if it wasn't a big deal, yet he still remembered unlike you.

"What has been a long time?" Kayden asked the question for you, he was also curious.

"Why do you need to know?" Kartein crossed his arms.

"Why can't I?" Kayden frowned, bearing his teeth. Then, he turned to you with a normal expression. "Hey. Why don't I heal you then? You said you need either me or Kartein to heal you after all."

You nodded, "yes..." Although, you were uncertain if he really could heal you. You trusted your healer's word. 'I swear if you were lying or mistaken, Elysia...' You hid your anger.

"But not for free." Kayden spoke.

'I know that. Nothing is for free in this world, not even in the plain ordinary world or the awakened world.'

"Fight me again." Kayden grinned.

"..."

"What..?" You were flabbergasted. At this point, you didn't know whose offer was more absurd.

"Hey, did you receive a brain injury from your fight with Y/N?" Kartein asked, almost serious.

"What? I could the say the same for you!" Kayden barked back.

You interrupted them. "Are you not satisfied with our recent fight?"

Kayden looked at you, now ignoring Kartein. "No, I am satisfied. That's why I wish to fight you again that I'm willing to heal you myself."

'But you're not a healer...' You sweated. You sighed, making up your mind. "Alright. I accept your requirement."

"What?" Kartein's eyes shot open. "You'll accept his ridiculous offer but not mines?!"

'Your's is even more ridiculous.' You avoided his gaze. "But the spar will take place once I've fully recovered and, in the future, we may only clash once we are at our full power."

Kayden smirked, sitting back in his chair, relieved. "Alright."

"Ughh, this is so frustrating." Kartein mumbled.

"Can I receive treatment right now?" You asked. "Or at least look at my condition?"

"Alright." Kayden got up, walking behind you. "Relax." He told you as he placed his hand on your shoulder.

You closed your eyes as you spoke. "Elysia told me that your power is currently blocking one of my pathways. She said if you can retrieve it, then it'll slowly recover by itself."

Kayden nodded.

Kartein watched, biting onto his nail anxiously. He really hoped Kayden wouldn't heal you.

His energy flowed inside you, through your body. 'I see.' He found where it was building at, a large lump stuck like a clog.

You felt your body becoming lighter. 'He did it...'

He removed his hand. "Feel any change?" Kayden asked.

"Yes..." You stared at the palm of your hand, then clenched it into a fist. "I'll contact you again once I make my recovery." You stood up, facing him.

"Alright." He smirked. "I'll be waiting."

You smiled. "Thank you."

Crack!

Kayden's eyes widened.

Kartein's nail, which he was biting on to relieve his anger, broke.

They looked at you, surprised and shocked. They had never seen you smile, smile such a beautiful one as well...

'What's this feeling..?' Kayden felt his stomach ache.

'I must make you mine!' Kartein vowed, agitated.

"I'll head out now." You bowed down to them before exiting the room, leaving them to themselves.

Clank.

The door shut behind you.

"Master. How did it go?" Nebula asked you. "I felt a bit of energy being released inside, but it wasn't that anything noteworthy."

You smiled, ambitiously. "I'm healed."

His eyes widened, then he smiled softly. "Congratulations, master."

"Thank you." You walked in front of him.

"But.. what did you offer in return..? I'm sure they didn't do it for free." Nebula asked, seriously.

"Kayden offered in exchange for another duel." You spoke as if it were nothing.

Nebula's eyes widened in shock and worry. "What do you mean?! Does that mean you'll have another fight with him?! You can't do that!" He refuted.

"Nebula." You called out his name, with a pressuring tone. "This is my decision."

Nebula choked, feeling pulled down.

"Hmph." You withdrew your power as you continued to walk outside the building.

Nebula caressed his neck, regaining his composure. He let out a small frown, furrowing his brows. 'If he dares do anything stupid, I won't let it slide again.' Nebula grinded his teeth against each other. He quickly returned behind your back.

Tap tap

They exited the building.

A black car stopped in front of them.

'Huh?' You stopped in your tracks, noticing the car purposely parked in front of you. 'Who could it be?'

The tinted black windows rolled down.

It was Jurion Patrick.

"What're you doing here again? Don't tell me you're back for Jiyoung?" You scoffed as you crossed your arms. 'What a love-strucked man he is.'

Jurion smiled gently, he got out of the car, standing in front of you, "no, not this time. And I don't think ever now..." he mumbled the last sentence under his breath.

"What?" You asked, not quite catching onto his words.

"Nothing." Jurion covered it up. "Anyways, can you get in the car? I have something to talk to you about."

"Talk about what? I didn't think there was anything between us, no less than having something to discuss."

Jurion didn't budge.

"..." You stared at him, uncomfortably.

Nebula frowned. 'He's definitely planning something. There were many people in the past, just like him, that coveted Y/N's hand in marriage. Of course, who could resist a beautiful and powerful person like my master?' Nebula felt proud at the last thought of his.

"Fine." You accepted.

Jurion opened the door for you, gesturing you to go inside.

You tilted your head into a small bow, "thank you." You sat down in the car.

Jurion entered, sitting next to you.

Nebula sat in the front, with the driver, but his gaze never left you two. He was extra careful in catching either one of you two's moves.

Chapter Text

"So what did you want to talk about?" You asked Jurion.

Jurion looked at you, as if be was looking at a majestical painting. He smiled. "My grandfather is looking for someone to marry me off to."

You raised an eyebrow. "Yeah? Isn't that why you visited Jiyoung?"

"Yes." Jurion nodded. "So, I want to ask you, do you want to marry me?"

"..."

The car came to an abrupt stop.

Everyone turned to look at Jurion, who did not bear an ounce of shame.

"What the hell do you think you're saying?" Nebula asked, with a gaze that could pierce through one's skull. "You dare ask my master to become your partner?!" His rage almost made him lose complete composure.

"Stop it, Nebula." You stopped him. "Do you know what you're saying right now?" You asked Jurion, who did not even flinch.

"Of course." Jurion replied calmly.

"Is this on your own record or is it another order from Veramonte?"

"This is my choice." He smiled.

"Are you not afraid of the outcome? I'm sure Veramonte wouldn't let this slide." You crossed your arms, sitting back in the seat.

"I'm sure grandfather wouldn't mind if someone like you were to become my partner."

You glared at him. "Are you trying to become enemies or allies with Flame?" It wasn't much of a question, rather a threat.

Jurion stayed calm. "Why would we want to become enemies with another top 10?"

"Tsk. You sure are asking for it."

"Will you accept my proposal?" Jurion asked, a bit sad at your disinterest. "Or at least consider it?"

"There is no need for any further discussion." Nebula interrupted rudely. "Our master will not marry anyone for the time being and in the future."

'Who are you to decide who I marry or not?' You thought, but didn't speak up. "Then we'll be leaving now. Thank you for entertaining us for a moment."

The car stopped.

Nebula came out first, turning back to open your door for you as you exited.

"Let us talk another time, with an official appointment." You didn't look back as you strided forward.

"Yes, let's meet again." Jurion said smoothly.

"I can't believe this!" Nebula let all his emotions out. "How dare a brat that hides behind his top 10 grandfather do something so bold to you, master! Asking for marriage is out of his league!"

You sighed.

"I'll make sure he never crosses your path again, master!" Nebula declared.

"Let's return home." You told him, ignoring his cries.

Nebula's mood shifted. "Of course, master!" He quickly pulled out his phone and dialed the private jet pilot to pick them up.

"Today was a long day..." You groaned. "I have a feeling this will continue..."

"Do you want me to carry you, master?" Nebula offered.

"No."

"Okay.." Nebula sulked.

You returned to your personal base and left Nebula to tend himself. You focused on your recovery and improvement. Sitting in the middle of a large flat surface, no light came in except for the artificial red lights that gave the minimal vision. Your energy flooded the room, making it almost impossible for any regular awakener to breathe.

"Phew..." You sighed, breathing in and out. Your skin glistened in sweat from the heat of your natural power.

Days had passed, but you were still cooped up in that room.

"I wonder how master's recovery is going." Elysia expressed her worry, standing outside the room with Nebula.

"Master will recover eventually." Nebula, on the other hand, did not worry for you. He believed in you faithfully.

"Still, I'm nervous. What if Kayden had a different intent? He could've planted a trap inside Y/N, saying it was to help them recover! Then, when they fight again, he'll use it to his advantage and gain influence through master's defeat!"

Nebula frowned. "Do you think master is that weak?"

"No..." Elysia gripped onto her clothing, looking down.

Nebula sighed. "I'm sure if that happened, master would find out before anything started."

Elysia averted her gaze. "Alright.." She turned around, taking a few steps forward.

"I don't think you have to worry about him for now." Nebula suddenly spoke, stopping Elysia.

"What do you mean..?" Elysia looked back.

"There's fishermen fishing in hopes for a bigger fish in the small pond."

'What does that mean?...' Elysia didn't understand. But before she could ask, Nebula had already left. Elysia sighed, also taking her leave.

"You wanted to see me, Veramonte?" You sat in your office, with the Patrick family's patriarch.

"Yes." Veramonte nodded.

"Go on then." You told him to continue.

Veramonte started. "First of all, I would like to apologize for my grandson's behavior." Veramonte lowered his head to a small bow.

You stared down at him while crossing your arms. "Forget it." You excused him. "It took me by surprise but I wouldn't find it unlike, seeing how he pursued Jiyoung like that."

"..." Veramonte sighed, a bit frustrated. "But," he started again, "the offer still stands."

"What..?" Your eyes widened as he said that. "You're approving of his actions?" Your eyes twitched.

"No and yes." Veramonte stayed calm. "It was a bit brazen of him to propose such an offer to you by himself, but wouldn't it be interesting? Two top 10s becoming family."

You glared at him. "I don't want to become families with you. Why are you even so desperate? First it was Jiyoung, now it's me."

Veramonte put on a smile. "Well my grandson is already of marriageable age, wouldn't a grandpa like want their grandchildren to find a suitable partner?"

"You talk like that, but you know us awakened ones can live up to 200 years just fine." You pointed out, not seeing a reason to rush things.

Veramonte chuckled like a wealthy, old man. "I thought youngster liked the concept of love."

'That doesn't apply to awakeners.' You groaned, the thought of it made your stomach turn in uncomfortable directions. "Then go find a youngster you're looking for."

Veramonte didn't budge. "My grandson seems to like you the most."

"What about Jiyoung?"

"This isn't about her anymore. Jurion has gotten over his petty feelings for her." Veramonte smiled.

You frowned. "Then he should get over his petty feelings he has for me."

"It's not that simple."

"And you thought the same when he pursued Jiyoung."

Veramonte sighed, he couldn't get over you no matter what. "Why don't we have another conversation another time? It seems I've taken a lot of both our time."

"That'll be nice if it wasn't about marriage." You escorted him outside the room quickly. "Don't come back again unless it's important."

"But this is important. It's about the marriage between two top 10s, something never seen before." Veramonte kept on bringing up that topic even if you disliked it.

"Yeah, because it won't and never will happen." You glared at him as you shut the door on him.

Chapter Text

"What did you and Veramonte talk about, Y/N?" Jean asked you as she walked alongside you in the hallway. "He didn't do anything to you, right...? Why would a top 10 visit you anyways, they always stay hidden in their caves covered in fear!"

You chuckled at her cute actions.

"I bet he tried to assess your condition so he could take you down while you were injured from your fight with Kayden!" Jean clenched her fists, ready to punch someone. "Those ignorant brats!"

You placed your hand on her shoulder, shaking your head slowly. "Calm down, no good will come if you're out of your mind. The flames will go out of control if you can't keep your feelings contained."

"Yes.. master." Jean quickly calmed down. "What did you two talk about?" She asked.

"..." You felt a bit awkward talking about this topic. "Marriage..."

Her eyes widened, "m- marriage...? Are you saying he asked you to marry him?!"

You two stopped moving.

"What?!" You were shocked at the absurdity of marrying Veramonte, who could potentially be your great great grandfather. "No! Absolutely not! He asked for me to become his grandson's partner!"

"And what did you say?" Jean stared at you intensely waiting for an answer.

You crossed your arms. "I declined, but I don't think they'll give up so easily." You sighed at the thought of it.

"That's understandable." Jean's mood changed. "Master is very beautiful!" She praised. "No one could resist our leader." Jean spoke pridefully.

"..." You looked away, blushing a bit at her boldness. "Anyways, shouldn't you be training right now? Is the super rookie of Flame becoming lazy?" You bonked her on the head, returning her from her delusions to reality.

"Ouch.." Jean held the top of her head, feeling it sting. "Why'd you do that?" She pouted.

"Go back to training then." You told her, nagging her.

"Don't wanna." Jean crossed her arms, piercing her lips forward as she looked away from you. "I wanna stay with master."

You smiled, angrily. "You won't be near me anytime soon once you get kicked out of Flame."

Jean froze. "Alright! Alright!" She forfeited. "But.."

"What is it?" You raised an eyebrow.

"Will you see me off when I go to Frame?" Her eyes glistened, crossing her fingers together into a praying position, with anticipation.

"Frame...? What do you mean? You're leaving Flame?"

"Huh?" Jean stopped. "You don't know yet?"

You shook your head.

"Ah.. I guess they haven't sent you a notice yet." She awkwardly scratched the back of her neck. Jean then went to explain, "Frame invited the World Awakened Academy to a match against their rookies. It's set to be scheduled in a month."

Your eyes widened. "An exchange with the rookies of Frame..? Just what are they planning..."

Jean tilted her head, confused. "Is something wrong?"

"No. It's fine." You shook it off.

"So, will you see me off??" Jean went back to asking, practically begging.

You started into her eyes. "...I'll come with you."

Jean froze once again. "Wha.. what...?" She stepped backwards, almost losing her balance.

You frowned, becoming serious. "Frame invited rookies from the WAA, I bet their goal isn't to have a friendly exchange with them."

"But..."

"You know Frame is a criminal organization, they'll do what they want without care for anything. But, if I'm there, they won't think of easily harming you." You explained your decision.

Her eyes lit up. "You.. you're doing it for me?!" A big smile crept onto Jean's face. "Thank you, master!" She tried to hug you, but you dodged her, making her fall to the ground.

You smiled softly.

"Ow..." Jean got up soon after her fall. She brushed the dust off her clothes. "But.. you don't have to. I mean, you're going onto enemy territory! What will happen if they decide to attack you? They already have an alliance between 3 top 10 awakeners..."

"But we also have an alliance between 2 top 10s." You reminded her. "If they were to attack me, then they'll receive significant injuries. And on top of that, our alliances will target them."

Jean smiled. "Alright! Let's go together, master! It'll be like a date!"

You sighed. "You're still too young."

The two of you started walking down the hallway again.

"Just because you're with me right now doesn't mean you should stop training with your force control." You scolded her.

"Ah!-" Jean jolted.

"You're going to Frame?" Nebula asked.

You were back inside your office, sitting by your desk.

"Why didn't you tell me about their offer?" You asked him, ignoring him. You knew if you directly said yes, he definitely try stopping you. "This is quite the large event."

Nebula looked disappointed at himself. "I only received the information from the WAA yesterday. I was going to report it to you, but I couldn't find a time to."

You sighed. "It's fine. Don't let it happen again. If it's related to Flame, tell me as fast as you could."

"Yes.." Nebula nodded.

You looked away, staring back out the window. 'I have to return to South Korea to check on my condition with Kayden..'

Kayden had promised you to check on you regularly for any lingering effects from his power.

'If I keep going back and forth, should I just stay there until our duel concludes?' You thought, it was a waste of time and power to keep flying back and forth by plane or by your awakened power. "Nebula." You got up from your chair.

"Yes, master?" He answered to your call.

"I'll be staying in South Korea for a while." You told him.

"Is it because of your agreement?" Nebula asked.

You nodded. "I'll be back by the time Jean leaves for Frame." You didn't tell him your exact plans.

"Yes. I will prepare for your departure and inform Shinhwa of your arrival. Will you be using the villa there?"

"Yes. Send me the important paperworks and take care of the smaller matters of Flame." You excused him.

Nebula bowed down before leaving to go back to work.

Chapter Text

Zoooommm

Tap tap.

The plane left after your departure.

'We're back here again...' You thought. 'Let's quickly get this over with and return by the time to go visit Frame.' Even as you walked, you worked on your force control.

It was fine doing it in the open, since normal people couldn't feel awakened powers unless it was pressuring.

"Master." A member of Flame greeted you. You knew this man, he was someone you picked up and brought under your wing. Kim Doha. "You're back."

You nodded, greeting him.

He was stationed in South Korea, running a small, hidden organized awakened group under him. His specialty was different from yours, so he wasn't at the main building, but you still taught him Flame's skills.

"Shall I take you to the villa now?" Doha asked.

"Yes." You entered the car with him.

Doha sat in the front seat, driving the car. There was someone else next to him. "Ah.. this is my assistant, don't mind them..." He looked nervously at rearview window, seeing your reflection. "Anyways, it's been awhile since you came to visit." He smiled. "I know you're busy, so you can't always come, but having you here makes me so happy!"

"Sorry." You apologized for your lack of attendance. "How is your group doing?" You asked, starting a topic.

"They're doing well. We're one of the best groups here, but we've continued to hide our true strength as you told us." Doha reported.

You nodded. "That's good. You gained a high position, making it easier to obtain information."

Doha nodded, smiling proudly. "Our organization is called 'Dakbal', which means phoenix's claw." Doha happily announced.

"Isn't that also a chicken dish? What are you, a food company?" You laughed.

"Hey!" Doha cried. "I just wanted to associate with your organization.." he sulked. "Like how your flames shines brightly and lasts for eternity, we're the claw that assists you." He got over his sadness in an instant.

"Thanks.. I guess..." You said, although insincere, you didn't want to make him cry now.

"You're welcome, master!" Doha expressed his happiness.

"And, Jean, what are you doing here?"

The two in the front row flinched.

You crossed your arms, waiting.

"This isn't what it looks like.. master..."

"Uh.. looks like you found out, master..."

The two spoke at the same time.

"Hmph. You think I wouldn't find out? Even if you change your physical appearance, your energy inside you is exactly the same."

"Ughh." Jean groaned. "But won't you let me stay?" She twisted her body, clutching onto the chair, to look at you, while pleading with her eyes.

You sighed, feeling a headache coming through. "Fine, but that doesn't mean you can ignore your training. Actually, since we're on this topic, you'll be receiving harsher lessons from me personally." You grinned devilishly.

"Ek!-" Jean squealed. The thought of having extra lessons was terrifying. 'Wait. I get to have lessons from Y/N though.. this is a once in a lifetime opportunity!' Her eyes glistened. "Alright!" Jean accepted her fate.

"We'll need to prepare you for the exchange. I heard Frame treats their rookies like adult awakeners." You turned towards Doha. "And why did you agree to hide her? I'm sure she was the one who asked you to do so."

Doha looked away nervously. "Well... I couldn't just decline her..."

You squinted your eyes, glaring at Doha. There's definitely more to the story than what's told.

"..." Doha sweated heavily while averting anyone's gaze. 'I can't tell them it was for photocards of Y/N!!'

Jean also looked away.

The two were acting really suspicious at the moment.

"Fine, I won't inquire further."

The two sighed in relief.

Doha continued to drive, up until they reached the villa. Doha stopped the car in front of the house.

He stepped out of the car, opening the door for you. "The Korean associations are already informed about your stay in my territory." Doha reported. "Are you going to be leaving here straight to Frame?"

"I guess Nebula already found out about my plans." You scoffed, remembering you didn't tell him about that.

Doha nodded, smiling, "he isn't your right-hand man for nothing."

"Yeah. I'll be taking Jean with me."

Jean immediately lit up with sparkles, happy. 'I get to stay with master for so long!'

"Alright." Doha bowed as he opened the door.

The two entered the house, looking around.

"Has someone been taking care of the villa?" You asked, noticing how clean it was.

"Yes." Doha answered. "I've kept some workers to take care of chores around here, but they're currently not here as I didn't want them bothering you."

"You asked people to take care of an empty house...?" You felt your mouth twitch. 'What a waste of resources and manpower.'

"Of course." Doha smiled brightly. "This is the property of our master after all."

'This guy and his praises.'

"Master!" Jean called out. "Why don't we look around together?"

You nodded, agreeing, "alright."

Jean smiled. 'My first date with master!'

"Y/N L/N has entered our country."

The major Korean organizations were holding a meeting.

"What should we do? Kim Doha, the leader of Dakbal, said they'll stay for around a month." Joo Gipyo, CEO of Halla, spoke.

Bang!

Lee Eon, CEO of the Union, slammed the table. "Has Dakbal betrayed us?! Working together with the top 10, Y/N and Flame?!" He shouted, gritting his teeth.

"I don't think that's the case." Yoo Jiyoung spoke calmly. "If that had been true, they wouldn't have revealed their relationship so easily."

"Flame also isn't that type of organization." Kim Haeyoung, CEO of Mir. "If it was Frame, the criminal organization, we'll have more to worry about."

"That doesn't justify their actions." Eon stayed tuff. "Getting involved with another organization outside their own country, do you expect us to stay still?"

"That reminds me, hasn't Y/N visited Shinhwa multiple times?" Gipyo pointed out.

Eon turned to Jiyoung. "Has Shinhwa also been working with Flame?!"

Jiyoung didn't take the bait and remained calm upon their assumptions. "Y/N contacted us to get ahold of Kayden Break, who has been spotted in our territory multiple times." She replied truthfully.

"Why would Y/N be looking for Kayden?" Eon asked, still angry.

"I can't disclose the details, but it's related to their spar."

Their eyes widened.

"So it's true that those two fought each other..."

Chapter Text

The next day...

"Where are you going, master?" Jean asked, noticing you heading towards the giant door located in the front of the house with Doha.

"I'm going to Shinhwa to receive treatment from Kayden." You informed her. "Don't think about slacking off while I'm gone."

"Of course not!" Jean sweated. "Have a safe trip, master."

You nodded, then left.

Doha drove you to the main building. The car stopped in front of it.

You got out of the car. 'We're back here again...' You seemed to dread this feeling.

Inhyuk, yet again, escorted you inside.

Knock knock

"Come in." A voice from inside said, it was Jiyoung.

Tap tap

"You've arrived." Jiyoung stood up from the couch.

There was someone else in the room, Lee Eon. You knew him, or, more accurately, you heard of him.

"So you're Y/N." The grandpa acted fearless. Either way, his energy was a mess, worse than yours, he most likely only had a few years left until he was buried 6 feet underground.

"Yes." You confirmed.

The man didn't even stand up to show his respects, not like he could.

"And what are you doing here?" You asked, trying not to be rude.

"For the safety of South Korea, the Union and the other Korean organizations wish to make sure that you are not here to cause any harm to our country." Jiyoung answered for him.

You sighed, understanding. You knew that Korea had a deep history about being betrayed by awakeners, most of the world did. "You can watch our session then."

Jiyoung's eyes widened. "Are you sure...?"

You nodded. "Even if he attempts to harm me, do you think he'd be able to in the state he's in?"

Eon's eyes widened. 'They can tell from just a glance..?! Even healers from across the world can't figure out what my problem is?!' "Are- are you a healer...?" Eon stuttered as he asked.

"No?"

"Then how can you tell..? I'm sure I suppressed the spilling energy from my core..." Eon didn't understand.

You raised an eyebrow, confused.

Eon sweated, "nevermind..."

Shortly after your brief conversation, Kayden came in followed along by Kartein again.

'I can't believe, I, Kartein, had to beg this fool to come along.' Kartein seemed frustrated. 'Whatever, as long as I can see Y/N...'

'He's here as well?' You thought, noticing Kartein.

'Kartein?!' Eon was shocked out of his head, almost unconsciously rising from his seat. 'And.. who's that...?' He glanced at Kayden.

"Seems like you have a lot of time on your hands." Kayden smirked. "Guess the top 10s aren't as hardworking as they're deemed to be."

You didn't reply to his comments. "Let's begin." You went straight to the topic, ignoring the bystanders.

Kayden sighed. He walked closer to you, placing his hand on your shoulder. The same method as before.

Everyone watched, Kartein, Jiyoung, and Eon.

"..."

The room filled with a calm energy, surrounding you, coming from you. Then it dispersed into the air.

"It looks like you're recovering well." Kayden spoke. "There won't be any need for any further sessions.." he sounded a bit disappointed saying that.

You nodded, thanking him. "Then I will return once we've decided on the date of the rematch."

"Yes.."

'Shit! They're leaving already?!' Kartein panicked. 'I need to create a good reason for them to stay longer...' Kartein flinched, getting a good, or bad, idea. "Y/N."

You looked at him, confused as to what he had to say.

"Let me become your personal healer."

The whole room froze in shocked. All eyes were on him and you.

"Do you know what you're saying..?" You asked him, mouth almost hanging open from the absurdity of his words. "Plus, I already have an assigned healer."

"Yes, I know that." Kartein nodded, understanding. Then he smirked pridefully with confidence. "But I am the world's greatest healer, unlike your current healer, who's only amongst the better healer, I can assure you more efficient services."

"..."

'That's true.' Jiyoung thought. 'Rumors say that as long as the patient is alive, he can heal just about anything.'

'This is... Kartein.. agreed to become a personal healer? The Kartein that refused me and everyone elses' request?!' Eon was shaken in his boots.

"I can even teach you my force control!" Kartein offered even more bait. He seemed really desperate.

Your face scrunched in bitter disgust, 'just what the hell do you want from me?! First, you ask me to be yours, then, you wish to become my healer...' You felt your head pounding.

"Hey." Kayden suddenly interrupted. He looked at Kartein with a deadpan expression. "You asked if I hit my head, but I think I should be the one saying that to you!"

Kartein ignored him. He continued to wait eagerly for your decision.

"I can't trust you yet." You told him, walking for the door.

Kartein watched you, devastated. 'Y/N.. can't trust me...? But they trust that bastard?!' Kartein glared at Kayden.

"Kartein offered to become your personal healer...?"

You were back at your villa, on a video call with Elysia. You nodded, confirming what she heard.

"Did.. you accept..?" Elysia asked, a bit saddened by that thought that she would be replaced.

"No, I declined him."

"Why would you do that?!" Elysia asked, confused. "Kartein is the best healer out there! Even better than me!"

"Do you think it's that simple? Plus, the words he offered me were quite suspicious for someone who is known to not accept any requests no matter the offer." You frowned, thinking back to your first interaction with him.

"What did he say?" Elysia asked.

"He said if I became his, or whatever, he would heal my injury." You shrugged. "Why would he even want that? He has piles of people wishing to become his spouse. We don't even know each other or have anything to do with one another."

Elysia flinched.

"Is something wrong?" You noticed her strange reaction.

"No..." Elysia answered in a low voice. "I- I think I have to get going now..! I'll see you later, master!"

The video call ended there.

'Strange.' You thought, but you didn't worry too much about it. You trusted Elysia, who had been by your side through years and trouble.

'I can't believe this!' Elysia dug her fingers through her hair, almost gripping onto them. 'Kartein's seeing master again!' She didn't seem happy about it, rather frustrated. 'Not after what he has done to master! I can't let him deceive Y/N again now that they've lost their memory!’

Chapter Text

'Hm? Something feels different.' Jean thought. 'Is master trying something new?' Jean approached your training room.

The energy got stronger as she went closer.

"Master?" Jean knocked on the door.

Silence.

Jean creaked open the door, peeking outside the little gap.

"Jean?" You finally noticed her.

Jean looked around before fully entering the room. "What happened here? Did you do this?"

You nodded.

The room was turned into your space isolation, however, the heat was much stronger than before.

"I'm modifying my space distortion." You explained.

Jean tilted her head, confused.

"After fighting with Kayden, I realized my power had a few flaws." You sighed, "it was ignorant of me, after all, it was basic knowledge. Fire is weak to water."

"But Kayden's awakened ability is electricity."

"His main tactic is to strike lightning down from the clouds, what happens when he does that?" You asked her, hoping she would understand.

Jean sweated, realizing why. She was a bit embarrassed. "It will begin to rain..."

You nodded, "that's right. So I'm planning on a way to disrupt that situation where my power is weakened."

"How will you do that?" Jean asked.

You smirked. "My main ability is fire, but my side-attribute is wind. If there is no clouds, there is no rain."

Jean's eyes sparkled. "You're a genius, master!" She cheered.

"I'm planning to strength my wind power now." You let out a gust of wind with the flick of your finger. "Let's start today's lesson, I'll only being using the wind this time."

"Yes, master!" Jean's left eyes lit up in a harmless flame, burning the eyepatch that used to be there, just like yours. She had learnt that skill from you before.

A strong wind flared from you, but it stood still, waiting for your next command.

"Here I come, master!" Jean bore a large smile as she stretched her arm forward and released a small tornado compressed of sharpened flames.

The color of her flames were orange, with a hint of bright red. Her power was quite good for a rookie.

"Hmph," you sighed, "you shouldn't be telling your opponent when you'll strike. I thought this was also common sense." You threw her attack of course with a simple movement of your wind.

"I'm only doing this because it's you, master." Jean winked.

"..." You wore a blank expression, already used to her talk.

Jean kept attacking, and you fixed her weak points.

"Huff... haa...." Jean fell to her knees, supporting herself to stay standing. "Master.. I.. have a question..." She said in between breaths.

"What is it?" You asked, completely fine.

"Wait.." Jean caught her breath, dropping to the floor. "Haaaa..."

You sat down beside her, a few feet away.

"You're so mean, master! Why don't you sit closer?" Jean wanted to close the distance, but respected your personal space.

"You're full of sweat." You told her, not caring for her feelings.

"Ack-" Jean curled up into a ball, embarrassed.

You sighed. "Anyways, what did you want to ask me?"

Jean's mood lightened up. "Oh, right. I wanted to ask you, isn't it better to evaporate the clouds then? With your fire? Focusing on a side-ability is very time consuming especially with the spar nearing."

You looked at her, dumbfounded. "Did you fail science or something? I thought the academy also taught ordinary academics skills because the students will become future leaders of the world." You asked her.

"Masteeer!! That's too harsh!! You've made me focus solely on my training!" Jean pouted.

"I guess that is true."

Jean smiled.

You shrugged. "If I set the cloud on fire, then it'll only make things worse. It'll rain even heavier and send lightning strikes down, helping Kayden in his fight. It's better if I move them away from the area."

"Ah, I see.." Jean didn't understand. "Then why not create a spatial dimension where they're not there?!" She let her imagination run wild.

"That's not possible." You immediately rejected her. You stared at her, eyes wide open. "It's only possible to create a separate dimension, we can't change the properties of it."

"Oh..." Jean's mood dulled down.

"Let's continue with training."

Jean nodded.

Bang!

"Um, mr. Kartein seems to be upset..." Jiwoo noticed Kartein, after returning to his house, immediately walk off to the basement.

Kayden sighed. "Just leave him be. He'll figure it out on his own."

Even with Kayden's reassurance, Jiwoo was still worried.

Kayden furrowed his brows, frowning. 'Something's strange about him, not that he's never been weird. But, there hasn't been any news of Kartein and Y/N knowing each other before.. so why is he so desperate to be with Y/N?'

'Damn it!'

The room was filled with a malicious, dark aura coming from Kartein.

Kartein clenched his fist, grinding his teeth against each other. 'I lost them again! I won't be able to make it up, or be with them anymore...' Kartein frowned.

He sat down, in the middle of the room, crossing his arms like a upset child.

'But something's off.' He thought, rethinking about his interactions with you. 'Why did they act like they didn't know me? Why were they so surprised?' Kartein then grinned crazily.

'Does Y/N really not remember?'

"I'm fully recovered now."

It had been a bit more than a week since you started lessons for Jean and personal training at that.

You looked at the center of your palm, then clenched it into a fist. You smirked. "Tell Jiyoung that our rematch shall be in three days."

"Yes, master." Doha bowed. "I wish you the best of luck." Then he went off to send the notice.

"Ha. You think I'll lose to him? I already won against him once, don't think I can't do it twice."

Chapter Text

"Y/N has fully recovered already?" Kayden spoke over the phone with Jiyoung. He had given her his extra phone number just in case.

"Yes."

"I didn't expect them to recover so fast." Kayden grew a bit jealous.

"The match will begin in three days. The location has been sent to you via messages."

"Alright. Thanks." Kayden hung up on her.

Poof!

Kayden plopped down onto the couch.

'What's wrong with mr. Kayden..?' Jiwoo thought, noticing the devastated look on him.

Kayden hadn't told Jiwoo anything regarding this match.

'Shittt!!' Kayden cursed. 'I haven't recovered to my full state yet! I won't be able to fight them as I wanted!' Kayden glanced towards the basement door. 'Should I ask Kartein to heal me... what? No! That's ridiculous!'

Creaak...

"Y/N's recovered now?" Kartein asked, a bit surprised.

"Yeah." Kayden grunted.

Kartein bit his lower lip. "You have to defeat them."

"What?" Kayden was caught off guard. "Hey. What do you mean by that?"

"I know you won't go easy on them, but either way, don't let yourself come back defeated." Kartein glared at him.

"..." Kayden was dumbfounded. 'Is he high...?'

"Let me heal you."

Kayden flinched. He didn't expect Kartein to be the one bringing it up first. Kayden sweated nervously, 'just what is he planning...'

Kartein crossed his arms. "You're not in your best state right now since your last fight with Y/N and the past ones. But, I can heal the scars, even if it takes awhile. You need to recover." Kartein's glare intensified. Bits of his aura escaped his control.

"Why would you do that for me?" Kayden asked, skeptical.

Kartein became more enraged. "I'm not doing it for you!"

'Sure.' Kayden looked away. 'But this is good,' he grinned behind Kartein's back, 'he's willing to heal me without receiving anything.' "Alright."

Kartein's eyes widened as a grin crossed his face. 'Great! I don't want to admit it, but Kayden is a strong opponent. If he's able to deal irreversible damage to Y/N, they'll come crawling my way for help...' His smirk grew wider and wider.

'What's with that look.' Kayden got chills from just looking at him.

"..." Kayden looked at his palm, clenching his fist then releasing it over and over again.

It had been three days since he started treatment, and his power he lost has already started returning to him rapidly.

"How is it? Amazing, right?" Kartein praised himself, but his condition seemed way worse.

Kayden didn't reply. He was both impressed with his ability and dumbfounded by the contrast between Kartein's words and current look.

"Today's the day." Kayden spoke out of turn.

Kartein nodded. "Let's get going."

The two headed for the door.

"Where are you two going?" Jiwoo asked, confused as to why they're headed straight outside when they've just returned from "training".

They halted.

"We have business to attend." Kayden sweated nervously as he half-lied. It wasn't the complete truth, but it wasn't a lie either.

"Alright..." Jiwoo sounded a bit upset as he spoke.

Kayden and Kartein looked at each other. They seemed to share a thought, 'let's leave quickly...'

"Sorry for the wait." You told Jiyoung and Inhyuk as you arrived at the site. "Something came up." You sweated.

The agreed location for the fight, cleaned of nothing and a flat land somewhere far away from human civilization.

"It's fine. I'm sure you're a busy person, Y/N. And Kayden hasn't arrived yet." Inhyuk spoke on the behalf of Jiyoung.

You nodded. 'I'm sure you're also a busy person, Jiyoung. Having to be both a chairwoman and the top awakener of a country at the same time...'

"Masssteeeerr!" Jean clung onto your ankles.

You tried pushing her off, swinging your leg effortlessly.

"Take me with you!" She begged. "I wanna see you in a real fight as well!" Jean cried.

"Jean, get off me, I'm going to be late if you keep continuing this."

"Nooo!" She shook her head violently.

"Why don't you go hang out with your WAA friend?" You suggested. "You can use my private jet to go visit her."

"No!" Jean repeated louder. "She's not my friend, my only friend is master!"

'Who calls their friend "master"?' You thought. "Then is she your girlfriend?" You teased her. They were always hanging out together, snuggling into each other's arms anyways.

Jean blushed. "NO!" She instantly returned, flustered.

"..."

"...It's.. not what you think..." Jean finally stopped hanging onto you. She seemed to embarrassed to do anything else.

Whoosh!

You took a run for it.

"Come back here! Master!!" Jean tried chasing after you, unsuccessfully.

You stood there, remembering the moment. "..."

Woosh.

Kayden, and Kartein, again, arrived.

'Why's he here again?' You thought, feeling a bit creeped out. He was always there when you were there... like a stalker... You felt yourself getting goosebumps.

"Y/N." Kartein greeted you with a large smile.

"..."

Everyone was flabbergasted.

'Is this really "that Kartein"...?'

"Hello..." You looked away awkwardly. "Anyways," you faked coughed, "let's start the match."

Kayden grinned. "I've been waiting for this moment." He clanked his fists together.

"Although you recovered a bit of your past strength, since we only had a limited amount of time, I wasn't able to fully heal you." Kartein started nagging Kayden.

"..." Kayden looked away, uninterested.

Kartein frowned, 'listen to me when I talk, you fucker!' He grinded his teeth, then took a big sigh. 'What did I expect from his knucklehead anyways.' "So, right before the fight, I will pour everything to temporarily restore your original state."

Kayden flinched, finally growing interest. Then he started to grin, maliciously.

The two of you took your positions, while the bystanders stood from afar.

Kartein crossed his arms, watching you intently from the sidelines.

"..."

The two, Jiyoung and Inhyuk, were both bewildered and dumbfounded by Kartein's actions.

'After what happened that day, I shouldn't be so surprised.' Jiyoung thought, looking away.

'Kayden...' You glared at him. 'I hope you're ready for this. Even if you helped me recover, I won't let you go twice!'

'I see.' Kayden smirked. 'I like that fighting spirit of your's!' He raised his hands above waist level, seemingly he was charging up his starting move.

'Your tricks won't work on me again!' You raised your arms forward, a light emerged from your hands.

'That wind...!'

Inhyuk and Jiyoung raised their arms, protecting their head. They quickly deployed a simple barrier.

Kartein stood unbothered as he protected himself with his own barrier.

'It's stronger than the chairwoman's awakened wind!' Inhyuk thought as he fought to stand his ground, yet he was still amazed.

Jiyoung was also impressed. Her eyes widened in recognition and realization, 'their wind power is impressive, but I heard their main ability is pyrokinesis!... To think that they'll have raised their wind power to this level, yet still maintain their main ability to the level of a top 10's...'

Kayden looked up at the sky. 'Seems like you have prepared a countermeasure for that move.' He reminisced the moment, where he weakened your fire power through the rumbling clouds. 'That's smart, but I wasn't planning to do that from the start!'

You flinched.

Chapter Text

BANG!

Your powers collided.

You weakly smirked. 'I did somewhat expect him to attack me suddenly.'

The two of you kept going at each other with small moves, but even if it was considered small, it really wasn't. After all, it was a fight against two high-ranking members.

'To think they're fighting without caring for their surroundings or anyone.' Inhyuk sweated nervously, afraid of getting caught up in the fight. 'And they're not even using a spatial dimension!'

Jiyoung furrowed her brows. 'I'm glad I cleared my schedule to witness this fight.'

'...Y/N...Kayden, you must win!' Kartein glared at Kayden with much pressure.

Despite the distance, Kayden could feel his stares. '...Why the fuck are you staring at me so intensely?!' He grew anxiously angry.

"Are you getting distracted?" You striked him from below, sending out a fire attack at him.

Kayden gritted his teeth, immediately using his powers to block the attack. However, it was quite sloppy as it was rushed. His hand was scraped in the process.

'It's not enough. Well, what did I expect?' You sighed. 'This is practically almost a fight between two top 10s.'

"Why do you keep getting distracted?"

You flinched, holding out your arms, around your head, while using your flame shield, you blocked his lightning strike. 'Shit! It looks like he's finally stepping his powers up!' You immediately took an offensive position, fire heating up rapidly.

Kayden grinned happily like a maniac. "This is the moment I've been waiting for!"

"You cocky bastard!" You placed down your spatial dimension as you fired a fireball, as big as a three-story house, directly at him. Your eyes widened, 'he's not going to block it?!'

'Kayden, that idiot!' Kartein cursed.

"Chairwoman!" Inhyuk ran to protect her.

"I'll be fine." Jiyoung continued to eagerly watch the fight without batting an eye.

BOOOM!

It had hit him.

The meteor crashed to the ground, putting a large dent into Earth.

'What happened? Did I win? No.. it wouldn't be that easy. I haven't even used my full power yet.' You worried about the outcome.

Dust clouded everyone's vision.

Swoosh!

You used a bit of wind to blow the wind off your sight. Your eyes widened.

Where Kayden was supposed to stand, he was not there.

You turned around, staring into the sky.

Kayden, still grinning. "Whatcha looking for, baby?" He spoke confidently, despite his condition. Kayden was stained with blood from his head to his waist, maybe the meteor had hit his head actually.

'B- baby?!' Your eyebrows twitched. 'Who the fuck are you calling "baby"?!' This bastard really had a knack for agitating people.

Rumble...

The sky turned a bit darker.

You looked around. The clouds with their annoying rain wouldn't bother you anymore. Guess he was going to release his next major attack. You clenched your fist, determined to end this fool.

"I think they're done with playing around..." Inhyuk sounded more and more worried as the fight went on.

'Huh?'

Lightning zapped from his arms. His hair had turned completely white, with sparks to thunder occasionally escaping. Did Kayden evolve to become the white version of pikachu?

Whatever it was, you were ready to take on his measly attempts at defeating you.

'I didn't fight with my all last time, because I didn't deem the opponent worthy, but it's different now!'

The two of you seemed to have the same thought.

'Whoever's stronger wins.' That was the mindset you had. 'The strongest of the strong!'

'Why should I, the great Kayden, be behind those cowards hiding away under the title of "top 10 awakeners"?!'

Though different thoughts, very similar ideas and concepts.

'I am the strongest!'

The two of you smirked, ignorantly.

One more time, the same move, but on different scales of power.

"DIVINE JUDGEMENT!"
"HEAVEN'S WRATH!"

BOOOOOOOOOOM!!!

The sound echoed across, from ear to ear. Vibration tumbled underneath the feet of anyone within a "near" distance. The land was utterly destroyed, reduced to a mere wasteland. Thankfully, everyone would stay within the spectators and participants through the spatial dimension. If not, it would've been a great disaster.

"Huff.. huff..." You breathed heavily, panting. Your chest felt like it would explode. 'Shit. I put everything into the attack, I didn't think about defending myself from the debris.'

Kartein smirked excitedly. His eyes lit with a spark. 'You did it, Kayden!'

You clenched onto your aching heart, filled with pain. 'This hurts like hell. Maybe I should've asked Elysia to be on standby...' You felt your eyelids becoming heavy. You bit your lip. 'No. I have to see what happened to Kayden. I can't lose! A top 10 can't lose to the likes of him!'

"..." Kayden was silent.

'...Did nothing happen...? How can he be left uninjured!?' You felt anger fuel up inside you.

"Cough! Cough!"

Your eyes lit up. 'Yes! That's what I thought! You couldn't have been left unharmed from that!'

Kayden was spewing blood from his mouth and open wounds.

The new dust clouds dispersed.

You grinned happily. 'He's in a worse condition than I am!' Just the thought of that amused you. "Ow-" You winced. 'Right. I also need to focus on my recovery.' You practiced your force control at a moderate level, aiding your recovery.

Thud!

Kayden fell to the ground, on his knees.

You walked up to him, ignoring the pain. "I won this time." You smiled brightly.

Kayden looked up at you, standing so tall and confidently as you declared that sentence. He didn't say anything, strange, he only stared at you, with wide eyes.

You walked off, retreating your spatial dimension, leaving.

'I'll be waiting for you, Y/N.' Kartein smirked. His eyes followed you until the moment you left his sight. 'Don't disappoint me. I know that fool, Elysia, won't be able to heal you as good as I can.'

'Kayden.. lost...' Jiyoung was in a trance. She had expected this result, but maybe because she had seen Kayden fighting and winning against multiple opponents, Jiyoung didn't know how to react when he lost.

"Chairwoman."

Jiyoung flinched, regaining herself. "Take Kayden to our awakened healing facility."

"Yes, chairwoman." Inhyuk complied.

"I don't need any healing!" Kayden was like a kid refusing to eat their vegetables.

"Master..." Elysia seemed nervous. "I don't think I'll be able to heal your injuries..."

Chapter Text

Bang!

You slammed onto the table with your fists.

You were back at Flame, the main building, with Jean.

"This can't be right..." Your voice shaken with despair. "What do you mean, you can't heal me?!" You were devastated. Once again, you've heard this before.

"I could've healed any minor or moderate injury, even major injures can be healed with more time spent! You know it well. But these injuries have already attacked vital places!" Elysia argued softly. "It's similar to last time..." She seemed a bit upset mentioning that event.

You gulped nervously. 'Shit. Do I really have no choice?' You felt like banging your head into the wall just by thinking. 'I promised Jean I'd come with her to Frame... and I can't just put on a bluff on against top 10 awakeners...'

"Master.." Elysia stood up. "Maybe you should just accept his offer..." She seemed a bit hesitant about her coming.

"Whose?" You asked.

Elysia flushed, embarrassed. "Kartein's! Didn't he offer to be your personal doctor?"

Your eyes widened. 'He did...' You seemed to have forgotten. You furrowed your brows. 'If I accepted, I would have to be his or whatever he meant.' You felt chills across your body just thinking about it. "Yeah, no."

"But master! Even if I also disagree, that's the only way you can recover!" Elysia tested the waters.

'...That's true...' You clenched your teeth. 'I really didn't want to do this...' Why was it every time that you needed treatment, the conditions were so difficult and bothersome?

Beep

Beep

Beep

"Who is this?"

"It's me, Y/N."

"You called fast."

His tone seemed to change from displeased to pleased.

"Are you still offering that...?"

"Of course."

"..."

How awkward, you didn't know what else to say.

"I'll come to Flame."

"What?! You're coming here!?"

"I'm going to be your personal doctor, why wouldn't I stay by your side?"

"...I guess so..."

"Then I'll see you again, when I'm there, Y/N."

Your eyes widened, confused with this feeling. Why did his last words seem so warm, kind...? Whatever it was, it made you feel sick...

"How did it go...?" Elysia asked, fiddling with her fingers nervously.

"He said he's coming here."

"What!?" Her body shot up with shock. "Kartein's coming to Flame?!" She repeated your words.

You nodded.

Elysia turned around. "I'll- I'll be back!" She ran away, slamming the door behind her.

You shrugged, confused.

'Kartein's coming! He's coming! This isn't good!' Elysia panicked.

Thud!

"Ouch..."

"Elysia? Why're you running in the hall so fast?"

Elysia looked up.

It was Nebula. He held his hand outward for her to grab and steady herself.

Elysia got up with his help, dusting off the dust on her clothing. "Nebula!" She shouted as she grabbed onto his shoulders, with her head faced downwards.

Nebula flinched. "What's wrong? You look upset."

"Kartein is back!"

His eyes widened. "Kartein...? What do you mean he's back!?" Nebula shouted. Angry? Upset? Frustrated? It seemed like them all.

"I shouldn't have done that!" Elysia cried. "I suggested that they accept Kartein's offer!" She covered her face with her hands, slumping down.

"Elysia." Nebula tried calming her down, patting her back gently. "What did you say to Y/N?"

"..." Elysia was silent for a moment. "Kartein offered to become their personal healer a while ago..."

Nebula quickly caught on. "This isn't good..." He frowned.

"I know!" Elysia bursted out. "I shouldn't have mentioned it! Y/N could've lived their life without having to get involved with him again!" She continued crying nonstop.

Nebula comforted her.

"..." There was a figure standing by the corner, listening to their conversation.

Tomorrow evening...

'Sorry, Jiwoo, but I can't miss this opportunity that was given to me.' Kartein glanced outside the window of his private jet.

"We'll be landing shortly."

'I'm back, Y/N.' He smirked.

Zooooooooom!

Kartein stood where he left the jet.

"Welcome, Mr. Kartein!"

A small collective group of awakeners under Flame greeted him as he arrived, standing in two straight lines while bowing 90 degrees.

"Welcome, Kartein." You greeted him as you walked in between them.

"It's nice to meet you again, Y/N." Kartein put on his nice guy mask. "I look forward to working with you."

The other awakeners, still holding that bow position, stared at Kartein intensely.

"I do too." You nodded. "Let's head to my office." You lead him inside.

"Jeez, just what makes him think he can walk around here so casually?"

"After what he had done to our leader, quite disrespectful, don't you think?"

"His attitude is still the same."

The group started talking smack amongst themselves.

"Let's not talk about this." One of them took the lead.

"..."

They became quiet.

"We should prepare for any possible action happening in the future that would harm our master."

"That's right."

They nodded in unison.

"It will only cause disruption if the future members of Flame are all talk and no action."

";;;"

Even though Kartein was walking alongside Y/N, it wouldn't stop the hostile gazes forming on him.

"Don't mind them too much." You suddenly spoke. "They tend to do that when newcomers come around. Once they get to know you, they'll eventually drop it."

'I don't think that'll be the case.' Kartein smiled slyly. "Alright, thanks."

"We're here." You came to a stop.

Nebula was standing, or rather, guarding, by the door, he opened it for you.

You went inside.

Kartein followed along.

As he went inside, Nebula's piercing gaze did not leave him.

"Is he coming too?" Kartein asked, rudely pointing at Nebula who closed the door behind as he went inside.

You nodded. "Is something wrong?"

"No..."

"Then let's begin our first session." You sat down on one of the two couches in front of your desk.

'They must be talking about their injuries from the fight.' Kartein smirked. It had worked! His plans went as according to plan!

'Look at his face.' Nebula's face scrunched up with disgust. 'I can't believe he still has the guts to step foot on Y/N's territory. How shameful.'

Chapter Text

Kartein was given an exclusive house near the main building and service upon becoming your personal healer, just like Elysia.

Tap tap

"We meet again, Kartein." Elysia confronted him, putting on a tough girl act.

"..." Kartein glanced down without much emotion. "Nice to meet you again, Elysia." His words held a bit of malice.

Elysia clenched her teeth. 'You cunning bastard! Son of a bitch! Nothing short of a whore! Fucking leech!' Elysia kept on cursing Kartein in her head. "What are you doing here, again, Kartein?" She finally asked.

"What do you mean?" Kartein grinned. "Didn't you hear the news? I'm Y/N's 'new' personal healer. That means you're out of the league now."

Elysia clenched her fist. "There's no way master would toss me aside!" She shouted. "You're just a stand-in."

"We'll see about that." Kartein waved goodbye to her as he left down the hallway.

Elysia watched as he left. 'You should watch your back, Kartein. No one here welcomes you.' "We have to get rid of him once he finishes healing Y/N."

"That's right."

"What's wrong?" You asked the person who came inside your office uninvited and uncalled for. "It's not time for the next checkup yet."

"I know." Kartein sat down on the couch. "I had something I wanted to discuss with you first."

"And that is?" You raised an eyebrow.

"I heard you were going to Frame soon." Kartein began.

"Yes. That's right." You confirmed.

"If you wish to fully heal by then, we'll need daily checkups rather than occasional ones."

"Is it that bad?" You wondered, getting more worried about the situation.

Kartein smirked, although he hid it behind his hands. "Yes." He replied subtly.

You clenched your fists, biting your lower lip in frustration. "But it can be done, right?" You asked.

Kartein flinched. "Of course." He calmed down.

"Then alright. We'll have daily checkups then." You agreed out of desperation. "It'll be held after I've finished training."

"Alright."

"Kayden." Jiwoo went inside his basement, searching for Kayden.

"What is it?" Kayden, in his fat cat form, was sitting down in the middle of the basement. Looks like he was training.

"Have you seen Kartein?" Jiwoo asked with a worried expression.

"Kartein? Who knows what that bastard is doing." Kayden groaned. 'He had been acting weird recently, now he suddenly disappears without a word.'

"I hope he's not in trouble..."

"You don't have to worry about that." Kayden got up. "He's stronger than you expect. Despite his looks, he's still well within the top 50 awakeners."

Jiwoo nodded. He believed Kayden, but he just couldn't get rid of this anxious feeling.

Days had passed by like flies.

"Is Kartein not coming back...?" Jiwoo kept on talking about this topic. He was slowly petting the cats on the couch, but his focus was on something else.

Kayden, on the other hand, was doing pull-ups on the stair railings as a cat. "Why're you so worried about him? If he's hurt, he can just heal himself."

"I know..." Jiwoo looked down. "But it feels lonely without him here..."

"..." Kayden stopped and dropped to the floor. He walked over to Jiwoo. "If you have time to worry, then you should get back to training. We have to prepare you for your visit to Frame."

"Y- yes!" Jiwoo jolted up from his seat and immediately headed towards the basement to train.

"Heh." Kayden chuckled amusingly and followed shortly.

"It looks like you're healing better than I expected." Kartein sweated nervously yet he kept his poker face.

You were up to your daily checkup currently.

"You'll be able to fully heal in no time before our departure." Kartein continued. "The repelling energy that prevented your recovery is slowly dismissing from your core. You can continue training moderately."

You nodded. "Thanks."

"Still, if anything happens or you feel unwell in any way, make sure to call me." Kartein smiled at you reassuringly.

"Wait. Did you say 'our' departure?" You stopped, staring at him.

Kartein nodded. "Of course, what if you get hurt while you're there? None of the healers from an opposing fraction would want to heal another awakener, if they do, what if they're secretly plotting something?"

You frowned. You never considered this since there was almost no cases of a top 10 awakener getting hurt and needing treatment. "Alright." You agreed, getting up and leaving. 'Looks like I have another person to protect while I'm on this trip.' You massaged the bridge of your nose, stressed out.

"How was it, master?" Nebula greeted you outside the room, handing you a piece of cloth.

You took the cloth, although not sure why he handed it to you, and wiped your hands with it. "I'm healing faster than anticipated." You informed him.

"Of course." Nebula smirked. "It's you after all."

You chuckled, amused. "Yeah. I am the strongest awakener after all."

"Your trip to Frame is approaching. We already prepared all the necessary things for your departure." Nebula handed you a tablet this time. "I will be handling your work for the time being. I also informed the other branch leaders about this."

You nodded, scrolling through the data collected on the tablet.

"Hawk, our spy within Frame, has already been informed about your plans. She sent over detailed information about Frame, which is listed in this tablet."

You grinned. 'This is interesting.'

"Master. The top 10 ranker Y/N will be coming along with their member." Alpha, or also known as Muse or top 10 Suffrey's disciple, reported to his mentor. "Our informant just received this message."

Suffrey turned her head around, looking at the boy bowing before her. "I wonder what they're up to this time."

"What do you mean, master?" Muse looked up.

"I heard they fought against Kayden Break recently." Suffrey frowned.

Muse's eyes widened. "Against that Kayden?! I heard he's almost around the level of the top 10 awakeners!?"

Suffrey scoffed.

"D- don't tell me.. are they planning to duel against a member of the top 10 awakeners as well?!" Muse almost shouted from the absurdity of this news.

"Don't jump to conclusions." Suffrey sighed. "If they wanted to, they would've sent out a notice and separated us from our organizations to attack instead of barging in here."

"Ahh..." Muse looked down, embarrassed. "Right..."

"Y/N is coming to Frame?" Schneider asked his disciple from his throne.

Roist, Schneider's disciple, reported alongside the soon-to-be disciple Duke. "Yes. The news came recently without a warning. I'm sure the others are already reporting to Suffrey and Andrei."

Schneider grinned. "I heard Y/N recently fought Kayden."

"Hm?" Roist flinched. "Yes.. they did. There's no current news on who won though."

"But they still fought Kayden Break, someone who's rumored to have an equal standing with the top 10 awakeners." Schneider grew interested. "Yet they're coming to Frame in haste."

"We should prepare for their visit." Suffrey and Schneider ordered their disciples.

Chapter Text

The three of you shortly departed.

"Have a safe trip, master." Nebula, along with a couple of members, greeted you goodbye.

You nodded, waving at them as you entered the private jet provided by Frame.

Weeeeeuu!

The jet landed in the snow of Frame's territory, an ice-land.

"Welcome, Y/N."

The three top 10 awakeners in Frame greeted you: Schneider, Suffrey, and Andrei. Even their disciples were there as well. They acted tough, devoid of much emotion except awareness.

"Hello." You greeted them back. "I didn't expect the three of you to personally welcome me."

"Of course we should." Suffrey scoffed. She turned around. "Your lodging has been prepared. I'll show you the way." Suffrey walked forward.

Muse, Suffrey's disciple, followed by her side.

You trailed along her, walking past Schneider and Andrei.

Kartein followed behind you.

"Please come this way, Jean." A member of Frame asked her.

Jean nodded, separating ways with you.

"May I ask who this person is?" Suffrey asked, noticing Kartein.

"Kartein. My personal healer." You answered shortly, not getting into much details.

Suffrey and Muse's eyes widened with shock, stopping for a moment's rest.

"You mean Kartein, the world's best healer?!" Muse spoke out of line.

You nodded.

Suffrey continued to walk. "I didn't expect you to personally bring a healer into another organization's territory." She seemed displeased with your choice. "It's not the smartest of decisions. I suggest you not reveal this to anyone else."

"Of course." You smirked. "I trust you won't go tattle-taling at your age."

"Hmph." Suffrey sighed. "You shouldn't trust another top 10 so easily. It might as well be your downfall."

Muse sweated, stealing a glance at you.

You smiled.

Suffrey stopped at a door. "This is your accommodation. Your healer can stay in the room next to yours. If you need anything, call Muse or anyone else." She left quietly.

You turned towards the door.

Muse went over and opened the door, revealing the insides. "Have a good rest, Y/N." He bent down, bowing.

You nodded then walked inside. 'I should take some time to recuperate.'

Muse closed the door after you, leaving you alone. "I'll show you to your room." He must've been talking to Kartein.

Tap tap

The footsteps became less and less recognizable.

Later on...

"Excuse me, Y/N." Muse knocked on the door.

You glanced at the door. "What is it?"

"The top 10 awakeners in Frame are holding a meeting. They wish for you to join them." Muse calmly explained.

'A meeting?' You thought. You got up, walking to the door and swung it open. "Lead the way."

Muse nodded.

You arrived at a large room.

"Master. I've brought them." Muse reported.

"You can go now. Make sure no one interrupts." Suffrey excused him. Her gaze then turned to you. "Welcome. Sit down."

You sat down in the empty chair shaped like a simple, modern throne. Stationed in between Suffrey and Schneider and opposite to you was Andrei.

The room was empty, except for the round table in the middle and four chairs evenly distributed around it.

"What did you want to talk about?" You sat back, crossing your arms.

Suffrey started. "We're planning to invite Kayden's disciple to Frame for a friendly exchange after the World Awakened students and our younger generation finish their duels."

Your eyes widened. "Kayden's disciple?" Shock overtook you, making you gloss over the fact they're so confident in defeating the WAA students without a break in between.

Suffrey nodded. "You must've heard about the news of Kayden having a disciple. It's true. His disciple is currently residing in South Korea, Shinhwa."

You sweated. "I've met him before."

They all faltered, turning to you.

"You've met Kayden's disciple before?!" Schneider aggressively inquired.

You scoffed. "I fought with Kayden. So why wouldn't I have met his disciple?"

Andrei frowned. "So how is his disciple?" He asked, leaning his arms onto the table with his fists clenched into a ball.

You hesitated to answer. "He's.. different from what you'd imagine..." You broadly answered.

'Different?' The three of them subconsciously thought along.

Andrei gritted his teeth.

You glanced at him. 'Who made this old geezer mad?' You joked, though you knew the culprit. "Anyways, why are you telling me this?" You asked, there was no point in this conversation since you'll be leaving after Jean finished her duel.

Schneider smirked. "Don't you see the opportunity in this?" He asked. "It's Kayden's disciple we're talking about. If he's coming, his mentor might as well come along."

'Are you implying...'

"You'll be able to get a chance to show him humiliation after failing to get rid of him." Schneider finished.

"..." You went silent. 'I never fucking lost to him! You sounded like you were going to spout some smart shit, but you only have nonsense to say!' You clenched your jaw, grinding your teeth against each other, fuming with rage.

Schneider and Andrei took your reaction as confirmation.

"Let's end the meeting here." Suffrey suggested as she saw your reaction. "Please tell us once you've made your decision."

"Alright."

The others agreed, getting up from their seats. You got up, leaving without a word.

Muse came inside the room. "Is the meeting over, master?" He asked Suffrey.

Suffrey didn't reply. "Looks like we'll have to take Kayden more seriously."

"Huh? What do you mean?" Muse was left without any context.

You went back to your room, only to find Kartein and Jean arguing inside there.

Jean suddenly stopped shouting, noticing you by the corner of her eye. "Master!" Her face lit up with excitement. "You're back!" She ran to your side.

You greeted her back. "What're you doing in my room?"

"I came to visit you, but then I found him inside your room!" Jean rudely pointed at Kartein behind her, shouting.

"And why were the two of you arguing?" You pushed that matter aside, he was suppose to check-up on you after all.

Jean pouted. "Because he's a bitch!"

You froze, "what...?"

Chapter Text

"I don't know what he's done, but Elysia and Nebula said he's a bad person!" Jean pouted, snuggling into your arms like a child trying to get their parent on their side. "They said he done some bad things to you!"

You sweated. 'I don't remember meeting him before though?'

Kartein stood there, ignoring her insults. "What baseless rumors." He mocked her. "If I did such things, would Y/N allow me to be their personal healer?" Kartein grinned, reminding Jean of his position.

Jean frowned, glaring at him. "They'll throw you away once you're no longer useful!"

"Then I'll continue being useful." Kartein fired back.

You sighed, watching an adult fight with a kid in a battle of words. "Jean, don't you have to get ready for your match?" You asked, breaking the tension.

"Ah!" Jean returned to normal. "That's right." She looked at you in the eye with a greatly determined gaze. "I'll win against Frame's rookies and bring honor to your organization!" Jean cheered.

You smiled, nodding.

"I'll get going now!" She ran out the door, but then stopped outside. Jean turned around, her index and middle finger pointed at her intimidating eyes and then at Kartein's. 'I'm watching you, you little bitch.'

You sweated nervously. "Let's continue."

Kartein nodded, sneaking in a little smile.

'His words from before are getting to my head!' Kayden grew anxious as time went on with Kartein being missing. He bit on his long cat claws, nibbling them apart.

"Let me become your personal healer."

That was Kartein's exact words. Comparing the situation, did it really happen? Y/N was badly injured once again because of their fight, and Kartein was willing to heal them...

'He can't!' Kayden reassured himself. 'Y/N wouldn't accept his offer...'

"I want you."

That was Kartein's first condition to giving the offer to Y/N.

Kayden shook his head, his cat chin jiggled along. 'That's right, there's no way. There's zero way.'

"Do you think Kartein really left...?" Jiwoo asked Kayden, worried. "I mean, why else would he be gone for so long?" He furrowed his brows, afraid.

"It's most likely." Kayden scoffed. "I can't even get in contact with him." He crossed his arms, sitting back on the couch as his stomach lifted forward.

Jiwoo sat down next to him, a bit depressed.

"I told you not to worry about him." Kayden frowned. "There's no use in that anyways. Don't let it get caught in between your training." He flicked Jiwoo's head.

There was now a red bump on Jiwoo's forehead, he tried to cover up the pain with his hands as he internally cried. "Yes, mr. Kayden..."

Y/N walked towards the grounds where the Frame members fought in.

A stadium fitting for their organization. It was dull and devoid of any life, serving only the purpose of growth in a harsh way.

You sat down at the very top, next to Suffrey.

Four high-ranked spectators, all the top 10 awakeners there were present. What an intriguing moment.

You scoffed. "I didn't expect every single one of you to watch this kids' fight."

"Could ask you the same." Schneider crossed his arms, sitting back into his throne.

"I'm just looking out for a member of my organization." You glanced at him. "Who knows what you guys will do."

Schneider rolled his eyes.

Andrei frowned, letting his wrinkles show. "This fight may very well determine the path of Frame." He seemed intrigued in the fight between rookies.

You turned back your eyes on the students, examining each one of them. "I heard you have a new apprentice, around the same age as them. Used to attend the World Awakened Academy before getting exposed." You slightly chuckled, talking to Schneider.

Schneider frowned. "I took him in merely to please my boredom, nothing more than that."

You shrugged, finding the old man as boring.

The spar was beginning.

The Frame and WAA lineup stood against their opponents, glaring each other down.

Jean looked up, searching for you. She found you quickly, knowing the highest ranking person should be on the highest platform. Jean smiled, waving at you.

"What are you doing?" The girl next to her, Laura Jensen, asked her.

You thought you knew her, Jean mentioned her once, Laura was the one she liked.

Laura turned to where Jean was looking. "Y/N? Don't you know they might find it a bit disrespectful?" She frowned, scolding her.

Jean blushed, smiling at Laura. "Don't worry, master isn't like that!" She reassured her.

Laura groaned. "S- stop smiling!" Her cheeks slightly turned pink.

Jean continued to smile.

"Look at them. Do they think they're on a field trip?"

The Frame members watching from the sidelines commented on the WAA students' attitudes.

"We'll beat their asses. They won't even be crawling out of here."

Malicious comments.

"I apologize for the absurd commentary." Suffrey apologized on their behalves. "None of them are directed to Flame, so please don't pay any mind to them.

You glanced at the WAA students, then at the Frame rookies. 'It's true, they'll beat the WAA students' asses.' You determined their strengths. 'I just hope they know their boundaries.' You sighed. "It's fine."

Suffrey nodded.

Andrei scoffed.

The WAA lineup was all of the top students there, also ranked as the top 10s within the academy. Expect.. now it was just nine of them, after Duke had betrayed them for Frame.

You did not recognize anyone from Frame's lineup. They all wore masks, but they also never had a public appearance. You mean, why would a criminal reveal his true identity in the beginning stages? Despite the public knowing Frame had rookies, only Frame members who were within the top 100 ranks made names.

The spars began shortly.

Chapter Text

They lost, the World Academy lost, 6 losses and only 2 victories.

Jean escaped with "minor" injuries.

Glant Gesimov tanked through it with his great defense.

Cain Luterain won with the support of his family's mythical beast.

Elay Pigarun sustained substantial injuries.

Lia Eresby lost an eye.

Asher Brian lost an arm.

Laura Jensen was on the brink of death.

"LAURA!" Jean ran to her side, crying out her eyes. Her eyepatch soaked in salty tears. "Don't die on me!!" She cried out.

You flinched, watching the shaken Jean.

Laura laid on the broken floor of the arena, swimming in a puddle of her own blood. Her eyes felt heavy, but she still managed to glanced at Jean softly.

Jean reached out for Laura's arm, placing her hand on her own cheek. The faint warmth fleeting away. "Don't leave me, Laura!"

Laura smiled painfully, chuckling. "Ha- ha.. ha..." She tried to laugh, but her voice cracked as she spewed blood coming up from her throat.

"How tragic, love it is."

The spectators couldn't care less.

"They had it coming for them."

"Don't talk." Jean bit on her sorrow. "I know a healer, if we get to him in time, you might make it." She hurried picked up Laura into her arms.

Laura's gaze never left Jean, while hers was focused on bringing Laura to safety.

You got up, heading outside, leaving the other three.

Suffrey glanced at you, but respected your decision and didn't interrupt.

"How rude." Andrei tsked.

"And weak." Schneider joined in. "But that amused him quite a bit."

"I guess this is why they say awakeners don't love each other," Laura spoke softly, "because they know how it'll end..." She was using up all her saved energy to stay inside this world, struggling.

Kartein flinched, hearing her words. He was just around the corner, walking the empty hallways.

"KAARTEEEIINN!!!" Jean shouted extremely loudly, an aggressive voice mixed with hatred and a plea. "Please! You have to heal her! I'll do anything! Please!" Jean begged, falling to the ground in front of him.

Kartein glanced down at them. "..."

Tap.

Tap.

You walked towards them, the sound of your shoes tapping against the floor. You stopped a good distance away from them, staring at Kartein straight in the eyes. "Heal her, Kartein."

"Awakeners don't love each other, because they know how it'll end." Kartein repeated her words. He knelt down, taking Laura from Jean's arms. He glanced at you. "I was wrong, please let me prove it to you..." He turned away, entering the nearest empty room to preform treatment.

You didn't know what that guy meant. Why was he wrong? That awakeners could or couldn't love each other? Or was it the end result of their love? You frowned, following him. "I'll protect you guys." You stood guard inside the room.

Jean stood outside, praying.

"You should get treatment as well." Muse approached Jean.

"No." Jean sharpened her gaze with hatred. "I won't until Laura is sure to live."

Muse sighed. "I'll leave yourself to you then." He left.

'I bet you had your hand in this, disciple of Suffrey.' Jean glared at Muse's back as he walked away, until he was out of sight. 'I can't even do anything!' Her became teary with guilt. 'I'm useless!'

Several days passed, Kartein continued to treat Laura's death-threatening injures.

Kartein fell back, relaxing. His forehead sweated like a waterfall. "It's done." He announced.

You walked over, glancing at the child lying on the patient's bed.

"How is she?!" Jean broke into the room.

"Close the door, Jean." You told her.

Jean nervously closed it, walking inside the room. She went over to Laura, leaning forward. Jean bit her lips, her eyes that never left Laura became teary. "She'll live, right...?"

"Of course." Kartein crossed his arms.

"Thanks..." Jean mumbled.

Kartein glanced at her. "I wasn't doing it for you."

Jean frowned. Wanted to fight, but couldn't. He was her savior anyways.

You placed your hand on her elevated shoulder. "Why don't you rest? You've also been awake since Laura started receiving treatment. I'll wake you up when she wakes up."

Jean turned to her, lowering her head. "Is that alright?" Her voice was low, ashamed. "I failed to defeat Frame's rookies, and then I asked your personal healer to heal someone else.."

You scoffed, crossing your arms. "Does that matter?" You asked. "Frame trains their rookies like adults to grow stronger, I'd rather use humane ways instead of those immoral ones." You smiled softly. "You're still a great awakener. You'll grow into someone bigger one day." You patted her head. "Now go sleep."

Jean stood silently for a moment before waking up. "Yes, master!" She ran off again.

You sighed.

Kartein smiled, softened by your words. "Should we take a check-up?"

"You just finished a major job. Take a break first." You picked up Laura, leaving the room. "I'm moving her to my room, for security. Who knows what they'll do next."

Kartein nodded.

"The top 10 rookies from the World Awakened Academy stepped up against Frame's rookies, and they lost."

The kids' eyes widened. Jiwoo and his friends were having a meeting with Shinhwa's leader, Yoo Jiyoung.

"Some of them got hurt to the point they will have to give up living as an awakener." Jiyoung's gaze grew serious. "We don't have the details on who exactly lost and won, but as far as we know, most of them lost."

"How extreme was their sparring?" Jiwoo asked, frightened by the information given.

Inhyuk gulped. "Jiwoo. This isn't a spar, it's a real battle against organizations."

"A.. real battle...?"

Inhyuk nodded, guilty of having to be the one to relay this information. "Laura's situation was considered lucky. From what we heard, Asher Brian lost his arm. And Laura Jensen was on death's door, however, I heard an on field healer treated her, saying her life. But it's very unlikely she'll be able to perform like before."

"An on field healer..?" The girl next to Jiwoo was confused. "I don't think just any healer could save an awakener who's about to die. And if there's a healer there, would they even treat an outsider?"

"That is information that we can't disclose easily." Jiyoung sweated, her expression looked worried.

Chapter Text

Mm cheeseburger.

Kinda forgot about this place until I stumbled upon reels

Anyways, I CANT DO THIS ANYMORE. No particular reason.