I never anticipated what Ch'en would do to me when I entered her office at this time of the day. As I entered Ch'en's office, I knew she was delighted to see me.

Hoshiguma: Miss Ch'en, I have (Y/N) here with me just like you asked.

Ch'en: Leave him here and let me have some privacy if you please.

Hoshiguma: As you wish, Miss Ch'en.

I knew I was unable to escape after Hoshiguma left Ch'en's office. As I waited patiently for Ch'en, my phone vibrated in my pocket. But before I reached for my phone from my pocket, Ch'en's eyes gazed upon mine and I felt she knew what I was up to.

Ch'en: Good morning, I hope you slept well. I apologize for having Hoshiguma take you here in the morning.

My emotions became null and void when her cold tone grew soft and sinister.

Ch'en: Anyway I want to chat more after Swire interrupted our short session yesterday.

She started to caress my face from behind and breathed down my neck. However, I had questions before she began to make me nervous.

(Y/N): Why did you want me in the first place?

Ch'en Why? It's because you're different. After all, you caught my eye, someone who isn't like that perverted Doctor that used to be here or anyone perverted in general.

(Y/N): You realize I'll be dead if your relationship keeps running. Besides, we were exposed by your colleague, Swire.

Ch'en: Relax, just because that bitch had to be so nosy doesn't mean we can't see each other. You're mine darling and no one will ever break our everlasting bond together~

This was starting to become absurd and uncomfortable to bear with as she began to hug me from behind and began to flirt with me.

Ch'en: Your hands are so soft and warm, even your cute face~!

It was only at this moment that I could not bear it anymore. It was beginning to terrify me that someone older than me would have the ability to dominate me and grow thirsty. Even though I showed no emotions, my thoughts said otherwise.

Ch'en: Aw, don't be like that. Here's something to help you get up in the morning.

Out of nowhere, she grabbed me, turned me around, and kissed me directly. However, I did not return the kiss since it reminded me of when W decided to pucker up and inject her venom inside me. And that didn't turn out well.

(Y/N): Why... Why would you do this?!

Ch'en: Because... I'm in love with you. Isn't that what couples do?

Ch'en began to blush all of a sudden. To my dismay, more questions than answers arose about Ch'en. Even though I was different from the rest, that didn't mean I should be with someone like her.

(Y/N): All this for a kiss? What a waste of my time...

Ch'en: You're not wasting my time though.

I would be late for Nearl's meeting if Ch'en planned to keep me here.

(Y/N): Look, I have to get moving. There's something that I need to do and it could be dangerous.

Ch'en: I suppose I can stay with you since I'm waiting for the recon team to return.

She wouldn't take no for an answer if I respectfully declined her offer. But either way, I do not have Nearl's or Platinum's blood on my hands. Something about Ch'en being around those two spews out disastrous results.

(Y/N): I would like to, but I'm handling this alone. Since you play a more important role than I do, I do not want you to be out of commission. I'm only here as a mercenary.

Ch'en: I'm flattered that you care for me, but you're everything to me.

(Y/N): In your dreams maybe.

Just before I was about to head out, Ch'en pinned me against a wall and her eyes were locked on mine. I was not enjoying every single bit of it.

(Y/N): You're starting to creep me out Ch'en, you aren't like this. So why the long face?

Ch'en: Aww, aren't you looking so adorable when put in this situation?

(Y/N): Could you back off for a second?

Ch'en: Oh? Is it my body that's making you nervous?

As I desperately sought to escape this problematic situation, I attempted to reach the door controls. And even if I was meant to be called a coward, imagine being in a position like this.

(Y/N): I'm late for a crucial meeting, so would you please let me go?

Ch'en: Then why didn't you say so? Unless you're doing this to be with those girls and not me.

(Y/N): Ch'en, just let go already. Nearl and Platinum have done nothing wrong whatsoever.

Ch'en: Perhaps I will go with you if this meeting is crucial as you said.

(Y/N): Dr. Kal'tist wanted me to keep an eye on the Students of Ursus who happened to move to Rhodes Island recently. And they'll be uncomfortable if you tag along with me.

I've already heard another vibration from my phone. Nearl might be asking me where the hell I am at this point.

Ch'en: Is that so? Okay, but let me spend time with you and me only.

(Y/N): Fine I will. But I don't make any promises.

Ch'en hugged me and was pleased that I would spend time with her. After being in Ch'en's office more than 10 minutes late for the investigation meeting, I headed back to the hideout as quickly as possible.

Timeskip (Platinum's POV)

I never thought (Y/N) would be this late for a meeting. I tried calling him multiple times to see what took him so long. With the Students of Ursus doing their own thing and Saria supervising Ifrit again, I decided to check with Nearl if she received word from Amiya during her shift.

Platinum: Any mission updates from Amiya, Nearl?

Nearl: So far nothing. She said she was waiting for Ch'en's recon team to come back.

Platinum: What about the Rhodes Island recon team?

Nearl: From what I heard last time, they haven't returned. Speaking of that, what's taking him so long? He usually arrives on time.

It wasn't until moments later that (Y/N) finally arrived, and I noticed he was feeling conflicted. I suspected it had something to do with Ch'en.

Nearl: Speaking of the devil, I wondered if you were out today.

(Y/N): Ch'en held me up for a while, so I was late.

Platinum: No wonder why you weren't responding. We were about to pick up where we left off last time.

Nearl: Right, the last time we left off was on the plans of breaking into the Phantom Legion HQ. As Saria mentioned, we're after the main building, the C-Zone. Assuming their security is maxed out, there are two options for breaking in. We could either infiltrate the place by sneaking into the back entrance, or the side entrance or go underground and do it that way.

Platinum: That can't be possible. With security being tight, they would know every nook and cranny. I say we blow up the entrance to get there without any issues. Get a diversion to drive them out. I think I have a machine that could do that sort of thing.

I remembered using an old machine that was stored away and hadn't been used for a while before the breakup.

Nearl: Where is it?

Platinum: It's on the other side; however, the machine needs a key to be activated. The thing is, I don't know where it is. Only Blaze knows the location of the key, just like her intelligence.

Nearl: Did she even tell you at all before she got killed?

Platinum: She only told me where the machine was. As for the location of the key, she said nothing about it to me.

(Y/N): And what if she's still alive? Although I never met her, maybe there will be a second chance. There is a possibility she might still be alive, and you never know.

Despite (Y/N) bringing up a valid point, I doubt Blaze would survive a bunch of stab wounds from that crazy bitch. After all, she was getting nuts over a guy with questionable choices. Then again, she takes this crazy fox sister thing a little too much.

Nearl: I would rather not dwell on that too long (Y/N). Currently, we're dealing with just speculation. With that out, there's something urgent that I need to address.

(Y/N): Urgent?

Nearl: It's about the Kjerag Commercial. Before arriving here, I was called by Amiya about an appointment with the head of Kjerag Commercial.

Platinum: Wasn't that two weeks ago? Why now though?

Nearl: I thought so, but it was recently rescheduled.

Saria: What is it?

Nearl: It was on the Doctor's deal. Amiya told me about it this morning.

(Y/N): But he's dead. Kjerag Commercial must be informed of his death to cancel the deal. Besides, have you heard how much of an asshole he was to me? Also, he prefers females over males and is nothing more than a simp and a horny bastard.

Nearl: That's what we all thought too. But Amiya told me that it was for financial reasons. Upon rescheduling the appointment, she asked me if I could tag along with her and someone else to Kjerag.

Platinum: And how is this our problem? The three of us; (Y/N), you, and I wanted him eliminated so that it cuts off all ties to the Phantom Legion in Terra. Additionally, we have the Students of Ursus with us, as well as the rescue mission on Misha.

Nearl: That shouldn't matter even if the Doctor's dead. Our operations are halted because of Blaze's status as being alive. We might as well get this out of our way for now.

Saria: I have doubts about this, especially about a financial aid offer. Don't you think there's another piece of the puzzle missing?

Nearl: I'm sure that Amiya has that taken care of.

(Y/N): Either way, since I'm the newly appointed operator of Rhodes Island, I might as well be there in his stead. How hard can it be?

Something about (Y/N) traveling to Kjerag sounds concerning, especially if it involves Amiya. The last time (Y/N) was with Amiya, he had a horrible experience. But for some reason, Ch'en might slip into torment (Y/N).

Platinum: Wait, what about Ch'en?

Nearl: I doubt Ch'en would be around if this appointment were essential. The top priority is Misha, not her obsession with (Y/N).

I took a sigh of relief for now.

Saria: So when is the appointment?

Nearl: The appointment is tomorrow so we won't be here.

Platinum: I let the Ursus students know what will happen tomorrow.

Nearl: Sounds good. Guess we should wrap things up and head back to HQ.

Timeskip ((Y/N)'s POV)

After a meeting at the hideout, I stopped Nearl to ask her about the appointment with the head of Kjerag Commercial before heading to the cafeteria. Although I knew I had to be there, something felt off.

(Y/N): Nearl, I was wondering about the greenlighting of this deal. I know it's for financial reasons, but whose idea was it?

Nearl: The Doctor's idea was to do it, despite Dr. Kalt'sit's refusal. I never told you this, but Rhodes Island was sort of in a financial crisis. From what I was told by Amiya, two weeks ago, the Doctor got in contact with the head of Kjerag for some financial aid. It was confirmed that the Doctor would meet the chairman again and accept this deal. And that's where it leads up to now. I hope you don't look like you have dead batteries after returning from a meeting.

(Y/N): Dead batteries? What made you want to say that?

Nearl: It's based on the last time Amiya asked you to travel with her. I'm guessing Ch'en was there.

(Y/N): We only talked, nothing too detailed or anything. I guess it's her tone of voice that matters.

Nearl: I guess so.

(Y/N): Well, I might as well get going. If anything, I don't want Ch'en to think this was some big misunderstanding.

Nearl: I'll be in the Command Center if you need anything. I have something to do in a few minutes.

(Y/N): See you around.

I decided to head to the cafeteria after finishing talking to Nearl.

Timeskip again... (10 minutes later)

The cafeteria was more crowded than the last time I was there, but that's because it was afternoon. I could not find Platinum or the Students of Ursus in the cafeteria. Therefore, I sat down at any available seat that I could find after ordering a simple meal from the counter. Until then, three girls ended up stumbling upon me, and I noticed they were from the extraction team.

Exusiai: Yo, (Y/N). Nice meeting you again.

(Y/N): What brought you here, Exusiai, Texas, and Lappland?

Texas: We just happened to stumble across each other for lunch.

Lappland: Same here.

Exusiai: Besides having lunch, I thought we could chat with you. So we can get to know you better.

(Y/N): A chat with me? Look, I don't think you should get to know me better.

Exusiai: Why not? There's no need to be a snowflake.

It is more convenient for me to keep a low profile.

(Y/N): It's difficult to explain, but I'm kind of dangerous.

Unfortunately, Exusiai didn't get my message across, even if she was in a cheery mood. I didn't like where this was heading, especially if her tone reminded me of Ch'en. But then, Exusiai's festive spirit and style started to turn bitter.

Exusiai: Texas and Lappland, can you both wait in line? Our meals are about to be ready.

Texas: Sure thing. Come on, Lappland.

She looked at me with concern as Texas and Lappland left. The enthusiasm she had for her before sank the drain. I might as well choose my words carefully or tell her the truth.

Exusiai: Hey (Y/N), what's up with you?

(Y/N): It's nothing, Exusiai. I'm not in the mood to have a chat.

Exusiai: Why not?

(Y/N): As I said before, I'm kind of dangerous. The less you know about me the safer you'll be. Besides, your life is more valuable anyway, I'm just a mercenary.

Exusiai: Dangerous or not, you shouldn't say things like that to yourself.

(Y/N): I appreciate your concern about me, but it's the truth. I don't see why you're interested in nobody like me. If anything, most of the girls here are popular.

Exusiai didn't appreciate my comment, but that's what they said to me before.

Exusiai: I don't care where you came from or what your past is, no one is being discriminated against here. Who cares if those jerks say you don't belong anywhere? All that matters is that you have a purpose on Rhodes Island. And don't ever say those harmful things to yourself, okay?

(Y/N): Loud and clear ma'am...

Exusiai: That's better~ Say, let's enjoy some lunch and forget the troubles that you once had.

At this rate, no one is going to believe my nonsense about my past. Is ignorance bliss or do they have horrible tragedies worse than mine? Whatever it is, I'll find the answers I need and eventually prove them wrong.

Texas: We're back, Exusiai and (Y/N).

Exusiai: So soon?

Unfortunately, it didn't take long for Texas and Lappland to return from the cafeteria. Not only that, they brought back their meals, they also got mine and Exusiais as well. Although I did order the meal beforehand, I wasn't in a good mood to feel like eating anything.

Texas: I thought it was long, but today's not a busy day. What's up with (Y/N)? Did you try to make him soft again?

Exusiai: No, I was trying to cheer him up.

That's some gaslighting nonsense coming from her.

Texas: He's not the cheery type of person.

Exusiai: I know that, but I'm trying to make him feel better. It is when people feel gloomy, that I have to make them feel happy.

I thought for a moment that Texas was defending me. For one, she seems like I feel understood by her regarding my current situation. She knows that I'm in an awful mood when things aren't the way I want to go. However, that wasn't the case for her. 

Texas: If I were you, you would drop this act of being a dangerous person. Just because you have a horrible past doesn't mean you should be different from the rest of us. Regardless of where you're from, don't put yourself in a position where no one likes you.

After receiving a harsh reality check similar to Exusiai's, I lost my appetite and had to leave the table immediately. Exusiai tried to prevent me from leaving, but I already was getting sick of the current situation I was put in. 

Exusiai: (Y/N), we're not being mean to you. You may think that we are, but this isn't the case. We're worried about you and would like to at least help. But at least think about it whenever you have the chance. 

I said nothing to them and headed outside. This will perhaps might bite me in the ass later on.

Timeskip again

After Texas and Exusiais' conversations spoiled my appetite, stepping outside for fresh air didn't help either.

???: (Y/N), what are you doing out here?

I initially thought the voice belonged to Ch'en, but to my disappointment, it turned out to be Nearl. I noticed her leaning against the doorway.

(Y/N): *sigh* I need a breather.

As I stood there, Nearl emerged from the distance and gradually made her way toward me with a measured pace.

Nearl: I'm guessing it's either because of Ch'en or your lingering past.

(Y/N): No, it's about what Exusiai and Texas said to me. Just because I have this horrendous past doesn't mean that I have to be in a position where no one likes me.

Nearl: Unfortunately, they're right. The past doesn't define who you are as a person. I'm just saying.

She has to be blunt about it. I don't blame her for being this way.

(Y/N): If I can remember it, that is. So far it's only been small fragments.

Nearl: Patience has its virtues. I'm confident that you will recall what you are searching for.

(Y/N): I hope so.

Nearl: Don't forget about tomorrow. Amiya told me we were heading out at 7 a.m. sharp. Be up before then.

(Y/N): Yes, ma'am.

Ch'en appeared before Nearl could finish telling me about the appointment. Of course, she wasn't pleased that I was with Nearl again. Not only that, it'll probably be another misunderstanding that will likely cost my life. That was supposed to be the case, but Ch'en said otherwise.

Ch'en: What a coincidence of you two meeting here. Thought I decided to take a break after those numbskulls made me stressed out. So, what are you two up to?

Nearl: We were wrapping up.

Ch'en: About what?

Nearl: Kjerag Commercial appointment. Didn't Amiya tell you anything about it?

Ch'en: I don't think she did. Anything that's not Reunion-related isn't in my department.

Nearl: Yeah never mind, forget about it. If you'll excuse me.

Nearl headed back inside the headquarters, leaving only me and Ch'en.

(Y/N): Did you come here knowing that I would be here?

Ch'en: Of course not. It was just a coincidence that you and Nearl would be here for some reason.

(Y/N): I need a breather, that's all.

Ch'en: Everything alright?

(Y/N): I'm fine.

It was a lie. I am sure that Texas and Exusiais' discussion was the cause of my being out here. I didn't want to tell her that or else it'll cost them their lives.

Ch'en: You don't sound fine.

(Y/N): I am, don't worry about it.

Ch'en: Okay then. If you need me, I'll be in my office.

(Y/N): If given the opportunity, I may consider it. However, if Hoshiguma requests otherwise, I will follow her wishes.

Ch'en: We'll see about that.

Before she left, she hugged me, leaving me speechless. I'm sure that she's trying to be on my good side, but for how long though?

Ch'en: Later (Y/N), I'll be thinking about you.

(Y/N): Heh heh, thanks I guess...

Platinum's POV

After overhearing the conversation between Ch'en and (Y/N), I had a feeling that something was off. It seems like (Y/N) may be becoming more lenient with Ch'en. I'm not sure if it's just an act or if he's genuinely being sincere. Or perhaps it's the kitsune sister thing starting to act up again. Just before I wanted to know what was going on, Ch'en opened the door and gave me her usual dirty look at me.

Ch'en: Oh, it's you...

Platinum: Was that even necessary? It's like you have a bone to pick on me.

Ch'en: I'm just making sure that you're not with my precious.

Platinum: Do you think I was going to plan to meet him?

I can sense that she's attempting to use the tsundere technique on me, but it's not the typical kind. It reminded me of a red-haired girl who wore a hat for some reason. She tends to give off that energy now that I think about it.

Ch'en: Y-yes...

Platinum: Seriously?

Ch'en: Don't get the wrong idea, it's just some girls want to have some time with him.

Platinum: I highly doubt that they would harass him constantly. They are not the type of obsessive girls.

Ch'en: Platinum, are you suggesting that I might be one of those overly obsessed girls?

It was pretty evident that the woman in question possessed a certain level of instability. In comparison to individuals who may be under the influence of mind-altering substances, I perceive her to be a more significant threat to one's safety and well-being.

Platinum: I can't confirm or deny it. I'm just saying.

Ch'en: Tch, whatever. I better not see you being with him whatsoever. 

After leaving for her office, she was unaware that the Kjerag appointment was scheduled for the following day, so she wouldn't be able to meet him tomorrow. However, I get a strange feeling that she might intervene in some way. I just hope she won't do it tomorrow.

Ch'en's POV

What's with Nearl and Platinum nowadays? The fact that they happen to be in my way sort of irritates me the most. As much as I wanted them dead, I didn't wish to (Y/N) get involved in it. I can't help but enjoy the feeling of taking someone out with my own hands. However, excessive attention can be detrimental to me and is not desirable. I need to identify the right person to pursue, and then I am confident that he will be attracted to me. He's mine to begin with, not those two. I can feel the warmth of (Y/N) inside of me as I hug my cushion close to me.

Ch'en: (Y/N), I want you to know that I... want you to be on my side. I hope you feel the same way as me.

I was filled with excitement as I imagined the best fantasy of my life. I longed to make it a reality, but I didn't know how. Suddenly, Amiya appeared which threw my excitement out the window.

Ch'en: Oh hey Amiya...

Amiya: I heard your squeals of joy coming from your office, Everything alright?

Ch'en: Of course I am, Amiya. Is there something wrong?

While I was reflecting on the ongoing rescue mission, Amiya began to suspect me.

Amiya: I was wondering if your excitement is coming from (Y/N).

Ch'en: It's not about him! Why do you have to keep bringing him up?!

Amiya: Are you sure it's not about him?

I was becoming increasingly flustered. My face turned a bright shade of red and I began to feel uncomfortably warm. The cold air from the air conditioner and the scent of tea leaves weren't helping either. I wanted to keep the whole relationship with (Y/N) a secret, but I suspected that Amiya would know about it besides those two.

Ch'en: I-I'm sure it's not about him, Amiya...

Amiya: You don't have to lie about it. Besides, I wouldn't tell anyone about it either if you want to talk about it. Not even Dr. Kal'tsit will know about it. 

I rather not have Amiya interfere with my plans or my relationship with (Y/N). As if Nearl and Platinum were already getting on my nerves. I decided to shrug it off for the time being.

Ch'en: I'd rather not. Well, in that case, I believe I should return and focus on completing some paperwork. My break time has already passed.

Amiya: Alright, take care then, Miss Ch'en. Let me know if your extraction squad has come back.

Ch'en: S-sure thing, Amiya...

Amiya's POV

I wasn't sure what was happening with Ch'en recently, but it seemed like I had hit a nerve. Despite this, I only asked her about the squealing noises coming from her office. It probably had something to do with her and (Y/N). As much as I wanted to know what was happening, I felt like it wouldn't go well. The last time someone intervened was the Doctor, and he ended up with the worst fate possible.

Amiya: I should ask (Y/N) about this, but only if he is not already aware of the situation.

I encountered a problem as I was unable to locate (Y/N). My suspicion led me to believe that he might be residing with Nearl or Platinum. Hence, I decided to visit Nearl first.

Amiya: Hello Miss Nearl, have you happened to come across (Y/N)? I need to speak with him regarding a matter.

Nearl: I saw him earlier, but I think he went to his room.

Amiya: What for?

Nearl: He didn't tell me anything, but he was heading that way.

Nearl pointed to the hallways that lead to the dorm rooms. As I was about to head there, she stopped me for a bit. I wasn't sure if she was preventing me from seeing (Y/N).

Amiya: Is there something wrong? I was going to see (Y/N).

Nearl: The matter, is it about Ch'en?

Amiya: Wait, how did you know about it?

Nearl: I've been with (Y/N) most of the time and haven't noticed anything unusual, except for her personality. To sum it up, there isn't anything to point out so far.

Amiya: That's a relief. I'll cancel my plans to see (Y/N) then.

Nearl: In my opinion, it would be better to do so. He seems to have a lot of shit to handle.

Amiya: I hope he's doing okay.

Nearl: I hope so too...

Timeskip in (Y/N)'s POV

Despite the harsh responses I received earlier, my reputation, or lack thereof, is continuing to deteriorate. I am in a dilemma about whether to continue investigating my past or just let it be a bad memory. However, continuing to do so could have unforetold consequences. On one hand, I want to warn people to stay away from me because of my past, but on the other hand, I don't want them to be harmed if Ch'en happens to be around. It feels like a losing battle, especially if she is obsessed with me and wants me for herself. If something bad happens, it will be their blood on my hands, and that is something I cannot bear to witness.

(Y/N): What have I got myself into?

As I lay on the bed, I couldn't help but imagine the worst-case scenarios that could happen if Ch'en and I were to officially become a couple. If I'm honest with myself, it probably wouldn't go very well. At least Ch'en doesn't seem interested in dating me when other people are around. Her cold demeanor is the only thing that's kept our situation a secret, but that's not going to last forever. Nearl, Platinum, Saria, and I are the only ones who know about her scheming, but we've decided to play along for the time being. Now that I'm thinking about it, I'm pretty sure that the first hangout was the first step of her scheme. If what Nearl said beforehand when meeting with Ch'en was correct, then there's no other way to back out, even if I had a choice. She will find a way to get whatever she wants, but at the cost of my life or someone else's life is not worth it either. Much to my dismay, I decided to sleep and worry about it some other time.

Flashback in Third Person POV

You found yourself outside a military base, feeling a sense of familiarity despite being unable to recall its location.

???: (Y/N), we need to talk.

(Y/N): What's up? Is there something wrong?

???: Yes. It's you.

You were confused as to why the boy suddenly decided to harass you at that moment.

(Y/N): What about me?

???: What's up with you nowadays? Why do you have to be such a letdown and an embarrassment?

(Y/N): I don't know what are you even talking about.

???: I'm talking about your attitude.

(Y/N): Since when?

???: Since you encountered those enemies. It made you feel like they were going to kill you.

(Y/N): You seriously won't let go of that? Dude, it's just one time.

???: I don't fucking care whatever your reason is. You're done for.

(Y/N): The whole team agreed on it?

???: Yeah, they did.

(Y/N): Seriously?

???: We are better than this. We shouldn't let our emotions take control of us. We're the bigger threat, not them. It's people like you who never get the concept at all. Because of that one mistake, you're not part of the team anymore.

The team that you once had betrayed you all because of that one mistake.

(Y/N): You can't just do that, the leader has to agree on it.

???: I am the leader.

The boy without any warning punched you in the face causing you to collapse on the ground.

???: Just look at you. You're pathetic like those scumbags. Not knowing how to defend themselves. People like you should burn in hell for existing this way.

You stood up slowly, giving the boy a dirty look. Back then, you didn't want to resort to violence, which wasn't a subtle idea.

(Y/N): Where's the previous one?

???: That's none of your business.

(Y/N): Tell me!

???: Why should you care? It's not like it matters anyway.

(Y/N): I wanted to know. Things weren't the same when you stepped in.

The boy walked away from you, ignoring your demands.

(Y/N): Hey, we're not done talking yet.

???: Well I am. If you want to know where he is, that's for you to figure out yourself.

(Y/N): You son of a bitch...

???: And don't even come back to us. Even if you fix yourself for that mistake, you'll never be one of us. You must remember why you're part of this legion.

Flashback ends in (Y/N)'s POV again

Another nightmare episode has passed, and this one personally hits hard like boulders. I felt ashamed that back then I was not able to fight back against that bastard. Then again, my emotions and violence towards him would just prove his point. So in the end, it wasn't worth it to let it all out. My dorm room felt unusually warm, likely due to the heater.

(Y/N): What time is it again?

I groggily checked the alarm clock and realized the meeting was in an hour.

(Y/N): Crap, I almost forgot about the appointment.

I quickly changed before meeting Nearl and Amiya. But Ch'en appeared in the doorway.

(Y/N): Oh... morning Ch'en.

Ch'en: Morning to you, (Y/N). Did your sleep go okay?

(Y/N): Heh heh, yeah. Listen, I got something coming, so do you think you can check up on me later? Amiya needs me for an appointment...

Ch'en: Sure thing. See you around then.

She stepped aside from the doorway to let me pass. I wasn't sure why she was there, but who knows what's going on inside Ch'en's mind. Upon meeting Ch'en, I joined Nearl and Amiya at the Command Center for our appointment with Kjerag Commercial.

Nearl: Well, well, look who finally showed up.

(Y/N): Knock it off, Nearl. I just got here.

Amiya: She's just teasing you, so just relax (Y/N). Are you ready?

I pause before answering, sensing Ch'en's presence even though she's not there.

Amiya: Well?

I shifted my gaze back to Amiya.

(Y/N): Yes, ma'am.

Amiya: Well then, off to the Snow Realm we go.