Jaden perched stiffly on the edge of a metal chair, his posture tense as he fixed a glare on the high-tech surveillance panels embedded in the walls of the Iron Phalanx's Lightcrest Division office. His hands were cuffed behind him, the metal biting into his wrists with each small movement, amplifying his frustration. A few feet away, Adam and Dawn observed him, the latter's stance resolute and defensive. Dawn's arms were crossed, her features showing a blend of irritation and disbelief.

"I cannot believe you let them arrest me," Jaden grumbled.

Adam shot him a bemused look. "You're not under arrest," he said, his tone carrying a note of casual dismissal.

"Oh, yes, he is!" Dawn snapped back.

Adam looked over at Dawn before instructing, "Uncuff him, Dawn."

"Not a chance," Dawn retorted, her stance firm and her expression daring as she faced Adam's command.

Adam moved with deliberate calm, retrieving a key from Dawn's belt. The office's soft lighting caught the metal as he unlocked Jaden's handcuffs. Jaden promptly began massaging his sore wrists, wincing in response to the lingering discomfort.

"Adam, what on earth?" Dawn demanded.

Adam disregarded Dawn's outburst and focused intently on Jaden. "What's up with you being in the city?"

"I am not talking to you without a lawyer, Mr. Howl," Jaden replied tersely.

"You promised me you'd get in touch if you were in town."

"No, I said I'd let you know if I ended up at Lightcrest. But I'm not there yet. Not right now, anyway," Jaden countered, his body language relaxed yet assertive, as if he were laying out a simple truth.

Adam raised an eyebrow, a smirk playing at the corners of his mouth. "Are you really trying to weasel out of your broken promise just on a technicality?"

Dawn, her patience fraying, attempted to interject. "I don't understand why we're not reaching out to the Spectral Defenders to have him formally taken into custody."

Jaden, ignoring Dawn's interruption, crossed his arms and looked pointedly at Adam. "My parents are lawyers and D.C. power brokers. They thrive on the precision of technicalities."

"So, are you set to come to Lightcrest this fall?" Adam wondered.

"I—"

Dawn cut Jaden off, her agitation boiling over. "This isn't exactly how I pictured my Friday night. I've got a party to hit—Chief's post-game bash is already kicking off. Let's just get the Spectral Defenders on the line and get him booked."

"Hey, redhead lady, would you mind? We're having a bit of a convo here," Jaden quipped, his annoyance evident as he threw a sidelong glance at Dawn.

Dawn's face reddened, and she gritted her teeth in response to Jaden's comment. Adam, however, seemed unfazed by the escalating hostility. He continued to focus on Jaden, his gaze piercing and thoughtful. Dawn noticed the way Adam was looking at Jaden—there was an unusual softness in his eyes, a mix of curiosity and care that she had rarely seen in him. This was not the steely coldness or detached professionalism that Adam typically wore like armor. What happened to the unflinching, distant enforcer of rules she was used to from her time working with him?

The situation was spiraling out of control, and Adam's abnormal demeanor only added to Dawn's unease. She opened her mouth to voice her concerns, but before she could speak, another firm voice cut through the tension.

"Jaden Troublefield, resident exorcist of D.C., thaumaturge, and a mana wielder specializing in heavenly body magic. A student set to join us at Lightcrest this fall," Chase read, flipping through a file in his hand before glancing at Jaden. "So, you're the kid who helped Adam with the Inugamis two months ago—the one who ended up in the hospital. And now, here you are in Veridian City, three weeks before the semester starts, caught up in a data vault belonging to the biggest tech company around." Chase closed the file with a decisive snap and fixed Jaden with a level stare. "Troubled kid, aren't you?"

Adam peeked at Chase, a faint smirk tugging at his lips as if amused by Chase's summary. "Let's just say he's got a knack for winding up where he shouldn't be."

Jaden lounged slightly, his gaze conveying both shrewdness and lazy irritation. "I have told you already—I didn't do anything. The real attacker was a ninja."

"Oh really?" Dawn's voice dripped with skepticism. "Tell us about this ninja, then. What did he look like? What kind of ability did he have—ultra-tellurian or thaumaturge?"

"He dressed like a ninja. His face was covered. And as for his ability, it was this golden energy thing."

"Was it magic?" Dawn probed.

"I would know if it was magic. There were no chants, no incantations—none of the usual hallmarks of thaumaturgy."

"Then maybe it was some kind of luminokinesis ability?" Dawn suggested with rising skepticism.

Jaden shrugged. "I'm not sure."

"What do you know, then? You expect us to believe this ninja story, and that you just happened to stumble into a high-security vault? We checked the door and the walls. It was your magic that destroyed them," Dawn yelled, her voice carrying a sharp edge—an obvious sign that her tolerance had been worn down by Jaden's evasiveness.

Jaden turned to Adam and, with a cool tone, said, "Could you please ask this rabid lady to back off?"

Adam placed a hand on Dawn's shoulder, gently pulling her away. But Dawn shook him off, glaring at Adam before she grunted, "What the hell is wrong with you?"

"How'd you land yourself at Van Boxtel's HQ?" Chase interjected, steering the conversation back on track.

For a moment, Jaden's composure faltered, the magnitude of what he'd discovered in the data vault crushing him—designer baby, the Great Sorcerer, J.A.D.E.N. The emotions threatened to spill over, but he forced them down, biting his bottom lip to steady himself.

"Jaden? Are you okay?" Adam asked.

Jaden jolted back to the present and glowered. "Look, I told you—I was not the attacker. You can verify that with Weston once he is awake. But let me be clear: I am not spending tonight in a jail cell. If you hand me over to the Spectral Defenders and it turns out I am innocent, I will have no problem suing this division and the Spectral Defenders for unlawful arrest and false imprisonment. My parents happen to be very well-connected legal professionals. I am certain you're aware of what that means."

Chase paused, weighing Jaden's words. The room fell into an uneasy silence as Jaden's threat hung in the air. Adam pinched the bridge of his nose and shook his head. The entire situation felt absurd. Although he believed Jaden's claims, he wished the young thaumaturge would drop his brazen attitude and just explain why he was in Veridian City or what led him to Van Boxtel Technologies.

Adam exhaled. "Relax, you're not spending the night in the slammer, and you're not under arrest."

Chase gave him a look like he'd lost his mind. "Last I knew, I'm the chief here, not you."

"Come on, Chase! I really don't think he's the one we need to be worried about," Adam urged.

Chase's scowl became more pronounced. "We can't just let him waltz outta here. There's a whole process we gotta follow."

"Alright, alright!" Adam huffed. "Then he can stay with us."

Everyone turned to Adam, confusion visible on their faces. "What?" Jaden asked, bewildered, and Dawn's eyebrows shot up in incredulity.

Adam continued, "He can come back to our townhouse and stay in my room for the night."

Dawn's eyes darted between Adam and Jaden, searching for answers she couldn't quite grasp. "Seriously, Adam? What's the deal with this kid? And why are you being so... out of character?"

Adam glanced at Dawn and then at Chase, his countenance resolute. "Like Chase said, Jaden had my back with the Inugamis a while ago. I owe him one."

Chase stared at them for a beat before he finally conceded, his words bearing the heft of a reluctant compromise, "Fine! But don't think this is a freebie. We're keeping tabs on him."

"Let's go, Jaden," Adam said, pivoting on his heel. Jaden hesitated, his steps slow and uncertain as he cast a wary glimpse back at the office.

By the time they were out the door, Dawn's voice carried over to Chase. "Chief, what happened in D.C.? Why is Adam acting like this?"

"I don't have a clue."

Jaden's mind was still spinning from the whirlwind of events, but he followed Adam out of the office almost on autopilot. Adam led him to the motorbike parked just outside—a blue MotoTec Pocket Bike with a compact design and aerodynamic lines that gave it a futuristic edge, contrasting with the gritty surroundings. Jaden noted how its chrome accents glinted in the city lights, and the powerful hum of its engine was almost a soothing counterpoint to the turbulence he had just experienced.

Adam handed him a helmet, its glossy surface reflecting the neon lights of Veridian City. "Put this on."

The silver-haired boy wordlessly accepted the helmet, slipped it on, and adjusted the strap. He mounted the bike behind Adam, his hands wrapping around the older man's waist for support as they prepared to leave. He couldn't help but notice how close they were. Adam's body was warm against his, and the boy inhaled a subtle, familiar scent—a mélange of citrus, rose, violet, and oak moss. The aroma was oddly comforting amidst the chaos of the night.

They pulled out into the streets, and the eastern side of Veridian City unfolded before them—a labyrinth of dazzling lights and towering skyscrapers that seemed almost to promise a brief escape from Jaden's troubled thoughts. Bars with colorful façades and music spilling onto the street lined the avenues, while throngs of people strolled by, enjoying the warm evening. The scene was alive with laughter, chatter, and the clinking of glasses, creating a lively symphony of urban nightlife.

Adam expertly navigated the bike through the hectic streets, passing storefronts that flashed with animated advertisements for the latest tech and fashion trends. The sidewalks were crowded with pedestrians dining at outdoor cafes, browsing boutique shops, and swaying to the beat of street performers. Aromas of sizzling skewers, spicy tacos, sweet-smelling pastries, fresh coffee, and the occasional whiff of ozone from the maglev trains filled the air.

As they ventured further from the city's core, the atmosphere gradually changed. The towering buildings gave way to quieter, more serene surroundings. Lightcrest University's imposing gates soon came into view, their blue and gold emblem glowing under the streetlamps.

The campus stretched out with a fusion of modern buildings and classic collegiate touches—stone structures with broad lawns, tree-lined paths, and ornamental fountains. It had a polished, almost cinematic feel, with meticulously kept grounds and charming architecture evoking a sense of that idealized academic life. Fields for sports games were teeming with activity, and Jaden caught sight of students milling about. A festive party was underway, celebrating a recent football game, with students clustering around food stalls and makeshift dance floors.

Jaden saw groups of students waiting for the maglev train, which glided smoothly into the campus station, connecting the university's outskirts to other parts of the city. The scene was as captivating as he remembered from his visit last year for a college tour.

After a brief ride through the picturesque grounds, Adam steered the bike toward a townhouse a few blocks away. The residence, a five-bedroom home, featured a classic brick frontage punctuated by expansive windows that allowed plenty of natural light. Its entrance was marked by an intricately wrought iron door, flanked by stately columns, leading to a spacious vestibule. The front garden was diligently landscaped, featuring geometric hedges and carefully curated greenery that hinted at the refined comfort within.

Adam removed his helmet and looked back at Jaden, who was still taking in the scene. "Welcome to our place for the night."

Jaden dismounted and followed Adam inside. They made a quick detour past a series of tastefully decorated rooms before heading up the stairs. Adam opened the door to his own room and gestured for Jaden to enter.

The room was large and neatly organized. A queen-size bed dominated the space, with a set of lacrosse trophies displayed prominently on a nearby shelf. A framed Nebraska flag hung on one wall, while several certificates and awards—some for academic achievements, others for athletic accomplishments—were arranged on a desk.

Adam flicked on a few more lights, the brightness spreading through the room. He shot a look at Jaden, a playful grin curving his lips. "You can ditch the hard-ass vibe and the brash attitude now. It's just me here."

Without a word, Jaden sank onto the bed, his almond-shaped brown eyes peeking at Adam from beneath his silver bangs. The quiet of the room allowed everything to come rushing back—the perturbing revelations about his origins, the implications of Project Genesis Sentinel, and the questions about his purpose. He had learned so much, but it all felt like a puzzle missing crucial pieces. The knowledge that ExoCellular Lab had engineered him for a cause he didn't fully understand felt like a relentless tide pulling him under.

His breathing hitched, and before he knew it, tears began to slip down his cheeks, unchecked. They started slowly, one at a time, but soon became a steady stream, each drop carrying away fragments of his composure. He clenched his fists on his lap, his knuckles turning white, but the sobs came uncontrollably. The tears were hot and raw, an outward manifestation of the internal tempest raging inside him.

Adam's grin faded into a frown as he knelt in front of Jaden. "Hey, what's up? Did I say something wrong? Sorry for letting them cuff you."

Jaden shook his head, shoulders quaking with each sob, breaths coming in ragged gasps. The enormity of his situation, the confusion of his identity, and the sense of betrayal from those who had shaped his existence swamped him. He felt adrift, tossed between the stormy seas of who he was and the uncharted waters of who he was meant to be, with no lighthouse in sight to guide him.

Adam watched with surging apprehension. The experiment he went through had shielded his heart from pain, attachment, and heartache. Yet, witnessing Jaden's distress provoked a stinging, unfamiliar ache in his chest—as if it had awakened a long-dormant part of himself. He couldn't quite name the feeling, but it was unmistakably there, resurfacing with a painful severity.

He parted Jaden's bangs and saw the redness in his eyes. Tenderly, he stroked the boy's cheek, wiping away the tears with his thumbs. The sight of it all triggered something profound within him, one that was a jarring departure from his typical emotional numbness. As Jaden's sobs grew more intense, he promptly reached out and pulled Adam into an embrace, burying his tear-streaked face into the older man's sturdy chest.

Adam's arms instinctively wrapped around Jaden, offering the comfort and stability the younger guy so desperately needed. "Jaden, what's wrong?"

The silver-haired boy looked up, his face flushed and wet with tears. Words escaped him, lost in the turmoil of his emotions. The room felt like a cage of his own despair. He didn't need to speak; his silent cry for help was conveyed through the tight grip he had on Adam.

---------

The sun's early light seeped through the gauzy curtains. Adam stirred, his shirt discarded somewhere in the room and only sweatpants on, feeling the gentle weight of Jaden's body pressed against him. The boy was snuggled close, his arm draped over Adam's bare chest and a leg resting on his stomach, breathing softly and rhythmically. The Winter Wolf couldn't help but think of his own childhood. Memories of a stern father and a lack of affection swept across his mind. He had never been one for hugs or teddy bears—his upbringing had made sure of that. But here, with Jaden so near, it felt surprisingly different.

Adam shifted lightly, easing Jaden to his own side of the bed. He could not remember the last time he'd been this close with anyone—much less found it adorable. He spotted Jaden's quirky choice of sleepwear: bright yellow SpongeBob socks lurking beneath the hem of Adam's oversized t-shirt. Jaden's small frame looked even more delicate against the backdrop of the rugged, worn bedding. It was clear just how exhausted the boy was from the emotional upheaval of the night before. His silver hair was tousled, sticking out at odd angles, and his face was a picture of serene vulnerability. The contrast between his youthful innocence and Adam's own weathered appearance made the older man smile.

Adam leaned back onto his pillow with a contented sigh. Just as he was about to drift back to sleep, Jaden tossed and murmured wearily, "Adam, you're so cold," snuggling closer against the older man's chest once again. Adam's cryokinesis was an automatic mechanism that reduced the kinetic energy of atoms, making everything around him, including himself, colder whenever the temperature rose. So, to Jaden, the Winter Wolf was like a personal cooler on this warm summer morning.

Feeling Jaden's body heat against his own was truly soothing. He felt the boy's chest rise and fall with each breath, the warm air tickling his neck. Raised by an alpha werewolf who valued toughness over tenderness, Adam was never accustomed to physical affection. Yet, here and now, he decided to let Jaden stay nestled against him and actually savored the intimacy he'd once avoided.

After enjoying the peacefulness of the morning for a few minutes, he whispered, "Come downstairs in 15 minutes. I'll cook you some breakfast."

Jaden mumbled something incoherent and tightened his hold, not yet ready to wake. Adam chuckled, shaking his head as he carefully extricated himself from the embrace. Once he stood and stretched, he ruffled the boy's hair affectionately before padding down to the kitchen.

Before long, Adam found himself standing at the stove, the kitchen saturated with the savory smell of sizzling prosciutto mingling with the earthy scent of toasted bread and the fresh, grassy notes of asparagus. The space felt homey yet urban, with high-gloss cabinets in deep charcoal gray and stainless-steel appliances gleaming under pendant lights hanging from the exposed brick ceiling. A polished marble island counter took center stage, while potted herbs on the windowsill added a splash of greenery against the backdrop of chic subway tiles and open shelving lined with artisanal jars and cookbooks.

Adam attentively layered the crispy prosciutto onto slices of toasted bread, then added a generous dollop of creamy ricotta. The asparagus, roasted to a tender-crisp, was placed on top, completing the Asparagus Ricotta Toast—a perfect blend of Midwestern comfort and elegance. As he plated the final piece, he heard the gentle shuffle of footsteps behind him. Turning, he saw Jaden descending the stairs, still groggy, wearing Adam's oversized t-shirt, which hung loosely on the boy's slender body, swaying like a dress as he walked, the edge brushing against his knees.

"Good morning," Jaden muttered, rubbing his eyes and giving Adam a tired smile.

"Morning, Puffball," Adam greeted.

Jaden hopped up onto the island counter, swinging his legs back and forth as he watched Adam with eagerness. "What are we having?" he asked, his voice still thick with sleep as he propped himself up on his elbows, resting his chin on his hands.

"Asparagus Ricotta Toasts with Crispy Prosciutto," Adam replied, sliding the last piece onto a shared plate. "Midwestern breakfast, my way. Thought you might be up for something a bit heartier."

Jaden's eyes lit up at the sight of the food, his stomach rumbling in agreement. "That smells amazing."

Adam chuckled as he set the plate between them. "Dig in, Puffball. But don't hog it all."

Jaden didn't need to be told twice. He picked up a piece of toast and took a bite, relishing the rich flavors. "This is really good, Adam," he said between mouthfuls.

As they continued eating, Adam turned back to the stove, grabbing a small pot to make hot chocolate. He decanted in some milk, added cocoa powder, and stirred the mixture as it heated, blanketing the kitchen with the delicious scent of chocolate. Once it was ready, he poured the hot chocolate into two mugs, topping each with a generous swirl of whipped cream before bringing them over to the counter. He handed one mug to Jaden, who accepted it with a wide, grateful grin.

"Hey, I said don't hog it all," Adam warned playfully, catching Jaden digging into the toast with gusto. He took a bite of one piece of toast, and just as he went for the last one, Jaden's hand darted out and snatched it away. "What the hell!" Adam said with a frown.

Jaden's expression was full of cheeky delight as he kept the toast just out of Adam's range. "You snooze, you lose," he bantered, sticking out his tongue.

Adam narrowed his eyes and lunged forward, causing Jaden to squeal with laughter as he tried to keep the toast away. Eventually, Adam managed to wrestle the piece from Jaden's hand and took a triumphant bite.

Jaden pouted, feigning indignation. "That was mine."

"You've got your hot chocolate, don't you?" Adam taunted, gesturing toward the mug in Jaden's hands.

Jaden rolled his eyes but took a sip of the hot chocolate, the whipped cream leaving a tiny mustache on his upper lip and a dab on his nose.

Adam burst into laughter. "You've got whipped cream all over your face."

Jaden wiped his upper lip with the back of his hand, but Adam shook his head.

"Still got some."

Jaden looked puzzled. "Where?"

"Here." Adam extended his hand and slathered the whipped cream even more across Jaden's face, spreading it to make it worse.

Realizing what was happening, the boy pushed Adam away, scowling. "You're so dead," he declared, scooping up a blob of whipped cream from his mug and smearing it on Adam's still-shirtless chest.

"Oh, so this is how you wanna play, huh?" Adam murmured with a roguish smirk, his eyes dark and challenging. He traced a finger over his chest and leaned in. "You're gonna have to lick that off."

Jaden's eyes widened, and his cheeks flushed furiously. "Ew, that is disgusting!" he exclaimed, trying to hide his embarrassment.

"Is that so? Didn't seem to bother you when you were all cozy against me in bed," Adam remarked, a cocky grin spreading across his face.

Jaden's cheeks turned an even darker shade of red. "What?"

"Come here!" Adam beckoned, reaching out.

"Adam..." Jaden bit his lip, his eyes narrowing as he pointed at Adam in a mock warning. "I'm telling you, don't—"

Before he could finish his sentence, Adam pulled him into a tight hug, pressing Jaden's face against his chest and rubbing the whipped cream from his skin onto the boy's cheek. Jaden's protests quickly turned into muffled laughter as he wriggled against Adam, trying to escape the mess.

Adam finally let go of Jaden and gazed at him with a warm smile. "Nice to see you smiling again! What happened yesterday?"

Jaden fell quiet, taking a deep breath. "I've found out some things about myself and ExoCellular Lab that are changing everything I thought I knew."

Adam's smile waned slightly, and his curiosity piqued. The lightheartedness of their breakfast now seemed like a fragile bubble about to burst. "Is that why you rolled into the city?"

Jaden nodded, the change in mood apparent as he spoke. "Van Boxtel Technologies was behind the digital setup at ExoCellular Lab. They've got all the experiment archives and access logs. So, I got in touch with Weston Whitlock to see if he could dig up some information for me."

"Did he come through for you?"

"I got some of my questions answered," Jaden responded.

"Well?" Adam prodded, inching closer with an expectant look. "You gonna fill me in or what? What'd you find?"

Jaden adjusted his seat on the counter, crossing his legs and adopting a thoughtful posture. "I found out I am a designer baby, engineered with genes from this Great Sorcerer. I am supposed to become something called the Justice-Activated Defender and Extraordinary Neutralizer. But I am still trying to grasp what it all means. It is just demoralizing to know that I was created in a lab for whatever twisted purpose that awaits me."

Adam remained silent for a minute, his thoughts tumbling as he listened to Jaden. The memory of their battle with the Inugami leader was still vivid. He had seen Jaden transform—become the Justice-Activated Defender and Extraordinary Neutralizer. In that instant, the boy's usual demeanor had been replaced by something cold, almost soulless. It was as if a switch had flipped, turning Jaden into a machine, a relentless force designed to eliminate any threat in his path. Adam had encountered ruthless fighters before, but this was different. This was Jaden—the boy who clung to him in sleep, whose smile could kindle hope in the most cynical of hearts.

Could Jaden be dangerous? Could he turn into a killing machine or something even worse? But as Adam looked at him now—meek, childlike, with that cute Korean mash haircut and face still lightly flushed—the thought seemed absurd. This boy couldn't be a threat. Adam refused to entertain that possibility—he simply didn't want to.

Adam finally spoke, his tone even but steadfast. "Whatever sick plan they had, it's history—went up in flames with the rest of ExoCellular Lab. And those files you found? Just the last scraps from those sickos. They can't touch you now."

Jaden looked at him, eyes wide and searching, as if seeking reassurance. Adam gave a small nod, trying to convey confidence, even though part of him still harbored doubts.

Just when the silver-haired boy opened his mouth to say something else, Chase appeared in the doorway, looking exasperated, cutting their conversation short. "Can y'all chill? It's 8 AM on a Saturday, for crying out loud!"

"My bad, bro," Adam said with a snicker.

Just behind Chase, Skylar Song stumbled in, his unkempt appearance suggesting he had seen better mornings. His spiky hair was even more chaotic than usual, and his grey t-shirt and jersey bottoms hung off him in a disordered manner. He moved toward the kitchen with a groan, rubbing his temples.

"I need some ginseng tea," Skylar muttered. "My head feels like it's been smashed with a sledgehammer." He rummaged through the cabinet for tea bags, his eyes landing on Adam. "Hey, Adam, where the hell were you last night? The whole crew was wondering why you didn't come to the party."

Adam turned away from Jaden, aware of the shift in energy that came with the entrance of his housemates. "Wasn't in the mood," he answered curtly, grabbing a mug from the counter and taking a sip of his hot chocolate, hoping to avoid further questions.

Skylar squinted at Adam, clearly unconvinced by the vague response. "Not in the mood? Or is there something you're not telling us?"

Chase's eyes flitted over Jaden, taking in his disheveled appearance and the way he hovered close to Adam. "He was just too busy with a suspect sleeping in his room."

"Huh?" Skylar's voice rose in surprise as he looked at Jaden. "Wait, who is he?"

Adam hesitated, searching for a simple explanation that wouldn't unravel the complexities of their situation. "This is Jaden," he said, keeping it brief. "He's...staying with us for a bit."

"Staying with us? Is everything okay?" Skylar pressed.

"He's joining Lightcrest in a few weeks. We're just waiting on reslife to get him settled," Adam replied, offering a convenient half-truth.

Chase snorted, unimpressed. "Yeah, right! Let's see if he's cleared of any suspicions first. Lightcrest doesn't exactly roll out the welcome mat for crooks."

Adam sighed and turned back to Jaden. "Why don't you head back upstairs? It's getting a bit crowded down here. I'll catch up with you in a sec."

Jaden wavered for a few seconds before giving a nod. He hopped off the island counter and made his way out of the kitchen, casting a last, apprehensive glimpse at Adam.

Skylar, now waiting for his tea to steep, looked around in perplexity. "What's going on?"

Adam ignored Skylar's question and began cleaning the plate from the counter, turning his back on Chase.

"What the hell is your problem?" Chase demanded.

Adam placed the now-clean plate on the dish rack and faced Chase. "What's my problem? What's yours? I expected Dawn to be all up in arms, but didn't think you'd be throwing shade too."

Chase's face tightened. "Why? Just 'cause I'm usually the easygoing one? Yeah, I am, but that kid threatening me yesterday? Not cool. And bending the rules? Definitely not my style. I don't understand what's up with you, man."

"What don't you understand? Jaden's a kid, away from home for the first time, and he was just in the wrong place at the wrong time. I can't just leave him locked up when he's looking at me like I'm his big brother," Adam retorted.

"Adam..." Chase stepped closer, his tone serious. "You and I, we're bros. But you and him? That's a whole different vibe. You're acting like he's your ride-or-die, which is pretty wild since you never gave Izzy this kind of treatment."

Adam's jaw clenched at the mention of Izzy. "What's with everyone flipping out over Izzy and me being done? Does our split mess up the whole 'power couple' thing everyone was hyped about at Lightcrest? She fell for me, and I wasn't feeling it. Just drop it already."

There was an unmistakable glint in Chase's eyes—something between bitterness and lingering resentment that Adam couldn't quite pin down. "Yeah, it's gotta be easy to be all chill and cold-hearted when everyone's fawning over you and you don't have to give a damn back. Not everyone's got the skill to turn off their feelings like that. Some of us actually felt stuff when Izzy was around."

Adam's anger simmered visibly in his unflinching glare. "Fuck you, Chase!" he snapped. "You know damn well it was never easy for me. You're just pissed off because you've got your own crap with Izzy."

With that, Adam turned on his heel and stormed out of the kitchen, his footsteps echoing as he ascended the stairs. Chase watched him go, a mix of regret and unspoken pain on his face, knowing that his words had struck a nerve. He stood there in silence, the memory of their shared past and unresolved feelings like a wall between them.

Skylar took a tentative gulp of his ginseng tea, the warm liquid soothing his pounding head but doing little to alleviate the awkwardness in the kitchen. He peered between Chase, who was grimacing deeply, and the empty space where Adam had just bolted out.

Attempting to lighten the mood, he cleared his throat and tried to sound upbeat. "So, uh, the party last night was crazy, right? Dawn—wow, she's like a human beer barrel. I'm starting to think she has a hidden reservoir in there!"

Chase shot Skylar a glower that could melt steel. "Not the time, Skylar."

Skylar, sensing the disapproval, offered a sheepish smile and extended the teapot. "Want some tea?"

"Oh, shut up!" Chase shouted, throwing his hands up in vexation.

Skylar's shoulders slumped as Chase spun around and walked back to his room. The spiky-haired boy watched his friend go, a shadow of a smirk creeping across his face. "Guess that's a no," he mumbled to himself, taking another sip of his tea and making a face at its bitter taste.

He wandered over to the counter and began rearranging the mugs with an almost ritualistic precision. As he worked, he hummed to himself, the melody a haunting tune of an island folk song he remembered from his past, Gale of the Rebellion. His voice, barely above a whisper, carried a strange, unsettling quality:

Warlord's grip is a darkened shroud,
Techno towers loom like a stormy cloud,
But our hearts are fierce, and our will is strong,
We'll sing the truth, we'll right the wrong.

Raise your voice, let the echoes ring,
In the land where the wild winds sing,
We'll break the chains, we'll find our way,
From the shadows to the light of day.

On the isle where the winds are free,
We'll reclaim our destiny,
By the Sea of Okhotsk's endless roar,
We'll find the peace we're fighting for.

Skylar's eyes flicked to the herbs on the windowsill, noting the wilted leaves clinging to their pots. He approached the plants, a mild frown etching itself on his face as he placed his right hand on the most troubled one. With his eyes closed in concentration, a golden light began to emanate from his palm.

He visualized the chi coursing through him, the golden energy forming a delicate construct. The warmth of his chi seeped into the plant's roots, causing a subtle shift in the air. The drooping leaves twitched, and the stems straightened, responding to the unseen force. Skylar's lips curled into a smile, his eyes mirroring the golden glow.

The silence of the kitchen was punctuated only by the faint hum of the folk song and the gentle rustle of rejuvenating leaves. Skylar's hand lingered a moment longer before he withdrew, leaving the herbs visibly revived. An almost imperceptible tension suffused the room, as if the echoes of his folk song and the pulse of his chi were whispering a tale that remained just out of reach.