It had been a month since the incident with the Vandors.
Kazimir and Ingress were still far from fully recovered. After taking on the threats across Capriha and other regions alone, Kazimir had carved out six months of respite for the Prismic Gathering. But this wasn't a time for slacking. Instead of lounging around, the group had thrown themselves into special training programs.
A silent vow hung in the air—they would not be left behind again.
As Tyrone strolled through the hallway, the hum of voices from a nearby room caught his attention. Curious, he pushed the door open.
Inside, he found Lihanna sitting cross-legged on the couch, flanked by Mia, James, and Felicia. They paused for only a second before continuing their heated conversation.
Mia: "They actually took Kazimir down. That should be enough to prove everything he said about us was wrong."
James: "The Vandors trained for years. They've got the experience and the power. Kazimir? He just got lucky—he was the first to face a Dynasty, stole all the glory. Honestly, I don't think he's fit to be a Vandor. He's all power, no discipline."
Tyrone stepped further into the room, arms crossed. His voice cut through the air, calm but firm.
Tyrone: "That's not entirely wrong. But it's not the full picture either."
Lihanna tilted her head, quietly observing.
Mia: "Tch. Another Kazimir sympathizer. So what, he beats a Dynasty, and suddenly he's a god? Look at how he treats his own comrades. Ingress is still in shambles. Neve and Jessie—both devastated. And he still had the nerve to keep fighting, just to play hero. And let's not forget what he did to James, someone who helped him figure out the parasite situation."
Tyrone narrowed his eyes.
Tyrone: "You act like you carry any of the burdens he does. Do you realize how many lives from the Astral Legion weigh on him? He's the face of this world. Every mistake, every loss—gets pinned on him."
Mia: (angrily) "Then why did it take him this long to act? If he had the power all along, why didn't he stop it sooner? Maybe if he used that strength earlier, some of our comrades would still be alive. Now he finally realizes he's a weapon for society? Now?!"
CRACK
Tyrone's hand met Mia's cheek with a sharp slap, sending her tumbling from the chair. Gasps echoed across the room.
Mia clutched her face, stunned. Tears welled in her eyes as she glared up at him.
James: "What the hell?! Are you fucking insane?!"
Tyrone: (stepping forward) "Boy, shut the fuck up before I put you on the floor too."
His voice dropped to a low growl.
Tyrone: "Kazimir's choices weren't perfect, but his intent? It bought us six months to train. Six months to grow. And what did you do, Mia? You can't even keep Zamas summoned for two minutes without using your damn safe word."
He turned to James with equal heat.
Tyrone: "You two call me a glazer, but you're drooling over the Vandors who struggled to fight Kazimir when he was already drained to hell. And he's only a year older than us. You remember the island exam? That black hole? That's the power he carries. A double-edged sword. You should be grateful he's on our side."
Lihanna leaned forward, her voice calm but clear.
Lihanna: "Well said, Tyrone. He's right. Mia, you've made the least progress out of all of us. I even managed to craft a new technique during these six months."
Felicia snorted.
Felicia: "Yeah, girl, it's kinda wild how you can't even last two minutes. That safe word gets used more than your damn summon. Stretching you out every time."
Mia: (blushing) "You really didn't have to make that sound so... suggestive."
Felicia: "Not my fault you got zero stamina. I see why you and James are a match—both of you got ass-tier endurance. Sharing a room, still can't level up even one stat. And James? Smart, sure, but useless in a fight. And not even cute. Double Ls."
Lihanna: (grabbing Felicia and pulling her to her chest) "Okay, that's enough talking."
Felicia: (muffled) "They're so soft…"
Meanwhile, in the living room, Raijin reclined lazily on the couch, texting.
A shadow passed by. Someone plopped down beside him.
Raijin: (glancing up) "Okay dawg—who the fuck are you?"
Kamaki: "Damn, harsh. You don't remember me? Got my ass rocked by the Vandors. Twice."
Raijin: "Nah. I tend to forget people with L-brained energy."
Kamaki: "Fair enough. But hey, I've heard about you. Mr. Lady Magnet."
Raijin: (grinning) "You already know. The hunnies love me. Just how it goes."
Kamaki: "I don't got many people here yet, but you? You've got the vibe I like. What do you say—duo up?"
Raijin paused, then scanned him briefly with a flick of his finger, sensing the projection energy bubbling around Kamaki's frame.
Raijin: "Not bad for a first year. I could work with this. Fine—we're a duo now. Helps my reputation too. Let's make it big."
Elsewhere, in the academy's simulation chamber, Riah stood behind the glass, quietly observing the field below.
Her eyes softened as she watched Gendai move through the battlefield—emerald and silver hair whipping through the air, spear dancing like a living extension of her will. Gendai's strikes were sharp, decisive. Her footwork, calculated. Every simulation enemy fell under her relentless assault.
Riah (thinking):She's changed... grown. Kazimir's decision, reckless as it was… maybe it really did make us stronger.
A small smile touched her lips as she watched Gendai press forward with unwavering force.
From the ashes of hardship, warriors were rising.
And this—this was just the beginning.