Tag: fiction

Volume 1

3. A Dark Spot in the Colors

imeryli

   It was a busy day at the Ringmasters Training Academy. For today, students were preparing for the upcoming circus show in honor of Colors Day. While this holiday originated in India, many cities and countries over the world have started celebrating this holiday over the past couple of year. It is the one day where anyone could get covered in every color of the rainbow.

   In order to prepare, regular classes were cancelled so that students could focus on getting their acts ready for the big event. While many students were busy setting up the arena for the show, other students were rehearsing acts for the event. And it was in the gymnasium where Sana, Rey, Krystal, Prince, Neil, and Heer were all practicing.

   “Why do you keep doing this to me, Prince?!” Krystal cried.

   “Now what?” Prince asked in an annoyed tone as he chewed on a blueberry-flavored candy cane.

   “I told you to wear the rainbow ensemble so we can match!” Krystal exclaimed.

   “How many times do I have to say that I’m not wearing that?” Prince asked.

   “You are getting on my last nerve, Prince,” Krystal said.

   “Calm down, Krystal,” Sana said.

   “What calm down?!” Krystal exclaimed. “I deal with this douchebag attitude every day with all the goodness in my heart and this is how I am treated?!”

   “To hell with the drama,” Prince said.

   “What’s up with Krystal?” Heer asked Neil.   “She’s getting angrier than usual.”

   “It’s a special occasion,” Neil replied.

   “Would you quit whining over stupid colors? It’s annoying,” Rey told Krystal.

   “Oh, shut up! I don’t give a damn about what you have to say, Rey!” Krystal shouted back at Rey.

   “Rey, let’s just focus on the act,” Sana said, rolling her eyes.

   Rey and Sana went to the side and Sana drew out her wand. Rey transformed into his tiger form, while Sana then tossed one of the hoops towards Rey. Rey immediately blew a blast of fire at the hoop, making it turn into a wheel of fire.

   Once Sana was getting ready to toss the next wheel, she dropped it, putting her hand to her head as she began to feel dizzy. Rey then transformed back into his human form upon seeing Sana looking unsteady. “What’s wrong, Sana?” he asked. But before Sana could even answer, she passed out to the floor. The others saw her fall in shock and rushed to her along with Rey. Rey grabbed hold of Sana and called out, “Sana! Can you hear me?! Sana!”

   “We should take her to the nurse immediately,” Heer told the others.

***

   Later on, at the academy’s health center, Sana was taken to a room and remained unconscious while the nurse tucked her in bed with a soft, fuzzy blanket. She slowly woke up to see Rey, Krystal, Prince, Neil, and Heer surrounding her. As she tried to sit up, Rey said, “Sana, don’t get up. Just relax.”

   “But I’m fine,” Sana said. “We need to rehearse.”

   “Sana, you’re not feeling well,” said Neil.   “Get rest.”

   “Neil’s right,” Krystal agreed. “You look exhausted.”

   “You’re probably still weak from that night,” Heer told Sana.

   “It makes sense,” Neil agreed with Heer.   “That attack really took up a lot of your energy. You should take time to recharge.”

   “Are you guys sure?” Sana asked. “What about our circus show?”

   “Don’t worry about it. You shouldn’t take part in the show when you’re not feeling good,” Rey told Sana. “Get some rest.”

   Sana’s eyes looked down at the ground, almost as if she seemed disappointed.  

   “Anyways, you should stay here till tomorrow,” Krystal told Sana. “Get better,” Heer patted Sana on her shoulder and the group left, leaving Sana in the health center, who went back to bed, looking disheartened.

***

   Outside of the health center, while the others had made their way down the hall, Aiden was with Headmaster Devil in a corner where the others couldn’t see them. “I see,” Headmaster Devil said. “So, you mean to say Sana used the Ring of Fire attack with Rey?”

   “Yes. She managed to perfect it in one shot, which is quite impressive for using it the first time itself. But it seems the power was far too much for her.”

   “I see. That’s why she’s been feeling quite tired since then.”

   “I believe you know why I brought this up to you.”

   “Yes. You see potential in her and Rey.”

   “A lot. And it has to be utilized properly.”

   “I do agree. We’ll have to discuss it after the Colors Day festivities.”

***

   At rehearsals, Krystal was helping the others with their acts for the show. As she was assisting them, she noticed Rey was sitting idle near the window of the gymnasium.

   “Rey! Would you get over here?” Krystal called Rey. “You’re the one who’s supposed to open tomorrow’s show anyway.”

   “I don’t know,” Rey said.

   “What do you not know?” Neil asked.

   “I don’t know if I want to do the show tomorrow,” Rey replied.

   “What?!” Krystal shouted. “I planned everything! You can’t bail out now!”

   “Would you chill out for once in your life?” Prince asked Krystal, annoyed.

   “I don’t need to hear anything from you, Prince,” Krystal talked back.

   “Come on, guys. Calm down,” Heer said. “Rey, is something wrong?”

   “I don’t know,” Rey responded. “Now that Sana can’t do the show anymore, it feels weird doing it without her. So, why should I perform?”

   The others remained silent.

   “I see,” Heer sighed. “It’s for the best though. Sana needs to rest up after what happened yesterday.”

   “I bet there is more to it that you’re not telling us,” Krystal smirked.

   “Hey, what are you talking about over there?!” Rey asked.

   “Nothing, nothing. Its fine, Rey. You don’t need to do the show,” Krystal told Rey.

   “Then how’s the opening for the act going to work tomorrow?” Neil asked.

   “Hello! I’m a creative genius. I’ll handle it!” Krystal exclaimed. “Tomorrow’s show will be amazing when everything is in my hands!”

***

   The next day, things were getting busy at the academy. All the students were getting ready for the Colors Day Circus Show. Many guests had arrived at the arena for the big event. While the students were making sure things were all set up for the show, the performers were getting ready backstage. Especially Krystal, who was getting as much makeup done as possible.

   “What the hell?!” Krystal shouted at her makeup artist. “You put more orange on this eyelid than the other!”

   “You said orange is your favorite color,” the makeup artist said.

   “Yeah! But in order to match my rainbow outfit, my eyeshadow has to be an even rainbow on both eyes. When will you people understand anything about coordination of colors?!” Krystal cried. “Fix it now!”

   “Okay, okay. Sorry,” the makeup artist apologized as she continued to do Krystal’s eyeshadow.

   Prince, Neil, and Heer watched Krystal’s drama as they got themselves ready.

   “Wow is the only word I can say,” said Neil.

   “Now you know what I have to deal with every day,” Prince rolled his eyes as he put on his gold-colored shoes.

   “I think it’s kinda cute, guys,” Heer said as she brushed her curly brown hair that now had a pink streak on it. “She’s just having her diva moment.”

   “Does anyone know where Rey is?” Neil asked.

   “I think he went to go see Sana,” Prince replied.

***

   Inside the academy, Sana was still resting in the health center. As she tried to sit up, she was startled to see Rey enter the room.

   “Rey?” Sana said as Rey came up to her, sitting by her side on the bed.

   “Hey.”

   “What are you doing here?”

   “Seeing you. What else does it look like?”

   “But you’re supposed to be getting ready for the show!”

   “I decided not to do it.”

   “What?!”

   “You heard me. I’m not doing it.”

   “But why?! You were supposed to open the show today. And you were so excited for this one.”

   “True. But it’s not the same without my partner around. So, why bother?”

   Sana kept silent, feeling touched. “You really didn’t have to,” Sana told Rey.

   “I know. But I can be a nice guy when I want to be,” Rey said. “Speaking of which, I have something for you.”

   Sana looked at Rey, confused. Rey then took out a small bowl of red holi power and he took some of it, applying it on Sana’s right cheek.   

   “Happy Colors Day!” Rey exclaimed.

   Sana looked at Rey as Rey’s hand brushed against her cheek, coloring it with the beautiful red color. The simple gesture made her happy because she realized he cared enough to stay with her.

   Rey looked back at her and said, “Are you going to say something or keep looking at me with those big eyes of yours?”

   Sana then took some of the red powder from the bowl and put it on Rey’s left cheek.   

   “Thanks,” Sana said.

***

   Outside at the arena, the guests were all seated before the arena. The show was about to begin. And so, it commenced with Krystal and Neil entering into the arena by the use of aerial silks, hanging onto them as they flew along the silk cloths and at the same time, throwing colorful powders of various colors to the audience. The audience clapped as they made their entrance, landing onto the center stage.

   “Ladies and gentlemen…welcome to our Colors Day circus show,” Krystal greeted the audience. “I am Krystal D’Cruz.”

   “And I am Neil Galloway,” Neil introduced.

   “And we are your ringmasters for the show,” Krystal and Neil said in unison. “Enjoy.”

   And the show began. As Krystal and Neil made their way off the stage, five baton twirlers along with five jugglers entered the arena in circular motion. And as they continued their respective acts, they threw their batons and balls into the air, catching them as they jumped upward in perfect sync to get them. The audience watched in amazement as they then transitioned off the stage.

As the baton twirlers and jugglers made their way off the stage, six performers entered by hand walking forward. Once they came in, Krystal came down on the trapeze, positioning her legs in the shape of a V as she came down onto the stage. Once she came down, two performers brought in a large red and white striped box. Krystal drew out her wand and tapped onto the box which opened, revealing Prince and Heer inside. Once Krystal closed the box, she tapped on it again, and that’s when it opened, revealing Prince and Heer in their beast forms, stunning the audience.

   Prince and Heer then stepped out of the box, led by Krystal. And at that moment, Neil came back on the stage. Krystal and Neil then directed Prince and Heer with their wands to the center of the stage, making them sit separately. As they sat, Krystal and Neil then directed the hand walkers forward to Prince and Heer.

   Next, a hand walker got on top of Prince, easily being able to maintain the balanced position on top of him as did another one did on top of Heer, which put the audience in awe. It wasn’t until the other hand walkers cartwheeled to the top and perfectly formed alignment that the audience stood and clapped as three hand walkers were lined on top of one another, each on Prince and Heer who were sitting at ease.

   Once the hand walkers cartwheeled off of Prince and Heer, Krystal directed Prince forward on the stage to a series of hoops that were set up. She then took a tray of mixed holi powder and threw it in the air to which Prince let out his mighty Sonic Roar. The force of the roar sent the multi-colored powder through the hoops, creating a beautiful array of color blowing through them. The audience clapped at the beautiful sight.

   And so, the other performers then came back on stage with everyone bowing down before the audience as they stood and gave a standing ovation.

   “Thank you for enjoying the show,” Krystal called to the audience. “And happy Colors Day!”

   As the guests started to leave, the students headed backstage to get changed. Prince and Heer had transformed back into their human forms and went to meet up with Krystal and Neil.

   “Great show, guys!” Heer told the others.

   “I know!” Krystal exclaimed. “Everyone loved my act! Though things would have been better if Prince had worn a matching outfit with mine.”

   “Just because you’re my partner, doesn’t mean I have to match with you all the time like a lovesick married couple,” Prince said. “And that ugly orange color is never coming near me.”

   “Oh, really?” Krystal said.

   At that moment, Krystal went right up to Prince and then drew out orange-colored holi powder, which she splattered all over his face.   

   “Ha! Now I got it all over you!” Krystal exclaimed. “In your face! Hear me?! In your face!” At that moment, Krystal left victoriously, going back to remove her makeup while Prince shook his head.

   “Wow, Prince,” Neil chuckled. “That’s quite a drama queen you got there.”

   “To hell with the drama,” Prince said as he looked in the mirror to see his now orange-colored face.

   Heer made her way out of the circus tent. As she walked out, she was startled as she saw something dark slither into the lower level of the academy. Heer rushed back inside to the others and said, “Guys!”

   “What’s wrong, Heer?” Neil asked.

   “I saw something get into the school,” Heer replied.

   “Saw what?” Prince asked.

   “If it’s a rat, the janitor will take care of it!” Krystal exclaimed.

   “I think it’s a dark beast,” Heer said.

   Looking at the others, Heer could tell they were more alarmed now.

   “Are you sure?” Prince asked.

   “Well, we will only know if we go after it,” Heer replied.

   “What?! We just finished a show! There’s no way I’m risking broken nails for this!” Krystal protested.

   “Oh, screw that,” Neil retorted. “I’m ready for some action.”

***

   Inside the health center, Sana tried to get up from the bed, while Rey helped her stand up, holding her by her shoulders. “Take it easy, Sana,” Rey told Sana.

   “I’m fine, Rey. I can manage.”

   “You said that last time. You need to take care of yourself, all right?!”

   “Excuse me,” a voice said. Rey and Sana were startled to see a young man arrive inside the health center. The man had a goatee, long black hair tied in a small ponytail, and wore glasses. He was dressed up in a white lab coat, blue sweater, khaki pants, and brown dress shoes.

   “Uh…who are you?” Rey asked.

   “My apologies. I’m Dr. Droh,” the man replied. “I’m here for your checkup.”

   “Oh, okay. I guess I’ll leave then,” Rey said.

   “Hold it,” Sana paused with suspicion. “I know all the doctors that work in the academy and I’ve never seen you.”

   Dr. Droh stalled in sudden shock while Sana and Rey looked on. Dr. Droh then grinned and said, “Well…you’re smarter than I thought.”

   Sana and Rey looked at Dr. Droh, confused. And at that moment, Dr. Droh had transformed into the form of a dark-colored crocodile with bright red eyes. The sight shocked both Rey and Sana. “What the hell?!” Rey exclaimed.

   “He just turned into a dark beast!” Sana said.   “But since when do dark beasts have human forms?!”

   At that moment, the dark crocodile made its way toward Sana, ready to attack.

   “Sana!” Rey called out as he pushed Sana out of the way, pushing her into the wall while Rey was hit by the dark crocodile’s tale. As Sana tried to get up, Rey put his arm before her, “Sana, stay down! I’ll handle it!”

   “Rey! You can’t take on it without me!” Sana exclaimed.

   “I’ll be fine,” Rey assured.

   And so, Rey went ahead and transformed into his tiger form. The dark crocodile went ahead and attacked Rey directly, hitting him against the wall again. Outside in the hall, Krystal, Prince, Neil, and Heer were running down the halls when they heard noises from the health center.

   “Prince, Heer…transform now!” Neil ordered. Prince and Heer nodded as they then transformed into their beast forms. As the four approached the door of the health center, the door was then thrown off with Rey thrown along with it down the hall.

   “Rey!” Neil called out. That was when the dark crocodile emerged from the room into the hall.

   “That’s a dark beast?!” Krystal asked.

   “I’ve never seen one like that before!” Neil exclaimed. “Heer, hit it with an icicle attack!”

   Heer immediately launched a series of icicles that formed when she emitted an ice energy beam attack from her mouth. The dark crocodile then countered with a dark energy beam attack from its mouth back at Heer.   

   “Quick! Move out of the way!” Neil ordered Heer. Heer jumped out of the way as the dark energy beam hit into the wall.

   Inside the health center, Sana stood up, trying to make her way to Rey. The dark crocodile then saw Sana and launched another dark energy beam attack.

   “Sana! Watch out!” Krystal shouted. Sana was just about to get hit until Heer pushed her out of the way in time.

   “Heer, transform back and take care of Sana,” Neil ordered. Heer nodded as she transformed back into her human form and helped Sana get up, taking her into the health center.

   “This is why I hate crocodiles! I guess we have to turn things up a notch!” Krystal smirked as she then drew out her wand, tapping it to transform it into her sonic bell.

   “I hear you!” Neil agreed as he drew out his wand, tapping it to transform it into his bow and arrow.

   Neil drew the arrow onto his bow and aimed it at the dark crocodile. Once he launched, it was ready to hit the crocodile. But before it could, the crocodile slammed the arrow with its tail, sending it back. Neil, Krystal, and Prince got out of the way as the arrow hit the wall, turning part of it into ice.

   “I think it’s time you started hearing bells!” Krystal exclaimed. “Prince, use your Sonic Roar!” Prince immediately led out his roar, which launched a mighty sound wave aiming towards the dark crocodile. The dark crocodile bundled itself as it couldn’t bear the intensity of the sound. Krystal added more power by throwing her sonic bell into the ground, which intensified the sound waves further. Suddenly, the dark crocodile drew its tail in front and slammed it, sending an intense vibration that hit both Krystal and Prince. Neil went to check on them, and while doing so, the crocodile slithered its way down the railings of the stairs, disappearing.

   Rey transformed back into human form, feeling a little exhausted from the attack. As he slowly got up, Neil turned to him as Krystal and Prince got up.

   “You okay, Rey?” Neil asked.

   “I’m fine,” Rey replied. “Where’s Sana?”

   “In the health center with Heer,” Neil pointed out to which Rey rushed to the health center.

   “Where did that ugly croc go?!” Krystal asked, infuriated as she looked around.

   “It got away,” Prince said as he transformed back into human form. “It must’ve escaped while we were down.”

   “That bastard!” Neil exclaimed.

   “Good riddance! It almost ruined my outfit!” Krystal cried.

   “We got beaten by some ugly crocodile and all you’re worried about is your outfit?” Prince asked.

   “Yes! This costs a fortune you know!” Krystal exclaimed.

   “To hell with the drama,” Prince said.

   “How’s Sana?” Neil asked as he entered the health center along with Krystal and Prince.

   “She’s a bit out cold,” Rey replied as he held onto Sana, trying to help her stand.

   “We need to call the nurse,” Heer said.

***

   After a while, the nurse came and took care of Sana in the health center. And at the same time, Headmaster Devil came along with some staff to clean up the damage in the halls from the attack.

   “Headmaster Devil, we’re sorry we couldn’t take out the beast,” Heer apologized.

   “Don’t be. Clearly it was more dangerous than expected,” Headmaster Devil replied.

   “So what do we do about it?” Rey asked.

   “I’ll look into the matter. We’ll have to investigate this a bit,” Headmaster Devil answered. “In the meantime, don’t worry. It’s Colors Day. You kids should go ahead and celebrate the festivities. All right?”

   “Yes, Headmaster Devil,” Rey, Krystal, Prince, Neil, and Heer agreed in unison.

   With that, Headmaster Devil walked away from the others down the hall. Something is definitely off. I’ll need to speak to Aiden about this, Headmaster Devil thought.

   The nurse then stepped out of the health center and Rey was the first of the others to come up to her. “How’s Sana?” Rey asked.

   “She’s fine now. I just gave her some medicine so she’ll be all right. You kids can go see her and take her out for the celebrations later,” the nurse replied.

   “Thank you,” Heer nodded.

   And so, Rey, Krystal, Prince, Neil, and Heer went inside the health center where Sana was sitting up in bed. “How do you feel?” Krystal asked Sana.

   “A lot better. Thanks,” Sana said.

   “That’s good to hear,” Heer smiled.

   “What about that dark beast?” Sana asked.

   “Headmaster Devil said he’ll look into what happened,” Prince replied.

   “So, don’t worry about it now,” Neil told Sana. “It’s Colors Day. We should go and celebrate now.”

   “Yeah, you guys are right,” Sana agreed.

   “Speaking of Colors Day, when did you get color on your cheek?” Krystal inquired, referring to the red powder on Sana’s cheek.

Sana remained unusually quiet as she eyed Rey. The others then turned to Rey, astonished to see he had red powder on his cheek as well.     

   “What?! I just put some on for her,” Rey said. “No big deal right?”

   Prince shook his head, seeing the grins on Neil, Heer, and Krystal’s faces.

   “So I see…I should’ve known!” Krystal exclaimed.

   “What the hell are you talking about, stupid?!” Rey shouted.

   “Who are you calling stupid?!” Krystal yelled.

   “Easy, Rey. Don’t get her mad,” Heer told Rey.

   “Or she can do worse things to you,” Neil said.

   “Too late for that! Here! Have some orange juice!” Krystal exclaimed as she grabbed a glass of orange juice from the nightstand beside Sana and shoved it in Rey’s face.

   “Get that crap away from me!” Rey screamed.

   “What’s the matter?!” Krystal taunted.   “Afraid of some Vitamin C?!”

   “Shut up! Take it away!” Rey shouted.

   “Can we just go outside now?” Sana asked, rolling her eyes.

   “Oh yeah we can!” Krystal exclaimed. “Let me just dump this orange juice on Rey and that’s Colors Day for you.”

   “I told you to take it away!” Rey shouted.

   “To hell with the drama,” Prince said.

Copyright © 2021 Meryl T

All rights reserved. All illustrations created by Meryl T.

Volume 1

2. Loose in the Library

imeryli

It was mid-afternoon. The halls of Ringmasters Training Academy were dead silent. And the only thing that could be heard was the sound of Headmaster Devil’s footsteps as he walked down the hall, clacking his fancy dress shoes against the floors with Rey and Neil following him. The two were feeling very intimidated as they entered the office. As the two came inside, they expected to come into a scary looking place resembling hell. After all, this office was often referred to as the Devil’s Lair. And such a name for a mere room would scream of flames, demons, and possibly lingering souls.

   But when they looked inside, their mouths dropped wide open at what they saw. Right by Headmaster Devil’s desk was a tall, elegant looking woman who wore a high slit dress in black that had long sleeved lacey sleeves. She had beautiful shiny red hair and her lips were bright red. She stood proud like the beauty that she was as she tapped her long red finger nails on the desk. And Rey and Neil couldn’t stop staring at her. Headmaster Devil went up to the woman and said, “Shaina! What are you doing here?!”

   “You told me to wait for you, sweetheart. And that’s what I’ve been doing for the past ten minutes. This is how you treat your girlfriend?” the woman retorted.

   “Girlfriend?!” Neil exclaimed.

   “What a player. The rumors are true then,” said Rey.

   “What rumors?” Neil asked.

   “Everyone’s been talking about how Headmaster Devil’s never been married. People think it’s because he spends his time with women in his office every day,” Rey whispered to Neil.

   “Shaina, we’ll meet up later tonight. I have business to take care of,” Headmaster Devil told Shaina, holding her soft hand. “Okay?”

   “All right. Anything for you, Devil,” Shaina smirked. “Give me a call when you’re free.”

   With that, Shaina flipped her hair and made her way out of the office while Rey and Neil looked on. “Hey! What are you boys looking at?!” Headmaster Devil asked Rey and Neil, seeing them eyeing Shaina.

   “Nothing, sir!” Rey and Neil replied in unison.

   “Yeah right. I know. She’s quite a beauty. But she’s not for your eyes to stare at,” Headmaster Devil shouted. “Now sit.”

   And with that, Rey and Neil sat down in the chairs that were provided in front of

Headmaster Devil’s desk. Headmaster Devil then made his way to his desk, sitting in his throne-like chair. He looked at both Rey and Neil, glaring down upon both of them while the two boys gulped as they sat in the chairs. He then drew out a jug of orange juice from a mini fridge that was behind the desk, and took out two glasses, pouring some juice.

   “Have some orange juice,” Headmaster Devil told Rey and Neil.

   “Yes, sir!” Neil obeyed, taking the glass of juice from Headmaster Devil.

   “Uh…no thanks,” Rey said.

   “Why?” Headmaster Devil asked.

   “I really don’t want,” Rey said, turning away.

   “It’s Vitamin C. Take it,” Headmaster Devil said.

   “Um, sir. Rey doesn’t like orange juice,” Neil intervened.

   “Like?! Forget like! I hate it!” Rey cried.

   “Oh…fine then,” Headmaster Devil said as he pushed the jug aside, continuing to keep an eye on Rey and Neil.

   Man! For a player, he can be really intimidating, Neil thought.

   I wonder if Shaina has a younger sister, Rey wondered. But I don’t want to ask.

   “May I ask why you two were spying on Aiden?” Headmaster Devil asked Rey and Neil.

   “Spying?! We weren’t spying!” Rey exclaimed.

   “Do I look dumb to you? You both were following him and even planning to sneak attack him,” Headmaster Devil retorted. “And for what? Oh wait!”

   “What?” Rey and Neil asked in unison.

   “Now I understand,” Headmaster Devil said.   “Neil, I know very well that Aiden is your twin brother.”

   “Does that have to be brought up all the time?!” Neil said, rolling his eyes.

   “I don’t know what enmity exists between you and Aiden. And I don’t know why the hell you two have that going on. But whatever it is, don’t bring it up in school. The battlefield is not here. This is a learning environment,” Headmaster Devil lectured. “Is that understood?”

   “Yes, Headmaster Devil,” Rey and Neil replied in unison.

   “Now…I need to figure out the right punishment for you both,” Headmaster Devil said as he tapped his fingers on the desk, pondering. “Ah! Yes, I got it! And since Sana and Heer are your partners, you will need them as well. After classes are over, you will be put on library duty. Which means you will be cleaning up and reorganizing the books over there before the school closes.”

   “Are you kidding me?!” Neil asked.

   “I don’t kid. Now move along. I’ll be expecting to see a clean and organized library by tomorrow morning,” Headmaster Devil said.

***

   And so, after classes were over and majority of the students had gone back to their dorms, Sana, Rey, Neil, and Heer were in the library, cleaning and organizing the books on the many shelves across the room. “I can’t believe we’re in this mess because you two idiots had to spy on Aiden,” Sana said as she placed a book on a shelf.

   “Hey! We were just gonna challenge the guy and see how strong he really is!” Rey exclaimed.

   “But was that really necessary, Neil?” Heer asked Neil.

   “That’s what he gets for glaring at me in the hall,” Neil retorted. “Just the sight of him annoys me.”

   “Well look what we have here,” a voice said.

   Sana, Rey, Neil, and Heer looked around to see Krystal had come in the library along with Prince. “What are you guys doing here?” Sana asked.

   “We were trying to find you guys. But we got the word that you were sent here as

punishment for Rey and Neil trying to sneak attack on Aiden,” Krystal replied.

   “Nice to see the two idiots put in their place,” Prince smirked as he chewed on his orange-flavored candy cane.

   “Oh, shut up, Prince!” Rey exclaimed.

   “Is that the real reason you both are here?” Heer questioned.

   “Our next circus show is coming up. And I’m trying to convince Prince that we should wear an orange combo for our outfits so we can coordinate,” Krystal said.

   “There’s no way in hell that I’m wearing that color,” Prince said.

   “If you can chew on orange for a whole hour, then you can wear it for a one hour circus event!” Krystal exclaimed.

   “To hell with the drama,” Prince said, shaking his head.

   “Why orange?” Neil asked Krystal.

   “It’s going to be color themed. And I absolutely love orange. So, I got matching outfits for us. Can’t you guys see it?” Krystal asked. “Two orange stars in the bright yellow spotlight! Just imagine!”

   “I really can’t imagine,” said Rey. “I hate orange, so I’m on the same page as Prince.”

   “You do realize that you’re a tiger,” Sana stated to Rey. “And tigers are orange.”

   “No! It’s more of a creamy, brownish orange! Which I don’t mind!” Rey countered.

   “Moron. Whatever. Prince and I are leaving for circus practice,” said Krystal. “Have fun working in the library!”

   “And remember…the school closes at six. If you don’t remember to leave by then, you’ll be stuck here till morning,” Prince said. “Later.”

   “Bye guys,” Heer said as she waved bye to Krystal and Prince who made their way out of the library.

   “What time is it?” Neil asked.

   “It’s almost five,” Heer replied as she looked at her watch.

   “How are we going to finish cleaning before six?” Sana asked.

   “Guess only more work can help,” said Rey.

   And so, the four individuals continued to clean up the library. They kept working, even when all the students had left the school to their dorms and only the cleaning staff remained inside. “Where do these books go?” Neil asked as he held a stack of five textbooks.

   “Put those in the Energy Knowledge section,” Heer told Neil. Neil went ahead to the Energy Knowledge section of the library, which was near one of the exits, and started placing the books on the bookcase. As he was placing the books, he noticed a small green switch on the side of the bookcase. The switch caught Neil’s full attention.

   “Hey guys!” Neil called out to Sana, Rey, and Heer.

   “What is it?” Rey asked as he, Sana, and Heer came by.

   “Look at this. I found a switch on the bookcase,” Neil pointed out to the switch.

   “Wow. What a discovery, Neil,” Sana said, rolling her eyes.

   “Come on, Sana. How often do you see a switch on a bookcase?” Neil asked.

   “He has a point,” Heer said.

   “Press it then! Let’s see what happens!” Rey urged Neil.

   “Hold on, Rey,” Sana said. “How do we know it’s safe?”

   “Sana, if it’s a green switch, it’s safe. If it’s red, it’s not. And this one’s green!” Rey exclaimed. “So, it’s safe!”

   “And what kind of logic is that?!” Sana questioned, trying to comprehend Rey’s statement.

   “Neil, just press the damn switch,” Rey told Neil.

   And so, Neil went ahead and pressed his thumb on the switch. Once the switch was pressed, it gave off a green flashing light. Sana, Rey, Neil, and Heer stood back when all of a sudden, the bookcase slid to the side, revealing a door on the wall.

   “Whoah! Cool!” Neil exclaimed.

   “Has that always been there and we’ve just never noticed?” Heer asked.

   “Looks like it,” Rey responded. “Let’s open the door!”

   “Hold it. I’m getting nervous about this,” Sana said.

   “There’s nothing to be nervous about,” Rey told Sana. “Neil, open the door.”

   Neil then opened the door on the wall, which led to a small room. Sana, Rey, and Heer followed Neil inside the little room. It was completely blank and empty with only plain white walls and a white-colored tiled floor. The only thing inside was a small desk with a little box that sat upon the desk. The four individuals went towards the box, looking at it with curiosity.

   “What’s in the box?” Neil asked.

   “We’ll only find out if we open it,” Rey replied.

   “I say we don’t. It’s obvious something is supposed to be hidden in there. Otherwise they wouldn’t lock it behind a secret door,” Sana said.

   “Who cares?! No dark beast is going to pop out from there!” Rey exclaimed. “Open it, Neil!”

   “Be careful,” Heer told Neil.

   Neil then grabbed hold of the box. He took a deep breath and removed the lid. Inside the box was what appeared to be a small white-colored egg that had black spots on it. Neil took out the egg, showing it to the others.

   “It’s an egg,” Heer said.

   “Out of all things possible, why would an egg be stored in here?” Sana wondered.

   “Beats me. But it looks cool,” Rey said as he looked at the egg.

   “So, now what?” Neil asked.

   “Just put it back. We’ve done enough snooping! We should get back to work!” Sana asserted as she made her way out of the room with Heer following.

   “You heard her. Let’s go,” Rey told Neil as he started to leave.

   Neil placed the egg on the table and headed out, closing the door. Little did he realize was that the egg had fallen off the table onto the floor, cracking its shell. And right from the inside of the egg’s shell, an eerie glow flashed from it.

   Once the foursome had left the room, the school’s automatic speaker system went on and said, “The time is now six. The school building will now close and reopen tomorrow morning.” The foursome’s eyes beamed upon the end of the announcement. Sana rushed to the doors of the library and tried to open them, but they were locked.

   “Damn it!” Rey exclaimed. “Now we’re stuck in here!”

   “This is your fault, Neil!” Sana shouted. “If you didn’t go on about the mystery behind the switch, we would’ve gotten out on time!”

   “Well sorry then!” Neil talked back. “It’s no big deal! We’ll just have to hang out here for the night!”

   “Sana, we should inform Krystal,” Heer told Sana.

   “You’re right. I’ll call her now,” Sana said.

***

   In the girl’s dorm, Krystal was sitting alone in her room, smacking an orange lipstick on her lips as she sat in front of the dresser, looking in the mirror. Once she was done, she smiled upon seeing herself. “Now this color will look great for the show!” Krystal exclaimed.

   Suddenly, Krystal’s cellphone rang on the dresser. She picked it up, seeing Sana was calling, and answered, “Sana! Where are you and Heer? You’re supposed to be here by now.”

   “We’re stuck in the library now.”

   “What?! Didn’t Prince tell you guys to leave before six?”

   “It’s a long story. Anyways, do you think you can help us get out?”

   “Sana, the school security is like state of the art. I should know since my dad was the one who provided it. Besides, I really don’t want to get my hands dirty after painting my nails.”

   “Oh whatever. We’ll just manage here then.”

   “You have fun with that.”

   “Yeah. Bye. “

***

   After hanging up, Sana placed her cellphone in her bag, which she placed down near a table.   

   “So…anyone got food?” Neil asked.

   “We’re stuck in a library for the rest of the night and all you can think about is food?!” Sana asked Neil in an annoyed tone.

   “Neil, I have some crackers in my bag. Come,” Heer told Neil.

   While Neil followed Heer to the other side of the library, Rey and Sana remained where they were by the table. “Man, how are we going to stay here till morning?” Rey asked.

   “We could do some reading. After all, we have that test tomorrow in Energy Enhancement class.”

   “Don’t remind me about that.”

   “God knows what you’d do without me. I could imagine you’d be stuck in the remedial classes!”

   “Oh, shut up. I’ll have you know I got straight B’s last semester.”

   “Says the guy who gets kicked out of class all the time.”

   “You know I’m not gonna argue with you. Girls always need to be right in everything. “

   “Whatever. I’m hitting the books. It’s not like we have anything else to do.”

Sana grabbed a stool near the bookcase and reached out for a book on the topmost shelf.    

   “I’d be careful if I were you,” Rey warned Sana.

   “I’m fine,” Sana said, annoyed. As she got the book, she suddenly tripped off the stool, falling off. As she let out a small scream while falling, Rey caught her in his arms to which Sana threw her hands on Rey’s shoulders. She looked up at Rey, flustered.

   “You idiot! I told you to be careful!” Rey told Sana, still carrying her.

   “Who are you calling an idiot?! I was fine until you kept talking to me!” Sana shouted.

   “Um guys,” said Neil as he and Heer had returned with Rey and Sana turning to both of them. “Are we interrupting?”

   At that moment, Rey immediately dropped Sana down on the floor with Sana dropping her mouth wide open in shock.

   “We’re good. She almost fell. That’s all,” Rey replied.

   “You could’ve dropped me gently!” Sana yelled at Rey.

   “Well then. I’m gonna go get my bag,” said Heer as she went back to the other side of the library.

   “So, what are you guys doing?” Neil asked.

   “Trying to study for the Energy Enhancement test tomorrow,” Sana replied.

   “Damn it! I forgot about that!” Neil exclaimed.

   “We should probably study…if we at least want to pass,” said Rey.

   Suddenly, the sound of a scream echoed in the library. Sana, Rey, and Neil turned around.

   “That sounded like Heer!” Neil exclaimed. Sana, Rey, and Neil ran to the other side of the library to look for Heer. When they looked around, they found Heer lying on the ground. Neil rushed towards Heer, holding her and called, “Heer! Can you hear me?! Heer!”

   Slowly, Heer woke up. “Are you all right?” Neil asked Heer as she carefully got up. “What happened?”

   “I saw something. It almost attacked me,” Heer replied in a state of shock.

   “What almost attacked you, Heer?” Sana asked.

   “I don’t know. It was some kind of creature,” Heer answered.

   “Well, there’s nothing here right now,” said Rey.

   Suddenly, all the lights in the library blew out, leaving the room in pitch black darkness.  

   “Who turned off the lights?” Sana questioned. The four turned around to see a series of six red eyes. Emerging from the darkness, a large-sized dark creature with three heads growled upon seeing Sana, Rey, Neil, and Heer.

   “That’s it!” Heer pointed out.

   “What the hell is that?” Neil said.

   “How’d it get in here?!” Rey asked.

   “I don’t think now is the time to ask questions!” Sana exclaimed.

   “Well, what are we waiting for? Let’s take it down!” Neil exclaimed.

   Just then, the dark beast’s three heads each launched a dark energy beam attack from their mouths directly at the foursome. They gasped, running off before they could get hit while the three headed beast went after them.

   “What are we gonna do?! This thing can easily murder us!” Rey exclaimed.

   “I think we established that!” Sana said.

   “Quick! In the secret room!” Neil told the others.

   Neil rushed to the switch, pushing it until the bookcase slid. He opened the door of the room, letting the others in. And then he closed it right before the dark beast could enter. As he closed the door, the dark beast tried to hit against the door with its heads to get in.

   “What kind of beast is that?” Heer asked.

   “The better question is where did that beast come from?” said Rey. “The whole school is locked so there’s no way anything could get in here.” Sana then looked down on the floor, and noticed the egg lying near the desk. She went towards it and picked it up to see the shell was completely cracked.

   “Um guys…the egg here is broken,” Sana said.

   “But how’s that possible?” Heer asked.

   “Oh crap!” Neil exclaimed.

   “What did you do?!” Rey questioned Neil.

   “While I was rushing to get out, I forgot to put the egg back in the box,” Neil replied.

   “You moron!” Sana and Rey shouted at Neil.

   “Guys, it was an accident,” Heer defended Neil.

   “That explains it! That thing must have come out once the egg broke. I bet Headmaster Devil hid it here because he knew it would release a beast if hatched,” Sana said as she analyzed the egg shell. “And now it’s on the loose.”

   “But I’m confused. How does a thing that big come from an egg?!” Rey disputed.

   “Wow, I’m surprised to see you being so inquisitive,” Sana mocked.

   “Oh cut the crap, Sana!” Rey talked back.   “Don’t you agree?! A dark beast with that much power and size doesn’t just hatch in seconds. Why would Devil have something like that hidden here to begin with?!”

   “You know you bring up good points,” Sana admitted. “But we’re not in a position where we can find answers. That thing will kill us the moment it finds its way in here or if we even think to make a move.”

   “So, what are we going to do?” Heer asked. “The beast is waiting outside. And the library is locked so the only way we can survive the night is if we take it out.”

   “Heer’s right,” Neil agreed. “I was ready for that until that thing decided to play the first move!”

   “Then we need a plan,” said Sana. “And it has to work.”

   “Well you’re the genius, Sana. Think of something,” Rey told Sana.

   “I think the beast has moved away from the door. But I don’t know when it’ll strike back,” Neil said.

   Sana stood, pondering. There has to be a way to get out of this mess. But in order to take on such a powerful beast, we need more than our usual attacks, Sana thought. We need more energy. Suddenly, Sana realized something.

   “What’s the matter, Sana?” Rey asked Sana.

   “Rey, I just thought of something. And it relates to our Energy Enhancement class,” Sana replied.

   “Is this really a time to be talking about that test?!” Neil asked, irritated.

   “While you guys were thrown out, Professor Luna went over one important thing,” Sana said. “You obviously remember, Heer.”

   “Of course! Energy conservation. Prince and I were called up to demonstrate. And Professor Luna wanted us to focus and keep our energy intact. With time, the energy within us grew at a higher limit as we kept it sealed within. The more focus we had, the higher our energy levels rose,” Heer explained.

   “Exactly,” Sana said. “Rey, for this plan to work, we’re going to have to use a very strong attack. We haven’t done it before. But in order to defeat that beast, we need to use it. Which is why we’ll need some time before we can make our move.”

   “What the hell?! I don’t understand a thing right now,” Rey said, confused.

   “You will. Neil and Heer, you two are going to have to hold the beast long enough for our attack to work,” Sana told Neil and Heer.

   “Don’t worry, Sana! We got you covered!” Neil agreed as he held a thumbs up to Sana.

   “I just hope we can hold it up long enough,” Heer said.

   “All right then. Here’s the plan,” Sana began explaining.

***

   Outside the small room, the three headed beast was wandering around the library, prowling its way down the aisles like a mighty lion. Neil slowly opened the door of the room to see the beast outside. He then stepped out of the room with Heer, shutting the door.   

   “Ready, Heer?” Neil asked Heer.

   “All set,” Heer replied. And so, Heer went ahead and transformed into her snow leopard form.  The beast then turned to Neil and Heer.   

   “Time to take this ugly thing back to where it belongs!” Neil exclaimed. “Heer, attack it directly.”

   Heer nodded and ran towards the dark beast, tackling it into the bookcase. As she tried to hold it down, one of the heads of the dark beast went ahead and bit Heer on her ear, causing her to feel great pain.

   “Heer, hold on! Just attack it with your paw!” Neil ordered. Heer raised her paw and scratched the faces of the dark beast’s heads. The dark beast then pushed Heer into the wall and all three heads launched a dark energy beam attack at Heer.    

   “Heer, get out of the way!” Neil ordered. Heer managed to dodge the attack as it hit into the wall.

   Inside the room, Rey had transformed into his tiger form. Once he had done so, Sana drew out her wand, tapping it to transform it into her trishula.

   “Okay, Rey. Just close your eyes and focus. Maintain your energy from within,” Sana instructed Rey. Rey closed his eyes, keeping his concentration in tact as he sat in his beast form. Sana held her trishula to the ground, closing her eyes and focusing. Once the two were both in focus, they both started to give off a red orange glow from their bodies as they maintained equal concentration. That’s it! Now that both of our energies are in sync, we can expand it! Sana thought.

   Outside, Heer was trying to get away from the dark beast.

   “Okay, Heer! Enough running!” Neil told Heer. “I think it’s time you used an ice attack!” Heer nodded as she formed an icy energy beam from her mouth. She then launched it directly at the dark beast, hitting it into the wall.

   Inside the room, Sana and Rey both opened their eyes, still giving off the bright glows from their bodies.

   “All right! I think it’s time!” Sana exclaimed. “You ready?” Rey nodded. Sana opened the door of the room with the dark beast turning right at her. Rey leaped forward, standing before Sana.

   “I hope she’s got this!” Neil said.

   “Let’s go!” Sana called out as she threw her trishula into the floor, while Rey prepared for a fireball attack. “Ring of Fire!” At that moment, the trishula gave off an orange glow, which in turn released a series of flames that circled around the beast. Sana maintained balance, despite the immense strength of the attack, while Rey then launched the fireball attack at the dark beast. Once it hit the dark beast, the ring of fire closed in on the beast, engulfing it in the flames as it yelped in pain. Neil and Heer looked on in surprise.

   “Damn. That’s some intense power,” Neil said in disbelief.

   The fires consumed the beast completely. Once the fire died out, there was nothing left but the ashes of the beast on the floor. Sana began to breathe frantically as the attack was finished. Rey then transformed back into his human form.

   “We did it!” Rey told Sana. But he was surprised to see Sana pass out, falling onto the floor.

   “Sana!” Rey called out as he went to Sana with Neil and Heer coming to her as well.  

   Rey held Sana in his arms, looking at her unconscious face. “Sana, can you hear me?!” Rey asked Sana.

   “I think she must be exhausted,” said Heer as she transformed back into her human form.

   “That was quite an attack! And since you guys did it for the first time, she must be completely out of it,” Neil added.

   “Well, now what?!” Rey asked, concerned.

   “You look after Sana. Neil and I will clean things up here,” Heer told Rey.

   “Are you guys sure?” Rey asked.

   “Trust me. We got things from here,” Neil told Rey, patting him on his shoulder.

   With that, Neil and Heer left Rey alone with Sana, going off to the other side of the library to clean up the mess. Rey held Sana in his arms, looking down upon her solemn face. He then lifted her and took her aside to the corner of the library near a bookcase. Once he helped her rest against the bookcase, he sat by her side and went to sleep on his own. Once Neil and Heer had finished cleaning up, the two of them yawned in exhaustion.

   “I’m starting to get tired right now,” Heer said, yawning.

   “Yeah. We should get some rest,” Neil said. Neil turned to a desk nearby where he sat down and rested his head against the table, falling asleep. Heer followed, sitting at the same table and putting her head down, where she drifted off in a matter of minutes.

***

   In the early morning, at the crack of dawn, the light from the sun shined in the windows of the library. Rey and Sana both woke up slowly, looking right at each other as they got up. Sana tried to get up, but was having trouble with doing so. Rey assisted her, holding her by her shoulders till she could stand.

   “You okay?” Rey asked Sana.

   “Yeah, I’m fine,” Sana replied. “Thanks.”   

   Rey and Sana turned around to see Neil and Heer had gotten up as well. “Rise and shine, guys!” Neil exclaimed.

   “Oh wow. It’s already six in the morning,” said Heer. “Do you feel better, Sana?”

   “Yeah. I’m fine now,” Sana answered.

   Suddenly, the doors of the library had opened. The others turned around and were surprised to see Aiden standing right at the doors. Neil turned away, unwilling to look at his brother.

   “You guys have been here all night?” Aiden asked the others.

   “Um…yes. Thanks for opening,” Heer told Aiden.

   “Yeah, yeah, whatever. Let’s get out of here,” Neil said.

   “You know…I saw what happened here last night,” Aiden stated.

   Sana, Rey, Neil, and Heer were surprised upon hearing what Aiden said. Rey then yelled, “You mean to say you watched us last night and that you didn’t even bother to help?!”

   “You seemed to have had everything under control by the time I got here. So, I felt no need to intervene,” Aiden replied. “But it seems you were able to handle the power of a fusion dark beast.”

   “A fusion dark beast?” Sana pondered.

   “And what the hell is that exactly?!” Rey questioned.

   “What you dealt with is the result of experimentation,” Aiden replied. “Headmaster Devil has been in touch with a team of scientists who have been experimenting with the genetics of dark beasts. The beast within that egg wasn’t an ordinary one because it contains the DNA of various species of animals combined with the dark energy. And as you know, every regular dark beast usually maintains a singular genetic makeup.”

   “Well, that explains the above average hideous looks,” Rey rolled his eyes.

   “But why would our own headmaster be dealing with people who are making these beasts?” Sana asked.

   “This is the only one,” Aiden responded. “Headmaster Devil had no deadly purpose behind this. In fact, this experiment was simply done to get an idea behind the creations of these creatures. In order to find out how these creatures came to be and how to defeat the many dark beasts in this world, it’s important to understand their construction.”

   “I see,” Heer understood. “But was Headmaster Devil planning on hatching the egg at all?”

   “Of course he was. But he’s obviously not a bright man to hide it in somewhere like here,” Aiden shook his head. “And since you guys are responsible for hatching the egg, I will have to tell him.”

   “Oh great! More trouble on us!” Sana exclaimed.

   “Whatever, I’m outta here,” Neil said as he headed out through the doors while Heer followed him.

   Aiden looked on as Neil and Heer left, shaking his head.

   “Come on, Sana,” Rey told Sana. “We should get ready for that test today.”

   As Sana and Rey headed out, Sana was stopped by Aiden, who grabbed hold of her by her arm. She turned, confused, while Rey, who was already outside of the library, turned to see Sana held by Aiden through the library window.

   “What the hell?! Why’s he stalling her?!” Rey exclaimed.

   “Um…do you need something?” Sana asked Aiden.

   “That attack you used during the battle was quite the spectacle. It was very powerful. Almost too powerful for you, wasn’t it?”

   “Yeah…it was.”

   “You handled the attack till the end. How did you manage? “

   “Sana!” Rey called from outside of the library, looking impatient.

   “As much as I’d like to answer your questions, I have to go,” Sana told Aiden, making him remove his grip on her arm. “Excuse me.”

   And so, Sana made her way out of the library while Aiden looked on. I should tell Devil about this, Aiden thought. Outside, Sana noticed Rey waiting and headed off along with him.

   “What was he talking to you about?” Rey asked Sana.

   “I don’t know. He’s still a mystery to me. Anyway, forget him. We should get something to eat at the cafeteria.”

   “And what about studying for our test?”

   “Come on, Rey! In a way, we already studied. That attack last night took all the energy we needed.”

   “Yeah, you’re right. But you took the hit for the most part. Are you okay?”

   “Yeah, I should be fine.”

***

   In the cafeteria, Sana and Rey came over to where Neil, Heer, Krystal, and Prince were seated at a round table. “There you guys are!” Krystal exclaimed. “Neil told us about everything that went down last night. You okay, Sana?”

   “I’m fine, Krystal,” Sana replied.

   “Hello?! What am I?! Chopped liver?!” Rey exclaimed.

   “Yeah you are, Rey,” Krystal talked back.

   “That’s enough, guys. Save the backtalk for performance classes today,” said Heer.

   “Performance classes?!” Sana said, confused.

   “Oh, you didn’t know?” Heer asked. “Headmaster Devil cancelled all regular classes today so that we could have rehearsals for the Colors Day Circus Show.”

   “Oh yeah! Colors Day is coming up!” Rey exclaimed. “I almost forgot. So, that means no test today. Sweet!”

   “So, that’s why you were obsessed with getting your orange ensemble for you and Prince,” Neil said to Krystal.

   “And I’m still not wearing it,” Prince said, chewing on a peppermint-flavored candy cane.

   “Well, now we’re doing a rainbow ensemble. Then we’ll stand out for sure. Just imagine!” Krystal exclaimed. “Two rainbows among an array of single colors!”

   “It sounds kinda stupid to me,” Rey chuckled.

   “Oh really?! Well then. I have a present for you, Rey,” Krystal said as she took out a cup of orange juice, shoving it in Rey’s face.

   “Get that away from me! I hate orange juice!” Rey shouted.

   “Didn’t your doctor ever tell you orange juice has Vitamin C?” Krystal taunted. “No wonder your tiger instincts are as low as your IQ.”

   “Shut up! And get it away from me!” Rey retorted as he pushed away the cup of juice.

   “To hell with the drama,” Prince rolled his eyes.

   “Guys, I think playtime is over now,” Sana intervened as she took the cup of orange juice and drank it herself.

   “You’re right. After all, I should save the arguing and constant bickering for you two,” Krystal smiled, talking to Sana and Rey. “You know…when you both get married.”

   “What?!” Sana exclaimed.

   “What the hell?! Do you really think I’d fall for someone as nerdy as she is?!” Rey asked.

   “Hold it. What is that supposed to mean?” Sana questioned Rey. “And you don’t have anything distasteful about yourself? You’re the one who’s scared of orange juice.”

   “I’m not scared! I just hate orange juice!” Rey retorted.

   As Rey and Sana continued to bicker, Neil, Heer, Krystal, and Prince just watched.   

   “You guys obviously see what I’m saying,” Krystal said. “Just imagine!”

   “I think we’ve had enough imagination for one day,” said Heer.

Copyright © 2021 Meryl T

All rights reserved. All illustrations created by Meryl T.

Books, fantasy, Volume 1

1. Welcome to RTA

imeryli

It was seven o’ clock sharp in the evening at Daredevil City, one of the largest cities in New Iris, America. All the guests had gathered in the arena for a big event that was being held at one of the city’s private academies. At this academy, many civilians had arrived at what appeared to be the academy’s arena. Once all the guests were settled down in their seats, the lights went out, shrouding the area in darkness. And at that moment, three spotlights flashed into the arena, focusing on three individuals.

   In the center was a girl, who was dressed in a red trench coat, a white blouse with a red bowtie, a black skirt, a pair of black boots, a pair of white gloves, and a plain round top hat. The girl had wavy medium-length hair of a raven black color that was flowy like air. She opened her bright, chocolate brown eyes, looking at everyone who had gathered in the arena.

   To her right was another girl, who was dressed in a red vest over a white peasant blouse, a black ruffled skirt with gold fringes, black boots with gold bands around them, a black choker necklace, and a round top hat with a gold band around it. This girl had long, straightened brunette hair with a blonde streak that framed her face, and her hazel eyes beamed in the spotlight as she stood with a bold stance.

   Lastly to the left was a boy, who was dressed in a long black trench coat, a white shirt with a gold bowtie, red pants, black boots, and a top hat with a red band around it. He was quite tall, and his light brown hair stood out underneath his top hat along with his dark green eyes that opened in the spotlight.

   The three individuals bowed before the audience. “Ladies and gentlemen…welcome to the RTA, also known as the Ringmasters Training Academy,” the center girl began. “I am Sana J. Malik.”

   “I am Krystal D’Cruz,” the other girl introduced.

   “And I am Neil Galloway,” the boy greeted.

   “And we are your ringmasters for the evening,” the trio greeted in unison.

The audience clapped and cheered as all the lights came on in the arena, dazzling the place like a movie premiere. Sana, Krystal, and Neil were now surrounded by several other performers, ready to perform with them on the stage. “Enjoy the show!” Sana told the audience.

   What followed was a series of circus acts by the performers in the arena. Sana, Krystal, and Neil made their way out from the arena as a group of jugglers riding unicycles came circling their way before the audience, who watched with intrigued eyes. Once the jugglers exited, Krystal went with three tightrope walkers onto the tightrope, leading them as she pranced her way forward. She waved an umbrella in her right hand as she successfully reached the end of the rope with the other walkers as well.

   Up next, Neil came upon the trapeze, positioning his legs upward as he held on from the bottom, while a second performer united with him by joining his legs in the same position. There was a balance of symmetry between the two as they held onto the trapeze for the audience to watch in amazement.

Then, Sana came back into the arena, following with two performers, who brought in a large red and white striped box with wheels attached on the bottom. Once the two performers left, Sana drew out a wand from her trench coat and tapped onto the box. Once she tapped onto it, the door of the box opened, revealing a boy who was dressed in the same attire as Neil. He had wavy medium-length hair of a dark chocolate brown color and big brown eyes that popped out as he made his entry.

   Sana then looked at the audience, and closed the door of the box. She waved her wand over the box door and then tapped it again. Once the door came down, in place of the boy, was a majestic tiger. The audience clapped upon seeing the magnificent act, with some standing up in admiration.

   The tiger stepped out from the box and Sana led it into the center of the arena with her wand. She then directed her wand to a series of hoops. Once she pointed to them, the hoops then caught on fire to the audience’s shock. At that moment, Sana directed the tiger towards the hoops with her wand and the tiger then made its way through the hoops, jumping through them with such remarkable ease, not letting any of the burning flames catch onto its body. By the time the tiger reached the end with success, the audience clapped.

   Sana then led the tiger back into the box, closing the door. The two performers came back and took the box back inside the circus tent, while Krystal and Neil jumped into the arena next to Sana, bowing before the audience as the other performers entered in. The audience stood before them and clapped, cheering for the magnificent display of artistry. Sana, Krystal, and Neil stood proud before the audience and said, “Thank you for coming. Have a good night.”

   And so, the show had ended and the guests in the audience made their way out of the arena while the circus performers headed back inside their tents backstage. Sana, Krystal, and Neil headed into the dressing room where the box was left. Sana opened the door of the box and the tiger came out. “You can change back now, Rey,” Sana told the tiger.

   And at that moment, the tiger had transformed into the form of a human boy; the same human boy who first appeared in the box. And his name was the name Sana had just called him by; Rey.

   “Did you see how much love I got out there?!” Rey exclaimed. “Man! I’m a star!”

   “Oh, shut up, Rey,” Krystal retorted. “My umbrella dance on the tightrope was the highlight of the show and you know it.”

   “Says the girl who almost tripped at the end,” Neil chuckled.

   “It doesn’t matter, guys. Everyone loved the show. That’s all that’s important,” Sana said.

   “Prince! Heer!” Neil called out upon seeing a boy and a girl enter the dressing room.

   The boy wore a classy navy blue suit with a white shirt and black tie and had a cherry-flavored candy cane that was sticking out from his mouth. His hair was a shiny ivory black and smoothened back on the top while his eyes were of a dark brown shade. The girl wore a blue jacket over a long white dress. She had long, curly brown hair and light blue eyes. “Great job today, guys,” Heer said.

   “You saw us?” Neil asked.

   “Well duh, moron. We we’re watching from the first row,” Prince said, irritated.

   “The show would’ve been better if we had Prince in place of Rey,” Krystal said.

   “Hey! You know I was the real star of the show! The crowd was going wild when I came in!” Rey retorted.

   “Students,” a voice called.

   The six individuals turned around to see a middle-aged man, dressed in a black cloak with an emblem on the back of the cloak. He had pale blond hair and blue eyes that gleamed like sapphires.

   “Headmaster Devil,” Sana, Rey, Krystal, Prince, Neil, and Heer said in unison as they bowed down before the man.

   “A dark beast has been detected outside of the academy,” Headmaster Devil told the group.

   “Are you kidding me?! Right after the show?!” Krystal complained. “I don’t have time to get my hands dirty!”

   “But how did it get near here?” Rey asked.

   “The gates to the academy must not have been fully closed after the guests entered,” Sana concluded.

   “You know the drill,” Headmaster Devil said. “Get to work.”

   “You guys go,” Krystal told Sana, Rey, Neil, and Heer. “This outfit is not meant for beast slaying.”

   “This goes for all of you, Krystal,” Headmaster Devil ordered. “Now get with your partners and get the job done.”

   “Yes, sir!” Sana agreed.

   “And just when I was getting ready to take a cat nap,” Prince said.

   At that moment, Rey, Prince, and Heer had transformed within a matter of seconds into their new forms. While Rey changed back into the form of a tiger, Prince had transformed into the form of a lion, while Heer had turned into a snow leopard. And so, Sana, Krystal, and Neil took off along with Rey, Prince, and Heer in their transformed states while Headmaster Devil watched them go.

   The six individuals rushed down the campus of the academy and went outside of the main entrance. Suddenly, a dark-colored beast emerged from the shadows of the night, aiming to attack. The beast had the composition of a wildcat. What really made the beast stood out was its vampire red eyes and long fangs. The six of them dodged the beast, surrounding it in circular motion. “You really picked the wrong time to call for animal control!” Krystal shouted at the beast.

   “Rey, go to your right and attack it from behind!” Sana ordered Rey. Rey then went forward and jumped upward, pouncing the beast to the ground. As he tried to hold it down, the beast kicked him off into the wall.  

   “Heer, hit him directly!” Neil told Heer.

   Heer dashed off, directly pouncing the beast into the wall to hold it down. “Krystal, you can make a move now,” Sana told Krystal.

   “All right then,” Krystal said as she drew out her wand from her vest. She spun her wand around and gave it a single tap, transforming the wand into a large sized circular shaped ring in a gold color that had a big red bow with a golden bell attached to it.  

   “Prince, use your Sonic Roar attack! I’ll add more power with my sonic bell!” Krystal ordered.

   Prince nodded and immediately let out a mighty roar, which emitted large sound waves towards the beast. Heer got out of the way, while the beast remained traumatized by the loud noises from Prince’s Sonic Roar. Krystal then rang her sonic bell and plunged it into the ground, which released a sonic boom attack that further weakened the resistance of the beast.

   “I’ll make the next move,” Sana said as she took out her wand and tapped it to transform it into the grand trident known as the trishula. “Rey, attack with a fireball move!” Rey emitted a fireball attack directly from his roar, which hit the beast until it was down on the surface. Sana then jumped in, plunging her trishula into the ground, which created a ring of flames around the beast.

   “I think you need some cooling off now,” Neil said as he took out his own wand. Once he tapped it, the wand turned into a blue archery bow with an icy looking arrow attached to it. He pulled the arrow onto the bow and then hit it directly at the beast, striking it in its heart. At that moment, the arrow had not only hit the beast, but it spread a coating of ice that completely froze it.

   “Why in the world would you freeze it?!” Sana shook her head.  “That thing would’ve burned to ashes anyway.”

   “Hey! My arrows do that. They freeze targets once they’re weakened,” Neil talked back.

   “Quit complaining! You can just melt it down, Sana,” said Krystal.

   “Right. Rey, go ahead,” Sana ordered Rey.

   Rey released another fireball attack at the frozen beast, completely melting it down until there was nothing left but its ashes. “Eww! The smell of those things once they’re dead is horrible!” Krystal cried.

   “Good work, guys,” said Sana. “Looks like we can call it a day.” And so, Rey, Prince, and Heer all transformed back into their human forms. “Well, that was a good work out!” Rey exclaimed.

   “Thank God that’s over. I need to take that cat nap,” said Prince. “Good night.”

***

   The next day, it was a silent morning at the Ringmasters Training Academy. All the students of the academy were just entering the school from their respective dorm rooms. However, there was one boy, who for some reason was being constantly looked at as he walked down the halls of the academy.

   The boy was indeed sharp looking, as he came dressed in a fine white suit with cream-colored shoes, a blue shirt, and a white necktie. His hair was even well groomed, smoothened out with small spikes coming from the top. He made his way into what was known as the Devil’s Lair, also referred to as Headmaster Devil’s office. The boy opened the door and the headmaster looked up from his desk and said, “Good morning. Please sit.”

   The boy made his way to the seat in front of Headmaster Devil’s desk, crossing his legs as he sat down. “I’m glad you were able to come,” Headmaster Devil told the boy. “This is a great opportunity for you.”

   “Not really for me. More for your students.”

   “Right. As you know, this is the Ringmasters Training Academy, one of the most exclusive academies in the country for students who excel in the performing arts and are fit to be professional circus performers or even better, ringmasters. Now besides you, me, and the rest of the academy, everyone else in the city and beyond simply thinks this is a school for a bunch of circus artists.”

   “But I know that you all have a larger purpose beyond the mere entertainment for city folk.”

   “Of course you do. Otherwise you wouldn’t have come here. This academy doesn’t just train students for the circus world. A ringmaster is known as the leader of the circus and the main star of the show. But for us, there’s a different meaning. Students in this school are divided into two groups…ringmasters and human-beasts. Every ringmaster is partnered with a human-beast. The ringmasters are students who are capable of coordinating themselves and their quick thinking skills with their human-beast partners. The human-beasts are the students who are able to transform into wild animals and use their own abilities to match up to those of their partners. Every partnership is formed based on compatibility and usage of skill as each human-beast has their own special power that matches up with each ringmaster, who yields a wand that transforms into a weapon that carries the same power. All these characteristics are what make up the ideal ringmaster duo.”

   “Headmaster Devil, I know the deal. You don’t need to go into all the details that have been pounded into my brain many times before even entering this building. I myself am a highly trained human-beast, so I would know how things work around here. That’s why you brought me to your school. The question is…which students are the best at capturing the dark beasts? This school can only create so many exceptional students. And by exceptional, I mean ones who are qualified for recognition in the Ringmasters Society.”

   “Of course. You had to bring that up. But let’s focus on the important matters. The dark beasts are everywhere. No one knows who or what they are or where they’ve come from. Heck, no one even knows why they continue to exist. All we know is our students are the only ones who are fit to stop them from wreaking havoc across the city and other places in the world. And since you’re a highly qualified human-beast yourself, you’ll be a great example for the students to follow.”

   At that moment, Headmaster Devil’s office phone rang. He immediately took the call.

   “Hello?”

   “Headmaster Devil, the students are seated in the auditorium for the assembly.”

   “All right. I’ll be there in a few minutes.”

   Headmaster Devil hung up the phone and got up from his seat, with the boy getting up as well. “It’s time for the presentation,” Headmaster Devil told the boy. “Shall we?”

   The boy nodded his head and followed Headmaster Devil out of the office and into the halls. The two made their way towards the auditorium. Inside the auditorium, while students were getting seated, Sana, Rey, Krystal, Prince, Neil, and Heer all sat down in the first row, near the front of the stage.

   “Why didn’t you wear the pink blazer I gave you?” Krystal asked Prince.

   “Please. I wouldn’t be caught dead wearing that color,” Prince said as he chewed on the raspberry-flavored candy cane that was in his mouth.

   “Well, now look at you. You’re wearing navy blue which completely clashes with the pink ensemble I have on,” Krystal said as she pointed to her light salmon-colored blazer, pink halter top, rose pink ruffle skirt, and pink-colored pumps. “If you’re going to be my partner, at least coordinate matching colors to show it! And why must you always have those candy canes in your mouth? Christmas time is not all the time!”

   “To hell with the drama,” Prince said.

   “You can be so mean sometimes, Prince!” Krystal cried. “If you would at least cooperate in coordination of color combos, then we’d be the style icon duo of this school! Just imagine!”

   “No one wants to imagine,” Prince mumbled as he shook his head and continued to chew on his candy cane.

   “Does anyone know what this assembly is for?” Sana asked.

   “From what I heard, Headmaster Devil is introducing some special guy to the school,” Rey replied.

   “What makes him special?” Heer asked.

   “Beats me,” Rey said. “From the rumors, I heard he’s a professional human-beast. So he’s supposed to be like a mentor at the school now.”

   “Wow. Really?!” Sana asked.

   “HA! I bet he’s not that good!” Neil smirked.

   Then, Headmaster Devil entered onto the stage of the auditorium, heading towards the podium. All the students and professors stood up from their seats as the headmaster looked upon them. “You may all sit,” Headmaster Devil permitted. And so, everyone sat down, looking anxious as they waited for the headmaster to begin.

   “Students and faculty…I am very pleased with the progress of our students at the academy. To others in the world, we may seem like a bunch of clowns or slacker circus artists. But we are more than that. And I am proud to have you all as students of the academy,” Headmaster Devil began speaking. “With time, I have begun to see that there are some of you who have the potential to qualify for the Ringmasters Society. Only the best of the best can be recognized for acceptance. For some of you, that would be a great honor. But only the most elite can make it to such a prestigious position. And now that I see students are training more and more to enhance their abilities, I would like to introduce a new addition to our academy. He is not joining us as a student…but as a mentor. He is one of the most well trained and highly skilled human-beasts in the city. In fact, he has trained all over from Europe to Asia. And so, he will provide great guidance to some of you. Please give a warm welcome for Aiden Galloway.”

   While the other students clapped, Neil’s eyes beamed as his mouth dropped slightly in shock upon hearing that name. And at that moment, the boy, Aiden Galloway, made his entry onto the stage. As Aiden walked onto the stage, Sana, Rey, Krystal, Prince, and Heer all shared the same shocked face as Neil had.

   “Neil! He looks exactly like you!” Krystal exclaimed.

   “How is that possible?” Heer asked.

   “That’s because he’s none other than my twin brother,” Neil replied as he sulked in his seat.

   The others gave off surprised faces as they watched Aiden stand before the students and faculty on the stage. And it was true. He looked exactly like Neil from head to toe. And Neil wasn’t too happy to see Aiden on the stage. Sana looked up at Aiden, who gave off a stern, yet confident stance as he stood before the student body. I wonder what it’s going to be like with this guy around, Sana thought.

***

   After the assembly, Sana, Rey, Neil, and Prince were walking down the hall during free period while Krystal and Heer had gone off to get breakfast in the cafeteria. “So…what do you guys think of Aiden?” Sana asked Rey, Neil, and Prince.

   “I don’t think he’s so tough,” Rey replied. “I bet me and you could take him out.”

   “Is he as strong as everyone says, Neil?” Sana asked Neil.

   “Why should we care?!” Neil retorted. “He’s not a student here. Besides, he’s not the kind of guy to mentor anyone! I don’t know what drugs Devil was on that made him pick that guy to be a mentor here!”

   “Someone’s a bit touchy,” Rey whispered to Sana.

   “Typical,” Prince rolled his eyes. “A stupid tough guy who can’t stand his obviously better brother.”

   “Did you say something, Prince?!” Neil said.

   As the four kept walking, they stopped to see Aiden coming right in their direction. Aiden looked up, stopping as he saw the foursome together. He then turned to Neil, who glared at him in return. “You got a problem or something?!” Neil shouted at Aiden. “Quit looking at me!”

   Aiden closed his eyes, smirking. “Still the same old idiot,” he said.

   “What’d you say?!” Neil shouted further at Aiden.

   “So, we finally come face-to-face with the school’s top dog,” Rey said. “We got thirty minutes till class starts. That’s plenty of time for a little battle. You in on this, Neil?”

   “Oh, I’ll join you!” Neil agreed, fist pumping Rey in agreement.

   “What?! You guys are crazy! We’ll get in trouble!” Sana exclaimed.

   “Come on, Sana. We’ll take this guy out in a flash,” said Rey.

   “To hell with the drama,” Prince said as he then turned away. “I’m outta here.”

   “What the hell?! Why are you being such a wuss?!” Rey asked Prince as Prince began walking away from the group.

   “I don’t do stupidity,” Prince replied as he continued walking with his back turned. “Later.”

   “What a chicken!” Rey exclaimed. “You ready to fight?!”

   “If you morons wish to get expelled, then be my guest,” Aiden replied.

   “Guys, just go to class,” Sana told Rey and Neil. “Besides, we have a test for our Energy Enhancement class.”

   “We have a test?!” Rey exclaimed.

   “Damn it! I didn’t study!” Neil cried.

   “We’ll settle this later! We gotta hit the books now!” Rey said as he and Neil dashed off down the hall.

   “I’m sorry about them,” Sana apologized to Aiden. “They can be a bit of a handful.”

   “Don’t be sorry. I know how my sad excuse for a brother is like,” Aiden replied. “You’re one of the first students I’ve met around here. What is your name?”

   “Oh…Sana,” Sana answered. “Sana J. Malik.”

   “Sana,” Aiden repeated in a quieter tone. “Well then…it’s nice to meet you. I hope to see you again.”

   “Uh…sure,” Sana said.

   With that, Aiden walked away, heading down the hall while Sana looked on.

***

   Later on, Sana made her way to her Energy Enhancement class. She walked over to her seat, which was right next to Rey in the middle of the classroom where all the desks were set up side by side in three columns. “So I heard you met Aiden during free period,” Krystal told Sana, sitting behind her and Rey next to Prince.

   “Who told you?” Rey asked Krystal, turning around.

   “I did,” Prince replied. “Whenever someone does something stupid, someone has to talk about it.”

   “I’m not stupid!” Neil exclaimed, sitting on the right column, next to Heer.

   “Why are you so surprised about him being here?” Heer asked Neil. “He is your brother after all. Didn’t he tell you he was coming to the school?”

   Neil sulked in his seat. “Let’s not talk about that,” Neil said while Heer sighed, shaking her head.

   “But I saw you speaking to him alone, Sana,” Krystal said. “What was he like?”

   “You spoke to him when we left?” Rey asked Sana.

   “Only for a moment. Then he left,” Sana answered. “Why do you look so upset?”

   “Shut up. I could care less,” Rey said, turning to the front of the classroom.

   “Anyways Sana, tell me. What’s Mr. Aiden like?” Krystal asked Sana. “He may look like Neil, but somehow he’s actually more polished. There’s something charming about that guy. So, what did he talk to you about?”

   “Would you shut up already?” Rey said to Krystal, turning back to her.

   “Well then!” Krystal exclaimed.

   “Krystal, he just asked my name and that’s all there is to it. You act as if he was ready to propose to me or something,” Sana said.

   “Oh fine. Whatever you say,” Krystal said.

   Once the bell rang, the teacher, Professor Luna, entered the classroom. She placed her briefcase onto her desk, brushing aside her neatly combed blonde hair that was tied in a ponytail. “All right, class. I know you were all expecting a test today. But I have decided to postpone it till tomorrow,” Professor Luna announced.

   “Are you kidding me?!” Rey exclaimed. “I did fifteen minutes of cramming for nothing?!”

   “Instead, we are going to discuss the importance of energy conversion during battles,” Professor Luna said as she began writing on the board. She then turned, and looked at Prince, who sat back in his seat, chewing on his raspberry-flavored candy cane while placing his feet on the desk. “Prince Blake,” Professor Luna called on Prince.

   “Yeah?” Prince replied.

   “How many times do I have to tell you not to put your feet on the desks?” Professor Luna said to Prince. “And why do you keep having those candy canes in your mouth during class?”

   “To hell with the drama,” Prince mumbled, rolling his eyes.

   “What did you say?!” Professor Luna asked Prince.

   “I was just wondering why you care so much. My family has paid every damn dime to get me in this school. That makes the academy my home. So I can treat it like home. If treating it like home means chewing on my candy cane and putting my feet up, then deal with it,” Prince replied. “Besides, I do pay attention in this class.”

   “He’s actually talking back,” Krystal said in a whispering voice, sounding surprised as ever.

   “Is that so?! Well then, why don’t you come up before the class for my demonstration of energy conversion,” Professor Luna stated.   “And I need another volunteer. Ah! Heer St. Hale! You come up with Prince to the front of the class.”

   Heer nodded her head silently and went up to the front of the class along with Prince. As the two went up, Rey and Neil noticed Aiden through the window of the classroom, walking in the hall. The two looked at each other and Rey whispered, “He’s right there. Here’s our chance.”

   “Rey Murgatroyd! Neil Galloway!” Professor Luna shouted. Rey and Neil turned to Professor Luna. “You think this is chatting time?! Fine then! You two can go out in the hall!”

   Rey and Neil got up from their seats, giving off smirks as they left the classroom. Sana moped in her seat. I have a bad feeling those two are going to cause some trouble, Sana thought, shaking her head.

   Outside of the class, Rey and Neil stepped out into the hall and hid quietly behind the pillars as Aiden was walking down the aisle. “I say we sneak attack on him,” Rey told Neil.

   “Right. You can pounce on him from behind. Then I’ll make a move,” Neil added.

   “Good idea!” Rey exclaimed.

   “What are you two doing?!” a voice asked from behind Rey and Neil.

   Rey and Neil gasped as they turned around to see Headmaster Devil standing right behind them.

   “Headmaster Devil!” Rey and Neil exclaimed in unison.

   “You didn’t answer my question. Why are you two out lingering in the hall?” Headmaster Devil asked.

   “We were sent out of class, sir,” Neil replied.

   “I see,” Headmaster Devil said. “So, what was this whole sneak attack plan you both were discussing?”

   “Oh…that…um,” Rey mumbled. “We were just talking about an act…for the next circus show! Right, Neil?!”

   “Right!” Neil agreed.

   “Yeah, yeah. In my office,” Headmaster Devil ordered. “Let’s see what I have to do with you two idiots.”

    Rey and Neil gulped.

Copyright © 2021 Meryl T

All rights reserved. All illustrations created by Meryl T.