Episode 7: How Strong is Your Resolve?

Day 5 - 10 am

Reference Picture (Got it from Google) (P.S not making money out of this.)

The morning sun cast a warm glow into Jay's dorm room, gently rousing him from his slumber. As he rubbed his eyes and blinked away the last vestiges of sleep, Jay noticed that Carl, his dedicated companion, was already up, engrossed in the midst of something. There was a sense of urgency in the air. Intrigued by Carl's early morning activity, Jay inquired about what had captured his attention.

Carl, with a look of focused determination, explained that he was meticulously double-checking the predictions he had crafted the previous night during their visit to the mysterious cave. There was a palpable sense of importance in the air. Carl went on to urge Jay to take a moment to freshen up, emphasizing that a busy day lay ahead. The revelations they had uncovered in the cave bore a heavy responsibility on their shoulders.

After swiftly tending to his morning routine, Jay rejoined Carl, who had been steadfastly poring over his predictions. The sense of anticipation was electric. Carl confirmed that his predictions had held true, leaving no room for doubt about their next course of action. Their mission was clear - they needed to return to the enigmatic cave to monitor the impending changes. The 12 am phenomenon that shrouded their world in mystery was in dire need of unravelling, and they aimed to do just that.

With resolve burning in his eyes, Carl then tasked Jay with arranging a meeting with the two girls, Chitose and Sayuri. This gathering was to serve as a comprehensive briefing, detailing the events of the prior day and outlining the tasks ahead. The group decided that Jay and Carl's room would be the ideal setting for this critical discussion.

Their meeting commenced with the arrival of Chitose and Sayuri. However, before Carl could delve into the details of their mission, Chitose dropped a significant bombshell. Their master, Josef Kelley, was set to make his entrance into their midst the following day, pledging his invaluable support to their cause.

Setting the stage, Carl launched into a thorough recounting of their recent experiences. After emerging victorious from the Trial of Life maze, a perplexing twist of fate whisked them away into an underground tunnel, which eventually led to a cave. Above them, a web of rails spanned the cavern's ceiling. These rails, they soon discovered, were intricately tied to the city's enigmatic nocturnal transformations during the 12 am phenomenon.

As Carl elaborated, it became evident that the rails were more than mere conduits; they also held the key to decoding the forthcoming changes in the cityscape. The gravity of the situation was not lost on Carl, and he posited that only a force of profound destructiveness could dislodge the rails from their overhead moorings. Their gaze turned to Mark Kenny, an expert in explosives, as their primary hope. As Carl concluded his briefing, he outlined their foremost objective: finding Mark Kenny and securing his cooperation.

Their departure from EverWood Manor was accompanied by the unsettling sight and sounds of the city in turmoil, shrouded in black smoke and punctuated by mysterious explosions. This chaos, Carl explained, was inextricably linked to Joel Ashley, who had orchestrated an attack on the Police Department, a diversion tactic to deflect attention away from their own enigmatic pursuits.

However, the most startling revelation was yet to come. Strait Hardin, the Chief of the Police Department, was unmasked as the true mastermind behind the city's baffling predicament. The implications were dire, as every police officer under Strait's command became a potential adversary. In addition, Antonia Hardin, who had exhibited immunity to the obsessive compulsions of the 12 am phenomenon, raised suspicions with her curious claim of memory loss extending back to her first year.

With Carl's revelations echoing in their minds, the group unanimously agreed on their next move – they had to locate Mark Kenny and enlist his support.

Their quest for Mark Kenny led them to the dormitory's lobby, where Jay sought the wisdom of Mr. Sekano, the dormitory advisor. To Jay's surprise, he discovered that Mark Kenny was not far; he resided in the same dormitory and was only a room away from Jay's own. However, the challenge lay in the fact that Mark was currently absent, his whereabouts unknown.

Just as they were about to leave the dormitory in search of Mark, an unexpected interruption occurred. They were greeted by Alicia Hess, the Guidance Counselor of Better Change University, who zeroed in on Jay with a perplexing question, inquiring if he was Carl. The confusion was quickly clarified as Jay corrected the case of mistaken identity, asserting that he was indeed Jay, with Carl as his companion. Alicia's demeanor gave little away as she redirected their attention, insisting that their presence was urgently required in the guidance counselor's office.

Upon their arrival at Better Change University, the group made a beeline for the guidance counselor's office. It was there that they were met with a surprising sight – Strait Hardin himself, seated calmly in the office. With a sense of apprehension hanging in the air, Jay, Carl, Chitose, and Sayuri took their seats across from the Chief of Police. Alicia Hess, the Guidance Counselor, remained standing behind Strait, an unspoken presence in the room.

With an air of deliberate casualness, Strait initiated the conversation by expressing his desire to pose a few questions. The atmosphere grew taut as the four students waited for the interrogation to begin. Strait's first queries were innocuous, centering on their everyday school lives, and the quartet offered simple, truthful answers – their lives had been fairly typical.

However, the Chief was not one to dwell on pleasantries for long. He swiftly transitioned into more probing questions. As the group's eyes met his, he inquired about their whereabouts the previous night. They hesitated only briefly before explaining that they had been engrossed in a research project.

Strait pressed further, asking about their late-night activities over the past few days. Acknowledging their nocturnal outings, they clarified that they were not a frequent occurrence.

Then came the bombshell – the mention of an old man named Joel Ashley. Jay, responding deceitfully, claimed not to know the individual. This declaration appeared to surprise Strait. He proceeded to unveil the truth about Joel Ashley – a homeless figure notorious within the confines of the EverChanging City. Joel had executed an audacious assault on the Police Department, and the law enforcement agencies were diligently pursuing him since his escape on the previous night. The ramifications of this revelation unfolded swiftly. The road leading to EverWood Forest, an area crucial to their mission, had been cordoned off by the police. Their plans to conduct activities in that area had to be postponed for at least a week, and Strait sternly warned them against attempting to breach the blockade. The consequences, he cautioned, would be severe – arrest and legal action.

Strait's questioning continued, now centering on Mark Kenny. The group was familiar with the name but remained oblivious to his current location. With this, Strait concluded his inquisition and bid the students farewell, leaving them with a litany of concerns and a mounting sense of unease.

Alicia Hess requested the group to remain for a while, as she had further matters to discuss after her conversation with Strait. The two left the room, and five minutes later, Alicia returned. She redirected her attention to Jay and Carl, inquiring about their compliance with a mental survey checkup. Their response was in the negative. Alicia then sought insight into their school lives, with the duo responding that everything was proceeding as usual. The issue of their recent class absences was brought to the fore, and they explained that the demands of their research project had occupied their time.

Alicia's discussion concluded with a gentle reminder to prioritize their academic obligations. With a better understanding of their predicament and the consequences of their actions, the four students departed from the guidance counselor's office.

Outside, Carl proposed a new course of action: gathering information from anyone who might possess knowledge of Mark Kenny's whereabouts. Jay initiated their quest for information by approaching Dale Jackson, the president of the Robotic Organization. Dale, however, proved unhelpful, as he was overwhelmed by traumatic memories of past explosions within the Robotic Room.

In his search for answers, Jay then spotted Kenton Gates, the president of the University Student Council. Remembering that the Student Council played a role in monitoring Mark Kenny's activities, Jay approached Kenton. Kenton had just been in contact with Mark and revealed that Mark was waiting for an old man, the sounds of wind accompanying his location. The group was now armed with a valuable lead on Mark Kenny's whereabouts, prompting them to hastily leave the school grounds in pursuit of their next clue.

Jay made the decision to head for the Grassfield, the place where the Moist Apartment had mysteriously disappeared. It was here that he and his companions found Mark Kenny, standing alone amidst the sprawling grass. As Jay approached Mark, a sense of unease hung in the air. He was prepared to ask Mark a question when, unexpectedly, Mark began to interrogate him.

"Why are you here?" Mark inquired, his tone laced with apprehension. Jay replied, revealing that many people were searching for him. Mark pressed for more information, and Jay hesitated before indirectly informing Mark that Joel Ashley wouldn't be appearing anymore. Mark's reaction was instant – a surge of anger and then a sudden breakdown as the realization that the person who could provide him with answers had vanished washed over him.

Jay attempted to offer Mark the goggles that Joel had given him, hoping it would provide some comfort or answers, but Mark's frustration grew. He angrily threw the goggles back at Jay, demanding to know what Jay wanted from him and urging him to stop causing further confusion.

Jay persevered, emphasizing that they needed Mark's unique skills. Mark, however, shared a glimpse of his troubled past. He explained that he felt unwanted within his family, referred to as an "accident." His family would cast him into the streets, placing bets on how long he could survive. Mark's desperate search for happiness had led him to the EverChanging City, but paradoxically, he felt immense sadness when confronted with memories of the place.

Mark then revealed the name "Isaac Dickerson," a name that filled him with profound sorrow and a flicker of happiness, though he had no memory of the person associated with it. He shouted in frustration, lamenting that the only person who might know the truth about his past had disappeared.

Gazing at the sky with a weary, forlorn expression, Mark admitted that he had tried to force happiness upon himself, drawing attention by causing problems, practicing laughter and smiles. Despite all his efforts, he couldn't attain true happiness, convinced that no one cared for his well-being. Jay attempted to console him, but Mark abruptly declared that he no longer cared, renouncing his search, his very existence.

In a startling move, Mark produced a grenade from his pocket and mentioned "explosive dial." Jay noted a red mark on the grenade, accompanied by the glowing of Mark's ring. He realized the imminent danger and asked Mark if he was contemplating what Jay feared. Mark finally confirmed his intentions, pulling the pin from the grenade and letting it fall to the ground.

With remarkable swiftness, Jay activated his Mystical Eye ability, Time Reduction, to push Mark out of harm's way before the grenade could detonate. Mark stood bewildered by the unexpected turn of events, questioning Jay's actions. Jay, weakened by the aftermath of his power, reminded Mark that a temporary solution wouldn't resolve anything or provide the answers he sought. He encouraged Mark to face his struggles and find their true meaning rather than seeking an escape.

Mark asked Jay if this journey would lead to happiness and solutions. Jay could only respond that he didn't know, but he and his friends were there to help. Overwhelmed by emotion, Mark began to cry. Jay returned the goggles to Mark, who expressed his uncertainty about the goggles' intended recipient but speculated that they might signify someone who genuinely cared about him.

Chitose and the others rushed to Jay's side. Chitose healed both Jay and Mark, restoring them to their normal states. Mark, now more composed, inquired about Jay's intentions and what he needed from him, signaling a turning point in their turbulent encounter.

Tension hung in the air as Jay prepared to explain their strange situation. Before he could utter a word, Mark's sharp eyes zeroed in on a figure lurking in the shadows. With a booming voice, Mark demanded to know if the girl was their friend. His yell echoed through the quiet night, but the girl remained frozen.

In an impulsive move, Mark hurled a firework at the girl, jolting her into visibility. It was Antonia, a girl from their university. Jay, surprised to see her, inquired about her unexpected presence. Antonia hesitantly divulged that she had heard of Joel Ashley from her father and had embarked on an investigation, tracking rumors that he frequented a grassy field in the city. She had come across Mark Kenny and had been observing the unfolding events with Jay's group.

Mark, always the pragmatist, suggested subduing Antonia to prevent her from leaking information. Jay hesitated, questioning how they could trust her. Antonia, pleading her case, explained that witnessing the previous night's events had motivated her to find a way to prevent similar occurrences and save the city. Despite her sincerity, the group fell into a contemplative silence, waiting for Jay's decision.

Abruptly, Antonia warned them to leave immediately as the police were closing in. Their conversation was cut short when the police arrived on the scene, responding to the reported explosion. The officers immediately focused on Mark Kenny, accusing him of using illegal explosives. Antonia, too, drew their attention, and they urged her to join them for safety. In a daring move, Antonia made a proposition: if she helped them, would they finally disclose the truth? Jay, with hesitation, agreed, and Antonia swiftly incapacitated the police officers. Sayuri, displaying her immense strength, swiftly dealt with the golem-like officers.

Realization dawned upon the group: the police officers were not human but golems, crafted from hard rocks. Jay, along with Chitose, Sayuri, and Carl, recognized the gravity of the situation. In a hurried decision, they fled the scene, with Carl and Mark seizing the officers' guns, surprising Jay with Carl's unexpected proficiency in handling firearms.

Their attempt to escape was short-lived, with two police cars hot on their tail, but they managed to bring the pursuers to a halt. Jay instructed Mark to use a grenade at the upcoming blockade. The explosion successfully cleared their path, allowing them access to the route leading to EverWood Forest. During their drive, Jay briefed Mark and Antonia on the unfolding events and their current objectives. Although incredulous, Mark and Antonia chose to trust Jay's words.

Still plagued by suspicion, Jay decided to use his Unseen Sense ability on Antonia to uncover the truth. He halted the car, activating his power. Mysterious yellow lights encircled Antonia, resembling the markings of a Rock Golem. The group exited the vehicle, wariness etched on their faces. Chitose examined Antonia, finding no reason to doubt her humanity; her touch felt undeniably human.

As they neared EverWood Forest, two police cars swiftly caught up to them. A police vehicle pulled alongside them, and to Jay's astonishment, he saw Bruce Glover. Jay, trying to maintain a facade, claimed they were being pursued illegally. Bruce demanded an explanation, questioning Jay about the alleged illegal chase. Bruce, incredulous and angered, pressed Jay further, mentioning the destruction left behind in the city. Jay nodded, confirming their actions were in service of the city. In a bold move, Bruce executed a U-turn, colliding with the second police car, a maneuver that surprised Jay and led him to believe that Bruce might have met his end.

Arriving in front of the foreboding EverWood Manor, Jay's group prepared to rush inside. However, their path was obstructed by three assassin golems that seemed to materialize out of nowhere. Despite their formidable adversaries, the group managed to overcome the golems, but their victory came at a steep price – Jay's car lay in ruins.

Without dwelling on their losses, they hastened into the manor, heading directly for the concealed cave located beneath the ancient building. Carl took the lead, assessing the rails affixed to the cavern ceiling and revealing the upcoming changes scheduled to occur after the 12 am phenomenon. The next target, he informed them, was the WarChange Store. Carl believed that the university would be the subsequent casualty, emphasizing the urgency of destroying the railings at this very moment.

Jay assigned Mark the task of destroying the railings. However, just as Mark was about to initiate the mission, they were ambushed by a Battle Golem. This adversary proved to be significantly more formidable and faster than the Rock Golem they had previously confronted. Only through a series of coordinated attacks were they able to subdue the Battle Golem.

Upon vanquishing the formidable foe, two mysterious figures, cloaked in hoods, sarcastically praised them for their victory. Antonia recognized a robe that one of the figures wore, linking it to Alicia Hess, whom she'd met at her home previously. Jay and Carl recollected that these were the same hooded figures they'd encountered at the time of Shane's death. The figures unveiled their identities as Alicia Hess and Emmanuel Lamb, leading to a fierce battle between the two groups.

In the midst of their skirmish, a sudden attack targeted Jay's group. Everyone managed to evade the assault except for Carl, who suffered a grievous injury from a lethal cut across his back. A new hooded figure, distinguished by a red-eyed gas mask, appeared near Alicia and Lamb, exuding a palpable aura of fear and pressure that unnerved both groups. The hooded figure, after ordering Alicia and Lamb to finish the job, vanished into obscurity.

The confrontations raged on, with Alicia and Lamb eventually succumbing to Jay's group. Chitose took charge of healing any wounded comrades, and Jay instructed Mark to continue the task of destroying the rails on the ceiling. After successfully completing this mission, their efforts were met with mocking applause.

The hooded figure finally unveiled his identity as Strait Hardin. Antonia questioned what he was, to which Strait replied by mocking her, highlighting the more pertinent question: what she was. He disclosed that Antonia was merely a flesh golem he had created with the guidance of his master. His experiment sought to imbue a flesh golem with a fabricated will to understand what it felt like to have a daughter. Jay's group recoiled in shock and anger at the cruelty of Strait's actions.

As they confronted Strait, Jay boldly declared their intent to stop him by any means necessary. Strait, rather than cowering, laughed at their determination. He revealed that they wouldn't be fighting him directly but rather someone they knew. With a snap of his fingers, Antonia's eyes began to glow eerily, and she stepped forward to confront her friends.

Despite their best efforts to reason with her, Antonia remained unresponsive, a mere puppet under Strait's control. Desperate to save her, they attempted to incapacitate her, but her newfound strength made her a formidable adversary. Despite their combined efforts, they couldn't find a way to break Strait's control. The intense battle raged on, but there seemed to be no end in sight.

Growing bored of the prolonged struggle, Strait decided to order Antonia to end her own life by strangling herself. Jay's group frantically attempted to stop her, imploring her to return to her senses. Tragically, their efforts were in vain, and Antonia perished. Her lifeless body turned to ashes, vanishing before their eyes. Strait callously mocked their sorrow, suggesting they might want to consider a career in comedy.

Strait then presented them with a proposition. He spoke of his master's ability to grant any wish in exchange for loyalty and their souls. He tantalizingly added that Antonia could be brought back and turned human once more if they desired. Initially skeptical, Jay and the group's doubts were shattered when Antonia suddenly materialized before them. Bewildered, she inquired about the situation, her memory fading after she had asked Strait who he was. Jay found it hard to believe it was the genuine Antonia, but Chitose confirmed her authenticity through her abilities. With that, they all accepted her as genuine. Sayuri and Chitose, grappling with their emotions, felt that making the wish could save Antonia. Carl agreed, but Mark cautioned against it, reminding them that they'd be selling their souls to the very person responsible for Antonia's condition.

An argument broke out within the group, and Antonia, confused by their heated exchange, implored them not to heed Strait's wishes. He then dangled the temptation of resurrecting erased individuals' existence before them. Jay, however, embarked on a soul-searching journey, flashing back to all that had unfolded. He remembered the significant figures in his life and those who had perished along the way. Jay implored his companions to cease the bickering, sharing his feelings and convictions. He concluded by emphasizing the burden they bore, entrusted to them by those who had passed away. He contended that taking the easy way out would be a disservice to the memories and legacies of their loved ones. Defiantly, Jay refused Strait's offer, looking into Antonia's eyes, and she sensed the determination in his gaze. Antonia acknowledged that her journey had reached its end, and in a poignant farewell, she hugged her friends, expressing gratitude for their trust and camaraderie.

Emotions welled up as Sayuri and Chitose embraced Antonia tightly, extolling her as a wonderful friend who would forever hold a place in their hearts. Mark and Carl quietly wept, deeply moved by the farewell. Antonia thanked them for treating her as a true friend, a wish she had harbored for so long, and their unwavering support had fulfilled. As she slowly turned to ashes, her gaze locked onto Jay, and she beseeched him to fulfill his promise to save the city, the place where she had created cherished memories. With determination, Jay accepted her plea. Antonia's final words expressed her regret that she hadn't been able to create a YouTube video with Jay and implored him to honor his promise. She vanished with a bittersweet smile.

Strait sighed, resigned to the group's rejection of his proposition. He inquired why they were so intent on opposing him and his master, The God Machine. Strait issued a challenge, demanding to see the strength of their resolve. Snap! With a snap of his fingers, Jay's group found themselves in the midst of the city, enveloped in a dense, suffocating fog. The buildings surrounding them started shifting, forming a colossal square-shaped arena. Three buildings merged and transformed into a formidable, golden machine. Additional structures sprouted golden pipes. Staring in disbelief, Jay and the group tried to comprehend what had transpired. With wings unfurling, a halo appearing, and two khukris in hand, Strait assumed an imposing form. He was prepared for the final confrontation, while Jay's group readied themselves for the ultimate showdown. Strait questioned their audacity, calling them mere mortals who dared to challenge his master, The God Machine. With that, they clashed in an epic battle.

The intense battle raged on, and Jay's group faced an uphill struggle. Strait's speed surpassed human capabilities, slowly eroding their strength. Jay was running out of energy to use his Mystical Eye abilities, but Chitose offered her endowment, the Purifying Bracelet, to boost Jay's energy reserves. Realizing he could keep up with Strait using his Time Reduction ability, Jay asked his friends to contribute their endowments. Activating all of these endowments granted him immense power. Chitose, with her remaining energy, healed Jay, offering him encouragement and support before passing out. Sayuri warned Jay that if he couldn't finish this fight, she would. Mark handed Jay the satchel and told him to make the most of it, and Carl bid Jay good luck.

With his Time Reduction activated, Jay faced off one-on-one with Strait, their battle drawn out over a long, grueling struggle. Blow after blow was exchanged, and it seemed the fight had reached another stalemate. However, Jay noticed that Strait was beginning to falter, and he seized the opportunity to land a decisive blow.

Strait plummeted to the ground, and Jay approached him. With a sense of triumph, he challenged Strait, asking if this had answered the question of his resolve. Strait chuckled before pointing downward. Jay observed a colossal building about to crash onto his friends. Desperately, he attempted to block it, knowing he wouldn't survive the impact. In a dramatic moment, a glowing yellow female figure intervened, preventing the building from crushing them. As Jay marveled at this savior, Strait admitted he had forgotten about "that thing" and then disintegrated.

As the Time Reduction ability naturally turned off, a powerful shockwave ensued. Jay's friends realized he had been right next to them all along and, with jubilation, asked if he had succeeded. Jay, exhausted and on the brink of collapse, was supported by Mark, who insisted that Jay should be the one to finish it. They led Jay to the God Machine. Upon arriving, a powerful force enveloped them. Jay's friends fell unconscious, while Jay remained awake. The God Machine communicated with Jay, inquiring if he genuinely wished to oppose it. Jay resolutely confirmed his intent, and the God Machine declared that the price would be paid, affirming that it had upheld its end of the bargain. The God Machine then fell silent.

Jay hurled the satchel at the God Machine, destroying it. The entire area started to revert to its original state. Suddenly, a voice called out to Jay. He recognized the voice and knew who it was—his mother, Sylvia. Sylvia appeared before him, and they shared an emotional embrace. Tears streamed down Jay's face as Sylvia told him how happy she was to see him again. Before continuing, she posed a choice to Jay. Sylvia presented the option to either forget everything and return to his ordinary life or to persist on the journey he had undertaken. Jay chose to press on, and Sylvia expressed her pride in the man he had become.

Sylvia then made a final request to the Mystical Eye. Time came to a halt, allowing them to talk at length. She disclosed that she had made a deal with the God Machine: after passing away, she would protect Jay from life-threatening situations once, serving as a vassal of the God Machine, at the cost of losing her memories and personality. Sylvia reassured Jay that it was a worthy sacrifice if it meant protecting him as he continued his journey. Sylvia inquired about Jay's future goals, and he replied that he would figure them out along the way. As they continued to converse happily, Jay's friends suddenly awoke. Sylvia revealed that she had allowed them to move freely during the Time Reduction ability, as she wanted to see Jay's friends.

Sayuri, Chitose, Mark, and Carl recognized Sylvia and approached her. They asked her if she is the Phantom Traveler then Sylvia transformed into her Phantom Traveler form, and they conversed further. Sayuri and Chitose finally had the opportunity to thank their savior. Carl shared the goal he had discovered, Mark received the assurance that Isaac indeed existed, and they all listened to Sylvia's heartfelt parting words. Sylvia divulged that she had done something in the past that led to her being hunted, and she now had a bounty on her. She cautioned Jay to be cautious while using the Mystical Eye since the Monarchs recognized its supernatural signature.

Sylvia hugged Jay one last time and expressed her love for him. As she began to fade, she encouraged all five of them to take care of each other and to stay safe. Sylvia disappeared, and time returned to its normal flow. The surroundings reverted to their original state, and they found themselves back in the middle of the city. It was 11 pm, and they decided to head to the observatory to see if the midnight phenomenon had ceased. They reached the observatory at 11:30 pm and engaged in conversations while waiting for midnight.

As the clock struck midnight, they looked around and realized that nothing out of the ordinary was happening. It slowly dawned on them that they had indeed saved the city. Their joy overflowed, and they began jumping with happiness, embracing one another, exchanging high-fives, and shouting into the night, invoking the names of those who had fallen, affirming that they had achieved their goal. Jay and Carl especially paid tribute to Shane, recognizing his invaluable contribution to their success.

After the exuberant celebration, Chitose presented a suggestion to Jay, Mark, and Carl. She proposed that they consider joining Null Mysteriis, the same hunter group to which Sayuri and Chitose belonged. Chitose elaborated on her idea, explaining that it would provide them with a headquarters and a reliable source of information regarding the supernatural world. She added that it would also offer them a sanctuary from potential supernatural threats. Jay, Mark, and Carl found her proposal reasonable and agreed to it. Chitose made plans to prepare for their move, anticipating her master's arrival.

With their decision made, Carl suggested that they return to the dorms for the night to rest and recover from their intense ordeal. Together, they left their current location and headed back to the dorms, seeking a well-deserved night's rest.

At 10 a.m., Carl roused Jay from his sleep, reminding him that it was time to pack up. They needed to prepare for Chitose and Sayuri's master, whose arrival was imminent. Once their belongings were ready, they made their way to the dormitory's lobby. There, they encountered Mr. Sekano, who couldn't help but notice their substantial luggage. However, he didn't pry further. Mr. Sekano simply offered his well wishes, expressing his uncertainty about their plans but ultimately encouraging them to take care. Grateful for his kind words, Jay acknowledged Mr. Sekano as a good person before they departed.

Outside the dorms, they arrived early and began to wait for the rest of their group. As they stood there, Jay's phone rang, displaying Edward's name. Edward inquired about Jay's whereabouts and informed him of another party at Better Bar. Jay explained that a lot had occurred, and he had different plans. When Edward asked for specifics, Jay, smiling at Carl, simply stated, "I am dropping out," before ending the call. Carl mirrored his smile, extending a fist bump, which Jay gladly accepted.

However, their attention was suddenly drawn to an object falling behind them. As they turned, they saw a long rope extending upward, originating from one of the dorm rooms. To their surprise, someone descended via the rope, and as the individual reached the ground, they identified him as Mark. Perplexed by Mark's unconventional exit, Jay and Carl questioned his decision. Mark dismissed their concerns with a nonchalant smile, assuring them not to worry and retracting the rope into his bag.

Shortly thereafter, Sayuri and Chitose joined them, confirming that everyone was present. Chitose specified that their meeting place was Better Bar, and they needed to make their way there. Jay lamented not having his car, as it would have spared them a lengthy walk. Mark interjected, explaining that it was a necessary collateral loss. Despite their concerns, Jay and Carl inquired if Mark was comfortable accompanying them, considering his affiliation with a military research facility. Mark responded by producing a switch and, with a smirk, triggering an explosion back in the dorms. He informed them that only his room had been affected, leading the group to the conclusion that it was a typical Mark Kenny move. As they continued walking, Jay received a call from his Aunt May, who asked about his well-being and expressed her support. She conveyed her belief that Jay was on the brink of a significant decision and wanted him to know that she would stand by him and offer assistance when needed. Jay expressed his gratitude and their call ended.

Their journey on foot was momentarily halted when a police car pulled up alongside them. To their astonishment, it was Bruce Glover behind the wheel, the same Bruce they had presumed dead. He greeted them with a smirk and offered a ride, knowing they were en route to Better Bar. They accepted his offer and climbed into the car. As they rode, Bruce questioned Jay directly, inquiring whether they had been responsible for recent events. He acknowledged that all the police officers had disappeared the previous day, leaving him as the sole survivor. He further explained his unease with the increasingly robotic atmosphere within the police department. Bruce's instincts had always guided him to hidden crimes, and he had a gut feeling that whatever Jay and his friends had done was responsible for dispelling that eerie atmosphere. As they reached Better Bar, he thanked them on behalf of the city's residents, recognizing that their actions had put an end to the city's haunting troubles.

They alighted from the car, and Bruce, with a final smile, called Jay aside for a proper introduction. He asked for Jay's real name, to which Jay readily complied. Bruce bid them farewell, acknowledging their impact on the city, and with that, he drove away.

The group patiently waited, their anticipation building as they watched the horizon. Eventually, Josef Kelley arrived in a van, and as he stepped out, Sayuri couldn't resist a playful kick, chastising him for being late. Josef, however, appealed to her not to kick her mentor, reminding her that such wasn't how one should treat their guide. Chitose took the opportunity to introduce Jay, Mark, and Carl to Josef, emphasizing their suitability for the hunter group and their vital role in saving the city, with a special nod to their leader, Jaylen Griffith.

A content smile crossed Josef's face as he looked at Sayuri and Chitose, recognizing their increased strength and growth since their last encounter. He acknowledged the enormous obstacle they had overcome and turned his attention to the three newcomers. Josef inquired if they were unequivocally certain about their decision, to which all three confidently nodded. In response, Josef instructed everyone to board the van, promising they could converse as they traveled.

With everyone inside, Sayuri couldn't resist querying Josef about his tardiness. Josef explained that he had been occupied with an investigation at 300 Block and reported unusual incidents in Wellington. He mentioned disturbing reports of a deadly labyrinth, a mysterious and life-threatening enigma that demanded their attention. Before concluding his account, Josef acknowledged the extensive workload that had kept him occupied until then and joked, "Well, enough about me. Jaylen, the leader who led the group to save the city. Why don't you tell me about your journey?"

Jay took a deep breath, prepared to recount the tale of their challenging adventure. He began, "Well, it all started a few days ago when I woke up and got a phone call from a friend..."

As the sun ascended into the sky, it marked the beginning of a new chapter in the journey of Jay, Chitose, Carl, Sayuri, and Mark. Their path was far from over, and the adventures and challenges that awaited them would undoubtedly test their mettle. With this, the story of "Squares of the City" reached its conclusion.