She has potential: Sunset’s story

## Summary

The Story of how Sunset became the hero she is

## **Sunset’s POV**

There are good people, bad people, and anyone in between.

But the truth is….you may think I had it easy, but that isn’t always the case.

My family and I lived happily, until I had to grapple with losing my dad to the worst tragedy I could imagine.

He was **MURDERED.** Right in front of me. In front of everyone. By the realm’s worst criminal Byron the fake realm guy.

I had my mother, brother and my sisters, but I felt *alone.*

Shortly after, our home was ravaged, destroyed. In pieces. My family had to move into one of the homes located next to Jewel labs, which I thought was Vex labs in disguise.

It wasn’t always the best, but we were treated well.

People cared about us. I still made a few friends, and my older brother Cyrus was always there for me.

## **Cyrus’ POV**

Poor Sunset.

Dad’s death hit her hard. Things weren’t always easy for her, but I feel like this isn’t going to be easy for me either.

“Cyrus?” I hear a distant voice, which turns out to be Glee, one of Jewel labs’ many children. “You’re crying?”

“What, no—-actually….*yes.”* I mumble. This is awkward.

She hugs me. “You’re not alone. Never were, never will be.”

“Oh Glee.” I whisper. “Thank you.”

I hear thumping, then I see blood splatter on cobblestones.

“Shit.” I growl. “Anubis came.” *Oh Sunset, don’t die, please don’t die.*

“CYYYYYYRUS!” I hear Sunset scream. “Someone *came!* Take cover NOW!!”

I spot Anubis. He attempts to shoot me, but I shield block it.

“Hey stupid head. Do you *really* think you could kill me that easy?? Now listen, bird brain. I’m not letting you kill me or my sister.”

”Whatever…” Anubis drawls. “I could in your dreams, when you’re weak and coma—“ He’s cut off when I land my foot to his solar plexus, rendering him unconscious.

”Sunset!” I holler. “Call the caretakers! Alex, even!”

”Will do!” She hollers back. My gem glows. The world dissolves around me as I teleport back to our apartment near the lab.

A torrent of emotions rips through me.

*What if everybody else is in danger?*

*What if Sunset is blood and bones by now? What if Anubis evaded us before we could get to him?*

Oh god Oh *God*

Where are they? Where is Solaris? What if mother also perished?

“MOTHER!!” I scream. “MOTHER! ARE YOU THERE?”

“C-*Cyrus…”* I hear her voice faintly call out. “My…*child.”*

*“*I’ll save you, mother!” I holler. “I just need to find you!”

This whole building is a mess. It’s been ransacked. I dig through bloodstained blankets and unconscious bodies. I press my finger onto the wrist of one of the children. A little Wolfren girl. Her pulse is weak, but it’s there.

She coughs harshly. She blinks and looks up at me.

“Who are you?” She whispers.

“My name is Cyrus.” I reply. “I can help you. I just need to get you to the healers.”

The girl shudders. “H-*Healers?* The big guys with the white coats? The last time I went to a doctor, they nearly killed me with an injection.”

“That was…*Vex labs.”* I say. “I’m so sorry, little one…Do you want me to come with you?…If that helps.”

“Yes, oh yes.” She nods. “Thank you Cyrus…You’re the nicest I’ve met since months ago.”

*Poor child.* Lab life has really wrecked her. My throat grows heavy, my face warms as a torrent of tears build up with the promise of a flood of sorrow. I *need* to help her. I desperately *want to.*

*“*Don’t worry.” I whisper. “I’ll try my hardest to keep you safe in any way I can.” I scoop her up in both arms, and her body is unnaturally light. *It’s like no one’s given her anything* to eat.

“How long have you been passed out?” I ask.

“A week.” She replies. “I fell unconscious after some guy hit me in the head. I was denied food by Vex labs, and they would only give me some if I’d let them *torture me.*”

Her head droops, and pearls of tears roll down her cheek.

“So I told them I’d rather starve than have the pulp beaten out of me by those shitheads. Then they threw me into this cell which is now destroyed and I have a killer headache.”

“Unconscious…bad headache…” I say slowly. “You…you have a concussion. Don’t worry, jewel labs can help you. They’re the complete opposite of Vex labs, and they’re responsible for saving lives, and bring new ones into the world.”

“You really think they will help me?” She asks

“Yes.” I nod. “Also I didn’t catch your name.”

“My name is Rose.” She replies.

“And where are your parents?”

“They died during a failed lab experiment.” Her voice cracks. “I couldn’t save them. When I tried to get close to them, I got hit on the head by a PVC pipe and here we are now.”

“This is terrible.” I say. “I’ll take you to the healers…and I won’t leave you the whole time. I’m trying my best to help you. I promise I won’t let you get hurt.”

She nods.

Some time later, we reach a healers’ quarters.

“Who hit you with a PVC pipe?” I ask.

“It was this guy who looked like he was from the realm, but he had no gem.” Rose replies, sitting on the bench in the building’s waiting room.

“That’s Anubis.” I reply. “The Illogical realm’s second most dangerous criminal after Byron the fake Realm guy.”

Suddenly, a voice in my head surprises me.

*Where did you go?* It asks

“Did…someone talk to you?” Rose says, snapping me out of the temporary shock.

“Yes…it was my mother.”

“Got her.” Sunset materializes in front of me with my mother holding onto her shoulder. “Now we just need to see if someone will help all four of us.”

”Hello?” I hear voices, and two healers approach us. “Are you guys the ones who brought in those two patients from the raid?”

”Yes.” I reply. “My mother got injured, and my friend Rose is malnourished and has a concussion.”

”We’ll take care of both of them right away.” The healer says. I lead them, mom, and Rose into an exam room. Some time later, the results are in.

”You were correct.” The healer says. “You look like you know a thing or two about healing. Your friend looks like Vex labs almost killed her.”

I nod.

”She will need to stay under observation for a week.”

”Is it okay if I stay with her?…She doesn’t like being left alone.”

Both Rose and the healer nod.

I spot someone lunge at me, and I feel my body plunge into the ground.

I crane my neck, and the person who attacked me appears to be a Rottweiler with half her face covered. She glances at me for half a second, and attempts to run off, but I jump onto my feet and grab her.

“WHAT are you doing??” She screeches. Her eyes widen, then her whole body glows. I open my mouth wide, and a glowing orb floats up from her chest, and I spot her gem disintegrate into pieces.

“NO!” She screams. “Why did you *do that?!”*

“I **had** to.” I say. “You’ve been causing *way* too much damage.”

“RRRRGHYou *ate* my magic!” she growls.

“I could have some fun taunting you, but I need to help Rose.” I say calmly.

“Who in the living *hell* is Rose?!”

“A friend. Also I didn’t eat your magic. I *drained* it. It’s what I have the ability to do. I’m half Basilisk, remember?” I say.

“I’ll kill you when I get the chance.” She struggles to get up, but I force her down and press a finger to her lips. “*Shhh.* Save the delusions for later, you snot face.” I say, my voice dangerously calm, yet snarky at the same time.

“Yeah, well *fuck* you! I don’t need magic!”

“That doesn’t mean your problems are over. You’re a criminal for life, so *fuck* you too. I’m leaving.” I snarl, bearing my teeth at her. She lunges at me, but I flick my wrist, and her eyes glow, then close, and she collapses. A successful sleeping spell.

I make my way back to the medical facility where a healer leads me to a room where Rose is situated in. She sits up in bed slowly eating a small bowl of soup.

“What happened out there?” She asks.

“Darcy attacked me.” I say. “Almost fucking killed me.” But thank god I made it out alive. If I hadn’t reacted fast enough, my ass would’ve been pulverized in no time flat.

I breathe a sigh of relief. “But I managed to subdue her with a verbal bludgeoning and a sleeping spell. I’m going to be okay. So are you.”

## **Sunset’s POV**

“Can I stay with Rose?” I ask. Cyrus turns towards me, a slightly sad look on their face. “I’m sorry Sunset.” they say. “I don’t think you should stay. There aren’t enough people here to keep an eye out for you in case something happens. Once Rose is stable enough to come home, a caretaker can look after her.”

I hug them. “I…don’t want you to go.” I say, my voice cracking. “You mean everything to me. You helped me after dad died.”

“I understand.” they reply. “But right now I need to be with Rose. I’ll see you tomorrow after school. I *promise.”* they lean down and plant a kiss on my forehead.

I walk out, but deep down I worry something might happen.

The next day, I walk through the halls of the academy, worry burning in the pit of my stomach.

My school life is hardly good, because I know every day that I have to face Virginia, my adoptive cousin, an Otter/basilisk/cyberen hybrid. The person she hates the most, aside from people around her, is *herself.* She deals with bad mental bullshit, but has a bad habit of taking it out on other people, often in the form of verbal or psychological manipulation, but if she gets pissed off enough, the unlucky will get the pulp beaten out of them.

Every time I see her after school, she is a mess, a puddle of tears, sorrow, anger, self hatred.

But I know what caused it. Out of the corner of my eye, I spot Virginia with a crowd of other girls who are threatening another student. Virginia is doing it along with them, but I can see the pain in her eyes as she plays along with the lead bully, Georgia. Virginia doesn’t *want to* do it, but I know that her mind is focused on one thing; trying to appear strong when on you have on the inside is a burning pitiful of pain and hatred for your identity. I can’t blame her. Losing her parents scarred her. Caused her to tell lies. The pain and negative energy emanating from her is so strong, it almost hurts knowing I can read it.

I walk into a classroom and I hear the taunting jeers of Georgia and her crew.

They’re probably picking on another student. I turn around and spot the five girls. All of them radiating prejudice and hatred.

**Georgia:** The lead bully. She is 5 foot 4, a 17 year old Cat who comes from an extremely influential family, pompous and stuck up, she isn’t afraid to give them a piece of her mind, and leave them in a crying mess. She is most often seen wearing a denim jacket and leggings. Often ruthless.

**Mariah:** A 13 year old Basilisk, usually just blindly follows along with what Georgia does, but is actually pretty nice. Sometimes we hang out, but she is usually forced back into the group by Georgia. She is 4’11, a bit of a skeptic, and seen wearing a hoodie and faux leather sandals.

**Sora:** A golden retriever, and a bit of an airhead. Every time Georgia makes her do weird things, she will always try to object to some of Georgia’s ridiculous requests, but is always shut up by Georgia with the threat of being forced to wear unicorn onesies, which Sora *hates,* but I unfortunately love. If she was my friend though, she doesn’t have to wear them if she doesn’t want to.

**Sasha:** Sara’s fraternal twin sister, a compulsive liar, has a bad habit of pointing out peoples’ physical features that she doesn’t like. Complains a lot, and wanders off. Curses like a sailor.

**Pine:** A Siberian husky who secretly doesn’t seem to like Georgia that much, and whenever I see her, she seems to always be trying to prank her in some way. Most often seen wearing spikes, a crop top, hi-tops, a faux leather jacket, and aviator sunglasses. One hell of a singer but every time she does it, Georgia tells her to shut up and accept the fact she won’t get even 5 views on Youtube.

“Hey loser.” Georgia growls. “What happened yesterday? Thought you were gonna participate…in my challenge.”

“What is this challenge?” I ask. I have to keep my guard up, or I’m toast, and the whole class will laugh at me. I try to walk away, but she yanks me by my shoulder and pulls me dangerously close to her face.

“You *forgot?”* Georgia says snidely. “Oh, I guess I’ll explain it to you *again.* If you steal this antique vase from my neighbor’s basement, I’ll give you $10. If you don’t succeed, you’ll have to sing the theme song from an old kid’s TV show in front of my two baby sisters!”

My face warms with anger. “*Hell* no! I’m not going to let myself get humiliated! Jeezus christ, you’re crazy!”

“Very well.” Georgia says menacingly. “Then I’m going to batter Virginia so hard, she’ll be begging for mercy!”

“NO!” Virginia screams. “Get away from her! You can’t hurt Sunset!”

“I can.” Georgia says, approaching me. “And I will.”

Everything is a blur, I spot Virginia shove Georgia away, feel myself grabbed by the shoulder, shoved into a closet, and plopped on the ground. Virginia slams the door behind her and flicks off the lights, and for a second I see only her dim outline. It changes shape, and the darkness is replaced by the glow from her face screen, a sign that Virginia shapeshifted into the protogen side of herself. Her face turns red as she is about to explode into one of her rages.

“What the *fuck* were you **THINKING?!**” she yells. “You could’ve gotten *injured* by those five! Sunset, why be an *idiot* when you could’ve walked out on them! You snot brain! WHY?! WHY did you have the damn *audacity* to butt your head into those girls’ *bullshit?!”*

“I-I’m *sorry.”* I say. “She talked to me first.”

“You should’ve ignored her.” she says, her voice quieting, but still angry.

“I tried, but I couldn’t get away. She grabbed me, and I couldn’t get out of her King Kong level grip.”

“Next time, talk your way out of it.” Virginia says, calmer this time. “Ohhh. I have a damn headache.” She drinks an elixir. “Let’s just forget about this and get to class. I’m tired.”

I nod, but I feel sorrow tug at my insides. I feel way worse for Virginia than I ever did.

“Virginia?” I ask.

She turns towards me. “Yes?”

“I’m sorry. Really.” I say, my head dropping slightly.

“No.” She says. “*I’m* sorry. *I shouldn’t* have blown up at you. I need help, dude.”

I nod. “Everyone does.”

She transforms back into an otter, and walks away. “We only have one period left.”

Some time later, we walk back to our apartment, and Cyrus is waiting.

## **Cyrus’ POV**

“Welcome home.” I say. “How did everything go?”

My anger at Georgia for blackmailing me, at Virginia for not helping me, and at myself for not standing up to Georgia bubbles to the surface, causing me to word vomit.

“Georgia bullied us again, and nearly almost tried to humiliate Virginia by daring me to sneak into the neighbor’s house and steal an antique vase. She’s crazy, and I didn’t listen to her. Then she tried to grab me, then Virginia grabbed me, threw me into a custodian’s closet, and locked both of us inside. She got mad at me and proceeded to scream at me for getting roped into Georgia’s drama, and that I was an ‘idiot’ for ‘butting my head into their bullshit.’ Afterwards, She led me out and told me that if I got caught by those girls again, I should weasel my way out of it.”

“Let’s just say that today’s been very exhausting.” Virginia says quietly. “I’m going to go sleep now.”

“Virginia, wait.” I say. “I want to talk to you.”

“‘Bout what?” She mutters, her voice raspy.

“About what happened today with Georgia.”

“What’s *your* problem with her?! You’re not the one she targets!” She shoots back.

I breathe deeply, trying to maintain composure. “What I’m saying is, that I don’t think you have courage to stand up to Virginia alone. You don’t know who’s trustworthy, so as a result, you blamed the wrong person.” my voice grows firm. “You blamed Sunset. You blamed your own cousin when Georgia…and yourself are the real reason stuff like this happens. You need to learn to stand up for what you believe in, and yourself.”

Virginia laughs dryly, then it dissolves into a half sob. “Jesus Christ. You’re quite *sure* that’s gonna help me? Now I just feel even *more* like a trash brain than I *ever have.”* Her voice cracks.

My voice goes firm. “Virginia…you need to stop *telling* yourself that story. It saddens me on how harshly you treat yourself, and I really wish I could help you sweetheart, but first you need to *stop pushing people away.* The more you do, the less people will want to help you. Please. Stop being so mean to yourself. I love you dearly, but you need to learn that there is always a way to find hope.”

Virginia sobs, then buries her face into my shoulder. “What if I’m not good enough? What if I was never good enough??”

”You’ll learn someday.” I say. “For now this is just the first step to healing your wounds.”

They lean in close to her. “Virginia, I need you and Sunset to do a task tomorrow when you go to school.”

”What *do* you want us to do?” she asks.

”I need you to confront Georgia and her crew, but if she escalates things further, I’m going to have to intervene, along with her parents.” I say.

”O-Okay…” She says nervously. “I’ll try.”

I nod, patting her on the shoulder. “That’s my girl.”

That night, with the sun setting low, I hear faint sobbing, and spot someone lying in the grass. They appear to be wounded.

*I have to help them*

## Eclipse’ POV

Today did not go over well.

I decided to take a walk in the forbidden woods, which is the home of my friend Calisto, alpha of the Red Wolves. Leaves crunching under my feet. Then I got trailed by Anubis and his lackeys. A bunch of Grade A meatheads. This is the fourth time it’s happened this month, and honestly, it’s getting quite annoying.

”You *stupid* **disgrace** for an experiment! You were supposed to *help us* with our plot for world domination, but instead you ditch us!” Anubis hollers.

”I ain’t coming back to a place that was *never home!!”* I yell back. “So you can just haul your sorry butts back to that beaten down shack of yours!”

I hear gunshots, but I easily deflect them and use my terrakinesis to build a rock blockade. It successfully blocks Anubis. I hear banging, and anxiety shoots through my mind.

*Oh God. I have to run before I’m done for.*

I feel my legs involuntary lift me up, and I run, feeling the wind rush past me as my run turns to a bound, hopping over branches and roots like it’s nothing, the rabbit side of me completely in control of my thoughts.

*I’ve been threatened, and the only thing I want to do is run. There is danger **everywhere.***

I’m going so fast that I don’t notice my body fly up as I trip over a particularly thick root that I didn’t take the liberty to notice was coming.

”Ouch.” I mutter. I look down at my leg which now bores a small gash with blood trickling out of it, staining my fur a rusty purple color. The purple that comes from my mutant DNA.

Suddenly, my mind is flooded with memories. Bad ones. The one where Wildflower disemboweled our father.

The one where mother died.

The one where Stalactite risked her life *for me.*

I feel alone. I have almost *no family left.* Only my sister, just her.

I feel my face warm and my throat go heavy with the promise of tears.

But this time I can’t hold it in. It’s time to let it out.

I start to cry, long and loud, the tears streaming down my face. I can’t take it anymore. I *can’t.*

I collapse to the ground. I’m tired, mentally and physically. I’m sick of being hunted, ostracized. Everything hurts. My mind hurts. My whole body hurts.

Some time later, I open my eyes, and my vision is slightly blurred, but I catch the shape of a face, and it looks like someone is attempting to pick me up. I spot a glimpse of my leg partially bandage.

*How did someone find me?*

”Oooh my head.” I mutter. “Everything hurts *so much.”*

”Don’t move.” the voice says quietly. The person talking sounds like a guy, and their voice strangely soothes me but it doesn’t matter. I hope they don’t do anything bad after. “I need to finish bandaging your leg. You had a nasty wound there.”

”Hold on…” I say, I feel my heart pounding. “You’re not taking me to Vex, *are you?!”*

I feel them place their finger to my lips. “Shhh. It’s okay. You’re going to be fine. I need to help you.” Their voice dips to almost a whisper. Their gem glows a soft yellow illuminating their face. The figure is a wolf with a wiry but strong body shape, dark gray fur, lighter colored hair, glittering brown eyes, spots on their face that look like tiny stars, and a pair of thin bronze rimmed glasses bordering their face. For some reason I can’t believe I’m falling for a stranger who might turn on me if it was possible.

”Hi there.”

”Uh…Hi?” I say nervously. “I’m…I’m *Eclipse.”*

”My name is Cyrus.” they say. “I found you passed out in the grass and I figured I would take you back to my apartment. You clearly look like you haven’t slept well in two days.”

”Yeah.” I say. ‘I’ve been having really bad nightmares and each time I do, Anubis tries to interact me and literally impale me with a rusty knife, and each time I wake up, my whole body screams in pain. There’s no actual wounds, but it feels *so real.”*

”I’m so sorry.” Cyrus says. “If you’re experiencing something like that every night, that means Anubis somehow managed to make his way into your dreams and torment the hell out of you. But don’t worry. I can help you. Come to Jewel labs with me. You can stay with me and my family.”

”What is Jewel labs?” I ask.

”It’s the complete opposite of Vex labs.” they say. “Unlike Vex labs, who tortures dozens of lives, Vex labs is responsible for welcoming new ones, and taking care of those who either lost their families to raids, or their parents need to protect the world and can’t take their children with them for the sake of safety. The lab is also responsible for starting a school. Anyone can attend.”

”Interesting.” I say.

”Right now we need to get you home.” Cyrus says. “And a shower. You look like you need one.”

”And…” I say, pausing. “Uh…is it okay if I say this to you…?”

Cyrus nods.

”Cyrus…” I say, stumbling slightly. “You…look beautiful, like right now I can’t stop looking at you.”

Cyrus chuckles. “Heh. Thank you.” they reply. “Now let’s get you back.”

”I can walk home.” I say.

”Not with a wound like that.” They say, their voice turning slightly playful. I feel them pick me back up again. “Aaand scoop!”

”O-oh wow.” I say. *So this is what it feels like to crush on someone you’ve only known for probably only 10 minutes.*

Cyrus looks me in the eye. “Hey, I know we only just met, but for some reason, I don’t know why, but I recognize your name from somewhere.”

“So do I.” I say. “Like I kept having dreams about you when I was a kid.”

“Wait, what?!”

“Well in the dream I had, there was a kid who appeared in front of me and said ‘Hey pen pal, it’s me, Cyrus.’ Maybe that means something.”

I conjure a stone that has an iridescent sheen on its edges. “Here. This will help lift the fog from any unintentionally buried past memories.”

I hand Cyrus the stone. We join hands. Images flood both our minds.

## Cyrus’ POV

The first memory is from me. I am 10 years old, and have run from the kids making fun of me, removed my ill fitting eyeglasses, and decided to eat my lunch in the bathroom stalls. I change out my gym uniform to discover a large bloodstain on the bottom of my shorts.

Anxiety crosses my mind. I never knew the day would happen now of all times.

“Aw *nerds*.” I whisper. “Now the whole class knows I started my period.”
Out of the corner of my eye, I spot someone hand me a light colored packet.

“Take this.” the person whispers. “You sound like you need it. Take these extra clothes too. You don’t deserve that gym uniform. It’s old and stained, and I know you hate wearing it.”

“Thanks.” I reply. The kid in the stall next to me has catlike features, yellow eyes, strong wide built legs, a green hoodie, and two gold bracelets on one wrist.

“Those glasses don’t look right on you. No wonder you don’t like them.”

“Yeah.” I reply. “Maybe I should get new ones once time comes.”

“Hey idiot, get away from the half breed.” A bigger kid shouts. I feel myself shoved back into the stall by the kid who helped me.

“Oh Eclipse.” the kid mutters. “You found another inferior, didn’t you?”

I feel my face warm. “GET AWAY!” I scream. “Leave Eclipse alone!”

“Oh half breed, you’re going to fight? How cute.” the kid quips.

“SHUT UP!” I yell. I feel my hands go hot. “Or you’ll regret it! You’re the reason I’ve had to hide pieces of myself! You all turned me into a stone cold asshole!”
He lunges towards me, but I put my hands in front of my face in self defense, and I hear a scream.

“OW! OW! My hands!” the kid screams. He goes dangerously close to my face. “Girl, next time you mind your manners. You’re toast.”

That did it.

“For the last time,” I snarl. “I’m *NOT* a girl! OKAY?! Now leave me alone! Go sniveling back to your gang of narcissistic little friends!”

“OFFICE!” I hear someone yell, and moments later, Eclipse and I are standing in a cramped little room.

“I told you!” I say to the teacher. “The kid provoked me and started calling me a slur. I have to eat in the bathrooms because of this!”

“Still that’s no excuse to yell at another kid.” the teacher says. The door shuts behind me.

I scream angrily, then slam my fists against the wall. They burn and crack, and the sky outside of me turns gray with thunder and lightning.

“*ENOUGH*!” I scream, angry sobs bursting forth. I rip my glasses off my face, and stomp on them. I rattle the door, only to find that it’s locked, but with anger clouding my mind, I touch the door, which completely freezes, and I punch through it, shattering it. With a snap of my fingers, the damage is averted, though not completely.
“See ya!” Eclipse hollers. I run back home, trying desperately to avoid crying in front of anyone passing by.

The memory fades.

“Wow.” I mutter. “I…”

“You looked like you tried to fit in with a group that you knew still beat you to a pulp regardless.” Eclipse says. “Jesus
Christ, dude, they really did you bad. Also speaking of your glasses, what happened to them?”

“I-I still have them.” I say. “But I got new ones. They look good and they actually fit.”

We hear knocking, and Sunset, Virginia, my mother, and Alex enter.

“Alex decided to stop by. She also brought her sister over."

"Which one?" Eclipse asks.

I hear a voice, and a face flashes in my mind.

"Ava." I reply. "One of my friends, and best students. Hella talented. Writes with her feet."

Ava zooms past me, rolls around, and sits down with her legs crossed, gently swaying back and forth.

She jumps up and runs towards me, lanky arms flailing, enveloping me in a hug.

“Yaaaaay! I get to hang out with Cyrus!” She says excitedly.

“I’m glad you’re here, but I have one rule for anyone staying overnight.” I say. “You have to take a bath.”
Ava’s face drops. “But I don’t want to.”
“Sorry, sister, but it’s my rule.” I say. “It will be worth it. You’ll feel so much better.”

### Ava’s POV

“Aaaaaanyway, back to our show! See yaaaaa!” I quip, cartwheeling away. “Woo woo woo woo!” I cartwheel away. Out of the corner of my eye I spot messy piles of blank paper.

“Ahahah *YES*! more material for me crafts!” I say enthusiastically. “Sketchy sketchy!”

“Oh Ava,” Cyrus says from afar. “I wish I was like you. Smarter than Einstein, yet you never seem to worry about the past or future.”

“The past an’ the future ain’t important, that’s what oracles tell me.” I say. “Gotta build me miniature universe. Fun! Also it’s enchanted. If Anubis finds it, then annihilation is imminent! Burn, baddie, *burn*!”

Alex chuckles. “Thanks to Ava, I’ve gotten saved when I couldn’t save myself. Thanks to her, she knows being an oddball isn’t such a bad thing after all.”

Suddenly, I remember something Cyrus told me several minutes ago.

“Uh, Ava?” Cyrus begins.

“Oh, right.” I finish. I head into the bathroom and strip off my clothes, turning on the tub faucet in the process.

Several rubber bath figures catch my eye. I snatch one from the shelf and immediately start fiddling with it. Several minutes pass, and I hear the door open slightly, and Alex peeks in.

“Need anything?” They ask. “I see you’ve found Cyrus’ collection of neon rubber ducks.”

I hastily try to put them back, but pause.

“Cyrus says it’s okay to use them.” Alex says.

I slowly step into the bath, the warmth of the water crawling under my skin.

Looking down, I spot my legs floating under the water, and lay back, submerging my ears. I feel light and weightless

Time passes, and I hear a faraway voice call my name.

“You seem to be enjoying this.” Alex says softly. I sit up, water dripping down the tips of my hair. I run soap through it, and splash water over it, washing it off.

I step out, and wrap myself in a towel. With a snap of my fingers, I’m instantly dry.

Alex hands me a pair of undergarments, loose pajama shorts, and a white tank top, which I put on with ease.

After exiting the room, I spot Cyrus sitting on the bench in the living room window, a downtrodden look in their eyes.

“What’s wrong?” I say softly.

“I’m just…sad.” They say. “Today is the 8 year anniversary of my father’s death. He sacrificed himself to save me from the clutches of Vex Labs.”

A tear streams down their face. “I didn’t always have the best relationship with my parents but deep down I know they still love me. I may live on my own, but at least my mother is still there for me whenever she can be.”

I wrap my arms around Cyrus.

“These things happen.” I say. “Sometimes we just have to let ourselves feel everything inside of us. We shouldn’t be afraid of them.”

Cyrus looks up at me. “You’re right. I’ve spent my whole life worrying about what other people think about what I do, but only I know what goes on inside my head.

Like you said, worrying is often futile. But I do know that there is still room for hope.”

They take my hand. “Things happen. We can’t always prevent them, but we can always weather the storm. Even if the ones you love are no longer on this earth, they are still with you.
They just never left.”

Cyrus looks at me. “Sometimes my mother and I would disagree over little things. She and I weren’t always on the best terms when I was growing up, but through looking through her memories, I realized why she was like this.

She lived her life under the fake realm guy as one of his many unwilling servants. Some of his prisoners were younger than she was, and even when she got wounded and scarred by her ordeals, she tried to protect the other prisoners. After she set everyone free, she escaped, and everyone thought she had perished, but she had settled down with my father, hidden away in a forest, and had me. I didn’t realize it at the time, but she would walk to the ends up the earth to keep me and my sister safe. Even after she had seen me, her own child almost turn into an angry, empty husk of their former self when they painfully tried to fit in with kids who would cause them pain because they thought that who I was was unnatural in some way.

She cried for me.

Every time she would see me burn everything to a crisp because people refused to help me, and instead would treat me poorly because of what I did. Even when I destroyed things, and tried to push people away, she was still there for me.

Quietly rooting for me.

Letting me shed all my sorrow.

Always forgiving me.

Letting me heal.

And she is still here if I need her to be.

And If I do start a family, I will do the same.”

“Love always prevails.” I say, yawning softly

“And scoop.” Cyrus says, picking me up in both arms. “Alright, little one. Up to bed with you.”

## Sunset’s POV

I see the sun dip below the horizon, and gaze up at the stars dotting the darkening sky like a thousand glittering lights.

“It’s beautiful out there.” I say.

“I loved stargazing. It’s something mama used to do when she was young.”

“Cyrus?”

“Yes?” They reply.

“Can you play that lullaby mom wrote for you?”

They walk over to the living room wall and grab the guitar off of its wall mounted stand, and gently run their fingers over the strings, the sound resonating and floating over my mind. A feeling of tranquility washes over me.

“Thank you for being there. I hope I can make my school life better than it is right now.”

“You will. I promise, and Alex and I will be there every step of the way.” Cyrus says.

They lead me to bed, tuck me in, and as my eyes close, a heaviness washes over me.

Hours pass, and I wake up with the soft glow of the twin suns peeking through my window.

I hear Cyrus’ soft voice as they enter my room.

“Rise and shine, little sister.” they say.

Thoughts float through my head.

What will happen today?

What if Georgia hurts me like she almost hurt Virginia?

Will Georgia’s parents come for me like that time they almost forced Bill to suspend Moon?

Then I realize, Georgia’s parents are nowhere near as powerful as Alex, their family, Cyrus and Athena are. I’m only just an apprentice but I think one of the things I remember is…

*Guardians can only revoke the positions of guardians.*

Although it commonly happens because of age.

My journey won’t always be easy, but it will be worth it.

I trudge out of bed, the smell of fresh brewed tea and porridge hits my nose.

Cyrus hands me a bowl. Warm deliciousness fills my mouth.

They get close to me. “I have bad news.”

“What happened?” I whisper.

“Something happened to the school. Someone defiled the walls, and some of the students are missing.”

“Where is Virginia?” I ask.

“I don’t know, but something has happened to her.” Cyrus says softly.

“Then we need to investigate.” I say.

“We need to do something…although I don’t think you will like it.” Cyrus says.

“What is it?” I say.

“We’re going to have to ask Georgia’s parents what happened. They’re not the nicest, but we have to try.” Cyrus says. “If they speak ill of you, they get a piece of my mind. Verbally, of course.”

“Okay.” I reply. “We’ll do it.”

After I finish my breakfast, I place the bowl in the sink, go up to change my clothes, and come back downstairs. The clothes I wear are a tank top, sweatpants, and a button up shirt. Semi-formal, seeing how high Georgia’s parents’ standards are.

Cyrus takes my hand. “Now we go.”

I nod. We walk through cobblestone trails, and faraway snow capped mountains. Grass and flowers dot the scenery around us.

Cyrus’ brown eyes glow almost golden in the sun.

Eclipse materializes in front of us.

“I heard what happened.” he says. “I’m coming with you.”

Cyrus nods. “We’ll need you.”

I hear distant sounds of distress.

“I recognize those sounds.” I say. “The students.”

Then the sounds of grating cackling.

Cyrus snarls. “I knew he’d get the kids.”

I hear someone call out to me.

“Sunset!” Virginia calls out. “I’m over here!”

Virginia stumbles out of a huge, elaborate mansion.

“You look like you’ve seen things.” I whisper.

“It’s Georgia.” she sobs slightly. “She forced me in a dare, I put these poor kids in danger, I’m such an *idiot!”* she says.

“No.” Cyrus says softly. “I will help you. Grab my hand. Now please tell me what’s going on.”

“Georgia lives with her aunt.” Virginia says. “She is spoiled rotten, but her aunt keeps her in line. Despite her supposed domination over some of the students, she also seems like me…tormented by high standards. If we find her, I know I don’t like her, but she and the kids need help.”

“Okay.” I say. “Come with me.”

We sneak past the house and hide in the bushes. There, we spot several kids, bound by ropes, and Anubis stands, sneering.

“*You.”* Eclipse growls. “You *endangered* all these kids.”

“And you can’t do anything about it.” Anubis wheedles. Cyrus pounces on him, knocking him down, and slaps in in the face.

“Oh, but what you can do is *shut **up.”*** Cyrus says, their voice soft, but severe.

They snap their fingers, and plunge a small flame near Anubis, as it singes his fur.

“Okay, okay! You win!” he says, finally giving up. He runs off. I take a knife, and slice the ropes away. With a spell circle, I envelop them in a force field.

“You’ll be safe.” I say. “Right now I need to blow all of Anubis’ things up.”

I feel a hand on my shoulder, and the person behind me resembles Georgia, but older, kinder, and with different eye colors.

“Who are you?” I ask.

“Wendi.” she replies. “Georgia’s aunt. I was a guardian once, but haven’t really had a chance to do my duties. I can help you.”

“Thank you.” I say.

## Cyrus’ POV

I see Byron the fake realm guy emerge with a group of Vex lab workers, Darcy, and Queenie.

A child grabs my hand. A friend I recognize. Rose, but healthier. Stronger.

“Rose.” I say. “You came back for me.”

“I knew you needed all the people you could get.” she says playfully. Her voice softens. “You helped me. Now it’s my turn.”

I nod. “Now let’s kick some evil little butts, shall we?”

She laughs. “Yes, definitely.”

“Use blowdarts.” I say, handing Sunset a gun. “They won’t know what hit them.”

“But what about Georgia’s parents?”

“We’ll get to that after we rescue the kids.”

We run through some bushes, where we spot all the kids, but they’re tied up by vines.

“What happened?” I ask softly. “Can any of you tell me?”

“Yay it’s Cyrus!” one of the kids says excitedly, scooting over to me. I take a knife and slice all the vines away one by one.

“Some crazy guy busted into the school, hit some of us on the head and tied us up. He had a gun.” They all reply.

“Ayyy dios  mío.” I mutter. “He hates us. Remember what I taught you guys?”

“Use a bullhorn if you have one, scream as loud as you can, use your powers, or make yourself unseen.” One kid says.

“Good kids.” I say. “Now follow me.”

## Eclipse’ POV

My life has changed. Ever since I escaped from Vex labs.

Ever since I learned that there’s more to living than pain and sorrow.

I thought that being from Vex labs, and created by them made me an unfeeling monster.

But Cyrus proved me wrong.

I can love freely.

No one is perfect.

People can be who they want to.

I spot Cyrus shift into human form and flop down on the living room couch. They take thin rimmed glasses out of a small pouch and place them on their face. Their human form resembles their normal form, but with warm medium brown skin, short curly jet black hair buzzed underneath, and a small bit of facial hair lining their upper lip and chin. They wear a dark yellow shirt and black pants, and have a heating pad on their abdomen.

“Wow.” I say. “You look really really good.”

Cyrus smiles. “Thanks. I haven’t shapeshifted into this form in…quite a while.”

“Why?” I ask.

“Well remember when I got bullied as a kid? I used to use my human form to hide from the kids because none of them recognized me. Now in therapy I’m trying to not have a negative association with this form. I’m just starting to get comfortable in it now.”

“Ouch.” I say.

Cyrus nods. “Yeah.”

“One more thing.”

Cyrus yawns. “Yes?”

“How do human forms work? I’ve never really had one.”

Cyrus’ voice softens and becomes almost whispery.

“Just imagine what you would look like if you were human.”

“Okay…I’ll try.” I say. My body tingles, and I open my eyes.

“Did I do it?”

Cyrus shows me my reflection with their phone camera.

I am slightly taller, with pale brown skin, and black hair shaved at the sides. My left ear is nicked, and I still have my yellow eyes.

“Wow…” I say. “I look…cool.”

“I knew you could do it.” Cyrus says warmly.

“Can I ask you something?” I say.

“Sure. Go ahead, even though I might know what it is.” Cyrus says, taking a sip of tea.

“I wrote you something.” I say as we both shift back to our regular forms.

“What is it?” Cyrus asks.

I hand them a slip of paper.

“I grew up understanding Spanish, but due to how harsh Vex labs was, I was discouraged from speaking it. I wish I could learn it, but I’m too nervous.”

“Don’t worry.” Cyrus says calmly. “I can help you.”

“The note is for you.” I say.

Cyrus smiles. “That’s sweet of you. What do you want help with?”

“The note says…”

I read off of it. “Cyrus…’You are my beloved and I want to be with you forever.’”

“I was thinking we could start with the basics.” Cyrus says, adjusting their glasses. “But this is okay too. First do you know how to roll your Rs?”

“Barely.” I say.

“Try putting your tongue to the roof of your mouth and vibrate it against your front teeth. It may take a few tries before you get it right.”

Cyrus opens their mouth slightly. “R-R-R-R-R-R. Now you try.”

I mimic them. “It sounds really weird.”

“You’ll get the hang of it.”

Several minutes pass, and I try again.

“R-R-R-R-R-R-R-R.” I trill.

“That’s really good.” Cyrus says.

I hand them the note.

“How do you say ‘You are my beloved, and I want to be with you forever.’”

“Repeat after me.” Cyrus says. “Eres mi amado…”

“Eres mi amado…” I say slowly.

“Y quiero estar contigo…” Cyrus continues.

“Y quiero estar contigo…” I repeat.

“Por siempre.” Cyrus finishes. “Muy bien. You did good.”

They put it all together.

“Eres mi amado y quiero estar contigo por siempre.” Cyrus says.

“Wow.” I say. “Did I mention that…when you speak another language, it makes you sound even more beautiful. I love your voice.”

Cyrus laughs softly. “Really?”

They shift into human form.

“Yeah, it just…sounds very melodic in a way I can’t describe.”

I join Cyrus on the couch. “Ever since we met after all these years, my life got flipped upside down. In a good way, of course. I walk around thinking people will judge me for my upbringing and being from Vex labs, but I don’t see that ring of judgement in you. I just see…you.”

“That’s so sweet.” Cyrus says softly. Their eyelids flutter. I feel their hand caress part of my face. The warmth of their skin startles me slightly.

“We’ll always be together, right?” I ask.

“Yes.” Cyrus whispers. “Always.”

I close my eyes and feel them plant a kiss on my cheek. A rush of surprise and excitement runs a chill down my spine.