Heroes of Veridia: Evelyn's Journey

Seraphina Blake's POV

I leaned back in my chair, the sharp lines of the conference table reflecting the holographic broadcast of Victor Blackwood's live serum announcement. His face filled the room—youthful, almost disturbingly fresh-faced. As he spoke about revolutionizing the future for giftless people, I could sense the ripple effect his words would have, not only on our society but on the council's stance regarding power.

Beside me, the members of my board were quiet, some nodding in agreement, while others had a look of unease. Victor's proposal was bold, but I knew it came with consequences. The modified human program had been the only option for those who sought power but were born without gifts. His serum could change all that.

Victor smiled into the camera, feeding the public the idea that anyone could become a hero. He sold them the dream. But as someone who knew him too well, I could see the hidden ambition behind his eyes. This wasn't just about helping people—it was about control.

"Seraphina?" one of the board members, Tobias, interrupted my thoughts. He was leaning forward, his hands clasped together as if in prayer. "Do you think partnering with Blackwood is wise? His factory could be dangerous. This serum... we don't even fully understand its long-term effects."

I scanned the room. Half the board was apprehensive, the other half intrigued by the prospect of what Victor's invention could mean. I cleared my throat.

"We've been relying on the modified human transformation process for too long. It's risky, and we all know it," I said, letting my gaze meet each of theirs. "Every day, we hear stories of people losing their emotions, becoming hollow shells after being modified. Yes, some keep their humanity, but most do not. It's a gamble. Victor's serum, if it works the way he claims, offers a safer alternative. One where people retain their humanity."

"Isn't that idealistic?" Diana, one of the more conservative members, folded her arms. "Becoming modified guarantees power. The serum... it's still experimental."

I steepled my fingers, leaning forward, letting the weight of my next words sink in. "We cannot ignore the risks of becoming modified any longer. I've seen the statistics. You've seen them too. The emotional toll, the ethical debates. How many times have we been criticized for supporting the transformation process, knowing the price people pay?"

There was silence. Everyone knew the answer, but no one wanted to say it.

"What I'm proposing," I continued, "is not an immediate leap into Victor's hands. It's a partnership. We will control how the serum is distributed. We'll give giftless people who want to become heroes an alternative to the transformation. We'll monitor the effects, and if successful, we'll slowly transition away from the modification process altogether."

I could feel the shift in the room as they processed my words. Some, like Diana, still wore uncertainty on their faces, while others, like Tobias, were starting to see the opportunity. "The serum gives people a choice. A chance to keep their humanity intact," I pressed. "If we don't act now, Victor will move forward with or without us. And then we'll have no say in how this new power is controlled."

Silence followed as they mulled over my proposition.

Finally, Tobias nodded. "You have a point. This serum could be revolutionary. But we need guarantees—safeguards. The last thing we need is to jump into this without leverage."

"Agreed," I said, nodding. "We negotiate on our terms. We ensure that the serum is safe and ethically distributed. And most importantly, we maintain control over how this power is used."

Diana sighed. "But how can we trust Victor? You know what he's like. He's not the type to share power easily."

I smiled wryly. "I've known Victor for years. I know how he operates. He's ambitious, yes, but he won't turn down a partnership if it benefits him. We'll have to be careful, but I believe we can outmaneuver him if needed."

The room fell silent again as they absorbed my words. After a long pause, Tobias spoke up.

"Then let's take the next step. Reach out to Victor's team. We'll propose the partnership but on our terms."

I nodded, satisfied with the outcome. But as the meeting wrapped up and the board members began to leave, a lingering thought gnawed at me. While this partnership could bring hope to giftless people, I couldn't shake the feeling that Victor had more in mind than just giving power to the powerless.

3rd P.O.V

Seraphina watched as the last of the board left the room.

The conference room was quiet now, but her thoughts were racing. Victor's factory, the serum—everything felt like it was shifting under her feet. But this was what Seraphina did best: she adapted, she moved ahead of the game.

Standing by the window, she looked out over the city skyline. People below had no idea what was coming, what she was about to do. If Victor succeeded, power as they knew it would be redefined. Giftless people would finally have a chance to be something more than ordinary.

But power always comes with a price.

Seraphina whispered to herself, "Victor may think he's in control, but this isn't his game alone. We'll see who holds the power once the serum hits the streets."

She would make sure of that.

Diana's POV...

As soon as I stepped out of the conference room, my heart was pounding, not from fear, but from the excitement of following Seraphina Blake's orders. Seraphina was a force—someone I had admired for years, and I knew better than to hesitate when she gave instructions. I walked briskly to my desk, the clicking of my heels echoing through the empty halls. The air in the building always had a clean, crisp scent, a mix of industrial and the faintest hint of Seraphina's signature perfume. Every inch of this place felt like it had been carefully curated, just like Seraphina herself—sharp, polished, and unyielding.

I sat down at my desk, a smooth, sleek surface with my organized files neatly stacked beside my computer. The office was spacious, filled with soft ambient lighting that gave the room an air of calm and sophistication. The window beside me revealed the sprawling city below, a constant reminder of the power and chaos that Seraphina navigated with such grace.

Without wasting time, I opened my laptop, fingers flying across the keyboard as I composed a carefully worded email to Victor's assistant. The wording had to be perfect—formal but direct. Seraphina's reputation hung on every communication, and there was no room for error.

"Dear Ms. Devereux,

I hope this message finds you well. On behalf of Ms. Seraphina Blake, I would like to schedule a meeting to discuss a potential partnership opportunity regarding Mr. Blackwood's recent announcement about his serum. We believe this collaboration could benefit both parties and contribute significantly to the advancement of our shared goals.

Please inform me of a suitable time for this discussion.

Best regards,

Diana Laurent

Assistant to Seraphina Blake"

I hit send, leaning back in my chair with a sigh. The first step was done. Now it was a waiting game.

Just as I was gathering my thoughts, I saw Tobias approaching my desk. He was always calm, and collected, but today his face held the faintest shadow of doubt. Tobias wasn't like Seraphina—he didn't relish the thrill of power plays and negotiation. He was cautious, always second-guessing the moves of those around him.

"Diana," he said quietly, sliding into the seat beside me. "How do you feel about all this? Seraphina's plan... Victor's serum?"

I gave him a small smile, trying to ease his tension. "I trust Seraphina. She's always thinking ten steps ahead. And Victor? He's unpredictable, but partnering with him could change everything for us."

Tobias frowned, his brow creased with worry. "That's what I'm afraid of. He's not exactly known for playing fair. I don't trust him, especially with that serum. What if it doesn't work? Or worse, what if it does, but not in the way we expect?"

I bit my lip, thinking carefully before responding. Tobias had a point. Victor was ambitious, perhaps too much so. But my loyalty was with Seraphina, and if she thought this partnership was worth the risk, then so did I.

"I get it, Tobias," I replied, leaning forward slightly. "But we're not going into this blindly. Seraphina knows what she's doing. She's always been careful about who she allies with, and we're going to negotiate this on our terms."

Tobias nodded, though his expression didn't lighten. "I suppose so. It's just... this whole thing with Victor's age reversal, it's unsettling. One minute, the man's hobbling around with a cane, and the next, he looks like he's shaved off twenty years. It's unnatural."

I couldn't help but let out a soft chuckle. "If that serum works, Tobias, think of what it could mean. People would pay anything to get their hands on something that could reverse aging. And not just aging—Victor's claiming it can give giftless people abilities. It's revolutionary."

Tobias gave me a sharp look. "Are you saying you'd take the serum if it came out?"

I paused, glancing out the window. The sunlight streaming through the glass made everything seem softer, and more manageable. But beneath that calm exterior, the world was ruthless. Power was everything. I turned back to Tobias.

"If it works? Yes. I wouldn't hesitate." I said it with more confidence than I felt, but in this environment, confidence was necessary. "Imagine what it could do for someone like me, someone without a gift. I wouldn't just be working behind a desk. I could be out there, making real changes."

Tobias sighed, running a hand through his hair. "I guess you're right. It's tempting, isn't it? But, Seraphina... she's got a plan, and we'll see where it takes us. Just... be careful, Diana. Victor's dangerous. He's not someone to cross lightly."

I nodded, understanding his caution. But deep down, I was already imagining what it would be like to have that kind of power. To not be invisible anymore. To stand beside Seraphina, not just as her assistant, but as her equal.

After a few moments, Tobias stood to leave. He paused for a second, glancing back at me. "Just promise me you'll think it over before jumping into anything."

"I will," I said, smiling softly. "But you know me, Tobias. I'm not going to get between any of these people. They're too dangerous, and I'm quite happy sitting right here at my desk."

He nodded, though his worry remained. As he walked away, I turned back to my computer, opening another file that needed attention. But my mind wasn't fully on the work.

Sitting behind this desk, working beside Seraphina Blake, was an honor. But now, the idea of something more lingered in the back of my mind. Victor's serum wasn't just a scientific breakthrough—it was a key. A key to power, to freedom, to something I never thought I'd have.

I glanced out the window again, watching the city below. Somewhere out there, Victor was preparing to change everything. And I would be ready, no matter what.

Vivian's P.O.V...

The sharp, grating noise echoed through the small, dreary room, jolting me awake. The unpleasant screech was coming from a hidden device embedded somewhere in the ceiling, meant to wake up stragglers who failed to rise on time. The sound stung my ears, a shrill reminder that in Phantom Edge, sleep was a luxury you couldn't indulge. I groaned, rolling over on the stiff, unyielding mattress that felt like it was made of stone. The dorm room was suffocatingly small, with barely enough space to breathe, let alone move around. A single metal bed, a narrow desk, and a mirror—nothing more.

I glanced at the digital clock on the wall. It blinked at 5:01 AM. I was late by a minute, and they never let you forget it here.

Rubbing the sleep from my eyes, I sat up and stretched, the cold air in the room making my skin prickle. The stone walls seemed to suck the warmth out of the air, leaving a chill that burrowed deep into my bones. I couldn't believe I had slept through the night in this environment. I, Vivian Blackwood, raised in luxury, was now enduring this. Yet, oddly enough, I didn't feel bitter about it.

A smile crept onto my lips as I recalled yesterday's events in Victor's office. Evelyn's new power—nature itself, alive and vivid. It was beyond impressive. I had seen many gifted people over the years, but Evelyn's transformation felt... monumental. The way her powers manifested—first with the healing, then the sudden burst of flowers that bloomed so effortlessly around her—it was like watching something divine in action.

I flopped back onto the bed, wincing slightly as I landed against its unforgiving surface. Despite my discomfort, I couldn't help but feel thrilled about what happened. There was no doubt about it now: Evelyn would be invaluable to the White Knights.

Evelyn... part of the White Knights...

I mentally made a note to speak with Logan later. He would need to start planting the idea in her mind soon. I was certain she could be persuaded. Evelyn was too practical to ignore an offer like that. After all, joining the White Knights wasn't just about survival or power—it was about being part of something greater. A force to reshape the chaos of Veridia into order.

But Evelyn's motivations were different from mine. She had her agenda—something to do with tearing down Victor's empire from within. That part made me laugh. Victor, the master manipulator, is blindsided by his daughter. It was almost poetic.

Good luck with that, sis, I thought with a smirk. Victor wasn't an easy man to outmaneuver, but I admired her determination. Still, Evelyn's raw power would be wasted on some foolish rebellion.

She needed direction. Control. Purpose.

And that's where Logan and I came in.

I threw my legs over the side of the bed and stood, stretching out the stiffness that had settled into my muscles overnight. The cold floor sent a jolt through my feet as I padded over to the mirror. My reflection stared back at me, hair a bit disheveled, but my eyes were sharp, full of determination. I glanced down at my bare arms, wondering how long it would take before I could wield Evelyn's trust like a weapon, or if she even knew she was a weapon waiting to be used.

Logan... we'll need to be careful, I reminded myself. Evelyn wasn't a fool. If we rushed her, she'd know something was up. We'd need to be subtle, planting seeds here and there until she came to the conclusion that joining us was her idea.

I headed over to the small desk in the corner, grabbing a notebook to make more detailed plans. My hand hovered over the paper, my mind racing through different scenarios. I had to approach Evelyn cautiously. She was still my sister, after all, and family ties could complicate things. But... we couldn't let that stop us from securing her talents for the greater good.

Suddenly, a low hum filled the room. The wake-up alarm finally ceased, and silence fell over the dormitory. Phantom Edge was brutal, yes, but the academy had its purpose. It weeded out the weak and turned the strong into something greater. It was just a shame that the environment was so... subpar. If Logan and I had any say, the White Knights would offer far better conditions than this.

I made another mental note—perhaps we should propose a recruitment drive here. After all, the students who survived Phantom Edge would make perfect soldiers for the White Knights. Talented, hardened, and loyal. Evelyn could be our key to recruiting from within.

Satisfied with my thoughts, I stood and slipped into my uniform. My movements were quick and practiced. Every morning here felt like preparing for battle, and in a way, it was. The academy didn't care about comfort or luxury—it cared about results.

Just as I fastened my jacket, a soft knock came at the door. I opened it to find one of the guards standing there, expression as stoic as ever.

"Morning rounds begin in five minutes, Blackwood," he said, his voice devoid of any emotion.

"Thanks," I replied, brushing past him as I stepped out into the hallway.

As I made my way through the dimly lit corridors of Phantom Edge, I couldn't help but feel an electric charge in the air. This place was stifling, but it also carried potential. Every student here had something to prove—something to gain.

And Evelyn... well, she was going to be a game-changer.

The guard led me down the narrow hall, his footsteps echoing sharply in the otherwise quiet dormitory. Phantom Edge was barely awake yet, but I could sense the weight of exhaustion hanging over the place like a thick fog. It clung to the walls, to the floors, and especially to the students who trudged behind him. As we approached what looked like the entrance to a bath, I could see them—barely awake, dragging their feet like corpses pulled from the grave.

None of them were in good shape. Their faces were pale, dark circles under their eyes. Some were visibly shaking, their bodies probably still adjusting to the brutal training schedule. I suppressed a smile. I'd been raised in an environment where weakness was never tolerated. These students were breaking under the pressure, but they would eventually adapt. They always did. Phantom Edge had a way of forcing survival instincts out of even the most fragile souls.

The guard finally stopped outside the door and turned to me, his face a mask of indifference. "This is the bathhouse. Get yourself cleaned up and ready. You'll find the uniform inside. Don't be late."

His tone wasn't threatening, but there was a coldness to it, a finality that made it clear there would be consequences for tardiness. I nodded once, dismissing him mentally. I didn't need to be told twice.

He spun on his heel, his heavy boots clomping against the hard floor as he left to deal with the others. I pushed the door open and stepped inside, instantly hit by the sudden rush of warm, humid air. Compared to the decrepit state of the dorms, the bathhouse was... acceptable. It wasn't the spa-like luxury I was used to, but it wasn't the horror show I'd half expected either.

There were rows of shower stalls, steam rising from each one, and benches lined the walls. Some students were already here, washing quickly and mechanically like they'd been doing it for years despite it probably only being a few weeks. No one spoke. The only sounds were the rush of water and the occasional splash against the tiled floor. The atmosphere was almost military in its efficiency, but there was no camaraderie here—just survival.

I moved to one of the empty stalls, letting out a small sigh as I turned the knob and felt warm water cascade over my skin. I didn't linger, though. I wasn't like them—I didn't need long showers or moments of reflection. I wasn't here to adjust. I was here to excel. I quickly washed myself, ignoring the dull ache of fatigue settling into my muscles from the previous day's events.

My mind wandered briefly to the conversation in Victor's office again. A smile tugged at my lips as I replayed the discussions in my head. Evelyn... she didn't know it yet, but her fate was already sealed. She would be a perfect fit for the White Knights. All Logan and I had to do was play our cards right. Victor wouldn't see it coming, not yet anyway.

I finished up, wiping myself dry with a rough towel provided by the academy. The bathhouse may have been average, but their choice of linens was abysmal. I suppressed the urge to wrinkle my nose at the scratchy fabric. No delicate perfumes or luxurious oils this time around. No, Phantom Edge didn't believe in such indulgences. I'd have to deal with smelling like the generic soap provided for now.

Once I was done, I moved toward the rack of uniforms lined up neatly along the far wall. Each one was the same—black tracksuits with the Phantom Edge logo stitched on the chest, staring at you like a reminder that you were now part of something bigger. Something ruthless.

I slipped into the uniform, finding it surprisingly comfortable despite its appearance. It was a stark contrast to the opulent clothing I was used to wearing, but I didn't mind. In some strange way, the simplicity of the tracksuit made me feel more focused. More dangerous.

I stood in front of a mirror at the end of the bathhouse, examining myself. The uniform hugged my frame, a perfect fit as if it had been made for me. I ran a hand over the Phantom Edge logo on my chest, feeling the fabric under my fingertips. This was it—this was the beginning of something. I couldn't help but grin.

Outside, I could hear the shuffling of students as they prepared for the day's grueling activities. Most of them wouldn't make it to the end of the program. That much was clear from the hollow looks in their eyes, the way they flinched at the smallest sounds. Phantom Edge wasn't just a school—it was a gauntlet designed to weed out the weak. And I had no intention of being among the casualties.

I stepped out of the bathhouse, joining the other students in the dimly lit hallway. The air was thick with tension as if everyone was waiting for the next brutal challenge to present itself. The guard from earlier was gone, likely off to enforce some other cruel task on another group of students.

I noticed a few of the others giving me sidelong glances, probably wondering why I looked so calm and collected. Most of them were barely holding it together, but I was different. I wasn't here to merely survive. I was here to dominate.

I spotted Evelyn across the room, already in her uniform. Her posture was tense, her eyes focused, but there was something else there—a spark of determination that hadn't been there before. Yesterday had changed her, that much was clear. Victor's influence was unmistakable, and now with her new powers, she was even more of an enigma.

I wasn't worried though. Evelyn was strong, but she wasn't invincible. She'd come to see things my way eventually. She had to.

As I walked past her, I allowed myself a glance in her direction, giving her a knowing smile. She didn't respond, her focus elsewhere, but that was fine. I wasn't in any rush. Evelyn was a puzzle to be solved, and I had all the time I needed.

The halls of Phantom Edge echoed with the sound of students shuffling to their next task. The academy was relentless, pushing its students to the brink every single day. But for me, it was exhilarating. The challenges, the danger—it was all a game. And I planned to win.

As I made my way to the main courtyard, I spotted Logan in the distance, his face set in a grim expression. He caught my eye and nodded, a silent acknowledgment that today would be another step toward our ultimate goal.

Evelyn would soon be ours.

The screeching alarm had done its job—every single student in Phantom Edge was wide awake and already trudging down the hall. But that didn't mean they were all functioning. I could see the weariness in their faces, their bodies moving on autopilot, barely able to keep up with the relentless schedule we'd been thrown into. As for me, I thrived in it. This was exactly where I wanted to be.

We were herded like cattle down a narrow hallway and into what I could only describe as a massive gym. The air was thick with the scent of sweat and adrenaline, and the room was enormous, stretching out in all directions. State-of-the-art equipment lined the walls, and at the far end, towering holographic displays showed the tasks we were expected to complete.

The moment the first set of exercises flashed across the screen, I could hear the collective groans. Students gasped, their eyes going wide as they took in the sheer number of reps attached to each task. Burpees, deadlifts, push-ups, squats—it wasn't just a workout; it was a test of survival.

My smile widened as I glanced around, watching the color drain from the faces of those around me. "Pathetic," I muttered under my breath. It was easy to tell who had been prepared for this and who hadn't. For some, the only thing waiting for them was a day of starvation.

A tall instructor with a build like a professional bodybuilder stood in front of the gym, his voice booming through the room. "The rules are simple," he barked. "The more reps you do, the more food you get at breakfast. It's as simple as that. Don't do enough, and you go hungry. Do too little, and you'll be starving by the end of the day."

I grinned at the panic in the room. Some students began murmuring to each other, trying to gauge how much they could do without collapsing. The fear of hunger had already gripped them, and I could see how it was weighing on their minds. It wasn't just about surviving the day; it was about keeping up with the relentless pace of Phantom Edge.

I noticed Evelyn standing near the back, her eyes glued to the display. She looked... confused. Like she hadn't quite understood the gravity of what was about to happen. A knot of excitement twisted in my stomach as I turned to face her. I could feel my muscles tensing in anticipation.

"Ready for the challenge?" I whispered under my breath, though I knew she couldn't hear me from this distance.

Evelyn's gaze drifted toward me, her expression puzzled, as if she didn't understand why I was looking at her. I held her stare, my smile widening. Oh, she was going to figure it out soon enough. Yesterday had been a wake-up call for her, but today—today was going to be a real test.

"You can do any amount you want," the instructor continued, pacing back and forth in front of us. "But remember, the more you do, the better off you'll be. You don't get a second chance today. So choose wisely."

Some students exchanged worried glances, already calculating how much they could handle. Others looked outright terrified. But not me. I felt exhilarated. This was my element. I could feel the energy coursing through me, ready to push myself to the limit.

I shot another glance at Evelyn, this time with a more direct challenge in my eyes. She looked confused, maybe even a little hesitant. I knew she had power—Victor's little pet project. But did she have the stamina? Could she handle the grind of Phantom Edge?

I couldn't help but let out a small chuckle under my breath. She wouldn't last. Not against me, anyway.

The instructor gave us the go-ahead, and I watched as the students began to move toward the equipment. Some were slow, clearly dreading the inevitable. Others, more confident, strode forward with determination, eager to prove they could handle the challenge.

I made my way to the front, choosing a set of free weights for deadlifts. The weight felt heavy, but it didn't faze me. I was used to training hard. Phantom Edge wasn't my first experience with this kind of punishment. I'd been through worse.

The first lift was a strain, but the second was easier. I focused on the rhythm of the movement, pushing my body to go beyond what was comfortable. I could feel the burn in my muscles, but it wasn't painful. It was exhilarating. This was where I thrived.

After a few reps, I glanced over my shoulder to see what Evelyn was doing. She had chosen a pull-up bar but seemed hesitant. Her hands gripped the bar, her eyes focused ahead, but something was holding her back. Maybe it was doubt. Maybe it was fear.

I smirked to myself, feeling the satisfaction bubble up inside me. If she thought her newfound powers would save her here, she was mistaken. Phantom Edge didn't care about gifts. It cared about who had the endurance to make it through. And that was me.

Evelyn pulled herself up, her body trembling slightly with the effort. I had to give her credit; she was trying. But trying wasn't enough here. You either excelled, or you failed. There was no in-between.

I continued with my deadlifts, increasing the weight each time, feeling the strain in my back and legs as I powered through each rep. Sweat dripped down my face, but I didn't care. This was about pushing myself further than anyone else.

A few students around me were already beginning to falter. Their breaths came in ragged gasps, and some had already given up entirely, collapsing onto the floor in defeat. I ignored them, focusing only on myself and the challenge ahead.

By the time I finished my reps, my muscles were screaming, but I felt invincible. I wiped the sweat from my brow and glanced over at Evelyn again. She was still at the pull-up bar, but her pace had slowed significantly.

I sauntered over to her, watching as she struggled with the last few reps. "Having fun?" I asked, my voice dripping with mock concern.

Evelyn shot me a look, her face flushed from exertion. "I'm fine," she muttered, though the strain in her voice was clear.

I grinned. "Sure you are."

I stood there, watching as Evelyn finally completed her set. Her arms trembled as she pushed through the final rep, her face twisted in pure exhaustion. The weight crashed down, and before she could bring it back up, I stepped in, grabbing hold of it and helping her set it down.

Evelyn collapsed to the floor, gasping for breath, her chest rising and falling rapidly. She was completely drained, her face pale from the effort. I couldn't help but smirk at the sight. So much for the grand "gifted" Evelyn. If this was her limit, she'd never make it through Phantom Edge.

"You alright down there?" I asked, my voice a mix of mockery and mild curiosity.

Evelyn waved a hand, not even bothering to look up. "Yeah... just... give me a minute."

I crossed my arms, watching her struggle to regain her composure. I'd heard some of her classmates whispering about Evelyn training with Lucas and Ruby after class as if she was trying to get some sort of edge. But after seeing her barely hold it together through these exercises, I highly doubted those sessions had anything to do with strength.

"Training with Lucas and Ruby, huh?" I said, not bothering to hide the amusement in my tone. "Doesn't look like that helped much with this."

Evelyn shot me a tired look but didn't respond. Her breathing was still labored, and I could see the sweat pouring down her face, mixing with the strands of hair that had fallen loose from her ponytail.

"Hey, don't get me wrong," I added with a laugh. "That was impressive. I mean, most people wouldn't even attempt to do the absurd amount they put on the board. You went for it."

She didn't respond immediately, just lay there, staring up at the ceiling, trying to catch her breath. It was almost... pitiful. "Thanks," she finally muttered, her voice faint and tired.

I crouched down beside her, lowering my voice slightly. "But that was just the first set, you know. You've still got a long way to go."

Evelyn groaned and wiped the sweat from her brow. "I know," she said, more to herself than to me.

I grinned, standing back up. "Well, you did well. You didn't quit, at least. But don't think this means you're keeping up." I gave her a playful nudge with my foot. "Rest up. You'll need it."

Leaving her to recover, I moved toward the pull-up bar, ready to knock out my own set. My muscles were still sore from earlier, but I wasn't about to let Evelyn or anyone else see any sign of weakness. I had a reputation to uphold.

I grabbed the bar, letting my body hang for a moment as I felt the tension in my arms and shoulders. I could hear the others around me, some groaning in frustration, others giving up entirely. It didn't faze me. I thrived in this. I lived for this.

Pulling myself up, I felt the familiar burn in my muscles, but it was a good kind of pain—the kind that told me I was pushing myself further than before. I finished the first set quickly, letting my body fall back down before immediately pulling myself up for the next.

I could see Evelyn from the corner of my eye, still lying on the floor, staring up at the ceiling like she was questioning her life choices. I chuckled to myself. She'd get there eventually—or maybe she wouldn't. Either way, it wasn't my problem.

After a few more minutes of working the pull-up bar, I dropped to the ground, letting out a satisfied breath. My arms felt like lead, but I had done enough to ensure a decent breakfast. I wasn't about to starve just because Phantom Edge liked to play games.

As I wiped the sweat from my brow, the instructor's voice boomed through the gym. "You have until noon to finish your sets! Anyone done before then can head to the cafeteria whenever you're ready!"

A collective sigh of relief spread through the room, though for some, it was more of a resigned groan. Some of the weaker students were still struggling with the first set, and I could see the defeat in their eyes. They wouldn't make it.

I glanced over at Evelyn one more time. She was sitting up now, still breathing heavily, but at least she looked like she was starting to recover. She caught my gaze and frowned.

"What?" she muttered, her voice still weak.

"Just checking if you're still alive," I teased, walking over to grab my towel from my bag. "But seriously, you should pace yourself. This isn't a sprint."

"I know that," she snapped, wiping her face with the sleeve of her tracksuit. "I'm just... not used to this yet."

I raised an eyebrow. "Not used to it? Do you think we're all used to it? You either push through, or you don't eat. Simple."

Evelyn didn't respond. Instead, she slowly pushed herself up from the floor, wincing as her legs buckled slightly beneath her. I could see the determination in her eyes now, though. She wasn't going to quit.

"Well, I'm heading to the cafeteria," I said, slinging my towel over my shoulder. "I'm not waiting around to see if you pass out again."

"Go ahead," she muttered. "I'll be fine."

I gave her one last smirk before turning on my heel and heading toward the exit. The cafeteria was calling, and I'd earned my place at the table.

As I walked away, I couldn't help but wonder how long it would take for Evelyn to figure it all out. Sure, she had power, but power wasn't enough here. Phantom Edge was a grind—a relentless, punishing grind—and it was going to break people like her.

And I was going to enjoy every second of it.

Evelyn's P.O.V...

My legs buckled beneath me, and I fell hard on one knee. The burn in my muscles was overwhelming—like fire licking up my limbs. There were only a few people left in the gym, those determined enough to push further or trying to look tough for the sake of it. The rest had either left or given up.

"Come on, Evelyn," I muttered under my breath, my fists clenched. I punched the ground in frustration, feeling the sting in my knuckles, but it didn't matter. Vivian had completed two full sets of two different exercises, making it look easy. And here I was, barely holding myself together. She had been so smug about it, too—helping me earlier, laughing when I thought I was close to collapsing. Her words rang in my ears: "This is just the first one."

I hated that she was right. The exhaustion, the soreness—it was all unbearable. I could feel the eyes of the others lingering on me, but I knew they were just as tired. Nobody cared; they were too busy surviving their exercises.

Vivian had left, triumphant as always, and now I was here, struggling to keep it together. My body was screaming at me to stop, to give up. But I couldn't. Not here. Not now.

I gritted my teeth and whispered, "Do your thing... please..."

The moment the words left my lips, I felt it—a warmth spreading through my veins like a gentle breeze on a spring day. Nature, my gift, answered my silent plea. It was subtle at first, a small pulse of energy flowing into my muscles. But it grew stronger, healing and strengthening me from the inside out. My muscles no longer screamed in agony; instead, they felt refreshed, as if I hadn't just spent hours breaking them down.

I couldn't let anyone see. They couldn't know. Not yet.

Carefully, I shifted, crawling toward the far corner of the gym where some of the less demanding equipment sat—a forgotten punching bag, a few jump ropes, and a dusty old row machine. It was the perfect place to blend in, to disappear while I let the magic work. I grabbed one of the jump ropes, pretending to be interested in its worn-out handles, but really, I was giving my body time to absorb the powerfully.

The fatigue was gone, replaced by a strange sense of strength. I could have lifted twice the weight I had earlier and run miles without breaking a sweat. No one seemed to notice anything unusual; they were all too busy with their battles.

I took a deep breath, feeling more like myself again. My heartbeat had returned to normal, and my legs, which moments ago had been shaking, felt steady. I wrapped the jump rope around my hand and stood up slowly, making sure to move as if I was still tired, still human. But inside, I felt... invincible.

No one suspected a thing. Everyone was too occupied with their exercises. They didn't see the small leaves sprouting from the cracks in the gym floor where I had knelt. They didn't see the green flicker in my eyes before it faded. And that was exactly how I needed it to stay—for now.

I couldn't afford to let anyone know.

My muscles still hummed with energy from the surge of power I had called upon earlier. It had been risky, using my gift in the gym where anyone could have seen me. But now, as I looked around and saw that the place was empty, I felt a strange sense of relief. Noon had come, and everyone else had already left, leaving me alone in the massive room.

I dropped the barbell with a soft thud and wiped the sweat from my forehead. My body was buzzing with newfound strength, and for the first time, I didn't feel broken down after a workout. But this wasn't what I wanted. I didn't want to rely on my powers. That's why I pushed myself so hard—to get stronger, to do these things without any magical assistance. I wanted to be powerful in my own right, not just because of this... gift.

I clenched my fists, the memory of using my power still fresh in my mind. I didn't need it. I could do better. I would do better.

Looking down at the ground, I froze. Right where my foot had been, the concrete was cracked—no, crushed. My footprint was embedded into the floor like I'd stomped with the strength of a titan. A cold chill ran through me. I hadn't even realized it had happened. What else could I do without even thinking?

Before I could dwell on it, a voice broke through my thoughts.

"Hey, you! Time's up! The gym's closing!" The instructor's voice echoed through the space. He was standing at the door, keys jingling as he prepared to lock up.

I nodded quickly, hiding the panic threatening to bubble up inside me. "Right, sorry. I'm leaving now."

As I hurried out of the gym, I glanced back at the crack in the ground. It was a small one, barely noticeable, but it was a reminder—a dangerous one—of just how much I still had to learn about controlling my powers. I'd have to be more careful. Way more careful.

I met with my soldiers and they fell into step beside me as we made our way down the hall, but something felt off. The gym was behind us, and yet I couldn't shake the unease growing in my chest. My thoughts kept drifting back to that broken concrete. How had I not noticed that I was strong enough to break the floor?

I needed to be better at controlling this power, and I needed to do it fast. If anyone found out, it could ruin everything.

When we finally reached the cafeteria, I stepped through the doors, and suddenly, all eyes were on me. It was like the entire room paused for a second as I entered, followed by my three soldiers. I could feel the weight of everyone's stares, but I kept my expression neutral. No one needed to know what had just happened in the gym, and I didn't want anyone to think I was weak because I was the last to finish.

I caught Vivian's eyes from across the room. She was seated with some of the other students, her eyes narrowing into a frown as she saw me with my soldiers. She didn't look happy, but honestly, when did she ever look happy to see me? There was always that tension, simmering beneath the surface, especially after everything that had happened between us.

Vivian wasn't the only one staring. As soon as we walked in, my soldiers shifted. They remembered the warning I had given them earlier—to stop following me around when I'm near Vivian—and without a word, they split off, heading to their tables, leaving me to find a spot on my own. I was glad. The last thing I wanted was more attention drawn to myself.

I scanned the room for a place to sit, but before I could move, a familiar voice cut through the air, loud and mocking.

"Well, well, look who finally decided to show up!"

It was Vanessa. She was standing a few feet away, smirking as she sauntered over, hands on her hips. "Took you long enough. I thought you might've collapsed in the gym or something."

I clenched my jaw, refusing to let her words get to me. Vanessa had been on my case since day one, always looking for a reason to dig into me. I wasn't sure what her problem was—maybe it was jealousy, or maybe she just enjoyed tormenting people. Either way, I wasn't about to give her the satisfaction of seeing me react.

"I'm fine, Vanessa," I said, keeping my voice even. "Just making sure I got a full workout."

She snorted, crossing her arms. "Yeah, right. You looked like you were about to pass out halfway through. Maybe you should stick to lighter weights. Wouldn't want you hurting yourself."

I forced a smile, though every part of me wanted to throw a snarky comment back. But I knew better. Vanessa was just looking for a fight, and I wasn't going to give her one.

"Thanks for the advice," I replied, my tone dripping with sarcasm. "I'll keep that in mind."

Vanessa's smirk faltered for a moment, but she quickly recovered, tossing her hair over her shoulder as she turned away. "Whatever. Just try not to slow everyone down next time."

I watched her walk off, feeling the tension in my shoulders ease just a bit. She was annoying, but nothing I couldn't handle.

As I made my way toward a table, I couldn't help but glance back at the door. The crack in the gym floor still haunted my thoughts, and I knew I had to get a better grip on my powers before someone noticed. But for now, I had to play it cool—like everything was normal.

Because in Phantom Edge, showing any sign of weakness could get you into trouble.