Chapter Text
didn't that happen Yesterday?
John blinked his eyes. The sudden light overwhelmed his senses and stunned him. What's going on? He forced his eyes to adapt quickly to the light, something seemed awful in all of this.
The living room lay in front of her eyes, a pair of comfortable chairs and chairs, were perfectly accommodated by the space. John narrowed his eyes, he had definitely gone to sleep in his bed that night. He was sure he didn't detect any aura either, so that couldn't be caused by some kind of teleportation ability, or something like that.
The train of thought was completely broken, when an extremely familiar figure became clear before him "Sera!" cried with alarm. He got up from the ground, somewhat dizzy from the sudden movement, but ignored him and quickly headed towards his friend.
John shook the shoulder with a desperate delicacy, fearing to damage it in some way if he moved it too strongly from the heat of the moment.
whoever is the son of a bitch who brought them here, if I see even a hair out of place on Sera's head, I swear I beat the damn bastard to dea-
"John?" whispered Seraphina, stunned. Erasing all the anger from John's face, replacing it with a kind of nervous relief, seeing in the direction his thoughts were headed.
He helped Seront sit delicately. Her light blue eyes were still squinting, and winking at the bright light in the room.
"Are you okay?" he questioned Sera, who already looked somewhat brighter. She just slowly nodded her head.
Seraphina let out a slightly trembling sigh and frowned, her head throbbing painfully from the hundreds, and it was quite annoying. I look around the unknown room, thousands of doubts hanging over his head.
John, who seemed to notice this, could only shake his head with regret "I have no idea what shit is supposed to be going on, or how we got here" his gazes met "I also just woke up in this place, when I should be in my room” a hand ran across his face, rubbing it with annoyance and uncertainty.
The sound of movement caused both of them to turn their heads to the opposite end of the room. There, four figures were uncomfortably stirring against the floor, forcibly coming out of their drowsy state. They weren't alone there, they noticed. Which was less obvious than it should have been.
Seraphina got up after regaining the strength to hold herself "I'm fine” she declared with a notch of a smile making her way into her features, having noticed the adjacent concern in john's gaze directed at her.
Sera made her way to the rest of the people in the room, with John following in her footsteps, just behind her.
“Can you get up?" He extended his arms, giving support to the shaking girl. Remi grunted at the rigidity of his body, trying to stand, quietly thanking Seraphina.
"Guys!" She cried in haste, seeing Isen and Blyke's figures rise with difficulty. She walked away from Seraphina's grip and stumbled in her direction, stumbling right in front of Blyke, who, in a clumsy attempt to catch her, fell next to her.
"Damn, Remi, be more careful" Blyke grunted with pain, rubbing his stab back of the blow. Beside him, Isen shook his head, incredulous.
"What the hell is going on here” he questioned, arms crossed over his chest, his usual irritated gaze had already made a place on his face.
Isen tilted his head slightly, spotting the irritated figure of Arlo standing next to him, Arlo too? Isen couldn't help but question himself, nerves already managing to break through in his bowels.
Next to him, was a fucking group of high levels, including two god levels, and Seraphina's friend, the crippled, What was his name? he couldn't remember. A chill ran through his body. He was confused, evidently, he wasn't the only one in that situation, and that was precisely the problem! No matter how he thought it, whoever put them in this situation should be powerful enough to kidnap a group of elites... and all that without them even noticing it. The mere thought was truly terrifying, Isen began to sweat cold.
Before anyone could answer the question of Arlo, the TV, which was definitely off a few seconds ago, showed a blank image, and in the center, a word that contrasted with all the rest. John felt the air get stuck in his lungs.
"UnOrdinary?" Blyke frowned "What is that supposed to mean"
"a banned book, was cancelled not long after its publication for putting stupid ideals in the mind of high ranks, which ends with them dead while trying to play hero" Arlo growled with contempt, Remi shuddered violently.
Blyke blinked, stunned "a forbidden book? What the hell does the title of a forbidden book do here?"
A couple of steps behind them, Seraphina looks sideways at John, who had a tense body and a lost look on his face as he watched the screen. he elbowed John in the ribs, making him come out of his self-absorption "are you already scared John? distracted lights" he sneered, trying to lighten the atmosphere. But Seraphina wasn't dumb, she knew John. Too stubborn and stupidly brave, all despite his lack of skill. But now, he seemed out of place, too consumed by his own thoughts. Of course, it could all be because of the abnormal situation they were in, but something was telling she there was something else in it.
John shook his head to reassure Sera and gave her a smile. But contrary to his relaxed expression, John's mind had become complete chaos. The title on the screen was, without a doubt, the same as that of his father's book. However, it was just strange, things didn't quite add up for him. First they kidnap them, and then they show them their father's book? What was the fucking point of that?
Unbeknownst to them, Isen had thoughts similar to John's. There was simply no way for anyone to kidnap a group of people, with whom definitely no one in their right mind would want to antagonize, just to have them read a somewhat controversial book, no matter how forbidden this same.
“I don't think that's the most important point in this situation, Blyke"
Blyke narrowed his eyes in Isen's direction "it's not like we have another fucking clue" he protested.
Isen smiled smugly. He went to the small coffee table, in front of one of the sofas they were putting facing the big TV in front of them. He had noticed it shortly after waking up in this strange place. Just below a gray remote, there was a sheet of paper, folded over itself right in half. This one stood out like a sore thumb in contrast to the room, honestly, he don’t had idea how anyone else seemed to have noticed it.
He took the paper and unfolded it, there was something written inside. But before he could read anything, Arlo snatched the paper from his hands. Isen did not protest, have a terrifying look at this time, the image of a certain blond boy with anger tendencies, holding a fork dangerously close to him, crossed his mind. as if preparing to commit a murder. Isen walked a couple of steps away from Arlo, watching him with caution.
"If you want to go out, you must read" Arlo spoke with disgust the sharp words written on the paper. This bastard has the gall to kidnap us, and then he puts such a ridiculous condition to let us out? He let out a dry laugh, his eyes began to glow dangerously, he didn’t like at all "this has to be a fucking joke"
Remi looked between the angry Arlo and the television; the words marked in black still present "must we read UnOrdinary in order to leave?"
"Don't tell me you're seriously considering obeying this stupid piece of paper, pinky" Arlo spit out, crumpling the blade furiously.
"g-guys" Isen uttered, hesitantly" "I don't think it's time for this"
Arlo gave him a biting look "since when do you tell me I can and can't do, Isen?"
Frightened, Isen stepped back, waving his hands quickly in denial "w-wouldn't dare! that's not what I was trying to say!" Blyke gave a terrified look, pleading for help.
John just looked at the interaction with a frown, Arlo's arrogant personality making his hair stand on end, abusing his power as King of that stupid hierarchy, with which he was so obsessed.
A hand rested on Isen's shoulder "they are right, Arlo" Seraphina spoke nonchalantly "what will you do look for a way out?" raised an eyebrow and moved her hand slightly, pointing to the smooth walls that surrounded them, with no sign of a door or window through which they could leave. They were completely locked up there.
Arlo, for his part, just snapped his tongue in disgust. But seemed to have taken the point, as he sat on one of the chairs and didn't protest anymore.
Remi, Isen and Blyke looked at each other, then followed the example of arlo and sat in an armchair spacious enough for the three of them.
Seraphina gave John a look "come on" he nodded and they both sat together in the only other armchair in the room, which was right in the center of the room. to the right of Arlo's chair and the left of Remi, Isen and Blyke.
Isen, who had the remote control. He pressed the home button, starting whatever they were about to see.
The lyrics disappeared, and the image changed to an out-of-focus book. they couldn't read anything from inside.
Two years ago, my father wrote a book.
"What the fuck?!" John stood up from his seat, exalted "that's my fucking voice?!"
Shock crossed everyone's faces, what kind of game were they trying to play? Was this all some bad joke?
Blyke made his way to John as everyone seemed too surprised to notice. I grab the cripple by the collar of his shirt, forcing him to look at him and exploded "What the fuck man! are you part of all this?!"
John was more than capable of defending himself, Seraphina knew it. But no matter how strong he was in the hand-to-hand fight, he was still a cripple. Seraphina narrowed her eyes dangerously towards Blyke, ready to ignite her ability if necessary. In the event that Blyke put a hand on John, it didn't matter if she was the one who named him Jack, she wouldn't hesitate.
Frowning deeply, John clenched his fists at his sides, suppressing his anger at the absurd accusation "do I seem to be in a position to do such a thing?" he chuckled.
Seeing Seraphina's terrifying expression, Isen silently cursed Blyke. But before he could intervene, Remi got ahead of him.
"Blyke! calm down, we're all in the same situation!" Remi indicated, trying to calm to the redhead "no one knows what's going on here, let him go, yes?"
"Let go" John demanded, slapping Blyke's arm with which he was holding his shirt, freeing himself from his grip.
For his part, Blyke sighed. I stare at John for a minute, he stepped back. "I'm sorry, I was exalted" without waiting for a response from the cripple, he turned around and returned to his seat.
Regardless of the situation, Isen finally felt that he could breathe. We could have died there, and this idiot doesn't even seem to have noticed. A shudder swept through his body, and he gave Blyke a look of death.
John looked at him sideways, but he didn't say anything and also went to sit down.
"did your father write a book?" John moved his head to look at Sera, surprised by the question... Blyke's explosion had made him momentarily forget what the screen had said. He just nodded, saying nothing more.
Arlo narrowed his eyes to the screen, so are they trying to give us information? But why is it the cripple who narrates? He concluded that he would have to wait for any answer to his questions.
It was about a man who lived among a crowd of abnormals.
This man only used his ability for others...
Remi's eyes widened at the description, it couldn't be...
He helped the weak.
It saved lives.
He distributed wealth.
Spoiler, ends up dead.
Arlo buffed low, did that optimistic thought and that stupid resistance to hierarchy come from family? it wouldn't be surprising if that were the case. She looked sideways at Seraphina, who watched the screen with interest, the problem is that somehow, he managed to drag her into her stupid ideology, leaving aside her position and responsibilities as queen, her duty as a high rank. Arlo clenched his jaw tightly, to the point where his teeth creaked.
it was not sad, because it fostered solidarity.
And the world was filled with peace.
Remi looked at John, incredulously "did your father write UnOrdinary?"
The room was stunned silent, all eyes turned to John.
"The infamous w. h. Doe?" John blinked at Sera, calling his infamous father was a bit... "Why did you never tell me?"
"I guess the topic never came up?" he shrugged "besides, you never asked"
Seraphina looked sideways at John, wondering if he would have an extra copy of the book, she had always wanted to read it. I guess I'll ask you later, after all, it wasn't the right time or place for something like that.
“How do you know the book?" Arlo scowled at Remi "have you read it?"
Isen was also curious about it, he had heard that getting a copy of the book was practically impossible after it was cancelled two years ago.
"oh, no, I haven't read it!" Remi rubbed the back of her neck uncomfortably, her eyes fell a little at the memories "my brother read it a time ago, so be a little about the subject"
"Rey!? why on earth would Rey read that book?" Arlo sued. That didn't make any fucking sense, Rey wouldn't... suddenly, the memory of a certain vigilante killed and presented in the news overlapped with the image of Rey. His eyes widened as his hands acquired a nervous tremor. Rey had died, but there was no way he just wouldn't do something as stupid as becoming a fucking vigilant! He sharply moved his head to Remi, looking for confirmation. But she had pursed lips and a downcast gaze... it seemed as if she was about to burst into tears, she didn't even give he a look. Arlo felt as if lightning had struck him, leaving him completely motionless, like a stone statue tied to the floor.
“hey, Remi" seeing her friend's figure shrank on herself, Blyke spoke worried "are you o-" before she could finish speaking, Isen grabbed his shoulder and shook his head.
It was clear that Remi was not ready to talk about it, when she was, she herself would go to them, Isen did not think it was a good idea to pressure her.
Letting out a trembling sigh, Remi raised her head "are we still seeing?" the trembling in her voice was evident, but no one commented on it.
TV played again a moment later.
The image abruptly changes to the dining room of the private Wellston High School.
The school's famous triple chocolate cake is served only once a month...
"the delicious chocolate cake you've never had a chance to taste" added Seraphina, with a burlesque tone in her voice.
John exhaled depressed "I'd really like to try that cake"
Has he never tasted a piece? Isen looked at him with pity, joined hands on his chest, and dedicated a prayer to his wretched soul.
Blyke scrutinized Isen, wondering what the hell he was doing now. For the sake of his already scarce sanity, he decided not to ask. He gently shook his head, he would just pretend not to have seen anything.
And, being such a special event, everyone runs to the dining room as soon as lunchtime begins.
I'm always late because I'm not fast like everyone else.
but TODAY I have a great feeling!
Seraphina couldn't contain her laughter at John's bold statement
"Hey, don't laugh!" John complained "I really had a feeling"
This only made Seraphina laugh louder
Remi watched their interaction with a smile drawing on his face. Their friendship was really one thing.
"Stay away from that portion! it's mine!" exclaims Remi, seeing Arlo steal her cake "Hey! give me that, Arlo! I ordered that portion first!"
"Look at Arlo, it's us!"
Arlo, for his part, only deepened his frown. Now inquire into our lives too?
"Chocolate cake..." Blyke's mind began to roll over his memories "his fight for the slice of cake... didn't that happen yesterday?" he said dizzy.
All eyes in the room fell on him in an incredulous silence.
"Who would say it, you have some brain inside that thick skull of yours"
Blyke gave Isen a look "of course I have a brain, idiot. And it's not like you're someone to talk about, not with grades like yours"
Have they been watching us? No matter how hard he tried, John couldn't remember anyone suspicious following him, let alone using a Skill, he would definitely have realized it. But what else could it be, but a skill?
Seraphina placed a finger on her eyebrows. "If you keep frowning like this, you will end up forming wrinkles John" John blinked a couple of times, disoriented. But he finally relaxed his expression and gave a nervous smile to Sera.
"What? Did you 'ask' for it? you should already know how things work, Remi. It is on a first-come, first-served basis, if you want a portion, you must be faster! good luck next time, dwarf!"
Remi pouts, annoying "I don't think so. I waited a whole month for that cake" the electricity begins to crackle around him "I'm not going to give up! give me that, you asshole!"
Remi blushed, embarrassed to remember how her tongue was released on that chance.
Remi extends her hand, and the electricity around her is swiftly directed in the direction of Arlo, who smiles superiorly.
"Ah, so you want to play?" he loosens his tie, while his shield quickly surrounds him, blocking electricity with ease "let's see what you have, dwarf!"
"Oh, no, those two again..."
"Really? Agh, here we go"
"Hey, I bet Remi wins this round!"
Inflating his chest with superiority, Remi gives Arlo a triumphant smile. She could still feel the chocolatey taste of victory melting into her palate, I really have to get the recipe for that cake. The mere thought made his mouth water.
Arlo snorted, disgusted. He had been too soft on her, and now, watching her blatantly wallow in the pleasure of her victory, he quietly decided that it would be the last, perhaps he had been pampering her too much, Remi must learn why he was the king of Wellston.
Seeing as a smile, which could not be classified as anything but evil, it blossomed on Arlo's face. Isen patted Remi on the back, sympathizing for his cruel fate.
"Again?" asks Seraphina, raising an eyebrow.
Blyke snorts "with that, it would be the third time" waved a hand in front of his face in a gesture "I don't understand why they make such a fuss just for a slice of cake"
Isen, Remi and John give him a look of pure disbelief, which quickly transforms into a raw horror. "It's not just a slice of cake!" the three proclaim in prefect synchrony.
"it's the slice of cake" Remi clarifies in an icy voice.
"There is no point of comparison" crossing his arms over his chest, John squints his eyes dangerously.
"So don't talk about things you don't know," Isen concluded.
Blyke blinked and blinked again, trying to assimilate that the hell had just passed. Since when are those three so synchronized?
Arlo growled, annoyed. He was surrounded by complete idiots, and somehow they have managed to lower Seraphina to his level. He thought with disgust, as he watched Seraphina try and fail to contain an attack of her own laughter. Her teeth creaked, then she focused her attention on John, what the hell did that dammed cripple do to make Seraphina act so out of herself!?
Various murmurs could be heard in the background, while Arlo and Remi participated in an intense power struggle, with the aim of keeping the portion of chocolate cake.
Great, they're already fighting for the last slice. John wails in the back of the cafeteria, tears streaming down his cheeks.
“WHAT? DID I MISS IT AGAIN?!”
I'll never get a slice...
Seraphina snorted through the nose. That's definitely John.
"You... are you thinking anything bad about me again Sera?"
She just shrugs her shoulders, not even taking a look at John "I have no idea what you're talking about"
"so" Isen inquires, doubtful "are we reading about our daily life?" frowned, he felt that something was missing.
Blyke pressed his lips and spoke in a tense voice "I don't know man, something feels weird in all this"
A loud bang echoed through the room, attracting everyone's gaze "something feels weird!?" Arlo gave him a look "everything is damn weird, Blyke!" he bellowed, rubbing his eyebrows with barely suppressed anger "they kidnap us, a group of high ranks without even realizing what happened! we don't have a fucking clue! and now they show us this fucking thing!" the TV points out, trying to prove his point "fuck, that's our life! In some way, they even managed to show our fucking thoughts! Did any of you realize that he was being stalked!?"
None of them had done so. A dense silence quickly spread through the room. Arlo had vocalized what everyone already knew, what they fervently strove to ignore. The one who had locked them there, for no clear reason, was definitely far beyond what any of them could face. Perhaps, if they knew what I was trying to achieve with this, they could reluctantly accept it, but to remain in ignorance, that was the truly terrifying thing in all that. Everything seemed so ridiculous, no one could think that he would get his captor of all this. So they were forced to stay in the dark, waiting for some clue that the hell was going on. And the only chance at that was the TV in front of them. They had no idea if that was really going to answer them something, but it was the only option that seemed to be left. They had to keep watching, end that ridiculous show until the end, wherever it went. And maybe, so I finally get out and forget all this madness.
No one spoke again for a while after that, they stood still in their places, their faces obscured by tension. Endless unanswered thoughts stirred within the mind of each of them.
Unable to stand that environment anymore, Isen grabbed the remote control and pressed the text that would take them to the next chapter.
No one commented on it, they just hoped this would end quickly so they could go home.