Hello there... Welcome, Welcome, please get comfortable for this will be quite the story. A great story by my own opinion, ahem. This story belongs to Jack Sparrow: he was once a... Bully. As one might say, until he met his match who stopped him with her impressive Magicia. After walking the path of the righteous and noble, he changed himself; he changed how he treated those around him, he fixed what he broke, he healed that he hurt. As he grew up, he helped more than he hurt, he learned and now, he is becoming a source of inspiration for others that were like him, once. This is the story of Jack Sparrow....

the birds are singing, as the early light of the morning sun, slowly paints the sky...

Good morning, me! Alright, today's the first day of the year, 1, January 2019. Getting out of bed earlier then I usually do, today just feels like one of those days... Getting ready for the day, I go through the routine on autopilot; with that done, time to make breakfast for everyone. Going downstairs to the kitchen before everybody else, I start frying some eggs on a medium size pan and cooking some meat on another, and while they cook I quickly put a couple of slices of bread into the toaster and pour a bowl of cereal and milk, knowing their breakfast, I made everything just how they like it. For Mom, Sun sides up, crispy bacon, and a glass of tomato juice. For Sarah my older sister, a plate of scrambled eggs with dark sauce, crispy bacon, and a glass of chocolate milk. Last but not least, for Yasmin our younger sister, a plate of toast with butter and a bowl of cereal, and a glass of water... Now what's my breakfast? Glad you asked! I'm having mixed omelettes, sausages, and a glass of milk for my bones. Hearing thudding footsteps steamrolling down from the second floor, and down the stairs, there's only 1 person in this house, that is this loud and oh sweet starberries does she know how to push my buttons...

Sara" hey Spunky! You're up early, you got places to be or somethin? Oh, and thanks for bfast BTW, these are delicious..."

Meet my older sister, Sara Sparrow; she is a full fledged comedian and oddly a influencer of the popular trends in MagWeb. And a professional at pushing people's buttons! Specifically. Mine! Anyways, she is loud, bubbly and a complete utter funball, to everybody else, and she's a pretty respectable older sister when she isn't pushing my buttons. Which is very, very, very, very, very.... Seldom.

" Loud as always, good morning to you too, Sara; yeah, I do have places to go."

Yasmin" yo dude, morning. Thanks for bfast."

This is our younger sister, Yasmin Sparrow; thankfully she is a complete opposite of Sara, because I'm sure I'd go crazy if there were 2 Sara here. Yasmin is still in highschool, but she's defs got big potential to be highly skilled Magicia user, thanks to all those sleepless nights pouring blood, sweat, and tears into it. That aside, she can defs take up DJ-ing if it doesn't works.

" Morning to you too, Yasmin; you're welcome."

Sadie" g'morning pumpkins, thanks for cooking pumpkin, sooo is there something you'd like to tell me."

Meet our mom, Sadie Sparrow; she's a super mom, a great painter, fiery personality but she's basically awesome. Although she is pretty much the older version of Sara, which gives me a major headache when they both act the same but that aside, she's also surprisingly wise and even though she doesn't has any kinda flashy or ultra op Magicia talents, she sometimes gives me the feeling like she could see what's to come or just the right thing to say to help someone out.

" Good morning Mom, and nah I just felt like waking up a little earlier than I usually do, also you're welcome."

Having breakfast together, we didn't always had mornings that starts out like this, in fact, it wasn't even that long ago and yet it felt like ages has passed. Finishing up and putting my dishes in the sink, I leave our home waving goodbye, hopefully I'll make it early to Fuller Academy: only one of the most popular academies that accepts common folk and the upper class with little judgements. Running on the sidewalk and through winding back alleys, the smells of kitchens and fresh air from the ocean fills my nose, I think I smelled someone cooking a triple layered chocolate cake with vanilla and star berries? Leaving the winding back alleys, the Felhan Bridge stands tall not too far away, one of Sun Coral City's monuments, built by Sir Felhan Dupre; a Grandmaster of architecture, he designed a lot, and I mean, a lot of the homes and public buildings in Sun Coral City. Alright... I just need to believe in myself, I can do this, I got this... Breathing in deep, I close my eyes visualizing the spell I want to cast in my mind, reciting the words, a tingling sensation runs up my back. Running to the other side of the sidewalk, I jump up to the railing, I push with everything I've got and walking in the air, I'm actually doing it! Reaching half the river, after another step the spell gives way and falling, crashing into the cold water seems inevitable and as I brace for impact... I'm still dry? Opening my eyes, Tyrian Purple Aura keeps me from getting soaked from head to toe, and without a doubt this can only belong to 1 person; Kimberly Sahara Satrivatin, 4th eldest daughter of the Satrivatin Family, and also my best friend. Floating me across to the other side sidewalk, she sets me down and effortlessly floats across with her Tyrian Purple Aura glowing on her body, landing gracefully with poise and perfect balance.

Kimberly: Good morning, Jackie, why are you awake this early? How out of character, but it is nice to see you so refreshed." Her voice warm as a fireplace in winter, velvet and deep with an air of mystery to her, the way her character and brilliance shows same as royalty. Her chocolate sun kissed tan skin, radiant as the sun shines bright from the sky. Racing each other to Fuller Academy, I'd hoped my losing streak would finally come to an end, but as always Kimberly pulls ahead winning effortlessly. Another flawless victory to go down in our personal racing record book, oh Merciful One, when can I win? I guess I should tell y'all that I am practically useless with Magicia, and what's worse is I'm a Disabled. With no Magicia, I'm always at a disadvantage in anything, especially fights, which is why I've had to bust my chops to even have a shot at standing toe to toe with anybody... Fuller Academy, built on top and along Boro Mountain, it isn't the tallest mountain in the world but it's also not the shortest. A grand fort previously used as one of the main strongholds of The Ascended Prodigy, she not only created and found Magicia, she was also among the first generation of scientist, during the Värhūchtenheim Wars. She and the heroes of the United States, defended the western nations from his, incursions, and Sun Coral City became a major point during the War, hence why the stronghold was constructed and now 187 years later, it stands as a place of to learn, knowledge to be shared and taught. High ceilings, tall windows with metal bars built into it, and tons and I mean tons of candles, books, and of course, Magicia. Pretty much everybody else here besides myself, is decent in Magicia, so yeah I'm not what you would call by any measure of the mind, a main character. I'm shorter than most guys my age, not the smartest academically, especially in Magicia, so yeah I practically am not the main character at all. Instead there is Rex a.k.a Main Character of this story, he's tall, athletic, suuuper in Magicia only falling slightly short to Kimberly, and most of all, he was always the good guy. Oh! He's also from a wealthy family, though they are nothing compared to The Satrivatin Family. Than of course there is Robert, the jerk who just for some reason continuously hurls insults and quite often tries and beats me up in and out of the ring, overall he's more annoying than anything else.

Grayson: yo Bro! You're early, you got a date or something?" His voice deep as the ocean and full of confidence, like the light of the sun. Meet Grayson Henry Stoke, another best friend I have, he's nice and a little loud, big as a Liobear with an appetite to match. Just so you know, he's also very helpful when you're in a pinch to fix something.

" what's up with me waking up early? Also, no, I don't have a date."

Grayson: sure Bro, whatever you say-" punching my arm, I cut him off, insisting that there's no way somebody like me can get a date.

Grayson: that's only because you are shy, c'mon Bro... Do you want your Bro to set you up with a cutie?" wiggling his brows, the change of tone in his voice is so embarrassing, and knowing him, I won't be surprised if the others know about it before lunch break. Insisting that I'm fine, he laughs and says he needs to go meet with our friends before classes starts, leaving, he walks away and after a turn he's out out of sight, walking with Kimberly to her first class of the day, this is pretty much a thing we've been doing since we became friends. That was forever ago, time sure does fly... Of course, the whispers and bad mouthing starts flooding in now that I'm on my own, honestly I shouldn't be complaining, not when I was on the other side, but this is getting repetitive and annoying, seriously, get some new material will you!? Entering my first class of the day along with the other students, I find my spot hunker down and ready to start, after all, out of every teacher in Fuller Academy, only he is the closest to me. Stepping inside the hollow sound of footsteps, a man well dressed, with an air of mystery. Basically the cool sensei in any story...

Mr. Earl: good morning everyone, how are all of you?" deep as the seas and calm as the forest that surrounds Boro Mountain, the same air of mystery shrouds his voice. Responding positively, Mr. Earl starts class and today we're covering what we've been learning for the last half a year, how to use Magicia for espionage and the strategies that are vital for us to know. Mirror Eyes: a Magicia espionage skill that let's the user not only see through psychic traps and spells that messes with your head, but it also helps us find clues and information that we would miss otherwise. Ghost Walking/Running/Etc: this one is pretty much what you'd think it is, moving silently that no one could hear you, and it gets even better, more effective as you use it often, another great Magicia espionage skill. The final subject, Camilleon: a Magicia espionage skill that let's the user blend with their surroundings, same drill with Ghost Walking, the more you use it the better it gets. *H**ours pass* before the sound of Mr. Earl's stop clock sings, signalling lunch break, flooding out of the classroom a sea of students chanting their favorite food and very, very, dramatically excited that class is done. Sticking behind with Mr. Earl, we chat for a bit before I head on out to the cafeteria before the vultures come and take what's left, arriving to a riot of voices and people sitting and some standing in line for their turns, I snatch a tray and pray that hopefully there's still anything left by the time I get my turn; 25 minutes later, I am left with, scraps, just scraps. 1 plain bagel, an apple, a quart of full cream extra calcium milk, and a single raw carrot. A single. Raw. Carrot... What the heck?? Where did they even get it?! Oh well, today's not my day, swiveling my head around the Eating hall, even with a sea of heads at every table, nobody comes close to Grayson and my friends, they just scream main cast characters. Traversing a minefield of legs trying to trip me and backs casually shoving my hips, this is getting old, passing Robert's table, I take an extra step away and of course he can't stand not being a jerkwad, throwing a sitting whip leg kick, it snaps my right calf and hearing his entire table burst to laughter and name calling, I can't be bothered... Sitting down at our table, the whole crew's here: fluffy cotton autumn brown hair, sporting unique goggles, with a style to match, our resident science major.... Lars Arie Mars! Next up, in the Magicia corner, standing as tall as Kimberly, with a classy Mage aesthetic, neck long hair and a very charming smile... Jeremy Peters! Last but not least, an advance Magicia Mage, she is on her best day just as good as Kimberly, rocking like Rollin Boulevard... Danni Max Nauss! My BFF'S since forever ago...

Lars:... He did it again, didn't he?" His voice higher than most guys our age, unique and just super kind. Honestly, I did not know you can sound kind, like I know how nice people sound but never kind, not until Lars showed up.

" don't-"

Danni: let me guess? "Don't worry about it, guys, I'm totally fine." Sounds 'bout right?" Her voice raspy and rocking like thunder, but sometimes, she's soft and sweet like MoMo balls. A little tip, do not, I repeat, do not ever get on her bad side! I shit you not!

" guys, I'm-"

Grayson: Trash face, honestly, he's begging for a can of whooping! C'mon Bro, let me at 'im!" This isn't good... Raising his voice, a stormy ocean with crashing waves, scorching as the surface of the sun, I do not want a trip to the Head Dean's office this early in the day... Holding onto his arm like a thick branch, thankfully Danni comes in with the save and calms the big guy. Crisis, averted...

Kimberly: Jackie, just say the words, pleeease... You would be doing me, a tremendous favorrr..." Stretching the word Kimberly purrs and this is one of those things I haven't mentioned, yeah, she is very. Very. Very... Flirtatious. Like what?? Sometimes I really can't with her, but I guess that's part of her charm... Eating lunch without any further interruption from people who should just mind their own business! I finish early so I go on ahead, before the rest of them finish lunch, walking through the hallways of Fuller Academy with its tall ceilings, windows that filter the light of day in a way that's straight out a fairytale, ooh and awesome rooms and a sorta secret not so secret, haunted library... Pretty creepy but cool! Sitting down on my desk, Mr. Earl isn't here so I guess I'm extra early. A short while later and Mr. Earl's class resumes until the sun starts sinking below the Earth, hearing the stop clock singing, the entire class breaks out in cheers and laughter, flooding out of Mr. Earl's classroom. Staying behind with Mr. Earl, asking how was my day outside of his classroom, I tell him that it was fine and not much happened aside from me having scraps for lunch, ruffling my hair, he smiles and says I should get to the cafeteria before everybody else.

" so Mr. Earl, what about you? How's your day?"

Mr. Earl: perfect, Jack, thank you for asking. You know, I love to talk more but you should hurry to P.E; Coach Brunhilde is rather, sensitive today." Oh. Oh ho oh, I know this smile and tone, Mr. Earl isn't joking. I better get there fast! Waving goodbye to Mr. Earl, I dash out of his classroom swimming through a sea of students, all in a rush to get to P.E before Coach Brunhilde busts our chops for being late, even if it's a second, she's still gonna bust your chops. Screeching the polished hardwood floors of the Fuller Academy P.E grounds, everyone takes their spot on the bleachers, muscling my way I practically run my head into the shoulder or sometimes elbows of anyone who's taller, and believe me, this happens so much that I've pretty much gotten immune to it. Cutting their whispers with her voice, the P.E grounds falls ghost-quiet, all of us turned to statues, with only our breaths and the squeaking of her shoes shattering the silence...

Coach Brunhilde: Listen up! I expect to see all of you giving above your all! All of you, clearly don't know how important it is to have a reliable body. Get moving!" Yikes.. Mr. Earl, I don't think this is what you'd call, being sensitive, no no no. She's an active volcano that's what she is! Her deep and quiet low voice, instilling a level of fear that gets us moving; jumping right into stretches and warm-ups. Pairing everyone with a sparring partner, the first sparring match is between Grayson and a jock that's almost as big, but he falls short, quite literally. Watching their sparring match: Grayson has a good base for striking on his feet, although where he really out do everybody else, is his ground game and throws, he will have you seeing the ceiling before your back can slam the earth. And his base for ground striking, defending, and submissions, is unshakable. Even when we spar he wins 10/10 on the ground, hands down he's the best in Fuller Academy, all while he's proficient in Magicia, unlike me... The jock on the other hand, seems to practice some sort of street boxing style, hanging his lead hand low and flicking it out like a towel at Grayson, another detail is how he winds up on his right, chopping instead of piercing through like a spear or arrow. Eating one of those chopping right, Grayson has a granite chin but I know he knows, he can't keep eating shots like those if he wants to take him to the ground; a minute later, Grayson does what I expected he'd do. Breaking the jock's rythm via a well timed jab, he shoots for a single leg but that's a feint, the real threat is the Arm throw that introduces the ground to his back, and even from outside the ring mat, I can tell he's definitely seeing more stars than the ceiling. Stopping the sparring match, Coach Brunhilde declares Grayson the victory, smiling brighter than the sun, he shouts a victory cry and also helps out the poor jock off the floor and to the bleachers, after that the other students got their turns and not to my surprise, Lars and Jeremy didn't win; Lars lost via knockdown, sorry bro. Jeremy lost on the scorecards, he's definitely improved since we last sparred together. Oh yeah, I totally forgot to mention that all these sparring matches are done without any Magicia, just us and our physical and mental effort and skills, just the way I like. Calling my name, I wonder who Coach Brunhilde will pair me with? Hopefully it's not jerkwad, ugh, just thinking 'bout him is making my head hurt from how annoying he is... Of course... My luck is really whack today! Arrogantly strutting to the ring mat, I'm surprised he can still see where he's going when his head is so far up his own butt, slinging names and petty taunts, I won't let him have the satisfaction of knowing he can affect me by his worthless words. Taking a wide stance, both his hands swing by his hips like vines from a tree, his chin is exposed too, he probably thinks he's gonna have no problems evading my attacks with his head game, so all he needs is a flashy one punch knockout... How amateur... Taking an Orthodox Mexican stance, I glue my right hand to my cheek and tuck my chin, and just leaving my left not too far from my face to cut travel time. Starting the sparring match, he instantly dashes to the center of the ring while I take small, sliding steps to cover the distance, getting within his striking range, he flicks out flurry of jabs and they come from odd angles, eating a few, I block the rest and slowly pressure him out of the center of the ring and towards the edge. Bobbing, ducking, and weaving my head, he's whiffing air, and for the few that I can't move away in time I just block it, or deflect it, jabbing upstairs and downstairs with little power and minimal effort, my plan to lower his guard is working like a charm. Eating my punches, he counters with a hard left but instead his jaw says hello to my left hook, as I step out a tad bit pivoting into a lead uppercut that flies up from the ground, underneath his right trying to frame my head, his knees crashing to the ring mat as he folds like a yard chair. Relaxing my guard, he gets up 3 seconds later and the agony burning on his face from folding like a yard chair, is priceless... Stepping in using Magicia, he throws an uppercut right to my gut and the pain that surge throughout my body stuns me, dang, I knew he'd play dirty but he's got some skills, I need to end this before he has time to use more Magicia skills. Parrying double left straights and blocking a lead hook, I step in deep and using the wrestling skills Grayson taught, maneuver him to where I want him and land three thunderous hooks, two to the body, one to the dome. Leaning on me, his legs are dead and now it's time to end this; shoving me, he steps back on noodle legs. Diving in low to his blindspot, I hit him with a liver hook so hard I think I heard his ribs crack! Dropping to the ring mat folded up like a yard chair, this is a pretty good look on him, not bad Jack, not bad at all... Getting out of the ring Jerkwad is dragged away to the infirmary by a couple of other students, watching the rest of the students spar and after physical training, Coach Brunhilde's P.E comes to a close, making a lot of students happy. With classes over our evening's free, walking in the hallway through a sea of students, some talking by their lockers while others are walking just like me, soft gentle notes of a piano plays from the sound boxes up on the pillars that supports and connects to the tall ceilings. Getting shoved around, books are bricks and elbows hammers, all swinging at me, ignoring them, I continue to walk until the front entrance of Fuller Academy is in view. Stepping outside, a gust of fresh air fills my lungs with a deep breath and I think I'm smelling a hint of something delicious, maybe roasted meat? Vegetables? Oh... Now I'm feeling hungry...

Grayson: hey Bro, you wanna join us for dinner? Cause I'm staaaaaarvving!!" Speaking louder than him, his stomach sure is a bottomless abyss, even I have a big appetite but I don't get how Grayson can fill himself as much as he does, I'd burst from all that food in me...

" actually, I've got plans tonight, but I promise I'll be there for the next one."

Grayson:.. No sweat, Bro. C'mon Bros, let's go."

Lars: wait! Jack, you're going to sneak off and train secretly, right." Can't say Lars is wrong, and knowing how he acts when I lie to him when he's like this, it's like taking a cat for a walk, or throwing water at them, not a nice day. Fessing to his guess, he gasps and here comes the bare minimum 3-5 minutes long, verbal presentation of why he thinks it's a bad idea... My Bros always looked out for me since I joined, and I am happy but... Being a Disabled, is just a life they don't understand, I need to keep working if I want to have any chance of surviving a fight, let alone winning. Operation distract Lars is a go! Fortunately, Lars is pretty easy to distract so all I gotta do is mention a certain flavoured caffeinated beverage, and voila, he's distracted and my chance to... Run like the wind!!! Kicking it to maximum speed, I take the longer route through the forest but at least now I know for a fact I lost them, alright, just need to pick up some stuff before going to my old training grounds and then I'll be set for the night. A few bottles of electros and a gallon of good ol reliable water, I fill my thermos and lock it in with the electros in my beat up cooler, it's been with me for about as long as I can remember, and it still works great! Doing some stretches, I need to stay flexible and safe. Now I'm done, it's time to start! Taking an Orthodox stance, I throw a steady jab followed by a crisp hook, nailing the coffin with a sledgehammer right straight. My punches are definitely getting better, even though everybody says I've got nothing to be worried about, I still have a long, long, long, way to go before I'm taking down people as strong as Kimberly or Jeremy, even Danni, Grayson, and Lars are above my weight. For now... But I'll catch up with 'em real soon... Burning the daylight away until the dark of night falls, painting the once bright sky, drenched in sweat and panting with ma hands on my knees. Pain stabs the back of my left thigh, and I almost kiss the ground but that won't be enough to get me down, finding a hand-sized stone lying on the concrete, a very annoying and taunting cackle gets closer, Jerkwad stepping into view, he has a wicked grin carving his face with eyes glinting insanity...

Robert: HAHAHAHAHABWAHAHA!!!!!.... Hey Disabled! Bet that stung right?! See? You ain't got nothing on me!!" His voice is so annoying... If only there's a spell in Magicia that can permanently shut his trap! Speaking of Magicia, I can't let him charge up his Lightning Element, the longer he can build his electrical current, the higher the voltage of lightning he can throw. Cutting the distance, I tighten my guard and brace for any shock on impact but the earth gobbles up my feet and falling to my knees, he brought his friends, of course... This must be one of them Magicia, an Earth type, eh? Well it's gonna take a lot more than this to keep me down, getting back up on my feet, I explode my way out and forward, stepping in deep to the pocket I've got my lead left hook loaded and shoot! Simultaneously we connect and Jerkwad stumbles back but he won the exchange, damm, his Magicia Lightning packs a hella punch! My body feels iffy, kinda like a torch flickering... Dodging another strike trying to chop my head off, his friends decides to jump me and while I do block one of their attacks, I'm left open for the other and he capitalizes on the chance courtesy of the hard toe of his boots hitting my ribcage.... Just as I stand up to get back at him, Jerkwad comes in with another Lightning attack and this one is much higher in voltage than the last, I'll be in serious trouble if it connects, swiftly deflecting his hands by getting control of his arms, his attack does a little damage but it's alright cause I'll hit him back with a liver bomb! Crippling over and folded on the ground, this is a pretty look for him, staring down the other two dead in their eyes, they spit insults and make a run for the hills dragging Jerkwad with them. Yeah, that's right jerks! Standing on jello legs, those attacks really did a number on me ah.... Yup. Defs a few fractured ribs, and my body's still haywire from Jerkwad, ughhhhhhh..... Packing up my stuff, I haul my duffel bag and myself back home, and maybe a trip to the hospital if we're out of painkillers, so there's that, ah aha ahhh!... Hurts! It hurts... Walking through quicksand, all the adrenaline is gone and the crash is just as I remembered, terrible. Just. Terrible... After sneaking through the window into my room, I kick off my shoes and chuck my duffel on the floor, crashing down on my bed harder than a bag of rocks, alright, just gonna shut my eyes for a bit then I'll get myself patched up...

Chirp Chirp Chirp...

The rustling of branches in the wind,

The subtle chats of nature,

The sky beautifully painted with hues of yellow and light blue, fluffy clouds lazily drift by...

January/2/2019. Waking up like I was chewed out by a rolling pin and a few burns left by Jerkwad's Lightning Magicia, I really don't wanna get outta bed but I've gotta take care of this, kickin' myself up and out, I drop my clothes on my bed and start patching myself up, but dang it! It hurts! Hurts real bad!!... Hearing Sara yelling from the first floor, I think she's saying something about being late? Y'know, I bet a nice warm bath oughta do the trick, also, I'm not so sure I should go to Fuller Academy smelling like burnt toast and sweaty socks... I'm sure whatever it is Sara's yelling about can wait, first things first I gotta bathe... Yeah... So after a nice warm bath, patching myself up is a lot easier, mentally at least, physically, it still hurts like hell!...

Sadie: Pumpkin! Are you alright? The first aid box is gone, can I come in?" Hearing Mom's voice from my door, I'm glad that she's not full blown volcano instead, she's warm and really concerned, I guess that comes with being a parent...

" I'm fine Mom, just... Fell down a few flight of stairs is all! Totally... Fine! Fine!!"

Sadie: Pumpkin, is it those boys again?? It's them, isn't it??!" Oh, crud... She's going into full blown volcano mode, repeat, this is serious! Prepare for explosion!! Fumbling putting my clothes on, I dash, stumble, to the door and cracking it open just enough for a Moon Mouse to pass, I can't let Mom see me busted up but I also shouldn't not open it a bit cause then I'm just confirming what she says... Going back and forth over what to do, Mom cannot, absolutely cannot, go to Fuller Academy and report them cause then I'll be involved in a fight and the Dean told me that if I did; I would be either suspended or straight up expelled! Letting Mom patch me up, most of the burns are easy to deal with simple ointments and so are the bruises, but the more than likely fractured or broken ribs, they are a whole other issue but I'll leave that alone for as long as I can, cause a trip to Mt. Shakesbeth Hospital would A. Cause us money and while we aren't in financial trouble anymore, blowing money for a hospital trip is definitely not good... But I can't really think of anything else but yeah, that's how the cookie crumbles so that's that. Taking care of breakfast with Mom's help, I make a break for Fuller Academy cause yo boy overslept, not the worst but it's definitely up there, so I gotta haul behind there! Taking a shortcut through a few winding back alleys and sidewalks, I'm gonna make it! I think?!... Burning my lungs and setting my legs on fire, I think I'm feeling my ribs move in a way that shouldn't be, yeah I can't go full sprint... But... I can't... I... I can't be late! I gotta push through, seeing the world tilting left and right, I gotta keep going, running until I'm just passed the front entrance, I slide down a locker and crash on the checkered marble floor; need to catch my breath... Getting a message on my M-Stone bracelet, it's glowing yellow then red, oh crab cakes... This is probably the Dean isn't it? Standing on noodle legs and jello arms, I can't wait to get suspended or expelled! Great!... Finding my way to the Dean's office, she's actually a lot like Mom but she's definitely more serious than her, so yeah totally gonna be a fun time! Opening the door and stepping inside, I'm surprised Jerkwad and his squad ain't here to see me get suspended or expelled, asking Dean Darci why I'm here just in case there's a slight chance it isn't about what I think it's about, she tells me that it's exactly as I thought, it's about the fight that happened between me and Jerkwad and his friends. Giving me a chance to explain my side of the truth after hearing what Jerkwad and his friends had to say, I tell it as is and Dean Darci just sighs and spits a curse in French too fast and quiet that I can't catch it...

Dean Darci: Jack, I understand that your time here isn't pleasant as the other students, but do try avoiding fights. Alright?" sounding just like Mom, genuinely caring and concerned but more serious than her, it's always surprising when she flips on a dime and her dark side takes over, definitely not a situation I wanna find myself in.

Dean Darci: Jack, you best get those injuries treated by our medical team, will you be alright going there on your own? I could call for one of them to come here if you want." Thanking Dean Darci for her offer, I can't accept it but I will take her advice and defs go to the Fuller Academy medic room and get these injuries taken care of, thanking Dean Darci for her time and for seeing the truth, I do a slight bow and leave her office going about as fast as a cube being rolled... Yeah this is gonna take awhile...

A Few Days Later...

Made it! Whew... I don't think I could've gone an inch further, I'd probable be crumbles on the cold, smooth, checkered marble floors... Getting patched up by the spectacular doctors and their nurses, I'm under strict orders to rest here for at least half the day, I guess I gotta follow doc's orders... He pretty much roasted me on how I let myself got hurt so badly, so yeah I'm definitely not looking to turn from roasted to charcoal. But I guess this isn't so bad, the warm fuzzy red orange torches that adorned the walls, nice cool sheets and a soft pillow, it's all making me so sleepy, so, so sleepy... A nap good... Nap... Becoming one with the empty void of darkness.... Waking up without a daydream, all my injuries are mostly healed aside for the fractured ribs and the nervous system in my body. Thanking the Doctors and their Nurses for fixing my injuries, I leave the medic room and onwards to Mr. Earl's class in the Evening, I pass through a sea of elbows and bags that just so conveniently keeps smacking me to the face... Eventually, I make it to Mr. Earl and cramming 2 classes into 1, my brain is overheating... Stuffing my books and everything that has to do with classes to my locker, I would die for a good bowl of Rocky Shore Ramen! Juicy, tender, shrimps. Perfectly boiled eggs marinated in special soyu blend, fresh mussels and of course, dare I say, a heavenly broth sure to transform the way you view a bowl of Ramen, nothing will compare... Maybe I can swing by Porter's Rock and have a couple bowls before going back? But tonight's family dinner night and we already made plans, I guess today wasn't meant to be Rocky Shore Ramen. Leaving Fuller Academy early because I am still injured and recovering, I hate missing Coach Brunhilde's P.E class but it's not like I can do my usual training like this, with busted ribs and my nerves finicky and glitching, there's no way I can get anything out of it... Huh? I wonder where's the crew? Kind of odd not to see them, after everyday, this is weird... Eh. I'm sure they're just busy, I think Grayson and Lars mentioned something about monster trucks, arcades, and Jeremy's got his head in Magicia books and spell castings, Kimberly and Danni are probable having a girl's night by now. Walking back the longer route passing the river that's flowing in from the ocean through Sun Coral City, California; home to beautiful beaches and fun in the sun, Magicia surfing, and nature. Thankfully, we live not too far from Fuller Academy that's across the river, up on Boro Mountain. Hearing the water hitting the stones on the river's shoreline, the fishes swimming, the soothing chatting of nature, I arrive back home just as the sun sets.

Sadie: Hey pumpkin, Ms. Darci called; she told me what happened. Do you wanna talk?" wrapping me in a big ole hug, she sounds worried but also a little proud? I wonder why?

"... Talk about what?"

Sadie: Pumpkin, you know what I'm asking, so do you wanna talk or should I just have a nice chat with Dean Darci. Your choice." Flipping on a dime from worried and caring, to sassy and shamelessly sarcastic in a kinda good way, maybe... Uuuuuuhhh, seriously? Dragging me to our couch, she asks what happened and this time, no more falling down a few flight of stairs, she wants the truth; dropping my head, I sigh and give her what she wants. Answering all of her questions about yesterday's incident and about all the other times I was bullied, that I was fine with their silly antics, petty words, and yes, the occasional fights... Moving on, she asks how did Dean Darci react to the entire situation.

" Quite well, actually..."

Sadie: Pumpkin, I know you didn't like who you were younger-"

" Hate. I hate him."

Sadie: Pumpkin, you can't keep holding onto this hate, it's not gonna land ya anything good, alright? So if any of the kids at Fuller Academy are bullying you, hit 'em back! Just enough to scare them away." speaking with a ton of love, care, and oddly enthusiasm, Mom knows just what to say which is awesome, and she's right. I can't keep hating myself for what I've done, it won't change what I did and it won't heal the scars I left on the people I hurt, I just gotta do better and not let myself hurt people again, but that's much easier said than done... Either way, I reassure Mom that I'll try my best to not hate younger me, but no promises on that coming soon, I'm struggling as is just trying to accept me now, younger me is on back burner indefinitely. But Mom doesn't needs to know, letting me go and prepare dinner, it's family dinner night and it's my turn to cook, since Mom, Sara, and Yasmin would eventually set the kitchen on fire; especially Sara, yeah, defs not letting her anywhere near the oven again. Making a classic recipe of Red Tooth Trout soup with a side of rice, fresh salad, and for dessert Starberries ice cream cakes. Let's go: grabbing the Red Tooth Trout from the fridge, fresh vegetables for the salad, egg tofu, and the special Ki Dua Yu paste, time to get cooking! Cutting off the head from the Red Tooth Trout, I put it in our biggest pot along with the spine and the bigger bones, a few raw and unpeeled vegetables for aroma, and let it boil for at least 2 hours, then drain it and using the Red Tooth Trout stalk I made, I wait until it's boiling to add the Ki Dua Yu paste into the pot and Oh. My. Gosh... The scent is amazing! Throwing in a few vegetables and of course the star of the meal, Red Tooth Trout, letting them mingle over low flames in a slow simmer for 1 hour, and while I wait for them I move on with the rice, simple and easy, getting our good old reliable rice cooker and adding five cups of rice and the same amount of water, a little more just to be safe. Checking back in the soup reduced but there's still enough that it's a soup instead of a glaze, dropping in the egg tofu, I carefully stir and kill the heat after a minute or so, and dinner is served! Plating everything on our dinning table, Mom, Sara, and Yasmin seems to be impressed and totally mouth watering like me as soon as they took a whiff of the scent from the Red Tooth Trout soup. Taking a little of everything, the tastes are fantastic... The subtle sweetness of the Red Tooth Trout compliments the slight sour and spicy Ki Dua Yu in the soup, and all the vegetables helps to balance out these flavors, and the rice is soft and sticky, but not too sticky or mushy... Yes! Got it just right... After having dinner together and helping a little in cleanup, though I wanted more, I decide to pay my Bros a visit and see what they are doing, cause it does feel a little strange to not see or hear from them for this long, usually 4 hours is the longest I've gone not hearing anything from them or seeing them. Going to Lars' place first, he lives closest out of everyone, with Kimberly and Danni living the furthest in the more private and luxurious streets, specifically Kimberly. Arriving at his front door, I give a little knock and it isn't long before I hear his footsteps coming to the door, then the audible clicks of the locks and the door opens, revealing Lars! Although, there's something different about him, but I can't put my finger on it... Weird.

Lars: Jack! Buddy! Where have you been??" sounding like a hat on fire, his higher than most guys our age, unique and just super kind, is a little a lot full of panic and concern... Maybe I'm just feeling things...

" Lars, are you okay? You're looking pretty jumpy and you sound just the same, also, you look like you walked through a tornado."

Lars: Who me? What? Wh-What do you mean?? I'm completely fine... Hey! You haven't answered my question!" Speaking in a very rushed and jumpy tone, Lars is energetic sure, and bubbly, but he's not jumpy like he's about to get caught with his hands in the cookie jar, something's going on here... But what?

" As usual, Fuller Academy, and then back home since it's family dinner night."

Lars:... Right!.... Hey you wanna hit the arcade? I heard they upgraded some of the games, even added a few from Japan!"

"... What?? They're quick! Sure Lars, let's go!... Hey, are you sure you're ok? If someone's giving you a hard time, we have your back, alright?"

Lars: Buddy, I am fine, really... Now let's go and get us some prizes! New M-Apple watch for the win!!" excited and buzzing like a bee, here's the Lars I know. Maybe I was just seeing things, either way if Lars says he's fine, than I'll take his word, since he's not a Disabled... Arriving at the arcade in record time, we warm up a few rounds on easier games like good old ping pong, table hockey, and Go Go Racer. Now it's time to really play: taking on Bank Shot Supreme, me and Lars each grabs 2 b-balls and waiting for the buzzard to shoot, we both take a deep breath and hearing the buzzard shoot, it's time! Sinking as many b-balls into the net as possible, they fly and most go in with only 2 missing out of every 6 to 10 b-balls, Lars has about the same ratio although he certainly has the better speed at throwing them and sinking them. Moving on to one of my top favorites, the boxing arcade machine; one of the few where the rules don't allow the use of Magicia. Letting Lars go first, he earns a pretty respectable 515, not bad considering he's on the lighter side. Taking my boxing stance, I step in throwing a piston right straight fully turning over my hips and pivoting my back foot to face where I'm aiming, and connecting with a loud thump, I stick to my previous best 1280, which happens to be the third best score. The highest is 6 zeros, which means whoever earned that score was so strong they broke the machine... Winning till we're raining with arcade winners tickets, we should have some left after getting Lars his brand new M-Apple watch and maybe I'll get the Inferno Diable boxing gloves, and if we still got anything left over we'll just see what we can get cause unfortunately the rules of this Arcade; we can't keep any tickets to spend later on, we gotta use them the day we win them.

Lars: Those gloves look awesome! Hey buddy, thanks for helping me out today, I couldn't have gotten the M-Apple watch without ya." slinging his arms over my shoulder in a bro side hug, I'm glad Lars is back to the Lars I know, or maybe I was overthinking things and seeing stuff that wasn't there? Who knows...

" glad to help!... Hey Lars, have you heard from the guys yet? Or maybe Kimberly? Or Danni? I can't find them kinda like how I had a hard time finding you."

Lars: Really? Buddy, we were looking for you!" Sounding shocked as a double blue tail pigeon, I can't believe we all missed each other for an entire, flipping, day!! What the heck?? Asking where they were searching for me; Lars said the entire Fuller Academy, my training ground, and Porter's Rock... Woah... They went through all that just cause they wanted to see how I was...

Lars: Also, I sent them a text while you were in the bathroom, and we're meeting up at Porter's Rock, you have to go, please?"

" Hmm... Sure, why not. I'll race you there!" Getting a headstart, Lars shouts something about me cheating but is it really cheating if he's gonna use his tech gears to help him out? I mean, c'mon, he's practically a tech genius and wizard with almost all things technology, especially like the kinds from the Eastern Countries. They are way. Way. Way... Too complicated for most of us except Lars. But I guess our country isn't too far behind, but still, they have a lot more tech stuff than us at the moment. Running at a relaxed sprint, cutting through the wind, jumping and vaulting over obstacles and on top of roofs, the adrenaline pumping more and more as my heart goes faster... Everything becomes a blurry picture and all my problems nonexistent in these moments, moments where I can be free from everything and just enjoy what I'm doing, the feeling of nothing stopping me is something I hope I'll have when I'm older, without having to run like now... Winning by a little more than a carriage, we step inside Porter's Rock and everyone's here; sitting at our booth, there's also our favorites on the table.

Grayson" Hey Bros! I knew you'd make it, so you were playing the arcade without us, huh?!" Said Grayson, loud but that's just who he is, it's a package deal.

Lars: Yeah, and you should've been there, we won the last new M-Apple watch they got." Said Lars, taking out the watch from his satchel and showing it to everyone, his voice higher than most guys our age unique and just super kind.

Kimberly:... Jackie, are you alright?" Said Kimberly, she sounds worried and her ruby red eyes are reflecting that too. I probably shouldn't tell her and everyone about what happened, anyways, it's not like they can be there to stopped it or stop future fights so I defs don't need to say anything, just gotta keep going on like I always have; like a clock that's constantly getting broke, I always put myself back because of them. The people here, saved me from becoming what I couldn't come back from, and now, I can't let them down... Not after how much they put in to help me out...

Grayson:... Hey Bro, that jerk face hasn't been causing ya any trouble right?" Says Grayson...

" what?? I'm fine, Grayson, I'm tough-"

Grayson: Bro, we know, but if he is, I call dibs on beating him up!" Again. A little loud, cutting me off or more so cutting people off, is a habit of his, but he almost entirely only does it with people he know he can trust, so I see it as a nice sign.

Jeremy: Grayson, not every enemy needs to be dealt with in such a brute manor; we can instead, make his life torture..." Okay... That's why you and I and anybody, should never get on Jeremy's dark side cause he will use plenty, and I mean, Planet-Mart plenty of ways to hit you back.

" guys, seriously, I'm fine... C'mon, I'm starving from all these foods..." Chowing down on a bit of everything, they all taste delicious.... Slurping up the noodles, dare I say, a heavenly broth sure to transform the way you view a bowl of Ramen, and the mussels, the shrimps, and the soyu eggs, all come together to form; Rocky Shore Ramen. Taking a bite of another favorite, chili cheese bangin' fries, special and heavy, greasy but not in a bad way, sauce, and golden perfectly crisp fries... Ooh! And the Sun cheese dressing is fantastic!... Listening to the talking of customers and music in the air, as the song ends our favorite jam comes on and the smiles and grind spreading across their faces tells me all I need to know, they wanna dance, and who am I to say no when it's our jam. It was pretty unexpected that we'd all be into one song, but who knew? Hitting the dance floor with slick feet and a fire to move, we have a routine and it's something we've practiced so, so, so, so many times that it's practically walking, we can't forget it... Dancing with Kimberly like the world has faded and the only thing is the music, and us, moving together in perfect synchrony, every step we take, every twists and turns, fluid and free like water and wind. Ruby red eyes shines with a carefree glow I haven't seen in awhile, bold and beautiful plum wine silk moves free and fluid with every twists and turns, her dark tan skin radiant and smooth as porcelain, ink covers her arms hiding stories about her, her family, their history, stories I'd listen countless times... Hearing the music end, we stop and the cheering of the crowd around us and our friends makes it hard not to beam with smiles from ear to ear, going back to our booth our heads held high, we spend the rest of the night eating and drinking mostly non alcoholic drinks and having fun... Walking back in pairs since everyone is a little drunk, except Jeremy, Danni, and me, I pair up with Kimberly and walking back to her family's house together, the moon hangs high above in the night sky and silver light shines, casting shadows that dance with it as we move. Deciding to stop by our secret getaway to let Kimberly sober a wee bit, the gate screeks open cause it's a little old but it's still as tough as the day we got it made, and oh wow has nothing changed here: from the big tree in the center of our getaway to the old stove and kitchen set. Some of our personal items are here but it's mostly about us instead of anything else... Slowly sobering up as the alcohol subsides and slowly Kimberly's senses starts flowing in, and I know this look, it's the "I know you're hiding something from me look."

Kimberly:... Jackie, don't you tire of constantly losing to me? You know I will find whatever it is you are hiding." She said, a little flirtatious and mostly confident.

" Kimberly, I'm not hiding, anything, I'm just a little sore from practice is all..."

Kimberly: Fine then... You won't tell me what it is, nor will I force you to, instead I shall find out for myself." Sounding almost entirely confident and a cup of competitive, Kimberly grew up in a big family, and her family is unlike any other family, after all, she is a Satrivatin; they are one of the few oldest, most powerful, and influential families in the entire world.

" No! Don't... I'm fine, really, hey why don't I walk you home? You can tell me all about Rex."

Kimberly: hmm... A very tempting offer, Jackie, fine then; where should I start?" She says, helping Kimberly to her feet we start our walk back to her Family's Home and it's not too long but long enough that we can talk like this.

Kimberly: he is absolutely charming, a gentleman, and quite the flirt TBH. I was slightly surprised, truth be told..." Hearing the excitement in her voice warm as a fireplace in winter, velvet and deep with an air of mystery to her, the way her character and brilliance shows same as royalty always impressed me. The butterflies making her speak of him like he's a knight in shining armor, which he kinda is, I'm happy but sometimes I feel bittersweet...

Kimberly:... He is magnificent, isn't he? Jackie." Sounding happy and content, I think I'm picking up some sadness? Doubt?... That's odd... Asking Kimberly if there's anything that's gotten beneath her skin? She says that she's fine, waving off my question, nonchalant and smiling, but this doesn't feels right... But I can't make her tell me since she's not making me tell her what's bothering me. Enjoying our walk, the subtle scent of herbs and spices in the wind, blown from Kimberly's home, the chatter of nature and the silver light that covers the Earth, and the kingdom of shadows that's all around us, this is a pretty perfect night... Walking Kimberly to her door, we embrace each other and say goodnight, as she opens the front door, Rex sweeps her off her feet and he nearly blew our socks off! What the heck?! A little heads-up would've been nice, y'know! Sharing a passionate kiss, their couple stuff is way too much...

Rex:... Hello Jack, how are you? I hope I'm not interrupting you and Kimberly, am I?"

" no! No... I'm just about to go home, getting late and all that, anyways, have a goodnight Rex."

Rex: thanks. I know I will with Kimberly here..."

Kimberly: down boy, we are going to rest and nothing else. Goodnight Jackie."

shutting her door, I leave walking back like the living dead as sleep sinks its calming fangs into me, slowly making me fall deeper and deeper, I think I just bumped into a tree? Eventually I make it back home... Cracking the code of unlocking the doors in the dark, I use up what energy I've got to stealthily go to my room and oh sweet corn chips and guacamole, I'm falling down! Repeat, ship is falling! Crashing on my bed, my eyes shuts and I become one with the empty void of nothingness...

Chirp Chirp...

The rustling of leaves on arms of a tree...

The songs of birds, conversations of nature...

The Earth lush and vast as the Ocean...

January/3/2019 Waking up, I rub my eyes and I think I'm fully healed cause I'm light as a feather, rolling through my morning routine like I always do, I stand in front of my mirror to check myself before leaving my room. Onto breakfast, I whip together their requests via stick notes on the fridge, making toasts, eggs, cereal, and freshly diced fruits, I gotta say, my cooking skills aren't half bad! Although, I've still got a long ways to go before I'm anything in the cooking world, for now, I'm still amateur home chef.

Sara: Thanks Jack! Soooo, are you going to hang out with your friends later?"

" I might. Yeah... Why? You need me to pick up something from the market? Buy you some food?" Seeing her eyes light up with excitement and expectation, I guess that's a definite yes; taking her orders and Yasmin; Mom too. I leave armored with my trusty tote bags, and wallet, onwards to foods!! Traversing over cracks on the sidewalk! Venturing through the shrubs and bushes! Climbing over walls and walking on rooftops!.... Which is actually the only thing that'd be remotely close to anything adventurous, anyways, after this tremendous journey do I arrive at Sun Coral City's local treasures; The Food Market! A life changing experience for foodies, from the varieties of snacks; entrees; main dishes; desserts; horderves; ingredients from all around the world!! Coming from over 120 countries give or take a few, there's still plenty more countries from both the Western Union and Eastern Countries. I think I heard something about how there's at least another 130 countries that haven't been made known to our society both Western and Eastern, with the majority coming from the Eastern Countries, considering the whole Värhūchtenheim Wars, it's no wonder why they'd be a little cautious getting in touch with us but c'mon... We aren't the only ones with insane, tyrannical, and genocidal conquerors! They had a few too, one of the most infamous was Gun-Ho Khan; he was an absolute tyrant and conqueror! He was insane in the worst of ways, seriously, what the hell?!! ... Hitting up all the stalls and checking off their orders from the list, it's going to take some time for the chefs to cook, so I might as well see if there's anything new; while sailing through stalls and getting a sample or 2 every now and then. Ah... The Food Market is so, so, beautiful; how the lights yellow, orange, and white all mingle together; creating an atmosphere that's perfect; the tantalizing smells in the air, so strong and so many you could taste it! Huh? Hearing glass shatter it breaks the perfect atmosphere, and my guts are telling me to check it out; following more glass shattering, as I get closer, the yelling of an angry man gets louder.

Arriving on the scene, I find two little kids and their pets surrounded by shattered glass and a group of middle-aged men, barking at them, about something? Honestly, I can't make squat of what they're yellin' about, seriously, at this point, it's more so they are just yelling at the top of their lungs while seasoning it with all their anger. Make that dumping all of their anger... Better see if I can break this up, speaking of, where the heck is security?

: Hey guys, let's calm down and talk things out alright?"

Drunk and stinky: WHAT'S IT TO YA?!! WE AIN'T GOTTA DO SQUAT!! NOW GET OUT UNLESS YOU WANNA PUMMELING!!" Puffing his chest and spitting at me as he screams something like a threat? I bet these drunk, old, garbage, are itching for a fight.

Drunk and big: YEAH!! SO GET LOST!!!" Okay, now I can make heads or tails of what he's saying, also, this drunk garbage is pretty big, gonna have to keep my eye on him.

: Dang. Here I thought we could talk things out; oh well, let's make this quick."

Closing the gap on the big guy, he needs to go first; I'll start with some leg kicks to chop him down; then slipping a haymaker I throw a well timed overhand right; it connects to his jaw and his lights are out. Hearing the first drunk casting a flame spell, he's slurring pretty bad but I think it's a basic lvl.2 FlameBall; that's a pretty bad spell to get shot, a couple hits and I'll be toast, literally! Tightening my guard; I step in, and barely dodge a lvl.2 FlameBall that flies past my head! That's it! Throwing an overhand right; followed up with a liver spear; it sends him kissing the floor. Getting tackled by the big drunk, and even more old drunks, I sprawl to keep my legs from his hands and this will hurt but, bracing for impact! Slipping; bobbing; weaving; as many of their attacks both physical and Magicia, I get clipped by a few but I'm still on me feet! Using lateral footwork to avoid getting surrounded by these fools, I throw a few shots here and there to keep them at bay until I find that one moment, then I'll throw a counter hard enough to have them sleeping for days... Like now! Catching one of them with a lead left check hook, it hits square on the cheeks; right below the eye socket. Smashing another fool's nose in with a sledgehammer right, and as he drops I narrowly roll out of a lvl.2 FlameBall that's wider than the first one! Jeez potato vinegar chips! ... For a bunch of ol drunk fools, they sure know how to put up a fight, but with only 3 left on jello legs, and clearly halfway to sleeping for days like their friends, this won't take much longer; finishing off the last 3 not long after my prediction, I'm a little bruised, partially singed, but mostly alright! Helping out the 2 little kids and their pets find their caretaker; apparently they're from the orphanage near the temple; they came here to have some fun and grab some chow but then came those drunk fools.

Blue Boy: Thanks again Mister! You're our hero!"

Strawberry Girl: yeah! Hero like what big bwothe say!"

: You both are adorable; also very nice! You're welcome, now go on, I'm sure your caretaker is worried about you two."

watching them run to the arms of their caretaker, I wave goodbye and leave to pick up their orders and begin my journey back to Castle Sparrow! Watching as a few cars; cycles; motorcycles on the streets, it's amazing how technology is improving. Although, most people still prefer to use Magicia to get around most places; most of society haven't taken much to technology; not when most of them are, at least, decent enough in Magicia. Unlike me of course... And any other Disabled out there... Also, the prices for most vehicles are straight up at the sky! Like what???! Even the older models are still pretty high if you compare them to other means of transportation; speaking of, public transportation is where these vehicles are mostly used. After the Värhūchtenheim Wars, and other world changing events; lead to the need to change the transport industry, mostly for the public use, and or transport of goods. Which is why a single use ticket for any train; bus; boat; planes; cost about a BLT sandwich in most Western Union Cities. The wind is really talkative today; a constant conversation without words; without any voices. Having dinner together with Mom, and Sisters, I go on autopilot through our conversations cause I can't help thinking about failing all of Mr. Earl's classes coming up soon, and being a Disabled doesn't cut me a lot of slack... Good golly gee, how am I gonna pass this time?

Sara: You know, if you keep that face up you'll get stuck that way." Talking while chewing, for a lady; Sara doesn't act much like a lady. She's been like this since way back... But she sure uses the " Mom! Jack hit me again!!" Card perfectly.

Yasmin: Don't worry Bro, you got this; just do what you always do." With a deadpan look, she asks if she's wrong? Oh wow... I am speechless, and why am I not surprised, I think she gets a kick out of seeing me struggling.

" That's easy to say when you can use Magicia."

Yasmin: Of course; but it never stopped you before, right." Going back to her bowl of congee with slices of thousand years old egg, Yasmin got a point; I've never been stopped, and I won't start now!

Sadie: Yasmin is right, Pumpkin; I know you'll find a way; if you're stuck, try going back to the beginning." Taking Mom's words carefully she does have a point, but I'm not ready to go back yet; I can't go back because I ... I .... I can't...

Sara:... So! Mom, how's Mr. Thornbush? Is the painting alright?"

Sadie: yes, it's almost done; I just need to add in a few touches and let it dry; then it's off to Mr. Thornbush." Asking Mom if she'd like me to help drop it off for her, she thinks about it for a minute; a minute later, she agrees. Dinner goes by and after helping out with cleanup duties, Mom goes back to her studio to work on her other projects; Sara is working on the next big thing on MagWeb; Yasmin is in her room studying. As for me, I'm in my room crawling up the walls for a way to pass Mr. Earl's upcoming classes; his up, upcoming classes, and every other classes of every teacher I have. ... What do I do?? I'm barely making any progress in Magicia, but I have to meet the score requirements like any other students, or I won't pass; not passing means I can't continue to be a student; because it would be the third time I've scored lowest, and that means I'm out. Alright Jack, just breathe deep and keep calm; I can do this; I just need to stick to what I know, which is not giving up when it gets tough. Attempting to cast Mirror Eyes; Mana from my chest gathers around my eyes, and just like all my previous attempts; I fail. Straight up fail... Being a Disabled sure sucks.... Trying to cast Mirror Eyes until it's late pass my bedtime; I still got tomorrow at least. Tucking myself in, I toss and turn as I get ideas leaking in on what I could do to pass Mr. Earl's upcoming classes, and they're very, very, very, tiny droplets of ideas. Maybe .... Maybe I'll know tomorrow?...

The Sun rises in the sky...

Yellow and Dark blues mingle together...

A beautiful oil painting, a picture through

the window in my room...

Hitting the clock; I drag myself outta bed and I'm surprised I'm up this early; I usually wake up to my alarm and Sara's screaming. January/4/2019. Stretching like a grass dancing in the wind, a few of my bones pop and going through the rest of my morning routine in autopilot, I'm still a little caught in my dreams; food from around the world; floating cotton candy; rainbow chocolate... But there's also a me that uses Magicia... Except, he's the old me.... A nightmare ends my dreams. Snapping out of it completely, I get started on breakfast and on cue, here comes Mom; Sara; Yasmin. Having breakfast together as always, leaving first cause I agreed to help Mom out with delivery; I get into Mom's workspace through the kitchen. Carefully with steady hands and a gentle touch; I am off to Mr. Thornbush's home; located a little far from ours, but that's fine. I should have enough time to make it back to Fuller Academy. After maximum speed walking; cutting through shortcuts; avoiding close calls with dirt! I finally made it... Mr. Thornbush's home. A little a lot on the extravagant side; also tons and tons of gold all around... Handing the painting off to Mr. Thornbush himself, he beams a big grin on his face slapping my back as he marvels his portrait; his portrait with gold all around him; how expected. Putting the handover letter in my duffel bag, I sling it over my back and I'm off like lightning! Making it will be tight; down to the last second probably. Getting through obstacles and maneuvering over houses; shops; buildings; I take my shortcut through the forest of Boro Mountains, and I've got 5 minutes left; I need to go faster!! Blowing through the front doors; I roll and continue sprinting all the way to Mr. Earl's class; arriving right on the dot, and just as Mr. Earl is about to close his door... Alright... Just need to... Catch my breath...

Mr. Earl:... Jack, are you alright? ... Do you need some water?" Mr. Earl ask; his voice deep as seas and forest of Boro Mountain; calm and mysterious as the air around him. However, the care and concern in his voice is kinda unique; rarely I ever heard this much emotion.... And no! I'm not trying to make myself super special or anything! Mr. Earl told me himself that I'm more than just another of his students; past or present; he sees me as his son. And I'm glad that he does...

" No thanks Mr. Earl, I'm fine, really, and I'm not late am I?"

Mr. Earl: No, no, no, just in time... Now go take your seat, Jack. Class, I know that some of you are struggling for the upcoming tests; hence why; today's class shall be to help all of you."

Random student: Yeah! Like Jack!"

Mr. Earl: That is strike one, add two more, and I'll have you at detention."

Hearing the random student apologize, he huffs, he puffs, about it but he holds back from interrupting Mr. Earl. He spoke so sternly that he surprised... Everyone...

Mr. Earl: Today we will revisit the basics of Magicia; chaneling Mana flow; Mana breathing exercises; and a few tips to aid you. Now then, let us begin!" Clapping his hands once; we all take our notebooks and study material from way back forever ago. Wait a second... Didn't Mom said something about going back to where I started? But... I guess this counts? I'm not ready to go back... I don't think I ever will be... Going over the basics; Mana flow is the practice of channeling Mana from the well of a person; and the well is where Mana is contained in the human body; but Disabled people lack this well or theirs has been broken; I'm part of the second. However, I guess, there's a silver lining, and that's that I can have some Mana in my broken well; I only have to work oh, about, 300 times more than everyone else. But that's cool. I've never given up and I sure as french fries won't start now!

A Few Hours Later...................

Stopping for lunch break. Mr. Earl's class today, was super, duper, helpful; not just for me; the few other students struggling really needed this. Walking through the hallways is like always, shoving, elbows, bags hitting me by

"accident". Never a dull moment I guess... Arriving at the cafeteria; thankfully I get more than just scraps like last time; navigating through a sea of students sitting around their tables; some very eager to see me land with my face smacked to my lunch; I manage to safely arrive at our table. Everyone's here except for Lars and Jeremy, who comes a couple minutes later, asking how their morning was; they say they had a good morning overall.

Grayson: Bro, where were you!? We thought something happened Bro!" Loud and caring, part of the Grayson package, a big part of his charm comes from it too.

"... Had to do a delivery for my Mom."

Kimberly: Mhm... Mr. Thornbush; self portrait surrounded by gold; more gold; nothing but gold. I am right, aren't I? Jackie." Resting her chin on the back of her hand; her fingers curls in like the paws of a cat; taking a slow sip of her favorite tea. You know, she's really starting to sell the idea she's omniscient, I mean, can you seriously, say I'm wrong??

" Yeah, that's it. So how are all of your classes going? Good I hope."

Lars: Eh. Science is tough, but I'm really juiced for the project we're doing!"

Jeremy: Magicia made me keck more times than I can handle; I'm surprised I haven't vomit thus far." From his speech to his facial expressions, Jeremy isn't lying, he really does feel like emptying his stomach! Oh goodness corn crisps... I'm done for! If Jeremy can feel like this than what about me??!

Danni: Same here; jeez are they busting our asses! Don't get me started on battle tactics and stratagems; getting it right is like finding string in a stack of needles..." Yikes! Danni is mad... Like; really mad she's gonna need 2 bowls of Porter's Rock homemade ice cream. Her raspy voice rocking like thunder, and not at all soft like MoMo balls. Yup. She's definitely mad...

Grayson: Uhm... I guess I'm lucky? I mean, don't get me wrong Bros, physical combat has me on my butt a lot! But I'm happy!" Loud and deep as the ocean, and full of confidence, like the sun. I guess he'd be struggling the least out of all of us... At least one of us doesn't have to struggle so much...

Danni: Hey Kimmy, didn't yer Mom put yer in business class? Y'know, I think if I ever wanted to go bald; take me with you when yer go." Oof. The sarcasm and the truthfulness, we feel you Danni, we totally do...

Kimberly: Why of course; who needs a professional salon; 2-3 hours of business class will shave your head clean." Hmmm... I would like to say Kimberly's just joking like Danni, but another part of me thinks she's serious, I can't quite tell, and I'm not too sure if I want to.....

" Well... Not that I think I've got it harder, but, I'm a Disabled; competing against non Disabled; can't get much harder than that."

Kimberly:... Of course. Jackie, is there anything we can assist you with? Magicia is my forte; Jeremy as well; we can assist you if that is what you need?" She's so genuine, and the warmth in her voice like a fireplace lit during winter, and the way her character and brilliance shows, same as royalty, always impressed me. Jeremy chimes in, adding that he could use a good distraction to get his mind off of his Magicia lessons.

" Thanks guys, I appreciate it but I think I can manage-" My left hand, it feels weird, actually, it feels numb and nothing? Trying to move my fingers, they twitch a little but they can't move, nor can my hand for that matter, alright just breathe me; don't panic and stay calm; put on your I'm totally fine face; act cool and tough through it!

" Hey guys, I think I gotta us e the bathroom! BRB!"

Grayson:.... He's hiding something isn't he?"

Lars; Definitely. Question is; what's he hiding?"

Speed walking to the medic room; Dr. Appleburr said I should see him if I have any questions; or any injuries; just feeling off in general I guess. Finding Dr. Appleburr easy enough, he's sitting behind his desk doing paperwork, when he notices me standing here, and freaking out a little and that something is clearly wrong! Explaining what's going on; I also tell Dr. Appleburr about how my nerves were finicky; and glitching; like bad reception. Doing a check-up; he's quiet for awhile which really isn't helping much; if anything, it's making me panic more.... Explaining why my left hand is numb and why I can't really control it, and why my body's nervous system is all finicky and glitching like bad reception, he says; all the electricity I took from Jerkwad's Lightning Magicia; caused a point or part of my nervous system to shut down; like an isolated blackout; hence why I can't control my left hand. This sucks! Well... I suppose I can still use it in some way? Maybe? Leaving Dr. Appleburr and the medic room, I thanked him a bunch for helping me out again, and I probably missed lunch; I better get my behind to Mr. Earl's class before I'm late.... Arriving last again, at least I'm not as tight on time as this morning, now I've got like, a solid 1 1/2 second before I'm late.

Mr. Earl: Jack, this is the second time you've came last but not late; am I seeing a pattern? Should I be worried?" He says jokingly, which is surprising since Mr. Earl hardly jokes around when the students are here. And all of them are probably upset at me, for making class any longer than it needs to be... Yeah... What's new? Hunkering down on my seat, Mr. Earl's class goes on like always, and like always, I feel like my brain is overheating, but I also feel like... Like I'm close to the breakthrough I need.

Mr. Earl: Alright then, to summarize today's class; Magicia; Mana; and how even Disabled can learn them; that is what we've touched."

Mr. Earl: Always remember my students, when a path is blocked, when you can't find the answer, change your perspective; your view of the problem; your position; and you will find the answer." Inspired by Mr. Earl's words, I bet most of them are too, and how can they not be?? Now for sure! I'm gonna get that breakthrough!!

I don't care how much, how hard, I have to train, I will breakthrough and stand with my friends!!! Filing out of Mr. Earl's classroom like lunch break all over again, at least a few of them picked up the extra material Mr. Earl put on his desk. Talking with Mr. Earl about what we covered today and if he's got any tips that may help me out, we go over until a knock on his door disrupts us from our conversation.

Grayson: Hey Bro! Sorry to bother you, but we gotta head back, remember?" Big and loud as a Liobear, but way more caring and reliable in a pinch to fix stuff, Grayson sure does stand out from the crowd in a good way of course!

Mr. Earl: Grayson, good to see you as always, well, I believe that's our time for today; I will see you tomorrow, Jack. Now both of you stay safe." Ruffling my hair, Mr. Earl returns to his job while Grayson and I leave Fuller Academy, after all, as much as I enjoy being with Mr. Earl, I've got stuff to do. Walking out the grand doors of Fuller Academy, the whole crew is here and I'm feeling even more pumped!

" Hey guys, do you wanna train with me? I think I'm really close to having a breakthrough! I can feel it..."

Grayson: Count me in, Bro! You know we got your back!"

Danni: Grayson's right, c'mon! I'm fired up!" Raspy and rocking like thunder; Danni's extra fired up! Which is super awesome! ... And that means I'll probably get my butt handed to me... A lot... Oh well, the price of success is never cheap and I won't quit!

Jeremy: For the purpose of training, I suggest we use your usual training grounds, Jack. It has been some time since we went there."... Crab sticks and corn crackers! I forgot to redo the grass and spiffy it up a bit! But they won't know will they? ... Nah. I'm sure they won't know.....

Several Ads Later....

Kimberly: Jackie, would you mind explaining how the grass and ground here are burned?" Pointing with her eyes to the most biggest patch of burnt ground, I calmly say that I have no clue whatsoever! Is how I imagined myself in my head but I know I'm nothing like that, more so, I trip and fall over my words with sweaty palms, cause I sense she'll whoop my butt if she knew... And then they would join in on it too...

Kimberly:... Sigh* Moving on, whom would you like to spar first, Jackie? Me? Jeremy? Danni? Perhaps Grayson to make it easier?" Hearing the little taunting tone seasoned into her voice, Kimberly masks it well but I know, this is definitely a challenge, and a good one that I'll take head on!

"... I'm choosing... Danni and Jeremy! Together!"

Kimberly: Oh ho ho~ How confident of you, Jackie, taking them both together increases the difficulty much, much, more..."

" I know... But I can feel it.... I'm close to my breakthrough..." Clenching my hands into fists, my left isn't as tight as I'd like, but it's gonna have to do, cause I'm not backing down now!!

Danni: That's the spirit! C'mon Jer-Jer Let's help our good ol' Bro Jack!" Raspy and rocking like thunder, Danni's really pumped about our sparring session which is kinda scary...

Jeremy: I'm right by your side, and I'm more than happy to help Jack, after all, what better way is there than to learn Magicia first hand." Calm and ready to get our sparring session rolling, Jeremy's excited, and wait a sec... What you mean about learning first hand?? Jeremy??!

Kimberly: Then I shall act as referee, get into your positions, and wait for my mark." Taking their position, Jeremy stands a good three to six meters out, while Danni's only a couple meters away, just like what I'd expect. Jeremy's fighting style consists of using long ranged Magicia spells and sometimes incantations for spells that are too complicated for him to do in his head. Danni on the other hand, prefers to use Magicia to boost her physical capabilities and sticks to mid-long range attacks both spells and physical attacks, before completely squaring up and dropping bombs to get that K.O win. Alright just breathe and remember what you learned from Mr. Earl's classes today, I just need to change my perspective on how I approach Magicia. Closing my eyes and getting into my rythm, I know I'm close to the breakthrough... I just need to find a way... To find the path there... Something to make it happen... Hearing Kimberly start the sparring session, I tighten my guard and sprint towards Jeremy; I need to stop him before he can get his heavy hitters up and running; but I know they know that I'd need to do this to have shot; using Rabbit Dance to keep the distance between us straight off the gate. Rabbit Dance is a Magicia that enhances the speed of the user; also they can stay longer in the air after jumping; Rabbit Dance has some amounts of Feather Fall allowing the user to fall slower; Feather Fall is a Magicia that makes the user fall slower. Pressuring Jeremy by staying on him, I'm slowly closing in but I'm taking too much damage to my guard! I've gotta hang on!... I need to be... I need to.... Ah! Barely getting out the way of a Danni special; cutting the air with her three kick special; the last one got through my guard a little. I need to keep up the pressure! Adding more lateral movement into my footwork, Danni's kicks are missing more but some still connect, even if they only graze me, it still hurts, it hurts enough that I messed up! Crab cakes! Getting pinned down by a flurry Ice Bullets! ... Ice Bullets; part of the Ice Magicia, the user creates small ice balls and shoots them at high speed; low damage and low Mana cost; but effective for keeping someone away. Taking a knee, I knew I had a long way to go but... This is insane! ..... Wait.... What am I saying? Get a grip! Getting back up, something flashes my eyes but it's too fast that I don't know what it is, it's probably nothing... Peeking through my active guard at Jeremy and Danni, she's got her spells lined up so Jeremy's probably gonna back off to get one of his heavy hitters ready, then this is it! Taking advantage of the tiny, tiny, gap that's made; I dash in like always but suddenly it's like, I've chopped the earth between us like what?? Taking another step and we're face to face. Okay. What the heck??! Naniiiiiiii!!!!!.... Throwing a left right combo to his hips, I don't know how or what just happen but I'm gonna take advantage of it! Trying to push me away, Jeremy obviously has reach over me but infighting is my forte, and using my head to push him off balance, this sets him up for a three hook special! Double lefts and a right! Grazing Jeremy with the right on his cheek, he turns away just enough to save himself from hitting the ground, alright, just gotta keep this up! Danni! Bobbing; weaving; pulling back; ducking; side stepping; I'm actually doing this?!! Throwing a jab that goes just a tad bit too wide, I slip in a crisp 1-2 and Danni takes a knee!! What????!!!........... What's happening to me?!!! Am I finally using Magicia??! I'm using Magicia!!! ..... Alright let's try this again, getting back up, Danni looks awesome with her Mana flowing out of her like Kimberly. Focusing on drawing all of my Mana from my core, and flowing it to my hands, I focus on forming a sphere made of Mana in my palms, but nothing. Why can't I do the most basic spell???! I was just using some kind of Mana or Magicia! So why can't I do it now that I need it to work????... Getting dropped over and over and over; over; over; and over again... Needless to say I didn't expect anything more than this so I'm not too shocked, but dang, it still hurts to hit the ground so many times....

Grayson: Bro... Are you alright?"

" Totally.... Just gotta catch... My.... My breath a little...."

Jeremy:... Jack, you definitely are stronger... I am still feeling all those hooks..." Smiling while breathing like he just did a 100m sprint, Jeremy is definitely tired but I can't believe how many times he got me! He's still way too good ..

" I'm sorry! I didn't mean to go too hard, are you okay??"

Jeremy" Definitely.... But I unfortunately can't continue, I'm sorry for not having a higher damage tolerance..." Looking a little sad and sounding disappointed, his voice is still the same serene and easy going, caring and super chill vibes. But he shouldn't be disappointed; he totally kicked my butt more than I kicked his! Not that it counts or anything!....

" Don't sweat it! I'm just glad you guys helped me! I... I know you're all busy and all so it means a lot that you're all here..."

Danni: aw... It's nothing dude! C'mon, you ready for another round?"

" uhm-"

Kimberly: Jackie, why not spar with me? I'm certain I can help you breakthrough, and if not, well... You will gain more experience." Uhm.... Yeah the way Kimberly sounds is making me feel like taking her offer would just end with me in a puddle of I so regret it. Yet... The chance of gaining more experience is tempting.... What to do... What to do?....