Episode 19

The higher the level, the tougher the battle becomes, with adversaries growing stronger.

Hoaaammm…” Ferzo yawns, exhausted as the clock reads 21:40.

“It’s late, isn’t it? My eyes sting from staring at the laptop screen for too long – I need to buy glasses tomorrow,” Ferzo mutters, logging out of his game and shutting his laptop. He lies down on his bed, joined by Cimot and Comot.

***

Morning arrives, and it’s time for school. Although he hates to leave Cimot and Comot home alone, he has no choice but to do so as pets aren't allowed at school.

Ferzo fills their bowls generously with food, ensuring they won’t go hungry until his return.

“Eat up, you two – no fighting, stay amicable,” Ferzo says, petting his animals.

“Bye, I’m off.” He waves, exits his room, locks the door, and heads to his motorcycle, setting off down the street.

During his commute, Ferzo spots a roving gado-gado vendor and can’t resist stopping.

“One gado-gado, please,” Ferzo requests.

“Just a moment,” the vendor says, preparing the dish.

“Here you go,” he hands Ferzo his order. Without seating, Ferzo squats down and devours his meal.

“How much?” Ferzo inquires, offering his empty plate.

“Ten thousand.”

Ferzo digs into his pocket, finds his remaining 900,000.

“Keep the change – may your fortune be smooth,” Ferzo says, handing over 100,000.

“Thank you so much,” the vendor gratefully accepts with both hands and a kiss.

Feeling good, Ferzo hands out another 3 red bills, thinking of his recent conquest of a senior classmate which brought him that money; he doesn’t mind sharing with those in need.

“Thank you, thank you so much,” the vendor bursts into tears.

“No problem, I need to get going,” Ferzo replies, mounting his motorcycle, and heading back to school.

Just meters away from school, Ferzo is blocked by the same upperclassman he’d confronted before.

Ferzo dismounts, smiling confidently.

“Here again, scars from yesterday not enough?” Ferzo stands arms akimbo.

The upperclassmen show up bandaged and injured.

“Could you… return the money you took yesterday?” they timidly ask.

“Unfortunately, it’s already spent. But don’t worry, I put it to good use. Thanks for the contribution,” Ferzo pats their shoulders, returns to his motorcycle, and drives past them.