**Chapter 12** Bonds Deepening

The next day at school was quieter. The initial buzz surrounding Exalibar had died down, and the students seemed to be adjusting to the idea of having a powerhouse in their midst. Exalibar, for his part, was determined to prove that he was more than just his abilities. He wanted to be seen as a person, not a weapon.

In history class, the teacher, Mr. Thompson, assigned a group project. Exalibar found himself paired with Jessica, the girl with minor telekinesis who sat next to him. She was quiet, often keeping to herself, but Exalibar had noticed her glancing at him occasionally.

"So," Jessica said, her voice soft as they huddled over their textbooks, "what do you think about the project topic?"

Exalibar shrugged. "Seems interesting. I've never really thought much about the history of superpowers."

Jessica nodded, her dark hair falling into her face. "It's fascinating, really. How abilities have shaped society, for better or worse."

Exalibar glanced at her, curious. "You sound like you've thought about this a lot."

Jessica smiled faintly. "I have. My parents are historians. They've always been interested in how abilities have influenced culture and politics."

Exalibar leaned back in his chair, intrigued. "That's cool. I never really had a chance to think about stuff like that. My life was always more about… survival."

Jessica's expression softened. "I can't imagine what that must have been like. But you're here now. That's what matters."

Exalibar nodded, a small smile tugging at his lips. "Yeah. I guess it is."

At lunch, the group was in high spirits. Aisha had brought a deck of cards, and they were playing a round of poker—though Exalibar suspected she was using her powers to cheat.

"I call your bluff," Dylan said, tossing a handful of chips into the centre of the table.

Chloe smirked, laying down her cards. "Full house. Pay up, Dylan."

Dylan groaned, handing over his chips. "You're too good at this." 

Aisha laughed, leaning back in her chair. "Or you're just bad at poker."

Exalibar watched the exchange, a sense of warmth spreading through him. These people—his friends. He couldn't imagine his life without them.

"Hey, Exalibar," Chloe said, turning to him, "you've been quiet. What's on your mind?"

Exalibar hesitated, then shrugged. "Just thinking about how different things are now. A few months ago, I didn't even know what it was like to have friends. Now… I can't imagine not having you guys."

The table fell silent, the playful atmosphere replaced by something more heartfelt. Aisha reached over, squeezing his hand. "You're stuck with us, Maxford. Whether you like it or not."

After school, the group decided to hang out at the park. It was a rare moment of downtime, and they were determined to make the most of it. They spread out a blanket under a large oak tree, the late afternoon sun casting a golden glow over the scene.

"So," Dylan said, leaning back on his elbows, "what's everyone's plan for the weekend?"

Chloe shrugged, her purple eyes scanning the horizon. "Probably just study. Midterms are coming up, and I don't want to fail."

Aisha groaned, flopping onto her back. "Don't remind me. I've got a chemistry test on Monday, and I'm so not ready."

Exalibar chuckled, leaning against the tree. "I could help you study. I've got a pretty good memory."

Aisha shot him a grateful smile. "You're a lifesaver."

The conversation flowed easily, the group falling into their usual rhythm. As the sun began to set, painting the sky in shades of orange and pink, Exalibar felt a sense of peace settle over him. This was his life now—a life filled with laughter, friendship, and the promise of a future he could shape for himself.

As they packed up and headed home, Exalibar couldn't help but reflect on how far he'd come. The boy who had once been a weapon, a tool for others to use, was now a son, a friend, and a student. He still had a long way to go, but for the first time, he felt like he was on the right path.

**To Be Continued…**