Life Gallery 5 - Fairest of Them All
Scene: Flashback - Birth of a Beauty
INT. GENTOSHI FAMILY ESTATE – NIGHT
The grand halls of the Gentoshi estate were quiet that evening, save for the hushed voices of the servants. The air was thick with anticipation. In one of the lavish bedrooms, Angela and Lysander—the Gentoshi twins—were born. The family rejoiced, showering attention on the newborns, and it wasn't long before Angela's appearance became a central focus.
Father (proudly): "Look at her... she's going to grow up to be beautiful."
The praise was frequent, and the expectations were clear. Angela was always dressed in the finest clothes, her soft brown hair adorned with bows and ribbons, while the family's eyes lingered on her perfect features.
INT. GENTOSHI FAMILY ESTATE – LIVING ROOM – AGE 5
The large living room bustled with laughter and joy as Angela sat in the center of the room, surrounded by family and friends. It was her fifth birthday, and her attention shifted between the bright decorations and the colorful pile of gifts stacked high in front of her. She smiled as she unwrapped one present after another, until her small hands came upon a sleek, gold-wrapped package.
Peeling away the wrapping paper, Angela revealed an elegant makeup kit, gleaming with soft pinks and reds. Her eyes blinked with confusion. Makeup? For a five-year-old?
Angela (puzzled): "What's this?"
Her mother smiled warmly, kneeling beside her.
Mother (gently): "It's makeup, darling. You'll learn how to use it when you're older. You're going to grow up to be so beautiful."
The adults chuckled softly, but Angela didn't understand why. She glanced at Lysander, her twin, who was busy admiring his new laptop, his world of technology completely separate from hers.
Something stirred within her, a small flicker of awareness. Beauty was important. People smiled when they talked about how she looked, about how "beautiful" she would become.
INT. GENTOSHI FAMILY ESTATE – GARDEN – AGE 7
Angela sat outside in the estate's garden, flipping through one of her mother's fashion magazines. The pages were filled with models—women in elegant dresses, adorned with makeup and jewelry, their faces perfectly posed in front of the camera. Her mother often left these magazines around, and Angela had started picking them up more and more.
On the page in front of her was a beauty pageant advertisement, with the words "Miss World: Where Beauty Meets Elegance" in bold. The women in the ad stood tall, proud, and... powerful. Angela studied their faces, the way their expressions held a certain confidence that made them seem larger than life. She saw the way the camera loved them, the way they commanded attention without saying a word.
Angela (thinking): "They don't need to say anything. Everyone just... looks at them."
She looked down at her own reflection in the magazine's glossy surface. She was just a child, but something inside her shifted. She was starting to understand. Beauty wasn't just about being admired—it was about being seen.
INT. GENTOSHI FAMILY ESTATE – BALLROOM – AGE 10
At ten, Angela was no longer the innocent child who didn't understand the significance of beauty. She had started to grasp that the way people reacted to her depended on how she presented herself. That night, there was a grand ball at the Gentoshi estate, and Angela was dressed in a pristine white gown, her hair meticulously styled.
She stood at the top of the staircase, watching the guests below. Her parents were busy entertaining their important visitors, but Angela noticed something more interesting—how the adults reacted to one another. Women complimented each other's dresses and appearances, and the men paid more attention to those who stood out. She watched as her mother commanded respect, not with words, but with her presence. Her gown, her poise, her beauty—it all demanded attention without her needing to ask for it.
As Angela descended the stairs, she saw the way eyes turned toward her. Even though she was still a child, there was a shift in the room. The guests smiled at her, some commenting on how "lovely" she looked.
And then it clicked. People saw what you showed them. You didn't have to be the loudest or the smartest in the room—if you were beautiful, people couldn't look away.
Angela smiled sweetly, nodding at the compliments, but inside, she was starting to understand the game. Beauty was power.
INT. GENTOSHI FAMILY ESTATE – ANGELA'S BEDROOM – AGE 13
Angela sat at her vanity, staring at her reflection. She had grown more comfortable with makeup by now, experimenting with colors and styles. Her mother had begun to teach her the finer details of presentation—how to highlight her best features, how to dress in a way that accentuated her natural beauty.
But it wasn't just about looking pretty. Angela had started to notice how people treated her differently when she put effort into her appearance. At school, other girls gravitated toward her, wanting to befriend the "pretty" one. Boys noticed her in a way they hadn't before. And even teachers seemed to give her more attention, smiling warmly whenever she entered the room.
Angela (thinking): "It's not just about how you look. It's about how you make them feel when they see you."
Beauty was a currency, and Angela was beginning to realize she could control how much value she had in other people's eyes. She wasn't the loudest or the smartest—but she didn't need to be. Her beauty was becoming her influence.
INT. GENTOSHI FAMILY ESTATE – LIVING ROOM – AGE 15
By fifteen, Angela had honed her understanding of the world around her. She had spent years observing, learning, and perfecting the art of presentation. Now, as she sat in the grand living room, surrounded by family friends and important guests, she felt in complete control of the way they saw her.
Dressed in a sleek, tailored gown, her hair falling in soft waves over her shoulders, Angela's presence was magnetic. She no longer had to fight for attention—it came to her effortlessly. Men complimented her, women glanced at her with envy, and her parents looked at her with pride.
Angela had perfected the art of being seen.
As the evening progressed, Angela overheard one of her mother's friends talking about the power of beauty in business, how it could sway deals, open doors, and influence decisions. The woman spoke of how the world admired not just intelligence, but how intelligence was presented.
Mother's Friend (smiling): "In the end, people are drawn to what they admire. And beauty... well, it opens more doors than you'd think."
Angela's eyes sharpened at the comment, the last piece falling into place. It wasn't just about being beautiful—it was about using beauty. It was a tool, a weapon to be wielded in the world of social politics and influence. Beauty wasn't just something to admire—it was a way to control how others saw you and how they treated you.
As the evening went on, Angela smiled at the guests, her presence graceful and poised. But inside, she felt something new: an understanding that beauty wasn't just about looking good for admiration's sake. It was about power—the ability to shape people's perceptions, to influence their actions without them even realizing it.
Angela's hand touched her face lightly, as if she were testing the boundaries of her newfound power. She had spent her childhood learning how to be beautiful… Now is the time to use it.
Scene: Flashback - Sibling Bonding
INT. GENTOSHI FAMILY ESTATE – ANGELA'S ROOM – LATE AFTERNOON
The sunlight filters through the curtains of Angela's room, casting a warm glow over the vanity cluttered with makeup kits—foundations, lipsticks, brushes, palettes—neatly arranged like an artist's tools. Angela sits in front of the mirror, applying a new shade of lipstick, her focus intense.
The door creaks open, and Lysander leans against the frame, arms crossed. His hair is slightly disheveled. He watches Angela for a moment, amusement flickering across his face.
Lysander (teasing): "You're back at it again. How many of those things do you even have now?"
Angela rolls her eyes, finishing her lipstick and glancing at him in the mirror.
Angela (with a smirk): "Enough to keep things interesting. What about you? Watching another travel stories from a man in a blue box??"
Lysander (grinning): "Touché."
He steps into the room, inspecting the makeup kits scattered around her vanity. He picks up a palette, flipping it open and furrowing his brow at the variety of colors inside.
Lysander (curious): "But really, how do you remember all these? I can barely keep track of the names of these shades."
Angela chuckles, turning in her chair to face him, arms crossed.
Angela (playfully): "Same way you remember all those facts about Doctor Who's time travels. It's just practice."
Lysander laughs, shaking his head, clearly impressed but not admitting it outright. He tosses the palette back onto the vanity and leans against her chair.
Lysander (teasing): "Yeah, well, I'm just trying to figure out how eyeshadow is the same as saving the universe."
Angela shrugs, smirking.
Angela: "It's not about the universe, big bro. It's about perception. You control how you're seen, how people react to you. It's... powerful."
Lysander raises an eyebrow, picking up on the seriousness of her words. He might not fully understand her obsession with makeup, but he knows that, for Angela, it's more than just about looks.
Lysander (gently): "I guess that makes you the real magician around here, huh? Controlling how the world sees you."
Angela's smirk softens into a real smile. Despite their playful banter, she knows Lysander gets it—even if he won't admit it. They might have different hobbies and personalities, but at the core, they understand each other.
Angela (fondly): "Maybe. But your time traveler still has me beat."
Lysander chuckles, gently nudging her with his elbow.
Lysander (affectionately): "I wouldn't bet on it."
Angela laughs, shaking her head at his self-deprecation. She reaches out and lightly taps his arm, the playful mood returning.
Angela (teasing): "You're not as clueless as you pretend to be. One of us has to be the smart one."
Lysander grins, leaning back as he waves his action figure in the air.
Lysander (mock dramatic): "That's because I have the wisdom of all of time and space, dear sister."
Angela (rolling her eyes): "Yeah, and I have flawless contouring. I think we're even."
They share a laugh, the warmth between them clear. Though their interests might lie in different worlds, they share an unspoken bond that transcends their differences. The kind of bond that only twins can have.
Scene: Artificial Superpower - Shape of Sympathy
INT. LYANDRA SCIENCE INSTITUTE – RESEARCH OFFICE – DAY
The dim light of the research office cast a soft glow on the array of holographic reports and diagrams that floated before Angela's eyes. As the others discussed their superpower choices, their voices became distant. Angela's attention drifted from the equations and explanations of scientific principles being thrown around by Anya. She wasn't interested in calculating magnetic fields or vectors. No, Angela was focused on something far deeper—how people see her.
Her eyes lingered on the display, flipping past powers of brute strength, telekinesis, and the manipulation of matter. These were powers for people who wanted to move the world physically. But Angela had long since realized that the real power lay in controlling perception.
From a young age, she had learned the truth: People could be shaped by what they saw. Their expectations, their desires, their judgments—all of it was based on the image in front of them. Beauty had been her first key to that truth. She knew how a well-timed glance, the right posture, or even a hint of a smile could sway people without a word. She didn't need brute force to win battles. She needed control over how others saw her.
The holographic display flickered, and Angela's gaze landed on something called Shape of Sympathy.
Her heart quickened.
Angela (thinking): This is it. This is what I've been waiting for.
Shape of Sympathy. A power designed not for strength, but for influence. It worked by manipulating pheromones, color patterns, and subtle movements—using biology and psychology to alter how people perceived and responded to her. She could change their thoughts, their emotions, bend them to her will—all by controlling their senses.
Her fingers hovered over the power description, reading each word carefully. Pheromones, light manipulation, the delicate science of perception. This wasn't just a weapon of charm, it was a tool of absolute control.
Angela (thinking): Beauty was always my weapon. But this... this would let me control more than just how I looked. I could control how people felt. I could become anyone. Everyone.
Anya's voice broke through the haze of her thoughts.
Anya (smiling knowingly): "Shape of Sympathy. It's based on the science of perception, pheromones, color theory, movement—all designed to alter how others see and feel about you."
Angela's breath caught for a moment as she imagined the possibilities. She wouldn't just be admired. She would be feared, loved, obeyed—whatever she wanted. The power wouldn't just make people like her or find her beautiful. It would allow her to decide what they thought of her, what they felt. Her influence would be subtle, untraceable, and absolute.
Her mind wandered back to all the moments that had shaped her understanding of the world. The way people had always treated her based on how she looked—the adoration, the envy, the attention. She had perfected the art of appearing just the way she wanted, and now, this ability would let her take that power further than she had ever imagined.
Angela (thinking): I've known it all along. The world is controlled by perception, not by strength. Why waste time fighting with brute force when I can make them see whatever I want them to? I can craft myself into their perfect vision—change their emotions, their reactions—all without them even realizing it.
Her fingers tightened around the holographic file as the excitement surged through her. This was what she needed. A power that would let her manipulate not just the world's expectations, but its very reality. And the best part? No one would know.
The thought of controlling people's emotions, bending them to her will, was intoxicating. She imagined herself walking into a room, not as the daughter of the Gentoshi family, but as whoever she wanted them to see—a leader, a seductress, a confidante. All in the palm of her hand.
Angela (thinking): This is it. With this, I won't just be admired. I'll be in control. Completely.
Angela's lips curled into a confident smile. This was the power she was destined for—the power to shape the world as she saw fit, to become more than just a beautiful face. She would become someone no one could ignore, someone they couldn't resist, someone who could bend them to her will.
Her voice was calm, steady, as she looked at Anya.
Angela (smiling confidently): "That's exactly what I need."
But inside, her thoughts burned with excitement. Control over perception. Control over the world.
And Angela would make sure the world saw her exactly how she wanted—nothing more, nothing less.
Scene: Shape of Sympathy in Action – Girl's Gossip
INT. ST. ALARIC ACADEMY – ACADEMIC CAFETERIA – LATE MORNING
The common area buzzed with activity as students gathered between classes. Angela sat gracefully at a table with two of her classmates, Elena Togami and Rina Rosenkreuz, who couldn't help but be captivated by her presence. Angela's soft smile and relaxed posture made it impossible for them to look away.
Angela took a sip from her drink, her emerald eyes glinting with curiosity as she turned the conversation to a topic she knew would pique their interest.
Angela (smiling): "I've heard so many students are focusing on hunter exams lately. Fighting monsters is such a dangerous job, yet it seems to be more popular than ever."
Rina giggled, leaning in slightly, clearly eager to engage.
Rina (giggling): "Oh, totally! But it's not just the danger—it's become such a huge industry. You know, guilds and everything."
Elena nodded enthusiastically, picking up on the thread of conversation.
Elena (animated): "Yeah, the guilds are like the new big thing. They're practically private armies! I mean, they can be hired by the government or even by corporations to protect people from monsters."
Angela's smile widened slightly, encouraging them to continue. She listened carefully, letting the conversation unfold naturally.
Angela (lightly): "It's interesting how something so dangerous has become such a major part of society. It almost feels... glamorous in a way, doesn't it?"
Elena leaned in, her voice dropping as if sharing some secret knowledge.
Elena (with excitement): "Well, it's glamorous when you're part of a big guild. Have you heard of Eagle Step? They're one of the most famous guilds in the country! I heard they're coming to St. Alaric Academy soon to recruit students with special abilities."
Rina's eyes widened as she added, her voice rising in excitement.
Rina (grinning): "Yeah! Eagle Step's second only to the Golden Dawn. Can you imagine being recruited by them? It's like becoming a celebrity!"
Angela nodded thoughtfully, her gaze distant for a moment. The idea of joining a prestigious guild didn't appeal to her the way it might to others—she preferred a subtler kind of power. But the influence that came with being part of a renowned organization? That was something worth considering.
Angela (thinking): So, Eagle Step's coming here to recruit... interesting.
The conversation shifted slightly as Rina leaned back, musing aloud.
Rina (casually): "I guess for some students, though, it makes sense to go the hunter route. I mean, especially for people whose powers are... you know, more suited to that kind of thing."
Elena glanced over at Angela, her curiosity piqued by the shift in tone.
Elena (interested): "Yeah, like that underclassman... What's his name again? Hugo? I heard he just got his hunter certificate."
Angela's eyes flickered, but she kept her expression neutral, letting the girls continue.
Rina (nodding): "Right! His power is supposed to be insane. They say it's one of the strongest destructive abilities in the world. No wonder he passed the hunter exam."
Elena laughed lightly, her tone a mix of admiration and disbelief.
Elena (grinning): "Yeah, but he's so quiet. I don't think anyone really knows much about him. It's like he got certified out of nowhere."
Angela remained silent for a moment, the conversation flowing naturally as her classmates gossiped about her brother—completely unaware of his true connection to her. She leaned back in her chair, offering a casual response.
Angela (with a subtle smile): "Interesting... I suppose with power like that, he'd be a natural for the hunter path."
Rina and Elena nodded in agreement, the conversation moving forward as they continued to chatter about other students. But Angela's mind lingered on what she had just learned. Hugo—certified as a hunter. That changed things.
Angela (thinking): "So… that is your chosen path now? Well, I suppose if you can kill your own parents with it, you can also use it to kill monsters."
Angela smiled to herself, feeling the quiet power of her own abilities at work. The conversation flowed easily, her classmates sharing information without her needing to push. The Shape of Sympathy was a tool she was only beginning to master, and already it was proving invaluable.
Scene: Urgent News
INT. LYSANDER'S APARTMENT – EVENING
The spacious apartment, with its modern decor and floor-to-ceiling windows, has a sense of calm. Lysander, sprawled across the couch, half-asleep, rests his head on a pillow lazily.
Suddenly, the sound of the front door slamming jolts him awake. Angela bursts in, her heels clicking across the hardwood floor. Her face is flushed, her breathing quick, and she's clearly in a hurry. Lysander, groggy and still rubbing his eyes, mumbles as he tries to focus on her.
Lysander (half-asleep): "Angela... What's going on? You look like you ran a marathon."
Angela leans against the wall, catching her breath before blurting out the news.
Angela (urgently): "It's about Hugo. There's been a new development—something big."
The words hit Lysander like a shockwave. He immediately sits up, wide awake now, his mind racing. Hugo had always been the wildcard in their family, his powers both a gift and a curse. Lysander runs a hand through his hair, trying to process.
INT. LYSANDER'S APARTMENT – DINING AREA
Lysander, Angela, Alexei and Floria all settle around the sleek dining table, each of them brimming with their own thoughts. Lysander, now fully alert, leans forward, his eyes locked on Angela as she begins to explain.
Angela (seriously): "I was at the Power Registry today and overheard some things. They're still running tests, but... Hugo's power is ranked as S-class. They're saying his flames are unlike anything they've seen before."
The room falls silent for a moment. Even Alexei, usually the one to lighten the mood, looks shocked. Lysander rubs his temples, trying to wrap his mind around this.
Lysander (in disbelief): "S-class? You're telling me Hugo's power is... stable enough for them to even classify it?"
Lysander (quietly): "This changes everything."
Just as the weight of the conversation settles in, Lysander suddenly raises his hand, snapping his fingers. In an instant, four bottles of Coke teleport onto the table in front of them, the caps already twisted open. The sudden appearance of the drinks breaks the tension, if only for a moment.
Lysander (grinning slightly): "We might need this."
Alexei smirks, picking up his bottle and taking a swig. He leans back in his chair, casually kicking his feet up on the table.
Alexei (grinning): "Well, speaking of powers, I broke the school's PE track record again today. Beat every professional athlete's time they've ever had on the course."
Angela rolls her eyes at Alexei's boasting, though there's a hint of pride in her smile. She knows her younger brother has always been hyper-competitive.
Angela (smirking): "If you spent as much time studying as you do running, you'd be valedictorian by now."
Alexei laughs, completely unbothered.
Alexei: "Maybe. My power is Self-Suggestion!! I can do ANYTHING so long as I believe I can do it."
Floria smiles softly at the banter but then speaks up, her voice calm and measured.
Floria: "I joined the medic club today. It'll help me use my healing powers more effectively. I figured... with everything going on, I should sharpen my skills."
Lysander turns to her, nodding in approval. Floria's powers have always been gentle, a stark contrast to Hugo's destructive flames, but equally important. He can see the strength behind her quiet nature.
Alexei (supportively hugging Floria): "Aww babe, you're now my little nursie~"
The mood becomes lighter with Alexei's joke but it shifts back to Hugo as Lysander takes a deep breath, his gaze hardening.
Lysander (seriously): "But we need to decide how we're going to handle Hugo. S-class or not, his powers have been unstable in the past. We can't pretend that everything's fine just because he's ranked now."
Angela leans forward, her tone more serious now.
Angela: "And I have seen the track record, S-classed in his case refers to his power's destructive tendency. We have no idea how much control he has of his power… He is dangerous."
Floria (softly): "But maybe this is his chance to finally control it. He's been struggling for so long, maybe now he can find peace."
Lysander: "Maybe… but I have no idea if his 'peace' means getting back at us for kicking him out of the house."
A moment of silence. Hugo's power, Hell Blaze ranks S which means it is among the strongest and due to its destructive nature, Hugo can lose control at any time which means disaster. And even if Hugo can control it, it is unsure if he is going to be kind to those who cast him out of his family.
Alexei, the first one to break the silence, speaks with confidence. "Why are we afraid? Isn't the reason we get superpower is to deal with him in the first place? We can not back down now that he also levels the playing field. We continue to level up against him."
Floria (softly): "Babe…" Her eyes glow as if she knows her love is in the right place.
Angela: "Alex is right… big brother, we are not as helpless as before. If Hugo goes against us, we will strike him down."
Lysander (His voice pessimistic): "Yeah… you're right… Let's see how this goes…"
The tension about Hugo's S-class power lingers in the air, but Angela shifts the conversation, her eyes sharp as she speaks.
Angela (calmly): "We've been so focused on Hugo, but there's something else we need to talk about. Have you heard about Eagle Step?"
The room shifts, and all eyes are on her. Lysander straightens up at the mention of the guild, his expression darkening slightly.
Lysander (gritting his teeth): "Eagle Step... yeah, I've heard of them. Top hunter guild, but they've got a reputation."
Angela raises an eyebrow.
Angela: "Reputation?"
Lysander leans forward, resting his elbows on the table. His tone is serious, no trace of the humor he usually carries.
Lysander: "Our family's company, GGG Corp, does business with most of the major guilds. We supply magical weapons and research superpowers. But Eagle Step? They almost never buy from us."
Alexei looks intrigued, leaning in.
Alexei: "Why? They're one of the top guilds, right?"
Lysander sighs, running a hand through his hair.
Lysander (grimly): "That's the thing—they look great from the outside. All glory and fame. But inside, they're rotten. They're notorious for exploiting their hunters, hoarding the best loot from dungeons for the higher-ups. They barely support their lower-ranking members."
Floria frowns, processing this new information.
Floria: "So, they're coming here to recruit...?"
Angela nods, her voice measured.
Angela: "Exactly. They'll be scouting students from the superpower branch. It's a big deal…"
Angela: (Pause) "You don't mean…"
Lysander: "What else could I mean? It's black company recruitment 101. They appear in glory to recruit those who are stupid enough and exploit them. Saying stuff like 'your power is so weak if it's not for us, nobody would accept you'. And students are… frankly, inexperienced in dealing with these types of scam. Those from the superpower branch are even worse as they think with their muscle and not their brain."
Alexei: (Laughing) "Lol, a bruh moment."
Alexei: (Laughing) "It's alright though. We just come to watch. Why do we have to be afraid of them? They are not going to target us for no reason."
Lysander: "I suppose you're right."
Scene: Stadium Ticket
INT. ST. ALARIC ACADEMY – CLASSROOM – MORNING
The next day, Angela strides into her homeroom class, where Mr. Sato, her teacher, is sitting at his desk, flipping through paperwork. She approaches with a confident smile, her charm already working its magic.
Angela (brightly): "Good morning, Mr. Sato. I was wondering if I could talk to you about something?"
Mr. Sato looks up, immediately drawn in by her friendly demeanor.
Mr. Sato (smiling): "Of course, Angela. What's on your mind?"
Angela sits down, her voice gentle but persuasive.
Angela: "I heard about the superpower fights in the PE stadium. My friends and I were hoping to watch, but I know it's usually restricted to students in the superpower branch."
Mr. Sato frowns slightly, glancing down at his papers.
Mr. Sato (hesitant): "That's true. The PE stadium is meant for the superpower branch. Academic branch students aren't allowed to enter because it's too dangerous. Most students in your branch don't have powers or training, and even a small fight could cause serious harm."
Angela leans forward slightly, her charm working subtly. There's a light in her eyes that draws Mr. Sato in, making him feel more inclined to agree with her.
Angela (persuasively): "I understand that, Mr. Sato. But we're really interested in learning more about how powers work in combat. Watching the superpower branch could give us some valuable insights. We won't interfere, I promise. We just want to observe."
Mr. Sato frowns, glancing down at his papers again, the sensible part of him trying to resist. He opens his mouth to say no, but somehow, Angela's tone makes it hard for him to finish the sentence.
Mr. Sato (mumbling, confused): "I... I suppose... maybe just this once... if you stay out of the way."
Angela's smile widens, her charm sealing the deal.
Angela: "Thank you, Mr. Sato. We'll be careful, I promise."
As Angela gets up to leave, Mr. Sato adds one more piece of information.
Scene: Stadium Fight Scene
EXT. PE STADIUM – AFTERNOON
The PE stadium of St. Alaric Academy is the same size as a football stadium but it is round. It has reinforced barriers protecting the audience from the action inside. The field is designed for combat, with energy-absorbing panels and high-tech monitors tracking the fight. The air hums with tension, the anticipation of power on full display.
Angela, Lysander, Alexei, and Floria approach the entrance. The energy crackles as they pass through the turnstiles, Angela casting a subtle illusion to make them blend in with the students from the superpower branch.
Angela (calmly): "Stay close. We can't stand out."
Her illusion subtly alters their uniforms, making it look like they belong with the hunters-in-training. The casual observer wouldn't notice a thing.
They make their way to the stands, their eyes drawn to the VIP section, where Wilhelm Königsberg, leader of Eagle Step, sits with a steely expression. His sharp eyes scan the arena, assessing every move, every fight.
Lysander leans in toward the group, his voice low.
Lysander (grimly): "There he is... Wilhelm Königsberg."
Alexei glances at Wilhelm but remains unfazed, grinning.
FIRST FIGHT
EXT. PE STADIUM – AFTERNOON
The first match of the day is underway, and the anticipation is thick in the air. Two students step into the arena, their expressions focused as the shimmering protective barrier activates around them. On one side stands Kenjiro Matsuda, a lean, sharp-eyed boy with an air of confidence. Around him float ten small fireballs, each one crackling with contained power. The flames flicker with intensity, but there's something measured about the way Kenjiro controls them—they hang in the air like waiting predators.
Across from him is Alyssa Kane, her feet planted firmly on the ground. She holds a glowing spear in one hand and a shield in the other, her stance unyielding. Her movements are precise, her eyes trained on Kenjiro's every motion. The spear hums with energy, and her shield is reinforced with an aura of light.
Announcer (over loudspeakers): "In this corner, we have Kenjiro Matsuda versus Alyssa Kane! Let the battle begin!"
Kenjiro wastes no time. With a sharp flick of his wrist, he sends the fireballs flying toward Alyssa in rapid succession. Each one streaks through the air, leaving trails of heat in their wake. They move with speed, but not blindingly fast—just fast enough to overwhelm someone unprepared. But Alyssa is ready.
She raises her shield, and the fireballs collide with it, exploding in bright flashes of flame. The shockwaves from the blasts ripple through the air, but Alyssa remains steady, absorbing the impact with trained precision. The crowd gasps at the intensity of the explosions, but Alyssa doesn't flinch.
Alexei (leaning back, unimpressed): "Those fireballs are slower than a football. If I were her, I'd be dodging them, not blocking them."
Kenjiro grins, clearly enjoying the spectacle. He conjures another round of fireballs, sending them looping around him in a controlled arc. This time, he's more aggressive, sending them from multiple angles in an attempt to catch Alyssa off guard.
But Alyssa moves swiftly. Her spear glows brighter as she deflects the incoming fireballs, each hit sending a burst of sparks across the arena. She dodges the more dangerous attacks, her shield absorbing the brunt of the damage while her feet remain light on the ground.
INT. STANDS – OBSERVING
The group in the stands watches closely, each with their own thoughts on the fight. Alexei crosses his arms, his lips curling into a smirk.
Alexei (grinning): "That's all he's got? Slow and predictable. I could dodge those fireballs three times faster, and I'd catch them with my bare hands."
Lysander (calmly analyzing): "His fireball control is impressive, though. Guiding all ten at once… It's like having 10 arms."
Floria (softly): "She's good, but Kenjiro's controlling the pace of the fight. If she doesn't push back soon, he'll wear her down."
INT. ARENA – STAGE
Kenjiro smirks, summoning more fireballs, but this time he tries something new. He directs them in a pattern, crisscrossing the air in rapid succession. The fireballs move faster now, each one closing in on Alyssa from multiple directions. The crowd watches in awe as the flames create a dazzling display of power.
But Alyssa is unfazed. She moves with calculated precision, dodging when necessary and raising her shield to block the faster fireballs. One particularly large fireball grazes her side, and though she stumbles slightly, she remains composed. She grips her spear tightly, her eyes never leaving Kenjiro.
Sensing his advantage, Kenjiro focuses his fireballs for one final, concentrated attack. He sends them all barreling toward Alyssa at once, aiming to end the fight in a blaze of glory. The fireballs streak through the air, faster than before, leaving blazing trails of heat.
But just as they're about to hit, Alyssa digs her spear into the ground. With a burst of energy, she propels herself forward, using her shield to deflect the incoming fireballs. The flames explode around her, but she emerges unscathed, closing the distance between herself and Kenjiro in an instant.
Kenjiro's eyes widened in surprise, too slow to react. Alyssa's spear strikes true, the blow landing squarely on his chest. He's knocked off his feet, crashing to the ground as his concentration falters. The remaining fireballs dissipate into smoke, leaving Kenjiro defeated.
INT. STANDS – REACTIONS
The crowd erupts into applause as the barrier deactivates, signaling Alyssa's victory. Kenjiro remains on the ground, dazed, while Alyssa stands tall, her spear planted in the ground as she catches her breath.
Alexei (laughing): "See? What did I say? Slow and weak. I could've taken them both down in under a minute."
Lysander (smirking): "You always say that."
Floria, on the other hand, watches Alyssa with quiet admiration.
Floria (softly): "That last move was clever—using her spear to close the distance and break his concentration."
Angela, though more interested in the larger picture, casts a glance toward the VIP section, where Wilhelm Königsberg, leader of Eagle Step, sits watching. His expression remains unreadable.
Angela (thinking): He hasn't reacted to anything. What is he really here for?
SECOND FIGHT
The energy in the stadium remains high as Amara Greendale faces off against Ryuto Yamada. Amara's vines, moving with a life of their own, seem to twist and coil, ready for battle. Meanwhile, Ryuto, the speedster with his katana at the ready, taps the hilt of his sword, his eyes gleaming with confidence.
Announcer (over loudspeakers): "In this round, we have Amara Greendale versus Ryuto Yamada! Let the battle begin!"
Ryuto springs into action the moment the bell rings, his body becoming a blur of motion. He darts toward Amara, his katana flashing as he closes the distance. But Amara's vines react with equal speed, rising to meet him in a defensive wall. Ryuto's katana slashes through the vines, but they twist around the blade, attempting to pull it from his grip.
He grins, using his speed to vanish and reappear behind Amara, slashing again. However, her vines follow, twisting around to block his strike at the last moment.
INT. STANDS – OBSERVING
Lysander watches the fight with sharp focus. His eyes follow Ryuto's blindingly fast movements, something he wouldn't have been able to do before obtaining his powers. His eyebrows rise in surprise as he tracks Ryuto with newfound clarity.
Lysander (surprised, glancing at the girls): "Wait… I can see him. I can actually follow his movements now. Could you see him before?"
Angela and Floria both nod, their eyes still on the fight.
Angela (calmly): "Yeah, I can see him clearly."
Floria (thoughtfully): "Me too. His speed is impressive, but it's manageable. He's not that fast."
Lysander leans back, still processing his newfound ability.
Lysander (thoughtful): "That's strange… I couldn't track this speed before we got our powers. What is that, 150 kilometers per hour? Maybe more."
Alexei, with a confident grin, joins the conversation.
Alexei (smirking): "Of course I can see him. I convinced myself to be able to. It's all in the mind, bro."
Lysander rolls his eyes slightly at Alexei's boast, though he knows Self-Suggestion gives his brother an edge.
Lysander (mutters):
"Of course you can…"
INT. ARENA – STAGE
Ryuto continues his rapid assault, moving like a blur as he slashes through Amara's vines. His speed is relentless, but Amara's vines regenerate almost as quickly, creating an impenetrable barrier that keeps Ryuto from landing a direct hit.
Amara shifts her strategy, sending more vines underground. Thick, thorny tendrils burst from the floor, attempting to trap Ryuto. He dodges them with ease, each movement as fluid as water, his katana flashing as he cuts through the vines with precision.
INT. STANDS – OBSERVING
Floria watches the fight closely, her eyes narrowing in interest as Amara adjusts her tactics.
Floria (softly, intrigued): "Oh, so, you can even use vines like that?"
Lysander, however, remains unimpressed. He glances at Floria before making his judgment.
Lysander (calmly): "Impressive... but vines are too weak." (Glances at Floria) "Your wood plants are definitely stronger, right?"
Floria nods, though her attention is still on Amara's strategy.
Floria (quietly): "Yes, wood is more durable. Vines are too fragile."
Alexei (grinning, ever confident): "She's doing fine, but honestly, it wouldn't matter if he sped up. He's just playing with her now. If I wanted to, I could beat her in under a minute."
INT. ARENA – STAGE
Amara feels herself losing ground. Her vines, though numerous, can't keep up with Ryuto's speed. She pulls her vines back, narrowing her focus. The ground rumbles as thick, thorny vines shoot up beneath Ryuto, but he moves too quickly, cutting them down effortlessly.
Sensing his opening, Ryuto grins, increasing his speed to the limit. He vanishes from sight, only to reappear behind Amara in a blink.
Ryuto (whispering) "Too slow."
Before she can react, Ryuto lands a clean strike across her chest, sending her staggering back. Amara collapses, her vines retreating as her energy fades. The referee steps in, raising Ryuto's hand as the victor.
INT. STANDS – FINAL REACTIONS
Lysander leans back in his seat, watching as the match concludes.
Lysander "That speed's decent, but… his movements are way too simple. I'd bet my asport blink is faster."
Alexei "Yeah bro, a piece of cake."
Floria folds her arms, her tone neutral.
Floria "That girl, Amara, she was smart, but it wasn't enough."
THIRD FIGHT
The arena is filled with excitement as Kimhyun Narukami and Maidono Shizuka step into the ring. Kimhyun, with golden lightning flickering around his body, calmly draws his katana, while Shizuka summons streams of water that swirl in the air.
The announcer's voice booms across the stadium.
Announcer (over loudspeakers): "Up next! The Thunderous Prince, ranked 3rd in the school with his devastating S-ranked lightning control ability—Kimhyun Narukami!"
(the crowd cheers)
"And his opponent, the formidable Sea Witch, known for her mastery over water—Maidono Shizuka!"
INT. STANDS – BEFORE THE FIGHT
In the stands, Lysander, Angela, Floria, and Alexei watch the fighters with keen interest.
Lysander, already familiar with Kimhyun's abilities through family business, breaks the silence.
Lysander (quietly, leaning forward): "You remember the electromagnetic ability research we saw in Aunty Anya's file? Kimhyun is the main subject for that project. He has natural electromagnetic control, but he combines it with scientific knowledge, which makes him extremely dangerous. Ranks third in the school and got his scholarship from our family's company."
Angela nods, her eyes narrowing in thought.
Floria (calmly): "But he's just ranked third. What about the first and second… Oh…"
Lysander (smiling with an obvious sign): "Who else but our dear o' cousin, Yue, King of Telekinesis."
Angela shifts the conversation.
Angela (softly): "But don't underestimate the Sea Witch either. I've heard about her. Even though she's a first year, she's one of the top fighters in the school. Her ability to control water with precision and on a large scale is incredible. She can even create pure water, which acts as an electrical shield. It can stop even lightning."
Floria (impressed): "She can stop lightning? That's intense."
Alexei grins, leaning back in his seat.
Alexei (chuckling, trying to lighten the mood): "How the hell did we go from little fireballs and vines to this? This battle is full of monsters, the previous fighters looked like trash!"
Lysander (smirking slightly): "We're dealing with top-tier fighters now. Watch carefully. I want to know if we can compete against them."
INT. ARENA – FIGHT BEGINS
The bell rings. Instantly, Kimhyun vanishes in a blur of golden lightning, moving at the speed of sound. His katana flashes as he charges toward Shizuka, the air crackling violently around him, the atmosphere charged with static electricity. He leaves behind a trail of sparks, his movements almost impossible to track.
INT. STANDS – REACTION
In the stands, the four watch closely. Lysander's eyes narrow as he tracks Kimhyun's movements. Despite their own abilities, they can barely keep up with his sound-speed attacks.
Lysander (surprised, narrowing his eyes): "I can follow him, but just barely... He's so fast."
Angela (impressed): "Even with our new powers, we're struggling to keep up. He's operating on another level."
Floria (nod): "He's faster than anyone we've seen so far... way faster."
Alexei, though still confident, acknowledges the gap.
Alexei (grinning to himself): "Alright, that's some serious speed... but it's nothing we can't handle."
INT. ARENA – FIGHT CONTINUES
Kimhyun closes the distance and slashes his katana, releasing Lightning Seagull—a crescent-shaped arc of lightning energy that slices through the air toward Shizuka. The crowd gasps as the raw power behind the attack crackles.
But Shizuka remains calm. With a graceful wave of her hand, she forms a shield of pure water, absorbing the golden lightning. The water sizzles and steams as the electricity dissipates, neutralized by her control.
Kimhyun doesn't stop. Using his electromagnetic manipulation, he dashes across the arena walls, unleashing more Lightning Seagull attacks from different angles. Each arc crackles through the air, faster than the last.
Shizuka expands her water shield into a giant wall of pure water, but despite its ability to neutralize the lightning, the raw force behind Kimhyun's strikes begins to crack the wall. The heat from the constant bombardment causes the water to evaporate faster than she can repair it.
INT. STANDS – OBSERVING
Lysander (impressed): "That girl is strong, I'll give her that… but…"
Alexei (a bit impressed): "But Kimhyun's speed is just too much, right?"
Lysander (analytical): "High voltage electricity is capable of ionizing the environment. All Kimhyun needs to do is keep spamming his Lightning Seagull. Shizuka meanwhile has to constantly purify water and maintain that wall. It's a losing battle—no matter how good her mana control is, she can't keep up with his simple, fast, and spammable attacks."
Angela (thoughtful): "The battle looks flashy, but Shizuka's purely on the defensive. Her mana's running low, and her defenses are crumbling. She won't win if this keeps up."
INT. ARENA – FIGHT CONTINUES
Knowing she can't keep defending forever, Shizuka decides to turn the tide. She raises both hands, summoning a massive tidal wave from the ground beneath her. The water surges high, crashing down toward Kimhyun, and as it does, she freezes the water mid-air, transforming it into a solid wall of ice.
Kimhyun, unfazed, propels himself upward with a burst of electromagnetic force, dodging the wave. But before he can react, Shizuka compresses the water around him, transforming it into a cyclone and freezing it solid—an ice prison designed to trap him.
INT. STANDS – OBSERVING
Angela (admiring): "Three moves at a time? She's controlling the water so well..."
Lysander (analytical): "If Kimhyun's a fast thinker, Shizuka's a deep one. She's setting up hidden attacks while defending. But Kimhyun's faster and more adaptable."
Floria (worrying): "They are both so fearsome…"
INT. ARENA – FIGHT CONTINUES
The crowd gasps as the entire ice prison begins to glow with golden light. In an instant, Kimhyun unleashes a powerful slash of lightning from within, shattering the ice in a single line of devastating Thunderous Slash. The arena floor rumbles as shards of ice rain down.
Announcer (over loudspeakers, excited): "Oh!!! As expected from one of our top fighters! Shizuka creates multiple layers of defense and offense, but Kimhyun breaks through them with ease!"
Shizuka (Annoying) "You must be kidding…"
Suddenly, she moves her hand to make a fist bump. All of the pure water she created suddenly turns into thick fog that blankets the entire arena with some becoming sharp icebergs in the roof that crashes down onto the arena and some turn the entire battleground into ice tiles.
INT. STANDS – OBSERVING
Angela (impressed): "Her control over mana surpasses all of us, but..."
Floria (impressed): "...Kimhyun is faster than we are."
Lysander (analytical): "She's using fog and ice to slow him down. Smart move, but it's draining her mana. If she doesn't end this quickly, she's going to lose."
Alexei (grinning): "She's got guts. We're about to see her 'go big or go home' moment."
INT. ARENA – FIGHT CONTINUES
In the thick fog, Kimhyun continuously dodges Shizuka's icicle hails from the roof. Then, suddenly, a shadow closed in on Kimhyun on his back with a blade full of thin water.
Shizuka (Confidence, thinking) "In this fog, only I can see... I'll show them I can beat the Jack. There's nothing water can't cut—"
But just as she prepares to strike, Kimhyun reacts to her surprise. His sword is already back in its scabbard, ready to unleash his ultimate move.
Kimhyun "Thunderous Slash"
In an instant, golden lightning erupts from his blade, slicing through the fog, illuminating the entire arena. The ground shakes, and when the smoke clears, Shizuka lies on the ground, defeated, while Kimhyun stands tall.
Announcer (over loudspeakers): "And the winner is... Kimhyun Narukami, the Thunderous Prince! Our Jack!!!"
(the crowd cheers)
INT. STANDS – OBSERVING
Angela, Lysander, Floria, and Alexei watch in stunned silence. Kimhyun didn't just win—he dominated.
Angela (quietly): "If that's the third-ranked fighter, what's Yue going to look like?"
Lysander (equally quietly): "And that wasn't his full power…"
Floria (surprised): "What?"
Lysander (calmly): "Kimhyun is a werewolf and this is his human form. His werewolf form is even more of a nightmare…"
Alexei shakes his head, exhaling in disbelief.
Alexei (sighs) "What the fu…"
Scene: After the Fight
Announcer (over loudspeakers): "That concludes today's matches! The arena will now close for the day. We ask all students to make their way to the exits."
Students begin to file out of the stands, chatting excitedly about the fights. Lysander, Angela, Floria, and Alexei linger for a moment, still absorbing what they've just seen.
INT. STANDS – EXITING
The four of them start to move toward the exit, blending in with the crowd. Alexei's face still carries an amused smirk, while Angela looks thoughtful, her mind no doubt still racing over Kimhyun's speed and Shizuka's mana control.
Alexei (grinning): "Man, that fight was wild. Kimhyun didn't even break a sweat. Imagine what he's like at full power..."
Angela (still focused): "And Shizuka. Even though she lost, her technique was impressive. I wouldn't underestimate her if she's got more up her sleeve."
Floria (softly): "Yeah, but... Kimhyun is on a whole other level."
Lysander, who's been mostly silent, suddenly stops in the middle of the corridor, glancing back toward the restrooms.
Lysander (casually): "Hold up. I need to hit the restroom real quick. You guys go on ahead."
Angela raises an eyebrow, sensing something in his tone but doesn't press it.
Angela (playfully teasing): "Don't get lost."
Alexei (grinning): "Yeah, try not to get sucked into another dimension or something, bro."
Lysander rolls his eyes but smirks, waving them off as he heads toward the restrooms.
INT. ARENA HALLWAY – RESTROOM AREA
Lysander moves through the quiet corridor leading to the restrooms. The sounds of the crowd grow faint as he approaches the dimly lit area. The air feels charged, like a static buzz lingering from the previous fight. Lysander steps toward the door but pauses. He senses something—or rather, someone.
Kimhyun (calm, almost amused): "You know… if you come with an announcement, I'd be much happier."
Lysander is surprised upon seeing Kimhyun but quickly gets back his posture.
Lysander (carefully): "Wow, the Jack, himself, is happy to see me."
Lysander is shocked but he also glances quickly throughout the alleyway. The walls here are thin so he can easily teleport himself out.
Kimhyun (smiling): "The pleasure is mine. It's not everyday, I get to see his majesty's court."
Lysander (thinking): "Yeah… that. Our school power ranks give the top students titles. Yue, the first is King for example. The second ranked is Queen while the third, Kimhyun is Jack. And since Yue always consults me and Angela before doing any school activity, we are usually known as his court."
Lysander (formally): "I am from the academic branch so I did not know but… did you guys really follow through that royal crap?"
Kimhyun (smiling casually): "Nah, I just follow cuz you started it. Happy to see you though. Is my fight good? I tried my best to look good in front of you, you know."
Lysander (confused): "You… tried?"
Kimhyun (confidence): "Yep. I've been hearing a lot about you and your siblings, Lysander. Wanted to see you guys—especially since your family's been the reason I'm able to study here. It's good to finally meet you."
Lysander (sighing in relief): "Bruh… we should be the thanking one. Without you, we would never be able to complete our electromagnetic project…"
A sudden thought runs through Lysander's spine, chilling him. This guy… saw through Angela's perception technique?
Lysander (probing): "I am surprised though. You can see and identify us? I thought we disguise well."
Kimhyun (confidence): "Oh, I have my electromagnetic radar. That's how I can see through the fog in that fight, too. I don't need to rely on my vision."
Lysander (thinking): "Wow, just meeting and he overpowered Angela… Can Angie's stronger technique work on him?"
Kimhyun (smiling): "Hey, do you intend to go see us fight next? I'll ask for a VIP seat."
Lysander (formally): "Nah, you know how academic students can't go here normally. Plus, I don't want to see the Eagle Step."
Kimhyun (smiling): "Don't worry~ I'll be your personal guard." (pause) "What's wrong with Eagle Step?"
Lysander (surprised): "You… don't know?"