CHAPTER SIXTY SIX: BONDS

Helen's office was dimly lit, sunlight filtering through the large windows behind her. Before her stood three familiar faces—Mack Remmick, Reyna Vael, and Orin Graves.

She glanced at them, arms folded neatly on her desk. "I hope you've all had time to rest after your last mission."

Mack, hands in his pockets and posture casual, replied without hesitation. "We've had enough rest. We're ready."

Beside him, Orin gave a single nod. His deep voice rumbled low, like thunder on the horizon. "Ready whenever you are."

Helen's gaze drifted from one face to the next, then she rose from her seat and walked to the window, her fingers loosely clasped behind her back.

"There's been unusual movement near the borders of the Eastern Ruins," she said, her tone sharper now. "A few scouts went missing. No trace. No energy signatures. Nothing."

Reyna's brows knit together. "You think it's the Hunters?"

Helen turned around, leaning slightly against the edge of her desk. "That's what I need you to find out. I trust your team. You work well together, and more importantly… you don't ask unnecessary questions."

Mack smirked a little. "You just gave us a question-worthy assignment, though."

Helen raised an eyebrow. "Which is why I'm expecting answers in return."

Orin shifted slightly, his arms crossed like iron gates. "Any leads?"

Helen nodded. "Just the last known coordinates. The area's been quiet ever since—too quiet. I want eyes on it immediately. You are to observe, investigate, and report back. Do not engage unless you have no other choice."

Reyna straightened, brushing back her white hair. "We'll handle it."

Helen's eyes locked onto Mack. "And no improvising."

Mack grinned. "You wound me."

Helen didn't crack a smile. "Keep it that way. Dismissed."

Helen's assistant walked into the room, her footsteps light but filled with purpose. She hesitated at the door, glancing at Helen with an unreadable expression, before speaking up.

"Excuse me, Helen," she said, her voice careful but concerned, "Is it wise to send them out on this mission, instead of Nicole's team? Nicole's team is more experienced, and this mission will be dangerous."

Helen turned to face her assistant, her expression calm but unwavering. She didn't seem irritated, but her voice carried the weight of someone who had been in this position many times before.

"I understand your concerns," Helen began, her gaze firm. "But I have complete confidence in Mack's team. They've proven themselves time and time again. Their ability to move swiftly and adapt to the shadows is exactly what we need for this mission."

She paused, her eyes narrowing slightly as she thought about the situation. "Nicole's team is strong, yes, but we can't always rely on them for every mission. Mack's team isn't far behind in terms of strength. If anything, they've earned my trust by constantly pushing their limits."

The assistant opened her mouth to speak but hesitated, clearly weighing Helen's words. "So you're sure they can handle this?"

Helen gave a small nod, her tone calm but resolute. "They'll be fine. They have the skills and the tenacity needed for this. Mack's leadership and Reyna's precision, Orin's experience... they're more than capable."

The assistant still seemed uncertain but nodded slowly, taking in Helen's words. "I see. I just wanted to make sure we weren't overlooking anything."

Helen gave her a soft but firm smile. "It's always good to question decisions, but I trust them. Now, go make sure everything's in order for their departure."

The assistant gave a small bow and turned to leave, but before exiting, she paused to offer one final glance at Helen.

"Understood, Helen. I'll make sure everything is prepared."

As the door closed behind her, Helen turned her attention back to the task at hand, her thoughts briefly drifting to Mack's team. She had no doubt they would succeed—just as they always had.

Outside, the air was thick with anticipation as Mack, Reyna, and Orin readied themselves for the mission ahead. Mack, always the first to take charge, conjured up a shadow portal with a flick of his wrist, the swirling darkness forming before them like a doorway to another world. The others gathered their things, getting ready to step through when Reyna, her face slightly downcast, broke the silence.

"I was looking forward to this evening," she said, her voice tinged with sadness. "I was going to ask Liam out to the new park opening. A date, you know? But... I guess it'll have to wait." She sighed deeply, her eyes glancing back toward the academy.

Orin chuckled, his deep voice breaking through her quiet disappointment. "Ha, you really think Liam's the type to go on a date? Or do anything like that with anyone?" He raised an eyebrow, as if the thought amused him.

Mack, who was busy making sure the portal was stable, shot Orin a look, his expression more thoughtful than it was playful. "Don't be too sure about that," he said, his tone somewhat serious. "The air around Liam's changing. He's starting to feel things, and it's all thanks to that cursed demon princess. Nicole's making him... human, in ways none of us thought possible."

Reyna shot a glance at Mack, then looked back at the distant academy, her mind still lingering on Liam. "So, you think he's actually starting to care about her?"

Mack didn't immediately answer, his gaze distant. "I think something's shifting in him," he said. "It might be a slow change, but it's happening."

Reyna raised an eyebrow, her curiosity piqued. "But what about Nicole herself? You don't hate her, do you?"

Mack stiffened slightly, but his expression remained calm as he responded. "I don't hate Nicole. I hate her bloodline. Us Tenebris... we've lost so many loved ones to the Demon Realm. I can never accept what she represents, no matter how innocent she might be. The past, it lingers."

Reyna didn't seem entirely convinced, but she didn't press the issue. Instead, she yawned and stretched, clearly ready to move on. "Let's just finish this mission quickly so I can get back to my baby," she said with a smirk, referring to Liam in a teasing manner. "You know, while you two are off brooding, I've got my sights set on someone much more fun."

Orin let out a low chuckle, shaking his head. "You and your crushes, Reyna. Don't think for a second that Liam would ever be into you. He's too busy with his own mess right now."

Reyna just shrugged, an amused glint in her eyes. "Hey, a girl can dream, right?"

Mack, who had been silent for a moment, turned to them, his expression hardening. "Enough talk. We've got work to do. Let's get going before anyone else decides to delay our mission."

With that, the trio stepped forward and into the shadow portal, disappearing into the darkness as they set off toward their objective.

As Mack and his team stepped through the portal, the scene shifted back to Helen's office. The tension in the air was palpable as Selena knocked on the door. She hesitated for just a moment before pushing it open, a bit sheepish.

Inside, Helen was sitting at her desk, papers scattered in front of her, but her sharp gaze immediately locked onto Selena. "Ah, so you've decided to pay me a visit," she said, her voice laced with irritation. "Is it so bad to come say hello to your own mother first, rather than rushing to your boyfriend and kissing him all over the academy like it's some public showcase?"

Selena froze for a moment, her face flushing slightly. She bit her lip before sheepishly asking, "How do you know about that?"

Helen gave her a look, one that said everything without words. The kind of look only a mother could give. "It's my academy, darling. I know everything that happens here. You think you can sneak around without anyone noticing?" She raised an eyebrow, her tone stern but oddly affectionate, as though she couldn't entirely hide her amusement.

Selena sighed, sitting down in the chair opposite her mother. "I wasn't sneaking around. We were just... spending time together." She paused, still embarrassed. "But I didn't expect you to find out about that."

Helen shook her head, her lips curling into a small smirk. "I've been around the block long enough to know what goes on. You're my daughter, and no matter how much you think you can hide, I see everything. But," she added, her tone softening, "I won't get in your way. Just don't forget there's more to life than him."

Selena let out a long breath, her shoulders slumping. "I know, Mom. But... sometimes it's hard not to get lost in the moment." She looked down at her hands, her mind drifting to Ken and the conversation they'd had earlier.

Helen watched her for a moment, the sternness melting into something softer. "I get it. Just don't forget who you are, Selena. Don't lose yourself in someone else, no matter how important they might seem."

Selena gave her a small smile, appreciating her mother's words more than she could express. "I won't forget, Mom. Thanks."

"Good," Helen replied, her voice still carrying a note of concern.

Helen's eyes softened as she gazed at her daughter, a proud smile creeping across her face. "Sophia told me what you did at the council meeting. I'm very proud of you, Selena. Your Daddy would be too if he was still alive."

Selena's smile was brief, though it carried a sense of quiet gratitude. "Thanks, Mom. But honestly," she sighed, shaking her head, "the King and the elders made a fool of me. They're so hung up on the past that they can't see past their useless feud. It's like they can't even comprehend the bigger picture."

Helen's smile faltered for a brief moment, understanding the frustration in her daughter's words. "You were brave to speak up, though. Not everyone can challenge centuries of tradition like that. But it's true, sometimes the ones in power get so tangled in their own history that they forget to look forward. You've got more foresight than they do."

Selena's shoulders slumped a little, the weight of the council's rejection still heavy on her mind. "I wish they'd just listen. They are bickering over old grudges like children." She clenched her fists in frustration, her tone biting. "I want to fix things, but how can I, when the people who should be helping just keep pulling us backward?"

Helen regarded her with an empathetic gaze. "Sometimes, Selena, you can't change everyone. But you can change things for yourself—and for those who are ready to listen. Your voice matters, even if the others are too blind to see it."

Selena paused, taking in her mother's words. She wanted to believe it, to hold onto that glimmer of hope, but it was hard when she felt so powerless. "I just... I want to do more. But it's like I'm fighting a battle that's already been lost."

"You've only just begun," Helen said softly, leaning forward a little. "Don't give up on what you believe in. And don't let their failures become yours. You've got a strength in you that no one else in that room has. Keep pushing forward, Selena. Keep fighting."

Selena met her mother's eyes, feeling a surge of determination flicker within her. Maybe it wasn't all hopeless after all. "I will. I'm not giving up just yet."

Helen nodded, a proud glint in her eyes. "Good. And remember, you have people by your side—people who believe in you. Never forget that."

Selena's heart lightened at the sentiment, the weight of her mission suddenly feeling a little less heavy. She gave her mother a small, grateful smile. "Thanks, Mom. I needed that."

"Anytime, sweetheart. Now, let's get back to business. We've got work to do."

Selena, still feeling the weight of her recent frustrations, leaned against the doorframe a little longer, her eyes almost pleading. "Can I stay for a few days? Just... a little time away from everything, you know?"

Helen's gaze softened, but her resolve was unwavering. "No. You've got responsibilities, Selena. And I don't want you getting too comfortable here."

Selena sighed and tried again, her tone a little more persuasive. "Come on, Mom. Just a few days. I could use some time to recharge, to think things through. I promise I won't be any trouble."

But Helen stood firm. "No, Selena. I've already got enough on my plate without worrying about you, too. Besides, you can't just drop everything and hide here whenever things get tough."

Selena's face scrunched in disappointment, but she wasn't ready to give up just yet. "Please, I'm really asking. Just a couple of days. I'm not asking for much."

Helen held her ground, arms crossed, eyes hard. "Two days, and only if Nicole agrees to accommodate you in her dorm."

Selena paused, confused for a moment. "Wait... What do you mean by that?"

Helen gave her a pointed look. "I don't want anyone disturbing Nicole. She's been through enough recently."

Selena shrugged carelessly, her lips curling into a half-smile. "Nicole will be fine. Liam's got it covered."

Helen raised an eyebrow. "What do you mean, 'Liam's got it covered'?"

Selena simply waved it off with a grin. "Leave Nicole to Liam. She'll be fine."

Helen's curiosity flared, but she decided not to press. "Alright, two days. But don't make me regret it. And make sure Nicole agrees."

Selena grinned, a small victory in her eyes. "You won't regret it, I promise."

Helen watched her daughter, still unsure about the arrangement but knowing Selena was stubborn enough to get what she wanted. "Fine. But if you cause any trouble, I'll be the one to send you packing."

"Understood," Selena said, smiling widely, the tension from earlier starting to dissipate.

Helen gave Selena a quick nod, as if acknowledging the decision was final. "Fine. You'll find Nicole's dorm in the west wing. Room 204. If she's not there, try the garden. She tends to go there when she needs some space."

Selena's face lit up with excitement at the thought of finally spending a little time away from everything. "Thanks, Mom!" Without waiting for a response, she spun on her heels and dashed for the door, eager to get to Nicole's dorm.

Helen watched her go, a small smile tugging at the corner of her lips. She couldn't help but wonder just how much trouble Selena and Liam would cause together. But for now, she turned her attention back to her work, hoping that maybe, just maybe, this little break would be what both of them needed.

Selena arrived at Nicole's dorm, breathless from her sprint. She paused in front of the door, feeling a bit nervous despite her bold attitude. Taking a deep breath, she knocked lightly, but there was no answer. After a moment of hesitation, she shrugged, figuring it was too early for Nicole to be awake. Without asking, she pushed the door open slowly.

Inside, Nicole was curled up under her blankets, her face partially hidden by the pillow, still lost in a peaceful slumber. Her soft, rhythmic breathing was the only sound in the room.

Unable to resist, Selena grinned mischievously, her feet already moving toward the bed. With one swift motion, she jumped onto Nicole's bed, landing directly on top of her, knocking the breath out of the sleeping girl.

"Selena!" Nicole gasped, her eyes fluttering open in surprise. But before she could fully react, Selena wrapped her arms around her in a tight hug, almost squeezing the air out of her.

"Morning!" Selena said with a playful grin, her face buried in Nicole's shoulder. "Did you miss me?"

Nicole, half-conscious and still blinking away the sleep, let out a sleepy chuckle. "You… You're crazy, you know that?"

"You're welcome," Selena teased, giving her a quick squeeze before pulling back and sitting up, grinning ear to ear.

Nicole, still rubbing her eyes, yawned and stretched. "What are you doing here so early?" she muttered, her voice groggy.

"Well, you know," Selena said, her voice light and carefree, "I decided to take a little detour. Helen said I could stay here for a few days, and I figured, why not crash your dorm?"

Nicole stared at her, blinking a few times as she processed the information. "Wait, what? You… You just showed up here, uninvited?" Her sleepy confusion quickly turned into a smile. "You're impossible, you know that?"

Selena chuckled, flopping back onto Nicole's bed, making herself comfortable. "Yeah, but you love me anyway."

Nicole let out a quiet laugh, her exhaustion quickly replaced by amusement. "I swear, you're the only person who can just show up and make me laugh when I can barely keep my eyes open."

"That's what I'm here for," Selena replied, stretching out across the bed. "I'm your personal wake-up call. Now, get up, sleepyhead. We've got some time to kill."

Nicole sighed dramatically but couldn't hold back her smile. "I swear you're going to be the death of me. Let me get dressed at least."

Selena sat up, watching her with a mischievous grin. "Oh, don't worry, I'll be here waiting."

And as Nicole got out of bed to start her day, Selena couldn't help but feel a little lighter, a little more at home. Maybe this time with Nicole would help her clear her mind and reset before diving back into the chaos waiting for her outside the dorm.

Nicole was rummaging through her wardrobe, the soft rustle of fabric filling the air. Selena sat casually on the edge of Nicole's bed, her legs stretched out, one hand lazily flipping through a magazine. Her eyes were half on the magazine, half on Nicole, who was currently surrounded by a heap of clothes as she tried to figure out what to wear.

Nicole huffed in frustration, tossing a shirt onto the growing pile of rejected outfits. "I swear, I have a million clothes and still nothing to wear."

Selena, eyes still on the magazine, smirked. "Classic. You're a princess, and yet you can't find a thing to wear. Talk about first-world problems."

Nicole shot her a playful glare, though there was a hint of a smile on her lips. "Yeah, well, it's not about having options. It's about having the right option." She pulled a blouse from the rack and held it up to herself in the mirror, raising an eyebrow at her reflection. "What do you think? Too much? Too little?"

Selena leaned forward, squinting as if deep in thought. "Hmm, let me think... you're a princess, so you need to look like you own the place, but not like you're trying too hard. Maybe try that one on." She pointed to a sleek black dress hanging nearby. "It's got the whole 'I'm in charge' vibe but still classy."

Nicole nodded, grabbing the dress. "You might be onto something."

As Nicole slipped the dress on, Selena dropped the magazine to the floor and stretched. "I swear, if I had your wardrobe, I'd never complain. You've got everything a girl could want."

Nicole pulled the dress over her head and stepped into it, then turned to face Selena, holding her hands out for inspection. "What do you think?"

Selena tilted her head, pretending to examine Nicole with exaggerated seriousness. "Hmm, not bad. Definitely the vibe of 'I'm in control but not too uptight.' You're totally going to make all the heads turn with this one."

Nicole laughed, crossing her arms. "I'm not sure I'm ready for that kind of attention, but it's nice to know I'm not totally failing at the princess thing."

Selena raised an eyebrow. "You, failing at being a princess? Please. You've got it down. Besides, who else can pull off royal while making it look effortless?"

Nicole smiled, stepping toward the full-length mirror to get a better look at herself. "I still feel like I'm playing dress-up sometimes," she confessed, staring at her reflection. "Like I'm pretending to be someone important when all I really want to do is just... be me."

Selena's smile softened as she walked up behind her, resting a hand on Nicole's shoulder. "You are important, Nicole. And being yourself is the best thing you can be. Don't let the title fool you. It doesn't define you."

Nicole met her gaze in the mirror, their eyes locking for a moment. She smiled gently. "Thanks, Selena. I needed to hear that."

Selena grinned, nudging her playfully. "Anytime, girl. Now, can we get back to the fun stuff? I still need to see if this dress actually looks as good as you think it does."

Nicole rolled her eyes but couldn't hide the smile creeping onto her face. "You're impossible. You know that, right?"

Selena winked. "Yeah, but you love me anyway."

As Nicole laughed and turned back to the mirror, adjusting the dress slightly, the moment felt easy. It was just the two of them, no princess duties, no Sage responsibilities—just girls in a room, sharing a quiet, unspoken understanding. The world outside might be waiting for them, but for now, they had this.

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