On The Grounds Of Hell - Episode 2

 

 𝐎𝐍 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐆𝐑𝐎𝐔𝐍𝐃𝐒 𝐎𝐅 𝐇𝐄𝐋𝐋

On The Grounds Of Hell - Episode 2

  {•𝑩𝒍𝒖𝒆𝒚 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑯𝒂𝒅𝒆𝒔•}

𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐦𝐞: 𝑰'𝒍𝒍 𝑳𝒆𝒕 𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑾𝒐𝒓𝒍𝒅 𝑩𝒖𝒓𝒏 𝑭𝒐𝒓 𝑯𝒆𝒓.

ʙʏ ʙᴀʀʙɪᴇʟʟᴇ 

  -ʟᴜᴄᴋ ɪs ᴀɴ ɪʟʟᴜsɪᴏɴ-

♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤

★𝐒𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐥𝐚𝐢𝐫'𝐬 𝐄𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐞★

Bluey already packed her clothes and is now laying on the bed.

 Her mind drifted back to what  happened earlier. The dark street, the thugs, the way fear had crawled up her spine, until he appeared.

Her lips curved into a tiny smile.

 “He smelled like lavender.” She whispered dreamily, giggling to herself.

 “So nice. Who even smells that good while fighting?” She rolled onto her stomach, kicking her feet lightly. 

“The way he fought off those bad guys... he didn’t even sweat. Just one punch and they were on the ground. He's so strong.”

Her cheeks flushed as she buried her face in the pillow. 

“And that voice....” She mumbled, muffled by the fabric. “Deep, calm, well kind of scary but - ugh - so hot.”

Bluey sat up again, pressing her hands to her warm face. 

“Gosh, Bluey, not like you even know what he looks like! He was wearing a mask,” She groaned sadly, pouting.

Still, she couldn’t stop smiling.

“Maybe fate will let me see him again,” She said softly, staring out the window where the morning light touched her face. 

“My masked lavender hero.”

A phone buzzed in her bag. She unzipped the side and brought it out, it's an extra phone. She doesn't use it more often, but since she lost her main phone she has no to use this one instead.

 She brought it out, the buzz lighting up the screen with a message:

✉️ Don’t forget why you’re going to school. Be a good girl and don’t lose focus. ✉️

Bluey read it and smiled softly, her heart fluttering with a mix of nerves and excitement.

“So excited....” She said under her breath, tossing her phone on the bed and continuing to pack, humming a small tune as she folded her clothes neatly into her bag.

----

★  𝐆𝐚𝐞𝐥'𝐬 𝐒𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐲 ★

Morgan’s fingers brushed against the cold doorknob as she pushed it open. 

 

 Gael sat on the edge of his table, sleeves rolled up, eyes glued to the glowing screen.

“Dad,” Morgan called softly.

“Sit.” He didn’t even look up.

She obeyed, quietly taking the seat across from him. . Only the faint ticking of the clock and the sounds of the keyboard tapping filled the air before he finally raised his eyes to her.

“What’s your ranking status as of last semester?” Gael asked, voice sharp but calm.

“Well… I’m still an Ace…” Morgan hesitated.

“And? I expect nothing less… I’m asking what number?”

“Number 5.” She replied.

 “Just 5? Can’t you take the top spot? Is it really that difficult?”His expression hardened.

“It is, Dad. Given that the person in top 1 is far, far ahead. I’m doing my best, Dad,” She defended, trying not to raise her voice at him.

Gael leaned back in his chair,  spinning his pen in his hand.

 “Well, your best isn’t enough.” He said coldly.

Morgan’s gaze dropped to her knees. She could feel his disappointment pressing on her chest like a weight. She clenched her fists under the desk.

“Just because number 5 is an Ace, it makes you comfortable?” Gael continued coldly. 

Morgan’s shoulders stiffened, her fingers clutching the edge of her nightgown.

“Dad, I’m already in the top five. You act like that’s nothing. I worked so hard to get there.” She muttered, her voice trembling between frustration and hurt.

Gael shut his laptop slowly and leaned back in his chair, his expression unreadable.

 “Being fifth means there are four people better than you, Morgan. Four people stronger, smarter, more disciplined. I didn’t raise you to be average.”

“I’m not average!” Morgan snapped, eyes glistening.

 “Do you have any idea how much pressure it takes just to stay where I am? Everyone’s aiming for the Aces. They all want our spots.”

“And yet you’re still standing at number five !! Stuck and comfortable. Do you plan to live the rest of your life chasing scraps behind people who work harder than you?” Gael cut in sharply.

Her lips parted, but no sound came out. She looked down, blinking rapidly to keep her tears from falling. Not tears from hurt, but rage.

“I’m trying, Dad.” She said.

“Try harder.” His tone softened, but his gaze remained firm. “You’re a Sinclair. People of my peers  will judge me by your performance, and I don’t tolerate mediocrity. Not from you.”

Morgan stood, her heart sinking under the weight of his words.

“Do you understand?” He asked.

“Yes, Dad,” She said quietly.

Gael looked back at his laptop, already dismissing her. 

“Goodnight, Morgan. Don’t disappoint me again. School starts tomorrow, so you better up your game. If you keep slacking, Bluey might surpass you eventually.”

She glared hard at him and walked out of the study, the door clicking softly behind her.

As she walked down the hallway, her eyes burned with rage and fury.

“I’ll show you, Dad. I’ll show you I’m not a disappointment.”

----

★NEXT MORNING★

The security was taking Morgan and Bluey's luggages into the black sedan waiting outside the estate building.

“Take care of yourself back in school, dear. Always make me proud,” Corazon said softly, her hand brushing through Morgan’s hair.

“I always do, Mommy,” Morgan replied with a faint smile.

“Go ahead, you shouldn't be late..”Corazon said and hugged Morgan tightly before letting go.

Outside, the car engine purred quietly. Bluey stood waiting by the passenger side, clutching her small backpack, her posture straight but tense.

“How long is the—” she began, but Morgan’s sharp voice cut her off.

“You have no right or permission to speak when not told to,” Morgan snapped, glaring at her coldly. “So shut up, because I’d like to enjoy my peace and quiet on this journey.”

Without waiting for a response, Morgan slid into the car and slammed the door hard enough to make Bluey flinch.

Bluey glanced back toward the porch. Her mother stood at the corner, arms folded but smiling reassuringly. She gave Bluey a small wave.

Bluey forced a polite nod, inhaled quietly, then climbed into the car beside Morgan. She remained silent and determined not to say another word.

----

Hours Later, The driver took a long turn down a lonely road. Both sides were swallowed by thick bushes, twisting branches reaching out like claws. 

Bluey pressed her face against the window, unease settling in her stomach. She wanted to ask where they were going cause this doesn't look like a proper destination.

But one glance at Morgan who was too busy on her phone, her sharp tone still echoing in her head, made her bite her tongue.

Minutes passed before they reached a tunnel guarded by masked security officers. Their black uniforms and hidden faces made Bluey shiver.

“ID?” One of them asked flatly.

The driver handed it over. The guard scanned it, then nodded once.

“Sinclair’s resumed.”

The gate opened, and they drove through the tunnel until the road widened to reveal a massive structure looming ahead. 

The building was sleek and intimidating, every corner gleaming with mystery.

Bold letters stretched across the front:

𝐌𝐈𝐒𝐓𝐌𝐎𝐑𝐄 𝐀𝐂𝐀𝐃𝐄𝐌𝐈𝐀 (𝐌𝐈𝐀)

Below it, the school’s motto was carved in marble. Bluey squinted, reading aloud under her breath.

> “Luck is an illusion?”

Her voice trailed off, the words sinking into the cold morning air.

---

The driver stopped in front of the main building, and the girls stepped out. Morgan barely looked up from her phone as she dragged two of her suitcases toward the entrance. 

Bluey followed, pulling her own luggage, her eyes darting around the courtyard where students hurried past with their bags, all heading into the same looming building.

She climbed the marble stairs and stepped into what looked like a reception hall. The air smelled faintly of metal and mint.

“New student?” The receptionist asked without glancing up.

Bluey nodded and handed over her registration form. 

Now that she thought about it… this school didn’t even show up online when she searched for it. How was that possible?

The woman scanned the form, then reached under the counter. She slipped on a pair of black gloves before taking Bluey’s wrist and clasping a thick black bracelet around it. The metal felt cold against her skin.

“Don’t take it off,” The woman said simply.

Before Bluey could ask why, the bracelet flickered with blue light, and a mechanical voice echoed through the entire hall:

🔊 “Player 090 registered. Welcome to MIA.”

Bluey flinched, staring at the bracelet as glowing numbers appeared on its surface.

It displayed: PLAYER 090 – SIGILS: 10

“Player 090? And what are Sigils?” She whispered, confused.

“You’ll figure it out soon,” A calm voice said behind her.

Bluey turned to see a tall girl with dark hair with bangs and sharp eyes. She smiled, extending her wrist to show her own glowing bracelet.

“I’m Natalie,” She said. “Player 053.”

"Bluey."Bluey mumbled, almost inaudibly.

They walked down the chatty hall, the echo of their footsteps bouncing off the towering walls.

“Aren’t we supposed to be students?” Bluey asked, frowning. “Then why Player?”

Natalie smirked without looking back. 

“We are students. Study hard, like really hard cause it’s important, your grades matter a lot. But academics aside…”

The massive double doors at the end of the hall swung open on their own, revealing the world beyond as students trooped in.

“MIA......is a gambling den, if you want to put it in a dirty word... It's hell on earth.” Natalie said, stepping through.

“What?” Bluey gasped, her steps faltering as her eyes widened at the sight before her.

It looked nothing like a normal academy. The courtyard stretched endlessly, with white towers piercing the clouds and bridges of glass connecting each building. 

Students moved in groups, their black bracelets gleaming with glowing numbers. Some whispered trades, others held digital cards that flickered with stats and points.

The air itself thrummed with tension, competitive, electric.

They reached the Assembly Grounds, where  the students stood gathered before an enormous holographic screen. 

Bluey was looking around and saw Morgan who was already near the front, laughing with Trevor, Gomez, and Juniper.

 “The rankings.”Natalie nudged her chin forward.

The monitor flickered, static buzzing through the air before the MIA crest appeared—then the list of Players rolled down in glowing letters.

🔊 “Attention, all students. Player rankings for the first semester will now be displayed.”

Every head turned up. Every breath seemed to hold.

Bluey’s bracelet vibrated softly, the number 10 glowing brighter as the name began to load onto the towering holographic screen, the words gleaming in bold silver letters that reflected across the assembly.

---

𝐋𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥- 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐀𝐜𝐞𝐬

Player 001. Hades Laurel — 8,000 Sigils

Player 002. Hyce Kline — 3,500 Sigils

Player 003. Trevor del Mundo — 2,450 Sigils

Player 004. Hugo Vance — 2,320 Sigils

Player 005. Morgan Sinclair — 2,010 Sigils

𝐋𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥- 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐊𝐧𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬

Player 006. Sergio Velmont — 920 Sigils

Player 007. Gomez Hale — 850 Sigils

Player 008. Dawn Reever — 800 Sigils

Player 009. Juniper Valet — 720 Sigils

Player 010. Desiree Drell — 600 Sigils

---

𝐋𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥- 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐉𝐚𝐜𝐤𝐬

Player 051. Loci Kross — 365 Sigils

Player 052. Nia Sterling — 280 Sigils

Player 053. Natalie Quinn — 210 Sigils

Player 054. Zayne Holt — 140 Sigils

Player 055. Natasha Quinn — 100 Sigils

----

𝐋𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥- 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐏𝐚𝐰𝐧𝐬

Player 088. Bryan Alder — 75 Sigils

Player 089. Aris Lane — 60 Sigils

Player 090. Bluey Cruise — 10 Sigils

---

“Hades is giving the pure definition of social distancing.”Natalie shook her head.

Bluey blinked at the glowing list, her mouth parting. 

“Oh… that’s why there’s a ten on my bracelet. But why ten? How do I even have Sigils? And what are Sigils?”

 “They’re points. Or you could call it currency.”Natalie grinned, arms crossed.

The speaker blared again, the deep automated voice echoing through the assembly.

🔊 House Ranking for the Semester

♠ 𝐒𝐩𝐚𝐝𝐞 𝐇𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐞 ♠

1. Hades Laurel — 8,000

2. Hyce Kline — 3,500

3. Hugo Vance — 2,320

4. Sergio Velmont — 920

5. Dawn Reever — 800

6. Desiree Drell — 600

7. Loci Kross — 365

8. Natalie Quinn — 210

9. Bluey Cruise — 10

🏁 Total Sigils (Spade House): 16,725 Sigils

---

♥ 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝐇𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐞 ♥

1. Trevor del Mundo — 2,450

2. Morgan Sinclair — 2,010

3. Gomez Hale — 850

4. Juniper Valet — 720

5. Bryan Alder — 75

6. Natasha Quinn — 100

7. Nia Sterling — 280

8. Aris Lane — 60

9. Henry Holt — 140

🏁 Total Sigils (Heart House): 6,685 Sigils

---

“Girl, we’re in the same house. Lucky you.” Natalie whispered, bumping Bluey’s shoulder.

“How come Spade has that many points?” Bluey asked, still dazed by the numbers.

“Well,Hades’ eight thousand Sigils are the reason we’re at the top. ” Natalie said with a small laugh.

🔊 For New Students — The Fifteen Rules of Mistmore Academia

1. Attendance to all classes, competitions, and assemblies is mandatory.

2. Respect and obedience to higher-ranked students are required at all times, especially the Ace Level.

3. Physical altercations are only permitted for higher-ranked students. (Meaning only someone ranked higher can challenge or punish a lower one.)

4. All gambling must occur in school-approved games under supervision.

5. Cheating results in an immediate loss of 50 Sigils.

6. Students start with 10 base Sigils; falling below zero leads to expulsion.

7. Rankings are updated weekly and determine privileges and access.

8. Academic performance such as assignments, exams, and projects affects Sigil points.

9. Academic dishonesty leads to point loss and remedial competitions.

10. Students must participate in at least one competition weekly to maintain or up their levels.

11. Borrowed Sigils must be repaid with interest.

12. Official bracelets must be worn at all times.

13. Gossip or leaking information results in sigil deductions.

14. Violations may lead to demotion, forced challenges, or expulsion.

15. Death = Elimination.

---

“Death?” Bluey echoed under her breath. “What does elimination mean?”

Natalie smirked slightly, but her tone turned grim. “It means exactly what it sounds like. Better to be expelled than eliminated, don’t you think?”

Bluey’s throat tightened as her gaze drifted back to the monitor.

Something told her this place wasn’t just a school. It was a playground.

A dangerous one.

Almost immediately, the heavy doors creaked open, and the entire hall fell silent.

Hades walked in, flanked by Hyce and Hugo.

Hyce had headphones over his ear with a lollipop in his mouth, while Hugo just walked in casually like he was bored and uninterested.

Hades was dressed in all black—black boots, black gloves, and a fitted black jacket that framed his broad shoulders.

 His mask covered half his face, cold and unreadable, giving him an aura that made the air feel heavier. Every step he took echoed, deliberate and powerful.

🔊 “All hail the King of MIA.”

The voice boomed through the loudspeakers. Instantly, every student lowered their heads in unison.

Bluey blinked, frozen, until Natalie nudged her sharply. 

“Down, now,” She whispered.

Confused, Bluey bowed her head too, her heart pounding.

A long silence followed, then the sound of Hades fingers snapping.

Just like that, the entire hall straightened. The tension dissolved, and students began to disperse as though nothing happened.

 “What was that?”Bluey stared, wide-eyed.

 “A reminder. Whenever you see Hades, bow your head.”Natalie brushed her hair aside.

“I guess he’s the one with the eight thousand Sigils?” Bluey asked quietly.

 “Exactly. Every student here bows to him… well, except the other Aces.” Natalie gave a half-smile.

Bluey’s eyes flicked toward the far side of the hall, where Morgan stood with Trevor, her phone still in hand and her expression unbothered.

 “Including Morgan too. So she's an Ace?” Bluey mumbled under her breath.

Natalie’s head snapped toward her. “Wait—you know Morgan? Personally?”

“Not really,” Bluey replied quickly. “Um… my parents work for her family, and her dad’s the one paying my tuition.”

“Oh.” Natalie’s tone softened. “That explains why you’re here.”

They finally reached the Spade Dormitory, a massive hall buzzing with noise. Students were laughing, arguing, and challenging each other to games. 

The energy was wild, competitive and electric.

“Here,” Natalie said, stopping by a door. “That’s my room. Yours is right across. Settle in, and call me if you need anything.”

“Okay.” Bluey hesitated, holding her bag. “Um… Natalie?”

“Mm?”

“How does someone move up? Like… level-wise?”

Natalie smirked, leaning against the doorway. “Right. I forgot to tell you. To rise in level, you have to surpass someone else.”

 “Meaning?”Bluey frowned.

“Let’s take Hades for example,” Natalie explained. “If you ever have more than eight thousand Sigils, you’ll push him to Player 002. Everyone else shifts down. It’s a constant game of survival and power.”

“So someone’s win is another person’s loss.” Bluey tilted her head. “In other words… make sure you always have enough to stay on top.”

 “Smart girl.”Natalie grinned.

 “I’ll go in now.”Bluey smiled faintly, though her heart still raced.

She turned the knob and stepped into her room.

-𝐄𝐱𝐞𝐜𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐟𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐑𝐨𝐨𝐦-

The conference room hummed with quiet authority. A long table, holo-screens, a ring of stern-faced administrators as well as Miss Dora, a young principal in her early 30's,  watching like judges. At the round table sat the Aces: Trevor, Hugo, Hyce, Morgan. 

Hugo toyed with a glass pyramid, Hyce idly traced patterns on his bracelet, and Morgan scowled at the screen as if it had personally offended her. Trevor tapped his fingers on the table, impatience coloring every movement.

The door opened. Hades walked in last, all-black silhouette cutting through the room. He moved to the head chair and sat as if he’d always owned that space. The administrators watched, expressionless.

“Always late. You’re not the only busy person here, you know?” Trevor said, eyes narrowing. 

"Late is relative to who's worth waiting for."Hades said.

"Oh, don't get cute with me Hades. Stop acting so damn ignorant. You always act all high and mighty like MIA is going to be put on hold without you in it..!"Trevor snapped.

"Exactly. I don't see why you're so pissed since you already know."Hades said casually, not sparing him a glance.

Trevor scoffed, leaning forward. 

“You're so damn arrogant! You think because everyone bows to you, you’re some kind of god? In case no one told you, it's irritating and.....-”

 “You talk too much for someone who keeps losing to me. Like seriously, does your obsession with me have a limit? Like f+k off..!!” Hades cut him off.

"Can you at least try learning some manners here, Hades. In case you forgot, we're all equals in this room. You don't see us acting all superior and fussy."Morgan snapped.

"Equals? I'd rather die than consider myself as an equal with a pea sized brain and a turn off of a body."Hades said back at Morgan. 

Morgan clenched her fists.

“Oh, screw you.” Trevor stood up, slamming both hands on the table. “ You think you can talk down to everyone here because you’re Player 001? Newsflash , no one here actually likes you.”

"Jeez, I love him. He's my bro."Hugo chipped in and fist bumped with Hades.

“Then leave, Problem solved.” Hades said coldly to Trevor.

Trevor laughed under his breath, shaking his head. 

“You’d love that, wouldn’t you? You can’t stand me and guess what, I can't too."

 “I’m out of here.”The chairs screeched as Trevor pushed his away.

The room went silent as the administrators watching like they’d seen this a hundred times before.

 “Take one more step, and I’ll make sure you never walk back into this room again, not as an Ace, not even as a student.” Hades’ voice cut through, low and warning.

Trevor froze, his back turned. 

“You’d kick me out?”

 “Try me.”Hades leaned forward slightly, voice like ice.

Hyce whistled under his breath. 

“Same old drama, can you both stop. It's becoming unhealthy for my ears..” He muttered.

Morgan sighed. 

“You two need therapy, or a cage,” Hugo added lazily.

“Or both.” Hyce shot back.

 “You all can keep on with the meeting. I’m not wasting another minute breathing the same air as this psycho.”Trevor said.

Hades didn’t reply , he just sat there, silent and still, while Trevor twisted the door knob. Everyone looked at him, waiting for him to sit back down cause they know damn well he ain't crossing that door.

The room stayed quiet, tension humming like static. Trevor finally shut the door and walked back to his seat and sat down.

Finally, Morgan spoke. 

“So… what’s today’s agenda again? This place is itching my skin."She asked.

“First, we are going to talk about the welcome back to school Frat party, before we talk about the quarantine assessments.” Miss Dora said.

“What about the party? ”Hugo asked.

“As you all know, the annual ritual once again is going to be between you Aces. So to be fair to everyone, we are going to let you decide on which two people are going to compete at the frat party.” Miss Dora said.

“As well as which game you want to engage in” Another said.

“Great, I would like to participate, I'm volunteering. I mean if I win which I obviously am, That's 100 Sigils for me, the more the merrier.”Morgan said.

“You know damn well that even if you get 200 Sigils right now, you're still going to remain in number 5. "You are reading from www.mhiztaemy.com.ng" You need at least 300 surpass me. If that's what's your trying to imply.” Hugo said. 

“Why are you so insecure? I never said I was going to compete with you.” Morgan said. 

“And who are you planning on competing with? Me? Trevor? Or don't tell me you're actually thinking that you could actually beat Hades in a tournament.”Hyce scoffed.

“And? Do you think I can't?”Morgan asked and instantly, Hades looked up from his phone.

Morgan maintained eye contact with him, not looking away.

“Really? You want to compete against me?”Hades asked, actually impressed.

“What? Do you think I can't do it?”Morgan asked, still not breaking eye contact with him.

“No. Actually I'm quite impressed, I'll give you what you want. In fact to make it more interesting, Let's place a new stake..”Hades said.

“What do you mean?” Morgan asked.

“Instead of just the usual 100 Sigils, I'll give you 500 of my Sigils if you can win against me.”Hades said.

“Do you think I'd believe you'd actually do that?"Morgan scoffed.

“I'm serious. But if you loose, 500 Sigils will be deducted from you."Hades said.

“Morgan, don't listen to him, he's only trapping you.”Trevor warned.

Morgan thought deeply, she's going straight to number 4 if she pulls this off, but if she loses, well.... She's not going to drop to a Knight but, it'll be difficult to get those points back.

But, her dad would be impressed if she pulls this off, it'll be a huge step. She looked at Hades and he had this smirk on his lips like he already knew her answer, even before he asked.

“I accept your challenge. So what  game are we playing?” Morgan asked.

“We'll let fate decide.”He smirked and she nodded.

“Let’s proceed with the quarantine assessments,” One of the administrators said finally.

They all nodded.

Hyce went first. He rose from his chair, rolled his neck once, and stepped into the scanner in the center of the room. The light swept over him, reading his vitals and combat balance.

“Combat Stability: 92.”

 “Still impressive as always Hyce, honestly I'm jealous..”Hugo smirked.

"Train harder."Hyce said and sat back down.

 Hugo shook his head as he stood next.

The machine hummed again, flickering a softer blue before stabilizing.

“Combat Stability: 84.”

 “Good enough to take you down, though.” Hugo shrugged.

Morgan exhaled loudly and walked forward in her heels. The scanner’s light ran from her fingertips to her chest, slowing slightly at the pulse of her bracelet.

“Combat Stability: 77.”

“Maybe if you weren't constantly surrounded by idiots, you'd score higher.” Hyce spoke.

Hugo chuckled.

She turned with a glare. 

"Don't start with me, wide ass!!"Morgan snapped.

"At least I'm still prettier than you'll ever be. And at least guys wanna f+k my @ss, unlike your bony a$s!"Hyce snapped back and Hugo burst out laughing.

Hades chuckled silently.

Hyce snorted, but before he could respond, the admin called.

 “Trevor del Mundo.”

 Trevor stood up, his eyes still burning from the earlier argument. Without a word, he moved into the scanner.

“Combat Stability: 89.”

He gave Hades a cold look as he walked past him, deliberately bumping his chair.

Then it was quiet.

“Hades Laurel.”

The room stilled.

He stood slowly, towering, mask catching the dim light. The air seemed to shift as he stepped into the center. The machine hesitated, its lights flickering before the whole display began to distort.

The readings climbed—90, 95, 98—before the system hissed and shorted out completely.

A sharp beep. Smoke from the console.

Everyone stared.

“Combat Stability…” The system tried to read, glitching. “…..un.....undefined.”

No one spoke.

Hades looked at the broken monitor, then back at the administrators.

“Guess it’s not built for me,” He said, voice low.

 “Or you’re not built for it.”Hyce leaned back in his chair.

“He’s off the charts again?!.”Morgan’s eyes flicked between Hades and the administrators. 

The lead admin sighed quietly, jotting something in his file.

“Assessment postponed. We’ll review his data manually.”

Hades's phone beeped, it was a message from Albert. Hades smiled widely as he walked towards the door literally jogging and left.

"Is he going crazy?"Hyce asked Hugo.

---

★𝐒𝐩𝐚𝐝𝐞 𝐃𝐨𝐫𝐦★

Bluey sat on the edge of her bed, phone pressed to her ear as she looked around the strange, dimly lit dorm room. 

The walls were dark gray, the emblem of Spade stitched neatly on the curtains. Everything about the place screamed silence and discipline.

“Mom,” she said softly when the line connected, “I already arrived.”

“Oh, that’s good, sweetheart. How’s the place?” Maureen’s gentle voice came through, warm and comforting.

Bluey glanced around again and shuddered. “Honestly, this place is giving me creeps.”

“What do you mean?” Maureen asked, concern lacing her tone.

Bluey hesitated. She wanted to tell her about the eerie environment, the player system and the Sigils but she remembered the rule—gossiping or revealing anything about the academy’s system could get her expelled.

“Bluey?”

“Mom, it’s just that… everyone seems too serious,” she said instead, forcing a small laugh. “But don’t worry, I made a friend. Natalie—she’s nice.”

Maureen’s voice softened. “That’s good, honey. Just keep being yourself, okay?”

Bluey smiled faintly, but before she could respond, there was a sharp knock at the door. She jumped.

“Mom, someone’s at the door. I’ll call you later, okay? Love you!”

“Love you too, Bluey. Stay safe.”

Bluey hung up, slipped her phone under her pillow, and turned toward the door, her heart beating faster than she’d admit.

Bluey walked to the door, hand on the knob, but before she could open it, the door swung in and Natalie stepped inside, all smiles, followed by three other students.

“Natalie…” Bluey blinked, startled.

“Hi!” Natalie beamed, brushing her hair back. “So, I wanted to introduce you to my squad. This is Loci, Nia—his girlfriend—and Zayne.”

“Hi.”Bluey smiled shyly. 

“Hi, Bluey!” Nia chirped, her eyes lighting up. “Oh my goodness, she’s so cute and small!”

“I’m not small,” Bluey pouted, crossing her arms.

“Keep lying to yourself,” Loci teased, leaning casually against the wall with a grin.

 “Don’t mind him..”Zayne chuckled under his breath.

Natalie laughed and threw an arm around Bluey’s shoulders.

 “Welcome to the Spade dorm, Bluey. These guys might act tough, but they’re harmless… mostly.” Natalie grinned.

“Are you indirectly calling us weaklings huh?”Loci smirked.

“Who me? I don't know.”Natalie laughed.

"Aren’t we in rival dorms?" Bluey asked, glancing between Zayne and Nia with a little confusion.

"That’s only during dorm competitions, silly." Nia said, waving it off and looping an arm around Bluey’s shoulders. 

"Chill, we can all be friends when there aren’t dorm rivalry on the line."Nia said.

"That’s right," Zayne added, flashing a grin. "And you’re so pretty, Bluey."

Thanks… Zayne."Bluey’s cheeks turned faintly pink. "

The group settled around her bed, the air light and teasing. They started talking about the school—how wild tournaments could get, how the levels worked, and the strange strictness of the rules.

"So, which family are you from?" Nia asked curiously, twirling a strand of hair. "Everyone here are legacy students."

Bluey hesitated for a second, then said softly, "I’m here because of Gael Sinclair."

The room went still.

"Sinclair?" Loci repeated, his expression shifting. "As in Morgan’s dad? Are you related to him?"

 "No… my parents work for them. He sponsored my admission."Bluey said slowly.

 "Damn. You must be special then. No one gets in here if you don't come from a powerful family or have insane connectios.."Zayne whistled lowly.

Natalie’s smile dimmed a little, but she quickly masked it. 

"Well, whatever the reason just be careful, okay? Especially around their daughter, Morgan... unless....do you two get along?."Natalie asked.

Bluey shook her head.

"I hope she doesn't bully you."Loci said.

The bell rang sharply through the dorm, followed by the crisp voice from the speakers.

🔊“Check your timetable and resume classes immediately.”

Bluey froze, halfway through arranging her clothes in the drawer. 

“Class? We just resumed today! I’m not even done packing…”

All four of them turned to look at her like she’d said something ridiculous.

“You’ve got a lot to learn, baby girl,” Loci said with a smirk, sliding his hands in his pockets. 

“This isn’t your regular high school. Around here, time’s money and every second you waste, someone’s already earning Sigils ahead of you.”Loci added.

 “Come on, newbie. You’ll catch up soon enough.”Nia laughed, looping her arm through Loci's.

 “Hurry and grab your logbook. First impressions matter here, especially to the instructors.”Natalie nudged Bluey’s shoulder gently.

 “Great. My first day and I’m already behind.”

Bluey sighed, fumbling for her logbook.

“Welcome to MIA,” Loci said over his shoulder as they headed out. “......where sleep’s optional and survival’s mandatory.”

"Zayne stop scaring the wits out of the girl."Loci kicked his leg.

"Ouch..bro!"

----

★𝐒𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐝 𝐂𝐥𝐚𝐬𝐬 𝐀𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐚★

𝐒𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐝 𝐂𝐥𝐚𝐬𝐬 ⚔️

The clang of steel echoed across the wide training dome. Bright lights reflected off the polished floor, each strike followed by sparks and grunts. The players—all clad in black combat overalls, protective arm guards, and steel-lined shield masks—moved in perfect rhythm. Their breathing synced with every swing, every dodge.

At the far end of the hall stood Hyce.

Despite being ranked Player 02 and one of MIA’s most feared Aces, swordsmanship had never been his strength. "You are reading from www.mhiztaemy.com.ng" His grip faltered, his stance slipped. He exhaled sharply and raised his sword again, determination etched on his sweat-damp face beneath the mask.

“Focus your core, not your hands,” the instructor barked from the sidelines.

Hyce’s jaw tightened. 

He swung harder, faster. Each strike carried the weight of his frustration. His sword met the holographic target with brutal force—shattering the projection before the timer beeped red.

“Still unstable,” the instructor noted. “You’re using strength, not control.”

Hyce yanked off his shield mask, his chest heaving. 

“ Listen Hyce, you're good and talented. Try harder because failure isn’t an option for an Ace.”

He nodded.

"Go spar with him," The instructor ordered, his voice echoing through the training hall.

 He pointed toward Sergio, whose eyes hadn’t left Hyce from the moment he stepped in.

Hyce didn’t speak. He simply nodded, slipped his mask over his face, and drew his sword.

Sergio smirked, rolling his shoulders as he approached. 

“Guess it’s my lucky day,” He murmured, lowering into stance.

The whistle blew.

Steel clashed instantly. Hyce moved first, swift and precise, forcing Sergio to parry hard just to keep up.

 Their blades rang sharply through the air, the rhythm fast and merciless. Sparks snapped as Hyce struck again, this time harder, forcing Sergio to stumble back a step.

“Whoa, easy there. You trying to kill me or prove something?” Sergio said between grunts, blocking another blow. 

Hyce didn’t answer. His movements were  cold and too aggressive to be casual practice. Each strike came with precision, no hesitation, no humor.

“I’m surprised you’re still here.” Sergio teased, trying to lighten the tension as their swords locked. “Aren’t you supposed to be the strongest Ace after Hades?”

Hyce shoved him off without a word, spinning his blade in a tight arc and striking again. Sergio blocked, barely.

“Come on, Hyce,” He said, breathing heavier now. “You’ve been extra mean to me lately. What did I do this time? Exist?”

 “You talk too much.”Hyce’s tone was flat when he finally spoke.

He swung again, his blade slashing the air so close it cut through the edge of Sergio’s sleeve.

“Or maybe.....” Sergio smirked, ducking under the next blow. “......you just hate that I'm not gonna give up on you easily, pretty boy.”

That hit a nerve. Hyce’s next attack was faster, heavier and too aggressive for a simple spar. Sergio barely blocked in time, the impact rattling through his arm.

“Damn, you really are pissed.” Sergio laughed breathlessly, circling him. “You know I like you, right?”

Hyce stopped and sword tilted slightly. 

“Then stop liking me.”He said, his voice low through the mask.

“Yeah, definitely pissed,” Sergio muttered.

"What do you want? I thought I told you not to talk to me," Hyce said coldly, not even glancing at Sergio as he unstrapped his gloves.

Sergio hesitated before blurting.

“Are you really still dating Gomez?”He asked.

Hyce froze for a second, then turned slightly, his expression unreadable.

 “I thought I already replied to you. What else do you want?”

“It doesn’t look like it anymore.” Sergio continued, stepping closer. 

“You were all over him last semester. Everyone knew how obsessed you were with him—but now? You two look… distant.” Sergio said.

Hyce didn’t respond. The silence between them stretched, heavy and tense.

“C’mon, please, just answer me—”

“We broke up because he cheated. Are you satisfied now?” Hyce cut in sharply.

 “Huh? What do you mean, he cheated?”Sergio blinked.

Hyce’s jaw clenched. His tone stayed calm, but his eyes were pure ice.

“He fucked a girl, and had the guts to tell me it meant nothing.” He said flatly. 

“Oh.” Sergio’s voice dropped. “Hyce, I- ”

“I hate dishonest people.” Hyce interrupted again, his voice sharper this time. 

“You wanna be straight? Stay straight. You wanna be gay, be gay. But don’t pretend to be what you're not, don’t two-time. It’s fucking disgusting.”Hyce said. 

Sergio stared at him, unsure of what to say. For once, Hyce didn’t look like the cold, composed guy, he looked hurt.

“So, I have a chance then?” Sergio asked softly, his voice almost trembling.

Hyce slowly turned, removing his shield mask. His glare was sharp enough to make Sergio swallow hard. 

 “C’mon, say something.”Sergio swallowed hard but held his gaze.

 “Give me a reason to give you a chance.” Hyce tilted his head slightly, his tone low and teasing.

Sergio took a breath.

 “I can make you happy.” He said, his words tumbling out.

 “I’ll never hurt you or your feelings. I really, really like you, Hyce. It’s not just about the sex we had last time. I swear it’s not.”

The room seemed to still. The faint hum of practice swords and distant voices faded as Hyce stepped forward, his eyes never leaving Sergio’s.

He stopped just inches away. His gloved hand lifted slowly and pressed against Sergio’s stomach, firm and deliberate.

 Sergio’s breath hitched as Hyce’s palm trailed upward, gliding over his chest, lingering just below his collarbone.

Hyce’s gaze was intense, almost a mixture of danger, curiosity, and something unspoken. His voice was a whisper that brushed against the edge of a threat and temptation.

“You think you can handle me, Sergio?” He murmured, his lips curving slightly. “You think liking me is enough?”

 “I don’t care how hard it is… I still want you.”

Sergio’s heart pounded.

Hyce leaned in , so close Sergio could feel his breath on his skin.

“Careful,” Hyce said quietly, his tone dark and smooth. “Wanting me is one thing. Surviving me… is another.”

Sergio blinked as Hyce stood on his toes, his breath ghosting against Sergio’s lips. Sergio froze, his heart hammering against his ribs as soft murmurs spread through the class.

🗣️“Are they really about to kiss”

🗣️“Hyce never gets this close to anyone asides Gomez.”

🗣️“Oh my God, this is insane.”

Hyce tilted his head slightly, his lips just a breath away from Sergio’s. For a moment, it felt like time stopped until Hyce’s gaze darkened.

He pulled back with a small smirk

 “You’re not worth it yet,” he said flatly, then he turned, walking away with his sword slung casually over his shoulder, as if nothing had happened.

The students erupted in whispers.

Desiree removed her shield mask and walked over, smirking.

 “That was intense,” She said, her eyes flicking toward Hyce’s retreating figure.

Sergio ran a shaky hand through his hair.

 “I think my heart’s gonna jump out of my body.  He’s… he’s just so intense to be around.” Sergio said.

 “Welcome to Hyce’s gravity, babe. Once he pulls you in, there’s no getting out.” Desiree grinned, crossing her arms.

“Why do I feel so weak around him? I don't like it, I should be the one in control not the other way around.”

 “No time to be weak. Your competitor is glaring daggers into your soul right now.” Desiree nudged Sergio lightly.

Sergio blinked, following her gaze and sure enough, Gomez stood across the training hall, his fist tight on his sword, the plastic of his water bottle bending under the force of his other grip.

“He can keep staring,” Sergio said with a half-smirk. “At least I know he broke up with Hyce. He can f+k off.”

 “You really wanna start a war, don’t you?” Desiree arched a brow, amused.

Sergio tilted his chin up, meeting Gomez’s burning stare before looking away like it didn’t bother him at all.

Across the room, Juniper stood beside Gomez, uneasy. 

“Gomez, hey. Why does it matter if he’s talking to Sergio? You two already broke up, right?”

Gomez’s eyes flickered to her, rage boiling over. 

“Juniper, can you just leave me alone!” He snapped, his voice echoing through the hall.

 He grabbed his shield and sword, stomping toward the sparring zone.

Juniper’s chest tightened. She clenched her fists, watching Gomez throw himself into a reckless duel with another player. Her voice came out in a low, bitter whisper only she could hear.

“I hate you, Hyce…”

----

★ 𝐆𝐲𝐦 𝐂𝐥𝐚𝐬𝐬 𝐀𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐚 ★

The gym was massive, so large that it had its own elevator connecting the three training floors.

 The walls were lined with glass, giving a view of the campus grounds below, and the sunlight that poured in reflected off the sleek chrome of the machines. 

Everything inside screamed money, rows of high-end treadmills, reinforced weight racks, digital punching systems, and training drones imported from overseas.

It wasn’t just a school gym—it was a fortress of strength and status.

Most of the students in the gym were Jacks and Pawns, the lower ranks of the academy hierarchy. They were spread out across the open floor, some lifting weights, others practicing combat drills under the instructor’s supervision. 

The air was filled with grunts, the whir of equipment, and the echoing clangs of barbells being dropped on polished black mats.

Natalie and Nia were side by side on the treadmill, their ponytails bouncing as they ran in rhythm. 

Across the room, Loci and Zayne were effortlessly lifting heavy barbells, their muscles flexing with each curl. 

Meanwhile, on the mat not far from them, Bluey was struggling with a single dumbbell that looked like it weighed more than her soul.

She grunted, face scrunching in determination as she tried to lift it with both hands. The dumbbell barely left the floor before she dropped it again. 

Her palms were red, her shoulders trembling, and she sat back with a defeated pout.

“I hate this gym,” She muttered under her breath, glaring at the innocent weight like it had personally wronged her.

Just then, the glass doors at the far end of the gym slid open. Three students walked in. 

Natasha perfectly poised, her blonde hair tied high with not a single strand out of place, entered first. 

Bryan and Aris followed close behind, both with that same smug, untouchable aura that came with being Morgan’s most loyal lackeys.

Natasha’s gaze swept across the room until it landed on Natalie. She scoffed, rolling her eyes with a smirk before brushing a strand of hair from her shoulder and turning toward the back training room with Bryan and Aris in tow.

Bluey’s jaw dropped. 

“There are two Natalies?” She blurted out, eyes wide.

Nia hit the stop button on her treadmill and grabbed her water bottle, catching her breath as she gave Bluey a look.

 “That’s Natasha. Her twin.”

Bluey blinked rapidly, glancing between Natalie and the door Natasha had just walked through. 

“Wait really?”

“Yep,” Nia said, taking a sip of water. “But trust me, that’s where the similarities end.”

 “She looked... mean.”Bluey frowned, still staring at Nia.

Nia gave a short laugh.

 “Mean is an understatement. Natasha and her buddies are basically Morgan’s little soldiers. They do all her dirty work so she can keep her hands clean.”

 “So... like, her lackeys?”Bluey’s lips parted slightly.

“Babe, can I have some water, please?” Loci said between reps, his arms flexing as he lifted the weights with ease.

Nia rolled her eyes but grabbed another bottle from the bench. 

“You’re lucky you’re cute,” She muttered, walking over to him and pressing the bottle into his hand.

“Thanks, baby,” He said, flashing a grin before gulping it down.

Bluey, still sitting cross-legged beside her tiny dumbbell, tilted her head curiously.

 “Don’t you guys get along? She—uh, Natasha—rolled her eyes when she saw you.”

Natalie’s expression darkened instantly. 

“I hate that bi+ch of a sister,” Natalie said, her tone flat but edged with irritation.

 “But... why?”Bluey blinked, surprised.

Natalie sighed, hopping off the treadmill.

 “They fight all the time. Mostly because Natasha’s one of Morgan’s lapdogs. She joins in whenever Morgan decides to make someone’s life miserable.”Nia said.

 “Morgan... bullies people?”Bluey frowned, fiddling with her fingers.

Natalie gave a sharp laugh that held no humor.

 “Bullies is putting it nicely. She is always looking for someone new to humiliate. Especially anyone who looks weak or doesn’t know the system.”

Bluey’s throat tightened a little. “Oh…”

Natalie’s tone softened when she noticed the look on Bluey’s face. 

“Don’t let her intimidate you, Bluey. I know your parents are loyal to Morgan’s family, but this is your life. Stay away from her, okay? She’s no good.”

 “I will… I promise.”Bluey nodded quietly.

Nia leaned on Loci’s shoulder with a sigh. 

"I'm tired."Nia pouted.

"Just finish up and we'll go get food."Loci rubbed her chin.

“I wonder which Aces are going to have a tournament at the Frat party. I kinda want to see Hades,” Zayne said, dropping the weights with a thud before grabbing a towel to dry the sweat glistening on his chest.

“Me too. It’s been forever since he actually participated,” Loci said, adjusting his wristbands.

 “I remember asking him about it once, and he said he wasn’t interested because, well he quote that ‘everyone’s a weakling.’”Loci said.

 “That guy’s so savage.”Zayne let out a short laugh.

Bluey, sitting cross-legged on the mat and rubbing her aching arms, blinked.

 “There’s a tournament?”

“Yeah,” Nia said, still running at a steady pace on the treadmill. “It’s an annual ritual for the Aces only. Last year it was Hyce versus Trevor.”

“Who won?” Bluey asked curiously.

“Trevor,” Natalie replied, not missing a beat.

“Wait—Hyce is Player 002, right? How did he lose?” Bluey tilted her head, genuinely confused.

“He lost because it was sword fighting,” Natalie explained. 

“He’s strong, but that’s not his best skill. Trevor, on the other hand, was born for it. The truth is, no matter how powerful you are, there’s always one weakness.”

Bluey nodded thoughtfully.

 “I guess everything is my weakness at this point,” She mumbled, pouting as she stared down at her small dumbbells. “Aren’t there simpler tasks? My hands are aching already.”

 “Who even had the idea of enrolling a baby here? You’re lucky that’s your beginner’s lesson. When our set started, we had to run around a 200-hectare field—three times. I thought I was gonna die.”Nia laughed.

“What?” Bluey gasped, eyes wide. “You’re kidding!”

“Geez, Bluey,” Natalie huffed, increasing her treadmill speed. “You’re such a drama queen.”

Zayne chuckled under his breath and turned his head slightly, locking eyes with Bluey's. 

He smirked when he saw her face turn red as she quickly looked away, pretending to focus on her dumbbells again.

----

★𝐃𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐇𝐚𝐥𝐥 - 7𝐩𝐦★

The dining hall was massive, ceiling chandeliers glimmered above the rows of students lined up in ten separate queues, each waiting as chefs in crisp uniforms served steaming trays of gourmet food.

 The buzz of chatter and the clinking of utensils filled the air, blending into the faint sound of music playing through the hall’s speakers.

At one of the long tables near the center, Bluey sat with Natalie, Nia, Loci, and Zayne, already halfway through their dinner.

“Man, this pasta hits different,” Zayne said between bites.

“Of course it does,” Natalie replied. “

 “Everything here feels too fancy. Even the water tastes expensive.”Bluey poked at her meal, glancing around the hall in awe.

“Because it probably is,” Nia said, laughing.

Suddenly, Loci’s wrist alarm beeped. He sighed, wiping his mouth and pushing back his chair.

“Gotta go, guys,” Loci said, slinging his bag over his shoulder.

 “Where are you going?”Bluey blinked.

“To deliver Hades’ dinner,” He replied simply, walking toward the counter where a tray had been set aside with the Ace’s emblem on it.

“Wait, you mean the Hades?” Bluey whispered, looking both thrilled and nervous.

Before anyone could answer, a loud voice came from the entrance.

“H3's are coming!” A student shouted, breathless as he ran inside.

Immediately, Hades walked in, Hyce and Hugo flanking him like shadows. The hall went dead silent. Every living soul bowed instantly, the air thick with fear and reverence.

“Bro, I can’t believe you dragged me here because of a girl,” Hugo muttered under his breath, hands in his pockets.

“Who the fuck is Bluey Cruise!” Hades’ voice thundered through the hall, echoing off the walls.

Gasps rippled across the room. Natalie and Nia froze, eyes wide as they turned toward Bluey. Zayne leaned back with a smirk, watching the chaos unfold like it was the highlight of his day.

Bluey’s spoon clattered from her hand. Her heart hammered in her chest as every eye turned to her. 

Slowly, she stood, head bowed low, trembling.

Hades stopped right in front of her. He reached down, hooked a finger under her chin, and forced her to look up. His smirk was dark, amused, dangerous, and curious all at once.

“It’s really you,” He said quietly, his voice deep enough to make her skin prickle.

 “Where the f+k have you been all my life?”

Before she could react, Bluey gasped as her feet suddenly left the ground. Hades had lifted her effortlessly, slinging her over his shoulder like she weighed nothing.

She gasped.

But Hades just chuckled lowly, walking toward the door while students watched in stunned silence.

“Put… me… down!!” Bluey shrieked, pounding her fists against his back.

.

.

𝐓𝐨 𝐁𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐮𝐞𝐝 ✰

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