Shadows of Valor

Part 21

In an instant, the shadows around Sebastian swirled and coalesced, shrouding him in an aura of darkness. The once triumphant upperclassman now paled, his smug expression replaced by fear. The shadows danced menacingly, reaching out like tendrils towards the offender, their intent clear.

Reid watched in awe and disbelief, his shock giving way to a sense of admiration for his friend's power. But as Sebastian's anger dissipated, his voice softened, yet carried an air of authority. "Forget it. I don't have the energy to waste on you," he stated firmly. 

The upperclassman, visibly shaken, took a step back, his bravado fading. Sebastian turned away, his head held high, and walked out of the cafeteria, Reid following closely behind. As they stepped into the hallway, Reid caught up with Sebastian, his eyes filled with admiration and concern. "Are you okay, Sebastian?" he asked, his voice filled with genuine care.

As they stepped into the hallway, Sebastian caught a glimpse of Dr. Lawson, their school counselor, observing the situation with a concerned expression. Ignoring the presence of Dr. Lawson for the moment, Sebastian focused on Reid's question.

Sebastian smiled, the milk still dripping from his hair. "I'm fine, Reid. It takes more than a carton of milk to bring me down," he replied, rolling his eyes.

As they walked down the hallway, Sebastian couldn't shake off the nagging feeling of being observed. He glanced over his shoulder, catching another glimpse of Dr. Lawson's concerned gaze. Choosing to momentarily brush it off, he redirected his attention to Reid.

"So, I think I should find a bathroom and a change of clothes," Sebastian said, a playful smirk forming on his lips. "I don't think the milk-drenched hero look will be trending anytime soon."

Reid chuckled, "Definitely not. Let's find that bathroom and freshen up. And maybe, just maybe, we can grab a snack to lift our spirits.

Sebastian and Reid made their way back to their dorm, the weight of the recent incident still lingering in the air. As they entered their shared living space, Sebastian immediately headed for the bathroom, his mind set on washing away the remnants of the milk that clung to his hair.

Turning on the shower, Sebastian allowed the warm water to cascade over him, washing away the unwanted residue and refreshing his senses. He reached for the shampoo, lathering it into his hair, and for the first time in a while, he noticed the familiar scent and texture of clean hair. As he rinsed off the suds, he couldn't help but be slightly surprised by the newfound fluffiness and shine of his locks. It had been too long since he had paid attention to such mundane details.

After a thorough rinse, Sebastian stepped out of the shower and reached for a towel. He briskly dried himself off, his mind still replaying the events of the day. Once dry, he wrapped the towel around his waist and stepped in front of the mirror.

Sebastian's reflection greeted him, his hair still damp and unruly. With a resigned shrug, he proceeded to tame his hair as best he could. After a few minutes of vigorous towel-drying, he regarded his reflection once again, the fluff somewhat tamed. He couldn't deny the difference in texture and appearance, a stark contrast to his previously unkempt and greasy locks. A mix of annoyance and reluctant satisfaction crossed his face. It seemed that even in the simplest of tasks, there were unexpected changes to adapt to.

Letting out a sigh, Sebastian discarded the towel and headed back into the bathroom to change into fresh clothes. He slipped into a clean pair of jeans and a comfortable t-shirt, feeling a renewed sense of confidence in his appearance.