tears of mercury | beastars

chapter 7. WILDLIFE SANCTUARY LEVEL 100

𖤣𖥧.𖤣𖥧𓆏𖡼.𖤣𖥧𖡼.𖤣𖥧
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The rehearsal room was now used by the Acting Team as they prepare on Scene 15 for the play. The stage lights illuminated the actors as they moved in sync, their voices echoing through the auditorium. Other members of the Drama Club, including the Production Team, watched from the sidelines.

Among them stood (Name), her arms crossed as she leaned against a wooden column, tracking the performance with a critical eye. Beside her, Sanou, held a clipboard and scribbled notes furiously.

"Something's off with Louis today," Sanou murmured, his voice low enough not to draw attention. His eyes were fixed on the red deer, who delivered his lines with precision but lacked his usual vigor. "His movements are. . . stale."

(Name) tilted her head, narrowing her eyes as she observed Louis. It didn't take long for her to agree. The usual fire in his performance was dimmed, his body language rigid. "You're right," she said quietly. "He's not himself."

Sanou turned to her, adjusting his glasses. "Do you know anything about it? He's always more open with you."

She shook her head. "We both know Louis wouldn't tell a soul if something's bothering him. He'd rather drop dead than admit a weakness."

Sanou sighed and tapped his pen against the clipboard. "Maybe I should talk to him. We can't afford for him to burn out before the event."

"That's a good idea," (Name) said, her tone firm but supportive. "Let's give them a short break after this scene. You're closer to him than I am-it's better if it comes from you."

Sanou nodded in agreement, and (Name) excused herself, her sneakers tapping softly against the floor as she made her way toward the backstage area. She needed to check in with the Stage Crew.

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The backstage was a hive of activity, with members of the Stage Crew scurrying around, arranging props and adjusting set pieces. She spotted Dom, a male peafowl and the crew leader, inspecting a large sketch pinned to the wall.

"Dom," she called, walking over to him.

Dom turned, his feathers glinting under the dim backstage lighting. "Oh, (Name), good timing," he said with a smile. "We're finalizing the prop list for the event."

She glanced at the sketch, which depicted an elaborate design for the assembly hall and entrance doors. Roses framed the stage and adorned the main doorway.

"I like this," she said, pointing at the roses. "It adds a touch of elegance to the final act."

Dom nodded, pleased with her approval. "I was worried it might be too much, but if you're on board, I'll make it happen."

"I'll talk to the Gardening Club about providing the roses," she offered. "They're the only ones who can get us what we need on short notice."

"Thanks, that'd be a big help," Dom said, his gratitude evident. "I'll send a few of my team members to assist you."

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The roof garden was a sanctuary of greenery, a stark contrast to the hustle and bustle of the school. (Name) pushed open the metal door, the scent of flowers filling her senses.

A small figure stood among the potted plants, watering them with a hose. It was a female dwarf rabbit, her delicate frame almost blending in with the vibrant blooms around her.

"Hello," (Name) greeted, stepping closer. "I'm from the Drama Club. Are you part of the Gardening Club?"

The rabbit looked up, startled at first, but then softened into a polite smile. "Yes, I am. My name's Haru."

"I'm (Name)," she introduced herself. "We need roses for the New Student Welcome Event. Can your club help with that?"

Haru nodded. "Of course. We have plenty of roses. I'll prepare what you need."

As Haru spoke, (Name)'s eyes fell on her bandaged left arm. Her brows furrowed, memories stirring. She vaguely recalled hearing faint noises on the school grounds a few nights ago. Without thinking, she reached out and gently grabbed Haru's arm, inspecting it closer to her semi-hunched form.

"Where did you get this?" she asked, her voice firm but laced with concern. Her thumb lightly traced the edges of the bandage. "Does it still hurt?"

Haru blinked in surprise, her cheeks tinged with pink. She slowly slid her arm out of (Name)'s grasp. "It doesn't hurt as much now." she said softly.

Before (Name) could press further, the metal door creaked open behind them. She instinctively stepped in front of Haru, her posture subtly defensive. Haru tilted her head, her curiosity piqued at the gesture.

Legoshi entered the garden with a male anteater beside him. His eyes immediately landed on Haru, and a wave of nervousness washed over him. He couldn't forget what had happened that night-how his predatory instincts had almost caused harm to her.

Then, his gaze shifted to (Name), standing protectively in front of Haru. His heart sank further. He knew of (Name)'s influence at Cherryton Academy. Her father, a renowned detective, coupled with her own intimidating presence, made her a figure not to be trifled with.

"Legoshi," (Name) greeted coolly. "What brings you here?"

"I. . . Uh," Legoshi stammered, "I just needed to get something for the Drama Club."

Her eyes bore into him, unyielding. For a moment, he wondered if she knew what he'd done. Was she piecing it together? Would she report him?

". . . Dom must have sent you both, right?" she said finally, stepping aside from covering Haru.

Legoshi nodded and quickly moved to the side, waiting for further instructions. Haru watched him silently, her expression adorn a polite smile.

"Thank you for your help, Haru," (Name) said with a small smile, turning back to the rabbit. "They'll take the roses to our club."

As she walked past Legoshi on her way out, she paused briefly. "Legoshi," she said, glancing at him, "Make sure the roses are moved with care."

Her words hung in the air, leaving Legoshi unsure if it was a warning, advice, or something else. He swallowed, feeling a knot tighten in his stomach.

He nodded, though his mind was too tangled with guilt and anxiety to focus properly.

✅ EDITED