Furn Star

Chapter 3a: Afterwards

     Welp, just so you know, at this point I only have a basic structure for the story. Let's hope it turns out good. 😅

Percy's Perspective
At a small restaurant, Jackson asked me out. I was so excited...

I was leaving for my first class today and saw Jackson and Caleb waiting for me.
Caleb opened his mouth as soon as I got there. "I'm here 'cause I heard you rejected him. I'm trying not to make this too uncomfortable."
     I thought it was weird how we barely knew each other and would start dating. Maybe after at least a week.
"Umm, sorry, but this seems more awkward because you said that."
"True, but it would be more so, if he started hitting on you again so fast."
Jackson seemed offended by that statement.
"Don't take this wrong, but you don't sugarcoat things, do you?" I hope he didn't get mad.
"Yeah. I apparently have a mental disorder. I can keep secrets and lie, but softening what I say is a no go. I like it though. It catches people off guard." He gave a faint smile that made me shiver.
"Sooo, now that-that's out of the way... we can head on to class. Oh yeah, just so you know Percy, me and Caleb are going on a kind of field trip in two days. We won't be back until Sunday. Will you be all right?"
He seemed genuinely concerned. Well I guess he isn't some sex-crazed asshole. "I'll be fine. I know where to go, and already made a couple friends thanks to you guys. Just tell me when you guys get back." I moved my hair from the side of my eye while speaking.
     "Aawww!! You can't live without me can you~!! Of course I'll tell you-"
Caleb cuts him off, "Great!! Don't go dying on us just 'cause we ain't there!!" With his fingers pinching Jackson's ear.

     During lunch, all of my new friends gathered in the commons. A girl who goes by Cinderella always leans on me while playing video games. I don't mind, but it's a little weird. Especially since her boyfriend, Lightning was right next to her. He didn't seem to give it a second thought though.
     "YEAH!! I've seen that movie! Have you ever played the game!? It's amazing!!" He never seemed to talk quietly. "REALLY?! I love the candy that pops in your mouth! It's just so fun!" His golden mane seemed to glow whenever he laughed.
He was just as large as Jackson, but he isn't as smart. He's pretty hot though.
This black-haired girl on the side was always looking at Jackson. I noticed it the first time we met. And I looked at her like I was protecting what was mine. She looked straight at me when I did, and I think she knows I like him too. It was sooo embarrassing!! But she came up, shook my hand, and we became friends. We both like space, so we resonated over that.

Near the end of lunch, the tiger guy from before my first day came up. "You guys are the high-tiers of this school, right!?" I was was vexed as to what he was talking about.

Jackson spoke up from everyone's peace being trampled on, "Yeah, one through five are sitting at this table. Why?" He was smiling, but it was obvious that he had a hint of disdain. Though it was completely overshadowed by Caleb's hatred for them. It oozed out like it had a physical form.
"I will challenge one of you guys to take your spot."
They all went silent, except for Cinderella. "Bbrrppt!! Hahahahaaa!! You think you could beat any of us!! Do you even have a Cypher!?"
He gritted his teeth as he responded, "I don't, but just because you guys do, doesn't mean I won't show you up!"
I can understand his anger at that... People with Cyphers seem to have an advantage. Sometimes, those without are treated as lesser-than...
"Heh? That wasn't my point. I don't have one either and I'm number three. I am a dual-wielder though."
"Heh! I bet if you didn't have that, you'd be a low-tier!"
"Maybe, but I guess you won't ever know."
He paused for a moment with a wicked smile on his face. "Hey... Sanders. How does it feel to be a dude trying to be a girl?"
Wait...? Whaaat?
Everyone at the table was quiet, and from his aura, Lightning was about to lash out, but Cinderella stopped him. "When do you want to fight?"
"In two days. During public sparing."
"Deal. And I will only use one element. You're going down you piece of fucking trash."
Him and his, now larger, clan walked away like they achieved something.
     "Man, I wish I could see it. Make sure you video it Percy! As a reward... we can do whatever you want.~" He emphasized 'whatever' and pushed a finger through a circle made from two others. I almost melted from embarrassment.

     I almost wish I could say I feel bad, but yeah, Percy said NO. For now at least.