The next morning, the pair woke up as usual and went through their morning routine before heading downstairs for breakfast, sipping their coffee as they enjoyed the morning view of the Academy grounds.
They left on time for the arena, where their training would continue. Today, they were set to begin with the basic drills in their second Battle Form. Afterwards, they would move on to advanced drills, followed by the free-forms.
If they were lucky, they'd be able to start the basic aerial drills today as well. This was what they were genuinely looking forward to—being able to use flight during battle would be epic, especially if they managed to complete the final segment: the combined drills, where all forms melded into their own unique fighting style.
They arrived at the arena with twenty minutes to spare. After Chaos separated, they sat down, sipping their coffee while waiting for the Teachers to arrive. As they waited, they chatted about mundane things amongst themselves. Yi and Er were behaving today—at least for now. The day was still long.
When the Teachers arrived, the pair greeted them and then stood waiting for instructions. The Teachers replied before Teacher Azazel instructed them to enter the arena, as they already knew what to do that day.
Once inside, the door closed behind them, and the Teachers made their way to the control room. Azazel counted them in: "Okay, gravity field engaging, magnifier activated, interferences engaging. START!"
The trio began their basic drills in their second Battle Form, slowly at first, then picking up the pace until the arena indicated mastery after an hour. Once they received approval, they switched to advanced drills and continued. Again, mastery was reached within an hour.
With another approval, they moved on to the free-form drills. They closed their eyes and let their bodies flow through the moves, slowly at first, then faster and faster until, just before lunchtime, they had mastered these forms as well. The techniques were as imposing and wild as any before them.
The Teachers were starting to get used to these displays of wild, Mana-filled forms—no longer shocked, unlike the people watching the live stream.
They left for the cafeteria for lunch before the next segment.
—
Student Chat on the Wild Mana-Filled Arena Livestream
Arjun, 12: Did you see how fast they were moving during the advanced drills? That was awesome!
Mai, 17: Totally! And the way they went straight from basic to advanced forms—I would be exhausted! Still waiting for the aerial drills, though. Can't wait to see them fly.
Liam, 15: Lol, the Teachers don't even look surprised anymore. Imagine watching that every day.
Zara, 10: I liked their free-form moves best! It was like they were dancing and fighting at the same time.
Nina, 21: The energy in those Mana-filled forms is wild. Makes me wish I could learn that style.
Victor, 19: Was I the only one who noticed Yi and Er behaving today? Last time they messed everything up, haha.
Maya, 14: If they actually get to fly today, someone PLEASE notify everyone so we can all watch live! Imagine combining all the drills while flying... next level!
Elise, 23: Didn't expect to be so hooked, but their style is so unique. Anyone else notice how the Teachers just chill in the control room now?
Arjun, 12: Yeah, they just let them go wild. Also, who else is watching this during breakfast?
—
After lunch, the group returned, and the trio was herded back into the arena as the Teachers headed to the control room.
"Okay, you've gotten to the second most anticipated segment: Aerial drills. You know the score. Counting you in: gravity field engaging, magnifier activated, interferences activated—START!" Azazel instructed after the Teachers settled in.
"How wild do you think they'll get this time?" Azazel asked, anticipation in his face and voice.
"It can't be as bad as the combat sim," Beelzebub remarked dryly.
"Touche." Azazel quipped.
They settled back, watching as the trio worked through the aerial drills. They were clumsy and slow at first, but, as expected, their movements soon became smoother and faster. Their speed increased until, for most, they were nothing but blurs whipping around the arena's air.
An hour later, the arena confirmed mastery. Azazel approved, and they immediately switched to advanced drills, following the same routine. By day's end, they had completed mastery of the aerial drills.
"Well done. From tomorrow, you'll be starting the combined drills. A word of warning—even if Tian Dao is assisting you in mastering your Knowledge, expect it to take several weeks to master the combined drills. For others, it takes years!" Teacher Azazel informed them before releasing them for the day.
As usual, the pair, Chaos, merged again and thanked the Teachers for their time before leaving.
—
The Teachers made their way to the conference room to discuss Chaos and Bane. Headmistress Lilith, Teacher Moros, and Demon Nyx would also be joining, as there were matters all of them needed to address.
Headmistress Lilith had been vague about the agenda, so the Teachers didn't know what to expect from the second half of the meeting.
She stood at the head of the table, greeting everyone as they arrived: Teacher Azazel, Teacher Belial, Teacher Beelzebub, Teacher Moros, Demon Zera, Demon Selene, Demon Seraphina, and Demon Nyx. Each took their seat, exchanging anticipatory glances.
Lilith (composed): Thank you all for coming. We're here to review Chaos and Bane's recent progress, with particular focus on their temperament and tolerance levels.
Azazel (matter-of-fact): Chaos and Bane continue to excel in drills—their mastery rates are unprecedented. Their attitudes are stable so far, though occasional unpredictability persists.
Belial (thoughtful): Bane is more reserved. He's strong but focuses more on stability when he's not coming up with insane plans. Still, his discipline enhances his tolerance for routine and setbacks.
Beelzebub (dryly): If the metric is how often the arena's safety protocols are tested, Chaos comes out on top. But Bane is usually the mastermind behind the mayhem, more likely to go off-script and pull Chaos along with him. Chaos, on the other hand, doesn't even have a script—they improvise everything in real time, responding to whatever is happening around them. Although Yi tends to be more methodical, the cold, chaotic commander.
Moros (stern): Their teamwork is improving by leaps and bounds. They're attuned to each other in ways even some Bonded pairs aren't.
Nyx (softly): I've observed that Chaos responds well to creative challenges, while Bane prefers certainty—but isn't afraid to create chaos, or encourage Chaos to do so.
Seraphina (animated): Agreed. Also, during Mana drills, Bane's energy is more consistent—stability is his trademark. Perhaps that's why Tian Dao called him Heaven's Assassin; he has the right temperament.
Selene (gently): Their tolerance for the unknown has noticeably strengthened. They handle surprises much better than they did in their first month.
Zera (smirking): Let's not kid ourselves, though. If Chaos gets bored, he'd burn the place down—and Bane would fan the flames. We need to keep things exciting.
Lilith (smiling): Duly noted, Zera. Let's remain vigilant, especially as they begin the combined drills. Now, let's prepare for the student Q&A.
This prompted some raised eyebrows from both Teachers and Demons.
They assembled in front of the camera as Headmistress Lilith began the livestream. Across every Academy, students tuned in, with questions flooding the chat.
Lilith (to viewers): Good afternoon, students. We know many of you are curious about Chaos and Bane. We'll answer as many questions as possible, but please remember—personal privacy will be respected.
Student Question: "Why do Chaos and Bane receive one-on-one lessons?"
Lilith: Initially, Chaos needed personalised instruction—he had less than three months to master basic Knowledge before his Awakening. Due to the Oath resonance before Awakening, Bane joined him earlier than usual; typically, Mates don't meet until age ten when students transition from Elementary to Junior Academy.
Beelzebub: Now, it's because they advance faster than anyone before, and chaos tends to follow them. Also, imagine being in a class with them as they breeze through material. How would that make you feel? That's the final reason.
Student Question: "Why are Chaos and Bane so different in style?"
Azazel: Chaos thrives on uncertainty and improvisation. Bane's more methodical. Their strengths complement each other, making them a more effective pair.
Student Question: "How do they recover so fast after intense drills?"
Seraphina: Their Mana reserves are vastly greater than those of other students. Both regenerate rapidly, and their base Stats are already comparable to those of sixth-level peak students.
Student Question: "Do they ever fight outside training?"
Beelzebub (raising an eyebrow): No comment—but let's just say, Teachers and Mammys are always on alert.
Lilith (smiling): They're competitive, but respectful. Any disagreements are usually resolved with Bane giving a few 'love taps' to whichever Twin annoyed him, or their Mammys intervene.
Student Question: "What's the hardest challenge they've faced?"
Belial: The first gravity-enhanced combat simulation. Neither had endured that kind of pressure before, and both impressed us with their determination.
Student Question: "Will we see combined drills soon?"
Moros: Yes. Combined drills start tomorrow. Expect a sharp learning curve—and a few surprises.
Student Question: "Who decides their training?"
Nyx: Planning is a collaboration between Teachers and Demons, based on ongoing progress and observed needs.
Lilith: Headmasters, along with the Nursery Elders, Head Medical Officers and the Councils representative, give the final approval—sometimes with insights that aren't shared with staff or students.
Selene: We always emphasise safety and growth. Our routines are meant to challenge the students, but never overwhelm them.
Zera (grinning): And to make sure they're entertained—especially Chaos. If they get bored, we might see more weaponised natural disasters in the simulations, or them sparring with each other just for the fun of it.
The Q&A continued, with each Teacher and Demon sharing stories, advice, and comments. Headmistress Lilith eventually closed the stream, thanked everyone for their questions, and promised even more interactive opportunities in the future.
—
Student Livestream Chat: Wild Mana & Q&A
Hana, 9: Can someone explain how they fly that fast? It looks like video game physics, but it's real!
Tyrese, 14: LOL at Azazel: "Gravity field engaging, magnifier activated." So dramatic every time. I'd love to feel what that's like!
Sanjay, 19: The transition from basic to advanced and then free-form was unreal. Chaos and Bane might be breaking all the records.
Jules, 17: Did anyone else see the Teachers just sitting there? They're so used to those wild Mana moves, nothing shocks them now.
Alyssa, 12: I love when Zara calls it dancing and fighting at the same time! That's exactly what it looks like, right?
Victor, 13: The Q&A is live! I sent in a question about their training schedule, but the chat is FLOODED.
Sandra, 22: Lilith runs a smooth stream. Did you catch Beelzebub dodging the question about fighting outside of training? "No comment"—classic!
Holly, 18: Their answers make so much sense now. Bane being methodical and Chaos always improvising—it fits what we're seeing perfectly.
Amira, 11: I wish I had Mana reserves like that. Seraphina made it sound like they're basically superhuman!
Max, 23: Did everyone catch Zera's warning? If Chaos gets bored, the Teachers might as well take cover!
Elena, 16: The Q&A explained so much about how they pair everyone up. I didn't know that Mates usually don't meet until age ten!
Lucas, 15: I really want to see the combined drills now. Moros promised surprises—let's see some absolute chaos!
Jasmine, 21: Can we please have a highlight reel of their toughest challenge? That gravity sim sounded brutal.
Rohan, 13: Props to Lilith for keeping things private while still answering so many questions. We need this every week!
—
At this time, Bane and Chaos were floating in the bathing pool after showering. Bane was checking the comments on their livestream, while Chaos, feeling bored, separated—Yi and Er drifted side by side for a while.
Bubbles danced across the surface of the steaming pool, sunlight filtering through high windows and glinting off droplets suspended in the air.
Bane reclined, eyes closed, mentally reading the livestream chat, sinking into the blissful quiet as the gently buoyant, Mana-infused water cradled him. Yi floated nearby, serene and still, lost in silent contemplation. Er, however, tapped his fingers against the water, counting the echo of each ripple and growing steadily more restless.
"Hey," Er piped up, glancing sideways at Yi, who didn't respond. Bane cracked open an eye, but the allure of peace convinced him to stay quiet. Rolling his eyes, Er drifted away, a sly grin blooming. Boredom was always dangerous in his hands.
Stifling giggles, he began weaving Mana beneath the water, sending out a handful of invisible, ticklish threads. Gently, they brushed over Yi's feet first. Yi's face stayed impassive—until a slight twitch betrayed him. A soft squirm followed. Bane frowned, sitting up slightly.
Before Yi could react, Er dialled up the mischief. Now the Mana tingle zipped over to Bane, swirling against his sides. Bane yelped, splashing as he twisted away. "Oi! What—Er!"
Yi shot Er a glare, but Er just widened his grin, bubbles swirling around his ears. "You two looked way too peaceful. Gotta keep things lively, yeah?"
Bane lunged, sending a wave crashing over Er, but Er vanished under the water, resurfacing a few feet away, still cackling. Yi, reaching out with his own Mana, set the water pulsing in return—ripples and splashes escalating into a playful free-for-all.
The serene quiet of the bathing pool was shattered by laughter, splashing, and the echoes of Er's triumphant mischief.
By the end, all three floated panting and grinning, the bathing area littered with evidence of their impromptu battle. Er stretched out contentedly. "Admit it—best bath ever."
Even Yi, glowering, couldn't help the faint smile twitching at the edge of his mouth. Bane shook his head, laughing despite himself. "Next time, Er, you're on clean-up duty."
Er just winked, already plotting his next prank.
At that moment, Morgranna and Morgana stormed the top floor; the chaos could be heard from downstairs. As they entered, the two Mammys paused to take in the chaotic mess littering the bathing area.
Then, wordless screeches erupted from the Mammys' mouths, followed by thuds, crashes, muttered curses, and shrieks.
—
[Livestream: Nano-Drone Hallway Audio Feed]
Opening audio—echoing laughter, the gentle hiss of bubbling water, intermittent splashes. The drone hums softly, forbidden from crossing the threshold to the top floor, quietly relaying every sound filtering down the hallway.
Er's laughter bursts out, sharp and triumphant, almost overlapping with a surprised yelp from Bane—a sudden, massive splash echoes. More giggling. The rhythmic slap of water, quick breaths, and the thrum of Mana vibrating through the liquid are barely audible.
Low voices carry—"Oi! What—Er!"—punctuated by the distinct sound of hands smacking water, then more splashing and a muffled, "You two looked way too peaceful. Gotta keep things lively, yeah?"
An explosion of chaos: splashes, shrieks, the wet thump of a body hitting water. Bubbles gurgle. More laughter, this time uneven and out of breath, followed by a victorious, "Admit it—best bath ever." And faintly, "Next time, Er, you're on clean-up duty."
Suddenly, heavy footsteps thunder through the corridor: Morgranna and Morgana have arrived. The door at the top creaks open. For a heartbeat, silence. Then—
Wordless screeching erupts, followed by a volley of thuds, violent water sloshing, the sharp crash of something landing on tile, muttered curses, and panicked shrieks as the Mammys react to the aftermath of the prank war.
—
[Livestream Follower Comments]
Ray, 14: OH MY GOD, what was that scream?!
Sana, 17: You can literally FEEL the chaos through the drone mic lol
Keiko, 11: That sounded like a tidal wave! Did they just flood the bathroom??
Bex, 19: R.I.P. to whoever has to clean up
Femi, 15: Oof, the Mammys have arrived—brace for impact!
Jace, 22: I love how we get the drama but none of the visuals. PURE IMAGINATION MOMENT.
Anya, 13: Please tell me someone is saving this audio. It's comedy gold!
Nico, 18: New rule: Er needs his own livestream channel for prank content!
Miri, 16: Can you imagine their faces right now? Mammys about to go full boss mode
Lila, 12: All we're missing are the subtitles!