>For once, you currently aren't knocking anyone out in the Circle.

>Even though you really feel the need to.

>The end of the school year is approaching, and with it brings a boredom as you wait for its end.

>Finals are all done and dusted, with ample time for the caring teachers to give anyone who desperately needs it a retest.

>In an attempt to save their lives.

>Like Verne, the poor bastard.

>Or that would be him normally, but you and Lewis helped him study, and pounded knowledge into his head like drill sergeants.

>So he managed to just barely get by.

>But now the school days are just people goofing off during class until graduation.

>Of course, you're no exception.

>But at the end of the day you let Mirabelle go on ahead and went to Mr. Warburton.

>He told you he wanted to help you apply for some scholarships into the STEM field, since you've let him know that's where you're headed.

>And hey, free money is always a boss move.

>So you chose to apply for whatever possible and see what you get.

>After that, you spent a bit longer than normal walking out of the school.

>You spent time looking around and really thinking that you won't be coming back here for much longer.

>And you're going to miss it.

>But it was a good run.

>You won't get hung up on the past, the future is too bright.

>You stare at the siamese tree you stand under and ruminate on all the dumb shit you and your friends have talked about underneath it.

>Good times.

>Alright, best not to ruminate too deeply, before you start crying or something.

>You head to your scooter and hop on.

>To the Circle, finally.

>You think about the fact that you won't be coming to the Circle from this direction anymore.

>But eh, it's not like there's much to see, so you won't miss the view or anything.

>You pull up to the Circle and park your scooter.

>You slide around and part the crowd until you reach the front, so you can stand where you always do, at your queen's side.

>But she's not there at the moment.

>She's actually in the Circle, in the process of executing another would be usurper.

>It looks like it's been going for a while. Her opponent, the puma you've seen around, looks like he's ready to call it quits.

>But Mirabelle, apparently looking to change her title from Queen of Ruin, to Queen of Hype, throws out a move almost as cool as that flying knee to the face from months ago.

>She runs in, and the puma, unsteady from the  beating he's likely taken, doesn't seem to trust himself to dodge without falling over.

>He brings his arms up to block, as she lunges at him for a dropkick.

>But as she connects with him, she rebounds off of his body, launching him back, and backflipping.

>Twice.

>Before she lands on her goddamn feet.

>The hype is real.

>The crowd hollers as they witness that display.

>The puma gets flung into the Circle and they fling him back in.

>Mirabelle gets ready to lay him down in some other amazing way.

>But his advance slows as his legs falter.

>He stares off into the distance, his eyes full of sunlight.

>Before the light fades and he slumps to the ground in defeat.

>To your surprise, Elodi is the one who comes over to check on the Puma.

>Guess Lewis isn't here today.

>"He is done, so our winner and still Champion is Mirabelle!" Elodi shouts.

>The crowd cheers and shows their excitement.

>The puma gets carried to the nurse's station and Mirabelle walks over to her seat where she notices you.

>"Hey. Finally done, huh?" she asks you.

>You don't respond, but you turn your head up and glance out the corner of your eye at her.

>"... What?" she asks, noticing the stink eye you're giving her.

>"I have a cool move with one backflip. So you have to one up me and add two, is that it?" you say, feigning insult.

>She shrugs.

>"I didn't plan on that, it just sort of happened."

>She pauses to see if you'll say anything. When you don't she adds "It looked cool though, didn't it?"

>"Absolutely." you say honestly.

>"Okay I think we have time for one more." you hear Elodi say. "Does anyone else want to step up?"

>You're in the mood to throw down, especially after seeing what Mirabelle did.

>You take a moment to try and remember who else is close to finishing their streak, but someone else steps up.

>A sophomore, Freddy.

>You try not to fight the freshmen and sophomores because you don't want any cases of assumed bullying or whatever anyone would assume it is.

>But of course, a few had challenged you while you were the Champ, so you couldn't back down.

>Eh, it's fine. You'll just let your wrath build for today.

>Woe be to the unsuspecting victim that you unleash it on tomorrow.

>However, Freddy has different plans.

>"Anon. I want a round with you." he says. surprising almost everybody.

>It's been a long time since someone has willingly challenged you.

>Even Caesar mellowed out a bit, since fighting you specifically wouldn't bring him any closer to the Champ spot.

>You look at Freddy.

>He's short and a bit round in the belly.

>He's decent in the Circle, but he could never get the three in a row required to go for the Champ.

>"You sure you wanna do this, Freddy? Against me of all people?" you ask him.

>"Yeah man." he tells you. "You're gonna be graduating soon. I couldn't reach you while you were King, but now that you're on par with the rest of the people, I feel like I'd regret it if I didn't fight you and end up never seeing you again."

>You understand that feeling perfectly.

>You nod in acceptance and step forward to meet him.

>"I won't hold back." you say, cracking your knuckles and popping your neck.

>"I'd be more upset if you did." he responds.

>"Okay, we have our next fight." Elodi says. "So let's get into it. What do you have to say?"

>"Nothing." Freddy says. He looks to you. "Let's have a clean one."

>You shrug and nod.

>No smack talk is fine with you. He's the challenger, so you'll accept his request.

>"Very well then." Elodi says. She looks to him. "Are you ready?"

>He nods.

>She looks to you before repeating the question.

>You nod as well.

>"Okay. Then let's." She brings her hand up and down to signal the start. "Fight!"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pdlAZj5iDc8

 >Freddy isn't doing too hot against you.

>He's a streetfighter, just like you were, so there's no real technique in the strikes.

>And ever since you started training, you've gotten really good at reading the people who fight like this.

>You can see the frustration building on his face as he fails to land even a single blow.

>And you haven't thrown anything in retaliation.

>You're not holding back, you're just a monster toying with his prey right now.

>Eventually he throws a punch, but extends a little too far out, leaving his entire face exposed.

>And you'd be a fool not to take such an easy mark.

>You weave to the side and hook him in the face.

>However you hit him with more force than you expected, because when you pull back, you notice his nose leaking blood.

>Oops.

>He brings his hand up to wipe his nose and sees the deep red smear across it.

>He looks up at you.

>And something shifts in his eyes.

>His face hardens and he scowls, teeth bared.

>Like he's some kind of canine and he's about to start snarling or something at you.

>And then he explodes forward, throwing a flurry of punches at you.

>It happens so suddenly you almost forget to dodge.

>He ends up tagging you a few times but you recover and go back to juking him out.

>Until one point where he throws his left at you.

>You dodge it, but it turns out it was a feint, and he follows through with his right.

>You catch the fact that it was a feint at the very last moment and move to dodge out of the way.

>But you were just a smidge too late and his fist crashes across your cheek.

>You actually have to take a few steps back.

>That hurt.

>Like, that really hurt.

>The vision in your left eye blurs for a moment and it feels like you just took a hammer to the face.

>What the hell happened to Freddy?

>He was supposed to be a regular enemy, not a boss fight with a second phase.

>You gain enough sense to catch him shooting forward again.

>You look him in the eye and he looks. Angry.

>He swings at you but you manage to deflect his punch and counter with one of your own.

>You follow up with a few more punches before he can stabilize himself, then kick him in the side to finish up.

>The kick got him particularly well because he buckles and holds his arm over the place you hit him.

>He told you not to hold back so you opt to end this in classic Anon fashion.

>You grab at him and link your hands around the back of his neck.

>Then you throw knees into his gut and the squishy space beneath his ribs.

>You think you'll just end this with a swift haymaker and call it good, but you feel him go slack and sink in your grasp.

>You release him and he pretty much ragdolls to the ground.

>Elodi steps up quickly to take a look at him.

>His lights are still on, but just barely by the looks of it.

>Regardless, "He's done. Anon wins," is Elodi's call.

>The crowd claps and give simple cheers.

>The game was rigged from the start, so you don't expect any thunderous applause.

>But you hope Freddy's cool.

>You plugged him in the nose, and he switched gears, like he was ready to kill you for the audacity.

>Something compels you to carry him to the station yourself.

>"Well well Anon." Hannah says as you approach, dragging Freddy over. "Making more work for us as always."

>You lay Freddy in a cot and turn to her. "You'd be bored outta your minds without me. I'm just helping you keep busy."

>Freddy starts to return to the waking world.

>He spots you as he comes to consciousness.

>"I lost." he says.

>"Yeah." you shrug. "But you did your best. Good fight. Sorry if I hit you a little hard there."

>You point to your own nose to demonstrate what you're talking about.

>"No, that's on me. I apologize for getting heated so easily." he returns.

>"For some reason, I get super angry when I see my own blood." he continues. "Not sure why but I would always lose my mind whenever I would scrape myself up riding my bike or skateboard."

>"That's wild dude." you say.

>You've never heard of anything like it.

>You look to Hannah and Grace.

>They look like they're in thought, probably trying to remember if they've heard of anything like that as well.

>"I know, it's pretty weird." he chuckles. "I had a handle on it for a while now, and I've been careful to avoid cutting myself up too bad. But I guess the excitement I felt and the adrenaline from our fight just got to me and I forgot myself. My bad."

>"Don't worry about it. I'll still be around for a good while, so if you want to go another round, I'll be ready if you are." you offer him.

>"Haha, we'll see. Thanks Anon."

>You throw up a peace sign as you walk away from the tent and back toward the Circle, which looks like it's breaking off for the day.

>You find Mirabelle, sitting in the driver's seat of your scooter, looking like she's ready to take off on it.

>"Oh so you're gonna drive today?" you ask her as you walk up.

>"Why not?" she says, looking over at you. "Can't be too hard."

>"Great." you say, kicking your leg over and angling yourself over the back part of your scooter.

>"Hey wait I was just joking, I don't think I can drive this thing."

>"Oh come on, where's your usual confidence at?" you ask, leaning forward into her.

>You place your hands over hers on the handlebars.

>"Plus, like you said it's easy. I'll teach you." you tell her.

>And before she can say anything else, you say quickly, "Right now, let's go!" 

>You quickly turn your scooter on and immediatley bring it into a slow roll before you twist the throttle and accelerate down the road.

>Mirabelle protests, very loudly and tells you to stop, but you don't listen.

>You can't hear anything she says through your maniacal laughter.

>In your haste, you momentarily forgot about the police car that hangs around, but you don't hear sirens chasing you down, so they either didn't notice or don't care.

>Mirabelle's ears are straight up and alert, which is making it hard to see, so you bring your head forward and rest your chin on the top of her head.

>This position is a bit uncomfortable with how far you have to extend forward, but you suck it up for the sake of your cruel joke.

>After a while of driving down the empty road this way, she seems to have calmed down, because she is no longer threatening to beat you up.

>But her body is still stiff and rigid.

>Finally. After all this time.

>After all the taunting and teasing you have suffered at her hands.

>You successfully found a way to tease Mirabelle back.

>It brings you a strange sort of twisted joy.

>You take her all the way home with you efficiently and effectively backseat driving.

>After you pull up at her house, you free her hands and lean back to allow her to escape the wild ride you forced her on.

>She slowly disembarks, and then snaps her head in your direction.

>"Don't do that again." she says sternly.

>You offer her a taunting grin in imitation of the ones she constantly gives you.

>"You know you enjoyed it. Told ya it was easy."

>Her eyes open a bit wider before she returns to the poker face she was trying to assume.

>Maybe that grin caught her off guard.

>She crosses her arms and turns away from you.

>You slide forward into the regular seat.

>"Alright I'm sorry. I won't do it again." you tell her. "Would some sugar make you feel better?

>You lean forward toward her.

>She glances over at you. "Mmmm no."

>"Aww c'mon, baby please. I'm sorry."

>Her response is to turn and stick her tongue out at you.

>"... Love you." you say in a singsong voice.

>She rolls her eyes and steps over to give you a quick peck before taking off toward her home.

>So when she teases you, it's all well and good, but when you finally tease her back, you're the bad guy.

>There are just no victories for you, are there?

>You pull up at your house.

>You come up the driveway and.

>... For some reason.

>You get the feeling that something isn't right.

>You look down the road, then back the way you came.

>No suspicious individuals that you can see.

>You listen intently.

>...

>No neighborhood disturbances.

>So what's this weird feeling you've got?

>You look at your house.

>Nothing looks different about it from the outside.

>You go in your bag to retrieve your garage door opener.

>Something tells you to take a few steps back before you do though.

>As you retreat back down the driveway you hit the button and intensely watch as the garage door slowly rises.

>... Nothing's different in there.

>Honestly, what would you have been expecting?

>You pull your scooter into the garage and park it where you always do.

>Your mom's SUV is still there, where it always is.

>Seriously what's with the random paranoia?

>You shrug it off.

>Back out the garage, you close the door and grab your front door key.

>... Before you go to unlock it, you wiggle it to see if it's still locked.

>It is, of course.

>So maybe you're just going crazy.

>Perhaps your fun at Mirabelle's expense is bringing you a strange sense of guilt now that it's over with.

>You should probably apologize one more time just to really make sure she knows that you're sorry.

>You unlock the door and walk in.

>"Aaand I'm back." you say in greeting to your empty home like always.

>Silence returns your greeting, like always.

>You walk down the hall toward the stairs.

>Out of the corner of your eye, you pass a doorframe and catch a figure at the table between the living room and the kitchen.

>"Welcome back." the figure states calmly.

>Your heart threatens to terminate your subscription to life immediately.

>You quickly peek your head around the doorframe.

>Your dad is sitting calmly at the table, going through a large stack of unopened mail.

>"Oh my God. Dad! You scared the life outta me!" you shout.

"How'd I do that?" he asks, still as calm as ever.

>"I didn't know you were gonna be here! I walk in expecting the house to be empty and you're sitting there like you own the place!"

>He takes in his surroundings, before he turns his attention to you, then back to his mail.

>"I do. Own the place." he says.

>"That may be true, but you still have to warn somebody before you get home." you say. "I almost thought you were an intruder."

>"You're right." he says. "I should've hid in my room. So I could see what kind of stuff you get up to when I'm not home."

>"What's that mean?" you ask. "It's not like I do anything crazy or illegal here."

>"Yeah. But you've had the house to yourself for almost 3 years. I have an idea of what you do in fact, do, but that's probably not a topic we should broach with a lady present."

>You peak your head farther in and turn to the kitchen.

>Your mom is there, putting something together, looks like dinner.

>You assume she just got off a plane, and now she's already making food? Isn't she tired?

>She waves to you quickly as she goes back to doing what she's doing.

>"I don't like what you're suggesting, sir." you tell him.

>"Yeah, of course you don't." He beckons to you. "Don't just stand in the doorway, come over here. Lemme get a good luck at the highschool graduate.

>You shrug. You walk over, set your backpack on the ground and take a seat across from him at the table.

>"Finally just about done with highschool, how's it feel?" he asks.

>"It's exciting, but y'know, at the same time I think I'm gonna miss it." you tell him.

>He nods, and looks up at you. "You know, when I-" he pauses.

>He takes a moment and really looks at you for a second.

>He looks at the clock.

>"I just noticed, you got in pretty late." he says. "You were at your club? They still running even though school's almost out?"

>Oh.

>Shit. Here we go.

>"Yeah. Most people are just trying to hang out as much as they can." you say, attempting to keep your voice level.

>You look over to your mom.

>She's looking at you, with shock evident in her eyes.

>She looks like she wants to say something, but doesn't want to alert your dad.

>She starts to gesture but your dad brings your attention back.

>"So what did you guys do today? Anything fun?"

>"Oh, nah. Just what we always do. Watched an anime." you say.

>"Which one? What was it about?"

>Shit, he's really grilling you this time.

>He usually just goes 'oh, okay, that's cool' and leaves it at that.

>Dammit, what was that anime Blake just made you watch you a few weeks ago?

>"Uh, My Heroes Academy. It's kind of about, kids at like highschool age, training to become superheroes."

>"Superheroes huh? That's cool." he says.

>He looks appeased, so maybe that's the end of it.

>"So." he continues.

>Goddammit.

>"Were you guys doing some kind of, live action reenactment or something?"

>"... Huh?"

>"I mean." he says as he peers over the rim of his glasses to look at you. "How else could you have gotten that bruise on your face?"

>Your heart cracks.

>Your lungs shrivel.

>Your jaw clenches so tight you think you might shatter your teeth.

>FUCK

>You're so used to dealing with the pain that you completely forgot that Freddy just socked the shit out of you like 30 minutes ago.

>And you didn't ice it or anything so of course it's still obviously visible.

>It doesn't even hurt bad enough for it to be anything severe, so you literally did not think about it.

>Your dad goes back to opening his mail.

>"I. Well... I mean, this-" you start but can't form coherent sentences.

>You have no coherent sentences to offer.

>Your dad continues to open his mail, but his eyebrows come up and he tilts his head slightly.

>Like he's waiting for the best excuse he's ever heard in his life.

>You cast your gaze at your mom.

>But there's nothing she can offer to help you.

>Your negligence dug you into this grave.

>Now you have to die in it.

>"If you want to come clean, now's the time." he says to you. "Granted I can already tell where you've been, with present information. But it's probably best if you say it yourself."

>Well. Shit.

>Guess there's really no way out of this one.

>You goofed, so it's time to accept your fate.

>"I was at the Circle." you say simply and truthfully.

>He stops opening his mail and looks at you.

>He looks straight into your eyes.

>And even though he still has that calm demeanor on his face, for some reason it's that calm demeanor that makes you feel like you're staring Death in the eyes.

>"Sounds about right." is all he says before he goes right back to his mail.

>You wait.

>And wait.

>... And wait some more.

>Expecting, pretty  much anything else besides the sound of opening letters.

>"Are you. Angry?" you ask him?

>"Who, me?" he asks.

>"Yes?"

>"Son, have you seen your grades?" he asks you in return.

>"Um. Well yeah." you tell him.

>"Then how could I be angry? I told you to stay away from the Circle to keep your grades up. But if you've somehow been going, and still managed to achieve the grades you've gotten. Then I couldn't be angry, even if I wanted to."

>Thank God you kept on top of your schoolwork!

>"No, I'm not angry." he continues. "But I am disappointed that you lied to me."

>Oof.

>For some reason hearing him say he's disappointed is more painful than hearing him say he's angry with you.

>"However you are at the age where you can start to make decisions without your parents. But you're still under our roof. So with that said, I do believe some sort of consequence is in order for the lying and the defiance."

>Well. You expected that. Just have to man up and accept whatever he doles out.

>"Okay. Like what?" you ask him?

>He thinks for a moment.

>"I'll probably get you to work in the newest storefront for a while." he decides. "Unless you're planning to go to college. Then you can work the store part time."

>Wait hold on what?

>"Hey love, can you make me a note to check and see if there are any colleges close to us out there?" he asks  of your mom.

>"Sure thing." she says.

>"Hold on." you say. "You, want me to move out west?"

>"Sounds like a decent course of action."

>No no no, that is an awful course of action!

>This is not the play.

>You had so many plans that didn't involve moving sixteen hundred miles across the country.

>You wanted to stay with Mirabelle for a while longer.

>Go to the same college.

>You two have been entertaining that idea for a while now.

>It hasn't even been a full year, you don't want that to end this soon.

>You've gotta do something to deny this thought before he settles on it for good.

>"But Dad, me and Mirabelle were kind of trying to go to the same college." you tell him. "And I don't think she'd be willing to go all the way out there, so y'know, I-"

>"Oh that's right!" he interjects, with a look of sudden realization. "You do have a girlfriend. Mm, that's right. Now that I think about that, she may be your only hope. From what I've seen those west coast girls act different, they may not like you out there."

>Well, that. Hurts? Maybe?

 >"Eh." he says. "It'll be alright. If you really like each other, you can make the distance work. We'll even be willing to fly her out or fly you to her, every once in a while so you can spend time together."

>Well shit, that didn't work.

>You've gotta think of something.

>As you're racking your brain, your dad poses you a strange question.

>"How important is she to you?" he asks.

>You answer his question with your own.

>"How important is Mom to you?"

>"Well played." he concedes. "I met your mom when we were in highschool too, so I can understand why you want to hold on to her. She could be the one, though I don't know if highschool sweethearts are still a thing in this day and age."

>He looks like he's contemplating something as he continues to go through his mail.

>Your next sentence comes to you before you can even question its significance to the conversation.

>"You know Dad. If it weren't for the Circle, I actually wouldn't be dating Mirabelle."

>This gets his attention, he looks up from his mail to you.

>It gets your mom's attention too.

>"What do you mean by that?" your dad asks. "You didn't actually meet her at school?"

>"She's in my last class of the day, yeah." you say. "But if she had never challenged me at the Circle for my Champ spot, I never would have gotten to know her."

>This also gets his attention.

>"You were the Champ?" he asks.

>"Yep... I'd been going to the Circle since around the beginning of my sophomore year."

>If you're going to tell the truth, might as well tell it all.

>"And right around then I became the Champ, and held that title until about early October last year. Mirabelle took it from me. But that's actually how I met her and we got together."

>"Huh. The Champ, and you kept your grades up so well. Impressive, I have to say." he tells you.

>You feel a tinge of pride at that.

>He leans back in his chair and looks to the ceiling.

>There's a distant look in his eyes, like the remnants of his past are coasting through his mind's eye.

>Eventually he comes back down to Earth and looks at you.

>"So The Circle is pretty important to you huh?"

>"It is, yeah." you answer.

>"And Mirabelle is too, right?"

>"Of course."

>He leans back again, and his eyes dart, left, right, up, and down, as if he's putting the pieces to a convoluted plan together mentally.

>"Alright son. I have an idea. I'll make you a deal."

>Okay, this is unexpected.

>"What is it?" you ask.

>"Go to the Circle. Win your way up and take the Champ spot again."

>"Uhh. That may be tough, Mirabelle beat me both times we fought." you say.

>He shrugs. "Then you had better hope you win the next one."

>"So what happens if I lose?" you ask.

>"I won't tell you, but you should be able to guess."

>That's probably the 'moving out west' route.

>"So then what happens if I win?" you feel the need to ask, even though you know the answer will be the same.

>"Again, won't tell you. Should be able to figure it out." is what he answers with.

>This is strange.

>You feel like you're missing information.

>Like your dad has pieces to this puzzle that you don't. 

>You're trying to connect the dots here, but they just aren't matching up.

>He doesn't like the Circle, but now he wants you to fight in it?

>And also win?

>So he doesn't have something against the Circle itself? Maybe just a facet of it?

>You have absolutely no idea what he's thinking.

>Your dad is playing chess and he's ten steps ahead.

>You're still trying to figure out which way the knights move.

>You stand out of the chair and give one more look to your mom.

>She gives you an apologetic glance.

>Usually she gives you a heads up in advance before they come back home.

>So something must have happened for her to be unable to do that.

>You tilt your head and offer a slight shrug.

>"It's fine." you hope the gesture relays to her.

>You grab your bag and make your way to your room.

>You drop your bag and flop into your bed.

>You overclock your brain in an attempt to make heads or tails of your dad's motives.

>He asked if Mirabelle and the Circle were important to you?

>Is he attempting to find out which is more important?

>Because that's ridiculous, you'd pick Mirabelle in a heartbeat.

>You could theoretically spend the rest of your life with her, but you've only got two more years at most with the Circle.

>And that's if you don't go too far for college.

>Maybe he wants you to win to prove how important they are?

>Maybe winning will prove how determined you are to keep them both?

>You have no idea, but you do know the idea of what might happen if you lose is going to eat at you.

>You haven't beaten Mirabelle, and you kind of doubt that you want to.

>The Champ spot hasn't been that important to you, but also you kind of don't want to hurt her.

>Well, she's tough as steel, so that's not going to happen.

>Maybe you can get her to secretly throw the match and just give her the spot back after-

>Yeah that won't happen either. She's got too much damn pride and so do you, you can't even entertain the thought of accepting a win so phony.

>A knock on your door breaks you from your thoughts.

>It's your mom.

>Even though your door is wide open, she still feels the need to knock on it whenever she wants to come in.

>"Come in, Ma." you say.

>She peeks her head in slowly, and as soon as she makes eye contact with you, she looks like she's about ready to cry.

>"I'm sorry sweetie." she says, as she gingerly steps into your room. She lowers her voice as she continues. "Your dad is- Well. He's got something planned, is all I can say. And he made me promise not to tell you that we were coming. He kept an eye on me to make sure that I wouldn't break it."

>"It's fine, Ma. This was going to happen sooner or later. At the very least I'm glad I don't have to lie about it anymore."

>"I can see on your face that you're worried, so let me make it up to you. I'll make a cheesecake for after dinner."

>"That sounds nice." you say.

>She gives you a hug and walks toward the door.

>"Mom." you say before she leaves. "You have any idea what my dad's planning? Why he's having me do this?"

>She looks at you. Her face says she has an idea, but can't viably share it.

>"I'm not too sure sweetie, sorry." She says.

>You shrug. "Alright then."

>You really don't quite understand , but for now, you guess there's nothing you can do but play along.

>You woke up to a nice breakfast.

>The day proceeded pretty well, as if the whole situation from last night didn't actually happen.

>Of course, your dad reminded you that it did, in fact, happen.

>"Think you're in shape to fight today?"

>"Yeah. I'll be fine, sure." you say.

>"It's still three wins in a row before you can fight the Champ right?" he asks.

>"Yeah." you say, a hint of surprise in your voice.

>You're surprised he knows the rule for someone who doesn't care for the Circle.

>"Good. I'll make my way up there after your school is out so I can watch."

>"Oh." you say.

>"What? You didn't think I was going to come watch?" he questions? "Or is there some rule that says I can't just because I'm getting on in my years?"

>"No, nothing like that." you answer. "Just. I thought you didn't like the Circle, so I didn't expect you to want to come and spectate."

>Your parents share a glance before your dad says "My dislike is. Complicated."

>"Well I might be able to understand if you explain it."

>"Yeah. Maybe." He takes a sip of orange juice. "I'll come clean soon. For now, focus on what you have to do."

>You shrug.

>Just do what he tells you.

>You take your plates to the sink.

>"I'll handle that, you get on to school." your mom says.

>You shrug again and go to grab your bag.

>"Oh Anon." your dad says before you leave. "Try and keep the whole fact that you're going to try for the Champ spot to yourself."

>"Huh? Why?"

>"Just, don't want anyone to hear what's going on and try to show you pity and let you win or anything."

>"Trust me." you say with a chuckle. "If people knew that me losing would get me gone for good, they would fight harder than ever before."

>He looks a little worried as you say that.

>"I was undefeated for a long time." you add. "Taking me out would make things easier for a lot of people. Some people may not be happy, but those are the ones who really enjoy a challenge."

>He nods in understanding.

"Alright, I'll see you later." you say in parting. 

>"Have a good day." both your parents say.

>And so you spent your day at school.

>You're lucky your classes lack any substance at the moment.

>Because you would not be absorbing any information.

>Your friends saw your empty vacancy in the morning and asked you about it at lunch.

>"Well. To put it simply. My dad knows I've been fighting at the Circle." you tell them.

>They stare at you like you just told them you have two months left to live.

>"But it's okay!" you follow up quickly. "I'm not in any trouble, yet. I just have to-"

>But you pause, remembering that your dad told you to keep it quiet.

>You have to..." Lewis offers, attempting to receive the rest of your statement.

>"Well let's just say that for now, I can still fight."

>"I thought your dad hated the Circle?" Mikael asks.

>You shrug. "Apparently my saving grace was that my grades were really good. So he said I'm okay to go."

>"I dunno man." Verne says skeptically. "Makes it seem like you're a prisoner getting his last meal. He's gonna ship you off somewhere far away, I can feel it."

>Oh, how right Verne is.

>The rest of the day proceeded pretty uneventfully and now the end is here.

>You still walk with Mirabelle, because you weren't told to stop hanging out with her or anything.

>But she notices your mental distance.

>"You okay?" she asks.

>"I'm fine." you say.

>But you know how this back and forth goes. If you don't follow up, she's gonna keep going.

>"My parents came back home." you add.

>"Oh, that's nice. How are they?"

>"They're fine. They showed up kinda sudden though."

>She seems to remember something.

>"You got caught didn't you?" she asks.

>You lift your eyebrow in confusion.

>"I can still kind of see that mark from yesterday."

>Geez, how hard did Freddy hit you?

>You touch your face, and it doesn't hurt or anything.

>You look at Mirabelle and nod.

>"Uh oh." is her reply to your gesture.

>"But." you say quickly. "Because of my good grades I'm not in trouble. And I'm still okay to fight. On one condition."

>"What's the condition?" she asks.

>"I'll just have to show you." you say, attempting to avoid giving a direct answer.

>She'll probably understand once you get to the Circle anyway.

>You pull up at the Circle and can see your mom's car there.

>You park your scooter and nonchalantly walk by it.

>Your dad sees you approach and gives you a thumbs up, then motions for you to go on ahead.

>So you guess he's just going to watch from the shadows, as it were.

>You join the Circle and idle until it's time to start.

>Lewis is here today and starts it up like he always does, devoid of life and energy.

>"Welcome back everybody. Let's make it a good one, like always. So. Who's stepping in the Circle?"

>Let's just get this over with.

>Without waiting for anyone else, you step right into the center.

>The ones who actively seek fights with you are few and far between.

>So at the very least, if they step up, they may actually try, to keep your dad from thinking they threw the fight for you.

>"This is rare. Anon stepping up first." Lewis says. "Well, anyone wanna go against him?"

>No one jumps at the chance, of course.

>They know you'll bring ruin to whoever steps in here with you.

>"I'm down! Time to see how much closer I've gotten to beating you!" someone says.

>Oh lord.

>Who else but Caesar?

>Caesar, your self made rival, pushes his way into the Circle.

>You facepalm as heavily as you can without injuring yourself.

>He looks confident, like always.

>His confidence, like always, is misplaced.

>Lewis shrugs. "Alright then.

>You think you hear him mutter "This'll be quick." and it makes you want to chuckle, but you keep a straight face.

>"Alright let's get into it. What you gotta say?" Lewis asks you both.

>"Caesar." you start. "I can no longer count on two hands how many times we have fought, and you have lost. We're gonna have to add a big scoreboard that says 'Caesar's win/loss rate to Anon', and the entire loss side will just be covered."

>The crowd laughs.

>It's funny because it's true.

 >"You should show me some respect." he says. "I'm the only one left not afraid to kick your ass."

>"Fearlessness and foolishness are two very different things." you counter.

>"Look, lemme explain this in a way you can understand." you continue. "Everything the light touches is mine. You'd be lucky if I even let you hang out in the Shadowlands."

>"Uh last I checked." He points to Mirabelle, sitting in the Champ's seat. "You're not the real King here now. So what do you really have?"

>"Well yeah, but that's my queen, so what did I really lose?"

>"Now that I think about it," you say, bringing your hand under your chin. "You consider yourself a King, where's your queen, bro?"

>"This is a solitary leadership. No woman is yet worthy." he puffs out his chest with an air of pride that only a lion could acheive.

>That's quite the damn ego.

>"No yeah I understand." you say. "From what I've heard, lady lions basically run the show anyway. That would have to be pretty embarrassing for you, I'd imagine."

>He deflates, like you just revealed information that no one else on Earth should have.

>He's flustered and has a bit of trouble thinking of a good comeback, so Lewis decides to move things along.

>"Alright alright, that's enough. Let's get to it. You ready Anon?"

>You look out passed the Circle.

>Your dad has exited the car and is standing in the far back, to get a better look.

>You bring your attention back and nod to Lewis.

>"You ready Caesar?" Lewis asks.

>Caesar rubs his hand down his face, then looks to Lewis and nods.

>"Alright. Then Let's. Fight!"

>Like every fight you've ever had with Caesar, he cannot land a clean hit to save his life.

>He even tries kicking you a few times, but he looks straight down before he does so, which makes it painfully obvious.

>You aren't sure if you want to toy with him just to make the fight entertaining for you, or just lay him out as quickly as you can so it can be done with.

>You're actually so unenthused that you drop your entire guard and put your hands in your pockets as you dodge everything.

>The crowd thinks you're taunting Caesar's inability to land a punch, but that's not entirely it.

>You just strangely don't want to be here right now. Which is odd because you love the Circle.

>But as soon as Lewis said 'fight' all desire to fight drained away.

>Now you can tell Caesar's getting a bit pissed, he's making larger movements.

>Wild, unnecessary.

>You dodge backward to avoid a hook, and deciding that's enough messing around you lay into his gut with a particularly fierce punch to the stomach.

>While he leans forward, he tries in vain to recover and you bring both hands up to force him backward into the Circle.

>They latch onto him, as they tend to do.

>Exactly what you wanted.

>You rear back to deliver your giant killing Mountain Buster, so named in honor of Kayo, the bison you fought and stole the move from several months back.

>You hit him with so much force dead center in the face that he actually goes limp in the crowd's arms.

>They let him go and he drops to his knees.

>But he holds his hands out to keep from falling face first into the ground.

>So be it, if he's not done, you'll just have to end it.

>You take a couple steps back, and bring your foot back.

>You're about to kick a field goal and his face is the ball.

>You come forward and lash your foot out.

>However, he looks like he was anticipating something along these lines, and throws his weight out to meet you.

>He looked like he was trying to pounce and maul you to death, but.

>He misjudged his timing and shot out a bit too late.

>Your foot was already coming out as he attempted to grab onto you.

>And your shin ended up crashing into him and uh, basically denying him any chance of having a pride of his own in the future.

>He shrivels. As do you, and pretty much every guy who just witnessed that.

>"Oh fuck! Caeser I'm sorry man, I didn't mean to do you like that! Are you okay?!" you shout in the truest concern you can muster.

>On the ground, he shakes his head, and a very high pitched "Mm mm" escapes him.

>"Ohh dude." you say, because you don't know what else to offer.

>A few people help drag Caesar to the nurse's station.

>That's probably not an injury Hannah and Grace are willing or able to deal with.

>You look to Lewis who is shaking his head in disapproval.

>"We know you're tired of fighting him, man. But that was uncalled for."

>"It was an accident!" you shout.

>He nods. "Yeah. I can't DQ you for that or anything, I guess. But uh. Just watch yourself if he ever wants revenge. Or something."

>The thought makes your stomach hurt.

>"So how do we count this?" you ask him.

>"Eh. I'll just strike it as your win. Accidents happen."

>Well that's fine at least.

>You wanted to win, but not like that.

>... Or did you?

>Your dad said to win, he didn't say how.

>You were contemplating finding a way to end it easily.

>Did your subconscious actually cause you to use such a dirty tactic for the sake of victory?

>No, no way. It was an accident.

>You were about to kick his block off like a soccer ball. But he's thick headed, he would've been fine.

>You step out of the center of the Circle.

>You catch your dad getting back in the car, so you trot over.

>He rolls down the window.

>"I know I said win, but that was a bit-"

>"It was an accident!" you interject.

>"Make sure you apologize to him again." your mom says from the passenger.

>"Oh, you're here too?" you say.

>"Of course." she answers. "If your dad is coming to see how you do, then no way I would miss it."

>Hm. So both your parents are watching you beat people up. 

>That's not awkward of nerve racking.

>"Anyway." your dad says. "Keep it up with the next one. But, with one hundred percent less CBT."

>"CBT?" you parrot.

>Your mom looks like, she knows the answer and is about to tell you what it means, but catches herself and relents.

>"It's nothing. Don't worry about it. Do not, look it up. Slip of the tongue, just forget I even said it." your dad fires words at you.

>"See you at home." he finishes before turning on the car and driving off.

>Well the end of that was strange.

>But whatever, that's one fight down, two to go.

>And then the Champ.

>Yeah, what are you going to do about that one?

>You'll have to think about it as it comes closer.

>The Circle proceeds as normal and you offer your apologies to Caesar one more time for that foul play.

>He shrugs it off as bad movements on both sides, so he doesn't seem too upset.

>You take Mirabelle home as the Circle ends.

>You offer to let her drive in jest.

>She ain't havin' it.

>Once you get home your days aren't vastly different.

>Except for the fact that you have no homework so you have more time to indulge in glorious memes.

>Your dad doesn't look like he's doing any work.

>Your parents are just on the couch together, watching movies.

>He doesn't seem to have anything more to say to you for the moment, so you retreat to your room to idle away your hours.

>You wake up and get ready for the next day.

>You come down the stairs and are greeted with another loving breakfast.

>God you missed your mom.

>"Good  morning son." your dad says you approach. "... At least I think that's my son."

>What's that supposed to mean?

>Your mom chimes in too. "You're right. Something's different about you, Anon."

>They ponder what it could be, like you've become some sort of strange enigma.

>"Oh." your dad finally seems to get an idea. "You aren't wearing your usual clothes."

>You look down at yourself.

>Yes you are.

>Wait. No you're not.

>You're precariously missing your flannel shirt.

>That's weird. It's become like, an entire part of your being, you don't normally forget it.

>"Eh. I just forgot it, I'll grab it when I get my stuff." you say.

>"You should leave it." your mom tells you. "You know, sometimes change can be good."

>That may be true, but like, only in certain circumstances.

>"I agree. It's got a minimalist look, it's not bad." your dad adds. "Plus it's the end of your highschool days. A little change toaward the end might not be so bad."

>Fine fine, you'll go without it.

>You sit down and eat breakfast in relative silence.

>Your parents have some radio station on, playing music from like, the 80's or 90's.

>After you're done you take your dishes to the sink.

>Once again your mom tells you she'll handle it.

>"Alright I'll see you later." you say, ready to leave.

>"You gonna fix your mop before you go?" your dad says quickly.

>Your what now?

>You look at him and he points to the top of your head.

>You check your hair.

>Oh. You didn't grab your hair band to tie it back.

>Man you're just forgetting everything today aren't you?

>"You just said change is good, right? So it's fine." you say.

>"Now hold on." he says. "That's a little too wild to be a good kind of change. If you're not going to cut it, you at least need to tame it."

"Meh. It'll be fine." you say. "Who am I trying to impress?"

>"Don't you have a girlfriend that you'd like to keep?"

>"She's not going to leave me cuz my hair's crazy." you counter. "... Maybe."

>He shrugs.

>Guess it is what it is.

>You go to school, feeling like a different Anon.

>You actually feel a bit naked without your flannel, but letting your hair down is kind of nice.

>Of course, when you go to meet your friends, they are quick to poke fun at your sudden change.

>"Excuse me, do we know you?" Mikael asks.

>"You almost look like our friend Anon, but there's something. Completely wrong about you." Verne says.

>"... Is everything okay at home?" Lewis asks with a look of pure concern. "Is this a cry for help?"

>"Goddammit I'm fine!" you shout in annoyance. "I just forgot to grab my shirt and a hair tie, so I said fuck it."

>"Oh man, this is so wrong." Mikael whines. "It's like seeing someone without hair, or like an anthro who tried to dye all their fur a wild color, like blue."

>"It's heresy!" Verne exclaims. "An affront to the natural order."

>... Alright, so maybe you ditch first period and go back home to grab your shirt.

>Lesson learned, change is awful.

>However, you suck it up and go about your day.

>A lot of people however, notice your difference.

>You never thought leaving an article of outerwear would garner such attention.

>People are acting like you're wearing a suit made of peacock feathers or something.

>Even Mirabelle teases you about it, just like your friends did.

>These are real sad boi hours, right here.

>Now you're gonna have to channel the sadness through your fists, and knock someone out.

>Luckily it's Circle time.

>Your dad and mom are already here, just like last time.

>And just like last time, when Lewis calls for fighters, you step up again.

>However, unlike last time, someone immediately comes up to fight you as soon as you come forward.

>Gus, who is a boar, looks eager to throw down.

>Gus isn't like any of the other boars in town.

>Granted there aren't a lot of them around here.

>But while the rest of them are pretty large and, well, swole.

>Gus is not that.

>Must be the runt. Not to be rude.

>However, he's got some pretty sizeable tusks.

>He's like the reverse of Benji.

>You fought him years ago during the contest to become Champ, and a few times after that, but not at any point recently.

>"What's up Gus? It's been a minute since you've come to fight me." you say to him.

>"I  know but I just can't miss this opportunity." he says back.

>Interesting. He must have something special.

>"Alright. What you gotta say?" Lewis asks.

>"Anon." Gus starts. "I gotta admit I'm a little worried about you man. You shed a layer, and what little hair you do have is all ragged and crazy."

>Oh boy, here we go with this again.

>"But I figured it out. You must be hungry, people get weird when they're hungry. So I got you a snack."

>He quickly reaches back and grabs a lunch pail, then pulls something out and tosses it to you.

>The approaching object forces your body to react and catch it.

>... It's a banana.

>You look dead at Gus.

>"Mmm. Banana." he says, like a dimwitted caveman as he scratches under his arm.

>The Circle bursts out laughing, and try as you might, you can't help but do the same.

>You're pretty sure this is the first time anyone's done this joke, and it's pretty fucking good.

>Gus is quite the comedian. Let's hope he never fights Wayne, or you'll just have to dig a grave for Wayne right then and there.

>"Fuck you Gus, I'm eating this now!" you say between fits of laughter.

>Still laughing, you peel the banana and pull chunks of it, then throw them in your mouth.

>After you finish it, you throw the peel down.

>Some good samaritan scoops it up to go take it to a nearby trash can.

>"You got anything to say back?" Lewis asks, trying to contain his own chuckles.

>"Pft no. Even if I did, I can't top that." you say.

>"That's literally all I wanted to do, I am perfectly ready to lose now." Gus says.

>"Oh c'mon man!" you throw back at him.

>"Well. Let's just get into it then." Lewis says. "You ready?"

>Gus shrugs and nods.

>You nod as well.

>"Then Let's. Fight!"

>You take care to try and avoid hitting Gus in the face.

>His tusks are huge and it hurts if you connect with them.

>He keeps his guard low to defend his body, and will turn his head to try and get you to connect with his tusk if you aim for the head.

>Which is super cheap, but hey, use what nature gave you.

>They curl back, so at least you won't impale your hand on them.

>Unfortunately for him though, you can hold them like you did Benji's horns, and manipulate him in terrible ways.

>You're currently forcing his head to look straight up and throwing knee after knee into his chest.

>He's attempting to block with his arms but he can't see where you're placing your shots, so he's having difficulty.

>He's attempting to use his body weight to pull himself out of your grasp.

>Which is a bad idea because if you just so happen to decide to let go.

>Like right about now.

>He tugs backward as you release your grip and he goes backpedalling into the Circle.

>The Circle does your job for you, roughing him up a bit, before tossing him back toward you.

>You stick your foot out and push on his back with your hands as he comes forward, causing him to trip over your leg.

>When he hits the ground you look over your shoulder, then descend backward and drop your elbow right under his ribs.

>He rolls over a few times, then brings himself up to his hands and knees.

>You only give him a second to see if he's done.

>When no surrender is called, you move in.

>You lightly kick him in the side to force him over on to his back.

>Then you drop your knee onto his stomach and every ounce of your weight into it.

>Like you're trying to force his guts straight out of his mouth.

>He struggles for a bit and throws punches into your leg, but he's breathless and can't put any strength into it.

>So after about ten seconds of this knee skewer you're sticking him with, he taps out.

>You release him and he breathes deep and coughs a few times.

>"There it is." Lewis says. "Anon wins."

>People clap and cheer for your good fight.

>You set up to gloat in your traditional heel pose but.

>Halfway up, your arms drop limply to your sides.

>You don't feel like gloating today.

>Just like you didn't feel like fighting yesterday.

>The desire just isn't there right now.

>You feel like you're kind of just here because you have to be and not because you want to be, so the normal enjoyment isn't all there.

>It, reminds you of right before the double's tournament.

>Kayo wasn't having fun at the time either.

>And you asked William why he wouldn't be enjoying it.

>He posed a deep philosophical question to you.

>"Does he fight because he wants to, or because he has to?"

>RIght now. You're fighting because you have to.

>And that's.

>That's no fun.

>Which makes you worry about if you'll even be able to beat Mirabelle if you aren't enjoying your fights.

>Why do you even have to beat her anyway?

>What's the point of all this?

>What is your dad making you do?

>Your lack of understanding is beginning to frustrate you.

>You look up just in time to see him a quick satisfactory nod and then get into the car to leave.

>"Hey good fight Anon." you hear Gus say as he's done recovering. "Is what I should say, even though we all know you steamrolled me."

>"Haha. Banana good. Give Anon strength." you say to him in imitation of the caveman speak he did earlier.

>This gets a hearty laugh out of him. "So I dug my own grave with that, lol." 

>He says "lol" like a word and not like an abbreviation. While also not being online.

>Gus is an odd one. But a comically odd one.

>You wait out the rest of the Circle, even though you're kind of ready to go home.

>No one challenges Mirabelle today.

>But she's been stealing glances at you the entire time.

>Like she's trying to figure out what your deal is or something.

>However she does not voice her concerns.

>The Circle comes to an end and you take her home.

>As you two smooch and she gets ready to return home, she turns back to you.

>She moves her mouth, like she's ready to ask a question. But decides against it.

>"Hm? What's up?" you ask her.

>She shakes her head. "Never mind, it's nothing. See you tomorrow."

>And that's all she gives you as she makes her way home.

>She probably has the idea of what you're coming closer to doing. 

>If she doesn't have the answer today, she will by tomorrow.

>You make your way home.

>Let's just hope tomorrow's opponent is a simple fight.

>You'll need all your strength for the finale.

>"It's finally Friday." Lewis says.

>"Yes. Finally here." Verne follows.

>"Friday night." Mikael concludes. Alone.

>Because you weren't paying attention.

>"Aaand Anon is broken." Verne waves a hand in front of your face.

>You finally come to and look around.

>"So it wasn't his missing flannel making him act weird, he's just weird on his own right now." Mikael says.

>You came to school like you normally do, to avoid all that madness from yesterday.

>But of course you're still being teased about it.

>"Maybe he's just got a lot on his mind." Lewis says, trying to back you up. "It would make sense, school is ending after all."

>They back off with that observation.

>You look at Mirabelle, who's been silently watching you.

>"You okay?" she finally asks.

>You simply nod.

>She doesn't seem all too convinced, but doesn't press the issue.

>You head off to the Circle.

>Parents are there already.

>You mosey to the front.

>You're more concerned with what you're going to do for the Champ fight, than what you're going to do for your fight today.

>You could try getting another Lin buff, like last time. Now that you're closer in skill levels, it might be just what you need to win.

>You only entertain that thought for a moment.

>It's purely business, but still, getting rubbed down by another cute girl while you have a girlfriend, feels like something you should not do.

>But you're going to need something to turn the tide.

>Your own skill alone might not cut it.

>You remember those moments during the tournament.

>The ease in which you smacked down a few people in defense of Mirabelle.

>When you went to that place of deep darkness and red rage.

>If you could draw on that, it could push you to the heights you need.

>But no, absolutely not.

>You promised Mirabelle you wouldn't go there again, and you damn sure don't want to go there against her.

>Not like you probably could anyway.

>You used that strength in defense of her. To attempt to wield it against her would be impossible.

>So no, you'll need something else.

>You're so preoccupied with your thoughts that you don't hear Lewis calling for fighters.

>However, you do hear your name being called which brings you back to focus.

>You look up and see. A face you haven't seen in a while.

>Orange fur, black stripes.

>Blue polo shirt, beige pants, fancy sportswear shoes.

>Oh damn.

>It's Rajit Patel, a tiger.

>"Entertain me for a while, Anon." he says with a big smile.

>Raj was a year ahead of you.

>He went to become a professional golfer after he graduated.

>Golf is hella boring to you, but he does very well, or so people say.

>Raj was also your final fight in order to become the Champ all that time ago.

>You've only fought him a few times, but you consider him more rival worthy than Caesar.

>"What're you doing here Raj?" you ask him.

>"Had some time to myself. Wanted to see my underclassmen graduate. You know." he answers.

>"But forget about that. We haven't tussled in a while, whadda ya say? Lucky me, I don't have to climb the ranks to get to you, I see." he says, looking at Mirabelle sitting in the Champ's seat.

>He punches both his fists together in challenge.

>You push all your earlier worries to the side and stand up.

>Getting to fight Raj again, this'll be fun.

>Until you remember.

>You still need to win.

>You need to, you have to.

>Or you'll suffer some kind of consequence.

>Damn. You won't even be able to really enjoy this fight.

>And you don't really know what Raj has been up to while he's been gone.

>He could lay you out with a single solid punch for all you know.

>... You're still gonna fight him though.

>You step into the Circle.

>Lewis nods. "Alright, let's get into it. What you gotta say?"

>"I just hope you have very good medical insurance, Anon." Raj says. "Because they're definitely going to need to wheelchair you out of here."

>"Raj, look man." you counter. "You haven't been here in a while so lemme remind you what's going to happen. I'm gonna smack the crap out of you and send you crying back to your momma. So when you get there, tell her to cook up one of those burgers I like, cuz I'm hungry."

>The crowd "Oohs" as you broach the sacred topic: a man's mother.

>Raj's mom is Elvira, the tigress who cooks at the diner you like, Carroll's.

>Which is the only reason you bring her name into this.

>Raj however, does not take the referring of his mother well.

>He takes a deep breath, looks at you with fire in his eyes, and roars with a superiority that only a big cat can manage.

>Well shit.

>That's pretty intimidating you have to admit.

>Goddamn predators.

>You take a deep breath and roar right back.

>Well, it's less of a roar, and more a yell of utter frustration.

>Like what someone might do if they blew a tire they just bought, or if they found out their house was broken into.

>You don't expect it to do anything, you just want to show Raj that you aren't scared.

>Like when King Mong  roared back at Godjilla to show he wouldn't submit. Or whatever it was.

>However Raj stares at you wide eyed.

>"Respect." he says, as he throws his hands up level with his shoulders in mock surrender.

>"Alright, well then." Lewis says after that display. He looks to you. "You ready?"

>You nod and bring your hands up.

>He looks to Raj. "You ready?"

>"Hold on." he says. "Just let me get more comfortable."

>He untucks his shirt from his pants, rolls up his pants legs, then kicks his shoes off and to the side.

>And here's why you consider him your rival, in a way.

>He brings his hands up,  forward and right over the top of his head.

>He brings his left foot forward, and lifts it a bit, resting on the ball of his foot near his toes.

>His back foot is perfectly grounded.

>This bastard right here is a true kickboxer.

>He may also be the reason you looked up kickboxing, happened to find the clinch, and made that your special technique.

>But that's not important right now.

>"Now I'm ready." Raj tells Lewis.

>"Okay." Lewis says. "Then let's. FIght!"

>You are currently learning the fact that someone who's been practicing a fighting technique for years, coupled with the need to consistently train their body for a sport, means you are in serious trouble.

>Raj can pretty much read you like a book, and counter you just as effectively.

>You've gotten a few hits on him, but nothing too impressive.

>He's mostly been focusing on defending against you and throwing the occassional punch.

>Probably seeing how much you've changed in the time he's been gone.

>You manage to get a cheeky hit in and catch him in the cheek.

>It barely seems to phase him as he takes it and throws a punch of his own.

>You manage to dodge it, but he does a pretty good job of keeping in close whenever you try to move yourself to a different position.

>Swinging above your weight class with such a disparity in skill is a true challenge.

>But if anything, you just have to push harder, dig deeper.

>Eventually, he changes from staying on the defensive, to moving on the offensive.

>And man does he go hard.

>It takes all you've got to block or dodge him.

>And even then it's barely enough.

>He leans back and brings his left hand up, then leans forward and launches his fist out.

>That looks like a haymaker, you've seen enough to know.

>You dodge to your left and get ready to throw a hook in retaliation.

>But at just the last moment he pivots his entire body and turns his haymaker into a powerful hook.

>His fist crashes into the side of your face.

>You twist in the opposite direction and take a few uneasy steps forward.

>At least you think you do.

>The world is currently spinning.

>Or is that you?

>You barely notice the fact that you're face down on the ground, until you hear a voice next to you.

>"Are you done?" Lewis asks.

>You slowly brings your hands forward and push yourself off the ground to your knees.

 >You rub the side of your head to get the ringing in your ear to stop, then blink slowly to get your eyes to focus.

>Alright. You're not out of the fight yet.

>You look over to Lewis and shake your head.

>That was a mistake, the world shakes with it for a moment. But it passes.

>Raj has gotten really strong.

>Who would've guessed playing golf would make you such a powerhouse?

>No other choice then.

>You said you wouldn't, but you're going to have to draw on dark power to win this fight.

>Fierce anger, blind madness, invoke the beast of darkness!

>You stand.

>You attempt to yield yourself to a crashing wave of rage.

>You take short quick breaths to boil your blood.

>You try to unchain the beast.

>... But nothing happens.

>You've got no reason to be angry.

>It's just a fight for fun and entertainment.

>Things may be riding on this fight for you, but that's no reason to get mad at your opponent, when he's just trying to have fun.

>You turn to look at him.

>Your gaze stops on Mirabelle as you turn.

>She had a look of worry on her face for a moment, but relief takes over soon after.

>You cast your gaze at Raj.

>He's shadowboxing as he waits for you to recover.

>You take a deep breath and let it out slowly.

>You turn your brain off.

>No being forced to win. No threat of consequence. You just want to enjoy being able to fight.

>You bring your hands back up and he stops shadowboxing to resume his stance as well.

>You throw yourself into round two.

>It's more of the same, but you feel like you're moving a little better now that you've emptied your mind.

>This similar back and forth goes on for a while.

>Raj drops his body a bit and brings his hand down to throw it up in an uppercut.

>Without really thinking you do the opposite, forcing your body up and bringing your arm down.

>You drop your elbow right into his rising fist, stopping his uppercut in its tracks.

>As he freezes at the unexpected defensive attack you threw, you bring your left up and hook him as hard as you can right across the jaw.

>He takes a few steps back.

>He hesitates, like he doesn't know whether to cradle his damaged hand or his freshly punched face.

>Eventually he nestles his hand underneath his arm and holds his jaw.

>"Alright that's enough for me. I'm done." Raj says.

>"What, already?" you ask, a little disappointed.

>"I'm not a gambling man, but even I know when to fold." he responds. "Some of us were just meant to be in the Circle, while others aren't, you know. I firmly believe, that you are meant to be here."

>You laugh. "Well thanks Raj, that means a lot."

>"Good fight, as always Anon." he says bringing his hand out.

>You shake it. "Yeah, good fight Raj."

>He takes his leave to go chat with some others that he knows and you walk over to Mirabelle. 

>You look out to see if your dad is gone yet.

>Surprisingly, he's just standing there, with a distant look.

>However his focus comes back and he looks over to you.

>You look at each other for a moment before he nods and walks over to the car.

>Is he alright?

>You squat next to Mirabelle.

>"You almost got laid out." she says.

>"Raj hits really hard." you reply, rubbing your cheek.

>"You almost looked a bit angry for a sec."

>Oh. So she noticed you trying to embrace darkness.

>"Nah, not angry. Just a bit shaken I guess." you tell her.

>It's not entirely a lie. You did indeed get shaken.

>"Well. If you say so." she responds.

>After the Circle, you take her home, just like always.

>This is so deeply ingrained in your schedule now, that you can no longer remember what it feels like to go straight home after the Circle.

>As Mirabelle departs, she does not smooch your silly face like normal.

>She poses you a question instead.

>"Anon are you... Are you about to challenge me for the Champ spot?"

>Ahh. So she has learned the truth has she?

>You'll tell her the truth, you might as well. You just choose to play a little dumb first.

>See how she came to that conclusion.

>"What makes you say that?" you ask, with as much genuine confusion you can conjure.

>"You just fought three people in a row. And they were like, people you let come to you."

>"Uh huh." you say, urging her to continue.

>"And well. That wouldn't make it obvious because you fight people all the time." she follows with. "But you did it a little differently than how you normally do it. And I had the suspicion yesterday, yet wasn't sure. But what did make it obvious today is the fact that I saw your dad in that car as we showed up."

>Oh. Yeah, that would do it.

>"Mhm mhm." you mutter.

>"And I didn't want to point it out in case it was supposed to be a secret, and I didn't want to throw you off or anything. But I'm guessing his 'condition' for letting you stay in the Circle, was to watch you run the gauntlet or something? Which could only mean you're coming for me next." she brings her theory to an end.

>Clever bunny.

>"Ding ding. She got it. You are correct." you reveal the truth.

>She looks at you.

>For a long while.

>Face unchanging, emotions unknown.

>"I see." she finally says after an age.

>And then her face shifts.

>To one of her ever infamous taunting grins.

>"Took long enough." she says as she grins at you.

>... Hmm.

>This isn't quite the reaction you expected.

>"Guess I'll see you on Monday then." she says with a bit of taunting malice in her voice, before she walks home.

>"Wait you just gonna leave me with no sugar?" you call out to her.

>"You can have some, after the fight." she returns.

>And leaves you with that.

 >Well. It seems.

>According to present information.

>Mirabelle is excited to fight you?

>You guess, when you think about it, you can understand why.

>You fell in love with her after a fight.

>Maybe another fight will make your love stronger.

>Or at least it would, if you weren't about to lose and get shipped off across the country.

>Welp. This is a problem for Monday's Anon.

>Friday's Anon is going to go play video games and enjoy some quality weekend memes.

>Also maybe time with his parents, who knows.

 >You go home.

>As you step in your dad calls you to the living room.

>"Anon." he says. "Is the Circle fun to you?"

>You answer that question without even really thinking. "It sure is."

>"Why?" he asks next.

>Now that you do have to think about.

>"It's just fun. It's like a sport, I guess. But, you get to experience a side of your opponents that you wouldn'rt really get with like, basketball or football." you answer. "It's more personal, it's more engaging. I get to understand people in a different way. And in a way, it helps me make friends that I wouldn't make anywhere else."

>"Friends, huh?" he asks.

>"Yeah," you begin to elaborate. "Like that lion, Caesar. We don't hang out at school or anything, but all the time at the Circle, he's there, trying to one up me. And the exchanges I have with him are fun. And we may talk mess to each other, but those are just jokes that don't mean anything. It's all just, fun. I dunno. I can't really explain it, you would've just had to experience it for yourself to be honest."

>"You're not using the Circle as like, an outlet or anything?" he questions.

>"Hm? Outlet for what?" you ask, confused.

>"Never mind." he says. "I guess. I have my answer by now, but we've come this far so. Might as well see it to the end, right?"

>His answer? For what?

>You shrug. "Whatever you say."

>"Well, enough about that. We're having movie night tonight."

>"Don't you two have movie night, like, every night?" you ask him.

>"This is family movie night." he responds. "Come have a seat."

>"Alright alright." you say as you collapse into the couch.

>Your mom brings over a bowl of popcorn as your dad flips through Netflicks for something good to watch.

>You end up watching movies with your parents for a good few hours, until your dad decides to call it for the night.

>You head to your room and spend the last few hours of your day in pursuit of glorious memes until bed.

>No one got together on Saturday.

>Lewis and Mikael had other things to do.

>And even though, as Verne likes to put it, "saturdays are for the boys", you asked Mirabelle if she wanted to do anything.

>"Nah." she replied. And refused to elaborate.

>So you stayed at home and did a whole lot of nothing.

>Sunday came by and you texted her, asking if you could come over like normal.

>"We're not going to be home today, sorry." she replied to you.

>It kind of made you feel like she was trying to avoid you until Monday.

>But that kind of sounds silly, what would be the reason for that?

>Totally not the fact that she's cooking up something to smack you with in your fight.

>Couldn't be.

>Regardless Monday came as certainly as it would.

>You don't have to bring your backpack to school anymore.

>Classes are done now and the teachers aren't passing out anymore old assignments or whatever, and you definitely don't need your study materials.

>Not having to bring your backpack took a metaphorical and semi physical weight off your shoulders.

>However the nerves that come from the approaching fight that will likely decide your immediate future, brought a weight that no backpack could match.

>The dread only grew as the day came to an end.

>You walked up to Mirabelle, like you always do.

 >She has a restrained look of anticipation on her face.

>"Are you really gonna try to fight me today?" she asked.

>You gave a simple nod.

>"Well okay." she said with a shrug and a tilt of her head that basically displayed how badly she's going to make you suffer.

>"I've gotta take care of something before I go though. So I'll just see you at the Circle." she told you, before going off in a different direction.

>Well. Alright.

>You go to meet your best buddies at your lockers.

>The lockers that will not be yours much longer.

>Maybe some new freshmen will take these lockers.

>Maybe there will be four of them, two humans, two anthros.

>Maybe they'll become best friends.

>Maybe. Maybe not.

>Either way, no one has anything pressing to do today, and Verne's club is pretty much packed up and done with.

>So everyone's opting to head to the Circle today.

>Great. They'll all get to see you lose again.

>Ah well.

>You all go to the Circle.

>"Psst." your dad whispers to grab your attention as you approach and park your scooter.

>You walk over to him in the car.

>"You're gonna go fight the Champ right?"

>"That. Was the plan, yes." you confirm.

>"Well." he starts. "That's fine, just. If you're going to do so, then don't worry."

>"Huh?" you say in building confusion.

>"Don't worry. About winning or losing. I had a long talk with your mom, and I've gotten my answer. So no consequence if you lose. I still want to see this fight. I just. Want you to have fun."

>This. Is. Strange.

>"I understand this is confusing, and a lot of it didn't make much sense. I'll explain everything in a bit." He reaches his hand out of the car and pats you on the shoulder. "Just. Enjoy yourself. The way you do."

>That's all he gives you, as you walk to join the Circle.

>You're still very confused.

>And that change of heart was sudden, you think.

>But. You don't have to worry about getting moved out west if you lose?

>That's very heartening.

>Because you weren't very confident.

>But that heavy feeling that you've had all day dissipates, and it feel like you're walking on a cloud.

>A moment later, Mirabelle comes up and takes her normal seat.

>She only glances up at you for a moment before she focuses straight ahead.

>Your dad wants to see this fight, Mirabelle wants to have this fight.

>You remember what Lewis said when he first tried to convince you of your feelings.

>Something about how good romantic partners bring out the best in each other via challenge.

>Alright then. You're willing to bring out the best in you both.

>If she wants it, you're gonna do it.

>Let the battle for supremacy against the old King and the new Queen commence.

>Elodi walks forward to begin introductions.

>Even though Lewis is present.

>You look for him in the crowd and find him.

>He's yawning very heavily.

>Whatever, he doesn't even do anything to be tired from.

>"Welcome back everybody! Let's make this another great day!" she shouts, full of her usual energy. "Now let's get things started! Who is stepping into the Circle today?"

>In repeat fashion of the first time you had your rematch against Mirabelle, you silently throw your hand up and walk forward. You turn and with your hand still up, you bring it down slowly and point directly at Mirabelle.

>Unlike last time though,you turn your hand upwards, and beckon at her with your outstretched finger.

>The tension in the crowd grows heavy as you challenge Mirabelle.

>You can tell that they didn't expect this from you.

>She smiles wide, and stands up.

>"Fucking. Finally." she practically yells as she steps forward. "You know how long I've been waiting for this?"

>Say what? You only got the idea to rematch her recently, abd you just told her a few days ago. What does she mean how long she's been waiting?

>"Whatchu talkin' 'bout, honey?" you ask, with peak confusion.

>"I expected you to try and take the Champ spot back forever ago." she explains. "Didn't expect you to give up after just two tries or something. Like, I know, I get it, you kinda like me, and I kinda like you back, but still. Unless you really were that afraid of getting beat up. I didn't expect you to the be the type to only get in fights you  know you can win."

>You bring your hand up in preparation for a rebuttal.

>But you drop it back down.

>You don't really have anything to say in response to that.

>She's kind of telling the truth, you did just give up on the Champ spot at some point.

>But there's a reason for that.

>Because. Mirabelle is your girlfriend and you didn't want to fight her?

>Now that you think on it, maybe that reasoning is a little rude, considering she is just as much a fighter as you.

>You don't really have a good answer, so you stand in silence for a while.

>"Like what?" she continues through your silence. "Did you think I would break up with you if you beat me? Because that would make me upset. Or did you not want to hurt me because we're dating? Because that would really make me upset."

>You keep quiet, because you know there's truth in what she's saying.

>"Uhhh. I can't really say what I was thinking." you say absently after your moment of contemplation. "But I guess you're right."

>"Damn right I'm right." she says, with her hands on her hips and a nod of satisfaction. "Now. Don't you dare go easy on me, don't you dare give up too early, and don't you DARE lose."

>Wait hold on.

>She always tells you that, but.

>That last one might be a little tough against this opponent.

>Man, Mirabelle gets a lot more feisty at the Circle doesn't she?

>You think back to what Raj said the other day.

>"Some of us were just meant to be in the Circle."

>Mirabelle is definitely meant to be here.

>And you know what? So are you.

>And you're going to show your dad that truth.

>He'll have no reason to deny you your place here.

>You'll make up for the lies and deceit another way.

>But you still have time that you want to spend at the Circle.

>You want to depart it on your own terms, when the time comes.

>"Okay. Well then." Elodi starts. "I guess this will be quite the interesting first match. So let's get into it! What do you have to say?"

>"Well." Mirabelle starts, like she always does. "I did just tell you not to lose, but, we all know what's about to happen regardless. What happens twice will happen thrice, as they say."

>You don't say anything. Instead you place your hand under your chin and look at her like you're contemplating something deeply.

>Then you scrunch your face like you just came to a terrible conclusion.

>Of course, seeing your sour lemon face brings out her curiousity.

>"What." she says.

>"I've never seen a rabbit with red fur before. But I'm about to, and I don't think it's gonna be a good look for you." you say.

 >"So what, you're gonna beat me bloody?" She shakes her head in disappointment. "I don't think anyone's ever told you, but you're not very good at this."

>She's right. All your ammo is a bit lackluster.

>Time to fire with something besides violence.

>"Not very good?" you parrot as you fold your arms and tilt your head. "That's not what you said last night."

>A couple of guys in the crowd snicker and chuckle.

>"Oh please," she responds without missing a beat. "Someone has to stroke your ego, or else you'll-"

>Your eyes shoot open as those three words leave her mouth.

>Simultaneously, she freezes and has the same reaction, realizing what it was you actually said, and her own self destruction.

>"Yeah you were stroking something, but it wasn't my ego."  you fire off before she can save herself.

>All the boys go ballistic. The girls roll their eyes and scoff in disgust.

>You look to the sky and grin, like the fight has already been decided.

>As you look back at Mirabelle, she has a pretty decent poker face.

>But the look in her eyes says your life is close to an end.

>She casts her gaze over at Elodi.

>You do the same and find that Elodi is looking every which way but straight.

>A tinge of red crossing her face as she seeks mental escape from this moment.

>You clear your throat loudly in an attention getting way.

>"Ahh!" she shrieks as her attention is forced back to the present. "S-sorry. Um. Are you ready?" she asks Mirabelle.

>Mirabelle stretches her legs quickly, then confirms with a nod of her head.

>"Are you ready?" Elodi asks you.

>You crack your knuckles and offer a nod of your own.

>"Then let's. Fight!" Elodi exclaims.

>And as soon as the fight is started you get ready to rush forward.

>But you stop.

>You think to try something different.

>You drop your ready stance and hold your hands out.

>You curl your fingers and beckon in the 'come at me' gesture with a taunting grin on your face.

>Mirabelle squints at you, trying to figure out your game.

>However she doesn't try to figure you out for long, because in typical Mirabelle fashion she rushes at you, barely giving you time to realize she was on you.

>But this is what you wanted.

>Instead of getting ready to dodge and counterattack, you lean forward and throw your fist at her.

>She moves so fast that she's basically going to run right into your fist.

>At least, that 's what you thought.

>She comes to a perfect halt inches away from your fist causing you to whiff big and lean forward to steady yourself.

>As you do she punches you right between the eyes.

>You bring your hands up to your face, more out of surprise than the pain.

>However that leaves you open to a small onslaught of punches to the body.

>You take small retreating steps to recover, but she doesn't let up.

>You try to block but she's managing to get around your blocking arms.

>You sweep out with your leg in an attempt to trip her up, but she jumps over your leg and lashes out with her own, catching you in the stomach.

>It doesn't completely knock the air from you, but you take larger retreating steps now and hold a hand over your gut.

>You look back to notice that you're just about an arm's length out of reach from the Circle.

>You look back to Mirabelle to see her approaching you slowly, popping the joints in her neck.

>Alright, it's been about twenty seconds and you're already getting bodied.

>Well, time to throw caution to the wind and get buck wild.

>You step forward with your fist up, ready for a punch.

>You swing quickly, but whiff. This time on purpose.

>She still dodges like always, and comes up to counterattack.

>However, you easily block her strikes since you were ready for them.

>You throw your arms wide and step forward toward her, and bring your arms around her in a big hug.

>You easily lift her off the ground, light as she is.

>She flails and kicks her legs at you a few times but you hold fast.

>You take a few large steps toward the middle of the Circle, then drop forward, dropping her onto the ground with you poised over her.

>In this position you could probably wail on her effectively.

>Actually, in this position with her legs on either side of you, you get a different thought.

>You get two thoughts, but the dirty one only lasts for a moment.

>You grab her legs and loop your arms under the bend of her knee.

>Then you stand straight up.

>With you holding her legs at waist height, the part of her back near her shoulders and her neck area are all that's touching the ground.

>She kicks her legs in an effort to get you to let go.

>But no matter how strong her legs are, you've got them effectively locked in.

>Time for the spin move.

>You twist and turn to the left, dragging Mirabelle with you.

>Then you follow up with your feet in the same direction, and put more force and momentum into it until Mirabelle's back and the rest of her are off the ground and in the air.

>Round and around and around.

>You spin in tight circles until you're turning like a propeller.

>Your spinning has you lacking spatial awareness, so you aren't sure where you are.

>You loosen your grip on her legs and off she goes.

>Though you were closer to the  edge of the Circle than when you started so they kind of caught her.

>If getting plowed into and knocked over by a 60 -something pound rabbit counts as catching.

 >You slowly bring yourself to a slav squat, to see how Mirabelle takes getting yeeted like that. But also to keep your own brain from continuing to spin the world around you.

>It kind of reminds you of how you feel after one too many siegbraus.

>Mirabelle stirs from her bed of bodies and slowly rises to her feet.

>You do the same, ready to throw something out and put her onto the ground for good.

>You step forward, your steps a bit wobbly, but steadily clearing up.

>Mirabelle is up, back turned to you, swaying slightly from the daze.

>You step into range and bring your hand up.

>From their position, you see her ears twitch.

>So she knows you're there.

>She pivots, faster than you would expect given the dizziness you thought she had.

>She throws her fist and you do as well.

>You were crouched just low enough to take a punch dead center in the nose.

>However you hit her in what you think is the same spot.

>You take several big steps backward, not expecting her to have hit you in the face, and with such force.

>She likewise has to sit back down form the attack she just received.

>She brings her hands up to her nose and covers it.

>When she brings them back down though, there's a steady stream of blood falling from one of her nostrils.

>She looks at the blood on her hands, then up to you, with a twinge of anger.

>Oh no, it's the Freddy fight all over again.

>You grin and shrug, cocking your head innocently.

>Before a wet feeling gracing your upper lip causes you to stop.

>You wipe your nose with your thumb, and sure enough your nose is also bleeding.

>An eye for an eye, it seems. Or a nosebleed for a nosebleed.

>Though while you try to stifle the bleeding a bit, Mirabelle is already over it.

>She lets it run freely as she steps forward.

>Then she rears her arm back and takes small short hops on one foot toward you.

>You finally notice her getting closer and bring your hands down to defend, but she catches you dead center in the stomach.

>You attempt to keep from doubling over and throw a surprise punch from where you are.

>She shifts her body slightly and tilts her head to avoid it, then follows with an uppercut, then two more body punches.

>You try to slink away to gain some distance, but she pursues.

>By a stroke of luck, you deflect a hook and manage to grab her arm.

>You take it and slingshot her with all the force you can muster into the Circle.

>And the lawless brigands, eager for blood, grab onto her arms.

>However, as you approach, eager to deliver a few free shots of your own, she completely turns the tables.

>With the two people holding tightly on to her arms, she throws her legs up and drives them straight into your chest as you approach, knocking you backward and onto your ass.

>Then she brings her legs down slowly and stands there blankly, like it didn't just happen.

>You look at the two Circle members who were supposed to be your support and throw your hands up at them accusingly.

>They look to each other, down at Mirabelle, and only offer shrugs in response.

>And that lapse in their grip alllows Mirabelle free.

>She springs forward and takes a short leap forward, dropkicking you in the chest.

>You slide backward a few feet.

>But you're still alive.

>You push to sit up, only to be tackled back down.

>Mirabelle is over you, with her fist raised.

>Oh no. Not this again.

>"Baby please, have mercy, I love you." you offer quickly in plea for your life.

>"That doesn't sound like 'I'm done' to me." she says back, denying your plea.

>And then she begins to bash your face with her little but surprisingly hard hitting fist.

>Luckily your arms aren't pinned this time so you can try to defend.

>However, she alternates between decking you in the face and punching you right in the solar plexus, so your guard is split and ineffective.

>Then she grabs you by the shirt collar and pulls you up to an almost sitting position.

>Before she leans forward with all her weight and decks you across the cheek.

>Your head slumps to the side, staring out at the Circle goers cheering and yelling.

>You can see Elodi approaching, but you aren't quite done yet.

>You shoot your arms up and wrap them around Mirabelle's back, then pull her down and into your chest.

>You tighten your grip and squeeze down as heavily as you can in a kind of bear hug.

>You've never actually seen bears hug each other this tightly, so you don't know why it's called that.

>But that's not important.

>Maybe you can get the lack of air or the pressure on her torso to get her to tap out.

>She flails and tries to push herself away from you, but you've got the strength advantage here.

>In the words of a certain Savage, 'You're going nowhere!'.

>She then starts throwing punches into both sides of your head.

>Which aren't terribly effective, so you keep your hold strong.

>Eventually, the struggling seems to wind down, and the punches get less and less power behind them.

>Oh boy, here it is.

>You keep just enough strength in your grip to keep her from gaining a second wind, and she slowly begins to slump against you.

>She brings her hands up and rests them both on your shoulders.

>"Just give and I'll let you go, wouldn't want you to pass out now." you offer her.

>She remains motionless for a moment.

>And then rears her head back as far as she can, before bringing it crashing down against your own, her forehead slamming right in the area between your brow.

>Now that, gets you to let go and clutch your dome.

>She retreats away from you and you instinctively sit up.

>You hear her breathe deep before she yells out "Says the guy who was begging for mercy just a second ago!"

>And then her fist smashes across your cheek, and puts you right back onto the ground.

>You hear something, maybe Elodi, but you aren't sure.

>It's getting quiet, and the light is fading.

>Huh. So this is what it's like to be knocked out cold.

>And sure enough, the ugly green of a tent top is what greets you as you come to consciousness.

>Judging by the light outside, you haven't been out for a terribly long time.

>"Can't believe we get to see you in here again." Grace says as you come to and sit up.

>"Only when I fight Mirabelle." you say.

>"Only when you lose to Mirabelle." Hannah corrects.

>"I bet you know how Caesar feels right about now." Grace says.

>That line makes you feel sick.

>Not because you have anything against Caesar, but because you don't want to lose to Mirabelle as many times as Caesar has lost to you.

>You're feeling fine, so you get up and thank Hannah and Grace. They give you an ice pack for your cheek before you leave..

>You come up to the Circle, and there's another fight going on.

>You skirt around the edge and walk up to Mirabelle.

>"Good fight." you tell her as she watches you approach.

>"Good fight." she says back. "Hope I didn't beat you up too bad."

>You shrug.

>You hear a car honk that sounds pretty close to your mom's horn so you look out.

>Your parents are still there, guess they waited until you came to.

>"I'll be right back." you tell Mirabelle. "Gonna go talk to my dad."

>"I'll come with." she says. "I may need to apologize to him for making his son look so bad."

>You shake your head and walk toward the car.

>Your dad comes out and leans against the hood as you approach.

>"Man son. You sure you want to stick with a girl who can beat you down so hard?" he asks.

>"I know." you say, idly rubbing the cheek that she almost obliterated. "I should probably be having second thoughts huh?"

>"At least no one will ever have to worry about you being unfaithful. Not that you would, but. A trip to the hospital, or the morgue, probably won't be worth it."

>You shrug and chuckle.

>"Anyway." he continues. "I owe you an explanation. So I'd rather give it to you sooner rather than later. So you can understand why I made you do what you've done."

>You nod silently, ready to finally understand what this was all about.

>Your dad takes a deep breath and then lets it out. "More than just keeping you away from the Circle for your grades, there was a bigger reason to it. I wanted to make sure you weren't going to end up like I did at your age."

>You keep silent, but the confusion is visible on your face.

>"My grandfather," he continues, "Was locked away for a very long time because of some very deep seeded problems with his anger. And while my own dad didn't blow up with me or my mom, he was still spiteful and angry to just about everyone else. He went to meet the Lord when I was still in elementary because of some problems that arose with his uncontrollable temper. And after he went, my mom just kind of shut down a bit so she didn't really care what I did."

>Huh, you didn't know this. Your dad doesn't talk about your grandpa much. But apparently, he doesn't know much to talk about, considering what he just said.

>"And then there was me." His story continues. "With no regards to pretty much anything but venting my aggression, in the Circle."

>"Wait what." you say out loud.

>"Yep. I used to come to the Circle." he tells you. "And I was damn good at it, I fought like a man possessed."

>You're deeply surprised. But like, a part of you always had this tiny feeling that your dad actually participated.

>Or maybe that's just what you're telling yourself.

>"I fought every day." he says. "And then I would go home and hit my punching bag until I got tired. I would rarely do my homework, and every moment in class was just me counting down until I could go knock someone's head off their shoulders."

>Huh. That sounds kind of violent.

>"And of course, becasuse fighting was all I cared about, I didn't have too many friends or people to hang out with. I was what most people would consider the schoolyard bully. Well more of the Circle bully. Screaming at people and taunting them while I messed them up."

>What. Your dad is chiller than an iceberg, there's no way.

>"However." he pauses and looks to the sky for a moment. "At the very least, because of the Circle I had one friend. My best friend. We went through all of high school together, and became inseperable. We had a few classes together, we would hang out on weekends, and other days when he had time. He came to the Circle often, but he was on the track and field team so he wasn't here every day."

>You continue to listen. Most of your dad's stories are about his time after high school and on, so this is new stuff.

>"And then senior year rolled around and by this point, everyone knew who I was and what I was about. So my fights began to end quickly. No one was up to fighting me seriously."

>That reminds you of you. Same thing happened after Mirabelle became Champ, you couldn't get anymore worthy fights.

>"One day though, the current Champ had to quit, and gave up his spot. So a tournament was getting set up for it. And I signed up. So did my friend."

>Uh oh.

>"His track team was given a break before a big meet that was coming up or something, so he decided to come idle his time at the Circle. He did well. And I did well. So of course we met at the final round.

>You have an idea of where this story is headed.

>"And I. Was. Pissed." your dad says with heavy pauses and a piercing glare behind his glasses. "'He spends all his time running, he rarely fights, why is he so good out here?' I asked myself. I wanted the Champ spot because I knew people who go for it fight their hardest. And he was going to take it. I was livid, and fell even deeper into the well of anger that I had."

>Your dad breathes heavily.

>"I was seeing red, I latched onto him and kicked him in the leg. Over and over. And I didn't stop until his leg gave under my assault."

>Your eyes shoot open as you realize what he means.

>"I broke his leg. Right before the big meet, where apparently some scouts were coming to watch." His sharp glare shifts to a crestfallen gaze.

>"So I won and became the Champ. But guess what. No one wanted to fight me after they saw what I did to someone I considered my best friend. If I could do that to someone so close to me, what would I do to any random guy? So after a while I stopped going to the Circle. I even stopped talking to my friend because I felt ashamed of what I did to him. And I didn't even realize that the fight I had with him was actually the most fun I'd ever had."

>This is pretty heavy, you weren't really expecting this.

>"So." your dad shifts his position, looking ready to wrap up. "I let my anger best me, and I turned into a monster for it. So I ended up with nothing and nobody. I'm just lucky that I met your mother after that whole situation or I'd have been screwed. But what I'm trying to say."

>He looks directly into your eyes.

>"With the circumstances proven by my grandfather, my father, and me. I had no choice but to believe, that anger was in our blood."

>That sentence reminds you once again, of Freddy's blood rage.

>"I didn't want you to lose your mind and do some irreparable damage, to lose your friends and your place all at once." your dad says.

>"Dad." you finally say. That's crazy."

>Now it's your dad's turn to look confused.

>"I got you here." you explain. "Looking out for me. Teaching me right from wrong, all that good stuff. And have you seen yourself recently? You live like a man who has seen Nirvana, and could not be more at peace with the world."

>Now your dad listens intently to what you have to say.

>"I've seen you get angry one time in all my life." you tell him. "And whenever I've been frustrated, I would literally just emulate your calm demeanor to stay chill. So I don't know what you mean by you don't want me to turn into you, because I have. I've become the you that you've shown me."

>Your dad's eyes widen in, maybe shock, or surprise, you aren't sure.

>"And if that's not enough, I've got this one here." you bring your hands to your side and toward Mirabelle, like she's a fabulous prize you just unveiled.

>Well, she is, but anyway.

>"I've got her here to reel me back in if I get a little too salty. Because she's apparently a better fighter than me, and more level headed than me."

>Your dad chuckles. "Well. I guess you're already doing leagues better than I am."

>He brings his hand up and pats your shoulder. "Sorry about all this. Didn't want to test you like this, your mom even said I didn't have to. But you know, sometimes you just have to be sure."

>"It's fine. It all worked out." you say in acceptance. "... I'm not gonna have to move right?"

>"Of course not. Truth be told, your mom and I won't be out west for much longer anyway."

>Well that sure is good to know.

>"Wait, what? Moving?" Mirabelle asks.

>"Nothing to worry about." your dad tells her.

>He goes back to leaning on the car, and thinks to himself.

>"It occurs to me." he says. "That attempting to test if you were like me, could have pushed you to a dark place via the pressure, subsequently making you exactly like me."

>"... What? Nooooo." you drone sarcastically.

>"Hey hey. Unlike what I attempt to make you believe, I am not actually the smartest man on the planet." he laughs.

>He looks to Mirabelle. "You know you're pretty tough for such a little thing. Where'd you learn to fight?"

>"My dad." she says. "Taught me everything I know."

>"Huh." your dad says.

>"Yeah that's why she's so good." you explain. "Her dad helped her on her path to victory."

>"That sounds a little accusatory, son." your dad side eyes you.

>"Nah, nothing like that."you say. "Besides, Mr. Dunwick's been helping me out too, ever since I went to meet him."

>Your dad freezes at the mention of that name. 

>"Dunwick?" He looks to Mirabelle. "Your last name is Dunwick?"

>She nods.

>"Your father's name isn't William is it?"

>"Yeah it is. You know him?" she asks.

>"Oh, my God. This would've been important information to have had long ago." your dad says, facepalming. "Once again, I am not that smart."

>"Well we all knew that, didn't we?" a familiar but unexpected voice calls out.

>You look behind you to see William himself walking up.

>"Wait whuh, Mr. Dunwick?" you say, a little confused. "What are you doing here?"

>"Mirabelle told me the other day that it looked like you were going to challenge her, so I had to see it for myself. So I brought a lawn chair and sat myself in the crowd." he explains. "It was a good fight."

>He walks up, stands right in front of you and glares.

>"Though I don't quite appreciate the direction that smack talk went."

>You throw your hands straight up, as if he were armed and ready to gun you down.

>"It was all a joke, I didn't mean any of it, I'm sorry, please don't kill me!"

>He smiles warmly as he laughs.

>That laugh is chilling.

>"Anyway." he says. "I thought you reminded me of him." He looks to your dad. "But I didn't actually expect you to be the son of my Blood Brother here."

>... Huh?

>You look between William and your dad.

>"Your Blood Brother?" you ask William. "The guy you hit on girls and went to parties with?"

>He nods.

>You look to your dad. He shrugs and nods.

>"Wait." you look between them again, then stop on your dad. "You broke his leg?"

>"In my defense." your dad says. "He was. A lot shorter than he is now."

>"Been a long time, Isaac." William says.

>"About what, thirty years?" your dad asks.

>"Thirty years since you ditched me, no word, no explanation, not even an 'I'm sorry'."

>"I'm sorry." your dad says.

>"Well there's no way I can let you off that easy now." William says. "You owe me sorry, with interest. And it just so happens, I've got the perfect way for you to pay me back."

>He hooks a thumb toward the Circle.

>"Been wanting a rematch for thirty years now." he grins.

>"C'mon Will, the Circle is a thing for young people. I'm not old, but I sure as hell ain't young either."

>"Yeah you look a little too mellow to bring the same heat that you did all those years ago." William sighs. "Guess we'll just have to say that the Dunwicks are better now that my girl is Champ."

>"Excuse me?" your dad says. "Better than who? I won our fight."

>"And now you won't rematch me, so I win by refusal to contend." William smiles.

>"... Anon." your dad says.

>"Yeah Dad?" you answer.

>He pulls off his glasses and hands them to you. "Hold these."

>He walks toward the Circle.

>"Now that's what I want to hear." William says, following.

>You peer through the car to see your mom staring after your dad. "... Hey Ma. Dad's about to go get in a fight."

>She hears you and can't jump out of the car fast enough.

>But instead of like, an urgency to stop it, she looks excited to witness it.

>Hmmm.

>You and Mirabelle share a glance and follow suit toward the Circle.

>You find William and your dad talking to Elodi, or technically Lewis, Elodi just seems to be listening. Likely learning what to do when something outside of the rules pops up.

>People over twenty one don't fight in the Circle, so having two gentlemen well over that age gap should be an obvious no.

>But it's two of them making a specific request to fight each other, so.

>"I'll allow it." you hear Lewis say with a nod.

>Is he for real, is this actually about to happen?

>"We're old men though, so we won't take too much time." Willaim tells Lewis. "Just set us for about five minutes."

>"I can do that." he says, grabbing his phone.

>Lewis takes Elodi's place for the moment and steps into the Circle.

>"Alright everyone. We have a fight here, but it's with two people who used to participate way back when." Lewis says to the crowd. "Sounds like they've got an ancient rivalry that needs settling, so we're giving them the floor to settle it."

>This is actually about to happen.

>"However, this is between them, so we don't want any Circle interference." Lewis continues. "So we need everyone to take several steps back to give them all the space they need."

>The crowd complies.

>William and your dad take their places across from each other.

>They take a few moments to stretch.

>You're a bit concerned. You know your dad still excersizes, but he really only does the stuff to keep in shape. William has all kinds of stuff to keep in shape and beyond.

>You look for your mom and find her front and center with her phone out.

>Is she gonna record this fight?

>"Alright." Lewis says. "You two got anything to say? DId they even do this part in your time?"

>"It's been thirty years." William says. "There's nothing left to say."

>Your dad nods.

>"Alright. This'll be interesting. Are you ready?" Lewis looks to your dad.

>Your dad nods. Then puts one hand behind his back and brings the other forward.

>He looks like he's about to do the "Come at me" gesture, but he just holds his hand there.

>He kind of looks like some old martial arts sifu or something.

>It looks familiar, now that you think about it.

>"Are you ready?" Lewis asks William.

>William drags his thumb across his nose and does this weird, figure eight type motion with his legs, then nods.

>Actually, you know that weird step.

>So if William pulls out a pair of nunchuks from absolutely nowhere, you're just going to flop over.

>You look at Mirabelle.

>This is literally a 'my dad can beat up your dad' situation.

>But you're not going to say anything because you have no idea who actually will win.

>But you really hope your dad wins, or Mirabelle will have another thing to tease you with.

>"Alright." Lewis says. "Let's fight."

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Hl6KNY10ZA&t=119s

>They both pace in circles around each other.

William moves with an active energy, but your dad moves slowly, like he's already calculating exactly how to win.

>William steps in and throws a punch, but your dad just slaps his hand  completely out of the way mid flight then returns it to that resting position.

>William throws another punch with the other hand but the same thing happens.

>They stare at each other for a while.

>Then William jumps in and begins to throw punches so fast you can barely even see them.

>And you aren't sure but you think your dad is actually managing to dodge or block them.

>He steps out of the way, ducks under swings, bats them away with his hand or blocks them completely with his forearm.

>Then as he blocks one of William's strikes, he brings his other hand from behind his back and places it about an inch away from William's chest. Then jabs it straight into him.

>It didn't look like it did a lot but William still takes a good few steps back.

>Your dad takes a new stance, one fist closed in front of him, the other open and slightly ahead of his fist.

>Okay you definitely recognize that stance.

>It's from those movies your dad loves, the guy who supposedly trained Brace Lee.

>Ib Man or something.

>And with the way William is fighting.

>It's basically Ib Man versus Brace Lee.

>William comes forward again and renews their throwdown.

>It's just like watching an old school kung fu movie.

>You can't tell what any of these moves are, but there's a whole lot happening.

>You're just not entirely sure what.

>There's a lot of blocking and dodging.

>Aside form that hit your dad landed earlier, you don't think anything else has connected from either side.

>You tear yourself away from the fight long enough to glacne at the crowd.

>Everyone is silent, enthralled by the duel going on in front of them.

>William throws kicks that look about as devastating as Mirabelle's dropkicks.

>But your dad blocks or dodges them like he's been fighting all his life and has perfected the arts of conflict.

>William throws a punch and your dad turns his body sideways then steps inward toward William.

>He then delivers about a dozen machine gun punches right to William's chest, then ends off with an open palm strike that pushes him back.

>However, William doesn't relent and comes back in for another round.

>He moves in for a strike then feints it and kicks up with his leg, catching your dad in the side.

>Then he does it again, and as he comes forth for another, he pivots the the other way and throws a straight kick into your dad's stomach.

>He drops to a knee. Then stands back up.

>This is a fight that deserves popcorn or something.

>They both go at each other again and at some point the cool kung fu dodging and blocking just devolve into a slug fest.

>They both deck each other in the face at one point and take a few steps back to recover.

>They stand still for a moment, watching each other.

>You hear Lewis' timer go off.

>But you can practically feel the enmity.

>They begin walking toward each other.

>Uh oh, so much for just five minutes.

>They both bring their hands back.

>And grip each others' hands in the brotherly handshake.

>Oh. Well never mind then.

>"Brother?" William asks.

>"Brother." your dad replies. "I'm sorry, Will. Really I am."

>"Don't worry about it, it's all in the past." William says. "Besides, it was probably for the best. Did me a lot of good. Took a better path. I live in the Hills now."

>Your dad looks offended.

>"Things were about to go so well." he says. "And then you tell me that."

>Your dad practically throws William's hand down.

>"Whaaat?" William says laughing. "Isaac, c'mon."

>Your dad walks away and William follows, still laughing.

>He comes up to you and retrieves his glasses.

>"See you at home, Anon." he says.

>"Uhhh, what was that?" you try to ask.

>"What was what? Don't know what you're talking about." he replies blanky, continuing to walk away.

>He looks upset.

>"Isaac, c'mon. Come see my house. Come meet the missus. Introduce me to your missus." William continues to try and get your dad's attention. "I'll even let you drive my BNW."

>"You have a-" your dad starts and immediately stops.

>Okay, now he's actaully upset.

>"Val, we're leaving!" he calls to your mom and jumps in the passenger seat.

>She hustles to the car and get's in the driver's side.

>However they don't leave yet. You think William starts talking to your mom, and your mom is talking back.

>"Well. That was something." you say to Mirabelle.

>"Yeah." she says idly. "Who would've guessed our dads were old friends?"

>You nod.

>"... If that fight didn't end early, my dad totally would've won." she says.

>"What fight were you watching, my dad was tearing yours up." you tell her.

>"My dad can beat your dad." Mikael says from behind you in a mocking childish tone.

>"Nuh uh." Verne says in a similar tone.

>"Uh huh." Mikael returns.

>You punch Mikael in the arm and Mirabelle punches Verne, to shut them both up.

>Then you two walk away.

>You see your parents finally taking off down the road.

>You walk up to William.

>"So are you and my dad friends again, Mr. Dunwick?" you ask him.

>"Maybe." he shrugs. "It has been a long time. Guess we'll just have to catch up, see how things go." 

>"Are you mad at him at all for the leg thing?"

>"Eh. Not really. I'm sure he felt bad because of my track thing, but I don't. I like the path my life has taken without it. No regrets."

>Well isn't that nice.

>"Well, time for me to be getting home." William says. "Make sure Mirabelle gets home safe Anon."

>"Oh? You aren't gonna drive her home yourself?" you ask.

>"Nope. That's your job."

>And that's all he says before he walks over to his car and takes off down the road.

>The Circle looks like it's about ready to come to an end anyway.

>So yeah, time to get home.

>You retrieve your scooter and head down the road with Mirabelle by your side.

>Then you jump on and take the ride to her home.

>You arrive, William has been back for a while it seems.

>You let her off.

>"So you were going to have to move away or something?" Mirabelle asks.

>"Huh? Oh. I think that was just my dad messing with me, but he wanted me to win my fights or I might've had to follow him out west to help with his stores." you explain. "It's a long story, and it doesn't even matter now."

>"Well that's good." she says. "I'm not too sure what I'd do with myself if you had to leave."

>"Funny." you say. "I was pretty much thinking something similar."

>She leans forward and you smooch her pretty face.

>"I love you." she says.

>"Heh, do you really?" you say rubbing your cheek. "With the way you hit me, I sometimes have to doubt it."

>"Those were love taps. I hit people I don't like way harder." she grins.

>"Mm. I love you too. I'll see you tomorrow."

>She opens her gate and heads home.

>Once she's inside her house, you head home yourself.

>And as soon as you're home, you proceed to hunt down your dad.

>Which isn't hard. He's in the same place as always, on the couch.

>Well not like always, he's slumped over it in a way you don't see often, with a big bag of ice right on his face.

>"You alright?" you ask.

>"Of course not, I dunno what I was thinking." he mumbles through the bag. "Playing around like a kid again, I'm too old for that."

>"You're not that old, Dad." you tell him. "But uh. You wanna tell me why you can fight like that?"

>"Like what?" he asks innocently as he moves the ice bag.

>"Like what. You fight like you lived in Shanghai and got trained by some kinda secret forest hermit!"

>"Oh that." he says. "Well I was told, that if done correctly martial arts would help bring me balance, clarity of self, and inner peace."

>Ooh, how profound.

>"Also," he continues. "When you watch a set of movies over three hundred times, you get a little invested."

>You laugh. "You have not watched those movies three hundred times."

>He stares straight at you silently and motionless.

>For a really long time.

>Then wordlessly shifts the bag back over his face.

>Your dad has watched the same movies over three hundred times.

>Is that dedication, or obsession?

>"... Like three hundred for each or three hundred collectively?" you ask.

>He doesn't respond, so you guess he's done talking.

>You turn around and head up the stairs.

>On the way, you pass by your parents' room and peek in.

>"Hey Ma, did you know Dad is some kind of martial arts master?"

>"Oh. Well, I knew he practiced, but I didn't know he was so good at it." she answers.

>"Did you know he used to go to the Circle?"

>She nods.

>"Hmm. And did you record him fighting?" you ask.

>"I did." she says. "In fact."

>She stands up and walks to the hall. 

>She peers down the stairs for a moment before she walks to a hall closet.

>She grabs a small lockbox and brings it back, then fetches a key from out of the nightstand drawer.

>She opens the box and reveals a tiny notebook looking thing.

>Upon opening it though it reveals that it is actually a small photo album filled with old pictures.

>She hands it to you and you flip through it.

>The setting of the pictures is instantly familiar.

>People arranged shoulder to shoulder in a circle, with two people smacking each other up in the center.

>And a reoccuring target in these pictures vaguely resembles your dad, if your dad never got a haircut.

>Some of the pictures with him in motion are blurry, but there are a lot of clear ones.

>Like the one with him standing over some kid, another with him planting a foot on the back of a horse with his fist in the air, and another with him putting a tiger in a headlock.

>"You used to go to the Circle and take pictures of Dad fighting?" you ask.

>She nods. She looks a little embarrassed, but happy at the same time.

>"Hold on. I thought Dad said he didn't meet you until after his Circle days?"

>"That's right." she says. "I took my pictures in secret, and we didn't have our first conversation until after he left the Circle. But I was there from the beginning."

>Damn. That's kind of sweet. 

>Your mom has been in your dad's corner from the start.

>You won't bring attention to the strangeness of taking pictures of someone who wasn't aware of it.

>That's none of your business.

>"So he doesn't know at all?" you ask.

>She shakes her head and brings a finger to her lips in the 'shush' motion.

>You nod and hand her back her album.

>She puts it back in the box and locks it.

>You return to your room.

>You lay down.

>Today was quite the day.

>A good day.

>You bring your hand up to your cheek.

>Well. Mostly.

>At least your crazy trial by combat is complete.

>Your dad seems appeased, and now willing to let you participate in the Circle.

>No more need for lies. That's a weight off your shoulders, for real.

>School is coming to an end.

>Another chapter in the book of life completed.

>What kind of content will the next chapter contain?

>No need to worry about that now.

>What you do want to worry about though: What's for dinner?

>And so the rest of the week went by normally.

>Not too different than all your other days.

>Except for when you left the house, in addition to telling you to have a good day, your dad would also add "have fun" at the end.

>Apparently his way of telling you to enjoy yourself if you went to the Circle.

>Which of course, you did.

>But closer to graduation, the seniors decided to keep away from the fights.

>Probably wouldn't be the best idea to show up with black eyes and bruised faces, especially if pictures were going to be taken.

>The last day of school was essentially a whole lot of nothing.

>You still had to go to each class, but they were half as long as they normally are.

>Just the teachers telling everyone how proud they were of their students, and that they should all be proud of themselves.

>Y'know, the mushy stuff.

>The last class of the day was a party.

>Mr. Warburton had snacks and drinks.

>Whether he paid for it all himself, you don't know.

>And you didn't bother asking, you partook of the confections and enjoyed yourself.

>And then the end approached.

>All the seniors were told to head to the gym where they passed out the gowns and caps.

>Told everyone what was going to happen, how to line up, walk, and act.

>Where to sit, and which order they would be coming up in.

>They also gave you all another congratulations before it was time.

>Then they marched you outside to the football field where they had the stage and everything set up.

>The marching band was playing, you could already see the bleachers full of family, friends, and so on.

>It's kind of overwhelming.

>You thought you were used to a crowd, but this crowd and the Circle are two different entities.

>The principal speaks, some of the teachers speak, a few of the students who got those fancy school accolades speak.

>But honestly, you don't listen to any of them.

>It's all the same stuff anyway.

>They start having everyone file down the path and up to the stage as they call names.

>You listen as best you can for some familiar names.

>Just to acknowledge that they have managed to cross the line with everyone else.

>Caesar, Benji, Clyde, Wayne, Lee.

>Lin.

>Alison and Elise.

>Kim and Jane.

>They call Mikael's name and you hear his family blow out the eardrums of everyone surrounding them with their viking battlecries.

>No one's gonna be louder than them.

>At least that's what you thought until they call Mirabelle's name.

>And you remember the sheer devastation built into her mother's vocal chords, and the fact that she probably has the biggest family here.

>Verne's family cheers impressively, in opposition to their son's infinitely lax attitude.

>You wait to hear them call Lewis.

>But a name before his catches your attention the most.

>Bree Willshire.

>You snap to attention and stare at the stage as if you'll miss this moment if you even consider blinking.

>And sure enough, there she is, shaking the teachers' hands and grabbing her diploma.

>She looks a bit different though.

>She grew her hair out and changed it.

>It looks like almost a bob cut, but the edges are still punk rock jagged.

>Her bangs cover one of her eyes, like a curtain she half closed around her face.

>... What the hell, Bree?

>You thought she moved away or transferred or something, but she's still been here?

>You really want to know what happened.

>You keep your eyes on her, until you realize that the line has inched up without you.

>They call Lewis' name and you hear some simple cheers and whistles.

>And finally, they call you.

>And you're surprised to hear that your dad cheers louder than your mom.

>Guess he slid out of the calm demeanor for this one moment.

>You walk up, shake the teachers' hands.

>Mr. Warburton is there. He gives a smile and a nod.

>You return the gesture.

>You receive your diploma.

>Acheivement.

>You get the uncontrollable urge to pose, like you did whenever you would win a fight back when you were the King.

>This is as much a victory as anything.

>But you resist.

>And return to your place.

>One final congrats and they allow you to disperse.

>You spend a bit of time, saying your hellos and goodbyes to many of the people you knew.

>A bunch of underclassmen are here surprisingly, and while you don't see them during school, they know you from the Circle.

>So surely they have come to pay homage to their King.

>And, well, everyone else too.

>After that, you think it's time to go find your parents.

>But one more familiar face comes forth to have a word with you.

>"Mr. Anonymous." Mr. Warburton says.

>You turn to him as he walks up with an anthro woman who could probably be a model or something.

>She's got a fantastic figure.

>And she's.

>... A snow leapard.

>Recognition crosses your face as you realize who this is without even knowing her.

>"I just wanted to quickly introduce you to someone." he says.

>"Hello." she says. "My name is Emmaline. You must be this Anonymous I've been hearing about."

>You shake her hand politely. "I must be. And you are the Emma that I've been hearing about."

>"I suppose so." she smiles warmly. "Though I hope it's all been good things."

>"Oh absolutely. They've been so good, in fact, that they make me want to be where you guys are in a few years."

 >"Well now." she says. "What make you say that?"

>"Let's just say,'" you tell her. "That I've been told, that waking up to a face fuill of divinely soft fur is a like a slice of heaven. And it sounds like an event that I need to experience myself."

>She laughs, and the way Mr. Warburton looks at her as she does.

>Well, basking in paradise may not be too strong a comparison.

>"Well I truly hope you are able to experience your slice of heaven." she tells you.

>"Oh don't worry. I will." you say.

>You look at the crowd, hoping to see Mirabelle.

>Of course, you know you won't, not with all these people here.

>Or so you thought.

>The universe saw fit to grant you a clear view of the little white rabbit that has filled your heart so completely.

>Two of her skyscraper brothers are standing together. And sat above them on each of their shoulders, is one Mirabelle Dunwick.

>She's looking around, smiling wide and laughing.

>Her ears stand straight up as her brothers bounce and turn and dance a small jig with her on their shoulders.

>You stare, entranced for a moment, before you remember that you were having a conversation.

>You turn back and find that they both have a similar smile on their faces.

>"Well, Mr. Anonymous. We won't keep you any longer." Mr. Warburton says with an air of parting. "Congratulations once again. I wish you the best."

>"You too Mr. Warburton. Take care." you say as you shake his hand one final time and turn to leave.

>"Oh, one more thing!" you shout as you turn your attention back to him. "Did a junior named Tyrell come see you at all?"

>"Tyrell? Oh! Yes he did." he says. "Don't worry. I'll do my best to advise him in the same way."

>You shoot him a big thumbs up and you continue on your way.

>Your parents finally come down from the bleachers to meet you.

>"Congrats son." your dad says.

>"We're so proud!" your mom yells, voice full of emotion.

>You hope she isn't about to cry.

>"Thanks Ma, Dad." you tell them both.

>"You ready to go?" your dad asks. "We don't mind sticking around if you want to talk to your friends for a bit."

>You look around.

>You're alright.

>What you would really like to do is find a familiar doe and not so gently interrogate her.

>But that won't be easy in this crowd, you know it.

>"I'm fine. I'll see them again another day. Let them spend the time with their family." you say.

>Your dad nods in understanding.

>"Alright then. Let's go home."

>Your mom insisted on giving you a ride to school today for whatever reason, so you accepted.

>Probably so that they could bring you home like they're doing now.

>You sit in the back of your mom's car and let weariness invade.

>It's well and truly over now.

>Soon you'll begin preparing for the next step of your life.

>After a small break. A break that you've earned.

>After riding in silence, your parents pull up to your house.

>And. There's a car in the driveway you don't recognize.

>It's got the words "Congrats Anon" on the back windshield.

>And one of those big gray stick on bows right on top to accent the black of the car.

>You clearly see that it's a Doge Challengur.

>... You love those cars.

>After your mom stops the car to raise the garage door, you jump out.

>Your dad does the same.

>You walk up to the car and stare at it.

>"What's with the car?" you ask your dad as he stands next to you.

>"Hm? Oh, right." he says emptily as he reaches into his pocket.

>He holds something out for you and places it into your hand.

>You look at the item.

>It's a car key.

>"What is this?!" you still ask, as if you cannot comprehend the item he just handed you.

>"It's a car key." he shrugs. "You know, to, drive your car."

>You  attempt to formulate sentences, but the mass of unintelligible gibbering proves that your brain machine broke.

>"Son." your dad says. "If you plan on going to college, I damn sure am not letting you go on a scooter. And what are you going to do, ride your girlfriend around on your scooter forever?"

>He shakes his head. 

>"That would make you look bad. And as your father, if you look bad, I look bad."

>He reaches his hands up and pops the collar of his shirt. "And as you know, I don't ever look bad."

>He walks into the house with nothing else to say.

>You unlock the door to your car and sit in it.

>In the passenger's seat are a bunch of booklets and manuals related to driving and DMV driving tests.

>So you guess the studying is up to you.

>One of them will probably come with you when you want some hands on practice.

>You grip the steering wheel.

>You breathe in deep.

>And attempting to channel the destructive sound waves of Mrs. Dunwick you scream as if you're trying to blow the windows right out of your car.

>Your brand new car.

>What a gift you have received for graduating high school.

>And of course, as if nothing has changed at all, you are right back in the place you always are.

>The Circle.

>One chapter of your life is complete, but this chapter still has much more to be written in it.

>If you're lucky, you'll get to finish it with another sit in the Champ's Seat.

>Mirabelle apparently wants you to challenge her more, so you'll oblige.

>Getting to her will be easy. Taking the Champ spot back may be less so.

>But there's time, no need to rush just yet.

>School being out means the Circle gets to start up earlier, so there's a lot more time for people to duke it out.

>You haven't fought anyone yet.

>A few people got up and you wanted to get your chance to brawl. Just for fun, not to ruin any streaks today.

>But a nagging voice in your mind told you not to take your turn yet.

>And you aren't sure why, but it managed to convince you.

>So you are currently watching Mirabelle, kicking a poor canine into oblivion.

>Watching Mirabelle kick someone's ass that isn't yours is like art.

>Beautiful, violent art.

>You're so entranced actually, that you don't even notice when a powerful presence comes up and stands right behind you.

>The entire immediate area around you has even parted to allow this person to approach.

>But you still don't notice.

>Not until they drop a heavy hand right onto your shoulder and shake you out of your fixation.

>"Sup Anon. Heard you took over for me after I left." their voice booms, deep and heavy.

>If you could see them, you'd be pretty sure that your eyes have dilated to pinpricks right now.

>You turn slowly and crane your head to look at the beast beside you.

>Towering over you, with shaggy dark brown fur.

>This absolute unit of a bear stands right next to you, with a big grin on his face.

>"Jayce Barkley..." you say absently, as if you don't really believe that he's here.

>"Glad you remember me." he says.

>"Dude I don't think anyone could forget you." you say back.

>He nods. "True. I am pretty impressive."

>He pats your shoulder a bit too heavily. "So. Champ for three years. That's also pretty impressive."

>Yeah." you say with a bit of pride. "Buuut I lost it a little over half a year ago."

>"Eh, it happens. We can't all be me." he shrugs. "So who'd you lose it to? I wasn't told that bit."

>You point into the Circle.

>"To who, him?" he asks, looking at the dog currently getting his ass clapped.

>"Uh, no. The rabbit." you clarify.

>He looks at Mirabelle.

>You're almost certain he's about to start laughing at you or insulting you or anything.

>But he just says "Hm. She must be good then."

>"Oh you have no idea." you say.

>She's more than good.

>"Anyway!" you shout. "What're you doing here? Never thought I'd see you again."

>"I didn't die man, I went to college." he chuckles. "And I do have a younger sister you know, of course I'd come see her graduate. So I thought I'd come see the situation while I was out here."

>Well duh, of course that makes sense.

>"He's done!" you hear Elodi shout. "Mirabelle is your winner!"

>The crowd cheers, and you whoop and holler as Mirabelle soaks in the admiration for a moment, then returns to her seat.

>"Hey Mirabelle, meet Jayce. He was the Champ for four years before me."

>"Hm? Oh, yeah, I think I remember him. Hello." she says.

>She better not be serious, everyone knows Jayce.

>"Jayce, this is Mirabelle, she's the new Champ." you say.

>"Nice to meet ya." Jayce says with a big friendly smile.

>She's also, my girlfriend." you say with an air of pride and a stance.

>As if that was the most important four words you have ever, or will ever say in your life.

>Well, until you change out that G word for that W word.

>But that's waaay down the line.

>"Wait hold on." Jayce says.  "She takes the Champ spot from you, and now you're dating?"

>He takes a moment to sort through that information.

>"If you can't beat 'em, date 'em?"

>"That's not. Entirely what happened, but." you attempt to salavage your thought process. "I guess, you're not wrong?"

>"Yeah, he immediately kissed me right after I punched him in the face twenty times." Mirabelle says, reminding you of your shame.

>"I regret nothing." you say.

>Jayce bursts out laughing.

>"Well shit, I mean it seems to have worked, yeah? More power to you."

>You let out a small laugh.

>"Alright, who's stepping up next?" you hear Elodi say.

>...

>You. You are.

>"Hey Jayce." you say slowly. "How old are you again?"

>"I know what you're thinking. Too old to fight, I'm twenty-two." he answers.

>"Screw that noise, rules were made to be broken!" you shout.

>"Yeah but see, If we break that rule, that won't be the only thing that gets broken here." he shrugs.

>"What you think you're gonna break me?" you ask. "I'm the King, I do the breaking here."

>Jayce points to Mirabelle. "And what about her?"

>"She's the Queen, she also does breaking."

>"Anon." Jayce says, voice full of seriousness. "I'm the Undefeated Champion. You really think you're going to change that?"

>You spread your arms and assume a challenging stance. "Won't know unless I try."

>He shakes his head and sighs. "Alright. If you're that eager. If we can make it work, I'm down. Let's hope the people who took over the tent are good at what they do."

>"It's Hannah and Grace, so we've all been fine." you tell him.

>"Ooh, Hannah." he peers over the crowd toward the tent. "May have to make a trip to the tent anyway."

>"Don't worry bud, that's exactly where you're headed!" you shout as you walk over to Elodi.

>"Hey Elodi, listen." you start. "I want to fight somebody, but he's a little over the age cutoff. Sooo, I need you to give the go ahead for him to fight real quick."

>"Wait, w-what? Um." she stutters. "I'm not too sure if that's-"

>She looks around, likely trying to find Lewis and get some assistance on this breaking of rules.

>But Lewis isn't here today so she's all on her own.

>Besides, he would have approved it anyway.

>He'll allow anything if it'll possibly break him out of his mask of boredom. 

>"Elodi sh sh shhh. Listen." you whisper in a calming, yet manipulative manner. "All I need you to do is say, 'I'll allow it', and everyone will be happy."

>She pauses, still looking unsure.

>"Besides. Lewis just allowed two men twice everyone's age to throw down here." you remind her. "One guy just slightly over age won't be much different."

>"... Fine. I'll allow it. I guess."

>You whoop as you take your place on the opposite side of the Circle, then you beckon Jayce in.

>He grins and shakes his head again, but steps in.

>And that's when everyone actually begins to take notice.

>Most of the younger people don't seem to recognize him, but the older ones definitely do.

>And as they realize that he's standing in the Circle, facing off against you.

>An energy begins to fill the air.

>Elodi clears her throat. "Okay then. Let's get star-"

>"WAIT!" someone screams.

>You look over and see Benji cut his way to the front of the Circle.

>Interestingly, Wayne is in tow right behind him, followed by Lee, scanning the center of the Circle.

>"You and Jayce are about to fight, Anon?" Lee asks.

>You and Jayce share a glance, then nod in his direction.

>"Do not. Start. Yet." Wayne enunciates slowly.

>"Yeah, we'll uh. We'll be right back. Just one second." Lee follows up.

>"Oh fuck this is gonna be good." Benji says.

>And they retreat from the front of the Circle.

>You follow their path out of the crowd as best you can, and you're pretty sure you see them exit and beeline to Sly's table.

>Several other people also watched their retreat. They look at those three, then back to you.

>Suddenly a huge mass of the older crowd also move to Sly's table.

>...

>Well this was unexpected.

>Are they really about to bet on your fight?

>... Now that you think about it. You're pretty sure no one's done that in a really long time.

>That kind of makes you happy.

>Of course, it's very likely that they could be betting against you.

>After that mass of people returns to their place, Elodi starts again.

>"What do you have to say to each other?"

>"Anon look." Jayce starts. "you know what they say about messing with bears. 'Bring bigger guns'. I don't think you've got that."

>"Yeah I know." you respond. "I don't know how I'm going to get through you. You''ve really been uh, packing the pounds on for Winter huh? You know it's still half a year away, right?"

>"These are gains." he says, bringing his arms up and flexing. "Something you look like you know nothing about. Bananas won't get you these, y'know."

>You're instantly reminded of Gus' hilarious joke, but you resist the urge to laugh your head off right now.

>"You know, Jayce." you say. "A long time ago, my ancestors used to turn your ancestors into rugs. I think it may be time to bring that old practice back."

>Jayce brings his arms down and stands completely straight. "C'mon Anon, that's just barbaric."

>You look him dead in the eyes.

>"... Don't you mean bar-bear-ic?"

>People in the crowd groan.

>He returns your gaze.

>Then cracks his knuckles, heavily.

>"Okay. Now I gotta fuck you up." he says.

>You regret nothing, that was a perfect setup.

>You look over at Elodi, ready to get this fight started.

>She's holding a hand over her mouth.

>She actually looks like she's trying to stifle a laugh.

>Oh no, she likes puns.

>After she notices you're looking at her, she forces herself back into control.

She clears her throat. "Alright. Anon, are you ready?"

>"Hell yes." you say and bring your hands up.

>She looks to Jayce. "Are you ready?"

>He nods and gets into a stance.

>It's kind of like the stance you see in the non t.v. wrestling, but without the super deep bend and crouch, like he's ready to tackle you.

>"Alright." she says. Then let's. Fight!"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FM2WB0AyAjA

>You are currently coming to terms with the fact that you regret everything.

>Like every decision you've ever made.

>Or at the very least, the 'trying to fight Jayce' decision.

>This is no fight, it's a massacre.

>Jayce is literally like if Kayo could maintain his stone stance, while in motion.

>Every time you attack him, he just hyper armors right through your strikes and strikes you back.

>Those rumors about bears taking a couple dozen bullets like nothing and still chasing someone down are beginning to sound like facts now.

>He hasn't even really begun to get into his wrestling moves.

>And you're already having a tough time.

>Whose bright idea was it to have you fight this monster?

>Oh right, it was yours.

>Well you figured it wasn't going to be easy.

>You glance down.

>Maybe aim low, since he's so tough up top.

>You sweep your leg out to catch him in the shin.

>He brings his leg up and kicks with it, casually.

>Like he's just kicking a pebble on the side of the road.

>He counters your kick with his own and your shins collide.

>However his are a lot tougher than yours.

>You bring your leg back and limp backward a few paces.

>It's got that feeling, like when you stumble into a coffee table.

>You put some weight on it to fight through the mild pain.

>But you see Jayce appproaching.

>Time to throw out your gambit.

>As he approaches. Slowly, confidently.

>You reel back on one leg and rocket forward, catching him unprepared and smashing him right in the jaw with your Mountain Buster.

>It actually makes him take a step back as he stares off into the distance.

>Then he slowly begins to nod his head and turn his attention back to you.

>But you won't allow him to retaliate.

>You throw punch after punch now, into his chin, across the jaw, a few into the solar plexus.

>You unload on Jayce, hoping to wear him down..

>You catch him in  the gut and he doubles over slightly.

>There it is.

>You throw your hands up and link them around the back of his neck.

>And as you lock in your signature move, the crowd cries out in celebration.

>Their cheers fuel you.

>You bring your leg back and drive your knee into Jayce's gut over and over.

>You alternate between kicks to the legs and knees to the gut.

>Try as you might though, his head won't yield any farther so you can't pull him into any devastating knees to the face.

>But he's still taking everything else you're throwing at him.

>As a matter of fact... You don't think he's actively attempting to block anything.

>And then strangely, you feel a pair of heavy hands latch onto your sides.

>Followed by a lack of the ground now beneath your feet.

>This bastard just picked you up.

>And is now holding you clearly above his head.

>Like you're some kind of toddler that he's about to play upsie daisie with.

>And then with absolutely no effort, he tosses you backwards.

>Luckily, he didn't add any twist to his throw so you went straight back and managed to land on your feet.

>But then he runs up to you.

>And it's like watching an incoming train when your foot is stuck in the tracks.

>He reaches you and throws both hands onto your shoulders.

>With more strength than you've had anyone bring against you, he forces your top half into an arc and brings his knee straight up and into your face with one of those knee lifts.

>It actually catches you right in the mouth, and you hold your hand over it to apply pressure and stifle the pain.

>You take a few steps back and try to throw a regular haymaker straight at his solar plexus.

>But maybe throwing such a big punch from a completely nuetral position was a bad idea.

>Or maybe he just could tell it was coming.

>Because he catches your fist right out of the air and holds it tight in his grip.

>Then he brings his other hand up and grips your arm.

>He pulls on you and slingshots you into the Circle.

>You know what's about to happen, you try and slow your momentum, but you can't.

>You collide with a few people and you actually hope that they hold you down.

>But no, they know Jayce, and they know what he wants.

>They push you back toward Jayce and he clotheslines you as you reach him.

>God, it's like running headfirst into a steel pipe.

>You're on the ground now holding your face, but Jayce isn't done.

>He steps over you and picks you up.

>You flail a bit, but y'know. He's a little strong.

>He plants you back on your feet. Then squats down and grips your legs right at the bend of the knee, like he's about to lift a box.

>Then he stands straight up, taking you with him.

>So now you are once again very far off the ground.

>And this is very hard ground.

>You look down at him.

>He peers up at you with one eye, then looks out to the crowd.

>He brings one of his arms off of your legs and lifts his hand, flashing devil horns to the crowd, before he falls slowly backward.

>Oh god this man is insane.

>His back collides with the ground, your front slams into the ground as well.

>But he is large and tanky. You are not.

>However you are still alive. You think.

>You flail your hands out and attempt to crawl forward.

>However you don't go anywhere, because he's got a grip on your ankle.

>He stands up, still holding your leg, and drags you forward toward the center of the Circle.

>You kick out wildly at his arm, trying to get him to let you go.

>His answer to that is to grab your other leg too.

>Then he pulls your leg up and grips both your ankles.

>Oh, wait no.

 >He throws them apart violently.

>Wishbone.

>Welp, time to cry.

>Isn't that usually a tag team move?

>You shrivel up into the fetal position.

>Time to apologize to Caesar one more time too.

>You support your weight with your elbow as you once again attempt to crawl away from this vicious monstrosity.

>But he towers over you and places both his hands on your shoulders.

>"Isn't it about time to give up, Anon?" he asks.

>Maybe so, but you aint no pansy.

>You answer him with an uppercut to the chin.

>He stands still for a moment, then nods, like he respects your answer.

>Then he roughly pulls you up back to your feet.

>Then he opens up his stance, bringing his arms out in a challenging pose, similar to the one you did earlier.

>You move in and throw punches as you attempt to stay mobile and avoid any counterattacks.

>He throws these huge swiping motions at you with his big ass bear paws.

>Like he's swiping fish right out of the river, like in cartoons.

>He's not hitting with them, so he muist not be intending to hit with them.

>Then he steps forward, and plants his foot right in the path you were moving in.

>You stumble and he brings his hands up and clasps both sides of your head.

>And with your current instability, it's easy for him to reel you in and deliver a huge knee right into your gut.

>You double way over, oxygen lost.

>Your knees buckle, but you stay standing.

>You try to lift yourself back up.

>But he grabs you under the arms in your hunched over position, and pulls you forward.

>So now your head is firmly trapped between his legs.

>...

>Oh fuck.

>Oh no!

>This ain't it, chief!

>You panic and flail and attempt to wrench your head free.

>But he's got it trapped.

>You gently tap his legs, hoping to be spared this death sentence.

>But this isn't a submission, and so tapping out has no effect here.

>He effortlessly reaches down and grips your arms, then pulls them back.

>You know what's about to happen next.

>You can clearly hear the screams of the crowd.

>You can't see him, but you know what he's doing.

>You've watched him do it a hundred times before.

>He's slowly looking to the left. Then the right. Gauging the faces of the crowd.

>You stare at the ground, like a criminal of old awaitng the headsman's axe.

>And then there's a shift of weight, you see Jayce's legs come off the ground and  bend behind him.

>You approach the ground in the slowest of motion.

>But before you can register any severe pain and suffering, darkness engulfs you.

>You wake up.

>And honestly wish you hadn't.

>"Well look who's coming to." you hear Hannah say.

>Your vision clears enough to seee her, leaning over you, putting something on your face.

>Probably bandages. Or gauze.

>Hell you wouldn't be surprised if she's actually giving you stitches or something.

>"How do you feel?" she asks.

>"Uhh. Like I just got mauled by a bear." you groan.

>"Well yeah, you kinda did." Grace says from behind Hannah.

>You blink a few times, and now your vision is completely clear.

>And instantly you are momentarily thankful and apologetic that it has done so.

>Hannah's Hannahs are basically on full display in front of you.

>You get why Jayce wanted to make his way over here.

>You try not to stare, you have a perfectly perfect girlfriend and everything.

>But uh. Hannah has what Mirabelle does not.

>Which isn't a problem or anything..

>But well. You're a boy. You can't help but look, try as you might.

>"What were you thinking?" Hannah asks?

>"Huh what?!" you stammer, a little louder than you needed to.

>"I said, 'what were you thinking?'." she repeats. "Trying to fight Jayce Barkley of all people. You should have known that was going to end badly."

>"You must be enjoying coming to see us." Grace says with a laugh. "Most boys do, what with Hannah here."

>"I just wanted to see if I could win." you tell them. "Jayce is an icon. I just, wanted to see if I could contend with a legend."

>"I can understand that." Grace says.

>"Yeah." Hannah agrees. "A little longer and you would've been just like him. Shame it didn't work out, huh?"

>You grumble.

>It still disappoints you.

>But it worked out for the better so you're not too hung up about it anymore.

>"Alright." Hannah says, leaning back and patting your sore as hell cheek twice. "All patched up. Try not to get yourself decked or slammed into the ground for at least a while longer, okay."

>"Yeah, we see you in here again, we're gonna have to start treating you like a regular." Grace says, as you get ready to leave. "Like Caesar."

>You throw your head into your hands, which was a mistake.

>You make your way back to the Circle, which looks like it's coming to an end, and find Mirabelle.

>She sees you approach.

>"You look like shit." she says, looking at all the bandage covering your face.

>"Yeah I kinda feel like shit." you respond.

>"And you lost." she shakes her head.

>"Oh, did I? I couldn't tell, it all kinda went dark near the end there."

>"Only person you're supposed to lose to here is me." she says.

"Well I uhh." you start. "I can't help that, Jayce is just built different."

>You look at her. "So are you, if I'm being honest."

>She raises her eyebrow at that statement.

>"It's a compliment." you explain.

>She shrugs.

>You look around.

"Where's Jayce, by the way?"

>"He got a call and had to leave." she answers. "But, he told me to tell you 'good fight', and 'it was fun'."

>Well at least he had fun.

>You had fun too, even though you got completely wrecked.

>This just means that you still have a long way to go if you want to reach the peak prowess that Jayce acheived.

>Unfortuantely you don't have much more time at the Circle to do so.

>Ah well.

>You may not be Jayce.

>But you are Anon.

>You built your own legend, not as an Undefeated Champion, but as a King.

>Unfortunately, no king rules eternally, though champions can remain undefeated.

>"Wanna go home?" you ask.

>She wordlessly stands and walks over to your scooter.

>You aren't ready to drive your car yet, so you still have to get around on your scooter.

>As you leave, you look toward Sly's table.

>She's packing up.

>You kind of want to go ask her how the turnouts for those bets went.

>But to remain blissfully ignorant, you resist.

>However, her eyes catch yours.

>She gives this big miserly smirk, before she goes back to packing up.

>You don't know what that means, and you're not going to ask.

>You take off down the road with Mirabelle on the back of your scooter.

>Once you get her home, she hops off.

>"I'd kiss you like always, but I doubt you'd even be able to enjoy it right now, so." she tells you.

>"... Understandable, have a nice day." you say flatly.

>"I'm just saying, I don't want it to hurt you instead or something."

>"No yeah I get it. Everything does indeed hurt right now, you are right." you acknowledge.

>"Well okay then. I'll see you tomorrow?" she asks.

>You nod.

>"Love you." she says.

>"Love you too." you respond.

>You wait for her to walk into her home and head home yourself.

>"I'm back." you announce like you always have.

>"Welcome back." is returned to you from two seperate sources.

>You walk into the living room.

>Your dad is on the couch, your mom is over in the kitchen, making food.

>"Good God, what happened to you?" your dad asks, almost mortified.

>"I uh. Got into a fight with a bear." you answer.

>"... And you lost."

>You nod.

>"In my defense. He was the Champion for four years before me. He has never lost a fight." you explain.

>"And so you thought you could beat him?" he asks.

>"Yeah. It didn't turn out very well." You gently rub your bruised face.

>"Yeah I can see that."

He turns his attention back to the television.

>"But. I can respect attempting to beat the unbeaten."

>You walk to the couch and collapse into it.

>"Did you have fun though?" he asks.

>"Sure did." you answer.

>He nods in acceptance.

>"Let's go to the Carnival later today." Mikael texts the group chat.

>Mikael has always been a spur of the moment man.

>"Later today, that's kind of soon." Lewis says.

>"Where even is there a carnival?" Verne asks.

>"It's on the outskirts of Marberry. They set up a few days ago." Mikael answers.

>"I would've said let's go then, but Anon probably would've scared the kids and been asked to leave." he follows up with.

>It's been about a week since Jayce mauled you and slammed your face into the ground, so you've healed up quite nicely.

>You still went to the Circle, but you became a spectator for a while.

>Jayce showed up a few times after that to spectate, and apologized after he saw the patchwork put together on your face.

>His sister Elise came and fought a match too for him to see.

>It's a shame the only sight of you fighting he gets is the one where you lost.

>You would've liked to show him what you can do against an opponent you can beat.

>Maybe you'll get another chance someday.

>"So, why are we suddenly going to a carnival?" you ask.

>"May not have much more time to chill together, you know. Might as well do all we can." he answers.

>"I feel that." Lewis says. "I'm in."

>"Yep, I got nothing going on today." Verne follows.

>"I'm down." you send as well.

>"Just the four of us?" Verne asks.

>"Of course not." Mikael answers. "Anon is gonna invite Mirabelle obviously."

>Well that was a given.

>"She had siegbraus with us, she's as much our friend as she is Anon's." Lewis says.

>Damn right. Siegbraus are sacred, only to be imbibed with true comrades.

>"We wanna see if anyone else wants to come?" Lewis asks.

>"As much as you know I would love to invite everyone I know." Mikael starts. "Maybe let's keep this one limited to the inner circle. It is kinda sudden anyway, others may be busy."

>"We should save the big group stuff for something wild, like camping." Verne says.

>"That. I love that." Mikael responds.

>"Alright then." Lewis lays the plans. "Well. If we're going, then Anon. Ask Mirabelle. Guess we'll all meet at your place and drive there together, since Marberry is in your direction."

>"Will do." you say, and switch over to text Mirabelle.

>"Mira. You busy today? Wanna go to the carnival in Marberry with me and my friends?"

>She responds almost instantly. "Didn't know there was a carnival in Marberry."

>"Neither did I, but it's a thing and we're going. You in? It's kinda last minute."

>She takes a moment before responding. "Sure I'm in. I'm not up to anything today."

>"Great." you say. "I'll come pick you up when it's time. We're gonna meet up at my house then take off as a group."

>She sends the 'okay' hand emoji.

>You switch back to your group chat.

>"Mirabelle's coming." you tell them.

>"Then it seems we have a plan. A sudden plan, but a plan." Lewis says.

>"It'll be fuuuun." Mikael sends.

>You figure out what time to meet at, and let Mirabelle know when you'll be coming.

>You go downstairs to let your parents know where you'll be going later as well.

>And a few hours later, you're pulling up to the Dunwick mansion.

>... Estate, whatever you would call this big ass house.

>You text Mirabelle to let her know you're here.

>But she doesn't respond.

>You wait for a few minutes, but still nothing.

>Hmmm.

>Luckily for you, one of her brothers come outside, taking a trash bag out to the can.

>"Hey. Sam. Sammy!" you call out. "Sammy boy. Samson. Sammich!"

>He ignores you and continues on his way to the garbage can.

>Oh wait, is that not Sam?

>"Samuel?" you ponder.

>He finally turns to you after he tosses the trash.

>Oh, so he just didn't appreciate the stupid nicknames.

>"Is uh, Mirabelle around? We were supposed to be heading out soon." you tell him.

>He looks to the house, then up to the sky with a questioning look.

>"I think she's helping Mom with something real quick. She shouldn't be long. But i can let you in if you want."

>You nod. "Okay cool."

>He walks up and opens the gate for you.

>you make your way in and park your scooter, then follow him into the house.

>"I'll go find her, let her know you're here." Samuel says as he walks off.

>" 'Kay." you say as you wander off toward the living room.

>You peek your head in.

>William is not there, not that you expected him to be.

>He's not like your dad, always on the couch when he's got no work to do.

>However your good old weeb pal Blake is there.

>Doing what? Watching anime.

>You walk up.

>"Waddup Blake." you say.

>"Hey Anon." he says idly.

>You check out what he's watching.

>Hey, you remember this one.

>It's kind of old and you remember it coming on your cartoon channel on late Friday nights when you were a little younger than Blake.

>Cowbow Beeboop, or something.

>You distinctly remember that you really liked the red haired hacker girl.

>And the guy with the metal arm.

>You watch what's happening on screen.

>The main guy is in a fight with some lady in a hallway, fighting her with a broom.

>You thought Blake preferred all those new anime, you didn't expect him to watch one from years ago.

>"Which episode is this?" you ask him.

>"It's the movie." he replies.

>Huh, you didn't know it had a movie.

>You continue watching.

>The show is in english. So apparently Blake likes his anime in English and Japanese.

>"I love the kind of woman that can kick my ass." Spyke tells his attractive opponent.

>That man right there is a kindred soul.

>You chuckle.

>"Same, apparently." you say unconsciously.

>"What was that?" a familiar voice questions from behind you.

>You scream like someone who ws just caught doing a terrible deed.

>You look back and Mirabelle is behind you, hands on her hips, sassy grin on her face.

>"What are you doing here?" you ask quickly.

>She looks around the room before saying, "I live here."

>"I meant here in this particular moment!"

>"Coming to find you after Samuel told me you were waiting for me." she answers.

>"Oh, well yeah, that makes sense." you scratch your head.

>"So what was that? About liking women who can-"

>"Nothing! I dunno! Are you ready to go?! Let's go!" you cut her off and speed walk toward the door.

>You keep your mouth shut as you pull your scooter out of their driveway and toward the street.

>Even as Mirabelle attempts to tease you about what you said and tries to get you to repeat yourself.

>You make your way home.

>When you arrive, no one's there yet.

>So once again you play the waiting game.

>You walk into your house and into the living room to wait.

>Your parents see her enter and greet Mirabelle.

>She greets them back politely.

>Your dad makes room on the couch and you both sit and wait.

>Your dad's watching a movie on Netflicks that you don't recognize.

>And you don't have time to get into because your phone goes off, signalling the arrival of your friends.

>You stand and beckon to Mirabelle as you walk to the front door.

>"We're out, see you later." you tell your parents.

>"Have fun." they both call out.

>You exit and find Mikael staring deeply at your car.

>"Whose car is this?" he asks.

>"Mine." you answer smugly.

>He looks at you.

>"I've got fifty that says my 'Tang is faster than this." he says to you.

>"You can't just expect me to learn to drive and immediately try to race my new car." you say.

>Your competitive spirit really wants to take that bet though.

>But you know that's a terrrible idea.

>And let your dad find out you were racing. The anger in his blood will resurface instantly.

>"Fine fine, I'll let you off for now." Mikael sighs and walks over to Lewis' car.

>"Best that you do." Lewis says. "Besides, I'd smoke the both of you."

>You and Mikael share a laugh at that.

>You all pile into Lewis' car and it's about a 30 minute drive on the freeway toward Marberry.

>However you get off a few exits before you reach the city and you can already see the lights and attractions of the carnival from here.

>You pull up and Lewis finds a parking spot relatively easily.

>Lewis always has good luck finding parking.

>You stand in the line to buy an admittance ticket.

>Luckily it moves pretty fast.

>You buy two tickets and hand one to Mirabelle.

>"I could've bought my own." she says.

>"I know, but I do as I please. I pleased, so I did." you return.

>She rolls her eyes but thanks you anyway.

>Then off you all head in.

>You walk around for a bit, taking in the sights.

>There's a lot more than you expected.

>A few more roller coasters and attractions than you thought would be here.

 >You guys start with carnival games.

>And Verne is kind of an ace at them.

>Like the one where you shoot a tiny target with a water gun.

>And throwing a baseball at a set of old milk bottles.

>He's got a pretty steady hand, so he does pretty well.

>However when you come up to a game where you have to shoot bigger, moving targets from farther away with a BB gun. He fails pretty hard.

>Lewis beats everyone's score by a large margin.

>And oddly, you did better than Mikael.

>He and Mirabelle were neck and neck on their scores.

>"Vikings don't use guns!" He says, blaming his poor score on his heritage. "Give me a game with an axe or something."

>And luckily for him, there is a game more his speed.

>It's not an axe, but it is a hammer.

>The strong man game where you have to hit the pedal and ring the bell.

>Which of course he does, easily.

>Lewis goes next, and actually manages to ring it, surprising absolutely everyone.

>"It's all technique." he says.

>You go next, and almost but not quite make it.

>But whatever, you hit the 8, that's a decent spot.

>And then Verne comes up, radiating confidence and swagger.

>He raises the hammer, brings it down.

>And gets a 3.

>"Hey, better than I thought." he says with that dopey grin of his.

>"But that's okay, I've got my strongest muscle trained." he pats his chest. "My heart."

>"Heart's not actually the strongest muscle." Lewis clarifies.

>"It is to me!" Verne shouts.

>Mirabelle doesn't take a turn, even though you insist she'd do better than Verne.

>You don't know why she doesn't go. She's already proven she's stronger than a lot of guys, why not prove it and win a prize?

>But you remember. Most of her strength is in her legs.

>That's a fact you can't ever forget.

>After games, you walk around more and find a short show of two twin feline brothers juggling.

>They juggle small balls, then glass bottles. Then they juggle flaming axes.

>They turn away from each other and throw them behind their backs and still manage to keep the juggle going.

>That was pretty cool, you won't lie.

>You guys walk through one of those house of mirrors attractions.

>Everyone gets a good laugh out of the silliness of that one.

>You pass by one that warps Mirabelle's height.

>"You're as tall as your brothers now." you say.

>"Would you still love me if I were seven feet tall?" she asks.

>"Absolutely. Tall women are attractive." you say with no hesitation.

>"But I like you as you are so please don't suddenly growth spurt." you add.

>After that one you head directly to the one right next to it.

>The Spooky Jumpscare Mansion, it's called.

>Your friends head in, ready for another fit of luls.

>But as you approach yourself, you notice your rabbit is not by your side.

>You look back and notice her pretending to be lost in the distance.

>Oh ho ho.

>You walk back to her.

>"Mira, we're going in, you coming?" you ask.

>"Hm? Oh. Yeah I just um. Why don't we do one of those?" she asks, pointing in the direction of the rides.

>"We're doing rides later, we're doing the mazes first." you answer.

>"Oh, yeah I just. Why don't we..." she trails off.

>It's finally your turn to offer the taunting grins.

>"You aren't scared, are you?" you ask, crossing your arms.

>"Of course not. I'm just... Tired of walking." she says, looking like her excuse was a very good one.

>"Oh? Alright.  Then I'll carry you through it." you say, immediately crouching down and scooping her up in a bridal carry, then walking toward the entrance of the maze.

>Just like when you sped off on your scooter with her in front, she protests loudly. And this time, violently, as she throws tiny punches into your chest.

>However, moments into the attraction she stops throwing punches and starts throwing her face into your chest when something scary pops out.

>Her ears shoot up and then fold deeply against her skull.

>You coo and aww and rub her arm affectionately with your thumb as you continue on.

>You're a fan of binging horror movies during spooky month, so you're properly desensitized to the spooks.

>After you make it all the way through, you come out on the other side where your friends are waiting.

>They see you carrying Mirabelle like a poor scared child, and they grin mischievously, but otherwise keep their comments to themselves.

>"Mirabelle it's okay, we made it. And nothing got you." you whisper tauntingly.

>"So Anon." she mumbles into your chest. "Remember my four older brothers who kind of still want to beat you up? Yeah, enjoy that."

>"Baby please, I love you."

>"Oh do you?" she grumbles.

>"Okay okay. Y'wanna go on the Merry Go round?" you ask softly.

>She nods.

>And off you go.

>You pull up and drop her gently in the two seater shaped like a carriage.

>Mikael grabs the one shaped like a dragon.

>There's no boat or you're sure he would've grabbed that.

>Verne picks a centaur.

>Lewis takes. You think it's a dolphin?

>It's ugly and faded, but it's probably a dolphin.

>You hold Mirabelle's hand as you go round and round, letting her fear ease.

>Who would've guessed the indomitable Queen of Ruin was afraid of some cheesy carnival horror?

>After the ride ends, you decide to move to another.

>The teacups, which Verne does not do well with.

>Then to that big viking boat that swings back and forth.

>MIkael loves the shit out of that one, and screams in his viking speak the whole ride.

>Then you go on the roller coaster.

>It's not bad, but it's only a carnival coaster, so it was nothing too exciting.

>And then you've noticed that you've spent quite some time here.

>Time to get something to eat is the unified idea.

>And what else is there to eat at a carnival but junk food?

>You go to a concession stand and buy the biggest funnel cake available so you can split it with Mirabelle.

>Funnel cakes are amazing.

>After everyone's eaten, you and the boys conclude that this was a fun time.

>"Time to go?" Lewis questions.

>Most of you nod.

>"No no no." Mirabelle interjects. 

"We're not done yet." she says speaking to you.

>"What, why?" you ask.

>"There's one thing couples always do before you can end the day." she says.

>You think for a moment, but come up blank.

>You look to your boys, hoping to get some help, but they're as lost as you are.

>You look back at Mirabelle and throw your hands up in confusion.

>"The ferris wheel, dummy!" she exclaims.

>Oh.

>Aw fuck.

>"What. Nah, it's late, and we don't want to keep everyone else waiting while we go on one more ride." you say.

>"Nah, it's fine. We'll wait. Mhm." your friends all assent together.

>With their unified approval, Mirabelle grabs your hand and rushes you both over to the ferris wheel.

>And while usually it takes forever to get on this stupid thing, it was a  brief wait to get on this time.

>You pile in and take seats on opposite sides, facing each other.

>The wheel starts moving, and you're calm at first.

>Until you rise and retreat farther from ground level.

>Your apprehension peaks at the same time the ride does.

>It fades as you descend.

>You glance at Mirabelle, but she's got her attention out the window.

>And then the ascent returns and so does your minor dread, until you reach the top.

>You glance at Mirabelle, but this time, she's staring right at you.

>"Are you afraid of heights?" she inquires, eyebrow fully raised.

>"What, no! Pfft, that's crazy." you sputter quickly.

>She stands up, slowly.

>And drops back into her seat heavily, rocking the car.

>"Oh God, please no!" you scream as you shrink into your seat.

>"You can ride roller coasters just fine, but you're afraid of ferris wheels?"

>"That's different, with roller coasters they're moving too fast to notice anything. Ferris wheels are slow, and creaky, and they rock." you explain.

>"I'm always afraid they're gonna break down with me in it." you finish.

>And as if to taunt you, the ferris wheel comes to a stop almost before you reach the peak.

>"SEE?!" you yell.

>She stands up and sits next to you, wrapping herself around your arm.

>However she doesn't say anything. Just sits in the silence.

>You do strangely start to feel a bit better though.

>The wheel inches forward a bit, and gives the next car their turn at the peak.

>You are content in the silence, but you kind of want to make conversation too, just to fill the empty space, and silence the creaking of the wheel.

>"So... You really want to fight me more often in the Circle?" you ask.

>You remember how excited she seemed back then.

>"Sure do." she says. "I like fighting you."

>"What, why?"

>You're a good challenge." she explains. "You're tougher than most others. And while everyone else kind of sticks to what they know, you always come up with something different to catch people off guard."

>She looks up at you. "You've got. What's the word? Adaptability. Keeps me sharp."

>"My adaptability is not just a tool to keep you sharp." you scoff.

>"Well until you beat me, it is."

>Dammit, you really have to get a win on her somehow.

>"Don't you have fun fighting me too?" she asks.

>You do, you won't lie.

>But you've still got the apprehension that comes with fighting a girl, and now fighting your girlfriend.

>"I do, yes." you answer.

>"Well then there you go." she says, and returns her head to rest on your arm.

>The wheel moves again and now you two are at the peak.

>"So on that note, don't keep me waiting too long for a rematch." she says.

>"Pfft. I bet you just want to fight me soon, so that when I lose you can make me do whatever you want." you say with a chuckle.

>She releases you and those big blue eyes pierce right into yours with a blank stare.

>Uh oh, did you make her mad?

>She stands up, faces you.

>Then still facing you, crawls into your lap.

>On goes the taunting grin.

>"I don't have to beat you up to make you do what I want." she says.

>Then before even waiting for your response, she kisses you.

>Deeply, passionately.

>It feels like fireworks are going off in your brain.

>Or maybe that's outside, you aren't paying attention.

>You're too busy losing yourself in the bliss brought to you by this beautiful bunny.

>The kissing lasts an eon.

>Or maybe not.

>You don't even notice as you're coming to the resting position at the bottom of the wheel.

>However, the attendant gives a quick knock on the door to grab your attention, and you quickly, though reluctantly part from each other.

>As you walk out, you cast a glance at the attendant.

>He gives you a smirk and a nod.

>Mirabelle grabs your hand as you walk toward the exit to reconvene with your friends.

>Once you all meet up, you head to Lewis' car.

>"I'm going to miss times like these." Mikael says.

>"Yeah, it'll be difficult to live without for a while, but if we stay in contact it won't be the last time." Lewis points out.

>"Yeah, I'm glad I got to know you guys." Mirabelle adds. "It would kinda suck to not see you at all anymore."

>"Absolutely." Verne says. "Won't be that easy to break up this goon squad. We'll always be friends. Our little group has always been, and always will, until the end."

>"Whoa. That was kind of deep." you say, impressed with Verne's poetry.

>"Haha, it's Nurvana." he says, dopey grin plastered on his face.

>This fucking guy.

>But he's right.

>You know high school friendships tend to end.

>But this is one that will not, so long as you have any control over it.

>This is the King's Dogma.

>Long live the king.

>You look down at your queen.

>She notices your gaze and smiles at you happily.

>Then swings your arm back and forth playfully.

>Long live the queen.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9lYVzTpiM6Q

The End

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Author's Notes:

Gonna be real with you chiefs. Don't feel too hot about this one. Tried to make it a bit more serious with a real kind of problem.

I had a clear goal but I feel like I took two paths trying to reach it. Do I make Anon more angry doing these fights. Kind of prove his dad right? But let him manage it and mellow out, proving that he can be okay at the Circle? Does Isaac's reason for keeping Anon away from it even make sense? Was it all resolved a little too easy?

I'm not sure. It is what it is, I'll just take the L and keep it moving. They can't all be bangers I guess.

I still hope you manage to get some enjoyment out of it, though.

See you next time.