*It was the next day in the kingdom of Brister. It was mid-afternoon where Dust, Ryuuji, Raika, Sanada, Jin, and Sera had finally returned to the kingdom. The group had rested at an inn for the night after descending the mountain. They looked up at the jumbotron to read the news about the illegal fight club that Amarti, Zia, Jade, and Morgan busted last night. The anchorwoman talked about the number of charges Adrian Wicker was receiving as well as the nobles who participated in the club. Ivo Wicker was also under investigation for securing the venues and bribery.*
(Dust): Looks like we missed out on something major last night.
(Sanada): You think the others were involved?
(Ryuuji): Oh definitely.
(Raika): I’m mad that they went without me.
(Jin): So, we’re back in the city. What do we do?
(Sanada): I shall accompany Miss Sera back to her order.
(Raika): I’ll join you.
(Ryuuji): I’m going to head back home to check up on my family.
(Dust): I’ve got a few errands to run, so I’ll be taking my leave for now.
(Jin): What should I do?
(Dust): Well it’s the last day of your trial period. My advice to you would be to walk around and decide if you’ll be staying or not. Good luck with that, rookie.
*Dust and Ryuuji leave the group and head off in different directions*
(Sanada): We shall take our leave as well. Thank you again for your help, Jin. I do not know what decision you will make, but just know that I am honored to call you friend. Best of luck to you.
*Raika, Sanada, and Sera head off as well leaving Jin alone with his thoughts. He began walking down the streets replaying the insane week he had and what he had accomplished in his mind. He enjoyed his time with Shadow Eye but was still unsure if he should stay with the order. He had a mission, to carry on the family legacy and while Shadow Eye’s work was great and benefitted the kingdom, he would never be recognized for his accomplishments. As he walked down the streets, a red car pulled up to him. The car honked its horn to get his attention as the front passenger window went down to reveal Amarti in the driver’s seat*
(Amarti): Yo!
(Jin): Amarti? Oh man, you scared me there for a second. What are you doing here?
(Amarti): Running some errands. You?
(Jin): Nothing much. I just got back in town, but I don’t have a mission and have a lot on my mind.
(Amarti): Is this about you deciding if you want to stay in the order or not?
*Jin was shocked at how Amarti quickly figured it out*
(Jin): Is it that obvious?
(Amarti): Your poker face could really use some work. Hop in, I’d be glad to lend you an ear.
*Jin opens the car door and gets in. As Amarti drives off, Jin notices the number of steel grey briefcases in the back seat*
(Jin): So, what’s with all the briefcases?
(Amarti): Financial contributions from my other businesses that I either own or partially own. Feel free to open up to see for yourself.
*Jin reaches back and grabs the nearest briefcase he can get. He opens it and goes wide eyed as he sees the stacks of money in the briefcase*
(Jin): Woah! How much is in here!?
(Amarti): Approximately, five hundred thousand credits. Knight’s Circle had a good month.
(Jin): Knight’s Circle? As in the famous clothing store for men? Their suits are some of the best in the kingdom. You own that place?
(Amarti): Yes. I also own Queen’s Glory, Antwell’s Distillery, Codwell Jewelry, and many other businesses in and out of the kingdom.
(Jin): Why so many businesses?
(Amarti): To raise money for the order. Seeing as how we’re a secret order we don’t get that many funds from the kingdom, so it’s up to us to secure our own funds. Well, I say us, but really, it’s me.
(Jin): You’re telling me. . .you’re the sole financer of Shadow Eye?
(Amarti): Did you think the other guys could secure us money? Also, I use these businesses to gather intel on what’s going on around the kingdom. I find it’s important to know what’s going on from the highest of the nobles to the simplest of family men.
(Jin): Seems a little shady to me.
(Amarti): Hey, this intel really does help our order greatly. The reason we were able to find out about the fight club as well as the drug deal going on is thanks to that intel.
(Jin): And then you used us to get possession of a night club.
(Amarti): Which we will use to make more money and get more intel.
(Jin): You know, for an elf, you’re a pretty scummy guy.
(Amarti): Indeed I am. I consider it one of my charms and abilities. I’m not much of a fighter like the others, but I’m good at making money and gathering intel. Just like you’re good at blacksmithing and creating weapons. We all bring something to the table here at Shadow Eye, and that’s what makes our order so unique.
(Jin): Hey, don’t go adding me into the mix. I still haven’t decided if I’ll officially join yet.
(Amarti): You will. I can see it in your eyes. You may look like you’re struggling, but in truth you’ve already decided to join us. After all, this is the place that will allow you to become the knight you want to be.
(Jin): The knight I want to be?
(Amarti): Ryuuji told us about the expectations your family put on you. The expectations of the knight you must become. There’s a difference between the knight you must become and the knight you want to be. You see, for all your life you’ve been told you must be this, but I doubt anyone or you for that matter ever took into account the knight you want to be. It’s quite sad really. Nobody ever stopped to consider your feelings in all of this.
(Jin): You know, Sanada was talking to me about this similarly last night. But that’s just it, I don’t know what knight I want to be.
(Amarti): And there’s nothing wrong with that. You think everybody who becomes a knight automatically knows what kind of knight they want to be? Hell no. It’s takes time, it takes patience. It’s a life journey and only you can answer that question.
(Jin): I guess. But what if I fail to find the answer?
(Amarti): You won’t, in the time that I’ve spent with you I know you’ll find the answer you’re looking for.
(Jin): No offence, but I don’t think knowing me for a week counts as you getting a firm grasp on my character.
(Amarti): Who said I’ve known you for a week? I’ve had my eye on you ever since you entered the academy.
(Jin): What!? Why!?
(Amarti): Originally, I kept my eye on you because I was interested in your metal manipulation abilities, but as time went on and I saw how clumsy and weak you were I started to lose interest in you.
(Jin): And yet you scouted me for Shadow Eye. Why?
(Amarti): Because you never gave up. Despite all your shortcomings and failures, you were determined to become a knight. You stayed up late studying hard, you went to train alone to hone your skills and come up with strategies that suited you in battle. You also stood up for yourself even if it meant getting beaten up, laughed at, or embarrassed by others. At the end of the day, I as well as the others would rather work with a knight who has values and is willing to learn as opposed to a knight who’s just looking for fame and glory.
*Jin was amazed at what he was hearing. Out of all the knights who graduated from his class and all the talent they possessed. The one deciding factor that put him above the others was his dedication to his values and hard work*
(Jin): So was my metal manipulation really the only reason you looked at me in the first place?
(Amarti): Of course. What else could there be?
(Jin): Come on, Amarti. Cut the crap. If you wanted my metal manipulation ability you could have had it a long time ago. Instead, you wanted me to join the order. What made you care about me so much?
(Amarti): You reminded me of myself. Just like you, I too come from a very prestigious family. My father has many wives that gave birth to different children. Between him and my siblings, my home life was very toxic and I hated it. So I left to forge my own path and became happier from it. You and I were just merely puppets for our fathers to use, but in truth, we can be so much more. If you don’t want to be in our order, that’s fine, but don’t you dare become your dad’s puppet.
*Amarti pulls over and stops the car*
(Amarti): Well, this is your stop.
(Jin): But I never told you where I was going.
(Amarti): Didn’t have to. Like I said, you have a terrible poker face. Now go.
*Jin gets out of the car to see he’s right in front of the Internal Affairs office building. Amarti drives off leaving Jin to sigh before he gets a determined look on his face and enters the building. He walks up to the front desk to see Luna*
(Luna): Hey there, Jin. How’s it going?
(Jin): All good. Hey, is Sir Morrison available?
(Luna): Yep. His schedule is clear right now. Did you want to meet him?
(Jin): Yes.
(Luna): Alright, head on up. I’ll tell him you’re on the way.
(Jin): Thanks, Luna.
*Jin heads toward the elevator and enters it to go up to Morrison’s office. Jin exits the elevator on the top floor and heads down the corridor to Morrison’s office. He stops at Morrison’s door taking a deep breath and enters the office where Morrison was sitting at his desk*
(Morrison): Hello, Jin. Luna told me you were on your way up. Is everything alright?
(Jin): Yes sir. Everything is fine. I just wanted to talk to you about my future plans.
(Morrison): Ah yes, today is the last day of your trial period. Have you decided what you’ll do from here?
(Jin): I have. This week has been one of the craziest weeks I’ve ever had. However, it’s been the most fulfilling week I’ve ever had as well. That’s why I’ve decided. I want to stay with Shadow Eye.
*Morrison smiles and chuckles*
(Morrison): That’s good to hear. What do the rest of you think?
*Morrison’s door opens and Jin looks behind him to see everyone in Shadow Eye walk in surprising him*
(Ryuuji): Yes!
(Raika): He could still use a little work, but I’m okay with him being here.
(Jade): Sure, why not?
(Morgan): There are still things I wish to learn about his metal manipulation. Plus, he’s a good knight.
(Sanada): I have not seen much of him this past week, but Raika has said good things about him and I have no complaints either.
(Amarti): Of course.
(Zia): Anyone approved by Amarti earns my approval as well.
(Morrison): What about you, Dust? The decision has to be unanimous.
*Dust brushes his hair*
(Dust): Ah, what the hell. Welcome aboard, rookie.
(Morrison): Then it’s decided. As of right now, Jin Hephaestus is an official member of Shadow Eye.
*Morrison hands Jin his official knight license with his picture and everything as everyone claps for him*
(Jin): Thanks everyone. I wouldn’t have made this decision if not for all of you. Sanada, I still don’t know what knight I want to be, but I know that if I stay within the order, I’ll find the answer I’m looking for. When I do, I swear on the name of Hephaestus that I’ll let you know.
(Sanada): That’s fine with me. Take all the time you need. Meet other knights, grow, and learn. I’ll be here to help you any time you need me.
(Raika): The same goes for the rest of us, kid.
(Dust): Alright, time to go party.
*As everyone leaves the office, Morrison stops Jin to talk to him in private*
(Morrison): I really am glad you’re sticking around Jin.
(Jin): Me too. I think I’m going to like it here.
(Morrison): I know you will.
*Morrison hands Jin an envelope*
(Jin): What’s this?
(Morrison): Your first week’s pay. I also added a little bonus as a welcoming gift.
*Jin opens the envelope and sees a check for five hundred thousand credits. Jin is stunned by what he sees as Morrison puts a hand on his shoulder*
(Morrison): Try not to spend it all in one place. Now come on, we don’t want to miss the celebration.
*Jin puts the envelope in his pocket securely and follows Morrison out of his office*
***
*About an thirty minutes later the group is outside of Sweet Heaven. As soon as Jin walked in he was greeted with a surprise*
(Black Tortoise knights/staff): Surprise!
*Confetti poppers were shot off as Jin jumped out of terror before regaining his senses and smiling at seeing Luna, Rita, and other members of the Black Tortoise Order*
(Jin): Is this all for me?
(Rita): Naturally. You’re a member of the order now. It’s only natural that we throw a party for our newest family member.
*Music began to play as Jin went around greeting and shaking people’s hands as they welcomed him into the order. After half an hour of talking to people, he found himself at the bar sitting next to Dust*
(Dust): Well if it isn’t the man of the hour. Enjoying yourself?
(Jin): Yes. This party, this whole week, has just been amazing.
(Dust): And you’ll have more amazing experiences moving forward. I can’t promise you they’ll all be good, but just know that I’ve got your back, Jin.
(Jin): Hey! You said my name!
(Dust): After the week you’ve been through, I figured you earned it.
(Chief): Hey there Dust, here’s your Apple Eye.
*Chief hands Dust a Red Hot Alcoholic Shot. Dust takes a second to admire the color and aroma of the beverage before drinking. Chief turns his attention to Jin*
(Chief): Hmm~, so you’re the new guy. Dust was in here earlier this week talking about you. Didn’t think he’d bring you around. Name’s Shouji Szyslak, but everyone around here calls me Chief. Owner of Sweet Heaven.
(Jin): Jin Hephaestus. Thanks for hosting this party. Sorry for all the rukus.
(Chief): Eh~ nothing out of the ordinary. Personally, I prefer you guys over my other clientele. Plus, your short elf friend there paid me good money for this private party, so I won’t complain. Feel free to stop by anytime for a drink and some food, I’d love to hear your stories. So, what are you having?
(Dust): Give him non-alcoholic Chief. He’s still underage.
(Chief): Not to worry. I know just the drink.
*Chief gets to work creating a mojito filled with slices of limes for Jin*
(Chief): Here you go, a Green Rock.
*Jin tastes the beverage*
(Jin): Woah, that is good.
(Chief): Another satisfied customer. I’ll save the alcoholic beverages when you’re of legal age. Until then, enjoy this.
*Jin spots Amarti and walks over to him while taking his drink*
(Jin): Hey, Amarti, I wanted to talk about places to live. Would you be able to help me?
(Amarti): Any particular place you’re looking for?
*Jin whispers into Amarti’s ear what he’s looking for. A smile begins to creep on Amarti’s face*
(Amarti): And how much were you looking to spend?
(Jin): How does 250,000 credits sound?
(Amarti): Oh, that’s more than enough.
*Jin and the rest of the Black Tortoise Order continue to party into the night*
***
*A few days later, Jin was getting ready to head out the door of Ryuuji’s house with his luggage and backpack in hand*
(Le-Fey): Are you sure you have to leave? You’re free to stay here a little longer.
(Ryuuji): Come on, Le-Fey. We have to let him go. He’s finally has his own place. There comes a time in a boy’s life when he becomes a man and has to prove to himself that he can make it on his own.
(Le-Fey): *Sigh* I know, but, I’m worried for his safety. The city can be dangerous for a young man.
(Ryuuji): *Chuckles* There’s no need to worry. Amarti found him a good townhouse at a reasonable price. We’ve checked out the neighborhood he’s in and it’s safe. He’s not that far from a marketing district, there’s a local clinic as well, and Sanada lives close. If anything bad happens Jin can reach out to him. Not to mention he has all of our contact numbers and he’s shown that he’s a responsible young man. He’ll be fine.
(Le-Fey): Alright. But just know that you’re welcome to come by anytime. We’ll save you a seat at the table.
(Jin): Thank you ma’am. Also, your concern is greatly appreciated. Thank you for having me. I’ll be sure to come and visit.
*Le-Fey goes to hug Jin*
(Le-Fey): You’d better. And you’d better behave in your new place or I’ll come and get you.
(Ryuuji, Erina, and Ren): Ohhh~.
(Ryuuji): You don’t want that.
(Jin): I’ll be sure I’m on my best behavior.
*Erina and Ren approach Jin*
(Erina): Here, I made this for you.
*Erina hands Jin a red folder*
(Erina): It’s a collection of meals for you to make at your new place, so you don’t go hungry. Mom, helped me with the list. If you’re going to become a knight you need to make sure you eat healthy.
(Ren): And I made this for you.
*Ren hands Jin a drawing he made. The drawing is of Jin fighting against Eclipses with a bigger looking Ren protecting his rear by kicking an Eclipse*
(Ren): One day, I’m going to be a knight just like you and dad, and fight by your side.
(Jin): I’m looking forward to that day, and I’ll make sure I become a knight you can rely on and look up to. And thank you, milady. I shall treasure these meals for as long as I live.
*Jin bows to Erina which makes her blush a little bit*
(Ryuuji): Alright, Jin, time to go.
*Ryuuji and Jin head out the door as Jin gives one final farewell to Le-Fey, Erina, and Ren. Ryuuji and Jin hop into Ryuuji’s car. They drive off towards the city where after a few minutes of driving, they passed through a residential area known as the Ruby Club. They drive near the end of a street and pull up to a stand-alone townhouse that was painted dark blue like the other townhouses and was two-stories tall like the other houses in the area*
(Ryuuji): Well, Jin. This is your stop.
(Jin): Thanks, Sir Ryuuji, for everything.
(Ryuuji): Don’t mention it. I’ll see you at work tomorrow.
(Jin): Right. Have a good day.
(Ryuuji): You too.
*Ryuuji drives off as Jin walks to the front door, takes out a key, and unlocks the door. Jin enters his house where the floors are wooden. Jin removes his shoes and heads upstairs to his room to drop off his backpack and luggage. After dropping them off, Jin goes into his kitchen where he had a stove, a microwave hanging over the stove, a refrigerator, a table to eat at, a sink, dishwasher and an island counter. Jin puts Erina’s food recipes on the table and hangs Ren’s drawing on the side of the refrigerator smiling at it. Jin then heads down into the basement where it has been refurbished into a blacksmith’s workshop courtesy of Amarti complete with different types of metal. He goes to his work bench and sees a small yellow gift wrapped box with a note attached to it. Jin picks up the note to read it*
(Jin): Dear Jin, welcome to your new house. Hope you like your new workshop just like you asked. I made the place soundproof, so you won’t disturb the neighbors. Not that it matters, seeing as how I own the area the houses are built on. You have the latest forge technology on the market and I also got you a nice housewarming present. Make the best of use of it, Amarti.
*Jin goes to open the box where to his shock, he sees a five-pound ore of Reinium. Jin quickly pulls out the ore to examine it. He cracks his knuckles before taking a deep breath*
(Jin): Let’s see if this lives up to all the hype.
*Jin soon gets to work manipulating the Reinium and transforming it into viable weapons he can use in the future*
Author’s Note: And there you have it. Jin has officially joined Shadow Eye. A little obvious but you love to see it. With this chapter we are officially at the halfway point of the volume. I hope you guys have been enjoying the story so far. Now that we have established the order and the main characters I can finally start focusing on the kingdom and the world so look forward to the next chapters along with more action and fights. Thanks for reading as always and I’ll see you next time.