Runebelle moved through her morning routine, brushing her teeth while her mind continued to sift through the events of the previous day. Suddenly, her mother echoed in her mind.

  "Harty seems like a sweet boy, Runebelle. Give him a chance.”

  Runebelle paused, her toothbrush momentarily dropping from her hand as she was taken aback by the words. "Where did that come from all of a sudden?"

  Her Mother responded, "I know things are complicated for us being fused together and all, but we should have a life on the side too. And, dear, he seems nice, doesn't he? You only met him yesterday. It's too early to know if there are feelings there, but those compliments were rather sweet, weren't they? "

  Runebelle felt a hint of warmth at the kind words and consideration, yet she grappled with the idea of exploring something beyond the complexities she already faced. She resumed brushing her teeth and trying to take her mind off of it.

  Runebelle stepped out, dressed in her school uniform. She remembered the chatter about balancing personal connections with the critical quest she was engaged in. She made her way to school.

  Upon arriving at school, she spotted Milaca, her friend with short red hair and warm brown skin.

  "Hey, Runebelle! I've been waiting for you," Milaca greeted her enthusiastically. "I've been looking forward to the 'Artisans of Imagination' club. It's going to be awesome when we meet there later!"

  Runebelle smiled warmly in return, "Absolutely.”

  In homeroom, Runebelle sat quietly in her corner. The usual unwelcomed attention was drawn to her by the multi-colored hair and towering height she had. It was something she had grown accustomed to. The girls' whispers and occasional pointed fingers were no strangers to her, yet she focused on the lesson, letting the murmurs slide past her.

  Their teacher, a man with spiky black hair, dressed impeccably in a shirt, pants, and glasses, presented himself as a figure of sophistication and education.

  After the class, the room emptied, but the teacher approached Runebelle. His gaze held understanding and concern. "Runebelle, might I have a moment?"

  She nodded, though not entirely sure what to expect from yet another one-on-one discussion with this man. Could it advice, consolation, or perhaps just another glimpse of kindness? Those were things he was known for, yet never wholeheartedly put an effort into.

  "Runebelle," he began with a serene face.

  The teacher’s gaze was kind but serious as he spoke. “Runebelle, I wanted to discuss your recent performance. Your grades have been falling behind, and I’ve noticed this isn’t the first time you’ve found yourself in this position. I believe you have great potential, but it seems you’re struggling to keep up.”

  Runebelle shifted uncomfortably in her seat. “I suppose you could say that,” she replied quietly. “I’ve had some things on my mind lately.”

  The teacher nodded.“I find it odd that no one seems to reach out to you. With your talent and abilities, you should have more support from your peers. But maybe it's more than just academic struggles. Is there something more going on?”

  Runebelle shrugged lightly, her gaze fixed on a spot on the floor. “I’ve gotten used to it. People are often too caught up in their own lives to notice someone like me. I’ve learned to manage on my own.”

  The teacher responded calmly. "Let's speak of improvement, shall we? We'll sidestep the regular test on Friday for a special one. If you pass, I've got an intriguing offer—a job position to discuss. I see promise in you, Runebelle," he explained.

  Runebelle, intrigued by the mystery of this potential job position, inquired further, hoping to gain clarity on what it might entail.

  "What kind of job is this?" she asked, eager for more information.

  The teacher let out a small sigh before responding. "I'm afraid I'm not at liberty to disclose that information, Runebelle. It's something I've specially arranged, and the principal doesn't want me to divulge the details. She's quite stern in her decisions."

  The curiosity only deepened within Runebelle. “Why me? I’m just a barely passing student. What makes you think I’m the right fit for this job?”

  The teacher’s face softened. “Runebelle, I don’t believe in just handing out F’s. To me, an F isn’t a failure on your part; it’s a failure in my ability to reach and teach you. It’s also a sign of a student who may need more guidance and support, which is why your grades have hovered around D and C.”

  He leaned in slightly. “I’m not willing to let you fail at life, Runebelle. There’s potential in you that I refuse to ignore. Sometimes, the right opportunity can be a turning point. This job offer is meant to give you a chance to excel, beyond just the classroom. I believe you have the capacity for greatness, and I’m willing to help you realize that.”

  Runebelle was taken aback by his words. “But what if I don’t even make it past this special test? What if I’m just not good enough?”

  The teacher’s gaze was firm. “I believe that everyone deserves a chance to prove themselves, regardless of their current situation. This job is not just about your academic performance; it’s about your potential and your growth. I know you can do better, and I want to see that for you.”

  This content has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.

  "Remember," The teacher said lastly, “your uniqueness is your strength. It's what will distinguish you in the future. Embrace it, for it is something to be proud of. Don't let the judgments of others cloud your abilities."

  After the teacher spoke, Runebelle’s Mother echoed softly in her mind with admiration. “Such strong words… Where has this man been all my life? If I had met him, I’d have married him in a heartbeat."

  Runebelle felt a blush rise to her cheeks. “Mom, please…”

  Sadie’s playfully joined in. “I’m with mom on this one! Imagine that, we could have had another sister that’s adorbs like you!”

  Runebelle managed a small smile and responded to them. “You guys, seriously…”

  Turning her attention back to the teacher, she nodded with a new resolve. “Alright, I’ll take the test.”

  The teacher reached into his pocket and pulled out a tissue. He gently wiped away a tear that had slipped down Runebelle’s cheek. “I’m sorry if I’ve made you emotional,” he said with a kind smile. “That wasn’t my intention.”

  Runebelle blinked. She didn’t realize that she had been crying. She took a deep breath, trying to compose herself. “It’s okay. Thank you for believing in me.”

  The teacher nodded. “You’re welcome. I’m looking forward to seeing what you can do.”

  At the Artisans of Imagination club, everyone gathered in their own space. Runebelle shared her latest artistic creation, a striking image that had emerged from her mind. Holding up the painting, she chuckled softly.

  "I tried painting a banana," Runebelle said.

  However, the club members were shocked by the work that Runebelle presented. It wasn't a banana, but rather an intricately detailed boat sailing across the ocean. It’s sails were drawn catching the winds that were also painted in.

  The members exchanged faces of amazement at what Runebelle had brought forth.

  "It's amazing, Runebelle. Definitely not a banana, but it's S-tier quality!" one of the club members exclaimed.

  "An S-tier banana, huh?" someone chuckled, glancing at Runebelle's painting. "Maybe it's not a banana, but I love how it's an entirely different story."

  "True, it's a banana boat sailing on the sea," another club member agreed.

  Milaca patted Runebelle on the back. "Runebelle, you could totally sell this at art show! People would love it," she exclaimed.

  Runebelle blushed at the idea of becoming a professional artist.

  After a fulfilling and creatively stimulating afternoon at the Artisans of Imagination club, Runebelle headed home. Once there, she changed into more comfortable clothing. She wore a soft T-shirt and loose-fitting pants. With a contented sigh, she relaxed into a chair.

  "Today was fun," Runebelle mused. “Now, it’s time to check out the chatroom.”

  Pulling up the chatroom, Runebelle noticed that there was only one person online:

  Chessmaster12. Her fingers danced across the keys. She initiated a private conversation with him while under her name: CipherMystery08

  CipherMystery08: Hey, you're the only one online. How was your day?

  Chessmaster12 appeared on Runebelle's screen, responding promptly to her inquiry.

  Chessmaster12: It was quite an interesting day, actually. We had a talk about club activities, and Risebelle and Jess are now a part of the team. However, EnigmaGamer19 seems to have something against Jess. The thing is, she won't discuss it with me.

  Runebelle's brows furrowed. She typed a response with curiousity.

  CipherMystery08: That's odd. I wonder why EnigmaGamer19 has an issue with Jess. I've noticed that EnigmaGamer19 is quite strong-willed.

  Chessmaster12: I get that we're both tied up with club activities tomorrow, but how about after our sessions, we meet up? There's some info I've got that's better shared in person.

  CipherMystery08: Sure, I've got a busy schedule but you know what? I think I can make some time that day. Where would you like to meet?

  Chessmaster12: How about the small tea shop downtown? It's usually quieter in the late afternoons. Would that work for you?

  CipherMystery08: That sounds good to me. I'll be there after the club activities.

  Runebelle stepped away from computer and comfortably nestled in her bed. The Pc went into standby mode. Her mother's comfort echoed in her mind. "It sounds like you have an interesting day ahead tomorrow. Good luck with your Date, Dear."

  A soft chuckle escaped Runebelle's lip “It's not really a date, you know."

  Her mothertook on a playful tone, "Oh, come now, dear, you know I’m joking. It's just a friendly meeting between two club members, right?"

  Runebelle, nodded. "Yeah, just two people discussing club activities…That's all."

  The next morning, Runebelle woke to the blazing sun sending down it’s rays through her curtains. Stretching herself awake, she yawned and slid out of bed. She brushed her teeth, took a quick shower, and then got dressed in her school uniform.

  While making her way to the kitchen, her computer buzzed. This reminded her of the message on the Epic Quest: Realm of Shadows forums. She often kept the forums open, just in case a new message arrived. Runebelle's eyes caught the notification, and she opened the message to find another one of her devoted fans seeking assistance. They had encountered an obstacle they couldn't overcome, and they turned to the Sleuth of Shadows for guidance.

  Runebelle's fingers hovered over the keyboard. She typed a thoughtful response, ready to offer her expertise; however, her mother chimed in her mind. "You have school today, Runebelle. You can't spend too much time on this now."

  With a sigh, Runebelle acknowledged her mother's wisdom. She finished her response quicker than she wanted to. Then, she minimized the forum window and prepared to head to school.

  TIME: Afterschool

  6 PM

  The small, quaint tea shop was a cozy place with the fragrance of assorted teas. Chatter blended with the soft clinking of cup.

  Runebelle sat across from Harty, who possessed a charming look. He greeted her with a smile that sparkled in his eyes. "Hello, Runebelle. You look great, as always."

  Runebelle blushed slightly. "Thank you, Harty.” Runebelle nervously tucked a strand of her multicolored hair behind her ear.

  They began to talk about the investigation. While speaking, patrons meandered in and out. The sound of their conversations melded with the soft music playing in the background.

  Harty leaned forward suddenly. “You know, Runebelle, there’s something about you that’s just… mesmerizing. I’m sorry if that’s forward, but it’s true.”

  Runebelle’s cheeks warmed with a deeper blush. “Oh, um, thank you, Harty. You’re the first guy who’s kind of said these things to me.”

  Harty chuckled. “I didn’t mean to make you uncomfortable. It’s just something I noticed.”

  Runebelle shook her head. “No, it’s okay. It's… nice.”

  Runebelle tried to refocus.She placed her cup on the table and leaned in slightly. “So, what was it that you wanted to share? You mentioned it was something you couldn't say online."

  Harty narrowed his eyes with concern. "There's a girl at our school, Runebelle, and she's not like the others. Her name is 'Rosebelle,' and she's involved in something... dark. I've tried to gather information, but it's not easy."

  Runebelle's eyes widened. She knew exactly who Rosebelle was and what this could mean. Shadowcroft, the sinister organization that aimed to harvest souls and replace people, had a firm foothold in their town.