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Chapter Text

Xavier dreaded the new school year with every fiber of his being, yet there he stood before the wrought-iron gates of Nevermore Academy. Arms crossed, his face etched with the weight of the world’s fatigue and disgust, he watched silently as his father’s driver unloaded the suitcases. Each dull thud on the cobblestones felt like another burden pressing down upon his shoulders.

He glanced around. Students hurried toward their rooms, laughing, excited. Groups gathered, chatting with friends. He stood alone, stranded in the swirling crowd, every face a stranger to him.

A sharp, familiar voice pierced the air. Bianca. There she was again. Almost always there—since their breakup, he couldn’t turn without catching her gaze. Now she stepped closer, lips curled in that half-kind, half-pleading smile that twisted Xavier’s stomach. From the corner of his eye, he saw she meant to speak—probably the usual “let’s start over” talk. Xavier turned away. He didn’t want to see her. Didn’t want to hear her. All he wanted was silence and peace.

For weeks, his sleep had been restless. Every night, the same creature haunted his dreams: a grotesque figure shrouded in shadows, as if darkness itself clung to its skin. Long, rough claws that could tear the earth apart. And eyes—glowing red, threatening, yet filled with a strange, aching sorrow. Its voice was a deep, raw roar that left Xavier trembling even after waking.

Each morning, he sat on the edge of his bed, weary, paint-stained hands trying to capture the monster on paper, as if fixing it in ink could stop its return. But it came back every night—sometimes chasing him down the dim corridors of Nevermore, sometimes lurking in the woods beside the school.

When he told his father, Vincent Thorpe—the famous medium—he merely waved it off: “It’s just a dream, Xavier. Don’t make it more than that.” In his father’s perfectly ordered world, there was no place for his son’s fears.

And yet, here he was again. Stepping through the school gates, he sighed bitterly and headed upstairs. Along the Caliban Hall, shadows swallowed his footsteps, his shoes tapping steadily on the stone floor. Rowan, his roommate, stood by the door, watching motionless. There was something unsettling, secretive in his gaze. Xavier greeted him with a brief nod and stepped inside.

At dinner, the students chatted and laughed, but Xavier felt only tension. Rowan’s eyes constantly drifted to the window, as if waiting for something—or fearing someone. No one else seemed to notice; Rowan was an outcast even among outcasts, but Xavier’s eyes had grown accustomed to watching from afar.

When everyone retreated to their rooms, Rowan vanished without a trace. Xavier’s messages went unread, and the empty halls seemed to swallow all signs of him. He went to bed restless.

In his dreams, he stood again in the forest. The trees’ shadows curled thick like fog around him; the soft rustling of leaves drowned out his own breath. The creature stepped forward from the dark—the same twisted, shadowy form, the same glowing red eyes… and the same word, slicing through the darkness: “Help…”

Xavier woke, gasping, drenched in cold sweat. Sitting up, he scanned the room—only Rowan’s soft breathing beside him broke the silence.

His heart clenched; he began to hyperventilate, seized by a familiar panic. Seeking calm, he suddenly rose and walked to the bathroom, splashing cold water on his face. Staring into the mirror, his heart tightened inexplicably. The creature’s plea for help touched something deep within him. It was as if the monster was afraid, utterly desperate. Xavier felt it fully, and was not surprised when a sudden resolve took hold—to find the creature and uncover the truth.

He quietly returned to his room, dressed, and stepped out. The cool, fresh night air hit his face as he exited the building. The faint moonlight lit the path leading into the forest where the creature had chased him so many times.

Among the dense shadows of the woods, Xavier’s footsteps muffled by soft leaves, the towering trees loomed like dark limbs, as if darkness itself had taken form. The air was cold and damp; only the faintest stir of branches disturbed the forest’s silence.

His heart pounded wildly in his chest; cold sweat beaded his brow. Every sense alert, he ventured deeper. Suddenly, a low, raw growl shattered the stillness—and the creature emerged from the shadows.

Not a mere monster, but nightmare made flesh: a massive, grotesque figure whose long, rough claws clattered softly against the earth as it stepped closer. Its eyes burned red, glowing with sorrow and despair.

Xavier froze, but did not flee. The word echoed in his mind, the word from his dreams: “Help…”

The creature did not attack. It stood still, waiting for Xavier to make the first move. They watched each other for minutes, trying to understand the other’s intentions. Suddenly, the creature stepped forward; Xavier raised his hand cautiously. The creature approached with tentative steps, and though Xavier stared deep into its eyes, he found no malice there.

When its head met his outstretched hand, their eyes locked—and Xavier felt as if all the air had fled his lungs. The touch was both cold and tingling, as if time itself had paused around them.

“What… what are you?” he whispered, knowing no answer would come.

The creature growled once more and looked up at Xavier. His heart clenched, hearing the same growl from his dreams—once again, a plea for help.

“Should I help you?” he asked, and the creature pressed its head harder against his hand.

“All right, all right. I’ll help. But how? What should I do?” he asked, tears shimmering in his eyes.

The creature growled again, then suddenly trembled. Its twisted form distorted further; the threatening claws retracted, and its glowing red eyes faded to green. Xavier looked down, trembling, at the young boy collapsing to the forest floor.

Tyler Galpin.

The son of the sheriff of Jericho, the Weathervane barista, the boy who had ruined his mural last year.

“Tyler?” Xavier whispered, almost afraid to speak the boy’s name.

The naked boy lying on the leaves looked up at him fearfully. Then, in a rough voice, he spoke: “Help.” His breath was ragged; his whole body shook.

Xavier stepped closer, cautiously reaching out his hand. When the young normie grabbed it, he pulled him up and helped him to stand. “It’s okay. Calm down. I’m here, and I’ll help you!” Then he took off his Nevermore sweatshirt and handed it to the boy, whose trembling hands clutched it as he put it on.

“What happened to you? What are you?” Xavier asked after Tyler was dressed.

“I… I don’t really know. I only know what one of your teachers told me.”

“What?” Fear suddenly gripped Xavier. A teacher from Nevermore? Who was it?

“Uh-huh. The one with the red boots, red hair. Miss Thornhill. I think that’s her name.” His eyes welled with tears; he began to tremble more.

“Hey, hey, hey. It’s okay. What exactly did she say?” Xavier asked, instinctively wrapping his arms around the boy’s trembling body. “If you tell me, I can help. Please, you can trust me.”

“Trust? You?” Tyler suddenly stepped out of the taller boy’s embrace. “Why would you help me? After what happened last year, the best thing you could do is tell my dad and send me to Willow Hill.”

“What?” Xavier exclaimed, stepping back instinctively. “Why would I do that? Look, I’ve been dreaming about you for weeks.”

“Pardon?”

“Not like that, not like that. I’ve been dreaming of the monster for weeks, and every night it cries out for my help. I woke up to that tonight too, so I came to the forest. And now you’re here—we’re here. Isn’t that strange?”

“Y-yeah, strange.”

“Right? So tell me what she said, and we’ll figure out what happened to you. Okay?”

“All right.” He sighed, took a deep breath, and continued. “One day after work, almost closing time, she came into the café and ordered her usual matcha latte, then left. After I closed, walking to my car in the dark, she was there, holding a folder. She showed it to me. It was my mother’s documents from Willow Hill—my mother was an outcast too. There was a word on the document: Hyde. Thornhill said it is a special being that needs guidance because it’s very strong and uncontrollable. She said she could help me, guide me, so nothing bad would happen.”

“What? And what did you say? What happened then?”

“I was scared and left. Went home and confronted my dad. He told me my mother was a Nevermore student once, and they got married, but after I was born she suffered postpartum depression and was sent to Willow Hill, where she had a mental break down and died. She was a Hyde, and so am I. I inherited the gene from her.”

“I’m sorry.” Xavier stepped closer and squeezed Tyler’s shoulder. “Hyde? I haven’t heard much about them. But I do know they were banned from Nevermore because they’re dangerous. My father once told me about a partner of his who was a Hyde, but it ended badly—the partner went wild and nearly killed his associates.”

“Sounds great. Very reassuring.”

“I know, but we need to ask for help. I know you hate all outcasts and Nevermore itself, but Principal Weems can definitely help. We have to talk to her.”

“But you said all Hydes were banned from Nevermore; she won’t help. She’ll call my dad, and I’ll be exiled to Willow Hill,” his voice rang sharply in the quiet forest.

“She won’t. Don’t worry. You’re not dangerous. See?” Xavier gestured to himself. “You didn’t hurt me or anyone else.”

Tyler nodded silently, eyes filled with tears, looked up at the taller boy. “Thank you, Xavier.”

“You’re welcome. Come on, let’s go. It’s best if we speak with Principal Weems today. We need help as soon as possible.” He took Tyler’s hand and started pulling him toward Nevermore.

Chapter Text

The silver light of the moon glinted off the glass windows of Nevermore Academy’s ancient, imposing façade as Xavier and Tyler emerged from the forest. The echo of their shoes on the stone steps, followed by the groan of the heavy wooden door, announced their return.

Xavier’s grip on Tyler’s hand was firm as they made their way down the deserted hallway toward the headmistress’s office. The cold stone stairs returned a soft thud with each step, while the lamplight cast their shadows in a slow, swaying dance across the walls. They stopped at the massive office door, exchanging a glance.

“Are you ready?” Xavier asked quietly, giving Tyler’s hand a gentle squeeze. Tyler only nodded. With his free hand, Xavier knocked. He didn’t let go of Tyler’s.

The door opened with a sharp creak. Larissa Weems stood framed in the light, one brow slightly raised.

“Good evening. What brings you here at this hour?” she asked, her polite smile edged with curiosity.

“Good evening, Headmistress.” Xavier’s voice was steady until the last words. “We… need your help. It’s a serious matter.”

Weems’s eyes flicked down to their joined hands, an unspoken question in her arched brow. “Come in,” she said simply, stepping aside.

The room smelled faintly of polished wood and old paper. Dark portraits watched from the walls as Weems gestured to the chairs in front of her desk. She took her own seat, folding her hands.

“First—are you both alright? And, Tyler, why are you half-dressed like that?”

Xavier recounted the nightmares, the Hyde that had stalked him in his sleep, and the encounter in the forest that ended with the creature transforming into Tyler.

Tyler, still tense, told her about Thornhill, the documents, and the truth about his mother—and himself.

A shadow passed over Weems’s face. She rose, pacing in measured steps before she spoke. - “Hydes are dangerous. As the Book of Outcasts says: in their human form, they are artists by nature, but vindictive. When unlocked, they turn into their monster form and can be volatile, violent. They have been banned from Nevermore for thirty years.”

Tyler frowned. “Unlocked? I wasn’t unlocked by anyone.”

“You couldn’t have done it yourself. Xavier, you said you’ve dreamed of the Hyde for months?”

“Yes, ma’am.”

“Then perhaps you unlocked him,” Weems mused.

“What? I didn’t even know what I was seeing in my dreams.”

“Visions, maybe. Sometimes they can trigger the first transformation.”

Tyler’s voice tightened. “Why would Thornhill tell me what I am?”

“Perhaps she meant to unlock you herself. Did you see her today?”

“Yes. She came for coffee, like always. She… touched my arm. And afterward, I felt strange.”

Weems’s gaze sharpened. “She could be trying to provoke the Hyde chemically. Every Hyde has a master—the one who unlocks and subdues them.”

Xavier froze. “You mean…”

“Yes. You unleashed him and calmed him. That makes you his master.” - The room fell silent.

“That is why you must transfer here, Tyler,” Weems continued. “You can’t be far from Xavier. The bond between master and Hyde is the only thing that can keep you stable.”

Xavier bristled. “If he comes here, he’ll be close to Thornhill. That’s dangerous.”

“Safer here than anywhere,” Weems countered. “She thinks Tyler is unbound. She’ll try to control him, but she can’t. Only you can.”

“And if she tries anyway?”

“Then we’ll be watching. She’ll reveal herself, and we’ll strike.” She leaned forward. “This is a chess game, boys—and you are the key pieces on this board.”

Tyler’s voice was quiet. “If I’m here… I’ll be safe?”

“Yes. And we’ll teach you both to control the Hyde.”

“…Alright.”

Weems nodded. “Spend the night in an empty Caliban Hall room. In the morning, I’ll speak to Sheriff Galpin about your transfer.”

They left together, their footsteps echoing through the silent corridor until they reached a small, tidy room. Inside, warm lamplight softened the shadows. Tyler sank onto the bed without a word. His limbs felt heavy, his eyelids heavier. He lay back, asleep almost before his head touched the pillow.

Xavier stood over him, thoughts churning. “Tyler… I… just—” He stopped. The boy was already breathing evenly.

With a sigh, Xavier pulled the blanket over him. Tomorrow would bring questions, risks—and Thornhill. But for now, Tyler was here. Safe.

Chapter Text

The first light of morning only just managed to seep through the narrow windows of Caliban Hall, casting pale ribbons across the cold floor. Faint echoes from the corridor—footsteps, hurried voices, scattered laughter—drifted into the dormitory. Students were rushing to their first class. Then, with the sharp peal of the first bell, the sounds died away. Lessons had begun. Only Xavier and Tyler remained in the sleeping quarters.

The room was cool and damp. Tyler woke with a start, breath ragged, fists clutching his blanket as he sat upright in bed. His eyes darted, scanning the dim corners as if searching for an unseen threat. Cold sweat traced a path down the back of his neck. His heart pounded so loudly he was certain anyone nearby could hear its relentless rhythm.

Xavier was beside him in an instant. He lowered himself quietly onto the edge of the bed and laid a steady hand over Tyler’s trembling one. Tyler flinched, shrinking back instinctively, as though the nightmare had followed him into waking.

“Hey… hey, Tyler? You okay?” Xavier’s voice was a soft whisper, tinged with concern—and fear.

“I… I don’t know.” His voice cracked, every syllable laced with dread. He raked a hand through his hair and turned to Xavier. “It was horrible. I saw the Hyde break loose—I killed the students, one by one, until only you were left. And then… I—I killed you too. And then I woke up to Thornhill’s laughter. Xavier, I’m scared. I don’t want to hurt you, or anyone. I’m afraid she’ll get to me and make me kill everyone.” By the time he finished, tears streamed down his face, his hands shaking uncontrollably.

“It’s okay. It was just a dream. See?” Xavier tightened his grip on Tyler’s hand and pressed it to his own chest. “Feel that? My heart’s still beating. I’m fine. You didn’t hurt me—and you never will.”

“How do you know that? Even Weems said I’m a monster!” Tyler’s voice rose sharply as he leapt from the bed, pacing in agitation.

“No. You’re not.” Xavier crossed the room in a few strides, stopping in front of him before pulling him into a firm embrace. “Remember what she said? A Hyde’s master can keep it from becoming a monster. I’ll never ask you to harm anyone. My father once told me about a Hyde who could never hurt their own master, no matter what. They simply can’t. Do you understand? You could never kill me—the Hyde in you won’t allow it. You’re safe. We’re safe.”

“But… but what if Thornhill—” Tyler’s words faltered as he wrapped his arms around Xavier’s neck, clinging to him. His ragged breath and damp tears soaked into the hollow of Xavier’s collarbone.

“No. I won’t let her do anything to you. Look—this might sound strange, but you already have a master. That means she can’t control you anymore.” Xavier’s hand moved in slow, soothing strokes along Tyler’s back. Then he pulled away just enough to meet Tyler’s eyes. “And if she tries, I’ll make sure she never gets close. Okay?”

“…Okay.” Tyler sniffled, hugging him again.

After a moment, Tyler exhaled and stepped back, hesitating. “Um… would you—could you lend me some clothes? Mine are somewhere in the forest, and all I’ve got is the sweater you gave me last night. I feel… well, a little underdressed to walk through the halls. And if my dad saw me like this, I think he’d have a heart attack.”

“Of course. I actually brought some things last night after you fell asleep.” Xavier retrieved a black pair of jeans and a plain T-shirt from a bag by his bed and handed them over, nodding toward the bathroom. “You can change in there. I’ll wait here.”

“Thanks.” Tyler murmured, disappearing into the bathroom.

Xavier let out a long sigh and sank back onto the bed. For the first time in hours, he let himself think. If Tyler sensed even a fraction of the fear he felt, it could shake their fragile bond—and that was something he couldn’t allow. Thornhill could not be allowed near him, not ever.

By the time Tyler emerged, Xavier almost laughed. The clothes hung off him—the shirt nearly to his knees, the jeans pooling at his ankles.

“What? What’s so funny?” Tyler frowned.

“Nothing…” Xavier’s grin lingered.

Before Tyler could press him, a knock interrupted them. Both turned as Principal Weems stepped in—poised, graceful, but with a tension in her features.

“Good morning, boys. Tyler, your father is on his way. We’ll meet with him this morning, the four of us, and discuss everything. All right?”

“Yes, ma’am.”

“Then let’s go to my office.”

Weems’ office was warm yet somber. The scent of aged wood and old books mingled with the faint sweetness of the tea steaming in a porcelain pot.

“Biscuit?” she offered, motioning to the tray.

Xavier took a cup of tea in one hand and a biscuit in the other, offering a grateful smile.

Tyler’s fingers trembled as he gripped his cup. Sensing his unease, Xavier took another biscuit and handed it to him, brushing his arm in reassurance.

Weems watched closely as Tyler began to calm under Xavier’s touch, nibbling the vanilla biscuit with hesitant bites, glancing at Xavier as if to check it was safe.

The door suddenly swung open, and Sheriff Galpin stepped inside. His gaze darted first to Tyler, then to Xavier, oscillating between concern and menace. Tyler stiffened in his chair, rising with a questioning look aimed at his father.

“Can someone explain to me what my son is doing here, clearly frightened, and… and… wearing… these… strange clothes?”

“Dad, everything’s fine. Headmistress Weems offered that I stay here after last night. I… I guess she told you what happened.”

“Yes, but you’re not staying here! This isn’t safe. We’re going home now! Come on, Tyler!” the sheriff barked as he stepped toward his son, reaching for his arm to pull him along.

Tyler’s eyes widened in terror, and instinctively he reached for Xavier. The taller boy suddenly stood, placing himself between Tyler and his father, and Tyler clutched Xavier’s hand tightly. Every motion, every tremor spoke of the depth of his fear.

“Tyler? Son, come on, let’s go home. Let go of that boy and come with me,” Sheriff Galpin urged, taking another step forward, but Tyler pressed even closer behind Xavier.

“Excuse me, Sheriff, but I don’t think you quite understand the depth of the bond between a Hyde and its master,” Headmistress Weems stepped forward, hands raised in a placating gesture.

“This isn’t a bond. That boy must’ve done something to my son for him to react this way,” the sheriff spat.

“I didn’t do anything to him. I just brought him here after I was able to calm him enough in the forest for him to change back,” Xavier said quietly, moving his arm further behind him so Tyler could cling to him more securely.

“Look, Sheriff, I know this is a very awkward and uncomfortable situation, but Tyler needs Xavier right now. After a Hyde’s first transformation, only its master can stabilize it. The bond between them is incredibly strong. They cannot be separated—for Tyler’s sake.”

“Master? My son has no master! That boy must’ve given Tyler something, or done something to him, and now he’s blackmailing him!” The sheriff was breathing hard, his anger clearly rising.

“All right, all right. Let’s all calm down. Sheriff, we’ll show you what this bond truly means,” Weems said, turning to the boys. “Xavier, please let go of Tyler and step into the hallway. Walk to the end and stay there until I call you back. No matter how Tyler reacts, do you understand?”

“I…” Xavier’s gaze flicked uncertainly between the headmistress and Tyler, then back again. “All right.”

“B-but… don’t go!” Tyler’s voice was barely a whisper, his grip on Xavier’s arm tightening until his nails dug into flesh. Xavier bit his lip softly at the sting.

“Hey, hey, hey. It’s okay. I’m just going to the end of the hallway. I’ll be right back, okay?” Xavier gently released Tyler’s hand, walked to the door, stepped outside, and closed it softly behind him.

At first, Tyler simply stared at the door, as if his gaze alone could summon Xavier back. Minutes later, he grew increasingly restless—bouncing on his feet, biting his nails, trembling and gasping as he watched the headmistress’s office door.

The sheriff stared at his son, baffled, unable to comprehend Tyler’s reaction. Donovan Galpin instinctively stepped closer, but as Tyler moved toward the door, Headmistress Weems caught his arm and held him back. “What’s happening with him? Why is he reacting this way?”

“This is exactly what I was talking about, Sheriff. After Tyler’s first transformation, only Xavier could calm him. That’s how Xavier became his Hyde’s master—Tyler’s master. They cannot be separated, as it destabilizes the beast within him,” Weems explained, seating Tyler in a chair before stepping to the door and calling in Xavier, who was waiting at the far end of the hallway, still gasping.

Xavier practically ran to Tyler, who jumped to his feet. As soon as they met, they embraced tightly, their panting slowing almost immediately. As they calmed, they held each other even closer. Tyler buried his head in Xavier’s neck.

“Shh… it’s okay. Calm down. Nothing’s wrong,” Xavier murmured into Tyler’s hair, stroking his back.

“Stay… stay here… please…” Tyler whispered, his voice broken yet full of hope. As Xavier nodded, Tyler relaxed completely almost instantly.

Weems watched from the corner, stern but satisfied. The sheriff’s eyes widened as he tried to process what he was seeing.

“Do you see, Sheriff?” Weems said, approaching his side slowly. “This is serious. A true separation crisis. The bond connecting the Hyde and its master affects not just one, but both. Both feel anxiety and pain when apart. This destabilizes the Hyde, rendering it uncontrollable until it is reunited with its master. You can see that for yourself.”

Donovan Galpin gripped the arms of his chair, tense. “I… I think I’m beginning to understand.”

Weems nodded, then gestured toward the boys. “So, do you agree to let Tyler be a student at Nevermore?”

“All right… but if anything happens to him—”

“It won’t,” Weems interjected firmly. “Tyler needs safety, calm, and his master right now. Only Xavier can provide that.”

Tears welled in the sheriff’s eyes as he looked at his son, still tightly clinging to the outcast boy. “But… you’ll take care of him, right?”

“Of course. This bond affects me too—I feel what he feels. It hurts me if he’s not near, and I sense every feeling, every pain of his,” Xavier whispered, peering over Tyler's shoulder at the sheriff.

“Thank you, son,” the sheriff murmured, then turned to Weems, eyes questioning. “How will the school react? What will the students be told? Wouldn’t it be dangerous if they knew what Tyler really is?”

“You’re right, Sheriff. If they find out who Tyler is… the students will be afraid, Jericho will panic, and we still don’t know Thornhill’s plans. Who knows what he wants from Tyler…” Xavier said, frowning, releasing Tyler as they both sat in their previous chairs.

Weems sat as well, her voice calm. “It won’t be revealed. The school has been planning an exchange program for years. We’ll say Tyler is the first participant. After last year’s mural incident, it’s time for the boys to form a positive bond. That’s why you’ll move into the dorm you slept in last night. It’s very similar to Xavier’s previous room, but separate and far from the other students. This will help maintain Tyler’s calm.”

“All right,” all three men said in unison.

“Then go, boys. Rest today. Tomorrow you’ll attend class together. Every class will be shared so Tyler isn’t left alone. Xavier, all your belongings will be moved to the new dorm; Tyler’s uniform is ready. Sheriff, would you kindly bring the rest of Tyler’s things today?”

“Of course.”

“All right. Then go, boys. If possible, have lunch and dinner in your room today. Bring everything there.”

Both nodded and silently headed toward the dorm. As they walked down the sunlit, bright corridor, Tyler drew a deep breath and, for the first time in days, smiled—a faint, but genuine smile.

Xavier walked closely beside him, their hands brushing with every step. At the first staircase landing, Tyler took Xavier’s hand, and hand in hand, they continued down the empty corridor.

Chapter Text

The first rays of sunlight gently filtered through the long, narrow windows of the Caliban Hall dormitory, scattering light across the cool, still-awakening rooms. The silence was broken only by distant footsteps and the soft creak of doors, followed by the occasional murmur of students as they made their way to the dining hall. The dormitory slowly stirred to life, everyone preparing for the morning and heading toward breakfast.

Xavier and Tyler were still asleep in the dim half-light of their room when Ajax suddenly burst in with a loud crash, waking the boys instantly.

“Xavier! Xavier! Is it true you really moved into this room?” he shouted, rushing over to Xavier’s bed and yanking the blanket off him.

“What the hell are you doing?” Xavier yelled, sitting up and turning toward Tyler’s bed, where Tyler had also awakened from Ajax’s tornado-like intrusion.

“Did you hear? They’re saying he’s a normie. The sheriff’s son… Can you believe it? A normie at Nevermore?” Ajax laughed, glancing at Xavier with his worried eyes and wringing hands.

Xavier’s gaze darted anxiously between Ajax and Tyler. Ajax carefully turned and looked at Tyler's still half-asleep form.

“What the…” Ajax started to yell again at a high decibel, but Xavier jumped up in an instant and clamped a hand over his friend’s mouth.

“Listen, Ajax. I’ll let you go if you promise not to scream. I promise I’ll tell you everything—why Tyler is here too. Okay?” Xavier said, holding the wriggling boy in his arms. Finally, the gorgon boy surveyed them both sharply, then began nodding diligently.

Xavier released Ajax and walked cautiously to Tyler. “Everything okay?” The barista nodded silently in response.

“So?” Ajax asked, gesturing wildly at the two boys. “Why the hell is the sheriff’s normie son in your room?”

“This is Weems’ new scheme. On the day we moved in, after dinner, she pulled me aside to explain a new exchange program. Then she asked me to help Tyler settle in,” Xavier mumbled, putting on his best performance.

“And you agreed because…”

“B…B…Because…” Xavier stammered, searching for words while looking helplessly at Tyler.

“Because at the end of last year, I apologized to Xavier for ruining his mural, and over the summer we started talking. We decided we were better off as friends than enemies.”

“Ahhh… I see…” Ajax said, his face turning redder by the second. “Totally believable… I'll see you at breakfast…” He laughed and swaggered out of the dorm.

“Is he always like this?” Tyler asked hesitantly. Xavier just smiled and nodded. He then headed to the bathroom to get dressed while Tyler changed into the school’s purple uniform in the dorm room.

When they were ready, they stepped into the nearly empty hallway, bathed in the light of the first day. Each step brought them closer to the dining hall, where the morning bustle gradually replaced the silence. Students chatted noisily, some glancing at Tyler with curiosity. As Xavier walked beside him to their table, whispers followed behind them. “What?” “Why is a normie here?” “How did he get in?”

Inside the dining hall, white tables and wooden chairs were arranged in neat rows, and paintings smelling of history adorned the walls. The students quieted as Headmistress Weems entered with elegant but firm steps. Every eye turned toward her.

“Good morning, everyone,” she began, her voice clear and commanding but not harsh. “I have a special announcement: I am pleased to introduce the Nevermore Exchange Program, starting this academic year, with Tyler Galpin joining us to spend the year here and integrate into our school community. The program aims to foster coexistence between normies and outcasts.” After finishing, Weems sat gracefully at her own table and continued her breakfast.

Whispers began again. Every neck craned toward Tyler, who grew increasingly tense with each passing moment. Xavier discreetly moved his chair closer to Tyler and, while spooning his oatmeal, let his hand brush Tyler’s arm with each gesture.

Tyler sent him a small, grateful smile before focusing on his breakfast.

“So… you really told the truth this morning, Xavi?” Ajax asked, dramatically sighing.

“I did… It’s not my fault you didn’t notice with your little snakes wrapped around your head…” Xavier laughed, continuing his meal.

After breakfast, the students dispersed according to their schedules. Xavier and Tyler walked side by side toward the greenhouse classroom. Tyler remained tense but was calmer beside the taller boy. As they entered, Xavier let Tyler go ahead and, as he stepped in behind him, lightly brushed Tyler’s waist, signalling he wasn’t alone.

At the classroom door, Thornhill stood at her desk, sharp-eyed and observing every student’s movements. Her gaze suddenly fixed on Tyler, her face tightening with palpable tension.

Tyler felt the scrutiny and turned his gaze away, quietly sitting between Xavier and Ajax at a desk further back. Ajax smiled at him. The outcast student, according to Xavier, had always been kind, even if others often turned away from him, and Tyler appreciated someone approaching him openly besides Xavier.

“Hey, Tyler! Do you know which plant is the most poisonous?” asked the gorgon, cheerfully pulling out his phone and quickly explaining the deadly nightshade to Tyler.

Tyler smiled and immersed himself in the conversation. Gradually, the tension in his body eased, and his curiosity distracted him from Thornhill’s piercing gaze.

But Xavier couldn’t fully relax. He watched Thornhill’s movements, her gaze, every subtle shift. Rowan, sitting alone ahead of them, also seemed unusually tense, and Xavier sensed something was off.

The lesson passed slowly, and Tyler became increasingly absorbed in the material while Xavier kept an eye on Thornhill, giving small, almost imperceptible gestures under the table to reassure Tyler: a gentle touch to his leg, their arms brushing—a quiet but firm message: “It’s okay. You’re safe.”

As lunchtime approached, students moved to the dining hall. Enid, a colorful-haired, curious, and always-smiling girl, immediately came toward Tyler. “Hi, Tyler! How’s your first day going?” she asked softly, sitting next to him.

Tyler looked slightly embarrassed but managed a faint smile. “Good… good, thanks, Enid. It’s a bit strange, different from Jericho High, but definitely not bad.”

Xavier barely nodded at Enid, seemingly focused on his breakfast, but his hand under the table brushed Tyler’s knee subtly. Tyler didn’t flinch, only smiled again as he continued talking with Enid and Ajax.

Suddenly, everyone went silent. Xavier looked up and saw her: his ex-girlfriend, Bianca, approaching their table with obvious interest and determination—Xavier. He tried to avert his thoughts, but her threatening presence made him more tense.

Tyler noticed and felt a strange, tightening sensation in his stomach. He quickly slid his hand over Xavier’s under the table. Xavier, surprised, didn’t pull away, adjusting his hand to grasp Tyler’s.

“Hi, Xavier. How are you?” Bianca asked, fluttering her long lashes, one manicured finger tracing his hand resting on the table. “Would you like to sit with me at dinner tonight?”

Xavier stared blankly, but Tyler suddenly jumped up. “I need to go to the bathroom,” he muttered and ran off.

Bianca looked confused at the table, and Xavier immediately followed Tyler to the restroom.

Tyler stood at a sink, hands clasped under the faucet. Xavier quietly stepped behind him, placing a gentle hand on his shoulder.

“Tyler… are you okay?” Xavier asked, his voice a mix of concern and attention.

Tyler looked up, eyes wide with confusion. “I… I just felt… like I was going to…”

“Like what?” Xavier asked cautiously.

“Like I was going to lose you…”

“What?”

“I felt like that girl could take you from me anytime… and my throat tightened, and it felt like the monster inside me was feeling possessive…” Tyler lowered his head in shame, unable to meet Xavier’s eyes.

Xavier nodded slightly, not pulling away. “Possessive…?” he asked softly, then smiled. “It must be the Hyde feeling that way. Bianca is unknown to it. Because our bond is still unstable, it might feel she’s trying to take its master from it.”

A faint smile of relief appeared on Tyler’s face. Xavier understood and didn’t judge him. “Do you think that… could really happen?”

Xavier nodded, took Tyler’s hand, and spoke quietly. “Yes. And don’t worry. We’ll talk to Weems this afternoon and work it out.”

“Thank you, Xavier… really.”

“Now let’s go back before Ajax eats both our lunches.”

Tyler smiled, took a deep breath, and followed Xavier out.

After lunch, the others went to extracurricular activities, while Xavier and Tyler walked to the room assigned by Weems in the Bradbury Tower.

The thick-walled, shadowy room radiated seriousness. Weems stood at the center, eyes tracking every movement of Tyler and Xavier.

“What happened? You seem nervous…”

Xavier briefly explained the lunch incident. Weems smiled, stroking both boys’ faces.

“It’s a natural reaction. Hydes can be possessive if they sense someone approaching their master.”

“So… it’s not weird I felt that way?” Tyler asked softly.

“Not at all,” Weems said calmly and confidently. “Now that you understand what a Hyde might feel, you can practice self-control and communication. If possessiveness arises again, talk about it. That’s how your bond stays strong.”

Both boys nodded silently.

“This is part of your afternoon lesson: to understand each other and learn how to manage emotions and your bond safely. It’s okay to feel nervous or confused. The key is honesty with each other.”

“We understand.”

“Good. Let’s begin.” Weems stepped aside, arms open. “Xavier, today you will actively give Tyler instructions for the first time. The goal isn’t control, but healthy stability. Feel his impulses, but allow him space. Tyler, let Xavier lead. Trust is the core of your relationship.”

“Give instructions? I don’t understand…” Xavier said.

“All Hydes obey their master without hesitation. They need instructions and must be asked to transform occasionally, or they might change involuntarily into uncontrolled killers.”

Xavier nodded slowly, comprehension flickering in his eyes, though countless questions raced through his mind.

“Xavier, tell him to transform, and nothing else.”

They exchanged a wary glance but followed Weems’ instructions.

“Tyler, transform,” Xavier whispered, closing his eyes and waiting. Nothing happened.

“Xavier, you need to be more assertive.”

“Tyler, I want you to transform!” Xavier said firmly.

A moment later, Tyler changed, eyes questioning as he looked at his fragile human master, awaiting further instructions.

Tyler’s claws dug into the stone floor, his silhouette casting a massive shadow. Xavier froze briefly. Despite preparation, the Hyde’s sight stirred strange feelings within him. The cold, red eyes burned with raw, instinctive fire.

Weems stood at the edge of the room, arms folded, silent.

Xavier took a deep breath, stepped forward, and extended his hand—just like that night in the forest.

“It’s okay… I’m here. Nothing will happen,” he tried to think clearly.

The Hyde stepped closer. Xavier tensed, but Tyler did not attack—only leaned in, sniffing sharply, gauging his intentions. Another step, and the Hyde’s head touched Xavier’s outstretched hand.

Its head turned slightly. Beyond the half-light, a shadow slipped under the door—perhaps a late student in the hallway.

Tyler tensed, claws scratching the floor again.

“Tyler… focus on me!” Xavier stepped forward, heart pounding. “Not them. Me.”

The red eyes fixed on him, terrifying, as if deciding whether to obey or give in to instincts.

Xavier did not retreat. Slowly, he stepped closer, holding the Hyde’s head with both hands. Its skin was cold, muscles trembling with restrained energy. It did nothing, just stared intensely.

“Please, change back!”

Tyler relaxed. The monstrous form receded, muscles smoothing, claws retracting, red light disappearing from his gaze.

He collapsed to his knees, panting. Xavier immediately hugged him, preventing him from falling completely. “I’m here… it’s okay…”

Tyler faintly smiled, still catching his breath.

Weems approached, eyes a mix of satisfaction and seriousness. “Excellent for a first attempt. But remember… it won’t always be this easy.”

The boys looked at each other, not her.

“I didn’t hurt you when I touched you, right?” Tyler asked, trembling.

“No. Don’t worry. I’m fine. See?” Xavier said, holding Tyler’s hand to his chest, right over his heart.

Tyler took a deep breath, looked into Xavier’s eyes, and squeezed his hand over his shirt.

“Good. You seem exhausted, so rest before dinner. We’ll continue next week. Until then, remember: communication and trust are the most important things.”

After the session, they spoke little as they walked back to their dorm. The quiet hallway pressed down, echoing only the sound of their footsteps.

They closed the dorm door behind them. Xavier sat on a bed, while Tyler stood, unsure where to place himself. Hands in pockets, shoulders tense, eyes fixed on the floor.

“What’s wrong?” Xavier asked softly.

Tyler slowly lifted his gaze. “When… I almost lost control…” His words faltered. “For a moment, I thought I’d really pounce on that student in the hallway.”

Xavier’s heart tightened. “But you didn’t.”

“No.” Tyler sat across from him. “Because you were there… and because you called out to me. But it’s… scary. Do you know what it feels like to sense you’re about to lose control and can’t stop it?”

Xavier nodded. “I don’t. But I can imagine. Remember, I feel what you feel.”

A quiet moment passed, tension lingering in the air—not just fear, but unspoken feelings too.

Evening approached. At the dining room, tension buzzed amid formalities. Xavier and Tyler sat side by side, small, instinctive touches reassuring each other.

Thornhill watched their every move sharply. Xavier, however, kept her in view. Rowan sat tensely in the background, as usual, over his dinner.

Tyler tried to eat, but each bite tightened his throat. Xavier again brushed his hand over Tyler’s knee, and the touch slowly began to release the knot in his stomach.

After dinner, the boys quietly returned to their room. The hallway’s half-light enveloped them as they walked back to the dorm. Shadows stretched along the walls, and sounds echoed softly. Xavier glanced at Tyler—slightly hunched shoulders, unusually quiet steps, a face lost in thought.

When they entered, Tyler closed the door, briefly holding the handle.

“Tired?” Xavier asked, tossing his jacket on a chair.

Tyler shrugged, saying nothing. He approached the bed, sat down, and slowly removed his shoes with distracted movements. His gaze stayed on the floor, jaw tense.

Xavier knelt beside him. “Hey. Look at me. What’s wrong?”

Tyler hesitated, fear and worry evident in his eyes.

“Don’t worry. You don’t have to do this alone.”

Tyler’s lips trembled. Finally, he nodded.

“Thank you,” he whispered.

Xavier smiled. “Let’s go to sleep. We have a long day tomorrow.”

As they lay down, the room grew silent. The faint sounds of footsteps and doors slowly faded, leaving only the sounds of their breathing. Xavier stayed awake for a long time, watching Tyler’s shape in the dark, until sleep finally claimed him too.

Chapter Text

The first ray of sunlight had barely touched the tall windows of Caliban Hall when Tyler was already sitting at the edge of his bed, a steaming cup of coffee in hand. In the dim light, Xavier slept deeply, strands of hair scattered across his pillow, his face tense, as if he were struggling with something even in his dreams. His breathing grew increasingly ragged, then suddenly he sat up, eyes wide, lips trembling as he formed the word:

“No… No… No…” – his voice fragile, like a glass figurine on the verge of shattering.

“Hey, it’s just me. It’s okay.” – Tyler slowly reached out, gently brushing the boy’s fingers.

But Xavier said nothing. He threw himself into Tyler’s lap, pressing close. Tyler felt the boy’s entire body tremble, as if the nightmare still clung to his skin. The smell of coffee mixed with the vanilla scent of his shampoo and the musty aroma of the early morning air.

“Just a bad dream. Nothing’s wrong.” – Tyler whispered into the boy’s hair, stroking his back slowly in circular motions.

Xavier didn’t respond. His gaze drifted into nothingness, and Tyler knew this was not the time for questions. He simply sat with him in silence, as the morning light painted golden streaks on the walls and birdsong quietly filled the room.

Eventually, Xavier relaxed, slowly letting go, sending him a grateful smile. Tyler gestured toward the remaining coffee.

“Thanks.” – Xavier mumbled, but when he glanced at the clock, he jumped to his feet. – “Come on, let’s go before all the good food is gone. It’s Wednesday. Pancake day.” – The humor in his voice was more defensive than genuinely cheerful.

The dining hall greeted them with buzzing chatter and clattering plates. Students passed fresh gossip from table to table.

“Did you hear? Fresh meat’s arriving this afternoon… some girl…” – giggled a werewolf girl a few tables away.

“Uh-huh, they say she got kicked out of her old school… because she killed someone!”

“What?” – several voices exclaimed at once.

“Come on, I don’t think that’s true…” – Enid laughed, though she too seemed curious.

Xavier poked at his pancake with his fork, then leaned toward Tyler with a half-smile. – “If that’s true, you’re no longer the toughest kid at Nevermore.” – he whispered, a joke meant only for him.

Tyler snorted his orange juice out. Coughing, he tried to catch his breath, while a few students eyed him suspiciously, as if he didn’t belong there.

“You okay?” – Xavier asked, laughing as he patted him on the back.

“Very funny…” – Tyler coughed, finally able to breathe again.

The rest of breakfast passed quietly. But the morning dragged, the corridors humming with anticipation. A few students lingered at the front steps, as if to usher in the arrival of the new girl. Xavier stood by a massive library window, watching them with a grin.

“They’re like vultures circling fresh meat,” he remarked.

Tyler sat at a nearby table reading, but his gaze kept drifting back to Xavier. There was an unusual edge in his voice that unsettled him.

Then a soft engine hum rolled across the courtyard. Conversations died down, replaced by the crunch of gravel and the students holding their breath. A long, black car glided into the courtyard with quiet dignity.

Tyler set his book down and looked up, seeing Xavier frozen, staring at the car. The boy’s eyes were unusually intent.

The car stopped. The door opened silently, and first, a short, stout man in a black suit stepped out. His gaze was sharp and relentless, like a freshly honed blade. Next, a tall, stunning woman in black emerged, exuding cold elegance. Finally, a teenage girl appeared between them—standing straight, black hair in two braids, her face expressionless, her eyes scanning everything, as if weighing her options for escape.

Xavier suddenly stiffened, his fingers tapping involuntarily on the windowsill as he clearly recognized the newcomer.

Tyler looked at him questioningly. – “You… know her?” he asked cautiously.

For a moment, Xavier didn’t answer, only watching those stepping out of the car. Then he shrugged and turned back from the window. – “Maybe.” – he said casually, though there was something in his tone that didn’t fit the easy gesture.

“If you say so…” – Tyler felt a tightening in his chest. He didn’t like that careless “maybe.” Xavier was rarely so closed-off with him—at least since the Hyde incident had made them “inseparable.” But now he said nothing, just watched as the new girl disappeared into the main entrance between her parents.

A few hours later, most of the students were lounging in the courtyard for afternoon activities when Enid stepped out of one of the doors, the new girl beside her.

Tyler’s eyes immediately locked on the newcomer. The girl… was black and white. Literally. Xavier didn’t even glance up, continuing to study his bird mural on the wall. Tyler sat on the steps behind him, watching Enid enthusiastically explain the school’s outcast groups to the new girl, pointing out a few students along the way.

Suddenly, Enid’s words caught his ear. – “And that girl, Bianca Barclay, is the closest thing Nevermore has to royalty. Although her crown's been slipping lately…” – Enid pointed at the siren. – “She used to date our resident tortured artist, Xavier Thorpe, but they broke up at the end of last year. Reason unknown.” – she nodded toward Xavier, the werewolf.

“Fascinating.” – came the bored reply from the girl in black.

At that moment, Ajax arrived, immediately launching into what he had heard about Enid’s new roommate. As he explained breathlessly, Enid stepped aside cautiously, revealing the new girl behind her. Ajax’s grin faded; he listened, mouth agape, startled, as the new girl delivered a monologue meant for him, which Enid promptly interrupted.

“Ajax, this is my new roommate, Wednesday Addams.” – Enid introduced the girl, and Ajax walked away with an awkward half-smile, heading straight toward Tyler and Xavier. Enid and Wednesday returned inside, continuing their conversation.

“Wow, did you see that? She’s black and white. Like a living Instagram filter. I’m about to lose it.” – Ajax muttered, plopping down next to Tyler on the steps, hands miming an exploding head.

Xavier muttered something under his breath but didn’t turn to his friend, continuing his painting.

“Uh-huh…” – Tyler muttered. – “What’s her name?”

“Wednesday Addams. She's Enid’s new roommate, but she’s… scary.” – Tyler watched as Xavier’s brush froze mid-stroke, so surprised he almost dropped it.

“What did you say?” – a shaky voice asked.

“Wednesday Addams. Enid’s new roommate, the girl who just arrived.” – Ajax laughed as he stood and headed toward one of the school’s doors. – “Gotta go, see you at dinner.” – and the gorgon boy disappeared behind the door.

Tyler watched Xavier tensely, unsettled by his reaction. – “Sooo… you know her?” – he asked again, walking over to the boy and staring at his painting.

“Probably…” – Xavier whispered, then packed up his art supplies and headed toward the stairs leading into the building.

Tyler sat in thought, watching the boy’s retreating figure for minutes before heading toward the dining hall.

The great hall was filled with fragments of conversation, laughter, and the clinking of cutlery. When Tyler entered, he walked to their table, where Xavier, Ajax, and Axel were already seated with their dinner.

Warm light flooded the room from above, but to Xavier, everything seemed slightly muted, blurred. His spaghetti steamed in front of him, yet he barely touched it. His gaze was fixed on Wednesday. The girl ate her spaghetti beside Enid, expressionless, seemingly unaware that Xavier, a few tables away, was staring at her with a penetrating intensity.

Tyler sat beside him, appearing calm at first, but every muscle was tense inside. His fingers drummed nervously on his knees under the table, his fork clicking on the edge of his plate with each bite. Deep inside, the Hyde rumbled, a terrible, agonized sound only he could hear.

Across the table, Ajax and Axel, his telepath roommate, chatted cheerfully, occasionally trying to involve the other two boys. Tyler only half-responded, while Xavier remained trapped in his thoughts, watching every movement Wednesday made.

Tyler simmered for several minutes before abruptly setting down his fork, standing, and walking out of the dining hall without a word.

Xavier was so absorbed in staring that he didn’t notice Tyler leaving. Only at the very end of dinner did he realize the chair next to him was empty.

“Where did Tyler go?” – he asked Ajax.

“He bolted, man.” – the gorgon replied laughing. – “Didn’t you notice?”

Xavier only shook his head, a pang of worry forming inside his guts. “Why did he run off? Did I say something wrong?” – he wondered, standing and heading toward their room.

When he arrived, he saw Tyler lying on his bed, face half-buried in the pillow, apparently asleep.

Xavier took a cautious step toward the boy’s bed, but when Tyler shifted with a small sigh, turning the other way, he reconsidered and let him sleep.

He showered in the bathroom, changed quietly, and lay down to sleep.

Chapter Text

The next morning crept slowly into the walls of Nevermore. Sunlight barely touched the towering windows of the dining hall, while the atmosphere still vibrated with the silent tension of the previous night’s events. Xavier awoke in his familiar, dimly lit room, his eyes cautiously scanning the shadowed stillness around him. When he glanced toward Tyler’s bed, he noticed it was empty. For a moment, he stared at the other boy’s bed in stunned disbelief, as if Tyler could appear there at any moment under the weight of his gaze. After a deep, bitter sigh, he dressed and headed toward the dining hall.

Entering the room, he found the usual group: Ajax and Axel chatting cheerfully, laughing as the aroma of freshly toasted bread wafted from the plates. Tyler sat among them, seemingly part of the conversation, yet his gaze wandered somewhere else entirely. Xavier sat opposite him, attempting to start a conversation, but the boy didn’t even glance up.

“Good morning, Tyler,” Xavier began from across the table, forcing a smile to ease the tension. “How did you sleep?”

Tyler looked up at him with half-lidded eyes, shrugged, and returned his full attention to the raspberry jam-covered toast on his plate.

Xavier squinted, trying to decipher what was wrong. Every habit, gesture, and glance from Tyler radiated a tension and anger Xavier couldn’t quite place.

“What are your plans for this afternoon? If you want, we could go into town so you can meet your father. Or we could get hot chocolate at the Weathervane.” Xavier tried again, but Tyler only half-heartedly glanced up and shrugged.

“Whatever…” he muttered, then abruptly stood, walked to the kitchen staff, and requested another cup of steaming tea.

“Uh… okay. We’ll talk about it later…” Xavier said after him, then turned to Ajax. “What the hell is wrong with Tyler?” His voice carried both frustration and concern. “Did I miss something?”

“Dunno…” Ajax shrugged, then laughed and added, “Maybe he’s on his period…” Axel nearly choked on his tea, laughing so hard he couldn’t breathe.

“Very funny… But something really is off with him…” Xavier muttered again, worry knitting his brow as he watched Tyler walk back to their table, a steaming cup of tea in hand.

As breakfast drew to a close, Xavier let out a heavy sigh and surveyed the scattered plates before him. His coffee had gone lukewarm, and the edges of his toast were slightly charred, but he couldn’t force a bite down. His eyes returned to Tyler, who sat between Ajax and Axel, seemingly blending into the conversation while his mind wandered elsewhere. There was something in the boy’s eyes, the subtle movements, the inflection of his voice, that hinted at a deeper undercurrent. Xavier felt that every unspoken moment was pulling them further apart.

Finally, he pushed his plate aside and headed toward the fencing hall. His footsteps echoed down the cool corridor, each sound sharper than ever. Tyler followed slowly, still flanked by Ajax and Axel. Anxiety churned in Xavier: What happened yesterday? Why is Tyler avoiding eye contact? Why won’t he speak to him?

As he entered the fencing hall, morning light streamed through the vast windows, illuminating the gleaming weapons and the padded floor covering the arena. The smell of sweat, metal, and oil instantly flooded Xavier with memories of previous training sessions, the thrill of combat, and the ever-present tension that hung thick in the air.

“Today, we start with Ajax,” Coach Vlad announced, his voice cutting through the ambient noises like iron. “Tyler, you’ll be his partner.”

Tyler nodded, though his focus seemed far from the duel. Xavier stepped closer, trying to meet the boy’s eyes, but Tyler never looked up. The tension between them felt almost tangible.

The duel began swiftly. Ajax’s movements were precise and powerful, whereas Tyler appeared slow, hesitant. Xavier watched tensely, every lunge, every trembling step. Despite the coach’s instructions, Tyler increasingly distanced himself from his opponent, as if he didn’t want to be on the floor at all. Ajax ultimately won, 5-1, with Tyler only grazing him by chance when Ajax grew overconfident.

As Ajax patted Tyler on the back, Wednesday entered. Her eyes shone with determination, her expression focused, and she immediately headed to the arena. Xavier’s attention snapped to her.

Coach Vlad paired Rowan against the black-haired girl. Their bout ended quickly: Wednesday defeated Rowan 5-0.

“Now, the new girl against the new boy. Wednesday versus Tyler. Begin,” Vlad instructed.

Wednesday attacked with cold, swift precision. Tyler tried to respond but was too slow. A strike landed on his chest through the protective gear, tearing his clothing. Moments later, the same spot was struck again. Fear and pain etched across Tyler’s face. Xavier held his breath as Tyler flinched, and he instinctively stepped closer, worry tightening his chest.

But before he could reach him, Ajax and Axel moved in. Xavier’s heart sank; he felt a pang of helplessness, hurt that the other two boys were the ones assisting Tyler, not him. Reluctantly, he stepped back as Vlad announced the next pairings.

“Wednesday, Bianca, your turn,” Vlad called from the background. “Someone escort Tyler to the infirmary.”

Xavier started toward the infirmary but was halted by Bianca and Wednesday’s duel. Their movements were sharp, swift, and merciless, making it impossible for him to cross the arena unnoticed. He froze, noticing Ajax and Axel already heading with Tyler. A sinking feeling twisted inside him: all morning, Tyler had avoided him, and now others were taking him to the infirmary.

Throughout the day, Xavier followed Tyler through the hallways and gardens, yet the boy never spoke or looked at him. Tyler remained quiet and introspective during all activities, clearly not wanting Xavier to say or ask anything. Xavier’s patience frayed, but he struggled to respect Tyler’s distance.

After dinner, Xavier made one more attempt. As Tyler emerged from the bathroom in his pajama sweatpants, a deep gash traced his chest. Fear pierced Xavier’s heart.

“Tyler… this… this… Wednesday did this?” Xavier asked, reaching out cautiously.

Tyler only shrugged and walked silently to his bed.

“Tyler… please… just tell me you’re okay. I’m worried about you.” Tyler snorted in response and pulled on his sweater.

“I’m fine.”

“Are you sure?”

“Yeah,” Tyler muttered and lay down, deliberately turning away from Xavier.

“If you say so…” Xavier watched Tyler’s back for long moments before walking to the door. He couldn’t bear the suffocating silence any longer.

Later, Xavier wandered the quiet, shadowed paths of the Nevermore estate, trying to organize his thoughts, when an intangible sensation seized him. His neck arched back, cold sweat ran down his body, his vision blurred white. His legs trembled, the ground seemed to vanish beneath him, and he fell backward onto the cold leaves. The vision was both sharp and blurred, as if the line between reality and imagination had dissolved.

Rowan appeared as a threatening shadow, his face twisted with rage and hatred. In his hand gleamed a long, sharp knife. He advanced menacingly on Tyler, who panicked, his body contorting, muscles grotesquely swelling, and Hyde’s dark, terrifying figure emerging. The creature’s eyes glowed red, every movement radiating merciless strength.

Xavier tensed, his heart pounding, cold sweat streaking his back. Every muscle shook as he witnessed Tyler ending Rowan with a single, brutal strike. His body crumpled to the ground, motionless, and the ensuing silence was so heavy Xavier felt suffocated. Tyler then ran into the forest, finally collapsing trembling beneath a massive, gloomy tree. Alone, he sat, his soft, despairing sobs echoing in the misty moonlight.

As Xavier slowly recovered, he instinctively rushed to his shed. His heart still racing, he grasped his paintbrush with trembling hands and brought the vision to canvas: Tyler under the tree, tears sparkling on his face, with Hyde’s monstrous form looming over Rowan’s lifeless body in the background.

Each stroke built tension and fear, as if the painting itself were alive. Xavier’s chest gradually eased, though the horrific weight of the vision—the helplessness, the tragedy—lingered in the room, absorbed by the walls. The brush trembled, yet each line remained vivid; the memory Xavier had seen would never entirely fade.

After finishing, he stared at the canvas for long minutes, then abruptly dropped the brush and ran toward the school as fast as he could.

Upon entering their room, Tyler sat at the desk, phone in hand. His father’s face stared back, grave and anxious, while Tyler remained motionless, expression dark, eyes shadowed. The sheriff’s tension was palpable with every word.

“Tyler… someone’s been killed… last night… in the forest…” his father began, his voice breaking with every syllable. “The sheriff’s office suspects someone… from Nevermore. The man was… brutally torn apart…”

Tyler went silent for a moment, fingers clutching the phone’s edge, lips tight. He finally drew a deep breath, responding slowly but firmly:

“Dad… no, it wasn’t me. I didn’t…”

His father’s eyes scrutinized him through the screen, but Tyler remained still. Xavier watched silently, sensing the weight of truth Tyler struggled to speak. When the sheriff nodded quietly, Xavier stepped behind Tyler, giving him a reassuring nod, which was returned with a faint half-smile.

“You know I worry about you, son,” his father continued, voice low, tension underlying every word. “Are you okay?”

Tyler’s eyes met his father’s, then closed briefly. His words concealed the truth, hiding it from his father’s piercing gaze.

“Yes. I’m fine,” he said, voice gradually calming.

“Alright. Take care of yourself. And if you need anything… one word and I’ll do everything for you.”

“I know. Thank you, Dad.”

“I have to go now, but before I do…” the sheriff murmured nervously scratching his neck. “Xavier?”

“Sheriff?”

“Can we talk?”

“Uh… sure…” Xavier muttered, surprised, taking the phone from Tyler and meeting the sheriff’s concerned gaze.

“Everything really okay at school?”

“Yes. Really.”

“Good. But you’re looking after my son, right? 

“Of course. You don’t need to worry, sheriff.”

“Thank you. Goodnight, boys.” The call ended abruptly.

Xavier stood by the bed, watching Tyler, who sat motionless, eyes closed, tension creasing his face. He tried to step closer, but felt as though an invisible wall separated them.

“Tyler… what happened?”

“You don’t actually believe I did it, do you?” Tyler asked, suddenly springing up and stepping in front of Xavier. “Because I didn’t. I swear. You need to know… you are… you are my…” He couldn’t say it—the words that Xavier was his master.

“I know. And yes, I know you didn’t. I’m just worried about you. You avoided me all day and didn’t speak to me, and it was awful…”

“I… I’m sorry.” Tyler bowed his head.

“I’m sorry too. Don’t be mad at me.” Xavier didn’t even know why, but he felt he needed to apologize.

In an instant, Tyler crossed the distance between them and hugged the taller boy tightly. They held each other in silence for long minutes. When they finally let go, they went to sleep.

That night, after Tyler had fallen asleep, Xavier couldn’t rest. Hours passed as he tossed and turned, until he finally got up and walked into the hallway.

The corridor was dark, lit only by a faint flickering lamp that cast shadows across the walls. Xavier’s footsteps were quiet, but every sound seemed amplified in the silence. The air felt heavy, as though the school itself held its breath. Approaching Principal Weems’s office, his heart raced.

He paused at the door, gathering courage, then knocked.

“Principal Weems?” he said softly but firmly as the door opened. “Do you have a moment? I know it’s late, but this can’t wait.” Weems hesitated briefly, then stepped aside, allowing him in.

“What happened?”

“The sheriff said someone was killed in the forest and a Nevermore student is suspected. Do you have any updates on the case?”

“Mr. Thorpe… this is… a delicate matter, and I don’t think it would be wise to involve you…” Her eyes were serious, but for a moment, a hint of concern flickered behind her usual cold resolve.

“Miss Weems, please… I’m worried about Tyler.” Tears welled in Xavier’s eyes as he pleaded.

The woman finally nodded, yielding.

“Unfortunately, Xavier…” she began slowly, calm but heavy with weight. “I don’t know anything for certain. Everything I know comes from the sheriff’s office. They suspect the perpetrator may have been a Nevermore student.”

“I know you’ll be angry, but I must ask… could it have been Tyler?”

“No! No! I would feel it. I’d know, right?”

“Yes.”

“But, Miss Weems, Rowan has been acting strangely. Wandering in the forest, losing focus for hours, always staring out into the woods. In one of my visions… he tried to harm Tyler. Tyler tried to protect himself and… accidentally… killed Rowan.” Xavier’s voice trembled, his worry for Tyler palpable.

“I see. That’s important information,” she muttered, gazing deeply into his eyes. “Stay with Tyler at all times. Don’t take your eyes off him. I’ll make sure we find out what's going on with Rowan. And if you have another vision, report it immediately.”

“Understood,” Xavier said, standing and heading to the door. He paused, then turned back.

“Principal Weems?”

“Yes, Xavier?”

“Thank you.”

“You’re welcome. Goodnight.” She smiled.

“Goodnight.” Xavier nodded and returned to their room.

When he arrived, Tyler was still asleep, his breathing slow and even, the tension of the day softened in the night’s quiet.

Xavier observed every tiny movement: the delicate flutter of his eyelashes, the rise and fall of his chest, the slight twitch of his hands as he slept peacefully.

For long minutes, Xavier stood by the bed, nearly motionless, listening to Tyler’s breath. His heart gradually synchronized with the boy’s, and he tried to calm himself.

Carefully, he lifted the blanket as if any sudden movement would shatter the fragile moment, and slowly lay down beside Tyler, ensuring he didn’t disturb or wake him.

Beside Tyler, wrapped in the warm embrace of the blanket, Xavier finally found a measure of peace. Slowly, almost silently, he let himself relax and drifted into sleep, the room’s tranquil moonlight wrapping them in a soft, angelic glow.

Chapter Text

The cold light of Saturday morning filtered into the room. Xavier slowly opened his eyes, at first seeing only the ceiling. Then he felt the weight on his chest. He looked down slowly.

Tyler lay half-leaning on him, his head resting on Xavier’s chest. He was in a deep sleep, his breathing slow and steady. Xavier froze. He didn’t know how they had ended up in this situation, and he didn’t want to wake the other boy. Carefully, he reached for the nightstand, picked up his phone, and started tapping on it to occupy himself until Tyler woke up.

The bluish glow of the screen flickered softly across his face when Tyler stirred. At first, he mumbled something, then slowly sat up, his eyes still half-closed. When he realized where he was, his expression tensed.

“I’m… sorry,” Tyler muttered as he rose from the bed.

“No. I’m the one who should apologize,” Xavier whispered, rising as well. “I had a vision last night. You were hurt, and I wasn’t there to protect you. So… well… I felt calmer with you nearby.”

“W-what…?” Tyler’s voice trembled as he stepped closer.

“I just didn’t want anything to happen to you,” the taller boy admitted, bowing his head in shame.

“I get it. It’s okay.” He sent a friendly smile Xavier’s way. “What do you usually do here on Saturdays? It’s my first one, and I don’t really know what to do…”

“Well, most people head into Jericho and hang out there. They go to the Weathervane, the movies, do some shopping, stuff like that…” Xavier scratched the back of his neck nervously. “Do you want to go into town and grab some hot chocolate? Or would you rather go see your dad?”

“Hmm… good idea. We can go to the café, then to my dad. He said yesterday that we could drop by for lunch anytime.”

“Alright. Let’s go,” Xavier muttered, and they both got dressed and set off.

On the way into town, the cold wind snuck under their coats. Tyler walked with his hands in his pockets, each step seeming to make him more tense. Xavier watched quietly from the side.

Inside the Weathervane, the warmth and aroma of coffee enveloped them. Xavier sat at a corner table, and Tyler followed slowly. They were still looking over the menu when Wednesday entered the café.

The girl walked straight toward them, her gaze scanning Tyler from head to toe. “Xavier. And you?” she asked bluntly, without a hint of politeness.

“Tyler,” Xavier said, nodding toward the boy. “My roommate. He’s here through the Normie Exchange Program at Nevermore.”

Tyler eyed the girl warily, but Wednesday’s face remained expressionless. “I see,” she said briefly, then, as if losing interest, turned away. “I have to go now.” And she simply walked out of the café.

Tyler exhaled slowly. “What the hell was that?”

“Wednesday,” Xavier shrugged. “She’s weird, but harmless.”

“Uh-huh… and how do you know her?” he raised an eyebrow.

“I’ve known her since childhood. Our parents attended Nevermore around the same time. My dad is pretty close with her father. Which is… well, strange… because Vincent Thorpe doesn’t get along with anyone except himself…” He laughed awkwardly. “And my grandmother was a close friend of her grandma. They spent their twenties together in Europe. A few years ago, at my grandmother’s funeral, we played a little hide-and-seek, and I thought it’d be funny to climb into her coffin. Almost got cremated with her, actually. She ended up saving me.”

“Wow…” Tyler laughed. “You guys are really… unusual.”

“I know… But what could we expect from two outcast kids?”

“Fair enough,” he continued laughing. “So… were you a bad kid?”

“More of a rebel,” Xavier shrugged. “My dad didn’t even notice when I disappeared for hours…”

“Oh… I… I’m sorry…”

“Ah, it’s fine,” he waved it off. “After Mom died, Dad became distant and busy with work. I had to entertain myself if I wanted to have fun around the house.”

“Same with me. My dad cared about me, but after Mom died, neither of us was really ourselves anymore,” Tyler smiled sadly.

“Then here’s to our shared childhood traumas. Cheers,” Xavier grinned, raising his mug of hot chocolate and clinking it with Tyler’s.

“Cheers.”

After finishing their drinks, they headed toward the Galpin house.

Sunlight streaming through the veranda warmed the old wooden floor as they stepped inside. The house smelled of fresh coffee, roasted chicken, and autumn air drifting through open windows, gently mixed with the faint hum of country music on the radio. Tyler hung his coat with a small smile, Xavier followed, a little more uncertain; he had never been in the Galpin house before.

“Tyler!” the sheriff’s voice rang cheerfully from the kitchen. Already from the doorway, his warm welcome was evident. “I thought I’d only see you again when I came to Nevermore.”

“Surprise,” Tyler replied, a touch of genuine happiness in his voice. “And I brought someone with me.”

Xavier nodded with a small smile. “Sheriff. Hope it’s okay I dropped by for lunch.”

“Of course!” The sheriff beamed at Xavier as well. “Glad you’re here. It reassures me knowing Tyler isn’t wandering alone.” He gestured for them to follow into the dining room. “Come on, come on, lunch is just ready. Everything’s still warm.”

A large pot of steaming vegetable soup sat on the dining table, alongside a bowl of freshly fried, crispy fries and a golden-roasted grilled chicken with roasted vegetables.

Xavier sat next to Tyler. The sheriff watched him carefully, as if trying to gauge whether he was good company for his son.

“So, Xavier,” the sheriff began, slicing the chicken, “what exactly do you do at school?”

“Mostly… just try to survive,” Xavier replied half-jokingly, though his smile was slightly forced. “I’m interested in the arts… drawing, painting, that sort of thing.”

“Hmm. Creative,” the sheriff nodded. “I like that. What do you usually paint?”

“Pretty much everything. Animals, landscapes, people… whatever comes to my mind.”

“That’s great. Glad you’ve found something you enjoy.”

A calmness settled around the table. Tyler ate quietly, occasionally brushing elbows with Xavier as he lifted his spoon. Xavier ate slowly, savouring every bite of his soup—packed with vegetables, just the way he liked it.

Suddenly, his spoon froze mid-air. The air thickened, colours seemed to drain. Steam from his soup thickened into black smoke above his bowl. Xavier’s eyes widened. His head tilted back, pupils whitening.

The kitchen walls shuddered, and suddenly they were standing in the forest. Sunlight vanished, replaced by bluish shadows. Tyler was in front of him, eyes terrified, hands trembling. Rowan emerged from the darkness, a glinting knife in hand, his face reflecting raw, human cruelty.

“No!” Xavier shouted, his voice muffled, as if underwater.

The blade plunged into Tyler’s chest, right over his heart. The boy groaned and collapsed, blood darkening his shirt. Xavier dropped to his knees, trying to staunch the wound. “Hold on! Please don’t close your eyes! Stay with me! Tyler!” he gasped, hands shaking.

Tyler’s lips were wet with blood, whispering only: “Xav…”

Behind them, something moved. The air grew colder, and a hooded figure in black stepped from the shadows. His face was hidden, voice deep and icy: “Finish him too!”

Rowan’s eyes were empty, doll-like. He advanced toward Xavier silently. Xavier backed up until he hit a tree. The knife sank into his chest.

The hooded figure laughed—a deep, distorted cackle that seemed to rattle Xavier’s bones from within. The world around him collapsed, light and shadow merging…

The vision ended abruptly.

Xavier awoke lying on the floor. The sheriff and Tyler watched anxiously as his eyes cleared and he regained consciousness.

“Xavier?” Tyler asked cautiously. “What happened?”

“Just… just…” Xavier gasped, still struggling to breathe. “Rowan… he tried to… to kill you again. But… but… this time… he succeeded… and I… I couldn’t do anything to… to save you… I’m so sorry…”

“What?” The sheriff’s voice trembled with deep fear. Tyler’s face turned pale, struggling to breathe.

“Rowan… killed you… and I… couldn’t stop him…” he sobbed, clutching Tyler.

“It’s okay! It’s okay!” Tyler hugged him. “Rowan’s not here. He can’t hurt us.”

“The hooded figure ordered him to kill me too,” Xavier said, eyes locking with Tyler’s. “We both died.”

“That won’t happen!” growled the sheriff. “How reliable are your visions?”

“Usually, they’re only guidelines… mostly fluid.”

“Then we’re fine,” Tyler tried to reassure himself.

“We can’t ignore this,” the sheriff said softly. “How can we know if it’ll happen?”

“You can’t predict it…” Xavier bowed his head. “Visions always change. I’ve seen this one before, just with a different outcome. We can’t know if it will come true.”

“Still… worrying,” the sheriff helped him up.

“Yes, but the best approach is to wait. If I see it again, then we’ll worry.”

“You sure?” Tyler asked anxiously.

“So far, none of my visions have ever come true when they ended differently before.”

“Alright,” the sheriff and his son relaxed slightly. “But we should leave soon; we need to get back to school before dark.”

They both said goodbye to the sheriff and headed back to Nevermore.

As the afternoon sun began to set, Xavier and Tyler returned to the school. Neither spoke much—the vision still weighed on Xavier, and Tyler was clearly holding back his worry.

Upon entering their dorm, Tyler silently dropped his coat and flopped onto his bed. “I can’t… handle this…” he muttered, burying his face in his hands. “If you’re right, and Rowan really attacks us…”

“You won’t die,” Xavier interrupted, more forcefully than intended. “I won’t let it happen. Understand?”

Tyler looked up. For a moment, he saw a rare determination in Xavier. He couldn’t respond, only turned away.

Xavier sighed and decided to go to the library, hoping to distract his mind.

The library was bathed in dim light. Shadows stretched slowly across the floor between the shelves. Xavier was making his way toward the arts section when he suddenly spotted Rowan. The boy was hurriedly shoving an old, purple leather-bound book into his bag.

“What are you doing?” Xavier called, stepping closer.

Rowan’s eyes flashed sharply. “None of your business, Thorpe.”

“Are you okay? You’ve been acting so strangely lately…” Rowan just shrugged and tried to slip past Xavier toward the library door.

“Rowan…” Xavier stepped forward, but before he could react, Rowan’s arm twitched, and an invisible force hurled Xavier’s body. In the next moment, he crashed against the wall, gasping for air. Xavier groaned in pain from the impact.

Rowan glared at him for a moment before storming out of the library.

Xavier slowly slid down the wall, his rib throbbing sharply from the blow. He struggled to his feet and staggered back to their room.

Tyler jumped up immediately when he saw him. “What happened? Are you okay?”

“Nothing… just tripped on the stairs,” Xavier tried to joke, but the look in Tyler’s eyes made it clear he didn’t believe him.

“That doesn’t look like nothing. You’re hurt.”

“Let it go. I don’t want to talk about it right now,” Xavier waved it off and quickly changed the subject. “Let’s go to the Harvest Festival instead. We could use some fun.”

Tyler sighed but didn’t press the issue. Instead, they got dressed and headed to the festival at the edge of town.

The festival spilled a riot of colors across the clearing near the forest. Lanterns hung everywhere, children ran with candy in their hands, and students tried their luck at the game stalls. Weems patrolled the crowd with a stern expression, his eyes constantly tracking the Nevermore students.

Xavier and Tyler stopped at the shooting gallery. Tyler grabbed the rifle and, in just a few shots, knocked down all three metal cans.

“Not bad, Galpin,” Xavier smiled, taking the gun. He tried a few shots but only hit one. “Alright, you win this round.”

“Finally, something I’m better at,” Tyler grinned.

Then Wednesday appeared behind them, her face expressionless.

“I need help,” she stated simply. “I want to get out of here, but I can’t do it alone.”

Xavier and Tyler exchanged glances.

“Sorry, Wednesday…” Xavier began. “But we’ve got enough trouble of our own right now.”

“Fine,” the girl said coolly, as always. “I’ll find another way.” She turned and walked away without another word.

Xavier and Tyler began heading toward the festival exit when they suddenly saw Rowan rushing toward the forest.

“Did you see that?” Xavier grabbed the other boy’s arm.

“Yeah. Let’s go after him.”

The cold wind rattled the bare branches as they entered the forest. Rowan stopped at the edge of a clearing and slowly turned around.

“I knew you’d follow,” his voice rang with menace. “I didn’t expect anything else… from you…”

“What’s wrong?” Xavier spoke up. “What are you talking about? We’re just worried about you… you’ve been acting strange lately…”

Rowan didn’t answer. With a flick of his hand, he shoved Tyler backward, and with a painful groan, Tyler slammed against a tree and passed out. Xavier’s heart stopped for a moment.

“Don’t hurt him!”

“Why? What will happen if I do?” Rowan spat the words.

He stepped forward, the knife glinting in the moonlight. The two boys struggled as Xavier tried to restrain him, but Rowan also unleashed his telekinetic power, making him terrifyingly strong. Finally, the blade plunged into Xavier’s side. He collapsed to his knees, struggling to breathe.

Rowan approached Tyler and raised the knife again, but a sudden heavy blow struck the back of his head. Wednesday stood there, wielding a thick tree branch. Rowan collapsed unconscious onto the ground.

“Hold on!” Wednesday bent over Xavier, pressing her hand against the bleeding wound. “You can’t die.”

Xavier’s eyes focused on her hazily, his lips trembling. “Tyler… Wednesday… check on Tyler… make sure he’s okay…”

Then Rowan groaned softly, and before anyone could stop him, he got back up and ran into the dense forest.

“Damn it!” Wednesday hissed, but she couldn’t leave Xavier behind.

She immediately started shouting for help. Minutes later, Weems and the sheriff arrived. Weems called an ambulance at once, while the sheriff rushed to Tyler, who was still dazed.

The forest deepened with muffled, rustling sounds as the siren of the approaching ambulance echoed faintly in the distance. 

Moments later, Tyler regained consciousness and ran to Xavier. He tried to clamp the wound on Xavier’s side, but the blood flowed faster than his hands could control.

“Xav… Xavier, listen to me! Talk to me!” Tyler begged, his voice hoarse, his body shaking. “Stay with me, okay? Don’t close your eyes!”

"It... it hurts... Tyler... so much..."

"I know... I know... Just stay with me, okay?" 

Xavier gave a weak nod, trying to summon strength, but he had no energy to speak. The air was cold and thick, almost suffocating, while the sound of the ambulance drew closer from the distance.

Minutes later, paramedics arrived, urgently preparing the stretcher and oxygen tank. Tyler clung to Xavier like a child as they carefully lifted him into the ambulance.

The ride to the hospital was winding and cold; every jolt, every brake shot pain through Xavier’s body. Tyler held onto his arm, feeling each heartbeat grow weaker. The paramedics continuously monitored his pulse.

“His pulse is extremely weak… blood loss is critical… we need a defibrillator!” came the announcement as Xavier’s eyes closed. For a moment, everything stopped; the world went silent around him.

“No… please, no…” Tyler whispered, as Xavier’s body trembled. The paramedics used the defibrillator multiple times, and despite repeated shocks, his heart still didn’t respond. Tyler gripped the edge of the seat, his fingertips white from pressure.

Finally, on the last attempt, Xavier’s body tensed, and a faint but stable heartbeat appeared on the monitor. Everyone exhaled simultaneously, completely relieved. Tyler’s eyes welled with tears as he squeezed Xavier’s hand between his own.

In the hospital emergency room, Xavier was immediately taken into surgery.

Tyler didn’t move, sitting in the waiting area, anxiously watching the operating room door, while Weems and Wednesday tried to keep his spirits up.

A few minutes later, the sheriff arrived, having just finished a coroner’s task. “We’ll find Rowan. I promise,” the sheriff said, his voice firm, as he sat beside his son on one of the uncomfortable hospital chairs. “This is attempted murder. He won’t get away with this.”

Chapter Text

The hospital corridor gleamed with a cold, sterile whiteness, the harsh glare of the fluorescent lights almost blinding to the eye. The squeak of rolling gurneys and the steady beep-beep of the monitors seemed to compete with the rhythm of his own heartbeat. Weems paced restlessly, fists clenched, her head snapping up at every small sound. Tyler sat rigidly in his chair, fingers entwined so tightly his nails dug into his skin, eyes fixed on the operating room doors where Xavier’s life was being fought for.

Weems’s phone chirped. She stepped closer to Tyler, her voice low yet firm. “Tyler, come with me. We need to talk. Your father is waiting.”

The boy nodded, rising unsteadily to his feet, and followed the headmistress down a secluded hallway. The sheriff stood there, arms folded across his chest, his eyes weighed down by responsibility.

“You need to tell Miss Weems exactly what Xavier saw when you were at my house,” the sheriff began, his tone patient but taut.

Tyler drew a shaky breath, his voice trembling as he spoke. - “It started with… Xavier’s eyes turned white, then he toppled backward in his chair… he didn’t move for minutes. When it ended, he said Rowan… had killed us… because a hooded figure ordered him to. Later that afternoon, after he came back from the library, he was acting strange. Like it wasn’t even him. He moved like he was in pain… I don’t know what happened to him. He wouldn’t tell me…”

“That’s odd,” Weems murmured aloud, frowning. “Two days ago Xavier confided that he had a vision—Rowan trying to kill you. He also said you’d been behaving strangely.”

“That doesn’t give us much to go on…” the sheriff muttered, scratching his chin. “What happened in the forest?”

Tyler’s throat tightened, the words catching as he forced them out. - “When we left the festival, we saw Rowan hurrying into the woods… we followed him… He… he struck me down. I don’t know what happened after that. The next thing I remember, Xavier was lying there—bleeding badly, unconscious…” - Tears streamed down his face.

“Calm yourself, son,” Weems said gently, laying a hand on his shoulder. Tyler instinctively gripped her arm with trembling fingers.

At the end of the hallway, the operating room doors opened, and the surgeon emerged, his expression a weary mix of fatigue and gravity.

“The surgery was successful. Xavier is stable, but the knife punctured his lung and blood pooled heavily in his pleural cavity. That’s what caused his heart to stop in the ambulance. We removed the clots, sutured his lung, and placed him in a medically induced coma. The next three to five days will be critical. Only two visitors may see him at a time.”

Tyler’s face contorted with fear, tears sliding silently down his cheeks. - “But… he’ll survive… won’t he?” he whispered.

“Yes, he will,” the doctor assured him with a faint smile. “He’s in Room 312. You may go in now.”

Weems walked slowly toward the ward, her phone buzzing in her pocket. One glance at the caller ID made her chest tighten—Vincent Thorpe. Earlier, when she had tried calling him, he hadn’t answered. Now it was her turn to deliver the news: his son lay comatose in a human hospital. She drew a long breath and answered the call.

“Vincent, it’s Weems,” she began, her tone steady but soft. “Yes, I tried reaching you earlier. Xavier is at Jericho Hospital. He was attacked by another student. His lung was injured, and his heart stopped, but the doctors stabilized him.” She paused, listening to the response. “Yes. I promise I won’t leave his side until you arrive. Goodbye.”

For once, the always-composed headmistress’s eyes glistened with tears. She brushed them quickly away, then placed another call. Tyler, silent beside her, listened.

“Vlad, Xavier will live. His father is on his way, but I can’t leave him until he gets here. I need you to oversee the school in my absence. Activate the emergency protocol.” She paused, her voice firm. “Yes, I know how rare this is in Nevermore’s history. But with Rowan on the run, everyone is at risk.” Another pause, then calmer: “I’m relieved the sheriff has posted officers around the school grounds. That will keep the students safe. I must go. Watch over them, Vlad. Bye.”

Tyler entered the hospital room, his breath catching. Xavier lay pale and fragile, tubes snaking from his body, every faint heartbeat echoed by the monitor’s beeping. His lips were tinged blue, trembling faintly. Tyler’s hand instinctively sought his, but at the sight of Xavier’s condition, tears filled his eyes.

“Tyler…” Weems said softly, stroking his back. “He will recover. He’s strong.”

Tyler only nodded, though inside the Hyde pulsed with fear, restless and frantic, calling out for his master. His hands shook, every breath felt painful.

Outside in the corridor, Wednesday spoke with the sheriff before he retreated to his office. Hours later, he returned carrying fresh meals and coffee for those keeping vigil. Tyler, though, couldn’t swallow a bite. Anxiety gnawed at him; the Hyde’s terrified whispers in his mind made every taste, every smell unbearable. He sat through the night, listening to Xavier’s every fragile breath.

By morning, Vincent Thorpe stormed into the ward like a hurricane. Tyler jolted awake as the man’s furious voice lashed out at Weems. - “How could you let this happen to my son at your school? I’ll sue you all—every last one of you, Larissa! Do you hear me? Everyone!”

Weems stood calmly, speaking in a low, steady voice. - “There was nothing we could have done, Vincent. I’d been monitoring Rowan for days, but he hadn’t shown any signs of danger. His attack at the festival was unforeseeable.”

“Unforeseeable?” Vincent roared. “That boy nearly killed my son!”

“I know, and I am deeply sorry.”

“Sorry? Sorry, Larissa?” His voice cracked with rage and grief. “If Xavier dies… I’ll have nothing left!”

“He won’t die,” came a voice. For the first time, Tyler spoke up, his eyes locking on Vincent’s storm-grey gaze. His tone was strong, unwavering. - “The doctors said he won’t.”

Vincent’s glare shifted, narrowing dangerously as he noticed Tyler clutching Xavier’s hand at the bedside.
- “And who the hell are you?” - he demanded, stepping closer. - “Let go of my son and get out.”

Tyler didn’t move. Instead, he clasped Xavier’s hand tighter between both of his. - “I’m Tyler. His roommate.”

“That’s a lie. Rowan is his roommate,” - Vincent snapped, fists curling. - “Rowan—the boy who tried to murder him.”

Weems stepped forward, carefully positioning herself between them. - “Vincent, listen. Tyler is Sheriff Galpin’s son. He and Xavier share a unique bond. Tyler is a Hyde… and Xavier is his master.”

Vincent froze, his face hardening. - “A Hyde? But Nevermore hasn’t admitted Hydes in decades…”

“Vincent… Tyler is François’s son.”

“What?” His voice faltered, stunned. “But… François died… long ago…”

“Yes. But before that, she brought Tyler into this world.”

Vincent studied the boy for a long moment, then pressed further. - “How did this bond form between you? When? How?”

Quietly, almost in a whisper, Tyler recounted what happened on the first day of the semester in the forest, the pact they made with Weems, and the depth of the bond between the Hyde and Xavier.

Vincent remained silent for several minutes, his gaze fixed on every tremor of the boy’s voice. At last, he nodded, stepped to the opposite side of the bed, and took his son’s other hand.

Later, when Tyler slipped out briefly to the restroom, he returned to hear Vincent’s voice through the door—low, broken, confessing as if to the walls themselves. - “My son… forgive me. I know I wasn’t a good father. I was too harsh, too distant. After your mother died especially… But I love you. I’ve always loved you. Please… wake up. Give me another chance. Let me get it right this time… Please, wake up.”

Tyler stood frozen, heart torn between dread and relief. At least Xavier’s suffering had forced Vincent Thorpe to confront his own failings—and to choose his son.

When he finally stepped back inside, he spoke with quiet conviction. - “Don’t worry. Xavier is far stronger than people realize. He’ll wake up… I can feel it. The bond between us—Hyde and master—it tells me he’s going to be fine.”

“How can you know that?” Vincent asked, a flicker of hope lighting his eyes.

“A Hyde and its master share each other’s emotions. And right now, I feel that everything will be alright.”

“I pray you’re right, son.”

Tyler nodded faintly, and in Vincent’s gaze he caught the fragile spark of hope beginning to burn.

Chapter Text

The days blurred together within the hospital room, where time itself seemed suspended, measured only by the steady beeping of the heart monitor and the soft hiss of the ventilator. The sterile white walls felt as though they had closed in, trapping every sigh, every whispered prayer shared between father and son. Nurses drifted in and out, doctors adjusted charts and IV lines, yet for Vincent and Tyler the hours stood still. Neither of them left Xavier’s side for more than a fleeting moment.

Vincent often dozed off in the armchair by the window, arms folded across his chest, his face hardened by exhaustion. The hair he always kept so meticulously combed now fell in disheveled, graying strands across his head. Tyler, in contrast, scarcely moved from Xavier’s bedside. He clasped the boy’s hand tightly in his own, tracing small circles across the skin with his fingertip, speaking to him almost without pause—sometimes aloud, other times in a breath-soft whisper.

That evening, while Vincent slept lightly in the chair, Tyler leaned closer, his gentle voice filling the hush.
“Xavier…” he murmured, thumb brushing along the back of the boy’s hand. “It’s been three days since you decided to frighten everyone and take your sweet time just… lying here.” A quiet laugh escaped him, though it trembled with fear. “Wednesday and Vlad came by yesterday. They brought you a bouquet in the most atrocious clash of colors I’ve ever seen—and cookies for me. Enid, Ajax, and Axel sent them along. It was thoughtful of them. My dad comes every day too, though he’s still chasing leads in the meantime… But Rowan—no word of him. It’s as if he vanished from the earth.”

He fell silent, watching Xavier’s fragile, rhythmic breaths.

“You know what’s strangest?” Tyler whispered again. “Your father… he’s kind. He keeps telling me stories about you as a child. How you wouldn’t fall asleep at night unless he told you tales of knights and dragons. And you’d always declare that he was the dragon, the one you had to slay—chasing him through the house every afternoon with a wooden sword.” A smile tugged at Tyler’s lips, his eyes glistening. “Seems you’ve always been drawn to dangerous creatures, haven’t you?”

As if in reply, Xavier’s fingers stirred faintly within his grasp. Tyler’s heart stuttered. He leaned forward, eyes wide. Xavier’s lashes flickered—longer this time, as though he were struggling against the weight of light.

“Xavier? Can you hear me?” Tyler’s voice turned urgent. He shifted to the edge of the bed, one hand cradling the boy’s face, stroking it with desperate tenderness.

Beneath the mask, the faintest smile appeared on Xavier’s lips.

“Yes… yes, you hear me, don’t you?” Tyler’s trembling fingers brushed across his temple.

Moments stretched into eternity before Xavier’s eyes slowly, cautiously opened. His green gaze was hazy but alive, and when it found Tyler’s, the corners of his mouth lifted in the barest smile.

“Thank God…” Tyler whispered, pressing the call button.

The door burst open almost instantly. Nurses and doctors flooded the room, calling instructions, checking monitors, adjusting settings. “Please step outside,” one nurse ordered firmly.

Tyler clung to Xavier’s hand for one last heartbeat, until Vincent’s grip settled on his shoulder. “Let them examine him,” Vincent rasped.

The door closed behind them, and a suffocating silence filled the corridor. Tyler leaned against the wall, chest heaving as if he had run a marathon. Vincent stood rigid beside him, but tears glimmered at the corners of his eyes.

An hour later, the chief physician approached. Pulling down his mask, he offered a smile. “His condition is stable. He woke on his own—that’s an excellent sign. You may see him now, but please, don’t exhaust him. He’ll need plenty of rest.”

Tyler rushed back into the room. Xavier lay propped against the pillows, still pale, but awake. At the sight of him, his face lit up, and he reached out a frail hand.

“Ty…” he whispered hoarsely.

Tyler was at his side in an instant, clasping his hand, caressing his fingers gently. “Hey… how are you? I was so scared for you…”

Xavier gave a faint nod and squeezed his hand. “What… what h... happened?” His voice trembled, weak but curious, confusion shining in his eyes.

“You were hurt,” Tyler said softly. “Rowan attacked us in the woods. He struck me down and then turned on you… he stabbed you. Pierced your lung… your heart stopped in the ambulance. They put you into an induced coma for days. I—I thought I’d lost you.”

Xavier’s tired smile flickered. “Don’t worry… I’m... I'm still here. But—are you alright?”

“Of course. Wednesday got there in time—saved my ass.” Tyler let out a shaky laugh, and Xavier’s face eased with relief.

In the doorway stood Vincent, his shadow stretching across the wall. When Xavier lifted his gaze to him and reached out his other hand, the man’s eyes brimmed over.

“Dad…” Something broke within Vincent. He moved to the bed, dropping to his knees, clutching his son’s hand in both of his. “Xavier… my boy… I nearly lost my mind worrying about you.” His voice faltered, raw with emotion. “I couldn’t have borne it if I’d lost you.”

Xavier’s faint but steady squeeze answered him. “I’m here… I’m alive.”

Vincent bowed his head, pressing his forehead to his son’s hand. “I promise—I’ll be a better father from now on. I’ll never neglect you again. You are everything to me.”

Tyler sat silently, watching them, his fingers still tracing tender patterns across Xavier’s skin.

Chapter Text

The following three weeks passed slowly, but reassuringly, for Xavier. His injuries healed day by day, with his father constantly by his side, helping him with hygiene and dressing. Every afternoon, Tyler would bring him a treat from school and sit by his bed to share the day’s events. After the first week, Tyler had to return to the walls of Nevermore, but Xavier was not left alone: Weems tried to teach him how to control the Hyde now that Tyler was away. Coach Vlad stepped up the intensity of the students’ fencing lessons, insisting that every student needed to be able to defend themselves. Miss Thornhill, meanwhile, began acting increasingly strange around him—often following him through the halls, watching his every move almost obsessively. Fortunately, he was never truly alone—Ajax and Axel were constant companions, even sleeping with him at night, as he temporarily moved into the boys’ room until Xavier returned. Vincent had also stationed a bodyguard to shadow him, ensuring the “normie” boy was always protected.

After a week, Xavier could walk around the ward and was rarely alone, as classmates visited daily to cheer him up.

The sheriff visited regularly, though he was busy with the Rowan case. Despite repeated searches of the forest, no trace of Rowan was found—until Xavier’s last day in the hospital, when someone thought they spotted Rowan in the hospital parking lot. The news spread like wildfire, leaving everyone on edge. The sheriff ordered another search of the forest, and ultimately, a mutilated body in Rowan’s uniform was discovered. Authorities were forced to confirm the boy’s death and declared him deceased.

The news brought some relief to the town and school, as they believed the danger had passed. After three and a half weeks, Xavier was able to return to Nevermore. Police continued to patrol the school grounds, but Vincent and his bodyguards returned to Las Vegas, where he lived.

That first evening, Ajax led the friends to the topmost room of Iago Tower. The room was bathed in colorful lights: the girls sliced pastries, the boys had chips and sodas, and the moonlight streaming through the windows created a magical atmosphere.

“Finally, the gang’s all together again!” Ajax shouted, eagerly diving for the chips.

“Let’s toast first—I don’t want you eating all the chips,” Axel laughed.

“Don’t devour everything, Ajax! It’s Xavier’s party!” Enid raised her eyebrows, making everyone laugh.

Xavier stood among his friends with a tired smile, cautious in his movements. Tyler stood beside him, holding a glass of cola.

“Did you miss the noise?” he whispered, leaning close to Xavier.

“More than I expected.” Xavier scanned the group, a faint smile crossing his face.

In the center of the room, Ajax, Axel, and a few other boys played cards, while Yoko and Divina argued over the taste of the pastries. Wednesday and Enid sat a few steps away on a rug. 

The cheerful chatter was abruptly broken by Wednesday’s words, her voice icy as it cut through the air.

“I saw a monster in the woods a few days ago,” she said, turning to Enid.

The conversation froze instantly. Everyone turned toward her.

“What kind of monster?” Yoko asked slowly, turning to face her.

“Massive teeth and sharp claws. Its body was completely deformed.”

Xavier’s heart skipped a beat. His gaze immediately went to Tyler. The boy stood rigid, jaw tense, as if he already knew what his friend was thinking. Xavier pulled him aside to a corner of the tower.

“Tell me it wasn’t you,” he said, voice tense, eyes desperately searching Tyler’s.

“Xav…” Tyler sighed, shaking his head firmly. “It wasn’t me. I swear.”

“Wednesday doesn’t usually make mistakes.”

“She’s just suspicious. Do you really think I’d sneak out while you were in the hospital?” Tyler’s eyes flashed darkly. “I only left school to visit you. Your father’s bodyguard can confirm it… he was always on my tail.”

Xavier nodded, though his unease didn’t fade; it lingered throughout the party. He kept one eye on Wednesday, the other on Tyler. He barely ate or drank, anxiety twisting his stomach.

That night, after they returned to their room, Tyler immediately called his father.

“Dad? Wednesday was in the woods a few days ago and saw something…” His voice trembled nervously as he paced the room. Xavier sat at the foot of his bed, eyes following every step.

“What did she see?” The sheriff’s voice sounded unsettled.

“She claims it was a monster. A creature with huge teeth and claws…” Tyler’s voice faltered.

“Tyler… uh… I hate to ask this, but… is there any chance it was you?” The sheriff’s voice was anxious over the phone.

“No! It wasn’t me! I swear!” Tyler’s face went pale, fingers clenched into fists.

“Alright, I believe you. But stay away from the woods. I’ll also look into it, and keep Addams away from the area.”

“But if it really exists, then… you’d be in danger out there alone… Let me come with you!” Tyler’s voice was barely audible, his eyes shining with grim determination.

“Don’t worry about me. I don’t want you anywhere near the woods. Got it?”

“Yes, Dad.” Tyler nodded slowly, his heart still tight with fear.

“Okay. Take care, I have to go now. We’ll talk later.”

“Okay. Bye, Dad.”

Tyler set the phone down anxiously and sat on the bed next to Xavier. The taller boy immediately took his hand and pulled him into a hug.

“Don’t worry, he’ll be fine! Your dad is strong and tough.” He muttered into Tyler’s hair. “Besides, he’s armed…” He laughed at his own joke.

“You’re right… but I still worry. He’s my dad… and he’s going into the woods, unprotected, against some monster…” Tyler sniffled, clutching Xavier tighter. “And I can’t protect him…”

“I know… but nothing will happen.” Xavier stroked his back. “Come on, it’s late. Let’s go to sleep. You can call him again in the morning and see he’s fine. Okay?”

“Okay.” Tyler let Xavier help him up from the bed and guide him to his own. He collapsed onto the mattress, pulling the covers over his head. Xavier returned to his bed with a quiet, “Good night.”

But the night brought no rest. Xavier tossed and turned, tense, sweat beading on his forehead. He was tormented by a nightmare: in the dark forest, a tall, muscular monster darted, its claws reflecting the moonlight, eyes blindingly white, seeming to devour his soul. Long, sharp teeth and demonic ears hovered in the air, its horrible roar rousing the silent forest. The monster attacked Tyler at the edge of the woods, sinking its claws into his chest before retreating into the shadows.

Xavier bolted upright, gasping, hands clutching his chest. “No… no… no…” he muttered, rocking back and forth.

Tyler woke at the sound of his friend’s gasps. Seeing Xavier sitting in the middle of the bed, catatonic, he rushed to him. “Hey… hey… Xavier, it’s okay.” He sat beside him, holding him close.

“No… no… no…” Xavier repeated the word over and over, eyes wide, darting around the room as if searching for something.

“It’s alright. Shhh…” Tyler continued stroking his back. “What are you looking for?”

Xavier pointed shakily toward his desk, where only his pencils and sketchbook sat.

“Your sketchbook?” Tyler asked hopefully, and Xavier nodded.

Tyler jumped up, grabbed the art supplies, and returned to Xavier. “Here. Take it.”

Xavier seized the sketchbook and pencil, immediately sketching. The pencil practically hissed across the paper. When he finished, Tyler took the pencil and placed it on the bed. They both looked at the monster coming to life on the page.

Every line Xavier drew captured the creature’s details: long claws, blinding white eyes, demonic ears, sharp teeth, and distorted body.

“This… looks a lot like me,” Tyler muttered, pointing to the drawing. “But it’s not… it’s not Hyde. It’s something else.”

“Yes…” Xavier’s voice was grim. “But what could it be?”

“I have no idea…” Tyler frowned for a moment, then smiled as a new idea struck him. “Let’s go to the library. Mr. Fitts said all monsters are cataloged in some book. Uh… what was it called?” He scratched his chin thoughtfully. “Got it! The Encyclopedia of Very Large Monsters.”

“Good idea. Let’s find out what it is. If it’s dangerous, we need to tell Headmistress Weems immediately.”

“Exactly why we need to investigate now.” Tyler motioned toward the door. “Let’s get more info on this thing.”

“Let’s go,” Xavier muttered, heading for the door.

The school corridors were shrouded in darkness by the early morning moonlight. The silence was almost deafening, broken only by the soft echo of their footsteps.

When they reached the library, Xavier went straight to the massive bookshelf at the back. Among the dusty, old tomes, they found a large, leather-bound encyclopedia.

Tyler opened it, flipping through the pages, then sighed. “I think this is it. Look.”

Xavier leaned in and began to read: “The Siloth is an ancient, twisted monster, originating from the dark depths of Scandinavian mythology, descended from the forgotten Jötunn who foreshadowed Ragnarok. Its long, muscular body and sharp claws perfectly suit its hunting, violent nature. Its eyes are blindingly white and almost glow in the dark, capable of devouring the soul of anyone who meets its gaze. Its sharp teeth and pointed ears give it a terrifying appearance, as if an ancient, demonic being had come to life. The Siloth is extremely fast and brutal, ripping its victims apart with claws and teeth.” Xavier’s eyes filled with deep fear, and he suddenly fell silent. He looked at Tyler, unable to continue.

Tyler pulled the book closer and read on. “The Siloth always attacks under the cover of night, and no one survives who crosses its path. Its killing methods are fast and cruel; every move is deadly. It lives as a twisted hunter, destroying anything that enters its territory. This creature is not merely a monster—it can appear harmless in human form, but its innocent, childlike face is deceiving. When it transforms, the Siloth becomes a terrifying killing machine.”

Xavier’s face turned pale. He whispered, “This… this is truly lethal. If anyone can turn into a creature like this, we can’t know who to trust.”

“Exactly.” Tyler’s eyes glinted sharply. “From now on, we have to be even more careful. We can only trust each other.”

“You’re right. The one thing we know for sure is that neither of us is a Siloth. But who could it be… we have no idea.”

“This is going to be a tough ride…”

“Definitely…”