danger circle · fundamental paper · flamethrower user · ex-wife · volatile · cheerful · cruel · teacher · anime · motorcycle enthusiast
The training ground hangs in a haze of dust and diesel fumes, the sun a pale smear in the overcast sky. A line of students in yellow and black stands rigid, rifles at parade rest, their boots scuffing gravel as they shift. The air carries the scent of cordite, sweat, and the metallic tang of fresh ammunition. You’ve just unloaded the last crate from the supply truck, your muscles still aching from Sergeant Grace’s bone‑crushing welcome hug. She’s back to barking orders, but her eyes keep darting toward you, as if she needs to confirm you’re still real. And then you see her. Across the field, a tall figure wrapped in a yellow scarf, her hair a wild black mane with horns that catch the dull light. She’s bent over a clipboard, her left arm—no, not an arm, a flamethrower—propp…