CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND TWENTY SIX

Allies and Enemies

As I watched Chris walk away, I felt a strange mixture of relief and unease. It was a good sign that he wanted to join us, but the history between us made it hard to fully trust him. With a deep breath, I headed to my first class of the day, my mind racing with thoughts of Akuma and the battles ahead. I looked out through the window and wondered what would happen to the world I had known if Akuma took control

In class, I found it hard to concentrate. My thoughts kept drifting back to the orb in my chest, now glowing with the light of three avatars. The newest one, Stealthy, had already proven to be a valuable asset. The ability to remain unseen was a game-changer, especially when dealing with someone as cunning as Akuma.

After the lecture, I met up with Zack and Diana in the courtyard. Zack was animated, still excited about the newfound powers and the prospect of taking down Akuma. Diana, on the other hand, seemed distracted. I pulled her aside.

“Diana, is everyth