Chapter 99: Breaking Out Her Shell (1/2)

The night was drawing to an end. Florence stood with a broad set of concern and worry resting on her shoulders. She gripped the small charm Monty had given her in anticipation of her own trials which she would take in a few months. Gripping it tightly, she whispered into it, kissing the charm. ”Bring him home safe.”

Jinx squatted down poking at a worm with a stick as she sighed. ”What's taking the fucker so long? Did he fall at the finishing line?”

”He'll make it, just wait. My Monty will succeed.” The door opened as Monty stepped out. Florence ran over overwhelmed with joy. This came to a complete halt as she stopped halfway in shock. Monty had tattoos planted all over his body of all different manner of things. Guns, snakes and dragons all held on him like a trophy. Monty looked over his family with a smug look as the dragon came to life snagging on his shoulders and breathing fire. Florence stepped back, unsure what to make of this.

”Well, where the fuck is my praise?”

Butch snapped too laughing, patting him on the back. ”Look at my big bro! Always ahead of the curb. The first of us to pass! The most powerful Montague.”

Monty eyed Butch down before placing his hand on Butch's arm and throwing him to the ground. ”Who gave you permission to touch me?!”

Even Jinx raised her head from her dull boredom thrown off by Monty's outburst. Butch blinked a few times startled more than anything. ”Jeez bro, I'm sorry.”

Monty scoffed walking past. ”Things are going to change around here now. Watch out, because you're looking at the new number one streamer.”

Florence dropped her charm to the ground, appalled by Monty's sudden actions. ”It's like he's a completely different person.”

Jinx stood up, tilting her head lost. ”Is that what happens when you pass the trials? Scary…”

”Don't you take the trials in a few weeks, Jinx?” She questioned.

”Yeah. I won't let it change me, though. That's a promise. I'm sure he's just traumatised by the events. He'll be fine in a few days. How about we make him a cake to make him feel better?”

”You're so kind Jinx thank you.”

Jinx smirked rubbing her nose. ”Hey, don't mention it. Stay strong Florence.”

****

Zinnia had entered the bunker. The doors closed as Florence smiled faintly from the safety of her scarf. She glanced around as Emil let out a defeated groan. ”Knowing what she is about to go through brings me nothing but concern. I don't think she will make it…”

Jinx cackled grabbing Emil in a headlock. ”Don't be such a sad and brooding brother. I'm sure she won't totally crack if she sees what I think she is about to face. Well, ha-ha.”