Molly Ecstasy

The train doors creaked open. Passengers began to move forward, filling the platform with noise and footsteps.

“Will, let’s just get on the train and relax, alright?” Gabriel said, adjusting his grip on the bag.

William stood still. His eyes were focused on everything around him, observing the station one last time.

“Will?” Gabriel asked.

“Yeah.” William stepped forward. “Just stay close.”

They boarded the train with the rest of the crowd. The doors behind them closed with a heavy thud.

After sitting down and putting their bags away, William carefully observed everything around them. He looked concerned. For William, that was unusual.

“Will, you good? You’ve been acting weird ever since we got to the station,” Gabriel said.

William didn’t answer.

“Will?” Gabriel frowned. “Earth to William!”

“Huh? Oh, sorry Gabe. I was lost in my thoughts. What were you saying?” William asked.

Gabriel sighed. “It’s nothing. Just remind me, where are we going again? I keep forgetting.”

“Jeez Gabe, you’re supposed to know this by now. We’re going to the Aurelian Academy. We have to go there for our interview, remember?”

William paused. “We’re still doing this, alright?” His voice was quieter than before.

Gabriel hesitated. “Yeah… I remember.”

After a few moments of silence, Gabriel asked.

“But what’s up with this Academy? Why’s it so special?”

William sighed. “Master told us, remember? The first emperor founded the Aurelian Academy.” He glanced around the train. “Only the unique can join.”

“Right, right. She did say that.” Gabriel checked his watch. “Wonder when we’re gonna get there.”

Gabriel leaned back in his seat, adjusting his clothes. His dark, maroon hair fell slowly to his eyes as he stared out the window out of boredom.

William sat upright, his blonde hair messy from earlier. His blue eyes were constantly moving, looking at every passenger that went by.

…

The train slowed. The announcement echoed over the speakers:

AURELIAN ACADEMY — NEXT STOP 

Gabriel and William didn’t move. 

“… This is it,” William said quietly.