What misfortune had Shen Zechuan endured in a past life that after working his ass off to graduate the Hunter's Academy, and shortly after proving himself a valuable asset as a new Hunter, that his first paired assignment would be with his big bully and enemy from the past ? None other than that bullheaded, shameless, beast in human skin known as Xiao Chiye, who had pursued him relentlessly into fights, arguments, and ridiculous competition.
He still remembered their last spar, their graduating tournament. Like an ant shaking a tree, he had said to him infuriatingly. And yet despite Xiao Chiye's great physique and undoubtable strength, he had shown him in the end , with his legs wrapped around his shoulders and pinning him to the floor mat. He had not won, then, but Shen Zechuan had not conceded nor gone out pathetically on account of brawns or by needing to abuse his EVOL (as everyone hoped he would just to oust him ) .
Yet here he stood beside Xiao Chiye again, forced to stomach his company and try to work as one whole unit when all he could think of was that this horrid hound would rather punch him through a busy train track if it meant taking the credit and upperhand. He glanced sidelong at him, rain lingering on the tips of his hair and sticking to his skin in a way that made him look paler, ghastlier. He was sizing him up as their superior guided them through their expectations before starting their first team excursion into a no-hunt zone. Xiao Chiye stood tall, unwavering, but there was undoubtedly a tension in the broad line of his shoulders the longer he watched him.
❝ ... We hope that as two rookies, you two will be mindful of each other's safety tonight ... ❞
Shen Zechuan slid his grey eyes forward, the corners of his lips curling up coldly, ❝ ... Of course. ❞ He pushed his thin glasses up the bridge of his thin nose, acknowledging the creature beside him at last once the officer walked away, ❝ What say you, senior ? Shall we eat somewhere nearby before we get started ? ❞
starter for @swordballads .