Date Night

As they returned to the attic, the glow of their successful mission lit their faces. Belial, taking the blood they had gathered, chose not to accompany them to the attic.

The attic, their sanctuary and planning hub, was filled with the scent of old wood and faint traces of dust, mixed with the comforting aroma of old books and forgotten trinkets. They settled into their usual spots, the creaky floorboards under their feet a stark contrast to the soft, moss-covered ground of the forest.

"I can't believe we were able to beat that guardian," Clare said, breaking the silence as she settled against a pile of cushions. "Those poor thieves aren't going to know what hit them."

"I know," Rachel agreed, her voice tinged with a mix of relief and exhaustion. "But we did it. We actually did it."

Remember a few days ago," Ellie spoke up, "remember the little girls we saved? It seems to me that is the type of thing I'd rather be doing rather than chasing demons around the world."

Hannah, her eyes bright with excitement, spoke up. "I think we should do more of that. Helping people, I mean. We have these powers for a reason, right?"

Ellie, ever the pragmatist, leaned forward. "But what about Belial? He's let us choose our own path so far, but what if he decides to interfere? We need to be prepared for that."

Clare nodded thoughtfully. "You're right, Ellie. But maybe we can convince him that our way is the best way. Helping people could be part of our mission."

Rachel looked around at her friends, feeling a surge of determination. "We can't let fear hold us back. We have these abilities for a reason, and we should use them to make a difference."

The conversation shifted as they reflected on the night's events and discussed their future, their voices blending with the soft creaks and groans of the attic. The fire in their hearts burned brightly, a beacon of hope and resolve.

As they sat around the lunch table, Hannah's eyes sparkled with excitement. "Guys, I have a question," she said, her voice barely above a whisper. "I was asked out on a date, and I'm not sure if I should go."

The others looked at her in surprise, their faces filled with curiosity. "Who asked you out?" Rachel asked, her brow furrowed.

Hannah's cheeks flushed with embarrassment. "It's just some guy from school. He's really nice, but...I don't know, it's just that things are so different now. I have powers, and I'm not sure if it's safe for me to be around him."

The others nodded in understanding, their faces filled with concern. "We've been over this before, Hannah," Claire said gently. "You're not a danger to anyone unless you're using your powers recklessly. Just be careful and don't let your powers get out of control." "

But what if something happens?" Ellie asked, her voice laced with worry. "What if someone finds out what we're capable of?"

Hannah sighed, her eyes filling with tears. "I know you're all trying to help me, but I'm just so scared. I don't want to lose anyone else."

After a moment of silence, Rachel spoke up. "You know what? I think you should go on the date. Just be careful and don't use your powers. You deserve a chance to have some normalcy in your life."

The others nodded in agreement, and Hannah's face lit up with hope. "Really?" she asked, her voice filled with excitement.

"Yeah," Claire said. "Just be careful and enjoy yourself."

Hannah smiled, feeling a sense of relief wash over her. She took a deep breath and nodded, determination etched on her face. "Okay, I'll do it."

The next day, Hannah found herself nervously pacing in front of her closet, her mind racing as she prepared for her date. Her friends' words echoed in her mind, giving her the courage she needed. With a deep breath, she selected a simple yet elegant dress, hoping to strike the right balance between casual and special.

"You look amazing," Clare said as Hannah twirled in her dress, seeking approval from her friends.

"Thanks," Hannah replied, her voice wavering slightly. "I just hope everything goes smoothly."

"It will," Ellie assured her, giving her a reassuring smile. "Just remember to stay calm and be yourself."

As the evening approached, Hannah's date arrived to pick her up. They walked to the local restaurant, the sounds of laughter and conversation filling the air. The tantalizing aroma of various dishes wafted from the open windows, mingling with the cool night breeze.

The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with soft lighting and rustic decor. They were seated at a corner table, the flickering candlelight casting warm shadows on their faces. The conversation flowed easily, their laughter blending with the ambient sounds of clinking glasses and murmured conversations.

As they finished their meal and stepped outside, the chill of the night air was a stark contrast to the warmth of the restaurant. They strolled along the quiet streets, the moonlight casting a silvery glow on the pavement. Hannah felt a sense of normalcy and joy she hadn't experienced in a long time.

But then, the screech of tires shattered the peace. A car skidded to a halt inches from them, and without thinking, Hannah raised her hand, instinctively summoning a protective barrier. A flash of energy burst forth, sending the car veering away.

Her date stared at her, eyes wide with shock. "What... what just happened?" he stammered.

Hannah's mind raced, trying to come up with an explanation. "I... I don't know. It must have been some kind of reflex," she said weakly, her heart pounding in her chest.

He looked at her skeptically, but eventually nodded, seemingly accepting her explanation. They continued their walk in silence, the tension between them palpable.

When they reached her doorstep, he turned to her, his voice quiet. "Hannah, I really like you, do you think we would be able to go out again sometime."

Hannah felt a sinking feeling in her stomach. She was unsure about her powers, he had bought her lie earlier but for how long, it seemed inevitable that he would find out.

"I would really like that," she replied softly. "I may have to go away with some friends for a few days but I will call you when I get back into town."

"That would be great, take care of yourself and I hope to hear from you soon." he kissed her cheek and turned to walk away.

Hannah felt a wave of guilt washed over her. "Thank you," she whispered, a wave of sadness washing over her.

As she stood there in the cool night air, Hannah realized that the challenges and uncertainties ahead of her would need to be figured out before a normal life could be hers. But she was not alone, her friends were beside her and, for now, that would have to be enough.