The splotcher exploded and splattered Valerie. She laughed as she wiped the paint off of her face. Outward channeling wasn't too difficult. She'd already popped three splotchers.

Coach Wilda was impressed at her mental capacity. Now, however, she felt very drained.

Wilda gave her a cloth to clean her face. "Well done. Why don't you take a break."

Valerie took the cloth gratefully. "Thanks." To her delight, the red paint came off easily.

Soon after, the class ended for the day. Valerie stood and wandered the crowd looking for the others. She spotted Tam, Lihn, and Sophie talking to a pair of adults that looked like an older version of the twins - their parents.

Valerie pushed her way towards the group, breaking through right as Tam dragged Lihn away. Sophie stayed behind, giving their parents some sort of lecture. Then, she stalked off after the twins.

Valerie stared at Tam's back as he marched away, getting lost in the crowd.

Their dad noticed her and walked over. "Do you know my son?"

Valerie took a deep breath so she wouldn't yell. "Yes, I do." She turned to face him.

He gasped. "Miss Endal." He tried to hide his horror. Apparently, he didn't recognize her profile.

Valerie stared him straight in the eye. "Yeah, do you have a problem with that? With me?"

He blanched. "No... of course not."

"You hesitated." She glared at him as he stared at the ground. "So, is it because I'm a Mesmer or an Endal?"

He couldn't find the words which probably meant both.

Valerie scoffed. "Well, it's nice to know where I stand." Her anger was rising, but she forced it down, turning to leave before she exploded. What was going on with her lately?

She ran to catch up with Tam and Lihn before they disappeared. "Hey!"

Tam turned. "Valerie. Where have you been?"

She made a face. "Meeting your parents."

Tam cringed. "What did they say to you?"

Valerie grinned. "I think you'll be happy to hear that your father doesn't approve of our friendship."

Lihn giggled.

Tam rolled his eyes. "Of course he doesn't."

"Look on the bright side." Valerie urged. "It's just one more thing to annoy him with."

Tam smirked. "I love the way your mind works."

Valerie blushed. "I'll see you tomorrow then?"

Tam cleared his throat. "Count on it." With that, he grabbed Lihn's hand and glittered away.

A/N
I know, filler, but I wanted to have Valerie meet Tam and Lihn's parents. Sorry if you found this chapter boring. I did try to put an important detail in their and I don't recommend skipping, because every chapter adds to the story.
Also, I forgot to mention in my other author's note. Thank you SO much for getting me to over 100 reads. I really appreciate it and I hope you are all enjoying.
-Cheshire