TVD: Equilibrium

I adjusted my bag over my shoulder, heading toward the field for tryouts. The sun was high, casting long shadows of the bleachers onto the grass. My mind was still buzzing with thoughts about last night. Damon's expression when I showed him the talisman had been priceless—equal parts rage and confusion. Perfect.

This little game I was playing with him was far from over. But for now, I had to blend in. Keep up the facade. Make people think I was just another new kid trying to find his footing in Mystic Falls.

"Hunter!"

I stopped mid-step, turning toward the voice. Standing a few feet away was a girl who looked like she'd stepped straight out of a glossy magazine. Blonde hair, green eyes, and a smile that could probably light up a room—or blind someone if they weren't careful.

"Hunter, right?" she asked, her tone light and chipper.

"Yeah," I said, raising an eyebrow. "And you are?"

"Violet," she said, her lips curling into what I could only describe as a pageant-winning smile. She took a step closer, her head tilted slightly like she was sizing me up.

"Hey, Violet," I replied, keeping my tone neutral. "Something wrong?"

"No, not at all," she said quickly, waving her hand dismissively. "I was just wondering if you'd like to go out sometime. You know, since you're new to town and all. I happen to know all the cool spots to hang out."

Her smile widened as she leaned forward slightly, her arms pressed together to emphasize… well, not much. But the gesture was clear.

I took a moment to consider her offer. I didn't have any pressing plans, and honestly, keeping tabs on the Mystic Scooby Gang could be entertaining. Plus, Violet might be useful. People like her always had an ear to the ground, picking up bits of gossip and information without even trying.

"I don't see why not," I said, shrugging.

Her face lit up, and she practically bounced on her toes. "Great! I guess I'll see you soon, then." With that, she turned and walked off, a noticeable pep in her step.

As she disappeared around the corner, I chuckled to myself. Small towns like this had their charms. Everyone wanted to know you, befriend you, or figure out what made you tick. Violet was probably no different. But if she thought she could get me wrapped around her finger, she was in for a surprise.

On the Field

When I finally reached the field, the energy was electric. Guys were running drills, coaches were shouting instructions, and the air smelled like freshly cut grass mixed with sweat. I dropped my bag on the sidelines and stretched, my muscles loosening up as I scanned the field.

Most of the players seemed focused, their movements sharp and practiced. It was clear this wasn't just a hobby for them—it was a way of life. I admired that kind of dedication, even if it wasn't my thing.

As I jogged onto the field to warm up, a few guys nodded in acknowledgment. I kept my responses brief, sticking to polite smiles and casual hellos. No need to get too chummy. This was just another piece of the puzzle, another way to blend in while I worked on the bigger picture.

The whistle blew sharply as I jogged onto the field, the coach's voice barking instructions over the hum of activity. A cluster of guys stretched and prepared for the next drill, their movements quick and efficient. It was clear this wasn't just another high school football team—they took this seriously.

I was ready for that.

The first test was basic: a 40-yard dash. I crouched at the starting line, the weight of the stares from the team pressing down on me. When the whistle blew, I exploded forward, every muscle firing with precision. The wind whipped past my face, and the end zone came into view in what felt like seconds.

"4.47," the assistant coach called out, barely hiding his surprise.

A few murmurs rippled through the group. Not bad for the new guy.

We moved on to agility drills. I weaved through cones, pivoting on a dime. My footwork was sharp, fluid, and instinctive. When it came time for the receiving drills, I caught every pass without faltering, even the ones thrown high or wide.

"Who is this guy?" I heard someone whisper.

When it was time for tackling practice, I didn't hold back. The blocking sled groaned under the force of my hits, the sound of metal and pads reverberating across the field. One of the linebackers tried to go head-to-head with me in a one-on-one drill, and I planted him firmly on his back.

I offered him a hand to help him up, masking my smirk with a polite nod.

"Nice hit," he muttered, brushing off the dirt.

"Thanks," I replied, my tone even.

By the end of the tryout, my shirt was drenched, and my muscles burned with exertion. But judging by the approving looks from the coaches, I'd done more than enough to secure a spot on the team.

(Matt)

From the bench, I watched as the new guy tore through the tryouts. 

"Did you see that?" I asked Tyler, nodding toward the field. Hunter had just finished another drill, and his movements were precise and powerful. "He's dominating out there."

Tyler shrugged, crossing his arms. "Yeah, he's good. Probably used to playing for some fancy private school or something."

"Do you know anything about him?" I asked, my curiosity getting the better of me.

Tyler leaned back, resting his weight on the bench. "Not much. My parents said he's loaded, though. He just bought some property in town. Finalized the deal last night at the Founder's Ball."

I raised an eyebrow. "Property? What kind of high schooler buys property?"

Tyler chuckled. "A high schooler with rich parents duh."

"That's… weird," I said, my eyes drifting back to Hunter as he lined up for another drill. "Doesn't it seem like he's trying a little too hard?"

"Probably just trying to prove himself," Tyler said dismissively. "I mean, new kid in town, wants to make a name for himself. You remember how it was when we were freshmen."

I nodded, but something about Hunter didn't sit right with me. He wasn't just good—he was almost too good. Like he'd been preparing for this moment his whole life.

(Tyler)

Matt couldn't stop talking about the new guy, but honestly, I didn't care. Hunter was impressive, sure, but I had bigger things on my mind.

"Look," I said, cutting Matt off mid-sentence. "Forget about him for a second. You need to stop obsessing over Elena."

Matt shot me a glare. "I'm not obsessing."

"Yeah, you are," I said, smirking. "It's written all over your face. She's moved on, man. You need to do the same."

Matt sighed, running a hand through his hair. "It's not that easy, Tyler."

"It is if you let it be," I said. "Come out with me tonight. We'll hit the Grill, grab some drinks, and find someone who isn't hung up on their ex-boyfriend."

Matt gave me a look. "You're not exactly the poster child for healthy relationships."

"Fair," I admitted with a laugh. "But I'm serious, man. You've been in a slump for weeks. It's time to move on."

Matt didn't respond right away, his gaze drifting back to Hunter, who was now chatting with one of the coaches. "Yeah," he said eventually. "Maybe you're right."

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I have now reached the flow state so except more chapters 

RUN ME MY POWER STONES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!